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Early/late heterobimetallic complexes are widely recognized as one of the most effective catalysts for activating coupling reactions. Herein, DFT calculations were used to investigate the specific mechanisms of terminal alkyne dimerization facilitated by two types of Zr/Co complexes: the bis (phosphinoamide) complex B and the mono (phosphinoamide) complex C. In addition, their reaction activities were compared with that of three ligand‐bridged Zr/Co complex A. The results show that the activated mechanisms of the three reactions are similar, all of them contain inner‐ and outer‐sphere mechanisms, and the inner one is the optimal process. Compared to A, the terminal alkyne dimerizations activated by B and C have the lower energy barriers and better selectivity for the E‐isomer; thus, the mono‐ and bis‐(phosphinoamide) Zr/Co complexes are expected to show better activity and selectivity than tris (phosphinoamide) complexes. The stereoselectivity of E‐, Z‐, and gem‐isomers is controlled by the reductive elimination process. The IRI analysis reveals that the selectivity for E‐ and Z‐isomers is influenced due to the notable repulsion and vdW interaction between the second alkyne and the MeNPMe2 ligand. Our work provides a theoretical basis for experimental applications and offers inspiration for the design of high selectivity heterobimetallic complexes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The problem of event‐triggered control (ETC) of stochastic nonlinear delayed systems with state quantization is investigated. In order to reduce the communication burden and computational cost, an ETC mechanism and state quantization are introduced in the control scheme. Two configurations are considered to investigate their interaction: quantization before event‐trigger (QE) and quantization after event‐trigger (EQ), respectively. Based on this, a static event‐triggered mechanism (ETM) is designed while avoiding the Zeno phenomenon. The system allows known input‐to‐state stability (ISS) control law, followed by utilizing the Halanay inequality to achieve stabilization. In both configurations, the stabilization of the closed‐loop system is guaranteed. We show that communication times can be reduced by adjusting parameters and selecting the suitable configuration. Moreover, to further enhance resource conservation, we illustrate the feasibility of dynamic ETMs in this framework. Numerical simulation results validate the effectiveness of the proposed ETC schemes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: This study aimed to investigate the association between a history of recurrent spontaneous abortion (RSA) and adverse outcomes in women with spontaneous conception. Methods: A search strategy from the inception to March 3, 2023 was run in PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, and Web of Science databases. The odds ratio (OR), and the 95% confidence interval (CI) or point estimation were used as the evaluation indexes. Each outcome measure tested was assessed for heterogeneity using the Cochran Q test. Sensitivity analyses were performed to test the credibility of the meta‐analysis results. Results: Fifteen studies involving 1 475 389 pregnant women were included. A history of RSA was associated with gestational diabetes (OR: 2.21, 95% CI: 1.70–2.87, p < 0.001), preeclampsia (OR: 2.06, 95% CI: 1.49–2.86, p < 0.001), placenta previa (OR: 1.82, 95% CI: 1.09–3.02, p = 0.021), placental abruption (OR: 1.67, 95% CI: 1.36–2.06, p < 0.001), miscarriage (OR: 6.37, 95% CI: 3.83–10.57, p < 0.001), preterm birth (OR: 1.80, 95% CI: 1.36–2.37, p < 0.001), cesarean section (OR: 1.47, 95% CI: (1.13–1.91, p = 0.004), perinatal death (OR: 2.24, 95% CI: 1.39–3.60, p = 0.001), and neonatal intensive care unit admission (OR: 1.39, 95% CI: 1.01–1.92, p = 0.047). However, the associations of a history of RSA with gestational hypertension, small for gestational age, fetal anomalies, fetal growth restriction, and postpartum hemorrhage were not observed. Conclusion: This meta‐analysis indicates a history of RSA was associated with increased risks of several adverse outcomes in pregnant women with spontaneous conception. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Doping Co atoms into Ru lattices can tune the electronic structure of active sites, and the conductive MXene can adjust the electrical conductivity of catalysts, which are both favorable for improving the electrocatalytic activity of the catalyst for water splitting. Here, ruthenium‐cobalt bimetallic nanoalloys coupled with exfoliated Ti3C2Tx MXene (RuCo−Ti3C2Tx) have been constructed by ice‐templated and thermal activation. Due to the strong interaction between the RuCo nanoalloys and conductive MXene, RuCo−Ti3C2Tx not only exhibits an excellent hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) performance with a low overpotential and Tafel slope (60 mV, 34.8 mV dec−1 in 0.5 M H2SO4 and 52 mV, 38.7 mV dec−1 in 1 M KOH), but also good oxygen evolution reaction (OER) performance in an alkaline electrolyte (266 mV, 111.1 mV dec−1 in 1 M KOH). The assembled RuCo−Ti3C2Tx||RuCo−Ti3C2Tx electrolyzer requires a lower potential (1.56 V) than does the Pt/C||RuO2 electrolyzer at 10 mA cm−2. A boosted catalytic HER activity from immobilizing the RuCo nanoalloys on MXene was unveiled by density functional theory calculations. This study provides a feasible and efficient strategy for developing MXene‐based catalysts for overall water splitting. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A three‐component 1,4‐addition variant of the Ugi reaction involving carboxylic acids, isocyanides, and cyclic α,β‐unsaturated imines is presented in this study. The cyclic α,β‐unsaturated imines were conveniently prepared through the oxidative dearomatization of N‐substituted anilines. The reaction proceeded successfully to produce a sole diastereomer, and the relative configuration was determined through 2D NMR and X‐ray diffraction analysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Areca nut is an economic crop and an important component in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) and ethnomedicine. The crop is rich in alkaloids and flavonoids. Most previous studies have focused on the chemical components, especially alkaloids, in crops from certain areca nut‐producing areas. Objective: The purpose of this study was to compare the differences in areca nut seeds in two main cultivation areas, identify differential metabolites, and evaluate seed quality in different production areas. Methods: A widely targeted metabolomics method based on ultrahigh‐performance liquid chromatography coupled with triple quadrupole mass spectrometry (UHPLC‐QQQ‐MS), combined with the TCM systems pharmacology (TCMSP) database and multivariate statistical analysis, was used in this study to maximise the differentiation between quality characteristics of areca nut seeds from China and Southeast Asian regions. Results: Altogether, 1031 metabolites were identified in areca nut seeds; by querying the TCMSP database, 375 metabolites were identified as the main active ingredients. Moreover, the research showed that the metabolic profiles of areca nut seeds from China (ASCN) and Southeast Asia (ASSA) exhibit significant differences, and the difference is mainly reflected in 318 compounds. The relative content of 146 metabolites in ASCN was significantly higher than that in ASSA. Through Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) comparative analysis, areca nut seed metabolites in Chinese production areas were determined to have a wider metabolic pathway. Conclusion: The areca nut seeds from cultivation areas possess many metabolites that are beneficial for health, including alkaloids, amino acids, phenolic acids, and lipids. Thus, compared with ASSA, ASCN have a higher medicinal value. This study provides a direction for the subsequent development and utilisation of areca nut seeds. A total of 1031 metabolites were identified in areca nut seeds from Chinese and Southeast Asian production areas, and 375 metabolites are the main active ingredients. Areca nut seeds from Chinese and Southeast Asian production areas have different metabolic profiles. The relative content of 146 metabolites in the differential metabolites in China was significantly higher than that in Southeast Asia. Areca nut seeds from Chinese production areas have a higher medicinal value. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper addresses a new asynchronous control scheme for continuous‐time Markov jump linear systems (MJLSs). Both controlled system and quantizer are asynchronous with the controller due to the process by which the controller can accurately observe and emit the switching signal being stochastic. The random variable satisfying Bernoulli distribution is introduced to describe this observation. On this basis, two methods are proposed to obtain sufficient conditions for exponential almost sure stability and almost surely asymptotically stability, respectively from the perspective of the linear matrix inequality (LMI). The results are independent of the asynchronous time interval. Finally, a numerical example demonstrates the validity and feasibility of developed theoretical results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Comprehensive Summary: Most conventional digital bioassays rely on the use of fully‐sealed microchambers as independent units to compartmentalize the target molecules and the signal generation reaction, which require specialized equipment or proprietary reagents/consumables. Herein, we report a microchamber‐free and spherical nucleic acid (SNA)‐amplified digital flow cytometric bead assay (dFBA) for ultrasensitive protein and exosome analysis with simple workflows, easily accessible instruments/reagents, and high discriminating ability towards the fluorescence‐positive and fluorescence‐negative beads. In this dFBA, microbeads are employed as independent carriers to anchor the single target molecule‐initiated signal amplification reaction, avoiding the use of sealed droplets or microwell microchambers. Meanwhile, antibody‐functionalized SNAs (FSNAs) with a high density of DNA probes act as a bridge for efficiently amplified target‐to‐DNA signal conversion, which allows the use of DNA‐based rolling circle amplification (RCA) as the fluorescence signal amplification technique to quantify non‐nucleic acid targets. Even a single target‐induced on‐bead RCA and fluorescence enriching are sufficient to make the target‐loaded bead bright enough to be clearly discriminated from the negative ones just by use of a most common flow cytometer (FCM). This dFBA has successfully realized the digital analysis of ultralow levels of protein and exosome biomarkers, enlarging the toolbox of digital bioassays for clinical applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Comprehensive Summary: Most conventional digital bioassays rely on the use of fully‐sealed microchambers as independent units to compartmentalize the target molecules and the signal generation reaction, which require specialized equipment or proprietary reagents/consumables. Herein, we report a microchamber‐free and spherical nucleic acid (SNA)‐amplified digital flow cytometric bead assay (dFBA) for ultrasensitive protein and exosome analysis with simple workflows, easily accessible instruments/reagents, and high discriminating ability towards the fluorescence‐positive and fluorescence‐negative beads. In this dFBA, microbeads are employed as independent carriers to anchor the single target molecule‐initiated signal amplification reaction, avoiding the use of sealed droplets or microwell microchambers. Meanwhile, antibody‐functionalized SNAs (FSNAs) with a high density of DNA probes act as a bridge for efficiently amplified target‐to‐DNA signal conversion, which allows the use of DNA‐based rolling circle amplification (RCA) as the fluorescence signal amplification technique to quantify non‐nucleic acid targets. Even a single target‐induced on‐bead RCA and fluorescence enriching are sufficient to make the target‐loaded bead bright enough to be clearly discriminated from the negative ones just by use of a most common flow cytometer (FCM). This dFBA has successfully realized the digital analysis of ultralow levels of protein and exosome biomarkers, enlarging the toolbox of digital bioassays for clinical applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To address the major challenges to obtain high spatial resolution in snapshot hyperspectral imaging, 3D printed glass lightguide array is developed to sample the intermediate image in high spatial resolution and redistribute the pixels in the output end to achieve high spectral resolution. Curved 3D printed lightguide array can significantly simplify the snapshot hyperspectral imaging system, achieve better imaging performance, and reduce the system complexity and cost. Two‐photon polymerization process to print glass lightguide array is developed, and the system performance with biological samples is demonstrated. This new snapshot technology will catalyze new hyperspectral imaging system development and open doors for new applications from UV to infrared. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The event‐triggered stabilization of switching systems with persistent dwell time (PDT) by dynamic input quantization is addressed in this paper. The co‐design of the event‐triggered mechanism, zoom variable, PDT switching condition is achieved to eliminate the effect of asynchrony and quantization errors on stability. First, based on PDT properties and event‐triggered instants, the updated law of the zoom variable is designed and the corresponding parameters are obtained by linear matrix inequalities (LMIs). Since the PDT switching contains fast switching, which allows frequent switching within a triggered interval, detailed information on the system state is challenging to obtain. Hence, the asynchrony of system and controller modes in the stability analysis is considered. Then, the existence of a common lower bound for the triggered interval is proposed, thus eliminating the Zeno behavior. Finally, the numerical simulation verifies the validity of the method. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Photoacoustic computed tomography (PACT) is a hybrid imaging modality that combines optical excitation and acoustic detection techniques. It obtains high‐resolution deep‐tissue images based on the deep penetration of light, the anisotropy of light absorption in objects, and the photoacoustic effect. Hence, PACT shows great potential in biomedical sample imaging. Recently, due to its advantages of high sensitivity to optical absorption and wide scalability of spatial resolution with the desired imaging depth, PACT has received increasing attention in preclinical and clinical practice. To date, there has been a proliferation of PACT systems designed for specific biomedical imaging applications, from small animals to human organs, from ex vivo to in vivo real‐time imaging, and from simple structural imaging to functional and molecular imaging with external contrast agents. Therefore, it is of great importance to summarize the previous applications of PACT systems in biomedical imaging and clinical practice. In this review, we searched for studies related to PACT imaging of biomedical tissues and samples over the past two decades; divided the studies into two categories, PACT imaging of preclinical animals and PACT imaging of human organs and body parts; and discussed the significance of the studies. Finally, we pointed out the future directions of PACT in biomedical applications. With the development of exogenous contrast agents and advances of imaging technique, in the future, PACT will enable biomedical imaging from organs to whole bodies, from superficial vasculature to internal organs, from anatomy to functions, and will play an increasingly important role in biomedical research and clinical practice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: This retrospective study aimed to investigate the value of exome sequencing (ES) in fetuses with isolated first‐trimester increased nuchal translucency (NT) and normal chromosomes. Methods: ES was performed on 103 fetuses with isolated first trimester increased NT and normal chromosomes. The detection rate of monogenic conditions was analyzed. Results: Diagnostic variants were detected in nine cases in which phenotypes and genotypes correlated well, two positive cases were Thanatophoric dysplasia type I, and one case was Kabuki syndrome, which had been detected in previous studies. Eight of the nine cases with diagnostic variants developed additional structural malformations later in pregnancy. Among the nine positive cases, six had a NT thickness between 95th percentile (95th–3.4 mm), and three cases with an increased NT of 3.5 mm or greater. Also, there was no statistical difference in the diagnosis of diagnostic variants in cases with or without a thickened nuchal fold (NF). Conclusions: The diagnostic yield of prenatal ES is low for fetuses with an isolated increased NT. In addition to Noonan syndrome, there are additional genetic syndromes such as Kabuki syndrome and Thanatophoric dysplasia type I that are potentially associated with an increased NT. A cut‐off of greater than the 95th percentile may be useful in case selection for ES. Whether it is clinically meaningful to monitor NF values for fetuses with isolated increased NT and normal chromosomes worth considering. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Per‐ and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs), also known as "forever chemicals," are manmade chemicals that have been increasingly detected in various geological settings since the early 2000s. The soil and subsurface environments are the geological media commonly affected by PFAS. We conducted a comprehensive review of peer‐reviewed articles published from 2010 through 2022 concerning the fate and transport of PFAS in subsurface environments. This review is organized into different subsections, covering the basics of PFAS properties and how they affect the occurrence, fate, and transport of PFAS, the fundamental processes affecting subsurface transport and fate of PFAS, and mathematical models for describing and predicting PFAS transport behaviors. Mechanisms governing PFAS transport in the subsurface environment, including the sorption of PFAS at the air‐water interface, solid‐water interface, and nonaqueous phase liquids‐water interface, were explored in detail. Challenges and future research priorities are identified to better mitigate the global challenges of PFAS contamination. Plain Language Summary: Per‐ and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) are a group of manmade chemicals used in a multitude of applications and commercial products (clothing, cookware, cosmetics, personal care products, fire extinguishers, etc.). Their widespread use has, however, lead to increasing release and distribution in terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems. PFAS, due to their unique properties, are very persistent in the environment as they do not degrade easily. Unfortunately, they are also toxic to organisms, including humans. In this review, we discuss the omnipresence of PFAS in water and soil and explain how PFAS move through subsurface media. There are thousands of different PFAS compounds, and only few of them have been studied in more detail and their transport behavior is known. PFAS tend to accumulate at the air‐water interface in the vadose zone. Generally, PFAS with long carbon chains are retained in soils more strongly than short‐chain compounds. Negatively charged PFAS are more mobile in soils than neutral and positively charged PFAS, and thus can readily pollute groundwater. Nonetheless, due to their persistence and slow desorption, even more strongly sorbed PFAS can be a sustained source for groundwater pollution. We finally identify challenges and future research needs to address the emerging threat of PFAS contamination of the environment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lung cancer is one of the malignant tumors with the leading morbidity and mortality worldwide. H2O2 is an important oxidant, and lethal to tumor cells. The present study aimed to explore new higher‐H2O2‐content and faster‐H2O2‐release rate carbamide peroxide (CP) compounds for treatment of lung cancer. The CP added with benzoic acid termed CP−B was applied in the research. Fenton reaction was used to determine the content and rate of H2O2 release by degrading organic small molecule dyes. The results showed that CP−B could be decolorized 200 mg/L RhB solution within 60 s. The phenotype was analyzed by vitro experiment the effects of the CP compound on A549 lung cancer cell line. The results showed that CP−B had a significant effect on pro‐apoptosis, anti‐proliferation and anti‐migration of A549 cells. Using RNA seq, it was found that CP−B might up‐regulate the INS‐IGF2 gene and it was closely related to the PI3 K/AKT signaling pathway. Finally, in vivo experiments indicated that CP−B has extremely low side effects and potentially tumor treatment capabilities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With the development of society, sodium‐ion batteries (SIBs) attract more and more attention and are expected to be the next generation of daily energy storage devices. Among the previously reported cathode materials for SIBs, the layered transition metal oxides are considered to be the most competitive cathode materials due to their high specific capacities, simple synthesis process, and many similar advantages to the successful Li transition metal oxides in lithium‐ion batteries (LIBs). This review summarizes the recent progress of layered transition metal oxide cathode materials for SIBs, which mainly include Mn‐based, Ni/Mn‐based, Ni/Co/Mn‐based, and Ni/Fe/Mn‐based layered cathode materials. The remaining challenges and future developments for the layered transition metal oxide cathode materials are also discussed. This review is expected to provide some insights into the development of layered transition metal oxide cathodes for high‐performance SIBs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: The study aimed to examine the association of obesity and chronic kidney disease (CKD) after nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) occurrence. Methods: The study enrolled 10,311 adult men with newly diagnosed NAFLD and without CKD in the Kailuan cohort (2006–2013). The Fine‐Gray model was used to compare advanced CKD risk in NAFLD with different baseline or trajectories in obesity measures. Results: During a median follow‐up of 10 years, maintaining normal waist circumference or waist‐hip ratio, or transition from obesity to nonobesity determined by BMI, decreased 31% (hazard ratio [HR] = 0.69; 95% CI: 0.51–0.93), 34% (HR = 0.66; 95% CI: 0.45–0.95), and 38% (HR = 0.62; 95% CI: 0.40–0.96) of the CKD hazard compared with the "constantly without obesity" subgroup, respectively. NAFLD patients with at least 10% weight loss (HR = 0.58; 95% CI: 0.34–0.97) and with 7.0% to 9.9% weight loss (HR = 0.53; 95% CI: 0.28–0.99) had a lower risk for CKD than those with weight change ±4.9%. Compared with the stable weight population, the lower risk of ≥7% weight loss was observed only in patients with elevated blood pressure (adjusted HR = 0.48; 95% CI: 0.28–0.81). Conclusions: Short‐term weight loss of at least 7% could decrease CKD risk, especially among patients with obesity and elevated blood pressure. It is important to monitor waist circumference, waist‐hip ratio, and weight for NAFLD management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Comprehensive Summary: The carbonyl–olefin ring‐closing metathesis reactions have become a powerful tool for carbon‐carbon bond formation. In this work, the halogen bond catalysis and classical Lewis acid catalysis on the carbonyl–olefin ring‐closing metathesis reaction were investigated by density function theory. For both the halogen bond catalysis and classical Lewis acid catalysis, the carbonyl–olefin ring‐closing metathesis reaction occurs by [2 + 2]‐cycloaddition process and [2 + 2]‐cycloreversion process, the reaction energy barriers are low, therefore, it can be performed easily at room temperature. The essential difference of the two kinds of catalysts is that the catalytic mechanism of halogen bond catalysis is mainly contribution of electrostatic interaction, while that of classical Lewis acid catalysis is mainly catalyzed by orbital interaction. The halogen bond donor catalysts (ICl3, IF3) are expected to be efficient catalysts for the reaction and further promote the chemical synthesis of carbonyl–olefin ring‐closing metathesis reaction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The implementation of the virtual water strategy (VWS) transporting invisible water resources through product scheduling faces resistance due to limited reporting and understanding and the lack of motivation analysis for stakeholders. This study builds a semi‐quantitative Hotelling game model under different scenarios to analyse the influence of preference and material benefits on potential acceptance of VWS with policymakers and stakeholders. Equilibrium analyses of the game show that human preference can be as important as real benefits. With preference differences, it is hard to make all stakeholders accept or reject a VWS approach in achieving optimal results for environment and social welfare. To implement a sustainable VWS mode, modifying preferences through propaganda and education can be effective. The natural play of the game with modified preferences will ultimately favour a holistic VWS approach to responsible management. This model supports the effectiveness of game theory in the implementation of a VWS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Aims: The evidence of the relationship between dietary approaches to stop hypertension (DASH) and non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is limited. Thus, we conducted a cohort‐based case‐control study to examine whether adherence to the DASH diet was associated with lower NAFLD risk in China. Methods: We included 11 888 participants (2529 incident NAFLD and 9359 non‐NAFLD) from the Kailuan cohort with no history of hepatitis B/C infection and alcohol drinking. DASH score was calculated based on the energy‐adjusted consumption of vegetables, fruits, dairy, beans, grains, meats, fat, sodium and beverage, collected by a validated food frequency questionnaire. We used Logistic regression analysis to determine the NAFLD's risk according to the DASH score. Results: Higher DASH score was associated with lower risk of NAFLD. Compared with the lowest quintile of DASH score, the highest DASH quintile had a lower risk of occurring NAFLD, with odds ratio (OR) of 0.82 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.70‐0.96) in the multivariate model. Stratified analysis showed that the inverse association was only observed in women (OR = 0.67, 95% CI: 0.48‐0.94), and participants with overweight/obesity (OR = 0.79, 95% CI: 0.66‐0.94), fasting blood glucose <6.1 mmol/L (OR = 0.80, 95%: 0.67‐0.96), low density lipoprotein ≥3.4 mmol/L (OR = 0.71, 95% CI: 0.53‐0.96), high density lipoprotein ≥1.0 mmol/L (OR = 0.81, 95% CI: 0.69‐0.96), ALT < 40 U/L (OR = 0.79, 95% CI:0.67‐0.93) and C‐reactive protein ≥2.0 mg/L (OR = 0.56, 95% CI: 0.40‐0.78). Conclusions: Adherence to the DASH diet was inversely associated with a lower risk of NAFLD in the Chinese population. DASH diet should be highly recommended, especially for women and people with overweight/obesity and a high CRP level. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Mukaiyama aldol reaction is a powerful tool for the construction of the carbon–carbon bond and the formation of β‐hydroxycarbonyl compounds. In this work, the mechanism of acetaldehyde and 2‐siloxy‐1‐propene both in the absence and presence of the catalyst BF3 was investigated based on density functional theory. The mechanism includes two major steps: the formation of the carbon–carbon bond and the removal of SiH3/BF2 by water. The energy barrier of the carbon–carbon bond formation process in the presence of BF3 is obviously lower, indicating that BF3 is a good catalyst for this reaction. In terms of molecular configuration, the different tensions between the five‐membered‐ring and six‐membered‐ring can be considered as the possible reason for the catalytic effect of BF3. In terms of charge transfer, the charges of natural population analysis in the carbon atom of the carbonyl group in acetaldehyde becomes more positive, which is easier to attack by nucleophiles and promote the nucleophilic process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: We evaluated the association between plasma levels of mac‐2 binding protein (M2BP) with the risk of in‐stent restenosis (ISR) after percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). Methods: Plasma M2BP levels were compared between 258 patients who experienced ISR at 12‐months post‐PCI and 258 patients, matched for age and sex, without angiographic evidence of ISR. Results: The plasma M2BP level was significantly higher in the ISR than in the non‐ISR group. On multivariate analysis, adjusted for potential clinical, biochemical, and angiography characteristics, M2BP remained as an independent significant predictor of ISR. Conclusions: M2BP may be an important predictive biomarker of ISR and may be useful in identifying at‐risk patients. Summary Points: In‐stent restenosis (ISR) remains a major problem after percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) and the underlying mechanisms have not yet been fully elucidated.Plasma Mac‐2 binding protein (M2BP) levels were evaluated in 258 patients who experience ISR and 258 patients without angiographic evidence of ISR at approximately 12 months after PCI.Notably, plasma M2BP levels were significantly higher patients with (12.91 ± 5.17 μg/ml) than without (10.07 ± 4.86 μg/ml) ISR (p =.001).Compared with patients with the lowest tertile of M2BP, patients in the mid and highest tertiles of plasma M2BP had a more than 1.3‐fold and 1.8‐fold increased risk of ISR, respectively (both p <.001).Multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed that, after adjustment for potential clinical factors, elevated plasma M2BP remained an independent predictor of ISR, either as a continuous or as a categorical variable (both p <.001).M2BP is an important predictive biomarker of ISR and a mediator of growth and migration in vascular smooth muscle cells.Plasma M2BP assessment may be useful in identifying patients who are at high risk of ISR. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The objective of this study was to assess whether entecavir (ETV) in combination with interferon‐α (IFN‐α) could reduce hepatocellular cancer (HCC) and extrahepatic cancers (EHCs) in patients with chronic hepatitis B (CHB). Methods: The cohort consisted of 4194 patients with CHB treated with ETV combined with IFN‐α or ETV monotherapy at a tertiary hospital in Beijing, China, from January 2009 to December 2017. The risks, hazard ratios (HRs), and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) of HCC and EHCs were compared in the 2 groups. Results: In a multivariate Cox regression analysis, a significantly lower risk of HCC (HR, 0.6; 95% CI, 0.3‐0.9; P =.0310) and a marginally significantly lower risk of EHCs (HR, 0.2; 95% CI, 0.02‐1.3; P =.0854) were observed in the group receiving ETV combined with IFN‐α in comparison with the ETV monotherapy group. The annual virological response rates were significantly higher in the combination therapy group versus the monotherapy group (33.8% vs 21.2%; P <.0001), but the hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) seroclearance rates were not (1.2% vs 0.9%; P =.8537). The HRs were consistent with propensity score–based matching, inverse probability weighting adjustments, and adjustments for virological response and HBsAg seroclearance. Conclusions: ETV combined with IFN‐α therapy is superior to ETV monotherapy in reducing the risk of HCC and EHCs for patients with CHB. People who can tolerate and benefit from IFN‐α therapy could consider combination therapy. This study finds a higher residual risk of hepatocellular cancer and extrahepatic cancers in those with entecavir monotherapy versus those with combined therapy. It is suggested that it is necessary to add interferon‐α for patients with chronic hepatitis B treated with entecavir to reduce the risk of cancer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: The traditional way to treat maxillary edentulous Cawood and Howell Class 4 (CH4) patients who exhibit the knife‐edge ridge form of edentulous jaws that are adequate in height and inadequate in width is extensive autologous bone grafting for conventional implant placement. Purpose To evaluate the feasibility of the zygomatic implant (ZI) quad approach in edentulous CH4 patients who presented a knife‐edge ridge form in the anterior maxilla for immediate loading. Material and methods: Eligible patients with maxillary CH4 edentulism treated with the ZI quad approach were enrolled. Bone reduction and implant placement were performed under the guidance of a navigation system according to preoperative planning. The outcome variable was the implant survival rate, and additional variables were the ratio of immediate loading, complications and the relationship of the zygomatic implant path to the sinus wall. Statistical analysis was performed with the SAS statistical package. Results: Fifteen patients (3 men, 12 women; age range, 19–71 years; average age 47.2 years) eligible for the study received the ZI quad approach from January 2017 through January 2020. All ZIs achieved osseointegration, with no implant loss after early healing and a mean follow‐up of 17.2 ± 6.2 months. Thirteen of 15 patients (86.7%) received immediate loading. No critical anatomic structure injuries occurred during surgery. Most mesially placed implants (23/30, 76.6%) presented ZAGA 2 and 3, and most distally placed implants were distributed in ZAGA 0 (20/30, 66.7%). Discussion In terms of realizing immediate loading in CH4 patients with a knife‐edge ridge form in the anterior maxilla, quad approaches have advantages over other grafting methods. At the same time, it seems the survival rate of zygomatic implants is comparable with that of other indications. With the limitations of this study, the quad approach might be a feasible option to realize edentulous maxillary reconstruction and to make immediate loading possible. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Emergent plants in river riparian zones (RRZs) are an important part of the river ecosystem, and the evolution of their spatial distribution patterns is a direct indicator of the health of river ecosystems. In previous studies, the simulation of the spatiotemporal pattern evolution process for emergent plants mainly focused on the overall pattern change of emergent plant communities. However, they did not distinguish the types of emergent plants and ignored the differences in response of different emergent plants to environmental changes. The difference in the competitiveness of different emergent plants will affect the distribution of emergent plants. In this research, the transformation rules of five emergent plants under different water levels were determined, and the Cellular Automata model was constructed to dynamically simulate the proliferation of emergent plants in RRZs. The results showed that when the water level was 11.5 m, the total area of emergent plants reached the maximum, and among the five emergent plants, Phragmites australis was the dominant species. When the water level dropped to 12.5 m, the shallow water area in the east of the riverside zone increased, and P. australis expanded rapidly in the east. By dynamically simulating the distribution of emergent plants in RRZs, the distribution status of the emergent plants in RRZs in the future can be obtained. It is of great significance for biodiversity conservation and resource management in riparian zones. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hydropower development can lead to riverine ecosystem degradation due to flow regime alteration, but also offers an opportunity to reduce water withdrawal from rivers for better maintenance of environmental flows, because hydropower could substitute for water to promote economic development, to some extent. Seizing this opportunity, this research proposes to adjust the water withdrawal volume at the national scale by reducing withdrawal from rivers with environmental flow deficits, and seeks to determine the volume of water withdrawal that could be reduced under the increase of hydropower generation. A computable general equilibrium model (CGE) is established to analyse the balance of water and hydropower from the perspective of economic development. China is adopted as a case study to demonstrate the effectiveness of the method. The results show that the water‐hydropower equivalent decreases with the hydropower yield. When the hydropower yield increases by 10%, 30%, 100% and 150%, the water‐hydropower equivalents are 0.73, 0.54, 0.22 and 0.13 m3/kWh, respectively, and the water compensation rate for hydropower increase is determined accordingly. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The virtual water strategy (VWS) provides a theoretically feasible method to transport virtual water (VW) and balance regional differences in water resource endowments. However, the practical implementation of VWS faces selective resistance due to the lack of research in motivation analysis across potential executor regions. Game theory provides a new approach to study the decision‐making mechanism and behavioural motivation in the implementation of VWS. This study builds some semiquantitative game models to analyse the regions' potential acceptance of VWS in decision‐making, especially concerning economic development, water sustainability, and trade patterns. The result shows the factors like external incentives and stability of game can affect the payoffs and strategy selections on VWS in rational and semirational games. To achieve a mutual benefit equilibrium towards an effective VWS framework, improvement efforts could include mechanisms for rewards or punishments, promoting long‐term cooperation, and promulgation and education. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibodies (ANCA)‐associated vasculitis (AAV) is an autoimmune disease characterized by B cells‐derived ANCAs, and ANCA was proved to be a key factor in its pathogenesis. Follicular regulatory T (Tfr) and follicular helper T (Tfh) cells were T‐cell subsets that play important roles in B‐cell maturation and antibody production. However, their significances in microscopic polyangiitis (MPA) patients, one type of AAV, has not been thoroughly studied. In this study, comprehensive pattern analyses of circulating Tfr and Tfh were performed in MPA patients and healthy controls (HCs), and we found Tfr levels and Tfr/Tfh ratios were significantly decreased in MPA patients. Compared with HCs, Helios+, CD45RA‐FoxP3hi, and Ki‐67+ Tfr were lower in MPA patients, while CD226+ Tfr cells were higher. These phenotypes suggest that function and proliferation ability of Tfr cells were relatively impaired. Tfh subsets, including ICOS+PD‐1+ and Ki‐67+ Tfh, were significantly increased, suggesting that the function of Tfh was enhanced in MPA although the total Tfh levels did not change significantly. Circulating memory B cells and plasmablasts were significantly elevated and negatively correlated with Tfr levels and Tfr/Tfh ratios in MPA patients. In addition, Tfr levels and Tfr/Tfh ratios were negatively while Tfh was positively correlated with serum myeloperoxidase (MPO)‐ANCA levels. Furthermore, Tfr and Tfr/Tfh ratio were also reversely associated with SCr, BUN, IL‐4, and IL‐21 levels. Our results suggest that the imbalance of Tfr and Tfh functional subsets is related to increased level of autoantibodies in MPA patients, and we propose a new mechanism for the pathogenesis of MPA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Environmental flow (e‐flow) assessment is essential for the ecological protection and restoration of lake‐marsh systems. Previous studies on e‐flow assessment for lake‐marsh systems focused on lake‐marsh systems with natural seasonal hydrological patterns (i.e., low water level in winter and high water level in summer). However, they have not considered lake‐marsh systems with reverse seasonal hydrological patterns (i.e., high water level in winter and low water level in summer). The reverse seasonal hydrological patterns impose seriously negative impacts on waterbirds, because the hydrological patterns could lead to limited plant germination in spring and massive plant death in summer, leaving few plants available as food for waterbirds in winter, and could consequently reduce the sheltering and forageable areas for waterbirds. This study took Hongze Lake Wetland National Nature Reserve in China as the study area. Based on the habitat requirements of waterbirds, the sheltering and forageable areas for waterbirds under different water‐depth and aquatic plant distribution scenarios were calculated. By exploring the impacts of reverse seasonal hydrological processes on waterbird habitats, we determined the necessary e‐flows for lake‐marsh systems with reverse seasonal hydrological patterns to meet the needs of waterbird habitat. The results showed that the water level of Hongze Lake should be controlled to 13.0–13.1 m in March, 12.5–12.6 m in July, and 12.9–13.0 m in October, which can meet the needs of waterbirds for both shelter and foraging. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We treated successfully a man with a femoral artery pseudoaneurysm by ultrasonography-guided application of a suture-mediated closure device. Radiography was not needed, as a guide wire was placed into the femoral artery along the rupture under ultrasonographic guidance alone, and the femoral artery was then sutured with the vascular closure device. The pseudoaneurysm was then completely resolved. This novel approach, which minimizes risks and costs, may be a safe and acceptable option to control iatrogenic pseudoaneurysms, especially when thrombin injection is not feasible. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In water‐deficient rivers, environmental flows (e‐flows) are usually sustained via inter‐basin water transfer projects from water‐sufficient rivers, but these projects incur tremendous costs and may lead to many negative ecological effects, such as ecological invasion. This research proposed to transfer hydropower instead of water from water‐sufficient rivers, because hydropower could substitute for water to promote economic development and reduce water withdrawal from water‐deficient rivers (conserved water). In addition, based on the analysis of eco‐hydrological processes, the flow regime alteration plays an important role in restoring riverine ecosystem. With the goal of minimum flow regime alternation, we set up two scenarios to distribute the annual conserved water, and determined the optimal amount of transferred hydropower and the optimal use of conserved water, which could effectively sustain the e‐flows. Accordingly, this paper established a computable general equilibrium model to analyse the substitution of hydropower for water in a water‐deficient river basin, and determined the water withdrawal volume that could be reduced. We adopted a range‐of‐variability approach to measure the degree of flow regime alteration, and optimized the flow regime management scheme. The Luanhe River Basin was adopted as a study case. The results showed that: the water‐hydropower equivalent decreased as the transferred hydropower into the Luanhe River Basin increased; a transferred hydropower amount of 22.46 kWh/s, equivalent to 18.30 m3/s conserved water, was optimal for the river basin; the conserved water should be distributed to the Luanhe River in the proportions of 0.55:0.1:0.35 during the wet, normal and dry seasons, respectively, which is the optimal scheme to sustain the hydrological processes of the river. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Cone‐beam computed tomography (CBCT) and conventional multislice CT (MSCT) are both used in zygomatic implant navigation surgery but the superiority of one technique versus the other remains unclear. Purpose This study compared the accuracy of CBCT and MSCT in zygomatic implant navigation surgery by calculating the deviations of implants. Material and methods: Patients with severely atrophic maxillae were classified into two groups according to the use of CBCT‐ or MSCT‐guided navigation system. The entry and apical distance deviation, and the angle deviation of zygomatic implants were measured on fused operation images. A linear effect model was used for analysis, with statistical significance set at P <.05. Results: A total of 72 zygomatic implants were inserted as planned in 23 patients. The comparison of deviations in CBCT and MSCT groups showed a mean (± SD) entry deviation of 1.69 ± 0.59 mm vs 2.04 ± 0.78 mm (P =.146), apical deviation of 2 ± 0.68 mm vs 2.55 ± 0.85 (P <.001), and angle deviation of 2.32 ± 1.02° vs 3.23 ± 1.21° (P =.038). Conclusion: Real‐time zygomatic implant navigation surgery with CBCT may result in higher values for accuracy than MSCT. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Helicobacter pylori (H pylori) is a carcinogen that causes a huge burden of gastric cancer in China. We aimed to evaluate the temporal trends and other sources of variation of H pylori infection in adults from mainland China. Materials and methods: For this systematic review and meta‐analysis, we searched PubMed, Embase, China National Knowledge Infrastructure, and Wanfang databases for articles published from January 1983 to June 2020. We included studies reporting H pylori prevalence in adults and then applied random effect meta‐analyses to obtain pooled prevalence estimates for all studies and subgroups. Sources of heterogeneity were investigated by moderator analysis, and time trends were assessed through random effect meta‐regression. Results: Of the 2121 studies identified, 98 were eligible for inclusion. The pooled estimate of 670 572 participants from 26 provinces during 1983‐2018 was 49.6% (95% CI: 46.9%, 52.4%). H pylori prevalence varied considerably, ranging from 20.6% to 81.8%. Periods, urban/rural status, detection method, and study design explained 18.8%, 24.0%, 17.8%, and 30.4% of the heterogeneity, respectively. Overall, H pylori prevalence declined by −0.9% (95% CI: −1.1%, −0.6%) annually. Consistent declines in prevalence were observed by sex, age, and study characteristics. Conclusions: Helicobacter pylori prevalence is slowly decreasing over time in mainland China, but the low declining speed is not enough to have a major impact on gastric cancer incidence for many years. The time trends and the large heterogeneity should be taken into account when conducting regional comparisons, disease burden estimations, and customized strategy making. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Few studies have examined the risk of gastrointestinal cancers in screen‐detected gallstone disease. This study aimed to investigate the association between screen‐detected gallstone disease and gastrointestinal cancers using the Kailuan cohort, a population‐based prospective cohort initiated in 2006. Methods: A total of 79 809 men who underwent gallbladder ultrasonography, were free of cancers in 2006 and did not have gastrointestinal cancers within one year were enrolled. A Cox proportional hazards model with age as the timescale was used to evaluate the association between screen‐detected gallstone disease and gastrointestinal cancers. Results: We identified 1264 cases with gastrointestinal cancers, including 303 cases with liver cancer and 94 cases with pancreatic cancer. Screen‐detected gallstone disease increased the risk of liver cancer, with an HR of 2.28 [95% confidence interval (CI): 1.20‐4.33, P =.012]. The association was modified by the hepatitis B surface antigen status. A non‐significant positive association was observed between pancreatic cancer and gallstone disease (HR 2.19, 95% CI: 0.95‐5.05, P =.065). However, the HR became significant after those individuals with diabetes were excluded (HR 2.60, 95% CI: 1.12‐6.01, P =.026). Conclusion: Screen‐detected gallstone disease may predict the risk for liver and pancreatic cancer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In order to verify the escape‐from‐enemy hypothesis from the changes of nutrient substance and fitness of natural enemies on alien plants, contents of free amino acids in native and invasive plant populations of Ageratina adenophora and life history parameters of specialist herbivore Procecidochares utilis reared on these plants were investigated. Our results showed that the contents of glycine, valine, γ‐aminobutyric acid, proline, serine, alanine, and arginine in the invasive plants were higher than those in the native plants of A. adenophora. There was a shorter developmental duration and higher fecundity of P. utilis when fed on the invasive plants. The results indicated a possible fitness tradeoff of natural enemies between invasive and native plants arose from nutrient substance changes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: This paper is concerned on the consensus problem of multiagent systems with random switching topologies, where the dwell time of each topology consists of fixed and random parts. Firstly, the consensus analysis of such multiagent systems is considered by a mode‐dependent Lyapunov function approach, whose conditions are developed in terms of linear matrix inequalities. Then, three kinds of consensus protocols based on random switching topologies are proposed, whose differences are also illustrated. Moreover, all the existence conditions of such consensus controllers are presented with solvable forms, where the dwell times and topology are both included and play important roles. Finally, the proposed consensus protocols are applied to a chemical process to demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed methods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The space application task is to carry out various scientific experiments and applied research by using the ability of space experiment of spacecraft. In the past 20 years, >50 space application studies have been carried out in Chinese manned space flight application system, >500 units have been involved in the previous flight missions, and fruitful results have been achieved. The white paper 'Chinese spaceflight in 2016' pointed out that in the next 5 years, Chinese satellite system will enhance the level and basic ability to construct the satellite system. Chinese manned space station project is scheduled to be completed ∼2022 and it will plan to operate >10 years. The space station, based on the world-wide integrated information network, has a large number of payloads and will become a national space laboratory. Space activities are full of risks and challenges. On the basis of a great deal of literatures, the method of avoiding space risk in the field of spaceflight is discussed. Aiming at the fault diagnosis task for space utilisation, the intelligent methods of deep learning including deep belief network, convolutional neural network and generative adversarial network are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Smoking is a major preventable risk factor for atherosclerosis. However, the causative link between cigarette smoke and atherosclerosis remains to be established. The objective of this study is to characterize the role of GTP cyclohydrolase 1 (GTPCH1), the rate‐limiting enzyme for de novo tetrahydrobiopterin (BH4) synthesis, in the smoking‐accelerated atherosclerosis and the mechanism involved. In vitro, human umbilical vein endothelial cells were treated with nicotine, a major component of cigarette smoke, which reduced the mRNA and protein levels of GTPCH1 and led to endothelial dysfunction. GTPCH1 overexpression or sepiapterin could attenuate nicotine‐reduced nitric oxide and ‐increased reactive oxygen species levels. Mechanistically, human antigen R (HuR) bound with the adenylateuridylate‐rich elements of the GTPCH1 3′ untranslated region and increased its stability; nicotine inhibited HuR translocation from the nucleus to cytosol, which downregulated GTPCH1. In vivo, nicotine induced endothelial dysfunction and promoted atherosclerosis in ApoE−/− mice, which were attenuated by GTPCH1 overexpression or BH4 supplement. Our findings may provide a novel and promising approach to atherosclerosis treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Chemically durable and effective absorbent materials for selenite (SeO32−) remain highly desirable for contamination remediation. Now a bismuth‐based metal–organic framework (Bi‐MOF, CAU‐17) was used as adsorbent to capture SeO32− anions from aqueous solution with ultrahigh adsorption capacity of 255.3 mg g−1 and fast kinetics. Furthermore, the adsorbent showed excellent selectivity for SeO32− and was able to work steadily in a broad pH range of 4–11. Density functional theory (DFT) calculation, XANES modeling, and EXAFS fitting suggested that SeO32− anions were immobilized by forming Bi−O−Se bonds (T‐3 structural model) though splitting the O−Bi−O bond in the crystal structure, leading to a structural transformation of CAU‐17 in the solid state. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Formic acid‐induced controlled‐release hydrolysis of sugar‐rich microalgae (Scenedesmus) over the Sn‐Beta catalyst was found to be a highly efficient process for producing lactic acid as a platform chemical. One‐pot reaction with a very high lactic acid yield of 83.0 % was realized in a batch reactor using water as the solvent. Under the attack of formic acid, the cell wall of Scenedesmus was disintegrated, and hydrolysis of the starch inside the cell was strengthened in a controlled‐release mode, resulting in a stable and relatively low glucose concentration. Subsequently, the Sn‐Beta catalyst was employed for the efficient conversion of glucose into lactic acid with stable catalytic performance through isomerization, retro‐aldol and de‐/rehydration reactions. Thus, the hydrolysis of polysaccharides and the catalytic conversion of the monosaccharide into lactic acid was realized by the combination of an organic Brønsted acid and a heterogeneous Lewis acid catalyst. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Manuscript Type: Empirical Research Question/Issue: This study examines the relationship between bank CEO compensation and mortgage origination practices before the 2008 financial crisis. It extends the discussion about the degree of responsibility of executive compensation for the crisis, by testing whether bank CEO equity incentives contributed to the growth in high‐risk mortgages before the collapse of the mortgage market. Research Findings/Insights: Using a unique dataset of comprehensive loan origination records and CEO compensation in an inclusive sample of publicly traded U.S. banks, this study finds strong evidence that CEO compensation vega is positively associated with the riskiness of mortgages before the collapse of the mortgage market and some evidence that compensation delta is negatively associated with the riskiness of mortgages. Theoretical/Academic Implications: This study contributes to the understanding of the role of executive compensation in the 2008 financial crisis. Consistent with prior research, it provides further empirical support that compensation vega induces risk‐taking. Moreover, in the context of the financial industry, the findings illustrate the potential adverse effect of high‐vega compensation of bank CEOs, as such compensation may have contributed to the build‐up of high‐risk mortgages prior to the crisis. Practitioner/Policy Implications: Following the financial crisis, a series of policy changes towards regulating and reforming executive compensation in financial firms has been implemented. This study offers important insights for the reform and design of executive compensation in the financial sector. In particular, practitioners and policymakers should examine the incentive structures of bank executives (such as compensation delta and vega) in order to appropriately influence risk‐taking. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: An imino bipyridine cobalt(II) complex was developed for the electrocatalytic reduction of CO2 to formate in acetonitrile with a faradaic efficiency of approximately 80 %. For comparison, a symmetric bis‐imino pyridine complex showed lower catalytic activity because of less conjugation in the system. Cyclic voltammetry, electron paramagnetic resonance and IR spectroscopy studies provided mechanistic details and the structures of the key intermediates. DFT calculations confirmed the role of large π‐conjugated groups for stabilizing key intermediates through electronic conjugation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The nature of external surface barriers in the zeolite ZSM-5 was explored by comparing mass transfer of n-heptane in samples with different crystal sizes, surface structure, and composition. These different surface properties were achieved by HF acid etching and SiO2 deposition on an as-synthesized ZSM-5 crystal sample. HF etching does not reduce surface barriers. SiO2 deposition on the same sample reduces surface barriers significantly. These insights into the nature of surface barriers could be used to guide the rational design of zeolitic materials with better mass transport properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Nickel phosphides supported on HZSM‐5 zeolite with different initial P/Ni molar ratios were prepared for catalytic hydrodeoxygenation (HDO) of eugenol to produce hydrocarbons. When P/Ni<0.5, the increase of P content gave smaller and more uniform particles which was helpful for hydrogenation of aromatic ring, while the total acid sites of the catalyst decreased due to the coverage of more acid sites of HZSM‐5 by adding P which was unfavourable for the removal of oxygen. At P/Ni=0.5, the active phase supported on HZSM‐5 was mainly Ni3P with the smallest average particle size and minimum amount of acid sites which could account for the best hydrogenation activity and the lowest selectivity of hydrocarbons, respectively. Further increasing the P/Ni ratio up to 1 and 2, the active phase became Ni2P and a lot of nonuniform Ni2P nanorod crystals appeared on and out of the support HZSM‐5 which caused a sharp drop in the hydrogenation activity of the catalyst. For a combination of hydrogenation and deoxygenation considerations, The P/Ni=0.25 is the best ratio for nickel phosphides supported on HZSM‐5 zeolite to HDO of lignin‐related phenols. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Three‐phase diode‐bridge rectifier is a common front end for variable frequency drives/dc‐to‐dc converters, and is a well‐known harmonic source. The rectifier may operate in a dc current continuous or discontinuous mode, which creates a challenge in modelling the harmonic‐generation characteristics of such device. This study proposes a method to determine the operational modes of the rectifier under balanced operating conditions and then develops appropriate frequency‐domain harmonic models for each mode. The result is an integrated analytical harmonic matrix model for the three‐phase diode‐bridge rectifier. The matrix model can explicitly show the harmonic coupling effects between the rectifier ac supply voltages and its generated harmonic currents. Simulation and experiments have been done to verify the proposed model. The harmonic model has been applied to analyse the rectifier harmonic generating characteristics and the harmonic interactions between the rectifier and the grid. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]