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Cytokines are small signaling proteins that regulate the immune responses to infection and tissue damage. Surface charges of cytokines determine their in vivo fate in immune regulation, e.g., half-life and distribution. The overall negative charges in the extracellular microenvironment and the acidosis during inflammation and infection may differentially impact cytokines with different surface charges for fine-tuned immune regulation via controlling tissue residential properties. However, the trend and role of cytokine surface charges has yet to be elucidated in the literature. Interestingly, we have observed that most pro-inflammatory cytokines have a negative charge, while most anti-inflammatory cytokines and chemokines have a positive charge. In this review, we extensively examined the surface charges of all cytokines and chemokines, summarized the pharmacokinetics and tissue adhesion of major cytokines, and analyzed the link of surface charge with cytokine biodistribution, activation, and function in immune regulation. Additionally, we identified that the general trend of charge disparity between pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines represents a unique opportunity to develop precise immune modulation approaches, which can be applied to many inflammation-associated diseases including solid tumors, chronic wounds, infection, and sepsis. [Display omitted] • Majority of pro-inflammatory cytokines are negatively charged. • Majority of anti-inflammatory cytokines are positively charged. • Charge disparity may indirectly regulate cytokines in inflammation via altering their tissue residence and half-lives. • Targeting the charge disparity of cytokines may provide a novel mechanism for immune modulation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The main aim of this study was to determine whether the use of contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) could improve the categorization of suspicious breast lesions based on the Breast Imaging Reporting and Data System (BI-RADS), thereby reducing the number of benign breast lesions referred for biopsy. This prospective study, conducted between January 2017 and December 2018, enrolled consenting patients from eight teaching hospitals in China, who had been diagnosed with solid breast lesions classified as BI-RADS 4 using conventional ultrasound. CEUS was performed within 1 wk of diagnosis for reclassification of breast lesions. Histopathological results obtained from core needle biopsies or surgical excision samples served as the reference standard. The simulated biopsy rate and cancer-to-biopsy yield were used to compare the accuracy of CEUS and conventional ultrasound (US). Among the 1490 lesions diagnosed as BI-RADS 4 with conventional ultrasound, 486 malignant and 1004 benign lesions were confirmed based on histology. Following CEUS, 2, 395, and 211 lesions were reclassified as CEUS-based BI-RADS 2, 3, and 5, respectively, while 882 (59%) remained as BI-RADS 4. The actual cancer-to-biopsy yield based on US was 32.6%, which increased to 43.4% when CEUS-based BI-RADS 4A was used as the cut-off point to recommend biopsy. The simulated biopsy rate decreased to 73.4%. Overall, in this preselected BI-RADS 4 population, only 2.5% (12/486) of malignant lesions would have been miscategorized as BI-RADS 3 using CEUS-based reclassification. The diagnostic accuracy, sensitivity, and specificity of contrast-enhanced ultrasound reclassification were 57.65%, 97.53%, and 38.35%, respectively. Our collective findings indicate that CEUS is a valuable tool in further triage of BI-RADS category 4 lesions and facilitates a reduction in the number of biopsies while increasing the cancer-to-biopsy yield. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• An integrated CCHP system is proposed with one machine synchronously. • A prototype based on a free-piston Stirling configuration was designed and built. • The prototype can obtain the highest values of COPc and COPh of 0.26 and 1.28. • Under typical working conditions, the prototype can achieve an exergy efficiency of 49.3 %. • Compared with the traditional system, the prototype saves at least 39 % of energy consumption. Conventional combined cooling, heating, and power (CCHP) systems, involving multiple energy conversion technologies, are composed of a variety of coupled subsystems with different working principles. To solve the problems of bulky structure, operational complexity, and high initial investment cost, a novel integrated combined heating, cooling, and electricity system based on the same energy conversion technology with a triple-effect free-piston Stirling configuration was proposed. Compared with the traditional system, the novel integrated system can cool, heat, and generate power using one machine without introducing additional devices. Some verification experiments were tested on a built experimental platform to validate the feasibility of the concept of this configuration. The result shows that the system was able to obtain the highest values of COPc, COPh, and the output performance coefficient of 0.26, 1.28, and 1.54, respectively, which can save 39 % of energy consumption compared with traditional independent energy-supplying systems when providing the same cooling and heating capacity and electricity under typical working conditions. It is expected that the reported result can facilitate a practical application in decentralized CCHP systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Using nanocatalysts to catalyze water electrolysis for hydrogen production is an ideal solution to address the energy crisis. The most well-adopted fabrication methods for nanocatalysts are tube furnace annealing, Hydrothermal method, etc., hardly satisfying the trade-off among coarsening, dispersity, and particle size due to mutual restrictions. Herein, a universal, ultrafast and facile cellulose nanometer whiskers-high temperature shock (CNW-HTS) method was reported for fabricating a library of ultrafine metal nanoparticles with uniform dispersion and narrow size distribution. The metal-anchor functional groups in CNW (i.e., –OH and –COOH) and the characteristics of the HTS method for ultrafast heating and powerful quenching synergistically contribute to the successful synthesis of metal nanoparticles. As an initial demonstration, the as-prepared Pt nanocatalyst (η10 ​mA ​cm−2 ​= ​51.8 ​mV) shows more excellent catalytic hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) performance than the Pt catalyst prepared in the tubular furnace (η10 ​mA ​cm−2 ​= ​169.4 ​mV). This rapid and universal CNW-HTS method can pave the way for nanomanufacturing to produce high-quality metal nanoparticles, thereby expanding applications of energy conversion and electrocatalysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• A 2 kW-class FPSHP prototype was designed, built and tested. • The analysis of the distribution of acoustic field and exergy loss were carried out. • The influence of key parameters was studied by simulation and experiment. • The prototype can provide 2253 W of heating with a COP h of 2.76. Compared with conventional vapour-compression heat pump technology, the free-piston Stirling heat pump technology attracts wide attention for its high efficiency, reliability, and environmental friendliness. In this work, a free-piston Stirling heat pump prototype with a two-kilowatt capacity, which can operate with an outside ambient temperature ranging from -20 to 10 °C, was designed, built and tested. First, numerical simulations were carried out to explore the distributions of the acoustic field and exergy loss. Second, the effects of several operating parameters on the heating performance were numerically investigated in detail. Finally, to validate the accuracy of the simulation results, verification experiments were conducted on the experimental platform of a free-piston Stirling heat pump driven by a dual-opposed linear compressor. Experimental data show that with a hot-end temperature of 45 °C and outside ambient temperature of 0 °C, the prototype achieved a heating capacity of 2253 W with a corresponding COP h of 2.76 (based on PV power input) and a relative Carnot efficiency of 39.1 %; in particular, the prototype was able to achieve a COP h of 2.5 when pumping heat from -20 °C to 45 °C for 3.25 MPa mean pressure. The simulation and experimental results demonstrated that the free-piston Stirling heat pump system has good potential to achieve high efficiency as a heating supply in a cold region. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present paper investigates the effect of carbon nanofibers (CNFs) on the microstructure and mechanical properties of Carbon fiber reinforced carbon and silicon carbide binary matrix (C/C–SiC) composite prepared by using the reactive melt infiltration technique. The CNFs used in this paper were generated through in-situ reaction in the pores of C/C preforms using the chemical vapor deposition. Results indicate introducing additional carbon sources in the form of CNFs in the C/C preform can remarkably improve the permeability of molten Si, resulting in higher density and more uniform microstructure of the RMI-deriver C/C–SiC composites. Consequently, the in-situ formation of CNFs reduces the residual Si content by 64.71% and increases the mechanical strength and modulus at room temperature by [22.31% and 17.89%] and after heat treatment at 1500 °C by [35.6% and 47.48%] with respect to no-CNF containing composites due to a lower amount of residual Si content and additional reinforcement effect of the unreacted CNFs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The PTCR effect is an important application phenomenon in the ferroelectric BaTiO 3 electronic ceramic materials. In this work, the PTCR effect is also found in high pressure (HP) hot quenched Ca 1-x Y x Cu 3 Ti 4 O 12 (CYCTO) ceramics. Compared with the pure CaCu 3 Ti 4 O 12 (CCTO) ceramic synthesized under ordinary pressure (OP), the low temperature resistivity of HP CYCTO samples is about 3 orders of magnitude lower than that of untreated CCTO samples, showing an obvious PTCR effect. The transition temperature is close to 178 K for x = 0.2 sample. The analysis of crystal and magnetic structures shows that the crystal and magnetic structures of HP CYCTO samples do not change before and after the resistance transition. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy showed that the concentration of oxygen vacancy defects in HP CYCTO is higher than CCTO. By analyzing the conduction behaviors of HP CYCTO samples, it suggests that oxygen vacancies and Y3+ ions may be the important donors for the decrease of low temperature resistivity of HP CYCTO samples. The results in this work have important reference value for the application of the electrical conduction behaviors in CCTO. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Li 2 O–ZnO–B 2 O 3 -WO 3 (LZBW) sealing glasses for Si substrates were prepared and the effect of WO 3 on the structure, thermal properties, and sintering behaviour was investigated. As the WO 3 increases from 0 to 12 mol%, the glass transition temperature and softening temperature reach the lowest values of 448 °C and 479 °C, respectively, at which time the glass network has the lowest degree of polymerization. The thermal expansion coefficient increases from 6.959 × 10−6/°C to 8.476 × 10−6/°C with increasing WO 3 contents. It is verified that the introduction of WO 3 can effectively improve the conductivity. The sealing property of the glasses was evaluated by the wetting angle of the glasses after co-sintering with Si substrate for 10 min at 860 °C, and the 25Li 2 O-7ZnO-2.7Bi 2 O 3 -1.3P 2 O 5 -55B 2 O 3 -9WO 3 glass had the minimum wetting angle of 34.07°. The excellent thermal properties, conductivity, and wetting behaviour of the LZBW glasses make it a potential material as a binder material for positive silver pastes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hematological parameters refer to the assessment of changes in the number and distribution of blood cells, including leukocytes (LES), erythrocytes (ERS), and platelets (PLS), which are essential for the early diagnosis of hematological system disorders and other systemic diseases in livestock. In this context, the primary objectives of this study were to investigate the genomic background of 19 hematological parameters in Holstein cattle, focusing on LES, ERS, and PLS blood components. Genetic and phenotypic (co)variances of hematological parameters were calculated based on the average information restricted maximum likelihood method and 1,610 genotyped individuals and 5,499 hematological parameter records from 4,543 cows. Furthermore, we assessed the genetic relationship between these hematological parameters and other economically important traits in dairy cattle breeding programs. We also carried out genome-wide association studies and candidate gene analyses. Blood samples from 21 primiparous cows were used to identify candidate genes further through RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) analyses. Hematological parameters generally exhibited low-to-moderate heritabilities ranging from 0.01 to 0.29, with genetic correlations between them ranging from −0.88 ± 0.09 (between mononuclear cell ratio and lymphocyte cell ratio) to 0.99 ± 0.01 (between white blood cell count and granulocyte cell count). Furthermore, low-to-moderate approximate genetic correlations between hematological parameters with one longevity, 4 fertility, and 5 health traits were observed. One hundred ninety-nine significant SNP located primarily on the Bos taurus autosomes (BTA) BTA4, BTA6, and BTA8 were associated with 16 hematological parameters. Based on the RNA-seq analyses, 6,687 genes were significantly downregulated and 4,119 genes were upregulated when comparing 2 groups of cows with high and low phenotypic values. By integrating genome-wide association studies (GWAS), RNA-seq, and previously published results, the main candidate genes associated with hematological parameters in Holstein cattle were ACRBP , ADAMTS3 , CANT1 , CCM2L , CNN3 , CPLANE1 , GPAT3 , GRIP2 , PLAGL2 , RTL6 , SOX4 , WDFY3 , and ZNF614. Hematological parameters are heritable and moderately to highly genetically correlated among themselves. The large number of candidate genes identified based on GWAS and RNA-seq indicate the polygenic nature and complex genetic determinism of hematological parameters in Holstein cattle. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors (SGLT2i) initially emerged as oral antidiabetic medication but were subsequently discovered to exhibit pleiotropic actions. Insomnia is a prevalent and debilitating sleep disorder. To date, the causality between SGLT2 inhibitors and insomnia remains unclear. This study aims to evaluate the causality between SGLT2 inhibitors and insomnia and identify potential plasma protein mediators. Using a two-sample Mendelian Randomization (MR) analysis, we estimated the causality of SGLT2 inhibition on insomnia and sleep duration. Additionally, employing a two-step and proteome-wide MR analysis, we evaluated the causal link of SGLT2 inhibition on 4907 circulating proteins and the causality of SGLT2 inhibition-driven plasma proteins on insomnia. We applied a false discovery rate (FDR) correction for multiple comparisons. Furthermore, mediation analyses were used to identify plasma proteins that mediate the effects of SGLT2 inhibition on insomnia. SGLT2 inhibition was negatively correlated with insomnia (odds ratio [OR] = 0.791, 95 % confidence interval [CI] [0.715, 0.876], P = 5.579*10^-6) and positively correlated with sleep duration (β = 0.186, 95 % CI [0.059, 0.314], P = 0.004). Among the 4907 circulating proteins, diadenosine tetraphosphatase (Ap4A) was identified as being linked to both SGLT2 inhibition and insomnia. Mediation analysis indicated that the effect of SGLT2 inhibition on insomnia partially operates through Ap4A (β = −0.018, 95 % CI [−0.036, −0.005], P = 0.023), with a mediation proportion of 7.7 %. The study indicated a causality between SGLT2 inhibition and insomnia, with plasma Ap4A potentially serving as a mediator. • Few previous studies have explored the relationship between SGLT2 inhibition and insomnia. • Mendelian randomization made us able to evaluate the causality of SGLT2 inhibition on insomnia. • Genetically-predicted SGLT2 inhibition negatively correlated to insomnia. • Plasma AP4A level mediates the inhibitory effect of SGLT2 inhibition on insomnia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The utility of follow-up blood cultures (FUBCs) in patients with Gram-negative bloodstream infection (GN-BSI) is controversial. Observational studies have suggested significant mortality benefit but may be limited by single-centre designs, immortal time bias, and residual confounding. We examined the impact of FUBCs on mortality in patients with GN-BSI in a retrospective population-wide cohort study in Ontario, Canada. Adult patients with GN-BSI hospitalized between April 2017 and December 2021 were included. Primary outcome was all-cause mortality within 30 days. FUBC was treated as a time-varying exposure. Secondary outcomes were 90-day mortality, length of stay, and number of days alive and out of hospital at 30 and 90 days. Thirty-four thousand one hundred patients were included; 8807 (25.8%) patients received FUBC, of which 966 (11.0%) were positive. Median proportion of patients receiving FUBC was 18.8% (interquartile range, 10.0–29.7%; range, 0–66.1%) across 101 hospitals; this correlated with positivity and contamination rate. Eight hundred ninety (10.1%) patients in the FUBC group and 2263 (8.9%) patients in the no FUBC group died within 30 days. In the fully adjusted model, there was no association between FUBC and mortality (hazard ratio, 0.97; 95% CI, 0.90–1.04). Patients with FUBC had significantly longer length of stay (median, 11 vs. 7 days; adjusted risk ratio, 1.18; 95% CI, 1.16–1.21) and fewer number of days alive and out of hospital at 30 and 90 days. FUBC collection in patients with GN-BSI varies widely across hospitals and may be associated with prolonged hospitalization without clear survival benefit. Residual confounding may be present given the observational design. Clear benefit should be demonstrated in a randomized trial before widespread adoption of routine FUBC. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The novel potential environmental barrier coating materials, two high-entropy rare earth disilicates (HEDs) (Gd 0.2 Ho 0.2 Er 0.2 Yb 0.2 Lu 0.2) 2 Si 2 O 7 and (Sc 0.2 Ho 0.2 Er 0.2 Yb 0.2 Lu 0.2) 2 Si 2 O 7 were prepared by the solid-phase method. Both the HEDs showed remarkable high-temperature phase stability and an appropriate thermal expansion coefficient (CTE) that matched that of SiC f /SiC. In addition, both the HEDs possessed above 20% lower thermal conductivity at 1000 °C (1.37 and 1.42 W·m−1·K−1, respectively) compared to traditional single-component rare earth disilicate material YbDS, and they also exhibited higher mechanical properties and good resistance to water vapour corrosion at 1300 °C. Moreover, the corresponding free-standing coatings obtained after deposition by atmospheric plasma spraying (APS) showed excellent resistance to CMAS corrosion, primarily because of the formation of an apatite layer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Composite materials with good thermal conductivity and wave-absorbing ability are an important innovation in the multifunctionalization of current wave-absorbing materials. However, how to make wave-absorbing materials with high thermal conductivity, is still a difficult problem to overcome in the field of electromagnetic wave absorption (EWA). In this paper, boron nitride nanosheets were modified by surface polymerization of phenolic aldehyde, and the impedance matching properties of the materials were optimized by trace silver modification, after which they were annealed at 700 °C and blended with silicone rubber. The results made clear, that it achieves excellent absorption bandwidth (6.89 GHz) at a lower thickness (2.3 mm), while the thermal conductivity of the composite reaches 0.42 W/(m•k) at this performance of the filler ratio, which is a 210% enhancement compared to the thermal conductivity of pure silicone rubber [0.2 W/(m•k)], and is only 0.02 W/(m•k) lower than pure BN composites at the same filling ratio. This shows that the prepared material not only has good microwave absorption ability, but also has excellent thermal conductivity. The material is simple to make. It has a high industrialization potential and can serve as a powerful guide for the development of ceramic materials into heat-conducting and wave-absorbing materials in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To investigate the effect of three different doses of oral pregabalin on minimum alveolar concentration of isoflurane (MAC ISO) in cats. Prospective, randomized, placebo-controlled, blinded, crossover trial. A group of eight healthy adult cats aged 24–48 months. Cats were randomly assigned to three oral doses of pregabalin (low dose: 2.5 mg kg–1, medium dose: 5 mg kg–1, high dose: 10 mg kg–1) or placebo 2 hours before MAC ISO determination, with the multiple treatments administered with a minimum 7 day washout period. Anesthesia was induced and maintained with isoflurane in oxygen until endotracheal intubation was achieved, and maintained with isoflurane with volume-controlled ventilation. MAC ISO was determined in triplicate using the bracketing technique and tail clamp method 120 minutes after pregabalin or placebo administration. Physiologic variables (including heart rate and blood pressure) recorded during MAC ISO determination were averaged and compared between the pregabalin and placebo treatments. One-way analysis of variance and the Friedman test were used to assess the difference for normally and non-normally distributed data, respectively. The Tukey test was used as a post hoc analysis. Values of p < 0.05 were considered significant. The MAC ISO with the medium- and high-dose pregabalin treatments were 1.33 ± 0.21% and 1.23 ± 0.17%, respectively. These were significantly lower than MAC ISO after placebo treatment (1.62 ± 0.13%; p = 0.014, p < 0.001, respectively), representing a decrease of 18 ± 9% and 24 ± 6%. The mean plasma pregabalin concentration was negatively correlated with MAC ISO values. Physiologic variables did not differ significantly between treatments. Doses of 5 or 10 mg kg–1 pregabalin, administered orally 2 hours before determining MAC ISO , had a significant isoflurane-sparing effect in cats. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The emergence of artificial intelligence-based chatbot has revolutionized the field of clinical psychology and psychotherapy, granting individuals unprecedented access to professional assistance, overcoming time constraints and geographical limitations with cost-effective convenience. However, despite its potential, there has been a noticeable gap in the literature regarding their effectiveness in addressing common mental health issues like depression and anxiety. This meta-analysis aims to evaluate the efficacy of AI-based chatbots in treating these conditions. A systematic search was executed across multiple databases, including PubMed, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, PsycINFO, and Embase on April 4th, 2024. The effect size of treatment efficacy was calculated using the standardized mean difference (Hedge's g). Quality assessment measures were implemented to ensure trial's quality. In our analysis of 18 randomized controlled trials involving 3477 participants, we observed noteworthy improvements in depression (g = −0.26, 95 % CI = −0.34, −0.17) and anxiety (g = −0.19, 95 % CI = −0.29, −0.09) symptoms. The most significant benefits were evident after 8 weeks of treatment. However, at the three-month follow-up, no substantial effects were detected for either condition. Several limitations should be considered. These include the lack of diversity in the study populations, variations in chatbot design, and the use of different psychotherapeutic approaches. These factors may limit the generalizability of our findings. This meta-analysis highlights the promising role of AI-based chatbot interventions in alleviating depressive and anxiety symptoms among adults. Our results indicate that these interventions can yield substantial improvements over a relatively brief treatment period. • AI-chatbots demonstrate siginificant reductions in depression and anxiety. • Therapeutic effects commence at four weeks and intensify after eight weeks. • The effectiveness is not sustained in follow-up assessments. • This meta-analysis exhibits low heterogeneity and includes a large sample size. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As the stages of the COVID-19 pandemic evolved, the symptoms of depression, anxiety, and insomnia have increasingly manifested among Chinese college students. The aim of this study is to investigate the relationships between these symptoms through network analysis among Chinese college students during COVID-19. A three-wave cross-sectional survey was conducted at 22 colleges in Guangdong Province, involving 381,152 students during three specific time intervals: T1 (baseline, February 3 to 10, 2020), T2 (19 months after baseline, June 10 to 18, 2021), and T3 (37 months after baseline, March 15 to April 22, 2023). Depression (PHQ-9), anxiety (GAD-7), and insomnia (YSIS) were used separately. We analyzed two key network indices: "Expected influence" and "Bridge expected influence". Network stability was assessed through a case-dropping bootstrap program. The effective sample sizes for the three periods were as follows: T1 - 164,101 (103,645 females, 63.2 %), T2 - 86,767 (52,146 females, 60.1 %), and T3 - 130,284 (76,720 females, 58.9 %). Across these three periods, the key central symptoms were "Fatigue" (PHQ4), "Restlessness" (GAD5), "Uncontrollable worrying" (GAD2), "Worry too much" (GAD3) and "Sleep insufficiency" (YSIS6). Notably, "Fatigue" (PHQ4), "Restlessness" (GAD5) and "Irritability" (GAD6) consistently served as bridge symptoms. In the T1 and T2 period, "Motor" (PHQ8) acted as a bridge symptom but weakened in T3. Throughout the three periods, the mental health issues among Chinese college students displayed characteristics of somatization within the depression-anxiety-insomnia comorbidity network. Over time, anxiety symptoms appeared to become more prominent. Consequently, this study highlights the importance of accurately identifying and promptly intervening in these core symptoms of mental health among college students, as these symptoms may evolve across different stages of a pandemic. • The symptom network of depression, anxiety and insomnia in college students at different epidemic stages was discussed. • Throughout the three periods, the mental health issues among Chinese college students displayed characteristics of somatization within the depression-anxiety-insomnia comorbidity network. • Over time, anxiety symptoms appeared to become more prominent. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The stimulator of interferon genes (STING) connects the innate and adaptive immune system and plays a significant role in antitumor immunity. Over the past decades, endogenous and CDN-derived STING agonists have been a hot topic in the research of cancer immunotherapies. However, these STING agonists are either in infancy with limited biological effects or have failed in clinical trials. In 2020, a non-nucleotide STING agonist MSA-2 was identified, which exhibited satisfactory antitumor effects in animal studies and is amenable to oral administration. Due to its distinctive binding mode and enhanced bioavailability, there have been accumulating interests and an array of studies on MSA-2 and its derivatives, spanning its structure-activity relationship, delivery systems, applications in combination therapies, etc. Here, we provide a comprehensive review of MSA-2 and interventional strategies based on this family of STING agonists to help more researchers extend the investigation on MSA-2 in the future. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Core-rim structure has distinct advantage to improve the performances of KNN-based piezoceramics. Whereas the state of the core-rim structure is difficult to control during sintering. Here, the core-rim structured 0.96(K 0.51 Na 0.47 Li 0.02)(Nb 0.8 Ta 0.2)O 3 -0.04CaZrO 3 (KNLNT) ceramics were both obtained by conventional sintering (CS) and rapid sintering (RS). KNLNT ceramics prepared by rapid sintering exhibit more outstanding controllability on grain growth and core-rim structure and can hold the core/rim size ratio in a stable and favorable level due to extended effective range of grain boundary diffusion in densification. Benefiting from the controllable microstructure, the RS method prepared samples show excellent performance. The unipolar strain value of RS-1240 (S max =0.252%) is 2.07 times as much as CS-1110 (S max =0.122%). Large strain, low hysteresis and low dielectric permittivity features make the core-rim structured KNLNT ceramics a potential material for pulse drive applications and demonstrate that the manual precise control of core-rim structure could create many possibilities on materials design. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

NOTCH signaling in liver sinusoidal endothelial cells (LSECs) regulates liver fibrosis, a pathological feature of chronic liver diseases. POFUT1 is an essential regulator of NOTCH signaling. Here, we investigated the role of LSEC-expressed POFUT1 in liver fibrosis. Endothelial-specific Pofut1 knockout mice were generated and experimental liver fibrosis was induced by chronic carbon tetrachloride exposure or common bile duct ligation. Liver samples were assessed by ELISA, histology, electron microscopy, immunostaining and RNA in situ hybridization. LSECs and hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) were isolated for gene expression analysis by RNA sequencing, qPCR, and western blotting. Signaling crosstalk between LSECs and HSCs was investigated by treating HSCs with supernatant from LSEC cultures. Liver single-cell RNA sequencing datasets from patients with cirrhosis and healthy individuals were analyzed to evaluate the clinical relevance of gene expression changes observed in mouse studies. POFUT1 loss promoted injury-induced LSEC capillarization and HSC activation, leading to aggravated liver fibrosis. RNA sequencing analysis revealed that POFUT1 deficiency upregulated fibrinogen expression in LSECs. Consistently, fibrinogen was elevated in LSECs of patients with cirrhosis. HSCs treated with supernatant from LSECs of Pofut1 null mice showed exacerbated activation compared to those treated with supernatant from control LSECs, and this effect was attenuated by knockdown of fibrinogen or by pharmacological inhibition of fibrinogen receptor signaling, altogether suggesting that LSEC-derived fibrinogen induced the activation of HSCs. Mechanistically, POFUT1 loss augmented fibrinogen expression by enhancing NOTCH/HES1/STAT3 signaling. Endothelial POFUT1 prevents injury-induced liver fibrosis by repressing the expression of fibrinogen, which functions as a profibrotic paracrine signal to activate HSCs. Therapies targeting the POFUT1/fibrinogen axis offer a promising strategy for the prevention and treatment of fibrotic liver diseases. Paracrine signals produced by liver vasculature play a major role in the development of liver fibrosis, which is a pathological hallmark of most liver diseases. Identifying those paracrine signals is clinically relevant in that they may serve as therapeutic targets. In this study, we discovered that genetic deletion of Pofut1 aggravated experimental liver fibrosis in mouse models. Moreover, fibrinogen was identified as a downstream target repressed by Pofut1 in liver endothelial cells and functioned as a novel paracrine signal that drove liver fibrosis. In addition, fibrinogen was found to be relevant to cirrhosis and may serve as a potential therapeutic target for this devastating human disease. [Display omitted] • Endothelial deletion of Pofut1 aggravates injury-induced liver fibrosis in mice. • Pofut1 deficiency exacerbated injury-induced liver fibrosis via upregulation of fibrinogen in the sinusoidal endothelium. • Pofut1 loss augments fibrinogen expression via a NOTCH/STAT3 signaling axis. • Fibrinogen can induce the activation of human and mouse hepatic stellate cells. • Fibrinogen is elevated in liver endothelium of patients with cirrhosis and mouse models of experimental liver fibrosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Shaerhu (SEH) coal is abundant in Xinjiang, China. The utilization of SEH suffers from severe ash deposition, slagging, and fouling problems due to its high-chlorine-alkaline characteristics. The co-combustion of high-alkaline coal and other type coals containing high Si/Al oxides has been proven to be a simple and effective method that will alleviate ash-related problems, but the risk of heavy metals (HMs) contamination in this process is nonnegligible. Hence, the volatilization rates and chemical speciation of Pb, Cu, and Zn in co-combusting SEH and a high Si/Al oxides coal, i.e., Yuanbaoshan (YBS) coal were investigated in this study. The results showed that the addition of SEH increased the volatilization rates of Pb, Cu, and Zn during the co-combustion at 800°C from 23.70%, 23.97%, and 34.98% to 82.31%, 30.01%, and 44.03%, respectively, and promoted the extractable state of Cu and Zn. In addition, the interaction between SEH and YBS inhibited the formation of the Pb residue state. SEM-EDS mapping results showed that compared to Zn and Cu, the signal intensity of Pb was extremely weak in regions where some of the Si and Al signal distributions overlap. The DFT results indicated that the O atoms of the metakaolin (Al 2 O 3 ⋅2SiO 2) (001) surface were better bound to the Zn and Cu than Pb atoms after adsorption of the chlorinated HMs. These results contribute to a better understanding of the effects of high-alkaline coal blending combustion on Pb, Cu, and Zn migration and transformation. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• A good accumulation and accommodation of interface is towards acetylacetone (AcAc). • AcAc isomerization is favorable on acidic interface as "water-bridge" is destroyed. • Carbonyl/hydroxyl O-atom of AcAc displays an energetical preference to hydration. • Unfeasible hydration on acidic interface leads to the accumulation of product. Acetylacetone (AcAc) is a typical class of β-diketones with broad industrial applications due to the property of the keto-enol isomers, but its isomerization and chemical reactions at the air-droplet interface are still unclear. Hence, using combined molecular dynamics and quantum chemistry methods, the heterogeneous chemistry of AcAc at the air-droplet interface was investigated, including the attraction of AcAc isomers by the droplets, the distribution of isomers at the air-droplet interface, and the hydration reactions of isomers at the air-droplet interface. The results reveal that the preferential orientation of two AcAc isomers (keto - and enol -AcAc) to accumulate and accommodate at the acidic air-droplet interface. The isomerization of two AcAc isomers at the acidic air-droplet interface is more favorable than that at the neutral air-droplet interface because the "water bridge" structure is destroyed by H 3 O+, especially for the isomerization from keto -AcAc to enol -AcAc. At the acidic air-droplet interface, the carbonyl or hydroxyl O-atoms of two AcAc isomers display an energetical preference to hydration. Keto -diol is the dominant products to accumulate at the air-droplet interface, and excessive keto -diol can enter the droplet interior to engage in the oligomerization. The photooxidation reaction of AcAc will increase the acidity of the air-droplet interface, which indirectly facilitate the uptake and formation of more keto -diol. Our results provide an insight into the heterogeneous chemistry of β-diketones and their influence on the environment. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

By applying the high-entropy strategy, one can develop stable mixed oxide by populating a single sublattice with many distinct cations. Two kinds of rare-earth high-entropy hexaaluminates (La 1/5 Nd 1/5 Sm 1/5 Eu 1/5 Gd 1/5)MAl 11 O 19 (M = Mg and Zn) were successfully synthesized, and their mechanical and thermal properties were analyzed. We highlight that the Zn-containing sample displays a significant increase in fracture toughness (2.48 MPa m1/2) and a decrease in thermal conductivity (1500 °C, 1.2 W m−1 K−1) as compared to the Mg-containing sample. The diffusion of fine grains in platelet-like grains observed only in the Zn-containing sample is considered to be responsible for its outstanding mechanical properties. This work demonstrates the excellent thermal-mechanical properties of the Zn-containing sample and indicates the promising use of high-entropy hexaaluminate in the aerospace field acting as thermal barrier coating materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Create a prediction model based on anti-angiogenesis for patients with locally advanced cervical cancer. • The level of benefit of targeted therapy could be predicted before treatment, and the model validation was good. This study aimed to develop and evaluate an anti-angiogenesis-based model for predicting the survival and the potential benefits of targeted therapy for patients with localized advanced cervical cancer. We collected clinical data from 163 patients with cervical cancer who received paclitaxel and cisplatin (TP) or TP plus bevacizumab during or after radiotherapy from June 2017 to February 2023. We analyzed the clinical measures of recent efficacy and overall survival (OS) using univariate and logistic multivariate and Cox regression methods, respectively. We constructed a nomogram model and evaluated its efficacy using the c-index, the area under the curve (AUC), a calibration curve, and the clinical decision curve (DCA). We found that targeted agents and hemoglobin were independent determinants of near-term efficacy (P < 0.05), while targeted agents and stage were independent factors of OS (P < 0.05). We developed a predictive model for an OS prognostic nomogram and performed internal validation 1000 times using the Bootstrap re-sampling method. The c-index was 0.81, and the AUC was 0.84 (P < 0.01).The calibration curves showed a good agreement between the projected and actual values. The DCA curve indicated that the model had a high positive predictive accuracy. We developed a novel anti-angiogenesis-based survival prediction model for patients with locally advanced cervical cancer. This model could estimate the benefit of targeted therapy before treatment, and it had good validation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The ventriculoperitoneal (VP) shunt is widely acknowledged as a treatment option for managing intracranial hypertension resulting from non-human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) cryptococcal meningitis (CM). Nonetheless, there is currently no consensus on the appropriate surgical indications for this procedure. Therefore, it is crucial to conduct a preoperative evaluation of patient characteristics and predict the outcome of the VP shunt to guide clinical treatment effectively. A retrospective analysis was conducted on data from 85 patients with non-HIV CM who underwent VP shunt surgery at our hospital. The analysis involved studying demographic data, preoperative clinical manifestations, cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) characteristics, and surgical outcomes and comparisons between before and after surgery. A nomogram was developed and evaluated. The therapy outcomes of 71 patients improved, whereas 14 cases had worse outcomes. Age, preoperative cryptococcus count, and preoperative CSF protein levels were found to influence the surgical outcome. The nomogram exhibited exceptional predictive performance (area under the curve = 0.896, 95% confidence interval: 0.8292–0.9635). Internal validation confirmed the nomogram's excellent predictive capabilities. Moreover, decision curve analysis demonstrated the nomogram's practical clinical utility. The surgical outcome of VP shunt procedures patients with non-HIV CM was associated with age, preoperative cryptococcal count, and preoperative CSF protein levels. We developed a nomogram that can be used to predict surgical outcomes in patients with non-HIV CM. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Percutaneous vertebroplasty (PVP) is a common method used to treat Kümmell disease. In patients without neurologic symptoms, we sought to evaluate whether using the new spiral injectors instead of the traditional push-rod injectors in PVP can result in improved clinical efficacy for the treatment of Kümmell disease. A clinical retrospective study was conducted between August 2018 and December 2020. The study included patients diagnosed with single-level thoracolumbar Kümmell disease who underwent PVP surgery. The patients were divided into 2 groups: an observation group consisting of 53 patients treated with spiral injectors and a control group consisting of 68 patients treated with push-rod injectors. A 2-year follow-up period was adopted. The bone cement injection volume and occurrence of bone cement leakage were significantly greater in the observation group compared with the control group (P < 0.05). The observation group had significantly shorter operation time and intraoperative fluoroscopy times compared with the control group (P < 0.05). The scores for the visual analog scale and Oswestry Disability Index in both groups were significantly lower at 3 days or 3 months and 2 years after surgery compared with before surgery, with the scores at 2 years after surgery being significantly lower than those at 3 days or 3 months for both groups (P < 0.05). The relative anterior ledge height and Cobb angle showed significant improvement at 3 days and 2 years after surgery compared with before surgery in both groups (P < 0.05), but patients in the observation group experienced substantial improvement at 3 days and 2 years after surgery compared with those in the control group (P < 0.05). In both groups, the relative anterior ledge height was noticeably lower 2 years after surgery compared with 3 days after surgery (P < 0.05). Concurrently, there was a significant increase in the local Cobb angle over time in both groups (P < 0.05). The implementation of both spiral injectors and traditional push-rod injectors in PVP surgery yields effective pain relief, improved function, partially restored vertebral height, and corrected kyphosis in treating Kümmell disease. Compared with the push-rod injector, the spiral injector is highly efficient in restoring vertebral height, correcting kyphosis, and minimizing fluoroscopy use and operation time, but it carries a greater risk of bone cement leakage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Elderly atopic dermatitis (AD) is a subtype of AD defined by age (≥ 60 years). The molecular characteristics of elderly AD remain to be clarified. We sought to characterize the molecular features of skin lesions and peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) in patients with AD across different age, focusing on elderly AD. Skin and PBMCs samples were used for RNA sequencing. Analysis of differentially expressed genes and gene set variation analysis were performed. Immunofluorescence staining, quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR), flow cytometry and transwell assay were used for validation. Compared with healthy controls, the skin transcriptome of AD patients showed common signatures of AD, like barrier dysfunction and enhanced Th1/Th2/Th17 immune pathways. In PBMCs, the expression of Th1/Th2 response genes was more remarkable in adult AD, while expression of Th17-related genes was significantly higher in childhood AD. The gene modules associated with natural killer (NK) cells were downregulated in elderly AD. In skin lesions, elderly AD exhibited enrichment of macrophages, fibroblasts and senescence-associated secretory phenotype (SASP) related genes. The correlation among fibroblasts, SASP and innate immune cells were revealed by the co-localization of fibroblasts, macrophages and NK cells in the lesions across different age groups. Fibroblasts under inflammation or senescence could induce stronger chemotaxis of macrophages and NK cells. We identified the molecular phenotypes of skin lesions and PBMCs in elderly AD individuals. Fibroblasts, innate immune cells, and SASP might play important roles in the pathogenesis of elderly AD. • Elderly patients with AD present distinct transcriptomic characteristics. • Senescent fibroblasts may be the main source of SASP. • Senescent fibroblasts induce cascade activation of innate immune cells and are involved in the pathogenesis of elderly AD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Visual geo-localization enables the UAV to know its position in GNSS-denied application scenarios, such as disaster emergency response, forest inventory management and indoor facility monitoring. However, there are still some challenges in using oblique-view imagery, especially for UAV images with large oblique viewing angles, to perform visual geo-localization. On the one hand, using geotags of references as image-level geo-localization results is insufficient for oblique-view imagery, because the UAV is often situated at a distance and not directly over the observation area. On the other hand, the obvious differences in viewpoint, viewing angle, and scale between UAV oblique-view images and geo-tagged orthographic reference images severely limit the accuracy of all three steps in pixel-level geo-localization, including image-based retrieval, matching and space resection. In this study, we proposed a coarse-to-fine visual geo-localization method to address these challenges for UAV position determination using oblique-view imagery, assisted by orthographic references. Firstly, we proposed a novel image-level geo-localization method by employing Segments Direction Statistics (SDS) feature patterns and bilateral retrieval strategy. Secondly, we matched UAV oblique-view images with geo-tagged orthographic reference images using feature points and descriptors extracted by the improved SuperPoint network, incorporating the Discrete Gaussian Pyramid Module (DGPM) and the Two-stage Matching Results Refinement Module (TMRRM). Thirdly, based on the matched points with 2D pixel coordinates and 3D ground coordinates, we adopted the triangular pyramid constrained resection method with angle similarity constraints to accurately determine the pixel-level position of UAV. We conducted experiments using a publicly available multi-view images dataset (University-1652), as well as two self-collected datasets of oblique-view images captured by UAVs. Experiments indicate that the localization error of the proposed method is less than 0.1 m for applications with the flight height about 200 m. Meanwhile, the error is about 10 m for UAVs with extremely high flight height (more than 4 km) and large oblique viewing angle (more than 60°). And the average time cost of the proposed method is about 400 ms. Therefore, experimental results demonstrated the effectiveness and efficiency of the proposed method in automatically obtaining reliable UAV positions using oblique-view imagery, as well as its robustness for various UAV oblique-view image-based applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Spatiotemporal symmetry breaking induced the coexistence of ferroelectric and magnetic order phases. To realize multiferroic orders at room temperature in BiFeO 3 ceramics, structure symmetry modulation was introduced by doping Tb, where the R 3 c - P bnm phase transition and unlocking ferromagnetism by destroying the cycloidal spin structure were observed. The phase structure, its fraction, and properties were investigated, including ferroelectric polarization, magnetic orders, dielectric trait, and optical absorption. The electronic structure in doped ceramics can support the parasitic ferromagnetic phase and robust ferroelectric order. The energy band is composed of the hybridization of the O-2 p state and Fe-3 d states, where charge transfer occurs from the O-2 p valence band to the Fe-3 d conduction band, driven by the localized Coulomb repulsion between d - f electrons. The present work provides insight into the regulation of the multiferroic traits of BiFeO 3 from the electronic structure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tackling large bone defects remains a significant clinical challenge due to the limitations in current treatment strategies. This study presents a modular tissue-engineered bone, achieving rapid vascularization within 14 days and showing significant initial stability after implantation. This innovation is driven by the synergy of high-resolution mono-LCD mask photopolymerization 3D printing, electrospinning technology, and photosensitive gel cell carriers, resulting in a bioceramic-electrospun fiber composite scaffold (BECS) that enhances nutrient permeation and mechanical support. Emphasizing biomimicry, the scaffold incorporates an electrospun ultrafine fiber membrane that simulates the periosteum's microvascular structure, crucial for rapid endothelialization of graft lumens. This membrane acts as an advanced carrier for vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), facilitating targeted release that significantly promotes vascular regeneration. Our in vitro and in vivo analyses indicate that immediate vascularization and subsequent osteogenesis significantly enhance blood supply and bone regeneration in defect sites. Notably, the application of Human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells (UC-MSCs) within the gelatin methacrylate (GelMA) cell carrier ensures uniform distribution and proliferation, essential for balanced bone regeneration. Demonstrating a 75% increase in vascular network formation and a 60% enhancement in osteocalcin (OCN) expression within the initial four weeks, the scaffold supports both rapid vascularization and osteogenesis. This dual-functional tissue-engineered bone represents a significant advancement for treating large bone defects, with the potential to improve current therapeutic strategies substantially. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Slow-burn propellants are crucial for aerospace advancement. This study focuses on the development of slow-burn propellants by replacing a small amount of AP (3–9 %) with various amine-based burning rate suppressants (BRSs). The consistency between thermal analysis and combustion test results indicates a direct link between the main exothermic decomposition process and combustion performance, with changes in onset temperature positively correlated with decreases in combustion parameters. Upon adding 3 % oxamide, the onset temperature of the main decomposition peak in DSC shifted backward by 16.2 °C, significantly higher than the formulations containing ammonium sulfate at 2.6 °C and ammonium oxalate at −0.8 °C. As the content of oxamide further increased from 3 to 9 %, the ignition delay time increased simultaneously by 0.300–1.638 s, atmospheric burning rate decreased by 14.01–45.45 %. These values represent the maximum among formulations with the same content of the BRSs, mainly attributed to its higher heat absorption capacity. • The onset temperature shift of the high-temperature decomposition peak, as the primary energy release phase, is positively correlated with the extent of combustion performance decline. • The introduction of three types of amine-based burning rate suppressants does not affect the light-absorbing properties of the propellants, but significantly influences the ignition behavior. • Infrared cameras have verified that certain particles of ammonium sulfate exit the burning surface alongside the gas before complete decomposition, resulting in a diminished effect on the reduction of the burning rate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lunar rock sampling is an important means of studying the evolutionary history of planets. However, facing the special microgravity environment of the Moon, general rock sampling drills cannot provide the torque and pressure required for the mission. Therefore, it is of great significance to study the sampling drill with attachment function. In this study, the claw spines of insects were simulated, and a biomimetic spine laminated structure with flexible connections was designed. The working principle of attachment and detachment was analyzed using a rod model with elastic characteristics. The process of biomimetic spines attaching to rough surfaces was simulated using the coupling method of multi-body dynamics and discrete element analysis (MBD-DEM). The mechanical properties of bionic claws during attachment were analyzed. Mechanical experiments were conducted on biomimetic spines attached to volcanic rock. The experiment results for single and multiple spines were compared with the simulation results, verifying the accuracy and reliability of the simulation model. Finally, A bionic attachment prototype was designed and tested for performance. The attachment device was integrated into a sampling drill and drilling experiments were conducted. This article provides important reference for the optimization of biomimetic spine structures, along with adding value to the design of attachment equipment. [Display omitted] • Rubber constitutive model applied for dynamics modeling of spines. • MDB-DEM method used to simulate the working process of the spine attachment device. • Spine experiments were carried out and compared with simulations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effect of weekend catch-up sleep (WCS) on depressive symptoms is inconsistent among different populations, with limited evidence in Americans. Therefore, we aimed to investigate the association between WCS and depressive symptoms in American adults. We recruited 7719 participants from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) 2017–2020. Information on sleep duration and depressive symptoms were assessed by several self-reported questions and Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9), respectively. Then, WCS duration was calculated as weekend sleep duration minus weekday sleep duration, and WCS was further defined as WCS duration >0 h. Survey designed regression analyses were used to assess the association of WCS and depressive symptoms. In fully adjusted multivariate logistic regression models, the odds ratio (95 % confidence interval) for depressive symptoms and the β (95 % confidence interval) for PHQ-9 score in response to WCS were 0.746 (0.462, 1.204; P = 0.218) and −0.429 (−0.900, 0.042; P = 0.073), respectively. Besides, the smooth relationship presented L-shaped, and only WCS duration of 0–2 h was statistically significantly associated with depressive symptoms or PHQ-9 score. Subgroup analyses showed that the negative associations were stronger among men, adults younger than 65 years, and those with short weekday sleep duration (P for interaction <0.05). Limitations. The cross-sectional design limits the capability for causal relationship between WCS and depressive symptoms. This study suggests that moderate WCS is associated with reduced odds of depressive symptoms, which provides additional epidemiological evidence for the effects of sleep on depressive symptoms. • We firstly explored the effects of WCS on depressive symptoms in American adults. • WCS duration of 0–2 h was related to decreased odds of depressive symptoms. • Continuous WCS duration showed a non-linear association with depressive symptoms. • Specific subgroups were more sensitive to the benefits of WCS. • Our findings offer more evidence to help alleviate depressive symptoms in Americans. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study intended to investigate the feasibility and effectiveness of using clinical magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) radiomics features to predict lymphovascular invasion (LVI) status in breast cancer (BC) patients. A total of 182 BC patients were retrospectively collected and randomly divided into a training set (n = 127) and a validation set (n = 55) in a 7:3 ratio. Based on pathological examination results, the training set was further divided into LVI group (n = 60) and non-LVI group (n = 67), and the validation set was divided into LVI group (n = 24) and non-LVI group (n = 31). General data and MRI examination indicators were compared. Multivariate logistic regression was utilized to analyze MRI radiomics features and clinically relevant indicators that were significant in the baseline information of patients in training set, independent risk factors were identified, and a logistic regression model was built. The accuracy of logistic model was validated using ROC curves in training and validation sets. Age, pathohistological classification, tumor length, tumor width, presence or absence of Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy (MRS) cho peak, presence or absence of spicule sign, peritumoral enhancement, and peritumoral edema were statistically significant (P < 0.05) between the two groups. Multivariate logistic regression analysis presented that spicule and peritumoral edema were independent risk factors for LVI in BC patients (P < 0.05). The ROC curve illustrated that AUC of the logistic regression model in the training set was 0.807 (95%CI: 0.730–0.885) and that in the validation set was 0.837 (95%CI: 0.731–0.944). Radiomics features of spicule sign and peritumoral edema were independent risk factors for LVI in BC patients. A logistic regression model based on these factors, along with age, could accurately predict LVI occurrence in BC patients, providing data support for diagnosis and modeling of LVI in BC patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To evaluate the diagnostic performance of 2-[18F]-fluoro-2-deoxy- d -glucose (18F-FDG) positron-emission tomography (PET)/computed tomography (CT) in TA diagnosis and Takayasu arteritis (TA) activity assessment. This retrospective study included patients with TA diagnosed according to the American College of Rheumatology (ACR) criteria and undergoing 18F-FDG PET/CT imaging from October 2010 to July 2022. TA activity was assessed through 18F-FDG PET/CT (maximum standard uptake value [SUVmax], vascular SUVmax/mean standard uptake value [SUVmean] of liver (SUV ratio), and PET vascular activity score [PETVAS]) using physician global assessment (PGA) as the reference standard, and the results of these assessments were compared against the clinical activity scores (National Institutes of Health [NIH] and Indian Aortitis Disease Activity [ITAS-A] scores), acute-phase reactants (APR), and white blood cell and platelet counts. Twenty 18F-FDG PET/CT examinations from 19 patients were included in the study, nine were performed in the active phase and 11 in the inactive phase. The involved vessels showed segmental and tubular FDG uptake in the active group. The average SUVmax, SUV ratio, and PETVAS was 6.3 ± 2.7 (range 3.4–12), 4.2 ± 1.7 (range 2.1–7.5), and 22.7 ± 11.2 (range 6–39), respectively, in the active group and 1.7 ± 0.9 (0.9–3.1), 1.1 ± 0.6 (range 0.6–2.4), and 3.5 ± 5.5 (range 0–18), respectively, in the inactive group. The sensitivity, specificity of SUVmax, SUV ratio, and PETVAS for TA activity assessment were 100%, 100%; 100%, 90.9%; and 88.9, 90.9%, respectively. After ROC curve analysis, a new SUVmax cut-off was obtained. Based on the new cut-off value, SUVmax 3.3 and SUV ratio 1.9 had a more perfect assessment performance. 18F-FDG PET/CT is an alternative imaging technique for TA. • 18F-FDG PET/CT has advantages in TAK activity assessment. • Arterial SUVmax and SUV target/background ratio are important parameters for TAK activity assessment. • 18F-FDG PET/CT allows for a more accurate classification of TAK. • PET/CT can better evaluate TAK efficacy [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) and neoplasms have been considered as public health concerns worldwide. This study aimed to estimate the epidemiological patterns of death burden on CVDs and neoplasms and its attributable risk factors in Western Europe from 1990 to 2019 to discuss the potential causes of the disparities. We collected data on CVDs and neoplasms deaths in 24 Western European countries from the Global Burden of Disease Study. We analyzed patterns by age, sex, country, and associated risk factors. The results include percentages of total deaths, age-standardized death rates per 100,000 population, and uncertainty intervals (UIs). Time trends were assessed using annual percent change. In 2019, CVDs and neoplasms accounted for 33.54% and 30.15% of Western Europe's total deaths, with age-standardized death rates of 128.05 (95% UI: 135.37, 113.02) and 137.51 (95% UI: 142.54, 128.01) per 100,000. Over 1990–2019, CVDs rates decreased by 54.97%, and neoplasms rates decreased by 19.54%. Top CVDs subtypes were ischemic heart disease and stroke; top cancers for neoplasms were lung and colorectal. Highest CVD death burdens were in Finland, Greece, Austria; neoplasm burdens in Monaco, San Marino, Andorra. The major risk factors were metabolic (CVDs) and behavioral (neoplasms). Gender differences revealed higher CVDs death burden in males, while neoplasms burden varied by risk factors and age groups. In 2019, CVDs and neoplasms posed significant health risks in Western Europe, with variations in death burdens and risk factors across genders, age groups, and countries. Future interventions should target vulnerable groups to lessen the impact of CVDs and neoplasms in the region. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, YOF was used as the sintering additive for obtaining MgAl 2 O 4 transparent ceramics with excellent optical properties. It is found that YOF enhances the densification of MgAl 2 O 4 ceramics. In addition, YOF can effectively suppress grain growth in the final stage because of the reduction of grain boundary energies and the pinning effect at the grain boundary region during the hot isostatic pressing (HIPing) process. Nevertheless, it is important to carefully control the content of YOF. Although the formation of a low amount of Y 3 Al 5 O 12 (YAG) is advantageous because its grains are doing the pinning effect at the grain boundary, an excessive amount is not desired as it is likely to cause scattering. After optimizing the YOF content and sintering temperature, the final sample (4 mm thick after polishing) with 0.01 wt% YOF HIPed at 1550 °C is obtained, showing the high in-line transmittance of 82.6% at 400 nm and high flexural strength of 271.6 MPa. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Group A rotavirus (RVA) is the primary etiological agent of acute gastroenteritis (AGE) in children under 5 years of age. Despite the global implementation of vaccines, rotavirus infections continue to cause over 120,000 deaths annually, with a majority occurring in developing nations. Among infants, the P[8] rotavirus strain is the most prevalent and can be categorized into four distinct lineages. In this investigation, we expressed five VP4(aa26-476) proteins from different P[8] lineages of human rotavirus in E. coli and assessed their immunogenicity in rabbits. Among the different P[8] strains, the Wa-VP4 protein, derived from the MT025868.1 strain of the P[8]-1 lineage, exhibited successful purification in a highly homogeneous form and significantly elicited higher levels of neutralizing antibodies (nAbs) against both homologous and heterologous rotaviruses compared to other VP4 proteins derived from different P[8] lineages in rabbits. Furthermore, we assessed the immunogenicity of the Wa-VP4 protein in mice, pigs, and cynomolgus monkeys, observing that it induced robust production of nAbs in all animals. Interestingly, there was no significant difference between in nAb titers against homologous and heterologous rotaviruses in pigs and mankeys. Collectively, these findings suggest that the Wa-VP4* protein may serve as a potential candidate for a rotavirus vaccine. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Reducing the energy consumption of hydrogen liquefaction process is an urgent issue to improve the economy of liquid hydrogen transportation. A novel large-scale hydrogen liquefaction system, with a capacity of 100 TPD, is proposed in this paper. The pre-cooling system is composed of a mixed-refrigerant (MR) refrigeration cycle and a CO 2 –NH 3 cascade refrigeration cycle. Due to the auxiliary pre-cooling effect of the CO 2 –NH 3 cascade cycle, temperature of the pre-cooled hydrogen can be as low as −200.9 °C. A modified MR Joule Brayton cycle with an additional compressor is used as the cryogenic system to cool the hydrogen from −200.9 °C to −252.2 °C. Besides, a four-stage ortho-to-para conversion (OPC) process is utilized. Performance of the novel system is investigated and optimized using the Aspen HYSYS software. According to the results, the lowest specific energy consumption (SEC) of the proposed process is 6.15 kWh/kg LH2 and the exergy efficiency is as high as 67.4%. Based on the energy analysis, the best system coefficient of performance is 0.1751 with a 96.3% of p-H 2 in the liquid hydrogen. In addition, compared to the initial conceptual system, the proposed system exhibits significant performance enhancements, a 20% reduction in SEC and a 27.9% increase in exergy efficiency. A sensitivity analysis is conducted to assess the impact of refrigerant composition and hydrogen pressure on the system, resulting in the determination of the optimal proportions of refrigerant components and the optimal inlet pressure. Results of the study can provide theoretical reference for the further development of large-scale hydrogen liquefaction technology. • A novel large hydrogen liquefaction process is proposed and analyzed. • The process employs mixed refrigerant for pre-cooling and cryogenics. • Performances of the process are simulated and optimized with Aspen HYSYS. • The overall specific energy consumption of the process is 6.15 kWh/kg LH2. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the future, hydrogen will be more frequently injected into natural gas networks for storage and transportation purposes. A diffusion jet flame forms when gaseous fuel leakage occurs during the transportation or utilization of hydrogen-enriched natural gas, and the fuel is ignited by an ignition source in still air. In the study, methane was chosen to simulate natural gas. Experiments with the hydrogen addition fraction reaching up to 20% were performed to study the effects of the initial flame angle (θ = 90°, 60°, 30°, 0°, and −30°), variable nozzle diameter (d e = 3.15, 4, 4.94, 5.65, and 6 mm) and a multitude of fuel flow rates (10, 20, 30, 40, 50, and 60 L/min) on the morphological parameters of the gas jet flames. The geometrical features of the jet flame were determined via video processing for each experiment. The geometrical parameters of hydrogen-enriched natural gas were quantified under different conditions. The experimental results indicate that a dimensionless prediction model was established for the flame height of hydrogen-enriched natural gas by modifying the flame Froude number ( F r f) for vertical jet flames. For upward jet flames, the normalized flame horizontal projection length (L x) of hydrogen-enriched natural gas is well correlated with Q ∗. A global prediction model for inclination angles of 0° ≤ θ ≤ 60° and 2000 < Q ∗<20,000 was proposed based on the experimental data. For downward jet flames, the normalized horizontal projection length and downward extension length (L d) of the hydrogen-enriched natural gas jet flame are correlated with Q ∗, with powers of 2/5 and 3/5, respectively. Dimensionless prediction models for the horizontal projection length and downward extension length are given by modifying the flame Froude number. Quantitative results were proposed in order to gain insight into the development of the key parameters and the effects on the environment, from which extinguishing concepts and safety areas can be directly derived. • Hydrogen-enriched natural gas jet fire under various conditions was studied. • Macroscopic characteristics of hydrogen-enriched natural gas jet fire were quantified. • A unified empirical model was established to predict the horizontal extension length of hydrogen-enriched natural gas jet fire. • The normalized flame height and downward extension length correlated to the modified Froude number. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

At a constant engine speed of 2000 r/min and 5 bar gross indicated mean effective pressure, experiments were carried out on a 1.5 L engine with a variable geometry turbocharger to examine the combustion and emission characteristics of a direct injection hydrogen engine under lean combustion conditions. Additionally, a CFD simulation model was established to investigate the formation process of the air-fuel mixture and the generation of nitrogen oxides (NOx). The findings demonstrated that the uniformity of the hydrogen-air mixture in the cylinder descended with a delay in SOI (start of injection), and that the thermal efficiency often rose initially before declining. When SOI was set at −80°CA ATDC, the engine achieved maximum indicated thermal efficiency, brake thermal efficiency, and output torque values of 40.8%, 36.22%, and 61.2 Nm, respectively. However, as the SOI was delayed, the combustion variability ascended, and when the SOI was delayed to −20°CA ATDC, there was a significant chance that abnormal phenomena like pre-ignition would occur. BTE achieves a maximum of 36.38% when λ is 2.2 and SOI is −40°CA ATDC. Under lean combustion conditions, temperature was a major factor in the generation of NOx, and homogenous combustion can substantially reduce NOx emissions. NOx emissions are always less than 100 ppm when SOI is before −80°CA ATDC. • The uniformity coefficient is used to quantify the stratification degree of mixture. • The thermal efficiency generally increased initially before declining with the SOI delay. • A high possibility of abnormal combustion emerged when SOI was postponed until −20°CA ATDC. • Homogeneous combustion can effectively reduce NOx emissions under lean burn condition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Potash, also known as potassium (K), is a crucial component of the agricultural sector and serve as "the food of food". Historically, the formation of potash deposits has been attributed to the "tectonic-climatic" theory, in which the role of prolonged arid climate is still debating. Consider the minerogenetic time scale, paleoclimatic events may have played an undeniable role in the formation of potash. However, few studies have been conducted on this topic, which may impede theoretical development. The Lop Nur playa of the Tarim Basin, Northwest China, is a typical hinterland salt lake that formed during the combined effect of the collision between the Eurasian Plate and the Indian Plate and the Quaternary climatic background. As a potash metallogenetic area, Lop Nur is the best place to study how paleoclimatic events affect salt mineralization. In this study, we summarize the development of paleoclimate records and multiple ages from Quaternary sediments and analyze the mineralization theory of the Lop Nur salt lake. The comprehensive chronicle framework employed in paleoenvironmental reconstruction has unveiled the fluctuating aridity and the subsequent process of playa formation. By integrating mineralization mechanisms, ranging from the "mountain-basin transfer" theory to the "tectonic-climatic-source coupled" theory, we systematically reviewed the potential impacts of paleoclimatic events as both impetuses and limitations in the formation of potash deposits in Lop Nur. From a more prospective aspect of this review, the paleoclimatic events for potash mineralization are examined in relation to the worldwide distribution of salt lakes. This examination takes into account the lacustrine paleo-proxies and potash types, which indicate similar paleoclimatic influences on the mineralization process, albeit with varying origins. In the future, a more comprehensive understanding of potassium salt resources can be achieved through a thorough comparison of reconstructed paleoenvironments and high-resolution regional mineralization modeling results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• MAA introduces unsaturated carboxylate metal salt bonds on the steel slag surface. • MAA etching of steel slag to make it loose and porous. • Steel slag can shorten the vulcanization molding cycle. • The performance of MAA-in-situ-m-SS filled natural rubber was significantly improved. • MAA-in-situ-m-SS can partially replace carbon black as a rubber filler. As a by-product of the steelmaking industry, the large-volume production and accumulation of steel converter slag cause environmental issues such as land occupation and dust pollution. Since metal salts of unsaturated carboxylic acid can be used to reinforce rubber, this study explores the innovative application of in-situ modified steel slag, mainly comprising metal oxides, with methacrylic acid (MAA) as a rubber filler partially replacing carbon black. By etching the surface of steel slag particles with MAA, their surface roughness was increased, and the chemical bonding of metal methacrylate salt was introduced to enhance their interaction with the molecular chain of natural rubber (NR). The results showed that using the steel slag filler effectively shortened the vulcanization molding cycle of NR composites. The MAA in-situ modification effectively improved the interaction between steel slag and NR molecular chains. Meanwhile, the physical and mechanical properties, fatigue properties, and dynamic mechanical properties of the experimental group with MAA in-situ modified steel slag (MAA-in-situ-m-SS) were significantly enhanced compared with those of NR composites partially filled with unmodified slag. With the dosage of 7.5 phr or 10 phr, the above properties matched or even exceeded those of NR composites purely filled with carbon black. More importantly, partially replacing carbon black with modified steel slag reduced fossil fuel consumption and greenhouse gas emission from carbon black production. This study pioneered an effective path for the resourceful utilization of steel slag and the green development of the steelmaking and rubber industries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this lecture note, we give a basic introduction to the rapidly developing concepts of generalized symmetries, from the perspectives of both high energy physics and condensed matter physics. In particular, we emphasize on the (invertible) higher-form and higher group symmetries. For the physical applications, we discuss the geometric engineering of QFTs in string theory and the symmetry-protected topological (SPT) phases in condensed matter physics. The lecture note is based on a short course on generalized symmetries, jointly given by Yi-Nan Wang and Qing-Rui Wang in Feb. 2023, which took place at School of Physics, Peking University (https://indico.ihep.ac.cn/event/18796/). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Enhancing the sensing properties of resistive sensors holds pivotal importance as a non-invasive technology for identifying lung cancer biomarkers. This study focused on the development of a robust sensing platform to effectively detect low-concentration biomarkers with low concentration. Ti 3 C 2 T x MXene was prepared by HF etching and ZnO was successfully grown on the MXene nano-multilayers via hydrothermal method subsequently. TiO 2 –ZnO samples were obtained after the calcination step. Various characterization methods were applied to validate the structural integrity and formation of the TiO 2 –ZnO n-n heterojunction. The TiO 2 –ZnO sensor with a Ti:Zn atom ratio of 1:1 (TZ1) exhibited special sensing characteristics, which can be attributed to the higher activation energy (89.2 kJ/mol) and the more substantial interfacial contact areas between the two metal oxides. This architectural arrangement gives rise to the creation of numerous energy barriers, effectively hindering electron migration. Despite exhibiting the acceptable response, TZ1 can be applied in electronic nose systems to effectively detect lung cancer indicators with low concentrations (i.e., acetone, formaldehyde, NH 3) in light of its high stability and steady signal-to-noise ratio. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A set of novel (AlTiCrVTa)N x coatings are synthesized by DC magnetron sputtering to methodically investigate the effect of nitrogen content on the microstructure, mechanical and tribological properties and oxidation behavior of the coatings for the first time. As the nitrogen content increases, the coating structure transitions from amorphous to a simple fcc structure, accompanied by a change of preferred orientation from (200) to (111) and an enhancement in crystallinity. The coating morphology changes from featureless glassy to columnar crystals. The highest nanohardness of 38.1 GPa and the best wear rate of 4.9 × 10−7 mm3/Nm are achieved at 43.3 at.% nitrogen content. The friction coefficient exhibits a downward trend with rising nitrogen content, reaching the lowest value of 0.47 at 49.8 at.% nitrogen content. The oxidation tests reveal that the oxidation resistance deteriorates with increasing nitrogen content, caused by the looser structure and large-sized grain boundaries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

High entropy carbide ceramics have attracted much attention because of their high hardness and chemical inertness, but the relatively low fracture toughness limits their actual industrial applications. In this work, high entropy (MoTaTiVW)C 5 ceramics reinforced with silicon carbide whisker (SiC w) were fabricated with spark plasma sintering. The effects of SiC w contents and sintering temperatures on the microstructure and mechanical properties of (MoTaTiVW)C 5 have been studied. The outcomes show that by optimizing the sintering temperature, a dense microstructure with intact SiC w were obtained which could fully utilize the toughening effect of the SiC w and thus exhibits an enhanced mechanical property. Additionally, the presence of solid solution oxide particles in the sintered bulks is also beneficial for the improved toughness. The sample with 5 wt% SiC w sintered at 1700 °C exhibited higher hardness of 19.63 GPa and fracture toughness of 6.26 MPa m1/2, which is attributed to the combined toughening effects (crack deflection, crack bridging, and whisker/particle extraction) of SiC w and oxide particles. The findings contribute to the development of advanced ceramic materials with improved mechanical properties for various applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• EA improves cognitive function in MCAO rats. • EA reduces inflammation and autophagy in MCAO rats. • EA upregulates miR-135a-5p to inhibit autophagy in MCAO rats. • MiR-135a-5p targets mTOR/NLRP3 axis to repress autophagy. Post-stroke cognitive impairment is a significant challenge with limited treatment options. Electroacupuncture (EA) has shown promise in improving cognitive function after stroke. Our study explores the underlying mechanism of EA in alleviating cognitive impairment through the inhibition of autophagy. We utilized a rat model of stroke induced by middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) to evaluate the efficacy of EA. Treatment with EA was observed to markedly improve cognitive function and reduce inflammation in MCAO rats, as evidenced by decreased neurological deficit scores, shorter latencies in the water maze test, and diminished infarct volumes. EA also attenuated tissue damage in the hippocampus and lowered the levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines and oxidative stress markers. Although autophagy was upregulated in MCAO rats, EA treatment suppressed this process, indicated by a reduction in autophagosome formation and alteration of autophagy-related protein expression. The protective effects of EA were reversed by the autophagy activator rapamycin. EA treatment elevated the levels of microRNA (miR)-135a-5p expression, and suppression of this elevation attenuated the remedial efficacy of EA in addressing cognitive impairment and inflammation. MiR-135a-5p targeted mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR)/NOD-like receptor protein 3 (NLRP3) signaling to repress autophagy. EA treatment inhibits autophagy and alleviates cognitive impairment in post-stroke rats. It exerts its beneficial effects by upregulating miR-135a-5p and targeting the mTOR/NLRP3 axis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, a heterodimeric β-galactosidase (PpenLac2) with high transgalactosylation activity from Pediococcus pentosaceus was screened from 64 lactic acid bacteria, and heterologously expressed in Escherichia coli. The optimal pH and temperature of PpenLac2 were 8.0 and 45 °C, respectively. The galactooligosaccharides (GOS) produced by PpenLac2 showed a preference for β-(1,6) linkages, and the primary products were allolactose and 6′-galactosyl lactose. Based on homology modeling and molecular docking, mutation sites were designed to modify PpenLac2 to enhance GOS yield. The key residue impacting the transgalactosylation activity of the enzyme was Phe600. Saturated mutation at the site of Phe600 revealed that the majority of mutants had higher yields of 6′-galactosyl lactose. F600H gained the highest GOS yield increasing from 37.6% to 46.7%, owing to the mutation driving the rotation of Trp 922 and generating Pi-Pi stacking between the pyran ring of substrate and the aromatic ring of Trp922, which promoted the transgalactosylation reaction without affecting hydrolysis reaction. Following the optimization of the reaction conditions, F600H achieved an even higher GOS yield of 52.4%. This study provides a promising enzyme for the synthesis of GOS and serves as a guide for the rational design for the improvement of transgalactosylation efficiency of GH2 family members. [Display omitted] • A β-galactosidase (PpenLac2) with high transgalactosylation activity was screened • Mutation sites in PpenLac2 were designed by homology modeling and molecular docking • Phe600 plays a critical role in rotating Trp922 to facilitate transgalactosylation • Mutant F600H showed 9.10% raise of galactooligosaccharides (GOS) production • GOS yield of F600H was further improved to 52.4% by reaction condition optimization [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]