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In this paper, adaptive neural dynamic surface control(DSC) is developed for a class of constrained strict-feedback nonlinear systems with input unmodeled dynamics. By introducing a one to one nonlinear mapping, the output constrained strict-feedback system in the presence of unmodeled dynamics is transformed into a novel unconstrained strict-feedback system. Neural networks (NNs) are employed to approximate unknown nonlinear continuous functions. A normalization signal and an updating parameter are used to handle the uncertain term which input unmodeled dynamics brings about in the design final step. By adding the normalization signal to the whole Lyapunov function and using the defined compact set in stability analysis, all the signals in the closed-loop system are proved to be semi-globally uniformly ultimately bounded (SGUUB), and output constraint is not violated. Two numerical examples are used to illustrate the effectiveness of the proposed adaptive DSC method in handling input unmodeled dynamics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The potential ecological risk index (RI) is a diagnostic tool for pollution control which integrate the concentration of heavy metals with ecological effect, environmental effect and toxicity. However, the lack of toxicity coefficients for specific heavy metals limits its widespread use. In this study, we calculated the toxicity coefficient (= 7) for antimony (Sb) based on Hakanson's principles, thus broadening the range of potential applications of this risk assessment tool. Taking the case of Xikuangshan (XKS), the largest Sb mine in the world, we predicted the potential ecological risk factor ( E r i ) of Sb for sediment and soil. This was then compared with the enrichment factor (EF) and index of geoaccumulation ( I geo ). Results showed that Sb shared the similar pollution categories regardless of E r i , EF or I geo indexes was used indicating the appropriateness of the determined toxicity coefficient. Regression analysis results further demonstrated that E r i was in agreement with bioavailable concentrations (Diffusive Gradient in Thin Films and Community Bureau of Reference extraction concentrations), particularly in sediments. This means that E r i is a reliable and logical index for evaluating Sb pollution in sediments within aquatic environments and in soils within terrestrial environments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims Exercise is beneficial in obesity, however, the debate about the value of high-intensity interval training (HIIT) vs. moderate-intensity continuous training (MICT) has been long lasting. Therefore, here we have compared the possible beneficial effects of two different exercise training regimes in a mouse model of diet-induced obesity (DIO). Materials and methods Following 7 wk. on high fat diet (HFD), ten-week-old male ICR mice ( n = 30) were assigned to HIIT, distance-matched MICT or remained sedentary for the next 8 constitutive weeks while maintaining the dietary treatments. Age-matched sedentary mice with standard diet were used as a control ( n = 10). Exercise was performed on a motorized treadmill for 5 days a week. Key findings Both modes of exercise ameliorated adiposity and related metabolic dysfunction induced by HFD and sedentary lifestyle, while mice following HIIT exhibited significantly lower body weight, percentage of fat mass and smaller adipocyte size. HIIT was more favorable in preventing liver lipid accumulation by restoring mRNA levels of genes involved in hepatic lipogenesis ( SREBP1 , ACC1 , FAS ) and β-oxidation ( PPARα , CPT1a , HAD ). In addition, HIIT was more efficient in mitigating adipose tissue inflammation and insulin insensitivity, partly dependent on abrogating phosphorylation of JNK/IRS1 (Ser307) pathway. Moreover, only HIIT led to pronounced beige adipocyte recruitment in inguinal subcutaneous adipose tissue. Significance We conclude that HIIT contribute a more favorable regulation of metabolic dysfunctions in DIO mice compared with MICT. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • The Co@NCNT and Ni@NCNT catalysts were synthesized using the calcination method. • The Co@NCNT and Ni@NCNT catalysts exhibited good electrocatalytic activity for the ORR. • Their electrocatalytic activity of both catalysts was due to the rich N-doped active C sites. • The good catalytic activity was also due to synergistic reaction between Co (Ni) and NCNTs. Electrocatalysts based on nanosized cobalt or nickel particles encapsulated by nitrogen-doped carbon nanotubes (M@NCNTs (M = Co or Ni)) were synthesized using the calcination method. They were served as the catalyst toward an oxygen reduction reaction (ORR). The results implied that the M@NCNT electrocatalysts had ORR catalytic activity in an alkaline electrolyte. The half-wave potential (E 1/2) on the Co@NCNT catalyst reached 0.881 V, which was higher than for commercial Pt/C (0.856 V). The M@NCNT electrocatalysts exhibited good stability in the ORR. After 3000 cycles, the E 1/2 for the Co@NCNTs was almost completely unchanged, whereas for the Ni@NCNTs, shifted negatively to 19 mV, was less than for commercial Pt/C (34 mV). These promising electrochemical properties were due to abundant active carbon sites and the synergistic reaction between Co/Ni and NCNTs. Density functional theory calculations indicated that the OOH had strong absorption on the C atoms (adjacent to pyridinic N) in the Co@NCNT and Ni@NCNT catalysts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In response to the continually increasing thermal load caused by the rising gas temperature in the inlet of radial-flow turbines, this paper proposes the use of axial hole air-entraining cooling to cool the turbine shaft and turbo wheel back-disc. The cooling effect of this technique, as well as its influence on the aerodynamic performance of turbines, were investigated through numerical simulations. The results demonstrate that the axial hole air-entraining cooling technique can significantly improve the local cooling efficiency of the turbine back-disc. Under a blowing ratio of 0.25 %, the local cooling efficiency increased by 154 %, and the temperature decreased by up to 233 K. The maximum temperature on the surface of the turbine shaft at the floating bearing location decreased significantly, thus reducing the coking risk of the lubricating oil. When the blowing ratio was within 0.5 %, the impact of this cooling technique on the overall turbine performance was negligible. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

l -Fucose is a functional deoxyhexose prevalent in various organisms. Particularly, it is the general backbone unit of the polysaccharides of many edible brown algae; it is also a human-identical milk monosaccharide and has been proposed for use in infant formula as a functional ingredient. This review aims to provide a detailed overview of the occurrence and physiological effects of l -fucose. We have reviewed various strategies for preparing l -fucose, including algal extraction, enzymatic production, and microbial synthesis using metabolic engineering approaches. l -Fucose is an important polysaccharide obtained from various microorganisms, algae, and plants. In mammals, they occur as N - and O -linked glycans in glycoproteins and glycolipids that perform important physiological functions. l -Fucose has prebiotic activity, protects intestinal barrier function, improves lipid metabolism, exhibits antitumor activity, and slows skin aging; thus, it can potentially be used as a bioactive component in the pharmaceutical, nutraceutical, and cosmetic industries. l -Fucose is easily manufactured from algae and can be produced via chemical, enzymatic, and microbial synthesis. • l -Fucose is a functional deoxy hexose widely occurring in various organisms. • It has a potential as a bioactive component in pharmaceutical, nutraceutical, and cosmetic industries. • It is easy to be industrially prepared from l -fucose-enriched fucoidan in brown algae. • High substrate cost currently limits large-scale enzymatic synthesis of l -fucose. • Metabolic engineering-based microbial synthesis shows advantages of low cost and high efficiency. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The clinical significance and prognostic role of circulating plasma cells (CPCs) in multiple myeloma (MM) are still controversial. We conducted the first meta-analysis to clarify the correlation between CPCs and the clinicopathological features and prognosis of MM patients. Methods: A comprehensive literary search for relevant studies was performed on PubMed, Embase, Medline, CNKI (Chinese) and Web of Science databases (January 1, 1950 to December 20, 2016). The associations between CPCs and survival rate and clinicopathological parameters, including International staging system (ISS) and Durie-Salm staging system (DS) stage, were evaluated. Then pooled hazard ratios (HRs) for survival with 95% confidence intervals (CIs), subgroup analysis, sensitivity analysis, and publication bias were conducted. Results: 11 studies covering a total of 2943 patients were included. Pooled hazard ratios (HRs) revealed that the presence of CPCs predicted aggressive disease progression (HR = 1.78, 95% CI = 1.57–2.03) and reduced overall survival (OS) (HR = 1.82, 95% CI = 1.59–2.08). Subgroup analyses demonstrated that CPCs positive patients also had poor disease progression and OS in detection methods and sampling time subsets. Moreover, the presence of CPCs was strikingly associated with increased ISS stage (OR = 2.78% CI = 1.69–4.56), but not with DS stage(OR = 1.60; 95% CI = 0.74–3.47). Conclusions: CPCs status is associated with poorer survival outcome in multiple myeloma. Additionally, increased ISS stage could be significant risk factors for the presence of CPCs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To obtain diesel fuels with high combustion properties from hydrotreatment of vegetable oils, inhibiting the formation of multibranched isomers (MuBI) is highly desirable. A core@shell structural ZSM-22@SiO 2 zeolite was designed to passivate external acid sites and promote the formation of monobranched isomers (MoBI), which have much higher cetane numbers than MuBI (>85 vs. <60). A series of ZSM-22@SiO 2 zeolites with different amounts of shell silica were synthesized through a facile crystal growth method. External acid sites could be successfully inactivated using the proposed method. Synthesized zeolites were used as supports for bifunctional catalysts in hydrodeoxygenation of methyl palmitate. The effects of the shell silica amount and SiO 2 /Al 2 O 3 ratio of the core zeolite were investigated. The MoBI percentage in total isomers increased from 71% to 95% at a reaction temperature of 300 °C. However, deoxygenation activity and isomerization selectivity decreased gradually with increasing amount of shell silica. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy of CO adsorption combined with transmission electron microscopy demonstrated that Pt particles exposed more Pt(1 0 0) facets than Pt(1 1 1) facets in silica-coated catalysts. This could be the most likely reason for the decreased deoxygenation activity. The decrease in the number of Brønsted acid sites could be responsible for the lowered isomerization selectivity. Catalytic performance could be enhanced by reducing the SiO 2 /Al 2 O 3 ratio of core ZSM-22. Catalysts with lower SiO 2 /Al 2 O 3 ratios favored smaller Pt particles and exposed more active Pt(1 1 1) corner sites. Additionally, acid sites played an important role in the adsorption of oxygenates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Kidney injury molecule-1(KIM-1) is a type I membrane protein, comprising an extracellular portion and a cytoplasmic portion, which is expressed at very low levels in the normal kidney. The extracellular portion can cleave and rapidly enter tubule lumens after kidney injury, and can then be detected in the urine. It has been confirmed that the urine KIM-1 level is closely related to tissue KIM-1 level and correlated with kidney tissue damage. Not only is KIM-1 proven to be an early biomarker of acute kidney injury but it also has a potential role in predicting long-term renal outcome. This review summarizes the relationships between KIM-1 and kidney injury, especially in chronic kidney disease. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Background: Refractory surface of wound and dermal chronic ulcer are largely attributed to poor neovascularization. We have previously shown that E2F1 suppresses VEGF expression in the ischemic heart, and that genetic deletion of E2F1 leads to better cardiac recovery. However, whether E2F1 has a role in dermal wound healing is currently not known. Methods and Results: Skin wounds were surgically induced in E2F1-null (E2F1–/–) mice and WT littermates. E2F1–/– displayed an accelerated wound healing including wound closure, dermal thickening and collagen deposition, which was associated with an increased endothelial cell proliferation and greater vessel density in the border zone of the wound. Furthermore, more macrophages were recruited to the skin lesions and the level of VEGF expression was markedly higher in E2F1–/– than in WT mice. Conclusions: E2F1 hinders skin wound healing by suppressing VEGF expression, neovascularization, and macrophage recruitment. Strategies that target E2F1 may enhance wound healing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Coupled inductors offer significant advantages over their uncoupled counterparts; however, with these advantages come a number of additional design caveats. The factors affecting the design and optimization of coupled stripline microinductors for PwrSoC applications are outlined, which include device area, the number of coupled phases, duty cycle, paralleling of coupled inductors, switching frequency, as well as thermal and saturation constraints. Results of this analysis are presented and discussed along with guidelines for the design of coupled stripline microinductors, which show that paralleling coupled inductors is the best route toward higher output current. Analytical models predict a peak inductor efficiency of 86.8% and 86.3% for fabricated 3 and 5-phase coupled stripline microinductors with an Ni45Fe55 core, respectively. Models are verified by measurements on prototype 3 and 5-phase converters with parallel coupled stripline microinductors over a range of operating conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • The Fe 3 C@NCNTs was successfully synthesized using one-step calcination method. • The Pd nanoparticles were loaded onto the surface of the Fe 3 C@NCNT electrocatalyst. • The synergistic effect of Pd enhanced the catalytic activity of the Pd/Fe 3 C@NCNTs. • The Pd/Fe 3 C@NCNT electrocatalyst had excellent catalytic activity for ORR and EOR. • The electrocatalytic activity of Pd/Fe 3 C@NCNTs was superior to commercial Pd/C and Pt/C. Iron carbide-encapsulated nitrogen-doped carbon nanotubes (Fe 3 C@NCNTs) and Pd that is loaded onto Fe 3 C@NCNTs (Pd/Fe 3 C@NCNTs) electrocatalysts were synthesized. The valence state of Pd that was loaded onto the Pd/Fe 3 C@NCNTs surface is in the Pd0 and Pd2+ forms and Pd0 is the main form. The electrochemical measurement results imply that the Fe 3 C@NCNT catalyst exhibits an electrocatalytic property in the oxygen reduction reaction (ORR). The Pd/Fe 3 C@NCNT electrocatalyst has a good catalytic property toward ORR and ethanol oxidation reaction (EOR) in an alkaline solution. The half-wave potential (E 1/2) on the Pd/Fe 3 C@NCNT electrocatalyst toward the ORR can reach 0.904 V, which is higher than that on commercial 20 wt% Pt/C (0.856 V). The forward oxidation peak current density (j f) on the Pd/Fe 3 C@NCNT electrocatalyst for ethanol oxidation is 1.655 A mg−1, which is larger than that on commercial 10 wt% Pd/C (0.430 A mg−1). The excellent electrocatalytic property of the Pd/Fe 3 C@NCNT electrocatalyst is contributed to the many active sites and synergistic effects between Pd and Fe 3 C@NCNTs. The density functional theory (DFT) calculation result implies that the electron mobility increases in the recombination area for Pd and Fe 3 C@NCNTs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A surface micro-machining process is described to realize planar inductors on ferrite (Ni 0.49 Zn 0.33 Cu 0.18 Fe 2 O 4 ) for high-frequency applications (<30 MHz). The highly resistive nature (~10 8 Ω m) of the Ni–Cu–Zn substrate allows direct conductor patterning by electroplating of Cu windings through a photoresist mold on a sputtered seed layer and eliminates the need for a dielectric layer to isolate the windings from the bottom magnetic core. Measured inductances~367 nH (DC resistance~1.16 Ω and Q-value>14 at 30 MHz) and ~244 nH (DC resistance~0.86 Ω and Q-value~18 at 30 MHz) at 1 MHz for elongated racetrack (10.75 nH/mm 2 ) and racetrack inductors (12.5 nH/mm 2 ), respectively show good agreement with simulated finite element method analysis. This device can be integrated with power management ICs PMICs for cost-effective, high-performance realization of power-supply in package (PSiP) or on-chip (PSoC). This simple process lays the foundation for fabricating closed core ferrite nano-crystalline core micro-inductors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims. To compare the clinical features of endometrial polyps (EPs) between patients with endometriosis (EM) (EM group) and without EM (non-EM group). Methods and Results. Seventy-six cases in the EM group and 133 cases in the non-EM group underwent laparotomy or hysteroscopy and laparoscopy; later, it was confirmed that the results by pathology from July 2002 to April 2008 in the Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics at the First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University. The recurrence of EPs was followed up after the surgery until 2013. The following parameters were assessed: age, gravidity, parity, infertility, and menstrual cycle changes, as well as polyps diameters, locations, number, association with the revised American Fertility Society (r-AFS) classification, and their recurrence. On review, 76 EPs cases of EM group histologically resembled EPs but the majority of EPs with EM occurred in primary infertility cases and in fewer pregnancy rate women who had stable and smaller EPs without association with the AFS stage. The recurrence rate of EPs in EM group was higher than that in non-EM group. Conclusion. It is important to identify whether infertile patients with EM are also having EPs. Removing any coexisting EPs via hysteroscopy would be clinically helpful in treating endometriosis-related infertility in these patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, models that account for the duty cycle and phase shift angle of the applied phase voltages in coupled stripline microinductors are presented and are shown to have a significant impact on harmonic current amplitudes and therefore microinductor efficiency. The impact of a high coupling factor between two windings surrounded by a single core is also investigated. The models are validated using finite-element analysis and measurements. A three-phase-coupled microinductor has been fabricated with a Ni45Fe55 core and analyzed for a number of operating conditions. A prototype 1.6 W, three-phase converter utilizing this inductor has also been measured and is discussed in detail. The coupled microinductor is predicted to have a peak efficiency of 86.6% at 20 MHz in the prototype circuit. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Logistics service supply chain (LSSC) is a new type of service supply chain. This paper investigates the channel coordination issue in a two-echelon LSSC composed of one logistics service integrator (LSI) and one functional logistics service provider (FLSP) under fairness concerns. The models for a reservation price-only contract under disadvantageous inequality and advantageous inequality are established, respectively, in which the procurement cost, the potential shortage cost, and the operation cost are considered under stochastic market demand. Based on this model, the LSI’s optimal reservation quantity can be determined. Furthermore, we analyze the impact of fairness concerns and the related costs on channel performance and channel coordination. The results are presented in four aspects: (1) channel coordination of the LSSC can be achieved under certain conditions when the LSI experiences advantageous inequality; (2) the spiteful behavior of the LSI leads to the reduction of the channel profit, and channel coordination cannot be achieved when the LSI suffers from disadvantageous inequality; (3) the LSI’s reservation quantity and the channel profit are affected by the LSI’s fairness concerns; (4) motivated by the concerns of fairness, the LSI’s reservation quantity is related not only to his procurement cost and shortage cost but also to the FLSP’s operation cost. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this study was to identify disparities in successful return-to-work outcome rates based on race, gender, and level of educational attainment at closure among veterans with a signed Individualized Plan for Employment (IPE). A randomized split-half cross-model validation research design was used to develop and test a series of logistic regression models for goodness of fit across two samples (i.e., screening and calibration) of case records (N = 11,337) obtained from the national Fiscal Year (FY) 2013 Rehabilitation Services Administration (RSA)-911 database. The final predictive multinomial logistic regression model indicated that (a) the odds of White veterans successfully returning to work were nearly 1½ times the odds of African American veterans returning to work and (b) African American female veterans had the lowest probability for successfully returning to work. Moreover, findings indicated that African American veterans’ successful return-to-work rates in 5 of the 10 RSA regions were below the national benchmark. Recommendations for policy development and future research directions are presented. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nanoscaled CeO2/ e-HTiNbO5 composite was assembled by a facile process using colloidal TiNbO ( e-HTiNbO5) nanosheet and CeO2 colloid as precursors at room temperature. The nanosheet e-HTiNbO5 was obtained through proton-exchange and exfoliation process from its parent KTiNbO5. The microstructures and properties of the as-prepared samples were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), Laser Raman spectroscopy (LRS), and UV-vis diffuse reflectance spectroscopy (UV-vis DRS), etc. The photocatalytic activity of the obtained nanocomposite is evaluated by the adsorption and photocatalytic oxidation of ethyl mercaptan (EM) under natural light irradiation. The results show that CeO2 nanoparticles are dispersed uniformly on the surface of e-HTiNbO5 and the layered structure of e-HTiNbO5 nanosheet maintains integrity. The interaction between dispersed CeO2 particles and e-HTiNbO5 results in lower bandgap compared to its precursors, and the photocatalytic activity of CeO2/ e-HTiNbO5 are enhanced under natural light irradiation. CeO2/ e-HTiNbO5 nanocomposite has been fabricated successfully through an exfoliationrestacking method, and CeO2 sol may cause an orderly stacking structure of e-HTiNbO5 nanosheet. The interaction between CeO2 particles and e-HTiNbO5 may result in a synergistic effect. The as-prepared CeO2/ e-HTiNbO5 nanocomposite exhibited high photo-ODS activity after adsorption of ethyl mercaptan under natural light. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work, a ternary composite photocatalyst of graphitic carbon nitride ( g -C 3 N 4 ), graphene oxide (GO), and Ag 3 PO 4 was prepared through a simple precipitation route, in which Ag 3 PO 4 nanoparticles covered or wrapped with GO sheets are supported on g -C 3 N 4 sheets. The composite photocatalyst displays enhanced absorption in the visible region, and exhibited superior photocatalytic activity compared with single-component or binary composite photocatalysts in the photocatalytic decomposition of Rhodamine B. The enhancement of photocatalytic activity could be attributed to the synergistic effect among them. The ternary composite also exhibited enhanced stability, but further efforts should be made to make it more stable. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Inductor-on-silicon research to date has focused on optimizing technologies for maximum power density and efficiency, with most design procedures based on computationally intensive methods. In this paper, a simple and intuitive method for designing microinductors based on a given dc–dc converter specification, which includes accurate models for all loss components, is presented. A detailed examination of variations in designs to realise the same circuit performance is presented. Finally, finite element analysis simulations demonstrating the accuracy of the models are given, along with measured results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper details the design, fabrication, and characterization of silicon-integrated microtransformers for isolated bias supplies. Racetrack-shaped microtransformers were designed and fabricated using the advanced double-layer metal (DLM) microfabrication process. The DLM devices have high inductance density of more than 80 nH/mm2 with an efficiency of approximately 78.2% at 20 MHz at 0.5-W output. This is the highest efficiency and power density reported for an integrated transformer in the literature. The inductance drop is less than 20% with a bias current of 0.35 A with up to 6-kV dc breakdown voltage achieved. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Members of tumour necrosis factor superfamily (TNFSF) and TNF receptor superfamily (TNFRSF) have crucial roles in many important biological processes such as cell proliferation, cell death, development, survival, immunity, and various diseases. The human TNFSF consists of 19 ligands and 29 receptors. Compared with those in human, fish have most of the TNFSF and receptors that have been found in mammals, while some of the homologues are specific or lost in fish. Especially, no systematic report on the identification of TNFSF ligands and their receptors in S. schlegelii. Therefore, to investigate the characterization and molecular evolution of TNFSF and TNFRSF genes in Sebastes schlegelii, we performed a genome-wide survey and identified 14 TNFSFs and 24 TNFRSFs from S. schlegelii. In S. schlegelii , we found duplication events occurred in TNFSF2, TNFSF6, TNFSF10, TNFSF13, TNFSF14, TNFRSF5, TNFRSF6, TNFRSF6B, TNFRSF10B, TNFRSF16, and TNFRSF19 genes. Among which, the tandem duplications events occurred in TNFSF13 and TNFRSF6, and the whole genome duplications events occurred in the remaining TNFSF and TNFRSF genes. Based on the molecular phylogenetic analysis, 14 TNFSFs were divided into three different clusters and 24 TNFRSFs were classed as three distinct subgroups, respectively. Meanwhile, protein domains and motifs analysis revealed that TNFSF contain homology domain (THD), and TNFRSF have typical cysteine-rich domains (CRDs). Synteny results indicates that the TNFSFs and TNFRSFs neighborhood genes have taken place great changes compared to those in human, fugu and zebrafish. Meanwhile, qRT-PCR results demonstrated that most TNFSFs and TNFSRSFs were significantly differentially expressed in gill, skin and intestine after E. tarda infection with time-dependent manners. In addition, protein-protein interaction network (PPI) analysis indicated that the most related genes connecting to TNFSF and TNFRSFs were TNFSF ligands and receptors. In summary, this study provided a new understanding for characterization and evolution of the TNFSF genes and their receptors in S. schlegelii. • 14 TNFs and 24 TNFRs were identified in S. schlegelii. • 14 TNFs were divided into three different clusters and 24 TNFRs were classed as three distinct subgroups. • TNF contain homology domain, and TNFR have typical cysteine-rich domains (CRDs). • qRT-PCR results demonstrated that most TNFs and TNFSRs were significantly differentially expressed after E. tarda infection. • PPI analysis indicated that the most related genes connecting to TNF and TNFRs were TNF ligands and receptors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lanthanide-doped upconversion nanoparticles (UCNPs) have recently aroused enormous attention, due to large anti-Stokes shifts, weak autofluorescence, less photodamage and photobleaching, as well as deeper tissue penetration. Owing to their advantageous photophysical properties, UCNPs have been widely applied in analytical and biomedical research fields, such as sensing, imaging, and therapy. This review mainly focuses on recent advances in chromophore-assembled upconversion nanoprobes (UC nanoprobes) for chemo/biosensing. We first demonstrate the principle for constructing UC nanoprobes, and then give a detailed summary of chromophore loading strategies. Furthermore, recent achievements on the construction and application of chromophore-loaded UC nanoprobes are summarized. Also, the current challenges and future prospects of UC nanoprobes are discussed as a conclusion. We expect this review will offer valuable guidance on the selection of chromophores and their loading strategies to further facilitate the fabrication and applications of chromophore-assembled UC nanoprobes. [Display omitted] • An overview of chromophore-assembled UC nanoprobe for chemo/biosensing has been proposed. • The chromophore loading strategies have been summarized. • The commonly used chromophores for overlapping the luminescence of UCNPs have been presented. • The detection of various targets can be achieved by changing the recognition unit of chromophores. • Future perspectives and challenges of UC nanoprobes have been discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Using the temperature profiles retrieved from the Mars Climate Sounder (MCS) instrument onboard Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter (MRO) satellite between November 2006 and April 2013, we studied the seasonal and interannual variability of Quasi-Stationary Planetary Waves (QSPWs) in the Martian middle atmosphere. The QSPW amplitudes in the Southern Hemisphere (SH) high latitudes are significantly stronger than those in the Northern Hemisphere (NH). Seasonal variation with maximum amplitude near winter solstice of each hemisphere is clearly seen. The vertical structure of the QSPW in temperature shows double-layer feature with one peak near 50Pa and the other peak near 1 Pa. The QSPW in geopotential height is clearly maximized in the region between two temperature peaks. The maximum amplitude of QSPW for s=1 is ∼8-10 K in temperature and ∼1 km in geopotential height in the SH high latitudes. The maximum amplitude at the SH high latitudes in Mars Year (MY) 31 is ∼2 K stronger than those in other MYs, suggesting the clear interannual variability. We compared the satellite results with those obtained from the Mars Climate Database (MCD) simulation version 5.0; a reasonable agreement was found. The MCD simulation further suggested that the variability of dust might partially contribute to the interannual variability of QSPW amplitude. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper examines the process challenges in developing high aspect-ratio copper structures for improving microinductor performance. With increased miniaturization, increasing windings losses become a major challenge limiting the microinductor efficiency. It was also identified that within constraint footprints coil thickness to spacing ratio increase can reduce dc resistance significantly. In this paper, we present a reliable process for developing high aspect ratio ( $\sim 5.8$ ) resist moulds for copper electrodeposition. This resist provided coil spacings 10 $\mu $ m for 58 $\mu $ m resist thickness; this in turn reduces the dc resistance of a typical microinductor by more than 17% when compared with a similar device reported previously. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The quantitative detection of single cell secretions is always limited by their accurate collection and the heterogeneity of different cells. In this work, a confined electrochemiluminescence (ECL) imaging microarray (CEIM) chip was designed to capture single or a few cells in each cylindrical microwell for high-throughput quantitation of cell-secreted dopamine (DA). The ITO surface at the bottom of microwells was functionalized with the film of DA aptamer modified coreactant-embedded polymer dots (Pdots), which endowed the chip with the abilities to both in situ recognize the target DA secreted from the cells and emit the ECL signal for responding the secreted target without need of any additional coreactant. At the applied potential of +1.4 V, the Pdots in the film emitted strong ECL signal, which could be quenched by the electrochemical oxidation product of DA in individual microwell for sensitive detection of single cell-released DA. The practicability of the proposed CEIM chip along with the ECL imaging and biosensing strategy was demonstrated by evaluating the amounts of single cell-released DA in different microwells under hypoxia stimulation. This protocol revealed the heterogeneity of cell secretion, and could be extended for quantitation of other secretions from different kinds of single cells. • A confined electrochemiluminescence imaging microarray is designed to capture single or a few cells in each microwell. • The microwell can collect the cell-secreted dopamine to realize its high-throughput quantitation. • Coreactant-embedded polymer dots modified with aptamer can recognize the dopamine and emit detection signal. • The dopamine amounts released from different cells under hypoxia stimulation have been evaluated with this protocol. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper examines how strategic inventory affects pricing decisions and contractual outcomes of a dual-channel supply chain with the consideration of corporate social responsibility. To highlight the role of CSR, we first extend the existing understanding of dual-channel supply chain dynamics to a for-profit dynamic setting. Thereafter, we analyze two cases where either the retailer or the supplier may be socially responsible. We find that although the presence of dual distribution arrangements can suppress retailer strategic inventory buildup, it may also lead to the retailer preferring the dynamic contract even for a sufficiently high holding cost, which is not the case in the single channel. We further show that the retailer's strategic inventory decision is influenced by the level of social concern, supplier's direct selling efficiency, and inventory holding cost. The retailer's (supplier's) social concern increases (decreases) the strategic inventory quantity, which significantly alters the contractual outcomes of the dual-channel supply chain. Interestingly, we find that although either channel member's social concern or strategic inventory can alleviate double-marginalization effect, their interference may result in lower firm profit and supply chain inefficiency. • We study strategic inventory in a socially responsible dual-channel supply chain. • The presence of supplier's direct selling suppresses retailer's strategic inventory buildup. • Retailer may prefer the dynamic contract even for sufficiently high holding costs. • Interference between social concern and strategic inventory may lower supply chain efficiency. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: To establish red fluorescent human endometriosis lesions in a nude mouse model and dynamically and non-invasively to compare intraperitoneal and subcutaneous injection models. Study design: Primary cultures of endometrial stromal cells (ESCs) and epithelial cells (EECs) isolated from 24 patients with a normal uterine cavity were transfected with 2.5×108 (Group 1) and 1.25×108 (Group 2) plaque-forming units (PFU) of adenovirus encoding red fluorescent protein (Ad-RFP). Transfection efficiencies, fluorescence intensity and apoptosis rate of the two types of cells were compared in vitro. A mixture of 2.5×108 PFU Ad-RFP-infected approximately 400 EECs cell mass and 2×106 ESCs for 36h was injected individually into 24 female nude mice subcutaneously (Group A) or intraperitoneally (Group B). From Day 5 after injection, an in vivo imaging system (IVIS) was used to non-invasively observe and compare the lesions of the two groups every week until Day 33. Specifically, the fluorescent intensity, positive rates, persistence time and lesion weight in the implanted human endometriosis lesions were compared. A parametric Student's t-test and two-way analysis of variance were used for statistical analysis. Results: Compared with 1.25×108 PFU RFP, a titre of 2.5×108 PFU RFP ESCs and EECs incubated for 36h exhibited higher transfection efficiencies and higher fluorescence intensities in vitro. In vivo imaging of the fluorescent human endometriosis lesions originating from an RFP titre of 2.5×108 PFU showed that the intensity and lesion weight in Group A were significantly higher than in Group B. However, the two groups had the same RFP-positive rates and fluorescence persistence. The structure of each lesion was evaluated by immunohistochemistry to confirm its human endometrial origin. Conclusions: The red fluorescent human endometriosis model established by subcutaneously injecting 2.5×108 PFU RFP-transfected stromal cells and epithelial cells into nude mice had a higher fluorescent positive rate from Day 5, higher intensity and weight but the same persistence as the intraperitoneal injection model. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Thin-film Si-integrated inductors with closed cores have different magnetic field distributions in the winding window space compared to the inductors with unclosed cores. One-dimensional methods are no longer applicable for these inductors to calculate the ac resistance. Based on the analysis of the magnetic field distribution of the devices, a 2-D field solution was developed, which leads to an improved 2-D method to calculate the ac resistance of the device. High accuracy of this new approach has been verified by finite-element analysis, while 1-D methods can lead to significant errors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• A novel method was proposed to realize the ultrasonic loading in MD simulation. • Ultrasound can make more phenol absorbed on SWNTs. • Ultrasound can enhance the interaction energy of SWNTs and phenol. • Ultrasound can weaken the hydrogen bond between phenolic hydroxyl and water. • Density distribution of water around SWNTs changes only under negative pressure. In this article, the effect of ultrasound on the adsorption of single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWNTs) to phenol was investigated by performing an all-atom molecular dynamics (MD) simulation. During the simulation process, a novel convenient method based on segmented simulation was proposed to realize the loading of ultrasonic boundary condition in MD simulation, which was realized by controlling the pressure changing as the positive and negative square wave. For evaluating the adsorption effect, structural parameters, interaction energies, hydrogen bond and number density distribution of water molecules were examined, and then an experiment was performed for verifying the conclusions of MD simulation. The results show that the external ultrasound can increase the amount of phenol around SWNTs, enhance the interaction energy between SWNTs and phenol molecules and weaken the hydrogen bond between phenol hydroxyl group and water molecules. These results indicate that the presence of ultrasound can promote the adsorption of carbon nanotubes to phenol. The experimental results for verification show that under ultrasound action, the concentration of the phenol solution is lower after adsorbed by SWNTs, which means that the adsorption of SWNTs to phenol has been promoted. In addition, the density distribution of water molecules decreases significantly only when the ultrasound generates negative pressure in the aqueous solution, which proves the correctness of the ultrasonic loading method proposed in this study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Numerous recent studies reported that brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) also exists in the peripheral blood to regulate the proliferation, differentiation and survival of lymphocytes. Besides the role of BDNF in neuron repair, circulatory BDNF also enhances the proliferation and reduces apoptosis of lymphocytes. Peripheral lymphocytes express both BDNF and its receptors. Increasing evidence has indicated that altered BDNF serum levels significantly affect patients with autoimmune inflammatory diseases and may also be linked to the pathogenesis of diseases. For instance, systemic lupus erythematosus, an autoimmune inflammatory disease involving multiple organs, is frequently linked to altered B lymphocyte function, imbalance of T-cell subpopulations and loss of immune tolerance, which dysregulates the immune regulatory network with excessive secretion of inflammatory cytokines. The present review summarized studies that suggest a potential link between circulatory BDNF and autoimmune inflammatory diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: 2-Aryl-3-alkoxycarbonyl chromones were effectively constructed from aryl aldehydes and 3-(2-(methoxymethoxy)phenyl)propiolates via a cascade Lewis acid catalyzed phenol ether deprotection/aldehyde olefination/intramolecular oxa-Michael addition reaction, and a sequential oxidation. This four-step reaction could be conducted in one-pot with high atom efficiency. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

This paper made an in-depth analysis of the articulation between a substation's design parameters and water supply and drainage structure quantities and costs, innovatively built a hierarchical structure model of influencing factors of quantities, and eventually extracted the key parameters affecting quantities. Meanwhile, the influence path of the price level change on the water supply and drainage structure costs was also analyzed in this paper. The BP neural network model and linear regression model were employed to estimate the ontology engineering cost and the price difference due to preparation time, so as to realize the purpose of quickly estimating the cost of substation water supply and drainage structure by knowing a few key parameters. Through calculation and stimulated analysis, the error of the model is controlled within ±3%, which provides an effective tool for quickly estimating the cost of substation water supply and drainage structure. Therefore, this model has practical significance and application value. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

What is the future of integrated inductor design on silicon for power conversion applications at frequencies up to 100 MHz—is it magnetic-core or air-core inductors. This study presents measured results for two microfabricated inductors (magnetic core and air core), which have been designed to operate at 20 MHz and occupy a substrate area of less than 10 mm^2. The inductor technology and design are briefly discussed. An optimized inductor design study is, then, presented. Both magnetic-core and air-core inductor designs are compared and evaluated, in terms of inductance and efficiency per unit area for frequencies up to 100 MHz. The design of the microinductors is discussed and an analytical design optimization program is used to model the devices for the maximum efficiency and inductance. The introduction of laminations with high-frequency core inductors will also be examined within the study. A 100 MHz magnetic-core inductor design with three laminations gives a 36 nH inductance, with 96.4% efficiency and an area of 3 mm^2. A comparable air-core design also gives a 36 nH inductance, with 93.45% efficiency and an area of just 2.6 mm^2. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this article, the proportional hazard model with Weibull frailty, which is outside the range of the exponential family, is used for analysing the right-censored longitudinal survival data. Complex multidimensional integrals are avoided by using hierarchical likelihood to estimate the regression parameters and to predict the realizations of random effects. The adjusted profile hierarchical likelihood is adopted to estimate the parameters in frailty distribution, during which the first- and second-order methods are used. The simulation studies indicate that the regression-parameter estimates in the Weibull frailty model are accurate, which is similar to the gamma frailty and lognormal frailty models. Two published data sets are used for illustration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Micro-inductors, with an electrodeposited nickel–iron core have been fabricated on silicon substrates, and have been characterized in the frequency range up to 100MHz. The core consists of a nickel iron, 45:55 alloy which is deposited using pulse-reverse electroplating in the presence of a magnetic field to control anisotropy. The operation of the inductors with low loss at high-frequency critically depends on core thickness, which is used to control eddy-current loss as the frequency is increased. However, it is shown that the permeability of NiFe 45/55 has a dependency on thickness, and decreases with increasing thickness. For example, the permeability is measured to be approximately 1000 for a 1-μm-thick film, decreasing to approximately 400 for a 5-μm-thick film. In order to correctly design micro-inductors for operation up to 100MHz, it is important that this characteristic of the material is taken into account. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The lacrimal functional unit (LFU) is defined by the 2007 International Dry Eye WorkShop as ‘an integrated system comprising the lacrimal glands, ocular surface (cornea, conjunctiva and meibomian glands) and lids, and the sensory and motor nerves that connect them’. The LFU maintains a healthy ocular surface primarily through a properly functioning tear film that provides protection, lubrication, and an environment for corneal epithelial cell renewal. LFU cells express thousands of proteins. Over 200 new LFU proteins have been discovered in the last decade. Lacritin is a new LFU-specific growth factor in human tears that flows through ducts to target corneal epithelial cells on the ocular surface. When applied topically in rabbits, lacritin appears to increase the volume of basal tear secretion. Lacritin is one of only a handful of tear proteins preliminarily reported to be downregulated in blepharitis and in two dry eye syndromes. Computational analysis predicts an ordered C-terminal domain that binds the corneal epithelial cell surface proteoglycan syndecan-1 (SDC1) and is required for lacritin''s low nanomolar mitogenic activity. The lacritin-binding site on the N-terminus of SDC1 is exposed by heparanase. Heparanase is constitutively expressed by the corneal epithelium and appears to be a normal constituent of tears. Binding triggers rapid signaling to downstream NFAT and mTOR. A wealth of other new proteins, originally designated as hypothetical when first identified by genomic sequencing, are expressed by the human LFU including: ALS2CL, ARHGEF19, KIAA1109, PLXNA1, POLG, WIPI1 and ZMIZ2. Their demonstrated or implied roles in human genetic disease or basic cellular functions are fuel for new investigation. Addressing topical areas in ocular surface physiology with new LFU proteins may reveal interesting new biological mechanisms and help get to the heart of ocular surface dysfunction. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

In the present study, a novel two-photon nanoprobe has been developed and successfully applied in glutathione (GSH) imaging in cell apoptosis of cancer tissue. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Renewal of nongermative epithelia is poorly understood. The novel mitogen "lacritin" is apically secreted by several nongermative epithelia. We tested 17 different cell types and discovered that lacritin is preferentially mitogenic or prosecretory for those types that normally contact lacritin during its glandular outward flow. Mitogenesis is dependent on lacritin's C-terminal domain, which can form an α-helix with a hydrophobic face, as per VEGF's and PTHLP's respective dimerization or receptor-binding domain. Lacritin targets downstream NFATC1 and mTOR. The use of inhibitors or siRNA suggests that lacritin mitogenic signaling involves Gα1 or Gαo--PKCα-PLC--Ca2+--calcineurin--NFATC1 and Gα1 or Gαo--PKCα-PLC--phospholipase D (PLD)--mTOR in a bell-shaped, dose-dependent manner requiring the Ca2+ sensor STIM1, but not TRPC1. This pathway suggests the placement of transiently dephosphorylated and perinuclear Golgi--translocated PKCα upstream of both Ca2+ mobilization and PLD activation in a complex with PLCγ2. Outward flow of lacritin from secretory cells through ducts may generate a proliferative/secretory field as a different unit of cellular renewal in nongermative epithelia where luminal structures predominate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A novel acylhydrazide‐based gelator (BE) was successfully built without the use of traditional fluorescent groups. Surprisingly, in 1,2‐propanediol, the BE can further self‐assemble into a stable supramolecular gel (OBE) and display significant blue‐white aggregation‐induced enhanced emission (AIEE). Interestingly, based on the excellent coordination capacity of acyl hydrazone bonds, the OBE demonstrated a sensitive response to Pd2+ and Fe3+, with corresponding lowest limits of detection of 21.8 and 37.3 ppb, respectively. More interesting, H2PO4− could only be constantly recognized by the Pd‐OBE (Pd2+ coordinated with OBE). Fourier transform infrared (FT‐IR), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X‐ray diffraction (XRD), density functional theory (DFT) and rheological measurements, the self‐assembly process of OBE, and the ion recognition sensing mechanism were extensively examined. Moreover, xerogel OBE as supporter, a novel heterogeneous catalyst Pd/OBE is prepared. The catalyst displays outstanding activity and stability for Suzuki coupling reactions in water. It can be easily reused for at least five runs with no decrease in the catalytic activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction/Aims: GNE myopathy is a rare autosomal recessive disorder caused by pathogenic variants in the GNE gene, which is essential for the sialic acid biosynthesis pathway. Although over 300 GNE variants have been reported, some patients remain undiagnosed with monoallelic pathogenic variants. This study aims to analyze the entire GNE genomic region to identify novel pathogenic variants. Methods: Patients with clinically compatible GNE myopathy and monoallelic pathogenic variants in the GNE gene were enrolled. The other GNE pathogenic variant was verified using comprehensive methods including exon 2 quantitative polymerase chain reaction and nanopore long‐read single‐molecule sequencing (LRS). Results: A deep intronic GNE variant, c.862+870C>T, was identified in nine patients from eight unrelated families. This variant generates a cryptic splice site, resulting in the activation of a novel pseudoexon between exons 5 and 6. It results in the insertion of an extra 146 nucleotides into the messengerRNA (mRNA), which is predicted to result in a truncated humanGNE1(hGNE1) protein. Peanut agglutinin（PNA） lectin staining of muscle tissues showed reduced sialylation of mucin O‐glycans on sarcolemmal glycoproteins. Notably, a third of patients with the c.862+870C>T variant exhibited thrombocytopenia. A common core haplotype harboring the deep intronic GNE variant was found in all these patients. Discussion: The transcript with pseudoexon activation potentially affects sialic acid biosynthesis via nonsense‐mediated mRNA decay, or resulting in a truncated hGNE1 protein, which interferes with normal enzyme function. LRS is expected to be more frequently incorporated in genetic analysis given its efficacy in detecting hard‐to‐find pathogenic variants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Study on relationship between SCR levels and psychiatric symptoms in patients with anti-NMDAR encephalitis. • Higher SCR level was associated with lower incidence of psychiatric symptoms. • The SCR level was negatively correlated with incidence of psychiatric symptoms. • Higher SCR level could be an independent protective factor for psychiatric symptoms in female patients. Serum creatinine (SCR) has been shown to be associated with many neurodegenerative diseases. In this study, we investigated the relationship between SCR levels and the incidence of psychiatric symptoms in patients with anti -N- methyl- d -aspartate receptor (anti-NMDAR) encephalitis. The SCR levels were tested in 69 patients with anti-NMDAR encephalitis at admission. Clinical characteristics and blood and CSF parameters were compared between the group of patients with psychiatric symptoms (P + group) and the group of those without psychiatric symptoms (P- group). The association between SCR and the incidence of psychiatric symptoms was determined by multivariate-adjusted linear regression analyses. The SCR levels in the P + group were significantly lower than those in the P- group (P < 0.001). In the female subgroup, the SCR levels in the P + group were significantly lower compared to the P- group (P < 0.001), whereas in the male subgroup, the SCR levels did not differ between the two groups (P = 0.084). Furthermore, the highest SCR tercile overall had a significantly lower incidence of psychiatric symptoms than the lowest tercile (P < 0.001), and a significant negative correlation between the SCR levels and the occurrence of psychiatric symptoms was observed (r = −0.392, P < 0.001). Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that the association was independent after adjusting for age, cystatin C and the modified Rankin Scale (mRS) score (P = 0.001). A similar result was found in the female subgroup (P = 0.010), but not in the male subgroup (P = 0.225). Our study indicated that the SCR level was negatively correlated with incidence of psychiatric symptoms in female patients, and higher SCR level could be a protective factor for psychiatric symptoms in female patients with anti-NMDAR encephalitis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The structures, stabilities, bonding characters, electronic and vibrational properties of bimetallic NaMgn (n = 2–11) clusters have been comprehensively studied by CALYPSO code within DFT calculations. The results show that the geometries of the most stable NaMgn clusters evolve from 2D to 3D framework at n = 3, and appear the triangular prism-based structural unit at n = 8. Most can be viewed as a substituted structure of the corresponding magnesium clusters. The Na atom occupies the convex site of the NaMgn motifs. Positive charges of all Na atoms signify the charge transfers from Na to Mg in said clusters. Stability studies suggest the outstanding stability of the NaMg9 cluster in the size range of n = 2–11. Analysis of bonding nature reveals mixed covalent and metallic Na-Mg and Mg-Mg bonds with delocalized nature in NaMg9, in which the bond strength of the Na-Mg bond is lower than that of the Mg-Mg bond. The simulated IR and Raman spectra could provide additional ways to identify the structure of the NaMgn clusters in the following experiments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• The vapor leakage tests through fatigue cracks were conducted. • A physical model for the vapor leakage, consisting of the treatment of the heat transfer and the vapor condensation, was developed. • The vapor leakage model can accurately describe the fluid flow. • The fluid flow and transfer process under different initial conditions were investigated. Knowledge of the critical flow phenomenon that occurs in a variety of industrial processes and often poses a potentially hazardous situation is a problem of the fundamental importance in chemical and power industries. The paper aims to conduct the experimental research of the vapor leakage through pipeline cracks and to develop a physical model for the vapor leakage. The leakage model consists of the treatment of the heat transfer and the vapor condensation during the critical flow leakage. The solution of the vapor leakage model is modified utilizing the equation of state and implemented by a fifth-order Runge-Kutta method. Predictions of the model are compared with the available data from the vapor test through fatigue cracks and the literature survey, to check the validity of the model. Numerical results of the model are compared with an adiabatic model, showing similarities with the critical mass flux compared to the test result, while a large difference in the fluid pressure, temperature, and enthalpy evolutions of the fluid exists. The vapor leakage model can accurately describe the fluid flow as well as the heat and mass transfer process, providing a further understanding of critical flow phenomena. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Nanomedicne aiming to tackle the potential risk of ICB, e.g. irAEs was developed. • Molecular engineering strategy was used to precisely control the loading content of anti-PD-L1 peptide (APP). • The synthesized IR780-M-APP molecules obtained a precise loading content of 48.4 wt % APP and 20.2 wt % IR780 respectively. • IR780-M-APP NPs potently enhanced the tumor penetration of IR780 via an enzyme-responsive size change. • IR780-M-APP NPs integrating photodynamic immunotherapy with PD-L1 blocking successfully amplified the antitumor efficacy. Immune checkpoint blockade (ICB) strategy based on suppressing programmed death-1 (PD-1)/programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1) pathway has been proved to be promising and effective in cancer immunotherapy. However, its potential risk of immune-related adverse events (irAEs) places stringent requirements on the precise loading of anti-PD-L1 agent in nanomedicine. Precise control of the loading content of anti-PD-L1 antibody is a difficult task since physical encapsulation has inevitable drawbacks like batch-to-bath variation and chemical modification is limited by the low stability of the antibody. Herein, we proposed a molecular engineering strategy to develop the nanomedicine with precise control of anti-PD-L1 agent content by using anti-PD-L1 peptide (APP) as the substitute to anti-PD-L1 antibody. The APP was chemically bonded with a photosensitizer IR780 to obtain IR780-M-APP, a molecule able to self-assemble into nanoparticles (NPs) with a precise APP loading (48.4 wt%) determined by the molecular structure. Specifically, the IR780 moiety in IR780-M-APP NPs endows the nanoparticles with photodynamic therapeutic effect as well as the ability to trigger immunogenic cell death (ICD), while the APP moiety can block the PD-1/PD-L1 pathway for promoting immunotherapy. The proposed photodynamic-immunotherapy nanoplatform not only killed primary tumors directly but also eradicated the metastatic and invasive tumors effectively. The present molecular engineering strategy combined with anti-PD-L1 peptide might provide more opportunities for the design of advanced nanoplatforms for cancer therapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Since its inception in 2000, Mississippi's pavement warranty programme has been used to manage the maintenance activities of the warranty pavement projects. To determine whether a specific maintenance treatment is required on a warranty pavement section, distress measurements are taken and compared against warranty distress thresholds for each distress type. Then, the decisions of what maintenance treatments and scopes should be applied are made by following the warranty specifications. This study aims to identify factors that influence past maintenance decisions and predict future maintenance needs for warranty projects based on past decisions. Statistical methods were employed to identify the relationship between the maintenance decisions and relevant factors based on the historical data of the warranty projects. Moreover, logistic regressions were performed to develop a comprehensive maintenance decision-making prediction model for the warranty pavements. The analysis results showed that the distress measurements at low and medium severity levels in numerical variables and project location and distress type in categorical variables have stronger effects than the others on decisions. The mixed-effects logistic regression model could provide a high accuracy in predicting the remedial actions, which could further provide a trend prediction for the maintenance decision of a warranty pavement section. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In evolutionary dynamics, the population structure and multiplayer interactions significantly impact the evolution of cooperation levels. Previous works mainly focus on the theoretical analysis of multiplayer games on regular networks or pairwise games on complex networks. Combining these two factors, complex networks and multiplayer games, we obtain the fixation probability and fixation time of the evolutionary public goods game in a structured population represented by a signed network. We devise a stochastic framework for estimating fixation probability with weak mistrust or strong mistrust mechanisms and develop a deterministic replicator equation to predict the expected density of cooperators when the system evolves to the equilibrium on a signed network. Specifically, the most interesting result is that negative edges diversify the cooperation steady state, evolving in three different patterns of fixed probability in Erdös–Rényi signed and Watts–Strogatz signed networks with the new "strong mistrust" mechanism. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]