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Abstract Background The use of forced-air warming (FAW) blankets is widely recognized for preventing shivering and hypothermia in patients under general anesthesia. Various types of products are currently available for hospitals, and we have conducted a preliminary evaluation of insulation equipment based on expert opinions and initial parameters. However, we lack real-world experiments and accurate clinical data to validate these parameters and the accuracy of our decision-making results. This study aims to confirm the effectiveness of different FAW systems by assessing the thermal protection and operational characteristics of the equipment in both experimental and clinical settings, thereby enhancing our evaluation database. Methods In the manikin test, we conducted six tests including heat distribution and heating rate, heater outlet temperature stability, etc. In the clinical study, patients were randomly assigned to four groups [Group A (Bair Hugger Therapy, 3 M, St. Paul, MN, USA; 63500); Group B (EQUATOR® level I, Smith Medical ASD, MN, USA; Snuggle Warm, SW-2013); Group C (Jiang Men Da Cheng Medical Devices Co., Ltd, China; IOB-006); and Group D (Shang Hai Nest Tech Medical Materials Co., Ltd, China; BH-017)], with each group comprising 30 individuals. At the start of anesthesia induction, the FAW blanket was activated and set to 43 °C until the completion of surgery. The primary endpoint was the average core body temperature during surgery. Secondary endpoints included hemodynamic and surgical variables, adverse events, and recovery metrics. Results In the manikin test, the observed results of the experimental parameters (heat distribution, air pressure difference, and hole observation test) for Group A are superior to those of the other groups. In the clinical study, although the mean perioperative core body temperature remained above 36 °C across all groups [Group A: 36.31 ± 0.04; Group B: 36.26 ± 0.06; Group C: 36.17 ± 0.03; Group D: 36.25 ± 0.05], patients in Group A maintained higher temperatures compared to the other groups (p

BackgroundCDGSH iron-sulfur domain 2 (CISD2), an iron-sulfur protein with a [2Fe-2S] cluster, plays a pivotal role in the progression of various cancers, including Diffuse Large B-cell Lymphoma (DLBCL). However, the mechanisms by which CISD2 regulates the occurrence and development of DLBCL remain to be fully elucidated.MethodsThe potential role of CISD2 as a predictive marker in DLBCL patients treated with the R-CHOP regimen was investigated through bioinformatics analysis and clinical cohort studies. DLBCL cell lines (SUDHL-4 and HBL-1) were employed in this research. Adenoviral (AV) plasmids were used to either silence or overexpress CISD2 in these DLBCL cell lines. Additionally, the induction of ferroptosis in DLBCL cell lines was assessed. Various parameters, including cell proliferation, intracellular free iron levels, lipid peroxides, reactive oxygen species (ROS), and mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP), were measured. Furthermore, the expression of proteins associated with ferroptosis and ferritinophagy was analyzed. Drug-resistant DLBCL cell lines were developed by gradually increasing doxorubicin (DOX) concentration over 6 months. The biological role of CISD2 in these drug-resistant DLBCL cell lines was subsequently assessed.ResultsElevated CISD2 levels were found to be associated with decreased sensitivity of DLBCL patients to the R-CHOP regimen, as indicated by bioinformatics and clinical cohort analysis. Silencing CISD2 significantly reduced cell proliferation, increased iron accumulation, depleted glutathione (GSH), and elevated malondialdehyde (MDA) levels, alongside the accumulation of ROS and increased MMP. Additionally, BECN1 and NCOA4 expressions were upregulated, while p62, FTH1, and GPX4 expressions were downregulated. Conversely, overexpression of CISD2 reversed these effects. Treatment of DLBCL cell lines with Erastin led to decreased CISD2 levels. Notably, in drug-resistant DLBCL cell lines, CISD2 knockdown promoted ferroptosis and ferritinophagy, restoring sensitivity to DOX and enhancing the efficacy of Erastin treatment.ConclusionOur findings suggest that CISD2 may play a role in the drug resistance observed in DLBCL patients. Inhibition of CISD2 could enhance ferroptosis and ferritinophagy, potentially improving the sensitivity of DLBCL cells to DOX treatment.

Pedestrian re-identification (Re-ID) leverages cross-camera data acquired by the Internet of Things (IoT) devices and sensors to identify, monitor, and analyze pedestrians, allowing IoT applications to provide more intelligent, secure, and tailored services. Current pedestrian Re-ID research faces many challenges, such as low image resolution, perspective changes, posture changes, light changes, and occlusions, resulting in models trained on other datasets being unable to be directly applied and showing poor generalization capabilities. In addition, IoT edge devices are often limited by processing power and memory capacity and cannot withstand complex and large deep learning models. Therefore, designing a lightweight and generalizable pedestrian Re-ID model is better suited for implementation on edge devices. Considering these issues, this study presents MetaGON, a lightweight model with cross-domain generalization capabilities, which combines the lightweight omni-scale network (OSNet) with the meta-learning method and Cycle Generative Adversarial Network (CycleGAN) to perform domain generalization. The model’s generalization is enhanced through the simulation of the two stages of domain generalization in the meta-learning pipeline, where the obtained losses from meta-training and meta-testing are utilized for model optimization. Moreover, CycleGAN is employed to enhance and introduce style variations to the source data. The proposed MetaGON model is tested on a railway station re-identification dataset, and the model is deployed to edge devices for evaluation, which verifies the effectiveness of the algorithm.

In the face of increasingly serious environmental pollution, the health of human lung tissues is also facing serious threats. Mogroside ⅡE (M2E) is the main metabolite of sweetening agents mogrosides from the anti-tussive Chinese herbal Siraitia grosvenori. The study elucidated the anti-inflammatory action and molecular mechanism of M2E against acute lung injury (ALI). A lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced ALI model was established in mice and MH-S cells were employed to explore the protective mechanism of M2E through the western blotting, co-immunoprecipitation, and quantitative real time-PCR analysis. The results indicated that M2E alleviated LPS-induced lung injury through restraining the activation of secreted phospholipase A2 type IIA (Pla2g2a)-epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR). The interaction of Pla2g2a and EGFR was identified by co-immunoprecipitation. In addition, M2E protected ALI induced with LPS against inflammatory and damage which were significantly dependent upon the downregulation of AKT and mTOR via the inhibition of Pla2g2a-EGFR. Pla2g2a may represent a potential target for M2E in the improvement of LPS-induced lung injury, which may represent a promising strategy to treat ALI.

Abstract Strategies that aim to achieve highly stable lithium metal batteries (LMBs) are extensively explored. To date, the controlled formation of high‐quality inorganic SEI is still quite challenging, which requires a deep understanding and hence the fine‐tuning of solvation chemistry by using functional additives in the electrolyte. In this work, a high amine‐containing 1,2,4,5‐benzenetetramine tetrahydrochloride (BHCL) is developed as a dual‐function electrolyte additive for LMBs. The amine group with a high donor number increases the lithium affinity, while the phenyl group with a strong inductive effect prevents the decomposition of solvents, and the free chloride ions replace anions mediating the formation of the rigid inorganic LiCl‐rich SEI layer. The experimental results corroborate the theoretical findings. The modified Li||Li symmetric battery is stably cycled for over 2500 h at 1 mA cm−2 current density with an overpotential of ≈45 mV. The performances of the Li||Cu and Li||LFP cells are also significantly enhanced. Therefore, this work provides a promising design principle of multifunctional electrolyte additive.

Abstract Objectives Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is one of the main causes of morbidity and mortality in the world. However, there are some patients who are not diagnosed early and correctly through routine methods because of inconspicuous or serious symptoms. This study aims to assess the diagnostic role of long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) in COPD. Methods We searched literature from electronic databases, after excluding non-COPD literature, the bibliometric analysis was performed, and VOSviewer software was used to represent the data analyzed. Literature evaluating the diagnostic test accuracy of lncRNA for COPD was eligible, and the QUADAS-2 checklist was used to evaluate the quality. The pooled sensitivity (SEN), specificity (SPE), diagnostic odds ratio (DOR), and summary receiver operating characteristic curve (sROC) were used to analyze the overall diagnostic performance. Subgroup and meta-regression analyses were performed to explore the heterogeneity, and a funnel plot was assessed for publication bias. Also, lncRNAs related to COPD were identified and explored for their potential biological function. Results An increased annual growth rate of literature on this subject from 2016 focused on COPD, humans, RNA, and lncRNA. The meta-analysis enrolled 17 literature indicated that the SEN, SPE, and DOR differentiating COPD patients from normal controls (NCs) were 0.86 (95% CI [0.80, 0.90]), 0.78 (95% CI [0.67, 0.86]), and 21.59 (95% CI [11.39, 40.91]), respectively. Meanwhile, lncRNAs had the ability to distinguish acute exacerbations of COPD (AECOPD) patients from COPD; the SEN, SPE, and DOR were 0.75 (95% CI [0.62, 0.85]), 0.81 (95% CI [0.71, 0.89]), and 13.02 (95% CI [7.76, 21.85]), respectively. The area under the sROC were calculated to be greater than 0.8 at least. Subgroup and meta-regression analysis showed that the types of specimens and dysregulated lncRNAs might affect the diagnostic accuracy. The funnel plot showed there was a certain publication bias. 41 lncRNAs related to COPD were identified and mainly located in the nucleus and cytoplasm, associated with proliferation, invasion, and prognosis. These lncRNA-binding proteins were involved in the spliceosome, Rap1 signaling pathway, MAPK signaling pathway, and so on. Conclusion LncRNA suggests potential diagnostic biomarkers and therapeutic targets for COPD patients.

Abstract Diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) is the most common lymphoma in adults. This study aimed to determine the prognostic significance of endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress-related genes in DLBCL. ER stress-related genes were obtained from the molecular signatures database. Gene expression data and clinical outcomes from the gene expression omnibus and TCGA datasets were collected, and differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were screened out. Gene ontology enrichment analysis, the kyoto encyclopaedia of genes and genomes pathway analysis, and geneset enrichment analysis were used to analyse the possible biological function of ER stress-related DEGs in DLBCL. Protein–protein interaction network construction using the STRING online and hub genes were identified by cytoHubba on Cytoscape software. The significant prognosis-related genes were screened, and the differential expression was validated. The immune microenvironment assessment of significant genes were evaluated. Next, the nomogram was built using univariate and multivariate Cox regression analysis. 26 ER stress-related DEGs were screened. Functional enrichment analysis showed them to be involved in the regulation of the endoplasmic reticulum mainly. NUPR1 and TRIB3 were identified as the most significant prognostic-related genes by comparison with the GSE10846, GSE11318, and TCGA datasets. NUPR1 was correlated with a good prognosis and immune infiltration in DLBCL; on the other hand, high expression of TRIB3 significantly correlated with a poor prognosis, which was an independent prognostic factor for DLBCL. In summary, we identified NUPR1 and TRIB3 as critical ER stress-related genes in DLBCL. NUPR1 might be involved in immune infiltration in DLBCL, and TRIB3 might serve as a potential therapeutic target and prognostic factor in DLBCL.

Abstract Background High mobility group box 1 protein (HMGB1), a lethal late inflammatory mediator, contributes to the pathogenesis of diverse inflammatory and infectious diseases. Astragaloside IV and calycosin as active ingredients in Astragalus membranaceus, possess potent regulatory ability on HMGB1-induced inflammation, however, the interaction between these two phytochemicals and HMGB1 has not been elucidated yet. Methods To further investigate the interaction of astragaloside IV, calycosin with HMGB1 protein, surface plasma resonance (SPR) and a series of spectroscopic methods, including UV spectra, fluorescence spectroscopy, circular dichroism (CD), were used. Molecular docking was also carried out to predict the atomic level’s binding modes between two components and HMGB1. Results Astragaloside IV and calycosin were found to be able to bind HMGB1 directly and affect the secondary structure and environment of the chromogenic amino acids of HMGB1 to different extents. In silico, astragaloside IV and calycosin showed a synergistic effect by binding to the two independent domains B-box and A-box in HMGB1, respectively, where hydrogen and hydrophobicity bonds were regarded as the crucial forces. Conclusion These findings showed that the interaction of astragaloside IV and calycosin with HMGB1 impaired its proinflammatory cytokines function, providing a new perspective for understanding the mechanism of A. membranaceus in treating aseptic and infectious diseases.

Background: Panax ginseng Meyer is a representative Chinese herbal medicine with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity. 20(S)-Protopanaxadiol (PPD) has been isolated from ginseng and shown to have promising pharmacological activities. However, effects of PDD on pulmonary fibrosis (PF) have not been reported. We hypothesize that PDD may reverse inflammation-induced PF and be a novel therapeutic strategy. Methods: Adult male C57BL/6 mice were used to establish a model of PF induced by bleomycin (BLM). The pulmonary index was measured, and histological and immunohistochemical examinations were made. Cell cultures of mouse alveolar epithelial cells were analyzed with Western blotting, co-immunoprecipitation, immunofluorescence, immunohistochemistry, siRNA transfection, cellular thermal shift assay and qRT-PCR. Results: The survival rate of PPD-treated mice was higher than that of untreated BLM-challenged mice. Expression of fibrotic hallmarks, including α-SMA, TGF-β1 and collagen I, was reduced by PPD treatment, indicating attenuation of PF. Mice exposed to BLM had higher STING levels in lung tissue, and this was reduced by phosphorylated AMPK after activation by PPD. The role of phosphorylated AMPK in suppressing STING was confirmed in TGF-β1-incubated cells. Both in vivo and in vitro analyses indicated that PPD treatment attenuated BLM-induced PF by modulating the AMPK/STING signaling pathway. Conclusion: PPD ameliorated BLM-induced PF by multi-target regulation. The current study may help develop new therapeutic strategies for preventing PF.

BackgroundS100A8, a calcium-binding protein belonging to the S100 family, is involved in immune responses and multiple tumor pathogens. Diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) is one of the most common types of B-cell lymphoma and remains incurable in 40% of patients. However, the role of S100A8 and its regulation of the immune response in DLBCL remain unclear.MethodsThe differential expression of S100A8 was identified via the GEO and TCGA databases. The prognostic role of S100A8 in DLBCL was calculated using the Kaplan-Meier curve. The function enrichment of differentially expressed genes (DEGs) was explored through GO, KEGG, GSEA, and PPI analysis. In our cohort, the expression of S100A8 was verified. Meanwhile, the biological function of S100A8 was applied after the inhibition of S100A8 in an in vitro experiment. The association between S100A8 and immune cell infiltration and treatment response in DLBCL was analyzed.ResultsS100A8 was significantly overexpressed and related to a poor prognosis in DLBCL patients. Function enrichment analysis revealed that DEGs were mainly enriched in the IL-17 signaling pathway. Our cohort also verified this point. In vitro experiments suggested that inhibition of S100A8 should promote cell apoptosis and suppress tumor growth. Single-cell RNA sequence analysis indicated that S100A8 might be associated with features of the tumor microenvironment (TME), and immune infiltration analyses discovered that S100A8 expression was involved in TME. In terms of drug screening, we predicted that many drugs were associated with preferable sensitivity.ConclusionElevated S100A8 expression is associated with a poor prognosis and immune infiltration in DLBCL. Inhibition of S100A8 could promote cell apoptosis and suppress tumor growth. Meanwhile, S100A8 has the potential to be a promising immunotherapeutic target for patients with DLBCL.

For the difference of thyristor junction temperature at all levels in the transducer valve assembly in the series water circuit, an equivalent model of thyristor junction temperature calculation for the valve assembly is established, and PLECS simulation software is used to simulate and solve the junction temperature at all levels of the thyristor and check the junction temperature of the thyristor from the highest temperature of the measured radiator surface, and the results of the junction temperature checking show that the equivalent model of thyristor junction temperature calculation for the valve assembly has a high accuracy.

BackgroundDiffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) is the most common B-cell lymphoma in adults. CDGSH iron sulfur domain 2 (CISD2) is an iron–sulfur protein and plays a critical role of cell proliferation. The aberrant expression of CISD2 is associated with the progression of multiple cancers. However, its role in DLBCL remains unclear.MethodsThe differential expression of CISD2 was identified via public databases, and quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR) and western blot were used to identifed the expression of CISD2. We estimated the impact of CISD2 on clinical prognosis using the Kaplan-Meier plotter. Meanwhile, the drug sensitivity of CISD2 was assessed using CellMiner database. The 100 CISD2-related genes from STRING obtained and analyzed using the LASSO Cox regression. A CISD2 related signature for risk model (CISD2Risk) was established. The PPI network of CISD2Risk was performed, and functional enrichment was conducted through the DAVID database. The impacts of CISD2Risk on clinical features were analyzed. ESTIMATE, CIBERSORT, and MCP-counter algorithm were used to identify CISD2Risk associated with immune infiltration. Subsequently, Univariate and multivariate Cox regression analysis were applied, and a prognostic nomogram, accompanied by a calibration curve, was constructed to predict 1-, 3-, and 5-years survival probabilities.ResultsCISD2 was upregulated in DLBCL patients comparing with normal controls via public datasets, similarly, CISD2 was highly expressed in DLBCL cell lines. Overexpression of CISD2 was associated with poor prognosis in DLBCL patients based on the GSE31312, the GSE32918, and GSE93984 datasets (P

Abstract Different line resistances between battery energy storage systems (BESSs) and the bus cause the problem of state‐of‐charge (SOC) unbalance between the batteries. SOC unbalance brings about battery over‐charge or over‐discharge, which reduces the battery life. This paper proposes an SOC feedback control strategy to achieve both output power sharing and SOC equalization between the BESSs. The average SOC of the batteries is set as the reference of each SOC control loop, and the control objectives are achieved by regulating the output voltage of the energy storage converters. The state space model of the proposed control method is established for stability analysis and control parameter design. The parameters are then designed in detail according to the dynamic and steady‐state performance. Simulation and experiment verified that the proposed control strategy can achieve accurate SOC equalization and output power sharing when the line resistances and the battery capacities are different.

Aging, a crucial risk factor for ischemic heart disease, has negative impacts on cardioprotective mechanisms. As such, there is still an unmet requirement to explore potential therapies for improving the outcomes of myocardial ischemia/reperfusion (IR) injury in elderly subjects. Here, we aimed to confirm the cardioprotective function of irisin/Dendrobium nobile Lindl (DNL) combination therapy against myocardial IR injury in aged rats, with a focus on the involvement of pyroptosis and mitophagy. Male aged Wistar rats (22–24 months old, 400–450 g; n = 54) underwent myocardial IR or sham surgery. Before IR operation, rats were pretreated with irisin (0.5 mg/kg, intraperitoneally) and/or DNL (80 mg/kg, orally) for 1 or 4 weeks, respectively, at corresponding groups. Cardiac function, lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) and cardiac-specific isoform of troponin-I (cTn-I) levels, the expression of proteins involved in pyroptosis (nod-like receptor protein-3 (NLRP3), apoptosis-associated speck-like protein, c-caspase-1, and GSDMD-N) and mitophagy (PINK1 and Parkin), and pro-inflammatory cytokines levels were evaluated after 24 h of reperfusion. Irisin/DNL combined therapy significantly restored cardiac function and decreased LDH and cTn-I levels. It also downregulated pyroptosis-related proteins, upregulated PINK1 and Parkin, and decreased pro-inflammatory cytokines secretion. Pretreatment with Mdivi-1, as mitophagy inhibitor, abolished the cardioprotective action of dual therapy. This study revealed the cardioprotective effects of irisin/DNL combination therapy against IR-induced myocardial injury in aged rats, and also showed that the mechanism might be associated with suppression of NLRP3-related pyroptosis through enhancing the activity of the PINK1/Parkin mitophagy. This combination therapy is worthy of further detailed studies due to its potential to alleviate myocardial IR injury upon aging.

In this work, a novel bamboo-like carbon nanotubes@Sn4P3@carbon (BLCNTs@Sn4P3@C) coaxial nanotubes are designed and prepared using a newly developed hydrothermal method followed by a phophidation process. The prepared Sn4P3 nanoparticles are uniformly coated and wrapped on the one-dimensional (1D) bamboo-like CNTs, which is covered by a uniform carbon layer to form a sandwich-like structure with Sn4P3 in between. The inner CNT and outer carbon can effectively maintain the structural stability and serve as the good electron conductors. Additionally, the outer carbon coating layer can effectively keep BLCNTs@Sn4P3@C nanotubes separate each other, preventing aggregation of Sn4P3 during charge/discharge when this material is used as anode for sodium ion batteries. The anode of BLCNTs@Sn4P3@C shows excellent reversible capacity and a long cycling of over 2000 cycles. The unique design of coaxial nanotubes is greatly beneficial to the electrochemical performance of Sn4P3 for sodium ion storage.

The dried leaves of Cyclocarya paliurus were enzymatically hydrolyzed with complex enzymes (cellulase and hemicellulase). The fermentation solution was fermented by mixed bacteria (Lactobacillus plantarum and Saccharomyces cerevisiae) and then freeze-dried to prepare Cyclocarya paliurus fermentation powder with high antioxidant activity. Single factor experiment was conducted to study the effects of material-liquid ratio, compound enzyme content, compound enzyme mass ratio, enzymolysis time, sucrose addition, mixed bacteria content, mixed bacteria mass ratio and fermentation time on DPPH free radical scavenging effect of Cyclocarya paliurus fermentation powder. On this basis, Plackett-Burnman (PB) experimental design and response surface methodology were used to optimize the co-fermentation process of cyclocarinase. The results showed that the optimal technological parameters were as follows: Material-liquid ratio 1:12 g/mL, compound enzyme content 0.80%, compound enzyme mass ratio 2.20:1 g/g, enzymolysis time 2.5 h, sucrose addition 8.0%, mixed bacteria content 5.80%, mixed bacteria mass ratio 2:1 g/g, fermentation time 42 h. Under these conditions, the DPPH free radical scavenging rate of Cyclocarya paliurus fermentative powder was 82.17%. The DPPH free radical scavenging rate of Cyclocarya paliurus was increased by 159.9%, the polysaccharide content was increased by 194.0%, and the flavonoids content was increased by 72.0%, the content of triterpene in Cyclocarya paliurus increased by 52.6% .This paper has laid a foundation for Intensive processing of Cyclocarya paliurus leaves and industrialization of instant tea powder.

Abstract Flexible energy storage devices have the advantages of portability and safety, and have great potential for developing electronic materials in the future. In flexible batteries, the electrolyte presents an essential role in the electrochemical performance and safety of the batteries. Hydrogel electrolyte materials are considered to be one of the ideal electrolyte materials due to their environmental friendliness, high safety, maneuverability, and innocuity. However, ordinary hydrogels often suffer some defects, such as insufficient ductility and poor water retention. Currently, many researchers report cellulose materials as reinforcing agents to improve the performance of hydrogels. In this paper, we review the recent application of cellulose in hydrogel‐based materials for energy storage technology and summarize the functions and properties of cellulose. In addition, we analyze the shortcomings of cellulose used in hydrogels and briefly describe the prospects of cellulose materials, hoping to contribute to the research in this field.

Partial differential equations (PDEs) usually apply for modeling complex physical phenomena in the real world, and the corresponding solution is the key to interpreting these problems. Generally, traditional solving methods suffer from inefficiency and time consumption. At the same time, the current rise in machine learning algorithms, represented by the Deep Operator Network (DeepONet), could compensate for these shortcomings and effectively predict the solutions of PDEs by learning the operators from the data. The current deep learning-based methods focus on solving one-dimensional PDEs, but the research on higher-dimensional problems is still in development. Therefore, this paper proposes an efficient scheme to predict the solution of two-dimensional PDEs with improved DeepONet. In order to construct the data needed for training, the functions are sampled from a classical function space and produce the corresponding two-dimensional data. The difference method is used to obtain the numerical solutions of the PDEs and form a point-value data set. For training the network, the matrix representing two-dimensional functions is processed to form vectors and adapt the DeepONet model perfectly. In addition, we theoretically prove that the discrete point division of the data ensures that the model loss is guaranteed to be in a small range. This method is verified for predicting the two-dimensional Poisson equation and heat conduction equation solutions through experiments. Compared with other methods, the proposed scheme is simple and effective.

In recent years, artificial neural networks (ANNs), which are based on the foundational model established by McCulloch and Pitts in 1943, have been at the forefront of computational research. Despite their prominence, ANNs have encountered a number of challenges, including hyperparameter tuning and the need for vast datasets. It is because many strategies have predominantly focused on enhancing the depth and intricacy of these networks that the essence of the processing capabilities of individual neurons is occasionally overlooked. Consequently, a model emphasizing a biologically accurate dendritic neuron model (DNM) that mirrors the spatio-temporal features of real neurons was introduced. However, while the DNM shows outstanding performance in classification tasks, it struggles with complexities in parameter adjustments. In this study, we introduced the hyperparameters of the DNM into an evolutionary algorithm, thereby transforming the method of setting DNM’s hyperparameters from the previous manual adjustments to adaptive adjustments as the algorithm iterates. The newly proposed framework, represents a neuron that evolves alongside the iterations, thus simplifying the parameter-tuning process. Comparative evaluation on benchmark classification datasets from the UCI Machine Learning Repository indicates that our minor enhancements lead to significant improvements in the performance of DNM, surpassing other leading-edge algorithms in terms of both accuracy and efficiency. In addition, we also analyzed the iterative process using complex networks, and the results indicated that the information interaction during the iteration and evolution of the DNM follows a power-law distribution. With this finding, some insights could be provided for the study of neuron model training.

A robust three-dimensional (3D) interconnected sulfur host and a polysulfide-proof interlayer are key components in high-performance Li–S batteries. Herein, cellulose-based 3D hierarchical porous carbon (HPC) and two-dimensional (2D) lamellar porous carbon (LPC) are employed as the sulfur host and polysulfide-proof interlayer, respectively, for a Li–S battery. The 3D HPC displays a cross-linked macroporous structure, which allows high sulfur loading and restriction capability and provides unobstructed electrolyte diffusion channels. With a stackable carbon sheet of 2D LPC that has a large plane view size and is ultrathin and porous, the LPC-coated separator effectively inhibits polysulfides. An optimized combination of the HPC and LPC yields an electrode structure that effectively protects the lithium anode against corrosion by polysulfides, giving the cell a high capacity of 1339.4 mAh g−1 and high stability, with a capacity decay rate of 0.021% per cycle at 0.2C. This work provides a new understanding of biomaterials and offers a novel strategy to improve the performance of Li–S batteries for practical applications.

Abstract Chiral phenylglycinol is a very important chemical in the pharmaceutical manufacturing. Current methods for synthesis of chiral phenylglycinol often suffered from unsatisfied selectivity, low product yield and using the non-renewable resourced substrates, then the synthesis of chiral phenylglycinol remain a grand challenge. Design and construction of synthetic microbial consortia is a promising strategy to convert bio-based materials into high value-added chiral compounds. In this study, we reported a six-step artificial cascade biocatalysis system for conversion of bio-based l-phenylalanine into chiral phenylglycinol. This system was designed using a microbial consortium including two engineered recombinant Escherichia coli cell modules, one recombinant E. coli cell module co-expressed six different enzymes (phenylalanine ammonia lyase/ferulic acid decarboxylase/phenylacrylic acid decarboxylase/styrene monooxygenase/epoxide hydrolase/alcohol dehydrogenase) for efficient conversion of l-phenylalanine into 2-hydroxyacetophenone. The second recombinant E. coli cell module expressed an (R)-ω-transaminase or co-expressed the (S)-ω-transaminase, alanine dehydrogenase and glucose dehydrogenase for conversion of 2-hydroxyacetophenone into (S)- or (R)-phenylglycinol, respectively. Combining the two engineered E. coli cell modules, after the optimization of bioconversion conditions (including pH, temperature, glucose concentration, amine donor concentration and cell ratio), l-phenylalanine could be easily converted into (R)-phenylglycinol and (S)-phenylglycinol with up to 99% conversion and > 99% ee. Preparative scale biotransformation was also conducted on 100-mL scale, (S)-phenylglycinol and (R)-phenylglycinol could be obtained in 71.0% and 80.5% yields, > 99% ee, and 5.19 g/L d and 4.42 g/L d productivity, respectively. The salient features of this biocatalytic cascade system are good yields, excellent ee, mild reaction condition and no need for additional cofactor (NADH/NAD+), provide a practical biocatalytic method for sustainable synthesis of (S)-phenylglycinol and (R)-phenylglycinol from bio-based L-phenylalanine.

Neuronal models have remained an important area of research in computer science. The dendritic neuron model (DNM) is a novel neuronal model in recent years. Previous studies have focused on training DNM using more appropriate algorithms. This paper proposes an improvement to DNM based on the activity of excitation and proposes three new models. Each of the three improved models are designed to mimic the excitation and inhibition activity of neurons. The improved model proposed in this paper is shown to be effective in the experimental part. All three models and original DNM have their own strengths, so it can be considered that the new model proposed in this paper well enriches the diversity of neuronal models and contributes to future research on networks models.

Abstract Room‐temperature sodium–sulfur (RT Na–S) batteries are arousing great interest in recent years. Their practical applications, however, are hindered by several intrinsic problems, such as the sluggish kinetic, shuttle effect, and the incomplete conversion of sodium polysulfides (NaPSs). Here a sulfur host material that is based on tungsten nanoparticles embedded in nitrogen‐doped graphene is reported. The incorporation of tungsten nanoparticles significantly accelerates the polysulfides conversion (especially the reduction of Na2S4 to Na2S, which contributes to 75% of the full capacity) and completely suppresses the shuttle effect, en route to a fully reversible reaction of NaPSs. With a host weight ratio of only 9.1% (about 3–6 times lower than that in recent reports), the cathode shows unprecedented electrochemical performances even at high sulfur mass loadings. The experimental findings, which are corroborated by the first‐principles calculations, highlight the so far unexplored role of tungsten nanoparticles in sulfur hosts, thus pointing to a viable route toward stable Na–S batteries at room temperatures.

Abstract In this paper, we develop optimal Phragmén–Lindelöf methods, based on the use of maximum modulus of optimal value of a parameter in a Schrödinger functional, by applying the Phragmén–Lindelöf theorem for a second-order boundary value problems with respect to the Schrödinger operator. Using it, it is possible to find the existence of ground state solutions of the generalized Schrödinger equation with optimal control. In spite of the fact that the equation of this type can exhibit non-uniqueness of weak solutions, we prove that the corresponding Phragmén–Lindelöf method, under suitable assumptions on control conditions of the nonlinear term, is well-posed and admits a nonempty set of solutions.

Abstract Subsurface defects have a significant impact on the precision and performance of nano-structures. In this paper, molecular dynamics simulation of nano-indentation is performed to investigate the effect of machining-induced subsurface defects on dislocation evolution and mechanical properties of materials, in which the specimen model with subsurface defects is constructed by nano-cutting conforming to reality. The formation mechanism of subsurface defects and the interaction mechanism between machine-induced defects and dislocation evolution are discussed. The hardness and Young’s elastic modulus of single crystal copper specimens are calculated. The simulation results indicate that there exist stable defect structure residues in the subsurface of workpiece, such as atomic clusters, stacking fault tetrahedral, and stair-rod dislocations. Secondary processing of nano-indentation can restore internal defects of the workpiece, but the subsurface damage in the secondary processing area is aggravated. The nano-indentation hardness of specimens increases with the introduction of subsurface defects, which results in the formation of work-hardening effect. The existence of subsurface defects can weaken the ability of material to resist elastic deformation, in which the mutual evolution between dislocations and subsurface defects plays an important role.

Epidemiological and toxicological studies have demonstrated that exposure to fine particulate matter (PM2.5) during pregnancy is harmful to the tissues of the offspring. However, the mechanism by which PM2.5 exposure causes lung damage in the offspring or potential dietary therapy for this condition remains unclear. Mogrosides (MGs) are derived from the traditional plant Siraitia grosvenorii and are used medicinally, where they can moisten the lungs and relieve coughing. In this study, pregnant rats were exposed to PM2.5 by intratracheal instillation and treated with MGs by gavage to model the effect of PM2.5 in the offspring and the interventional effect of MGs on lung tissue. We then used transcriptomics, metabolomics, and RT-qPCR as tools to look for metabolite and genetic changes in the offspring. We found that when compared to the control group, the mRNA levels of the inflammatory mediator Pla2g2d and the metabolites lysophosphatidylcholines (LysoPCs) and arachidonic acid (AA) were up-regulated in the lung tissues of PM2.5 group. In contrast, these inflammatory changes were restored after treatment with MGs during pregnancy. In addition, the levels of AA, LPC 15:0 and LPC 18:0 were elevated in the PM2.5 group compared with control group. This increase was inhibited by co-administration of MGs. The change of PGA1 was adverse. In conclusion, even a relatively low exposure to PM2.5 in rats during pregnancy produces inflammation in the lungs of the male offspring, and an intervention with MGs could significantly alleviate this effect. Furthermore, Pla2g2d may represent a potential target for MGs resulting in the improvement of PM2.5-induced lung injury.

Abstract The effect of fluid media on material removal and subsurface defects evolution in nano-cutting process of single-crystal copper is investigated by means of molecular dynamics simulation. In this paper, the removal mechanism of the chip and formation mechanism of machined surface are investigated by analyzing the atomic migration and dislocation evolution of workpiece during nano-cutting process with the use of aqueous media. The distribution of temperature and subsurface defect crystal structural transformation are investigated, which are analyzed by centro-symmetry parameter and common neighbor analysis methods. The results show that the workpiece material is removed by the extrusion shearing action of the cutting tool. The lubrication of the aqueous media can reduce the cutting force and lower the height of cutting chip. Particularly, the cooling action of the fluid media results in the formation of a typical defect “similar-to-grain boundary” in subsurface of the workpiece. And the temperature of workpiece has a distinct decrease during nano-cutting process with the use of fluid media.

Pulmonary fibrosis is a chronic and aggresitive interstitial lung disease. We evaluated the anti-fibrotic effect of mogrol isolated from Siratia grosvenorii against pulmonary fibrosis and the underlying mechanism. In vitro, mogrol (10 µM) show anti-fibrotic effects by suppressing TGF-β1-induced the epithelial mesenchymal transition of alveolar epithelial cells and myofibroblasts trans-differentiation. Then, mogrol was given after intratracheal instillation of bleomycin in mice. Results showed that mogrol treatments (10 mg/kg/d) improved characteristic changes in histopathology, inflammation infiltration and collagen deposition in lung tissues, and that mogrol significantly inhibited TGF-β1-Smad2/3 pathway, restored NOX4 abnormal expression but promoted AMPK phosphorylation. Further research identified that co-treatment with AMPK inhibitor, significantly blocked the anti-fibrotic properties of mogrol, suggesting that the protective effect of mogrol may be attributed to activated AMPK with consequent reduction in inflammatory, fibrosis and oxidative stress. Overall, Siratia grosvenorii effectively protects against lung fibrosis via AMPK activation and amelioration of TGF-β1 signalling pathway.

Abstract Silicone (Si) is one type of anode materials with intriguingly high theoretical capacity. However, the severe volume change associated with the repeated lithiation and delithiation processes hampers the mechanical/electrical integrity of Si anodes and hence reduces the battery's cycle‐life. To address this issue, sequence‐defined peptoids are designed and fabricated with two tailored functional groups, “OH” and “COOH”, as cross‐linkable polymeric binders for Si anodes of LIBs. Experimental results show that both the capacity and stability of such peptoids‐bound Si anodes can be significantly improved due to the decreased cracks of Si nanoparticles. Particularly, the 15‐mer peptoid binder in Si anode can result in a much higher reversible capacity (ca. 3110 mAh g−1) after 500 cycles at 1.0 A g−1 compared to other reported binders in literature. According to the density functional theory (DFT) calculations, it is the functional groups presented on the side chains of peptoids that facilitate the formation of Si−O binding efficiency and robustness, and then maintain the integrity of the Si anode. The sequence‐designed polymers can act as a new platform for understanding the interactions between binders and Si anode materials, and promote the realization of high‐performance batteries.

For indirect ceramic additive manufacturing (AM), green parts’ initial densities are low, limiting the postprocessing strengthening under atmospheric pressure. This study employed binder jetting printing (BJP) based on the polycondensation curing of urea-formaldehyde resin to produce series of Al2O3 green specimens with controllable structures. Further, an integrated postprocessing procedure, including the sequential stages of presintering, ceramic slurry infiltration, and final sintering, was conducted on these green specimens with designed structural characteristics for verifying strengthening mechanism. Using a self-developed BJP machine system and the related material which are flexible in process, this study printed green specimens with strong bonding (flexural strength above 6.84 MPa), additionally can regulate their initial densities within the wide range between 21.7%∼43.9%. Infiltrated with ceramic slurry, low-density green specimens were significantly strengthened via final sintering, realizing final densities, flexural strength, and compressive strength of 73.2%, 43.15 MPa, and 331.17 MPa, respectively. In comparison, high-density specimens performing poor infiltration obtained limited density increment after final sintering, but better mechanical properties and surface strengthening were realized, exhibiting final densities, flexural strength, comprehensive strength, surface roughness Ra, and Vickers hardness of 70.1%, 63.22 MPa, 450.18 MPa, 9.73 μm, and 4.58 GPa, respectively. In summary, this study is helpful to provide the technical reference for custom AM ceramic green parts and the postprocessing optimization.

Co-doped perovskite oxide La0.4Sr0.6CoxMn1-xO3 (x = 0, 0.2, 0.4) composites are prepared by sol–gel method utilizing citric acid as chelating agent. These composites show good catalytic activities when tested as catalysts rechargeable lithium—air batteries. In particular, the La0.4Sr0.6Co0.4Mn0.6O3 shows a lower potential gap. When these samples are tested as catalysts for Li—air batteries at a current density of 100 mA g−1, the discharge capacities with different La0.4Sr0.6CoxMn1-xO3 (x = 0, 0.2, 0.4) catalysts are 5819, 6420, and 7227 mA h g−1, respectively. In addition, under a capacity limitation of 1000 mA h g−1, the cell using La0.4Sr0.6Co0.4Mn0.6O3 as catalyst shows good cycling stability up to 46 cycles. The good electrochemical performance suggests that suitable doping of Co in Mn site of La0.4Sr0.6MnO3 could be a promising route to improve the catalytic activity.

OBJECTIVES:To compare the efficacy and safety of percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL) and open surgery (OS) for surgical treatment of patients with staghorn stones based on published literatures. MATERIALS AND METHODS:A comprehensive literature search of Pubmed, Embase, CNKI and Cochrane Library was conducted to identify studies comparing outcomes of PCNL and OS for treating patients with staghorn stones up to Jan 2018. RESULTS:There was no significant difference in final-SFR between PCNL and OS (odds ratio[OR]: 1.17; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.64, 2.15; p = 0.61), while PCNL provided a significantly lower immediate-SFR compared with OS (OR: 0.29; 95% CI: 0.16, 0.51; P < 0.0001). PCNL provided significantly lower overall complication rate, shorter operative times, hospitalization times, less blood loss and blood transfusion compared with OS (OR: 0.59; 95% CI: 0.41, 0.84; P = 0.004), (weighted mean difference [WMD]: -59.01mins; 95% CI: -81.09, -36.93; p < 0.00001), (WMD: -5.77days; 95% CI: -7.80, -3.74; p < 0.00001), (WMD: -138.29ml; 95% CI: -244.98, -31.6; p = 0.01) and (OR: 0.44; 95% CI: 0.29, 0.68; P = 0.00002), respectively. No significant differences were found in minor complications (Clavien I-II) (OR: 0.72; 95% CI: 0.47, 1.09; p = 0.12) and major complications (Clavien III-V) (OR: 0.5; 95% CI: 0.23, 1.08; P = 0.08). In subgroup analysis, there were no significant differences for overall complications and operative times between mini-PCNL and OS. In sensitivity analysis, there was no significant difference for overall complications between PCNL and OS. CONCLUSION:Our analysis suggested that standard PCNL turns out to be a safe and feasible alternative for patients with staghorn stones compared to OS or mini-PCNL. Because of the inherent limitations of the included studies, further large sample, prospective, multi-centric and randomized control trials should be undertaken to confirm our findings.

Shoulder fillets are widely used in the structural optimization design of metal dampers. However, the plastic deformation property of dampers affected by stress concentration, owing to different fillets, has not been explored in-depth. In this study, two typical metal damper materials with different plastic deformation, i.e., ordinary steel SS400 and low-yield-strength steel LYS160, were investigated. The strengthening effect of fillets under different loading is evaluated by comparing the mechanical properties of different fillet heights. Furthermore, the effect of the stress concentration caused by different fillet shapes, based on the failure mode of materials, is discussed. Subsequently, the fatigue degradation effect under the reciprocating shear loading is studied. Based on a series of studies on the deformation properties of fillets in different ductile materials, the basis for the structural optimization design under plastic deformation is provided.

Tyrosinase is an enzyme widely distributed in nature, which has multiple functions, especially in the melanin biosynthesis pathway. Despite the few clinically available tyrosinase inhibitors for whitening, a great demand remains for novel compounds with low side effects in terms of potential carcinogenicity and improved clinical efficacy. A natural product, wedelolactone (WEL), with a polyhydroxyl moiety, attracted our attention as a potential tyrosinase inhibitor. Before we studied the biological activity of the natural product, a synthetic methodological research was firstly carried to obtain enough raw material. WEL could be obtained efficiently through palladium-catalyzed boronation/coupling reactions and 2,3-dicyano-5,6-dichlorobenzoquinone (DDQ)-involved oxidative deprotection/annulation reactions. Immediately after, the natural product was proven to be an efficient tyrosinase inhibitor. In conclusion, we developed a mild and efficient approach for the preparation of WEL, and the natural product was disclosed to have anti-tyrosinase activity, which could be widely used in multiple fields.

The PDE4B single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) have been reported to be associated with schizophrenia risk. However, current findings are ambiguous or even conflicting. To better facilitate the understanding the genetic role played by PDE4B in susceptibility to schizophrenia, we collected currently available data and conducted this meta-analysis.A comprehensive electronic literature searching of PubMed, Embase, Web of Science and Cochrane Library was performed. The association between PDE4B SNPs and schizophrenia was evaluated by odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) under allelic, dominant and recessive genetic models. The random effects model was utilized when high between-study heterogeneity (I2 > 50%) existed, otherwise the fixed effects model was used.Five studies comprising 2376 schizophrenia patients and 3093 controls were finally included for meta-analysis. The rs1040716 was statistically significantly associated with schizophrenia risk in Asian and Caucasian populations under dominant model (OR = 0.87, 95% CI: 0.76-0.99, P = 0.04). The rs2180335 was significantly related with schizophrenia risk in Asian populations under allelic (OR = 0.82, 95% CI: 0.72-0.93, P = 0.003) and dominant (OR = 0.75, 95% CI: 0.64-0.88, P < 0.001) models. A significant association was also observed between rs4320761 and schizophrenia in Asian populations under allelic model (OR = 0.87, 95% CI: 0.75-1.00, P = 0.048). In addition, a strong association tendency was found between rs6588190 and schizophrenia in Asian populations under allelic model (OR = 0.87, 95% CI: 0.76-1.00, P = 0.055).This meta-analysis suggests that PDE4B SNPs are genetically associated with susceptibility to schizophrenia. However, due to limited sample size, more large-scale, multi-racial association studies are needed to further clarify the genetic association between various PDE4B variants and schizophrenia.

Purpose. The aim of this study was to prepare a new neovascularity targeting antitumor drug delivery system mediated by single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWNTs). Methods. In this study, antiangiogenesis agent 2-methoxyestradiol was loaded by SWNTs via π~π accumulation. The SWNTs were then linked with NGR (Asn-Gly-Arg) peptide, which could target tumor angiogenesis. This drug delivery system was characterized by transmission electron microscope, scanning electron microscopy, and atomic force microscope analysis. The suppression efficacy of tumor growth in cultured breast cancer cell line was evaluated by the 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide assay. The in vivo antitumor activity was evaluated on the Sarcoma (S180) tumor-bearing mice model. Results. The characteristics of this drug delivery system showed that the particle of complex was 190 ± 4.3 nm in size distribution and 23.56 ± 2.03 mV in zeta potential. The inhibition ratio of this SWNTs drug delivery system at 24, 48, and 72 h was about 57.7%, 83.6%, and 88.2%. Compared with normal saline group, the relative tumor volumes in the 2ME, SWNTs-2ME, and NGR-SWNTs-2ME groups were decreased 1 week after administration. Conclusion. This novel neovascularity targeting drug delivery system containing NGR-SWNTs-2ME may be beneficial to improve treatment efficacy and minimize side effects in future cancer therapy. This article is open to POST-PUBLICATION REVIEW. Registered readers (see “For Readers”) may comment by clicking on ABSTRACT on the issue’s contents page.

Metallic shear panel dampers (SPDs) have been widely adopted in seismic engineering. In this study, axial and torsional specimens of four types of metallic damping materials, including three conventional metallic steels as well as low yield strength steel 160 (LYS160), were tested in order to investigate the material response under repeated large plastic strain and low cycle fatigue between 10 and 30 cycles. The present study demonstrated that both the deformation capacity and fatigue performance of LYS160 were underestimated by the conversion from the traditional uniaxial tensile test. The main difference in the failure mechanism between LYS160 and the three conventional materials was determined from the scanning electron microscopy data. The dominant failure mode in LYS160 is stable interlaminate slip and not bucking. Our results provide physical insights into the origin of the large deformation capacity, which is an important foundation for the lightweight design of SPDs.

The lightweight design and miniaturization of metallic dampers have broad application prospects in seismic engineering. In this study, the superplastic property and the maximum energy dissipation capacity per unit mass of low-yield-strength steel (LYS) are investigated via comparison with those of several common metallic damping materials by tests. Additionally, the boundary constraints of an LYS shear panel damper are studied further. Our experimental results suggest that LYS is an excellent damping material for achieving the lightweight design goal. A novel design of a lightweight damper, having excellent deformation ability and robust mechanical properties, is presented. The findings of this study are expected to be useful in understanding the lightweight design of dampers.