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Polymers are ideally utilized as damping materials due to the high internal friction of molecular chains, enabling effective suppression of vibrations and noises in various fields. Current strategies rely on broadening the glass transition region or introducing additional relaxation components to enhance the energy dissipation capacity of polymeric damping materials. However, it remains a significant challenge to achieve high damping efficiency through structural control while maintaining dynamic characteristics. In this work, we propose a new strategy to develop hyperbranched vitrimers (HBVs) containing dense pendant chains and loose dynamic crosslinked networks. A novel yet weak dynamic transesterification between the carboxyl and boronic acid ester was confirmed and used to prepare HBVs based on poly (hexyl methacrylate‐2‐(4‐ethenylphenyl)‐5,5‐dimethyl‐1,3,2‐dioxaborinane) P(HMA‐co‐ViCL) copolymers. The ABn ${{AB}_{n}}$ ‐type of macromonomers, the crosslinking points formed by the dynamic covalent connection via the associative exchange, and the weak yet dynamic exchange reaction are the three keys to developing high‐performance HBV damping materials. We found that P(HMA‐co‐ViCL) 20k‐40‐60 HBV exhibited ultrahigh energy‐dissipation performance over a broad frequency and temperature range, attributed to the synergistic effect of dense pendant chains and weak dynamic covalent crosslinks. This unique design concept will provide a general approach to developing advanced damping materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Polymers are ideally utilized as damping materials due to the high internal friction of molecular chains, enabling effective suppression of vibrations and noises in various fields. Current strategies rely on broadening the glass transition region or introducing additional relaxation components to enhance the energy dissipation capacity of polymeric damping materials. However, it remains a significant challenge to achieve high damping efficiency through structural control while maintaining dynamic characteristics. In this work, we propose a new strategy to develop hyperbranched vitrimers (HBVs) containing dense pendant chains and loose dynamic crosslinked networks. A novel yet weak dynamic transesterification between the carboxyl and boronic acid ester was confirmed and used to prepare HBVs based on poly (hexyl methacrylate‐2‐(4‐ethenylphenyl)‐5,5‐dimethyl‐1,3,2‐dioxaborinane) P(HMA‐co‐ViCL) copolymers. The ABn ${{AB}_{n}}$ ‐type of macromonomers, the crosslinking points formed by the dynamic covalent connection via the associative exchange, and the weak yet dynamic exchange reaction are the three keys to developing high‐performance HBV damping materials. We found that P(HMA‐co‐ViCL) 20k‐40‐60 HBV exhibited ultrahigh energy‐dissipation performance over a broad frequency and temperature range, attributed to the synergistic effect of dense pendant chains and weak dynamic covalent crosslinks. This unique design concept will provide a general approach to developing advanced damping materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Thoracolumbar fractures are one of the most common fractures in clinical practice. Surgical intervention is recommended to restore spinal alignment or decompress the nerves when there are unstable fractures or neurological injuries. However, after excessive forward thrust force restoration, facet joint dislocation often occurs between the upper vertebra and the fractured vertebra, which usually leads to unsatisfactory reduction outcomes. Herein, we propose a novel spinal facet joint toothed plate to assist in fracture reduction. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the effectiveness of the new spinal facet joint toothed plate in preventing facet joint dislocation, and its advantages compared to traditional pedicle screw‐rod decompression. Methods: A total of 26 patients in the toothed plate group and 93 patients in the traditional group who experienced thoracolumbar fracture with reduction were retrospectively included. Relevant patients' information and clinical parameters were collected. Furthermore, visual analogue scores (VAS) scores and Oswestry disability index (ODI) scores were also collected. Moreover, imaging parameters were calculated based on radiographs. Correlated data were analyzed by χ2 test and t test. Results: All patients in this study had no postoperative complications. Postoperative VAS scores and ODI scores (p < 0.001) were statistically significant (p < 0.001) in both groups compared with preoperative scores and further decreased (p < 0.001) at final follow‐up. In addition, the postoperative vertebral margin ratio (VMR) (p < 0.001) and vertebral angle of the injured vertebrae (p < 0.001) were significantly improved compared with the preoperative period. There were no significant differences in postoperative VAS scores and ODI scores between the two groups. However, toothed plate reduction significantly improved the VMR (p < 0.05) and vertebral angle (p < 0.05) compared with conventional reduction. Ultimately, the total screw accuracy was 98.72% (sum of levels 0 and I), with 100% screw accuracy in the segment related to the tooth plate in the tooth plate group. The dislocation rate was higher in the conventional group (6.45%) than in the new serrated plate repositioning group (0.00%). Conclusion: The facet toothed plate assisted reduction method prevents facet joint dislocation and improves fracture reduction compared to traditional reduction technique, hence it could be considered as a novel surgical strategy for thoracolumbar fracture reduction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In biological systems, nucleotide quadruplexes (such as G‐quadruplexes) in DNA and RNA that are held together by multiple hydrogen bonds play a crucial functional role. The biomimetic formation of these hydrogen‐bonded quadruplexes captured by artificial systems in water poses a significant challenge but can offer valuable insights into these complex functional structures. Herein, we report the formation of biomimetic hydrogen‐bonded G ⋅ C ⋅ G ⋅ C quadruplex captured by a tetraphenylethene (TPE) based octacationic spirobicycle (1). The spirobicyclic compound possesses a three‐dimensional (3D) crossing dual‐cavity structure, which enables the encapsulation of four d(GpC) dinucleotide molecules, thereby realizing 1 : 4 host–guest complexation in water. The X‐ray structure reveals that four d(GpC) molecules further form a two‐layer G ⋅ C ⋅ G ⋅ C quadruplex with Watson–Crick hydrogen bonds, which are stabilized within the dual hydrophobic cavities of 1 through the cooperative non‐covalent interactions of hydrogen bonds, CH⋅⋅⋅π interactions, and hydrophobic effect. Due to the dynamically‐rotational propeller chirality of TPE units, 1 with adaptive chirality can further serve as a chiroptical sensor to exhibit opposite Cotton effects with mirror‐image CD spectra for the pH‐dependent hydrogen‐bonded assemblies of d(GpC) including the Watson–Crick G ⋅ C ⋅ G ⋅ C (pH 9.22) and Hoogsteen G ⋅ C+ ⋅ G ⋅ C+ (pH 5.74) quartets through the host–guest chirality transfer in water. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In biological systems, nucleotide quadruplexes (such as G‐quadruplexes) in DNA and RNA that are held together by multiple hydrogen bonds play a crucial functional role. The biomimetic formation of these hydrogen‐bonded quadruplexes captured by artificial systems in water poses a significant challenge but can offer valuable insights into these complex functional structures. Herein, we report the formation of biomimetic hydrogen‐bonded G ⋅ C ⋅ G ⋅ C quadruplex captured by a tetraphenylethene (TPE) based octacationic spirobicycle (1). The spirobicyclic compound possesses a three‐dimensional (3D) crossing dual‐cavity structure, which enables the encapsulation of four d(GpC) dinucleotide molecules, thereby realizing 1 : 4 host–guest complexation in water. The X‐ray structure reveals that four d(GpC) molecules further form a two‐layer G ⋅ C ⋅ G ⋅ C quadruplex with Watson–Crick hydrogen bonds, which are stabilized within the dual hydrophobic cavities of 1 through the cooperative non‐covalent interactions of hydrogen bonds, CH⋅⋅⋅π interactions, and hydrophobic effect. Due to the dynamically‐rotational propeller chirality of TPE units, 1 with adaptive chirality can further serve as a chiroptical sensor to exhibit opposite Cotton effects with mirror‐image CD spectra for the pH‐dependent hydrogen‐bonded assemblies of d(GpC) including the Watson–Crick G ⋅ C ⋅ G ⋅ C (pH 9.22) and Hoogsteen G ⋅ C+ ⋅ G ⋅ C+ (pH 5.74) quartets through the host–guest chirality transfer in water. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cyberbullying is considered a major threat to adolescent anxiety. In this study, we aim to explore the simultaneous effects of cyberbullying victimization and perpetration on youth anxiety. Building on the childhood adversity model and the vulnerability‐stress model, we test the model wherein cyberbullying exposure is linked with cyberostracism, which in turn is expected to be associated with an increase in anxiety. We collected data from 1115 Chinese youth aged 11–19 years based on the stratified random sampling method. Structure equation modelling was conducted in Amos 26.0 to examine the proposed theoretical model. The findings suggested that compared with cyberbullying perpetration, the experience of cyberbullying victimization led to a significantly higher risk of youth anxiety. Multiple mediation analyses revealed that the three dimensions of cyberostracism, namely cyber direct excluded, cyber indirect excluded and cyber ignored, mediated the association of cyberbullying victimization and perpetration with youth anxiety. These results indicate that cyberostracism could be a risk factor for youth anxiety, thus providing new direction regarding intervention programs to reduce anxiety symptoms in adolescents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article explores the electrochemical hydro- and deuterocarboxylation of allenes using carbon dioxide (CO2) and deuterium oxide (D2O) as starting materials. The authors discuss the challenges of activating CO2 and propose photochemical and electrochemical methods as potential solutions. They present their own findings on the electrochemical hydrocarboxylation and deuterocarboxylation of allenes, demonstrating good regioselectivity and high yields of carboxylic acids. The authors suggest possible mechanisms for these reactions and highlight their potential applications in reaction mechanism studies and drug development. The article also provides detailed experimental procedures and results, including information on the synthesis and characterization of various compounds. [Extracted from the article]

When local discharge occurs inside the transformer, it will be accompanied by a burst sound to generate an ultrasonic signal, which can be used for fault monitoring and diagnosis inside the transformer. This paper focuses on studying the converter transformer and simulating and analyzing the location where local discharge is likely to occur in the converter transformer. The provided information includes the distribution of sound pressure within and outside the converter transformer and the impact of the winding on this distribution. Furthermore, the investigation focuses on the testing of local discharge in converter transformers using ultrasonic signals. A local discharge detection device for converter transformers has been developed. The experiment and analysis have been conducted, and what was learned was compared to the simulated outcomes. The determination of the local discharge position in converter transformers is based on the analysis of the time-varying waveform obtained at the observation point. This approach offers a novel method for finding and identifying local discharge. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Electrochemical CO2 reduction reaction (CO2RR) provides a feasible technology for alleviating global warming, energy crisis and sustainable energy production. In this work, CO2RR reaction mechanism on TM-THTA (TM = Fe , Co, Ni, Ru, Rh, Pd, THTA is composed by two types of building blocks of 2,3,6,7,10,11-triphenylenehexathiol and 2,3,6,7,10,11-triphenylenehexamine) has been studied by using density functional method. Our study showed that the studied catalysts are stable both thermodynamically and electrochemically. Rh-THTA is a good CO2 reduction catalyst in producing CH4. Pd-THTA is a potential CO2 reduction catalyst in producing HCOOH. Solvent effect plays important role in reaction mechanism. The strong hydrogen evolution reaction in Rh-THTA and Pd-THTA can be refrained by adjusting the pH values of electrolyte. We hope this study could provide a useful way to develop 2D-MOF-based CO2RR electrocatalysts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, we propose a method of route optimization of vacant taxicab based on the abstract grid network. Firstly, an abstract grid network is built by the quadtree technology with the vacant trajectory data embedded. Secondly, the Markov decision process framework considering the sequential dependence is used to model the problem. Finally, we solve this problem by the policy iteration and compare the method by taking the GPS trajectory data in different hours of 797 taxicabs in a typical working day in Shenzhen, comparing that with the optimal strategy without considering sequential dependence, MNP, local hotspot and random walk algorithm by simulation, respectively. The results show that: The use of quadtree can reduce the sparseness of matching probability from 80.46% to 30.18%. The average revenue per unit distance has increased by 6.10%, 8.75%, 33.24% and 60.06%. The vacant driving rate has decreased by 5.33%, 6.15%, 18.86%, and 23.18%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

It is well‐recognized that blood flow at branches and bends of arteries generates disturbed shear stress, which plays a crucial in driving atherosclerosis. Flow‐generated fluid shear stress (FSS), as one of the key hemodynamic factors, is appreciated for its critical involvement in regulating angiogenesis to facilitate wound healing and tissue repair. Endothelial cells can directly sense FSS but the mechanobiological mechanism by which they decode different patterns of FSS to trigger angiogenesis remains unclear. In the current study, laminar shear stress (LSS, 15 dyn/cm2) was employed to mimic physiological blood flow, while disturbed shear stress (DSS, ranging from 0.5 ± 4 dyn/cm2) was applied to simulate pathological conditions. The aim was to investigate how these distinct types of blood flow regulated endothelial angiogenesis. Initially, we observed that DSS impaired angiogenesis and downregulated endogenous vascular endothelial growth factor B (VEGFB) expression compared to LSS. We further found that the changes in membrane protein, migration and invasion enhancer 1 (MIEN1) play a role in regulating ERK/MAPK signaling, thereby contributing to endothelial angiogenesis in response to FSS. We also showed the involvement of MIEN1‐directed cytoskeleton organization. These findings suggest the significance of shear stress in endothelial angiogenesis, thereby enhancing our understanding of the alterations in angiogenesis that occur during the transition from physiological to pathological blood flow. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Routine histopathological examination of hernia sac in adults remains a controversial topic. We undertook a retrospective study to assess possible clinical benefits of pathological examination of hernia sac specimens. Our pathology database between 1992 and 2020 was searched for adult specimens submitted as hernia sac. The clinical and pathological data of patients with abnormal histopathological findings were reviewed. There were 5424 hernia sac specimens (3722 inguinal, 1625 umbilical, and 77 femoral), 32/5424 (0.59%) with malignancies (28 epithelial and 4 lymphoid) and 25/32 were located in the umbilical region. Twelve out of twenty-five malignancies (48%) presented as primary clinical manifestations of the diseases (5 GI tract carcinomas, 5 gynecological tract carcinomas, and 2 lymphoid neoplasms); and 13/25 (52%) specimens were involved by previously known tumors (8 gynecological carcinomas, 3 colon carcinomas, 1 breast carcinoma, and 1 lymphoma). Among the 7 inguinal hernia sacs with malignancies, 3 (42.9%) were primary presentations of the tumors (2 prostatic carcinomas, 1 pancreatic carcinoma), and 4 (57.1%) were previously known tumors (2 ovarian carcinomas, 1 colon carcinoma, 1 lymphoid). Benign lesions were 12/5424 (0.22%), including 7 adrenal rests, 4 endometriosis, and 1 inguinal sarcoidosis. The incidence of hernia sacs with malignancies was 32/5424 (0.59%), most commonly from nearby organs in gynecological tract. However distant metastases from breast were also present. Near half of the hernia sac with malignancies (15/32, 47%) presented as the first clinical manifestation. Routine histopathological examination of hernia sac in adults is recommended, since it may provide important clinical information. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hypokalemia and hyponatremia are common but easily ignored adverse events in treatment with voriconazole (VCZ) that can lead to serious consequences. We intend to investigate the incidence of VCZ‐induced hypokalemia and hyponatremia and their risk factors based on real‐world data. A prospective study was conducted. A total of 272 patients with 414 VCZ plasma trough concentrations (C0) and VCZ N‐oxide concentrations (CN) were included. The incidence of hypokalemia was 18.0% (48/266). A total of 81.2% (39/48) of patients developed hypokalemia within 14 days, whereas 56.2% (27/48) of patients developed hypokalemia within 1 week. The proportion of female patients in the hypokalemia group was higher than that in the nonhypokalemia group, as was the proportion of patients receiving intravenous VCZ. In the multivariate analysis, the independent risk factors for hypokalemia were sex, combined use of antibiotics, and VCZ CN/C0. The incidence of hyponatremia was 7.9% (21/266). The proportion of patients over 47 years of age in the hyponatremia group was 71.4% (15/21). The number of days of VCZ use in the hyponatremia group was greater than that in the nonhyponatremia group. A total of 47.6% (10/21) of patients in the hyponatremia group had supratherapeutic VCZ C0 (>5.0 µg/mL). In conclusion, hypokalemia is more likely to occur in females, in patients receiving intravenous VCZ, and in patients with the combined use of antibiotics. Hyponatremia is more likely to occur in patients older than 47 years who have been using VCZ for a long time and have higher VCZ C0 values. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper tries to solve the quantized practical fixed-time consensus tracking problem for networked Euler–Lagrange systems under the predetermined workspace. To realize the information interaction under the limited bandwidth, a set of encoder, decoder, and average quantizers are constructed to process the interaction data. On this basis, a fixed-time observer is proposed so that each follower can estimate the leader's information within the quantized communication environment. Afterward, the local tracking control algorithm is designed by using backstepping strategy and adaptive technology, and the state constraint function is introduced to cope with the asymmetric time-varying constraint problem. With the Lyapunov stability criterion, all error signals are guaranteed to remain in the compact sets near the origin within the fixed time. Ultimately, a numerical example is carried out to testify the validity of the proposed scheme. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Travel times in real-world transportation networks are affected by many disruptions. When we conduct the network design optimization, the traffic condition and its resulting travel time variability should be taken into account. However, most of the previous network design optimizations adopted the lengths or expected travel times of links. Based on travel time means and standard deviations, we develop an arc-based model that is a nonlinear and concave integer program. By the Dantzig-Wolfe reformulation, we transform it into an equivalent column-based model that is an integer linear program with a large number of variables. Based on the column-based model, we develop a hybrid method based on column generation and Lagrangian relaxation. The restricted master problem can be settled by the linear programming solvers. The pricing subproblems incorporate independent reliable shortest path problems and a knapsack problem. In numerical experiments, the proposed method can generate feasible solutions with good integrality gaps. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The phase transformation temperature plays an important role in the design, production and heat treatment process of steels. In the present work, an improved version of the gradient-boosting method LightGBM has been utilized to study the influencing factors of the four phase transformation temperatures, namely Ac1, Ac3, the martensite transformation start (MS) temperature and the bainitic transformation start (BS) temperature. The effects of the alloying element were discussed in detail by comparing their influencing mechanisms on different phase transformation temperatures. The training accuracy was significantly improved by further introducing appropriate features related to atomic parameters. The melting temperature and coefficient of linear thermal expansion of the pure metals corresponding to the alloying elements, atomic Waber–Cromer pseudopotential radii and valence electron number were the top four among the eighteen atomic parameters used to improve the trained model performance. The training and prediction processes were analyzed using a partial dependence plot (PDP) and Shapley additive explanation (SHAP) methods to reveal the relationships between the features and phase transformation temperature. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) with accurately directional and well‐ordered channels are considered ideal solid‐state Li‐ion conductors and are expected to be utilized in solid‐state lithium–oxygen (Li–O2) batteries to achieve rechargeable batteries with high energy density. However, the instability of MOFs toward air and lithium metal has become a crucial problem to overcome. Herein, a breakthrough is first realized in overcoming these challenges by utilizing cationic MOF (CMOF) as an advanced Li‐ion conductor. Benefiting from the positively charged sites in the CMOF, an outstanding Li+ conductivity of 6.45 × 10−4 S cm−1 at room temperature, a low activation energy of 0.15 eV, and a high transference number of 0.59 are achieved. In particular, the CMOF shows high flame retardancy, H2O, and O2− stability, which are key factors that affect the battery performance of Li–O2 batteries. Such extraordinary Li+ transport makes the assembled solid‐state Li–O2 battery cycle up to 790 h with a low overpotential of 1.09 V. The proposed novel directional modification strategy is of great significance to developing high‐performance SSEs for solid‐state Li–O2 batteries and other lithium batteries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Glucosylglycerol (GG) is a natural compatible solute that can be synthesized by many cyanobacteria and a few heterotrophic bacteria under high salinity conditions. In cyanobacteria, GG is synthesized by GG-phosphate synthase and GG-phosphate phosphatase, and a hydrolase GGHA catalyzes its degradation. In heterotrophic bacteria (such as some Marinobacter species), a fused form of GG-phosphate phosphatase and GG-phosphate synthase is present, but the cyanobacteria-like degradation pathway is not available. Instead, a phosphorylase GGP, of which the coding gene is located adjacent to the gene that encodes the GG-synthesizing enzyme, is supposed to perform the GG degradation function. In the present study, a GGP homolog from the salt-tolerant M. salinexigens ZYF650T was characterized. The recombinant GGP catalyzed GG decomposition via a two-step process of phosphorolysis and hydrolysis in vitro and exhibited high substrate specificity toward GG. The activity of GGP was enhanced by inorganic salts at low concentrations but significantly inhibited by increasing salt concentrations. While the investigation on the physiological role of GGP in M. salinexigens ZYF650T was limited due to the failed induction of GG production, the heterologous expression of ggp in the living cells of the GG-producing cyanobacterium Synechocystis sp. PCC 6803 significantly reduced the salt-induced GG accumulation. Together, these data suggested that GGP may represent a novel pathway of microbial GG catabolism. Key points: • GGP catalyzes GG degradation by a process of phosphorolysis and hydrolysis • GGP-catalyzed GG degradation is different from GGHA-based GG degradation • GGP represents a potential novel pathway of microbial GG catabolism [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Modern manufacturing technology is dominated by additive manufacturing due to its simplicity, precision, time and material savings, and flexibility in design. The purpose of this study is to propose and print a 3D model of planetary gear trains since these gear trains are more efficient than conventional gear trains and have many advantages. A planet gear trains must have collinear input and output axes in order to achieve compact space requirements. Using even spacing between the planets in a gear train allows both static and dynamic forces to be balanced. It is also possible for multiple planets to produce high torques. Finally, it is capable of providing a wide range of speeds. The printed model performed exceptionally well when it came to performance, and it can be used for both educational and industrial purposes, exhibiting the ability to withstand a high level of stress. The current paper demonstrated the process of 3D printing and the challenges involved in printing planetary gear trains, as well as possible solutions to these challenges. Finally, tolerances were reported as 0.5 mm on the final CAD model, and 0.15 mm on the last updated results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: The study endeavors to undertake a bibliometric analysis on molar distalization, with the objective of illuminating its evolutionary trajectory, current status, and prognosticating future research hotspots and trends. Material and methods: A comprehensive exploration of the literature on molar distalization was carried out by conducting a search in the Web of Science (WOS) core database of the University of Hong Kong Electronic Library. The search for topic terms employed included "molar distalization," "molar distalisation," "move molar distally," "molar distal movement," and "molar backwards." The search results were subsequently subjected to meticulous analysis using CiteSpace software. This analysis encompassed various facets such as the citation count; the geographical distribution of the countries, institutions, and journals responsible for publishing the articles; the distribution of the authors; the utilization of keywords within the articles; and the analysis of references. Results: A total of 516 articles were included in the analysis. The top 5 countries in terms of the number of published papers were the United States (USA), South Korea, Turkey, Italy, and Germany, and the top 5 institutions in terms of the number of published papers were Kyung Hee University, A.T. Still University of Health Sciences, Catholic University of Korea, Seoul St. Mary's Hospital, and Universidade de Sao Paulo. The top 5 authors in terms of the number of published papers were Park, Kook, Bayome, Janson, and Lee. There was little cooperation overall. The top 3 journals in terms of the most published related articles were all orthodontic-related journals. After molar distalization and anchorage, the most frequently used keywords were distalization, movement, and pendulum appliance. Kinzinger GSM is the most frequently cited author in references, and one of his articles also has the highest centrality score in references. Conclusions: As the tides of time shift and scholars display an ever-growing dedication to unraveling the intricacies of this therapeutic modality, the realm of molar distalization has undergone notable advancements in technology. Initially, the traditional appliance suffered from aesthetic drawbacks and discomfort. However, contemporary iterations of the appliance have transcended these limitations, boasting enhanced elegance and convenience while concurrently elevating their efficacy. Nevertheless, limitations of current appliances, including their durability and propensity for recurrence post-treatment, continue to necessitate further advancement. Hence, the ongoing scientific inquiry aims to delve deeper into refining treatment modalities and fabricating cutting-edge appliances within this realm. Clinical relevance. This study holds the potential to significantly enhance the ability of orthodontists to devise treatment protocols and offer state-of-the-art clinical recommendations, thereby empowering them to deliver advanced and refined orthodontic interventions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The application range of fly ash in mortar products is gradually expanding, and the harm of heavy metals and environmental damage are also deepening. This study centers around the plastering mortar prepared from fly ash from three provinces in southwestern China (FA1 in Sichuan, FA2 in Chongqing, and FA3 in Guizhou), and systematically studies its basic properties, heavy metal leaching rule and coupling mechanism, life cycle assessment. The research results indicate that there is a certain regularity between the performance of fly ash plastering mortar and the content of fly ash added, but there is no obvious regularity of different origins in the performance. The experimental results showed that the heavy metal content in fly ash plastering mortar showed a significant trend of gradually decreasing over time. The leaching kinetics fitting results showed that the Parabolic equation model was suitable for the leaching of Cr, the Elovich leaching model was suitable for the leaching of Hg, and the Elovich and Second-order kinetics equations were suitable for the leaching of Cd. In fly ash plastering mortar products, Cr, Cd, and Hg elements exist in the forms of Cr3+, Cr6+, Cd2+, and Hg2+. The relative atomic mass of Cr in these two forms is influenced by factors such as the origin, content, and strength grade of fly ash. The occurrence and coupling mechanism of heavy metals in cementitious materials and hydration products were also explored. The results of the life cycle assessment showed that fly ash plastering mortar provides better environmental benefits compared to conventional ones and has a greenhouse effect carbon emissions of about 983 kgCO2eq, which can be reduced by approximately 30% compared to conventional plastering mortar. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The skin is constantly exposed to a range of environmental stressors, including ultraviolet (UV) radiation, which can cause damage to the skin. Repairing UV-damaged skin has been a major focus of research in recent years. The therapeutic potential of human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells (HUCMSCs) exhibits anti-photoaging properties. In this study, we developed a strategy for concentrating an HUCMSC supernatant, and examined the protective effects of CHS on UVB exposure in vitro and in vivo. Our results demonstrate that CHS repairs UVB exposure by promoting cell viability and migration and reducing senescent and apoptosis cells. We further found that the photoprotective effect of CHS is due to autophagy activation. Moreover, CHS reduces wrinkles and senescent cells, increases collagen expression, and improves immune function in UVB exposure-induced skin damage. In summary, our study provides a new approach for repairing cell damage, and suggests that CHS might be a potential candidate for preventing UVB-induced skin photodamage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Herein, laboratory experiments are conducted to evaluate the effect of sulfur and lanthanum content in the steel on the modification of inclusions. The amount, composition, morphology, and size of nonmetallic inclusions in the steel are observed using an automatic scanning electron microscope. Results show that as the lanthanum content in the steel increased from 0 to 72 ppm, the inclusions in the steel with 12 ppm sulfur are modified in the following order: Al2O3–CaO–MgO → LaAlO3 → LaAlO3–La2O2S → La2O2S. Similarly, when the sulfur content is 27 ppm, inclusions transformed in the order of Al2O3–CaO–MgO → LaAlO3 → LaAlO3–La2O2S → La2O2S → La2O2S–LaxS → LaxS as the lanthanum content increases from 0 to 150 ppm. Thermodynamic analysis using FactSage based on a private database is employed to reveal the mechanism for the modification of inclusions. Additionally, a kinetic model is established to study the transformation rate of inclusions in the steel after the addition of lanthanum and sulfur. Liquid Al2O3–CaO–MgO inclusions disappear after 800 s when the steel contains 12 ppm sulfur and 12 ppm lanthanum. The composition of inclusions is 53%LaAlO3–47%La2O2S at 1800 s, while it is 100%La2O2S and 80%La2O2S–18%LaxS–2%CaS when the lanthanum content is 33 and 72 ppm, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A plasma synthetic jet actuator with a high-frequency oblique slot was designed for supersonic flow control. The actuator's periodic operation characteristics were investigated using electrical parameter measurements and high-speed schlieren techniques. Experimental findings indicate that the actuator can stably operate within the frequency range of 0–2400 Hz. With increasing operating frequency, the breakdown voltage, maximum current, and discharge energy decrease, while the energy efficiency of the discharge increases. Moreover, the experiment revealed for the first time that an increase in the number of charged particles within the cavity leads to a decrease in breakdown voltage, and the concentration of charged particles reaches saturation at approximately 1200 Hz. High-speed schlieren observations indicate substantial inter-cycle influences in the periodic jet. At higher operating frequencies, the impact of inter-cycle flow field effects becomes more pronounced. The oblique slot plasma synthetic jet exhibits clear directionality in the distribution of shock waves and jet. The oblique slot jet also shows a significant wall attachment effect. These characteristics are beneficial for enhancing the flow control capability of the actuator. At 1200 Hz, the actuator achieves a discharge efficiency of 63% and a maximum jet front velocity of 309 m/s, showcasing its superior overall performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article explores the development of sensing materials and antibacterial materials that are responsive to antibiotics. Specifically, the use of supramolecular materials, particularly those based on macrocycles, has shown promise in detecting antibiotics and creating antibacterial materials. The article presents examples of macrocycles that have improved the detection responses and antibacterial effects of antibiotics. However, most macrocycles still rely on complex and time-consuming techniques for antibiotic detection. The article introduces a water-soluble tetraphenylene-based octacationic cage that can recognize and detect five β-lactam antibiotics, displaying fluorescence and an induced positive CD signal. The cage is non-toxic and exhibits good antimicrobial activity when combined with antibiotics. The authors propose that this cage could be used as a single-molecular platform for antibiotic detection and delivery while maintaining their antibacterial properties. This research offers new approaches for antibiotic detection and the creation of antimicrobial materials. [Extracted from the article]

Glucosylglycerol (GG) is a natural compatible solute that can be synthesized by many cyanobacteria and a few heterotrophic bacteria under high salinity conditions. In cyanobacteria, GG is synthesized by GG-phosphate synthase and GG-phosphate phosphatase, and a hydrolase GGHA catalyzes its degradation. In heterotrophic bacteria (such as some Marinobacter species), a fused form of GG-phosphate phosphatase and GG-phosphate synthase is present, but the cyanobacteria-like degradation pathway is not available. Instead, a phosphorylase GGP, of which the coding gene is located adjacent to the gene that encodes the GG-synthesizing enzyme, is supposed to perform the GG degradation function. In the present study, a GGP homolog from the salt-tolerant M. salinexigens ZYF650T was characterized. The recombinant GGP catalyzed GG decomposition via a two-step process of phosphorolysis and hydrolysis in vitro and exhibited high substrate specificity toward GG. The activity of GGP was enhanced by inorganic salts at low concentrations but significantly inhibited by increasing salt concentrations. While the investigation on the physiological role of GGP in M. salinexigens ZYF650T was limited due to the failed induction of GG production, the heterologous expression of ggp in the living cells of the GG-producing cyanobacterium Synechocystis sp. PCC 6803 significantly reduced the salt-induced GG accumulation. Together, these data suggested that GGP may represent a novel pathway of microbial GG catabolism. Key points: • GGP catalyzes GG degradation by a process of phosphorolysis and hydrolysis • GGP-catalyzed GG degradation is different from GGHA-based GG degradation • GGP represents a potential novel pathway of microbial GG catabolism [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Primary brain and central nervous system cancer (collectively called CNS cancers) cause a significant burden to society. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the trends in the burden of CNS cancers from 1990 to 2019 and to predict the incidence and mortality rates and the corresponding numbers for the next 25 years to help countries to understand the trends in its incidence and mortality, and to make better adjustments or formulation of policies and allocation of resources thereby reducing the burden of the disease. Methods: The 2019 Global Burden of Disease Study provided incidence rates, death rates, and disability-adjusted life year (DALY) data in Asia from 1990 to 2019. To reflect the trends in the age-standardized incidence, mortality, and DALY rates, the estimated annual percentage change (EAPC) was determined. The Bayesian age-period cohort (BAPC) model was employed to predict the burden of CNS cancers in the next 25 years. Results: The incidence, death, and DALY rates of CNS cancers all increased from 1990 to 2019. The age-standardized incidence rate (ASIR) for CNS cancers increased from 9.89/100,000 in 1990 to 12.14/100,000 in 2019, with an EAPC of 0.69 (95% confidence interval (CI): 0.65, 0.73). The ASDR and the age-standardized DALY rate both decreased, with EAPCs of − 0.08 and − 0.52, respectively. Before 2005, the age-standardized DALY rate in East Asia was much greater in females than in males, while in Central Asia, the age-standardized death and DALY rates in males both increased sharply after 2000. In contrast to 1990, the caseload increased for the 55–70 years age group. The number of deaths decreased sharply among individuals aged younger than 20 years, especially in East Asia, accounting for only 5.41% of all deaths. The age group with the highest mortality rate was > 60 years, especially in Japan. The ASIR will continue to increase in Asia from 2020 to 2044, and the ASDR will gradually diminish. The incidence and number of deaths from CNS cancers in Asia are expected to increase over the next 25 years, especially among females. Conclusions: The study identified an increasing trend in morbidity, mortality and disability-adjusted life-years (DALYs), with differences in age-standardized morbidity rates for different population groups. In addition, it is noteworthy that the burden of disease (as measured by disability-adjusted life-years (DALYs)) is higher among women in Central Asia compared with other regions. ASIR will continue to increase over the next 25 years, with the increase in female cases and mortality expected to be more pronounced. This may need to be further substantiated by additional research, on the basis of which health authorities and policymakers can better utilize limited resources and develop appropriate policies and preventive measures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To explore the influence of wind speed on the quality of tobacco in this study, we employed a heat pump-powered intensive curing barn and a three-stage curing process. By evaluating the influence of fan parameters on the quality of tobacco leaves at different curing stages, the optimal wind speed was determined. After adopting the optimized wind speed process, the degradation of macromolecular substances was faster, the accumulation of aroma substances was delayed to 55 °C, and the accumulation was more complete. Among them, the contents of reducing sugar and total sugar in flue-cured tobacco leaves were 22.25% and 29.2%, respectively, which were lower than those in the control group. The sugar was converted into more aroma substances, and the total amount of neutral aroma substances was 48.82% higher than that of the control group. The content of related aroma substances increased significantly. The content of petroleum ether extract related to aroma substances increased by 0.93% compared with the control group. The macromolecular substances were degraded more fully than the control group, such as the starch content decreased to 1.56%. The results of metabolomics showed that the contents of aldehydes, heterocyclic compounds, alcohols, ketones and esters increased significantly in different degrees after this process. These results show that the optimization of wind speed parameters can significantly improve the baking quality of tobacco leaves. This study provides a reference for the optimization of the flue-cured tobacco baking process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Against the backdrop of "carbon peak and carbon neutrality," the hydrogen and fuel cell vehicle industry are rapidly developing. Within the on-board hydrogen supply system, the hydrogen circulation pump serves as an essential component of the hydrogen fuel cell system. The spiral disk, as a core part of the hydrogen fuel cell system's vortex hydrogen circulation pump (VHCP), plays a crucial role in determining the performance of the hydrogen circulation system in hydrogen fuel cell vehicles. To meet the requirements for high-performance and high-reliability development of the hydrogen circulation pump, the VHCP scheme is adopted as the choice for the hydrogen pump solution. Through the magnetic suspension and no connection shaft structural design, the feasibility of applying the high speed and high flow hydrogen turbine was initially validated. Utilizing Fluent analysis software and high precision performance test bench, a comprehensive three-dimensional numerical simulation of the turbine design under various operating conditions was conducted and performance test verification, demonstrating that the performance meets the required specifications. By conducting research in both strength optimization design and performance requirement, two major technical challenges in turbine pump application were overcome. Combined with the experimental results of the turbine medium, it is concluded that the vortex pump can meet the flow and pressure rise under the premise of low power consumption in the hydrogen circulation system so as to perfectly increase the hydrogen return amount. Based on these findings, recommendations are proposed for the future development direction of hydrogen supply systems in hydrogen fuel cell vehicles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Photoelectrochemical (PEC) organic transformations occurring at anodes are a promising strategy for circumventing the sluggish kinetics of the oxygen evolution reaction. Here, we report a free radical-mediated reaction instead of direct hole transfer occurring at the solid/liquid interface for PEC oxidation of benzyl alcohol (BA) to benzaldehyde (BAD) with high selectivity. A bismuth vanadate (BiVO4) photoanode coated with a 2,20-bipyridine-based covalent organic framework bearing single Ni sites (Ni-TpBpy) was developed to drive the transformation. Experimental studies reveal that the reaction at the Ni-TpBpy/BiVO4 photoanode followed first-order reaction kinetics, boosting the formation of surface-bound ·OH radicals, which suppressed further BAD oxidation and provided a nearly 100% selectivity and a rate of 80.63 µmol hour-1 for the BA-to-BAD conversion. Because alcohol-to-aldehyde conversions are involved in the valorizations of biomass and plastics, this work is expected to open distinct avenues for producing key intermediates of great value. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aims to assess navigation safety by enhancing maritime management based on balanced scorecard (BSC). Although the International Safety Management Regulations and the Ship Safety Management System have safety related definitions and provide standard safety regulations, but lack effective management processes. This study used path analysis and regression analysis to analyze the safety outcomes relationship among organization safety culture, work condition, and framework condition sectors. In this study, 173 valid sample questionnaires were collected to answer the influence of organizational culture, working environment, service process, and framework conditions on ship navigation safety. The suggestions mentioned expect to establish a maritime management-based BSC that could pave the way for the application of maritime safety around the organization culture. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the field of flow control research, oblique jets are known to offer several advantages over vertical jets. To gain a comprehensive insight into the flow field characteristics of a plasma synthetic jet actuator with an oblique-slot exit, the related experiments are conducted. The experiment employed high-speed schlieren imaging techniques and electrical parameter measurements to acquire the flow field characteristics and discharge properties of the oblique-slot actuator, followed by a comparative analysis with a vertical circular orifice actuator. The oblique-slot plasma synthetic jet exhibits a wall-attaching effect and asymmetric flow characteristics, which differ from those of the vertical circular orifice actuator. The actuator generates a wall jet with an initial velocity of 389.5 ± 15.08 m/s, effectively propelling the fluid within the boundary layer. The Mach number of the precursor shock wave in the direction of the jet reaches 1.59, but decreases to just 1.02 in the opposite direction. Over a period in the range of 10–70 μs, the Froude number of the plasma jet decreases from 1841 to 238. The dominant role of the inertial force gradually weakens, while the influence of buoyancy increases, causing the jet boundary to move upward. The oblique-slot jet configuration represents a typical planar jet, exhibiting superior flow control uniformity compared with the vertical circular orifice jet. The results indicate that the high-speed oblique-slot plasma synthetic jet actuator designed in this study possesses distinct advantages over vertical circular orifice actuators for high-speed fluid flow control. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper concentrates on the mean-standard deviation shortest path problem, which is an important extension of traditional shortest path problem. Due to the standard deviation term, the general formulation of this problem is nonlinear and concave. We transform this formulation into a mixed-integer conic quadratic program and develop a generalized Benders decomposition approach. The Benders master problem is a continuous conic quadratic program about travel time mean and standard deviation. The subproblem is a least expected travel time path problem with the variance limit. At each iteration, the subproblem generates a generalized Benders optimality cut for the relaxed Benders master problem. The relaxed Benders master problem provides an ascending lower bound and the subproblem produces a feasible solution to update the upper bound. In the numerical experiments, all instances in four transportation networks are solved optimally. This paper provides a novel solving scheme for the mean-standard deviation shortest path problem. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Osteomyelitis is a debilitating bone infection primarily caused by Staphylococcus aureus. Despite advancements in surgery and chemotherapy, the treatment of osteomyelitis remains unsatisfactory, characterized by antibiotic resistance and recurrent relapses. Numerous studies have confirmed that non-coding RNAs could play an emerging role in regulating gene expression, as well as in the differentiation of osteoblasts and osteoclasts, along with bone formation. In this context, we provide an overview of current knowledge regarding the roles of non-coding RNAs in osteomyelitis and explore the potential therapeutic applications of these molecules in disease management, aiming to uncover novel diagnostic and treatment approaches. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

One of the most significant transcription factors in plants, WRKYs, are crucial for plant growth and stress response. In this study, we analyzed the physicochemical properties, evolutionary relationships, conservation structure, and expression of the WRKY gene family in S. baicalensis. The WRKY family has highly conserved structural domains, which have been classified into three major categories, I, II, and III, based on the number of WRKY structural domains and zinc finger structural features. SbWRKYs of the same subgroup are functionally similar and essentially contain the same motif. Additionally, different drought stress situations resulted in varying levels of SbWRKYs expression, with the majority of these factors being up-regulated in moderate drought stress settings, and fewer of them were up-regulated under severe drought stress conditions. Under moderate drought stress, the expression of key enzymes increased, while under severe drought stress, the expression of key enzymes decreased. Mild drought stress resulted in a 26.42% increase in baicalin accumulation, while severe drought stress led to a 22.88% decrease. The protein interaction analysis of key enzyme genes and SbWRKYs revealed that the expression of key enzyme genes affected the expression of SbWRKYs. We screened nine SbWRKYs with a significant relationship with baicalin accumulation, and SbWRKY8 and SbWRKY16 showed the highest correlation with the baicalin content. These findings offer a theoretical framework for more research on the roles of SbWRKYs and show that SbWRKYs can respond to drought stress in S. baicalensis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The interplay of hydrogen, vacancy and grain boundary plays an important role in hydrogen induced premature fracture in the metallic materials. In this work, two models with the representative high angle grain boundaries with the low and high grain boundary energy have been built according to the coincidence site lattice theory. The effects of hydrogen and hydrogen-vacancy combination on the deformation behaviors of the two models were investigated by means of molecular dynamics simulation with the straining direction vertical to the grain boundary. It is found that in both cases hydrogen tends to segregate and maintain a high local stress state around the grain boundary, and promote the premature fracture compared with the hydrogen-free model. Vacancy enhanced the effects of hydrogen in the model with grain boundary of the lower energy. However, vacancy promoted the dislocation evolution behavior in the model with grain boundary of the higher energy. The simulation results were further explained by considering the effects of hydrogen on the generalized stacking fault energy and the work of separation of the grain boundary. • Both hydrogen and vacancy tend to reduce the work of separation of the Σ3 grain boundaries. • Hydrogen keeps the Σ3 symmetric tilt grain boundaries in a high stress state. • Hydrogen and vacancy form the vacancy-H clusters at the Σ3 (112) grain boundary. • Hydrogen enhances the brittle fracture of the Σ3 (111) grain boundary. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this systematic review and meta-analysis of in vitro studies was to evaluate the effect of the 2780 nm Er,Cr:YSGG laser combined with casein phosphopeptide-amorphous calcium phosphate (CPP-ACP) for enamel remineralisation. The electronic PubMed, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, and EMBASE databases were searched, with no language or date restrictions, up to January 2023. Two reviewers independently performed research information extraction and quality assessment. Continuous variables were analysed by standard mean difference (SMD) with a 95% confidence interval (CI). The statistical analyses were conducted using Review Manager (Version 5.4; Rev Man) and Cochrane Collaboration (2020). Finally, four trials were included for meta-analysis. According to the comprehensive results, the effect of the Er,Cr:YSGG laser combined with CPP-ACP on enamel remineralisation was significantly better than that of CPP-ACP alone: surface microhardness (SMD = − 1.83, 95% CI: [− 2.98, − 0.69], P = 0.002); lesion depth (SMD = 6.63, 95% CI: [4.98, 8.28], P < 0.001). Under the limitations of this meta-analysis, the results show that the Er,Cr:YSGG laser combined with CPP-ACP has a better effect on enamel remineralisation than CPP-ACP alone. The combination of the Er,Cr:YSGG laser and CPP-ACP may be a feasible method to prevent and treat enamel demineralisation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

SnSe has been demonstrated a thermoelectric material with great application potential. In this paper, a series of SnSe0.95-x mol% MnCl2 samples were prepared by melting method combined with SPS sintering, and the effect of MnCl2 doping on the thermoelectric properties of n-type polycrystalline SnSe was studded. The results show that all the samples exhibit obvious anisotropy, and have better thermoelectric properties along the direction parallel to the sintering pressure. The increase of MnCl2 doping concentration causes the change of Sn phase content and the precipitation of SnCl2 phase in the sample, thus affecting the carrier concentration and mobility, and improving the conductivity and See beck coefficient of the samples after thermal exaction. In addition, the point defects and SnCl2 precipitation introduced by MnCl2 doping significantly enhance the phonon scattering and reduce the thermal conductivity of the materials. However, the thermal conductivity increases slightly with the increase of MnCl2 doping amount. As a result, the SnSe0.9--0.5 mol% MnCl2 sample obtains a maximum ZT value of 1.01 at 773 K, which Is nearly 22 times that of the undead sample. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study addresses the problem of restricted ability for large-scale monitoring due to the limited cruising time of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAV) by identifying an optimal leaf ChlorophyII content (LCC) inversion machine learning model at different scales and under different parameterization schemes based on simultaneous observations of ground sampling, UAV flight, and satellite imagery. The following results emerged: (1) The correlation coefficient between most remote sensing features (RSFs) and LCC increased as the remote scale expanded; thus, the scale error caused by the random position difference between GPS and measuring equipment should be considered in field sampling observations. (2) The LCC simulation accuracy of the UAV multi-spectral camera using four machine learning algorithms was ExtraTree > GradientBoost > AdaBoost > RandomForest, and the 20- and 30-pixel scales had better accuracy than the 10-pixel scale, while the accuracy for three feature combination schemes ranked combination of extremely significantly correlated RSFs > combination of significantly correlated and above RSFs > combination of all features. ExtraTree was confirmed as the optimal model with the feature combination of scheme 2 at the 20-pixel scale. (3) Of the Sentinel-2 RSFs, 27 of 28 were extremely significantly correlated with LCC, while original band reflectance was negatively correlated, and VIs were positively correlated. (4) The LCC simulation accuracy of the four machine learning algorithms ranked as ExtraTree > GradientBoost > RandomForest > AdaBoost. In a comparison of two parameterization schemes, scheme 1 had better accuracy, while ExtraTree was the best algorithm, with 11 band reflectance as input RSFs; the RMSE values for the training and testing data sets of 0.7213 and 1.7198, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Few cases of patients with Cheng's type III portal vein tumor thrombus (PVTT) have been reported to achieve radical cure without recurrence over time. In this study, we reported on a 55-year-old male patient with a diagnosis of stage IIIa China liver cancer staging (CNLC), PVTT Cheng's type III, mild cirrhosis, and chronic viral hepatitis B. TACE combined with radioactive iodine-125 (125I) particle implantation was applied to achieve radical treatment with sequential oral anlotinib hydrochloride capsules. This case might serve as a reference for the treatment of this disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of appendages on the maintenance of viability and germination of the diaspores of the three shrubs Calligonum junceum (Fisch. et Mey.) Litv., Atraphaxis pungens (Bieb.) Jaub. et Spach. and Reaumuria soongarica (Pall.) Maxim. that have high potential for restoration of degraded temperate arid regions. It has been hypothesized that appendages on diaspores of A. pungens, C. junceum, and R. soongarica help maintain seed viability during dry storage at room temperatures and during moist storage in soil outdoors, but they inhibit seed germination. Fresh diaspores of each species were tested for germination; and diaspores with and without appendages were stored in moist soil outdoors in Xinjiang Province of northwest China; and dry diaspores at room condition for 4 months. Viability and percentage of diaspores with and without appendages that germinated during burial were determined. After burial or dry storage, diaspores with and without appendages were tested for germination. Regardless of storage condition, appendages had no effect on diaspore viability of C. junceum and A. pungens but significantly reduced mortality of R. soongarica diaspores by 50%. During burial outdoors, appendages inhibited germination of C. junceum diaspores but not of A. pungens; no diaspores of R. soongarica germinated. After burial, appendages inhibited germination of A. pungens diaspores but had no effect on C. junceum. Appendages had no effect on germination of R. soongarica diaspores after storage in both locations. To use these three species for revegetation, it is recommended that appendages should be removed from diaspores of C. junceum and A. pungens before storage and sowing, but appendages should be retained on seeds of R. soongarica. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Identifying critical factors, objectives, criteria, or alternatives in operating research methods is a vital decision-making problem in academic society. Besides, fuzzy theorems, inventory models, and optimization approaches, the analytic hierarchy process is an important tool to decide relative weights for several factors, objectives, criteria, or alternatives. This paper will examine the relationship among several methods to derive the relative weight. Saaty and Vargas provided an example to prove that the relative weight is the same by the Eigenvalue Method (EM) and by the Logarithmic Least Square Method (LLSM). Saaty and Vargas did not know the relative weight by the Least Square Method (LSM). It is an open question proposed by Saaty and Vargas. Saaty is the founding father of the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) and Vargas is one of the main contributors to AHP, respectively. Hence, in this paper, we present a detailed examination of the open question. We obtain that there are two (non-consistent) comparison matrices under the Saaty-Vargas construction which satisfied the property of the relative weights derived by three methods: EM, LLSM, and LSM are the same. We not only solve the open question proposed by Saaty and Vargas but also extend it to a more general setting. We consider all possible conditions for a ∈ {2,3,...,9} such that for a = 2, we provided an analytical proof; for a = 3, we show a hybrid method such that a discrete sensitivity analysis for the open question proposed by Saaty and Vargas is completely solved by us; for a ∈ {4,5,...,9}, we present numerical approaches. Our findings help researchers to decide which evaluation method will be adopted to derive the relative weights for their future research. Our results will help practitioners to decide the relative weights for factors, objectives, criteria, or alternatives in research methods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Conventionally, open surgery (OS), including standard craniotomy (SC) and decompressive craniectomy (DC) with hematoma evacuation, is adopted to treat life-threatening large spontaneous supratentorial intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH). Recently, endoscopic surgery (ES), a minimally invasive surgical treatment, has gained increased popularity. However, the safety and efficacy of ES for life-threatening large ICH is uncertain. Aim: The aim of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of ES for life-threatening large ICH and compare it with traditional OS. Methods: We retrospectively analyzed the clinical and imaging data of consecutive supratentorial ICH patients with preoperative Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) score ⩽ 8, who underwent ES or OS between May 2015 and October 2021. To minimize bias in case selection, propensity score matching was performed (ratio 1:2, caliper o.2). The primary outcome was a prognosis-based dichotomized (favorable or unfavorable) outcome of the 5-point Glasgow Outcome Scale (GOS) at 6 months. Favorable outcome was defined as a GOS score of 4 to 5 at 6 months. Sensitivity analysis was also performed to ensure the robustness of the findings. Results: Of 695 patients who underwent surgical treatment for spontaneous ICH, 191 patients were identified to be eligible, with 58 patients in the ES group and 133 patients in the OS group. Propensity score matching improved covariate balance and generated a comparable cohort (53 ES and 106 OS) for all analyses. The ES group had a higher incidence of the primary outcome of favorable outcome at 6 months (ES 20/53 (37.7%) vs. OS 22/106 (20.8%); propensity score–matched relative risk (RR) (95% CI) = 1.74 (1.13–2.68); p = 0.013). Sensitivity analysis showed the result was stable. Conclusion: ES is a safe treatment for life-threatening large spontaneous supratentorial ICH patients and may achieve better outcomes than OS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

What are health professionals' clinical practices, views and self-rated competencies regarding the transfer of mosaic embryos? This was a cross-sectional study using surveys. Data were collected from the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists and the Fertility Society of Australia and New Zealand. Ninety-five responses were analysed and reported. The results show that most health professionals (n = 62) discussed the transfer of mosaic embryos for different reasons and raised concerns regarding various risks. Although many health professionals were unsure whether mosaic embryos should be transferred, they were more inclined to encourage transfer if the scenario involved segmental losses compared with mosaicism involving duplication of the entire chromosome (i.e. trisomy 21) (e.g. OR = 0.21, P < 0.001; OR = 2.78, P = 0.04). The majority of health professionals would inform patients about the mosaicism to facilitate informed decision making. The factor that health professionals identified as most important when discussing the transfer of mosaic embryos was the specific chromosome involved. Different self-rated competencies were found among health professionals with different backgrounds. Geneticists and genetic counsellors had the highest self-rated competencies. Most health professionals were willing to discuss the mosaicism in the embryo with patients to facilitate informed decision making. However, health professionals' uncertainty towards the transfer of mosaic embryos indicated a lack of a standardized transfer policy. In addition, obstetricians, gynaecologists and those with multiprofessional backgrounds showed deficiencies in several self-rated competencies, suggesting that education targeted to these groups is needed to optimize the quality of care of women considering transfer of mosaic embryos. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The continuous cooling transformation behavior of the Zr–Ti–RE deoxidized high‐strength low‐alloy steel in the simulated coarse grain heat‐affected zone at different cooling rates (corresponding to different t8/5) is investigated by a Gleeble 3800 thermomechanical simulator in combination with microstructure and mechanical properties analysis. The continuous cooling transformation curve in the simulated heat‐affected zone is plotted, and the transformation law of M/A constituents is systematically investigated. It is found that with the increase of the cooling rate, the dominated microstructure is transformed from pearlite + ferrite into granular bainite and, finally, into lath bainite with the further refinement of M/A constituents. The steel exhibits excellent V‐notch Charpy impact properties at −20 °C under typical heat inputs (20, 100, 500 kJ cm−1). Moreover, acicular ferrite formed on spherical Zr–Ti–RE composite inclusions are observed at the heat input of 100 kJ cm−1. The low‐temperature impact absorbed energy gradually decreases with the increasing heat input due to the coarsening of the microstructure, larger effective grain size, and the reduction in the number of high‐angle variant pairs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cryogenic CO2-assisted minimum quantity lubrication milling technology is a green processing technology with broad application prospects. Aiming at the problem of tool wear in the application of cryogenic CO2-assisted minimum quantity lubrication in difficult-to-machine materials and the influence of relevant parameters on tool wear, this study used coated cemented carbide tools to perform milling experiments under cryogenic CO2-assisted minimum quantity lubrication technology conditions. The micro-morphology of the tool and chip was observed, and the energy spectrum of the tool chip contact area was analyzed. The results show that reducing CO2 temperature and increasing the oil flow of minimum quantity lubrication can improve the tool wear. The tool wear mechanisms under cryogenic CO2-assisted minimum quantity lubrication are mainly abrasive wear, diffusion wear, and oxidation wear. The chip sawtooth degree of the optimal parameter group is more conducive to chip breaking than that of dry-cutting and wet-cutting groups. The temperature of the tool-chip contact area is an important factor affecting tool wear; the higher the temperature, the faster the tool wear. At the same time, it is verified that cryogenic CO2-assisted minimum quantity lubrication technology can replace cutting fluid in hard-to-machine materials under certain conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recent publications regarding the role of mesencephalic astrocyte‐derived neurotrophic factor (MANF) in various metabolic and degenerative disorders suggest that MANF is both a marker of disease and a possible therapeutic agent. We investigate the role of plasma MANF levels in patients in intensive care units (ICUs) receiving voriconazole (VCZ) therapy while also comparing MANF levels in healthy individuals. A single‐center prospective study was conducted. The plasma MANF level in patients in ICU was found to have high interindividual variability and was significantly higher than that in healthy controls (P <.01). Compared with patients using VCZ only, patients using both VCZ and amikacin had 3‐fold lower MANF concentrations (P <.05). The MANF concentrations also decreased when alkaline phosphatase (ALP) and serum creatinine levels were above the upper limits of the normal range (P <.05) and the estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) was below the lower limit of the normal range (P <.01). Receiver operating characteristic curve analysis indicated that low MANF levels were associated with high ALP levels, high creatinine levels, and low eGFR. The cut‐off value of MANF for ALP levels higher than 126 U/L was 0.35 ng/mL (area under curve, AUC = 0.62, 95%CI = 0.50–0.74, P =.044); for serum creatinine levels higher than 104 μmol/L, the cut‐off value was 0.41 ng/mL (AUC = 0.74, 95%CI = 0.62–0.87, P =.001); and for eGFR below 80 mL/min, the cut‐off value was 0.75 ng/mL (AUC = 0.70, 95%CI = 0.59–0.81, P =.002). Monitoring plasma MANF levels may be of value for clinical decision‐making regarding the choice of antibiotics and the prediction of impaired liver function and renal function in patients admitted to an ICU. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With the acceleration of urbanization, the production of waste concrete is getting higher and higher. A large amount of outdoor accumulations of waste concrete will leach heavy metals, not only causing harm to the soil, but also posing a risk to human health. Based on this, this paper systematically studies the basic physical properties and microstructure (XRF, XRD, and SEM–EDS) of outdoor natural accumulation waste concrete, and analyzes the heavy metals in waste concrete from the aspects of existing state, leaching mechanism, human health risk analysis, and summarized the direction of resource utilization of waste concrete, calculated the carbon emission reduction during recycling. The study found that heavy metals in waste concrete mainly exist in hydration products in the form of precipitation, adsorption, and replacement, summarized the leaching mechanism from the micro- and macro-aspects. The leaching mechanism of heavy metals can be assigned to chemical (mineral dissolution and effective amount of components) and physical (advection, surface erosion, and diffusion) processes from the macro-perspective. From the micro-analysis, it can be assigned to the following five processes: acid migrates from solution to liquid–solid surface, acid migration through leaching layer, rapid dissolution reaction controlled by diffusion at leaching boundary, heavy metal through leaching layer, and heavy metals through the solid/liquid surface to the solution. In addition, the concentration and the leaching rate of heavy metals in waste concrete were analyzed. It was found that the concentration of Cr was the highest reached to 4.7 mg/kg and the leaching rate of Cd was the highest, its leaching coefficient was calculated as a result of 1.713 × 10–6. However, there was no obvious regularity in the leaching of heavy metals in different accumulate particle sizes. Through the establishment of risk assessment system was found the concentration of heavy metals in waste concrete will not cause significant harm to human health. The effective limit of heavy metals after 3 months of accumulation of waste concrete was calculated as: Cr < 0.09 mg/kg, Cd < 0.00715 mg/kg, As < 0.392 mg/kg, and Pb < 0.732 mg/kg. And the carbon emission reduction of waste concrete recycling was calculated to be 28.764kgCO2/t. All the results of this study can promote the safe and environmentally friendly utilization of waste concrete. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background. Metastasis to parotid gland occurs mostly from skin cancers of the head and neck region. Metastatic neuroendocrine tumors to the parotid gland are rare and not well studied so far. In this study, we undertook a retrospective review of secondary neuroendocrine tumors of the parotid diagnosed in our institution. The most common entities, primary tumor locations, their clinical presentations and histopathological features were analyzed. Methods. Cases of secondary neuroendocrine tumors to parotid diagnosed from August 1995 to Jan 2021 were retrieved from our institution's pathology databases, and their clinicopathological features were reviewed. Results. About 29% (120 of 420 cases) of parotid neoplasms were malignant, including 70 cases of parotid primary malignant tumors and 50 cases of metastases to parotid glands. Among metastatic tumors to the parotid glands, squamous cell carcinoma and melanoma of the head and neck region together accounted for about 78% of the cases. Only 11 of 50 metastatic tumors to the parotid were neuroendocrine carcinomas (22%). The most common primaries were poorly differentiated neuroendocrine carcinoma of lung (5 of 11 cases), including 4 cases of small cell carcinoma and one case of large cell neuroendocrine carcinoma. The second most common secondary tumor was Merkel cell carcinoma (4 of 11 cases, 36%) including one case of direct invasion from overlying skin. Medullary carcinoma of the thyroid comprised the rest of the metastases to the parotid (2 of 11 cases, 18%). Conclusion. Our results show that metastatic neuroendocrine carcinomas to the parotid gland account for about 22% of all metastatic tumors to the organ. Lung is the most common primary neuroendocrine carcinoma location. It is not uncommon for metastatic neuroendocrine carcinoma to present as the first sign of systemic clinical manifestation. Merkel cell carcinoma is the second most common entity that metastasizes to parotid, followed by medullary carcinoma of the thyroid. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rational design and precise engineering of a multifunctional catalyst at the molecular level to fulfill a multi-step tandem procedure still face serious challenges. Here, we first constructed two metal alloy NPs@chiral MOFs bifunctional catalysts, in which stable NH2-UiO-66 was selected as parent MOF, chiral proline was introduced via coordination to the zirconium nodes and tiny AuPd alloy NPs with the Au/Pd ratios of 3:1 and 1:3 were encapsulated into the parent MOF via "bottle-around-ship" method. The bifunctional and heterogeneous catalysts displayed excellent oxidation performance (yield up to 93%) and satisfied enantioselectivities (eeanti value up to 91%) in tandem selective oxidation of aromatic alcohol/asymmetric Aldol reactions. Control experiments showed that there was synergistic effect existed in AuPd NPs, and Au and Pd NPs played a leading and co-catalyst role, respectively, during the oxidation reactions. Macro-substrate experiment suggested that the catalytic reaction occurred inside the pores of the catalysts. The catalysts can also be recycled for at least three times without obvious activity loss and structural change. Alloy NPs@chiral MOFs bifunctional catalysts were first constructed, in which stable NH2-UiO-66 was selected as parent MOF, and versatile chiral proline and tiny AuPd alloy NPs were introduced as catalytic sites. They were applied to tandem oxidation/asymmetric Aldol reactions with excellent oxidation performance and satisfied enantioselectivities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]