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Communicative planners have long recognized the importance of communication networks for planning outcomes. However, the description of such networks has remained largely static, portraying a network as either positive (collaborative) or negative (power penetrated), which limits the understanding of communication patterns and power dynamics throughout the planning process. An incomplete understanding of complex communication patterns also hinders the ability of planners to mediate between stakeholders in the communication process to achieve beneficial outcomes. Using social network analysis, we filled this research gap by analyzing an entire collection of email exchanges involving key decision makers on an economic development project in Tallahassee (FL) for 6 years. We conclude that this actual communication network fell short of the ideal set by planners: a collaborative network with diverse and interdependent actors engaged in authentic dialogue. Importantly, the actual pattern swayed further away from this ideal when confronted with major financial decisions, suggesting that the weight of certain decisions alters communication networks. We also found that city commissioners were the most engaged actors, indicating that political power established through the electoral process played a more significant role in the communication network. Planners, on the contrary, played a limited bridging role. Planners must pay closer attention to the communication network and dynamics in the planning and policy implementation process and more effectively play the role of a critical friend to help form truly collaborative networks. The use of social network analysis can help reveal the structure of the network and the position of key actors in real time and guide the deliberate actions of planners. In addition, institutional procedures, such as email transparency, are needed to alleviate the informational power imbalance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

During the COVID-19 pandemic, many countries and regions experienced a surge in online learning, but the public complained about and questioned its effectiveness. One of the most important reasons for this was the inadequate metacognitive abilities of adolescents. Studies in learning sciences have identified various inefficient learning behaviors among students in online learning, including help abuse, help avoidance, and wheel spinning; all closely related to metacognition. Despite concerns about ecological validity, researchers in psychology have proposed the agenda-based regulation framework, the COPES model, and MAPS model, which may help explain the inefficient learning behaviors among adolescents in online learning. Future studies should aim to verify these theoretical frameworks within the context of online learning and elucidate the causes of inefficient learning behaviors; the design and optimization of online learning systems should be informed by theories in cognitive psychology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory skin disease. Topical medicines are the preferred treatment for mild to moderate psoriasis, but the effect of excipients used in semi‐solid preparations on psoriasis‐like skin inflammation is not fully understood. In the present study, we investigated the effect of stearyl alcohol, a commonly used excipient, on imiquimod (IMQ)‐induced psoriasis‐like skin inflammation in mice. Psoriasis‐like skin inflammation was induced by topical IMQ treatment on the back of mice. Skin lesion severity was evaluated by using psoriasis area and severity index (PASI) scores. The skin sections were stained by haematoxylin–eosin and immunohistochemistry. Stearyl alcohol (20% in vaseline) treatment significantly reduced the IMQ‐induced increase of PASI scores and epidermal thickness in mice. IMQ treatment increased the number of Ki67‐ and proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA)‐positive cells in the skin, and the increases were inhibited by stearyl alcohol (20% in vaseline) treatment. Stearyl alcohol treatment (1%, 5%, 10% in vaseline) dose‐dependently ameliorated IMQ‐induced increase of PASI scores and epidermal thickness in mice. Hexadecanol (20% in vaseline), stearic acid (20% in vaseline) and vaseline treatment had no significant effect on IMQ‐induced psoriasis‐like skin inflammation in mice. In conclusion, stearyl alcohol has the effect of improving IMQ‐induced psoriasis‐like skin inflammation in mice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Multiple myeloma (MM) significantly increases the risk of venous thromboembolism (VTE) within 6 months of treatment initiation. The IMPEDE VTE score is a VTE risk prediction model which is recently incorporated into the National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) guidelines, but it lacks validation among Asians, including Chinese MM patients. We performed a retrospective chart review of 405 Chinese with newly diagnosed MM who started therapy at Beijing Jishuitan Hospital between April 2013 to October 2022. The 6-month cumulative incidence of VTE was 3.8 % (95 % CI:1.6–7.6), 8.6 % (95 % CI: 5.3–21.9) and 40.5 % (95 % CI: 24.9–55.7) in the low-, intermediate- and high-risk groups (P < 0.001), respectively. The C-statistic of the IMPEDE VTE scores for predicting VTE within 6 months of treatment initiation was 0.74 (95 % CI: 0.65–0.83). Of note, in this single-center cohort study, we propose that the anticoagulant LMWH may be more effective than the antiplatelet aspirin in potentially preventing VTE in newly diagnosed MM patients. Our findings suggest that the IMPEDE VTE score is a valid evidence-based risk stratification tool in Chinese patients with newly diagnosed MM. • IMPEDE VTE score is a valid evidence-based risk stratification tool for Chinese patients with newly diagnosed MM. • The anticoagulant LMWH may be more effective than the antiplatelet aspirin in potentially preventing VTE in newly diagnosed MM patients. • Our limited data suggests that translocation t (14;16) is a potential risk factors for VTE in MM patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Host immunity can influence the composition of the gut microbiota and consequently affect disease progression. Previously, we reported that a Mycobacterium vaccae vaccine could ameliorate allergic inflammation in asthmatic mice by regulating inflammatory immune processes. Here, we investigated the anti‐inflammatory effects of M. vaccae on allergic asthma via gut microbiota modulation. An ovalbumin (OVA)‐induced asthmatic murine model was established and treated with M. vaccae. Gut microbiota profiles were determined in 18 BALB/c mice using 16S rDNA gene sequencing and metabolomic profiling was performed using liquid chromatography quadrupole time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry. Mycobacterium vaccae alleviated airway hyper‐reactivity and inflammatory infiltration in mice with OVA‐induced allergic asthma. The microbiota of asthmatic mice is disrupted and that this can be reversed with M. vaccae. Additionally, a total of 24 differential metabolites were screened, and the abundance of PI(14:1(9Z)/18:0), a glycerophospholipid, was found to be correlated with macrophage numbers (r = 0.52, p = 0.039). These metabolites may affect chemokine (such as macrophage chemoattractant protein‐1) concentrations in the serum, and ultimately affect pulmonary macrophage recruitment. Our data demonstrated that M. vaccae might alleviate airway inflammation and hyper‐responsiveness in asthmatic mice by reversing imbalances in gut microbiota. These novel mechanistic insights are expected to pave the way for novel asthma therapeutic strategies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Advance care planning enables people to record their future health and care wishes and appoint someone as an advocate. An advance directive can be made in the event that a person is incapacitated, so that their wishes are still upheld. The beliefs of the nephrology team might affect patients' choices and willingness to sign an advance directive. To increase the number of dialysis patients who have signed an advance directive, it is necessary to educate the nephrology medical staff. Aim: To explore the intention to sign an advance directive and its related factors among nephrology medical staff. Methods: A cross-sectional and correlational design was used. This study recruited 160 nephrology medical staff. Data were analysed by using the Statistical Package for Social Science 21.0 for Windows. Findings: The results found that the longer someone has worked as part of the nephology medical staff, the more knowledgeable they were about an advance directive. This led to them being more likely to want to sign an advance directive for themselves. Conclusion: In order to improve the knowledge and awareness of advance directives among nephrology medical staff, hospital managers should provide continuing education on this topic. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Objectives] The paper was to establish an ultra high performance liquid chromatography-quadrupole/linear ion trap complex mass spectrometry for the determination of 10 kinds of a2-receptor agonists in animal derived food. [Methods] The samples were extracted with sodium carbonate buffer solution and ethyl acetate, and analyzed by mass spectrometry after solid phase extraction and high performance liquid chromatography separation. [Results] Ten kinds of a2-receptor agonists showed a good linear relationship in the range of 1 -100 p,g/mL, with the average recovery of over 69% and the relative standard deviation less than 8.32%. The detection limit of 10 kinds of a2-receptor agonists was up to 1 jxg/kg. [Conclusions] The method has good selectivity and strong anti-interference ability, and can meet the requirements of 10 kinds of a2-receptor agonists residues in animal derived food. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: We aimed to examine the effectiveness of noninvasive brain stimulation on motor dysfunction after incomplete spinal cord injury. Methods: The PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane Library were searched from the inception dates to April 30, 2022. Randomized controlled trials comparing the effects of noninvasive brain stimulation and sham stimulation on motor dysfunction in patients with incomplete spinal cord injury were included. Two reviewers performed the data extraction and assessed study quality using Cochrane Collaboration’s Tool. The primary outcomes involved upper limb function, lower limb function, spasticity, and activities of daily living. They were analyzed using meta-analysis method and the results were reported as standardized mean difference with 95% confidence interval. Results: Fourteen studies involving 225 patients were included. Noninvasive brain stimulation reduced spasticity at the end of intervention (standardized mean difference = −0.68, 95% confidence interval = −1.32 to −0.03, P = 0.04) and 1-wk follow-up (standardized mean difference = −0.82, 95% confidence interval = −1.48 to −0.16, P = 0.02), but no beneficial effect at 1-mo follow-up (standardized mean difference = −0.32, 95% confidence interval = −1.06 to 0.42, P = 0.39). In addition, noninvasive brain stimulation also increased lower limb muscle strength at 1-mo follow-up (standardized mean difference = 0.69, 95% confidence interval = 0.11 to 1.28, P = 0.02). Other main outcomes were similar between groups. Conclusions: Noninvasive brain stimulation can reduce spasticity, and the favorable effect can sustain for 1 wk after intervention. In addition, noninvasive brain stimulation can increase lower limb muscle strength at 1-mo follow-up. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, we consider the existence and uniqueness of solutions for the following nonlinear multi-order fractional differential equation with integral boundary conditions { (C D 0 + α u) (t) + ∑ i = 1 m λ i (t) (C D 0 + α i u) (t) + ∑ j = 1 n μ j (t) (C D 0 + β j u) (t) + ∑ k = 1 p ξ k (t) (C D 0 + γ k u) (t) + ∑ l = 1 q ω l (t) (C D 0 + δ l u) (t) + σ (t) u (t) + f (t , u (t)) = 0 , t ∈ [ 0 , 1 ] , u ″ (0) = u ‴ (0) = 0 , u ′ (0) = η 1 ∫ 0 1 u (s) d s , u (1) = η 2 ∫ 0 1 u (s) d s , where 0 < δ 1 < δ 2 < ⋯ < δ q < 1 < γ 1 < γ 2 < ⋯ < γ p < 2 < β 1 < β 2 < ⋯ < β n < 3 < α 1 < α 2 < ⋯ < α m < α < 4 and η 1 + 2 (1 − η 2) ≠ 0 . Using a fixed point theorem and Banach contractive mapping principle, we obtain some existence and uniqueness results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The advantages of performing aerosol retrieval with multi-angle, multi-spectral photopolarimetric measurements over intensity-only measurements come from this technique's sensitivity to aerosols' microphysical properties, such as their particle size, shape, and complex refraction index. In this study, an extended LUT (Look Up Table) algorithm inherited from a previous work based on the assumption of surface reflectance spectral shape invariance is proposed and applied to PARASOL (Polarization and Anisotropy of Reflectances for Atmospheric Science coupled with Observations from a Lidar) measurements to retrieve aerosols' optical properties including aerosol optical depth (AOD) and aerosol fine-mode fraction (FMF). Case studies conducted over East China for different aerosol scenes are investigated. A comparison between the retrieved AOD regional distribution and the corresponding MODIS (Moderate-resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer) C6 AOD products shows similar spatial distributions in the Jing-Jin-Ji (Beijing–Tianjin–Hebei, China's mega city cluster) region. The PARASOL AOD retrievals were compared against the AOD measurements of seven AERONET (Aerosol Robotic Network) stations in China to evaluate the performance of the retrieval algorithm. In the fine-particle-dominated regions, lower RMSEs were found at Beijing and Hefei urban stations (0.16 and 0.18, respectively) compared to those at other fine-particle-dominated AERONET stations, which can be attributed to the assumption of surface reflectance spectral shape invariance that has significant advantages in separating the contribution of surface and aerosol scattering in urban areas. For the FMF validation, an RMSE of 0.23, a correlation of 0.57, and a bias of −0.01 were found. These results show that the algorithm performs reasonably in distinguishing the contribution of fine and coarse particles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

For ships navigating in ice floe fields, ship-ice-wave interactions may affect ship performance and ice impact forces. This paper presents an approach to evaluate the cross-coupling added mass and hydrodynamic damping between a passing ship and a free-floating small/medium size ice floe based on the boundary element method (BEM). The influences of added mass and hydrodynamic damping are explored for different wave frequencies and headings. Results are presented for a regular waves scenario whereby a tanker progressing at a slow speed is passing by a free-floating ice floe modeled as a round disk. Radiation and diffraction potentials of the interacting floating bodies are linearly superimposed to reflect the influence of hydromechanical coupling on responses. Parametric analysis of response amplitude operators (RAOs) indicates that the cross-coupling terms of added mass and hydrodynamic damping are of the same order of magnitude as those of the ice floe but smaller by one or two orders of magnitude than those of the ship. It is concluded that hydrodynamic interactions primarily influence the motions of the ice floe and are significant attributes in terms of suitably idealizing ship-ice system dynamics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The release of organic and inorganic contaminants into soil from industry, agriculture, and urbanization has become a major issue of international concern, particularly the heavy metals such as aluminum (Al) and the chemical phenanthrene (PHE). Due to their potential toxicity and non-biodegrade in the environment, efficient remediation methods are urgently needed. Recently, research has comprehensively discussed using plants and their endophytes in bioremediation efforts. Endophytic Bacillus sp. R1, isolated from Brassica napus permanently contaminated with Al and PHE, has growth-promoting properties and can efficiently detoxify these contaminants. The pot experiment indicated that compared to the Al combined PHE contaminated soil alone treatment, the R1 treatment led to increased Al accumulation in canola roots across different levels of PHE, Al, and combined PHE and Al contamination. However, Al accumulation in canola shoots and seeds remained unchanged for all treatments. Moreover, PHE in canola roots and shoots was decreased by R1 inoculation and thereby reducing 26.12–60.61% PHE translocated into canola seeds. Additionally, R1 inoculation significantly increased the proportion of extractable Al and, decreased the proportion of acid-soluble inorganic Al and humic-acid Al, but did not affect the concentration of organically complexed Al. In summary, endophyte R1 can degrade PHE, improve canola roots’ Al uptake by increasing soil available Al, and scavenge the reactive oxygen species through production of antioxidant enzymes to help alleviate the toxicity of canola co-contaminated with aluminum and phenanthrene. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article discusses a case report of a 52-year-old man who was admitted to the hospital with hypogastralgia and diarrhea. Enteroscopy revealed submucosal lesions in the sigmoid colon, which were initially diagnosed as a possible stromal tumor. However, further examination revealed strip-like dense shadows in the appendix area and the posterior wall area of the sigmoid colon. It was discovered that the patient had undergone emergency laparoscopic appendectomy in the past, and the strip-like shadows were identified as milky white hemostatic clips. The foreign bodies were successfully removed through endoscopic submucosal excavation. This case is unique as it involves the invasion of external gastrointestinal foreign bodies and the formation of a lesion in the digestive tract. The article emphasizes the importance of considering the history of abdominal surgery in patients with similar symptoms to avoid unnecessary surgery. [Extracted from the article]

Pulmonary artery stiffness (PAS) is a strong and independent predictor of mortality in adult patients with pulmonary hypertension (PH). But the change in PAS during perinatal period remains unknown. Here, we aimed to explore the feasibility and performance of PAS on predicting persistent pulmonary hypertension of the newborn (PPHN). 1325 fetuses underwent a dedicated echocardiography screening for fetal heart defects during second trimester, third-trimester and neonatal period with the measurement of acceleration time (PAAT) and maximal frequency shift (MFS) of pulmonary artery flow. PAS (MFS/PAAT ratio) was calculated. Six fetuses were diagnosed as PPHN. Compared with the normal fetuses, those with PH had greater values of PAS during each period of time (second trimester, 52.6(46.2–54.5) vs. 32.4(28.0–39.4) kHz/s, p = 0.0003; third trimester, 52.9(46.1–55.3) vs. 29.7(27.3–33.3) kHz/s, p = 0.0002; neonatal period, 127.4(85.2–150.8) vs. 26.6(22.7–35.0) kHz/s, p < 0.0001). There was a statistically significant correlation between PAS and mean pulmonary artery pressure (p < 0.05) but no correlation between PAS and gestational age (p > 0.05) whether in normal fetuses or not. The area under receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) of 0.97 for PAS during third trimester was superior to that for PAS during second trimester (AUC, 0.94) in predicting PPHN. The optimal cutoff value of PAS during third trimester was 37.40 KHz/s, with a sensitivity of 100%, a specificity of 91%, and an accuracy of 92%. There was a significant difference in PAS between normal fetuses and those with PH. PAS has a power performance on predicting PPHN. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Postpartum depression (PPD) is a major public health problem that has negative effects on mothers, infants, and society. This study was aimed at investigating the prevalence of PPD and elucidating the delivery factors implicated in PPD so as take more targeted measures for reducing the potential risk factors. A prospective cohort study was conducted. Following the criterion, 151 pregnant women were included in the study. The Edinburgh Postpartum Depression Scale (EPDS) and the general questionnaire were filled out 2–3 days after delivery. At weeks 2 and 6 postpartum, the EPDS was reassessed either online or via telephone. Also, electronic medical records based on relevant information during the delivery period were collected. Statistical significance was defined as p < 0.05. A high rate of PPD (31.13%) was reported. Univariate correlation analysis showed statistically significant differences in the husband-wife relationship (χ2 = 18.497, p < 0.001), neonatal health (χ2 = 14.710, p < 0.001), and breast milk volume (χ2 = 5.712, p = 0.017) between PPD and normal control groups. Adjusting for other covariates, multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that satisfactory conjugal relation could reduce the risk of PPD (OR, 0.053; p = 0.022); Neonatal health problems significantly increase the risk of PPD (OR, 6.497; p = 0.001); Adequate breast milk could alleviate the risk of PPD (OR, 0.351; P = 0.045). Data analysis suggests that marital discord and unhealthy new-born are independent risk factors; nevertheless, sufficient breast milk is a protective factor against PPD. Healthcare workers such as hospital and community doctors and social workers should pay attention to PPD. Furthermore, perinatal emotional support, health education, and EPDS assessment need to be incorporated into maternity care. Screening and personalized psychological counselling should be carried out for high-risk pregnant women with PPD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, we consider the holographic DC and Hall conductivity in Einstein-Maxwell-Dilaton theory in Gauss-Bonnet gravity with momentum dissipation. We analytically derived the DC conductivity and Hall conductivity from the black horizon data and found that the conductivities are independent of the Gauss-Bonnet coupling. We also used the entropy function formalism to get the conductivities in terms of the charge of the black hole, even without knowing the explicit black hole solutions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

During the operation of a boom sprayer, various excitations can cause the boom to roll, yaw, or jolt, which can negatively impact the spray effect. In order to maintain the stability of the boom, it is crucial to incorporate a suspension between the vehicle body and the boom. This study established a dynamic model that describes the roll of a boom mounted on a double-pendulum suspension. The transfer function and frequency response function of the passive suspension were obtained, with the ground slope angle as input and the boom inclination angle as output. The analysis results showed that the passive suspension can partially isolate highfrequency disturbances but cannot follow low-frequency signals. For the active suspension, the transient and frequency responses were analyzed by numerical integration algorithm, the harmonic balance method and numerical solution. The results indicated that the active suspension can enable the boom to follow the ground slope, track low-frequency signals to a certain extent, and isolate high-frequency signals. The proposed mathematical model can be utilized to analyze the dynamic characteristics and provide guidance for the double-pendulum suspension design. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the central nervous system, oligodendrocyte precursor cells (OPCs) are recognized as the progenitors responsible for the generation of oligodendrocytes, which play a critical role in myelination. Extensive research has shed light on the mechanisms underlying OPC proliferation and differentiation into mature myelin-forming oligodendrocytes. However, recent advances in the field have revealed that OPCs have multiple functions beyond their role as progenitors, exerting control over neural circuits and brain function through distinct pathways. This review aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of OPCs by first introducing their well-established features. Subsequently, we delve into the emerging roles of OPCs in modulating brain function in both healthy and diseased states. Unraveling the cellular and molecular mechanisms by which OPCs influence brain function holds great promise for identifying novel therapeutic targets for central nervous system diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To explore the clinical features of renal damage related to pregnancy and pregnancy after chronic kidney disease (CKD), providing clinical evidence for the relationship between renal damage and pregnancy. Methods: A retrospective analysis was performed on patients admitted to our hospital between March 2013 and February 2021 who had both pregnancy and kidney damage. The study collected pathology results from renal biopsies, 24-hour urinary protein quantity, albumin (Alb), serum creatinine (Scr), blood lipids, coagulation function, blood routine, and other indicators during and after pregnancy. Results: This study included 82 cases, with 48 cases in the pregnancy-related renal damage group. Thirty-four cases were in the post-CKD pregnancy group. Of the patients, 30 cases (88.24%) had CKD stage 1–2. Results showed better pregnancy and fetal outcomes in the post-CKD pregnancy group compared to the pregnancy-related renal damage group (Ρ was 0.029 and 0.036, respectively). Renal biopsy pathology revealed that 16 cases (33.33%) in the pregnancy-related renal damage group mainly had focal segmental glomerulosclerosis (FSGS), while the post-CKD pregnancy group was dominated by 14 cases (43.75%) of IgA nephropathy. The first blood test indicators revealed that the pregnancy-related renal damage group had lower estimated glomerular filtration (eGFR) and Alb levels compared to the post-CKD pregnancy group (Ρ was 0.003 and 0.000, respectively). Additionally, 24-hour urinary protein quantity, total cholesterol (Tch), triglyceride (TG), and platelet (PLT) counts were higher in the pregnancy-related renal damage group compared to the post-CKD pregnancy group (Ρ was 0.005, 0.001, 0.008, and 0.031, respectively). The abnormal rate of Scr during pregnancy was 41.67% (20/48) in the pregnancy-related renal damage group and 17.39% (4/23) in the post-CKD pregnancy group, with a statistically significant difference (Ρ was 0.043). Conclusion: The pregnancy-related renal damage group is mainly associated with FSGS, while the post-CKD pregnancy group is characterized by IgA nephropathy. Patients with CKD1-2 can have a successful pregnancy after achieving good control of eGFR, albumin, 24-hour urinary protein quantity and other indicators, resulting in better pregnancy and fetal outcomes. Abnormal Scr levels during pregnancy of pregnancy-related renal damage can be improved within 3 months after delivery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Statistical methods, particularly machine learning models, have gained significant popularity in air quality predictions. These prediction models are commonly trained using the historical measurement datasets independently collected at the environmental monitoring stations and their operational forecasts in advance using inputs of the real-time ambient pollutant observations. Therefore, these high-quality machine learning models only provide site-available predictions and cannot solely be used as the operational forecast. In contrast, deterministic chemical transport models (CTMs), which simulate the full life cycles of air pollutants, provide predictions that are continuous in the 3D field. Despite their benefits, CTM predictions are typically biased, particularly on a fine scale, owing to the complex error sources due to the emission, transport, and removal of pollutants. In this study, we proposed a fusion of site-available machine learning prediction, which is from our regional feature selection-based machine learning model (RFSML v1.0), and a CTM prediction. Compared to the normal pure machine learning model, the fusion system provides a gridded prediction with relatively high accuracy. The prediction fusion was conducted using the Bayesian-theory-based ensemble Kalman filter (EnKF). Background error covariance was an essential part in the assimilation process. Ensemble CTM predictions driven by the perturbed emission inventories were initially used for representing their spatial covariance statistics, which could resolve the main part of the CTM error. In addition, a covariance inflation algorithm was designed to amplify the ensemble perturbations to account for other model errors next to the uncertainty in emission inputs. Model evaluation tests were conducted based on independent measurements. Our EnKF-based prediction fusion presented superior performance compared to the pure CTM. Moreover, covariance inflation further enhanced the fused prediction, particularly in cases of severe underestimation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Esterase is an essential hydrolase in organisms. Many severe diseases are caused by its abnormal expression. Sensitive probes for the esterase activity need to be developed. However, the currently reported fluorescence probes for esterase have drawbacks, such as long response times, low sensitivity, and high dosages. In this work, three fluorophores with the cyano group were designed and synthesized. The optical properties of these fluorophores were measured. A turnon fluorescence detector for the determination of esterase with a fast response speed and high sensitivity at low doses was developed that was based upon aggregation-induced emission (AIE). The mechanism was studied by high-resolution mass spectrometry (HRMS), dynamic light scattering (DLS), and high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). In addition, the probe had excellent stability and biocompatibility and specifically recognized esterase with a short response time (less than 5 min) and ultra-high sensitivity. The detection limit was 1.03x10-4 U/mL, with a linear range from 1.03x10-4 to 0.05 U/mL. Furthermore, the probe had low cytotoxicity, and cellular imaging of exogenous esterase was achieved. This probe is anticipated to offer many applications in biomedical science. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In recent years, image denoising methods based on total variational regularization have attracted extensive attention. However, the traditional total variational regularization method is an approximate solution based on convex method, and does not consider the particularity of the region with rich details. In this paper, the adaptive total-variation and nonconvex low-rank model for image denoising is proposed, which is a hybrid regularization model. First, the image is decomposed into sparse terms and low rank terms, and then the total variational regularization is used to denoise. At the same time, an adaptive coefficient based on gradient is constructed to adaptively judge the flat area and detail texture area, slow down the denoising intensity of detail area, and then play the role of preserving detail information. Finally, by constructing a nonconvex function, the optimal solution of the function is obtained by using the alternating minimization method. This method not only effectively removes the image noise, but also retains the detailed information of the image. The experimental results show the effectiveness of the proposed model, and SNR and SSIM of the denoised image are improved. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Problem: Interferon‐λ (IFN‐λ) is a novel non‐redundant regulator that participates in the fetal–maternal immune interaction, including immune regulation, uterine receptivity, cell migration and adhesion, and endometrium apoptosis. However, the exact transcriptional foundation for endometrial signaling of IFN‐λ is not completely understood, and studies regarding IFN‐λ to implantation failure in vivo are limited. Method of study: The gene expression profile of human endometrial Ishikawa cell line treated with IFN‐λ or IFN‐α (100 ng/mL) for 6 h was analyzed using RNA‐sequencing. Real‐time qPCR, western blotting, and enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) tests were used to validate these sequencing data. An in vivo IFN‐λ knock‐down mouse pregnancy model was performed, and the phenotype analysis and the intrauterine biomarkers detection were applied with the uterus samples. Results: High levels of messenger RNA (mRNA) were detected for genes previously associated with endometrial receptivity, including LIF, AXL, CRYAB, EPHB2, CCL5, and DDX58, following IFN‐λ treatment. Moreover, the data indicated IFN‐λ reduced pro‐inflammatory gene activity compared with IFN‐α, including members of the ISG, TNF, SP100 and interleukin genes. The in vivo mouse pregnancy model showed that inhibition of intrauterine IFN‐λ results in aberrant epithelial phenotype and significantly decreases the embryo implantation rates and derails normal uterine receptivity. Conclusions: These findings demonstrate the antagonistic and agonistic roles of IFNs in the endometrial cell, suggesting a selective role of IFN‐λ in endometrial receptivity and immunological tolerance regulation. Moreover, the findings provide valuable insight into potential biomarkers related to endometrial receptivity and facilitate an understanding of the molecular changes observed during infertility treatment and contraception usage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Objectives] The paper was to establish a rapid screening method of pesticide residues in strawberry based on HPLC-QTOF/MS SWATH acquisition mode. [Methods] The strawberry sample was extracted with acetonitrile, purified with anhydrous magnesium sulfate, sodium chloride and primary secondary amine (PSA) powder, and then loaded on the machine. The full information spectrum was collected by positive ion mode and screened by comparing with the spectrum library, and 20 kinds of pesticide residues were quantitatively analyzed. [Results] The detection limits of 20 pesticide residues were 0.000 2 -0.010 0 mg/kg, and they showed good linearity in the range of 0.000 5 - 0.100 0 p,g/mL (R2 =0. 995). The recoveries ranged from 62. 8% to 106.3%. [Conclusions] This method is rapid, simple, sensitive and non-targeted, and can be used for rapid screening of multiple pesticide residues in strawberry'. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study was to study the effect of anthocyanins and proanthocyanidins on the amount of extract and its binding ability to natrium taurocholicum. In the experiment, the proanthocyanidins and anthocyanins of Aronia melanocarpa were simultaneously extracted by ethanol aqueous solution, with the extraction amount of proanthocyanidins and anthocyanins as testing factor, the extraction process was optimized by univariate test and orthogonal test. The results showed that under the optimized conditions of extraction solvent of 50% ethanol solution, temperature of 80 °C, time of 1.5 h, liquid to solid ratio of 65 mL/g and extraction twice, the yield of proanthocyanidins and anthocyanins were 10.37 mg/g and 0.88 mg/g, the total yield and the cream yield were 11.25 mg/g and 29.90%. The IC50 value of the binding rate of the extract of Aronia melanocarpa with taurocholate was 0.83 g/L. The study indicates with 50% ethanol water solution, the anthocyanins and proanthocyanidins are extracted simultaneously, which is good after orthogonal optimization, and the process was stable. The extracts have the ability to combine with natrium taurocholicum, and the binding is gradually enhanced with the increase of extract concentration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Studies have shown that sperm-borne microRNAs (miRNAs) are involved in mammalian preimplantation embryonic development. In humans, spermatozoan miR-34c levels are correlated with in vitro fertilization outcomes, such as embryo quality and the clinical pregnancy and live birth rates. In rabbits and cows, miR-34c improves the developmental competence of embryos generated by somatic cell nuclear transfer. However, the mechanisms underlying the regulation of embryonic development by miR-34c remain unknown. Methods: Female C57BL/6 mice (6–8 weeks old) were superovulated, and pronucleated zygotes were collected and microinjected with an miR-34c inhibitor or a negative-control RNA. The embryonic development of the microinjected zygotes was evaluated, and the messenger RNA (mRNA) expression profiles of the embryos at the two-cell, four-cell and blastocyst stages (five embryos per group) were determined by RNA sequencing analysis. Gene expression levels were verified by reverse transcription–quantitative polymerase chain reaction. Cluster analysis and heat map visualization were performed to detect differentially expressed mRNAs. Pathway and process enrichment analyses were performed using ontology resources. Differentially expressed mRNAs were systematically analyzed using the Search Tool for the Retrieval of Interacting Genes/Proteins database to determine their biological functions. Results: Embryonic developmental potential was significantly reduced in zygotes microinjected with the miR-34c inhibitor compared with those microinjected with a negative-control RNA. Two-cell stage embryos microinjected with an miR-34c inhibitor presented altered transcriptomic profiles, with upregulated expression of maternal miR-34c target mRNAs and classical maternal mRNAs. Differentially expressed transcripts were mainly of genes associated with lipid metabolism and cellular membrane function at the two-cell stage, with cell-cycle phase transition and energy metabolism at the four-cell stage; and with vesicle organization, lipid biosynthetic process and endomembrane system organization at the blastocyst stage. We also showed that genes related to preimplantation embryonic development, including Alkbh4, Sp1, Mapk14, Sin3a, Sdc1 and Laptm4b, were significantly downregulated after microinjection of an miR-34c inhibitor. Conclusions: Sperm-borne miR-34c may regulate preimplantation embryonic development by affecting multiple biological processes, such as maternal mRNA degradation, cellular metabolism, cell proliferation and blastocyst implantation. Our data demonstrate the importance of sperm-derived miRNAs in the development of preimplantation embryos. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sodium–glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors (SGLT2i) are recommended for type 2 diabetes mellitus patients with impaired renal function, but the actual situation of SGLT2i using is unclear. Therefore, in this real-world study, we analyzed the treatment scheme and clinical characteristics of SGLT2i in patients with diabetic kidney disease (DKD). We included DKD patients hospitalized in the First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University from October 2017 to March 2020. The Apriori algorithm of association rules was used to analysis treatment scheme prescribing SGLT2i and other different combinations of hypoglycemic drugs. SGLT2i was used in 781 (12.3%) of 6336 DKD patients, both number and proportion of patients using SGLT2i increased from 2017 to 2020 (1.9% to 33%). Nighty-eight percent of all DKD patients using SGLT2i were combined with other glucose-lowering agents, and insulin, metformin and alpha-glucosidase inhibitors are most commonly used in combination with hypoglycemic drugs. Multivariate analysis showed that compared with non-SGLT2i group, patients using SGLT2i were associated with younger age, higher BMI, higher HbA1c, preserved kidney function, dyslipidemia and combined with ACEI/ARB and statins. In this real-world study, use of SGLT2i in DKD patients is still low. Most patients performed younger age and in the early stages of chronic kidney disease with poor glycemic control. Clinical inertia should be overcome to fully exert the cardiorenal protective effects of SGLT2 inhibitors, with attention to rational drug use. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the existing short-term forecasting methods of time series, two challenges are faced: capture the associations of data and avoid cumulative errors. For tackling these challenges, the fuzzy information granule based model catches our attention. The rule used in this model is fuzzy association rule (FAR), in which the FAR is constructed from a premise granule to a consequent granule at consecutive time periods, and then it describes the short-association in data. However, in real time series, another association, the association between a premise granule and a consequent granule at non-consecutive time periods, frequently exists, especially in periodical and seasonal time series. While the existing FAR can't express such association. To describe it, the fuzzy long-association rule (FLAR) is proposed in this study. This kind of rule reflects the influence of an antecedent trend on a consequent trend, where these trends are described by fuzzy information granules at non-consecutive time periods. Thus, the FLAR can describe the long-association in data. Correspondingly, the existing FAR is called as fuzzy short-association rule (FSAR). Combining the existing FSAR with FLAR, a novel short-term forecasting model is presented. This model makes forecasting at granular level, and then it reduces the cumulative errors in short-term prediction. Note that the prediction results of this model are calculated from the available FARs selected by the k-medoids clustering based rule selection algorithm, therefore they are logical and accurate. The better forecasting performance of this model has been verified by comparing it with existing models in experiments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With the explosive growth of atmospheric data, machine learning models have achieved great success in air pollution forecasting because of their higher computational efficiency than the traditional chemical transport models. However, in previous studies, new prediction algorithms have only been tested at stations or in a small region; a large-scale air quality forecasting model remains lacking to date. Huge dimensionality also means that redundant input data may lead to increased complexity and therefore the over-fitting of machine learning models. Feature selection is a key topic in machine learning development, but it has not yet been explored in atmosphere-related applications. In this work, a regional feature selection-based machine learning (RFSML) system was developed, which is capable of predicting air quality in the short term with high accuracy at the national scale. Ensemble-Shapley additive global importance analysis is combined with the RFSML system to extract significant regional features and eliminate redundant variables at an affordable computational expense. The significance of the regional features is also explained physically. Compared with a standard machine learning system fed with relative features, the RFSML system driven by the selected key features results in superior interpretability, less training time, and more accurate predictions. This study also provides insights into the difference in interpretability among machine learning models (i.e., random forest, gradient boosting, and multi-layer perceptron models). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background With computerized analysis of fetal heart rate(FHR) data from long-range monitoring, we aimed to comprehensively clarify the characteristics of FHR with increasing gestational age in low-risk pregnant women during the third trimester of pregnancy. Methods This was an observational study. 85 fetuses of low-risk pregnant women were included. The data covered 28 ∼ 40 weeks of gestation, and 125 cases of FHR monitoring from 85 fetuses were totally collected. The FHR baseline rate, variability, and acceleration were computationally calculated, analyzed and compared. Results The average effective monitoring time for each case was 13.9 ± 4.3 h. FHR baseline gradually decreased as the gestational age progressed, and the maximum FHR baseline appeared at 28–29 weeks, which was 137.5 (133.0, 141.3) bpm, whereas the minimum FHR baseline appeared at 38–39 weeks, that was 132.8 (128.1, 138.4) bpm. FHR variability fluctuated in (4–12）bpm. It gradually increased from 28 to 33 weeks of gestation, reached the maximum of 7.6 (6.0–9.4) bpm, and then decreased until full-term pregnancy. The moderate variability proportion of FHR gradually increased from 28 weeks of gestation, peaked at 32–33 weeks as 65.8%, and then gradually decreased to 56.2% at 37 weeks, which was maintained at this level until 39 weeks. The variation tendency of minimal variability proportion was opposite to moderate variability proportion. When it reached 40 weeks, the minimal and moderate variability proportions were 50.0% and 49.0%, respectively. The FHR acceleration area showed no trend change during the third trimester, while fluctuated in (29.5–42.4) lattices/h. Conclusion This study revealed that the characteristics of FHR gradually changed with increasing gestational age, and the most obvious change was observed at 32–33 weeks, demonstrating that the specific gestational weeks may be an important period for the physiological bias of FHR tends to mature. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The petrochemical industry is regarded as the main source of anthropogenic VOCs emissions in China. As one of the main sources of unorganized emissions, circulating water is scarcely studied and reported. In this research, six circulating water systems (LC2X, HGLY, YJ, XJ, LC4X and LC5X) of a typical petrochemical enterprise were selected as targets to characterize VOCs emitted from such unorganized emissions. The results showed that there was a great difference in the VOCs disorganized emissions from the six circulating water systems, among which the main VOCs of HG2X, HGLY and YJ were oxygen-containing VOCs (OVOCs), accounting for about 48.0–81.2%. The main compounds of XJ, LC4X and LC5X were alkynes (89.1%), aromatic hydrocarbons (69.7%) and alkane (50.1%), respectively. TVOCs ranged from 276.0 to 23,009.6 µg·m−3. Based on POC test results, VOCs emissions of the circulating water system were 1237.5 tons, indicating further control was needed. As for their ambient impact, XJ had higher OFP contribution, and the OFP values of the six systems ranged from 823.3 to 145,739.0 µg·m−3, among which the major contributors were aromatic hydrocarbons (0.2–85.1%), OVOCs (0.1–77.2%) and alkynes (1.7–97.6%). In addition, aromatic hydrocarbons showed the largest contribution of the potential of SOA generation, which was more than 88.0%. As far as control was concerned, the replacement of an open cooling tower to closed cooling tower combined with regular POC detection will be an efficient way to control VOCs from such sources. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper is concerned with the steady-state equations describing a motion of some non-Newtonian fluids whose viscosity has a power-structure with an exponent r. The existence of weak solutions is established through a two-level approximation procedure and weak convergence argument whenever r > 2, which is the optimal bound for the existence of weak solutions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: In this study, we aimed to examine the efficacy of micro ribonucleic acid (miRNA)-23a-5p in gouty arthritis and to investigate its possible mechanism. Materials and methods: Gouty arthritis in rat was established by intraarticular injection of 0.2 mL monosodium urate crystal (20 mg/mL) inside knee joint cavity. THP-1 cell was induced using lipopolysaccharides (LPS) for in vitro model. Results: Serum miRNA-23a-5p expression levels were increased in rats of gouty arthritis. However, overexpression of miRNA-23a-5p promoted inflammation and induced myeloid differential protein-88 (MyD88)/nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB) pathway by induction toll-like receptor-2 (TLR2) in vitro. The inhibition of TLR2 attenuated the pro-inflammation effects of miRNA-23a-5p in inflammation in in vitro model of gouty arthritis. Conclusion: Our findings demonstrate that miRNA-23a-5p is a biomarker for gouty arthritis and promotes inflammation in rats of gouty arthritis via MyD88/NF-κB pathway by targeting TLR2. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Worldwide, wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) serves about 20% of the human calorie needs and 40% of protein needs. Hence, it is imperative to pay attention to its nutritional quality. About 74-78% of a wheat kernel consists of carbohydrates, where starch is the predominant type. The soluble amylose-amylopectin ratio greatly affects the quality of different products. Moreover, the water-soluble carbohydrates stored in the culm contribute significantly to the plant's drought tolerance during the dry spells of the growth cycle. The wheat protein content typically ranges between 8% and 16%, and its content and composition primarily determine the wheat's end-use quality. Wheat grains are rich in trace elements, such as calcium, zinc, iron, and selenium. These elements are essential for human growth and development. In addition, wheat kernels accumulate various pigments that give them characteristic colors. Based on recent studies, these colored grains are recommended to consumers due to their health benefits. However, breeding for these nutritional traits is remarkably challenging due to their complex genetics and environmental influence. In this review, we summarized the genes/QTLs mapped for wheat starch, protein, and micronutrient (e.g., calcium, iron, zinc, and selenium) content, and pigments (carotenoids and anthocyanins), with a hope that this review will serve as a resource for wheat breeders and provide up-to-date information on the genetic of wheat nutrient-related traits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Directional Polarization Camera (DPC) onboard the Chinese Gaofen-5 satellite, launched in May 2018, has similar specifications as the POLDER-3 instrument. The SRON Remote Sensing of Trace gas and Aerosol Products (RemoTAP) full retrieval algorithm is applied to DPC measurements to retrieve aerosol properties including the total Aerosol Optical Depth (AOD), the fine/coarse mode AOD and the SSA (Single Scattering Albedo). Measurements of the global ground-based AERONET network between December 2019 and April 2020 have been used for the validation of the DPC retrievals. According to the average Fine Mode Fraction (FMF) of the selected AERONET stations, the stations are divided into urban stations (FMF ≥ 0.5) and dust stations (FMF < 0.5). For the total AOD validation, DPC retrievals show better performance over urban stations than over dust stations, with average biases of 0.055 and 0.106, and RMSEs of 0.151 and 0.228, respectively. Regarding the fine mode AOD, the retrieval also performs better over urban stations. Compared with the total AOD validation, both the relatively lower bias (0.021 and 0.065) and the higher Gfrac (Fraction of Good retrieval, 63.8% and 47.3%, respectively) further indicate that DPC performs better when fine mode aerosols dominate. For the land SSA validation, most of our SSA retrievals (~71%) show differences with AERONET SSA retrievals lower than 0.05. Case studies over fire spots and dust over northern China demonstrate the encouraging application potential of DPC aerosol products. The difference between fine and coarse AOD can provide more aerosol source information compared with the total AOD alone. Since the SSA retrievals are particularly sensitive to absorbing fine particles, they can be easily used in the tracking of biomass burning aerosol. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Graves' disease, characterized by hyperthyroidism resulting from loss of immune tolerance to thyroid autoantigens, may be attributable to both genetic and environmental factors. Allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) represents a means to induce immunotolerance via an artificial immune environment. We present a male patient with severe aplastic anemia arising from a germline SAMD9L missense mutation who successfully underwent HSCT from his HLA-haploidentical SAMD9L non-mutated father together with nonmyeloablative conditioning and post-transplant cyclophosphamide at 8 years of age. He did not suffer graft-versus-host disease, but Graves' disease evolved 10 months post-transplant when cyclosporine was discontinued for one month. Reconstitution of peripheral lymphocyte subsets was found to be transiently downregulated shortly after Graves' disease onset but recovered upon antithyroid treatment. Our investigation revealed the presence of genetic factors associated with Graves' disease, including HLA-B*46:01 and HLA-DRB1*09:01 haplotypes carried by the asymptomatic donor and germline FLT3 c.2500C>T mutation carried by both the patient and the donor. Given his current euthyroid state with normal hematopoiesis, the patient has returned to normal school life. This rare event of Graves' disease in a young boy arising from special HSCT circumstances indicates that both the genetic background and the HSCT environment can prompt the evolution of Graves' disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims: This study aims to explore the relationship between regular exercise, social support and depression in community‐dwelling older people and find out the predictors of depression. Methods: Cross‐sectional and correlation designs were used. The participants were recruited from August to October in 2020. The STROBE was used as a checklist for this study. Results: The study found that female gender, older age, poor sleep quality, irregular exercise and low social support were the main predictors of depression among the community‐dwelling older people. Conclusion: It is suggested that healthcare professionals motivate the older people to exercise regularly in the community using individualized exercise routines designed according to their physical conditions such as different types, frequencies and intensity of exercise. Providing social support to each other at the community care site should be encouraged, and regular assessment of the mental health of community‐dwelling older people should be done. It is also recommended to organize a timely depression‐related education course for older people in the community. Summary statement: What is already known about this topic? In older people depression can lead to further physical and psychological problems. What this paper adds? This study provides information about regular exercise, social support and depression in community‐dwelling older people.Female gender, older age, poor sleep quality, irregular exercise and low social support were the main predictors of depression among these community‐dwelling older people. The implications of this paper for policy/practice/research/education It is suggested that healthcare professionalss motivate older people to exercise regularly in the community care site using individualized exercise routines designed according to their physical condition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Walnut dreg (WD) active peptides are an important source of dietary antioxidants; however, the products of conventional hydrolysis have limited industrial output owing to poor flavour and low bioactivity. To this end, in this study, we aimed to employ bvLAP, an aminopeptidase previously identified in our research, as well as commercially available Alcalase for bi-enzyme digestion. The flavour, antioxidant activity, and structures of products resulting from various digestion methods were compared. The results showed that the bi-enzyme digestion products had enhanced antioxidant activity, increased β-sheet content, and reduced bitterness intensity from 9.65 to 6.93. Moreover, bi-enzyme hydrolysates showed a more diverse amino acid composition containing 1640 peptides with distinct sequences. These results demonstrate that bi-enzyme hydrolysis could be a potential process for converting WD into functional food ingredients. Additionally, our results provide new concepts that can be applied in waste processing and high-value utilisation of WD. [Display omitted] • Use of dreg has been hindered by inefficient proteolysis and bitter peptide taste. • A new combination of enzymes for hydrolysing walnut meal. • Combined enzyme use gave a higher degree of hydrolysis and more amino acid sequences. • Antioxidant activity was higher using combined enzymes and bitterness was lower. • Accurate analysis of walnut dreg protein peptide profile by proteomics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • The prepared sensor is used for the detection of MOX in pork samples with good recoveries. • The sensor exhibited excellent selectivity, reproducibility and stability. • A new idea for dispersing MWCNTs was proposed. • The principle of the MOX electrochemical reaction was analyzed. An electrochemical sensor was fabricated on glassy carbon electrode (GCE) with nano-flower structured copper nanoparticles (CuNPs) and well dispersed multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) for the detection of Moxifloxacin (MOX). The dispersion effect of using N, N-Dimethylformamide (DMF) and polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) to disperse MWCNTs which can amplify the signal 4 folds. The as-prepared CuNPs/MWCNTs/GCE sensor can amplify the signal 5 folds compared with bare GCE. Under the optimal experimental conditions, the linear relationship of MOX detection in the 5.00–1000.00 μmol·L−1 range was obtained and the limit of detection (LOD) was 0.205 μmol·L−1 using differential pulse voltammetry (DPV). The CuNPs/MWCNTs/GCE sensor exhibited excellent selectivity, reproducibility and stability, which was used to detect the MOX in pork sample with the standard addition recovery method. The recovery rate ranged between 102.75–104.14 %, and the relative standard deviation (RSD) was less than 6 %. The results of this study contribute to the detection of antibiotics in food. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Deadwood is an important structural and biological component of forest ecosystems habitating for a variety of soil fungal communities. However, it is unknown how decomposition of deadwood impacts fungal communities in the soil underneath functionally different tree species in forests. This study compared the effects of the barks of seven tree species, differing in physicochemical characteristics, on soil fungal communities during the early stages of deadwood decomposition in a subtropical forest. A field experiment consisting of 3 evergreen broadleaf, 3 deciduous broadleaf and 1 coniferous tree species, was conducted for 18 months to examine the impact of deadwood decomposition on soil fungal community using real-time PCR and high-throughput sequencing. Our results demonstrated that wood decomposition led to significant declines in soil pH. Functionally distinct tree species significantly shaped the distinct soil fungal composition and abundances underneath the deadwood of both broadleaf and coniferous trees after 18 months of decomposition. The fungal ecological guilds underneath the deadwood were altered, with symbiotrophs being more prominent, and a higher proportion of pathogens were observed under certain broadleaf tree species. Out of the soil fungal ASVs detected, only 51 (3 %) were generalists, while 1053 ASVs (52 %) exhibited traits indicating potential fungal specialists. There were stronger coniferous tree species preferences in soil fungal composition, compared to broadleaf trees. The initial bark density from broadleaf and coniferous species illustrated the most obvious difference. Interestingly, tree bark density, rather than soil chemistry, was the key driver causing the fluctuations in fungal composition during deadwood decomposition. Tree species traits notably affected soil fungal community during early wood decomposition. These findings highlight the importance of considering the bark traits in understanding the dynamics of soil fungal communities and its implications for forest health and ecosystem management. [Display omitted] • Wood decomposition during the early stages led to significant declines in soil pH. • Functionally distinct tree species shaped soil fungal composition and abundance. • Proportion of symbiotrophs dominated the soil under deadwood of all tree species. • Coniferous tree exhibited stronger species preferences in soil fungal composition. • Bark density determined fungal composition underneath broadleaf and coniferous trees. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose. Analysis of the effectiveness of in-hospital transfer care based on the STABLE (sugar and safe care, temperature, airway, blood pressure, lab work, emotional support) technique in critically ill neonates. Methods. Retrospective analysis of the case data of 180 critically ill neonates transferred to the NICU (neonatal intensive care unit) via the delivery room (operating room) in our hospital from April 2020 to December 2021. Of which, 88 newborns from April 2020 to February 2021 were resuscitated by conventional resuscitation and then transferred to the NICU by the nurses in the delivery room (operating room) through the green channel, and they were recorded as the control group; and 92 newborns from March to December 2021 were transferred to the NICU by the NICU transfer nurses who arrived at the delivery room (operating room) earlier and used the in-hospital transfer care based on STABLE technology, and they were recorded as the intervention group. The indicators to be assessed were the execution pass rate in the simulated assessment of the transfer emergency procedure for both groups of transporters, execution times of the various subprocesses during the transfer procedure for both groups of transporters, accidents in transit, and blood glucose, blood pressure, body temperature, respiration, blood gas indicators, and family satisfaction of children in both groups after transfer. Results. The total execution pass rate for transporters was higher in the intervention group than in the control group (P < 0.05). The execution times of the various subprocesses during the transfer procedure of transporters were shorter in the intervention group than in the control group (P < 0.05). The incidence of accidents in transit was lower in the intervention group than in the control group (P < 0.05). After transfer, the blood glucose, blood pressure, body temperature, respiratory, and blood gas indicators of the children in the intervention group were all more stable than those in the control group (P < 0.05). The satisfaction of the families of the children in the intervention group was higher than that of the control group (P < 0.05). Conclusion. The implementation of transfer care based on STABLE technology for newborns in urgent need of in-hospital transfer can effectively improve the comprehensive quality and emergency response ability of transfer nurses and shorten the in-hospital transfer time, and the incidence of adverse reactions during the transfer of children is less, the vital signs are stable, and the satisfaction of family members is high, which is of promotion value. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new two-dimensional coordinate polymer, {[Zn2(pbmpd)(H2O)4]·(H2O)}n (H4pbmpd = 1,1'-(1,4-phenylenebis(methylene)) bis-(1H-pyrazole-3,5-dicarboxylic acid)), has been hydrothermally synthesized and characterized by IR spectrum, elemental analysis, TGA and X-ray single-crystal/powder diffraction. Structural analyses reveal that complex 1 exhibits a two-dimensional sheet structure in the crystal lattice. In complex 1, the carboxylic oxygen atoms and conjugated N atoms of pbmpd4- bridge zinc(II) ions form indefinitely zigzag shaped one-dimensional chains through π···π stacking interactions which are further connected by [ZnO6] units to form a novel two-dimensional structure. Finally, π···π stacking interactions and intermolecular hydrogen bonds assemble the two dimensional networks into a three-dimensional framework. Furthermore, the luminescent properties are also discussed. Interestingly, the solid state photoluminescence properties of the title polymer show the enhancement effect of spectrum. Density functional theory (DFT) calculations were used to support the experimental data. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The acupuncture therapy of excitation-focus transfer is a supplementation and draining method by needling at different acupoints, which promotes the idea of "distant treatment for local disease" and reveals the key points of acupuncture and the mystery of having initial, quick, and remarkable effect. Originated from the Acupuncture School of Jiangxi Xujiang Medicine, it is a simple, classic, and special needling technique based on the theory of "distant treatment for local disease" from the Internal Classics and the Introduction to Medicine, and in combination with the meridian theory of Traditional Chinese Medicine and the neural reflex theory and the neural-endocrine-immune network theory in Western medicine. The therapy is clinically divided into main acupuncture and auxiliary acupuncture. The main acupuncture is administered first by strongly stimulating the distal acupoints (main acupoints) far away from the affected part of the human body. In this way, a new excitatory focus is generated at the distal area, where the excitatory intensity is much higher than that in the affected part, thus the excitatory focus is transferred. It can reduce the excitation of the affected part, thereby relieving the pathological situation of the affected part. Then auxiliary acupuncture (responding acupuncture) is administered to lightly stimulate the acupoints around the affected part (auxiliary acupoints) to respond to the qi of main acupuncture. Apply needling to transfer the excitation-focus, thereby relieving various pain symptoms, inflammation, tissue hyperplasia, dysfunction, etc., maintaining the balance of homeostasis, and achieving the purpose of curing disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) represents the most common chronic liver disease worldwide, ranging from simple steatosis and nonalcoholic steatohepatitis to fibrosis, cirrhosis, and hepatocellular carcinoma. Acupuncture is a long-established treatment in traditional Chinese medicine. In recent years, increasing evidence has pointed to the effectiveness of acupuncture in the treatment of NAFLD, and a certain degree of progress has been made in the study of related mechanisms. However, previous systematic reviews have not discussed the characteristics and the related mechanisms of acupuncture in the treatment of NAFLD. Therefore, this review synthesizes the progress in research on acupuncture in the context of NAFLD treatment by the inhibition of inflammatory responses, regulation of lipid metabolism disorder, treatment of insulin resistance, antagonization of oxidative stress injury, and interference with endoplasmic reticulum stress. Overall, we sought to highlight the latest research results, potential applications, and ongoing challenges of this therapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

It is well known that permanent magnet Vernier machine (PMVM) has multiple flux field harmonics, which can produce stable torque. However, some flux field harmonics would create torque that undermines the total torque output. Such as the 6 slots 26 poles split-tooth PMVM here, of which modulated flux field outputs torque while fundamental flux field undermines torque output. In this article, a 26 pole PMVM with coding-shaped tooth is proposed. The coding-shaped tooth can introduce permeance harmonics with specific phase and amplitude, thus modulating flux fields that all output torque. Air-gap permeance harmonics of the proposed and the regular split-tooth PMVM are obtained via FEA. Based on MMF-permeance model, flux fields of two machines and their contributions to average torque are investigated, proving that the proposed machine has multiple flux fields that all output torque. Moreover, by optimizing geometric parameters of coding-shaped tooth, the proposed machine could obtain largest average torque and smallest torque ripple simultaneously. Electromagnetic performances of the optimized machines are studied comparatively in semianalytical way and FEA. It is proved that with same overall size, PM usage, and copper loss, the proposed machine could achieve 30% larger torque density, 86% smaller cogging torque, and 62% lower torque ripple than its counterpart. Finally, a 16-N·m (rated) prototype is built and tested. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Crop avoidance and tolerance strategies are critical adaptive mechanisms of drought stress and play different roles in grain yield. However, little is known about the contribution of these two mechanisms to grain yield in old and modern wheat genotypes. Here, pot and field experiments were carried out to characterize and compare the mechanisms of drought avoidance and drought tolerance, and determine their differential contributions to the yield in six wheat genotypes. The pot experiment results demonstrated that the old genotypes acquired a better avoidance ability to adapt to drought stress. These avoidance abilities include larger root systems, lower leaf areas, low stomatal conductance, pale green leaf colour, higher degrees of leaf rolling and leaf waxiness. The modern genotypes displayed stronger drought tolerance advantages, such as high osmotic adjustment and antioxidant enzyme activity, and a smaller root system. Our field experiment further showed that under severe water-deficit conditions, the old genotypes with stronger drought avoidance traits had higher yields and water use efficiency (WUEg), whereas the modern genotypes with strong drought tolerance characteristics produced higher yields and had higher WUEg under mild and intermediate water deficits. The results indicate that the relative contribution of drought tolerance and drought avoidance to grain yield depends to a large extent on the degree of drought stress and genotypes. Understanding the differential plant response depending on genotype and drought stress may help plant breeders develop drought-resistant varieties suitable for drought-prone environments under anticipated climate change scenarios. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Xujiang Xie's acupuncture therapy of excitation-focus transfer is a simple and classic acupuncture method created by professor Xie Qiang, the inheritor of Acupuncture School of Jiangxi Xujiang Medicine. Based on the theories of "distant needling" and "local disease with distal needling" from the Internal Classics and the Introduction to Medicine, the therapy reveals the key points of acupuncture and the mystery of having initial, quick, and remarkable effect. It is a supplementation and draining method by needling at different acupoints. The needle manipulation is simple and quick-acting, and the number of acupoints selected is few, usually 1 to 4 points, reducing the pain of multiple needles. The therapy is clinically divided into main acupuncture and auxiliary acupuncture. The main acupuncture is administered first by strongly stimulating the distal acupoints (main acupoints) far away from the affected part of the human body. In this way, a new excitatory focus is generated at the distal area, where the excitatory intensity is much higher than that in the affected part, thus the excitatory focus is transferred. It can reduce the excitation of the affected part, thereby relieving the pathological situation of the affected part. Then auxiliary acupuncture (responding acupuncture) is administered to lightly stimulate the acupoints around the affected part (auxiliary acupoints) to respond to the qi of main acupuncture. This therapy is suitable for the treatment of various clinical diseases in many areas of medicine such as internal medicine, surgery, gynecology, pediatrics, ophthalmology and otorhinolaryngology. It is safe, effective, easy to learn and understand. The introduction of this acupuncture therapy is conducive to the popularization of acupuncture and moxibustion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Finite element method (FEM) was used to study the stress peak of stress S11 (radial stress component in X-axis) on the steam turbine blade surface of four typical erosion-resistant coatings (Fe2B, CrN, Cr3C2-NiCr and Al2O3-13%TiO2). The effect of four parameters, such as impact velocity, coating thickness, Young's modulus, and Poisson's ratio on the stress peak of stress S11 was analyzed. Results show that the position of tensile stress peak and compressive stress peak of stress S11 is far away from the impact center point with the increase of impact velocity. When coating thickness is equal to or greater than 10 µm, the magnitude of tensile stress peak of stress S11 on the four coating surfaces does not change with the coating thickness at different impact velocities. When coating thickness is equal to or greater than 2 µm, the magnitude of tensile stress peak of stress S11 of four coatings shows a trend of increasing first and then decreasing with the increase of Young's modulus. Meanwhile, the larger the Poisson's ratio, the smaller the tensile stress peak of stress S11. After optimization, when coating thickness is 2 µm, Poisson's ratio is 0.35 and Young's modulus is 800 GPa, the Fe2B coating has the strongest erosion resistance under the same impact conditions, followed by Cr3C2-NiCr, CrN, and the Al2O3-13%TiO2 coating, Al2O3-13%TiO2 coating has the worst erosion resistance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Human has excellent motor capability and performance in conducting various manipulation tasks. During some tasks such as tightening/loosening a screw with a screwdriver, the motion is accompanied by force exertion to the environment (that is, constrained motion). To obtain natural human-robot interaction (HRI) as human interacts/collaborates with the environment, decoding the human's movement intention in a way of motion and interaction force is meaningful for robots to carry out such constrained tasks. This paper proposes a long shortterm memory (LSTM) -based decoding method for the simultaneous estimation of human motion and interactive force from muscle activities represented by surface electromyography (sEMG) signals. The sEMG recorded from the muscles of forearm is used to decode human's movement intention. In order to extract smooth features from non-stationary sEMG signals, Bayesian filter is applied instead of traditional time-domain feature extraction method. From the real-time experiments on eight subjects, the LSTM-based decoding method represents high accuracy of motion estimation (91.7%) and force estimation (96.1%) despite of the existence of muscle coupling and non-stationary mapping between muscle activities and motion/interaction force during such constrained tasks. It indicates that the estimated motion and interaction force can be further applied for HRI in accomplishing constrained tasks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]