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In existing estimation methods for utility harmonic impedance, it is commonly assumed that the harmonic impedance remains invariant, which often diverges from actual conditions. In practice, both the utility harmonic impedance and background harmonics typically time-varying with operating conditions. For the time interval between two sample points, large numerical value probably gives rise to more conspicuous difference between the impedance and the background harmonics at the corresponding time. Based upon the information of the sample points with a far gap, it is difficult to estimate the impedance value of the sample points of concern. As a consequence, a brand new time-varying utility harmonic impedance estimation method is put forward based on locally-geographically weighted regression. Firstly, a weight matrix is constructed based on time interval, assigning smaller weights to sample points with larger intervals from the points of interest. Locally weighted regression (LWR) is then applied to initially estimate the utility harmonic impedance and background harmonic reference values. Secondly, the impedance reference value is used to modify the regression equation to reduce the under determination of the original regression equation. To screen out the sample points that are similar to the background harmonics of the sample points of concern, the background harmonic reference value is simultaneously utilized as the prior information. On the basis of the screened samples, the background harmonic voltage and the utility harmonic impedance at each point are coped well with by geographically weighted regression (GWR). Under strong background harmonic fluctuations, the recommended method can not only identify abrupt changes in impedance, but also estimate the trend of utility harmonic impedance. Lastly, simulation and case studies demonstrate that the proposed method improves estimation accuracy by approximately 40% compared to traditional constant harmonic impedance estimation methods, and by around 30% compared to existing time-varying impedance estimation methods.

To investigate the role of placental growth factor/vascular endothelial growth factor (PlGF-VEGF) heterodimers are involved in the blood-retinal barrier (BRB) breakdown and the associated mechanism, human retinal endothelial cells (HRECs) were treated with recombinant human (rh)PlGF-VEGF heterodimers and rhPlGF and studied in normal and high-glucose conditions. HREC barrier function was evaluated by the measurement of trans-endothelial electrical resistance (TEER). Adeno-Associated Virus Type 5 (AAV5) vectors overexpressed PlGF in the retina by intravitreal injection into the C57BL6 mouse eye. AAV5-GFP vector and naïve animals were used as controls. Immunofluorescence (IF) and western blots examined the protein expression of PlGF-VEGF heterodimers, VEGF, PlGF, NFκB, p-IκBα, ZO-1, and VE-cadherin in HREC and mouse retina. PlGF-VEGF heterodimers were detected predominantly in the HREC cell nuclei based on IF and cytoplasmic and nuclear fractionation experiments. High glucose treatment increased PlGF-VEGF nuclear abundance. Dot immunoblotting demonstrated a strong affinity of the 5D11D4 antibody to PlGF-VEGF heterodimers. rhPlGF-VEGF disrupted the barrier function of HREC, which was prevented by the neutralization of PlGF-VEGF by the 5D11D4 antibody. Stimulation of HRECs with rhPlGF also led to an increase in the nuclear signals for PlGF-VEGF, p-IκBα, and colocalization of NFκB p65 and PlGF-VEGF in the nuclei. The selective IKK2 inhibitor IMD0354 disrupted the nuclear colocalization. Treatment with IMD0354 restored the barrier function of HREC, as indicated by the ZO-1 and VE-cadherin expression. In the mouse retinas, PlGF overexpression by AAV5 vector reduced ZO-1 expression and increased abundance of pIκBα. PIGF/VEGF heterodimers mediate BRB breakdown potentially through the canonical NFκB activation.

Placental growth factor (PlGF or PGF) is a member of the VEGF (vascular endothelial growth factor) family. It plays a pathological role in inflammation, vascular permeability, and pathological angiogenesis. The molecular signaling by which PlGF mediates its effects in non-proliferative diabetic retinopathy (DR) remains elusive. This study aims to characterize the transcriptome changes of human retinal endothelial cells (HRECs) with the presence and the absence of PlGF signaling. Primary HRECs were treated with the PlGF antibody (ab) to block its activity. The total RNA was isolated and subjected to deep sequencing to quantify the transcripts and their changes in both groups. We performed transcriptome-wide analysis, gene ontology, pathway enrichment, and gene-gene network analyses. The results showed that a total of 3760 genes were significantly differentially expressed and were categorized into cell adhesion molecules, cell junction proteins, chaperone, calcium-binding proteins, and membrane traffic proteins. Functional pathway analyses revealed that the TGF-β pathway, pentose phosphate pathway, and cell adhesion pathway play pivotal roles in the blood-retina barrier and antioxidant defense system. Collectively, the data provide new insights into the molecular mechanisms of PlGFs biological functions in HRECs relevant to DR and diabetic macular edema (DME). The newly identified genes and pathways may act as disease markers and target molecules for therapeutic interventions for the patients with DR and DME refractory to the current anti-VEGF therapy.

BACKGROUND: Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is the most common, progressive, and polygenic cause of irreversible visual impairment in the world. The molecular pathogenesis of the primary events of AMD is poorly understood. We have investigated a transcriptome-wide analysis of differential gene expression, single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), indels, and simple sequence repeats (SSRs) in datasets of the human peripheral retina and RPE-choroid-sclera control and AMD. METHODS AND RESULTS: Adaptors and unbiased components were removed and checked to ensure the quality of the data sets. Molecular function, biological process, cellular component, and pathway analyses were performed on differentially expressed genes. Analysis of the gene expression datasets identified 5011 upregulated genes, 11,800 downregulated genes, 42,016 SNPs, 1141 indels, and 6668 SRRs between healthy controls and AMD donor material. Enrichment categories for gene ontology included chemokine activity, cytokine activity, cytokine receptor binding, immune system process, and signal transduction respectively. A functional pathways analysis identified that chemokine receptors bind chemokines, complement cascade genes, and create cytokine signaling in immune system pathway genes (p value

Mode coupling and conversion between longitudinal and transverse modes are ubiquitous and universal in elastic waves, presenting a challenge in realistic applications such as nondestructive evaluation and geological exploration, where independent and separate manipulation of each mode is demanded. In this article, we propose a design of elastic metalens that can realize a high-efficiency focusing for the longitudinal wave and a V-shaped converging pattern for the transverse wave at the same time. The metalens is constructed from a metagrating, where each meta-atom has a simple configuration and renders high diffraction efficiency even for large steering angles, enabled by concurrent utilization of grating diffraction theory and advanced optimization algorithms. Interestingly, an arbitrary energy splitting ratio between the reflected longitudinal and transverse waves can be obtained by precisely controlling the coupling strength and conversion efficiency between them, providing improved flexibility and adaptability to various application environments. Two illustrative examples with a sharp focusing effect and tailored conversion efficiency are explicitly demonstrated, with a 50/50 energy splitting ratio between the longitudinal and transverse waves in the first case, and a 70/30 ratio in the second one. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Esophageal leiomyoma is the most common benign intramural tumor of the esophagus. Despite being the most common benign tumor in its category, esophageal leiomyomas constitute only 1.2% of all esophageal tumors. While esophageal leiomyoma itself is uncommon, the occurrence of multiple esophageal leiomyomas is even rarer, and the coexistence of high-grade squamous intraepithelial neoplasia (HGIN), involving both epithelial and mesenchymal tissues, is exceedingly rare. This case report describes a patient with multiple esophageal leiomyomas and localized HGIN, diagnosed using endoscopic ultrasonography, which identified a submucosal lesion within the muscularis mucosae. The lesion was successfully treated using endoscopic high-frequency electrocoagulation resection. This minimally invasive approach proved to be precise, safe, and effective, offering therapeutic outcomes comparable to those of traditional surgical resection, as confirmed by postoperative pathological analysis. As a primary goal, the abstract should render the general significance and conceptual advance of the work clearly accessible to a broad readership. References should not be cited in the abstract. Leave the Abstract empty if your article does not require one – please see the "Article types" on every Frontiers journal page for full details. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The evaluation of sustainable water resources' utilization capacity in the Huangshui Basin is essential for effective management and development in the water-scarce regions of northwest China. This research provides valuable insights into the basin's potential capacity for sustainable water resource use by developing a comprehensive evaluation index that addresses the following three critical aspects: climate factors, water resource systems, and socio-economic conditions. The evaluation is conducted using a dual method, as follows: the fuzzy comprehensive evaluation model and the ELECTRE III evaluation method. The results indicate that the Huangshui Basin's water resources, as a whole, exhibit a medium sustainable utilization capacity. Climatic factors and socio-economic characteristics are the main factors affecting the sustainable utilization of water resources in the Huangshui Basin. Remarkably, both methods yield consistent results, indicating that the overall sustainable utilization capacity of the Huangshui Basin's water resources is medium. Climatic factors and socio-economic characteristics are identified as the primary aspects influencing the sustainable utilization of water resources in the basin. Based on these findings, recommendations such as enhancing the introduction of external water resources, improving water resources' management, and implementing comprehensive remediation efforts can help to elevate the level of sustainable water use. This research not only contributes to a deeper understanding of the basin's water resources' dynamics, but also serves as an important reference for informed decision making regarding sustainable utilization in the Huangshui Basin. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to evaluate the ecohydrological regime and ecological water demand of the Huangshui River Basin under changing environmental conditions, seeking to safeguard its ecosystem. Based on monthly data spanning from 1956 to 2016, the ecohydrological regimes of the Huangshui River and the Datong River were evaluated using methods such as the Pettitt mutation test, the Tennant method, and ecological deficit and surplus analyses. The data were mainly obtained from Xiangtang Station of the Datong River and Minhe Station of the Huangshui River. The results showed the following. (1) The most abrupt increase in measured runoff at Xiangtang Station occurred in 1993, while the point of abrupt change in measured runoff at Minhe Station occurred in 1990. (2) Following an increase in human activities, changes in the ecological surplus at Xiangtang Station were negative in January, April to May, July, and from September to November, while the changes in the ecological deficit were positive from January to April, July to August, and October to December. Changes in the ecological surplus at Minhe Station were negative from March to July and from September to December, while changes in the ecological deficit were positive from January to April and from July to December. (3) The annual average ecological flow of the Datong River, Xiangtang section, was 28.42 m3/s, and the annual average ecological water demand was 896 million m3. The annual average ecological flow of the Minhe section was 19.98 m3/s, and the annual average ecological water demand was 631 million m3. According to a calculation of the degree of ecological water demand and ecological flow satisfaction, prior to the implementation of the Water Diversion Project from the Datong River to Huangshui River, the water volumes in both rivers were generally sufficient to meet the ecological water demand. However, high water consumption during the irrigation period led to an ecological deficit. To address these issues, it is crucial to evaluate the potential impacts of human activities, such as water diversion projects, on river ecological flow. Recommendations include expediting the Water Diversion Project from the Yellow River to Xining to secure sufficient water flow in the Huangshui River and enhancing water conservation efforts in agricultural irrigation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the impact of adding 4 mg estradiol valerate to progesterone for luteal support on pregnancy rates in IVF cycles following a long protocol with reduced luteal serum estradiol levels post-hCG triggering. Design, setting, and participants: The prospective randomized controlled trial was conducted at a public tertiary hospital reproductive center with 241 patients who experienced a significant decrease in serum estrogen levels post-oocyte retrieval. Interventions: Participants received either a daily 4 mg dose of estradiol valerate in addition to standard progesterone or standard progesterone alone for luteal support. Results: The ongoing pregnancy rate did not show a significant difference between the E2 group and the control group (56.6% vs. 52.2%, with an absolute rate difference (RD) of 4.4%, 95% CI -0.087 to 0.179, P = 0.262). Similarly, the live birth rate, implantation rate, clinical pregnancy rate, early abortion rate, and severe OHSS rate were comparable between the two groups. Notably, the E2 group had no biochemical miscarriages, contrasting significantly with the control group (0.0% vs. 10.7%, RD -10.7%, 95% CI -0.178 to -0.041, P = 0.000). In the blastocyst stage category, the clinical pregnancy rate was notably higher in the E2 group compared to the control group (75.6% vs. 60.8%, RD 14.9%, 95% CI 0.012 to 0.294, P = 0.016). Conclusion: Adding 4 mg estradiol valerate to progesterone for luteal support does not affect the ongoing pregnancy rate in embryo transfer cycles using a long protocol with a significant decrease in serum estradiol levels after hCG triggering. However, it may reduce biochemical miscarriages and positively impact clinical pregnancy rates in blastocyst embryo transfer cycles. Trial registration: ChiCTR1800020342. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: In the discourse on the heterogeneity of gender and environmental concern, gender equality awareness can further illuminate the complexity of gender and environmental concern across different cultural backgrounds. OBJECTIVE: Differing from prior research, our study focuses on exploring the relationship between different genders, gender equality awareness, and environmental concern, as well as investigating whether gender equality awareness has distinct effects on environmental concern among different genders. METHODS: Utilizing data from the 2021 China General Social Survey (CGSS), we conducted a theoretical investigation into gender differences in environmental concern. First, we used descriptive statistics to observe the differences between the samples. Secondly, in order to compare the influence of gender equality awareness on different genders, we conducted t-tests on gender subgroups. Subsequently, an Ordinary Least Squares (OLS) regression model was employed to examine the effects of gender and gender equality awareness on environmental issues. Finally, gender equality awareness was introduced as a moderating variable to explore its potential interaction with gender and investigate whether a moderation mechanism exists between gender and environmental concern. RESULTS: Findings indicate that 1) male respondents in China exhibit greater concern for the environment compared to female respondents; 2) higher levels of gender equality awareness are positively correlated with higher levels of environmental concern; 3) the influence of gender on environmental concern is moderated by the degree of gender equality awareness. Specifically, when gender equality awareness is strengthened, female respondents exhibit a higher degree of environmental concern. CONCLUSION: Enhancing gender equality awareness contributes to improving both social gender equality and equitable concern for the environment. The findings could provide insights for similar developing countries like China. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study analyzed 61 years of hydrological data from the Minhe and Xiangtang Hydrological Stations (1956–2016) to examine hydrological changes and ecological flow assurance rates in the Huangshui River Basin, China. Using the Mann–Kendall trend test, IHA/RVA method, and ecological flow calculation methods, the study revealed the following results: (1) After 1994, increased human activity in the Datong River led to a measured runoff decrease compared to natural runoff. Although human activities in the Huangshui River's main stream were present before 1972, after 1972, these activities intensified, resulting in a more pronounced decrease in the measured runoff. (2) Ecological flow analysis indicated that the main stream of the Huangshui River and the Datong River have ecological flow assurance rates of 100% for all but a few months, where the rates are 98%. The water volume is sufficiently abundant to meet ecological water demands. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To compare the hypertensive disorders of pregnancy (HDP) risk between vaginal and intramuscular (IM) progesterone in programmed frozen–thawed embryo transfer (FET) cycles. Methods: This was a retrospective cohort study at a tertiary hospital, and only women who achieved ongoing pregnancy after programmed FET between January 2018 and June 2022 were included. Women with chronic hypertension before pregnancy or with history of gestational hypertension or pre‐eclampsia in previous pregnancies were excluded. All women were divided into IM progesterone or vaginal progesterone groups according to the route of progesterone supplementation. Follow‐up information on obstetric complications and neonatal outcomes were obtained by telephonic interviews. The primary outcome was HDP. Association between routes of progesterone supplementation and HDP was assessed by subgroup analysis and multivariable logistic regression. Results: A total of 5891 programmed FET cycles (3196 IM progesterone cycles and 2695 vaginal progesterone cycles) were included in the analysis. The prevalence of HDP in the IM progesterone group was significantly lower than that of the vaginal progesterone group (6.54% vs 9.17%, P < 0.001). Therein, the prevalence of gestational hypertension (3.57% vs 4.94%, P = 0.009) and pre‐eclampsia (2.97% vs 4.23%, P = 0.009) in the IM progesterone group were all significantly lower as compared to the vaginal progesterone group. According to subgroup analysis, IM progesterone was associated with lower HDP risk in all subgroups. The logistic regression analysis showed that the IM progesterone cycles were associated with lower risk of HDP compared to vaginal progesterone cycles (adjusted odds ratio 0.66, 95% CI: 0.54–0.80, P < 0.001). Conclusion: Among women undergoing programmed FET cycles, progesterone supplementation with IM progesterone was associated with reduced HDP risk compared to vaginal progesterone. Synopsis: Luteal support of intramuscular progesterone was associated with lower gestational hypertension as compared to vaginal progesterone in programmed frozen–thawed embryo transfer cycles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]