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The presence of aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage (aSAH) is usually accompanied by excessive inflammatory response leading to damage of the central nervous system, and the sialic acid-binding Ig-like lectin 10 (Siglec-10) is a recognized factor being able to modify the inflammatory reaction. To investigate the potential role of Siglec-10 in aSAH, we collected the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) of control (n = 11) and aSAH (n = 14) patients at separate times and measured the Siglec-10 concentration utilizing the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and evaluated the alterations of GOS and GCS during the disease process. In accordance with the STROBE statement, results showed that Siglec-10 in CSF rose quickly in response aSAH attack and then fell back to a slightly higher range above baseline, while it remained at relative high concentration and last longer in several severely injured patients. In general, higher Siglec-10 expression over a longer period usually indicated a better clinical prognosis. This prospective cohort study suggested that Siglec-10 could possibly be used as a biomarker for predicting prognosis of aSAH due to its ability to balance aSAH-induced nonsterile inflammation. Additionally, these findings might provide novel therapeutic perspectives for aSAH and other inflammation-related diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Endogenous host-derived molecules named damage-associated molecular patterns (DAMPs) can induce excessive non-sterile inflammatory responses on recognition of specific membrane-tethered receptors. Here in this study, we aimed to explore the role of DAMP molecule HMGB1 in astrocyte-mediated sterile neuroinflammation and the resultant influences on neurons. In vitro cultured astrocytes were challenged with rHMGB1 and then harvested at 6 h, 12 h, 24 h, 36 h, and 48 h, respectively. The astrocytic CD24 expression was determined by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qPCR), Western blot analysis and immunofluorescence, nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) binding activity was detected by electrophoretic mobility shift assay (EMSA), and the proinflammatory factors, tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), and interleukin 1β (IL-1β), were measured by qPCR. The neuronal morphology was assessed with phase-contrast microscopy. The results showed that astrocytic mRNA and protein CD24 expression began to rise at 24 h, peaked at 36 h, and remained elevated at 48 h after rHMGB1 stimulation, accompanied with enhanced NF-κB binding activity and augmented expression of TNF-α and IL-1β. Furthermore, rHMGB1 caused cocultured neuron damage and was aggregated upon CD24 knockdown. Taken together, these novel findings suggested that rHMGB1 could promote astrocytic CD24 expression, the inhibition of which could aggregate neuronal damage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this research is to investigate the sorptivity and capillary coefficient in unsaturated concrete using the capillary water absorption experiment. The effects of water-binder ratio, fly ash content, and aggregate content on the water absorption performance in concrete are compared. The decrease of water-binder ratio, aggregate content, and the increase of the initial degree of water saturation can lead to a decrease in the water absorption ability. With the increase of fly ash content, the water absorption ability first decreases and then increases; the 40% fly ash content had the worst water absorption ability. To forecast the water transport process, an unsaturated flow theory was used to predict the water content distribution in concrete during transport, this theory can well reveal the water distribution in concrete during water transport and the law of water content distribution is consistent with that of the water absorption experimental. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: In traditional industrial applications and MEE/MSF desalination system, steam production is usually the technical basis for heating, processing or fresh water accumulating. However, steam boilers are environment unfriendly thus being prohibited of usage in urban areas. High temperature heat pump (HTHP) integrated with flash tank is promising substation of boiler to be employing in steam producing. The large amount of industrial waste heat could also be recovered in this way. In this article, theoretical model is proposed to predict and investigate the capacity and efficiency of a steam production HTHP system using industrial waste heat, while a testbed is also built to validate the simulated results and to evaluate performance of the system. The influence of the operating conditions on the heating capacity, compressor efficiency and steam prices are also illustrated. The results show that the COP increase from 3.06 to 10.95 with the increase in evaporating condition and decrease in steam pressure significantly. The specific price of steam is 189 to 88 RMB/t at 200 kPa steam pressure, and 126 to 49 RMB/t at 110 kPa. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To extract the time-series characteristics of the original bearing signals and predict the remaining useful life (RUL) more effectively, a parallel multichannel recurrent convolutional neural network (PMCRCNN) is proposed for the prediction of RUL. Firstly, the time domain, frequency domain, and time-frequency domain features are extracted from the original signal. Then, the PMCRCNN model is constructed. The front of the model is the parallel multichannel convolution unit to learn and integrate the global and local features from the time-series data. The back of the model is the recurrent convolution layer to model the temporal dependence relationship under different degradation features. Normalized life values are used as labels to train the prediction model. Finally, the RUL was predicted by the trained neural network. The proposed method is verified by full life tests of bearing. The comparison with the existing prognostics approaches of convolutional neural network (CNN) and the recurrent convolutional neural network (RCNN) models proves that the proposed method (PMCRCNN) is effective and superior in improving the accuracy of RUL prediction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The convergence of cultural and aesthetic elements in timber structures from China's Tang Dynasty (618–907 AD) and traditional Japanese architecture provides a rich tapestry of architectural evolution and cross-cultural exchanges. Addressing the challenge of distinguishing and understanding the intricate styles of these structures is significant for both historical comprehension and preservation efforts. This research introduces an innovative approach by integrating the Multi-Head Attention (MHA) mechanism into the YOLOv8 model, enhancing the detection of architectural features with improved precision and recall. Our novel YOLOv8-MHA model not only demonstrates a notable improvement in recognizing intricate architectural details but also significantly advances the state of the art in object detection within complex settings. Quantitative results underscore the model's effectiveness, achieving a precision of 95.6%, a recall of 85.6%, and a mean Average Precision (mAP@50) of 94% across various Intersection over Union (IoU) thresholds. These metrics highlight the model's superior capability to accurately identify and classify architectural elements, especially within environments rich with nuanced details, utilizing the enhanced YOLOv8-MHA algorithm. The application of our model extends beyond mere architectural analysis; it offers new insights into the intricate interplay of cultural identity and adaptability inherent in East Asian architectural heritage. The study establishes a solid foundation for the meticulous classification and analysis of architectural styles in timber structures within an expansive cultural and historical context, thereby enriching our understanding and preservation of these traditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With the increasing coal mining depth, dynamic disasters are occurring more frequently in coal mines. The loading rate has a close relation to the mechanical properties, behaviors and failure mechanisms of both coal and rock. In order to examine the influence of loading rates on tensile properties, deformation characteristics, failure mode, and micro-failure mechanism of non-caking coal, acoustic emission (AE) tests were conducted under Brazilian splitting conditions with five different displacement rates. The experiment results indicate that the tensile strength of non-caking coal increases logarithmically with the increase in displacement rate, and the duration of the primary fracture compaction stage shortens with the displacement rates. The AE spatio-temporal evolution for coal with varying displacement rates shows similar trends, and the AE event reaches to a maximum at 0.8 σc (peak stress). The high amplitude AE events appear at different phases at varying displacement rates, and the concentration area of AE events coincides with the fracture surface. The spatial fractal dimensions of the AE events range from 1.1 to 1.9 under varying displacement rates and show a downward trend with the increase of stress. The fractal dimension of the fracture surface range from 2.14 to 2.25 and increases with the displacement rate. The micro-failure mechanism of non-caking coal discs under varying displacement rates is a mixture of tension-shear cracks (mainly tensile cracks), followed by shear cracks. The external load causes tensile and shear cracks at high displacement rates, while mainly tensile cracks at low displacement rates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A DNA‐encoded chemical library (DECL) is built with combinatorial chemistry, which works by bringing chemical fragments together to generate diverse structures. However, chemical diversity of DNA‐encoded chemical libraries is often limited by DNA compatible synthetic reactions. This report shows a conceptual strategy to expand chemical space of DNA‐encoded chemical libraries by incorporation of diversity‐oriented synthesis in DECL synthesis. We developed Aldol reactions on DNA in a combinatorial way. After obtaining DNA‐tagged α, β‐unsaturated ketones which represent important chemical intermediates, many distinct structures with skeletal diversities are achieved by diversity‐oriented synthesis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The increasing demand for large-capacity lithium batteries requires new anode materials satisfying both high capacity and long-life cycles. Here, a free-standing, binder-free, and environmentally friendly carbonized eggshell membrane (CEM) anode with a highly conductive interwoven network is presented for the use in high-performance lithium batteries. Highly porous and naturally doped nitrogen in CEM structure enables a unique hybrid Li storage mechanism where the effective insertion of Li ions and highly uniform Li metal deposition occur without Li dendrites formation. By employing a three-dimensionally architectured CEM anode, an areal capacity as high as 10 mA h cm−2 (357.2 A h L−1 in volumetric capacity) is achieved with an average Coulombic efficiency of 97.6% over 1300 h. The CEM anode also exhibits high Li-ion diffusivity, stable voltage hysteresis, and excellent cycling performance even after 1000 cycles at 0.5C, making it an environmentally sustainable electrode material for high-performance Li-ion batteries. A free-standing, binder-free, thickness-controllable carbonized eggshell membrane (CEM) is fabricated as anode for improved lithium-ion storage. Employing lithium metal electrodeposition as a complementary mechanism, a high areal capacity of 10 mA h cm−2 (357.2 A h L−1 in volumetric capacity) is achieved with an average Coulombic efficiency of 97.6% over 1300 h at the current density of 1 mA cm−2. Image 1 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A field experiment was conducted on the Loess Plateau in 2021 and 2022, with three planting densities (600,000 plants/ha, 900,000 plants/ha, and 1200,000 plants/ha) and four phosphorus (P) levels (0 kg/ha, 15 kg/ha, 75 kg/ha and 135 kg/ha) designed to study the effects of planting density and phosphate fertilizer management on the growth and resource utilization of common buckwheat. Results showed that optimizing P application (75 kg/ha) and planting density (900,000 plants/ha) effectively improved the resource use efficiency and yield of common buckwheat, as a result of significantly improving photosynthetic capacity and dry matter accumulation. The ability of the buckwheat population to absorb soil moisture and nutrients, as well as intercept IPAR, was maximized through the modification of planting density, thereby further promoting photosynthesis and productivity. The integration of combining moderate planting density with P fertilizer increased yield by boosting buckwheat growth and enhancing resource use efficiency based on the optimization of crop productivity without additional P input. In conclusion, future agriculture should focus on the SPAD value, 1000-grain weight, and illuminance of buckwheat population to effectively increase grain yield. This cultivation system of combining planting density and P application would be a promising alternative agricultural practice. Implementing a planting density of 900,000 plants/ha and a P application rate of 75 kg/ha provide opportunities to improve productivity and sustainability on the Loess Plateau in agriculture. • Optimal planting density and P markedly improved productivity and grain yield. • SPAD, 1000-grain weight and illuminance were the main factors affecting yield. • 90 plants/m2 density and 75 kg/ha P application rate was the best management. • High planting density reduced the PUE and the contribution of P to crop yield. • Effects of density on the chlorophyll fluorescence parameters were not significant. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A mild, scalable, high yielding, and rapid route to access diverse nitriles from aldehyde oxime esters enabled by iron(III) and phenol co‐catalysis has been developed. The reaction was performed at room temperature to give nitriles in excellent yield within minutes. Mechanistic studies show that the reaction may proceed through a radical process in which benzoyl aldehyde oxime is not only a substrate, but also an ancillary ligand to support iron salt in the promotion of the transformation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract In our recent work we found γ-AlON:Eu2+ phosphors to hold promise for application in white light-emitting diodes (LEDs). To obtain further insight into Eu2+–M (M = Mn2+, Mg2+, Li+) co-doped γ-AlON, the crystal structure and the electronic and photoluminescence properties of γ-AlON:Eu2+–M (M = Mn2+, Mg2+, Li+) phosphors were studied using first-principle calculations under the framework of density functional theory. Based on the experimental and calculated results, the structure of Eu2+–M (M = Mn2+, Mg2+, Li+) co-doped γ-AlON was established. The calculated results demonstrate that Eu2+ and M (= Mn2+, Mg2+, Li+) can effectively improve the absorption of ultraviolet light by γ-AlON:Eu2+. The absorption coefficient of AlON:Eu2+–Li+ in the ultraviolet blue region of 275–415 nm reached 67,266 cm–1, and the absorption coefficients of AlON:Eu2+–Mn2+ and AlON: Eu2+–Mg2+ at the same doping concentration were 51,219 and 60,575 cm–1, respectively. Our calculations therefore show that the performance of AlON:Eu2+–Li+ is better than AlON:Eu2+–M (M = Mn2+, Mg2+). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An iron-catalyzed oxidative coupling/cyclization reaction for the synthesis of benzoxazoles at room temperature is reported. This reaction was enabled by an inexpensive iron(iii) catalyst by treating readily available phenol derivatives with benzoyl aldehyde oximes. Mechanistic studies show that benzoyl aldehyde oxime is not only used as a substrate, but also serves as an ancillary ligand to support the iron salt in the promotion of the transformation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Channel catfish ( Ictalurus punctatus ) live in turbid waters with limited visibility to chase prey within a certain distance. This can be compensated through detecting specific water-soluble substances by the olfactory receptors (ORs) and trace amine associated receptors (TAARs) expressed on the olfactory epithelium. Methods We identified the OR and TAAR repertoires in channel catfish, and characterized the genomic organizations of these two gene families by data mining available genomic resources. Results A total of 47 putative OR genes and 36 putative TAAR genes were identified in the channel catfish genome, including 27 functional OR genes and 28 functional TAAR genes. Phylogenetic and orthogroup analyses were conducted to illustrate the evolutionary dynamics of the vertebrate ORs and TAARs. Collinear analysis revealed the presence of two conserved orthologous blocks that contain OR genes between the catfish genome and zebrafish genome. The complete loss of a conserved motif in fish OR family H may contribute to the divergence of family H from other families. The dN/dS analysis indicated that the highest degree of selection pressure was imposed on TAAR subfamily 14 among all fish ORs and TAARs. Conclusions The present study provides understanding of the evolutionary dynamics of the two gene families (OR and TAAR) associated with olfaction in channel catfish. General significance This is the first systematic study of ORs and TAARs in catfish, which could provide valuable genomic resources for further investigation of olfactory mechanisms in teleost fish. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A novel iron-catalyzed direct alkylamination reaction of phenols has been achieved with O-benzoyl- N-alkylhydroxylamines as aminating agents. This protocol provides a facile access to N-alkyl-substituted aminophenols though a radical reaction from phenols. The catalytic direct alkylamination operates at room temperature without the need of any ligands and additives to afford the desired products with excellent regioselectivity and functional group tolerance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Understanding how microbial communities adapt to environmental stresses is critical for interpreting ecological patterns and microbial diversity. In the case of the Gobi Desert, little is known on the environmental factors that explain hypolithic colonization under quartz stones. By analyzing nine hypolithic communities across an arid gradient and the effects of the season of the year in the Hexi Corridor of this desert, we found a significant decrease in hypolithic colonization rates (from 47.24 to 15.73%) with the increasing drought gradient and found two distinct communities in Hot and Cold samples, which survived or proliferated after a hot or a cold period. While Cold communities showed a greater species diversity and a predominance of Cyanobacteria, Hot communities showed a predominance of members of the Proteobacteria and the Firmicutes. In comparison, Cold communities also possessed stronger functions in the photosynthesis and carbon metabolism. Based on the findings of this study, we proposed that the hypolithic communities of the Hexi Corridor of the Gobi Desert might follow a seasonal developmental cycle in which temperature play an important role. Thus after a critical thermal threshold is crossed, heterotrophic microorganisms predominate in the hot period, while Cyanobacteria predominate in the cold period. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As a commercially important species in East Asia, the natural resources of Scapharca broughtonii have been suffering from severe population decline across its main habitats. In China, recovery efforts for S. broughtonii are in progress. To provide scientific bases for fisheries management and conservation program, genetic diversity and population structure of seven wild populations of S. broughtonii from the northern China coast was assessed using seven microsatellite loci in this study. High genetic diversity was present in all the seven populations, as observed in mean allelic richness per locus (11.3–12.5), and average expected heterozygosity (0.835–0.867). No significant difference in allelic richness or expected heterozygosity was observed among the seven populations. Pairwise F ST estimates and NJ tree topologies based on D C distances indicated that the seven populations fell into two groups, showing a clear division between the populations from the south and north of the Shandong Peninsula. Genetic differentiation was further analyzed using AMOVA and assignation tests. Genetic barrier analysis using Monmonier algorithm also confirmed that the Shandong Peninsula was the putative barrier separating the northern and southern populations. In addition, marine currents probably play an important role in high gene flow among three populations from the same marine gyre. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Eight silver(I) complexes containing DPEphos (bis[2-(diphenylphosphino)phenyl]ether) and dppe (bis(diphenylphosphino)ethane), namely [Ag 2 Cl 2 (DPEphos) 2 (dppe)](CH 3 OH) 2 (DMF) ( 1 ), [Ag 2 Br 2 (DPEphos) 2 ](DMF) 2 ( 2 ), [Ag 2 (OTf) 2 (DPEphos) 2 (dppe)] ( 3 ) (OTf = trifluoromethanesulfonate), [Ag 2 (NO 3 ) 2 (DPEphos) 2 (dppe)] ( 4 ), [Ag(DPEphos)(dppe)](OTf) ( 5 ), [Ag(NO 3 )(DPEphos)] ( 6 ), [Ag(NO 2 )(DPEphos)] ( 7 ) and [Ag(DPEphos)(dppe)](BF 4 ) ( 8 ), have been synthesized. They were characterized by IR spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction, RT luminescence, 1 H and 31 P NMR spectroscopy. Complexes 5 – 8 were obtained in the mixed solvents of CH 3 OH and CH 2 Cl 2 , while 1 – 4 were obtained in the mixed solvents of CH 3 OH, CH 2 Cl 2 and DMF (DMF = N,N-dimethylformamide). Complexes 1 – 4 display dinuclear structures, in which two silver atoms are bridged by one dppe ligand (for 1 , 3 and 4 ) or two Br atoms (for 2 ). The other four are mononuclear complexes. The 31 P NMR spectra of the title compounds are measured, each spectrum shows rich signals which belong to P atoms in different chemical environment. In the 31 P NMR spectra, there exist splitting signals (doublets or triplets) which can be attributed to the coupling of the 107,109 Ag– 31 P or 19 F– 31 P, where the coupling of 19 F– 31 P was found for the first time in silver(I)–P complexes containing OTf − or BF 4 − anions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Copper(I) species can be acquired from the reduction of copper(II) by ascorbic acid (AA) in situ, and which in turn quantitative catalyze the azides and alkynes cycloaddition reaction. In this study, propargyl-functionalized ferrocene (propargyl-functionalized Fc) has been modified on the electrode through reacting with azide terminal modified Au electrode via copper(I) catalyzed azides and alkynes cycloaddition (CuAAC) reaction. The electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) measurement has been applied to test the electron transfer resistance of the Au electrode before and after click reaction. The changes of the fractional surface coverage (θ) with different AA concentrations are characterized. It is found that the θ value has a linear response to the logarithm of AA concentration in the range of 5.0pmol/L to 1.0nmol/L with the detection limits of 2.6pmol/L. The sensor shows a good stability and selectivity. And it has been successfully applied to the AA detection in the real samples (urine) with satisfactory results. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Microwave-assisted coalbed methane (CBM) development is a very promising technology for engineering applications. The mechanism of the macro and micro thermal fracture of coal must be further discussed because of the thermal inhomogeneity of microwave caused by the heterogeneity and structural complexity of coal. In this study, the temperature, weight and P-wave velocity of anthracite were tested under low-energy microwave irradiation. The characteristics of fracture initiation, extension, and connectivity in coal after microwave irradiation were extracted from macroscopic and microscopic observations. Then the mechanisms of microwave thermal fracturing in anthracite were analyzed. The results showed that the temperature of anthracite under low-energy microwave irradiation varies asynchronously. The temperature distributions with high and low temperature partitions exhibit obvious bedding effects. The coal mass loss varies in stages with microwave irradiation time, first increasing slowly and then increasing dramatically above 500 °C. The P-wave velocity presents a decreasing trend with the increase of input microwave energy. Coal generates a complex fracture network at the micro and macro scales, with fractures expanding outwards in a divergent pattern. The nonuniformity of the temperature distribution promotes fracture development. It is related to the asynchronous heating caused by the mineral composition, water content, pore fracture structure, and electromagnetic field in coal. It is of great significance to improve the thermal fracturing efficiency by using the nonuniformity of microwave heat in the application of microwave-assisted CBM development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

C37H34AgBF4OP2, monoclinic, P21/ n (no. 14), a = 13.748(1) Å, b = 12.757(1) Å, c = 19.716(2) Å, β = 92.657(1)°, V = 3454.1 Å3, Z = 4, Rgt (F) = 0.0361, wRref (F2 ) = 0.1018, T = 298 K. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH), as one of the most severe hemorrhagic strokes, is closely related to neuronal damage. Neurogenesis is a promising therapy, however, reliable targets are currently lacking. Increasing evidence has indicated that CD24 is associated with the growth of hippocampal neurons and the regulation of neural stem/precursor cell proliferation. To investigate the potential effect of CD24 in astrocytes on neuron growth in the hippocampus, we used a Transwell co-culture system of hippocampal astrocytes and neurons, and oxyhemoglobin (OxyHb) was added to the culture medium to mimic SAH in vitro. A specific lentivirus was used to knock down CD24 expression in astrocytes, which was verified by western blot, quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction, and immunofluorescent staining. Astrocyte activation, neurite elongation, neuronal apoptosis, and cell viability were also assessed. We first determined the augmented expression level of CD24 in hippocampal astrocytes after SAH. A similar result was observed in cultured astrocytes exposed to OxyHb, and a corresponding change in SHP2/ERK was also noticed. CD24 in astrocytes was then downregulated by the lentivirus, which led to the impairment of axons and dendrites on the co-cultured neurons. Aggravated neuronal apoptosis was induced by the CD24 downregulation in astrocytes, which might be a result of a lower level of brain derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF). In conclusion, the knock-down of CD24 in astrocytes suppressed hippocampal neuron growth, in which the SHP2-ERK signaling pathway and BNDF were possibly involved. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The synthesis of controllable hollow graphitic architectures can engender revolutionary changes in nanotechnology. Here, we present the synthesis, processing, and possible applications of low aspect ratio hollow graphitic nanoscale architectures that can be precisely engineered into morphologies of (1) continuous carbon nanocups, (2) branched carbon nanocups, and (3) carbon nanotubes–carbon nanocups hybrid films. These complex graphitic nanocup-architectures could be fabricated by using a highly designed short anodized alumina oxide nanochannels, followed by a thermal chemical vapor deposition of carbon. The highly porous film of nanocups is mechanically flexible, highly conductive, and optically transparent, making the film attractive for various applications such as multifunctional and high-performance electrodes for energy storage devices, nanoscale containers for nanogram quantities of materials, and nanometrology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Here we demonstrate a high performance multifunctional thin primer film made from sandwich structured ultrathin carbon nanotube (CNT) networks and carbon nanotube-epoxy nanocomposite. For this, percolation enhanced CNT-epoxy nanocomposites were fabricated by mixing CNTs with two extremely different length/diameter aspect ratios followed by a unique convective coating process assembling SWNTs into ultrathin, uniform and large-scale film on hydrophobic CNT-epoxy substrates without any pretreatment of the surface. This multifunctional-sandwiched film exhibits relatively low surface roughness, high conductivities, excellent adherence to both polymers and metals, and tunable high EMI-shielding effectiveness of 32.54 dB in the range of 8.2–12.4 GHz (X-band). These results open the pathway to design multifunctional primer thin films that can be used for fabricating hybrid thermal management systems, EMI shielding film and structurally integrated sensors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aims to promote the protection and inheritance of cultural heritage in private gardens in the Jiangnan area of China. By establishing a precise visual labeling system and accelerating the construction of a database for private garden features, we deepen the understanding of garden design philosophy. To this end, we propose an improved Jiangnan private garden recognition model based on You Only Look Once (YOLO) v8. This model is particularly suitable for processing garden environments with characteristics such as single or complex structures, rich depth of field, and cluttered targets, effectively enhancing the accuracy and efficiency of object recognition. This design integrates the Diverse Branch Block (DBB), Bidirectional Feature Pyramid Network (BiFPN), and Dynamic Head modules (DyHead) to optimize model accuracy, feature fusion, and object detection representational capability, respectively. The enhancements elevated the model's accuracy by 8.7%, achieving a mean average precision (mAP@0.5) value of 57.1%. A specialized dataset, comprising 4890 images and encapsulating various angles and lighting conditions of Jiangnan private gardens, was constructed to realize this. Following manual annotation and the application of diverse data augmentation strategies, the dataset bolsters the generalization and robustness of the model. Experimental outcomes reveal that, compared to its predecessor, the improved model has witnessed increments of 15.16%, 3.25%, and 11.88% in precision, mAP0.5, and mAP0.5:0.95 metrics, respectively, demonstrating exemplary performance in the accuracy and real-time recognition of garden target elements. This research not only furnishes robust technical support for the digitization and intelligent research of Jiangnan private gardens but also provides a potent methodological reference for object detection and classification research in analogous domains. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Menaquinone-4(MK-4), the isoform of vitamin K2 in the brain, exerts neuroprotective effects against a variety of central nervous system disorders. This study aimed to demonstrate the anti-ferroptosis effects of MK-4 in neurons after SAH. Methods: A subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) model was prepared by endovascular perforation in mice. In vitro hemoglobin stimulation of primary cortical neurons mimicked SAH. MK-4, Brequinar (BQR, DHODH inhibitor), and Selisistat (SEL, SIRT1 inhibitor) were administered, respectively. Subsequently, WB, immunofluorescence was used to determine protein expression and localization, and transmission electron microscopy was used to observe neuronal mitochondrial structure while other indicators of ferroptosis were measured. Results: MK-4 treatment significantly upregulated the protein levels of DHODH; decreased GSH, PTGS2, NOX1, ROS, and restored mitochondrial membrane potential. Meanwhile, MK-4 upregulated the expression of SIRT1 and promoted its entry into the nucleus. BQR or SEL partially abolished the protective effect of MK-4 on, neurologic function, and ferroptosis. Conclusions: Taken together, our results suggest that MK-4 attenuates ferroptosis after SAH by upregulating DHODH through the activation of SIRT1. SAH: subarachnoid hemorrhage; ROS: reactive oxygen species; MK-4: menaquinone-4; DHODH: dihydroorotate dehydrogenase; SLC7A11: solute carrier family 7 member 11; GPX4: glutathione peroxidase-4; SIRT1: sirtuin 1; CoQ: Coenzyme Q; MDA: malondialdehyde; PLOOH: phospholipid hydroperoxides. [Display omitted] • Menaquinone-4 improves neurologic function and attenuates ferroptosis after SAH. • Menaquinone-4 attenuates ferroptosis after SAH by upregulating DHODH. • Activation of SIRT1 is a potential mechanism for Menaquinone-4 upregulation of DHODH. • Vitamin K2 levels in cerebrospinal fluid of SAH patients was significantly reduced. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Microwave energy and in situ stress cooperatively influence the permeability of coal reservoirs in microwave-assisted coalbed methane (CBM) extraction. In this study, the combined influence of microwave energy and load on the failure characteristics of coal reservoirs was investigated using acoustic emission (AE) technology. The failure characteristics of anthracite derived from microwave irradiation during uniaxial compression was analyzed from aspects such as the correlation dimension (D) of the AE time series, b-value, and AF–RA correlation. Then the combined mechanism of microwave energy and in situ stress was explored. The results indicated that microwave energy significantly affected the AE activity of anthracite under loading. Moreover, microwave irradiation lessened the damage intensity and increased the crush degree during loading. After low-energy microwave (≤ 90 kJ) irradiation, the AE signals of anthracite were active only in the unstable crack growth stage, with less damage under load, and mainly characterized by the rapid expansion of large fractures. In contrast, after high-energy microwave (> 90 kJ) irradiation, AE signals penetrate the entire loading process, and the required energy for damage decreased, mostly manifested as small-scale microcracks. Additionally, microwave irradiation changed the failure mode of anthracite under loading from shear failure to tensile failure. In summary, microwave thermal effect reduced the stress threshold for fracture propagation by improving the physical structure of coal reservoirs. Cracks initiated by microwave irradiation could cause in situ stress redistribution, forming stress reduction areas and stress concentration areas, thereby accelerating the expansion of fracture networks. Therefore, the results of this study have great significance for optimizing the scheme of microwave-assisted CBM extraction and improving the CBM production rate through effective utilization of in situ stress. Highlights: Microwave irradiation enhances the AE activity of anthracite under load. Microwave irradiation decreases the failure intensity and increases the damage degree of anthracite. Microwave irradiation changes the failure mode of anthracite from shear failure to tensile failure. The cooperative mechanism of microwave energy and in situ stress during microwave-assisted CBM extraction is discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To realize high performance and a flexible supercapacitor, it is necessary to address the fundamental issues including low ionic conductivity of solid electrolytes and high interfacial resistance of electrode/electrolyte pairs. Here we present unique solid-state electrolytes by integrating highly engineered nano-porous polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) with super-flat vertically aligned single-walled carbon nanotubes (VA-SWNTs). Highly engineered PVA nano-porous films are fabricated by a generic freeze-thaw process followed by water-miscible solvent treatment in order to create highly controlled nano/microscale pores inside of PVA. Such highly porous PVA films act as both reconfigurable electrolyte template and separator where H 3 PO 4 aqueous solution or ionic liquids can be selectively inserted for a variety of power requirements in flexible electronic applications. Our developed pore formation process is suitable for directly integrating high performance VA-SWNTs electrode as it allows the effective permeation of the polymer electrolyte into nanoscale inter-tube space enabling the easy access and faster transport of ions for higher power capability. This unique entity of reconfigurable electrolyte and nanostructured electrode demonstrates high power and energy densities and remarkable stability after 10,000 charge/discharge cycles. Image 1 • Reconfigurable/solvent exchangeable electrolytes with highly controlled nanopores. • Highly integrated structure that results in increase ion accessibility/mobility. • Ionic liquid based solid-state supercapacitor exhibits stable operation at 2 V • High power and energy density, and excellent long-term stability with 10 K cycles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The phagocytosis and homeostasis of microglia play an important role in promoting blood clearance and improving prognosis after subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH). LC3-assocaited phagocytosis (LAP) contributes to the microglial phagocytosis and homeostasis via autophagy-related components. With RNA-seq sequencing, we found potential signal pathways and genes which were important for the LAP of microglia. Methods: We used an in vitro model of oxyhemoglobin exposure as SAH model in the study. RNA-seq sequencing was performed to seek critical signal pathways and genes in regulating LAP. Bioparticles were used to access the phagocytic ability of microglia. Western blot (WB), immunoprecipitation, quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) and immunofluorescence were performed to detect the expression change of LAP-related components and investigate the potential mechanisms. Results: In vitro SAH model, there were increased inflammation and decreased phagocytosis in microglia. At the same time, we found that the LAP of microglia was inhibited in all stages. RNA-seq sequencing revealed the importance of P38 MAPK signal pathway and DAPK1 in regulating microglial LAP. P38 was found to regulate the expression of DAPK1, and P38-DAPK1 axis was identified to regulate the LAP and homeostasis of microglia after SAH. Finally, we found that P38-DAPK1 axis regulated expression of BECN1, which indicated the potential mechanism of P38-DAPK1 axis regulating microglial LAP. Conclusion: P38-DAPK1 axis regulated the LAP of microglia via BECN1, affecting the phagocytosis and homeostasis of microglia in vitro SAH model. 3q9dhMG-MSCUeK5kURXPjH Video Abstract [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Visible converted emissions produced at an excitation of 286 nm in ZnNb2O6 ceramics doped with rare-earth ions (RE = Eu3+, Tm3+, Er3+ or a combination of these ions) were investigated with the aim of increasing the photovoltaic efficiency of solar cells. The structure of RE:ZnNb2O6 ceramics was confirmed by x-ray diffraction patterns. The undoped ZnNb2O6 could emit a blue emission under 286-nm excitation, which is attributed to the self-trapped excitons’ recombination of the efficient luminescence centers of edge-shared NbO6 groups. Upon 286-nm excitation, Eu:ZnNb2O6, Tm:ZnNb2O6, and Er:ZnNb2O6 ceramics showed blue, green, and red emissions, which correspond to the transitions of 5D0 → 7FJ (J = 1−4) (Eu3+), 1G4 → 3H6 (Tm3+), and 2H11/2/4S3/2 → 4I15/2 (Er3+), respectively. The calculated CIE chromaticity coordinates of Eu:ZnNb2O6, Tm:ZnNb2O6, and Er:ZnNb2O6 are (0.50, 0.31), (0.14, 0.19), and (0.29, 0.56), respectively. RE ion-co-doped ZnNb2O6 showed a combination of characteristic emissions. The chromaticity coordinates of Eu/Tm:ZnNb2O6, Eu/Er:ZnNb2O6, and Tm/Er:ZnNb2O6 were calculated to be (0.29, 0.24), (0.45, 0.37), and (0.17, 0.25). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Subarachnoid haemorrhage (SAH) has a high rate of disability and mortality. Extremely damaging molecules, including adenosine triphosphate (ATP), are released from extravasated red blood cells and nerve cells, which activate microglia and induce sterile tissue injury and organ dysfunction. P2X purinoceptor 7 (P2X7) is one of the most important purine receptors on the microglial surface and is involved in the proinflammatory activation of microglia. While P2X7 can also affect microglial phagocytosis, the mechanism is not clear. Here, we demonstrated that microglial phagocytosis is progressively impaired under continued BzATP exposure and P2X7 activation. Furthermore, we found that P2X7 activation leads to increased intracellular Ca2+ levels and activates Calcineurin, which dephosphorylates dynamin‐related protein 1 (DRP1) S637. The dephosphorylation of DRP1 at S637 leads to increased mitochondrial fission and decreased mitochondrial function, which may be responsible for the decreased microglial phagocytosis. Finally, we pharmacologically inhibited P2X7 activation in mice, which resulted in rescue of mitochondrial function and decreased microglial proliferation, but improved phagocytosis after SAH. Our study confirmed that P2X7 activation after SAH leads to the impairment of microglial phagocytosis through mitochondrial fission and verified that P2X7 inhibition restores microglial phagocytosis both in vitro and in vivo. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Concrete structures are prone to damage from various factors, particularly chloride ion penetration, which can lead to premature deterioration. Although self-repairing materials can mitigate damage and erosion, methods for evaluating their efficacy are lacking. This study explores concrete damage development, chloride and water transport in damaged concrete, and post-repair transport behavior. A comprehensive mechanical-transport-healing model for concrete was established to investigate the influence of damage and self-healing rates on chloride distribution. Results show that tensile loads under 5 μm have minimal impact on concrete transport, whereas larger displacements significantly accelerate water and chloride migration. This acceleration resulted in a 66 % increase in the chloride concentration at a depth of 15 mm with a displacement of 10 mm. Higher self-healing rates effectively reduced the chloride concentration within the 10–30 mm range. Increasing the healing rate from 70 % to 90 % led to 75 % and 35 % decreases in the chloride concentration at a depth of 30 mm after 100 years, respectively. These findings provide valuable insights into the relationship between the mechanical damage and chloride transport in concrete, which can inform the development of strategies for enhancing the durability of concrete structures exposed to chloride-rich environments. • A coupled mechanical-transport-healing numerical model is developed. • The relationship between damage on the acceleration of concrete erosion medium transport was quantified. • The effect of self-healing rate on the transport properties of damaged concrete was calculated, and the self-healing rate requirement for damaged concrete was proposed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study involves the application of the non-contact electrical resistivity measurement (NC-ERM) as a non-destructive method to continuously and in-situ measure the resistivity changes of cement-based materials. The NC-ERM was enhanced and utilized to evaluate the resistivity of the materials, and the steady-state chloride diffusion coefficients of various types of cement-based materials were experimentally determined. The results revealed that the highest resistivity was observed in mortar with a sand-to-cement ratio of 1.0 and concrete with an aggregate-to-cement ratio of 0.6, and the steady-state chloride diffusion coefficient increased with the concentration of the pore solution. Furthermore, a novel multi-level series-parallel model was developed to predict the resistivity and steady-state chloride diffusion coefficient of cement-based materials, with calculated values differing by 5% or less. The calculated chloride diffusion coefficient closely matched the value obtained from NC-ERM, indicating the satisfactory accuracy of the non-destructive experiment and theoretical calculation model. [Display omitted] • A non-contact method for chloride diffusion coefficients is provided. • A theoretical model for chloride diffusion coefficient prediction is provided. • 1.0 Sand-binder and 0.6 aggregate-binder ratio show highest electrical resistance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pyruvate dehydrogenase (PDH), a key enzyme on the mitochondrial outer membrane, has been found to decrease activity notably in early brain injury (EBI) after subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH). It has been demonstrated that PDH is associated with the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and apoptosis. Hence, in this study, we aimed to determine the cause of the decreased PDH activity and explore the potential role of PDH in EBI. We investigated the expression changes of PDH and pyruvate dehydrogenase kinase (PDK) in vivo and in vitro. Then, we explored the possible effects of PDH and ROS after SAH. The results showed that early overexpression of PDK4 promoted the phosphorylation of PDH, inhibited PDH activity, and may play a protective role after SAH in vivo and in vitro. Finally, we investigated the levels of PDK4 and pyruvate, which accumulated due to decreased PDH activity, in the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) of 34 patients with SAH. Statistical analysis revealed that PDK4 and pyruvate expression was elevated in the CSF of SAH patients compared with that of controls, and this high expression correlated with the degree of neurological impairment and long-term outcome. Taken together, the results show that PDK4 has the potential to serve as a new therapeutic target and biomarker for assisting in the diagnosis of SAH severity and prediction of recovery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims: Metabolic disorders may play key roles in oxidative stress and neuronal apoptosis in response to early brain injury (EBI) after subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH). Pyruvate dehydrogenase (PDH) is related to oxidative stress in EBI, and its activity obviously decreases after SAH. We discovered that only pyruvate dehydrogenase kinase 4 (PDK4) expression was obviously increased among the four PDK isozymes after SAH in preliminary experiments. Therefore, we attempted to investigate the effects and corresponding mechanisms of PDK4 on oxidative stress after SAH. Results: First, we confirmed that PDK4 overexpression promoted PDH phosphorylation, inhibited PDH activity, and changed cell metabolism after SAH. A small interfering RNA (siRNA) targeting PDK4, a lentiviral PDK4 overexpression vector, and dichloroacetic acid (DCA) were used to regulate the expression and activity of PDK4. The siRNA decreased PDH phosphorylation, promoted reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, activated the apoptosis signal-regulating kinase 1 (ASK1)/P38 pathway, and induced neuronal apoptosis. The lentivirus further attenuated PDH activity, oxidative stress, and neuronal apoptosis. DCA inhibited the activity of PDK4, but increased the expression of PDK4 due to a feedback mechanism. Inactivated PDK4 did not effectively suppress PDH activity, which increased ROS production, activated the ASK1/P38 pathway, and led to neuronal apoptosis. Innovation: This study provides new insights into the potential antioxidant and antiapoptotic effects of the PDK4-PDH axis on EBI after SAH. Conclusions: The early overexpression of PDK4 after SAH may attenuate neuronal apoptosis by reducing oxidative stress via the ROS/ASK1/P38 pathway. PDK4 may be a new potential therapeutic target to ameliorate EBI after SAH. Antioxid. Redox Signal. 36, 505–524. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this research endeavor, a novel synthesis variable-gain robust model predictive control (SVGRPC) method using the min-max technique with parameter dependent Lyapunov functions is introduced to achieve the desired trajectory tracking of oxygen excess ratio (OER) and cathode pressure in the polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs) system. Initially, a simplified control-oriented model of the air supply system is developed and then transformed into a polytopic form to accommodate the inherent uncertainties in the PEMFC. Subsequently, the polytopic model is integrated with the reference trajectory to construct an augmented state-space model for deriving an error state representation. In the framework of robust model predictive control (RPC) utilizing a parameter-dependent Lyapunov function, a series of variable feedback gains are employed to mitigate conservatism. Additionally, the online solution process imposes a significant computational burden, presenting challenges for the real-time implementation of RPC-based control strategy. Therefore, the offline computing is introduced to significantly reduce the computational burden, resulting in the development of the SVGRPC strategy proposed in this paper. Subsequently, the SVGRPC strategy computes explicit linear state-feedback control laws by solving linear matrix inequalities (LMIs) using an offline control algorithm. The effectiveness of the proposed controller is then validated through assessments conducted under three distinct operating conditions of the PEMFC system. The outcomes of this study affirm that the proposed controller improves the requirements of control performance when compared to the online RPC with a quadratic Lyapunov function while significantly alleviating the computational workload. • A polytopic air supply subsystem model to capture the uncertainties inherent in the PEMFC. • A robust model predictive control framework with variable feedback gains is employed to mitigate conservatism. • The offline computation method is used to reduce the computational burden. • Comparison with other methods shows the advantages of the proposed method. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Xiang-Xin Chen and Tao Tao have contributed equally to this work. Correction to: Neurochemical Research https://doi.org/10.1007/s11064-021-03468-x In the original version of this article, the given and family names of all the authors were incorrectly structured. [Extracted from the article]

As thermal structure components in scramjet engines, carbon-reinforced silicon carbide (C/SiC) composites are often subject to an ablation coupled with heat and particle flows. This study simulates the working environment of the scramjet engine's thermal structure component by coupling an Al 2 O 3 particle flow with a plasma flow. The ablation behaviour of C/SiC composites in the presence and absence of particle impact have been comprehensively analysed. The results show that the factor dominating the ablation behaviour varies with temperature. At relatively low temperatures, the particles have difficulty breaking down the dense SiO 2 layer formed from the oxidation of SiC in the presence of heat flow which is the dominant factor. As the temperature rises, the SiC begins to shift towards active oxidation. A few defects appear in the oxide layer, leading to a significant particle mechanical flaking effect. Particle flow is the dominant factor. However, a higher temperature led to the substantial active oxidation of SiC, and the oxide layer dissipated, exposing more defects. The heat flow causes a strong oxidation reaction, and the scouring effect of the particles is significant as well, both of which play a dominant role in the ablation process. • At lower ablation temperatures, SiC forms a dense oxide layer, with heat flow predominantly governing the ablation process. • As temperature rises, SiC undergoes active oxidation, resulting in defects within the oxide layer, where particle flow controls the ablation process. • At higher temperatures, both heat flow and particle flow jointly govern the ablation process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• The joint effects of specimen size and anisotropy on the mode I fracture toughness of coal were studied. • The pure mode I fracture toughness of anisotropic coal was obtained for the first time through modified semi-circular bending test. • A four-dimensional lattice spring model was established based on the cohesive zone model considering bedding planes. • The size effect model of fracture toughness considering microcrack and bedding angle and the anisotropy model considering specimen size were established. Obtaining the accurate fracture toughness of coal considering bedding angle and independent of size is of great significance to the evaluation of the initiation pressure in the hydraulic fracturing of coal seam. In this study, the newly proposed modified semi-circular bending test was used to conduct mode I fracture testing of coal samples with different sizes and bedding angles. A four-dimensional lattice spring model (4D-LSM) was established based on the cohesive zone model considering bedding planes to study the effects of specimen size and bedding angle the fracture toughness and fracture pattern of coal. The size effect and anisotropy characteristics of fracture toughness of coal were analyzed by using linear elastic fracture mechanics and Bazant size effect law (SEL) theory. The results show that the fracture toughness of coal has obvious size effect and anisotropy. In quasi-brittle materials, the fracture toughness increases with the increase of specimen size due to the fracture process zone (FPZ). However, the fracture toughness of coal affected by microcracks generally decreases with the increase of specimen size. The size effect of fracture toughness of coal is jointly determined by the FPZ with increasing effect and the microcrack with reducing effect. The fracture toughness of coal increases with the increase of bedding angle. The bedding angle has no influence on the fracture toughness size effect of coal, but the microcracks associated with the bedding plane have a greater influence on the fracture toughness size effect. The specimen size only affects the fracture toughness value, but has no obvious effect on the fracture toughness anisotropy. Based on Bazant SEL theory, a fracture toughness size effect model considering microcracks and bedding angles was established. The research results have reference significance for crack initiation and propagation in hydraulic fracturing of coal seam. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Purpose: Dioscin has multiple biological activities and is beneficial for cardiovascular and cerebral vascular diseases. Here, we investigated the protective effects of dioscin against subarachnoid haemorrhage and the molecular mechanisms involved.Experimental Approach: Dioscin was administered after subarachnoid haemorrhage induced in rats. MCC950, a potent selective nod-like receptor pyrin domain-containing 3 (NLRP3) inhibitor, was used to suppress NLRP3 and EX527 (selisistat) was used to inhibit sirtuin 1 (SIRT1).Key Results: In vivo, dioscin inhibited acute inflammatory response, oxidative damage, neurological impairment and neural cell degeneration after subarachnoid haemorrhage along with dramatically suppressing NLRP3 inflammasome activation. While pretreatment with MCC950 reduced the inflammatory response and improved neurological outcomes it did not lessen ROS production. However, giving dioscin after MCC950 reduced acute brain damage and ROS production. Dioscin increased SIRT1 expression after subarachnoid haemorrhage, whereas EX527 abolished the up-regulation of SIRT1 induced by dioscin and offset the inhibitory effects of dioscin on NLRP3 inflammasome activation. EX527 pretreatment also reversed the neuroprotective effects of dioscin against subarachnoid haemorrhage. Similarly, in vitro, dioscin dose-dependently suppressed inflammatory response, oxidative damage and neuronal degeneration and improved cell viability in neurons and microglia co-culture system. These effects were associated with inhibition of the NLRP3 inflammasome and stimulation of SIRT1 signalling, which could be inhibited by EX527 pretreatment.Conclusion and Implications: Dioscin provides protection against subarachnoid haemorrhage via the suppression of NLRP3 inflammasome activation through SIRT1-dependent pathway. Dioscin may be a new candidate to ameliorate early brain injury after subarachnoid haemorrhage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Herein, a novel sensitive electrochemical sensor for copper(II) based on Cu(I) catalyzed alkyne–azide cycloaddition reaction (CuAAC) is described. The catalyst of Cu(I) species is derived from electrochemical reduction of Cu(II) through bulk electrolysis (BE) with coulometry technique. The propargyl-functionalized ferrocene (propargyl-functionalized Fc) is covalently coupled onto the electrode surface via CuAAC reaction and forms propargyl-functionalized Fc modified gold electrode, which allows a good and stable electrochemical signal. The change of current at peak (dI), detected by differential pulse voltammetry (DPV), exhibits a linear response to the logarithm of Cu(II) concentration in the range of 1.0×10−14–1.0×10−9 molL−1. It is also found that the proposed sensor has a good selectivity for copper(II) assay even in the presence of other common metal ions. Additionally, the proposed method has been applied to determine copper(II) in the dairy product (yoghurt) with satisfactory results. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Background and Purpose: Oxidative stress and neuronal apoptosis play key roles in traumatic brain injury. We investigated the protective effects of astaxanthin against traumatic brain injury and its underlying mechanisms of action.Experimental Approach: A weight-drop model of traumatic brain injury in vivo and hydrogen peroxide exposure in vitro model were established. Brain oedema, behaviour tests, western blot, biochemical analysis, lesion volume, histopathological study and cell viability were performed.Key Results: Astaxanthin significantly reduced oxidative insults on Days 1, 3 and 7 after traumatic brain injury. Neuronal apoptosis was also ameliorated on Day 3. Additionally, astaxanthin improved neurological functions up to 3 weeks after traumatic brain injury. Astaxanthin treatment dramatically enhanced the expression of peroxiredoxin 2 (Prx2), nuclear factor-erythroid 2-related factor 2 (NRF2/Nrf2) and sirtuin 1 (SIRT1), while it down-regulated the phosphorylation of apoptosis signal-regulating kinase 1 (ASK1) and p38. Inhibition of Prx2 by siRNA injection reversed the beneficial effects of astaxanthin against traumatic brain injury. Additionally, Nrf2 knockout prevented the neuroprotective effects of astaxanthin in traumatic brain injury. In contrast, overexpression of Prx2 in Nrf2 knockout mice attenuated the secondary brain injury after traumatic brain injury. Moreover, inhibiting SIRT1 by EX527 dramatically inhibited the neuroprotective effects of astaxanthin and suppressed SIRT1/Nrf2/Prx2/ASK1/p38 pathway both in vivo and in vitro.Conclusion and Implications: Astaxanthin improved the neurological functions and protected the brain from injury after traumatic brain injury, primarily by reducing oxidative stress and neuronal death via SIRT1/Nrf2/Prx2/ASK1/p38 signalling pathway and might be a new candidate to ameliorate traumatic brain injury. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]