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In a real-world regression problem, the variance usually varies with the location, which brings difficulties in prediction of the response. Existing heteroscedastic regression methods suffer from inaccurate estimation and/or high computational complexity, and cannot be used to construct satisfactory prediction intervals for small or large data. This article focuses on the problem of constructing prediction intervals of the response under heteroscedastic regression models. We apply the reconstruction approach to parameterize the mean and variance functions as forms of kernel interpolation, and use the maximum likelihood estimation method to estimate the parameters. Our method allows a small number of parameters in the parameterization forms, and only requires low computational cost. Based on these estimators and some Bayesian modifications, we provide three classes of prediction intervals. Numerical experiments for both small and large datasets indicate that they are very competitive compared with existing heteroscedastic regression methods in terms of coverage rate and computational complexity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The rapid development of deep learning techniques has greatly improved the performance of medical image segmentation, and medical image segmentation networks based on convolutional neural networks and Transformer have been widely used in this field. However, due to the limitation of the restricted receptive field of convolutional operation and the lack of local fine information extraction ability of the self-attention mechanism in Transformer, the current neural networks with pure convolutional or Transformer structure as the backbone still perform poorly in medical image segmentation.In this paper, we propose FDB-Net (Fusion Double Branch Network, FDB-Net), a double branch medical image segmentation network combining CNN and Transformer, by using a CNN containing g n Conv blocks and a Transformer containing Varied-Size Window Attention (VWA) blocks as the feature extraction backbone network, the dual-path encoder ensures that the network has a global receptive field as well as access to the target local detail features. We also propose a new feature fusion module (Deep Feature Fusion, DFF), which helps the image to simultaneously fuse features from two different structural encoders during the encoding process, ensuring the effective fusion of global and local information of the image.Our model achieves advanced results in all three typical tasks of medical image segmentation, which fully validates the effectiveness of FDB-Net. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aiming at the problem of load increase in distribution network and low satisfaction of vehicle owners caused by disorderly charging of electric vehicles, an optimal scheduling model of electric vehicles considering the comprehensive satisfaction of vehicle owners is proposed. In this model, the dynamic electricity price and charging and discharging state of electric vehicles are taken as decision variables, and the income of electric vehicle charging stations, the comprehensive satisfaction of vehicle owners considering economic benefits and the load fluctuation of electric vehicles are taken as optimization objectives. The improved NSGA-III algorithm (DJM-NSGA-III) based on dynamic opposition-based learning strategy, Jaya algorithm and Manhattan distance is used to solve the problems of low initial population quality, easy to fall into local optimal solution and ignoring potential optimal solution when NSGA-III algorithm is used to solve the multi-objective and high-dimensional scheduling model. The experimental results show that the proposed method can improve the owner's satisfaction while improving the income of the charging station, effectively alleviate the conflict of interest between the two, and maintain the safe and stable operation of the distribution network. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Understanding human actions often requires in-depth detection and interpretation of bio-signals. Early eye disengagement from the target (EEDT) represents a significant eye behavior that involves the proactive disengagement of the gazes from the target to gather information on the anticipated pathway, thereby enabling rapid reactions to the environment. It remains unknown how task difficulty and task repetition affect EEDT. We aim to provide direct evidence of how these factors influence EEDT. We developed a visual tracking task in which participants viewed arrow movement videos while their eye movements were tracked. The task complexity was increased by increasing movement steps. Every movement pattern was performed twice to assess the effect of repetition on eye movement. Participants were required to recall the movement patterns for recall accuracy evaluation and complete cognitive load assessment. EEDT was quantified by the fixation duration and frequency within the areas of eye before arrow. When task difficulty increased, we found the recall accuracy score decreased, the cognitive load increased, and EEDT decreased significantly. The EEDT was higher in the second trial, but significance only existed in tasks with lower complexity. EEDT was positively correlated with recall accuracy and negatively correlated with cognitive load. Performing EEDT was reduced by task complexity and increased by task repetition. EEDT may be a promising sensory measure for assessing task performance and cognitive load and can be used for the future development of eye-tracking-based sensors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The current standard of care for advanced human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2)‐positive breast cancer is pertuzumab plus trastuzumab and docetaxel as first‐line therapy. However, with the development of newer treatment regimens, there is a lack of evidence regarding which is the optimal treatment strategy. The aim of this network meta‐analysis was to evaluate the efficacy and safety of first‐line regimens for advanced HER2‐positive breast cancer by indirect comparisons. Methods: A systematic review and Bayesian network meta‐analysis were conducted. The PubMed, EMBASE, and Cochrane Library databases were searched for relevant articles published through to December 2023. The hazard ratio (HR) and 95% credible interval (CrI) were used to compare progression‐free survival (PFS) between treatments, and the odds ratio and 95% CrI were used to compare the objective response rate (ORR) and safety. Results: Twenty randomized clinical trials that included 15 regimens and 7094 patients were analyzed. Compared with the traditional trastuzumab and docetaxel regimen, PFS was longer on the pyrotinib and trastuzumab plus docetaxel regimen (HR: 0.41, 95% CrI: 0.22–0.75) and the pertuzumab and trastuzumab plus docetaxel regimen (HR: 0.65, 95% CrI: 0.43–0.98). Consistent with the results for PFS, the ORR was better on the pyrotinib and trastuzumab plus docetaxel regimen and the pertuzumab and trastuzumab plus docetaxel regimen than on the traditional trastuzumab and docetaxel regimen. The surface under the cumulative ranking curve indicated that the pyrotinib and trastuzumab plus docetaxel regimen was most likely to rank first in achieving the best PFS and ORR. Comparable results were found for grade ≥3 AE rates of ≥10%. Conclusions: Our results suggest that the pyrotinib and trastuzumab plus docetaxel regimen is most likely to be the optimal first‐line therapy for patients with HER2‐positive breast cancer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: CDK4/6 inhibitors in combination with traditional endocrine therapy (ET) have become the recommended first‐line therapy for HR‐positive/HER2‐negative metastatic breast cancer (MBC). The aim of this prospective study was to evaluate the relationship between HER2‐low expression and clinical outcomes in HR‐positive/HER2‐negative MBC patients receiving ET with or without CDK4/6 inhibitors. Methods: Between April 2016 and November 2019, 233 women with HR‐positive/HER2‐negative MBC who received ET with or without CDK4/6 inhibitors were enrolled into the study. The primary endpoint was progression‐free survival (PFS). Statistical analysis included descriptive statistics, Kaplan–Meier curves, and Cox proportional hazards models. Results: HER2‐low and HER2‐zero subgroups in the CDK4/6 inhibitor plus ET cohort showed no significant difference in the median PFS (10.9 vs. 8.0 months; hazard ratio: 0.92; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.64–1. 30; p = 0.65), while HER2‐low subgroup showed a significantly shorter median PFS compared to the HER2‐zero subgroup in the ET alone cohort (5.6 vs. 17.0 months; hazard ratio: 2.82; 95% CI: 1.34–5.93; p = 0.0044). Moreover, the objective response rate was significantly lower in the HER2‐low subgroup than the HER2‐zero subgroup in the ET alone cohort (10.5% vs. 40.0%, p = 0.047). Lastly, no significant difference was observed in the overall survival between the HER2‐low and HER2‐zero subgroups in both cohorts. Conclusion: This study suggested that HER2‐low expression may predict the efficacy of ET but not that of CDK4/6 inhibitor plus ET in HR‐positive/HER2‐negative MBC patients. The results of this study highlight the importance of integrating HER2 status in tailoring personalized treatment strategies for HR‐positive MBC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Despite purpose measures being developed for adolescents, quantitative research investigating purposes prior to late adolescence and in non‐Western societies remains nascent. This study evaluated the psychometric soundness of the Claremont Purpose Scale among Chinese adolescents. An initial prestudy (n = 34) was conducted to ensure linguistic equivalence. Subsequently, Study 1 (n = 1691) assessed the scale's reliability and factor structure, also investigating its functional equivalence across gender, adolescence stages, and language versions at the item level. Study 2 (n = 7842) investigated the scale's construct, convergent, predictive, and incremental validity, as well as tested for the scale's measurement invariance across different groups at the scale level. The results support the scale's use as a tool for researchers and practitioners to understand and cultivate purpose in adolescents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pupil size is a significant biosignal for human behavior monitoring and can reveal much underlying information. This study explored the effects of task load, task familiarity, and gaze position on pupil response during learning a visual tracking task. We hypothesized that pupil size would increase with task load, up to a certain level before decreasing, decrease with task familiarity, and increase more when focusing on areas preceding the target than other areas. Fifteen participants were recruited for an arrow tracking learning task with incremental task load. Pupil size data were collected using a Tobii Pro Nano eye tracker. A 2 × 3 × 5 three-way factorial repeated measures ANOVA was conducted using R (version 4.2.1) to evaluate the main and interactive effects of key variables on adjusted pupil size. The association between individuals' cognitive load, assessed by NASA-TLX, and pupil size was further analyzed using a linear mixed-effect model. We found that task repetition resulted in a reduction in pupil size; however, this effect was found to diminish as the task load increased. The main effect of task load approached statistical significance, but different trends were observed in trial 1 and trial 2. No significant difference in pupil size was detected among the three gaze positions. The relationship between pupil size and cognitive load overall followed an inverted U curve. Our study showed how pupil size changes as a function of task load, task familiarity, and gaze scanning. This finding provides sensory evidence that could improve educational outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Asymmetric one‐carbon homologation or ring expansion of ketones with formal insertion of carbene intermediate, is a challenging but useful strategy to construct a complex skeleton. Sc(III) and chiral ligands have been employed in this regard. However, due to flexible conformations and a variety of stereo models, the origin of stereochemistry remains ambiguous. Density functional theory (DFT) calculations were carried out to explore the interactions that control the stereoselectivity of a Sc(III)‐catalyzed asymmetric homologation. The trans influence of counterions was found to affect the coordination mode of ketone to Sc(III), and consequently affect the stereoselectivity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Beneficial Bacillus subtilis (BS) symbiosis could combat root pathogenesis, but it relies on root‐secreted sugars. Understanding the molecular control of sugar flux during colonization would benefit biocontrol applications. The SWEET (Sugar Will Eventually Be Exported Transporter) uniporter regulates microbe‐induced sugar secretion from roots; thus, its homologs may modulate sugar distribution upon BS colonization. Quantitative polymerase chain reaction revealed that gene transcripts of SWEET2, but not SWEET16 and 17, were significantly induced in seedling roots after 12 h of BS inoculation. Particularly, SWEET2‐β‐glucuronidase fusion proteins accumulated in the apical mature zone where BS abundantly colonized. Yet, enhanced BS colonization in sweet2 mutant roots suggested a specific role for SWEET2 to constrain BS propagation, probably by limiting hexose secretion. By employing yeast one‐hybrid screening and ectopic expression in Arabidopsis protoplasts, the transcription factor AHL29 was identified to function as a repressor of SWEET2 expression through the AT‐hook motif. Repression occurred despite immunity signals. Additionally, enhanced SWEET2 expression and reduced colonies were specifically detected in roots of BS‐colonized ahl29 mutant. Taken together, we propose that BS colonization may activate repression of AHL29 on SWEET2 transcription that would be enhanced by immunity signals, thereby maintaining adequate sugar secretion for a beneficial Bacillus association. Summary statement: Arabidopsis vacuolar SWEET2 transporter limits root sugar secretion upon colonization with beneficial Bacillus subtilis. The AT‐hook protein AHL29 binds to the SWEET2 promoter to repress its immunity‐induced expression, thereby promoting adequate carbon for a mutualistic association with Bacillus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cohesion between team members is critical for surgical performance. Our previous study has shown that the experience of working together (measured by Team Familiarity Score, TFS) helps reduce procedure time (PT). However, that conclusion was found in a relatively small sample size. With a large dataset including mixed general surgical procedures, we hypothesize that team familiarity makes a significant contribution to the improvement of team performance in complex cases, rather than in medium or basic surgical cases, measured by the procedure time, length of hospital stays (LOS), and surgical cost (COST). Patient demographics, operation, and patient outcome data of 922 general surgery cases were included. The cases were divided into three subgroups, including basic, medium, and complex surgical procedures. TFS and an Index of Difficulty of Surgery (IDS) were calculated for each procedure. Simple linear regression and random forest regressions were performed to analyze the association between surgical outcomes and all included independent variables (TFS, IDS, patient age, patient weight, and team size). When applied to complex cases, procedure time (r = −0.21) and cost (r = −0.23) dropped as TFS increases. In basic and medium surgical cases, increasing team familiarity failed to shorten the procedure time on average. Team familiarity is more important in complex cases because there is greater potential for improvement through team collaboration compared to basic and medium cases. Caution will be needed when applying team familiarity scores for examining surgical team performance in large databases with skewed to basic surgical cases. • We calculated familiarity scores among surgical team members. • Higher team familiarity reduces procedure time and cost in complex cases. • Team familiarity has minor impact in Basic and Medium surgeries. • Precaution is needed when using familiarity scores in surgical teams. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Placental infarction refers to a localized area of ischemic villous necrosis resulting from the interruption of maternal blood flow to the intervillous space, which can be attributed to spasm, stenosis, or occlusion of the decidual spiral artery caused by systemic or localized maternal vascular disease. The presence of large placental infarcts may pose significant risks to fetal well-being, including intrauterine growth retardation, fetal distress, and even fetal demise. Although placental infarction is commonly identified during postnatal pathological examinations, its prenatal diagnosis through ultrasound remains challenging and has been rarely reported. Case Presentation: This report presents a case of acute placental infarction diagnosed by prenatal ultrasound using Superb Micro-vascular Imaging (SMI) technology. At 23 weeks' gestation, the ultrasound revealed that the placenta was attached to the left lateral and posterior walls of the uterus, showing localized thickening. Within this area of thickening, there were observed inhomogeneous hypoechoic regions. Superb Micro-vascular Imaging (SMI) revealed an abnormal echogenic region within the thickened placental tissue that lacked microvascular blood flow signals, but showed surrounding vascularity. Visually, this elliptical-shaped echogenic region enveloped by microvascular blood flow. From the 29th weeks of gestation onward, ultrasound suggested that the fetus was small for gestational age. A live baby weighing 2360g was delivered by cesarean section at 37 weeks' gestation. The placenta was approximately 20× 18 × 3 cm with large grayish-yellow infarcts. Conclusion: SMI allows rapid screening of large placental infarcts and easy detection of regions without normal vessel trees, thereby reducing missed diagnoses. Infarct area is easily measured by measuring the area surrounded by small blood vessels, especially in acute placental infarction, which is very helpful in accurately determining infarct size. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

SiBCN ceramics were prepared by a novel inorganic method: the in situ reaction of amorphous SiBON and C. Differences in the mechanical and ablation properties of composites prepared from flake graphite and carbon black (denoted as C f /CGZ and C f /CBZ, respectively) were compared to find a suitable carbon source. The results showed that flake graphite is the optimal carbon source. The fracture toughness of the C f /CGZ composite was 9.1 ± 0.4 MPa·m1/2, which is 23.0% higher than that of the C f /CBZ composite. This is because the flake graphite promoted crack deflection. Furthermore, after exposure to a plasma flame with a heat flux of 6.68 MW/m2 for 300 s, the mass and linear ablation rates of the C f /CGZ composite are 0.39 mg/s and − 0.19 µm/s, respectively, which is a decrease of 22.00% and 64.81%, respectively, as compared to those of the C f /CBZ composite. This is because of the directional distribution of flake graphite, which improved the thermal conductivity, reduced the ablation surface temperature, and facilitated the formation of a dense ZrO 2 /SiO 2 layer as an anti-ablation barrier. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Endotherms recently expanding to cold environments generally exhibit strong physiological acclimation to sustain high body temperature. During this process, gut microbes likely play a considerable role in host physiological functions, including digestion and thermogenesis. The light-vented bulbul Pycnonotus sinensis represents one such species. It used to be restricted to the Oriental realm but expanded its distribution range north to the Palearctic areas during the past few decades. Here, we explored the seasonal dynamics of the resting metabolic rate (RMR) and microbiota for local and newly colonized populations of the species. Our results showed that the mass-adjusted RMR and body mass were positively correlated with latitude variations in both seasons. Consistently, the gut microbiota showed a corresponding variation to the northern cold environments. In the two northern populations, the alpha diversity decreased compared with those of the two southern populations. Significant differences were detected in dominant phyla, such as Firmicutes, Bacteroidetes, Proteobacteria, and Desulfobacterota in both seasons. The core microbiota showed geographic differences in the winter, including the elevated relative abundance of 5 species in northern populations. Finally, to explore the link between microbial communities and host metabolic thermogenesis, we conducted a correlation analysis between microbiota and mass-adjusted RMR. We found that more genera were significantly correlated with mass-adjusted RMR in the wintering season compared to the breeding season (71 vs. 23). These results suggest that microbiota of the lighted-vented bulbul linked with thermogenesis in diversity and abundance under northward expansion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, a continuous Q-learning algorithm is deployed to optimize the control strategy of a trailing-edge airfoil flow separation at a chord-based Reynolds number of 2 × 10 5 . With plasma synthetic jets issued at the middle chord and a hot wire placed in the separated shear layer acting as the actuator and sensor, respectively, a high-speed reinforcement learning control at an interaction frequency of 500 Hz is realized by a field-programmable gate array. The results show that in the Q-learning control, the controller only needs several seconds to elevate the instantaneous reward to a level close to the final mean reward, and convergence of the control law typically takes less than 100 s. Although the relative drag reduction achieved by Q-learning control (10.2%) is only slightly higher than the best open-loop periodical control at F ∗ = 4 (9.6%), the maximum power saving ratio is improved noticeably by 62.5%. Physically, Q-learning control creates more turbulent fluctuations, earning more rewards by increasing the transition possibilities toward high-value states. With increasing penalty strength of plasma actuation, the final control laws obtained from Q-learning exhibit a decreasing number of active states. Detailed comparisons between the open-loop and Q-learning control strategies show that the statistics of the controlled velocity fields remain similar, yet the turbulent fluctuations contributed by the vortex shedding mode are reduced by constant-frequency plasma actuation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aims to explore the relationship between media use and Chinese residents' attitudes toward acceptance of premarital cohabitation (AAPC). We collected data from a national Chinese survey (N = 10,968). The results demonstrated that greater traditional media use was associated with worse AAPC, whereas Internet use was associated with better AAPC. We also found that individualistic orientation could mediate the relationship between traditional media and Internet use and AAPC. Traditional gender role beliefs showed disparate moderating roles in the influence of traditional media and internet use on AAPC. The implications for family therapy practice were discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) supported metal nanoparticles (MNPs) (MNPs@MOFs) composites, as a class of effective functional materials, have been extensively explored because of the synergetic effect of MOFs and MNPs. Lots of synthesized methods are developed to synthesize MNPs@MOFs composites. These strategies can be generally divided into four main synthesis strategies: ship‐in‐the‐bottle, bottle‐around‐the‐ship, one‐pot, and sandwich assembly approaches. In this review, the recent synthesized strategies are discussed and summarized for the design and fabrication of different MNPs@MOFs composites. Then, the catalytic applications of some MNPs@MOFs composites are presented. Lastly, the challenges and future perspectives are also pointed out in this hot research filed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Ceramide metabolism is crucial in the progress of brain metastasis (BM). However, it remains unexplored whether targeting ceramide metabolism may arrest BM. Methods: RNA sequencing was applied to screen different genes in primary and metastatic foci and whole-exome sequencing (WES) to seek crucial abnormal pathway in BM + and BM-patients. Cellular arrays were applied to analyze the permeability of blood–brain barrier (BBB) and the activation or inhibition of pathway. Database and Co-Immunoprecipitation (Co-IP) assay were adopted to verify the protein–protein interaction. Xenograft and zebrafish model were further employed to verify the cellular results. Results: RNA sequencing and WES reported the involvement of RPTOR and ceramide metabolism in BM progress. RPTOR was significantly upregulated in BM foci and increased the permeability of BBB, while RPTOR deficiency attenuated the cell invasiveness and protected extracellular matrix. Exogenous RPTOR boosted the SPHK2/S1P/STAT3 cascades by binding YY1, in which YY1 bound to the regions of SPHK2 promoter (at -353 ~ -365 nt), further promoting the expression of SPHK2. The latter was rescued by YY1 RNAi. Xenograft and zebrafish model showed that RPTOR blockade suppressed BM of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) and impaired the SPHK2/S1P/STAT3 pathway. Conclusion: RPTOR is a key driver gene in the brain metastasis of lung cancer, which signifies that RPTOR blockade may serve as a promising therapeutic candidate for clinical application. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Direct numerical simulation of compression ramp shock wave/boundary layer interaction controlled by plasma actuator array is performed to gain a comprehensive understanding of its control outcome and mechanism in this paper. The computation model adopts a 24-deg compression ramp at Mach number Ma∞ = 2.0, whose simulation setup all refers to the experimental reports. First, the plasma actuator array is introduced into the Navier–Stokes (N–S) equation by a heating source model, and the corresponding numerical validation is proved in detail. Then, the flow control effect of plasma actuator array is systematically revealed, including the wave drag reduction and flow separation suppression. The results show that the mean shock wave drag can be decreased by 15% and the characteristic length of separation bubble can be reduced by 28%. At last, a new shock wave/boundary layer interaction control mechanism, called as 3D structure reconstruction, is concluded to guide the compression ramp flow control. Namely, by manipulating the quasi-2D shock wave and separation bubble into a 3D structural morphology in spanwise direction, the overall negative effect induced by shock wave/boundary layer interaction can be mitigated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Link prediction in networks is typically accomplished by estimating or ranking the probabilities of edges for all pairs of nodes. In practice, especially for social networks, the data are often collected by egocentric sampling, which means selecting a subset of nodes and recording all of their edges. This sampling mechanism requires different prediction tools than the typical assumption of links missing at random. We propose a new computationally efficient link prediction algorithm for egocentrically sampled networks, estimating the underlying probability matrix by estimating its row space. We empirically evaluate the method on several synthetic and real-world networks and show that it provides accurate predictions for network links. including the code for experiments are available online. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rhizobacteria from various ecological niches display variations in physiological characteristics. This study investigates the transcriptome profiling of two Bacillus subtilis strains, BsCP1 and BsPG1, each isolated from distinct environments. Gene expression linked to the synthesis of seven types of antibiotic compounds was detected in both BsCP1 and BsPG1 cultures. Among these, the genes associated with plipastatin synthesis were predominantly expressed in both bacterial strains. However, genes responsible for the synthesis of polyketide, subtilosin, and surfactin showed distinct transcriptional patterns. Additionally, genes involved in producing exopolysaccharides (EPS) showed higher expression levels in BsPG1 than in BsCP1. Consistently with this, a greater quantity of EPS was found in the BsPG1 culture compared to BsCP1. Both bacterial strains exhibited similar effects on Arabidopsis seedlings, promoting root branching and increasing seedling fresh weight. However, BsPG1 was a more potent enhancer of drought, heat, and copper stress tolerance than BsCP1. Treatment with BsPG1 had a greater impact on improving survival rates, increasing starch accumulation, and stabilizing chlorophyll content during the post-stress stage. qPCR analysis was used to measure transcriptional changes in Arabidopsis seedlings in response to BsCP1 and BsPG1 treatment. The results show that both bacterial strains had a similar impact on the expression of genes involved in the salicylic acid (SA) and jasmonic acid (JA) signaling pathways. Likewise, genes associated with stress response, root development, and disease resistance showed comparable responses to both bacterial strains. However, treatment with BsCP1 and BsPG1 induced distinct activation of genes associated with the ABA signaling pathway. The results of this study demonstrate that bacterial strains from different ecological environments have varying abilities to produce beneficial metabolites for plant growth. Apart from the SA and JA signaling pathways, ABA signaling triggered by PGPR bacterial strains could play a crucial role in building an effective resistance to various abiotic stresses in the plants they colonize. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

GNSS SIS fault probabilities P sat and P const are the key parameters contained in the Integrity Support Message (ISM) which will be broadcast to GNSS Advanced Receiver Autonomous Monitoring (ARAIM) users. The accurate and reliable SIS fault rate is crucial to ensure the trustiness of ARAIM. Although prior published works have developed the methods to estimate the fault rate, there are lack of a metric to assess the reliability of the fault rate, and then determine the optimal length observation window. Therefore, based on the prior works, we aim to establish the method of reliability assessment for the SIS fault rate estimation. First, the SIS fault rate estimator is derived and its variance are formulated. Then the equivalence between 2-sigma and the error bound of 95% confidence are verified by exposing the inside properties of the posteriori PDF of fault rate. The reliability assessment provides a criterion to determine the optimal length of observation window and finally obtain the reliable fault rate estimators. GPS performance in the period of 2008–2019 is assessed by varying the length of observation window. The optimal estimators of GPS NF rate indicate that the specified fault rate of 1 × 10 - 5 / s a t / hour was achieved in the middle of 2011 and GPS has had a trend of performance improvement since 2011. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The electrolysis of water, particularly proton exchange membrane (PEM) water electrolysis, holds great promise for hydrogen production in industry. However, the catalyst used in this process is prone to dissolution in acidic environments, making it imperative to develop cost-effective, highly efficient, and acid-stable electrocatalytic materials to overcome this challenge and enable large-scale application of PEM water electrolysis technology. Herein, we prepared ruthenium oxide (RuO2)/graphitic carbon nitride (g-C3N4) composites (RuO2/C3N4) via a combination of sol–gel and annealing methods. The g-C3N4 provides a large surface area, while RuO2 is uniformly deposited on the g-C3N4 surface. The interaction between g-C3N4 and RuO2 stabilizes the RuO2 nanoparticles and enhances long-term water oxidation stability. This unique structure and the combined advantages of RuO2 and g-C3N4 yield exceptional electrocatalytic activity toward both the oxygen evolution reaction (OER, 240 mV@10 mA cm−2) and the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER, 109 mV@10 mA cm−2), with excellent durability (over 28 h), and a cell voltage of 1.607 V at 10 mA cm−2 when used in an RuO2/C3N4‖‖RuO2/C3N4 electrolyzer. This study highlights the efficacy of the g-C3N4 support method in designing highly stable Ru-based OER electrocatalysts for efficient acidic water splitting. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, machine learning-based multiple bioinformatics analysis was carried out for the purpose of the deep and efficient mining of high-throughput transcriptomics data from the TCGA database. Compared with normal colon tissue, 2469 genes were significantly differentially expressed in colon cancer tissue. Gene functional annotation and pathway analysis suggested that most DEGs were functionally related to the cell cycle and metabolism. Weighted gene co-expression network analysis revealed a significant module and the enriched genes that were closely related to fatty acid degradation and metabolism. Based on colon cancer progression, the trend analysis highlighted that several gene sets were significantly correlated with disease development. At the same time, the most specific genes were functionally related to cancer cell features such as the high performance of DNA replication and cell division. Moreover, survival analysis and target drug prediction were performed to prioritize reliable biomarkers and potential drugs. In consideration of a combination of different evidence, four genes (ACOX1, CPT2, CDC25C and PKMYT1) were suggested as novel biomarkers in colon cancer. The potential biomarkers and target drugs identified in our study may provide new ideas for colonic-related prevention, diagnosis, and treatment; therefore, our results have high clinical value for colon cancer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A commercially available cobalt complex Cp*CoIII(CO)I2 has been found to effectively catalyze the diamination of α‐alkyl styrenes with anilines under a mild reaction condition, using dioxygen as the oxidant. This reaction features a reasonably good substrate scope of amines and a good functional group tolerance. Preliminary mechanistic studies have shown that Cp*CoIII(CO)I2 alone can promote the diamination reaction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

DNA barcoding has greatly facilitated studies of taxonomy, biodiversity, biological conservation, and ecology. Here, we establish a reliable DNA barcoding library for Chinese snakes, unveiling hidden diversity with implications for taxonomy, and provide a standardized tool for conservation management. Our comprehensive study includes 1638 cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI) sequences from Chinese snakes that correspond to 17 families, 65 genera, 228 named species (80.6% of named species) and 36 candidate species. A barcode gap analysis reveals gaps, where all nearest neighbour distances exceed maximum intraspecific distances, in 217 named species and all candidate species. Three species‐delimitation methods (ABGD, sGMYC, and sPTP) recover 320 operational taxonomic units (OTUs), of which 192 OTUs correspond to named and candidate species. Twenty‐eight other named species share OTUs, such as Azemiops feae and A. kharini, Gloydius halys, G. shedaoensis, and G. intermedius, and Bungarus multicinctus and B. candidus, representing inconsistencies most probably caused by imperfect taxonomy, recent and rapid speciation, weak taxonomic signal, introgressive hybridization, and/or inadequate phylogenetic signal. In contrast, 43 species and candidate species assign to two or more OTUs due to having large intraspecific distances. If most OTUs detected in this study reflect valid species, including the 36 candidate species, then 30% more species would exist than are currently recognized. Several OTU divergences associate with known biogeographic barriers, such as the Taiwan Strait. In addition to facilitating future studies, this reliable and relatively comprehensive reference database will play an important role in the future monitoring, conservation, and management of Chinese snakes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The C f /SiBCN–ZrB 2 composites were prepared by dipping and winding combined with reactive hot pressing. The flexural strength and fracture toughness reached 261 MPa and 11.96 MPa • m1/2, respectively, through continuous carbon fibers debonding, pulling and bridging mechanisms. Excellent mechanical properties ensured that the C f /SiBCN–ZrB 2 composites remained intact after exposure to a plasma flame with a heat flux of 9.37 MW/m2 for 300 s, with the mass and linear ablation rates of 1.78 mg/s, 1.01 μm/s, respectively. The excellent ablation resistance was due to the formation of dense oxide layers separating the matrix from the plasma flame. The SiO 2 formed in the low-temperature areas away from the center was the main ablation-resistant barrier, while the ZrO 2 /SiO 2 double oxide layer formed in the high-temperature region at the center was the major ablation-resistant barrier. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: This study examined the relationship between the presence of chronic disease conditions and mental and physical health among cancer survivors in the United States. Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional analysis utilizing survey data from the 2016–2017 Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS) on 65,673 eligible cancer survivors. The primary outcomes of interest were self-rated metal/physical health in the past 30 days. Descriptive statistics and multivariate logistic regression were used to examine the mentioned association. Results: 15.3% and 24.8% of survivors reported having several days of poor mental and physical health (14–30 days compared to 0–13 days), and 42.4% of survivors reported having one to two chronic diseases. In multivariate analysis, survivors with one to two chronic diseases were more likely to report several days of poor mental (OR, 2.74; 95% CI, 2.22–3.38) and physical (OR, 1.95; 95% CI, 1.72–2.22) health. Survivors with 3+ chronic diseases had markedly higher odds of having several days of poor mental (OR, 6.41; 95% CI, 5.19–7.91) and physical health (OR, 4.71; 95% CI, 4.16–5.34). Among survivors with at least one chronic disease, older age, insured, and more perceived social/emotional support were negatively associated with mental health (p value <0.05). Similarly, older age was related to fewer days of poor physical health (p value <0.05) regardless of chronic disease conditions. Conclusion: Having chronic diseases was associated with more days of poor mental and physical health among cancer survivors. Integrated, extensive care should include mental/physical health components and chronic disease management in cancer survivorship care. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In order to obtain the general criterion of control authority for suppressing flow separation in the compressor airfoil at low Reynolds number by nanosecond pulsed dielectric barrier discharge plasma actuation with different actuation parameters, a parametric study on the actuation power and actuation frequency is performed using a large eddy simulation. A non-dimensional actuation power is proposed to reveal the relationship between the actuation power and the characteristic power of the baseline flow field, in order to provide a reference for obtaining a balance between energy consumption and flow control. With different actuation powers, the mechanism behind the evolution process of vortex structures induced by the plasma actuation is revealed through a decomposition of the vorticity according to the vorticity transport equation and the analysis of the non-dimensional circulation according to the Q criterion. It is found that the evolution shows a relatively consistent tendency and can be divided into three stages corresponding to different disturbance processes induced by Kelvin–Helmholtz instabilities. Finally, a criterion for the effective actuation frequency based on the continuous generation of induced vortex structures is established considering different actuation powers and simplified to specific parameters within the flow field. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nitrogen-doped carbon with and without Fe additives is a promising alternative for commercial Pt/C catalysts for the oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) in proton and anion exchange membrane fuel cells. To understand the nature of the rate-determining steps (RDSs) of the ORR over newly developed catalysts, the analysis of the Tafel slopes of ORR voltammograms is beneficial for elucidating the number of electrons involved in the RDS. Conventionally, the Tafel slope is evaluated from the measured total current, which involves several different reaction pathways: the four-electron pathway from O2 to H2O described with a kinetic constant k1, the two-electron pathway from O2 to H2O2 with k2, and the two-electron pathway from H2O2 to H2O with k3. This method provides reasonable Tafel slopes as long as the measured ORR is selective to a particular reaction pathway, such as the four-electron pathway over a Pt/C catalyst; however, typical Fe/N/C and N/C catalysts have mixed reaction pathways and analyzing the Tafel slopes from the total current does not provide meaningful information. To address this, we propose a new methodology for analyzing Tafel slopes. In this study, the measured ORR currents were converted into inherent kinetic constants (k10, k20, and k30) using the Nabae model, which was previously developed by our group, and the Tafel plots for k10, k20, and k30 were analyzed to determine the Tafel slopes of each reaction pathway. Four ORR systems (Fe/N/C and N/C catalysts in acid and base) were analyzed using the proposed method, and the differences in the reaction mechanisms were successfully reflected in the determined parameters. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The optimal treatment regimen for breast cancer patients with gBRCA mutations remains controversial given the availability of numerous options, such as platinum-based agents, polymerase inhibitors (PARPis), and other agents. We included phase II or III RCTs and estimated the HR with 95% CI for OS, PFS, and DFS, in addition to the OR with 95% CI for ORR and pCR. We determined the treatment arm rankings by P-scores. Furthermore, we carried out a subgroup analysis in TNBC and HR-positive patients. We conducted this network meta-analysis using R 4.2.0 and a random-effects model. A total of 22 RCTs were eligible, involving 4253 patients. In the pairwise comparisons, PARPi + Platinum + Chemo was better than PARPi + Chemo for OS (in whole study group and in both subgroups) as well as PFS. The ranking tests demonstrated that PARPi + Platinum + Chemo ranked first in PFS, DFS, and ORR. Platinum + Chemo showed higher OS than PARPi + Chemo. The ranking tests for PFS, DFS, and pCR indicated that, except for the best treatment (PARPi + Platinum + Chemo) containing PARPi, the second and third treatments were platinum monotherapy or platinum-based chemotherapy. In conclusion, PARPi + Platinum + Chemo might be the best regime for gBRCA-mutated BC. Platinum drugs showed more favorable efficacy than PARPi in both combination and monotherapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recommendation systems, the best way to deal with information overload, are widely utilized to provide users with personalized content and services with high efficiency. Many recommendation algorithms have been researched and deployed extensively in various e-commerce applications, including the movie streaming services over the last decade. However, sparse data cold-start problems are often encountered in many movie recommendation systems. In this paper, we reported a personalized multimodal movie recommendation system based on multimodal data analysis and deep learning. The real-world MovieLens datasets were selected to test the effectiveness of our new recommendation algorithm. With the input information, the hidden features of the movies and the users were mined using deep learning to build a deep-learning network algorithm model for training to further predict movie scores. With a learning rate of 0.001, the root mean squared error (RMSE) scores achieved 0.9908 and 0.9096 for test sets of MovieLens 100 K and 1 M datasets, respectively. The scoring prediction results show improved accuracy after incorporating the potential features and connections in multimodal data with deep-learning technology. Compared with the traditional collaborative filtering algorithms, such as user-based collaborative filtering (User-CF), item-based content-based filtering (Item-CF), and singular-value decomposition (SVD) approaches, the multimodal movie recommendation system using deep learning could provide better personalized recommendation results. Meanwhile, the sparse data problem was alleviated to a certain degree. We suggest that the recommendation system can be improved through the combination of the deep-learning technology and the multimodal data analysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• We propose a class of kernel interpolation-based methods, called kernel reconstruction learning, for solving machine learning problems. • We prove a reconstruction representer theorem, which indicates that conventional kernel methods can be viewed as special cases of kernel reconstruction learning. • We propose the kernel reconstruction vector machine, kernel reconstruction logistic regression, and kernel reconstruction density estimation methods, and show that they outperform popular kernel methods. This paper proposes a class of kernel interpolation-based methods, called kernel reconstruction learning, for solving machine learning problems. Kernel reconstruction learning uses kernel interpolators to reconstruct the unknown functions, which are needed to estimate in the problem, with estimated function values at selected knots. It can be applied to any learning problem that involves function estimation. We prove a reconstruction representer theorem, which indicates that conventional kernel methods, including kernel ridge regression, kernel support vector machine, and kernel logistic regression, can be viewed as special cases of kernel reconstruction learning. Furthermore, kernel reconstruction learning provides new algorithms for large datasets. The kernel reconstruction vector machine, kernel reconstruction logistic regression, and kernel reconstruction density estimation are discussed in detail. With appropriate implementations, they are shown to have higher prediction/estimation accuracy and/or less computational cost than popular kernel methods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: The individual and combined effects of abiotic factors on pollinator‐mediated selection on floral traits are not well documented.To examine potential interactive effects of water and nutrient availability on pollinator‐mediated selection on three floral display traits of Primula tibetica, we manipulated pollination and nutrient availability in a factorial experiment, conducted at two common garden sites with different soil water content (natural vs addition).We found that both water and nutrient availability affected floral trait expression in P. tibetica and that hand pollination increased seed production most when both nutrient content and water content were high, indicating joint pollen and resource limitation. We documented selection on all floral traits, and pollinators contributed to directional and correlational selection on plant height and number of flowers. Soil water and nutrient availability interactively influenced the strength of both pollinator‐mediated directional and correlational selection, with significant selection observed when nutrient or water availability was high, but not when none or both were added.The results suggest that resource limitation constrains the response of P. tibetica to among‐individual variation in pollen receipt, that addition of nutrients or water leads to pollinator‐mediated selection and that effects of the two abiotic factors are nonadditive. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

What is Known and Objectives: Voriconazole has a complex pharmacokinetic profile and exhibits different pharmacokinetic characteristics in adults and children. Nevertheless, few studies have been conducted on the population pharmacokinetics (PPK) of voriconazole in children with haematological malignancies. This study aims to build a PPK model and propose a suitable voriconazole treatment scheme for children with haematological malignancies. Methods: We retrospectively collected 146 samples from 67 children aged from 1.08 to 17.92 years. The PPK model was established using nonlinear mixed effects modelling (NONMEM). Dosage simulations were conducted on the basis of the final model's covariates. Results and Discussion: Data were fully characterized by a one‐compartment model with first‐order absorption and elimination. The weight (WT), CYP2C19 phenotype, and Albumin (ALB) were notable covariates for clearance (CL). The typical values of CL, the volume of distribution (V), and oral bioavailability (F) were 2.29 L/h, 76 L, and 0.902, respectively. The proposed doses for different CYP2C19 genotypes were presented in this ranking: EM (extensive metabolizer) > IM (intermediate metabolizer) > PM (poor metabolizer). Furthermore, higher dosages for light WT patients were recommended while lower ALB levels required lower doses. The probability of achieving the target (PTA) for the recommended doses ranged from 72.2% to 99%. What is New and Conclusion: We successfully built a voriconazole PPK model for children with hematologic malignancies. Dosing regimens were developed for different patients based on the final model, which could enhance the rational use of voriconazole in children with haematological malignancies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We aimed to investigate the association between preoperative body mass index (BMI) and postoperative long-term mortality in patients who underwent a vertebroplasty. We retrospectively enrolled patients with a vertebral compression fracture who underwent a vertebroplasty between May 2013 and June 2020 in a medical center in Taiwan. The survival status of the study sample was confirmed by the end of March 2021. Cox-proportional hazard models were conducted to examine the effects of being overweight/obese (≥25 kg/m2 vs. <25 kg/m2) and BMI (as a continuous variable) on all-cause mortality after adjusting for age, sex, history of smoking, diabetes, hypertension, chronic kidney disease, and osteoporosis. A total of 164 patients were analyzed (mean age 75.8 ± 9.3 years, male 25.6%, mean BMI 24.0 ± 4.1 kg/m2) after a median follow-up of 785 days. Compared with a BMI < 25 kg/m2, a BMI ≥ 25 kg/m2 was associated with a significantly lower risk of all-cause mortality (HR 0.297, 95% CI 0.101 to 0.878, p = 0.028). These findings were consistent when BMI was examined as a continuous variable (HR 0.874, 95% CI 0.773 to 0.988, p = 0.031). A low BMI (<22 kg/m2) should be considered as a risk factor for postoperative long-term mortality in this ageing population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Acidic hydraulic fracturing fluids are used to stimulate the productivity of geothermal energy within a hot dry rock geothermal reservoir (mainly stored in granite), and a fundamental understanding of the physical and mechanical properties of the granite after acidic treatment within the high temperature of hot dry rock reservoir is of practical significance for the optimization of fracturing activities. The characteristics of peak stress, peak strain, hardness, color, resistivity, and P-wave velocity were investigated. Furthermore, acoustic emission (AE) monitoring technology was used to evaluate the damage degree after high-temperature and acidic treatment, and the dynamic damage evolution was subsequently analyzed. In addition, microstructure changes induced by mineral reaction after high-temperature and acidic stimulation were investigated. The experimental results show that high temperature can significantly affect the physical and mechanical properties of the granite (e.g., P-wave velocity decreases by 78%, Leeb hardness decreases by 36%, resistivity increases by over 1400%, and peak stress decreases by 30%) due to the newly formed micro-cracks. Furthermore, the weakness of the physical and mechanical properties of the granite is degraded after acidic treatment, e.g., the Leeb hardness decreases by 1%, P-wave velocity decreases by 6%, resistivity decreases by over 60%, and peak stress decreases by over 10%. The AE signal becomes more intense as temperature increases (e.g., accumulated AE counts increase by over 140%). In contrast, the AE response behavior becomes weaker after acidic treatment due to the hydrogen ions-induced mineral dissolution and high temperature-induced replacement action between albite and K-feldspar. Moreover, the physical properties vary greatly within the temperature range of 400 °C to 800 °C. Our research results can gain insight into the thermal and acidic stimulation that affected the physical properties of the granite, thus benefiting exploitation activities of geothermal energy in a hot dry rock reservoir. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dishonest academic behavior (DAB) by students in Chinese higher education institutions has become a significant concern. However, the related study of academic dishonesty in mainland China is very limited. This study fills this gap by examining the theory of planned behavior and its three extended versions, validating the effectiveness of predicting DAB among Chinese undergraduates, and testing 11 developed hypotheses. This study uses a quantitative research design, and responses are collected online from 525 undergraduate students from five disciplines in the second to fourth year at a public university in China. The results reveal the proposed models have good fitting indices and support 10 hypothetical relationships. These relationships demonstrate that attitudes, norms and control beliefs significantly impact intentions and justifications. Meanwhile, behavioral control, intentions, and justifications significantly influence DAB. Notably, this study found a direct and significant effect of MO on justifications. Therein, Model four best explains the variance in DAB and provides practical support for the expanded TPB models' application in China. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: We performed a systematic review and meta-analysis evaluating the predictive value of the serum HER2 extracellular domain (sHER2 ECD) for breast cancer prognosis. Our review investigated 40 studies (12,229 patients) that assessed the impact of the sHER2 ECD levels on breast cancer prognosis and explored the clinical significance of sHER2 ECD levels in different treatment modalities. Our findings indicated that an elevated sHER2 was an unfavorable prognostic factor in breast cancer. More interestingly, sHER2 ECD was found to be a promising biomarker for predicting adverse clinical outcomes of trastuzumab-based treatment but did not affect the efficacy of tyrosine kinase inhibitors. In addition, the baseline cutoff value of sHER2 ECD in different treatment stages of breast cancer remains to be further explored. Overall, our study suggested that sHER2 ECD levels have important prognostic value in breast cancer and may be helpful for clinicians to select the appropriate anti-HER2 therapy for HER2-positive breast cancer, providing more evidence for guiding clinical practice. An elevated serum HER2 extracellular domain is associated with poor prognosis in breast cancer, but the relationship between sHER2 and the efficacy of different modalities remains controversial. Herein, we aimed to evaluate the prognostic value of serum HER2 extracellular domain (sHER2 ECD) in breast cancer and to identify its correlation with the efficacy of different treatment regimens. A systematic search of the PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, and Scopus databases was conducted to identify studies exploring the association between HER2 ECD level and clinical outcomes among patients with breast cancer. Using the random effects models, pooled hazard ratios (HRs), and odds ratios (ORs) with 95% confidence intervals (CI), were calculated for progression-free survival (PFS), overall survival (OS), disease-free survival (DFS), and the objective response rate (ORR). Heterogeneity was further evaluated by subgroup and sensitivity analysis. Overall, 40 studies comprising 12,229 patients were included in this systematic review and meta-analysis. Elevated HER2 ECD levels were associated with worse PFS (HR 1.74, 95% CI 1.40–2.17; p < 0.001), and this effect was observed in patients treated with chemotherapy (HR 1.81, 95% CI 1.37–2.39; p < 0.001), endocrine therapy (HR 1.91, 95% CI 1.57–2.32; p < 0.001), and trastuzumab (HR 1.74, 95% CI 1.31–2.30; p < 0.001). However, this association was not present in patients treated with tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) (HR 1.44, 95% CI 0.85–2.43, p = 0.17). The HRs/ORs for an elevated HER2 ECD level for DFS, OS, and ORR were 2.73 (95% CI 2.17–3.42; p < 0.001), 2.13 (95% CI 1.77–2.57; p < 0.001), and 0.80 (95% CI 0.49–1.31; p = 0.381), respectively. An elevated sHER2 ECD was an unfavorable prognostic factor in breast cancer but did not affect the efficacy of tyrosine kinase inhibitors such as lapatinib. Detection of sHER2 ECD may be helpful for clinicians selecting the appropriate anti-HER2 therapy for patients with HER2-positive breast cancer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, the hypersonic shock-shock interaction control using plasma actuator array is experimentally studied to explore a new surface thermal protection method of hypersonic aircraft. The typical flow structure is produced by a double-wedge model abstracting from the rudder component, and the high schlieren imaging, as well as pressure-sensitive paint/temperature-sensitive paint measurement system, are adopted for flow diagnostics with and without actuation. The results shows that the shock-shock interaction system can be controlled by the plasma actuator array in Ma = 6.0 and Ma = 8.0, and the latter case has a better control outcome where the complicated shock-shock interaction system can be modified to one single oblique wave structure. It indicates that the heat flow amplification effect induced by shock-shock interaction can be alleviated. Also, the increase in energy deposition is proved to have a positive impact on the control outcome, namely the higher energy deposition brings in a better control effect. At last, a preliminary conceptual model is established to reveal the probable thermal protection mechanism. The virtual curved compression surface produced by the high-energy plasma actuator array plays an important role in achieving shock-shock interaction control. • A hypersonic surface thermal protection method via shock-shock interaction control using plasma actuator array is proposed. • The complicated shock-shock interaction system can be modified to one single oblique wave structure. • A conceptual model is established to reveal the mechanism of shock-shock interaction control. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bimetallic materials and bimetallic inorganics have the advantages of low preparation cost, stable performance, easy preservation and recycling, etc., which is the important materials of current nanozyme research. An in-depth understanding of the possible catalytic mechanisms from the aspect of material composition and structure will be helpful for the development of new and efficient nanozymes, which is of great significance for the rational regulation of nanozymes' activities. In this review, we systematically introduce the classification of bimetallic materials and bimetallic oxide nanozymes, their catalytic mechanisms, as well as the research progress in recent years in the fields of analytical chemistry, including colorimetric and electrochemical sensing, as well as biomedical analysis. We also present the current challenges faced by bimetal-containing nanozymes and future research priorities. This review is important for further understanding the nature of bimetallic nanozymes and for the development of novel nanomaterials with superior analytical functions. TOC Graphics. (Illustration adapted with permission from Ref. [ 19 ], Copyright (2022) Elsevier B.V.; [ 104 ], Copyright (2023) American Chemical Society; [ 45 ], Copyright (2019) Elsevier B.V.; [ 105 ], Copyright (2018) American Chemical Society; [ 130 ], Copyright (2020) Elsevier B. V. [ 131 ], Copyright (2020) Wiley-VCH GmbH). [Display omitted] • Recently developed bimetallic materials and bimetallic oxide nanozymes are summarized. • The mechanism of enzymatic reaction is presented. • The application in colorimetric sensing, environmental monitoring, and biomedical analysis are discussed in details. • Current challenges faced by bimetal-containing nanozymes and future research priorities are provided. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The optimal material for repairing skull defects should exhibit outstanding biocompatibility and mechanical properties. Specifically, hydrogel scaffolds that emulate the microenvironment of the native bone extracellular matrix play a vital role in promoting osteoblast adhesion, proliferation, and differentiation, thereby yielding superior outcomes in skull reconstruction. In this study, a composite network hydrogel comprising sodium alginate (SA), epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), and zinc ions (Zn2+) was developed to establish an ideal osteogenic microenvironment for bone regeneration. Initially, physical entanglement and hydrogen bonding between SA and EGCG resulted in the formation of a primary network hydrogel known as SA-EGCG. Subsequently, the inclusion of Zn2+ facilitated the creation of a composite network hydrogels named SA-EGCG-Zn2+ via dynamic coordination bonds with SA and EGCG. The engineered SA-EGCG2 %-Zn2+ hydrogels offered an environment mimicking the native extracellular matrix (ECM). Moreover, the sustained release of Zn2+ from the hydrogel effectively enhanced cell adhesion, promoted proliferation, and stimulated osteoblast differentiation. In vitro experiments have shown that SA-EGCG2 %-Zn2+ hydrogels greatly enhance the attachment and growth of osteoblast precursor cells (MC3T3-E1), while also increasing the expression of genes related to osteogenesis in these cells. Additionally, in vivo studies have confirmed that SA-EGCG2 %-Zn2+ hydrogels promote new bone formation and accelerate the regeneration of bone in situ, indicating promising applications in the realm of bone tissue engineering. [Display omitted] • The physical/chemical cross-linking gives the hydrogel good mechanical properties. • Hydrogel has antioxidant, antibacterial and osteogenic differentiation properties. • The hydrogel provides a suitable biological microenvironment for cell growth. • Hydrogel releases zinc ions slowly to promote the repair of skull defects in rats. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study experimentally investigates the flow kinematics due to breaking waves impinging and overtopping on a simplified deck structure. Several breaking-wave impinging scenarios in relation to the model deck are conducted. The resulting flow velocities in the aerated regions are measured using bubble image velocimetry (BIV). A wave focusing method is employed to generate plunging breakers. Repeated measurements are performed to obtain mean flow and turbulence characteristics. Two distinguished flow behaviors are observed among all seven scenarios. For the cases of a fully developed plunging breaker interacting with the deck structure, the maximum horizontal velocities above and below the structure are both around 1.2 C , with C being the phase speed of the breaking wave; for the cases of a non-fully-developed plunging breaker impingement, the flow velocity below the deck is surprisingly large, with a value of 1.8 C below the deck against 1.2 C above the deck. Furthermore, the use of a dam-break flow to model the overtopping horizontal velocities on the deck is performed with satisfactory agreements for all the impinging scenarios. Moreover, the temporal and spatial varying prediction equation proposed by Ryu et al. (2007b) is used to model overtopping flow velocities, showing the applicability of this simplified methodology. • Plunging breaking wave impingement on a deck structure is experimentally studied. • Several impinging scenarios of breaking waves onto the model deck were carried out. • Flow kinematics were measured using image-based velocimetry. • Validation of dam-break solution for overtopping flow prediction. • Confirmation of self-similar velocity distribution of overtopping flow. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The improper management and unreasonable use of malachite green (MG) in aquatic transportation and large-scale aquaculture pose a significant threat to human health. It is crucial to develop a rapid and reliable approach for detecting MG. In this study, hierarchically porous coralloid ZnO@Ag (C–ZnO@Ag) microspheres were developed as a surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) substrate to detect MG content in water. The hierarchical and porous structure supporting plenty of Ag nanoparticles provides numerous "hot spots" to excite the strong enhanced local electromagnetic field for enlarging the Raman signals of analytes. Moreover, C–ZnO@Ag generates an additional pathway to improve the charge transfer between the substrate and analytes. The manifold mechanisms resulted in the Raman enhancement factor as high as 1.61 × 107 when R6G was selected as the probe. The MG solution at an ultralow concentration of 10−9 M can be successfully identified using the C–ZnO@Ag substrate, which is much lower than the maximum MG residual concentration in water set by the European Union. Therefore, the C–ZnO@Ag substrate has promising opportunities to be applied in rapid SERS-based detection of toxic organic residues. • Hierarchically porous coralloid ZnO@Ag microspheres were developed. • The hierarchically porous microsphere structure provides numerous "hot spots". • The manifold mechanisms resulted in EF as high as 1.61 × 107. • The 10−9 M MG solution can be successfully identified. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study revealed the relationship among early-age thixotropic behavior, air-phase microstructure, and fracture properties of the interlayer region in additively manufactured (AM) cementitious materials. Cementitious materials were designed and characterized to possess distinctive rheological properties and were additively manufactured into cementitious specimens. The effects of thixotropy and printing time interval on the volume, size and aspect ratios of air-phase clusters and on their statistical distributions were analyzed comprehensively through three-dimensional micro-computed tomography. Also determined were the effects of thixotropy and printing time interval on the fracture properties of the interlayer regions. Based on the experimental evidence, the underlying mechanisms of how the time-dependent thixotropic behavior of AM cementitious materials impacts interlayer microstructure and fracture properties were discussed. The results shed light on material design strategies, through tailoring the fresh-state thixotropy of AM cementitious materials, to mitigate the sensitivity of their hardened-state properties to printing parameters. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Carbon monoxide (CO) plays an important role in signaling in cells, making its use as a therapeutic tool highly intriguing. Reduced burst emissions are important to avoid the cytotoxicity and tissue damage caused by CO. Here, we developed a stable diiron carbonyl [FeFe] hydrogenase agent that enables prolonged CO release activity (half-life of over 9 h) in cells. The integrated analysis allowed the identification of the key intermediate sites and CO accumulations with subcellular resolution. We observed that the [FeFe]A complex was enriched in neurons with S-methyl bond rupture. Furthermore, the [FeFe]A complex efficiently reduced the aggregation of tau proteins (49.3% reduction) and showed superior biocompatibility in nerve cells (∼ 95% survival). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Here, a class of ink materials and an embedded 3D printing strategy for the fabrication of macroscale elastic tissue‐mimetic constructs are presented. Novel inks composed of 10 wt% glycidyl methacrylated poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVAGMA) with different degrees of substitution (DOS) and 4 wt% cellulose nanocrystals (CNCs) (PVAGMA(DOS)/CNC) with strong shear‐thinning property are developed. By controlling the DOS of PVAGMA, hydrogels with desired mechanical stiffness mimicking that of healthy and diseased artery are designed to construct vascular phantoms. Cyclic tensile tests and in vitro hemodynamic study performed on phantoms demonstrate their excellent mechanical stability and low hysteresis. The burst pressure is found to be about 273 mmHg for PVAGMA2/CNC and 102 mmHg for PVAGMA4/CNC and the printed vascular phantoms are able to withstand 863K cycles over 10 days. Further, their suitability for ultrasonic imaging is demonstrated. Via B‐mode imaging, it is found that the vessel strains under a pulsatile flow are 11.7 ± 1.0% and 6.5 ± 1.5% for PVAGMA2/CNC and PVAGMA4/CNC vessels, respectively, perfectly matching the behaviors of healthy and atherosclerotic arteries. It exemplifies that the ink materials and printing strategy can have broad applications in biomedical research, especially for the fabrication of complex elastic tissue phantoms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Leishmaniasis is a serious neglected tropical disease that may lead to life-threatening outcome, which species are closely related to clinical diagnosis and patient management. The current Leishmania species determination method is not appropriate for clinical application. New Leishmania species identification tool is needed using clinical samples directly without isolation and cultivation of parasites. Methods: A probe-based allele-specific real-time PCR assay was established for Leishmania species identification between Leishmania donovani and L. infantum for visceral leishmaniasis (VL) and among L. major, L. tropica and L. donovani/L. infantum for cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL), targeting hypoxanthine-guanine phosphoribosyl transferase (HGPRT) and spermidine synthase (SPDSYN) gene with their species-specific single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs). The limit of detection of this assay was evaluated based on 8 repeated tests with intra-assay standard deviation < 0.5 and inter-assay coefficients of variability < 5%. The specificity of this assay was tested with DNA samples obtained from Plasmodium falciparum, Toxoplasma gondii, Brucella melitensis and Orientia tsutsugamushi. Total 42 clinical specimens were used to evaluate the ability of this assay for Leishmania species identification. The phylogenetic tree was constructed using HGPRT and SPDSYN gene fragments to validate the performance of this assay. Results: This new method was able to detect 3 and 12 parasites/reaction for VL and CL respectively, and exhibited no cross-reaction with P. falciparum, T. gondii, B. melitensis, O. tsutsugamushi and non-target species of Leishmania. Twenty-two samples from VL patients were identified as L. donovani (n = 3) and L. infantum (n = 19), and 20 specimens from CL patients were identified as L. major (n = 20), providing an agreement of 100% compared with sequencing results. For further validation, 29 sequences of HGPRT fragment from nine Leishmania species and 22 sequences from VL patients were used for phylogenetic analysis, which agreed with the results of this new method. Similar results were obtained with 43 sequences of SPDSYN fragment from 18 Leishmania species and 20 sequences from CL patients. Conclusions: Our assay provides a rapid and accurate tool for Leishmania species identification which is applicable for species-adapted therapeutic schedule and patient management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Skin epidermis secretes apical extracellular matrix (aECM) as a protective barrier from the external environment. The aECM is highly dynamic and constantly undergoes remodeling during animal development. How aECM dynamics is temporally regulated during development, and whether and how its mis-regulation may impact epidermal cell morphology or function remains to be fully elucidated. Here, we report that the conserved Zn-finger transcription factor BLMP-1/Blimp1, which regulates epidermal development in C. elegans , controls apical cell shape of the epidermis by downregulation of aECM remodeling. Loss of blmp-1 causes upregulation of genes essential for molting, including bus-8 and mlt-8 , in adult, leading to an abnormal shape in the apical region of adult epidermal cells. The apical epidermal morphological defect is suppressed by reduction of bus-8 or mlt-8. BUS-8 is a key mannosyltransferase, which functions in glycosylation of N-linked glycoproteins; MLT-8 has a ganglioside GM2 lipid-binding domain and is implicated in signaling during molting, a process where the old cuticle is shed and synthesized anew. Overexpression of bus-8 or mlt-8 induces an apical epidermal cell defect as observed in blmp-1 mutants. MLT-8::GFP fusion protein is localized to lysosomes and secreted to aECM. BUS-8 is important for MLT-8 stability and lysosomal targeting, which may be regulated by BUS-8-mediated glycosylation of MLT-8 and function as a molting signaling cue in aECM remodeling. We propose that BLMP-1 represses MLT-8 expression and glycosylation in the epidermis to prevent inappropriate aECM remodeling, which is essential for maintenance of apical epidermal cell morphology during larva-to-adult transition. [Display omitted] • Loss of blmp-1 causes abnormality in apical epidermal morphology in C. elegans adult. • The Blmp-1 epidermal defect is suppressed by loss of bus-8 or mlt-8. • bus-8 is important for lysosomal localization and protein stability of MLT-8. • blmp-1 represses transcription of bus-8 and mlt-8 to control epidermal morphology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An experimental study on supersonic cavity flow control using a spanwise pulsed spark discharge array (SP-PSDA) is performed in this paper. High-speed schlieren imaging at a frame rate of 50 kHz is deployed for flow visualization. The schlieren snapshots, as well as their statistics, are analyzed to reveal the supersonic cavity flow control effect and its underlying mechanism. Results show that the shear layer presents a wave-like oscillation due to thermal bulbs induced by SP-PSDA. Specifically, the shear layer structure in the baseline case resembles an incomplete hairpin structure, which becomes complete after plasma actuation. SP-PSDA actuation at 5 kHz has a better control effect, which enhances the IRMS of the whole hairpin structure and produces several channels within it—these aid momentum transport within the shear layer. According to the results of proper orthogonal decomposition, the thermal bulbs couple with the shear layer to form large-scale coherent structures. These structures excite the Kelvin–Helmholtz instability, converting the oscillation frequency of the shear layer to an actuation frequency. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]