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Objective: Retropharyngeal lymphadenectomy is challenging. This study investigated a minimally invasive approach to salvage retropharyngeal lymphadenectomy in patients with nasopharyngeal carcinoma. Methods: An anatomical study of four fresh cadaveric heads was conducted to demonstrate the relevant details of retropharyngeal lymphadenectomy using the endoscopic transoral medial pterygomandibular fold approach. Six patients with nasopharyngeal cancer with retropharyngeal lymph node recurrence, who underwent retropharyngeal lymphadenectomy with the endoscopic transoral medial pterygomandibular fold technique at the Eye and ENT Hospital of Fudan University from July to December 2021, were included in this study. Results: The anatomical study demonstrated that the endoscopic transoral medial pterygomandibular fold approach offers a short path and minimally invasive approach to the retropharyngeal space. The surgical procedure was well tolerated by all patients, with no significant post-operative complications. Conclusion: The endoscopic transoral medial pterygomandibular fold approach is safe and efficient for retropharyngeal lymphadenectomy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: Species–area relationships (SAR) are widely utilized for estimating the species richness and its spatial turnover across various scales. Despite the prevalent characterization of SAR using the power law in many microbial community studies, its efficacy remains unvalidated. This study aims to characterize the microbial SAR and its mechanisms in alpine grassland soils on the Qinghai‐Tibet Plateau (QTP). Location: Qinghai‐Tibet Plateau, China. Time Period: August 2014. Major Taxa Studied: Soil bacteria. Methods: Soil samples were collected from five alpine grassland sites on the QTP. Employing a nested sampling strategy at each site, soil samples were collected in plot sizes ranging from 0.5 × 0.5 m2 to 2048 × 2048 m2. Soil bacterial communities were analysed by sequencing 16S ribosomal RNA gene amplicons using an Illumina MiSeq. Results: The bacterial SAR exhibited a logarithmic power law (R2: 0.952–0.999), outperforming the power law (R2: 0.701–0.852). Consequently, the most widely adopted power law led to an overestimation of species richness by up to 15.07% in areas >256 × 256 m2, and the regional maximum theoretical richness based on Chao1 by up to 9.88%. Mechanistically, the passive sampling hypothesis was refuted through the rarefied species richness analysis, and the disproportionate effect hypothesis was rejected based on analyses of the effective numbers of species number conversions for the probability of interspecific encounters (SPIE). Notably, Pearson and multiple linear regression analyses indicated that the spatial turnover of bacterial richness was determined by the environmental heterogeneity (R2: 0.855–0.999), rather or better than environmental variables themselves, supporting the 'environment heterogeneity hypothesis'. Main Conclusions: Soil bacterial SAR in alpine grasslands exhibited a logarithmic power relationship. Spatial turnover was primarily governed by the environmental heterogeneity. In contrast, the traditional power law leads to an overestimation of soil bacterial diversity at the regional scale. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Eutectogels are emerging as an appealing soft conductor for self‐powered sensing and the next generation of flexible human–computer interactive devices owing to their inherent mechanical elasticity and high ionic conductivity. However, it still remains a challenge to simultaneously achieve multi‐functional and multi‐response integrations through a facile and sustainable approach. Herein, a self‐healing, environment tolerant, intrinsically conductive, and recyclable eutectogel with multiple responses is developed via one‐step solar‐initiated polymerization of deep eutectic solvents (DESs) and ionic liquids (ILs). Abundant hydrogen bonds and ion‐dipole interactions impart eutectogels with high mechanical strength (8.8 MPa), ultra‐stretchability (>1100%), strong self‐adhesion (≈12 MPa), recyclability, and autonomously self‐healing ability. Furthermore, the intrinsically conductive eutectogels with appealing versatile sensations on strain, temperature, and humidity can serve as wearable sensors for wireless motion recognition and human–computer interaction control. More importantly, the eutectogel‐assembled single‐electrode triboelectric nanogenerator (TENG) exhibits extreme environment‐tolerant and fast self‐healable properties that contribute to maintaining excellent and stable electrical outputs in a wide work temperature range (approximately −40–60 °C), which appear to be promising in self‐powered flexible electronics with high environmental adaptability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Metabolic alteration drives renal cell carcinoma (RCC) development, while the impact of melatonin (MLT), a neurohormone secreted during darkness, on RCC cell growth and underlying mechanisms remains unclear. We detected concentration of metabolites through metabolomic analyses using UPLC-MS/MS, and the oxygen consumption rate was determined using the Seahorse Extracellular Flux analyzer. We observed that MLT effectively inhibited RCC cell growth both in vitro and in vivo. Additionally, MLT increased ROS levels, suppressed antioxidant enzyme activity, and induced apoptosis. Furthermore, MLT treatment upregulated key TCA cycle metabolites while reducing aerobic glycolysis products, leading to higher oxygen consumption rate, ATP production, and membrane potential. Moreover, MLT treatment suppressed phosphorylation of Akt, mTOR, and p70 S6 Kinase as well as the expression of HIF-1α/VEGFA in RCC cells; these effects were reversed by NAC (ROS inhibitors). Conversely, MLT synergistically inhibited cell growth with sunitinib and counteracted the Warburg effect induced by sunitinib in RCC cells. In conclusion, our results indicate that MLT treatment reverses the Warburg effect and promotes intracellular ROS production, which leads to the suppression of Akt/mTOR/S6K signaling pathway, induction of cell apoptosis, and synergistically inhibition of cell growth with sunitinib in RCC cells. Overall, this study provides new insights into the mechanisms underlying anti-tumor effect of MLT in RCC cells, and suggests that MLT might be a promising therapeutic for RCC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: As the common delayed complication of supracondylar fractures in children, cubitus valgus/varus deformity might lead to pain and loss of motion of the elbow. The current corrective treatment might not be accurate enough and even contribute to postoperative deformity. This study retrospectively analyzed the clinical value of preoperative simulated surgery on 3D model-assisted osteotomy feasibility verification and surgical guidance for cubitus valgus/varus deformity. Methods: Seventeen patients were selected from January 2017 and November 2019. Deformities were analyzed from imaging data and 3D models and corrected after the simulated operations. The radiographic evaluation comprised osseous union, carrying angle, and anteversion angle of the distal humerus. The clinical evaluation was performed according to the Hospital for Special Surgery (HSS) scoring system. Results: All patients underwent the operation successfully and had no postoperative deformity. The carrying angle was significantly improved postoperatively (P < 0.001). The anteversion angle of the distal humerus did not change significantly (P > 0.05). The HSS score rose after surgery (P < 0.001). The function of the elbow joint was excellent in seven cases and good in ten cases. Conclusion: Simulated surgery on 3D model plays an important role in osteotomy plan and surgical guidance, contributing to good surgical efficacy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] Structural information of grassland changes on the Tibetan Plateau is essential for understanding alterations in critical ecosystem functioning and their underlying drivers that may reflect environmental changes. However, such information at the regional scale is still lacking due to methodological limitations. Beyond remote sensing indicators only recognizing vegetation productivity, we utilized multivariate data fusion and deep learning to characterize formation-based plant community structure in alpine grasslands at the regional scale of the Tibetan Plateau for the first time and compared it with the earlier version of Vegetation Map of China for historical changes. Over the past 40 years, we revealed that (1) the proportion of alpine meadows in alpine grasslands increased from 50% to 69%, well-reflecting the warming and wetting trend; (2) dominances of Kobresia pygmaea and Stipa purpurea formations in alpine meadows and steppes were strengthened to 76% and 92%, respectively; (3) the climate factor mainly drove the distribution of Stipa purpurea formation, but not the recent distribution of Kobresia pygmaea formation that was likely shaped by human activities. Therefore, the underlying mechanisms of grassland changes over the past 40 years were considered to be formation dependent. Overall, the first exploration for structural information of plant community changes in this study not only provides a new perspective to understand drivers of grassland changes and their spatial heterogeneity at the regional scale of the Tibetan Plateau, but also innovates large-scale vegetation study paradigm. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: As the common delayed complication of supracondylar fractures in children, cubitus valgus/varus deformity might lead to pain and loss of motion of the elbow. The current corrective treatment might not be accurate enough and even contribute to postoperative deformity. This study retrospectively analyzed the clinical value of preoperative simulated surgery on 3D model-assisted osteotomy feasibility verification and surgical guidance for cubitus valgus/varus deformity. Methods: Seventeen patients were selected from January 2017 and November 2019. Deformities were analyzed from imaging data and 3D models and corrected after the simulated operations. The radiographic evaluation comprised osseous union, carrying angle, and anteversion angle of the distal humerus. The clinical evaluation was performed according to the Hospital for Special Surgery (HSS) scoring system. Results: All patients underwent the operation successfully and had no postoperative deformity. The carrying angle was significantly improved postoperatively (P < 0.001). The anteversion angle of the distal humerus did not change significantly (P > 0.05). The HSS score rose after surgery (P < 0.001). The function of the elbow joint was excellent in seven cases and good in ten cases. Conclusion: Simulated surgery on 3D model plays an important role in osteotomy plan and surgical guidance, contributing to good surgical efficacy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: As the common delayed complication of supracondylar fractures in children, cubitus valgus/varus deformity might lead to pain and loss of motion of the elbow. The current corrective treatment might not be accurate enough and even contribute to postoperative deformity. This study retrospectively analyzed the clinical value of preoperative simulated surgery on 3D model-assisted osteotomy feasibility verification and surgical guidance for cubitus valgus/varus deformity. Methods: Seventeen patients were selected from October 2016 to November 2019. Deformities were analyzed from imaging data and 3D models and corrected after the simulated operations. The radiographic evaluation comprised osseous union, carrying angle, and anteversion angle of the distal humerus. The clinical evaluation was performed according to the Hospital for Special Surgery (HSS) scoring system. Results: All patients underwent the operation successfully and had no postoperative deformity. The carrying angle was significantly improved postoperatively (P < 0.001). The anteversion angle of the distal humerus did not change significantly (P > 0.05). The HSS score rose after surgery (P < 0.001). The function of the elbow joint was excellent in seven cases and good in ten cases. Conclusion: Simulated surgery on 3D model plays an important role in osteotomy plan and surgical guidance, contributing to good surgical efficacy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

d-allulose is a rare low-calorie sugar that has many fundamental biological functions. d-allulose 3-epimerase from Agrobacterium tumefaciens (AT-DAEase) catalyzes the conversion of d-fructose to d-allulose. The enzyme has attracted considerable attention because of its mild catalytic properties. However, the bioconversion efficiency and reusability of AT-DAEase limit its industrial application. Magnetic metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) have uniform pore sizes and large surface areas and can facilitate mass transport and enhance the capacity for enzyme immobilization. Here, we successfully encapsulated cobalt-type AT-DAEase into the cobalt-based magnetic MOF ZIF-67@Fe3O4 using a self-assembly strategy. We confirmed the immobilization of enzyme AT-DAEase and characterized the enzymatic properties of the MOF-immobilized AT-DAEase@ZIF-67@Fe3O4. The AT-DAEase@ZIF-67@Fe3O4 nanoparticles had higher catalytic activity (65.1 U mg−1) and bioconversion ratio (38.1%) than the free AT-DAEase. The optimal conditions for maximum enzyme activity of the AT-DAEase@ZIF-67@Fe3O4 nanoparticles were 55 °C and pH 8.0, which were significantly higher than those of the free AT-DAEase (50 °C and pH 7.5). The AT-DAEase@ZIF-67@Fe3O4 nanoparticles displayed significantly improved thermal stability and excellent recycling performance, with 80% retention of enzyme activity at a temperature range of 45–70 °C and > 45% of its initial activity after eight cycles of enzyme use. The AT-DAEase@ZIF-67@Fe3O4 nanoparticles have great potential for large-scale industrial preparation of d-allulose by immobilizing cobalt-type AT-DAEase into magnetic MOF ZIF-67@Fe3O4. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents a new approach for analyzing the free vibration of thin plates with arbitrary piecewise smooth curvilinear contour under various boundary conditions. It can also be applied to plates with cracks. This approach is based on the transformation of energy integral expressions and the domain decomposition technique. Furthermore, boundary conditions are modeled by using linear springs to restrain the plate edges. For obtaining the expressions of energy integral, the arbitrarily shaped domain of integration is divided into several trapezoid domains with curved sides by a set of parallel lines passing through the intersection points of contour curve segments. Then, Jacobi orthogonal polynomials are introduced as the admissible functions, so that the repeated integrals in the energy expressions are reduced to definite integrals analytically. At this point, the calculation method of the energy functional is determined by the equation forms of the curve segments of the plate contour. When the equations of the curve segments allow the integrands to have analytic primitive functions, the energy functional has an analytical solution. Otherwise, the Gauss–Legendre method is used to obtain the numerical solution. Accordingly, the arbitrarily shaped plate with cracks is decomposed into several arbitrarily shaped subdomains based on the cracks. Each subdomain is handled according to the above procedure. The continuity conditions at the interconnecting interfaces of the subdomains are realized by linear springs. The plate without or with crack is modeled by setting the spring stiffness to infinity or 0. The accuracy of the proposed method is verified by comparing the obtained results with the published results. Furthermore, the vibration characteristics of plates with various shapes, such as astroid-shaped plates and cracked elliptical plates, are investigated. These new results can serve as benchmarks for further studies on the vibration of plates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Dynamic components of the control systems involving actuator time delay can strongly influence the dynamics of the controlled floor system. In this paper, an independent modal space design process for active control of floor vibration caused by human‐induced impact excitation is developed based on modal direct velocity feedback control with a phase‐lead compensator using the root locus method to enhance the stability margins and increase the damping of each filtered mode. Spillover effects under residual modes are considered through the placement of the actuator and sensors. Verification experiments using a steel plate specimen are conducted for the proposed procedure, and the test result shows that effective reduction of the vibration level is successfully achieved. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In order to obtain scientific quantitative decision-making of physical education integrated ideological and political teaching in college, and improve the teaching effect of college physical education integrated ideology and politics, a teaching effect evaluation model of physical education integrated ideology and politics based on principal component analysis is proposed. Clear teaching contents, activities planning and organization, sports teams, such as evaluation index, according to each evaluation index, data collection and initial evaluation, in combination with principal component analysis (pca), assimilation process evaluation index, and correlation matrix eigenvalue and characteristic vector and determine the number of principal components, fuse the sports education teaching effect evaluation model of the building. Experiments show that the model of the linear correlation coefficient and the rank correlation coefficient of average 97.3% and 96.7%, respectively, were higher than other methods, fusion and its various professional sports education teaching effect are present must rise, the score of one of the English major students score increased 0.75, the lowest building professional and a higher level of ascension 0.12. The accuracy of the evaluation results of the model in this paper is higher, which can effectively improve the effect of college sports integrated ideological and political teaching. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Lumbar disc herniation (LDH) is a common and frequently occurring disease in clinics. Low back pain and sciatica are the presenting symptoms of LDH. To some extent, it can be considered that measures with the capability to improve low back pain or sciatica have the potential to treat LDH. Ma's bamboo-based medicinal moxibustion therapy can effectively reduce the degree of low back pain and has been widely used. Studies of small sample size have seen significant improvement on pain relief. The aim of this trial is to evaluate the clinical efficacy and safety of Ma's bamboo-based medicinal moxibustion therapy in the treatment of LDH low back pain.Methods/design: The trial is a multicenter, randomized, parallel-group, non-inferiority study. Three hundred and twelve patients will be randomly assigned to a Ma's bamboo-based medicinal moxibustion group (n=156) and an acupuncture group (n=156). Patients in each group will receive treatment every day, 6 times a week, 12 times in total. Follow-up will be conducted 14 days after treatment. The primary outcome will be the visual analog scale(VAS) at baseline, after 6 times of treatment, end of treatment, and follow-up. The secondary outcomes will include Oswestry disability indexes (ODI), modified Japanese Orthopaedic Association low back pain (M-JOA) score, serum β-endorphin (β-EP), and serum substance P (SP). β-EP and SP, as well as safety evaluation indexes (routine blood, liver, and kidney function and electrocardiogram), will be measure at baseline and after the end of treatment. The number, nature, and severity of adverse events will be recorded.Discussion: The results of the trial will compare the efficacy of low back pain in LDH between Ma's bamboo-based medicinal moxibustion group and the acupuncture group and will be expected to make a systematic and objective evaluation of the clinical efficacy and safety of Ma's bamboo-based medicinal moxibustion therapy.Trial Registration: ChiCTR2000038725 . Registered on 29 September 2020. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper addresses the formation motion control method of unmanned surface vehicles (USVs). Combining the leader-follower formation control strategy with the path planning strategy based on the artificial potential field method, the control law is designed for a group of under-actuated USVs using an adaptive fuzzy nonsingular terminal sliding mode control method. The control goal is to make the followers start from their initial positions and finally form a specific formation shape with the leader and reach a stable state. The adaptive reaching law is proposed to reduce the system chattering. In order to reduce the formation integration time, a fuzzy logic reaching law is proposed to reduce the convergence time. Meanwhile, an adaptive tuning algorithm is used to tune the controller parameters, and the Lyapunov stability theorem is used to prove the finite-time stability. Simulation results show that the proposed approach attains a satisfactory performance, comparative simulations are provided to demonstrate the effectiveness of the approach presented. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sesquiterpenes are a large variety of terpene natural products, widely existing in plants, fungi, marine organisms, insects, and microbes. Value-added sesquiterpenes are extensively used in industries such as: food, drugs, fragrances, and fuels. With an increase in market demands and the price of sesquiterpenes, the biosynthesis of sesquiterpenes by microbial fermentation methods from renewable feedstocks is acquiring increasing attention. Synthetic biology provides robust tools of sesquiterpene production in microorganisms. This review presents a summary of metabolic engineering strategies on the hosts and pathway engineering for sesquiterpene production. Advances in synthetic biology provide new strategies on the creation of desired hosts for sesquiterpene production. Especially, metabolic engineering strategies for the production of sesquiterpenes such as: amorphadiene, farnesene, bisabolene, and caryophyllene are emphasized in: Escherichia coli, Saccharomyces cerevisiae, and other microorganisms. Challenges and future perspectives of the bioprocess for translating sesquiterpene production into practical industrial work are also discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• A self-propelled particle model considering leadership and experience is proposed. • Group queuing and stable movement are achieved under the guidance of leaders. • The optimal leadership and vision intervals are obtained. The coordinated and ordered collective behavior arising from dispersed and local self-organizing interactions among individuals is widely observed in many biological communities. For populations engaging in group foraging or migration, complex societies with multiple hierarchical levels are common. A prevalent scenario involves two dominant levels, one corresponding to leaders and the other composed of followers. In this paper, we explore how a group can be influenced by a set of leaders to organize and move in a coordinated manner towards a preferred direction. Specifically, we balance social interactions among group members through two weighted factors, corresponding to the leadership and experience of leaders. Through computer simulations, we observe a linear relationship between the proportion of leaders guiding group movement and the group size, with larger groups requiring a higher proportion of leaders while maintaining initial density. Additionally, we identify an optimal leadership interval where group movement performance enhances with increasing leadership up to a certain point, beyond which it starts to decline. Similar patterns are observed concerning individual visual field, indicating the existence of an optimal interval for visual angle. Our findings not only contribute to understanding collective motion in natural biological systems but also provide new insights into effective leadership mechanisms in artificial swarm systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hydrogen production from biomass reforming is a promising technology to convert waste into hydrogen, a valuable and clean energy source. Membrane reactors can enhance the conversion efficiency by integrating reaction and H 2 separation into one unit. In this study, a nickel hollow fiber membrane (NHFM) was integrated with Ni-based catalyst to form a catalytic reactor for glucose steam reforming (GSR) for hydrogen production. The performance of the catalytic membrane reactor was investigated under various operating conditions, including reaction temperature, feed concentration and feed flow rate. Results show that increasing the temperature effectively improved glucose conversion and hydrogen production yield. Although high feed flow rate and glucose concentration reduced carbon gasification efficiency and hydrogen yield, high H 2 flux could be obtained. At 1000 °C, 8 wt% glucose, and 0.03 g min−1 feed flow rate, the membrane reactor delivered a maximum H 2 flux of 0.8 mL cm−2 min−1, corresponding to a carbon gasification efficiency of 93 %. Furthermore, the catalytic membrane reactor exhibited stable performance for 4 cycle stability tests over 84 h time-on-stream without any deactivation. Hence, the nickel catalytic hollow fiber membrane reactor for glucose steam reforming displays great potential for hydrogen production from liquid products derived from biomass. Hydrogen production from glucose reforming reaction in metal nickel hollow fiber membrane. [Display omitted] • Ni hollow fiber membrane (NHFM) was developed for in situ H 2 production. • Glucose as a typical chemical from biomass was used as the feed to produce H 2. • NHFM reactor displays good H 2 production efficiency at elevated temperatures. • NHFM reactor exhibits stable performance during the test of 84 h. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Design strategies and adsorption mechanisms of lignin-based adsorbent are reviewed. • The application of lignin-based adsorbents in wastewater is summarized. • Summarizing the regeneration and reuse of lignin-based adsorbents. • Future outlooks for lignin-based adsorbents are presented. The heavy metals, pesticides and dyes in agriculture and industry caused serious water pollution have increased the urgency for the advancement of biomass-based adsorbents due to their merits of low cost, high efficiency, and environmental sustainability. Thus, this review systematically examines the recent progress of lignin-based adsorbents dedicated to wastewater purification. Commencing with a succinct exposition on the intricate structure and prevalent forms of lignin, the review proceeds to expound rational design strategies tailored for lignin-based adsorbents coupled with adsorption mechanisms and regeneration methods. Emphasis is placed on the potential industrial applications of lignin-based adsorbents, accentuating their capacity for recovery and direct utilization post-use. The future challenges and outlooks associated with lignin-based adsorbents are discussed to provide novel perspectives for the development of high-performance and sustainable biosorbents, facilitating the effective removal of pollutants and the value-added utilization of resources in a sustainable manner. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the context of the current construction of smart cities, cycling activities have grown rapidly, and the optimization of road cycling environments has become increasingly important. In order to explore the role of the optimization of cycling environment in improving the health of cyclists and shaping the overall sustainable environment of the city, this article takes the coastal road of Qingdao as the research object to consult the relevant literature and current environment investigation. The IPA analysis method is used to analyze and evaluate the safety, continuity, convenience, interest, and comfort of the cycling environment, to plan and construct the bicycle lanes to ensure the personal safety of cyclists, and to improve the original road facilities. In order to make suggestions for the optimization of the cycling environment in Qingdao, five aspects of developing the characteristic cycling route of coastal tourism are put forward. That is to ensure smooth cycling activities, to add bicycles parking facilities to maintain a good appearance of the city, to increase bicycles related services facilities, to make rational use of the vertical slope of the road, and to make use of the advantages of natural landscape resources. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study proposes a novel miniaturized circularly polarized (CP) ultrahigh frequency (UHF) quadrifilar helix antenna for spaceborne applications. The dual‐band operation is realized using four inverted‐U shaped helical strips (IUSHSs) that are rotated and alternately arranged on the four faces of a hollow polyimide cuboid in a sequential rotation manner, which effectively reduces the size of the antenna. Furthermore, the four IUSHSs are connected by a cross‐shape strip at the top of the antenna to control the dual resonant frequencies, resulting in a small dual‐band frequency ratio. The proposed antenna is both lightweight and robust when compared with the conventional miniaturized CP antennas operating at similar bands with similar performance. In particular, its compact radiator provides effective miniaturized spaceborne solution without the need of high‐dielectric coefficient materials. A device for spaceborne application that operates at 402/505 MHz is designed, fabricated, measured, and in‐orbit tested with a weight of 651 g and an effective size of 0.161 × 0.161 × 0.228 λ3402MHz (λ402MHz is the wavelength at 402 MHz). The measured gain and axial ratio of the proposed antenna are better than 5.32 dBi and 2.18 dB, respectively, within 2 and 12 MHz bandwidth for the two bands. The test results proved that the methods used to design the proposed antenna are effective. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Under the initiative of “co-construction and sharing, health for all”, the natural condition of coastal area in Qingdao becomes the key area of the national fitness. Based on the health-oriented theory, authors analyze the health-oriented connotation of the coastal fitness environment, and suggest that the realization of health-oriented coastal fitness environment needs to meet the spatial demand of health-oriented behaviors and health behaviors. These behaviors should maintain accessibility and friendliness. Based on the present status survey and IPA analysis, it is concluded that the continuity and gradual changes are in urgent need of improvement, followed by smoothness, then convenience and recognizability need to update. Therefore, in combination with the acceptable time and distance, authors put forward specific optimization strategies from four aspects. That is, coastal fitness environment in Qingdao can be improved by network of coastal footpaths, intelligent management of color lightings, reasonable connecting of road materials and humanized and recognizable fitness site, in order to promote residents’ health activities and national fitness. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Application of multi-source data in accessibility indicator evaluation. • Multilevel search radius is adopted. • The inverse distance weighting method is used for indicator visualization. • Suggestions for urban renewal based on accessibility indicators. Rapid urbanization in China results in an uneven distribution of Urban Green Space (UGS) resources. This study aims to provide a scientific basis for optimizing the layout of UGS during the urban renewal process. This study takes Qingdao City Center of China as an example. Using the expanded model of Gaussian Two-Step Floating Catchment Area Method, different search thresholds are set based on the service scale and radius of UGS. This analysis delves into the distribution characteristics of UGS accessibility by walking. The results show that the accessibility of UGS in the Qingdao City Center presents an obvious circular structure, with Badaguan Block and Jinmen Block as the high-value core of accessibility that gradually decrease toward the periphery. There is a significant gap between the supply of UGS and the actual demand of the residential population, and 65.49% of residential quarters in Shinan District have lower accessibility of UGS than the average level of the whole district. According to the results of accessibility analysis, the optimization strategies and spatial intentions are proposed from three aspects: the renewal of existing spaces, the integration and utilization of resources, and the improvement of the UGS system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We present a simple model of ionomers, namely a single polymer chain in a series of fixed attractors. In analogy to ionized bead's claws of surrounding chains, the set of attractors can affectively slow down the diffusion motion of the target chain. The monomer mean-square displacement of ionomers is studied by using Monte Carlo algorithm, and compared with the prediction of the sticky Rouse model. The diffusion motion properties of ionomers are explored in three aspects, including the chain length of the polymer, the depth of the potential well and the number of ionic groups. The results show that a plateau appears in the monomer diffusion function due to the attraction of the attractors to the claws. However, comparative theoretical predictions and simulation results show that there exists some discrepancy between them. Therefore, the relaxation time distribution of polymer chain motion is explored. The simulation results confirm that the association lifetime is decreasing exponentially, and the expected values of the association lifetime satisfy the Boltzmann distribution as shown by the results. These results perfectly explain the deviation between the simulation data and the theoretical results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The optimal treatment strategies for extranodal natural killer/ T‐cell lymphoma (ENKTL) have not been defined. We conducted this prospective, open‐label, phase II, single‐center study aimed to explore the efficacy and safety of radiotherapy followed by DICEP (Dexamethasone, ifosfamide, cisplatin, etoposide, and pegaspargase) regimen in the treatment of patients with untreated, stage IE/IIE, extranodal NK/T‐cell lymphoma. Methods: Thirty eligible patients were enrolled in this study, receiving radiotherapy of 50Gy/25fx, and followed by chemotherapy with DICEP regimen for 3 cycles if tolerated. Median follow‐up time of this study was 70.8 months. We constructed Kaplan‐Meier survival curves for survival analyses. Results: The most common manifestations at the onset of disease were nasal obstruction (80%), with or without fever, and pharyngalgia (20%). The overall response rate (ORR) was 96.7% (29/30). Four patients (13.3%) had progression of the disease (PD), the estimated 5‐year progression‐free survival (PFS) rate was 86%. Four patients (13.3%) died of disease, and the estimated 5‐year cumulative overall survival (OS) was 87%. The most common hematological toxicity was grade 3 or grade 4 neutropenia, which could be successfully managed via using growth‐stimulating factors or dose modifications. Hypoalbuminemia and decreased fibrinogen are the top two nonhematologic toxicities. No treatment‐related death occurred in this study. Conclusions: Our present study showed that radiotherapy followed by DICEP chemotherapy could be an effective and tolerable treatment modality for newly diagnosed, stage IE/IIE ENKTL patients. Adverse events were predictable and manageable. Trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT01667302. Registered: 1 July 2012; [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A novel very‐high frequency (VHF) band spaceborne phased antenna array for satellite‐automatic identification system/VHF data exchange (SAT‐AIS/VDE) applications operating at 159 MHz is proposed in this letter. Element phase shifting is achieved by controlling each element mechanical rotation angle rather than the phase shifter behind each element. Thanks to the new working scheme, the proposed array shows several advantages over its former counterpart, including low cost, high power capacity, and broad phase‐shifting bandwidth. This letter explains the basic principle, and presents a preliminary study on element rotation angle controlled phased antenna array technology, and an eight‐element‐array which is implemented on solar panel supporting plate is designed to validate the concept. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Unentangled ring polymers take a Rouse-like relaxation process, which is shorter than the relaxation time of the linear chain of the same length. However, the relaxation time of the entangled ring-shaped polymer is still under debate since the polymer has their no free end. The physical properties of an entangled polymer chain can be obtained by a single polymer chain via establishing a mesh model. We have simulated the diffusion motion of the circular chains, and obtained the relaxation times by using three different methods. Four different scaling models have been proposed to predict the scaling exponents for the dynamics of nonconcatenated entangled rings. And our results are coincide with the Multi-ring model. At the same time, we also compare the difference between linear and circular chains, including relaxation time and diffusion motion. Indicated by our simulation results for same length of the chains, the plateau of g2(t) for ring chains are below that of linear polymers, and the relaxation times of the ring chains are shorter than that of linear polymers show by simulation results which are completely consistent with theoretical results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) is a common cancer found in the nasopharynx with high metastatic and invasive nature. Increasing evidences have identified the critical role of gene therapy in NPC treatment. Hence, this study was designed to identify specific gene markers that affected NPC progression through gene expression profile analysis. NPC‐related gene expression data set gene set enrichment (GSE)53819 were retrieved and analyzed to screen out differentially expressed genes (DEGs), followed by determination of their expression in noncancerous tissues and NPC specimens. Next, weighted gene co‐expression network analysis (WGCNA) was conducted on DEGs to obtain tumor‐associated gene modules. Genes in those modules were intersected with DEGs for gene ontology and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes functional enrichment analysis. Then protein‐protein interaction network of tumor‐associated genes was constructed to select genes most closely linked to NPC. Afterward, expression of chromosome 9 open reading frame 24 (c9orf24), primary ciliary dyskinesia protein 1 (PCDP1), and leucine‐rich repeat‐containing protein 46 (LRRC46) was detected in GSE53819 and further verified in GSE12452 and GSE64634. Differential analysis on GSE53819 found that 2,173 genes were aberrantly expressed in NPC, among which 917 genes are upregulated and 1,256 genes are downregulated. WGCNA showed that genes were enriched in 17 modules and 727 genes exhibited ectopic expression in NPC and enriched in cytokine‐cytokine receptor interaction, cytochrome P450, and chemical carcinogenesis signaling pathways, among which c9orf24, PCDP1, and LRRC46 were poorly expressed in NPC. Therefore, c9orf24, PCDP1, and LRRC46 might serve as prominent diagnostic markers for NPC, which presents new insights for NPC therapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Phase composition, morphology, and microwave dielectric properties of (1−x) LiAl0.98(Zn0.5Si0.5)0.02O2 + x CaTiO3 (0.05 ≤ x ≤ 0.20) materials synthesized via the solid state reaction method were investigated. All these densified materials were obtained at a sintering temperature of 1150°C. All compositions showed a major LiAlO2 phase that was accompanied by a minor CaTiO3 phase. The εr value increased gradually from 10.88 to 11.60, whereas the Q × f value remarkably decreased from 33 251 GHz to 13 511 GHz. The τf value changes from −85 ppm/°C to 212 ppm/°C, thereby indicating that CaTiO3 could effectively adjust this value. HBO3‐doping was used to further decrease the sintering temperature to 900°C. The optimum value was obtained at 7 wt.% HBO3 doped with microwave dielectric properties of εr = 9.39, Q × f = 10 224 GHz, and τf = −7.8 ppm/°C. This material also exhibited chemical compatibility with silver, making it a candidate for low temperature co‐fired ceramics applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The current study investigated the dielectric and electrical properties of BaAl (2−2 x) (Zn 0.5 Ti 0.5) 2 x O 4 ceramics, with x = 0, 0.4%, 0.8%, 1.2% and 1.6%, via impedance spectroscopy. The co-doping of Zn and Ti improved the temperature stability over −100 °C–700 °C of ε r and lowered tan δ due to the electron-pinned defect-dipoles. Effects of oxygen partial pressure on the electrical, dielectric and ferroelectric properties of x = 1.6% ceramic were studied as well. The bulk conductivity of the N 2 –H 2 -sintered and O 2 -sintered samples was attributed to the e ' and h • , respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Novel LiAl5−xZnxO8−0.5x microwave dielectric ceramics were synthesized through a solid‐state reaction route. Phase evolution of LiAl5−xZnxO8−0.5x was determined by XRD analysis. The XRD results indicated that the phase compositions had a P4332 space group when 0 ≤ x ≤ 0.2 and a spinel structure when 0.3 ≤ x ≤ 0.5. The dielectric constant (εr) of this series' solid solutions decreased with the increase in Zn doping content, which was in good agreement with the Clausius‐Mossotti relation. Oxygen vacancy and the decreased degree of order degraded the quality factor (Q × f) of the two structures. The deterioration in quality factor was further verified by impedance spectroscopy. The temperature coefficient of the resonant frequency (τf) decreased with the increase in x and was correlated with the unit cell volume. Finally, CaTiO3 was used as a compensation material to obtain a near‐zero τf of the LiAl5O8 ceramic. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: The objective of this study was to investigate the effects of wilting and additives on the fermentation quality, structural and non-structural carbohydrate composition of mulberry silages. Methods: The selected lactic acid bacteria strains Lactobacillus plantarum 'LC279063' (L1), commercial inoculant Gaofuji (GF), and Trichoderma viride cellulase (CE) were used as additives for silage preparation. Silage treatments were designed as control (CK), L1, GF, or CE under three wilting rates, that is wilting for 0, 2, or 4 hours (h). After ensiling for 30 days, the silages were analyzed for the chemical and fermentation characteristics. Results: The results showed that wilting had superior effects on increasing the non-structural carbohydrate concentration and degrading the structural carbohydrate. After ensiling for 30 days, L1 generally had a higher fermentation quality than other treatments, indicated by the lower pH value, acetic acid, propionic acid and ammonia nitrogen (NH3-N) content, and the higher lactic acid, water soluble carbohydrate, glucose, galactose, sucrose, and cellobiose concentration (p<0.05) at any wilting rate. Wilting could increase the ratio of lactic acid/acetic acid and decrease the content of NH3-N. Conclusion: The results confirmed that wilting degraded the structural carbohydrate and increased the non-structural carbohydrate; and L1 exhibited better properties in improving fermentation quality and maintaining a high non-structural carbohydrates composition compared with the other treatments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As an extremely prevalent disease worldwide, allergic rhinitis (AR) is a condition characterized by chronic inflammation of the nasal mucosa. To identify the finer molecular mechanisms associated with the AR susceptibility genes, differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in AR were investigated. The DEG expression and clinical data of the GSE19187 data set were used for weighted gene co‐expression network analysis (WGCNA). After the modules related to AR had been screened, the genes in the module were extracted for Gene Ontology and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway enrichment analysis, whereby the genes enriched in the KEGG pathway were regarded as the pathway‐genes. The DEGs in patients with AR were subsequently screened out from GSE19187, and the sensitive genes were identified in GSE18574 in connection with the allergen challenge. Two kinds of genes were compared with the pathway‐genes in order to screen the AR susceptibility genes. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve was plotted to evaluate the capability of the susceptibility genes to distinguish the AR state. Based on the WGCNA in the GSE19187 data set, 10 co‐expression network modules were identified. The correlation analyses revealed that the yellow module was positively correlated with the disease state of AR. A total of 89 genes were found to be involved in the enrichment of the yellow module pathway. Four genes (CST1,SH2D1B,DPP4, and SLC5A5) were upregulated in AR and sensitive to allergen challenge, whose potentials were further confirmed by ROC curve. Taken together, CST1,SH2D1B,DPP4, and SLC5A5 are susceptibility genes to AR. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: In this study, we examined whether RORA (retinoic acid receptor-related orphan receptor alpha) was capable of alleviating the progression of allergic rhinitis (AR). Methods: In order to elucidate the possible effects of RORA and the regulatory mechanism between RORA and the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway, mouse AR models were established and treated with RORA vector, siRNA against RORA, or the Wnt/β-catenin pathway inhibitor WIF-1. Subsequently, the serum levels of inflammatory cytokines (IgE, INF-γ, IL-1β, IL-4, and IL-17), red blood cell (RBC) immune adhesion function, the levels of RORA, β-catenin, and GSK3β, as well as the extent of β-catenin and GSK-3β phosphorylation were evaluated and measured. Results: The OVA-induced AR mouse model exhibited obvious nasal mucosal injury and inflammatory cell infiltration. RORA overexpression or the inactivation of the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway was uncovered as a way to ameliorate nasal mucosal injury and eosinophil infiltration of the OVA-induced AR mouse model. On the other hand, it reduced the number of eosinophils and mast cells, which also resulted in downregulated expression of IgE, INF-γ, IL-1β, IL-4, IL-17, β-catenin, and GSK-3β. Moreover, this led to a decreased extent of β-catenin and GSK-3β phosphorylation, while the rates of C3b receptor rosette and Ic rosette were elevated. Conclusion: Taken together, the key findings provided evidence suggesting that the elevated RORA could potentially alleviate nasal mucosal injury and simultaneously enhance RBC immune adhesion function through the inhibition of the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway activation in an OVA-induced AR mouse model. This emphasizes a novel therapeutic target for the treatment of AR. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The structure and dielectric properties of BaAl (2−2 x) (Zn 0.5 Ti 0.5) 2 x O 4 ceramics were investigated. Single-phase solid solutions in space group P6 3 (No. 173) were confirmed when 0% ≤ x ≤ 1.6%. [Zn 0.5 /Ti 0.5 ]3+ averagely occupied four symmetrically inequivalent Al sites, and Al1/(Zn,Ti)–O, Al2/(Zn,Ti)–O and Al3/(Zn,Ti)–O bond lengths increased with increased x. Two dielectric anomalous peaks existed, the first peak referred to second-order ferroelectric transition. Stability was significantly improved by moving the first dielectric abnormal peak from 123 °C to −22 °C due to the lower atomic shift amplitude Δz of B cations along the polar axis. The co-doping of Zn2+ and Ti4+ played a decisive role in realizing an ultrabroad temperature range (−100 °C–700 °C) of stability (−27 ppm/°C ≤ TCC ≤ +10 ppm/°C), which met the conditions of C0G or NP0 multilayer ceramic capacitors (±30 ppm/°C). Superior insulating properties were performed by high resistivity of > 1014 Ω cm. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study systematically investigated the structural, dielectric, and ferroelectric properties of BaAl(2−2x)(Mg0.5Ti0.5)2xO4 ceramics in the 0 ≤ x ≤ 0.04 range. Single‐phase solid solutions in the P63 space group with hexagonal crystal symmetry were confirmed in the composition range of 0 ≤ x ≤ 0.03. The bond lengths of Al1/(Mg,Ti)–O, Al2/(Mg,Ti)–O, and Al3/(Mg,Ti)–O increased with the increase in x, as confirmed through the Rietveld refinement and evolutions of corresponding modes in Raman spectra. The temperature stability of dielectric properties improved at a composition around x = 0.03, and the dielectric constant εr ascended with the increase in x. Ultrabroad temperature stability (−100°C to 700°C) was obtained, and an optimal combination (εr = 18.5, tan δ < 10−3, −22 ppm/°C ≤ TCC ≤ +20 ppm/°C, resistivity ~4.5 × 1014 Ω·cm) was achieved for the x = 0.03 ceramic sintered at 1260°C in air for 6 hours. The increase in stability was ascribed to the variations in axial bonds, and lattice distortions were determined through high‐resolution transmission electron microscopy. The x = 0.03 ceramic could be a promising candidate for C0G or NP0 multilayer ceramic capacitors because of its low loss, high reliability, superior insulating properties and comparatively low‐cost raw materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Low‐permittivity ZnAl2‐x(Zn0.5Ti0.5)xO4 ceramics were synthesized via conventional solid‐state reaction method. A pure ZnAl2O4 solid‐state solution with an Fd‐3m space group was achieved at x ≤ 0.1. Results showed that partial substitution of [Zn0.5Ti0.5]3+ for Al3+ effectively lowered the sintering temperature of the ZnAl2O4 ceramics and remarkably increased the quality factor (Q × f) values. Optimum microwave dielectric properties (εr = 9.1, Q × f = 115,800 GHz and τf = −78 ppm/°C) were obtained in the sample with x = 0.1 sintered at 1400°C in oxygen atmosphere for 10 h. The temperature used for the sample was approximately 250°C lower than the sintering temperature of conventional ZnAl2O4 ceramics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A low-carbon distributed energy system integrated with solar energy and natural gas-based carbon capture has been developed and analyzed. Considering the environment, economy, and independence, a novel multi-objective planning framework combining three methods has been employed to rationalize the capacity allocation and synergetic scheduling. A real energy-consuming park with multiple loads was taken as a case for hourly simulation, to evaluate the performance and operation of the proposed system. The results indicate that 38.84% of emissions can be avoided compared to the situation without carbon capture through the lifecycle. The natural gas cost and heat sale profit constitute the majority of annual expense and revenue, respectively. The interaction level with power grid is 6.87% at the optimal operation. Furthermore, two economic improvement measures were counted, and three disposals of the captured carbon dioxide were compared. This work may help move distributed energy systems develop towards clean, economic, and independent prosumers. • A distributed energy system coupled with solar energy and carbon capture is designed. • Planning model is developed considering environment, economy, and independence. • Life-cycle carbon emissions can be reduced by 38.84% after the capture. • Two economic improvement measures and three CO 2 disposals are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A correction to the article "Preoperative simulated surgery on 3D model assists osteotomy feasibility verification and surgical guidance for patients with cubitus valgus/varus deformity: a retrospective observational study," published online on August 8, 2023 is presented.

As permafrost thaw is predicted to become more extensive under climate change (Chadburn et al., 2017), elucidating the linkage between microbial shifts and permafrost C release upon permafrost thaw is especially important for enhancing our understanding of global C cycling. However, if functionality becomes redundant, there is no way to observe a clear linkage between changes in microbial functional diversity or C decomposition gene abundance with permafrost C release upon permafrost thaw. Chen et al., (2020) provide experimental evidence demonstrating that increases in microbial functional diversity and C decomposition gene abundances, rather than taxonomic shifts, are associated with permafrost C release upon permafrost thaw. [Extracted from the article]

Purpose: Tumor drug resistance limits the response to chemotherapy. Interestingly, sequential combination therapy enhances the anticancer efficacy of drugs like cisplatin (CDDP) via synergistic effects. We assayed the synergistic effects of combined photodynamic therapy programmed death receptor-ligand 1 (PDT) and chemotherapy in malignant Hep-2 cells. Methods: In the cultured Hep-2 cells, meta-tetra(hydroxyphenyl)chlorin (m-THPC) and CDDP were administered separately or in combination. The cellular viability and apoptosis were assessed, accompanied by measurement of the expression of Bax, Bcl-2, ATG-7, and LC3 (LC3-I and LC3-II). Additionally, nuclear chromatin changes, drug retention, and PD-L1 expression were further investigated following different treatments. Results: The sequential treatment significantly diminished cell viability and induced cell apoptosis, in consistency with the usage of single therapeutic strategies, as reflected by an increase in Bax expression and decrease of Bcl-2 expression. Moreover, ATG-7 and LC3-II/LC3-I ratio were reduced after administration of the sequential treatment. Synergetic effect of nuclear chromatin configuration, negative effects of cellular drug retention, and a decrease in PD-L1 expression were observed following the sequential treatment. Conclusion: The application of sequential treatment of PDT in combination with chemotherapy offers a promising therapeutic option for cancer treatment, by regulating the PD-L1 expression, autophagy, and non-mitochondrial pathways. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Low-permittivity LiAl 1- x (Zn 0.5 Si 0.5) x O 2 microwave dielectric ceramics were prepared by the solid-state reaction method. Single-phase LiAlO 2 solid solutions with a tetragonal structure were achieved at x ≤ 0.12. Partial substitution of [Zn 0.5 Si 0.5 ]3+ for Al3+ could improve the microstructure and prevent from absorbing moisture of pure LiAlO 2 ceramics, which slightly increases their relative permittivity (ε r). The quality factor (Q × f) and temperature coefficient of resonant frequency (τ f) were closely related to the crystallinity and cation disorder of the B-site characterized by the full width at half-maximum of B 1 (1) –mode assigned to Li–O–Al stretching. The optimum microwave dielectric properties (ε r = 6.12, Q × f = 56986 GHz and τ f = -122 ppm/°C) were obtained in the sample with x = 0.02 sintered at 1300 °C. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Diffuse large B cell lymphoma is one of the predominant histological subtypes of primary gastric lymphomas. Factors that contribute to precise stratification and guide the treatment of this disease are still not well understood. We analyzed 73 primary gastric diffuse large B cell lymphoma patients retrospectively, and found that patients characterized by late stage, multiple localization, B symptoms, lower serum albumin level and elevated LDH level had a shorter overall survival through Univariate Cox regression analysis. Multivariate Cox regression analysis demonstrated that ALB ≤ 35g/L, staging ≥ IIE and multiple sites localization were independent adverse prognostic factors. Significantly, in 35 patients who received endoscopy at diagnosis, Kaplan–Meier analyses indicated that patients with large (≥3 cm) and deep lesions (≥11 mm) had an inferior OS (p =.01 and.039). These findings implicated that tumor size and depth are two indicators of prognosis under ultrasonography. Further randomized studies with large number of cases are needed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Magic‐angle spinning (MAS) is an essential ingredient in a wide variety of solid‐state NMR experiments. The standard procedures to adjust the rotor angle are not highly accurate, resulting in a slight misadjustment of the rotor from the magic angle (θRL=tan-12) on the order of a few millidegrees. This small missetting has no significant impact on the overall spectral resolution, but is sufficient to reintroduce anisotropic interactions. Shown here is that site‐specific 1H‐15N dipolar couplings can be accurately measured in a heavily deuterated protein. This method can be applied at arbitrarily high MAS frequencies, since neither rotor synchronization nor particularly high radiofrequency field strengths are required. The off‐MAS method allows the quantification of order parameters for very dynamic residues, which often escape an analysis using existing methods. Magic angles: Shown here is that site‐specific 1H‐15N dipolar couplings can be accurately measured in a heavily deuterated protein. This method can be applied at arbitrarily high magic‐angle spinning (MAS) frequencies. The off‐MAS method allows the quantification of order parameters for very dynamic residues, which often escape an analysis using existing methods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Magic‐angle spinning (MAS) is an essential ingredient in a wide variety of solid‐state NMR experiments. The standard procedures to adjust the rotor angle are not highly accurate, resulting in a slight misadjustment of the rotor from the magic angle (θRL=tan-12) on the order of a few millidegrees. This small missetting has no significant impact on the overall spectral resolution, but is sufficient to reintroduce anisotropic interactions. Shown here is that site‐specific 1H‐15N dipolar couplings can be accurately measured in a heavily deuterated protein. This method can be applied at arbitrarily high MAS frequencies, since neither rotor synchronization nor particularly high radiofrequency field strengths are required. The off‐MAS method allows the quantification of order parameters for very dynamic residues, which often escape an analysis using existing methods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BaAl(2−2x)(Zn0.5Si0.5)2xO4 (x = 0, 0.2, 0.4, 0.6, 0.8, 1.0) solid solutions with weak ferroelectricity were prepared using a conventional solid-state reaction method. Zn atoms preferentially occupied the 6c-Wyckoff site of Al1 and the 2b-Wyckoff site of Al4, whereas Si atoms filled the 6c-Wyckoff site of Al2 and the 2b-Wyckoff site of Al3. As such, the cell volume shrank abnormally as the number of larger [Zn0.5Si0.5]3+ compared to Al3+ increased. There were two anomalous peaks in the dielectric constant. One peak at low temperature represented a second-order ferroelectric transition. Relaxor-like behaviour and a stable dielectric constant against temperature from −50 °C to 400 °C were observed at x = 0.4. This result was attributed to disorder in the 2b-Wyckoff site Al/(Zn0.5Si0.5) and distortion in the tetrahedron. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigated the comprehensive utilization of spent magnesia-chrome refractories through gravity separation followed by flotation. The characteristics of refractories, the effects of various process parameters on the recovery of valuable metals and the adsorption mechanism of xanthate on silver were examined comprehensively. The results revealed that the metals penetrated into the refractories from cracks and holes. The penetrated metal particles were composed of different metal elements, several of which were dissolved in refractories. The optimum parameters were derived as follows: 60% particles passing a grinding fineness of 0.074 mm for gravity separation and regrinding tailing to 80% particles passing 0.074 mm for flotation, pH 8, 500 g/t of combined collector and 200 g/t of emulsified kerosene. Under these conditions, 99% Ag, 82% Pb and 81% Bi were recovered by a closed-circuit test. The obtained concentrates can be smelt as feeding, whereas the tailings with low impurities can be used as raw material for new refractories. The electrochemical and Fourier transform infrared measurements indicated that double xanthate and silver butyl xanthate were generated on the silver surface, which could improve the floatability of metals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Mechanical ventilation during general anesthesia may impair airway mucosal function. This study aimed to investigate the effect of pressure-controlled ventilation-volume guaranteed (PCV-VG) on bronchial mucus transport velocity (BTV) in patients during laparoscopic surgery for gynecological oncology compared with volume controlled ventilation (VCV). Methods: 66 patients undergoing elective a laparoscopic surgery for gynecological oncology. The patients were randomized into two group receiving either PCV-VG or VCV. a drop of methylene blue was placed on the surface of the airway mucosa under the bronchoscopeand, then the distance the dye movement was measured after 2, 4, and 6 min. Outcomes were assessed at T0 (5 min after endotracheal intubation and before initiation of pneumoperitoneum), T1 and T2 (1 and 2 h after stabilization of pneumoperitoneum respectively). BTV at T0, T1 and T2 was the primary outcome. Secondary outcomes included heart rate (HR), mean arterial pressure (MAP), body temperature, end-tidal CO2 pressure (PETCO2), tidal volume(VT), peak inspiratory pressure (PIP), mean inspiratory pressure (Pmean), respiratory rate (RR), and dynamic compliance (CDyn) at T0, T1, and T2. Results: 64 patients were included in the analysis. The median [interquartile range] BTV was significantly lower in VCV group at T1 and T2 that at T0 (P < 0.05). Furthermore, BTV was slightly reduced in PCV-VG compared with VCV. BTV in PCV-VG was significantly decreased at T2 compared with BTV at T0 (P < 0.05) and slightly decreased at T1 compared with T0(P > 0.05). Compared with the PCV-VG group, BTV in VCV group significantly decreased at T2 (P < 0.05). No participants experienced respiratory complications. Conclusions: PCV-VG is more suitable for patients undergoing laparoscopic surgery for gynecological oncology than VCV since it can protect mucociliary clearance function. Trial registration: This trial is registered on https://www.chictr.org.cn/ in Chinese Clinical Trial Registry (ChiCTR.2200064564: Date of registration 11/10/2022). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Application of the modal filtering technique to active control can be effectively used to suppress vibration of floor panels by increasing the damping of the natural vibration modes involved. Limitation of this method is related to the spillover effect caused by the neglected modes. In this study, a sensor placement determination procedure is developed so that enhancement of the separation performance of the modeled modes and reduction of the spillover effect of the truncated modes in modal filtering are achieved at the same time by combining the minimum spillover method, effective independence method (EFI) and modal assurance criterion (MAC). Performance of the proposed procedure is investigated by conducting verification tests to control vibration of a rectangular steel plate with the modal filtering technique, and the sensor placement determined by the proposed approach achieves preferable results than other two sensor placement cases. The effectiveness of the proposed technique is also verified by state feedback control for individual modes. Using the proposed approach, effective active control of the steel plate vibration is successfully achieved. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A receptor cone-1 based on a hexahomotrioxacalix[3]arene bearing three pyridyl groups was successfully synthesized, which has a C3-symmetric conformation and is capable of binding alkylammonium and metal ions simultaneously in a cooperative fashion. It can bind alkylammonium ions through the -cavity formed by three aryl rings. This behaviour is consistent with the cone-in/cone-out conformational rearrangement needed to reorganize the cavity for endo-complexation. As a C3-symmetrical pyridyl-substituted calixarene, receptor cone-1 can also bind an Ag+ ion, and the nitrogen atoms are turned towards the inside of the cavity and interact with Ag+. After complexation of tris(2-pyridylamide) derivative receptor cone-1 with Ag+, the original C3-symmetry was retained and higher complexation selectivity for n-BuNH3+ versus t-BuNH3+ was observed. Thus, it is believed that this receptor will have a role to play in the sensing, detection, and recognition of Ag+ and n-BuNH3+ ions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]