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Sulfide oxidation reaction (SOR) is a semi‐reaction for the electrochemical decomposition of hydrogen sulfide. Combining SOR with the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) allows for the simultaneous splitting of hydrogen sulfide (H2S) to produce green hydrogen, reducing energy input and environmental pollution. However, the phenomenon of sulfur passivation on the anode leads to catalyst deactivation, posing a bottleneck in developing efficient SOR. Electrocatalysts with decent performance and sulfur‐tolerance play a central role in the application of SOR. Here, recent progress on electrocatalysis mechanisms and catalyst design strategies of SOR are summarized. A summary of recent progress is made in materials such as alloys, metal oxides, metal sulfides, metal selenides, and heterostructures as SOR catalysts. Additionally, some valuable design and modulation strategies are highlighted and included. Finally, this review offers an outlook on the future directions in this emerging field. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We propose the non-radial meta-frontier global Luenberger productivity index, which addresses the issues of technology heterogeneity, slack variable, and linear programming infeasibility, and decompose it based on the technology perspective and factor perspective. With the dataset of China's power plants from 2005 to 2015, we identify the effects of the multi-targets, including energy-saving targets and SO2 reduction targets, in the 12th Five-Year Plan on green productivity encompassing all channels of effects. A 1% increase in the average energy-saving target cumulatively increases green productivity by 0.50%, while a 1% increase in the average SO2 reduction target cumulatively decreases that by 0.03%. In all channels, the technology leadership effect and generation efficiency exhibit sensitivity. Differential effects of the multi-targets on state-owned versus non-stateowned plants imply significant differences in observed production technology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A photoredox/copper co‐catalyzed ring‐opening cross‐coupling of aryl azides with cyclopropanols has been developed with fac‐Ir(ppy)3 as the photocatalyst. The reaction involves intermediacy of the anilino radical generated through reduction of the azido group by fac‐Ir(ppy)3* and [CuII]‐enabled oxidative ring‐opening of the cyclopropanol. An array of β‐aminoketone compounds were synthesized under redox‐neutral conditions by using this method. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The rhizosphere and phyllosphere of plants are home to a diverse range of microorganisms that play pivotal roles in ecosystem services. Consequently, plant growth‐promoting bacteria (PGPB) are extensively utilized as inoculants to enhance plant growth and boost productivity. Despite this, the interactions between the rhizosphere and phyllosphere, which are influenced by PGPB inoculation, have not been thoroughly studied to date. In this study, we inoculated Bacillus velezensis SQR9, a PGPB, into the bulk soil, rhizosphere or phyllosphere, and subsequently examined the bacterial communities in the rhizosphere and phyllosphere using amplicon sequencing. Our results revealed that PGPB inoculation increased its abundance in the corresponding compartment, and all treatments demonstrated plant growth promotion effects. Further analysis of the sequencing data indicated that the presence of PGPB exerted a more significant impact on bacterial communities in both the rhizosphere and phyllosphere than in the inoculation compartment. Notably, the PGPB stimulated similar rhizosphere‐beneficial microbes regardless of the inoculation site. We, therefore, conclude that PGPB can promote plant growth both directly and indirectly through the interaction between the rhizosphere and phyllosphere, leading to the enrichment of beneficial microorganisms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Patients with type 2 diabetes are at high risk for developing multiple chronic complications. However, there is a lack of studies of the cumulative number of diabetic complications in China. Methods: A retrospective cohort study was performed from 2009 to 2021. Type 2 diabetes patients who were first diagnosed after the age of 35 years between January 1, 2009, and December 31, 2017, were included. Five states were defined according to the number of chronic complications: no (S0), one (S1), two (S2), three (S3), and four or more complications (S4). A multi-state Markov model was constructed to estimate transition probability, transition intensity, mean sojourn time, and the possible factors for each state. Results: The study included 32653 type 2 diabetes patients (mean age, 59.59 years; 15929 (48.8%) male), and mean follow-up time of 7.75 years. In all, 4375 transitions were observed. The 12-year transition probability of from state S0 to S1 was the lowest at 16.4%, while that from S2 to S3 was the highest, at 45.6%. Higher fasting blood glucose, lower high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, higher total cholesterol, and an unhealthy diet were associated with higher risk of progression from S0 to S1. Being female, less than 60 years old, weekly physical activity, and vegetarian diet decreased this risk. Being female and less than 60 years old reduced the likelihood of transition from S1 to S2, whereas lower high-density lipoprotein cholesterol increased this likelihood. Conclusions: Following the occurrence of two complications in type 2 diabetes patients, the risk for accumulating a third complication within a short time is significantly increased. It is important to take advantage of the stable window period when patients have fewer than two complications, strengthen the monitoring of blood glucose and blood lipids, and encourage patients to maintain good living habits to prevent further deterioration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The accurate detection of traffic signs is a critical component of self-driving systems, enabling safe and efficient navigation. In the literature, various methods have been investigated for traffic sign detection, among which deep learning-based approaches have demonstrated superior performance compared to other techniques. This paper justifies the widespread adoption of deep learning due to its ability to provide highly accurate results. However, the current research challenge lies in addressing the need for high accuracy rates and real-time processing requirements. In this study, we propose a convolutional neural network based on the YOLOv8 algorithm to overcome the aforementioned research challenge. Our approach involves generating a custom dataset with diverse traffic sign images, followed by conducting training, validation, and testing sets to ensure the robustness and generalization of the model. Experimental results and performance evaluation demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed method. Extensive experiments show that our model achieved remarkable accuracy rates in traffic sign detection, meeting the real-time requirements of the input data. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The experiment was used fermentation bed technology to study the effect of fermentation bed on diarrhea rate, growth performance and blood physicochemical indexes of lambs in winter. Three batches of experiments were carried out in a row, and 30 hybrid ewes who had just given birth and gave birth to two lambs in each batch were randomly assigned to two closed houses with windows and the same building structure, one floor was transformed into a fermentation bed (experimental group), and the other was used as a control group. The lambs were fed in a single pen for 7 d and then transferred out. Each group was randomly divided into three pens, transferred to semi-open houses, and continued to be fed until weaning at 60 d. The results showed that on 1~7 d, the diarrhea rate of lambs in experimental group was significantly lower than that in control group (P<0.05). From birth to weaning, the diarrhea rate and mortality of lambs in experimental group were decreased by 2.49% and 2.95% compared with control group (P<0.05). On 7 d of experiment, the body height, body length and chest circumference of lambs in experimental group were increased by 1.71, 0.56, 0.66 cm compared with control group, respectively (P<0.05). On 8~30 d, the average daily gain of lambs in experimental group was increased by 22.59% compared with control group ( P<0.05). The average daily gain of experimental group was significantly higher than that of control group during the whole experiment period (1~60 d) (P<0.05). At 60 d of age, the body weight of lambs in experimental group was increased by 13.42% compared with control group ( P<0.05). The percentage of lymphocyte in whole blood of lambs in experimental group was significantly higher than that in control group (P<0.05), and the content of GLU, TP and GLB in serum were increased by 8.45%, 3.34% and 10.49% compared with control group, respectively (P<0.05). The study indicates that using a fermentation bed feeding mode within 7 d of birth can reduce the rate of diarrhea and mortality before weaning, and improve the apparent digestibility and blood physicochemical indicators of lambs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, we obtain two rigidity results for p$$ p $$‐Laplace type equation and n$$ n $$‐Laplace equation with exponential nonlinearity on n$$ n $$‐dimensional compact Riemannian manifolds by using of nonlinear flow and the carré du champ methods, respectively, where rigidity means that the PDE has only constant solution when a parameter is in a certain range. Moreover, an interpolation inequality is derived as an application. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

According to the standard thin disc theory, it is predicted that the radiation-pressure-dominated inner region of a thin disc is thermally unstable, while observations suggest that it is common for a thin disc of more than 0.01 Eddington luminosity to be in a thermally stable state. Previous studies have suggested that magnetically driven winds have the potential to suppress instability. In this work, we implement one-dimensional global simulations of the thin accretion disc to study the effects of magnetically driven winds on thermal instability. The winds play a role in transferring the angular momentum of the disc and cooling the disc. When the mass outflow rate of winds is low, the important role of winds is to transfer the angular momentum and then shorten the outburst period. When the winds have a high mass outflow rate, they can calm down the thermal instability. We also explore the parameter space of the magnetic field strength and the mass loading parameter. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: The Malaysian Adult Nutrition Survey and National Health and Morbidity Surveys revealed a significant shift in protein intake with increased meat and seafood consumption. Concomitantly, non-communicable diseases (NCD) increased and were linked to poor health-related quality of life (HRQoL) and sleep quality. Protein intake, particularly from the animal source, is a modifiable nutrition parameter affecting HRQoL and sleep quality. This study investigated the association between different animal proteins, HRQoL and sleep quality in the Malaysian population. Methods: One hundred and fifty Malaysian adults were recruited and subjected to validated questionnaires to assess their protein intake, HRQoL and sleep quality. Additionally, their BMI and waist circumference were measured. Associations between all study parameters were analyzed. Results: There was no statistically significant association between protein intake, BMI, and waist circumference. Increased diet of white meat and seafood was linked to a lower risk of NCDs, improved overall HRQoL, and better sleep quality. Contrastingly, increased red meat consumption was associated with a higher risk of NCDs, poor physical and social function, and worsening sleep quality. Conclusion: The type of animal dietary protein consumed, as well as the frequency with which white and red meat, and seafood are consumed, can all have an effect on HRQoL and sleep quality. More research is needed to evaluate the impact of protein intake levels on HRQoL and sleep quality, including understanding the physiological processes involved. These data will be able to assist health professionals in personalised nutritional and patient management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Electrical impedance tomography (EIT) as a bedside, noninvasive, radiationfree technology, could quantify alveolar collapse and over-distension and provide real-time ventilation images of lungs. Clinical studies have shown potential benefit in reducing lung injury by EIT to guide mechanical ventilation setting in acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). The respiratory management of ARDS with venous-venous extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (VV ECMO) remains a challenge for ICU doctors. Moreover, EIT has gained great interests in the respiratory management in VV ECMO therapy. Here, EIT was used for respiratory management in the presented case of a 36-year-old gravida with systemic lupus erythematosus, who developed severe hypoxia caused by diffuse alveolar hemorrhage. Although the patient received mechanical ventilation, VV ECMO was further used for the refractory respiratory failure. EIT was applied to titrate positive end-expiratory pressure (PEEP), guide prone position and early mobilization, dynamic evaluating lung development during ECMO therapy. She was successfully rescued after comprehensive therapy. In summary, an EITguided whole-process respiratory management strategy that included PEEP titration, prone position, early mobilization, and dynamic lung ventilation monitoring was proposed. This case demonstrated that EIT-guided wholeprocess respiratory management strategy was feasible in the respiratory failure patient with VV ECMO therapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article introduces DeepAIR, a deep learning framework that combines sequence and 3D structure features of adaptive immune receptors (AIRs) for accurate prediction of their binding affinity to antigens. DeepAIR achieves high predictive performance, with correlation coefficients of 0.813 for T cell receptors (TCRs) and median AUCs of 0.904 and 0.942 for TCR and B cell receptor (BCR) binding reactivity, respectively.

Recommender systems relieve users from cognitive overloading by predicting preferred items for users. Due to the complexity of interactions between users and items, graph neural networks (GNN) use graph structures to effectively model user–item interactions. However, existing GNN approaches have the following limitations: (1) User reviews are not adequately modeled in graphs. Therefore, user preferences and item properties that are described in user reviews are lost for modeling users and items; and (2) GNNs assume deterministic relations between users and items, which lack the stochastic modeling to estimate the uncertainties in neighbor relations. To mitigate the limitations, we build tripartite graphs to model user reviews as nodes that connect with users and items. We estimate neighbor relations with stochastic variables and propose a Bayesian graph attention network (i.e., ContGraph) to accurately predict user ratings. ContGraph incorporates the prior knowledge of user preferences to regularize the posterior inference of attention weights. Our experimental results show that ContGraph significantly outperforms 13 state-of-the-artmodels and improves the best performing baseline (i.e., ANR) by 5.23% on 25 datasets in the five-core version. Moreover, we show that correctly modeling the semantics of user reviews in graphs can help express the semantics of users and items. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Generating spatial crop yield information is of great significance for academic research and guiding agricultural policy. Most existing public yield datasets have a coarse spatial resolution. Although these datasets are useful for analyzing regional temporal and spatial change, they cannot deal with spatial heterogeneity, which happens to be the most significant characteristic of the Chinese small-scale farmers' economy. Hence, we generated a 30-m Chinese winter wheat yield dataset (ChinaWheatYield30m) for major winter wheat-producing provinces in China for the period 2016-2021 with a semi-mechanistic model (hierarchical linear model, HLM). The yield prediction model was built by considering the wheat growth status and climatic factors. It can estimate wheat yield with excellent accuracy and low cost using a combination of satellite observations and regional meteorological information (i.e., Landsat 8, Sentinel-2 and ERA5 data from the Google Earth Engine (GEE) platform). The results were validated by using in situ measurements and census statistics and indicated a stable performance of the HLM model based on calibration datasets across China, with r of 0.81** and nRMSE of 12.59%. With regards to validation, the ChinaWheatYield30m dataset was highly consistent with in situ measurement data and census data, indicated by r (nRMSE) of 0.72** (15.34%) and 0.73** (19.41%). The ChinaWheatYield30m is a sophisticated dataset with both high spatial resolution and convictive accuracy, such a dataset will provide basic knowledge of exquisite wheat yield distribution, which can be applied for many purposes including crop production modelling or regional climate evaluation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A comprehensive analysis of the molecular mechanism underlying colorectal tumor evaluated the development of colorectal cancer (CRC) and proposed targeting small molecular inhibitors. Nonetheless, the adoptive resistance of these therapies remains a challenge with respect to achieving an effective clinical response. Thus, identifying the molecular mechanisms guiding CRC growth is essential. The results of The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) dataset analysis demonstrated a critical role of signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) pathway in tumor immune suppression via modulation of the recruitment of Treg cells and M2 type tumor-associated macrophages. The in vivo experiments elucidate that targeting STAT3 pathways markedly reduce the proportions of TAMs and Tregs by inhibiting tumor progression. These findings revealed crosstalk between Treg cells and M2 macrophages, proving a potential therapeutic strategy for CRC therapy. Combinatorial treatment with STAT3 inhibitor and programmed death 1 (PD-1) antibody therapy effectively prevents CRC tumor growth in a mouse model with high anti-tumor immunity. In summary, targeting STAT3 disrupts the interaction between Treg cells and M2 macrophages and improves the anti-tumor response in CRC, thereby offering a promising strategy to treat patients with CRC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Exploring the long-term spatiotemporal pattern of vegetation changes and its response to natural factors and human activities is vital for making informed decisions regarding ecosystem protection. The spatial–temporal distribution characteristics of vegetation dynamics and its driving factors in Shaanxi Province from 2000 to 2019 were analysed using the normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI). The explanatory power of solar radiation was the highest (63.45%), followed by relative humidity (59.07%), land use (56.73%), precipitation (52.17%), temperature (51.28%), and vegetation type (50.95%). In terms of climatic factors, the influences of solar radiation and relative humidity on vegetation changes were stronger than those of precipitation and temperature. The comprehensive impact of the pairwise factors was higher than those of the independent factors. Our results contribute to a better understanding of the complex mechanisms of vegetation changes and provide scientific recommendations for the prevention remediation of vegetation degradation in fragile ecosystems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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

The inhibitory effect of Tetrandrine (Tet) on rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is well established. However, its exact molecular mechanism remains unknown. RT-qPCR coupled with western blotting was employed to analyze the expression of NEAT1, miR-17-5p, and STAT3 in RA tissues and/or RA-fibroblast-like synoviocytes (RA-FLS) treated with 3 μmol/L of Tet for 48 h. Cell Counting Kit-8 assay and flow cytometry were performed to assess RA-FLS proliferation and apoptosis. Luciferase reporter assays were used to validate the interactions between miR-17-5p and STAT3 or NEAT1. The expression of NEAT1 decreased in a time-dependent manner upon Tet treatment. Tet significantly inhibited RA-FLS proliferation and triggered apoptosis by downregulating NEAT1 expression. Additionally, NEAT1 directly targeted miR-17-5p to upregulate STAT3 expression. Tet-induced low NEAT1 expression impaired RA-FLS growth by targeting miR-17-5p and inhibiting STAT3. Tet exerts its inhibitory role in RA progression by regulating the NEAT1/miR-17-5p/STAT3 pathway. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To develop a nomogram prediction model capable of early identification of high-risk infective endocarditis (IE) patients. We retrospectively analyzed the clinical data of 383 patients with IE and divided them into survival and non-survival groups according to different hospitalization outcomes. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression methods were used to screen independent risk factors affecting the survival outcome of IE, and a Nomogram prediction model was constructed by these factors. The Hosmer–Lemeshow goodness-of-fit test was applied to assess the model fit, the discrimination and calibration of the model were evaluated by plotting ROC curves and calibration curves. Advanced age, embolic symptoms, abnormal leukocyte count, low hemoglobin level and double-sided IE were associated with higher in-hospital mortality in patients with IE (P < 0.05). The Hosmer–Lemeshow goodness-of-fit test for the model was χ2 = 7.107, P = 0.311. The AUC of the ROC curve of the model was 0.738 (95% CI 0.677–0.800). The bootstrap method was used to validate the prediction model. The results showed that the prediction accuracy of the model in the validation cohort was 0.842. The nomogram prediction model can accurately predict the in-hospital mortality risk of IE and can help clinicians identify high-risk IE patients early. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Most existing agronomic trait models of winter wheat vary across growing seasons, and it is an open question whether a unified statistical model can be developed to predict agronomic traits using a vegetation index (VI) across multiple growing seasons. In this study, we constructed a hierarchical linear model (HLM) to automatically adapt the relationship between VIs and agronomic traits across growing seasons and tested the model's performance by sensitivity analysis. Results demonstrated that (1) optical VIs give poor performance in predicting AGB and PNC across all growth stages, whereas VIs perform well for LAI, LGB, LNC, and SPAD. (2) The sensitivity indices of the phenological information in the AGB and PNC prediction models were 0.81-0.86 and 0.66-0.73, whereas LAI, LGB, LNC, and SPAD prediction models produced sensitivity indexes of 0.01-0.02, 0.01-0.02, 0.01-0.02, and 0.02-0.08, respectively. (3) The AGB and PNC prediction models considering ZS were more accurate than the prediction models based on VI. Whether or not phenological information is used, there was no difference in model accuracy for LGB, LNC, SPAD, and LAI. This study may provide a guideline for deciding whether phenological correction is required for estimation of agronomic traits across multiple growing seasons. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Full waveform inversion methods evaluate the properties of subsurface media by minimizing the misfit between synthetic and observed data. However, these methods omit measurement errors and physical assumptions in modeling, resulting in several problems in practical applications. In particular, full waveform inversion methods are very sensitive to erroneous observations (outliers) that violate the Gauss–Markov theorem. Herein, we propose a method for addressing spurious observations or outliers. Specifically, we remove outliers by inverting the synthetic data using the local convexity of the Gaussian distribution. To achieve this, we apply a waveform-like noise model based on a specific covariance matrix definition. Finally, we build an inversion problem based on the updated data, which is consistent with the wavefield reconstruction inversion method. Overall, we report an alternative optimization inversion problem for data containing outliers. The proposed method is robust because it uses uncertainties. This method enables accurate inversion, even when based on noisy models or a wrong wavelet. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The ability of organic radicals to maintain their open-shell feature in the device environment directly determines whether they can act as spin filters. Based on the recently synthesized stable VR-1 radical, we have designed two molecular devices with symmetric and asymmetric molecule-electrode connections and investiaged their spin-polarized transport properties using density functional theory and non-equilibrium Green's function methodology. The results show that the presence of unpaired electron in VR-1 radical is not a sole requirement for causing spin polarization and the molecular-electrode connection mode plays a decisive role in the transport characteristics. VR-1 can be used as a spin filter in the asymmetric connection mode, while it loses its open-shell feature in the symmetric connection mode. Moreover, VR-1 with the asymmetric connection mode exhibits obvious spin-rectifying effect. The results are analyzed by the spin-resolved frontier molecular orbitals and eigenstates, Mulliken population analysis, transmission spectra and transmission eigenstates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • A Mn-L-based multifunctional molecular spintronic device is designed. • Spin-polarized transport properties are strongly dependent on the magnetic configuration. • High-performance spin-filtering, spin-rectifying, giant magnetoresistance and negative differential resistance effects are realized in the designed device. A transition metal coordination complex Mn-L-based multifunctional molecular spintronic device is proposed and its spin-polarized transport properties in two magnetic configurations (parallel and anti-parallel alignments) are evaluated using the first-principles density functional theory and non-equilibrium Green's function method. Four high-performance physical effects, including spin-filtering, spin-rectifying, giant magnetoresistance and negative differential resistance, are revealed in the proposed device. The physical mechanisms are analyzed through the spin-resolved bias-dependent transmission spectra, and projected device density of states spectra. These results demonstrate that the proposed system holds great promise in developing the multifunctional molecular spintronic devices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Graves' disease (GD) is the most common cause of hyperthyroidism in the clinic, accounting for about 85% of all hyperthyroidisms. However, hyperthyroidism combined with OH has been rarely reported in the international community. We analyzed the clinical characteristics and pathogenesis of GD combined with orthostatic hypotension. We conducted a retrospective analysis of 2 GD combined with orthostatic hypotension cases diagnosed by Chinese and Western Medical Association Hospital of Southern Medical University from July to August 2018 and discussed their clinical characteristics, treatment methods, and pathogenesis. The main clinical manifestations of both two patients with hyperthyroidism were vertigo during postural changes or activities and relief from supine position and blood volume supplementation. Considering the lack of blood volume, the symptoms were alleviated after symptomatic treatment. The possibility of hyperthyroidism combined with orthostatic hypotension should be taken into consideration in clinical diagnosis and treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The fabrication and applications of VO2 film continue to be of considerable interest due to their good thermochromic performance for smart windows. However, low visible transmittance (Tlum) and solar modulation efficiency (∆Tsol) impede the application of VO2 film, and they are difficult to improve simultaneously. Here, a facile zinc solution process was employed to control the surface structure of dense VO2 film and the processed VO2 film showed enhanced visible transmittance and solar modulation efficiency, which were increased by 7.5% and 9.5%, respectively, compared with unprocessed VO2 film. This process facilitated the growth of layered basic zinc acetate (LBZA) nanosheets to form mesh morphology on the surface of VO2 film, where LBZA nanosheets enhance the visible transmittance as an anti-reflection film. The mesh morphology also strengthened the solar modulation efficiency with small caves between nanosheets by multiplying the times of reflection. By increasing the zinc concentration from 0.05 mol/L to 0.20 mol/L, there were more LBZA nanosheets on the surface of the VO2 film, leading to an increase in the solar/near-infrared modulation efficiency. Therefore, this work revealed the relationship between the solution process, surface structure, and optical properties, and thus can provide a new method to prepare VO2 composite film with desirable performance for applications in smart windows. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Mumps is a seasonal infectious disease, always occurring in winter and spring. In this study, we aim to analyze its epidemiological characteristics, transmissibility, and its correlation with meteorological variables. Method: A seasonal SusceptibleeExposedeInfectious/AsymptomaticeRecovered model and a next-generation matrix method were applied to estimate the time-dependent reproduction number (Rt). Results: The seasonal double peak of annual incidence was mainly in May to July and November to December. There was high transmission at the median of Rt - 1.091 (ranged: 0 to 4.393). Rt was seasonally distributed mainly from February to April and from September to November. Correlations were found between temperature (Pearson correlation coefficient [r] ranged: from 0.101 to 0.115), average relative humidity (r - 0.070), average local pressure (r - -0.066), and the number of new cases. In addition, average local pressure (r - 0.188), average wind speed (r - 0.111), air temperature (r ranged: -0.128 to -0.150), average relative humidity (r - -0.203) and sunshine duration (r - -0.075) were all correlated with Rt. Conclusion: A relatively high level of transmissibility has been found in Xiamen City, leading to a continuous epidemic of mumps. Meteorological factors, especially air temperature and relative humidity, may be more closely associated with mumps than other factors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Combined with the concept of induced gauge field, the Aharonov-Bohm effect of induced gauge field is analyzed. The relationship between gauge potential and Berry phase factor, gauge potential and Aharonov-Anandan phase factor in Suter experiment is given. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ship power station is an important part of the ship, and the fault types of ship power station are complex. In this paper, Simulink software platform is used to simulate and model various short-circuit faults of ship power station. The current and voltage parameters of each phase are selected as the source of the data set, and the data are processed and the prediction image is plotted in MATLAB. LSTM neural network algorithm solves the problem of long-term dependence compared with other algorithms, and has a high degree of interpretation of the predicted data. The results show that the fault diagnosis model based on LSTM neural network algorithm can well diagnose the fault mode of ship power station. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As the power source of the ship sailing, diesel engine will inevitably produce some thermal faults in the course of sailing, which will affect the stability of the ship sailing, so the diagnosis of thermal faults becomes very important. This paper uses Simulink software platform to simulate the thermal failure of diesel engine, and selects seven thermal parameters as the source of data set. The data set is input into LSTM neural network algorithm diagnosis model, several typical fault modes of diesel engine are output, and the data processing and image drawing are carried out in Matlab. Compared with other algorithms, LSTM neural network algorithm solves the long time dependence problem and has a high interpretation of the predicted data. The results show that the fault diagnosis model based on LSTM neural network algorithm can diagnose the diesel engine fault mode well. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The concept of Berry phase factor in adiabatic processes is extended to degenerate systems. The relationship between quantum Hall effect and Berry phase factor is studied under symmetric gauge conditions, and the relationship between quantum Hall conductivity and Berry phase factor is derived, the theoretical analysis is consistent with the experimental results of Klitzing, Tsui et al. (Phys. Rev. Lett., 48 1599 1982). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article offers information about the oxidized primary arc magmas, along with discusses the constraints from Cu/Zr systematics in global arc volcanics . It mentions that copper, a sulfur-loving element, has been used to trace the behavior of redox-sensitive sulfur during mantle melting and infer similar redox states of sub-arc and sub-ridge mantle.

Schauder's fixed point theorem and the Banach contraction principle are used to study the polynomial-like iterative functional equation with variable coefficients. We give sufficient conditions for the existence, uniqueness, and stability of the strongly convex and strongly concave solutions. Finally, some examples were considered by our results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Despite the outperforming power conversion efficiency of low-temperature and solution-processed perovskite solar cells (PSCs) realized over the past decades, the undesirable stability from precursor inks to resultant devices and harsh preparation requirements still restrain their industrial production and practical deployment. Herein, an anion stabilization strategy is developed to achieve the comprehensive durability of perovskite photovoltaics throughout the whole two-step air-processed procedure. The effect of interionic bonding strengths on the ink properties, film crystallization, and photovoltaic performances is in-depth explored and revealed. The pseudohalide bis(trifluoromethanesulfonyl)imide ions (TFSI-) not only improve the dispersion and stabilities of lead polyhalides and organic salt inks via strong electron-withdrawing/donating chemical sites, but also realize high composition uniformity and preferential crystal growth of subsequent deposited perovskite layers by tuning the precursor reactivity and surface absorption. Ultimately, the optimizing PSCs deliver a superior efficiency of 24.16%, accompanied by notably improved long-term stability toward extreme environmental and mechanical stimuli with lead leakage suppression. This work opens up a promising avenue toward reproducible air preparation of highly efficient, stable, and environmentally friendly perovskite optoelectronic devices via precise modulation of precursor properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • ESI (±) FT-ICR/MS reveal asphaltene's role in Tahe heavy oil viscosity. • High metal content in asphaltenes influences oil's viscous nature. • Asphaltene's higher DBE suggests more double bonds, affecting viscosity. • Tahe crude's structure reveals asphaltene's role and metal compound association. In addressing the challenge of high viscosity in Xinjiang Tahe heavy oil, crucial for optimizing extraction processes, this study focuses on identifying and analyzing the microstructure of key components influencing oil viscosity. The aim is to uncover the underlying reasons for its high viscosity and guide research towards effective viscosity reduction techniques. Electrospray ionization (ESI) combined with fourier transform ion cyclotron resonance mass spectrometry (FT-ICR/MS) characterizes the molecular-level constituents contributing to oil viscosity. The investigation covers the composition and distribution of oxygen-containing, nitrogen-containing, and organometallic compounds, developing a molecular structure model for these critical viscosity-inducing components. Findings reveal Xinjiang Tahe extra heavy oil as a solid mass at room temperature, with significant viscosity reduction observed post-deasphalting, highlighting asphaltenes' pivotal role in viscosity. Analysis indicates a higher content of metal elements (such as V and Ni) in asphaltenes compared to the crude oil itself, with an abundance of porphyrin structures in asphaltenes markedly influencing oil viscosity. Cyclic, aromatic, and unsaturated compound structures are predominantly found in the asphaltenes of heavy oil. Through combined ESI (±) FT-ICR/MS analysis, the crude oil is determined to mainly comprise acidic compounds, non-basic nitrogen compounds, and basic nitrogen compounds, offering significant insight into heavy oil's complex chemical composition. Specifically, non-basic nitrogen compounds in Tahe crude oil, including alkylcarbazoles, alkylbenzocarbazoles, and alkylpolybenzocarbazoles, are identified as key components, with molecular carbon numbers ranging from C12 to C56 and a predominance near C27. Additionally, asphaltenes in Tahe heavy oil exhibit a higher double bond equivalence (DBE) than the crude oil, indicating a greater degree of condensation with an increased number of double bonds and heterocyclic structures. The significant difference in DBE values between asphaltenes and crude oil underscores their impact on viscosity. A detailed molecular structure model of the asphaltenes in Tahe extra heavy oil has been constructed based on FT-ICR/MS analysis, providing a foundational understanding for developing viscosity reduction strategies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The work of music performance system is to control the light change by identifying the emotional elements of music. Therefore, once the identification error occurs, it will not be able to create a good stage effect. Therefore, a multimodal music emotion recognition method based on image sequence is studied. The emotional characteristics of music are analyzed, including acoustic characteristics, melody characteristics, and audio characteristics, and the feature vector is constructed. The recognition and classification model based on neural network is trained, the weight and threshold of each layer are adjusted, and then the feature vector is input into the trained model to realize the intelligent recognition and classification of multimodal music emotion. The threshold of the starting point range of a specific humming note is given by the center clipping method, which is used to eliminate the low amplitude part of the humming note signal, extract the short-time spectral structure features and envelope features of the pitch, and complete the multimodal music emotion recognition. The results show that the calculated kappa coefficient k is greater than 0.75, which shows that the recognition and classification results are in good agreement with the actual results, and the classification and recognition accuracy is high. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, a hybrid dynamic model of high-speed thin-rimmed gears is developed. In this model, the translational and angular displacements (including the rigid and vibration displacements) with a total of six degrees-of-freedom (DOFs) are selected as the generalized coordinates for each gear, and the meshing force distributions along the contact line and between the teeth are considered. Thus, the model can be implemented under stationary and nonstationary conditions. The condensed finite element models (FEMs) are developed with the centrifugal and inertia forces for gear bodies. This paper proposes a novel method to couple the lumped-parameter model and condensed finite element model for the hybrid dynamic model system, which considers the variation of the meshing tooth during the gear operation, namely, the variations of the acting point of meshing force. Based on the model, the dynamic analysis of high-speed thin-rimmed gears is conducted under stationary speed and acceleration processes. The effects of the flexible gear body, high speed, and tooth errors on the system dynamics and tooth load distribution are investigated. The analysis results are also compared with the current reference and pure finite element method to validate the proposed model. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) in the tumour microenvironment are associated with poor prognosis and chemoresistance in multiple solid tumours. However, there is a lack of universal measures of CAFs in colorectal cancer (CRC). The aim of this study was to assess the utility of a fibroblast-related gene signature (FRGS) for predicting patient outcomes and reveal its relevant mechanism. Methods: The GSE39582 dataset, which includes 316 CRC patients who did not receive adjuvant chemotherapy was used as a discovery cohort to identify the prognostic fibroblast-related genes (FRGs). A total of 1352 CRC patients were divided into one training cohort (GSE39582, n = 461) and two validation cohorts (TCGA, n = 338; meta-validation, n = 553) for the construction of the FRGS and the verification of its prognostic value in stage II/III CRC patients. Functional annotation and analysis were performed to explore the underlying mechanism. The ability of the FRGS to predict immunotherapy response was further tested in a clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC) cohort. Results: An 11-gene signature that had prognostic value for stage II/III CRC patients in both validation cohorts was developed (TCGA cohort: HR = 1.90, 95% CI 1.16–3.12, P < 0.01; meta-validation cohort: HR = 1.95, 95% CI 1.39–2.73, P < 0.001). A high level of CAFs was correlated with worse prognosis in CRC patients who did not receive adjuvant chemotherapy (HR = 3.63, 95% CI 2.24–5.88, P < 0.001). Importantly, patients in the low-risk group were found to be benefit from chemotherapy (P < 0.01), but not in the high CAF group (P > 0.05). Similar results were found in the TCGA cohort. Integrated with clinical characteristics, the FRGS was confirmed to be an independent prognostic factor in the multivariate analysis after adjustment for tumour TNM stage (GSE39582 cohort: HR = 3.19, 95% CI 1.88–5.41, P < 0.001; TCGA cohort: HR = 5.00, 95% CI 1.58–15.85, P = 0.007; meta-validation cohort: HR = 2.99, 95% CI 1.44–6.21, P = 0.003). Furthermore, the enrichment analysis found that the antitumour immune response was suppressed and the infiltration of CD4 T cells and M1 macrophages was depressed in the high CAF group. The FRGS was also found to have value in predicting for immunotherapy response in the ccRCC cohort. Conclusions: The 11-gene FRGS had independent prognostic value for CRC patients, as well as utility in the prediction of benefit from chemotherapy. CAFs in the tumour microenvironment might have an impact on the prognosis of CRC patients via inhibiting immune response. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The atmospheric circulation changes dramatically over a few days before and after the onset of the South Asian monsoon in spring. It is accompanied by the annual maximum surface heating over the Tibetan Plateau. We conducted two sets of experiments with a coupled general circulation model to compare the response of atmospheric circulation and wind-driven circulation in the Indian Ocean to the thermal forcing of the Tibetan Plateau before and after the monsoon onset. The results show that the Tibetan Plateau's thermal forcing modulates the sea surface temperature (SST) of the Indian Ocean and the meridional circulation in the upper ocean with opposite effects during these two stages. The thermal forcing of the Tibetan Plateau always induces a southwesterly response over the northern Indian Ocean and weakens the northeasterly background circulation before the monsoon onset. Subsequently, wind-evaporation feedback results in a warming SST response. Meanwhile, the oceanic meridional circulation shows offshore upwellings in the north and southward transport in the upper layer crossing the equator, sinking near 158S. After the monsoon onset, the thermal forcing of the Tibetan Plateau accelerates the background southwesterly and introduces a cooling response to the Indian Ocean SST. The response of oceanic meridional overturning circulation is limited to the north of the equator due to the location and structural evolution of the climatological local Hadley circulation. With an acceleration of the local Walker circulation, the underlying zonal currents also show corresponding changes, including a westerly drift along the equator, downwelling near Indonesia, offshore upwelling near Somalia, and a westward undercurrent. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The success rate of stapedotomy in otosclerosis patients with cochlea involvement was unknown. Aims/objectives: To determine the difference of surgical outcomes and symptomatology in otosclerosis patients with or without cochlea involvement on CT. Material and methods: 79 otosclerosis patients were included and grouped by HRCT, including cochlear-involved otosclerosis (C-group) or non-cochlear-involved otosclerosis (NC-group, control group). Patients were defined as NC-group in the presence of normal or solely fenestral involvement, or C-group if the hypodensities involve other parts of the labyrinthine bone Patients in the control group were collected at a 2:1 ratio to the C-group with similar follow-up times. Detailed complaints and surgical outcomes were compared between these groups. Results: Chief complaints were similar in the C-group and NC-group. Although postoperative AC, BC, and ABG decreased significantly in both groups, the success rate was significantly higher in C-group regarding the postoperative ABG °10 dB. Furthermore, diffuse lesions may indicate a more severe disease and a poorer prognosis. Conclusions and significance: Stapedotomy was effective for clinical otosclerosis. The surgical outcome was inferior favorable for cochlea involvement patients, especially for cases with widely involvement. There was no difference in chief complaints among patients with different CT degree of otosclerosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article presents Switchable immune modulator fortumor-specific activation of anticancer immunity. Topics discussed include demonstrate a chemical approach, termed "switchable" immune modulator (Sw-IM), to limit the systemic exposure and therefore ameliorate their toxicities; and Sw-IM is a biomacromolecular therapeutic reversibly masked by biocompatible polymers through chemical linkers that are responsive to tumor-specific stimuli.

Background: Extracellular vesicles (EVs) derived from tumor cells are implicated in the progression of malignancies through the transfer of molecular cargo microRNAs (miRNAs or miRs). We aimed to explore the role of EVs derived from breast cancer cells carrying miR-182-5p in the occurrence and development of breast cancer. Methods: Diferentially expressed miRNAs and their downstream target genes related to breast cancer were screened through GEO and TCGA databases. miR-182-5p expression was examined in cancer tissues and adjacent normal tissues from patients with breast cancer. EVs were isolated from breast cancer cell line MDA-MB-231 cells and identifed. The gain- and loss-of function approaches of miR-182-5p and CKLF-like MARVEL transmembrane domaincontaining 7 (CMTM7) were performed in MDA-MB-231 cells and the isolated EVs. Human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) were subjected to co-culture with MDA-MB-231 cell-derived EVs and biological behaviors were detected by CCK-8 assay, fow cytometry, immunohistochemical staining, Transwell assay and vessel-like tube formation in vitro. A xenograft mouse model in nude mice was established to observe the tumorigenesis and metastasis of breast cancer cells in vivo. Results: miR-182-5p was highly expressed in breast cancer tissues and cells, and this high expression was associated with poor prognosis of breast cancer patients. miR-182-5p overexpression was shown to promote tumor angiogenesis in breast cancer. Moreover, our data indicated that miR-182-5p was highly enriched in EVs from MDA-MD-231 cells and then ultimately enhanced the proliferation, migration, and angiogenesis of HUVECs in vitro and in vivo. Moreover, we found that CMTM7 is a target of miR-182-5p. EVs-miR-182-5p promotes tumorigenesis and metastasis of breast cancer cells by regulating the CMTM7/EGFR/AKT signaling axis. Conclusions: Taken altogether, our fndings demonstrates that EVs secreted by breast cancer cells could carry miR182-5p to aggravate breast cancer through downregulating CMTM7 expression and activating the EGFR/AKT signaling pathway [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The minimized diffusion limitation and completely exposed strong acid sites of the ultrathin zeolites make it an industrially important catalyst especially for converting bulky molecules. However, the structure-controlled and large-scale synthesis of the material is still a challenge. In this work, the direct synthesis of the single-layer MWW zeolite was demonstrated by using hexamethyleneimine and amphiphilic organosilane as structure-directing agents. Characterization results confirmed the formation of the single-layer MWW zeolite with high crystallinity and excellent thermal/hydrothermal stability. The formation mechanism was rigorously revealed as the balanced rates between the nucleation/growth of the MWW nanocrystals and the incorporation of the organosilane into the MWW unit cell, which is further supported by the formation of MWW nanosheets with tunable thickness via simply changing synthesis conditions. The commercially available reagents, well-controlled structure and the high catalytic stability for the alkylation of benzene with 1-dodecene make it an industrially important catalyst. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

One-dimensional nanowire is an important candidate for lead-halide perovskite-based photonic detectors and solar cells. Its surface population, diameter, and growth direction, etc., are critical for device performance. In this research, we carried out a detailed study on electron transfer process at the interface of nanowire CH3NH3PbI3(N-MAPbI3)/Phenyl C61 butyric acid methyl-ester synonym (PCBM), as well as the interface of compact CH3NH3PbI3(C-MAPbI3)/PCBM by transient absorption spectroscopy. By comparing the carrier recombination dynamics of N-MAPbI3, N-MAPbI3/PCBM, C-MAPbI3, and C-MAPbI3/PCBM from picosecond (ps) to hundred nanosecond (ns) time scale, it is demonstrated that electron transfer at N-MAPbI3/PCBM interface is less efficient than that at C-MAPbI3/PCBM interface. In addition, electron transfer efficiency at C-MAPbI3/PCBM interface was found to be excitation density-dependent, and it reduces with photo-generation carrier concentration increasing in a range from 1.0 × 1018 cm−3–4.0 × 1018 cm−3. Hot electron transfer, which leads to acceleration of electron transfer between the interfaces, was also visualized as carrier concentration increases from 1.0 × 1018 cm−3–2.2 × 1018 cm−3. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Conversion chemistry involving LiF splitting is an appealing route toward high capacity cathodes for Li-ion batteries. In general, cathodes based on LiF splitting need a redox host to provide the driving force for LiF decomposition from the surface. However, most of the systems are still far from practical owing to their limitations, especially the high charge voltage (4.5-5.0 V) needed to fully utilize the capacity and the subsequent low energy efficiency (<80%). The redox host is apparently the key to further reduce the required charge voltage and improve the energy efficiency. Here, a new LiF-NiFe2O4 conversion cathode chemistry is designed and demonstrated with a crystalline spinel oxide redox host. It is demonstrated that the new host effectively improves the surface redox and LiF splitting kinetics, which enable the new cathode to work at much lower charge cutoff voltage (4.2 V) without compromising the delivered capacity and voltage. The LiF-NiFe2O4 composite thin film is able to be discharged with large capacity of 237 mA h g-1 with high energy efficiency (88%), substantial pseudocapacitance contribution (>90%), and satisfactory capacity retention. This result indicates LiF splitting chemistry can become practical by carefully tailoring the redox host chemistry and optimizing the composition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: The impact of pelvis on the development of anastomotic leak (AL) in rectal cancer (RC) patients who underwent anterior resection (AR) remains unclear. The aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of pelvic dimensions on the risk of AL. Methods: A total of 1058 RC patients undergoing AR from January 2013 to January 2016 were enrolled. Pelvimetric parameters were obtained using abdominopelvic computed tomography scans. Results: Univariate analyses showed that pelvic inlet, pelvic outlet, interspinous distance, and intertuberous distance were significantly associated with the risk for AL (P < 0.05). Multivariate analysis confirmed that pelvic inlet and intertuberous distance were independent risk factors for AL (P < 0.05). Significant factors from multivariate analysis were assembled into the nomogram A (without pelvic dimensions) and nomogram B (with pelvic dimensions). The area under curve (AUC) of nomogram B was 0.72 (95% CI 0.67–0.77), which was better than the AUC of nomogram A (0.69, [95% CI 0.65–0.74]), but didn't reach a statistical significance (P = 0.199). Decision curve supported that nomogram B was better than nomogram A. Conclusion: Pelvic dimensions, specifically pelvic inlet and intertuberous distance, seemed to be independent predictors for postoperative AL in RC patients. Pelvic inlet and intertuberous distance incorporated with preoperative radiotherapy, preoperative albumin, conversion, and tumor diameter in the nomogram might provide a clinical tool for predicting AL. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, we consider a nonlinear and nonlocal parabolic model for multispecies ionic fluids and introduce a semi-implicit finite volume scheme, which is second-order accurate in space, is first-order in time, and satisfies the positivity preserving and mass conservation properties. The scheme also satisfies an energy dissipation relation at the semidiscrete level. In addition, our scheme involves a fast algorithm on the convolution terms with singular but integrable kernels on the uniform grid, which otherwise impedes the accuracy and efficiency of the whole scheme. Error estimates on the fast convolution algorithm are shown next. Numerous numerical tests are provided to demonstrate the properties, such as unconditional stability, the order of convergence, energy dissipation, and the complexity of the fast convolution algorithm. Furthermore, extensive numerical experiments are carried out to explore the modeling effects in specific examples, such as the steric repulsion, concentration of ions at the boundary, and blowup phenomenon of Keller--Segel equations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bacteria infection and laryngopharyngeal reflux (LPR) were believed the important pathogenesis of chronic otitis media with effusion (COME). But no study researched the relationship between them on COME. To confirm bacterial could arrive middle ear through LPR and produced acid metabolites to activate the pepsinogen of LPR causing COME. Children (65) diagnosed COME with 122 middle ear effusions were included in COME group. Children (22) with congenital/acquired profound deafness with 22 middle ear lavage were included in CI group. Pepsin A concentration in the effusion and lavage fluid were measured. The DNA of the bacteria, IL-8 and TNF-α in the effusion were detected. The average concentration of pepsin A in the effusions and lavage were 176.65 ± 242.09 and 19 ng/ml. Bacterial infection rates were 75.76% and 24.24% in the pepsin A(+) and pepsin A(−) patients. In the bacterial (+), the patients of pepsin A(+) was 4.33 times higher than those of pepsin A(−). TNF-α in pepsin A(+) was higher than that in pepsin A(−). TNF-α and IL-8 were higher in bacteria(+) than those of bacteria(−). Bacterial infection and LPR might act in synergy in the pathogenesis of COME. First time to propose LPR and bacterial infection might work synergistically to cause COME [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]