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Ganmaoling Granule (GMLG) is one of the most effective Chinese Patent Medicines (CPMs) which is applied to relieve the uncomfortable symptoms caused by the common cold. In this study, high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) combined with chemometric analyses and multi-component content determination were performed to preliminary investigate the effect of ozone sterilization technology on the quality of GMLG. The methodology validation and similarity analysis results showed that the analytical method was capable of complying with the demand of HPLC fingerprints, and 80 batches of GMLGs before and after ozone sterilization in four process stages had a high degree of similarity based on the values of similarity analysis (SA) was greater than 0.98. The results of hierarchical cluster analysis (HCA) and principal component analysis (PCA) showed that the GMLGs before and after ozone sterilization were divided into two categories, and the same batch of GMLGs was clustered into the same group. Meanwhile, the contents of linarin, caffeine, chlorpheniramine maleate and acetaminophen between 24 batches of GMLGs before and after ozone sterilization had no statistically significant differences (P > 0.05), which met the requirements of "Drug Standard of the People's Republic of China". In conclusion, the ozone sterilization technology had no obvious influence on the quality of GMLGs in four process stages, which provided a reference for the quality control of GMLG and other Chinese-western medicine compound preparations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hydrogel shape memory and actuating functionalities are heavily pursued and have found great potential in various application fields. However, their combination for more flexible and complicated morphing behaviors is still challenging. Herein, it is reported that by controlling the light‐initiated polymerization of active hydrogel layers on shape memory hydrogel substrates, advanced morphing behaviors based on programmable hydrogel shapes and actuating trajectories are realized. The formation and photo‐reduction‐induced dissociation of Fe3+‐carboxylate coordination endow the hydrogel substrates with the shape memory functionality. The photo‐reduced Fe2+ ions can diffuse from the substrates into the monomer solutions to initiate the polymerization of the thermally responsive active layers, whose actuating temperatures and amplitudes can be facially tuned by controlling their thicknesses and compositions. One potential application, a shape‐programmable 3D hook that can lift an object with a specific shape, is also unveiled. The demonstrated strategy is extendable to other hydrogel systems to realize more versatile and complicated actuating behaviors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Known for its rich history and culture, Qingdao is a typical symbol of Chinese maritime culture. Its unique genetic landscape has aroused interest among geneticists and forensic scientists. However, the genetic landscape of Qingdao has never been uncovered. This investigation intends to provide light on Qingdao's paternal genetic diversity and its evolutionary connections to other Han subgroups. The genetic polymorphisms of 41 Y-chromosomal short tandem repeat (STR) loci in the Qingdao Han were investigated using SureID® PathFinder Plus Kit. Phylogenetic studies were performed using genotype data from 52 East Asian groups at 23 common Y-STR loci. A multidimensional scaling plot and cladogram were constructed. Linear Discriminant Analysis (LDA) was carried out for predicting categories among the Han people. The k-nearest neighbour (kNN) algorithm was utilised to designate Y-SNP haplogroups for each haplotype. The Qingdao Han were genetically far from the Tibeto-Burman populations and close with the Han people from northern China. LDA indicated a deep integration among the present-day Han people. By the kNN model, the predicted O2a2 and O2a1 were shown to be the predominant Y-SNP haplogroups. This study would be helpful for reconstructing the patrilineal history in China and establishing a more comprehensive Y-STR database. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Haitaite‐(La), (La, Ce)(U4+, U6+, Fe2+)(Fe3+, Al)2(Ti, Fe2+, Fe3+)18O38, is a new member of the crichtonite group. It is named after the Haita Village in the Miyi County of Sichuan Province, China, where the mineral was discovered. The mineral occurs as black opaque centimeter‐sized aggregates in the external contact zone between the Neoproterozoic (∼800 Ma) alkali feldspar granite and the Mesoproterozoic (∼1700 Ma) micaschist. In the studied sample, haitaite‐(La) is associated with other minerals, including ilmenite, magnetite, rutile, zircon, brannerite and uraninite. The new mineral is a black, metallic phase and has a Mohs hardness of 6, with a density of 4.99 g/cm3 (calculated) and 5.03 g/cm3 (measured). Haitaite‐(La) is opaque in transmitted light and grayish‐white under reflected light, with a reflectivity between 22.5% and 16.42% in the 400–700 nm band (SiC, in the air). The compositions of the mineral were measured by EPMA, the U4+/U6+ ratio was determined by X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy and the Fe2+/Fe3+ ratio was determined by Mössbauer spectroscopy. Haitaite‐(La) is trigonal, belongs to and has unit‐cell parameters a = 10.3678(5) Å, c = 20.8390(11) Å, V = 1939.9(2) Å3, Z = 3. The crystalline structure is composed of octahedra with 9 layers of close‐packed octahedra (M1, M3, M4, M5), tetrahedra (M2) and contains large 12‐coordinated M0 sites. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Yi-Luo valley witnessed the most significant socio-political transformation of China and was deeply implicated in several enormous migrations of the Han population. However, little has been done to clarify its paternal genetic variation or phylogenetic relationship, particularly concerning the genetic evidence of their migrations. This study aims to uncover the population genetic characteristics in the Yi-Luo valley and provide genetic evidence for its people's migrations. Seventeen Y-STR loci included in the AmpFlSTR®Yfiler™ were typed in 2,314 individuals from seven different regions along the Yi-Luo valley. A multidimensional scaling plot and neighbor-joining tree were constructed for nationwide genetic comparisons. Y-haplogroup frequencies and migration rates were estimated among the studied populations. Gene flows were detected by different migration models and directions. The predicted Y-haplogroups demonstrated the predominance of O2a2. Genetic affinities were observed among Han, Hakka, Danmin, and Bai. Anhui was shown to be the most crucial transfer spot for the Hakkas when they moved out of the Central Plains to South China. This study reveals the genetic landscape of paternal lineages living in the Yi-Luo valley and enriches our understanding of the great migration in Chinese history. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tremendous demands for visible-light-induced catalysts with excellent degradation performance have attracted wide spread attention on designing versatile Bi2O3-based heterojunctions. Herein we designed and synthesized Z-scheme Bi2O3/g-C3N4 heterojunctions using in-situ thermal polymerization method. A tight contact interface between Bi2O3 and g-C3N4 confirmed the formation of heterojunction, facilitating the efficient separation of photo-generated charge carriers. In comparison with pure Bi 2 O 3 and g-C 3 N 4 , the 0.5-Bi 2 O 3 /g-C 3 N 4 heterojunctions showed enhanced visible-light-induced catalytic activity which could degrade 100% of methylene blue within 90 min •OH radicals played the most crucial roles and •O 2 −, h+, e− radicals were less contributing in methylene blue photocatalytic elimination. According to the direct evidence of active species capture experiment, PL spectra, HRTEM and well-matched band positions, a Z-scheme enhanced photocatalytic mechanism was put forward. In addition, possible degradation pathways for methylene blue were deduced according to the UPLC-MS results. The present research may provide a way for developing novel Bi 2 O 3 -based materials with special application in environmental purification. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The treatment of chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) has been transformed by the use of targeted small molecules inhibiting components of the B cell receptor (BCR) signaling pathway (Haematologica, 103, 2018 and e204; Curr Hematol Malig Rep, 14, 2019, 302). Chief among these is ibrutinib, an irreversible inhibitor of Bruton tyrosine kinase (BTK), which produces deep, durable responses in CLL with good tolerability (Haematologica, 103, 2018 and e204). Though prolonged exposure to the drug can exert selective pressure on CLL cells and allow for the emergence of drug‐resistant clones, primary ibrutinib treatment failure is rare (Expert Rev Hematol, 11 and 2018, 185; N Engl J Med, 370, 2014 and 2352; N Engl J Med, 373, 2015 and 25, 2425; Blood, 128, 2016 and 2199). Activating mutations in the gene PLCG2, which encodes a downstream target of BTK, appear to enable constitutive BCR signaling and have been associated with ibrutinib resistance (Int J Cancer, 146 and 2020, 85; J Clin Oncol, 35, 2017 and 1437; Blood, 126, 2015 and 61). In recent years, novel investigational agents have targeted other components of the BCR pathway. Among these is entospletinib, an orally bioavailable, selective inhibitor of splenic tyrosine kinase (SYK) (Blood, 126, 2015 and 1744), which lies upstream of the enzyme phospholipase C‐gamma‐2 (PLCG2). Here, we describe a patient who was found to harbor a novel somatic variant of PLCG2 and experienced a lack of treatment response to both ibrutinib and entospletinib. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Zhengminghuaite, ideally Cu6Fe3As4S12, is a new Cu-Fe arsenosulfosalt found in the Zimudang Carlin-type gold deposit in southwestern Guizhou, China. It occurs as irregular, commonly fractured grains of several to a few tens of micrometers in the brecciated gold ores and is paragenetically associated with the late ore-stage mineral assemblage, including realgar, orpiment, pyrite, chalcopyrite, arsenopyrite, aktashite, christite, quartz, and calcite. Zhengminghuaite is opaque with a metallic luster and a conchoidal or uneven fracture. The Vickers microhardness (VHN10) is 219 kg/mm2 (range 192–247 kg/mm2), and the calculated density is 4.77(5) g/cm3. In reflected light, zhengminghuaite is whitish gray with weak bireflectance (whitish gray to pinkish tinted gray), very weak anisotropy, and no internal reflection. Electron microprobe analyses give the empirical formula (Cu5.92Hg0.08)Σ6.00 (Fe1.59Hg1.07Zn0.37)Σ3.03(As3.94Sb0.02)Σ3.96S11.93 on the basis of total cations = 13, with the simplified formula Cu6(Fe,Hg,Zn)3(As,Sb)4S12. Zhengminghuaite is trigonal, with space group R3. Unit-cell parameters determined from the single-crystal X-ray diffraction data are as follows: a = 13.5373(17) Å, c = 9.2354(13) Å, and V = 1465.7(4) Å3 (Z = 3). The eight strongest lines in the X-ray diffraction pattern are [d (Å) (I, %) (hkl)]: 3.0785 (67) (003), 3.0670 (100) (1 3 1), 2.6586 (89) (1 3 2), 1.8825 (97) (134), 1.8773 (82) (520), 1.6060 (89) (13 5), 1.6028 (81) (523), and 1.6012 (83) (26 1). The crystal structure of zhengminghuaite belongs to the nowackiite group and can be described as formed by (0001) layers composed of corner-sharing FeS4 and CuS4 tetrahedra that delimit two triangular cavities. Zhengminghuaite is the Fe-dominant analog at the divalent cations site of nowackiite (Cu6Zn3As4S12) and aktashite (Cu6Hg3As4S12). Paragenetic relationships indicate that zhengminghuaite and associated Hg- and Tl-sulfosalts precipitated in response to the increase in sulfidation state and decrease in temperature of the late-ore stage hydrothermal fluid. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Y-chromosome haplotypes of 527 non-related males (176 Han, 186 Tibetan, and 165 Yi) in the Tibetan-Yi corridor were analyzed using SureID® PathFinder Plus. In the populations of Han, Tibetans, and Yi, the haplotype diversity was 0.9989, 0.9981, and 0.9993, respectively, and the discrimination capacity was 0.9148, 0.8925, and 0.9576, respectively. Phylogenetic relationships among 12 studied ethnic groups and 7 other ethnic groups in the Tibetan-Yi corridor were investigated. Both multi-dimensional scaling analysis and phylogenetic reconstructions indicated that Tibetans appeared separated from the Han and Yi ethnic groups in the Tibetan-Yi corridor. Their genetic homogeneity or heterogeneity has not entirely been affected by their geographical distance and linguistic origin. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An organic–inorganic hybrid compound, [N-oqc]ClO4 (1, N-oqc = N-oxy-quinuclidine cation), was synthesized and characterized. Its structure is defined by the zero-dimensional structure built from the [N-oqc]ClO4 units from end to end. The crystal structure and dielectric constant measurements reveal that 1 undergoes reversible phase transitions at 342/300 K (heating/cooling). The order–disorder motion of [N-oqc]+ and ClO4− are the origin of the static-to-dynamic transition. Notably, there are sudden dielectric switches between high- and low-dielectric states, making it a new switchable dielectric material. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract A regioselective, solvent-free and catalyst-free synthesis of isoxazoles has been successfully developed under ball milling conditions. Milling the mixtures of N -hydroxybenzimidoyl chlorides and enamino carbonyl compounds in a ball mill at a frequency of 14.6 Hz for 20–60 min afforded isoxazoles in up to 86% yields. A possible reaction mechanism leading to the formation of the observed isoxazoles is proposed. Graphical abstract Image 1 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We theoretically and experimentally studied a transmitting-absorbing material that had transmission window within the absorption band. The material had a sandwich structure comprised of a resistive metasurface, a dielectric substrate and a metallic slot frequency-selective surface (FSS). The material showed lower reflectivity in a wide frequency range; the -10 dB absorbing bandwidth could be over 76% (64% in experiments). Meanwhile in the middle of the range the transmittance up to -1.7 dB was observed at about 10 GHz where slot FSS had good transparency. We showed the lower reflectivity of our material was mainly due to the absorption of incident radiation energy except for the transparent window where the radiation energy passed through the materials. The transmitting window could be adjusted by changing the geometry parameters of slot FSS. Our material had the advantages of thin thickness, small size of unit cell, convenient fabrication and easy to extend to other frequency bands. This kind of transmitting-absorbing material provided a new way for the applications, such as light harvesting, sensing and radome materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Carefully designed delivery systems are required to encapsulate and protect omega-3 fatty acids in commercial food and beverage products, but then release them at the required site-of-action within the human gastrointestinal tract (GIT). Previously, we showed that the oxidative stability of flaxseed oil (a plant-based source of omega-3 fatty acids) encapsulated in nanoemulsion droplets or calcium alginate microgels (hydrogel beads) was improved using caseinate as a natural antioxidant. In this study, the impact of caseinate on the digestion of flaxseed oil encapsulated in these delivery systems was investigated using a simulated GIT. The flaxseed oil was incorporated into four delivery systems: nanoemulsions ( NE ); nanoemulsions mixed with caseinate ( NE + C ); hydrogel beads ( HB ); and, hydrogel beads containing caseinate ( HB + C ). The gastrointestinal fate of the flaxseed oil droplets depended on delivery system type and the presence of protein. The flaxseed oil in the nanoemulsions ( NE and NE + C ) was rapidly hydrolyzed within the simulated small intestine, with over 76% and 65% of free fatty acids (FFAs) being released in the first 5 minutes, respectively. Conversely, the flaxseed oil in the hydrogel beads ( HB and HB + C ) was digested much more slowly, with only around 37% and 22% being released in the same period. This knowledge may be useful for designing delivery systems to protect omega-3 fatty acids from oxidation in functional foods, while still allowing them to be released in the GIT. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We have analyzed the Y chromosome haplotypes of 510 non-related Yi males grouped in three Chinese provinces (Guizhou, Sichuan, and Yunnan) using the Yfiler® Plus Kit. A total of 484 haplotypes were detected, out of which 460 were unique. The observed haplotype diversity and discrimination capacity were 0.9998 and 0.9490, respectively. To investigate the genetic relationship of the studied population, multidimensional scaling (MDS) plot and neighbor-joining (NJ) tree phylogenetic analyses were constructed which demonstrated that the Y chromosome lineage among the Yi ethnicity was different. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Two distinct genetic markers, single nucleotide polymorphisms (Y-SNPs) and short tandem repeats (Y-STRs), exist simultaneously in the non-recombining portion of the Y chromosome. Because of their different rates of mutation, Y-STRs and Y-SNPs play distinct roles in forensic and evolutionary genetics. Current approaches to infer haplogroup status rely on genotyping lots of Y-SNP loci. Given the relationship between haplotype and haplogroup of a Y chromosome, a cost-effective strategy of Y-STRs typing had an advantage in haplogroup prediction. Many machine learning algorithms have sprung up for assigning a Y-STR haplotype to a haplogroup. However, a series of issues must be solved before the using of machine learning method in practice. Thus, the k-nearest neighbor (kNN) classifier was built respectively based on different situations in this study. We assessed different factors which may influence the performance of the kNN prediction model for classifying haplogroups. The training set was based on a diverse ground-truth data set comprising Y-STR haplotypes and corresponding Y-SNP haplogroups. Our results showed that combining different levels of haplogroups into the observations or transracial prediction was impractical. Moreover, using more slow mutation Y-STR loci in the category is good for promoting classification accuracy. The preconditions for an effective and accurate haplogroup assignment by the kNN classifier were revealed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: The aim of the study was to assess the efficacy and tolerability of the monthly vaginal ring (NuvaRing; 15 μg ethinylestradiol [EE] and 120 μg etonogestrel per day) compared with a monophasic (21/7) combined oral contraceptive (COC) containing 30 μg EE and 3 mg drospirenone in healthy Chinese women aged 18-40 years.Methods: This was a phase III, open-label, randomised multicentre trial conducted in China. Participants received NuvaRing or COC for 13 cycles (3 weeks of ring/pill treatment followed by a 1-week ring-free/pill-free period). Contraceptive efficacy was assessed by in-treatment pregnancies and expressed by the Pearl Index (PI; number of pregnancies/100 woman-years of use). Cycle control was assessed by unscheduled (breakthrough) and absence of scheduled (withdrawal) bleeding events. Safety and tolerability were assessed throughout the study.Results: Participants were randomised either to the NuvaRing (n = 732) or to the COC (n = 214); 588 (82.4%) and 182 (78.4%) participants, respectively, completed the study. There were 10 in-treatment pregnancies in the NuvaRing group (PI 1.92; 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.92, 3.53) and five in the COC group (PI 3.12; 95% CI 1.01, 7.29). Breakthrough bleeding/spotting ranged from 18.6% (Cycle 1) to 4.2% (Cycle 11) for NuvaRing and from 21.6% (Cycle 1) to 7.9% (Cycle 11) for COC. Absence of withdrawal bleeding ranged from 8.6% (Cycle 1) to 3.0% (Cycle 11) for NuvaRing and from 14.6% (Cycle 1) to 6.4% (Cycle 5) for COC. For NuvaRing and COC, respectively, 26.6% and 25.0% of participants had treatment-related adverse events, and 7.0% and 9.1% discontinued the study as a result.Conclusions: Once-monthly NuvaRing is efficacious and safe for use in Chinese women. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The abrupt changes of zonal circulation in the Tibetan Plateau (TP) region and their likely causes are derived from National Centers for Environmental Prediction and the National Center for Atmospheric Research reanalysis data. The zonal circulation over the TP abruptly changed in summer (31st pentad) and winter (59th pentad). The switch from summer to winter circulation is characterized by a sudden northward shift of the westerlies and the zero-velocity curve and disappearance of the westerly jet. The winter-summer switch is characterized by the reverse pattern. Therefore, the circulation conversion between summer and winter can be judged from the position of the zero-velocity curve. Curves located north of 20°N indicate summer circulation over the TP and vice versa. The abrupt change of zonal circulation is mainly caused by the thermodynamic effect of the TP. In June, this effect causes a huge monsoon circulation cell extending from the TP to low latitudes. Consequently, the westerlies jump to the north as easterlies develop. This process, which is enhanced by the strong northerly in Coriolis, establishes the summer circulation. In October, the Hadley cell recurs as the thermal effects of the TP diminish, the westerlies rush southward, and the winter circulation is established. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A three-dimensional computational model for dual piezoelectric fans on the bounded plane has been built using the commercial code CFD-ACE+, and the Levenberg–Marquardt Method (LMM) was used to estimate the optimal relative positions and phase angle of fans for minimizing the average temperature of the fin surface. The dual piezoelectric fans are originally placed in seven different positions (cases 1–7), and the LMM is then utilized to estimate the optimal relative positions and phase angle for increasing the thermal performance of dual piezoelectric fans. The simulations of numerical computations show that for each of the seven original fan arrangements, the optimal relative positions and phase angle of the dual fan are achieved using a singular arrangement in which both fans are located 0.95 mm below the center line of the fin and the in-phase operational condition is used. Finally, the temperature distributions of the fin for the original designs of cases 1 and 2 and for the optimal design of case 1 are measured using a thermal camera and are compared with the numerical solutions. The results indicate that the relative errors between numerical and experimental average fin temperatures at 600 s for original case 1, original case 2 and optimal case 1 are 0.68%, 0.52% and 0.68%, respectively, thereby validating the estimation method used herein to determine the optimal relative positions and phase angle of dual piezoelectric fans. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Biotransformation of icariin ( 1 ), epimedin C ( 2 ), epimedoside A ( 3 ), epimedin A ( 4 ) and epimidin B ( 5 ), five major components of E. koreanum , were performed by using Cunninghamella blakesleana . And they could be metabolized efficiently to icariside II ( 1a ), 2″- O -rhamnosylikarisoside II ( 2a ), epimedoside b ( 3a ), baohuoside VII ( 4a ) and sagittatoside B ( 5a ) with high yields of 95.1%, 97.7%, 93.7%, 95.8% and 96.4%, respectively. And these transformed products as major forms of herb epimedii in vivo exhibited the more significant anti-osteoporosis activities. Our method could be applied for enriching these rare flavonoids in herb epimedii, for further development of anti-osteoporosis medicines or functional foods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The hydrogenation of nitrobenzene was investigated over magnetically recoverable Pt deposited on multiwalled carbon nanotubes. Under optimal reaction conditions (333 K, 4 MPa), high yield of aniline (>99%) was observed in solvent-free conditions. The Pt/MWCNTs catalyst cannot be reused while the Pt/MWCNTs-Fe3O4can be recycled four times without any loss of activity. The results of characterization showed the existence of interaction between MWCNTs and Fe3O4, which can effectively stabilize the Pt nanoparticles. Moreover, the magnetic nanocomposites can be readily isolated from the reaction system by a magnet. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, we study the structure theory of a class of not-finitely graded Lie algebras related to generalized Heisenberg-Virasoro algebras. In particular, the derivation algebras, the automorphism groups and the second cohomology groups of these Lie algebras are determined. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: To investigate the role of focal adhesion kinase (FAK)-mediated signaling in hypoxia-induced cardiac fibroblasts (CFs) differentiation and cardiac fibrosis post-myocardial infarction (MI) on a mice model. Methods: CFs of neonatal C57BL/6 mice were treated under normoxic, hypoxic, or hypoxic+PP2 (known as a Src kinase family inhibitor) conditions. Gene expressions of FAK, alpha-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) and collagen type I alpha 1 (Col1α1), or α-SMA and vimentin levels were performed by RT-PCR and immunofluorescence staining, respectively. Thirty mice were surgically treated into Sham (n=7) and MI (n=23) groups; and FAK inhibitor PF-562271 was given to six survivor MI mice (as PF group, from 15 survivors). Heart function and collagenous tissues were examined by echocardiography, as well as by Masson's trichrome and Sirius red staining, respectively. Type I collagen, FAK protein, mTOR, ERK1/2, AKT, P70S6K and phospho-FAK levels were also analyzed. Results: FAK inhibition with PP2 significantly decreased CFs differentiation and collagen synthesis under hypoxia treatment. In vivo, PF-562271 treatment resulted in fibrosis attenuation; however, deteriorated heart function of MI mice could not be significantly improved. PF-562271 may affect phospho-mTOR (p<0.05), phospho-ERK1/2 (p<0.01), phospho-AKT (p<0.001) and phospho-P70S6K (p<0.05) to exert its benefits. FAK can be activated either under hypoxia in CFs or MI in a mouse model to promote fibrosis. However, pharmacological inhibition of FAK can attenuate fibrosis response. Conclusion: This study provides novel evidence that FAK inhibition may become a promising pharmaceutical strategy to attenuate fibrosis post-MI. © 2015 S. Karger AG, Basel [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, a new design on last quantum barrier (LQB) is investigated numerically with the purpose of improving the optical performance of InGaN light-emitting diodes (LEDs). Through the analysis of the energy band diagrams, electrostatic fields, carrier concentrations, carrier current densities, and radiative recombination rates, we have got the simulation results that the proposed undoped-InGaN/AlInGaN superlattice (SL) LQB can significantly improve the output power and internal quantum efficiency, which is mainly attributed to the successful improvement in hole injection efficiency and suppression of electron current leakage. Moreover, the efficiency droop of the LEDs is improved slightly by using u-InGaN/AlInGaN SL as last barrier. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A chemical investigation of AcOEt-soluble portion of the 95% EtOH extract of the aerial parts of Clerodendranthus spicatus led to the isolation and characterization of a new diterpenoid, named clerospicasin J ( 1). Structure elucidation of 1 was achieved by spectroscopic analyses, including 2D-NMR. The diterpenoid 1 exhibited significant inhibitory activity on the proliferation of the SKOV3 cell lines. Moreover, the cytotoxicity of 1 against SKOV3 cells was related to apoptotis as confirmed by DAPI (=2-(4-amidinophenyl)-1 H-indole-6-carboxamidine) nuclear staining and flow cytometry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Based on the molecular force field, the stable conformers of 8-aminoquinoline oligoamides containing chiral β - pinene have been searched. The stability of helical conformers is different when β-pinene connects with 8-aminoquinoline at the nitrogen terminal and carbon terminals. And β-pinene can form delocalized π-bonds at the C-terminal of oligoamides, which can improve the strength of absorption spectra of the CQ n. [Display omitted] • The terminal chiral group mainly induces the helical selection of oligoamides. • Terminal conjugated bonds affect the strength of absorption spectra. • ECD spectra reflect the helical handedness of oligoamides. • The more repeat units oligoamides have, the fewer conformers are found. In this study, the helical conformers and absorption spectra of three types of 8-aminoquinoline oligoamides were studied. The stable conformers of these oligoamides connected with chiral β - pinene at their terminals were searched, and their dominant conformers and corresponding Boltzmann statistical weights were obtained. The excitation energy and oscillator strength of the dominant conformers were calculated, and the UV and electronic circular dichroism (ECD) spectra were also simulated. β-pinene can form delocalized π-bonds at the C-terminal, which results in a strong R band for CQ n. Furthermore, the degree of polymerization also affected the strength of the absorption band for all the oligoamides. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Solvent-free reactions of allylic alcohols with various nucleophiles including indoles, sulfamides and anilines were efficiently achieved in the presence of 20% ZnBr2 under high-speed vibration milling conditions, and the products were obtained in good to excellent yields with the formation of water as the only byproduct. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Electrokinetic (EK) remediation has potential to simultaneously remove heavy metals and organic compounds from soil, but the removal percent of these pollutants is very low in general if no enhancing treatment is applied. This study developed a new enhanced-EK remediation technology to decontaminate a heavy metal–organic compound co-contaminated soil by applying different oxidants and pH control. A red soil was used as a model clayed soil, and was spiked with pyrene and Cu at about 500mgkg−1 for both to simulate real situation. Bench-scale EK experiments were performed using four oxidants (H2O2, NaClO, KMnO4, and Na2S2O8) and controlling electrolyte pH at 3.5 or 10. After the treatments with 1.0Vcm−1 of voltage gradient for 335h, soil pH, electrical conductivity, and the concentrations and chemical fractionations of soil pyrene and Cu were analyzed. The results showed that there was significant migration of pyrene and Cu from the soil, and the removal percent of soil pyrene and Cu varied in the range of 30–52% and 8–94%, respectively. Low pH favoured the migration of soil Cu, while KMnO4 was the best one for the degradation of pyrene among the tested oxidants, although it unfortunately prevented the migration of soil Cu by forming Cu oxide. Application of Na2S2O8 and to control the catholyte pH at 3.5 were found to be the best operation conditions for decontaminating the Cu-pyrene co-contaminated soil. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Copper/silicon nanocomposite system (Cu/Si-NPA) is prepared by immersion plating Cu nanoparticles on silicon nanoporous pillar array (Si-NPA). The Cu/Si-NPA samples are heated under nitrogen for 2h at elevated temperatures of 400°C, 600°C, and 800°C. The morphological changes of Cu nanoparticles before and after heat treatments are characterized by SEM. The crystallinity and the average size of Cu nanoparticles before and after heat treatments are studied by XRD. The results show that two possible mechanisms, Ostwald ripening, and particle migration and coalescence, are believed to be responsible for the ripening of annealed Cu nanoparticles at different annealing temperatures. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: An Rh/AlO(OH) catalyst was prepared by a sol–gel method. This catalyst showed an excellent catalytic performance for the complete hydrogenation of quinoline to decahydroquinoline at relatively mild conditions. The growth of Rh-particle size and the decrease in the number of surface hydroxyl groups during heat treatment resulted in a significant decrease in catalytic properties. The excellent catalytic performance of the fresh Rh/AlO(OH) was attributed to the cooperation between the hydroxyl groups on the support and on the active metal centers. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

P-AlGaN/P-GaN superlattices are investigated in blue InGaN light-emitting diodes as electron blocking layers. The simulation results show that efficiency droop is markedly improved due to two reasons: (i) enhanced hole concentration and hole carrier transport efficiency in AlGaN/GaN superlattices, and (ii) enhanced blocking of electron overflow between multiple quantum-wells and AlGaN/GaN superlattices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The performance of InGaN blue light-emitting diodes (LEDs) with different kinds of electron-blocking layers is investigated numerically. We compare the simulated emission spectra, electron and hole concentrations, energy band diagrams, electrostatic fields, and internal quantum efficiencies of the LEDs. The LED using AlGaN with gradually increasing Al content from 0% to 20% as the electron-blocking layer (EBL) has a strong spectrum intensity, mitigates efficiency droop, and possesses higher output power compared with the LEDs with the other three types of EBLs. These advantages could be because of the lower electron leakage current and more effective hole injection. The optical performance of the specifically designed LED is also improved in the case of large injection current. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Silver (Ag) nanoparticles with different average sizes are prepared, and the nonlinear absorption and refraction of these nanoparticles are investigated with femtosecond laser pulses at 800 nm. The smallest Ag nanoparticles show insignificant nonlinear absorption, whereas the larger ones show saturable absorption. By considering the previously reported positive nonlinear absorption of 9 nm Ag nanoparticles, the nonlinear absorptions of Ag nanoparticles are found to be size-dependent. All these nonlinear absorptions can be compatibly explained from the viewpoints of electronic transitions, energy bands and electronic structures in the conduction band of Ag nanoparticles. The nonlinear refraction is attributed to the effect of hot electrons arising from the intraband transition in the s-p conduction band of Ag nanoparticles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Optical properties of GaN-based light-emitting diodes (LEDs) are studied numerically by using AlGaN and InAlN electron-blocking layers (EBLs). Through the simulations of emission spectra, carrier concentration distribution, energy band, electrostatic field, internal quantum efficiency and output power, the results show that the LEDs with design of the InAlN EBL structure have a better performance over the original LEDs using an AlGaN EBL. The spectrum intensity and output power are enhanced significantly, and the efficiency droop of internal quantum efficiency is improved effectively with this design of InAlN EBL structure. It is proved that the strengths of carrier confinement and electron leakage current play a critical role in the performance of luminescence in LEDs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To evaluate and compare the contraceptive efficacy, bleeding pattern, side effects and other positive effects of a combined oral contraceptive (COC) containing drospirenone (DRSP) [Yasmin®] with those of a COC containing desogestrel (DSG) in healthy Chinese women. Methods: This was a randomized, open-label, controlled, multicentre study of 768 healthy Chinese women requiring contraception. The subjects were randomized to ethinylestradiol (EE) 30 μg/DRSP 3mg (n = 573) or EE 30 mg/ DSG 150 mg (n= 195), at a ratio of 3 : 1. Each individual was treated for 13 cycles. Further visits were required at cycle 4, cycle 7, cycle 10 and cycle 13 of treatment. Weight, height and body mass index were evaluated at each visit. The Menstrual Distress Questionnaire (MDQ) was administered at baseline, visit 3 (cycle 7) and visit 5 (after cycle 13). Results: Baseline characteristics were similar between the two groups (p > 0.05). The Pearl Index (method failure) for EE/DRSP was 0.208 per 100 women-years, which was lower than that for EE/DSG (0.601 per 100 womenyears). There were no significant differences between the treatment groups with regard to bleeding patterns. According to the MDQ subscale, improvements in water retention and increases in appetite during the intermenstrual period and in water retention and general well-being during the menstrual period in the EE/DRSP group (-0.297, -0.057, 0.033 and 0.150, respectively) were significantly improved compared with the EE/DSG group (-0.108, 0.023, 0.231 and -0.023, respectively) [all p < 0.05]. Other values that improved in both groups, particularly improvement in breast pain and tenderness and skin condition, were more evident in the EE/DRSP group (18.0%, 89/494; 12.6%, 62/494) than in the EE/DSG group (11.3%, 19/168; 5.4%, 9/168). Mean weight increased in the EE/DSG group (0.57 kg) while there was a significant decrease in mean weight (-0.28 kg) in the EE/DRSP group (p < 0.01). Conclusions: Both EE/DRSP and EE/DSG have good contraceptive efficacy and a comparable bleeding pattern. EE/DRSP had a more favourable effect on weight and premenstrual symptoms than EE/DSG. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Ir/ZrO2·xH2O was prepared by co-precipitation and characterized by TEM, XRD, and XPS. It showed an excellent catalytic performance for the hydrogenation of haloaromatic nitro compounds to the corresponding amines in the mixture solvent of ethanol and water. The catalyst gave both conversion and selectivity to be over 99.9% for the hydrogenation of p-chloronitrobenzene to p-chloroaniline. Besides the intrinsic characterization of iridium in the hydrogenation of haloaromatic nitro compounds, the high activity and selectivity of Ir/ZrO2·xH2O is probably attributed to the formation of hydrogen bond between substrate and the hydroxyl groups on the surface of the hydrous catalyst or solvent water to activate the N nitro group. The activated N easy to be attacked by the activated hydrogen, so the hydrogenation is promoted. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Catalyst RuCoB/γ-Al2O3 was prepared by the reduction impregnation method and characterized by ICP, TEM, XRD, XPS, and TPR. The catalyst showed a high selectivity to cyclohexene for the partial hydrogenation of benzene without any additive. The high selectivity possibly results from that cobalt and boron cause the formation of electron-deficient ruthenium species. Under the optimum conditions, the maximum yield of cyclohexene reached 28.8%. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: A new RuCoB/γ-Al2O3 catalyst was prepared by reduction impregnation method and was used for the partial hydrogenation of benzene. Its composition and structure were determined by ICP, XRD, and XPS. The performance of the catalyst for the selective hydrogenation of benzene to cyclohexene was investigated in liquid catalytic system. The hydrogenation results showed that in the presence of ZnSO4, the addition of amines and alcohols could significantly enhance the yield of cycylohexene. The maximum cyclohexene yield of 34.8% was achieved with ethylenediamine as an additive. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Through hydrothermal synthesis, Cu(2-pac)2 (2-pac = 2-pyrazinecarboxylic acid) reacting with 4,4'-bipyridine (abbreviated for 4,4'-bpy) in 1 : 1 molar ratio afforded a porous three dimensional supramolecule containing an infinite T4(2)8(2) water tape, showing the contribution of the water tape to the stability of the crystal host and the role of cooperative association between the water tape and the crystal host in the formation of the water tape. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: A novel post-treatment method is presented to improve the field emission properties of printed carbon nanotube (CNT) films. Screen-printed multi-walled CNT (MWNT) film was treated by mechanical crushing method and cleaned by high-speed airflow. Compared to those of un-treated film, the turn-on electric field of the treated film decreased from 2.5 to 1.7V/μm, and the total emission current of the treated film that has the same printing area as the un-treated one increased from ∼120 to ∼1000μA. SEM study revealed that the enhanced field emission is due to the removal of residual materials covered on the surface of CNTs. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Screen-printing is undoubtedly the most cost effective process for the fabrication of large-sized carbon nanotube field emission display (CNT-FED). A novel post-treatment method of mechnical crushing and blowing was presented to solve the problem of poor field emission properties of printed CNT films. The turn-on electric field of the treated film decreased and the emission current increased distinctly. Then a technique was developed to fabricate fully printed CNT-FED in which all the inner cells were fabricated by screen-printing process. Based on this technique, fully printed matrix-addressable diode CNT-FEDs, which can display moving image and be driven by the integrated drive circuits of commercial plasma display panel (PDP), were fabricated subsequently. A very high brightness of 1×104 cd/m2 can be achieved at 220V. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Co-passivated porous silicon (CPS) was prepared by stain etching. CPS samples prepared at different etching stages have different morphologies. All these morphologies are significantly different from those of conventional porous silicon (PS) etched in none cobalt-etching solution. The experimental results indicate that Co atoms only exist in a very thin layer on CPS surface, where Co atoms are well-distributed and Co atoms have hardly diffused into the substrate. Compared with the formation mechanism of conventional PS, there are two routes to generate holes in the formation of CPS, and there is NO2 gas evolved from etching solution in a certain condition during the etching. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The STRtyper-32G PCR Amplification Kit is a 6-dye multiplex system that combines the 30 autosomal STR loci with an Indel site (YIndel) and the sex-determinant locus Amelogenin. In addition to more loci, Master Mix has been optimized to amplify DNA on different substrates. The autosomal STR loci contained in this novel system meet the compatibility of requirements for databasing. In this study, the developmental validation study of the STRtyper-32G Kit followed the guidelines of SWGDAM (Scientific Working Group on DNA Analysis Methods), including PCR-based studies, species specificity, inhibitors, sensitivity, precision, repeatability, stutter, DNA mixtures, concordance studies, and population genetics studies. The validation results indicate that the new multiplex system is a robust tool for forensic database applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study presents a tunable phononic crystal (PnC) composed of liquid–solid components, demonstrating adjustable waveguiding and directional transmission capabilities through the rotation of embedded scatterers. A two-dimensional model featuring grooved steel rods in water is analyzed using finite element simulations to evaluate band structures and transmission spectra. To achieve the widest full band gap, a genetic algorithm is integrated to optimize the structural parameters. By examining a supercell with a central defect, wave localization is achieved, facilitating tunable waveguide formation. Analysis of equifrequency contours reveals that, at a scatterer rotation angle of 0∘, the structure enables directional transmission, with wave propagation preferentially aligned with specific crystal axes. This work pioneers a new strategy for designing tunable acoustic metamaterials with applications in advanced waveguiding and directed acoustic manipulation technologies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Surveys the temporal pattern of gene expression in mouse kidneys. Expression changes demonstrated by differential display-polymerase chain reaction; Examination of expression pattern of gene products; Recapitulation of mouse embryonic renal marker gene expression.

• A novel karyotype of heptasomy 21 in an AML patient with complex karyotype. • Comprehensive genomic/genetic evaluation revealed several biomarkers with therapeutic implications. • Micronucleus formation may underlie the polysomy 21. Chromosomal aberrations are among the most important prognostic parameters in AML, and conventional cytogenetic analysis remains essential for risk stratification. In this report, we describe an adult male patient with a high percentage of circulating blasts, pathologically confirmed as AML with maturation. Cytogenetic analysis of a bone marrow sample revealed heptasomy 21 and trisomy 13 within a complex karyotype of 52,XY,der(2)t(2;13)(q33.3;q32.1),+13,+21,+21,+21,+21,+21 in all 20 cells examined, which was confirmed by metaphase FISH. Chromosomal microarray analysis (CMA) revealed complete loss of heterozygosity (LOH) of chromosome 21, supporting a common origin. In addition, LOH of chromosome 1p, trisomy 13, and partial tetrasomy of 13q and partial monosomy of 2q as a result of an unbalanced translocation between chromosomes 2 and 13 were observed. Molecular analysis identified two pathogenic missense variants: RUNX1 p.D198Y and SRSF2 p.P95R. The clonal allele ratio of RUNX1 p.D198Y was consistent with all copies of chromosome 21 in the leukemic clone carrying the mutation. Within the medical literature, there are no reports of heptasomy 21 for comparison; however, there are reports of AML with either polysomy 21 or trisomy 13. Our results suggest that even relatively 'common' AML aneuploidies may be associated with much more complex genomic changes, including loss of heterozygosity, which impact prognosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• The value of PowerPlex®18D used for forensic purpose in Guizhou Miao was evaluated. • Comprehensive population genetic comparisons of 174 Asian populations were conducted. • The genetic affiliations varied among Guizhou Miao tribes and other nationalities. • The possible routes of southward migration for Miao nationality were suggested. Genetic polymorphism of 17 autosomal short tandem repeat (STR) loci, included in the PowerPlex®18D amplification kit, were analyzed in Miao tribes from 58 different sampling microareas (N = 5255) of Guizhou as well as two cities (N = 151) of Hunan, China. Allele frequencies and forensic efficiency parameters were calculated. Moreover, comprehensive population genetic comparisons among 91 nationwide populations and 174 Asian populations were conducted based on raw genotype data and allele frequency data, respectively. Our results of forensic efficiency parameters showed that the panel was a robust tool in forensic individual identification and paternity cases for this population. Genetic affinities were observed among most of the Miao tribes revealed by multidimensional scaling plot, principal component analysis, and neighboring-joining tree. The genetic distance between Miao tribes and Han nationalities were varies by different geographical positions. Some of the Miao tribes were genetically closer to the Hmong-Mien populations living in southeastern contiguous regions and even the Indochina. The result coincided with the migration or reverse migration routes for Miao nationality in modern history. This study of the Miao tribes from plenty of microareas in Guizhou would be useful in reconstructing the population history and establishing a more comprehensive forensic reference database. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS) are heterogeneous groups of clonal myeloid disorders characterized by unexplained persistent peripheral blood (PB) cytopenia(s) of one or more of the hematopoietic lineages, or bone marrow (BM) morphologic dysplasia in hematopoietic cells, recurrent genetic abnormalities, and an increased risk of progression to acute myeloid leukemia (AML). In the past several years, diagnostic, prognostic, and therapeutic approaches have substantially improved with the development of Next Generation Sequencing (NGS) diagnostic testing and new medications. However, there is no single diagnostic parameter specific for MDS, and correlations with clinical information, and laboratory test findings are needed to reach the diagnosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • CP 1 synthesized in this paper has strong stability. • A binary intelligent logic gate device was successfully constructed by chemical input of AMB and FLU. • A portable visual test paper with simple operation and fast response was prepared. In recent years, due to the abuse of antibiotics, nitro explosives and pesticides, which have caused great harm to the environment and human health, social concerns have prompted researchers to develop more sensitive detection platforms for these pollutants. In this paper, a novel two-dimensional Zn (II) coordination polymer, [Zn(L) 0.5 (1,2-bimb)]·DMF (1), [H 4 L=[1,1′:4′,1′'-terphenyl]-2, 2′',4, 4′' −tetracarboxylic acid, 1,2-bimb = 1,2-bis(imidazol-1-ylmethyl)benzene] was synthesized using a hydro-solvothermal method. Among commonly used organic solvents, 1 exhibits significant stability. Fast and efficient fluorescence response can be achieved for tetracycline (TET), 4-nitrophenol (4-NP), fluazinam (FLU), and abamectin benzoate (AMB) with low detection limits. A binary intelligent logic gate device with FLU and AMB as chemical input signals is successfully constructed, which provides a new idea for biochemical detection. In addition, a portable visual test paper has been prepared, which has high sensitivity, good selectivity, and simple operation. It can be used for rapid detection of pollutants in daily life and has broad application prospects. Finally, a detailed discussion was conducted on the fluorescence sensing mechanism of 1 for detecting TET, 4-NP, AMB and FLU. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We prepare the sandwich-like carbon nanotubes/carbon nanoparticles film/vertically aligned carbon nanotubes on silicon substrate (CNTs/CNPs/VACNTs/silicon) by pyrolysis of FePC at 880 °C. The field emission properties of the CNTs/CNPs/VACNTs/silicon are investigated. The lower turn-on electric field of 0.78 V / μ m at a current density of 20 μ A / c m 2 , lower threshold electric field of 1 V / μ m at a current density of 1 m A / c m 2 and good emission current stability are observed. The unique structure not only provides large field enhancement factor but also strongly reduces the field-screening effect. The above results make CNTs/CNPs/VACNTs/silicon an effective field emitter. • The CNTs/CNPs/CNTs/silicon is prepared by pyrolysis of FePC at 880 °C. • Lower turn-on and threshold fields are observed. • Good field emission stability is obtained. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]