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Evidence regarding the link between long-term ambient ozone (O 3) exposure and childhood sleep disorders is little. This study aims to examine the associations between long-term exposure to O 3 and sleep disorders in children. We conducted a population-based cross-sectional survey, including 185,428 children aged 6–18 years in 173 schools across 14 Chinese cities during 2012 and 2018. Parents or guardians completed a checklist using Sleep Disturbance Scale for Children, and O 3 exposure at residential and school addresses was estimated using a satellite-based spatiotemporal model. We used generalized linear mixed models to test the associations with adjustment for factors including socio-demographic variables, lifestyle, meteorology and multiple pollutants. Mean concentrations of O 3 , particulate matter with diameters ≤2.5 mm (PM 2.5) and nitrogen dioxide (NO 2) were 89.0 μg/m3, 42.5 μg/m3 and 34.4 μg/m3, respectively. O 3 and NO 2 concentrations were similar among provinces, while PM 2.5 concentration varied significantly among provinces. Overall, 19.4% of children had at least one sleep disorder. Long-term exposure to O 3 was positively associated with odds of sleep disorders for all subtypes. For example, each interquartile increment in home-school O 3 concentrations was associated with a higher odds ratio for global sleep disorder, at 1.22 (95% confidence interval: 1.18, 1.26). Similar associations were observed for sleep disorder subtypes. The associations remained similar after adjustment for PM 2.5 and NO 2. Moreover, these associations were heterogeneous regionally, with more prominent associations among children residing in southeast region than in northeast and northwest regions in China. We concluded that long-term exposure to O 3 is positively associated with risks of childhood sleep disorders. These associations varied by geographical region of China. [Display omitted] • The largest study to assess the links of O 3 exposure and childhood sleep disorders. • Long-term O 3 exposure was related to elevated odds of sleep disorders. • Stronger associations were found among children living in southeast China. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Evidence on the link of long-term exposure to ozone (O 3) with childhood asthma, rhinitis, conjunctivitis and eczema is inconclusive. We did a population-based cross-sectional survey, including 177,888 children from 173 primary and middle schools in 14 Chinese cities. A satellite-based spatiotemporal model was employed to assess four-year average O 3 exposure at both residential and school locations. Information on asthma, allergic rhinitis, eczema and conjunctivitis was collected by a standard questionnaire developed by the American Thoracic Society. We used generalized non-linear and linear mixed models to test the associations. We observed linear exposure-response associations between O 3 and all outcomes. The odds ratios of doctor-diagnosed asthma, rhinitis, eczema, and conjunctivitis associated with per interquartile increment in home-school O 3 concentration were 1.31 (95 % confidence interval [CI]: 1.28, 1.34), 1.25 (95 %CI: 1.23, 1.28), 1.19 (95 %CI: 1.16, 1.21), and 1.28 (95 %CI: 1.21, 1.34), respectively. Similar associations were observed for asthma-related outcomes including current asthma, wheeze, current wheeze, persistent phlegm, and persistent cough. Moreover, stronger associations were observed among children who were aged > 12 years, physically inactive, and exposed to higher temperature. In conclusion, long-term O 3 exposure was associated with higher risks of asthma, allergic rhinitis, conjunctivitis and eczema in children. [Display omitted] • This is the largest multi-city study of 177,888 children in three provinces in China. • Long-term ozone exposure was related to asthma, rhinitis, conjunctivitis and eczema. • Strong effects were found in older, inactive and higher temperature exposed children. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] Evidence on the link between long-term ambient particulate matter (PM) exposures and childhood sleep disorders were scarce. We examined the associations between long-term exposures to PM 2.5 and PM 1 (PM with an aerodynamic equivalent diameter <2.5 μm and <1 μm, respectively) with sleep disorders in children. We performed a population-based cross-sectional survey in 177,263 children aged 6 to 18 years in 14 Chinese cities during 2012–2018. A satellite-based spatiotemporal model was employed to estimate four-year annual average PM 2.5 and PM 1 exposures at residential and school addresses. Parents or guardians completed a checklist using the Sleep Disturbance Scale for Children. We estimated the associations using generalized linear mixed models with adjustment for characteristics of children, parents, and indoor environments. Long-term PM 2.5 and PM 1 exposures were positively associated with odds of sleep disorders for almost all domains. For example, increments in PM 2.5 and PM 1 per 10 μg/m3 were associated with odds ratios of global sleep disorder of 1.24 (95 % confidence interval [CI]: 1.14, 1.35) and 1.31 (95 %CI: 1.18, 1.46), respectively. Similar results were observed for subtypes of sleep disorder. These associations were heterogeneous regionally, with stronger associations among children residing in southeast region than in northeast and northwest regions. Moreover, larger estimates of PM 1 were found than that of PM 2.5 in southeast region. Long-term PM 2.5 and PM 1 exposures are independently associated with higher risks of childhood sleep disorders, and these associations vary by geographical region. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: This article offers a novel sequence-based approach to discriminate outer membrane proteins (OMPs). The first step is to use a new representation approach, factor analysis scales of generalized amino acid information (FASGAI) representing hydrophobicity, alpha and turn propensities, bulky properties, compositional characteristics, local flexibility and electronic properties, etc., to characterize sequences of OMPs and non-OMPs. The subsequent data is then transformed into a uniform matrix by the auto cross covariance (ACC). The second step is to develop discrimination predictors of OMPs from non-OMPs using a support vector machine (SVM). The SVM predictors thus successfully produce a high Matthews correlation coefficient (MCC) of 0.916 on 208 OMPs from non-OMPs including 206 α-helical membrane proteins and 673 globular proteins by a fivefold cross validation test. Meanwhile, overall MCC values of 0.923 and 0.930 are obtained for the discrimination OMPs from the α-helical membrane proteins and the globular proteins, respectively. The results demonstrate that the FASGAI-ACC-SVM combination approach shows great prospect of application in the field of bioinformatics or proteomics studies. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Nitric oxide (NO) is an important signaling molecule involved in many physiological processes in plants. We evaluated the role of NO in cold acclimation and freezing tolerance using Arabidopsis (Arabidopsis thaliana) wild type and mutants nia1nia2 (for nitrate reductase [NR]-defective double mutant) and Atnoa1/rif1 (for nitric oxide associatedl/resistant to inhibition by fosinidomycin1) that exhibit defects in NR and reduced NO production, respectively. Cold acclimation induced an increase in endogenous NO production in wild-type and Atnoa1/rif1 leaves, while endogenous NO level in nia1nia2 leaves was lower than in wild-type ones and was little changed during cold acclimation. Cold acclimation stimulated NR activity and induced up-regulation of NIA1 gene expression. In contrast, cold acclimation reduced the quantity of NOA1/RIF1 protein and inhibited NO synthase (NOS) activity. These results indicate that up-regulation of NR-dependent NO synthesis underpins cold acclimation-induced NO production. Seedlings of nia1nia2 were less tolerant to freezing than wild-type plants. Pharmacological studies using NR inhibitor, NO scavenger, and NO donor showed that NR-dependent NO level was positively correlated with freezing tolerance. Furthermore, cold acclimation up- and down-regulated expression of P5CS1 and ProDH genes, respectively, resulting in enhanced accumulation of proline (Pro) in wild-type plants. The stimulation of Pro accumulation by cold acclimation was reduced by NR inhibitor and NO scavenger, while Pro accumulation by cold acclimation was not affected by the NOS inhibitor. In contrast to wild-type plants, cold acclimation up-regulated ProDH gene expression in nia1nia2 plants, leading to less accumulation in nia1nia2 plants than in wild-type plants. These findings demonstrate that NR-dependent NO production plays an important role in cold acclimation-induced increase in freezing tolerance by modulating Pro accumulation in Arabidopsis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

β-(3-Hydroxypyrazol-1-yl) ketones have been prepared in high yields and excellent enantioselectivities (94−98% ee) via a Michael addition reaction between 2-pyrazolin-5-ones and aliphatic acyclic α,β-unsaturated ketones using 9-epi-9-amino-9-deoxyquinine as the catalyst. These results account for the first example of an aza-Michael addition of the ambident 2-pyrazolin-5-one anion to a Michael acceptor. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: A newly developed descriptor, three-dimensional holographic vector of atomic interaction field (3D-HoVAIF), is used to describe the chemical structures of Aza-bioisosteres of anthrapyrazoles (Aza-APs). 3D-HoVAIF contains three non-bonded (electrostatic, van der Waals and hydrophobic) factors, which are directly related to bioactivities and utilized to express intramolecular potential energies, employed to several different models on 35 anticancer agents Aza-APs. After variable screening by stepwise multiple regression (SMR) technique, a partial least square (PLS) regression model is built with 3D-HoVAIF. The model is satisfactory comparing to reference since correlation coefficients of molecular modeling (R 2), cross-validation (q 2) and standard deviation of estimation (S.D.) are 0.865, 0.722 and 0.299, respectively, showing that the model has favorable estimation and prediction capabilities. It is illustrated that information related to the anticancer activity of Aza-APs could preferably be expressed by 3D-HoVAIF with definite physicochemical meanings and easy structural interpretation for Aza-APs. 3D-HoVAIF is proved to be potent in relation with bioactivities, while overcoming many demerits of traditional 3D structural characterization methods. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

• Here, the effects of the ethylene-releasing compound, ethephon, and the ethylene precursor, 1-aminocyclopropane-1-carboxylic acid (ACC), on ionic currents across plasma membranes and on the cytosolic Ca2+ activity ([Ca2+]c) of tobacco ( Nicotiana tabacum) suspension cells were characterized using a patch-clamp technique and confocal laser scanning microscopy. • Exposure of tobacco protoplasts to ethephon and ACC led to activation of a plasma membrane cation channel that was permeable to Ba2+, Mg2+ and Ca2+, and inhibited by La3+, Gd3+ and Al3+. • The ethephon- and ACC-induced Ca2+-permeable channel was abolished by the antagonist of ethylene perception (1-metycyclopropene) and by the inhibitor of ACC synthase (aminovinylglycin), indicating that activation of the Ca2+-permeable channels results from ethylene. Ethephon elicited an increase in the [Ca2+]c of tobacco suspension cells, as visualized by the Ca2+-sensitive probe Fluo-3 and confocal microscopy. The ethephon-induced elevation of [Ca2+]c was markedly inhibited by Gd3+ and BAPTA, suggesting that an influx of Ca2+ underlies the elevation of [Ca2+]c. • These results indicate that an elevation of [Ca2+]c, resulting from activation of the plasma membrane Ca2+-permeable channels by ethylene, is an essential component in ethylene signaling in plants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nitric oxide (NO) has emerged as a key molecule involved in many physiological processes in plants. To characterize roles of NO in tolerance of Arabidopsis (Arabidopsis thaliana) to salt stress, effect of NaCl on Arabidopsis wild-type and mutant (Atnoal) plants with an impaired in vivo NO synthase (NOS) activity and a reduced endogenous NO level was investigated. Atnoal mutant plants displayed a greater Na+ to K+ ratio in shoots than wild-type plants due to enhanced accumulation of Na+ and reduced accumulation of K+ when exposed to NaCl. Germination of Atnoa1 seeds was more sensitive to NaCl than that of wild-type seeds, and wild-type plants exhibited higher survival rates than Atnoal plants when grown under salt stress. Atnoa1 plants had higher levels of hydrogen peroxide than wild-type plants under both control and salt stress, suggesting that Atnoal is more vulnerable to salt and oxidative stress than wild-type plants. Treatments of wild-type plants with NOS inhibitor and NO scavenger reduced endogenous NO levels and enhanced NaCl-induced increase in Na+ to K+ ratio. Exposure of wild-type plants to NaCl inhibited NOS activity and reduced quantity of NOA1 protein, leading to a decrease in endogenous NO levels measured by NO-specific fluorescent probe. Treatment of Atnoal plants with NO donor sodium nitroprusside attenuated the NaCI-induced increase in Na+ to K+ ratio. Therefore, these findings provide direct evidence to support that disruption of NOS-dependent NO production is associated with salt tolerance in Arabidopsis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Few epidemiological studies have investigated associations between anthropogenic heat emissions (AE) and serum lipids. We recruited 15,477 adults from 33 communities in northeastern China in 2009. We estimated AE flux by using data on energy consumption and socio-economic statistics covering building, transportation, industry, and human metabolism. We assessed the associations between AE and blood lipids and dyslipidemia prevalence using the restricted cubic spline models. The regression coefficients (β) and the 95% CI of total cholesterol for the 75th and 95th percentiles of the exposure were 0.23 mmol/L (95% CI: 0.15, 0.30) and 0.25 mmol/L (95% CI: 0.18, 0.32). We also found AE was positively associated with dyslipidemia. Participants who were female or who had low incomes exhibited more pronounced associations. Our research showed that exposure to AE was significantly associated with serum lipids. These novel, valuable findings are useful to inform policymakers to estimate the risks to human health from anthropogenic heat. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Few studies have explored the effects of air pollution on metabolic syndrome (MetS) in children. • We studied 9,897 Chinese children in a national cross-sectional study. • Long-term exposures to PM 2.5 , PM 10 , and NO 2 were positively associated with MetS. • PM 1 and NO 2 were related to elevated risk of fasting blood glucose and abdominal obesity. The prevalence of metabolic syndrome (MetS) rapidly increased over the past decades. However, little evidence exists about the effects of long-term exposure to ambient air pollution on MetS in children and adolescents. This study aims to assess the association between long-term ambient air pollution and the prevalence of MetS in a large population of Chinese children and adolescents. In 2013, a total of 9,897 children and adolescents aged 10 to 18 years were recruited from seven provinces/municipalities in China. MetS was defined based on the recommendation by the International Diabetes Federation (IDF). Satellite based spatio-temporal models were used to estimate exposure to ambient air pollution (including particles with diameters ≤1.0 µm (PM 1), ≤2.5 µm (PM 2.5), and ≤10 µm (PM 10), and nitrogen dioxide (NO 2)). Individual exposure was calculated according to 94 schools addresses. After adjustment for a range of covariates, generalized linear mixed-effects models were utilized to evaluate the associations between air pollutants and the prevalence of MetS and its components. In addition, several stratified analyses were examined according to sex, weight status, outdoor physical activity time, and sugar-sweetened beverages (SSBs) intake. The prevalence of MetS was 2.8%. The odds ratio of MetS associated with a 10 μg/m3 increase in PM 1 , PM 2.5 , PM 10 and NO 2 was 1.20 (95%CI: 0.99, 1.46), 1.31 (95%CI: 1.05, 1.64), 1.32 (95%CI: 1.08, 1.62), and 1.33 (95%CI: 1.03, 1.72), respectively. Regarding the MetS components, we observed associations between all pollutants and abdominal obesity. In addition, long-term PM 1 and NO 2 exposures were associated with the prevalence of elevated fasting blood glucose. Stratified analyses detected that the associations between air pollutants and the prevalence of MetS were stronger in boys (P interaction < 0.05). We found that long-term exposure to PM 2.5 , PM 10 , and NO 2 were positively associated with the prevalence of MetS in children and adolescents. Our findings may have certain public health implications for some comprehensive strategy of environment improvement and lifestyles changes in order to reduce the burden of non-communicable disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

N-PMP protected -aminopropargylphosphonates have been synthesized by using a silver(I) triflate-catalyzed one-pot three-component reaction of terminal alkynes, p-anisidine, and diethyl formylphosphonate hydrate. Good to excellent yields of the desired products may be obtained with a very simple procedure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The asymmetric unit of the title one-dimensional coordination polymer, {[Co(C10H8N2)(H2O)4](C9H6O5)·H2O} n, comprises two half-cations, [Co(4,4′-bipy)(H2O)4]22+ (4,4′-bipy is 4,4′-bi­pyridine), one 3-carboxyl­ato­phenoxy­acetate (3-CPOA2−) dianion and one non-coordinated water mol­ecule. The CoII ions, both of which are located on inversion centres, have approximately octahedral geometries, involving two N atoms of the centrosymmetric 4,4′-bipy ligand and four water mol­ecules. Adjacent CoII atoms are linked by 4,4′-bipy ligands into a chain, the shortest Co⋯Co separation within the polymeric chain being 11.456 (2) Å. The chains are further linked by hydrogen-bonding and π–π stacking interactions, generating a three-dimensional network. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The crystal structure of the title complex, {[Zn(C10H8N2)(H2O)4](C9H6O5)·H2O} n, is built of infinite polymeric cationic {[Zn(4,4′-bipy)(H2O)4]2+} n chains (4,4′-bipy = 4,4′-bi­pyri­dine), 3-carboxyl­ato­phenoxy­acetate dianions (3-CPOA2−) and solvent water mol­ecules. Both symmetry-independent Zn atoms and 4,4′-bipy ligands occupy special positions on crystallographic inversion centres and form two symmetry-independent cationic chains stretching along the c axis of the crystal. Each of the two Zn atoms has an octahedral coordination environment formed by the O atoms of four water mol­ecules and the N atoms of two 4,4′-bipy ligands in trans positions with respect to each other. The 4,4′-bipy ligands perform a bridging function, linking together two adjacent Zn atoms in the chain. The shortest Zn⋯Zn separation within the chains is equal to the c translation [11.425 (2) Å]. The chains are further linked into a three-dimensional supra­molecular network via hydrogen-bonding and π–π stacking interactions, involving the dianion and the coordinated and uncoordinated water mol­ecules. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Precise electrochemical synthesis of commodity chemicals and fuels from CO21 building blocks provides a promising route to close the anthropogenic carbon cycle, in which renewable but intermittent electricity could be stored within the greenhouse gas molecules. Here, we report state-of-the-art CO2-to-HCOOH valorization performance over a multiscale optimized Cu-Bi cathodic architecture, delivering a formate Faradaic efficiency exceeding 95% within an aqueous electrolyzer, a C-basis HCOOH purity above 99.8% within a solid-state electrolyzer operated at 100 mA cm-2 for 200 h and an energy efficiency of 39.2%, as well as a tunable aqueous HCOOH concentration ranging from 2.7 to 92.1 wt%. Via a combined two-dimensional reaction phase diagram and finite element analysis, we highlight the role of local geometries of Cu and Bi in branching the adsorption strength for key intermediates like *COOH and *OCHO for CO2 reduction, while the crystal orbital Hamiltonian population analysis rationalizes the vital contribution from moderate binding strength of η²(O,O)-OCHO on Cu-doped Bi surface in promoting HCOOH electrosynthesis. The findings of this study not only shed light on the tuning knobs for precise CO2 valorization, but also provide a different research paradigm for advancing the activity and selectivity optimization in a broad range of electrosynthetic systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: To examine the impact of both individual and cumulative social determinants of health (SDoH) on the likelihood of developing periodontitis, while also exploring any gender disparities in this relationship. Materials and Methods: Data of self‐reported SDoH domains and sub‐items based on Healthy People 2030 were obtained from the U.S. National Health and Nutrition Examination Surveys between 1999 and 2014. Logistic regression models, weighted by survey responses, were used to examine the relationship between SDoH (including eight sub‐items and the cumulative number of unfavourable SDoH) and periodontitis. The results were further analysed by gender. Results: A total of 18,075 participants (8867 males and 9208 females) were included in the main analysis, of which 5814 (32.2%) had periodontitis. The study found that certain unfavourable SDoH were individually associated with higher odds of periodontitis, and the cumulative number of unfavourable SDoH was positively linked to the odds of developing periodontitis. Furthermore, males exposed to more unfavourable SDoH appeared to be more susceptible to developing periodontitis than females. Conclusions: The findings suggest that unfavourable SDoH, especially when they accumulate, are associated with an increased odds of periodontitis and contribute to gender disparities within the U.S. population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The carboxyl­ate dianion in the polymeric title compound, [Zn(C9H6O5)(H2O)2] n, which is disordered over a centre of inversion, links diaqua­zinc(II) units into a zigzag chain; the chains interact through hydrogen bonds to form layers. The six-coordinate metal atom lies on a special position of site symmetry 2. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the title compound, [Mg(H2O)6](C7H6NO3)2·2H2O, the MgII atom lies on a centre of symmetry and is coordinated by six water mol­ecules in an octahedral geometry. A three-dimensional supramolecular framework is formed via O—H⋯O hydrogen bonds between the anions and cations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the title coordination polymer, [Ca(2-OPA)2(H2O)2] n [2-OPA− is 2-oxo-1,2-di­hydro­pyridine-1-acetate, C7H6NO3], the Ca atom is eight-coordinated by six O atoms from four 2-OPA− ligands and two water mol­ecules, and displays a dodecahedral coordination geometry. Each 2-OPA− ligand bridges two adjacent Ca atoms, forming a chain along the a-axis direction. The Ca⋯Ca separation within the polymer is 4.1022 (8) Å. A two-dimensional supramolecular framework is further constructed by hydrogen bonds and weak π–π stacking interactions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the title coordination polymer, {[Ni(4-CPOA)(phen)(H2O)2]·H2O}n (phen is 1,10-phenanthroline, C12H8N2; 4-CPOA is the 4-carboxy­phenoxy­acetate dianion, C9H6O5), each NiII ion displays a distorted octa­hedral geometry, defined by two carboxyl O atoms from two different 4-CPOA ligands, two N atoms from one phen mol­ecule and two coordinated water mol­ecules. The NiII ions are bridged by carboxyl­ate groups of 4-CPOA to form a chain structure. Adjacent polymeric chains are connected via hydrogen bonds and π–π stacking to construct a three-dimensional supramolecular network. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Air pollution exposures are increasingly suspected to influence the development of childhood adiposity, especially focusing on outdoor exposure, but few studies investigated indoor exposure and childhood obesity. We aimed to examine the association between exposure to multiple indoor air pollutants and childhood obesity in Chinese schoolchildren. In 2019, we recruited 6499 children aged 6–12 years from five Chinese elementary schools in Guangzhou, China. We measured age-sex-specific body mass index z score (z-BMI), waist circumference (WC), waist-to-hip ratio (WHR), and waist-to-height ratio (WHtR) on standard procedures. Four different indoor air pollution (IAP) exposures, including cooking oil fumes (COFs), home decoration, secondhand smoke (SHS), and incense burning, were collected by questionnaire and then converted into an IAP exposure index with four categories. Association between indoor air pollutants and childhood overweight/obesity as well as four obese anthropometric indices were assessed by logistic regression models and multivariable linear regression models, respectively. Children exposed to ≥3 types of indoor air pollutants had higher z-BMI (coefficient [β]:0.142, 95% confidence interval [CI]:0.011–0.274) and higher risk of overweight/obesity (odd ratio [OR]:1.27, 95%CI:1.01–1.60). And a dose-response relationship was discovered between the IAP exposure index and z-BMI as well as overweight/obesity (p for trend <0.05). We also found that exposure to SHS and COFs was positively associated with z-BMI and overweight/obesity (p < 0.05). Moreover, there was a significant interaction between SHS exposure and COFs on the higher risk of overweight/obesity among schoolchildren. Boys appear more susceptible to multiple indoor air pollutants than girls. Indoor air pollution exposures were positively associated with higher obese anthropometric indices and increased odds of overweight/obesity in Chinese schoolchildren. More well-designed cohort studies are needed to verify our results. • A total of 6753 schoolchildren aged 6–12 years from Guangzhou, China was included. • Multiple indoor air pollution exposures were positively associated with childhood obesity and obese anthropometric indices. • Secondhand smoke exposure interacts withcooking oil fumes exposure in association with childhood overweight/obesity. • Multiple indoor air pollution exposures for boys have higher z-BMI. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) have been shown to play crucially regulatory roles in diverse biological processes involving complex mechanisms. However, information regarding the number, sequences, characteristics and potential functions of lncRNAs in plants is so far overly limited. Results: Using high-throughput sequencing and bioinformatics analysis, we identified a total of 23,324 putative lncRNAs from control, osmotic stress- and salt stress-treated leaf and root samples of Medicago truncatula, a model legume species. Out of these lncRNAs, 7,863 and 5,561 lncRNAs were identified from osmotic stress-treated leaf and root samples, respectively. While, 7,361 and 7,874 lncRNAs were identified from salt stress-treated leaf and root samples, respectively. To reveal their potential functions, we analyzed Gene Ontology (GO) terms of genes that overlap with or are neighbors of the stress-responsive lncRNAs. Enrichments in GO terms in biological processes such as signal transduction, energy synthesis, molecule metabolism, detoxification, transcription and translation were found. Conclusions: LncRNAs are likely involved in regulating plant's responses and adaptation to osmotic and salt stresses in complex regulatory networks with protein-coding genes. These findings are of importance for our understanding of the potential roles of lncRNAs in responses of plants in general and M. truncatula in particular to abiotic stresses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) have been shown to play crucially regulatory roles in diverse biological processes involving complex mechanisms. However, information regarding the number, sequences, characteristics and potential functions of lncRNAs in plants is so far overly limited. Results: Using high-throughput sequencing and bioinformatics analysis, we identified a total of 23,324 putative lncRNAs from control, osmotic stress- and salt stress-treated leaf and root samples of Medicago truncatula, a model legume species. Out of these lncRNAs, 7,863 and 5,561 lncRNAs were identified from osmotic stress-treated leaf and root samples, respectively. While, 7,361 and 7,874 lncRNAs were identified from salt stress-treated leaf and root samples, respectively. To reveal their potential functions, we analyzed Gene Ontology (GO) terms of genes that overlap with or are neighbors of the stress-responsive lncRNAs. Enrichments in GO terms in biological processes such as signal transduction, energy synthesis, molecule metabolism, detoxification, transcription and translation were found. Conclusions: LncRNAs are likely involved in regulating plant’s responses and adaptation to osmotic and salt stresses in complex regulatory networks with protein-coding genes. These findings are of importance for our understanding of the potential roles of lncRNAs in responses of plants in general and M. truncatula in particular to abiotic stresses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Anthropogenic climate change will have a negative impact on worldwide well-being over and above the direct consequences of rising average temperatures. But anthropogenic heat (AH) relationship with childhood attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is unknown. To assess the relationship with AH exposure and childhood ADHD symptoms in the context of global climate change, this study was conducted in a cross-sectional survey from April 2012 to May 2018 in the northeastern, northwestern, and southern regions of China, with a total enrollment of 179,846 children aged 6–18 years. Exposure to AH was evaluated by gathering socioeconomic and energy usage data along with nighttime light data from satellites and data on the Normalized Difference Vegetation Index. This encompassed four types of AH exposure: industrial processes, transportation, buildings, and human metabolism. The statistical analysis used generalized linear mixed-effects modeling to determine the association between the types of AH exposure and childhood ADHD symptoms. The mean (SD) age of the 179,846 study participants was 11.7 (2.9) years, and 7343 participants (4.1%) had ADHD symptoms. In adjusted models, increased levels of AH exposure per IQR from total AH, industry, transportation, buildings, and human metabolism all increased the odds of ADHD (odds ratios, 3.60 [95% CI, 3.42, 3.80]; 5.71 [95% CI, 5.32, 6.14]; 1.79 [95% CI, 1.75, 1.84]; 2.10 [95% CI, 2.03, 2.17]; 1.95 [95% CI, 1.89, 2.02]). The association remained robust after various sensitivity analyses. Prolonged exposure to AH is associated with the development of ADHD symptoms in children. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recent evidences highlight the potential impact of outdoor Light at Night (LAN) on executive function. However, few studies have investigated the association between outdoor LAN exposure and executive function. We employed data from 48,502 Chinese children aged 5–12 years in a cross-sectional study conducted in Guangdong province during 2020–2021, to examine the association between outdoor LAN and executive function assessed using the validated parent-completed Behavior Rating Inventory of Executive Function. We assessed children's outdoor LAN exposure using the night-time satellite images based on the residential addresses. We used generalized linear mixed models to estimate the association between outdoor LAN exposure and executive function scores and executive dysfunction. After adjusting for potential covariates, higher quintiles of outdoor LAN exposure were associated with poorer executive function. Compared to the lowest quintile (Q1), all higher quintiles of exposure showed a significant increased global executive composite (GEC) score with β (95% confidence intervals, CI) of 0.58 (0.28, 0.88) in Q2, 0.59 (0.28, 0.9) in Q3, 0.85 (0.54, 1.16) in Q4, and 0.76 (0.43, 1.09) in Q5. Higher quintiles of exposure were also associated with higher risks for GEC dysfunction with odd ratios (ORs) (95% CI) of 1.34 (1.18, 1.52) in Q2, 1.40 (1.24, 1.59) in Q3, 1.40 (1.23, 1.59) in Q4, and 1.39 (1.22, 1.58) in Q5. And stronger associations were observed in children aged 10–12 years. Our study suggested that high outdoor LAN exposure was associated with poor executive function in children. These findings suggested that future studies should determine whether interventions to reduce outdoor LAN exposure can have a positive effect on executive function. [Display omitted] • A large study to examine the association of outdoor LAN and executive function in children aged 5–12 years. • Outdoor LAN exposure was associated with executive dysfunction in children. • Stronger associations were found among children aged 10–12 years. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Racemic a-acylphoaphinatcs and formylphosphinate hydrate were used directly as the substrates in a proline derivative-catalyzed cross aldol reaction with ketones. Because of the preexisting phosphorus stereogenic center, a mixture of two diastereomers of the corresponding a-hydroxyphosphinates was obtained in this reaction. Good to high deasterioselectivities (up to 99% ee) were obtained simultaneously for the two diastereomers iii good yields. Good deasterioselectivities were also obtained when the reaction generates an additional carbon stereogenic center. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Aluminum (Al) is toxic to plants when solubilized into Al3+ in acidic soils, and becomes a major factor limiting plant growth. However, the primary cause for Al toxicity remains unknown. • Nitric oxide (NO) is an important signaling molecule modulating numerous physiological processes in plants. Here, we investigated the role of NO in Al toxicity to Hibiscus moscheutos. • Exposure of H. moscheutos to Al3+ led to a rapid inhibition of root elongation, and the inhibitory effect was alleviated by NO donor sodium nitroprusside (SNP). NO scavenger and inhibitors of NO synthase (NOS) and nitrate reductase had a similar inhibitory effect on root elongation. The inhibition of root elongation by these treatments was ameliorated by SNP. • Aluminum inhibited activity of NOS and reduced endogenous NO concentrations. The alleviation of inhibition of root elongation induced by Al, NO scavenger and NOS inhibitor was correlated with endogenous NO concentrations in root apical cells, suggesting that reduction of endogenous NO concentrations resulting from inhibition of NOS activity could underpin Al-induced arrest of root elongation in H. moscheutos. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Discusses the oxidation of nitrobenzylic carbanions with dimethyldioxirane (DMD). Formation of minor amounts of methylation products; Production of nitrobenzylic carbinols or quinomethanes following oxidation.

• Exploring the effect of multiple SDoHs on self-reported depression symptom. • Assessing both single SDoH and accumulation of unfavorable SDoH. • Represented 1392 million adults in the non-institutionalized U.S. population. • A single SDoH increased the likelihood of experiencing depression symptom. • Individuals faced multiple unfavorable SDoHs were more prone to developing depression symptom. Social determinants of health (SDoH) have been linked to a higher likelihood of experiencing mental health problems. This study aimed to investigate whether the accumulation of unfavorable SDoH is associated with depression symptom. Data was gathered from a representative population participating in the U.S. National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey spanning from 2005 to 2018. Self-reported SDoH were operationalized according to the criteria outlined in Healthy People 2030, with a cumulative measure of unfavorable SDoH calculated for analysis. The presence of depression symptom was identified using the Patient Health Questionnaire in a representative sample of 30,762 participants (49.2 % males) representing 1,392 million non-institutionalized U.S. adults, with 2,675 (8.7 %) participants showing depression symptom. Unfavorable SDoH were found to be significantly and independently associated with depression symptom. Individuals facing multiple unfavorable SDoHs were more likely to experience depression symptom (P for trend < 0.001). For instance, a positive association was observed in participants exposed to six or more unfavorable SDoHs with depression symptom (AOR = 3.537, 95 % CI: 1.781, 7.075, P -value < 0.001). The findings emphasize that the likelihood of developing depression symptom significantly increases when multiple SDoHs are present, compared to just a single SDoH. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The first organocatalytic highly enantioselective nitroaldol reaction of -ketophosphonates and nitromethane has been realized by using cupreine (2) or 9-O-benzylcupreine (3) as the catalyst. Both catalysts are highly reactive and highly enantioselective. -Hydroxy--nitrophosphonates have been synthesized in good yields and excellent enantioselectivities (≥90% ee) at a low catalyst loading (5 mol %). These nitroaldol products may be reduced to the biologically significant -amino--hydroxyphosphonates with complete retention of the stereochemistry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

One of the two independent Zn atoms of the polymeric title compound, [Zn3(C16H10O4)3(C10H8N2)] n, lies on a special position of site symmetry 3 and the other on a special position of site symmetry . The carboxylate ends of the 4,4′-(ethene-1,2-di­yl)dibenzoate dianion, which lies on a special position of site symmetry , each bridge these two independent Zn atoms. The bipyridine-coordinated Zn atom on the threefold axis has a tetra­hedral geometry, whereas the other Zn atom is coordin­ated by the O atoms of six different dianions in an octa­hedral geometry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Contaminants may induce immune response polarization, leading to immune diseases, such as allergic diseases. Evidence concerning the effects of chlorinated paraffins (CPs), an emerging persistent organic pollutant, on immune system is scarce, particularly for epidemiological evidence. This study explores the association between CPs exposure and allergic diseases (allergic rhinitis, atopic eczema, and allergic conjunctivitis) in children and adolescents in the Pearl River Delta (PRD) in China. Herein, 131,304 children and adolescents from primary and secondary schools in the PRD were included and completed the questionnaire survey. The particulate matter (PM) samples were collected in the PRD and the PM 2.5 -bound CP concentrations were analyzed. In the multivarious adjustment mixed effect model (MEM), an IQR increase in ∑CPs was significantly associated with allergic diseases (rhinitis, eczema, and conjunctivitis) with the estimated odds ratios (OR s) for 1.11 (95% CI: 1.10, 1.13), 1.17 (95% CI: 1.15, 1.19), and 1.82 (95% CI: 1.76, 1.88), respectively. Interaction analysis indicated that overweight and obese individuals might have greater risk. Similar effect estimates were observed in several sensitivity analyses. This study provided epidemiological evidence on the immunotoxicity of CPs. More studies to confirm our findings and investigate mechanisms are needed. [Display omitted] • Scarce epidemiological evidence of immunotoxicity of chlorinated paraffins (CPs). • PM 2.5 -bound CPs increase the risk of allergic diseases. • Overweight or obese individuals have higher risk. • This study facilitates the health risk assessment of CPs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Information on the spatio-temporal patterns of the burden of ischemic heart disease (IHD) caused by ambient ambient fine particulate matter (PM 2.5) in the global level is needed to prioritize the control of ambient air pollution and prevent the burden of IHD. The Global Burden of Disease Study (GBD) 2019 provides data on IHD attributable to ambient PM 2.5. The IHD burden and mortality attributable to ambient PM 2.5 were analyzed by year, age, gender, socio-demographic index (SDI) level, geographical region and country. Estimated annual percentage change (EAPC) was calculated to estimate the temporal trends of age-standardized mortality rate (ASMR) and age-standardized disability-adjusted life years rate (ASDR) from 1990 to 2019. Globally, the ASMR and ASDR for ambient PM 2.5 -related IHD tended to level off generally, with EAPC of −0.03 (95% CI: −0.06, 0.12) and 0.3 (95% CI: 0.22, 0.37), respectively. In the past 30 years, there were obvious differences in the trend of burden change among different regions. A highest increased burden was estimated in low-middle SDI region (EAPC of ASMR: 3.73 [95% CI: 3.56, 3.9], EAPC of ASDR: 3.83 [95% CI: 3.64, 4.02]). In contrast, the burden in high SDI region (EAPC of ASMR: −4.48 [95% CI: −4.6, −4.35], EAPC of ASDR: −3.98 [95% CI: −4.12, −3.85]) has declined most significantly. Moreover, this burden was higher among men and older populations. EAPCs of the ASMR (R = −0.776, p < 0.001) and ASDR (R = −0.781, p < 0.001) of this burden had significant negative correlations with the countries' SDI level. In summary, although trends in the global burden of IHD attributable to ambient PM 2.5 are stabilizing, but this burden has shifted from high SDI countries to middle and low SDI countries, especially among men and elderly populations. To reduce this burden, the air pollution management prevention need to be further strengthened, especially among males, older populations, and middle and low SDI countries. [Display omitted] • The IHD burden attributed to ambient PM 2.5 leveled off over three decades globally. • The IHD burden attributed to ambient PM 2.5 exposure is increasing in most SDI regions over the past three decades. • Men and the elderly are vulnerable groups to this burden. • The estimated annual percentage change of this burden is significantly negatively correlated with the countries' SDI. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Represented 840.1 million adults aged 20–59 years in the non-institutionalized U.S population. • The overall age-adjusted prevalence of suicidal ideation was 3.5 %. • Bisexual and homosexual participants have a higher prevalence of suicidal ideation than heterosexual individuals. • Significant associations were found between sexual minorities and suicidal ideation compared to heterosexuality. Existing studies have been limited in providing nationally representative data on the relationship between sexual orientation and suicidal ideation (SI) among adults in the U.S. particularly in terms of gender and racial differences. To fill this research gap, we conducted a study using data from the NHANES conducted between 2005 and 2016. Survey-weighted logistic regression models were used to investigate the relationship between sexual orientation and SI risk. Additionally, we performed further analysis by stratifying the data based on demographic variables and performed sensitivity analysis to ensure the reliability of our findings. This study included a weighted sample of 16,564 adults, representing a noninstitutionalized U.S population of 840.1 million. The overall age-adjusted prevalence of SI was found to be 3.5 %. After adjusting for relevant covariates, the study revealed that individuals who identified as something else, homosexual, and bisexual had a higher prevalence risk of suicidal ideation (SI) compared to heterosexual participants. Additionally, the study found that heterosexual participants were 74.4 % less likely to experience SI compared to bisexual individuals. These findings highlight the urgent requirement for inclusive and supportive prevention strategies to effectively address SI among adult sexual minorities in the U.S. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Anthropogenic heat has been reported to have significant health impacts, but research on its association with childhood adiposity is still lacking. In this study, we matched the 2008–2012 average anthropogenic heat flux, as simulated by a grid estimation model using inventory methods, with questionnaire and measurement data of 49,938 children randomly recruited from seven cities in Northeast China in 2012. After adjusting for social demographic and behavioral factors, we used generalized linear mixed-effect models to assess the association between anthropogenic heat flux and adiposity among children. We also examined the effect modification of various social demographic and behavioral confounders. We found that each 10 W/m2 increase in total anthropogenic heat flux and that from the industry source was associated with an increase of 5.82% (95% CI = 0.84%–11.05%) and 6.62% (95% CI = 0.87%–12.70%) in the odds of childhood adiposity. Similarly, the excess rate of adiposity among children were 5.26% (95% CI = −1.33%-12.29%) and 8.51% (95% CI = 2.24%–15.17%) per 1 W/m2 increase in the anthropogenic heat flux from transportation and buildings, and was 7.94% (95% CI = 2.28%–13.91%) per 0.001 W/m2 increase in the anthropogenic heat flux from human metabolism. We also found generally greater effect estimates among female children and children who were exposed to passive smoking during pregnancy, born by caesarean section, non-breastfed/mixed-fed, or lived within 20 m adjacent to the main road. The potential deleterious effect of anthropogenic heat exposure on adiposity among children may make it a new but major threat to be targeted by future mitigation strategies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A hydrogen-bonded organic framework (HOF), HOF-11, has been successfully prepared by the slow diffusion of hexane into a tetrahydrofuran solution of tris(4-carboxyphenyl)amine (TCPA). HOF-11 has been characterized by single-crystal and powder X-ray diffraction analysis, which is composed of TCPA ligands connected by the intermolecular hydrogen-bonding interactions in the carboxylic group dimer, showing 11-fold interpenetrated three-dimensional hydrogen-bonded networks in a (10,3)-b topology with the pore size of 6.2 × 6.8 Ų. The permanent porosity of degassed HOF was demonstrated by virtue of the CO2 sorption and selective gas adsorption. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

One of the two independent Mn atoms of the polymeric title compound, [Mn3(C16H10O4)3(H2O)2] n, lies on a special position of 3 site symmetry and the other on a special position of site symmetry. One end of the 4,4′-(ethene-1,2-diyl)dibenzoate dianion bridges the two independent Mn atoms. The water-coordinated Mn atom on the threefold axis is linked to the O atoms of three dianions in a tetra­hedral environment. The Mn atom is linked to the O atoms of six different dianions in an octa­hedral geometry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

One of the two independent Cd atoms of the polymeric title compound, [Cd3(C16H10O4)3(H2O)2] n, lies on a special position of 3 site symmetry and the other on a special position of site symmetry. The compound adopts a carboxyl­ate-bridged layer structure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Resequencing can be used to identify genome variations underpinning many morphological and physiological phenotypes. Legume model plant Medicago truncatula ecotypes Jemalong A17 (J. A17) and R108 differ in their responses to mineral toxicity of aluminum and sodium, and mineral deficiency of iron in growth medium. The difference may result from their genome variations, but no experimental evidence supports this hypothesis. Results A total of 12,750 structure variations, 135,045 short insertions/deletions and 764,154 single nucleotide polymorphisms were identified by resequencing the genome of R108. The suppressed expression of MtAACT that encodes a putative aluminum-induced citrate efflux transporter by deletion of partial sequence of the second intron may account for the less aluminum-induced citrate exudation and greater accumulation of aluminum in roots of R108 than in roots of J. A17, thus rendering R108 more sensitive to aluminum toxicity. The higher expression-level of MtZpt2-1 encoding a TFIIIA-related transcription factor in J. A17 than R108 under conditions of salt stress can be explained by the greater number of stressresponsive elements in its promoter sequence, thus conferring J. A17 more tolerant to salt stress than R108 plants by activating the expression of downstream stress-responsive genes. YSLs (Yellow Stripe-Likes) are involved in long-distance transport of iron in plants. We found that an YSL gene was deleted in the genome of R108 plants, thus rendering R108 less tolerance to iron deficiency than J. A17 plants. Conclusions The deletion or change in several genes may account for the different responses of M. truncatula ecotypes J. A17 and R108 to mineral toxicity of aluminum and sodium as well as iron deficiency. Uncovering genome variations by resequencing is an effective method to identify different traits between species/ecotypes that are genetically related. These findings demonstrate that analyses of genome variations by resequencing can shed important light on differences in responses of M. truncatula ecotypes to abiotic stress in general and mineral stress in particular. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The List-Barbas-Mannich reaction of ethyl (p-methoxyphenylimino)acetate (p-methoxyphenyl = PMP) with unmodified aldehydes or ketones catalyzed by modularly designed organocatalysts (MDOs) that are self-assembled from proline and cinchona alkaloid thioureas (such as a quinidine-derived thiourea) produces the corresponding γ-oxo-α-amino acid derivatives in high yields and excellent stereoselectivities. No solvent is necessary for this reaction. Aldehydes are especially good substrates for this reaction: The reaction takes only a few minutes to yield the corresponding List-Barbas-Mannich products in excellent dr (up to >99:1) and ee values (up to >99% ee). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Four porous isostructural mixed-metal-organic frameworks (M'MOFs) have been synthesized and structurally characterized. The pores within these M'MOFs are systematically tuned by the interplay of both the metalloligands and organic ligands which have enabled us not only to direct their highly selective separation of chiral alcohols 1-phenylethanol (PEA), 2-butanol (BUT), and 2-pentanol (2-PEN) with the highest ee up to 82.4% but also to lead highly selective separation of achiral C2H2/C2H4 separation. The potential application of these M'MOFs for the fixed bed pressure swing adsorption (PSA) separation of C2H2/C2H4 has been further examined and compared by the transient breakthrough simulations in which the purity requirement of 40 ppm in the outlet gas can be readily fulfilled by the fixed bed M'MOF-4a adsorber at ambient conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Inhibition of root elongation by toxic aluminum (Al3+) occurs rapidly and is one of the most distinct and earliest symptoms of Al toxicity. To elucidate mechanism underlying Al3+-induced inhibition of root elongation, we investigated the involvement of ethylene in Al3+-induced inhibition of root elongation using the legume model plants Lotus japonicus and Medicago truncatula. Root elongation of L. japonicus and M. truncatula was rapidly inhibited by exposure to AlCl3. A similar rapid inhibition of root elongation by the ethylene-releasing substance, ethephon, and the ethylene precursor, 1-aminocyclopropane-1-carboxylic acid (ACC), was also observed. The Al3+-induced inhibition of root elongation was substantially ameliorated in the presence of antagonists of ethylene biosynthesis [Co2+ and aminoethoxyvinylglycine (AVG)]. Al3+ increased the activity of ACC oxidase (ACO), and induced a rapid evolution of ethylene from root apices and expression of genes of ACC synthase (ACS) and ACO. These findings suggest that induction of ethylene evolution resulting from up-regulation of ACS and ACO plays a critical role in Al3+-induced inhibition of root elongation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As electrochemically active bacteria play an important role in microbial fuel cells (MFCs), it is necessary to get a comprehensive understanding of their electrogenesis mechanisms. In this study, a new electrochemically active bacterium, Klebsiella sp. ME17, was employed into an “H” typed MFC for electrogenesis, with glucose as the electron donor. The maximum power density was 1,209 mW/m2 at a resistance of 340 Ω and the maximum current was 1.47 mA. Given the original anode medium, fresh medium, and the supernatant of the anode medium in the same MFC, respectively, the polarization curves illustrated that the strain produced mediators to promote extracellular electron transfer. The anode medium supernatant was electrochemically active, based on cyclic voltammogram, and the supernatant was very likely to contain quinone-like substances, as indicated by spectrophotometric and excitation–emission matrix fluorescence spectroscopy analysis. Further investigation on the color and ultraviolet absorbance at 254 nm of the filtered anode medium showed that the redox states of mediators strongly associated with the electricity generation states in MFCs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The title compound, C7H7NO3·2H2O, exists as a betaine. The O atoms of the hydr­oxy and carboxyl­ate groups of 3-hydroxy­pyridinium-1-acetate inter­act with water mol­ecules to form a three-dimensional hydrogen-bonded supramol­ecular network. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the title one-dimensional polymer, {[Zn(3-CPOA)(C3H4N2)2]·3H2O} n (3-CPOA2− is the 3-carboxyl­atophenoxy­acetate dianion, C9H6O5), the Zn atom shows tetra­hedral coordination, as it is linked to two N atoms from two imidazole mol­ecules and two carboxyl­ate O atoms from two different 3-CPOA2− groups. Adjacent Zn atoms are linked by 3-CPOA2− ligands into a helical chain. The chains are linked into a three-dimensional network by hydrogen bonds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the crystal structure of the title complex, [Cu2(C8H7O2)4(C3H7NO)2], two independent dinuclear CuII complex mol­ecules, bridged by phenyl­acetate anions, are located on inversion centres. The Cu⋯Cu separations of 2.6414 (8) and 2.6261 (8) Å suggest no bonding between the Cu atoms. The CuII ions exist in a square-pyramidal coordination environment, defined by one N, N-dimethyl­formamide and four phenyl­acetate O atoms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The majority of large size job shop scheduling problems are non-polynomial-hard (NP-hard). In the past few decades, genetic algorithms (GAs) have demonstrated considerable success in providing efficient solutions to many NP-hard optimization problems. But there is no literature available considering the optimal parameters when designing GAs. Unsuitable parameters may generate an inadequate solution for a specific scheduling problem. In this paper, we proposed a two-stage GA which attempts to firstly find the fittest control parameters, namely, number of population, probability of crossover, and probability of mutation, for a given job shop problem with a fraction of time using the optimal computing budget allocation method, and then the fittest parameters are used in the GA for a further searching operation to find the optimal solution. For large size problems, the two-stage GA can obtain optimal solutions effectively and efficiently. The method was validated based on some hard benchmark problems of job shop scheduling. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]