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In this study, a novel cost-effective methodology was developed to enhance the gas barrier properties and permselectivity of unfilled natural rubber (NR)/polybutadiene rubber (BR) composites through the construction of a heterogeneous structure using pre-vulcanized powder rubber to replace traditional fillers. The matrix material is composed of a blend of NR and BR, which is widely used in tire manufacturing. By incorporating pre-vulcanized trans-1,4-poly(isoprene-co-butadiene) (TBIR) rubber powder (pVTPR) with different cross-linking densities and contents, significant improvements in the gas barrier properties and CO2 permselectivity of the NR/BR/pVTPR composites were observed. The results indicated that compared to NR/BR/TBIR composites prepared through direct blending of NR, BR, and TBIR, the NR/BR/pVTPR composites exhibited markedly superior gas barrier properties. Increasing the cross-linking density of pVTPR resulted in progressive enhancement of the gas barrier properties of the NR/BR/pVTPR composite. For example, the addition of 20 phr pVTPR with a cross-linking density of 346 mol/m3 resulted in a 79% improvement in the oxygen barrier property of NR/BR/pVTPR compared to NR/BR, achieving a value of 5.47×10−14 cm3·cm·cm−2·s−1·Pa−1. Similarly, the nitrogen barrier property improved by 76% compared to NR/BR, reaching 2.4×10−14 cm3·cm·cm−2·s−1·Pa−1, which is 28 % higher than the conventional inner liner material brominated butyl rubber (BIIR, PN2=3.32×10−14 cm3·cm·cm−2·s−1·Pa−1). Owing to its low cost, exceptional gas barrier properties, superior adhesion to various tire components, and co-vulcanization capabilities, the NR/BR/pVTPR composite has emerged as a promising alternative to butyl rubber in the inner liner of tires. Furthermore, by fine-tuning the cross-linking density of pVTPR, the high-gas-barrier NR/BR/pVTPR composites also demonstrated remarkable CO2 permselectivity, with a CO2/N2 selectivity of 61.4 and a CO2/O2 selectivity of 26.12. This innovation provides a novel strategy for CO2 capture and separation, with potential applications in future environmental and industrial processes. The multifunctional NR/BR/pVTPR composite, with its superior gas barrier properties and CO2 permselectivity, is expected to contribute to the development of safer, greener, and more cost-effective transportation solutions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This work investigated the effects of pulsed electric field (PEF) pretreatment, combined with different drying methods, on the quality of dried yams. The results showed that the pretreatment resulted in the formation of large pores in the yam tissues, thereby affecting the rehydration capability and hardness of the dried yam slices. The type of drying method after treatment did not alter the free radical stretching bands of yam. Additionally, the pretreated samples had a higher peak viscosity, through viscosity, final viscosity and break down, alongside lower pasting temperatures, To, Tp, Tc, and △H. Rheological measurements further indicated that all doughs exhibited solid-like behavior to different extents. The pretreatment also decreased the amount of allantoin and polysaccharides in dried yam slices, while negatively influencing their antioxidant activity. Finally, the choice of drying methods significantly affected the quality of the dried yams. In highlighting the effects of PEF pretreatment, combined with different drying methods, on dried yam, the results can help to expand their application within the food industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Phasor Measurement Unit (PMU) with a GPS signal receiver is a synchronized sensor widely used for power system state estimation. While the GPS receiver ensures time accuracy, it is vulnerable to network attacks. GPS spoofing attacks can alter the phase angle of PMU measurement signals and manipulate system states. This paper derives a power system state model based on PMUs under GPS spoofing attacks, according to the characteristics of changes in bus voltages and branch currents after GSA. Based on the characteristics of this model, a detection and correction algorithm for attacked data is proposed to detect GSA and correct attacked measurements. The corrected measurements can be used for power system state estimation. Simulation results on the IEEE 14-bus system show that the proposed algorithm improves the accuracy of state estimation under one or multiple GSAs, especially when multiple GSAs are present, compared to classical Weighted Least Squares Estimation (WLSE) and Alternating Minimization (AM) algorithms. Further research indicates that this algorithm is also applicable to large-scale networks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The global prevalence of allergies is on the rise. Food allergies are of special concern among children under 5 years of age, leading to morbidity and mortality. Though the standard management is avoidance, probiotics are being used widely to prevent and treat food allergies. We aimed to determine the effect of probiotics as a therapeutic option for controlling food and cow’s milk allergy among children under 5 years of age. A systematic search of electronic medical literature databases was conducted. We included all eligible randomized controlled trials available from inception until May 2021. The primary outcome of interest was the relief of allergic symptoms, while the secondary outcome was the induction of tolerance. Two investigators undertook the literature search, screening, data extraction, and quality appraisal independently. Data analysis and synthesis were performed using STATA 14 software. Subgroup analysis was performed for the duration of use and follow-up, and the age category of children included in the outcome were done. Twenty trials involving 4043 pediatric patients with food allergies were included in the review. Subgroup analysis also revealed that probiotics were effective in treating food allergies across the various subgroups included in the model. Around 15 trials reported our primary outcome, relief of symptoms, as a binary variable, which was pooled to obtain a risk ratio of 0.86 (95% confidence interval [CI], 0.77–0.95), with very low heterogeneity (I2 7.7%). Six trials were included for the secondary outcome of interest, which gave an imprecise pooled estimate of 1.29 (95% CI, 0.98–1.70) with significant heterogeneity (I2 77%). Thus, we conclude that probiotics can serve as a vital therapeutic option in tackling food allergies among children less than 5 years of age. Further larger studies exploring the effectiveness of individual strains and their safety pattern are essential. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The finite‐time nonlinear placement problem of networked Euler‐Lagrange systems (NELSs) is discussed in this paper. The problem is reformulated into a finite‐time aggregate game under an undirected graph. Then, several novel practical gradient‐based finite‐time hierarchical (GFTH) algorithms composed of a game layer, a Nash equilibrium (NE) seeking layer, and a control layer are proposed. Specifically, the game layer employs an aggregate function to reach a consensus on the potential aggregate value which is adopted by a gradient‐based finite‐time method to tackle the finite‐time NE seeking problem in the NE seeking layer, and then, the tracking problem is realized in the control layer. The convergence results are established by a nonsmooth Lyapunov function. In addition, the versatility of the GFTH algorithms is shown by extending to address the task‐space control problem of NELSs. The effectiveness of the proposed algorithms is illustrated via simulations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• flu- p -DITPA fluorescent nanoparticles can be prepared by facile amphiphilic self-assembling strategy. • flu- p -DITPA processes homogeneous distributions. • flu- p -DITPA shows biocompatibility and good water solubility. • flu- p -DITPA can be successfully used for stable and high-resolution imaging of latent fingerprints on different substrates. Efficient and accurate visual identification of latent fingerprints is crucial in areas such as criminal investigation and information security. Aggregation-induced luminescence (AIE) fluorescent materials are widely used in this field because of their strong fluorescence and easy functionalization. They have attracted significant interest and emerged as a promising area since the introduction of the AIE concept. Here a new water-soluble fluorescent nanoparticle, flu- p -DITPA, through amphiphilic self-assembly with amphiphilic polymers macro -CTA-mPEG 2000 (P1) and exhibits typical AIE properties. The core molecule, indo -DITPA, derived from the triphenylamine backbone, was obtained through rational molecular design and theoretical calculations, and the calculated results were confirmed with experimental results. The photophysical properties of indo -DITPA and flu- p -DITPA have been meticulously studied, revealing their remarkable characteristics. Taking advantage of their favorable photophysical properties, good water solubility, and biocompatibility, the researchers have devised a simple yet effective method for visualizing latent fingerprints (LFPs) with high resolution under UV light. This method enables the easy decoding of latent fingerprint information at primary, secondary, and tertiary levels. Importantly, this technique is simple, rapid, and user-friendly, marking a significant step forward in the field of forensic science and fingerprint analysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• flu- p -DITPA fluorescent nanoparticles can be prepared by facile amphiphilic self-assembling strategy. • flu- p -DITPA processes homogeneous distributions. • flu- p -DITPA shows biocompatibility and good water solubility. • flu- p -DITPA can be successfully used for stable and high-resolution imaging of latent fingerprints on different substrates. Efficient and accurate visual identification of latent fingerprints is crucial in areas such as criminal investigation and information security. Aggregation-induced luminescence (AIE) fluorescent materials are widely used in this field because of their strong fluorescence and easy functionalization. They have attracted significant interest and emerged as a promising area since the introduction of the AIE concept. Here a new water-soluble fluorescent nanoparticle, flu- p -DITPA, through amphiphilic self-assembly with amphiphilic polymers macro -CTA-mPEG 2000 (P1) and exhibits typical AIE properties. The core molecule, indo -DITPA, derived from the triphenylamine backbone, was obtained through rational molecular design and theoretical calculations, and the calculated results were confirmed with experimental results. The photophysical properties of indo -DITPA and flu- p -DITPA have been meticulously studied, revealing their remarkable characteristics. Taking advantage of their favorable photophysical properties, good water solubility, and biocompatibility, the researchers have devised a simple yet effective method for visualizing latent fingerprints (LFPs) with high resolution under UV light. This method enables the easy decoding of latent fingerprint information at primary, secondary, and tertiary levels. Importantly, this technique is simple, rapid, and user-friendly, marking a significant step forward in the field of forensic science and fingerprint analysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Key Findings: Sobol sensitivity analysis identifies non-dimensional maximum thickness as the most critical factor, contributing 44 % to the variance in total pressure loss and deviation angle. • Advanced Modeling: evaluated multiple neural network models, with the CNN-LSTM-SAM model demonstrating superior prediction accuracy and generalization capabilities. • Optimization Success: utilized particle swarm optimization (PSO) to minimize total pressure loss and deviation angle across a range of reynolds numbers and angles of attack. • Practical Implications: provides valuable insights and strategies for designing efficient compressor blades, especially for high-altitude UAV applications. This study addresses the challenges of designing high-efficiency compressors for long-endurance, high-altitude unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) under low Reynolds number (Re) and high load conditions, exploring the aerodynamic performance limits of compressor blades under extreme conditions. The research integrates advanced numerical simulations, experimental methods, and deep learning technologies to minimize profile losses and deviation angle on compressor blades. An orthogonal experimental design systematically explored the impact of key geometric factors on aerodynamic performance. A deep learning model incorporating neural networks with spatial attention mechanisms was developed to significantly enhance the accuracy of aerodynamic predictions. This model adeptly captured the complex nonlinear interactions between aerodynamic and geometric parameters. Sobol sensitivity analysis revealed that the dimensionless maximum thickness is the most critical factor, accounting for 44 % of the total variance in total pressure loss and deviation angle. The position of maximum thickness and the aspect ratio of the elliptical leading edge also significantly influenced performance. The optimized high-load compressor blade profile was validated through experimental data and detailed computational fluid dynamics analysis using large eddy simulation methods. This analysis revealed flow separation and reattachment mechanisms, shedding light on turbulence and vortex dynamics critical to performance. This research deepens the theoretical understanding of compressor cascade fluid dynamics and provides practical insights for designing more efficient compressors, especially for micro axial compressors in high-altitude UAVs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Anastomotic leak is still a severe complication in esophageal surgery due to high mortality. This article reviews the updates on the treatment of anastomotic leak after esophagectomy in order to provide reference for clinical treatment and research. The relevant studies published in the Chinese Zhiwang, Wanfang, and MEDLINE databases to December 21, 2021 were retrieved, and esophageal carcinoma, esophagectomy, anastomotic leakage, and fistula selected as the keywords. A total of 78 studies were finally included. The treatments include traditional surgical drainage, new reverse drainage trans‐fistula, stent plugging, endoscopic clamping, biological protein glue injection plugging, endoluminal vacuum therapy (EVT), and reoperation, etc. Early diagnosis, accurate classification and optimal treatment can promote the rapid healing of anastomotic leaks. EVT may be the most valuable approach, simultaneously with good commercial prospects. Reoperation should be considered in patients with complex fistula in which conservative treatment is insufficient or has failed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Understanding of the mechanism between magma sources and metallogeny is still vague. As an important gold and molybdenum producing area, the Chifeng–Chaoyang district, located at the northern margin of the North China Craton (NCC), is a key place for this issue. New geochemical data relating to Taijiying gold-deposit-related granites are presented. These data, coupled with previous studies, are used to explore the relationship between magma sources and mineralization processes. Two major magmatic periods, the Middle Triassic (220–230 Ma) and Late Jurassic (150–160 Ma), are identified based on the compiled data. The Triassic magmatic rocks are mostly fractionated I-type and A-type granites, including monzogranite, biotite granite, and syenogranite. They have low initial 87Sr/86Sr values (0.7050), moderately enriched εNd(t)–εHf(t) values (−8.5 and −5.6), and relatively young Nd–Hf model ages (TDM2-TDMC) (1.47–1.57 Ga). These features indicate that more Archean–Paleoproterozoic mantle-derived materials were involved in their sources. On the other hand, Jurassic granites are high-K calc-alkaline of the calc-alkaline series and mainly consist of granite, monzogranite, leucogranite, and granodiorite. They have high Na2O/K2O, Sr/Y, and La/Yb ratios and low Y and Yb contents. The adakitic features suggest the existence of a thickened lower crust. Their significant negative εNd(t)–εHf(t) values (−15.0 and −12.8) and older Nd–Hf model ages (TDM2–TDMC) (2.17–2.11 Ga) are consistent with their derivation from thickened ancient lower crust, indicating the initial activation of NCC. It is proposed that the change in the main source resulted from the tectonic transition during the early Mesozoic initial decratonization, that is, from the post-collisional extension to the subduction of the Paleo-Pacific plate beneath the East Asia plate from the Triassic to the Jurassic. Comparative analysis suggests that the medium–large-scale gold deposits with a high grade are closely related to the Triassic granites; however, most molybdenum deposits formed in the Jurassic. The decratonization of the NCC in the early Mesozoic experienced tectonic transition and controlled the gold and molybdenum mineralizations in the different stages by the changing magma sources. This pattern is beneficial to understanding the metallogenesis in the Chifeng–Chaoyang district. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Theanine, specifically biosynthesized and accumulated in Camellia sinensis (L.) O. Kuntze, is widely recognized as the most positive ingredient related to the quality of tea. Therefore, genetic factors related to the biosynthesis of theanine in tea plant, CsAlaDC, CsGGTs and CsMYBs, etc., were elaborated and proved to be influential. Oppositely, TFs acting on the growth and development of tea plants, CsPIF, CsHO as well as CsGDH were demonstrated to be negative for biosynthesis of theanine. Since root is the original assembly site, transportation is indispensable for the accumulation of theanine in leaf. CsAAP7.2 was elucidated to be involved in the transportation of theanine crossing the vascular system to vegetative tissues. In order to promote the accumulation of theanine, strategies were proposed in aspect of processing, cultivation, fertilizer as well as germplasm innovation. Appropriate processing technology, scientific planting manner and fertilizer application, coupling with domestication of excellent varieties portrayed out the future orientation of theanine. Purpose of the review was to summarize advantages achieved in related to metabolism of theanine, and to motivate more intensive and more effective means to promote the accumulation of theanine in tea plant. [Display omitted] • Recent achievements of transcriptional factors affecting theanine metabolism were illustrated. • Transportation of theanine from root to leaf was investigated specially. • Processing, cultivation, fertilizer and germplasm innovation were proposed to improve the accumulation of theanine. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Phasor Measurement Units (PMUs) are widely used in power system state estimation due to its high sampling rate and real-time estimation of power state in power systems. However, it is also vulnerable to cyberattacks (GPS spoofing attacks) since it uses unencrypted GPS civil signals for synchronization. The GPS spoofing attacks (GSAs) will intentionally manipulate the time reference of PMUs, which is equivalent to falsifying the phase angle of the PMU measurements. In this paper, we consider the secure power state estimation and attacks detection with the unknown GSAs in the power systems. Particularly, we derived the PMU-based GSAs model in the power state estimation problem, which is formulated as a mixed maximum likelihood problem. In the formulated problem, the involved unknown parameters are coupled and the objective function is non-convex, which are of significant challenges in finding optimal solutions. To tackle these challenges, a joint maximum a posteriori and maximum likelihood (JMAP-ML) algorithm is proposed to securely estimate the power state and detect the GSAs in the mixed measurements of PMUs. Different testing scenarios in IEEE 14 bus system are simulated to show the proposed algorithm' performance on GSAs detection and state estimation. Numerical examples demonstrate the improved accuracy of our algorithm compared with classical algorithms when GSAs are present. And we conclude that when a sufficient number of PMUs are deployed in the system, the impact of GSAs will be largely compensated in the estimation stage. • Explores the utility of PMUs for real-time power system state estimation, leveraging their high sampling rate. • Proposing a novel algorithm for secure power state estimation and GSA detection. • Improved the detection and localization performance of GSA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • MoO 3 /MoS 2 /ZnS ternary composites were synthesized using a facile hydrothermal method. • Multiple heterogeneous interfaces of the MoO 3 /MoS 2 /ZnS ternary composites were observed. • The degradation efficiency achieves 97.9 % of MB in 40 min with the MB loading of 20 mg/L using the photocatalyst dosage of 10 mg. • A photocatalytic mechanism of the MoO 3 /MoS 2 /ZnS ternary composites for the photodegradation of MB is schematically illustrated. Engineering the multiple heterojunctions of MoS 2 -based materials provides an important and effective strategy to improve photocatalytic activity. In this work, the insufficiently vulcanized MoO 3 intermediates had been incorporated into MoS 2 /ZnS nanostructured composites using a facile hydrothermal method. The analysis of scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) shows that the multiple heterojunctions were formed among the sphalerite ZnS, molybdenum oxide (MoO 3) and MoS 2 nanocrystals. Different heterogeneous microstructures among nanosheets, nanoparticles and nanobelts were aggregated through changing the mole fraction of the molybdenum in the mixture precursors. Photocatalytic results confirm that the relatively low ratio of Mo+4/Mo+6 in the ternary composites can significantly improve the catalytic activity for efficiently degrading the organic dye due to the synergistic effect of the multiple heterojunctions. The degradation efficiency achieves 97.9 % of methylene blue (20 mg/L) in 40 min using the photocatalyst dosage of 10 mg. A possible photocatalytic mechanism is also proposed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Two‐dimensional (2D) metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) used directly in supercapacitors have been a worldwide research interest for their potential high performance. Herein, one new 2D Co‐based MOF, [CoCo0.5Co0.5(μ–ppa)2(H2O)3]n, namely, (BBU‐1), has been synthesized through solvothermal method with the ligand H2ppa (H2ppa = 3‐(pyrazin‐2‐yl)‐1H‐pyrazole‐5‐carboxylic acid). Single X‐ray diffraction analysis shows that the BBU‐1 exhibits a (3, 4, 6‐c)‐connected 2D structure bridged through the carboxylic group, with the topological point symbol of {3·4·5}2{32·42·52·62·74·82·9}{32·62·72}. PXRD Rietveld refinement also has been employed to confirm the structure. The Co‐MOF electrode showed a high specific capacitance and a good cycling stability. Its maximum specific capacitance was 134.5 F g−1 at 3 mV s−1, and the specific capacitance retention is about 91.3% after 1000 cycles at a current density of 2 A g−1 in the 2‐M KOH solution. These results show that the pristine 2D Co‐MOF is an excellent candidate of electrode active material for electrochemical energy storage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, B and T lymphocyte attenuator (BTLA) and herpesvirus entry mediator (HVEM) expression on the surface of circulating CD4+ T and CD8+ T cells of patients with chronic hepatitis B (CHB) was investigated to explore their relationship with hepatitis B virus (HBV) clinical parameters. Both BTLA and HVEM were significantly upregulated on CD4+ T and CD8+ T cells of CHB patients compared with healthy controls (p < 0.01). Intriguingly, in CHB patients, the percentage of BTLA expression was positively correlated with that of HVEM (CD4+ T cells: r = 0.5461, p < 0.001 and CD8+ T cells: r = 0.4206, p < 0.01). Moreover, the percentage of BTLA expression was positively correlated with the levels of aspartate aminotransferase (AST) (CD4+ T cells: r = 0.3136, p < 0.05 and CD8+ T cells: r = 0.3159, p < 0.05) and alanine aminotransaminase (ALT) (CD4+ T cells: r = 0.3177, p < 0.05 and CD8+ T cells: r = 0.3311, p < 0.05). At the same time, the percentage of HVEM expression was also positively correlated with AST levels (CD4+ T cells: r = 0.3721, p < 0.05 and CD8+ T cells: r = 0.3325, p < 0.05) and ALT (CD4+ T cells: r = 0.3689, p < 0.05 and CD8+ T cells: r = 0.3476, p < 0.05). However, the percentage of BTLA and HVEM expression did not show significant relevance to HBV viral load. Further study demonstrated that BTLA inhibitory signaling could significantly inhibit T cell proliferation, activation, and cytokine production under optimal T cell receptor signaling (p < 0.05). Thereby, our findings indicate that the increased BTLA and HVEM expression on the surface of CD4+ and CD8+ T cells might represent a certain clinical significance and be involved in CHB progression during T cell exhaustion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A novel cadmium(II) based MOF, [Cd(μ–ppza)]n (1) (H2ppza = 3–(pyridin–4–yl)–1H–pyrazole–5–carboxylic acid) was synthesized under solvothermal condition. The single-crystal X-ray diffraction reveals that the title MOF 1 crystallizes in the triclinic system with the P–1 space group, and each Cd(II) is coordinated with five (Hppza)2− ions forming a distorted octahedron. The carboxylic group in the ligand acts as a bridge linking the Cd(II) ions into a 3D structure. MOF 1 has a 5-c {46.64} topological structure. Furthermore, MOF 1 exhibits good electrochemiluminescence (ECL) behavior. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

By employing 5-(pyridin-3-yl)-1H-pyrazole-3-carboxylic acid ligand, a new coordination polymer [Cd(HPPC−)2(H2O)2]n (1) has been prepared via the one-pot solvothermal reation with CdI2 and structurally characterized via elemental analysis, FT-IR spectroscopy, single-crystal X-ray diffraction analysis and X-ray powder diffraction. The results represented that 1 is a three-dimensional (3D) framework based on the 2D corrugated layers and Cd–O pillars, which can be considered as a (3,6)-connected trl topology with Schläfli symbol of {4·62}2{42·610·83}. In this work, the photoluminescence and electrogenerated chemiluminescence (ECL) behavior of complex 1 were investigated and thermal stability was confirmed by TGA analysis. Meanwhile, the Brunauer–Emmett–Teller measurement of 1 was also conducted to address the porosity of this 3D structure. Complex 1 exhibited high intense ECL in dimethyl sulfoxide and after eight circulations the ECL efficiency still remained stable, thus providing the possibility for construction of potential polymers ECL materials. In addition, Hirshfeld surface analysis for 1 mapped with various functions and 2D fingerprint plots revealed that the H···H and O···H contacts outnumbered the other contacts in 1 (25.3% and 23.0% of the total interactions, respectively). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tea is a popular beverage over the world for centuries. It is well known that tea has various health benefits such as anti-tumor, antioxidation, antiphlogosis as well as prevention of cardiovascular disease, etc. Phytochemicals in tea leaves are the contributors to the excellent bioactivities of tea. Therein, flavonoids were the most potent compounds. Thousands of pioneer work had been made to investigate the potential of tea flavonoids as candidates. This review sorted the literature published in recent 5 years. In view of processing method, basic manufacturing procedures for the traditional types of tea were described. Research progress and functionality of tea flavonoids were discussed according to chemical structures. Fruitful research results about tea flavonoids were summarized and refined, and in-depth cognition of tea flavonoids would be obtained. We also point out the forthcoming orientation for the study on tea flavonoids based on our own understanding and consideration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The end-Permian mass extinction (EPME) has been recorded as the most severe biodiversity crisis in Earth's history, although the timing of the marine and terrestrial extinctions remains debatable. We present a new high-resolution magnetostratigraphic succession across the EPME and the Permian-Triassic boundary (PTB) from the Meishan sections in southeastern China, which contain the global boundary stratotype section and point (GSSP) for the base of the Triassic (also the Induan Stage) and the base of the Changhsingian Stage. We identified five normal and five reverse magnetozones, including MS1n to MS5n and MS1r to MS5r, from oldest to youngest, in the Changhsingian and Induan Stages. The Induan Stage was determined to consist of two polarity intervals, where the upper one is reverse (MS5r), and the lower one is normal (MS5n). The Changhsingian Stage is dominated by normal polarity, intercalated with four short-term reverse magnetozones (MS1r to MS4r). Consequently, the PTB and the Wuchiapingian-Changhsingian boundary are clearly located in MS5n and MS1n, respectively. These new magnetostratigraphic results provide a potential reference geomagnetic polarity pattern with which to refine the geomagnetic polarity time scale for the EPME and the Permian-Triassic transition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Two new coordination polymers, namely, [Cu2(L)2(4,4′-bpy)]n (1) and [Cd(HL)Cl(1,10′-phen)]n (2) (H2L = 1H-pyrazole-3-carboxylic acid, 4,4′-bpy = 4,4′-bipyridine, 1,10′-phen = 1,10-phenanthroline) have been synthesized via solvothermal method and were structurally characterized by single-crystal X-ray diffraction, FT-IR, elemental analysis and PXRD. The two complexes are both infinite 1D chain structures, in complex 1 the H2L ligands are completely deprotonated and chelating the metal centers, and 4,4′-bipyridine link adjacent metal units to form a 1D chain structure. While, in complex 2, the auxiliary ligands chelating the metal center and H2L ligands play a role in chelating-bridging the metal centers to help build an infinite 1D chain structure. What's more, the two complexes further extended to 3D supramolecular networks by hydrogen bonds and weak C–H⋯π interactions. The weak intermolecular interactions existed in the complexes structures were further studied by Hirshfeld surface analysis and 2D fingerprint plots. In addition, these two transition metal complexes exhibit high intense electrochemiluminescence (ECL) in N,N-dimethylformamide (DMF) and after ten circulations the ECL intensity still remains stable, which can be a useful guide for the construct of new polymers ECL materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

On the basis of the 3-(pyrazin-2-yl)-1H-pyrazole-5-carboxylic acid (H2L) ligand, four new polymers [Cu2(L2−)2] (1), [Zn3(L2−)2(H2O)4Cl2]n (2), [Pb(HL−)Cl]n (3), and {[Ni(L2−)(H2O)]·(H2O)}n (4) have been synthesized under solvothermal conditions. Polymer 1 possesses a discrete (0D) binuclear structure, which is further formed into a three-dimensional (3D) supramolecular structure by hydrogen bonding and π⋯π stacking interactions. Polymers 2 and 3 display one-dimensional (1D) infinite chain structures, which further extend into 3D supramolecular structures through hydrogen bonding interactions. Polymer 4 features two-dimensional (2D) layers which can form a 3D supramolecular architecture via interlayer hydrogen bonds. The ligand in the four polymers adopts different coordination modes for constructing versatile structures. Moreover, luminescence sensing study shows that polymer 2 is a promising luminescent sensor for the detection of Cu2+, Co2+ and Fe3+via drastic luminescence quenching in aqueous solution with high efficiency. The quenching constants KSV for Cu2+, Co2+ and Fe3+ are 6.35 × 103 M−1, 8.70 × 103 M−1 and 1.62 × 104 M−1, respectively. What's more, 1–4 with electrochemical luminescence (ECL) properties show high intensity in N,N-dimethylformamide (DMF) solution and high thermal stability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We previously reported that 11 out 13 arsenic-resistant APL patients died rapidly when treated with conventional chemotherapy. SP 2 sp However, in this study, all nine arsenic-resistant patients achieved CR/PR and were still alive after receiving venetoclax-based treatment. Keywords: acute promyelocytic leukaemia; all-trans retinoic acid; arsenic; mutation; venetoclax EN acute promyelocytic leukaemia all-trans retinoic acid arsenic mutation venetoclax e58 e60 3 05/31/22 20220601 NES 220601 Arsenic plus all-trans retinoic acid (ATRA) as front-line treatment for acute promyelocytic leukaemia (APL) achieves a cure rate of over 90%.1 However, some patients still experience relapse due to arsenic resistance with or without I PML i mutations.2,3 Patients with arsenic resistance have also been shown to be resistant to ATRA and conventional chemotherapies, and their survival outcomes were very poor.3 Novel drugs to overcome arsenic resistance are urgently needed. Three patients had infections (grade 2-3), and no tumour lysis syndrome occurred during V-CAG treatment. [Extracted from the article]

In answer to the growing demands for temperature-related engineering applications in marine geotechnical engineering, this article explores the effect of temperature on the drained shear behavior of calcareous sand. Sixteen drained triaxial shear tests were therefore performed on calcareous sand under various temperatures, and in addition, a further eight were carried out on Fujian standard quartz sand by way of comparison. The results showed that an increase in temperature aggravated the particle breakage of calcareous sand in shear. Increasing the temperature improved the strength and dilatancy of quartz sand but weakened them in calcareous sand. This aggravation of particle breakage at high temperature seems to be one of the main reasons behind the decrease in the strength and dilatancy of calcareous sand. Increasing the temperature led to a decrease in the peak-state friction angle φps, the maximum dilatancy angle ψps, the critical-state friction angle φcs and the critical-state void ratio of calcareous sand. A stress-dilatancy equation for the impairment of the stress-dilatancy behavior caused by increasing the temperature was proposed for calcareous sand, and an empirical model for estimating φcs was then put forward. An increase in the temperature caused the increase in relative particle breakage Br of calcareous sand. φps and ψmax decreased with Br as a negative correlation power function. Additionally, the effect of particle breakage on φcs had a correlation with the stress state. This study may be helpful in reducing the deterioration of structural stability in projects with an inadequate design due to the lack of a full understanding of the effect of temperature on calcareous sand. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Different acoustic wave modes are required for effective implementation of biosensing and liquid actuation functions in an acoustic wave-based lab-on-a-chip. For efficient sensing in liquids, shear waves (either a thickness-shear bulk wave or a shear-horizontal surface acoustic wave) can achieve a high sensitivity, without significant loss of acoustic wave energy. On the other hand, longitudinal bulk waves or out-of-plane displacement waves (such as Rayleigh waves) enable efficient sampling functions and liquid manipulation. However, there are significant challenges in developing a lab-on-a-chip to efficiently generate multiple wave modes and perform both these functions on a single piezoelectric substrate, especially when a single crystalline orientation is available. This paper highlights the latest progress in the theories and techniques to deliver both sensing and microfluidic manipulation functions using engineered inclined-angled piezoelectric films, allowing for the simultaneous generation of longitudinal (or Rayleigh) and thickness-shear bulk (or shear-horizontal surface acoustic) waves. Challenges and theoretical constraints for generating various wave modes in the inclined films and techniques to efficiently produce inclined columnar and inclined crystalline piezoelectric films using sputtering deposition methods are presented. Applications of different wave modes in the inclined film-based lab-on-chips with multiple sensing and acoustofluidic functions are also discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Archean volcanic‐sedimentary rocks (greenstones) hosting the Dongyaozhuang (DYZ) gold deposit are situated in the Wutai Mountain, north‐central China. Field geology and mineral assemblages show at least two episodes of mineralization. The first episode features deformed quartz‐pyrite veins filling in the regional foliation (MI, Paleoproterozoic) and can be divided into two stages (MIa and MIb) based on whether the mineralization is accompanied by tourmalinization. The mineral assemblages are mainly quartz + carbonate + pyrite + chalcopyrite (+ tourmaline for MIb); both are cut by deformed barren quartz veins, which represent the final stage of MI. The second episode features undeformed stockworks/veinlets with a mineral assemblage of quartz + carbonate + pyrite + chalcopyrite + arsenopyrite ± native gold (MIIa), crosscutting MI; these ore bodies are also cut through by undeformed barren carbonate and/or quartz veins (MIIb), which represent the end of metallogeny. By integrating the crustal evolution history with ore geology, we suggest that the DYZ gold deposit is a product by overprinting of episodic mineralization rather than a single metallogenic event. For further understanding and evidence in support of this speculation, fluid inclusions and hydrothermal chlorite and biotite were studied to reveal the physicochemical conditions of fluids from various stages, and C‐H‐O isotopes were used to trace the source(s) of fluids. Temperatures recorded in chlorite from various stages C1 (from the MIa), C2 (MIb), and C3 (MIIa) generally agrees with the homogenization temperatures of aqueous type fluid inclusions (FIs) of corresponding stages. Components of FIs from each stage are dominated by water with low salinities (0–12.6 wt% NaCl equiv). The Ib‐1, Ib‐2, and Ib‐s type CO2‐H2O FIs observed from the same deformed quartz vein of the MIb can be attributed to overprinting of hydrothermal fluids. The primary Ib‐1 and Ib‐2 FIs (209–404°C) were trapped at pressures of approximately 2.2–3.7 kbar, representing the formation pressure of the MI stage, whereas the secondary Ib‐s FIs (240–349°C) were trapped at pressures of approximately 0.8–1.5 kbar, which indicates overprinting induced by MII. The C‐H‐O isotope compositions of quartz and carbonates from MIa, MIb, and MIIa can be interpreted to indicate that the fluids were derived from the same source with multistage evolution or to reflect a homogeneous signature induced with overprinting mineralization. According to the geology, mineral assemblages, component of fluid inclusions, and C‐H‐O isotopes, the DYZ gold deposit is likely to be a product of overprinting of an orogenic gold deposit. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background/aims: Chronic non-specific low back pain is one of the most prevalent and therapeutically challenging conditions that affect older people. The aim of this study was to verify the effects of a posture-focused self-management programme in pain and disability in older people in the community living with chronic non-specific low back pain. Methods: Attendees of two community centres for older people were selected and randomised into an experimental group (n=42) and a control group (n=31). The experimental group received a posture-focused self-management programme. The control group received simple advice with a self-care leaflet. Dependent variables were: pain intensity, functional capacity related to low back pain, and frequency of medication use for low back pain. Results: For intergroup analysis, a significant difference was observed for all variables (P≤0.001) with large effect size for pain intensity and functional capacity related to low back pain (effect size=0.65) and moderate effect for frequency of medication use for low back pain (effect size=0.46). Conclusions: The results of the posture-focused self-management programme demonstrate efficacy in reducing pain and disability in older people with chronic non-specific low back pain. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To investigate the effects of age, body mass index (BMI), bone mineral density (BMD), and levels of serum 25‐hydroxyvitamin D (25OHD) on hip fracture on the condition of the bone density of femoral neck having reached the threshold of osteoporosis. Methods: A total of 252 postmenopausal women patients, whose bone density had reached the threshold of osteoporosis and age ≥50 years (50–98 years), collected from the Second Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University from January 2015 to December 2018, were performed by retrospective analysis. According to whether or not they had a hip fracture, including femoral neck fracture or intertrochanteric fracture, the patients were divided into two groups, including 117 cases (50–84 years old) in the non‐hip fracture group and 135 cases (57–98 years old) in the hip fracture group. BMD was measured by Hologic Discovery A DXA bone mineral densitometer. Levels of serum 25OHD were detected by ROCHE detection instrument. Comparisons of age, BMI, bone density of femoral neck, and levels of serum 25OHD between the two groups were performed by using the Student's t‐test. Furthermore, the statistically significant factors were analyzed by multiple regression analysis to investigate the independent risk factors of hip fracture. Results: The group without hip fracture: 117 cases; average age: 67.4 ± 8.5 years; BMI: 22.3 ± 3.2 kg/m2; bone density of femoral neck: (0.504 ± 0.067) g/cm2; T‐value of femoral neck: −3.1 ± 0.6; levels of serum 25OHD: (24.9 ± 8.5) ng/mL. The group with brittle hip fracture: 135 cases; average age: 80.7 ± 7.6 years; BMI: 20.3 ± 3.5 kg/m2; bone density of femoral neck: (0.426 ± 0.077) g/cm2; T‐value of femoral neck: −3.8 ± 0.7; levels of serum 25OHD: (15.9 ± 8.9) ng/mL. Age, BMI, bone density of femoral neck, and 25OHD level of the group without hip fracture were markedly lower than hip fracture group (P < 0.05). The results of logistic regression analysis suggested that age, bone density of femoral neck, and levels of serum 25OHD were independent risk factors for fragile hip fracture on the condition of the bone density of femoral neck having reached the threshold of osteoporosis. Conclusion: Higher age, lower levels of bone density and 25OHD are the main risk factors of hip fracture on the condition of the bone density of femoral neck having reached the threshold of osteoporosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hypoxic-ischemic brain damage (HIBD) is a common neurological disorder. Emerging reports reveal that long non-coding RNAs and microRNAs (miRs) are implicated in the progress of HIBD. In this study we tried to ascertain whether lncRNA MALAT1, with the involvement of miR-429 and WNT1, affects HIBD. Initially, a HIBD mouse model was established. Then, we treated HIBD mice with dexmedetomidine (DEX) and then up- or down-regulated the expression of MALAT1, miR-429 and WNT1 in HIBD mice and neurons. Meanwhile, brain injury and hippocampal neuronal apoptosis were evaluated. Moreover, the interaction among MALAT1, miR-429 and WNT1 in HIBD was investigated. MALAT1 and WNT1 were high-expressed in brain tissues of HIBD mice while miR-429 was low-expressed in brain tissues from HIBD mice. Interestingly, MALAT1 silencing was observed to enhance the cerebral protection of DEX against HIBD. In addition, it was confirmed that MALAT1 sponged miR-429 downregulating expression of miR-429, thereby promoting apoptosis of hippocampal neurons. This effect was achieved through up-regulating the level of WNT1. Taken together, this study demonstrates that silencing of MALAT1 enhances the cerebral protection of DEX against HIBD by suppressing WNT1 expression through miR-429. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The aim of this study was to evaluate the association between CYP2A13 polymorphisms and lung cancer susceptibility using the HapMap database. Methods: A case‐control analysis of 532 subjects with lung cancer and 614 controls with no personal history of the disease was performed. The tag SNPs rs1645690 and rs8192789 for CYP2A13 were selected, and the genetic polymorphisms were confirmed experimentally through real‐time PCR, cloning, and sequencing assay. Results: SNP frequency in this study was consistent with the HapMap Project database of Han‐Chinese and lung cancer risk was associated with CYP2A13 polymorphisms in non‐smokers. CYP2A13 shares a 93.5% identity with CYP2A6 in the amino acid sequence and the homologous sequences may interfere with the study of SNPs of CYP2A13. Conclusions: CYP2A13 may be a potential key metabolic enzyme gene in the carcinogenesis of lung cancer in non‐smokers. The common polymorphisms of CYP2A13 may be candidate biomarkers for lung cancer susceptibility in Han‐Chinese. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this article, the fixed-time Nash equilibrium (FTNE) seeking problem of multiple autonomous surface vehicles (ASVs) is considered. As individuals fight for an allocation of specific shared but restricted resources, two novel FTNE seeking algorithms are designed for this topic through an error decomposition method. First, a model-based control algorithm with only one convergence time function in a single-layer structure is designed to achieve Nash equilibrium within a fixed time. Then, a FTNE algorithm with a three-layer structure is presented for multiple ASVs subject to system uncertainties. In particular, this paper proposes a hybrid fixed-time event-triggered approach for reducing controller update frequencies and communication frequencies of two algorithms simultaneously, which is capable of decreasing resource consumption in a constrained resource environment. Furthermore, rigorous sufficient criteria are established for fixed-time convergence through Lyapunov stability analysis, and the upper bound on settling time without the requirement of initial conditions is derived. Finally, simulation examples are given to demonstrate the viability of two algorithms. • This paper solves noncooperative game problem of multiple ASVs. • Two FTNE seeking algorithms are firstly proposed. • An error decomposition approach is firstly presented. • A hybrid fixed-time event-triggered approach is presented. • A three-layer control framework is established. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Based on the extended Huygens-Fresnel principle and the second-order moments of the Wigner distribution function (WDF), the analytical expressions for the cross-spectral density (CSD) and the propagation factor of a rectangular Laguerre-Gaussian-correlated Schell-model (LGCSM) beam propagating in atmospheric turbulence are derived. The statistical properties, such as the average intensity, the spectral degree of coherence (SDOC) and the propagation factor, of a rectangular LGCSM beam in free space and atmospheric turbulence are comparatively analysed. It is illustrated that a rectangular LGCSM beam exhibits self-splitting and combing properties on propagation in atmospheric turbulence, and the self-splitting properties of such beam are closely related to its beam orders m and n, which is quite different from other self-splitting beams. In addition, the rectangular LGCSM beam has an advantage for reducing the turbulence-induced degradation compared with the conventional partially coherent beams. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract A versatile label-free electrochemical biosensor based on dual enzyme assisted multiple amplification strategy was developed for ultrasensitive detection of circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA). The biosensor consists of a triple-helix molecular switch (THMS) as molecular recognition and signal transduction probe, ribonuclease HII (RNase HII) and terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase (TdT) as dual enzyme assisted multiple amplification accelerator. The presence of target ctDNA could open THMS and trigger RNase HII-assisted homogenous target recycling amplification to produce substantial signal transduction probe (STP). The released STP hybridized with the capture probe immobilized on a gold electrode, then TdT and assistant probe were further employed to fulfill TdT-mediated cascade extension and generate stable DNA dendritic nanostructures. The electroactive methyl blue (MB) was finally used as the signal reporter to realize the multiple electrochemical amplification ctDNA detection as the amount of MB is positively correlated with the target ctDNA. Combined with the efficient recognition capacity of the designed THMS and the excellent multiple amplification ability of RNase HII and TdT, the constructed sensing platform could detect KRAS G12DM with a wide detection range from 0.01 fM to 1 pM, and the limit of detection as low as 2.4 aM. Besides, the platform is capable of detecting ctDNA in biological fluid such as plasma. More importantly, by substituting the loop of THMS with different sequences, this strategy could be conveniently expanded into the detection of other ctDNA, showing promising potential applications in clinical cancer screening and prognosis. Highlights • A versatile label-free electrochemical biosensor is developed based on dual enzyme assisted multiple amplification strategy. • The biosensor can detect target ctDNA down to aM level with a dynamic range spanning 5 orders of magnitude. • The biosensor can directly detect target ctDNA in biological fluid such as plasma. • The detection platform can be readily extended to detect a wide range of ctDNA by substituting the loop of THMS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights • Gastric precancerous lesions (GPLs) include intestinal metaplasia (IM) and dysplasia. • Transgenic and gene knockout mouse models of GPL and gastric cancer (GC) are important tools for drug discovery. • The study of GPL mouse models requires histological examination of gastric tissue. • This review examines the current status of the use of mouse models in GPL research. Abstract Gastric intestinal metaplasia is a precursor for gastric dysplasia, which is in turn, a risk factor for gastric adenocarcinoma. Gastric metaplasia and dysplasia are known as gastric precancerous lesions (GPLs), which are essential stages in the progression from normal gastric mucosa to gastric cancer (GC) or gastric adenocarcinoma. Genetically-engineered mice have become essential tools in various aspects of GC research, including mechanistic studies and drug discovery. Studies in mouse models have contributed significantly to our understanding of the pathogenesis and molecular mechanisms underlying GPLs and GC. With the development and improvement of gene transfer technology, investigators have created a variety of transgenic and gene knockout mouse models for GPLs, such as H/K-ATPase transgenic and knockout mutant mice and gastrin gene knockout mice. Combined with Helicobacter infection, and treatment with chemical carcinogens, these mice develop GPLs or GC and thus provide models for studying the molecular biology of GC, which may lead to the discovery and development of novel drugs. In this review, we discuss recent progress in the use of genetically-engineered mouse models for GPL research, with particular emphasis on the importance of examining the gastric mucosa at the histological level to investigate morphological changes of GPL and GC and associated protein and gene expression. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aqueous instability of halide perovskite seriously hinders its direct application in water as a potential photocatalyst. Here, we prepared a new type of polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) passivated δ-CsPbI3 (δ-CsPbI3@PVP) microcrystal by a facile method. This material can be uniformly dispersed in water and stably maintain its crystal structure for a long time, breaking through the bottleneck of halide perovskite photocatalysis in water. Under visible light, δ-CsPbI3@PVP can almost completely photodegrade organic dyes (including Rhodamine B, methylene blue, and crystal violet) in only 20 min. The efficient photocatalytic activity is attributed to the enhanced visible light absorption arising from PbI2 defects in δ-CsPbI3@PVP and the intrinsic low photoluminescence quantum yield of δ-CsPbI3, which induces efficient light absorption and photocatalytic activity. We highlight δ-CsPbI3@PVP as an effective aqueous photocatalyst, and this study provides new insights into how to exploit the potential of halide perovskite in photocatalytic applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper utilizes experimentally validated Large Eddy Simulation method and the standard Dynamic Mode Decomposition (DMD) analysis technique to investigate the unsteady flow characteristics on a compressor cascade under two Reynolds number (Re) conditions (1.1 × 106 in ground state and 8.0 × 104 in high altitude state). The results demonstrate that at low Re , large-scale vortices are formed on the surface of compressor blades, exhibiting a stable rotating state and dominating the flow. Kelvin-Helmholtz instability serves as the determining factor, inducing chaotic and unstable behavior in the separation shear layer, leading to turbulence. Furthermore, DMD modal decomposition reveals a dominant mode at low Re, gradually amplifying and significantly contributing to the overall flow field, while showing strong correlations with other major modes. Conversely, at high Re, vortices on the blade surface become dispersed and smaller, resulting in intricate interactions between vortices of different scales. Harmonic instability, alongside Kelvin-Helmholtz instability, plays a significant role in accelerating boundary layer transition, heightening flow complexity and instability. Additionally, pronounced interaction and energy transfer between different modes occur at high Re, yielding a relatively balanced energy distribution. These findings have important implications for optimizing blade design and enhancing compressor performance by providing a deeper understanding of vortex dynamics and dynamic modal characteristics in the compressor blade flow field. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper utilizes experimentally validated Large Eddy Simulation method and the standard Dynamic Mode Decomposition (DMD) analysis technique to investigate the unsteady flow characteristics on a compressor cascade under two Reynolds number (Re) conditions (1.1 × 106 in ground state and 8.0 × 104 in high altitude state). The results demonstrate that at low Re , large-scale vortices are formed on the surface of compressor blades, exhibiting a stable rotating state and dominating the flow. Kelvin-Helmholtz instability serves as the determining factor, inducing chaotic and unstable behavior in the separation shear layer, leading to turbulence. Furthermore, DMD modal decomposition reveals a dominant mode at low Re, gradually amplifying and significantly contributing to the overall flow field, while showing strong correlations with other major modes. Conversely, at high Re, vortices on the blade surface become dispersed and smaller, resulting in intricate interactions between vortices of different scales. Harmonic instability, alongside Kelvin-Helmholtz instability, plays a significant role in accelerating boundary layer transition, heightening flow complexity and instability. Additionally, pronounced interaction and energy transfer between different modes occur at high Re, yielding a relatively balanced energy distribution. These findings have important implications for optimizing blade design and enhancing compressor performance by providing a deeper understanding of vortex dynamics and dynamic modal characteristics in the compressor blade flow field. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work, a new kind of partially coherent vector beam, namely, partially coherent radially polarized multi-Gaussian Schell-model array (PCRP MGSMA) beam, is introduced and the focusing properties of such beam passing through a thin lens are characterized. One of the most remarkable features of such beam is its capability of producing tunable multifocal spot arrays in the focal plane, and each array lobe can be shaped into dark hollow, Gaussian-like and flat-topped profile by modulating the initial spatial coherence width More interesting, the modulation effect of multiple off-axis vortices can also be acted on each array lobe, thus the creation of triangle-like, square-like and pentagon-like hollow structure arrays can be realized for the high coherence case, but this remarkable characteristic will be vanished in the case of a very low coherence. In addition to the focal spot arrays tailoring, the focal intensity distribution of such beam can be flexibly shaped into diversified flat-topped profiles, such as linear, square and rectangular, by elaborately choosing the matching parameters of the source. These interesting results will be useful for optical multi-particle manipulation, high resolution imaging and material surface processing. • A new kind of partially coherent vector beams with periodical spatial coherence is proposed. • The beam can produce tunable multifocal spot arrays in the focal plane. • Each array lobe can be shaped into diverse profiles by modulating the initial spatial coherence width. • The dimension, arrangement and shape of the multifocal arrays can be flexibly tailored by modulating the parameters of source. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To investigate the effect of grip strength on bone mineral density (BMD) in postmenopausal women. Low BMD is related to risk of fracture and falling is the strongest factor for fragility fractures. Handgrip strength is a reliable indicator of muscle strength and muscle strength is associated with falling. Methods: For the present study 120 women were divided into two groups: those ≤65 years and those >65 years. Serum 25 hydroxyvitamin D (25OHD), BMD, and handgrip strength were measured to observe the effect of age on 25OHD, grip strength, and BMD, as well as the effect of 25OHD on grip strength and BMD. The correlation between grip strength and BMD was investigated. Results: In the 120 patients, 25OHD was 24.31 ± 8.29 ng/mL. There were 37 cases with 25OHD <20 ng/mL and 83 cases with 25 OHD ≥20 ng/mL. The patients with 25OHD <20 ng/mL had significantly lower femoral neck BMD, most of them with a T score ≤−2.5 (P < 0.05). BMD measurement showed 66 patients with femoral neck T ≤−2.5, 30 cases with total hip T ≤−2.5 and 90 cases with lumbar BMD T ≤−2.5. The maximum grip strength in the group is 22.28 ± 6.17 kg. There were 38 cases with the maximum grip strength <20 kg and 82 cases with the maximum grip strength ≥20 kg. Patients >65 years had lower 25OHD, lower maximum grip strength, and lower BMD. The osteoporosis risk in postmenopausal women with a maximum grip strength <20 kg and who were >65 years was significantly elevated. Conclusion: Handgrip strength and 25OHD decrease with aging in postmenopausal women. The patients with lower 25OHD level had significantly lower BMD of femoral neck. The patients with lower handgrip strength had significantly lower BMD of lumbar spine, femoral neck, and total hip. Grip strength measurement is the simplest muscle strength measurement method. Our study confirmed that low grip strength was correlated with low BMD and was a strong risk factor for osteoporosis in postmenopausal women. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Research on individual trait variation has gained much attention because of its implication for ecosystem functions and community ecology. The effect of individual variation on population and community abundance (number of individuals) variation remains scarcely tested. Using two established ecological scaling laws (Taylor's law and abundance-size relationship), we derived a new scaling relationship between the individual size variation and spatial variation of abundance. Tested against multi-plot tree data from Diaoluo Mountain tropical forest in Hainan, China, the new scaling relationship showed that individual size variation reduced the spatial variation of community assemblage abundance, but not of taxon-specific population abundance. The different responses of community and population to individual variation were reflected by the validity of the abundance-size relationship. We tested and confirmed this scaling framework using two measures of individual tree size: aboveground biomass and diameter at breast height. Using delta method and height-diameter allometry, we derived the analytic relation of scaling exponents estimated under different individual size measures. In addition, we used multiple regression models to analyze the effect of taxon richness on the relationship between individual size variation and spatial variation of population or community abundance, for taxon-specific and taxon-mixed data, respectively. This work offers empirical evidence and a scaling framework for the negative effect of individual trait variation on spatial variation of plant community. It has implications for forest ecosystem and management where the role of individual variation in regulating population or community spatial variation is important but understudied. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

"Knowledge worker" is a term used to describe highly educated people whose role in the workforce involves the use of information and knowledge. Knowledge workers are key to the success of a great many organizations. Many Chinese companies find that the voluntary turnover rate among their knowledge workers is high. The purpose of this paper is to explore, from the perspective of knowledge workers and the characteristics peculiar to them, the factors that influence this high voluntary turnover rate. The models used in this paper, that will enable understanding of the characteristics of knowledge workers in China, are the Chinese Personality Assessment Inventory and the Five Factors Model. In the case of Huawei, analysis using these models leads to the conclusion that the main factors that influence the voluntary turnover of knowledge workers in China are: age; gender; degree of extraversion and how open the person is to new experiences; family orientation; and occupation. This study leads to the conclusion that the company should pay closer attention to three groups: female employees who put a high value on their families; employees from non-R&D departments; and younger employees who show a high degree of openness to new experiences. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ethyl carbamate (EC) is one of the harmful byproducts which occurs in alcohol drinks, such as Wine, Rum, Whisky, Saki and other fruit wines as a result of a spontaneous reaction between ethanol and urea in the fermentation process. In this work, the relationship between arginase CAR1 gene in Saccharomyces cerevisiae EC1118 and EC generation in sugarcane juice fermentation was investigated. Results indicate that the content of EC can be controlled by regulating the expression of arginase CAR1 gene. Urea and arginase exhibited expression of arginase CAR1 gene, which resulted in an increase of EC content. Besides arginine and urea, the expression of arginase CAR1 gene was also significantly influenced by the content of ethanol, salt and culture temperature. Low fermentation temperature, (below 25°C) and lower ethanol and salt content showed some benefits in terms of controlling the EC content by decreasing the expression of arginase. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To investigate the clinical benefits and underlying mechanisms of action of betulin in the treatment of cancer using a neuroblastoma (NB) cell model. Method: Cell viability assay (MTT assay) was applied to investigate the effects of betulin on proliferation and apoptosis of SK-N-SH cell. The expression or translocation of apoptosis-related biomarkers, which include protein kinase C (PKC) family members, were analyzed and quantified by Western blotting, caspase activity assay or enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Results: Betulin treatment significantly inhibited the growth of SK-N-SH cells (p < 0.001), with halfmaximal inhibition concentration (IC50) of 8 μmol/mL. Furthermore, betulin treatment increased the activity of PKC-δ, which subsequently activated caspases 3, 8 and 9, thus initiating mitochondriamediated endogenous apoptotic pathways in SK-N-SH cells Conclusion: Data generated in this study suggest that betulin inhibits cell proliferation and promotes apoptosis via PKC-δ activation, which may provide new insights into NB treatment from the perspective of adjuvant chemotherapy and prevention of tumor recurrence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Development of underground space in urban areas may be obstructed by the aboveground facilities that are in good condition. Instead of building new aboveground structures, an alternative solution is to add new basements under the existing structures. One of the key issues arising from this complicated technique is the behavior of the underpinning piles. This paper considers this issue in terms of a real case recently addressed in China. The retrofit construction procedure was carefully monitored. Observations included the axial-loading and excavation- unloading responses of the underpinning piles, the axial forces transmitted from the piles to the replacing pillars, and the variations in building settlement. The results indicated that the piles acted well as an underpinning role in transferring structure load into surrounding geomaterials. The mobilization degree of the pile-shaft friction increased as the shallow strata were excavated further. Abrupt increase in pillar force and building settlement were detected when the exposed portions of the piles were cut, and therefore the cutting operation should be careful for safety control. The performance-based analyses support the pile-pillar load transmission method and offer a fairly successful reference to future applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A set of expressed sequence tag (EST) simple sequence repeat (SSR) markers were developed and characterized using next-generation sequencing technology for the genus Diabelia (Caprifoliaceae). De novo assembly of RNA-seq reads resulted in 58 669 contigs with the N50 length of 1211 bp. A total of 2746 contigs were identified to harbor SSR motifs, of which 48 primer pairs were designed and 11 were shown to be polymorphic across three morphospecies of Diabelia. When evaluated with 30 individuals, the number of alleles per locus ranged from 2 to 11 and the expected heterozygosity varied from 0.399 to 0.873, respectively. Distance-based clustering indicated that the EST-SSR markers can provide sufficient power to distinguish the three species (or populations). These markers will be useful for evaluating the range-wide genetic diversity of each species and examining genetic divergence and gene flow between the three species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Cadmium (Cd), a common environmental heavy metal and endocrine disruptor, is known to exert toxic effects on the testes. However, the mechanisms accounting for its toxicity in mature spermatozoa remain unclear. Methods: Adult male C57BL/6 mice were orally administered with CdCl2 for 5 weeks at 3 mg⋅kg-1⋅day-1. Additionally, mouse spermatozoa were incubated in vitro with different doses of CdCl2 (0, 10, 50, 250 µM). Several sperm functions including the sperm motility, viability and acrosome reaction (AR) ratio were then examined. Furthermore, the current and expression levels of both the sperm-specific Ca2+ channel (CatSper) and the sperm-specific K+ channel (KSper) were evaluated by patch-clamping and western blotting, respectively. Results: Our data showed that the motility, viability and AR of sperm exposed to cadmium significantly decreased in vivo and in vitro. Interestingly, these changes were correlated with changes in CatSper but not KSper. Conclusion: The findings indicate sperm dysfunction during both chronic and acute cadmium exposure as well as a specific role for CatSper in the reproductive toxicity of cadmium. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Human immunodeficiency virus subtype 1B (HIV-1B) binds to the CD4 receptor and co-receptor CCR5 or CXCR4 to enter T lymphocytes. The amino acid sequence of the HIV envelope glycoprotein V3 region determines the co-receptor tropism, thereby influencing the infectivity of the virus. Our research group previously found that the amino acid at position 22 of the V3 region may affect the infectivity of the virus, and in this study, we tested this hypothesis. We constructed pseudoviruses by changing the amino acids at position 22 of the V3 region in CCR5-tropic and CXCR4-tropic viruses and tested their infectivity. When the amino acid at V3 position 22 was altered in the CCR5- and CXCR4-tropic viruses, their ability to infect cells decreased to 20.6% and 17.14%, respectively. Therefore, we propose that residue 22 in the V3 region of subtype HIV-1B significantly influences the infectivity of the virus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]