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Highlights: Electrospinning combined with structural engineering to construct 0D@2D@1D hierarchical heterogeneous interfaces. A "mechanical response" model was constructed to explain the stress transfer mechanism of fibrous membranes with 2D@1D structures. The "One for All" fibrous membrane combines excellent flexibility, mechanical properties, waterproof, and electromagnetic protection. The development of wearable multifunctional electromagnetic protective fabrics with multifunctional, low cost, and high efficiency remains a challenge. Here, inspired by the unique flower branch shape of "Thunberg's meadowsweet" in nature, a nanofibrous composite membrane with hierarchical structure was constructed. Integrating sophisticated 0D@2D@1D hierarchical structures with multiple heterointerfaces can fully unleash the multifunctional application potential of composite membrane. The targeted induction method was used to precisely regulate the formation site and morphology of the metal–organic framework precursor, and intelligently integrate multiple heterostructures to enhance dielectric polarization, which improves the impedance matching and loss mechanisms of the electromagnetic wave absorbing materials. Due to the synergistic enhancement of electrospinning-derived carbon nanofiber "stems", MOF-derived carbon nanosheet "petals" and transition metal selenide nano-particle "stamens", the CoxSey/NiSe@CNSs@CNFs (CNCC) composite membrane obtains a minimum reflection loss value (RLmin) of -68.40 dB at 2.6 mm and a maximum effective absorption bandwidth (EAB) of 8.88 GHz at a thin thickness of 2.0 mm with a filling amount of only 5 wt%. In addition, the multi-component and hierarchical heterostructure endow the fibrous membrane with excellent flexibility, water resistance, thermal management, and other multifunctional properties. This work provides unique perspectives for the precise design and rational application of multifunctional fabrics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: This scoping review presents existing research evidence regarding diet therapy in patients with rare diseases (RDs). Methods: Using the five‐stage scoping review framework proposed by Arksey, O'Malley and Levac, we searched the published literature in PubMed, Web of Science, Royal Society of Chemistry, China National Knowledge Infrastructure, VIP Database and Wan Fang Database from January 2010 to November 2022. We selected diet therapy studies on 121 RDs, as categorised by the National Health Commission of China in 2018. Charts for research analysis were developed and used to categorise the data. Results: We ultimately included 34 diet therapy studies from 19 countries and territories for 10 RDs and 3 RD groups. RD diet therapy studies have mainly focused on inborn errors of metabolism (92.3%) and are common in Western countries. Most studies focused on diet therapy methods for RDs (44%). In addition, 29% of studies included diet therapy management, 15% included guidelines for diet therapy and 12% included the impact of diet therapy on patients. Conclusions: Current diet therapies for RDs lack specificity and present with limited characteristics. Therefore, it is necessary to expand the scope and depth of future research and explore evidence‐based recommendations and new diet therapies focused on patient needs and family support to provide a reference for improving the efficacy and safety of diet therapies for RDs. Key points: There is limited literature available to explore diet therapy for rare diseases.From the research included in this review, the research on diet therapy of rare diseases mainly focuses on inborn errors of metabolism.In this review, researches on diet therapy for patients focus on diet therapy methods, diet therapy management, guidelines for diet therapy and the impact of diet therapy on patients.It is necessary to explore evidence‐based recommendations and new diet therapies focusing on patient needs and family support. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Enhanced electromagnetic wave absorption through the unique hollow double shell structure and the synergistic effect of dielectric loss magnetic and loss. [Display omitted] • CoS 2 coated with metal-doped carbon was prepared by a soft template method and wet impregnation method. • The double-layer hollow shell structure is retained after the modification of metal nanoparticles. • Metal doping optimizes the electromagnetic wave loss mechanism of the material. • The RL min is −48.90 dB at 2.23 mm, and the maximum Effective Absorption Bandwidth is 5.04 GHz at 1.98 mm. Tunable designs of polymorphic structured transition metal dichalcogenide (TMDC) demonstrate promising applications in the field of electromagnetic wave absorption (EMW). However, it remains a technical challenge for achieving a balanced relationship between well-matched impedance characteristics and dielectric losses. Therefore, the co-modification strategies of polydopamine coating and wet impregnation are chosen to construct CoS 2 magnetic double-shell microspheres with phase component modulation to achieve the optimized performance. Dopamine hydrochloride forms a coating on the surface of CoS 2 microspheres by self-polymerization and forms a double-shell structure during the pyrolysis process. Then the different metal is doped to generate heterogeneous components in the process of heat treatment. The results show that the cobalt doped double-shell microspheres have an ultra-high electromagnetic wave absorption absorption capacity with an effective absorption bandwidth of 5.04 GHz (1.98 mm) and a minimum reflection loss value of −48.90 dB. The double-shell layer structure and metal ion hybridization can improve the interfacial polarization and magnetic loss behavior, which provides an explicit inspiration for the development of transition metal dichalcogenide and even transition metal compounds with tunable absorption properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Study Design.: A functional, transcriptome, and long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) expression analysis in the spinal cord of mice after hyperbaric oxygen (HBO) treatment. Objective.: We aimed to explore the mechanism by which HBO treats spinal cord injury (SCI) at the level of lncRNAs. Summary of Background Data.: Immense amounts of research have established that HBO treatment promotes the recovery of neurological function after SCI. The mechanism of action remains to be clarified. Methods.: High-throughput RNA sequencing, Gene Ontology, and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes enrichment analysis were used to profile lncRNA expression and analyze biological function in the spinal cords of mice from sham-operated, SCI, and HBO-treated groups. The differential expression of lncRNA between the groups was assessed using real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction. Results.: Differential expression across 577 lncRNAs was identified among the three groups. GO analysis showed that free ubiquitin chain polymerization, ubiquitin homeostasis, DNA replication, synthesis of RNA primer, single-stranded telomeric DNA binding, and alpha-amylase activity were significantly enriched. Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes enrichment analysis displayed that vitamin B6 metabolism, one carbon pool by folate, DNA replication, lysine degradation, beta-alanine metabolism, fanconi anemia pathway, and Notch signal pathway were the main pathways with enrichment significance. LncRNAs NONMMUT 092674.1, NONMMUT042986.2, and NONMMUT018850.2 showed significantly different expression between the SCI and the other two groups (P <0.05, <0.01). Conclusions.: This study is the first to determine the expression profiles of lncRNAs in the injured spinal cord after HBO treatment. We identified several important dysregulated lncRNAs in this setting. These results help us better understand the mechanism by which HBO treats SCI and provide new potential therapeutic targets for SCI. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The electrospinning technique was employed to prepare the La 0.5 Sr 0.5 Mn 0.875 Zn 0.125 O 3-δ (LSMZn) cathode for proton-conducting solid oxide fuel cells (H–SOFCs). Although the fiber structure can be obtained with the electrospinning technique for the LSMZn precursor, the fiber structure disappeared after the calcination procedure, leading to the formation of fine LSMZn nano-powders. It was found that the electrospun LSMZn can reach a pure phase after firing at 1100 °C, whereas the traditional sol-gel prepared LSMZn required a calcination temperature of 1150 °C. Furthermore, the electrospun LSMZn had a smaller particle size and richer oxygen vacancy than the traditional sol-gel LSMZn. First-principles calculations indicated that the oxygen vacancy-rich surface promoted the cathode reaction. The H–SOFC using the single-phase electrospun LSMZn generated a power density of 1122 mW cm−2 at 700 °C. The performance was not only larger than the sol-gel LSMZn cell reported in this study but also larger than previous H–SOFCs using the single-phase Mn-based cathodes, suggesting the electrospinning technique was an effective method to produce high-performing cathodes for H–SOFCs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] It has become greatly significant to achieve structurally tunable electromagnetic wave absorption materials (EMAs) derived from metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) via controllably continuous phase inversion. Herein, a series of core–shell Ag@C EMAs were successfully fabricated from Ag-MOFs via adjustable phase inversion. Replacing terephthalic acid (H 2 BDC) with 2-methylimidazole (Hmim) continuously led to the gradual transformation of Ag-MOF-5 structure into ZIF-L, which determined the crystal and morphological structure of Ag@C EMAs. In addition, due to the optimization of relaxation loss, the minimum reflection loss (RL min) of S2 reached −50.14 dB with a thickness of 3.0 mm. The EMA derived from the original Ag-MOF had the widest absorption bandwidth (f E) of 5.44 GHz and RL min of −47.36 dB at only 2.2 mm, respectively. This work can shed new light on the core–shell EMAs derived from phase inversion MOFs, and provide guidance to design novel high-performance EMAs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The socio-economic aspects of the people who directly share space with elephants not only influence the occurrence of human-elephant conflict (HEC) but also shape their sentiments towards coexistence with elephants. The objectives of this paper are to (i) assess the demographic situation and map people's sentiments towards elephants in the HEC hotspot villages of the Keonjhar forest division in India and (ii) rank the most suitable policy instruments and the urgency of mitigation strategies. The results indicated that cultivation and marginal agriculture were positively related with HEC incidences, whereas literacy and employment were negatively associated. Despite being severely affected by human–elephant conflict, many of the respondents (78%) in the HEC hotspot regions still had positive sentiments towards elephants. According to expert opinions, strengthening of laws regarding land use facilitation and interlinking conservation values to socio-cultural aspects need urgent implementation in order to balance infrastructural development and protection of ecosystems by enhancing community participation. Communal crop guarding, chilly-dung and honeybee fencing, accompanied by tracking and maintaining an elephant locational database are suggested as the HEC mitigation methods with highest urgency. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

While diosgenin has been demonstrated effective in various cardiovascular diseases, its specific impact on treating heart attacks remains unclear. Our research revealed that diosgenin significantly improved cardiac function in a myocardial infarction (MI) mouse model, reducing cardiac fibrosis and cell apoptosis while promoting angiogenesis. Mechanistically, diosgenin upregulated the Hand2 expression, promoting the proliferation and migration of endothelial cells under hypoxic conditions. Acting as a transcription factor, HAND2 activated the angiogenesis-related gene Aggf1. Conversely, silencing Hand2 inhibited the diosgenin-induced migration of hypoxic endothelial cells and angiogenesis. In summary, these findings provide new insights into the protective role of diosgenin in MI, validating its effect on angiogenic activity and providing a theoretical basis for clinical treatment strategies. [Display omitted] • This research provides new insights into the cardioprotective effects of diosgenin in a mouse model of myocardial infarction. • Molecular docking predicts potential binding regions of diosgenin to HAND2. • Diosgenin enhances the comprehension of the angiogenic process by targeting HAND2. • The HAND2- Aggf1 signaling pathway is critical for endothelial cell proliferation and migration under hypoxic conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Multiple reflection and scattering along with dielectric loss and magnetic loss are contributed to excellent electromagnetic wave absorption performance. [Display omitted] • CoFe alloys and ZnO are uniformly distributed on the two-dimensional porous carbon sheet. • The synergistic effect of multiple loss mechanism were contributed to excellent performance. • The absorption was up to −40.63 dB at 2.2 mm and widest EAB of 5.68 GHz at 2.4 mm. To obtain lightweight and efficient electromagnetic wave absorbing materials, Fe 2 O 3 @ZnCo-MOF composites were prepared in this paper by in-situ growth method, and CoFe alloys@ZnO@C composites were obtained by subsequent annealing process. By varying the loading of Fe 2 O 3 during the synthesis process, a series of composites were obtained. Among them, CoFe alloys@ZnO@C-0.1 has the best electromagnetic wave absorption performance, which can reach a reflection loss (RL) of −40.63 dB at a thickness of 2.2 mm, while the reflection loss is −44.13 dB at a thickness of 5.0 mm, and the maximum effective absorption bandwidth (EAB) is 5.84 GHz at a thickness of 2.4 mm. The excellent performance can be attributed to the synergistic effect of the dielectric and magnetic properties of the composites as well as the effective impedance matching properties. Thus, the CoFe alloys@ZnO@C composite is expected to be a lightweight and efficient material for electromagnetic wave absorption. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Diatoms usually dominate phytoplankton blooms in open oceans, exhibiting extremely high population densities. Although the iron uptake rate of diatoms largely determines the magnitude and longevity of diatom blooms, the underlying mechanisms regulating iron uptake remain unclear. Results: The transcription of two iron uptake proteins, ISIP2a and ISIP1, in the marine diatom Phaeodactylum tricornutum was enhanced with increasing cell density, whereas the cellular iron content showed the opposite trend. When compared with the wild-type strain, knockdown of ISIP2a resulted in 43% decrease in cellular iron content, implying the involvement of ISIP2a in iron uptake under high-cell density conditions. Incubation of the diatom cells with sonicated cell lysate conditioned by different cell densities did not affect ISIP2a and ISIP1 expression, ruling out regulation via chemical cues. In contrast, ISIP2a and ISIP1 transcription were strongly induced by red light. Besides, chlorophyll fluorescence excited from the blue light was also positively correlated with population density. Subsequently, a "sandwich" illumination incubator was designed to filter out stray light and ensure that the inner layer cells only receive the emitted chlorophyll fluorescence from outer layers, and the results showed that the increase in outer cell density significantly elevated ISIP2a and ISIP1 transcription in inner layer cells. In situ evidence from Tara oceans also showed positively correlated between diatom ISIP transcripts and chlorophyll content. Conclusions: This study shows that chlorophyll fluorescence derived from neighboring cells is able to upregulate ISIP2a and ISIP1 expression to facilitate iron assimilation under high-cell density. These results provide novel insights into biotic signal sensing in phytoplankton, which can help to elucidate the underlying mechanisms of marine diatom blooms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Approximately 20%–30% of plant and animal species are at risk of extinction by the end of the 21st century owing to climate change. Range shifts and range contractions in plant species will dramatically affect the distribution of animals relying on them for food and shelter. The negative impacts of climate change on forested landscapes of the northern highlands of Pakistan (NHP) could change the species composition and distribution. The Asiatic black bear (Ursus thibetanus), a forest‐dwelling species, primarily depends on plants for foraging, and is assumed to be affected by climate change in NHP. Scat analyses and indigenous knowledge from Machiara National Park revealed the maximum consumption of Quercus species (natural food) and Zea mays (human grown food) by the Asiatic black bear in autumn season. We collected the occurrence data of the Asiatic black bear and its commonly used food (three Quercus spp.) in the NHP. We used the MaxEnt model to simulate current and future (in 2050 and 2070) distribution of the species under RCP4.5 (medium carbon emission scenario) and RCP8.5 (extreme carbon emission scenario). The results predict range reduction and extreme fragmentation in the habitats of all the Quercus spp. Besides, a dramatic decrease in the suitable (SH) and very highly suitable (HSH) habitats was predicted in the future. Range shift and range reduction of Quercus spp. may interrupt the denning chronology of Asiatic black bears, escalate the human‐black bear conflicts and local extirpation of the species. Given the extent and magnitude of climate change, it will likely not be enough to focus solely on the conservation of the Asiatic black bear. We need more dynamic planning aiming at mitigating the effect of climate change in forested landscapes including the Quercus forests. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sub-health can have an impact on the physical condition of the young adults, and this study aimed to investigate the influencing factors of sub-health related to the Big Five personality in Chinese young adults. A multi-stage random sampling method was used to survey the Chinese young adults. A moderated mediation analysis was conducted to investigate how sleep quality and family health influenced the relationship between diverse personalities and sub-health in young adults. A total of 6165 young adults were included in this study. The results of the mediation analysis indicated that sleep quality partially mediated the relationship between neurotic, extraversion, agreeableness, and conscientiousness of young adults and sub-health. Family health played a moderating role between the sleep quality and agreeableness of young adults. The cross-sectional study limits conclusions about causal relationships between factors. Family health and sleep quality can influence sub-health in Chinese young adults with different personality traits. • Sleep quality and family health influence the sub-health of Chinese young adults. • Sleep quality played the mediating role between personality and sub-health. • The mediation role of sleep quality was moderated by family health in the relationship between young adults' agreeableness and their sub-health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• The animal species richness in four forest types were very similar to each other. • Low-elevation primary forest had the largest relative abundant index of animals. • Low-elevation primary forest preferred by most species while secondary forest by one. • Plantation and secondary forest played important roles of supporting animal species. China's primary forest has gone through the extensive deforestation and further restoration since 1950s. However, little is known about how animal diversity responds to restoration. Here, we used camera trapping to monitor diversity of large-and-medium mammals for three years (2014–2017) in four forest habitat types in the Qinling Mountains: high-elevation primary forest, low-elevation primary forest, secondary forest, and plantation forest. The species richness did not vary between forest types (n = 17–18). But the relative abundant index (RAI) was higher in low-elevation primary (3.00%), followed by plantation forest (1.77%), secondary forest (0.89%), and high-elevation primary forest (0.74%), respectively. In term of habitat using, low-elevation primary forest was the most preferred habitat by the animals (11 species), followed by high-elevation forest (5 species), and plantation forest (4 species), while secondary forest was only preferred by 1 species. Species' preferences on forest habitat types were stable during daytime and night-time but significantly changed in different seasons. Our study indicated that both plantation forest and secondary forest in the Qinling Mountains played important roles of supporting animal species. Thus a comprehensive management is required for biodiversity conservation in the Qinling Mountains. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Algal and bacterial organisms from saline environment were co-cultured. • Algal-bacterial consortium promoted carbon sink via CaCO 3 precipitation. • Mechanism of algal-bacterial consortium for biological-driven carbon sink in saline environment is proposed. • Saline environments provide significant carbon sink via algal-bacterial consortium. • Emphasize the ecological significance of saline lakes globally. The level of atmospheric CO 2 has continuously been increasing and the resulting greenhouse effects are receiving attention globally. Carbon removal from the atmosphere occurs naturally in various ecosystems. Among them, saline environments contribute significantly to the global carbon cycle. Carbonate deposits in the sediments of salt lakes are omnipresent, and the biological effects, especially driven by halophilic microalgae and bacteria, on carbonate formation remain to be elucidated. The present study aims to characterize the carbonates formed in saline environments and demonstrate the mechanisms underlying biological-driven CO 2 removal via microalgal-bacterial consortium. The carbonates naturally formed in saline environments were collected and analyzed. Two saline representative organisms, the photosynthetic microalga Dunaliella salina and its mutualistic halophilic bacteria Nesterenkonia sp. were isolated from the inhabiting saline environment and co-cultivated to study their biological effects on carbonates precipitation and isotopic composition. During this process, electrochemical parameters and Ca2+ flux, and expression of genes related to CaCO 3 formation were analyzed. Genome sequencing and metagenomic analysis were conducted to provide molecular evidence. The results showed that natural saline sediments are enriched with CaCO 3 and enrichment of genes related to photosynthesis and ureolysis. The co-cultivation stimulated 54.54% increase in CaCO 3 precipitation and significantly promoted the absorption of external CO 2 by 49.63%. A pH gradient was formed between the bacteria and algae culture, creating 150.22 mV of electronic potential, which might promote Ca2+ movement toward D. salina cells. Based on the results of lab-scale induction and 13C analysis, a theoretical calculation indicates a non-negligible amount of 0.16 and 2.3 Tg C/year carbon sequestration in China and global saline lakes, respectively. The combined effects of these two typical representative species have contributed to the carbon sequestration in saline environments, by promoting Ca2+ influx and increase of pH via microalgal and bacterial metabolic processes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Three-dimensional porous SnO 2 /rGO hollow spheres with abundant internal void space were designed to resolve the volume expansion problem of SnO 2 -based anode materials for sodium-ion batteries. The unique hollow spheres with a porous wall of SnO 2 decorated GO sheets were realized by a facile spray drying method. Nanosized SnO 2 particles, which uniformly anchored on graphene sheets, in situ formed at the hydrolysis stage. Ethanol was used as porosity tuning agent to achieve template free pore-forming. The hollow spheres of porous SnO 2 /rGO composite show superior sodium storage performance with large specific capacity, remarkable cycling stability and excellent rate capability. The as-prepared SnO 2 /rGO composite delivered a high initial discharge capacity of 821.6 mA h g−1 at 200 mA g−1, and even after 1500 charge/discharge cycles a discharge capacity of 204 mA h g−1 still can be obtained. The SnO 2 /rGO composite achieved a capacity of 213.1 mA h g−1 at 500 mA g−1 after 500 cycles. And maintained an enhanced rate capability of 231 mA h g−1 at 2000 mA g−1. The excellent cyclability and high-rate capability of the composite can be ascribed to its unique hollow/porous architecture and the synergistic effect between SnO 2 nanoparticles and the conductive matrix of rGOs. Graphical abstract Schematic illustration of the procedure for the synthesis of the SnO 2 /rGO composites (A). TEM image of Sn(OH) 4 nanoparticles decorated GO sheets (B). SEM image of Sn(OH) 4 microsphere (C). SEM image of SnO 2 /rGO microsphere (D). 3D Porous SnO 2 /rGO hollow spheres with abundant internal void space were prepared by a facile spray drying method. The unique hollow spheres with a porous wall of SnO 2 decorated GO sheets can efficiently resolve the volume expansion problem of SnO 2 -based anode materials for sodium-ion batteries. The as-prepared SnO 2 /rGO composites exhibited a high reversible capacity, a long cycle life and a good rate capability when used as anode for sodium-ion batteries. Unlabelled Image Highlights • 3D Porous SnO 2 /rGO hollow spheres with abundant internal void space were prepared by a facile spray drying method. • Nanosized SnO 2 particles, which uniformly anchored on graphene sheets, in situ formed at the hydrolysis stage. • Ethanol was used as porosity tuning agent to achieve template-free pore forming. • The 3D hollow spheres of porous SnO 2 /rGO composite show superior sodium storage performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The IUCN Red List has downgraded several species from "endangered" to "vulnerable" that still have largely unknown extinction risks. We consider one of those downgraded species, the giant panda, a bamboo specialist. Massive bamboo flowering could be a natural disaster for giant pandas. Using scenario analysis, we explored possible impacts of the next bamboo flowering in the Qinling and Minshan Mountains that are home to most giant pandas. Our results showed that the Qinling Mountains could experience large-scale bamboo flowering leading to a high risk of widespread food shortages for the giant pandas by 2020. The Minshan Mountains could similarly experience a large-scale bamboo flowering with a high risk for giant pandas between 2020 and 2030 without suitable alternative habitat in the surrounding areas. These scenarios highlight thus-far unforeseen dangers of conserving giant pandas in a fragmented habitat. We recommend advance measures to protect giant panda from severe population crashes when flowering happens. This study also suggests the need to anticipate and manage long-term risks to other downgraded species. • Panda habitats in both mountains are at high risk of experiencing large-scale bamboo flowering in 2020. • Our scenarios highlight thus-far unforeseen dangers of conserving pandas in a fragmented habitat. • Our study suggests the need to anticipate and manage long-term risks to other species even after their downgrading. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights • The intermediate disturbance hypothesis was tested by phytoplankon communities. • We provided a field test on the hypothesis in Changguangxi Wetland in Wuxi, China. • The hypothesis was confirmed by the phytoplankton composition similarity. • The water quality failed to be an indicator of disturbance. Abstract The species dynamics is the feature of the ecosystem succession and is a key issue in the disturbance ecology. The intermediate disturbance hypothesis proposes that the highest diversity is maintained at intermediate scales of disturbance. This hypothesis has been applied to phytoplankton in water-body. It was found out that a low similarity between consecutive water samples is the result of a drastic disturbance, whereas a high similarity indicates a stable condition. To investigate whether the intermediate disturbance hypothesis is applicable to phytoplankton communities in water-body with a pollution gradient, we provided a field test in Changguangxi National Urban Wetland Park in Wuxi, China. We sampled once a month over a span of four seasons. The phytoplankton species were identified, and water quality monitoring was conducted as the disturbance factor in this study, which included the carbon, nitrogen and phosphorus concentrations. We calculated the similarities of phytoplankton species and water quality among the sampling locations and regarded them as the indicators of disturbance to study the impacts of water pollution. Our results indicated that: (1) the fitting curves of phytoplankton community diversity and similarity showed unimodal patterns over four seasons, which supported the intermediate disturbance hypothesis; (2) the response of phytoplankton diversity to water quality levels was not clear. When the water quality similarity was plotted against the phytoplankton diversity, there was no unimodal relationship, neither in the particular season nor over an entire year. We concluded that in this study the intermediate disturbance hypothesis was confirmed by the phytoplankton composition similarity, but water quality failed to be an indicator of a disturbance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Three-dimensional reduced graphene oxide (RGO) matrix decorated with nanoflowers of layered MoS2 (denoted as 3D MoS2/RGO) have been synthesized via a facile one-pot stepwise hydrothermal method. Graphene oxide (GO) is used as precursor of RGO and a 3D GO network is formed in the first-step of hydrothermal treatment. At the second stage of hydrothermal treatment, nanoflowers of layered MoS2 form and anchor on the surface of previously formed 3D RGO network. In this preparation, thiourea not only induces the formation of the 3D architecture at a relatively low temperature, but also works as sulfur precursor of MoS2. The synthesized composites have been investigated with XRD, SEM, TEM, Raman spectra, TGA, N2 sorption technique and electrochemical measurements. In comparison with normal MoS2/RGO composites, the 3D MoS2/RGO composite shows improved electrochemical performance as anode material for lithium-ion batteries. A high reversible capacity of 930 mAh ⋅ g − 1 after 130 cycles under a current density of 200 mA ⋅ g − 1 as well as good rate capability and superior cyclic stability have been observed. The superior electrochemical performance of the 3D MoS2/RGO composite as anode active material for lithium-ion battery is ascribed to its robust 3D structures, enhanced surface area and the synergistic effect between graphene matrix and the MoS2 nanoflowers subunit. MoS2 nanoflowers anchored onto three-dimensional reduced graphene oxide (RGO) matrix (denoted as 3D MoS2/RGO) have been successfully fabricated by a facile one-pot stepwise hydrothermal method. The as-synthesized 3D MoS2/RGO composites exhibited improved cycling stability and outstanding rate capacity as anode active material for lithium-ion batteries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract The microwave sintering method is found to have advantages over the conventional thermal treatment method for preparing BaZr 0.1 Ce 0.7 Y 0.2 O 3-δ powder. Comparing with the conventional thermal treatment, the microwave sintering method allows the solid material to be self-heated, enabling the formation of pure phase BaZr 0.1 Ce 0.7 Y 0.2 O 3-δ powder at a relatively low temperature (900 °C) with a short dwell time of 1 h, while the same pure phase can only be formed at 1000 °C in an electric furnace. Importantly, the grain size for the microwave prepared BaZr 0.1 Ce 0.7 Y 0.2 O 3-δ powder is much smaller than that of the conventionally thermal treated BaZr 0.1 Ce 0.7 Y 0.2 O 3-δ powder. The small powder grain size is found to be beneficial for the densification and grain growth of the resultant electrolyte membrane during the electrolyte sintering procedure. A fuel cell fabricated using this electrolyte membrane with a conductivity of 7 × 10−3 S cm−1 delivers a power output of 791 mW cm−2 at 700 °C. Highlights • Microwave sintering was used to prepare BaZr 0.1 Ce 0.7 Y 0.2 O 3-δ powder at 900 °C. • Microwave sintering allowed a small grain size of 25 nm for the as-prepared powder. • Microwave prepared BaZr 0.1 Ce 0.7 Y 0.2 O 3-δ powder benefited the electrolyte preparation. • High electrolyte conductivity and desirable fuel cell performance were achieved. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights • Secondary forests had the highest tree and shrub species. • High-elevation primary forests had the most unique tree and grass-herb species. • Low-elevation primary forest had the most unique shrub species. • Primary forests should be prioritized for protection. • Natural recovery is an effective approach for maintaining biodiversity. Abstract Logging and restoration practices have significant impacts on the biodiversity of forest ecosystems. We studied the plant diversity patterns in temperate forests with different logging and restoration histories: the primary forest (no logging history), the secondary forest (natural recovery after logging) and the plantation forest (human planting after logging). In 2014 and 2015, we selected 12 plots with 24 trees, 48 shrub and 48 grass-herb quadrates on the southern slope of the Qinling Mountains in northwest China. We measured tree, shrub and grass-herb species in selected quadrates. Our results showed that: (1) the diversity indexes of the secondary and plantation forests were not significantly lower than those of the primary forests; (2) the secondary forest had the highest tree and shrub species richness, followed by the low-elevation primary forest and the plantation forest respectively; (3) the high-elevation primary forest had the most unique tree and grass-herb species while the low-elevation primary forest had the most unique shrub species; and (4) compared with the primary forests, the species composition similarity indexes of the secondary forest and plantation forest had little difference. Our results indicate that primary forests play an irreplaceable role in forest biodiversity whereas secondary forests and plantation forests are still of biodiversity importance. We suggest that primary forests should be prioritized for protection while natural recovery as secondary forests in Qinling temperate region is an effective approach for maintaining biodiversity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Unique and novel Pd 4 Sn nanochain networks were successfully synthesized with an average diameter of 5 nm, rendering a modified Pd electronic structure with rich defects such as atomic corners, steps or ledges as catalytic active sites for great enhancement of charge transfer and electrode kinetics. The prepared Pd 4 Sn nanochain networks held an electrochemically active surface area as high as 119.40 m 2  g −1 , and exhibited higher catalytic activity and stability toward formic acid oxidation compared with Pd 3 Sn nanochain networks, Pd 5 Sn nanochain networks, Pd 4 Sn dendrites and Pd/C. The fundamental insight of the enhancement mechanism is discussed, and this work offers a novel, less expensive but highly active catalyst for direct formic acid fuel cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A one-step high-temperature solvothermal approach to the synthesis of monolayer or bilayer MoS2 anchored onto reduced graphene oxide (RGO) sheet (denoted as MoS2/RGO) is described. It was found that single-layered or double-layered MoS2 were synthesized directly without an extra exfoliation step and well dispersed on the surface of crumpled RGO sheets with random orientation. The prepared MoS2/RGO composites delivered a high reversible capacity of 900 mAhg − 1 after 200 cycles at a current density of 200 mAg − 1 as well as good rate capability as anode active material for lithium ion batteries. This one-step high-temperature hydrothermal strategy provides a simple, cost-effective and eco-friendly way to the fabrication of exfoliated MoS2 layers deposited onto RGO sheets. Monolayer or bilayer MoS2 anchored onto reduced graphene oxide (RGO) sheet (denoted as MoS2/RGO) has been successfully fabricated by a one-step high-temperature solvothermal approach up to 350∘C. The as-synthesized MoS2/RGO composites delivered a high reversible capacity of 900 mAhg−1 after 200 cycles at a current density of 200 mAg−1 as well as good rate capability as anode active material for lithium ion batteries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The porosity of carbon materials can be tuned by controlling the template removal strategies in silica/carbon composites. In this study, chitosan was used as precursor for carbon, and SiO 2 nanoparticles were selected as the template for mesopores. The spray drying technique was adopted for the fabrication of silica/chitosan microspheres. Porous carbon with hierarchical macro/meso/micro pores was obtained through a facile one-pot high temperature treatment, in which the pyrolysis of the chitosan precursor, removal of the silica template, and introduction of macropores coordinatively occur using PTFE (polytetrafluoroethylene) binder as a silica etchant and also as a macropore director. This approach not only simplifies the fabrication processes but also yields regular honeycomb-like carbon with macro/meso/micro-sized hierarchical pore structure with high specific surface areas up to 1011 m 2  g −1 . A supercapacitor assembled with porous carbon as the electrode exhibited a high specific capacitance of 250.5 F g −1 at a current density of 0.5 A g −1 using 6 mol L −1 KOH as the electrolyte in a three-electrode system. The supercapacitor also delivered excellent cycling stability with an enhancement of capacity up to 107% over 5000 cycles at a high current density of 10 A g −1 . [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

While polyaniline holds a great promise as an electrode material for pseudocapacitors, its poor stability against charge/discharge hinders its practical applications. In this work, polymerization of aniline was conducted in the presence of commercial carbon black VXC-72 to prepare polyaniline/VXC-72 composite electrodes. Results showed that the stability of the polyaniline/VXC-72 composite electrode was drastically improved with over 90% capacitance retention after 10,000 cycles at a current density of 2 A g −1 . It was found that VXC-72 particles played an important part in the chemical oxidative polymerisation process – they served not only as nucleation sites on which polymerization underwent to form polyaniline but also determined the morphology of the resultant solid product. The polyaniline/VXC-72 composite electrode materials with different contents of VXC-72 exhibited different morphologies and electrocapacitive performances. This research provides guidelines for designing polyaniline-carbon black composite electrode materials with an excellent stability against cycling, high capacitance, and low cost. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The hydropower capacity of China ranks first in the world and accounts for approximately 20% of the total energy production in the country. While hydropower has substantially contributed to meeting China's renewable energy targets and providing clean energy to rural areas, the development of hydropower in China has been met with significant controversy. Ecologically, hydro projects alter the landscape, with potential impacts to the country's aquatic biodiversity. Over the past four decades in China, various mainstream opinions and misunderstandings have been presented concerning how to alleviate the negative impacts of hydro projects on aquatic ecosystems. This article reviews research concerning potential mitigation measures to enhance aquatic biodiversity conservation in hydro projects in China. Based on the academic attention such research has attracted, three technical measures for aquatic biodiversity conservation are considered: (1) fish passages, (2) restocking efforts and (3) river and lake renovations. This article provides a historical comparison of these three practices in China to demonstrate the advantages and disadvantages of each method. The article also reviews the relevant legislation, regulations and technical guidelines concerning China's hydro projects dating back to 1979. The dynamics in research, publications, and patents concerning these three mitigation measures are summarized to demonstrate their technological developments in the context of legislative and policy advances. Data were gathered through the China Knowledge Resource Integrated Database and the State Intellectual Property Office of the People's Republic of China. Based on the analysis provided, the article recommends an expansion of China's environmental certification system for hydro projects, more robust regional legislation to bolster the national framework, the cooperation between upstream and downstream conservation mechanisms, and better monitoring to determine the efficacy of mitigation measures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

China is in its quick social and economic development which has caused various environmental problems to some extent. Ecological zoning and distinguishing the highly-important ecological areas (also termed as the ecological red-line zone in this study) and protecting them from anthropogenic interference is an effective measure for regional environment protection and sustainable development. In this study, we applied an integrated modeling approach to implement the ecological zoning in the Bohai Rim for regional sustainability, and selected 12 single factors to calculate three integrated indicators: ecosystem sensitivity, ecosystem services and ecological risks. Based on three integrated indicators, we obtained the ecological zoning map with three zones for the study area, which are the highly-important ecological areas, the moderately-important ecological areas and the lowly-important ecological areas. The zoning result showed that the highly- and moderately-important ecological zones cover 23.2% and 37.9% of the Bohai Rim respectively, which should be protected. The remained lowly-important ecological zone covers 38.9% of the Bohai Rim, which can be used for economic and industry development. This study shows that the zoning approach is reasonable and instructive to guide and arrange the land use for regional sustainable development. Such an ecological zoning can greatly solve the conflicts between environmental protection and regional economic and industry development and further forms a safe ecological pattern. Two contributions of our work are that (1) our modeling approach is scientific, reasonable and meaningful for other planning works and can be used for reference to the regions and countries with similar situation, and (2) the zoning pattern mapped in our study is helpful to guide Bohai regional development and the safe arrangement of economic and industry development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The balance between economic development and ecological conservation in China has become a critical issue in recent decades. Ecological impact assessment (EcoIA) was established beginning in the 1980s as a component of environmental impact assessment (EIA) that focuses specifically on human-related changes in ecosystem structure and function. EcoIA has since been widely applied throughout the country with continuous refinements in theory and practice. As compared to EIA, EcoIA is often performed at a larger scale in the long-term, and thus requires more advanced tools and techniques to quantify and assess. This paper reviews the development of EcoIA over the past 30 years in China, with specific consideration given to refinements in legislation and methodology. Three stages in the development of EcoIA in China are identified, along with their achievements and limitations. Supplementing this qualitative analysis, the paper also provides a quantitative bibliometrics review of academic publications concerning EcoIA in China over the three identified stages. Lastly, general trends in the development of EcoIA are summarized with the aim of conveying potential future trajectories. This review is intended to introduce the EcoIA system to scholars interested in the growing field of environmental management in China. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The halotolerant green alga Dunaliella salina is widely cultivated in the industrial-scale production of natural β-carotene (containing 9-cis and all-trans isomers) due to its high carotenoid content. The management of environmental factors such as nitrogen deficiency is an efficient way to induce the production of β-carotene. However, it is not clear how changes in nitrogen concentration and the resulting changes in the carbon–nitrogen (C/N) ratio affect the β-carotene isomer configuration ratio and content. In this study, D. salina HG01 was cultured under different C/N ratios, growth parameters, β-carotene content and the ratio of two isomers, intracellular substance content, and antioxidant enzyme activity were determined. The results showed that although a large amount of β-carotene was accumulated in algae cells under a high C/N ratio, the high C/N ratio was not conducive to the increase of β-carotene content in unit culture volume and the proportion of 9-cis-β-carotene. However, the β-carotene content in per unit of culture volume (14.70 μg mL−1) under a medium C/N ratio and the proportion of 9-cis-β-carotene (39.31%) under a low C/N ratio were relatively higher. In addition, transcriptome sequencing revealed changes in the expression of genes related to photosynthesis, carbon and nitrogen. This study integrates the physiological and transcriptomics data related with β-carotene configuration changes in D. salina under different C/N ratios, which has practical implications for the industrial production of β-carotene. By optimizing the C/N ratio during cultivation, it is possible to enhance β-carotene content and improve the desired 9-cis isomer proportion. These findings can contribute to the development of more efficient and cost-effective production methods for natural β-carotene, thereby benefiting D. salina-based β-carotene industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tibet makes up the majority of the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau, often referred to as the roof of the world. Its complex landforms, physiognomy, and climate create a special heterogeneous environment for mosses. Each moss species inhabits its own habitat and ecological niche. This, in combination with its sensitivity to environmental change, makes moss species distribution a useful indicator of vegetation alteration and climate change. This study aimed to characterize the diversity and distribution of Didymodon (Pottiaceae) in Tibet, and model the potential distribution of its species. A total of 221 sample plots, each with a size of 10 × 10 m and located at different altitudes, were investigated across all vegetation types. Of these, the 181 plots in which Didymodon species were found were used to conduct analyses and modeling. Three noteworthy results were obtained. First, a total of 22 species of Didymodon were identified. Among these, Didymodon rigidulus var. subulatus had not previously been recorded in China, and Didymodon constrictus var. constrictus was the dominant species. Second, analysis of the relationships between species distributions and environmental factors using canonical correspondence analysis revealed that vegetation cover and altitude were the main factors affecting the distribution of Didymodon in Tibet. Third, based on the environmental factors of bioclimate, topography and vegetation, the distribution of Didymodon was predicted throughout Tibet at a spatial resolution of 1 km, using the presence-only MaxEnt model. Climatic variables were the key factors in the model. We conclude that the environment plays a significant role in moss diversity and distribution. Based on our research findings, we recommend that future studies should focus on the impacts of climate change on the distribution and conservation of Didymodon. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In order to better regionalize and discuss the rationality/irrationality of the spatial patterns China’ food provision, food production and population data was collected and GIS spatial analysis and modeling methods were used. Multi-level spatial analysis and contrast between North and South China was carried out from three aspects: (1) Ecosystem food provision potential (EFPP). Step-by-step-modifying models were constructed to assess EFPP, parameters including solar radiation, temperature, humidity, topography, soil, and landuse. (2) Conversion ratio of the EFPP (CRFP), representing the ratio of actual food production to the EFPP. High EFPP and low CRFP means high remaining food potential for future exploration (or protecting, increasing). (3) Population pressure of food provision (PPFP). PPFP was calculated based on food production, population, nutrition ingredient, and consumption standards. High PPFP means food deficiency. Results : (1) The EFPP in South and Southeast China is much higher than in the North regions, while the CRFP is the opposite; this means the South and Southeast China has more remaining food potential to explore (or to protect). CRFP in Northeast China is the highest (81%), indicating the food provision in Northeast China is approaching its maximum potential. In the future it is not wise to rely solely on food provision increases in North China, which may aggravate some problems like water shortage and ecosystem deterioration. (2) PPFP in the South and Southeast of China is much greater than in the North and has been rising, indicating that South and Southeast China have deficiency in food supply and is more and more dependent on food transportation from North China. It is necessary to preserve the fertile and high-yielding croplands as well as reclaim new food resources in the southern and eastern to improve its food self-sufficiency. From the above results, we can derive that the “North Grain to South” (NGS) pattern of China is irrational. This is in opposition to the present pattern of NGS but consistent with some other studies of domain experts, who also claim the NGS pattern may need adjustment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The database of prospective zeolites (www.hypotheticalzeolites.net) has been screened in search of feasible zeolites. Previous criteria of zeolite feasibility have been reviewed, based on descriptors such as energy, density, average and distribution of ring sizes, and more importantly that of Li et al. (LID criteria) presented recently [ Angew. Chem. Int. Ed. 2013, 52, 1673], based on Si-O, O⋯O, and Si⋯Si distances of SLC-minimised structures. In spite of the still large number of feasible zeolites according to this and other criteria, a number of researchers wonder why there are so many feasible and so few synthesised zeolites. Without answering this difficult question, a new criteria is proposed in this study based on the fact that T⋯T⋯T angles (T is tetrahedral atom) show specific ranges of values depending on the ring size to which they belong. Based on improved definitions to count and enumerate rings in zeolites, and with data from the IZA database, we introduce the TTT criteria, which we propose to use after the LID criteria, to further narrow the space of feasible zeolites. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, the effect on coke formation of adding a Ni 0.75 Fe 0.25 catalyst layer to the anode side of a fuel cell running on methane is investigated. The formation of an intermediate FeNi 3 phase can be observed in catalysts annealed at different temperatures. The catalyst annealed at 705 °C has the smallest calculated surface energy and grain size among all catalysts annealed at different temperatures. In addition, the O 2 -TPO profiles and Raman spectra of spent anode material reveal that the catalyst annealed at 705 °C has the best coke resistance among all catalysts. Moreover, the cell with catalyst layer annealed at 705 °C, under a current density of 600 mA cm −2 at 650 °C, experiences a decrease of 10% after operating in methane for 260 min, which is much more stable than that without catalyst layer (a decrease of 50%). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Background context: Spinal cord injury (SCI) is a serious health issue that may result in high health care costs, with additional social and psychological burdens. Hyperbaric oxygen (HBO) treatment has been found to be beneficial for neurological recovery; however, the underlying mechanisms are yet to be characterized. Purpose: The aim of this study was to investigate the mechanisms of HBO treatment in SCI by measuring the expression levels of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and Connexin43 (CX43) in the injured spinal cord tissue. Study design/setting: An experiment animal study of rats undergoing SCI and HBO treatment. Methods: The spinal cord injury model was established in rats, which were randomly divided into the following four groups: (1) the sham-operated group (SH), (2) the sham-operated and hyperbaric oxygen treatment group (SH+HBO), (3) the spinal cord injury group (SCI), and (4) the spinal cord injury and hyperbaric oxygen treatment group (SCI+HBO). For groups of SH+HBO and SCI+HBO, the animals received 1 hour of HBO at 2.0 ATA in 100% O2 twice per day for 3 days and then daily for the following days consecutively after surgery. After operation, neurological assessments were performed, the spinal cord tissue samples were harvested for histopathological evaluation, Western blot and real-time polymerase chain reaction analysis. Results: The Basso-Bettie-Bresnahan scores were significantly improved in the SCI+HBO group compared with the SCI group on the postoperative 7th and 14th days. The histology scores were significantly decreased by HBO treatment compared with that in the SCI group on the postoperative 3rd, 7th, and 14th days. Western blot analysis and real-time polymerase chain reaction revealed that the expression level of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) in the SCI+HBO group was significantly increased compared with the SCI group. The protein expression level of CX43 and its mRNA level in the SCI+HBO group were significantly decreased on the postoperative 3rd and 7th days, whereas its expression was significantly increased by HBO treatment on the postoperative 14th day compared with the SCI group. Conclusions: HBO treatment improved neurological recovery when applied after SCI. The expression level changes of VEGF and CX43 may contribute to the further understanding on the molecular mechanisms of HBO treatment on SCI. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Highlights: Remote sensing model SEBAL was applied to show the patterns of evapotranspiration in the source region of the Yellow River, China, as alpine grassland-wetland ecosystems. Based on the numberical relationships in the correlation analysis of the key variables, the cause–effect chain was conducted to describe the typical situations of the hydro-heat in the area. The approaches of validation for SEBAL model in the recent decade were summarized to reflect a proper solution to compare the retrieved with the observed values. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Ecological indicators or indices have been widely used to simplify and measure complex ecosystems. It is critical to identify suitable indicators or indices to improve monitoring and understanding of complex natural systems. Camera trapping is an objective technique that can provide a large amount of information on wildlife. The purpose of our study is to explore the effective ecological indices for wildlife diversity analysis and monitoring in Guanyinshan Nature Reserve of Shaanxi Province, China. Since July 2009, a total of 18 cameras were installed in the reserve from August 2009 to July 2011, collecting 2115 photo captures during these 24 months. We developed five abundance indices, including relative abundance index (RAI), monthly relative abundance index (MRAI), time-period relative abundance index (TRAI), night-time relative abundance index (NRAI) and species abundance index (N) to integrate the information derived from captures. Results are: (1) 27 species were detected and 6 species had high RAI values of over 79.3%, including takin (Budorcas taxicolor), common goral (Naemorhedus goral), tufted deer (Elaphodus cephalophus), golden pheasant (Chrysolophus pictus), wild boar (Sus scrofa), and mainland serow (Capricornis sumatraensis). (2) MRAI shows a consistent monthly activity pattern of all animals being active in June and July and inactive in February. (3) TRAIs of the most abundant six species show that takin, tufted deer and common goral have the similar daily activity pattern with one peak at dawn and one peak at dusk. The daily activity patterns of golden pheasant and wild boar show that they are most active during the day time, with wild boar being particularly active at noon. NRAIs of mainland serow show the highest nocturnality and of golden pheasant the lowest nocturnality. (4) We estimated abundance of takin, tufted deer and wild boar by using our developed index. The abundance for the three species shows an increasing trend during the 2-year study period, particularly for wild boar. Our results provided an interesting comparison of species diversity and their activity patterns. As trapping continues we will have a consistent source of monitoring data to evaluate changes in species abundance and activities. Therefore, the conclusion is that the methods we used and the indices we developed are capable to estimate species activity patterns and abundance dynamics which are useful for future wildlife management in Guanyinshan Nature Reserve and elsewhere. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The problem of finite-time control for singular linear semi-Markov jump systems (SMJSs) with unknown transition rates is considered in this paper. By designing a new semi-positive definite Lyapunov-like function, state feedback controller design methods are given that allow closed-loop singular linear SMJSs to be regular, impulse-free and stochastically finite-time-stable without external disturbance, and stochastically finite-time bounded with external disturbance. The obtained conditions are expressed by a set of strict matrix inequalities, which can be simplified to a set of linear matrix inequalities by a one dimensional search for a scalar. Two numerical examples are given to illustrate the effectiveness of proposed method. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Solar radiation is an important parameter in ecological process modeling, hydrological modeling and bio-physical modeling. However, models focusing on solar radiation in relation to giant panda habitat and seasonal distribution are limited. The research aims to form spatial models of 12 month solar radiation patterns and to investigate the relation between the solar radiation patterns and the monthly distribution patterns of giant pandas. The solar radiation model of Kumar et al. was adopted for this study in Foping Nature Reserve (NR), China. By comparing twelve monthly solar radiation patterns and calculating statistics such as maximum, minimum, mean and standard deviation of the solar radiation, diversified solar radiation patterns over different months were obtained. Maximum solar radiation occurred in June and July, while minimum solar radiation occurred in December and January. The annual sum of solar radiation was 6954MJ/m2 in Foping NR. The range in solar radiation was smaller in hot months and larger in cold months. Radio tracking data of giant pandas were collected for twelve months and the ensuing maps were overlaid with the twelve-month solar radiation map to analyze the relation between the giant panda's monthly distribution and solar radiation. Our results showed that giant pandas prefer areas with lower solar radiation in warm months and select areas with higher solar radiation in cold months, which illustrates that the distribution of giant pandas is indeed affected by solar radiation. To a certain degree, it also explains the behavior of seasonal movement by giant pandas in Foping NR. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Land development has impacted natural landforms extensively, causing a decline in resources and negative consequences to elephant populations, habitats, and gene flow. Often, elephants seek to fulfill basic needs by wandering into nearby human communities, which leads to human–elephant conflict (HEC), a serious threat to conserving this endangered species. Understanding elephant space use and connectivity among their habitats can offset barriers to ecological flow among fragmented populations. We focused on the Keonjhar Forest Division in Eastern India, where HEC has resulted in the deaths of ~300 people and several hundred elephants, and damaged ~4100 houses and ~12,700 acres of cropland between 2001 and 2018. Our objectives were to (1) analyze elephant space use based on their occupancy; (2) map connectivity by considering the land structure and HEC occurrences; (3) assess the quality of mapped connectivity and identify potential bottlenecks. We found that (1) the study area has the potential to sustain a significant elephant population by providing safe connectivity; (2) variables like forests, precipitation, rural built-up areas, cropland, and transportation networks were responsible for predicting elephant presence (0.407, SE = 0.098); (3) five habitat cores, interconnected by seven corridors were identified, of which three habitat cores were vital for maintaining connectivity; (4) landscape features, such as cropland, rural built-up, mining, and transportation networks created bottlenecks that could funnel elephant movement. Our findings also indicate that overlooking HEC in connectivity assessments could lead to overestimation of functionality. The study outcomes can be utilized as a preliminary tool for decision making and early planning during development projects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Reasonable zoning of the nature reserve (NR) is the key to maintain the reserve''s ecological functions for sustainable development. Many zoning designs in the past years were too subjective and lack of scientific contents. The aim of this paper is to find the new approaches for NRs’ functional zoning. We firstly analyzed the practical problems occurred in the functional zoning of giant panda NRs in China. Secondly, a reasonable index system to guide zoning was established for the case study area—Laoxiancheng NR. Finally two new zoning approaches were developed, which were all automatic realization methods based on spatial analysis using GIS. The habitat suitability assessment (HSA)-based approach considered both natural landscape factors and human disturbing factors. It integrated the outputs of landscape suitability assessment and human disturbance assessment with overlaying the trail density of giant pandas. The HSA zoning showed that (1) 72.2% trail locations of giant panda lied within the core zone, while all human settlements were sited inside the experimental zone; (2) the core zone contained 82.3% suitable habitat patches, while the experimental zone defined 82% human disturbed areas. The least-cost distance calculation (LCDC)-based approach described the degrees of species conservation and of landscape resistance on species. The animal''s selective movement process could be reflected by the spatial variation of the least-cost distance. We classified the least-cost distance using the standard deviation and obtained three thresholds for the core, buffer and experimental zones of Laoxiancheng NR. The LCDC zoning showed that (1) the selection of three thresholds for functional zoning was the key step of this approach; (2) the different safety-level zonings can be designed by utilizing the classification of standard deviation; and the used medium safety-level zoning produced the core, buffer and experimental zones with the areas of 77.37, 22.51 and 25.25km2, respectively. Two zoning results demonstrated that two approaches will be useful for species conservation and NR management and can be applied and extended to the relevant nature reserves which aim at the preservation of the endangered species and their habitats. They make it possible to avoid the subjective and non-scientific zoning. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Presents a study which examined the movement patterns of the giant panda in Foping Nature Reserve, China between 1991 and 1995 using radiotracking data. Overview of studies on the movement of the giant panda; Description of the study area; Methods used; Results of the study; Discussion.

The direct ethanol fuel cells are considered as a kind of green portable power sources with high energy density and stable convert efficiency. Alloyed PdM performs highly efficient electrocatalyst for ethanol oxidation reaction. In this study, a facile one-step oil bath method was conducted to synthesize alloyed PdSn nanoparticle (NP) assembly in ethylene glycol solution with the help of cetyltrimethyl-ammonium bromide and L -ascorbic acid. Among various alloyed PdSn NPs, alloyed PdSn-15 NP showed much enhanced current density (2230 mA mg−1) in cyclic voltammetric measurements for ethanol electrooxidation, compared to pure Pd NP (1120 mA mg−1). The former has a lower electron transfer barrier, anti-poisoning performance and better catalytic stability than that of latter, closely relative to its optimized coordination environment and change of d -band center of palladium. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective. Hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) has been recommended for the initial and salvage treatment of patients with idiopathic sudden sensorineural hearing loss (ISSHL), but its underlying mechanisms remain unclear. In this study, we investigated whether HBOT alters serum levels of insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1) and heat shock protein 70 (HSP70) in patients with ISSHL. Then, we identified the relationship between hearing recovery and changes in serum IGF-1 and HSP70 levels. Methods. Moderately severe to profound unilateral ISSHL patients (n = 70) and healthy control participants (n = 30) were enrolled. The ISSHL patients were randomly assigned to receive medical therapy alone (MT group, n = 35) or both HBOT and medical therapy (HBOT + MT group, n = 35). Audiometric testing was performed before and after treatment. Serum IGF-1 and HSP70 levels were assessed by ELISA in ISSHL patients pre-and posttreatment and healthy controls. Results. Before treatment, compared with the healthy controls, serum IGF-1 and HSP70 were lower in ISSHL patients. After treatment, serum IGF-1 and HSP70 increased in both the HBOT + MT and MT groups, although they were significantly higher in the HBOT + MT group (p < 0.01). In the HBOT + MT group, these increases were associated with hearing gains. In addition, IGF-1 was strongly associated with HSP70 (r = 0.621, p = 0.001). No such association was found in the MT group (p = 0.757). Conclusion. Administering HBOT in addition to medical therapy can improve the hearing of patients with moderately severe to profound unilateral ISSHL. The improvement is related to the upregulation of IGF-1 and HSP70. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT) has definitive therapeutic effects on spinal cord injury (SCI), but its mechanism of action is still unclear. Here, we've conducted a systemic proteomic analysis to identify differentially expressed proteins (DEPs) between SCI rats and HBOT + SCI rats. The function clustering analysis showed that the top enriched pathways of DEPs include oxygen transport activity, oxygen binding, and regulation of T cell proliferation. The results of functional and signal pathway analyses indicated that metabolic pathways, thermogenesis, LXR/RXR activation, acute phase response signaling, and the intrinsic prothrombin pathway in the SCI + HBOT group was higher than SCI group. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Bayan Har block (BHB) is one of the areas with the strongest seismicity in China. Since 1997, six earthquakes with magnitudes of 7 or greater have occurred in this block. The activity of earthquakes has shown a trend of increasing from the edge of the BHB to its interior. In this article, three-dimensional inversion was used to generate the electrical resistivity structure in the Maerkang earthquake area based on magnetotelluric data in the Maerkang earthquake area in the southeast of the BHB. Combined with the electrical resistivity structure characteristics of the Maduo earthquake area in 2021 and the Jiuzhaigou earthquake area in 2017, the seismogenic environment and tectonic deformation in the BHB were revealed and analyzed. The electrical resistivity structure revealed that the Songgang fault was an electrical resistivity contrast zone that extends into the middle and lower crust, and connects to the Dari fault zone to the northwest, which is the seismogenic fault of the 2022 Maerkang earthquakes. The resistivity structure of the BHB exhibits a layered structure with a widespread high-conductivity layer in the middle and lower crust. The burial depth of the high-conductivity layer is undulating in waves along the profile, which may be a deep manifestation of the strong shortening deformation in the middle and lower crust of the region. The lower crust of the BHB is a medium with a high melt fraction, which may provide a material source for the flow of the middle and lower crust in the northeastern part of the Tibetan Plateau and may be an important controlling factor in the occurrence of moderate and strong earthquakes in the region. • Electrical Resistivity Structure near the Maerkang earthquakes was constructed. • Bayan Har block has a high conductivity mid-lower crust. • High conductivity mid-lower crust may be the important controlling factor of the occurrence of strong earthquakes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aqueous lithium‐ion batteries (ALIBs) have attracted extensive interest since the safety problems of traditional lithium‐ion batteries are waived. Although the energy density of ALIBs is improved, their rate capability and power density are still poor due to the slow Li+ diffusivity of the existing anode materials, and their cyclic stability is also poor. Here, W7Nb4O31 nanorods with very fast‐ and stable‐charging capability are explored as a new anode material for ALIBs for the first time. This material owns different tetragonal tungsten bronze (TTB) structures together with 4 × 4 ReO3‐type blocks confined by TTB matrices, allowing abundant pentagonal and quadrangular tunnels for Li+ transport. These large‐sized tunnels combine with the large interlayer spacing (≈3.95 Å) not only lead to extremely fast Li+ diffusivity but also small unit‐cell volume variations (maximum 2.1%) during lithiation/delithiation, thereby enabling the LiMn2O4//W7Nb4O31 full cell to possess excellent rate capability with a 50C versus 1C capacity ratio of 68.3%, ultrahigh power density of 9854 W kg–1, and superior cyclic stability with capacity retention of 89.7/66.7/72.0% at 1C/5C/50C over 1000/10 000/10 000 cycles. This comprehensive study demonstrates that the W7Nb4O31 nanorods are highly promising for fast‐ and stable‐charging ALIBs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In a rail transit system, there is a constant leakage of current from the subway rails to the earth, and these stray currents have complex propagation paths and a wide range of influence. Since no stray current collection devices are installed at subway depots, some of the stray current leaking from the mainline will converge at the depot, seriously corroding the structural reinforcement and buried metal of the station, thereby jeopardizing the normal operation of subway trains and passenger safety. In this paper, a field-circuit coupling method is proposed to analyze the current leakage and distribution law of the subway mainline and depot. It is found that the failure of the gauge block at the mainline will trigger the maximum leakage of rail current. Additionally, it is observed that the stray current distribution at the depot is mainly influenced by the operating status of the one-way conduction device (OWCD) and the change of rail potential. These results validate the applicability and effectiveness of the field-circuit coupling method proposed in this paper and provide new technical support for the study of stray current leakage distribution in subways. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• CRISPR-Cas9 gene editing platform was established for Lb. paracasei. • High-temperature resistant strain was obtained via adaptive evolution. • L-lactic acid titer and productivity was above 220 g/L and 7.5 g/L/h respectively. • Both L-lactic acid optical and chemical purity exceeded 99.0% • Open fermentation produced high-quality L-lactic acid with high sugar concentration. The main indicators for industrial production of high-quality lactic acid at elevated temperatures are high titer, productivity, yield, and optical purity. However, no such strains have been reported to meet all these requirements simultaneously. In this study, a high optical purity L-lactic acid producing strain is developed through the CRISPR-Cas9 gene editing platform. Further, adaptive evolution was used to breed and select a high-performance strain (NCBIO01-M2- ldhL 1-HT) that could efficiently produce L-lactic acid at a high temperature of 45℃. This strain produced 221.0 g/L of L-lactic acid in open fermentation with high initial glucose concentration. Also, L-lactic acid productivity and yield was above 7.5 g/L/h and 0.96 g/g respectively, as well as the optical purity of L-lactic acid in the fermentation broth exceeded 99.1%. In short, this breeding strain possess high potential to be considered for the commercial production of polymer-grade L-lactic acid. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Water-borne polyurethanes are novel functional polymers that use water as the dispersion medium. When compared with solvent-borne polyurethanes, water-borne polyurethanes are more environmentally friendly and easier to transport and store. Water-borne polyurethanes have attracted increasing attention due to their extensive applications in plastics, paints, adhesives, inks, biomaterials, and other fields. In this study, the characteristics of water-borne polyurethanes were discussed, followed by a review of studies detailing reaction procedures and mechanisms for their continuous production. Additionally, current and future applications of continuous production processes for water-borne polyurethanes are presented. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]