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Obesity-related ciliopathies, as a group of ciliopathies including Alström Syndrome and Bardet–Biedl Syndrome, exhibit distinct genetic and phenotypic variability. The understanding of these diseases is highly significant for understanding the functions of primary cilia in the human body, particularly regarding the relationship between obesity and primary cilia. The diagnosis of these diseases primarily relies on clinical presentation and genetic testing. However, there is a significant lack of research on biomarkers to elucidate the variability in clinical manifestations, disease progression, prognosis, and treatment responses. Through an extensive literature review, the paper focuses on obesity-related ciliopathies, reviewing the advancements in the field and highlighting the potential roles of biomarkers in the clinical presentation, diagnosis, and prognosis of these diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: The mitochondrial genome (mitogenome) has been used extensively to investigate phylogenetic relationships at various taxonomic levels. Insect mitochondrial genomes are important for understanding insect evolution and relationships. We performed complete mitogenome sequencing and annotation for nine Meconematinae species and combined the data with data from previously assembled mitochondrial genomes in the family Tettigoniidae to conduct a phylogenetic analysis. The monophyly of Xizicus, Xiphidiopsis, and Phlugiolopsis was not well supported in our findings. Currently, the subfamily Meconematinae encompasses 1029 species, but whole-mitochondrial-genome assemblies have only been made available for 13. In this study, the whole mitochondrial genomes (mitogenomes) of nine additional species in the subfamily Meconematinae were sequenced. The size ranged from 15,627 bp to 17,461 bp, indicating double-stranded circular structures. The length of the control region was the main cause of the difference in mitochondrial genome length among the nine species. All the mitogenomes including 13 protein-coding genes (PCGs), 22 transfer RNA genes (tRNAs), 2 ribosomal RNA genes (rRNAs) and a control region (CR). The majority strand encoded 23 genes, and the minority strand encoded 14 genes. A phylogenetic analysis reaffirmed the monophyletic status of each subfamily, but the monophysitism of Xizicus, Xiphidiopsis and Phlugiolopsis was not supported. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present-day lithospheric stress state of the Qinghai-Tibetan Plateau and neighboring areas is controlled by both the lithosphere itself and the underlying mantle. In other words, the stress is affected by the gravitational potential energy (GPE) difference caused by the change in the density distribution within the lithosphere and the drag force on the base of the lithosphere caused by mantle convection. The study of the lithospheric stress state plays an important role in further understanding the dynamic background and mechanism for the evolution of the Qinghai-Tibetan Plateau. In this study, the Crust1.0 crustal density model combined with the S40RTS mantle shear wave velocity variation model was used to calculate the GPE. The EGM2008 gravity field model was used to calculate the drag force from mantle convection at the base of the lithosphere. The lithospheric and joint stress fields of the two sources were obtained by solving the force balance under the thin sheet approximation. This way, we could comprehensively analyze the characteristics of the stress state within the Plateau. Six regions were classified according to the GPE stress field, mantle drag force stress field, the relative magnitude of the two stress fields, and correlation between the two stress fields and surface deformation. The lithospheric stress fields of the Tarim Basin and other stable blocks are mainly controlled by the GPE difference. The lithospheric stress field in the collision zone between the Indian Plate and the Qinghai-Tibetan Plateau is predominantly controlled by the deep mantle drag force. The lithospheric stress field in the interior of the Plateau is controlled by both GPE and mantle drag. The correlation between the lithospheric stress field and surface deformation at the southeast margin of the Qinghai-Tibetan Plateau is poor. It is hypothesized that the presence of lower crustal flow with lower effective viscosity leads to crust-mantle decoupling, and the mantle drag force has a weaker influence on the shallow crust, resulting in the inconsistency between the average lithospheric stress field and surface deformation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Bumblebees are well-suited pollinators of economic crops. This study evaluated the foraging behavior and pollination effects of Bombus terrestris on cherry tomatoes and pears in northern China. B. terrestris pollination can improve cultivation efficiency, increase yield, and produce more economic benefits, which indicates that it has great potential in pollination applications for cherry tomatoes and pears in northern China. Bumblebees (Bombus terrestris) have strong environmental adaptability and high pollen transfer efficiency, making them well-suited pollinators of economic crops. However, bumblebee pollination is still not widely applied in northern China due to the lack of data on foraging behavior and pollination effects. We conducted a three-year experiment involving cherry tomatoes (Solanum lycopersicum L.) and pears (Pyrus spp.) treated with bumblebee pollination to evaluate the foraging behavior and pollination effects on these two crops. Results showed that B. terrestris had enhanced foraging activities as daytime temperatures rose from 18 °C to 26 °C, as indicated by the increased number of bees leaving the hive and returning bees carrying pollen in greenhouses in winter. There were two peaks in the foraging activity of bumblebees in pear orchards in early spring, which was closely related to the temperature change in the daytime. Undoubtedly, cherry tomatoes treated with B. terrestris had higher fruit setting rate, weight, seed number, and fruit yields compared to those with hormone 2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetic acid treatments, as well as a lower rate of deformed fruits. B. terrestris pollination can significantly increase the fruit setting rate and fruit yield of pears, compared with open pollination, and can fully achieve the effect of hand pollination. B. terrestris pollination can improve cultivation efficiency, increase yield, and produce more economic benefits. Moreover, it can also contribute to reducing hormone residues and ensure the safety of agricultural products. We recommend its application to cherry tomatoes in greenhouses in winter and potential application to pears in orchards in early spring in northern China. However, the risk to local bumblebee species of introducing commercially available bumblebees into orchards should be considered and evaluated in future research. This study provides both empirical support and a theoretical basis for the selection of bumblebees as pollinators in the production of economically important crops and the improvement of crop cultivation management in northern China. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Both non‐rapid eye movement (NonREM) sleep and rapid eye movement (REM) sleep, as well as sleep spindle and ripple oscillations, are important for memory formation. Through cortical EEG recordings of prefrontal cortex and hippocampus during and after an inhibitory avoidance task, we analysed the dynamic changes in the amounts of sleep, spindle and ripple oscillations related to memory formation. The total amount of NonREM sleep was reduced during the first hour after learning. Moreover, significant decrease of the total spindle and ripple counts was observed at the first hour after learning as well. In addition, foot shock alone, with no associated learning, produced little effect on the dynamics of sleep oscillations, indicating that the learning experience is necessary for these changes to occur. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Primary ciliary dyskinesia (PCD) is a type of ciliary dyskinesia that is usually caused by autosomal recessive inheritance and can manifest as recurrent respiratory infections, bronchiectasis, infertility, laterality defects, and chronic otolaryngological disease. Although ependymal cilia, which affect the flow of cerebrospinal fluid in the central nervous system, have much in common with respiratory cilia in terms of structure and function, hydrocephalus is rarely associated with PCD. Recently, variants of Forkhead box J1 (FOXJ1) have been found to cause PCD combined with hydrocephalus in a de novo, autosomal dominant inheritance pattern. Methods: We performed DNA extraction, whole‐exome sequencing (WES) analysis, and mutation analysis of FOXJ1 and analyzed the patient's clinical and genetic data. Results: The patient was a 4‐year‐old female exhibiting normal growth and development. At 3 years and 2 months of age, the patient experienced hand shaking and weakness in the lower limbs. Cardiac ultrasonography showed a right‐sided heart, and cranial magnetic resonance imaging showed obstructive hydrocephalus. The nasal nitric oxide level was 54 nL/min. WES indicated a de novo, heterozygous variant of FOXJ1, c.734–735 ins20. This variant was novel, not included in the Human Gene Mutation and Genome Aggregation Database, and likely pathogenic according to the American College of Medical Genetics and Genomics, causing earlier termination of amino acid translation. The patient underwent a neuroendoscopic third ventriculostomy after the diagnosis of obstructive hydrocephalus. Six months after the operation, the patient's motor deficits had improved. Conclusion: This is the first report of a de novo, autosomal dominant pattern of FOXJ1 causing PCD combined with hydrocephalus in China. The patient's clinical symptoms were similar to those previously reported. WES confirmed that a novel variant of FOXJ1 was the cause of the PCD combined with hydrocephalus, expanding the spectrum of the genotypes associated with this condition. Physicians should be aware of the correlation of hydrocephalus and PCD and test for FOXJ1 variants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, Au nanoparticles were introduced to functionalize hydrogen-terminated diamond (H-diamond) to optimize surface modification and improve the performance of diamond sensor for trace detection of SARS-CoV-2 N-protein. The Au nanoparticles were obtained by an electron beam evaporation system and annealing. Atom force microscope and scanning electron microscope were utilized to characterize the structure, morphology, and distribution of fabricated Au nanoparticles. The concentration of SARS-CoV-2 N-protein was determined by the investigation of transfer characteristics of a diamond solution gate field effect transistor. Sensitivity of this sensor was obtained as 27.43 mV/lg (N-protein concentration), which was higher than a regular H-diamond sensor. In addition, it had a wider linear detection range of 10−15–10−5 mg/ml and a lower limit of detection of 10−15 mg/ml. Accordingly, the detection performance of diamond sensor has been greatly improved due to the functionalization of Au nanoparticles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Perovskite materials with excellent optical and electronic properties have huge potential in the research field of photodetectors. Constructing heterojunctions and promoting carrier transportation are significant for the development of perovskite-based optoelectronics devices with high performances. Herein, we demonstrated a CsPbBr3/SnO2 heterojunction photodetector and improved the device performances through post-annealing treatment of SnO2 film. The results indicated that the electrical properties of SnO2 films will make an important impact on carrier extraction, especially for type-II heterojunction. As the electrons transfer layer in CsPbBr3/SnO2 type-II heterojunction, defects related to oxygen vacancy should be the key factor to affect carrier concentration, induce carriers' limitation and recombination rate. Under proper annealing temperature for SnO2 layer, the recombination rate can decrease to 1.37 × 1021 cm3 s and the spectral responsivity will be highly increased. This work can enhance the understanding on the photoresponse of perovskite photodetectors, and will be helpful for the further optimization and design of optoelectronic devices based on the perovskite heterojunction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The quality of learning and post-learning performances is critical for daily life. The behavioral flexibility is equally important for adapting the changing circumstances. The learning process requires repeated practices, which enhances prompt and proper behavioral responses, in turn, which promotes habits formation as well. Despite the well-documented sex differences in learning and performances, contradictory results were reported. A possible cause might be a systematic analysis due to specific research interests, regardless of the continuity of natural acquisition process. Here, we investigate the potential sex differences in learning, performances and adjustments of habited behaviors with regular and reversal Go/NoGo tasks. Methods: Both male and female Sprague-Dawley rats were used in this study. All rats were trained for a regular rodent Go/NoGo task and a subset of rats were trained for a reversal rodent Go/NoGo task, both with strict elimination criteria. The behavioral performance data were stored in PC for off-line analysis. Multiple behavioral indices were analyzed for both passed and retired rats. Results: The ability of learning the regular the reversal Go/NoGo tasks was similar for both male and female rats, however, the female rats took longer time to master the task principles in later stages for both tasks. In the regular Go/NoGo task, the female rats spent more time on completing the trial in performance optimization phases, which implied female rats were more cautious than male rats. Along with the progression of training, both male and female rats developed Go-preference strategies to perform the regular Go/NoGo task, which induced failure to meet the setting success criteria. The retired male rats exhibited shorter RTs and MTs than the retired female rats after developing Go-preference. Moreover, the time needed to complete the Go trials was significantly prolonged for male rats in the reversal Go/NoGo task. Conclusions: Overall, we conclude that distinctive strategies were employed in performing Go/NoGo tasks for both male and female rats. Male rats required less time to stabilize the performance in behavioral optimization phase. In addition, male rats were more accurate in estimating time elapsing. In contrast, female rats took more cautious considerations in performing the task, through which minimal influences were manifested in the reversal version of task. Highlights: The general learning ability was similar for both male and female rats in learning the regular and reversal Go/NoGo tasks. The female rats took longer time to stabilize their performance in behavioral optimization phase. The female rats needed more time to complete the Go trials in the behavioral optimization phase, which implied the female rats were more cautious than male rats. Global consideration and Go-preference strategies were observed in performing the regular Go/NoGo task. Upon changing habited behaviors, the male rats were affected more significantly. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

SUMMARY: COP1 is a critical repressor of plant photomorphogenesis in darkness. However, COP1 plays distinct roles in the photoreceptor UVR8 pathway in Arabidopsis thaliana. COP1 interacts with ultraviolet B (UV‐B)‐activated UVR8 monomers and promotes their retention and accumulation in the nucleus. Moreover, COP1 has a function in UV‐B signaling, which involves the binding of its WD40 domain to UVR8 and HY5 via conserved Val‐Pro (VP) motifs of these proteins. UV‐B‐activated UVR8 interacts with COP1 via both the core domain and the VP motif, leading to the displacement of HY5 from COP1 and HY5 stabilization. However, it remains unclear whether the function of COP1 in UV‐B signaling is solely dependent on its VP motif binding capacity and whether UV‐B regulates the subcellular localization of COP1. Based on published structures of the COP1 WD40 domain, we generated a COP1 variant with a single amino acid substitution, COP1C509S, which cannot bind to VP motifs but retains the ability to interact with the UVR8 core domain. UV‐B only marginally increased nuclear YFP‐COP1 levels and significantly promoted YFP‐COP1 accumulation in the cytosol, but did not exert the same effects on YFP‐COP1C509S. Thus, the full UVR8–COP1 interaction is important for COP1 accumulation in the cytosol. Notably, UV‐B signaling including activation of HY5 transcription was obviously inhibited in the Arabidopsis lines expressing YFP‐COP1C509S, which cannot bind VP motifs. We conclude that the full binding of UVR8 to COP1 leads to the predominant accumulation of COP1 in the cytosol and that COP1 has an additional function in UV‐B signaling besides VP binding‐mediated protein destabilization. Significance Statement: We demonstrate that COP1 can promote UV‐B signaling in both VP motif binding‐dependent and ‐independent manners by using the COP1 variant COP1C509S, which is defective in binding to the VP motif of UVR8. Moreover, with this COP1 variant, we show that the full binding of UVR8 to COP1 is required for UV‐B‐induced COP1 accumulation in the cytosol. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A dual-circulation testing system was constructed to study the effect of heat flux density (q, −22.28 ∼ +22.54 kW m-2) on the corrosion of an Al–Cu–Mg–Mn alloy in 0.5 M H2SO4 at a constant metal surface temperature (50°C) under different controlling heat transfer states. Their heat transfer parameters were determined quantitatively by COMSOL simulation to keep them except q in constant, highlighting the influence of q on metal corrosion. Compared with the q = 0 condition, the positive heat flux (q > 0) improved the surface layer performance of the Al alloy to inhibit its anodic corrosion process, decreasing its corrosion current density (icorr) by 56% with increasing q to 22.54 kW m-2. While q < 0, the opposite effect occurred, increasing its icorr by 52% at q = −22.28 kW m-2. Heat flux also changed the corrosion reaction's apparent effective activation energy (Ea) and pre-factor, and Ea played a dominating role in changing icorr. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Protein S-nitrosylation, which is defined by the covalent attachment of nitric oxide (NO) to the thiol group of cysteine residues, is known to play critical roles in plant development and stress responses. NO promotes seedling photomorphogenesis and NO emission is enhanced by light. However, the function of protein S-nitrosylation in plant photomorphogenesis is largely unknown. E3 ligase CONSTITUTIVELY PHOTOMORPHOGENIC 1 (COP1) and transcription factor ELONGATED HYPOCOTYL 5 (HY5) antagonistically regulate seedling photomorphogenesis. COP1 inhibits plant photomorphogenesis by targeting photomorphogenic promoters like HY5 for 26S proteasome degradation. Here, we report that COP1 is S-nitrosylated in vitro. Mass spectrometry analyses revealed that two evolutionarily well conserved residues, cysteine 425 and cysteine 607, in the WD40 domain of COP1 are S-nitrosylated. S-nitrosylated glutathione (GSNO) is an important physiological NO donor for protein S-nitrosylation. The Arabidopsis (Arabidopsis thaliana) gsnor1-3 mutant, which accumulates higher level of GSNO, accumulated higher HY5 levels than wildtype (WT), indicating that COP1 activity is inhibited. Protein S-nitrosylation can be reversed by Thioredoxin-h5 (TRXh5) in plants. Indeed, COP1 interacts directly with TRXh5 and its close homolog TRXh3. Moreover, catalase 3 (CAT3) acts as a transnitrosylase that transfers NO to its target proteins like GSNO reductase (GSNOR). We found that CAT3 interacts with COP1 in plants. Taken together, our data indicate that the activity of COP1 is likely inhibited by NO via S-nitrosylation to promote the accumulation of HY5 and photomorphogenesis. • COP1 is modified by nitric oxide via S-nitrosylated in vitro. • HY5 level, which is repressed by COP1, is enhanced in a GSNO-overaccumulation mutant gsnor1-3. • CAT3 transfers NO moiety to its substrate protein. COP1 interacts with CAT3 both in yeasts and tobacco leaves. • Protein S-nitrosylation can be reversed by TRXh5 in plants. COP1 interacts directly with TRXh5 and its close homolog TRXh3. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The concentration of glucose was detected using an H-terminated diamond solution-gate field-effect transistor (H-diamond SGFET). The linker molecular 1-pyrenebutyric acid–N-hydroxy succinimide ester (Pyr-NHS) was introduced to modify the H-diamond surface. Then, glucose oxidase (GOD) was immobilized on the diamond surface by linker Pyr-NHS. Atomic force microscope and scanning electron microscope measurements confirmed the successful immobilization of Pyr-NHS and GOD enzyme on the H-diamond surface. The concentration of glucose was determined by the shift of gate voltage (${V}_{\text {GS}}$) in transfer characteristics of H-diamond SGFET. Also, the sensitivity of sensor for glucose detection was obtained as −58.69 mV/ ${\text {log}}_{{10}}$ (glucose concentration) by the slope of fitting curve, which represented the relationship between ${\Delta {V}}_{\text {GS}}$ and logarithmic of glucose with concentration increasing from 1 $\times 10^{-{3}}$ to 1 M. The reusability of device was characterized by the transfer properties and small standard deviation (SD) of maximum output current (${I}_{\text {DS(max)}}$) in four tests, indicating excellent reusability for detection of glucose. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

70/30 copper-nickel alloy was manufactured by laser powder bed fusion (LPBF), followed by the comprehensive investigation on the relationship between its microstructures and mechanical properties as well as corrosion behavior. The results show that dislocation tangles at cellular boundaries can greatly contribute to its superior tensile properties than the commercial counterpart. In addition, the combination of dislocation tangles and nanoscale copper enrichment/nickel depletion directly leads to the heterogeneous film formation process during immersion in corrosive media. Moreover, experimental and computational results both suggest that exposed facets are another important role to determine the corrosion behavior of LPBF 70/30 copper-nickel alloy. • 70/30 copper-nickel alloy has been successfully manufactured via LPBF. • Fine grains and dislocation tangles contribute to its superior mechanical properties. • Elemental segregation and dislocation tangles lead to a nonuniform film formation. • More exposed (001) facets grains on X-Z plane promotes its faster oxidation rate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy is one of the common complications during pregnancy, and ursodeoxycholic acid has been recommended as the first-line drug. However, if the assisted reproductive technology may increase adverse perinatal outcomes of twin pregnancies complicated by intrahepatic cholestasis is disputed, we aimed to investigate perinatal outcomes between twin pregnancies by assisted reproductive technology versus spontaneous conception, based on these women accepted ursodeoxycholic acid treatment.Methods: From January 2014 to January 2019, we retrospectively analysed the clinical data of twin pregnant women with intrahepatic cholestasis, excluding those who did not receive ursodeoxycholic acid treatment. In total, 864 women were included, among whom 500 conceived by assisted reproductive technology and 364 conceived by spontaneous conception. The primary assessment for perinatal outcomes included premature birth, meconium-stained amniotic fluid, low Apgar score, neonatal intensive care unit and still birth, and secondary indicators were serum bile acid and liver enzymes level during medication, so we also finished subgroup analysis based on different elevated bile acid level and drug usage. The statistical analysis was performed by SPSS 22.0.Results: The study demonstrated that compared to spontaneous conception, assisted reproductive technology conceived twin pregnancies diagnosed as intrahepatic cholestasis earlier (p = 0.003), and lower birth weight (p = 0.001), less incidence of preterm delivery (p = 0.000) and neonatal intensive care unit admission (p = 0.001), but the rate of meconium-stained amniotic fluid, low Apgar score and still birth have no statistic differences. Moreover, the subgroup analysis showed no significant difference in elevated bile acid levels and medication between assisted reproductive technology and spontaneous conception groups.Conclusions: The assisted reproductive technology may increase the risk of early-onset intrahepatic cholestasis in twin pregnancies, but it does not seem to increase adverse effects on bile acid levels and perinatal outcomes. Regardless of ursodeoxycholic acid used alone or combination, the effect of bile acid reduction and improving perinatal outcomes in twin pregnancies is limited. Our conclusions still need more prospective randomized controlled studies to confirm. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Vehicle aerodynamics and dynamics in gusty crosswind conditions are of increasing significance for the lateral stability of heavy ground vehicles, especially articulated heavy vehicles (AHVs). The unsteady aerodynamic loads acting on AHVs can greatly exceed loads of a single-vehicle unit; these may deteriorate the lateral stability and lead to a loss of handling control. In this study, the time characteristics of aerodynamic loads and dynamic response of a tractor semi-trailer were considered, based on simulating the relative motions of these two components to reproduce actual scenarios of AHVs in crosswinds. A dynamic fully coupled method was developed and adopted to realize a real-time data exchange of flow fields and multi-bodies. Two multi-body systems (for non-articulated heavy vehicles and AHVs, respectively) were created to study the influences of the relative motions on the aerodynamic performance and lateral stability of the vehicles. The Reynolds-averaged Navier–Stokes (RANS) method and renormalization group (RNG) k − ε equation were adopted to account for the turbulence. A wind tunnel experiment was conducted to validate the numerical method. The results show that AHVs are more sensitive to the crosswind, with significant differences in the magnitudes and directions of the aerodynamic forces, moments, dynamic yaw angle, and lateral displacement. Three different wind types were considered (step, linear, and sinusoidal). The step crosswind produces the largest average lateral force and yawing moment, resulting in the largest lateral displacement and yaw angle. The largest hitch angle is found for linear gusts, presenting the highest safety risks in regard to jackknifing and trailer swings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Here, the effect of frequency-domain sensing with diamond solution-gated field-effect transistors (SGFET) was investigated, where a sine wave with different frequencies (3, 30, 300, and 3 kHz) was applied at the gate. Variation of the power spectral density (PSD) amplitudes of the drain–source current was examined by using the NaCl gate electrolyte with various concentrations. With the increase of NaCl concentration, the PSD amplitudes basically increase for hydrogen-terminal diamond SGFET, however, the change of PSD amplitudes is not so obvious. When the diamond surface is partially oxidized by the UV radiation in the atmosphere, the PSD amplitudes increase first and then decrease with the concentration of NaCl aqueous solution. And the sensitivity of oxidized diamond SGFET is higher than that of hydrogen-terminated and increases with the increase of oxidation degree. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, investigations were conducted focusing on the WC-8Co cemented carbide. A dry turning test of TC4 titanium alloy with WC-8Co cemented carbide tool treated by pulsed electromagnetic coupling treatment (PEMCT) was conducted. Tool wear was observed and analyzed using a scanning electron microscope (SEM) and energy dispersive X-ray spectrometer (EDS). The thermal conductivity of WC-8Co cemented carbide before and after the PEMCT was measured using Hotdisk thermal conductivity analyzer. The finite element software, DEFORM, was used to simulate the cutting process, and the stable cutting temperature range was obtained. The high-temperature oxidation test was conducted in a muffle furnace to study the effect of the PEMCT on the oxidation resistance of WC-8Co cemented carbide. This study obtained the effect of the PEMCT on the thermal conductivity of tungsten cobalt cemented carbide. The results show that the PEMCT can reduce the adhesive, diffusion, and oxidation wear of the tools, thus, improving the wear resistance and service life of the tools. The PEMCT improves the thermal conductivity and diffusivity of WC-8Co cemented carbide. Moreover, the oxidation resistance of WC-8Co cemented carbide in high-temperature conditions can be improved. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Type II collagenopathies are a spectrum of diseases and skeletal dysplasia is one of the prominent features of collagenopathies. Molecular defects of the COL2A1 gene cause type II collagenopathies that is mainly an autosomal dominant disease, whereas some rare cases with autosomal recessive inheritance of mode have also been identified. Case presentation: The patient was a 5-year-old male with a short neck, flat face, epiphyseal dysplasia, irregular vertebral endplates, and osteochondritis. Sequencing result indicated NM_001844.4: c.3662C > T; p. (Ser1221Phe) a novel missense variant, leading to a serine-to-phenylalanine substitution. Sanger sequencing confirmed the variant compared to his parents and brother. Conclusions: We identified a novel homozygous variant of the COL2A1 gene as the cause of type II collagenopathies in a Chinese male, enriching the spectrum of genotypes. This is the first case of type II collagenopathies inherited in an autosomal recessive manner in China and East Asia, and it is the first case that resulted from serine substitution in the world. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study of topological phases with unconventional bulk‐boundary correspondences and nontrivial real Chern number has garnered significant attention in the topological states of matter. Using the first‐principle calculations and theoretical analysis, a high‐throughput material screening of the 3D obstructed atomic insulators (OAIs) and 3D real Chern insulators (RCIs) based on the Samara Carbon Allotrope Database (SACADA) are performed. Results show that 422 out of 703 3D carbon allotropes are 3D OAIs with multiple bulk‐boundary correspondences, including 2D obstructed surface states (OSSs) and 1D hinge states, which are in 1D and 2Ds lower than the 3D bulk, respectively. The 2D OSSs in these OAIs can be modified when subjected to appropriate boundaries, which benefits the investigation of surface engineering and the development of efficient topological catalysts. These 422 OAIs, which have 2D and 1D boundary states, are excellent platforms for multi‐dimensional topological boundaries research. Remarkably, 138 of 422 OAIs are also 3D RCIs, which show a nontrivial real topology in the protection of spacetime inversion symmetry. This work not only provides a comprehensive list of 3D carbon‐based OAIs and RCIs, but also guides their application in various aspects based on multiple bulk‐boundary correspondences and real topological phases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: To assess the efficacy and safety of bilateral-contralateral cervix clamp firstly applied in postpartum hemorrhage caused by uterine tony of lower segment.Methods: Totally 47 pregnant women with postpartum hemorrhage secondary to lower uterine segment atony in vaginal delivery or after caesarean delivery were included from March 1, 2020 to May 31, 2020. According to patient's informed consent, 22 women accepted cervical clamp to treat and 25 only used uterotonics in control group. Then hemostatic efficacy and safety of bilateral-contralateral cervix clamp were assessed by retrospective analysis.Results: It was found that mean blood loss in clamp group was much less during vaginal delivery (656.2±72.79 g vs 811.8±86.07 g, p = 0.001) or after caesarean delivery (42.8±6.60 g vs 126.3±86.97 g, p = 0.007), and incidence of uterotonic repeated usage (81.8% vs 36, 18.2% vs 64%, p = 0.001) or side effect (18.2% vs 48.0%, p = 0.031) appeared less than control group, but there was no statistical differences on hospital stay (4.1±1.57 days vs 3.8±1.61 days, p = 0.535), hemoglobin (119±4.10 g vs 121.4±4.19 g, p = 0.058), blood transfusion (9.1% vs 12%,p = 0.746), surgical procedures (4.5% vs 4.0%, p = 0.93), also no clamp complications occurred.Conclusions: The bilateral-contralateral cervix clamp was effective and safe, this new technique could be a complementary treatment for postpartum hemorrhage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A unique nickel/organic photoredox co‐catalyzed asymmetric reductive cross‐coupling between α‐chloro esters and aryl iodides is developed. This cross‐electrophile coupling reaction employs an organic reductant (Hantzsch ester), whereas most reductive cross‐coupling reactions use stoichiometric metals. A diverse array of valuable α‐aryl esters is formed under these conditions with high enantioselectivities (up to 94 %) and good yields (up to 88 %). α‐Aryl esters represent an important family of nonsteroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs. This novel synergistic strategy expands the scope of Ni‐catalyzed reductive asymmetric cross‐coupling reactions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A unique nickel/organic photoredox co‐catalyzed asymmetric reductive cross‐coupling between α‐chloro esters and aryl iodides is developed. This cross‐electrophile coupling reaction employs an organic reductant (Hantzsch ester), whereas most reductive cross‐coupling reactions use stoichiometric metals. A diverse array of valuable α‐aryl esters is formed under these conditions with high enantioselectivities (up to 94 %) and good yields (up to 88 %). α‐Aryl esters represent an important family of nonsteroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs. This novel synergistic strategy expands the scope of Ni‐catalyzed reductive asymmetric cross‐coupling reactions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

UV RESISTANCE LOCUS 8 (UVR8) is a UV-B photoreceptor that regulates various aspects of plant photomorphogenesis. Physiological functions of UVR8 have been extensively investigated in Arabidopsis. However, functions of Tomato UVR8 (SlUVR8) are largely unknown. To analyze physiological functions of SlUVR8, we generated sluvr8 knock-out mutant lines with CRISPR-CAS9 gene editing approach. At seedling stage, SlUVR8 regulates hypocotyl elongation and anthocyanin accumulation under UV-B. Moreover, SlUVR8 regulates acclimation to low dose UV-B and promotes tolerance to elevated UV-B stress. These results revealed pivotal roles of SlUVR8 in the regulation of Tomato seedling development and UV-B stress tolerance. The manipulation of photoreceptor SlUVR8 may represent a powerful tool to improve Tomato plant performance in nature where high dose UV-B is present. • SlUVR8 alters conformation in response to UV-B in Tomato. • SlUVR8 regulates hypocotyl elongation. • SlUVR8 promotes seedling survival under UV-B stress. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Single-phase homogeneous (Na0.2Bi0.2Ba0.2Sr0.2Ca0.2)TiO3 powder with high configurational entropy was synthesized by using a solid-state method. Calculations of thermodynamic parameters and related experiments indicate that both entropy and enthalpy drive the formation of a stable system. To further research the material's performance, we sintered the powder into a ceramic, which exhibited relaxation behavior because of the disorder of the microscopic composition. In addition, an applied electric field of 145 kV/cm produces a discharge energy density of 1.02 J/cm3. Meanwhile, the adiabatic temperature is 0.63 K at 60 kV/cm. These properties suggest that the electrocaloric effect of the (Na0.2Bi0.2Ba0.2Sr0.2Ca0.2)TiO3 ceramic is attractive for applications such as solid-state refrigeration and energy storage. High-entropy perovskite oxides are also highly tolerant to ions, and their properties can be tailored by tuning their composition, making them attractive for a broad range of applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The instability of photovoltaic output leads to pressure fluctuations, and the high investment, low water head of traditional energy storage and pressure regulation measures have seriously limited the application of solar powered sprinkler irrigation. This study provides an innovative idea for storing, regulating and utilizing solar energy through compressed air energy storage to meet the energy demand characteristics of sprinkler irrigation systems. A novel CAES-SPV sprinkler irrigation system was developed and its operational effects were evaluated. The results indicates that the CAES-SPV sprinkling system can carry out stable standardized intermittent pulse spraying with solar energy as the only energy source. Spraying starting pressure and pulse spraying duration have a good regulatory effect on the hydraulic performance of sprinkler irrigation. Reasonable selection of energy storage regulation factor and nozzle combination spacing can achieve a spraying uniformity coefficient of 91.5 %. The CAES-SPV sprinkler irrigation system effectively reduces the adverse impact of sprinkler impact on soil infiltration rate. Compared with solar sprinkler irrigation without energy storage, the wet radius increased by 139.5 %, the peak sprinkler irrigation intensity and kinetic energy intensity reduced by 87.9 % and 87.2 %, and the uniformity of sprinkler irrigation increased by 11.7–20.1 %. This study verifies that the dual goals of green energy saving and high-quality sprinkler irrigation can be achieved synchronously by using solar energy coupled with compressed air, and provides a new approach for the efficient joint application of distributed solar energy resources and sprinkler irrigation. • Solar energy coupled with compressed air storage was applied to irrigation system. • A sprinkler irrigation system with intermittent cyclic pulse spraying was developed. • The new sprinkler irrigation system exhibits superior hydraulic performance. • Sprinkler irrigation powered with clean energy was realized. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: ABCC8 variants can cause hyperinsulinemia by activating or deactivating gene expression. This study used targeted exon sequencing to investigate genetic variants of ABCC8 and the associated phenotypic features in Chinese patients with hyperinsulinemic hypoglycemia (HH). Methods: We enrolled eight Chinese children with HH and analyzed their clinical characteristics, laboratory results, and genetic variations. Results: The age at presentation among the patients ranged from neonates to 0.6 years old, and the age at diagnosis ranged from 1 month to 5 years, with an average of 1.3 ± 0.7 years. Among these patients, three presented with seizures, and five with hypoglycemia. One patient (Patient 7) also had microcephaly. All eight patients exhibited ABCC8 abnormalities, including six missense mutations (c. 2521 C > G, c. 3784G > A, c. 4478G > A, c. 4532T > C, c. 2669T > C, and c. 331G > A), two deletion-insertion mutations (c. 3126_3129delinsTC and c. 3124_3126delins13), and one splicing mutation (c. 1332 + 2T > C). Two of these mutations (c. 3126_3129delinsTC and c. 4532T > C) are novel. Six variations were paternal, two were maternal, and one was de novo. Three patients responded to diazoxide and one patient responded to octreotide treatment. All there patients had diazoxide withdrawal with age. Two patients (patients 3 and 7) were unresponsive to both diazoxide and octreotide and had mental retardation. Conclusions: Gene analysis can aid in the classification, treatment, and prognosis of children with HH. In this study, the identification of seven known and two novel variants in the ABCC8 gene further enriched the variation spectrum of the gene. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Generalized arterial calcification of infancy (GACI) is a rare autosomal-recessive disease characterized by extensive arterial calcification in infancy, with clinical manifestations such as arterial stenoses and heart failure. The ENPP1 inactivation mutation has been identified as a potential defect in most of the cases of GACI, while mutations in ABCC6 are demonstrated in patients who are genotyped as pseudoxanthoma elasticum and only limited cases of GACI are reported. Whole-exome sequencing was applied for the detection of pathogenic variants. Copy-number variants of pathogenic genes were also evaluated through a bioinformatic process and were further validated by real-time quantitative PCR. In this report, we described the clinical information and treatment of a patient with extensive arterial calcification. We have identified the underlying cause as biallelic mutations in ABCC6 (NM_00117: exon30, c.4223_4227dupAGCTC p.(Leu1410Serfs*56)) and a unique exonic deletion that spans from the first to the fourth exons of ABCC6 (chr16:16313388-16330869)). This discovery was made by utilizing a combined genetic testing approach. With the review of previously reported GACI patients with ABCC6 mutation, our work contributed to enriching the mutation spectrum of GACI and providing further information on this rare form of inherited disorder. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, we introduced H-terminated diamond solution-gate field-effect transistor (H-diamond SGFET) to detect trace SARS-CoV-2 N-protein, which plays an important role in replication and transcription of viral RNA. 1-Pyrenebutyric acid-N-hydroxy succinimide ester (Pyr-NHS) was modified on H-diamond surface as linker, on which the specific antibody of SARS-CoV-2 N-protein was catenated. Fourier transform infrared spectrum, scanning electron microscope and energy dispersive spectrum were utilized to demonstrate the modification of H-diamond with Pyr-NHS and antibody. Shifts of I DS(max) at V GS = −500 mV in transfer characteristics of H-diamond SGFET was observed to determine N-protein concentration in phosphate buffer solution. Good linear relationship between I DS(max) and log 10 (N-protein) was observed from 10−14 to 10−5 g/mL with goodness of fit R2 = 0.90 and sensitivity of 1.98 μA/Log 10 [concentration of N-protein] at V DS = −500 mV, V GS = −500 mV. Consequently, this prepared H-diamond SGFET biosensor may provide a new idea for diagnosis of SARS-CoV-2 due to a wide detection range from 10−14 to 10−5 g/mL and low limit of detection 10−14 g/mL. [Display omitted] • H-diamond SGFET was developed to detect trace SARS-CoV-2 N-protein. • FT-IR spectrum, EDS spectrum, SEM images and XPS spectrum confirmed the modification of H-diamond surface. • This biosensor can detect a wide range concentration of N-protein from 10−14 to 10−5 g/mL. • This biosensor had a low limit of detection 10−14 g/mL. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Key message: Pulmonary co‐infection with varicella‐zoster virus (VZV) and Pneumocystis jirovecii (PJ) is uncommon. This case describes computed tomography (CT) findings of VZV pneumonia co‐infected with PJ. Co‐infection of VZV and PJ pneumonia is possible in immunocompromised patients. The similarities in chest CT makes it difficult to differentiate VZV from PJ. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Metastable β Ti alloys are becoming increasingly competitive in the aircraft industry, while the study on diffusion bonding of this type of Ti alloy has been rarely reported up to now. Diffusion bonding of TC4/TB5 alloys with and without pure Ti foil interlayer was carried out to fabricate laminates and analyze the microstructural evolution and mechanical properties. This study reports the first-hand finding on β grains characterized by dendritic morphology at the TC4/Ti/TB5 interface, which results from retained phase due to the asynchronous precipitation and growth of α grains instead of β grains growth. In addition, there are two kinds of α precipitates from β matrix complying with the Burgers orientation relationship at the bonded interface, which is related to the two kinds of α→β phase transformations during heating. The bonded interfaces with fine α and β laths give rise to positive function to the hardness and tensile strengths of the laminated TC4/TB5 alloys. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

3D architecture constructed by 2D hybrids of few-layer SnS 2 nanoplates and graphene has been prepared via a facile solvothermal method using tin tetrachloride, thiourea, graphene oxide nanosheets, and sodium dodecyl sulfonate as starting materials. The sample is characterized by SEM, TEM, XRD, and TG techniques, revealing that the few-layer SnS 2 nanoplates are well dispersed and tightly contacted onto graphene substrates, and the 2D hybrids assembly into 3D architecture. Endowed with the structural and compositional advantages of the specific architecture, the SnS 2 -graphene composite exhibits good electrochemical properties as anode for lithium-ion batteries, including high capacity, good cyclic stability (826 mA h g −1 at current density of 0.5 A g −1 after 200 cycles), and excellent high-rate performance (498 mA h g −1 at 8 A g −1 ). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

After years of development, boosting the electrochemical hydrogen evolution performance of MoS 2 catalyst through the traditional methods, such as defect engineering and conductivity improvement, has reached their limit. In this work, we propose a novel functional catalyst that is fabricated by hybrid two-dimensional nanostructures composed of MoS 2 nanosheets and CoMo 2 S 4 nanoplates in situ grown on graphene substrate for electrochemical hydrogen evolution reaction. The MoS 2 -CoMo 2 S 4 /graphene hybrid catalyst shows robust hydrogen evolution performance with low onset potential of 110 mV, high cathode current density of 85 mA cm −2 at η = 300 mV, and small Tafel slope of 42 mV dec −1 , as well as good durability. The excellent hydrogen evolution performance of the hybrid catalyst is likely attributed to the nonequilibrium composition, 2D structural advantages, conductive graphene substrate, and the electrocatalytic synergistic effect between MoS 2 and CoMo 2 S 4 . [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Metropolitan has progressively emerged as a new form of urban governance. Understanding the urban expansion process and its determinants at metropolitan level should provide critical references for urban management and planning. Using time-series nighttime stable light data (1993–2012), this paper captures the full continuum of urban expansion process in 30 major metropolitans of China. Greater expansion intensity and faster expansion speed are observed in metropolitans along the eastern coast. Conversely, the metropolitans in northeastern China exhibit lower urban expansion intensity and speed. Potential determinants are selected based on extensive literature review from four categories: economic, social, demographic, and natural. Multivariable linear regression and variances partitioning are employed to identify and compare the determinants of urban expansion and their relative importance across the 30 metropolitans. Results show that urban expansion is not only subjected to different categories of determinants but also influenced by their combinations. More specifically, the identified determinants vary with metropolitans but present some similarities. Economic growth, industrial development, and economic structural transformation are the key economic determinants. Population and labor growth, population urbanization, and population structure act as essential demographic determinants. Primary social determinants include infrastructure construction, energy consumption, and real estate development, while dominant natural determinants are the amount and topology of available land. Cluster analysis is further applied and it generates three major driving forces profiles among the 30 metropolitans, with respect to the relative importance of different categories of determinants and their combinations. The driving force profiles should be useful for managers to set priorities in decision making procedure and develop optimal urban strategies. Our study is believed to advance the understanding of driving mechanism governing urban expansion at metropolitan level and further provide deeper spatial insights for international habitat research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Advanced materials for energy conversion and storage are central to clean and reliable energy research. Herein, three-dimensional (3D) architectures composed of MoS 2 -graphene hybrid nanosheets are synthesized via a simple solvothermal method for this purpose. The architectures are self-assembled with hybrid nanosheets, which are fabricated through the in situ growth of few-layer MoS 2 nanosheets on the surface of graphene substrates. Rooted in the intriguing advantages of sheet-on-sheet structures and 3D features, the composite materials exhibit improved electrochemical lithium storage performances when used as anode materials, in terms of high reversible capacity, superior cycling stability (904 mAh g −1 after 200 cycles at 200 mA g −1 ), and high rate capability. It is also employed as integrated electrode for electrochemical water splitting and delivers remarkably enhanced catalytic performance for hydrogen evolution, such as low onset overpotential (110 mV), small Tafel slope (47 mV decade −1 ), and stable cycling performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To pursue anode materials with large and fast lithium storage properties, the carbon entrapped Fe 3 O 4 nanoparticles are directly grown on Ni foam as binder-free integrated electrode for the first time. The synthesis strategy includes an in situ polymerization method and the following thermal annealing process. The charge transfer is dramatically improved due to the advantageous features of high electric conductivity of carbon layer and Ni substrate, nanosized Fe 3 O 4 particles, close contact between active materials and current collector. The carbon shell can also buffer the volume changes of Fe 3 O 4 during the lithiation/delithiation. Therefore, the integrated electrode exhibits high capacity, superior rate capability, and good cycling stability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Cardio-facio-cutaneous (CFC) syndrome is a RASopathy subtype that presents with unique craniofacial dysmorphology, congenital heart disease, dermatologic abnormalities, growth retardation, and intellectual disability. This study describes the phenotypic spectrum of CFC in China and its association with CFC syndrome gene variants. Results: Twenty Chinese CFC patients, aged 0.6–9.5 years old, were included in this study and their clinical phenotypic spectrum was compared with that of 186 patients with CFC from non-Chinese ethnicities. All 20 Chinese patients with CFC carried de novo heterozygous BRAF, MAP2K1, and MAP2K2 variants. Two novel variants were detected and consistently predicted to be deleterious using bioinformatic tools. The clinical features of CFC in the Chinese patients included hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (2/20, 10%), pulmonary valve stenosis (2/20, 10%), curly or sparse hair (7/20, 35%), epilepsy (1/20, 5%), and hypotonia (10/20, 50%); these features were less frequently observed in Chinese patients than non-Chinese patients (p < 0.05). In contrast, feeding difficulties (19/20, 95%) were more frequently observed in the Chinese patients. Absent eyebrows and severe short stature were more common in patients with BRAF variants than in those with MAP2K1/2 variants. Facial recognition software was used to recognize most CFC patients using artificial intelligence. Conclusion: This study identified novel and common variants in our cohort of 20 Chinese patients with CFC. We uncovered differences in clinical features between Chinese and non-Chinese patients and detected genotype–phenotype correlations among the BRAF and MAP2K1/2 variant subgroups. This is the largest cohort of Chinese CFC patients to our knowledge, providing new insights into a subtype of RASopathy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Carbohydrate antigen 19-9 was detected by H-diamond SGFET. • This sensor can detect a wide range concentrations of CA19-9 from 0.001 to 1000 U/mL. • High sensitivity of −50.98 mV/log 10 [antigen concentration] was obtained. • The minimum detection concentration of CA19-9 is quite low, 0.001 U/mL. Detection of carbohydrate antigen 19-9 (CA19-9) via hydrogen-terminated diamond (H-diamond) solution-gate field-effect transistor (SGFET) sensor had been carried out for the first time. Linker molecule 1-pyrenebutyric acid–N-hydroxy succinimide ester (Pyr-NHS) was fixed on the surface of H-diamond by π-π bonding. Then, anti-CA19-9 antibody was immobilized with Pyr-NHS. After specific binding of CA19-9 and antibody, transfer characteristics of H-diamond SGFET exhibited a gate voltage shift in negative direction at the same output current. The sensitivity of sensor was obtained as −50.98 mV/Log 10 [antigen concentration]. The minimum detection concentration was 0.001 U/mL. This article illustrated a potential application of H-diamond SGFET sensor in CA19-9 detection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Shenling Baizhu San (SBS) is commonly employed to improve gastrointestinal dysfunction in patients with ulcerative colitis (UC) in China. SBS combined with mesalamine has been demonstrated to result in improve its curative effects without increasing any adverse reactions, but the underlying mechanism remains unclarified. Our study aimed to illuminate the potential therapeutic effects and mechanisms of SBS, which is a medicine complementary to mesalamine, in the treatment of UC. A prospective cohort study was conducted to evaluate the efficacy of SBS as a complementary medicine to mesalamine for patients with UC (n = 48). The patients in the control group (n = 24) were given mesalamine alone, whereas those in the experimental group were administered mesalamine combined with SBS. The therapeutic outcome was assessed at 8 weeks. The structures of the gut microbiota (GMB) were characterized by 16S rRNA sequencing, and the microbial tryptophan metabolites were analyzed by UPLC–MS/MS to investigate the mechanism through which SBS achieves its effects. Our results showed that the combination of SBS and mesalamine could significantly improve the clinical signs of UC by achieving mucosal healing and relieving colon damage. Interestingly, the combination of SBS and mesalamine could alter the GMB structures and increase the microbial levels of tryptophan metabolites, including indole-3-propionic acid and indole-3-acetic acid. SBS combined with mesalamine is effective in improving the clinical and endoscopic outcomes of patients with UC. SBS, as a complementary therapy to conventional treatment, alleviates UC via the GMB-tryptophan metabolite axis. [Display omitted] • SBS combined with mesalamine is effective in improving the clinical and endoscopic outcomes of patients with UC. • SBS combination therapy improves gut microbiota diversity and abundance in UC patients. • SBS, as a complementary therapy to conventional treatment, alleviates UC via the GMB-tryptophan metabolite axis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In recent years, "high-entropy" materials have attracted great attention in various fields due to their unique design concepts and crystal structures. The definition of high-entropy is also more diverse, gradually expanding from a single phase with an equal molar ratio to a multi-phase with a non-equimolar ratio. This study selected (Na 0.2 Bi 0.2 Ba 0.2 Sr 0.2 Ca 0.2)TiO 3 high entropy ceramics with excellent relaxation behavior. The A-site elements are divided into (x = Na, Bi, Ba) and ((1-3 x)/2 = Sr, Ca) according to their inherent properties. A novel ABO 3 structural energy storage ceramics (NaBaBi) x (SrCa) (1-3 x)/2 TiO 3 (x = 0.19, 0.195, 0.2, 0.205 and 0.21) was successfully fabricated using the high entropy design concept. The ferroelectric and dielectric properties of non-equimolar ratio high-entropy ceramics were studied in detail. It was found that the dielectric constant of ∼4920 and the recoverable energy storage density of 3.86 J/cm3 (at 335 kV/cm) can be achieved simultaneously at x = 0.205. The results indicate that the design concept of high-entropy materials with a non-equal molar ratio is an effective means to achieve distinguished energy storage performance in lead-free ceramics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article was originally published online on 7 January 2022 with an incorrect page number. Publisher's Note: "Coupling analysis of transient aerodynamic and dynamic response of articulated heavy vehicles under crosswinds" [Phys. All online versions of this article were corrected on 10 January 2022. [Extracted from the article]

Background: The current molecular classifications cannot completely explain the polarized malignant biological behavior of low‐grade gliomas (LGGs), especially for tumor recurrence. Therefore, we tried to identify suspicious hub genes related to tumor recurrence in LGGs. Methods: In this study, we constructed a gene‐miRNA‐lncRNA co‐expression network for LGGs by a weighted gene co‐expression network analysis (WGCNA). GDCRNATools and the WGCNA R package were mainly used in data analysis. Results: Sequencing data from 502 LGG patients were analyzed in this study. Compared with recurrent glioma tissues, we identified 774 differentially expressed (DE) mRNAs, 49 DE miRNAs, and 129 DE lncRNAs in primary LGGs and ultimately determined that the expression of MKLN1 was related to tumor recurrence in LGG. Conclusion: This study identified the potential biomarkers for the pathogenesis and recurrence of LGGs and proposed that MKLN1 could be a potential therapeutic target. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Selective synthesis of light hydrocarbons from synthesis gas (syngas) over hybrid catalysts based on the Cu–Zn oxide and Pd-β zeolite in a near-critical phase was investigated. Light hydrocarbons were directly synthesized from syngas over the catalysts through an intermediate of methanol or DME. Introduction of near-critical fluid remarkably decreased the yield of CO2 by suppressing the water–gas shift reaction. Differences in activity, CO2 selectivity, hydrocarbon distributions, catalyst stability and heat transfer between near-critical and conventional gas phase light hydrocarbons synthesis were compared. Efficient removal of reaction heat increased the stability of the catalysts and selectivity of light hydrocarbons in the reaction. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Recently, palygorskite (Pal) has become a promising new membrane additive in flux enhancement and fouling reduction, which is an environmentally friendly nanoclay material under the 2:1 layer composition with 1D tubular structure. However, the aggregation of Pal due to the intermolecular forces is still an obstacle to be solved in improving membrane performance. Herein, Pal nanoparticles were chemically modified by KH550 to weaken the aggregation and improve the dispersibility, and then incorporated into the organic phase to prepare thin-film nanocomposite (TFN) membranes. The results showed that the organo-functionalization could effectively improve the membrane hydrophilicity and dispersion of Pal nanoparticles in the polyamide layer, which contributed to the enhanced water flux (from 25 to 38 L/m2·h), unchanged salt rejection (98.0%) and better antifouling capacity (91% flux recovery rate), which suggested that the organo-functionalization of nanoparticles was an efficient method in further enhancing membrane performance [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study was designed to investigate the changes of liver injury and Nrf2 signaling pathway in the process of sepsis. We also aimed to examine the role of Nrf2 in resisting oxidative stress and relieving inflammation in sepsis-induced hepatic injury. By operating cecal ligation and puncture (CLP) on Nrf2−/− mice and wild type mice, a sepsis-induced hepatic injury model was established. We compared and contrasted the wild type mice with the Nrf2−/− mice during sepsis-induced hepatic injury, and evaluated the liver damage by biochemical analyses and staining hematoxylin-eosin (HE). Western blot or real-time PCR was performed to detect Nrf2 and its regulated genes NQO-1, GCLM and HO-1. Additionally, we detected the expressions and secretion of pro-inflammatory cytokines such as tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), Interleukin-6 (IL-6), IL-1β and anti-inflammatory cytokines IL-10. We assessed the oxidative stress through the levels of MDA and NO. The results showed that Nrf2 expressions at mRNA and protein levels were increased 1 day after CLP, namely the early stage of sepsis. Compared with wild type mice after CLP, Nrf2−/− mice showed more severe liver injury, accompanied by higher expression of inflammatory cytokines and oxidative stress. Notably, Nrf2-regulated genes GCLM and NQO-1, were strongly downregulated in Nrf2−/− mice. Nrf2 was probably implicated in decreasing inflammatory cytokine levels and counteracting oxidative stress to alleviate sepsis-induced hepatic injury, mainly through regulating GCLM and NQO-1 in the early stage after CLP. [Display omitted] • Nrf2 suppressed liver inflammation in sepsis-induced hepatic injury. • Nrf2 suppressed oxidative stress in sepsis-induced hepatic injury. • Protective effects of Nrf2 against sepsis-induced hepatic injury mainly by regulating GCLM and NQO-1. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The effect of palladium on the performance of Cr/ZnO catalyst was investigated for the synthesis of methanol from synthesis gas. Hydrogen adsorption on the Pd-Cr/ZnO well fits the equation combination of Langmuir isotherm equation and Freundilich isotherm equation while CO adsorption well fits Freundilich model. Addition of palladium in Cr/ZnO promoted the activity and selectivity of methanol synthesis. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Efficient conversion of dimethyl ether (DME) into liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) with a hybrid catalyst is a novel method for semi-indirect synthesis of LPG fuel from syngas. The hybrid catalysts consisting of zeolite and hydrogenation catalyst were investigated in a fixed bed reactor. Experimental results demonstrated that the hybrid catalyst consisting of (Pd/SiO2) and USY efficiently converted DME into LPG and restrained decomposition of DME into CO and H2. With that catalyst, the one through conversion of DME reached about 100%, almost no CO and CO2 were produced and selectivity for LPG was more than 65%. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: A novel method to synthesize LPG fuel directly from syngas with a hybrid catalyst is presented. The new hybrid catalyst, consisting of (Pd–Ca/SiO2) and β-zeolite, showed a high activity and selectivity for LPG fraction. It also showed a higher stability than Cu–Zn/USY at high reaction temperature. The sintering of palladium metal was main contribution to the deactivation of the hybrid catalyst (Pd–Ca/SiO2)/β-zeolite. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]