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Mixed‐valence europium ions‐activated phosphors have distinct advantages in color modulation, dynamic anti‐counterfeiting, and optical sensors. Nevertheless, it is still a challenge to obtain mixed‐valence europium ions in single compounds by facile self‐reduction. Herein, the crystal structure of a 3D hexagonal network formed by SiO4/AlO4 tetrahedra is demonstrated to play a significant role in the spontaneous reduction of Eu3+ to Eu2+ based on SrAl2Si2O8, Sr2SiO4, SrAl2O4 hosts. The crystal field theory and Judd‐Ofelt theory provide a deeper understanding of Eu2+ and Eu3+ luminescence behavior, namely, the low energy spectra of Eu2+ are more easily observed in crystal structure with high polarizability and octahedral coordination, whereas the spectra properties of Eu3+ are affected by the symmetry of local environment and crystal rigidity. For SrAl2Si2O8: 0.02Eu2+/Eu3+, multi‐mode thermometry is explored in terms of the luminescence intensity ratio (LIR) of Eu2+/Eu3+, luminescence intensity (LI) and full‐width at half maximum (FWHM) of Eu2+ with maximal relative sensitivity reaching 3.83% K−1. This study presents the first exploration of optical manometry based on the LIR mode of Eu2+/Eu3+ with excellent sensitivity (Sr = 18.13% GPa−1). This work not only provides a novel strategy for the design of mixed‐valence ions‐activated materials but also constructs promising optical thermometry, and manometry candidates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Irrational phosphorus (P) nutrient management practices often fail to match of P fertilizer type, soil P transformation and crop P demand, lead to increased accumulation of legacy P, reduced PUE, and pollution, affecting crop production. A pot experiment incorporating soil types and P fertilizer types (SSP, simple superphosphate; CMP, calcium magnesium phosphate; DAP, diammonium phosphate; TSP, triple superphosphate; APP, ammonium polyphosphate; CK, no P application) to establish coupling of the soil and P fertilizer types, soil P pool characteristics, crop P uptake. In calcareous soil, the available P concentrations in rhizosphere soil were higher under TSP and DAP, with the increase in NaHCO3-Pi concentration the most. In non-calcareous soil, the NaHCO3-Pi and NaOH-Pi increased the most under SSP, DAP, and TSP at anthesis. Shoot P accumulation at maturity was highest under TSP and APP, TSP and DAP, respectively, in the two soil. TSP and APP significantly increased yield and PUE in the calcareous soil, while TSP and DAP performed better in the non-calcareous soil. NaHCO3-Pi and NaOH-Po are potentially available P sources in calcareous and non-calcareous soil, which remarkably affect shoot P uptake through H2O-P. Comprehensive assessment of the relationship between soil P pool characteristics, yield and PUE, TSP and APP are recommended for application in calcareous soils and TSP and DAP for application in non-calcareous soils in wheat cropping systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As an important source of green cleaning flame retardants, bio-based materials have been widely studied by researchers. However, the development of efficient biobased flame retardants and convenient finishing methods was of great significance for the functional finishing of materials. Herein, a convenient and efficient flame retardant cotton fabric was prepared via layer by layer self-assembly (LbL) by alternating precipitation of a novel bio-based flame retardant phosphorylated sodium alginate (PSA) and alkylammonium functionalized siloxane (A-POSS). The effect of coating number on flame retardancy and thermal properties of coated cotton fabric was systematically studied. Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) results showed that residual char contents of AP/PS-15BL under air and N 2 atmospheres increased by 252.0% and 225.2%, respectively, compared with control cotton. In vertical flammability tests, both the AP/PS-10BL and AP/PS-15BL showed self-extinguishing behavior and successfully passed the UL-94 V-0 rating. More importantly, the LOI value of AP/PS-15BL was significantly increased to 35.0% from 20.0% of pure cotton fabric. Additionally, coated samples showed good mechanical properties and washable resistance. In CONE test, the peak heat release rate (PHRR) and total heat release rate (THR) of AP/PS-15BL decreased by 89.3% and 49.3% respectively, compared with control cotton. Therefore, this green and convenient flame-retardant finishing method has great application potential in the multi-functional finishing of cotton fabrics. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Corrosion tests were carried out by immersion the LaFe12.35-xCo0.65SixC0.15(x = 1.3, 1.4, 1.5) compounds in distilled water for different times. The effect of corrosion is systematically studied in terms of morphology, microstructure, corrosion resistance, and magnetic properties. The results show that after 30-min corrosion, obvious corroded spots appeared on the surface of all compounds. It was also found that Si has an adverse effect on corrosion resistance. With the increase of Si content, the corroded spots are connected. The Ecorr decreased from − 0.57 to − 0.65 V while Icorr increased from 3.91 to 5.08 μA/cm2 with increasing the Si content from 1.3 to 1.5. In continuing to extend the corrosion time to 7 days, a large-scale corrosion area appeared, accompanied by the peeling of the main phase as anode and the retention of α-Fe phase as cathode. Meanwhile, the magnetic entropy change of LaFe10.95Co0.65Si1.4C0.15 compounds decreased from 8.1 to 7.7 J/(kg K) when the corrosion time increased from 0 to 7 days. After 21-day corrosion, the sample surface was completely covered by corrosion products. Furthermore, long-time corrosion has a significant effect on magnetic properties. The Curie temperature increased from 289 to 314 K for 0-day and 21-day corrosion of LaFe10.95Co0.65Si1.4C0.15 compounds, respectively. Significantly, the magnetic entropy change curves showed two peaks in theΔS-Tc curves. Magnetic stability was decreased after long-time corrosion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pneumatic chipping hammer and ultrasonic impact peening were used to relieve the welding residual stress of 2205 duplex stainless steel by manual argon arc welding, and the influences of these mechanical shock treatment technologies on the residual stress, microstructure, and corro-sion resistance of the welding seam were studied. Results showed that after pneumatic chipping hammer or ultrasonic impact peening, a small amount of plastic deformation occurred in the welded joint of 2205 duplex stainless steel, which led to an increase in the dislocation density in the microstructure. Meanwhile, the stress state of the welded joint changed from the residual tensile stress to the residual compressive stress. The maximum residual compressive stress could reach −579 MPa. The combined action of the two effectively improved the corrosion resistance of the welded joint. Among them, the best overall effect was the ultrasonic impact peening tech-nology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• A survival signature-based reliability approach for the multi-state system with both dependence and imprecision is developed. • The survival function is derived through a structural reliability treatment. • Two numerical algorithms are developed to address the efficient computation of the survival function. • A numerical case and a real application example are demonstrated for validation and to illustrate the benefits of our approach. Reliability evaluation of a multi-state system (MSS) with dependent components makes much practical sense because the independent identical assumption (i.i.d.) assumption between different components is sometimes impractical in the context of real engineering cases. The task becomes more challenging if imprecision gets involved due to the pervasive uncertainty. The loss of monotony resulting from the introduction of imprecise parameters makes many analytical reliability methods not applied. To address this challenge, in this paper, we develop a survival signature-based reliability framework for an MSS taking into account both dependence and uncertainty. In our framework, the survival function is derived through some unique structural reliability treatments. Vine copula and imprecise probability are integrated and embedded within the framework to address the case that dependence and imprecision simultaneously appear. Implementation-wise, two numerical simulation algorithms are developed to address some complicated cases in which the analytical solution is not available. For demonstration and validation, both the numerical case and application examples are presented. The results show the superiority of the proposed method and its potential in real engineering use. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Ti 3 C 2 T x porous nanosheets and nanowires are controllably synthesized through alkaline etching. • The etching mechanism and influencing factors in alkaline solution are revealed. • The increased edge active sites are beneficial to the performance improvement of Ti 3 C 2 T x nanowires. • Ti 3 C 2 T x nanowires exhibit higher ORR performance than Ti 3 C 2 T x nanosheets. • Ti 3 C 2 T x nanowires show high selectivity in reducing oxygen to hydrogen peroxide. Transition metal carbides, especially Ti 3 C 2 T x , display appealing prospects in the field of energy conversion and storage due to the unique combination of good conductivity and abundant functional groups. The physical structure as well as surface terminations of Ti 3 C 2 T x have significant impact on its properties when scaling down from 3D bulk to 2D sheets. However, moving toward 1D nanowire remains a great challenge because of the absence of anisotropic skeleton in Ti 3 C 2 T x. Herein, we demonstrate a facile strategy to convert Ti 3 C 2 T x nanosheets into crosslinked Ti 3 C 2 T x nanowires in hybrid alkaline solutions. The experimental results and theoretical calculation reveal that both OH− and O 2 play important roles in the controllable cutting of Ti 3 C 2 T x nanosheets into nanowires. Compared to Ti 3 C 2 T x nanosheets, crosslinked Ti 3 C 2 T x nanowires expose much higher density of active sites at edges and surfaces, making them ideal catalysts for oxygen reduction reaction (ORR). Unexpectedly, Ti 3 C 2 T x nanowires can selectively reduce oxygen through a 2e− pathway to hydrogen peroxide. The structural modulation of MXene opens a new avenue toward improved performance in emerging application fields. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• LAG3 upregulation inhibits effector function of CD4 T -cells from PCa. • Insufficiency expression of ATM upregulates LAG3 expression in PCa. • ATM dysfunction impairs AMPKα which enhances the binding of EGR2 and XBP1 to LAG3 promoters. • Blocking EGR2/XBP1 or restoring ATM-AMPKα aid in the cancer immunotherapy for PCa. Immunotherapy for prostate cancer (PCa) faces serious challenges. Therefore, the co-inhibitory receptors that regulate T cell function of PCa must be elucidated. Here we identified that the inhibitory receptor LAG3 was significantly induced in T cells from PCa patients. Gene array analysis revealed that insufficient ataxia telangiectasia mutated (ATM) gene expression in PCa T cells was responsible for the elevated LAG3 expression. Mechanistically, insufficient ATM expression impaired its ability to activate AMPKα signaling and CD4+ T cell functions, which further enhances the binding of the transcription factors XBP1 and EGR2 to LAG3 promoter. Reconstitution of ATM and inhibition of XBP1 or EGR2 in PCa T cells suppressed LAG3 expression and restored the effector function of CD4+ T cells from PCa. Our study revealed the mechanism of LAG3 upregulation in CD4+ T lymphocytes of PCa patients and may provide insights for the development of immunotherapeutic strategies for PCa treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Ti 3 C 2 supported Co N C and oxygen vacancy-rich TiO 2 (ov-TiO 2) composite is synthesized. • 20–60 nm TiO 2 nanoparticles with oxygen vacancies in-situ grow on Ti 3 C 2 nanosheets. • The synergistic effect of ov-TiO 2 and Co N C promotes the ORR performance of Co N C catalysts. • Co N C/TiO 2 -Ti 3 C 2 shows excellent ORR performance, even better than Pt/C catalyst. Construction of multiphase nanocomposites is an effective way to develop high performance oxygen reduction catalysts. Herein, Ti 3 C 2 MXene supported Co N C and oxygen vacancy-rich TiO 2 (ov-TiO 2) composite catalyst (Co N C/TiO 2 -Ti 3 C 2) is prepared by coordination and polymerization of dopamine and Co2+ on the surface of Ti 3 C 2 nanosheets and subsequent heating treatment. The oxygen vacancies on the surface of TiO 2 nanoparticles can stabilize the Co N C catalysts as well as promote the oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) on them. Therefore, Co N C/TiO 2 -Ti 3 C 2 exhibits good ORR activity and durability, even better than the commercial Pt/C catalyst. In contrast, Ti 3 C 2 supported Co N C catalyst without ov-TiO 2 (Co N C/Ti 3 C 2) shows decreased ORR activity, indicating the significance of the synergistic effect of Co N C and ov-TiO 2. In a practical application, Co N C/TiO 2 -Ti 3 C 2 exhibits a large power density (155.3 mW cm−2) and extraordinary long-term rechargeability as the air cathode for Zn-air batteries. This strategy of in-situ growth of cocatalysts on Ti 3 C 2 MXene provides a new way for the preparation of high-performance non-noble metal catalysts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: This paper highlights the facilitation of dyadic synchrony as a core psychotherapist skill that occurs at the non-verbal level and underlies many other therapeutic methods. We define dyadic synchrony, differentiate it from similar constructs, and provide an excerpt illustrating dyadic synchrony in a psychotherapy session. Method: We then present a systematic review of 17 studies that have examined the associations between dyadic synchrony and psychotherapy outcomes. We also conduct a meta-analysis of 8 studies that examined whether there is more synchrony between clients and therapists than would be expected by chance. Results: Weighted box score analysis revealed that the overall association of synchrony and proximal as well as distal outcomes was neutral to mildly positive. The results of the meta-analysis indicated that real client-therapist dyad pairs exhibited synchronized behavioral patterns to a much greater extent than a sample of randomly paired people who did not actually speak. Conclusion: Our discussion revolves around how synchrony can be facilitated in a beneficial way, as well as situations in which it may not be beneficial. We conclude with training implications and therapeutic practices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The outbreak of severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) in 2003 marked the explosion of health information seeking online in China and the increasing emergence of Chinese health websites. There are both benefits and potential hazards of people’s online health information seeking. This article intended to test part of Wilson’s second model of information behavior, including source characteristics and activating mechanisms, and to identify the relationships among perceived access, perceived expertise credibility, reward assessment, Internet self-efficacy, and online health information-seeking behavior. Data were drawn from face-to-face surveys and an online survey of health information seekers (N = 393) in China. The results showed that source characteristics predicted activating mechanisms, which in turn predicted online health information-seeking behavior. Activating mechanisms, that is, reward assessment and Internet self-efficacy, mediated the relationship between source characteristics (i.e., access and credibility) and online health information-seeking behavior. Strategies for improving information access, expertise credibility, and Internet self-efficacy are discussed in order to maximize the benefits of online health information seeking and to minimize the potential harm. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Background: The interaction between the tumor-microenvironment (TME) and the cancer cells has emerged as a key player in colorectal cancer (CRC) metastasis. A small proportion of CRC cells which undergo epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) facilitate the reshaping of the TME by regulating various cellular ingredients. Methods: Immunohistochemical analysis, RNA immunoprecipitation (RIP), RNA Antisense Purification (RAP), dual luciferase assays were conducted to investigate the biological function and regulation of LINC00543 in CRC. A series in vitro and in vivo experiments were used to clarify the role of LINC00543 in CRC metastasis. Results: Here we found that the long non-coding RNA LINC00543, was overexpressed in colorectal cancer tissues, which correlated with advanced TNM stage and poorer prognosis of CRC patients. The overexpression of LINC00543 promoted tumorigenesis and metastasis of CRC cells by enhancing EMT and remodeling the TME. Mechanistically, LINC00543 blocked the transport of pre-miR-506-3p across the nuclear-cytoplasmic transporter XPO5, thereby reducing the production of mature miR-506-3p, resulting in the increase in the expression of FOXQ1 and induction of EMT. In addition, upregulation of FOXQ1 induced the expression of CCL2 that accelerated the recruitment of macrophages and their M2 polarization. Conclusions: Our study showed that LINC00543 enhanced EMT of CRC cells through the pre-miR-506-3p/FOXQ1 axis. This resulted in the upregulation of CCL2, leading to macrophages recruitment and M2 polarization, and ultimately stimulating the progression of CRC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The poor lithium ion conductivity of solid electrolyte interface (SEI) layer limits the improvement of cycling performance of lithium metal batteries. Here, we pre-designed a Li2S/Li2S2 inorganic layer to participate into the formation of SEI through a simple one-step melting sulfur strategy. Its high ionic conductivity promotes the rapid and uniform transmission of lithium ion, and effectively inhibits the side reaction and the growth of lithium dendrites. Benefiting from these advantages, Li/Li symmetrical batteries using artificial SEI with Li2S/Li2S2 show small polarization voltages (25–40 mV), and can run for nearly 1500 h, which is 2 times than that of bare lithium. Moreover, the application of Li/LiFePO4 battery can be extended to 235 cycles with a high capacity retention of 90% under high load of 21.6 mg cm−2 and lean electrolyte of 2 µL mg−1. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Depressive disorder is a severe global public health problem. It is crucial to evaluate the global incidence trends of depressive disorder. The incidence data were drawn from the Global Burden of Disease Study (GBD) 2019. Estimates were presented by global and sociodemographic index (SDI) quintiles, and the age-period-cohort (APC) model was used to estimate the incidence trends. APC analysis indicated a decline in depressive disorder incidence globally (net drift = −0.24%, 95%CI: −0.29, −0.18), except for an increase in SDI regions (net drift = 0.07, 95%CI:0, 0.14). In high SDI regions, depressive disorder incidence increased among the younger and declined among the elder population, whereas the opposite trend was observed in middle and low-middle SDI regions. The depressive disorder incidence increased significantly among people aged 15 to 24 years after adjusting for age effects, decreased since 2000 after adjusting for period effects and increased rapidly in the birth cohort after 1990 in high SDI by adjusting for cohort effects. Globally, there was a declining trend of depressive disorder incidence in 1990–2019. Specifically, the incidence was declining globally in younger populations, while increasing in older populations. However, this trend differed depending on the SDI of the region. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The contact conductance of single, double, and triple thermal contacts of single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs) was investigated using molecular dynamics simulations. Our results showed that the effect of the thermal contact number on the contact conductance was not as strong as previously reported. The percentages of contact conductance of double and triple thermal contacts were about 72% and 67%, respectively, compared to that of a single thermal contact. Moreover, we found that the contact conductance of the double and triple thermal contacts was associated with the SWCNT length and the positional relationship of the thermal contacts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Poly-γ-glutamic acid (γ-PGA) is a natural polymer composed of glutamic acid monomer and it has garnered substantial attention in both the fields of material science and biomedicine. Its remarkable cell compatibility, degradability, and other advantageous characteristics have made it a vital component in the medical field. In this comprehensive review, we delve into the production methods, primary application forms, and medical applications of γ-PGA, drawing from numerous prior studies. Among the four production methods for PGA, microbial fermentation currently stands as the most widely employed. This method has seen various optimization strategies, which we summarize here. From drug delivery systems to tissue engineering and wound healing, γ-PGA's versatility and unique properties have facilitated its successful integration into diverse medical applications, underlining its potential to enhance healthcare outcomes. The objective of this review is to establish a foundational knowledge base for further research in this field. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Increased acid phosphatase (APase) activity is a prominent feature of tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) responses to inorganic phosphate (Pi) restriction. SlPHL1, a phosphate starvation response (PHR) transcription factor, has been identified as a positive regulator of low Pi (LP)‐induced APase activity in tomato. However, the molecular mechanism underlying this regulation remains to be elucidated. Here, SlPHL1 was found to positively regulate the LP‐induced expression of five potential purple acid phosphatase (PAP) genes, namely SlPAP7, SlPAP10b, SlPAP12, SlPAP15, and SlPAP17b. Furthermore, we provide evidence that SlPHL1 can stimulate transcription of these five genes by binding directly to the PHR1 binding sequence (P1BS) located on their promoters. The P1BS mutation notably weakened SlPHL1 binding to the promoters of SlPAP7, SlPAP12, and SlPAP17b but almost completely abolished SlPHL1 binding to the promoters of SlPAP10b and SlPAP15. As a result, the transcriptional activation of SlPHL1 on SlPAP10b and SlPAP15 was substantially diminished. In addition, not only did transient overexpression of either SlPAP10b or SlPAP15 in tobacco leaves increase APase activity, but overexpression of SlPAP15 in Arabidopsis and tomato also increased APase activity and promoted plant growth. Subsequently, two SPX proteins, SlSPX1 and SlSPX4, were shown to physically interact with SlPHL1. Moreover, SlSPX1 inhibited the transcriptional activation of SlPHL1 on SlPAP10b and SlPAP15 and negatively regulated the activity of APase. Taken together, these results demonstrate that SlPHL1‐mediated LP signaling promotes APase activity by activating the transcription of SlPAP10b and SlPAP15, which may provide valuable insights into the mechanisms of tomato response to Pi‐limited stress. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: It has been demonstrated that circularRNA (circRNAs) plays a critical role in various cancers. While the potential molecular mechanism of circRNAs in the progression of colorectal cancer (CRC) remains uncertain. Methods: Differentially expressed circRNAs were identified by RNA sequencing. RT-qPCR detected the expression of circ_0009092, miR-665, and NLK in CRC tissues and cells. Functions of circ_0009092 on tumor cell proliferation, migration, and invasion were investigated by a series of in vitro assays. The underlying mechanism of circ_0009092 was explored by bioinformatics analysis, RNA immunoprecipitation (RIP) and luciferase assays. A co-culture assay in vitro was performed to detect the affection of circ_0009092 on macrophage recruitment in the tumor microenvironment (TME). A xenograft mouse model was used to explore the effect of circ_0009092 on tumor growth. Results: Circ_0009092 was downregulated in CRCand predicted a good prognosis. Overexpression of circ_0009092 reduced tumor cell EMT, proliferation, migration, and invasion in vitro and in vivo. Mechanistically, circ_0009092 elevated the NLK expression via sponging miR-665 and suppressed the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway. EIF4EA3 induced circ_0009092 expression in CRC cells. In addition, NLK regulates phosphorylation and O-GlcNAcylation of STAT3 by binding to STAT3, thereby inhibiting CCL2 expression, in which it inhibits macrophage recruitment in the tumor microenvironment (TME). Conclusion: EIF4A3 suppressed circ_0009092 biogenesis, whichinhibits CRC progression by sponging miR-665 to downregulate NLK. Circ_0009092/miR-665/NLK suppressed tumor EMT, proliferation, migration, and invasion by acting on the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway. NLK directly interacted with STAT3 and decreased the CCL2 expression, inhibiting the recruitment of tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) in the TME. Our study provided novel insights into the roles of circ_0009092 as a novel promising prognostic and therapeutic target in CRC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives Methods Results Conclusions Clinical implications Research indicates adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) were associated with subjective cognitive decline (SCD), with higher ACEs reported by sexual minoritized individuals (i.e. lesbian, gay, and bisexual; LGB). This study aimed to explore the relationships between ACEs and SCD based on sexual orientation in middle-aged and older adults.The study included 76,592 participants from the 2019–2020 Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance Survey (BRFSS). Multivariate logistic regressions analyzed ACEs status, score, and type associations with SCD.2.18% of the participants identified as sexual minoritized individuals. More sexual minoritized individuals reported SCD compared to heterosexual individuals (10.70% for heterosexuals; 17.27% for sexual minoritized individuals). Positive association between SCD and ACEs status (OR = 2.18, 95%CI: 1.09–4.40) was identified among sexual minoritized individuals.The association between ACEs and SCD was strong in both heterosexual and sexual minoritized populations. Given the higher experience of ACEs among sexual minoritized adults, the subsequent frequency of SCD among these adults also may be higher.Sexual minoritized older adults may have a history of numerous ACEs, which could contribute to a greater burden of SCD. Clinicians and other stakeholders may wish to consider relationships between ACEs and SCD based on sexual orientation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Early-life noise exposure causes neurocognitive and pathological changes in rats. • Noise exposure alters gut microbiota, metabolic profile and endothelial barrier. • Gut microbiota and SCFAs play key roles in neural effects of noise in early life. • Early-life noise exposure causes gut-brain response in a sex-dependent manner. Epidemiological investigations show that noise exposure in early life is associated with health and cognitive impairment. The gut microbiome established in early life plays a crucial role in modulating developmental processes that subsequently affect brain function and behavior. Here, we examined the impact of early-life exposure to noise on cognitive function in adolescent rats by analyzing the gut microbiome and metabolome to elucidate the underlying mechanisms. Chronic noise exposure during early life led to cognitive deficits, hippocampal injury, and neuroinflammation. Early-life noise exposure showed significant difference on the composition and function of the gut microbiome throughout adolescence, subsequently causing axis-series changes in fecal short-chain fatty acid (SCFA) metabolism and serum metabolome profiles, as well as dysregulation of endothelial tight junction proteins, in both intestine and brain. We also observed sex-dependent effects of microbiota depletion on SCFA-related beneficial bacteria in adolescence. Experiments on microbiota transplantation and SCFA supplementation further confirmed the role of intestinal bacteria and related SCFAs in early-life noise-exposure-induced impairments in cognition, epithelial integrity, and neuroinflammation. Overall, these results highlight the homeostatic imbalance of microbiota–gut–brain axis as an important physiological response toward environmental noise during early life and reveals subtle differences in molecular signaling processes between male and female rats. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The treatment of brucellosis suffers from a high recurrence rate and drug resistance. Our study researched the differences in efficacy and side effects between triple antibiotics therapy and dual antibiotics therapy in the treatment of brucellosis through a systematic review and meta-analysis. Methods: We searched 4 English electronic databases and 2 Chinese electronic databases for randomized controlled trials and cohort studies published through September 2022 on the use of triple antibiotics versus dual antibiotics in the treatment of brucellosis. Overall outcome indicators were therapeutic failure rate, relapse rate, overall therapeutic failure rate, and side effect rate. Relative risk (RR) and 95% confidence intervals (95% CIs) were used as summary statistics. A fixed-effects model was used to combine the overall effect sizes. Results: The meta-analysis included 15 studies consisting of 11 randomized controlled trials and 4 cohort studies. Triple antibiotics showed better efficacy than dual antibiotics in a comparison of 3 overall outcome indicators (therapeutic failure rate (RR 0.42; 95% CI 0.30 to 0.59 heterogeneity P = 0.29, I2 = 15%), relapse rate (RR 0.29; 95% CI 0.18 to 0.45 heterogeneity P = 0.88, I2 = 0%), and overall therapeutic failure rate (RR 0.37; 95% CI 0.28 to 0.48 heterogeneity P = 0.35, I2 = 9%)). The incidence of side effects in patients with brucellosis treated with triple antibiotics was not significantly different from that in brucellosis patients treated with dual antibiotics (RR 0.85; 95% CI 0.67 to 1.06 heterogeneity P = 0.1, I2 = 35%). Sensitivity analyses showed robust results and Peter's test showed no publication bias. The results of subgroup analyses for the research type, drugs, and type of brucellosis were largely consistent with the overall outcome indicators, indicating the reliability and robustness of the overall results. Conclusions: In the treatment of brucellosis, triple antibiotics have better efficacy than dual antibiotics and do not increase the incidence of side effects. Author summary: Brucellosis is a major public health problem in the world. Although rarely fatal, the disease has a tendency to be chronic and persistent, becoming a granulomatous disease capable of affecting any organ system. Therefore, in addition to other control interventions, it is particularly important to provide timely and effective treatment after its occurrence. The current treatment for brucellosis is the dual antibiotics regime recommended by the WHO in 1986 (doxycycline combined with streptomycin or rifampicin). However, classical therapy has a high recurrence rate and increasing rates of drug resistance. In recent years, studies combined classical therapy with another aminoglycoside or quinolone that is triple antibiotic therapy to treat brucellosis, which achieved significant efficacy and no remarkable difference in the incidence of side effects compared to dual antibiotic therapy. Conversely, studies have also found that triple therapy has the same efficacy as dual therapy. In the above context, our study compared the efficacy and safety between the 2 therapies in the treatment of brucellosis, founding that triple antibiotics had better efficacy compared to dual antibiotics and there was no increase in the rate of side effects; both subgroup and sensitive analyses showed that the results were reliable and robust; Peter's test showed no publication bias in studies. Finally, our study aims to provide an evidence-based basis for treatment options for brucellosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The prognosis of tumor patients can be assessed by measuring the levels of lncRNAs (long non-coding RNAs), which play a role in controlling the methylation of the RNA. Prognosis in individuals with colorectal adenocarcinoma (CRC) is strongly linked to lncRNA expression, making it imperative to find lncRNAs that are associated with RNA methylation with strong prognostic value. Methods: In this study, by analyzing TCGA dataset, we were able to develop a risk model for lncRNAs that are associated with m5C with prognostic significance by employing LASSO regression and univariate Cox proportional analysis. There were a number of methods employed to ensure the model was accurate, including multivariate and univariate Cox regression analysis, Kaplan analysis, and receiver operating characteristic curve analysis. The principal component analysis, GSEA and GSVA analysis were used for risk model analysis. The CIBERSORT instrument and the TIMER database were used to evaluate the link between the immune cells that infiltrate tumors and the risk model. In vitro experiments were also performed to validate the predicted m5C-related significant lncRNAs. Results: The m5c regulators were differentially expressed in colorectal cancer and normal tissue. Based on the screening criteria and LASSO regression, 11 m5c-related lncRNAs were identified for developing the prognostic risk model. Multivariate and univariate Cox regression analysis showed the risk score is a crucial prognostic factor in CRC patients. The 1-year, 3-year, and 5-year AUC curves showed the risk score was higher than those identified for other clinicopathological characteristics. A nomogram using the risk score as a quantitative tool was developed for predicting patients' outcomes in clinical settings. In addition, the risk profile of m5C-associated lncRNAs can discriminate between tumor immune cells' characteristics in CRC. Mutation patterns and chemotherapy were analyzed between high- and low- risk groups of CRC patients. Moreover, TNFRSF10A-AS1 was chosen for the in vitro verification of the m5C-connected lncRNA to demonstrate impressive effects on the proliferation, migration and invasion of CRC cells. Conclusion: A risk model including the prognostic value of 11 m5C-associated lncRNAs proves to be a useful prognostic tool for CRC and improves the care of patients suffering from CRC based on these findings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A 17-4PH steering shaft in the ship was brittle fractured during service, and its chemical composition, microstructure, fracture morphology of the material, and force simulations were analyzed. The results show that the failure mode of the shaft is hydrogen-induced delayed cracking, and the crack source is located on the outer surface of the contact position between the steering shaft and the end of the transfer shaft. Both the stress simulation analysis and the residual stress test prove that there is a greater stress concentration near the source region, which can easily lead to the migration and aggregation of hydrogen (H) during service, thus causing hydrogen-induced delayed cracking. The microstructure of a failure specimen with tempered and higher tensile strength will lead to higher sensitivity to hydrogen. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Indocyanine green (ICG) is an important kind of near infrared (NIR) photosensitive molecules for PTT/PDT therapy as well as imaging. When exposed to NIR light, ICG can produce reactive oxygen species (ROS), which can kill cancer cells and pathogenic bacteria. Moreover, the absorbed light can also be converted into heat by ICG molecules to eliminate cancer cells. In addition, it performs exceptionally well in optical imaging-guided tumor therapy and antimicrobial therapy due to its deeper tissue penetration and low photobleaching properties in the near-infrared region compared to other dyes. In order to solve the problems of water and optical stability and multi-function problem of ICG molecules, composite nanomaterials based on ICG have been designed and widely used, especially in the fields of tumors and sterilization. So far, ICG molecules and their composite materials have become one of the most famous infrared sensitive materials. However, there have been no corresponding review articles focused on ICG molecules. In this review, the molecular structure and properties of ICG, composite material design, and near-infrared light- triggered anti-tumor, and antibacterial, and clinical applications are reviewed in detail, which of great significance for related research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Vision plays a crucial role in the ability of compound-eyed insects to perceive the characteristics of their surroundings. Compound-eyed insects (such as the honeybee) can change the optical flow input of the visual system by autonomously controlling their behavior, and this is referred to as visual–motor coordination (VMC). To analyze an insect's VMC mechanism in dynamic scenes, we developed a platform for studying insects that actively shape the optic flow of visual stimuli by adapting their flight behavior. Image-processing technology was applied to detect the posture and direction of insects' movement, and automatic control technology provided dynamic scene stimulation and automatic acquisition of perceptual insect behavior. In addition, a virtual mapping technique was used to reconstruct the visual cues of insects for VMC analysis in a dynamic obstacle scene. A simulation experiment at different target speeds of 1–12 m/s was performed to verify the applicability and accuracy of the platform. Our findings showed that the maximum detection speed was 8 m/s, and triggers were 95% accurate. The outdoor experiments showed that flight speed in the longitudinal axis of honeybees was more stable when facing dynamic barriers than static barriers after analyzing the change in geometric optic flow. Finally, several experiments showed that the platform can automatically and efficiently monitor honeybees' perception behavior, and can be applied to study most insects and their VMC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Metabolic dysregulations have emerged as a major mediator of cardiovascular disorders and fibrotic diseases. Metabolic reprogramming contributes a lot to cardiac fibroblast activation and cardiac fibrosis post-myocardial infarction (MI), yet the mechanism remains incompletely understood. Our work aimed to determine whether or not glycolytic reprogramming, regulated by phosphofructokinase-2/fructose-2,6-bisphosphatase 3 (PFKFB3), is a therapeutic target for alleviating post-MI cardiac fibrosis. Here, we showed that cardiac fibroblasts displayed cell energy phenotype toward augmented glycolysis in response to transforming growth factor-beta 1 (TGF-β1), evidenced by significant extracellular acidification rate (ECAR) increase and lactate accumulation. The expression of glycolytic enzyme PFKFB3, a master activator of glycolysis, was up-regulated in TGF-β1-treated cardiac fibroblasts and in cardiac fibroblasts of post-MI mice. Pharmacological inhibition of PFKFB3 by 3PO diminished TGF-β1-mediated profibrotic phenotypes, attenuated cardiac fibrosis, and preserved cardiac functions in post-MI mice. Meanwhile, the genetic inhibition of PFKFB3 decreased the cardiac fibroblast activation and reversed the differentiated phenotypes in vitro and in vivo. Mechanistically, we identified deubiquitinase OTUD4 as a new binding protein of PFKFB3, and their interaction blocked PFKFB3 degradation via OTUD4-mediated deubiquitylation. Taken together, this work characterized a key role for PFKFB3 in cardiac fibroblast activation and suggested that inhibiting PFKFB3-involved glycolysis is an alternative way to alleviate post-MI cardiac fibrosis. Key messages: PFKFB3, a master activator of glycolysis, was highly expressed in ischemic cardiac fibroblasts to enhance cardiac fibrosis The deubiquitinase OTUD4 was identified as a new binding protein of PFKFB3 TGF-β1 blunted the ubiquitination-mediated degradation of PFKFB3 via OTUD4-mediated deubiquitylation Blockade of PFKFB3 contributed to ameliorating ischemia-induced cardiac fibrosis [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Deep eutectic solvents are utilized as green solvents to generate nanomaterials as they are less toxic and more cost-effective than conventional solvents. Contrary to a DES as a medium, metal-based DESs were employed as raw materials and media to fabricate one- or two-dimensional nanomaterials. FeO(OH) with a rod-bundle structure, Co(OH)2 with a plate-like structure, ZnO with a rod-like structure, and CuO with a wedge-like nanoplate have been successfully synthesized. A possible mechanism for formation is also discussed. Moreover, the nanomaterials obtained exhibit low band gaps compared to bulk materials, increasing their ability to degrade organic and inorganic pollutants effectively. According to electrochemical tests, Fe2O3 nanoparticles have a high specific capacity and cycle stability, making them promising anode materials for NiFe rechargeable batteries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To investigate the association between cigarette smoking and retinal capillary plexus (RCP) using optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA) and to examine whether potential vascular risk factors could impact their association. Methods: This is a cross‐sectional, community‐based study. The Jidong Eye Cohort Study included participants aged ≥18 years in the Jidong community (Tangshan city, northern China) from August 2019 to January 2020. All participants underwent comprehensive ophthalmic examination and completed detailed smoking questionnaires. Retinal vessel density in the superficial and deep RCP was automatically measured using OCTA. Results: Of the 2598 participants included in the study, 2026 (78.0%) never smoked and 572 (22.0%) had a history of smoking (494 [19.0%] current smokers and 78 [3.0%] former smokers). The median (interquartile range) age was 41 (34–52) years for the non‐smoking group and 45 (35–54.5) years for the smoking group. Multivariable analysis showed that smoking history is associated with a low deep RCP vessel density in the parafovea (β, −0.53; 95% confidence interval [CI], −0.82 to −0.24) and four quadrants. Increased smoking pack‐years were associated with reduced deep RCP vessel density in the parafovea (p for trend <0.001) and four quadrants. The significant interaction between diabetes and smoking only was found for superficial RCP vessel density in the parafovea (p for interaction = 0.014) and four quadrants except for the temporal quadrants. Conclusions: Cigarette smoking is an independent risk factor for reduced deep RCP vessel density. Our findings imply the potential detrimental effect of smoking on the occurrence of ocular diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Regulatory T (Treg) cells are important components of the tumour microenvironment (TME) that play roles in gastric cancer (GC) metastasis. Although tumour cells that undergo epithelial‐mesenchymal transition (EMT) regulate Treg cell function, their regulatory mechanism in GC remains unclear. Methods: The miR‐192‐5p was identified by examining three Gene Expression Omnibus GC miRNA expression datasets. RNA immunoprecipitation (RIP) and dual‐luciferase reporter assays were conducted to identify interactions between miR‐192‐5p and RB1. The role of miR‐192‐5p/RB1 in GC progression was evaluated based on EdU incorporation, wound healing and Transwell assays. An in vitro co‐culture assay was performed to measure the effect of miR‐192‐5p/RB1 on Treg cell differentiation. In vivo experiments were conducted to explore the role of miR‐192‐5p in GC progression and Treg cell differentiation. Results: MiR‐192‐5p was overexpressed in tumour and was associated with poor prognosis in GC. MiR‐192‐5p bound to the RB1 3′‐untranslated region, resulting in GC EMT, proliferation, migration and invasion. MiR‐192‐5p/RB1 mediated interleukin‐10 (IL‐10) secretion by regulating nuclear factor‐kappaBp65 (NF‐κBp65), affecting Treg cell differentiation. NF‐κBp65, in turn, promoted miR‐192‐5p expression and formed a positive feedback loop. Furthermore, in vivo experiments confirmed that miR‐192‐5p/RB1 promotes GC growth and Treg cell differentiation. Conclusion: Collectively, our studies indicate that miR‐192‐5p/RB1 promotes EMT of tumour cells, and the miR‐192‐5p/RB1/NF‐κBp65 signaling axis induces Treg cell differentiation by regulating IL‐10 secretion in GC. Our results suggest that targeting miR‐192‐5p/RB1/NF‐κBp65 /IL‐10 may pave the way for the development of new immune treatments for GC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Uncontrolled side reactions between lithium metal and organic electrolytes seriously deteriorates the stability of corresponding battery due to the non-uniform Li+ deposition. Using lithium nitrate (LiNO 3) as an additive can adjust the components in solid-electrolyte-interphase (SEI) for optimizing of lithium metal interface. However, the low solubility and rapid consumption of LiNO 3 in ester-based electrolytes limit its further application. Herein, a kind of suspension electrolyte containing micron-sized LiNO 3 particles is reported to realize a full gradient compensation against the consumption of NO 3 −. Benefiting from the uniformly dispersion of LiNO 3 particles, a SEI layer containing even-distributed Li 3 N and LiN x O y with high content is constructed that promotes the rapid and uniform plating of Li+. Consequently, the Li/Cu batteries present a polarization of only 15–20 mV, and exhibit a consistent performance for 230 cycles with the CE of 98.1%, which is 4 times than that of conventional carbonate electrolytes. In addition, the cycling life of the assembled Li/NCM811 batteries can be extended to 260 cycles with a high capacity retention of 82.4 %. A kind of suspension electrolyte containing micron-sized LiNO 3 particles is reported to realize a full gradient compensation against the consumption of NO 3 −. Benefiting from the uniformly dispersion of LiNO 3 particles, a SEI layer containing even-distributed Li 3 N and LiN x O y with high content is constructed that promotes the rapid and uniform plating of Li+. [Display omitted] • Suspension electrolyte brings a full gradient compensation of NO 3 − against the consumption on Li metal surface. • The full gradient compensation of NO 3 − promotes the uniform formation of Li 3 N and LiN x O y in SEI. • The Li + conductivity of SEI is significantly enhanced, reducing the polarization of Li/Cu batteries to only 15–20 mV. • High performance is achieved with 260 cycles in Li/NCM811 batteries at a high capacity retention of 82.4 %. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To investigate the model of fatigue crack growth rate da/dN based on crack tip opening displacement (CTOD) as the driving parameter, the variation ranges Δ δ M by linear elastic fracture mechanics and Δ δ G by geometric principle of CTOD were deduced. The fitting relationships of Δ δ M − d a / d N and Δ δ G − d a / d N were attained through da/dN experiment by taking 17Cr16Ni2 stainless steel, and their discrepancies were compared. The results showed that at the early and middle periods, the relationships of Δ δ M − d a / d N and Δ δ G − d a / d N could be expressed by Paris law, and da/dN driven by Δ δ M was faster than that by Δ δ G notably; at the later period, the experimental data of Δ δ M − d a / d N and Δ δ G − d a / d N deviated from the fitted Paris curves and were above them with being crossed with each other; in the total variation range of CTOD, it was better to fit the relationships of Δ δ M − d a / d N and Δ δ G − d a / d N by polynomial method rather than Paris law. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The thermal conductivities of the 3D carbon nanotubes (CNTs), CNT/epoxy resin (CNT/EP) composites, graphene/EP composites and CNT/graphene/EP composites are systematically investigated via mesoscopic simulations using smoothed particle hydrodynamics (SPH) and dissipative particle dynamics (DPD). The effects of the CNT length and overall mass density on the thermal conductivity of the CNTs are discussed. Moreover, the influences of the loading and size of the fillers on the thermal conductivities of the CNT/EP, graphene/EP and CNTs/graphene/EP composites are investigated. The results have shown that introducing the CNT and graphene fillers simultaneously to the epoxy resin can improve the thermal conductivity of the composites most effectively. The study demonstrates that coupled DPD and SPH model is a viable approach to understand the thermal conductivities of nanocomposites at a reduced computational cost compared to full atomistic simulation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A series of Zr50.75Cu35.75Al8.5Ag5 bulk metallic glasses (BMGs) were prepared by controlling the cooling rate and over-heating temperature. The plastic deformation behavior of the BMGs was examined. The plasticity was enhanced when the BMG was prepared at a high cooling rate and low over-heating temperature. The plasticity of the Zr-based BMGs prepared under different casting conditions was discussed based on the amount of free volume. The structural heterogeneity of the BMGs prepared with different over-heating temperatures was examined using a high-resolution transmission electron microscope and mapped by using an energy dispersive x-ray spectroscope. The results showed that a low over-heating temperature could increase the degree of heterogeneity, but an extremely low over-heating temperature could lead to nanocrystallization. The difference in the heterogeneous structures caused the distinct plastic performance of the Zr50.75Cu35.75Al8.5Ag5 BMGs prepared with different over-heating temperatures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Bi3+ or Sm3+ ions are introduced into Mn4+-activated Ca 2 GdNbO 6 (CGN) double perovskite phosphors to achieve highly efficient plant growth lighting and temperature measurement. Here, the energy band and density of states for CGN are computed using density functional theory (DFT) in detail. The emission bands of CGN: Bi3+/Mn4+ consist of both the blue-light band (3P 1 →1S 0 transition of Bi3+ ions) and red-light band (2E→4A 2 transition of Mn4+ ions), which solves the issue of the lack of blue light in Mn4+-activated phosphors used in plant-growth LEDs. The electroluminescence emission spectrum of the LEDs assembled with CGN: Sm3+/Mn4+ shows a wide emission band (550–800 nm), which coincides perfectly with the absorption (550–825 nm) of Phytochrome (P R and P FR). Moreover, non-contact thermometers are designed by luminescence intensity ratio technique (LIR Mn/Bi or LIR Mn/Sm) with excellent absolute (S a = 0.074 K-1@448 K or 0.036 K-1@373 K) and relative sensitivity (S r = 2.13 %K−1@498 K or 1.11 %K−1@448 K). The results reveal that as-prepared phosphors have great potential in promoting indoor plant cultivate and optical temperature sensing. • The energy band and density of states for Ca 2 GdNbO 6 are calculated by density functional theory. • Bi3+.→Mn4+ and Sm3+→Mn4+ transitions mechanism are attributed to different electron multipole interaction in Ca 2 GdNbO 6 host. • Multi-mode optical thermometers are prepared by LIR technique. • The plant growth lamp with excellent thermal stability is designed based on prepared phosphors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ceramics joining has been widely applied in MEMS sensors, microwave and imaging devices as well as other ceramic packaging applications to fabricate multifunctional ceramic components. In this study, a glass frit with gradient thermal expansion coefficient (TEC) has been applied as the bonding material to join the ceramic of Al 2 O 3 and AlN. This glass frit consists of two types of glasses with different TEC. The Al 2 O 3 and AlN ceramics have been successfully joined with this glass frit in muffle furnace at 850 °C for 1 h. The bonding strength of Al 2 O 3 /AlN ceramic joined via this glass frit exceeds 40 MPa without any cracks in the joining interface, which is much superior compared with that of conventional glass frit bonding. Our work demonstrates that the gradient-TEC glass frit bonding is an effective method to join different types of ceramics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • The iceberg shape like condenser can efficient collect vapor in hot weather. • The introduction of a TG between photothermal and evaporation layer can decrease heat loss. • Excellent durability performance in solar steam desalination. • This ISWG may pave the way for industrial desalination. Interfacial solar steam generation has emerged as a promising eco-friendly and low-carbon emission technology to address the global water scarcity. So far, the majority of attention is paid to the improvement of the evaporation rate while the efficient vapor collection sector remains broadly unexploited. Herein, an inverted iceberg-inspired solar water generator (ISWG), consisting of a thermoelectric generator coated by a photothermal agent, a bilayer all-fiber nonwoven fabric and a passive cooling vapor condenser, is constructed. Inspired by the shape of an iceberg, the majority of the ISWG system is underneath the bulk water, leaving only the evaporation section floating on the water. This ISWG system not only avoids the vapor condensation induced solar input loss, but also transfers the heat to the surrounding bulk water, resulting in passive cooled and enhanced vapor collection. Moreover, a thermoelectric generator, which utilizes the temperature difference between the photothermal layer and evaporation layer, is sandwiched for thermal conduction in place of the traditional metal plate. The ISWG can achieve a high vapor collection rate of 1.02 kg m-2 h−1 and extra output electricity with a power of 0.47 W m−2 under sunlight with the ambient temperature at about 42 ℃. This work may pave the way for the development of an efficient solar-induced water-electricity co-generation system in tropical islands. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Neuro-Behçet's disease (NBD) contributes to poor prognosis in BD patients which lacks reliable laboratory biomarkers in assessing intrathecal injury. This study aimed to determine the diagnostic value of myelin basic protein (MBP), an indicator of central nervous system (CNS) myelin damage, in NBD patients and disease controls. Paired samples of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) and serum MBP were measured using ELISA, while IgG and Alb were routinely examined before the MBP index was developed. CSF and serum MBP in NBD were significantly higher than in NIND, which could distinguish NBD from NIND with a specificity exceeding 90%, moreover, they could also be excellent discriminators for acute NBD and chronic progressive ones. We found positive linkage between MBP index and IgG index. Serial MBP monitoring confirmed serum MBP's sensitive response to disease recurrences and drug effects, whereas MBP index suggests relapses prior to clinical symptoms. MBP has high diagnostic yield for NBD with demyelination and identifies CNS pathogenic processes before imaging or clinical diagnosis. • MBP and its index is proposed for better define NBD diagnosis and classification. • Serum MBP is a promising but non-invasive marker for differentiating NBD subjects. • MBP index more tends to display CNS pathogenesis of NBD patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• The critical content of Ta which massive transformation is promoted or inhibited is 2 at.%. • Variant selection of γ m inner α matrix makes second generation γ m deviate from BOR. • Refinement of γ m and high density of defects in α 2 enhance the mechanical properties. The variant selection of subgrains in massive γ (γ m) is systematically studied by 0–2 at.% Ta-containing γ-TiAl-based alloy. Results show that the precipitation of γ m phase increases first, and then decreases with the rising of Ta. The critical content of Ta, which massive transformation is promoted or inhibited, is identified. EBSD and HRTEM results reveal variant selection process during nucleation and growth inner α matrix along all possible {1 1 1}γ, in terms of minimization of energy of highly defected α grain caused by Ta, thereafter, the subgrains of γ m are refined. These fine subgrains and highly defected α 2 grain can enhance the mechanical properties of TiAl-xTa alloy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Based on three chloroplast markers ( psbA- trnH, trnL- trnF, and trnT- trnL), we identified eight haplotypes in 23 samples of Litsea coreana collected from seven provinces across southern and southwestern China. The Hap6 was the most widely distributed haplotype. The genetic diversity was highest in Sichuan Province and its adjacent regions. Therefore, these regions should be areas of priority for conservation of L. coreana in the future. In addition, our molecular dating analyses indicated that the uplift of the Tibetan Plateau and past climate changes accounted for the diversification of L. coreana in China. Finally, we found that the chemical components of L. coreana were significantly affected by both collection time and postharvest handling methods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A rapid and accurate ultra-performance liquid chromatography-photo-diode array (UPLC-PDA) detection method was established for simultaneous determination of 5 compounds including polydatin, resveratrol, emodin-8-glucoside, emodin, and physcion in Polygonum cuspidatum. Twenty-six batches of samples were collected from different areas and markets in China. The compounds were separated in less than 12 min using a C18 column with acetonitrile and water containing 0.5% acetic acid as the mobile phase at a flow rate of 0.3 mL/min. The precision (intra-day and inter-day assay), stability, limits of detection and quantitation, linearity, and recovery were evaluated for this method. RSD for intra-day precision, inter-day precision, and stability were less than 2.5%, 3.5%, and 2.19%, respectively. Recovery ranged from 96.78% to 104.58% (RSD < 2.71%). The content range of polydatin, resveratrol, emodin-8-glucoside, emodin, and physcion were 13.45–34.55, 0.97–13.12, 3.34–17.62, 6.53–13.69, and 1.71–4.23 mg/g, respectively. By applying principal component analysis and hierarchical cluster analysis, the quality of 26 specimens can be divided into 3 groups according to contents of compounds. This indicates the need to strengthen the quality control of P. cuspidatum. This is the first report to provide an effective UPLC method and related statistical methods to evaluate the quality of P. cuspidatum from different areas. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Natural plant resources with herbicidal activity may be substitutes for synthetic chemical pesticides, likewise aromatic plant extracts, especially essential oils. Essential oil from Litsea pungens has been proved to possess a strong antibacterial property. Interestingly, we found the essential oil also showed a strong allelopathic capacity. Therefore, in the present work, the chemical composition of the essential oil from the fruit of L. pungens was analyzed by gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC–MS). The weed control abilities of the essential oil were also further evaluated. The results show that the yield of essential oil extracted by steam distillation was 1.4%, and 17 compounds, mainly terpenoids, were identified by GC–MS. In allelopathic tests, the essential oil exhibited a negative effect on seed germination rate and seedling growth of Lolium perenne and Bidenspilosa. Moreover, chlorophyll content, malondialdehyde content, electrolyte leakage, catalase, superoxide dismutase and peroxidase of seedlings treated with essential oil were also negatively affected. This work could provide a better understanding of the rational utilization of L. pungens essential oil for crop cultivation and further development of environment-friendly herbicides. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• The hydrogen embrittlement is unveiled by the dramatically decreasing of impact absorbing energy when increasing H content. • The hydrogen is found to concentrate in β phase at the α grain boundaries. • No hydride formed after H charging, however, hydrides can form during the twin-jet electropolishing procedure. • The hydrogen enhanced decohesion is considered to be responsible for the weakening of β phase by the solute hydrogen. The hydrogen embrittlement of near α Ti-2.5Al-2Zr-1Fe alloy is demonstrated by the decreasing of impact toughness when increasing the charged H content in the near surface layer. In order to get knowledge of the role of hydrogen and the possible embrittle mechanisms, a series of experiments are performed. First, the fracture mode was analyzed by scanning electron microscope and optical microscope. Then the deuterium charge and secondary ion mass spectroscope (SIMS) study was carried out to obtain the precise distribution of H in microstructure scale. The transmission electron microscope (TEM) study was performed to identify whether hydride formation occurs. Both Focused Ion Beam (FIB) lift out and conventional grinding methods were used to prepare the TEM sample. No hydride was observed in the sample prepared by FIB lift out method, while hydrides appeared in the sample prepared by conventional method. The results suggest that hydride formation relates with the TEM sample preparation process rather than the H charge process. The charged deuterium was found to concentrate in β phase at α grain boundaries by SIMS, which should be the cause of crack growth along β phase. Among the hydrogen embrittle mechanisms, the weakening of β phase was most probably caused by hydrogen enhanced decohesion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, an insulating film was successfully prepared by sintering 35 wt % CaO-15 wt % Al2O3-10 wt % B2O3-40 wt % SiO2 glass at 875 °C. After sintering, the main component of the insulating film was glass-ceramics. The main crystal phase was CaAl2Si2O8, and the crystallization activation energy was 189.76 kJ/mol. After preparing the insulating film, its color turned yellow, and the diffusion of Ag was found by XPS and XRD data. When the temperature increased to 875 °C, the color of the insulating film became lighter, and the silver content decreased. The adhesion of the multilayer structure could reach 875 N. The dielectric constant of the insulating film in the multilayer structure was approximately 5, and the dielectric loss was 0.0011. After sintering, the dielectric strength of the insulating film could reach 13.11 kV/mm, which fully meets the requirements of a complex packaging structure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]