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Background and aim: The current study aimed to investigate the antiproliferative effect of Resv on the growth of VSMCs and to determine the association between Resv and STAT3 and the mitochondrial biogenesis signaling pathway under high-glucose conditions. Materials and methods: Male Wistar rats weighing between 180 and 200 g were killed by cervical vertebra dislocation. Primary VSMCs were obtained by outgrowth methods. Cells from different treatment groups were then collected, and changes in cell proliferation and signaling pathway activity were analyzed by PCR and Western blotting. And the MTT assay was used to investigate the effect of Resv on VSMC proliferation. Results: Resv inhibited proliferation of VSMCs under high-glucose conditions. Resv suppressed the transcriptional activity of STAT3, but the mitochondrial gene GRIM-19, which is responsible for STAT3 activation, was simultaneously upregulated. The mitochondrial biogenesis signaling pathway components NRF1, NRF2, TFB1m, and TFB2m were also upregulated. In addition, the mitochondrial genes NDUFA1, NDUFA2, and NDUFA3 were involved in the function of Resv. Conclusion: The results of the study suggest that Resv has an antiproliferative effect in high-glucose-cultured VSMCs partly through inhibiting STAT3 function and upregulating mitochondrial biogenesis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Stochastic configuration network (SCN) has great potential in developing fast learning model with sound generalization capability and can be easily extended to the distributed computing framework. This paper aims to develop a distributed regularized stochastic configuration network to solve the limitations of traditional centralized learning on the scalability and efficiency in computing and storage resources for massive datasets. The local models are constructed using a classical stochastic configuration network, and the global unified model is built by the alternating direction method of multipliers (ADMM). Elastic net regularization term combining the LASSO and ridge methods is added into loss function of the ADMM optimization to prevent the model from overfitting when the data has high-dimensional collinearity. Each layer of the local regularized SCN model of a node in the topology network is constructed incrementally; its input weights and biases are broadcast to all other nodes under the inequality constraints. Output weights and the Lagrange multipliers of each node are calculated alternately through the decomposition–coordination procedure of the ADMM optimization algorithm until it finally converges to a unified model. A comprehensive study on five benchmark datasets and the ball mill experimental data has been carried out to evaluate the proposed method. The experiment results show that the proposed distributed regularized stochastic configuration network has relative advantages in terms of accuracy and stability compared with the distributed random vector functional link network. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• A classification method was established based on the functional parameters of powder; • w , a , k G , y 0 , k a , k b , b , k FES , k E3 are considered as key functional parameters; • The properties of each category of powder were analyzed in detail; • b is considered the most critical functional parameter affecting tablet quality; • In addition, w , k a , k G , and a related parameter affect the qualities of the tablet. Direct compaction (DC) is the ideal method for tablet production. However, DC requires the highest quality powder functional properties, such as good flowability, compressibility, compactibility, and appropriate elasticity. In the present study, 24 types of natural plant product (NPP) powders, prepared using three commonly used methods, and 18 types of fillers were evaluated for their fundamental and functional properties. Principal component analysis (PCA) and hierarchical cluster analysis (HCA) were used to classify the powders and analyze the characteristics of each category of powder, based on functional properties. Partial least squares (PLS) regression models were established to predict the tensile strength (TS), ejection force (EF), disintegration time (DT), and solid fraction (SF) based on the powder's functional properties. The results show that: (i) Except for the direct pulverization powder, the fundamental properties among the NPP powders were similar; however, the functional properties were quite different; (ii) The powders could be classified well based on their functional parameters (w , a , k G , y 0 , k a , k b , b , k FES , k E3). The order of powders suitable for DC is Group 4 > Group 5 > Group 2 > Group 3 > Group 1; (iii) The compressibility and compactibility of the powder are beneficial to the TS and EF of the tablet. The compressibility of the powders correlated negatively with DT; nevertheless, the compactibility correlated positively with DT and SF. The true density (ρ true), median particle size (D 0.5) of the powders correlated negatively with SF. Overall, this study systematically evaluated the properties of commonly used NPP powders and fillers and found the key properties that affect the quality of tablets. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Modal parameter identification of systems, structures and machines with variable physical parameters is an important task for their damage diagnosis, maintenance and repair, and life cycle management, especially when time-varying vibration modes are involved. The paper proposes a new combined, two-step, i.e., estimated wavelet-based frequency response function (FRF) and least-squares iterative algorithm, modeling approach in order to determine time-varying vibration modes based on Gaussian white noise input excitation. The time-varying wavelet-based FRF is estimated based on output noise estimation model H 1 ; the second step identifies time-varying modal parameters based on estimated wavelet-based FRF with the use of least-squares iterative algorithm. Estimated wavelet-based FRF can reveal the dynamic characteristics of the system correctly similar to the theoretical FRF by single degree of freedom (SDOF). The combined method is demonstrated using system identification analysis based on the simulated stiffness-varying and mass-varying multiple-degree-of-freedom (MDOF) system subjected to random Gaussian white noise excitation. The results show that the proposed combined method accurately identifies modal parameter of the time-invariant analyzed structure, and correctly captures modal parameter of the time-varying analyzed structure. The modal frequency and shape agree with theoretical results well. The analysis results also indicate that the proposed combined method is sensitive to the position of input excitation. The estimation accuracy wavelet-based FRF can be improved by selecting the average number of times and wavelet parameters. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As a branch of MOF, MIL has attracted much attention in the field of electrochemistry because of its high porosity and potential high charge storage capacity. Graphene oxide is considered as an ideal supercapacitor material because of its high electrical conductivity, high specific surface area and rich surface functional groups. The metal sulfides prepared with MIL as template not only inherit the structural characteristics of MIL, but also improve the electrical conductivity of the materials, which thus show excellent energy storage properties. In this work, the rGO/Cu 0.76 Fe 0.24 S 2 composite was prepared through in-situ growth of MIL-101 on the surface of GO followed by copper nitrate etch, high temperature carbonization and hydrothermal sulfurization. To the best of our knowledge, it is the first time to report that rGO/Cu 0.7 Fe 0.3 S 2 is used as the electrode of supercapacitor and tested for energy storage. The optimized rGO/Cu 0.7 Fe 0.3 S 2 electrode exhibited good capacitive performances, including high specific capacitance of 661.2 F g−1 at 1 Ag−1 and remarkable cycle stability with 69 % after 5000 cycles. Employing the as-prepared rGO/Cu 0.7 Fe 0.3 S 2 composites as positive electrode, the hybrid supercapacitor device displayed spectacular capacity of energy density (54.37 Wh kg−1), great power density (887.75 W kg−1) and impressive long-term stability of 70 % retention after 5000 cycles. The results show that the composite prepared with graphene oxide as substrate and MIL-101 (Fe) as template should be a promising materials for fabricating high-performance supercapacitor. [Display omitted] • The preparation of GO-based metal sulfides as energy storage devices using MIL-101(Fe) as a template was investigated for the first time. • rGO/Cu 0.7 Fe 0.3 S 2 has a good charge-discharge cycle with a capacitance retention of 69 % (5000 cycles). • The electrochemical performance of rGO/Cu 0.7 Fe 0.3 S 2 is excellent, reaching 661.2 F g−1 (current density: 1 A g−1). • The asymmetric device constructed from AC and rGO/Cu 0.7 Fe 0.3 S 2 provides an energy density of 54.37 Wh kg−1 (power density: 887.75 W kg−1). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Medication adherence in children is a key consideration in drug design. • Factors influencing adherence and new advances in pharmaceutical design are presented. • The key to pharmaceutical design includes the design of dosage form, the new technologies and new devices. Medication adherence in pediatric patients is a key factor in drug development and dosage form design. High medication adherence is not only important to achieve the expected treatment effects but can also effectively reduce medical costs. It is an ongoing task to accurately identify differences in medication adherence between children and adults and analyze the factors related to pediatric medication adherence. This is necessary to guide the development of pediatric drugs. This review focuses on factors that influence pediatric medication adherence as well as pharmaceutical design strategies to improve adherence. Current new dosage forms, new technologies, and new devices are comprehensively summarized in terms of their advantages and limitations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The oncogenic potential of special AT-rich binding protein 1 (SATB1) has been reported in various types of cancer, but its function in cervical cancer remains not fully investigated. This study aimed to investigate the effect of SATB1 mRNA expression on tumor progression and outcomes in the cervical cancer patients. Methods: A total of 33 cervical cancer patients treated in our hospital from September 2012 to December 2015 were included. The mRNA expression level of STAB1 in cervical cancer tissue was determined by real-time PCR, and the patients were divided into dichotomous groups based on their SATB1 expression level. Clinical characteristics, recurrence, and survival outcomes were compared between groups. Results: Compared with the SATB1-low group, the SATB1-high group had significantly advanced International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics (FIGO) stages (P=0.037) and histologic grade (P=0.036). Kaplan–Meier analysis showed that SATB1-high group had a worse overall survival (P=0.078, marginal significant). In the subgroup analysis of pathological types, adenocarcinomas group (n=8) had a significantly higher SATB1 expression level as compared with the squamous cell carcinomas (n=18) and adenosquamous carcinomas (n=7) groups (both P<0.05). Cervical squamous cell carcinomas patients with a high-expression SATB1 (n=8) had more advanced FIGO stages (P=0.015) and histologic grades (P=0.060, marginal significant) as well as a higher (P=0.069, marginal significant) incidence of lymphatic metastasis than those with a low expression of SATB1 (n=10). Conclusion: These results showed that expression of SATB1 may have an effect on the disease progression and survival outcome of cervical cancer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • The porous lamellar GO/Ni 2 ZnS 4 @NiCo 2 S 4 was prepared using simple ZIF-8@ZIF-9 templating method. • The core–shell structure of graphene trimetallic sulfides was synthesized for the first time. • GO/Ni 2 ZnS 4 @NiCo 2 S 4 inherits the high specific surface area of the ZIF template and the high pseudocapacitance of the sulfide. • High specific capacity of 2284F/g were achieved at the current density of 1 A/g. Metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) have emerged as promising active electrode materials in supercapacitors for its controllable porous structure and excellent physio-chemical properties. However, the poor conductivities keep it from achieving its full capacitance potential, which greatly limits its practical application. Here, a facile pathway is reported to fabricate the GO/Ni 2 ZnS 4 @NiCo 2 S 4 composite with large specific surface area and favorable electrical conductivity. Thanks to the novel tremella-like core–shell structure and high-efficient synergistic effects among multi-components, the designed GO/Ni 2 ZnS 4 @NiCo 2 S 4 electrode shows a high specific capacitance of 2284 F/g at 1 A/g. Furthermore, the asymmetric supercapacitor fabricated by coupling GO/Ni 2 ZnS 4 @NiCo 2 S 4 positive electrode with biological carbon negative electrode achieves a remarkable energy density of 120 Wh kg−1 at a power density of 750 W kg−1. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study is to estimate the timing impact on levothyroxine replacement among pregnant women with subclinical hypothyroidism (SCH). Ninety-eight pregnant women diagnosed as SCH in the first trimester were randomly divided into three groups: Group A, instantly initiated levothyroxine after diagnosis; Group B, administrated treatment in the second trimester, and Group C, received no prescription. Incidence of pregnancy complications and pregnancy outcomes were compared among three groups and subgroup analysis were performed stratified with TPO status in Group B. Group A exhibited lower rate of pregnancy complications (9.7%) and adverse outcome (3.2%) than Group B (41.9% and 32.3%) and Group C (64.5% and 38.7%). But the late initiation treatment group shared a comparable complication and maternal outcome with untreated women (p = .075 and.596, respectively). After stratified with TPOAb status in Group B, TPOAb+ women experienced a remarkable lower complication (14.2%) and adverse outcome rate (7.1%) compared with negative subjects (64.7% and 45%, respectively). Our data suggest that levothyroxine administrated in the first trimester was associated with decreased risk of adverse obstetric event. Additionally, pregnant women with TPOAb positive could also benefit from thyroid hormone therapy even initiated in the second trimester. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] This study aims to examine (i) the effect of diluent types (lactose monohydrate, corn starch, and microcrystalline cellulose) and granulation liquids (20% polyvinylpyrrolidone K30, 65% alcohol, and dispersion containing 40% model drug– Pithecellobium clypearia Benth extracted powder) on granule properties and tablet quality for high shear wet granulation and tableting (HSWG-T) and, more importantly, (ii) the attribute transmission in the process. In general, the impact of diluents on granule properties and tablet quality was more dominant than that of granulation liquids. Attribute transmission patterns were revealed as follows. The granules' ISO. Roundness and density correlated with raw material (i.e., model drug, diluent, and/or granulation liquid) properties such as density and viscosity. The granules' compressibility parameter a correlated with the granules' Span, and parameter y 0 correlated with the granules' flowability and friability. Compactibility parameters k a and k b correlated mainly with granules' flowability and density, and parameter b correlated significantly and positively with tablet tensile strength. The compressibility correlated negatively with tablet solid fraction (SF) and friability, while the compactibility correlated positively with tablet disintegration time. Moreover, the rearrangement and elasticity of granules correlated positively with SF and friability, respectively. Overall, this study provides some guides for achieving high-quality tablets via HSWG-T. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • The porous lamellar rGO/NiCo 2 S 4 was prepared using simple ZIF-9 templating method. • Bimetallic sulfides have more active pseudocapacitors than monometallic sulfides. • rGO/NiCo 2 S 4 inherits the high specific surface area of the ZIF template and the high pseudocapacitance of the sulfide. • High specific capacity of 1242.4 F g−1 were achieved at the current density of 1 A g−1. Transition metal sulfide is considered as one of the best materials for high-performance supercapacitors because of its excellent conductivity, high theoretical specific capacitance and good thermal stability. Herein, the reduction graphene oxide supported NiCo 2 S 4 (rGO/NiCo 2 S 4) nanomaterial was successfully fabricated at ambient temperature via a facile strategy. Three-dimensional ZIF-9 was used as a tem-plate, graphene oxide was used as the supporting material and Ni(NO 3) 2 was used as both etchant and Nickel source. As a result, the prepared materials shows a high specific capacitance of 1242.2 F g−1 at a current density of 1 A g−1. Besides, the assembled active carbon (AC)//rGO/NiCo 2 S 4 asymmetric supercapacitor delivered a high energy density of 79.87 Wh kg−1 with a power density of 750 W kg−1 and a capacity retention of 58.5% after 5000 cycles. This work demonstrates an simple design pathway to manufacture bimetallic sulfide and provides basic research for the application of bimetallic sulfide with high surface area and high electrochemical activity used in supercapacitors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

High shear wet granulation and tableting (HSWG-T) are complex pharmaceutical processes, which makes tablet quality be influenced by many variables including raw material attributes, process variables, and intermediate granule properties. To achieve the desired final quality of tablets and improve the production efficiency, it is necessary and urgent to comprehensively understand the attribute transmission pattern in HSWG-T. However, this aspect seems to be unexpectedly ignored in terms of reviews published so far. Therefore, it is the major focus in this review and was summarized and discussed based on the quality by design (QbD) concept. Additionally, the applications of characterization techniques and current multivariate analysis models in the study of attribute transmission pattern were also reviewed. As expected, there are some certain attribute transmission patterns in HSWG-T. Moreover, some attributes are highly correlated, and their interactions are also important for the results. Therefore, this review is beneficial for QbD in HSWG-T. It can also provide some guidance for further studies. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bruton tyrosine kinase (BTK) is an essential enzyme in the signaling pathway of the B-cell receptor (BCR) and is vital for the growth and activation of B-cells. Dysfunction of BTK has been linked to different types of B-cell cancers, autoimmune conditions, and inflammatory ailments. Therefore, focusing on BTK has become a hopeful approach in the field of therapeutics. Small-molecule inhibitors of BTK have been developed to selectively inhibit its activity and disrupt B-cell signaling pathways. These inhibitors bind to the active site of BTK and prevent its phosphorylation, leading to the inhibition of downstream signaling cascades. Regulatory authorities have granted approval to treat B-cell malignancies, such as chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) and mantle cell lymphoma (MCL), with multiple small-molecule BTK inhibitors. This review offers a comprehensive analysis of the synthesis and clinical application of conventional small-molecule BTK inhibitors at various clinical stages, as well as presents promising prospects for the advancement of new small-molecule BTK inhibitors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Direct compaction (DC) is the preferred choice for tablet manufacturing; however, only less than 20% of active pharmaceutical ingredients could be compacted via DC as its high requirement for functional properties of materials. Materials with improper functionalities could lead to serious troubles during DC manufacturing, such as content non-uniformity, sticking, and capping, all of which profoundly affect the properties of final products and, thus, severely restrict the practical application of DC. With undoubted importance, these seem to be unexpectedly ignored by reviewers but not researchers in terms of many original research articles published recently. Therefore, as an informative supplement and update, this review mainly focused on trouble-shooting and application situation of DC, together with several newly reported materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Layered porous nanomaterial rGO/Cr 2 ZnS 4 was prepared by etching GO/ZIF-8. • Go-based GrZn bimetallic sulfide exhibits excellent energy storage properties. • The electrochemical performance of rGO/Cr 2 ZnS 4 -2h is much better than that of rGO/ZnS. • The specific capacitance of rGO/Cr 2 ZnS 4 -2h can reach 958.6 F g−1 (Current density: 1 A g−1). • AC//rGO/Cr 2 ZnS 4 -2h asymmetric supercapacitor can provide a high energy density of 47.7 Wh kg−1. In this work, rGO/Cr 2 ZnS 4 composites was composited with reduced GO using ZIF-8 as the template. Firstly, GO/ZIF-8 was obtained by in-situ synthesis strategy, and then ZIF-8 was etched by chromium nitrate to obtain CrZn-LDH. Finally, rGO/Cr 2 ZnS 4 was successfully synthesized after calcination and sulfuration. Due to the synergistic effect between Cr 2 ZnS 4 and rGO, the hybrid electrode has significantly improved energy storage capacity in terms of the high specific capacitance of 958.6 F g−1 at 1 A g−1 and good cycling stability after 10,000 cycles (63.1 % of the initial value under 10 A g−1) in a three-electrode system. Meanwhile, the asymmetric supercapacitor was prepared using rGO/Cr 2 ZnS 4 composite as the positive electrode and AC (active carbon) as the negative electrode. The fabricated asymmetric supercapacitor has high energy density of 47.7 Wh kg−1 at power density of 749.54 W kg−1 and capacity retention of 50 % after 5000 cycles. This work offers a promising approach for designing advanced hybrid materials of transition metal sulfides for high energy density supercapacitors. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A novel tunable dual-frequency coherent Doppler lidar (DF-CDL) for velocity detection is proposed and experimentally demonstrated. In the laser source, although dual-frequency laser light can be generated by an electro-optic intensity modulator biased in the double-sideband suppressed-carrier mode, a slight drift in the direct-current (DC) bias voltage leads to a non-ideal carrier suppression. To address this problem, bi-directional electro-optic phase modulation in a Sagnac loop is employed. Due to the use of electro-optic phase modulators, no bias voltage is needed, resulting in no bias drifts. In the signal processing module, since the envelope of the Doppler signal is a cosine function of the differential Doppler shift, envelope-demodulation is employed to directly derive the differential Doppler shift from the analog Doppler signal. Due to the low-frequency characteristic of the differential Doppler shift, the sampling rate request of the ADC is reduced. In the experiments, the performance of the DF-CDL is validated under the conditions of different dual-frequency spacings and different target speeds. A speed measurement of 10.01 mm/s with a relative error of 0.10% is achieved when the dual-frequency spacing is 40 GHz and the target speed is 10 mm/s. • Bi-directional modulation in a Sagnac loop is employed to generate the dual-frequency laser light with no bias drifts. • Envelope-demodulation is employed to realize the velocity detection with a low sampling rate request of the ADC. • A tuning of the dual-frequency spacing between 0–40 GHz is demonstrated. A velocity detection error of 0.1% is achieved. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] Tensile strength (TS), solid fraction (SF), and tablet weight variability (TWV) are all key quality factors to be considered during the tablet manufacturing process. For predicting them, a novel powder texture measurement methodology was proposed to study the texture attributes of 32 types of powders, and 10 types of unknown powders were used to validate the model. Principal component analysis (PCA) was used to classify the powders. Standard least-squares models were constructed to predict the TS and SF of tablets using texture properties as independent variables, with model R2 values of 0.9188 and 0.8672, respectively. Moreover, due to the advantages of decision trees in classification performance and computation time, multi-node decision trees were constructed, and the approximate range of the TS and SF can be quickly predicted by using only 2-4 key texture attributes. Partial least squares-discriminant method (PLS-DA) algorithm was used to determine whether TWV was qualified by using texture and other physical attributes of powders. In conclusion, the constructed models predicted TS, SF, and TWV well and provide an effective reference for facilitating the development of tablet formulation for direct compression (DC). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • The interface states of bilayer GeSe/SnS induce massive interlayer charge transfer and form a strong built-in electric field. • Using anisotropy to artificially manipulate biaxial strain for further modulation. • Built-in electric field and biaxial strain synergistically boost the NH 3 -sensing performance of the entire device. Stacking multiple two-dimensional materials to form a heterostructure is emerging as an effective way for tuning gas-sensitive properties. In this work, the GeSe/SnS van der Waals (vdW) heterostructure with Janus structure was constructed and investigated via first-principles calculations. The formation of the GeSe/SnS vdW heterostructure leads to spontaneous symmetry breaking and energy level splitting of the system, bring about new electronic properties. The GeSe/SnS heterostructure shows a smaller band gap of 1.272 eV, with an electron-rich layer formed by interlayer charge transfer (0.171 e) due to the built-in electric field, which promotes the NH 3 adsorption energy and charge transfer ability. Further investigate was performed for the effect of compressive strain on the band gap and interface structure of GeSe/SnS heterostructure. The application of −6% compressive strain causes the largest work function change (0.423 eV) of the GeSe/SnS heterostructure before and after NH 3 adsorption on the GeSe layer, with maximum adsorption energy (0.805 eV) and charge transfer (0.089 e), which implies the enhanced interaction between NH 3 and heterostructure. Our work theoretically predicts that constructing a heterostructure and applying strain can synergistically enhance the NH 3 response of SnS and GeSe, which paves the way for gas-sensing enhancement studies of black phosphorus-like materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Human mixed-lineage leukemia (MLL) family methyltransferases methylate histone H3 lysine 4 to different methylation states (me1/me2/me3) with distinct functional outputs, but the mechanism underlying the different product specificities of MLL proteins remains unclear. Here, we develop methodologies to quantitatively measure the methylation rate difference between mono-, di-, and tri-methylation steps and demonstrate that MLL proteins possess distinct product specificities in the context of the minimum MLL-RBBP5-ASH2L complex. Comparative structural analyses of MLL complexes by X-ray crystal structures, fluorine-19 nuclear magnetic resonance, and molecular dynamics simulations reveal that the dynamics of two conserved tyrosine residues at the "F/Y (phenylalanine/tyrosine) switch" positions fine-tune the product specificity. The variation in the intramolecular interaction between SET-N and SET-C affects the F/Y switch dynamics, thus determining the product specificities of MLL proteins. These results indicate a modified F/Y switch rule applicable for most SET domain methyltransferases and implicate the functional divergence of MLL proteins. [Display omitted] • MLL family methyltransferases possess distinct product specificities • Dynamics of the "F/Y switch" residues fine-tune the product specificity • Sequence variation in SET-N and SET-C interface affects the "F/Y switch" dynamics • The modified "F/Y switch" rule is applicable for most SET domain methyltransferases Li et al. establish a general criterion to define product specificity by comparing methylation rates of each step, enabling decoding the multifaceted product specificity of MLL family methyltransferases. They propose a modified "F/Y switch" rule applicable for most SET domain methyltransferases and provide a deeper understanding of dynamic histone methylation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new molecularly imprinted polymer (MIP), prepared by hispidin as the template molecule, was synthesized and applied as an adsorbent phase for solid phase extraction (SPE) to isolate and enrich hispidin from eight species of mushrooms. The optimization of synthesis and the adsorption behaviors of the MIPs were investigated in detail. In comparison with C-SPE, MIP-SPE displayed high selectivity and good affinity for hispidin for extract of Phellinus igniarius. The antioxidant activity of the extracts after using the MIPs was evaluated by free radical scavenging activity, and inhibition of erythrocyte hemolysis, and lipid peroxidation. This developed method provided a rapid, selective, and effective approach for separation and enrichment of active compounds from the natural products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recent advances in deep learning have shown great potential for the automatic generation of medical imaging reports. Deep learning techniques, inspired by image captioning, have made significant progress in the field of diagnostic report generation. This paper provides a comprehensive overview of recent research efforts in deep learning-based medical imaging report generation and proposes future directions in this field. First, we summarize and analyze the data set, architecture, application, and evaluation of deep learning-based medical imaging report generation. Specially, we survey the deep learning architectures used in diagnostic report generation, including hierarchical RNN-based frameworks, attention-based frameworks, and reinforcement learning-based frameworks. In addition, we identify potential challenges and suggest future research directions to support clinical applications and decision-making using medical imaging report generation systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Microcrystalline cellulose (MCC) is one of the most popular cellulose derivatives in the pharmaceutical industry. Thanks to its outstanding tabletability, MCC is generally included in direct compression (DC) tablet formulations containing poor-tabletability active pharmaceutical ingredients. Nowadays, numerous grades of MCC from various brands are accessible for pharmaceutical manufacturers, leading to variability in MCC properties. Hence, it seems to be worthy and urgent to evaluate the influences of MCC variability on tablet quality and to identify critical material attributes (CMAs) based on the idea of Quality by Control. Besides, MCC-based co-processed excipients can effectively combine the functions of the filler, binder, disintegrant, lubricant, glidant, or flavor, and thus have drawn extensive interest. In this review, we focused specifically on the recent advances and development of MCC on DC tableting, including the functions in tablet formulations, potential CMAs, and MCC-based co-possessed excipients, therefore providing a reference for further studies. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: 6:2 Fluorotelomer alcohol [6:2 FTOH, F(CF2)6CH2CH2OH] is a major basic chemical being used to manufacture FTOH-based products. After the end of use, 6:2 FTOH-based products may be released to domestic wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) as a first major environmental entry point. Activated sludge collected from two WWTPs was dosed with 6:2 FTOH to investigate its biotransformation rate and to identify major transformation products. The volatile 5:2 sFTOH [F(CF2)5CH(OH)CH3] is the most abundant transformation product and accounted for an average of 40mol% of initially dosed 6:2 FTOH after two months of incubation with activated sludge, with 30mol% detected in the headspace. PFPeA [F(CF2)4COOH] averaged 4.4mol% after two months, 2.4–7 times lower than that in sediment and soils. The much lower level of PFPeA formed in activated sludge compared with soil indicates that microbial populations in activated sludge may lack enzymes or suitable environment conditions to promote rapid 5:2 sFTOH decarboxylation to form PFPeA, resulting in more 5:2 sFTOH partitioned to the headspace. PFHxA [F(CF2)5COOH] and 5:3 [F(CF2)5CH2CH2COOH] acid are major non-volatile transformation products in activated sludge. For example, PFHxA averaged 11mol% after two months, which is about 30% higher compared with sediment and soils, suggesting that microbes in WWTPs may utilize similar pathways as that in sediment and soils to convert 5:2 sFTOH to PFHxA. 5:3 Acid averaged 14mol% after two months, comparable to that in soils and slightly lower than in sediment, further confirming that 5:3 acid is a unique product of 6:2 FTOH biotransformation in the environment. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The accurate and reliable measurement of effluent quality indices is essential for the implementation of successful control and optimization of wastewater treatment plants. In order to enhance the estimate performance in terms of accuracy and reliability, we present a partial least-squares-based extreme learning machine (called PLS-ELM) in this paper. The partial least squares (PLS) regression is applied to the ELM framework to improve the algebraic property of the hidden output matrix, which can be ill-conditional due to the high multicollinearity of the hidden layer output. The main idea behind our proposed PLS-ELM is to achieve a robust generalization performance by extracting a reduced number of latent variables from the hidden layer and using orthogonal projection operations. The results from a case study of a municipal wastewater treatment plant show that the PLS-ELM can effectively capture the input-output relationship with favorable performance against the conventional ELM. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The 6:2 FTOH [F(CF2)6CH2CH2OH] is a major raw material being used to replace 8:2 FTOH [F(CF2)8CH2CH2OH] to make FTOH-based products for industrial and consumer applications. A novel aerobic sediment experimental system containing 20g wet sediment and 30mL aqueous solution was developed to study 6:2 FTOH biotransformation in river sediment. 6:2 FTOH was dosed into the sediment to follow its biotransformation and to analyze transformation products over 100d. The primary 6:2 FTOH biotransformation in the aerobic sediment system was rapid (T 1/2 <2d). 5:3 acid [F(CF2)5CH2CH2COOH] was observed as the predominant polyfluorinated acid on day 100 (22.4mol%), higher than the sum of perfluoropentanoic acid (10.4mol%), perfluorohexanoic acid (8.4mol%), and perfluorobutanoic acid (1.5mol%). Perfluoroheptanoic acid was not observed during 6:2 FTOH biotransformation. The 5:3 acid can be further degraded to 4:3 acid [F(CF2)4CH2CH2COOH, 2.7mol%]. This suggests that microbes in the river sediment selectively degraded 6:2 FTOH more toward 5:3 and 4:3 acids compared with soil. Most of the observed 5:3 acid formed bound residues with sediment organic components and can only be quantitatively recovered by post-treatment with NaOH and ENVI-Carb™ carbon. The 6:2 FTCA [F(CF2)6CH2COOH], 6:2 FTUCA [F(CF2)5CF=CHCOOH], 5:2 ketone [F(CF2)5C(O)CH3], and 5:2 sFTOH [F(CF2)5CH(OH)CH3] were major transient intermediates during 6:2 FTOH biotransformation in the sediment system. These results suggest that if 6:2 FTOH or 6:2 FTOH-based materials were released to the river or marine sediment, poly- and per-fluorinated carboxylates could be produced. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Protein remote homology detection is a critical step toward annotating its structure and function. Supervised learning algorithms such as support vector machine are currently the most accurate methods. The position-specific score matrices (PSSMs) contain wealthy information about the evolutionary relationship of proteins. However, the PSSMs often have different lengths, which are difficult to be used by machine-learning methods. In this study, a simple, fast and powerful method is presented for protein remote homology detection, which combines support vector machine with auto-cross covariance transformation. The PSSMs are converted into a series of fixed-length vectors by auto-cross covariance transformation and these vectors are then input to a support vector machine classifier for remote homology detection. The sequence-order effects can be effectively captured by this scheme. Experiments are performed on well-established datasets, and the remote homology is simulated at the superfamily and the fold level, respectively. The results show that the proposed method, referred to as ACCRe, is comparable or even better than the state-of-the-art methods in terms of detection performance, and its time complexity is superior to those of other profile-based SVM methods. The auto-cross covariance transformation provides a novel way for the usage of evolutionary information, which can be widely used for protein-level studies. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

KMT2 family methyltransferases methylate histone H3 lysine 4 and play essential roles in multiple cellular processes. MLL2 (KMT2B) is required for early epigenetic decisions during development and contributes to the methylation of bivalent promoters. Here, we determined the crystal structure of the MLL2 SET -RBBP5 AS-ABM -ASH2L SPRY complex and confirmed that RBBP5 AS-ABM -ASH2L SPRY was essential for activating the MLL2 SET domain through a conserved mechanism across KMT2 family complexes. In the MLL2 complex structure, a short N-terminal loop of MLL2 SET adopts a similar configuration of the H3 peptide and inserts into the substrate-binding pocket of another MLL2 SET , indicating a potential substrate for MLL2 SET. We identify that P53 contains a sequence similar to the N-terminal loop of MLL2 SET , and demonstrate that K305 of P53 could be methylated by KMT2 family complexes except for SET1A. Our results provide an important implication of functional interplay between P53 and KMT2 family complexes, and also suggest the possible broad landscape of non-histone substrate for KMT2 family methyltransferases. • Crystal structure of MLL2 in complex with RBBP5-ASH2L was determined • An N-terminal flanking loop of MLL2 SET mimics H3 substrate • P53 contains a sequence similar to the N-terminal flanking loop of MLL2 SET • P53 K305 can be methylated by KMT2 family methyltransferases in vitro Li et al. report the structure of the MLL2-RBBP5-ASH2L complex and reveal an N-terminal MLL2 loop which mimics an H3 substrate, indicating a potential new substrate for MLL2 SET. P53, with a similar sequence pattern, is subsequently identified as a non-histone substrate of KMT2 family methyltransferases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study aimed to establish a new model to evaluate the compressibility and compactibility of materials simultaneously. Eighteen types of pharmaceutical excipients were studied via direct compaction. The model was established as CR = y 0 + Ae−bP , r2 ≥ 0.9684 (where CR is the compression ratio and P is the compaction force and y 0 , A, b is constant). The physical meaning of y 0 and b were studied in the model. The results show that y 0 has a strong correlation with the mean yield pressure (Py, r = 0.609, P < 0.01), which is the evaluation parameter of material compressibility. b has a strong correlation with the evaluation parameter of material compactibility, such as the slope of the tensile strength versus compaction force (k A , r = 0.780, P < 0.01) and the tensile strength versus porosity (Ryshkewitch-Duckworth equation) (k R , r = 0.658, P < 0.01). The results of model experiments (r = 0.767, 0.895, and 0.756), literature, and repeatability verification demonstrated that the main parameters y 0 and b in the established model have good applicability and repeatability. Therefore, the newly established model is reliable for evaluating both the compressibility and the compactibility of powders. The model provides support for further research into powder properties and tablet preparation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ag 2 S/ZnIn 2 S 4 /ZnS composites were synthesized by a microwave-assisted hydrothermal two-step method. The samples were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), UV–visible diffuse reflectance absorption spectroscopy (UV–vis/DRS), photoluminescence (PL), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), high-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HR-TEM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and nitrogen adsorption–desorption tests. The results show that the semiconductor ZnS and ZnIn 2 S 4 in the Ag 2 S/ZnIn 2 S 4 /ZnS composite are cubic phases, and the composite exhibits a rose-spherical structure. In the composite, after ZnS is combined with the narrow band gap semiconductor Ag 2 S and ZnIn 2 S 4 , whose light absorption edge is red-shifted, and the absorption in the visible region is obvious. At the same time, compared to the monomer ZnS and the monomer ZnIn 2 S 4 , the specific surface area (S BET) of the composite is significantly increased. In order to investigate photocatalytic properties, methyl orange was used as the model molecule. Meanwhile, multi-mode photocatalytic properties of Ag 2 S/ZnIn 2 S 4 /ZnS composites were studied, and its optimal composition ratio was determined. At the same time, the excellent photocatalytic hydrogen production capacity and cycle stability of the composites with 1% Ag 2 S loading were analyzed. According to the capture experiment results, the possible photocatalytic mechanism of Ag 2 S/ZnIn 2 S 4 /ZnS composites was speculated. Ag 2 S/ZnIn 2 S 4 /ZnS composites exhibited a rose-spherical structure were synthesized by a microwave-assisted hydrothermal two-step method. With the introduction of ZnIn 2 S 4 and Ag 2 S, the composites with ZnS as the main catalyst show a good light absorption in the visible region and the highest photocatalytic degradation and photohydrogen production capacity. Image 1 • Ag 2 S/ZnIn 2 S 4 /ZnS composites were synthesized by a microwave-assisted hydrothermal two-step method. • Ag 2 S/ZnIn 2 S 4 /ZnS composites exhibit a rose-spherical structure. • The light absorption of Ag 2 S/ZnIn 2 S 4 /ZnS in the visible region is obvious. • 1% Ag 2 S/ZnIn 2 S 4 /ZnS shows the highest photocatalytic degradation and photohydrogen production capacity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Biomaterials capable of achieving effective sealing and hemostasis at moist wounds are in high demand in the clinical management of acute hemorrhage. Bletilla striata polysaccharide (BSP), a natural polysaccharide renowned for its hemostatic properties, holds promising applications in biomedical fields. In this study, a dual-dynamic-bonds crosslinked hydrogel was synthesized via a facile one-pot method utilizing poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA)-borax as a matrix system, followed by the incorporation of BSP and tannic acid (TA). Chemical borate ester bonds formed around borax, coupled with multiple physical hydrogen bonds between BSP and other components, enhanced the mechanical properties and rapid self-healing capabilities. The catechol moieties in TA endowed the hydrogel with excellent adhesive strength of 30.2 kPa on the surface of wet tissues and facilitated easy removal without residue. Benefiting from the synergistic effect of TA and the preservation of the intrinsic properties of BSP, the hydrogel exhibited outstanding biocompatibility, antibacterial, and antioxidant properties. Moreover, it effectively halted acute bleeding within 31.3 s, resulting in blood loss of 15.6 % of that of the untreated group. As a superior hemostatic adhesive, the hydrogel in this study is poised to offer a novel solution for addressing future acute hemorrhage, wound healing, and other biomedical applications. [Display omitted] • A novel Bletilla striata polysaccharide dual-dynamic-crosslinked hydrogel was developed. • The hydrogel was prepared by a facile one-pot method without chemical modification. • The hydrogel can firmly adhere to wet tissue surfaces. • The hydrogel can stop bleeding rapidly in mouse liver incision models. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The microRNAs (miRNAs) of their hosts play an important role in regulating both the innate and adaptive immune responses to Cryptosporidium parvum infection. The mechanisms of autophagy and apoptosis are important components of the defense system against C. parvum infection. In this study, we investigate the role of miRNA-199a-3p in regulating MTOR-mediated autophagy and apoptosis in HCT-8 cells induced by C. parvum. The expression of miR-199a-3p increased at 3, 6 and 12 hours postinfection (hpi) but decreased at 24 and 48 hpi. The upregulation of miR-199a-3p promoted autophagy and apoptosis and limited the parasite burden in HCT-8 cells after C. parvum infection. The downregulation of miR-199a-3p inhibited the autophagy and apoptosis induced by C. parvum and enhanced the parasite burden in HCT-8 cells. A luciferase reporter showed that MTOR was a target gene of miR-199a-3p. Suppressed expression of MTOR by small interfering RNA (siRNA) promoted autophagy and apoptosis and limited C. parvum burden in HCT-8 cells. Co-transfection with miR-199a-3p inhibitor or si-mTOR revealed that miR-199a-3p regulates autophagy and apoptosis in HCT-8 cells through MTOR, to resist C. parvum infection. In conclusion, intestinal epithelial cells defend against C. parvum infection by regulating their autophagy and apoptosis through the miR-199a-3p-MTOR axis. Autophagy and apoptosis play a role in the defense against C. parvum. This study shows that miR-199a-3p targets MTOR transcripts, thus downregulating MTOR function, and subsequently reduces the C. parvum burden by promoting autophagy and apoptosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) is a staple food worldwide, and agronomic biofortification with selenium (Se) and zinc (Zn) is a simple and effective way to increase nutrient intake. This study aimed to evaluate the combined effects of Zn and Se on the biofortification of wheat grain. Zinc sulfate (ZnSO4·H2O, 1.74, 2.61 and 3.48 kg Zn hm−2) and sodium selenite (Na2SeO3, 15 and 30 g Se hm−2) were sprayed individually or simultaneously at key stages of wheat growth (the jointing, booting, and filling stage) under field conditions. On the basis of soil Zn application, the foliar application of Zn or Se alone greatly increased grain Zn by 12.07–71.88% (up to 41.66–64.30 mg kg−1), and grain Se content by 131.81–527.21% (up to 0.21–0.50 mg kg−1), while the soil application of Zn had little effect on grain Zn. Compared with the foliar application of Zn or Se alone, the co-application of Se increased the grain Zn content by 1.74–16.15%, while the co-application of Zn significantly reduced grain Se content by 25.43–86.34% and the effect was more pronounced with an increase in Zn dosage. Moreover, positive correlations were found between Zn and copper (Cu) in grains, and wheat grains could provide adequate dietary intakes of manganese (Mn), Cu, and molybdenum (Mo) for humans. In summary, the soil application of 11 kg Zn hm−2 combined with the foliar application of 2.61 kg Zn hm−2 and 30 g Se·hm−2 is a feasible Zn-Se co-enrichment strategy, which would provide the recommended nutrient intake (RNI) of 113.63–124.72% (female) and 68.18–74.84% (male) of Zn and 81.30–95.85% of Se. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Propineb is a widely used protective fungicide in farmland. To investigate the effects of propineb on cadmium (Cd) accumulation and the physiological characteristics of wheat seedlings under Cd stress, we performed a hydroponic experiment with artificially added Cd. The results indicated that the application of propineb leads to a decrease in Cd accumulation in the shoots of wheat. During the low-Cd treatment experiment, propineb caused Cd to transfer from the soluble component to the cell wall. In terms of the chemical morphological distribution of Cd in wheat seedlings, propineb reduced the proportions of ethanol extracted state and deionized water extracted state, whereas the proportions of acetic acid extracted state and hydrochloric acid extracted state increased. The photosynthetic rate of wheat seedlings significantly increased, but there was no significant effect on the chlorophyll content. Foliar application of propineb increased the O2− clearance rate and hydrogen peroxide content in the wheat. However, the catalase content decreased. This study indicates that the application of propineb could decrease Cd accumulation in wheat seedlings and partially improve the physiological functions of plants. This study provides useful information for studying the effects of pesticides on Cd accumulation in crops and the physiological characteristics of Cd stress. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Conventional fertilizer management can destroy the structure of soil. Replacing chemical fertilizers with organic fertilizers can improve soil quality and nitrogen use efficiency. We aimed to study the effects of organic fertilizer substitutions for chemical nitrogen fertilizer on soil fertility and nitrogen use efficiency in order to clarify the effectiveness of the available nutrient management measures in improving soil quality and increasing foxtail millet yield. A field experiment was carried out over two consecutive years, and a total of six treatments were set up: no fertilizer (CK), chemical nitrogen fertilizer alone (N), the substitution of 25% of chemical nitrogen fertilizer with bio-organic fertilizer (N25A1), the substitution of 25% of chemical nitrogen fertilizer with fermented mealworm manure (N25B1), the substitution of 50% of chemical nitrogen fertilizer with bio-organic fertilizer (N50A2), and the substitution of 50% of chemical nitrogen fertilizer with fermented mealworm manure (N50B2). The results of this study show the following: (1) Compared with chemical nitrogen fertilizer, the substitution of organic fertilizer for nitrogen fertilizer reduced the bulk density and solid phase of the soil, and it increased the total porosity, water content, liquid phase, and gas phase of the soil. (2) Compared with nitrogen fertilizer, the use of an organic fertilizer increased the contents of nitrate nitrogen, ammonium nitrogen, and total nitrogen in the soil by 13.59~52.56%, 4.47~18.27%, and 4.40~12.09%, respectively. The content of alkaline nitrogen increased by 1.70~32.37%, and the contents of soil available potassium, available phosphorus, and organic matter also increased. (3) The activities of sucrase, urease, glutaminase, and asparaginase were improved by replacing chemical nitrogen fertilizer with organic fertilizer. The N25 treatments performed better than the N50 treatments, and fermented mealworm manure performed better than biological organic fertilizer. (4) A moderate application of organic fertilizer (N25) can increase the grain yield, ear weight, grain weight, and 1000-grain weight of foxtail millet, whereas excessive application of organic fertilizer (N50) can reduce foxtail millet yield. (5) Replacing chemical nitrogen fertilizer with organic fertilizer can improve the agronomic use efficiency, physiological efficiency, biased productivity, harvest index, and apparent use efficiency of nitrogen fertilizer. In this study, the substitution of 25% of chemical nitrogen fertilizer with fermented mealworm manure was the best combination for restoring crop productivity and soil quality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Deep convolutional neural networks (DCNNs) contain millions of parameters and require a tremendous amount of computation; therefore, they cannot be well supported by resource-constrained edge devices. We propose a two-stage model compression method to alleviate this restriction: channel pruning and group vector quantization (CP-GVQ). By channel pruning, many channels of the DCNNs layers are pruned to reduce the model size and improve model inference speed. Based on vector quantization (VQ), GVQ is proposed to compress DCNNs, and it uses group codebooks and code matrices to represent the parameters of grouped layers; the model size is reduced greatly. CP-GVQ not only dramatically decreases model size but also improves inference speed. In each stage, it is necessary to fine-tune the model to recover the original accuracy. When applied to the filament indices classification model of microscopic images of activated sludge, the classification accuracy decreased marginally from 0.99 to 0.97, but the model size was decreased by 99% and the inference speed was improved by 42%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Neddylation is a protein modification process similar to ubiquitination, carried out through a series of activating (E1), conjugating (E2), and ligating (E3) enzymes. This process has been found to be overactive in various cancers, leading to increased oncogenic activities. Ubiquitin-conjugating enzyme 2 M (UBE2M) is one of two neddylation enzymes that play a vital role in this pathway. Studies have shown that targeting UBE2M in cancer treatment is crucial, as it regulates many molecular mechanisms like DNA damage, apoptosis, and cell proliferation. However, developing small molecule inhibitors against UBE2M remains challenging due to the lack of suitable druggable pockets. We have discovered that Micafungin, an antifungal agent that inhibits the production of 1,3-β-D-glucan in fungal cell walls, acts as a neddylation inhibitor that targets UBE2M. Biochemical studies reveal that Micafungin obstructs neddylation and stabilizes UBE2M. In cellular experiments, the drug was found to interact with UBE2M, prevent neddylation, accumulate cullin ring ligases (CRLs) substrates, reduce cell survival and migration, and induce DNA damage in gastric cancer cells. This research uncovers a new anti-cancer mechanism for Micafungin, paving the way for the development of a novel class of neddylation inhibitors that target UBE2M. [Display omitted] • New classes of neddylation inhibitors are discovered by HTRF-based drug screening. • Micafungin inhibits the neddylation of UBE2M by interacting with it. • Cancer cell proliferation and migration are prevented by Micafungin. • Through the upregulation of the NOXA, Micafungin causes apoptosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Graphical abstract Highlights • Commonly used natural plant product powders were selected randomly. • Their physical properties were fully characterized. • The results were deeply evaluated by multivariate statistical analysis. • Factors affecting the key tableting properties were explored. Abstract Direct compaction (DC) is the preferred choice for tablet manufacturing; however, its application in natural plant product (NPP) tablets is still extremely immature. In this study, NPP powders prepared by three commonly used methods were evaluated on their suitability for DC. Extensive characterizations of their physical properties were performed. Multivariate statistical analysis was utilized to explore the influence of preparation technology on the properties of NPP powders and identify the dominating factors that influence their DC properties. The results demonstrated that (i) the 27 kinds of model NPP powders selected randomly in this study could to some degree represent most NPP powders used in actual production; (ii) ∼81.5% of the NPP powders exhibited both poor compactibility and flowability, and none of the NPP powders could be compacted into tablets via DC; (iii) the physical properties of NPP powders prepared by direct pulverization were significantly different from those of extracted ones, while there were no significant differences between the water and ethylalcohol extracted ones; and (iv) the DC properties of NPP powders could be improved through controlling some physical properties (e.g., density, particle size, morphology, and texture parameters) reasonably. Overall, this study comprehensively evaluated the current status and application of NPP powders in DC, and is significant in facilitating the development and modernization of NPPs through DC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to explore plant-derived peptides as carrier material with the function of anti-hot-melt stickiness of traditional Chinese herbal extracts during spray drying. Crataegi fructus extract (CFE) with a severe hot-melt stickiness problem was used as a model drug, and soy peptides (SPT) were screened as the most effective and suitable carrier material among seven plant-derived proteins and peptides which include soy protein isolate, walnut protein and five kinds of peptides (corn peptides, wheat peptides, walnut peptides, rice peptides and SPT). The addition of 15% SPT also exhibited a strong anti-stickiness effect in other four hot-melt sticky herbal extracts from Chinese herbs (Lycii fructus, Corni fructus, Chaenomelis fructus and Mume fructus) since the obtained powder increased from completely sticking to the wall to more than 50% powder yield. The dynamic surface tensions (DST) of CFE decreased consistently with the increase of SPT from 5% to 20%, and DST1000ms had consistent reduction with the addition of SPT from zero to 20%. Meanwhile, the adhesive force of the single droplet at 28 min decreased below 18.5 N. The softening point of the spray-dried powder of CFE added 15% SPT increased by about 40 °C, and the addition of 15% SPT improved the stability which might be similar with the addition of 50% MD based on scanning electron microscope analysis but more efficiently. These findings confirmed that SPT plant-derived could serve as effective and stable carrier material with good anti-stickiness ability during spray drying. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Foliar spraying selenite was more effective to increase grain Se concentration than selenate spraying. • Grain Se accumulation was largely affected by leaves Se and the transfer of Se from node1 to internode1. • The main speciation of Se in wheat grain was the organic Se after foliar spraying Se. • Foliar spraying with 15 g·ha−1 of Se is an effective and safe agronomic biofortification practice. Given the wide–spread consumption of wheat, the production of selenium (Se)–enriched wheat grain may be an effective method to increase the dietary Se intake in many Se–deficient areas. Herein, we biofortified wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) via the foliar spraying of selenate or selenite at low or high rate, and investigated the resulting Se distribution in different wheat parts and the crucial parts involved in grain Se accumulation. Results showed that Se concentration in grain after selenite spraying was 1.5 times higher than that of selenate. Grain Se accumulation was largely affected by leaves Se and the transfer of Se from node1 to internode1. Furthermore, the main speciation of Se in wheat grain was the organic Se. In addition, the optimal dosage was 15 g ha−1. In summary, foliar spraying 15 g ha−1 of Se is an effective and safe agronomic biofortification practice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As a new environment-friendly energy storage system between traditional capacitors and lithium-ion batteries, supercapacitors have many excellent characteristics compared with other energy storage devices. The new electrode material is the key component to determine the performance of the supercapacitor. Combined with the relevant literature reports of researchers in recent years, the structure and properties of Co, Zn, Ni and other materials were introduced, and the preparation method of Co–Zn as electrode material was sorted out. The rGO/Zn 0.773 Co 0.227 S composites were prepared by a simple template method to analyze the structure and morphology, and rGO/Zn 0.773 Co 0.227 S was treated to make it a paste adhering to nickel foam. Benefiting from the synergistic effect between Zn 0.773 Co 0.227 S and rGO, the composite provides significantly improved energy storage capability in a three-electrode system. The specific capacitance can reach 1680 ​F ​g−1 at the current density of 1 ​A ​g−1. When the current density is increased to 10A g−1, the specific capacitance still reaches 895.4 ​F ​g−1, and the loss of the specific capacitance is only 22.2% after 5000 cycles at 10 ​A ​g−1. When rGO/Zn 0.773 Co 0.227 S is used as cathode material and AC as negative material, asymmetric supercapacitor also has good cycle stability and high energy density. [Display omitted] • The novel layered porous nanomaterial rGO/Zn 0.773 Co 0.227 S was prepared by etching GO/ZIF-8 template. • The electrochemical properties of cobalt-zinc bimetallic sulfides loaded on graphene were investigated for the first time. • The electrochemical performance of the rGO/Zn 0.773 Co 0.227 S could be influenced by etching time. • The rGO/Zn 0.773 Co 0.227 S-2h could reach an optimum specific capacitance of 1680 ​F ​g−1 (current density: 1 ​A ​g−1). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With the increase in integration and the layers of superconducting electronics circuits, molybdenum (Mo)-based films become attractive resistive and inductive functional components because of the large kinetic inductance with the deep magnetic field penetration depth. A DC magnetron sputtering technology is used to fabricate Mo and MoNx films. The effects of different deposition conditions on the electrical properties, topography and crystal structure of the films are investigated. For the Mo films, the resistivity and the surface roughness decrease to 193 nΩ m and 0.72 nm, respectively, as the sputtering power increases and the sputtering pressure is reduced. The dominant (110) peaks of the X-ray diffraction pattern show a blueshift, and the full width at half maximum decreases with the rising sputtering powers. For the MoNx films, the superconducting transition temperature firstly rises and then lowers as the ratio of N2/Ar ratio increases. The physical properties of the Mo and MoNx films change with the sputtering process, and suitable deposition conditions can be selected for the different application structures in the superconducting electronics circuits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sepiolite and biochar effectively immobilize Cd and atrazine in vegetable soils. This study further investigated the effects of sepiolite and biochar on the photosynthetic and antioxidative defence systems of pakchoi under Cd and atrazine stress. The results showed that after adding sepiolite and biochar to contaminated soil, the chlorophyll content was restored and the photosynthetic rate increased, whereas the soluble sugar content of pakchoi decreased. In the antioxidant system of the plants, the activities of peroxidase, ascorbate peroxidase, and superoxide dismutase decreased, while the activity of catalase increased. The content of malondialdehyde, glutathione, and O2·− increased, but the content of H2O2 decreased. In general, remediation materials reduced the bioavailability of Cd and atrazine, reduced the stress on pakchoi, and restored and improved the rate of photosynthesis and function of antioxidants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • The impact of porosity variation on disintegration of NPP tablets was evaluated for the first time. • NPP tablet attributes, disintegration kinetics, and wicking changed significantly with increasing porosity. • Pore size structure was identified as a direct driver for the disintegration of NPP tablets based on MIP and XµCT techniques. • The understanding regarding the microscopic pore structure and disintegration mechanism of NPP tablets was established. Porosity variations have an impact on the disintegration behavior of tablets whereas the influence on the disintegration characteristics of natural plant product (NPP) tablets has not been extensively studied. Revealing the pore structure of NPP tablets provides a new and important clue to elucidate the phenomenal behavior and underlying mechanisms of tablet disintegration. In this study, the effect of porosity variation on disintegration of NPP tablets was evaluated for the first time. The disintegration performance of NPP tablets was evaluated using tablet attributes, disintegration kinetics, and the wicking process. Mercury intrusion porosimetry (MIP) and X-ray computed microtomography (XμCT) were used to characterize the microstructure of the tablets. Curcuma Longa Linn. extractions were compacted into tablets with different solid fractions. Tablet qualities changed significantly with increasing porosity. An increase in the wicking rate with porosity changed by visualizing the wicking process. The disintegration kinetics of tablets showed a sensitive variation after an increase in porosity. The pore structure of tablets including parameters such as pore size distribution, tortuosity, and connectivity were identified as direct drivers of wicking and disintegration. The current study provides new insights into the disintegration mechanism of dissolved NPP tablets by exploring the evolution of the pore microstructure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Cobalt sulfoselenide with hollow structure was synthesized by selenium doping method. • The comprehensive properties of Co 3 S x Se y with different substitutions were evaluated. • Hollow Co 3 S 2 Se 2 can effectively reduce the amount of catalyst and lift kinetics. • The capacity of 1294.7 mAh/g and retention of 77.5% was obtained after 100 cycles. Lithium-sulfur batteries are a promising next-generation battery system due to their high energy density, low cost, and environmental friendliness. However, the shuttle effect and resulting low redox kinetics are significant issues that currently hinder their development. The addition of catalysts to accelerate the redox process is a common strategy. Metal sulfide catalysts, in particular, have been widely studied due to their good affinity for sulfur and sulfides. Although metal sulfide show good adsorption performance for lithium polysulfides, their low conductivity does not significantly improve the kinetic performance of the battery. Additionally, the high molecular weight of the inactive sulfide leads to the low actual energy density of the battery. Thus, this study constructed the hollow structural cobalt sulfoselenide by replacing partial elemental sulfur in cobalt sulfide (Co 3 S 4) with the higher metallicity element selenium (Se). This was done to increase catalytic activity and reduce the amount of inactive substances, ultimately leading to an increase in actual energy density. This strategy systematically investigated the electrical conductivity, catalytic activity, and inhibition of the shuttle effect of Co 3 S 2 Se 2. It was found that cobalt sulfoselenide with a 1:1 ratio of sulfur to selenium exhibited higher catalytic activity than pure cobalt sulfide. Additionally, the hollow structure of cobalt sulfoselenide showed greater performance enhancement than bulk cobalt sulfoselenide. In the assembled lithium-sulfur battery, the initial specific capacity of 1294.7 mAh/g at 0.1C was obtained, and the capacity retention was 77.5 % after 100 cycles. On this basis, the structure–activity relationship between selenium-sulfur ratio and electrochemical properties will provide ideas for the design of microscopic cathode structures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This work aims to improve direct compaction properties of Citri Reticulatae Pericarpium powder (CB) by liquid dispersion co-processing with hydrophilic or hydrophobic nano-silica (INS or ONS). Such wet co-processing was applied to evenly distribute NS to CB. Typically, INS achieved up to 13.8-fold improvement in CB tabletability by affecting both bonding area and bonding strength. In comparison, ONS did better in improving flowability (angle of repose from 35.6° to 27.8°) and achieved up to 4.2-fold improvement in tabletability. Moreover, the bulk density of CB-NS was increased to ~0.65 g/mL at the ratio of 10:1. There was generally a bell-shaped relationship between improvements and CB/NS ratios, especially for ONS. The different distribution pattern and surface nature of INS and ONS caused by polarity difference were the key reasons for their different effects. Compared to the traditional MCC-based formulation strategy, qualified tablets with 3-fold higher CB loading (91.0%) were achieved. [Display omitted] • Different distribution patterns of nano-silica (NS) result in different effects. • NS has various effects in different use levels and/or adding methods. • NS improves multiple properties of CB and achieves the qualitative changes. • NS-modifying can leave more room for increasing drug loading of herbal powders. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Graphene oxide (GO) was used as a substrate, and ZIF-8 was grown in situ on the GO surface and used as a template. The rGO/Ni 2 ZnS 4 composite was prepared by nickel nitrate etching, carbonization, and hydrothermal vulcanization. X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscope (SEM), and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) were used to characterize the structure and morphology of the composite material. Then the rGO/Ni 2 ZnS 4 composite material was made into a cathode material, and its electrochemical performance was tested. The test results showed that the specific capacitance value of the rGO/Ni 2 ZnS 4 -1.5h electrode material was as high as 1150 F·g−1 at a current density of 1 A·g−1, when the current density reaches 10 A·g−1, the rate performance is 63.3%. After 2000 cycles at a current density of 10 A·g−1, the capacitance retention rate is 59.7%. In addition, an asymmetric capacitor composed of AC//rGO/Ni 2 ZnS 4 -1.5h has an energy density of 31.06 Wh·kg−1, when the power density is 750.44 W·kg−1. When the high power density is 7489.18 W·kg−1, the energy density remains at 12.69 Wh·kg−1. [Display omitted] • The rGO/Ni 2 ZnS 4 composites material derived from GO and ZIF-8. • Core-shell rGO/Ni 2 ZnS 4 directly grows on Ni foam. • The rGO/Ni 2 ZnS 4 exhibited a specific capacitance of 1150 F/g. • The rGO/Ni 2 ZnS 4 device possessed high energy density. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Microplastics (MPs) pose a threat to farmland soil quality and crop safety. MPs exist widely in food legumes farmland soil due to the extensive use of agricultural film and organic fertilizer, but their distribution characteristics and their impact on soil environment have not been reported. The abundance and characteristics of MPs, soil physical and chemical properties, and bacterial community composition were investigated in 76 soil samples from five provinces in northern China. The results showed that the abundance of MPs ranged from 1600 to 36,200 items/kg. MPs in soil were mostly fibrous, less than 0.2 mm, and white. Rayon, polyester and polyethylene were the main types of MPs. The influences of MPs on soil physicochemical properties and bacterial communities mainly depended on the type of MPs. Notably, polyethylene significantly decreased the proportion of silt particles, and increased the nitrate nitrogen content as well as the abundance of MPs-degrading bacteria Paenibacillus (p < 0.05). Moreover, bacteria were more sensitive to polyesters in soil with low concentration of organic matter. This study indicated that MPs in food legumes farmland soil presented a higher-level. And, they partially altered soil physicochemical properties, and soil bacteria especially in soil with low organic matter. [Display omitted] • The abundance of MPs in food legumes farmland soil ranged from 1600 to 36,200 items/kg. • MPs were mostly fibrous, less than 0.2 mm, white, and RY, PES and PE. • PE significantly decreased soil silt content and increased the soil NO 3 --N content. • PE increased the abundance of microplastic-degrading bacteria. • Bacteria were more sensitive to PES in soil with low organic matter content. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The parameters of mill load (ML) not only represent the load of the ball mill, but also determine the grinding production ratio (GPR) of the grinding process. In this paper, a novel soft sensor approach based on multi-spectral segments partial least square (PLS) model and on-line adaptive weighted fusion algorithm is proposed to estimate the ML parameters. At first, frequency spectrums of the shell vibration acceleration signals are obtained. Then the PLS sub-models are constructed with the low, medium and high frequency spectral segments. At last, the PLS sub-models are fused together with a new on-line adaptive weighted fusion algorithm to obtain the final soft sensor models. This soft sensor approach has been successfully applied in a laboratory-scale wet ball mill grinding process. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: A hydrophobic magnetic room temperature ionic liquid (MRTIL), trihexyltetradecylphosphonium tetrachloroferrate(III) ([3C6PC14][FeCl4]), was synthesized from trihexyltetradecylphosphonium chloride and FeCl3·6H2O. This MRTIL was investigated as a possible separation agent for solvent extraction of phenolic compounds from aqueous solution. Due to its strong paramagnetism, [3C6PC14][FeCl4] responds to an external neodymium magnet, which was employed in the design of a novel magnetic extraction technique. The conditions for extraction, including extraction time, volume ratio between MRTIL and aqueous phase, pH of aqueous solution, and structures of phenolic compounds were investigated and optimized. The magnetic extraction of phenols achieved equilibrium in 20min and the phenolic compounds were found to have higher distribution ratios under acidic conditions. In addition, it was observed that phenols containing a greater number of chlorine or nitro substituents exhibited higher distribution ratios. For example, the distribution ratio of phenol (D Ph) was 107. In contrast, 3,5-dichlorophenol distribution ratio (D 3,5-DCP) had a much higher value of 6372 under identical extraction conditions. When compared with four selected traditional non-magnetic room temperature ionic liquids, our [3C6PC14][FeCl4] exhibited significantly higher extraction efficiency under the same experimental conditions used in this work. Pentachlorophenol, a major component in the contaminated soil sample obtained from a superfund site, was successfully extracted and removed by use of [3C6PC14][FeCl4] with high extraction efficiency. Pentachlorophenol concentration was dramatically reduced from 7.8μgmL−1 to 0.2μgmL−1 after the magnetic extraction by use of [3C6PC14][FeCl4]. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Component concentration of sodium aluminate solution is an important quality index for alumina production. In this article, we propose a new on-line soft sensing strategy for measuring component concentration of sodium aluminate solution. With this method, on-line control can be realised in aluminate production plants. Several advance techniques are used, such as principal component analysis (PCA), neural modelling and the least square algorithm. Industry experiments are conducted in the alumina production process and the results show the effectiveness of this method. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]