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This paper addresses the high‐precision control problem for nonlinear strict feedback systems with external time‐varying disturbances and proposes a novel composite learning control algorithm. Unlike previous research that only uses tracking errors for neural network updates, this paper prioritizes the accuracy of neural network learning. The article uses a selective memory recursive least squares algorithm to construct system information prediction errors, which are combined with tracking errors to update the neural network weights. A new composite learning control algorithm is developed to design dynamic surface control and neural network disturbance observers, which achieves high‐precision control of nonlinear strict feedback systems under external time‐varying disturbance conditions. Lyapunov's method demonstrates the stability of the closed‐loop system and the boundedness of errors. The simulation results show that the proposed control algorithm can effectively estimate system nonlinearity and suppress the impact of disturbances. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Al–Li alloys, characterized by their lightweight and high strength, are essential structural materials in aerospace industry. Unraveling the atomic mechanisms that enhance the modulus of Al–Li alloys is key to developing the next-generation alloys. Utilizing first-principles methods, we systematically explored the influence of alloying elements on mechanical properties, ranging from binary solid solutions to Al3X precipitates and extending to ternary Al–Cu–Li alloys. Li significantly improves the modulus due to its size effects, low density, high solubility and easy precipitation. In binary A–Li solutions, the formation energy decreases (− 0.007 to 0.030 eV/atom) and the Young's modulus rises (80.2–88.4 GPa) as Li concentration increases (0–12.5 at.%). This increase in modulus is due to the compression of Al–Al bonds by Li atoms. The binary Al3Li phase, with reinforced bonds and lower density, exhibits a higher specific E modulus (49.2 GPa/g cm−3). In the ternary phase T1 (Al6Cu4Li3), the synergistic strengthening of both Al–Al and Cu-X (X = Al, Cu) bonds results in an elevated Young's modulus of 120.3 GPa, establishing it as a pivotal strengthening phase for the third-generation alloys. Subsequent theoretical calculations show superior elastic modulus in Al-X (X = Be, Si, Cr, Mn, Ni) solutions and Al3X (X = Sc, Ti, V, Zr) phases. Additionally, Zn can participate in the precipitation of the T1 phase, thereby enhancing the mechanical properties of the alloy. Gaining insights into atomic interactions and their influence on the modulus could inform the future design and optimization of multi-element Al–Li alloys. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

When the level of reactive oxygen species (ROS) increases abnormally in the body, it damages tissue cells and is closely related to the occurrence of various chronic diseases. Antioxidant peptides (APs) are a class of active short peptides with antioxidant capacity, which have great research value. In this paper, two APs were designed and synthesized based on the structural features of APs: CHIWM (AP1) and CHCPWM (AP2). The reactive sites and activities of APs were analyzed using the quantum chemical density functional theory (DFT) method. The reactive sites are all located in the indolyl heterocycle of tryptophan residues, among which AP1 has a smaller energy gap and single point energy. Multiple free radical scavenging assays showed that AP1 and AP2 had stronger antioxidant activity than the positive control, glutathione (GSH). For scavenging DPPH free radicals, the IC50s values were 0.613 mg/mL and 0.606 mg/mL, respectively. In cellular assays, both AP1 and AP2 were able to scavenge ROS in the cells and attenuate cellular damage. In conclusion, AP1 and AP2 designed in this paper have good antioxidant activity and have the potential to be applied in the treatment of chronic diseases caused by cellular oxidative damage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Using Landsat TM/OLI remote sensing images and social statistical data from 1995, 2000, 2005, 2010, 2015, and 2020, construction land information in Beijing's main urban area was extracted with ArcGIS 10.4.1 and other software. Based on calculations of the expansion speed, expansion intensity, fractal dimension, and elasticity coefficient, the spatiotemporal expansion characteristics of the urban area of Beijing were analyzed to reveal the laws and driving forces of urban expansion in Beijing. The results showed that the urban construction land area in Beijing expanded by a factor of 0.53 from 1995 to 2020, and its expansion speed and intensity gradually slowed. The overall expansion trend is that the central urban area remains basically unchanged, while the peripheral areas are rapidly expanding, showing a trend of rapid growth first and then stable growth, and the urban layout is basically stable. The urban expansion of Beijing has led to increasingly complex, tortuous, and unstable boundaries. Overall, the center of gravity of Beijing is moving toward the northeast, and the elasticity coefficient of urban expansion is 1.67 times that of a reasonable coefficient. The intensity and direction of urban expansion in Beijing are most significantly related to population mobility. Research on the expansion of Beijing lies the foundation for the integration and coordinated planning of resources in the various districts of Beijing and provides a basis for its sustainable development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Straw returning enhances soil fertility and increases corn yield, but the impact on soil fertility varies with different incorporation methods. To explore the optimal straw-returning method, this study, based on a long-term field experiment, investigated the following different corn-straw-returning methods: deep plowing and straw returning (B), rotary tillage and straw returning (RT), crushing and mixing straw returning (TM), pulverized cover straw returning (C), high-stubble-retention straw returning (LHS), strip cover (S), and flat no-tillage without straw returning (CK). High-throughput sequencing technology was employed to analyze the soil bacterial community composition and structural changes under different straw-returning methods. The study further explored the relationships between the soil bacterial community and nutrient content. The results indicated that different straw-returning methods altered the composition and structure of the soil bacterial community. The TM treatment significantly increased the richness and diversity of the soil bacterial communities. Shredding and covering (C and TM) effectively improved the soil nutrient content and bacterial community structure. In the C treatment, the abundance of Blastococcus, Nocardioides, and Microvirga increased the most, by 241.02%, 77.79%, and 355.08%, respectively, compared with CK. In the TM treatment, Pseudarthrobacter showed the highest abundance, increasing by 343.30%. The genes involved in soil carbon hydrolysis (pulA), nitrification (hao), organic nitrogen degradation and synthesis (gudB), and the nitrogen limitation response (glnR) significantly decreased by 56.21%, 78.75%, 66.46%, and 67.40%, respectively, in the C treatment. The genes involved in soil carbon hydrolysis (IMA), carbon fixation (pccB-A), methane metabolism (moxF), nitrate reduction in soil (nirD), organic nitrogen degradation and synthesis (gdh, ureAB, ureE), and phosphate absorption (glpT) significantly increased by 93.37%, 92.68%, 95.00%, 23.42%, 35.40%, 114.21%, 59.14%, and 75.86%, respectively, in the C treatment. The nitrate reduction gene (nrfA) significantly increased by 80.27% in the TM treatment. Therefore, we concluded that straw primarily stimulates the activity of bacterial communities and regulates the bacterial community by changing the relative abundance of the soil microorganisms and functional genes, thereby improving the soil nutrient content. This study considered pulverized cover straw returning and crushing and mixing straw returning to be the most reasonable methods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The MADS-box gene family constitutes a vital group of transcription factors that play significant roles in regulating plant growth, development, and signal transduction processes. However, research on the MADS-box genes in cassava (Manihot esculenta) has been relatively limited. To gain deeper insights into the functions of the MADS-box genes in cassava development, in this study, we undertook a comprehensive genome-wide identification of the MADS-box gene family in cassava. We identified a total of 86 MADS-box genes with complete domains in the cassava genome, designated as MeMADS01 to MeMADS86. Through bioinformatic analyses, we investigated the basic physicochemical properties, conserved motifs, chromosomal locations, and phylogenetic relationships of the cassava MADS-box genes. The MADS-box gene family of cassava exhibited conservation, as well as species-specific characteristics, with intron loss being a predominant mode of evolution for the MADS-box genes. Expression pattern variations in the MeMADS genes across different tissues offer insights into their potential functions. Time-ordered gene co-expression network (TO-GCN), transcriptome data, and RT-qPCR analysis suggested the responsiveness of the MADS-box genes to drought stress. Meanwhile, MeMADS12 might be involved in regulating flowering under drought conditions via an ABA (abscisic acid)-dependent pathway. These findings provide valuable resources for a deeper understanding of the biological roles of the MADS-box genes in cassava. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Macropinocytosis is a large-scale endocytosis process primarily observed in phagocytes as part of their cellular function to ingest antigens. Once phagocytes encounter gram-negative bacteria, the receptor proteins identify lipopolysaccharides (LPSs), which trigger radical membrane ruffles that gradually change to cup-like structures. The open area of the cups closes to generate vesicles called macropinosomes. The target bacteria are isolated by the cups and engulfed by the cells as the cups close. In addition to its ingestion function, macropinocytosis also regulates the AKT pathway in macrophages. In the current study, we report that macropinocytic cups are critical for LPS-induced AKT phosphorylation (pAKT) and cytokine expression in macrophages. High-resolution scanning electron microscope observations detailed the macropinocytic cup structures induced by LPS stimulation. Confocal microscopy revealed that AKT and the kinase molecule mTORC2 were localized in the cups. The biochemical analysis showed that macropinocytosis inhibition blocked LPS-induced pAKT. RNA sequencing, quantitative polymerase chain reaction, and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay analyses revealed that the inhibition of macropinocytosis or the AKT pathway causes a decrease in the expression of proinflammatory cytokines interlukin-6 and interlukin-1α. Moreover, activation of the transcription factor nuclear factor κB, which regulates the cytokine expression downstream of the AKT/IκB pathway, was hindered when macropinocytosis or AKT was inhibited. These results indicate that LPS-induced macropinocytic cups function as signal platforms for the AKT pathway to regulate the cytokine expression by modulating nuclear factor κB activity in LPS-stimulated macrophages. Based on these findings, we propose that macropinocytosis may be a good therapeutic target for controlling cytokine expression. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cellulose is a natural polymer with great properties such as high optical transparency and mechanical strength, flexibility, and biodegradability. Hence, cellulose‐based foils are suitable for the replacement of synthetic polymers as substrate materials in organic electronics. This article reports the fabrication of ultrathin, free‐standing cellulose foils by spraying aqueous 2,2,6,6‐tetramethylpiperidine‐1‐oxyl‐nanocellulose (TEMPO) fibrils ink layer‐by‐layer on a hot substrate using a movable spray nozzle. The resulting foils are only 2 ± 1 µm in thickness with an average basis weight of 1.9 g m−2, which ranges in the same scale as the world's thinnest paper. The suitability of these ultra‐thin nanocellulose foils as a sustainable substrate material for organic electronic applications is demonstrated by testing the foils resistance against organic solvents. Furthermore, silver nanowires (AgNWs) and the blend poly(3,4‐ethylenedioxythiophene):polystyrene sulfonate (PEDOT:PSS) are integrated into the foils, and the foils are molded into 3D paper structures in order to create conductive, paper‐based building blocks for organic electronics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We explore the effect of overlapping green policies on investment efficiency of listed firms in China, by regarding the dual policies of green credit and low-carbon city pilot in 2012 as a quasi-natural experiment. The results show that the superposition of green policies can more significantly improve investment efficiency of high-polluting firms than the green policy alone. In addition to limiting credit availability and increasing financial constraints, green policies also influence firms' ESG ratings, encourage green upgrading and transformation, and increase green investment to promote firm investment efficiency. Further research finds that green policies significantly contribute to investment efficiency improvements for state-owned firms, large-scale firms, firms with higher long-term debt, and capital-intensive firms. Therefore, coordinated green policies provide an opportunity to achieve a win-win situation of "pollution control" and "efficiency improvement". [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Osteo-sarcopenia (OS) has become a global public health problem and a frontier research problem, as a combination of sarcopenia (SP) and osteoporosis (OP) diseases. The clinical performances include muscle weakness, systemic bone pain, standing difficulty, even falls and fractures, etc., which seriously affect the patient's life and work. The pathological mechanism of the OS may be the abnormal metabolism which disrupts the equilibrium stability of the musculoskeletal system. Therefore, this study combined vitamin D (Vit. D) and whole-body vibration training (WBVT) to intervene in subjects of OS, aiming to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of the diagnosis and treatment protocol and to explore the efficacy mechanism. Methods: We propose a multicenter, parallel-group clinical trial to evaluate the efficacy and safety of Vit. D combined with WBVT intervention in OS. Subjects who met the inclusion or exclusion criteria and signed the informed consent form would be randomly assigned to the WBVT group, Vit. D group, or WBVT+ Vit. D group. All subjects will be treated for 1 month and followed up after 3 and 6 months. The primary outcomes are lumbar bone mineral density (BMD) and appendicular skeletal muscle mass (ASM) measured by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) and handgrip strength measured by grip strength meter. Secondary outcomes include serum markers of myostatin (MSTN), irisin and bone turnover markers (BTM), SARC-CalF questionnaire, 1-min test question of osteoporosis risk, patient health status (evaluated by the SF-36 health survey), physical performance measurement that includes 5-time chair stand test, 6-m walk, and the short physical performance battery (SPPB). Discussion: If Vit. D combined with WBVT can well relieve OS symptoms without adverse effects, this protocol may be a new treatment strategy for OS. After therapeutic intervention, if the serum marker MSTN/irisin is significant, both have the potential to become sensitive indicators for screening OS effective drugs and treatments, which also indicates that WBVT combined with Vit. D plays a role in improving OS by regulating MSTN/irisin. Trial registration: Chinese Clinical Trial Registry ChiCTR2400082269. Registered on March 26, 2024. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Qin-Yu-Qing-Chang decoction (QYQC), an herbal formula from China, is extensively employed to manage ulcerative colitis (UC) and exhibits potential benefits for colonic function. Nevertheless, the fundamental molecular mechanisms of QYQC remain largely uncharted. Methods: The primary constituents of QYQC were determined utilizing UHPLC-MS/MS analysis and the effectiveness of QYQC was assessed in a mouse model of colitis induced by dextran sulfate sodium. Evaluations of colon inflammatory responses and mucosal barrier function were thoroughly assessed. RNA sequencing, molecular docking, colonic energy metabolism, and 16S rRNA sequencing analysis were applied to uncover the complex mechanisms of QYQC in treating UC. Detect the signal transduction of the peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-γ (PPAR-γ) both in the nucleus and cytoplasm. Furthermore, a PPAR-γ antagonist was strategically utilized to confirm the functional targets that QYQC exerts. Results: Utilizing UHPLC-MS/MS, the principal constituents of the nine traditional Chinese medicinal herbs comprising QYQC were systematically identified. QYQC treatment substantially ameliorated colitis in mice, as evidenced by the improvement in symptoms and the reduction in colonic pathological injuries. Besides, QYQC treatment mitigated the inflammatory response and improved mucosal barrier function. Furthermore, QYQC enhanced the mitochondria citrate cycle (TCA cycle) by triggering PPAR-γ signaling and increasing the proportion of PPAR-γ entering the nucleus. This prevented the unconstrained expansion of facultative anaerobes, particularly pathogenic Escherichia coli (E. coli, family Enterobacteriaceae) and thus improved colitis. Results of molecular docking indicated that the representative chemical components of QYQC including Baicalin, Paeoniflorin, Mollugin, and Imperatorin bound well with PPAR-γ. The impact of QYQC on colitis was diminished in the presence of a PPAR-γ antagonist. Conclusions: In summary, QYQC ameliorates UC by activating PPAR-γ signaling and increasing the proportion of PPAR-γ entering the nucleus, which enhances the energy metabolism of intestinal epithelial cells and thereby preventing the uncontrolled proliferation of facultative anaerobes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The crystal structure and electrocatalytic performance of Ni-based MOFs were controlled by the symmetrical engineering of Br functional groups on the terephthalic acid ligand. The asymmetric coordination between metal active sites and the ligand makes Ni-DBC-1Br an excellent OER electrocatalyst with a significantly lower overpotential (247 mV) accompanied by a low Tafel slope of 58.1 mV dec−1 in 1 M KOH (pH = 13.88). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: We aimed to launched new staging criteria to predict mTOR inhibitors treatment effect of renal angiomyolipomas (r-AMLs) in TSC patients. Methods: 40 TSC patients with 69 r-AMLs were divided into two groups based on the efficacy of 6-month mTOR inhibitor treatment. Epidemiological data, therapeutic response, and predictive factors of enrolled patients were collected and analyzed. Age, sex, maximum diameter, maximum cross-sectional area (CSAmax), unenhanced mean CT value, enhanced mean CT value, and added value of enhanced CT of largest r-AML at baseline were assessed as potential influencing factors. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis and the area under the ROC curve (AUC) was used to estimate prediction power. Results: After 6 months of mTOR inhibitor treatment, the tumor reduction rates in the two groups were 55.87% and 16.44% (P < 0.001). At the start of treatment, the maximum diameters, CSAmax, added value of enhanced CT of the target lesion in two groups were 7.70 ± 0.73 cm vs. 13.18 ± 1.23 cm(P = 0.028), 57.40 ± 10.76cm2 vs. 167.29 ± 33.09cm2 (P = 0.015), and 62.32 ± 5.03HU vs. 33.06 ± 3.13HU (P = 0.009), respectively. AUCs of CSAmax, added value of enhanced CT, and combination of both were 0.8024, 0.7672, and 0.8116, respectively (P < 0.001). Cut-off values of CSAmax combined with the added value of enhanced CT were 40cm2 and 46HU. AUCs of maximum diameters, combination of maximum diameters and added value of enhanced CT were 0.7600 and 0.8100, respectively (P < 0.001), with cut-off values of 6.6 cm and 46 HU. Conclusion: New staging criteria, based on CSAmax and added value of enhanced CT, can predict the treatment efficiency of m-TOR inhibitors for r-AMLs in TSC patients. A simplified version based on maximum diameter and added value of enhanced CT of lesion has also been proposed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: The division of labor and cooperation are typical behavior patterns of gregarious mammals, but it is unclear whether Brandt's voles exercise a division of labor before overwintering. We observed and recorded the behavioral activities of Brandt's voles (Lasiopodomys brandtii) with an infrared camera and conducted behavioral experiments on individuals with a food-hoarding division. We found that Brandt's voles had two types of hoarding behavior: high food hoarding and low food hoarding. Furthermore, high-food-hoarding individuals had greater spatial memory. The individual division of labor during the hoarding period of Brandt's voles was analyzed, and the personality characteristics of individuals were measured. The goal was to better understand the division of labor among different individuals in hoarding, as well as the emergence and significance of the social division of labor in gregarious animals. Brandt's voles (Lasiopodomys brandtii), one of the main non-hibernating rodent species in the typical grassland of Inner Mongolia, live in groups and have the behavioral habit of hoarding food in underground warehouses in autumn to prepare for the winter food shortage ahead. The division of labor and cooperation are typical behavior patterns of gregarious mammals, but it is unclear whether Brandt's voles exercise a division of labor in food hoarding before overwintering. To explore the division of food hoarding in Brandt's voles during the autumn period, three treatments, namely added food, added food + competition, and control, were set up with three replicates. An infrared camera was positioned to observe and record the behavior of Brandt's voles under different treatments. Next, behavioral experiments regarding food-hoarding division were performed on individuals. The results showed that (1) Brandt's voles had two types of hoarding behavior, namely high food hoarding and low food hoarding, but not all individuals displayed hoarding behavior. (2) In all treatments, feeding behavior, which was the most important type of behavior, accounted for the highest proportion of all behaviors. (3) There was no significant difference in body weight and sex between high- and low-food-hoarding individuals of Brandt's voles, and there was no significant difference between high- and low-food-hoarding individuals in other divisions of labor either. (4) There was no significant difference in inquiry ability between high- and low-food-hoarding groups, but there was a significant difference in spatial memory. High-food-hoarding individuals had greater spatial memory. In summary, Brandt's voles had two types of hoarding behavior: high food hoarding and low food hoarding. Furthermore, high-food-hoarding individuals had greater spatial memory. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Systemic infection with Candida albicans poses a significant risk for people with weakened immune systems and carries a mortality rate of up to 60%. However, current therapeutic options have several limitations, including increasing drug tolerance, notable off-target effects, and severe adverse reactions. Over the past four decades, the progress in developing drugs to treat Candida albicans infections has been sluggish. This comprehensive review addresses the limitations of existing drugs and summarizes the efforts made toward redesigning and innovating existing or novel drugs through nanotechnology. The discussion explores the potential applications of nanomedicine in Candida albicans infections from four perspectives: nano-preparations for anti-biofilm therapy, innovative formulations of "old drugs" targeting the cell membrane and cell wall, reverse drug resistance therapy targeting subcellular organelles, and virulence deprivation therapy leveraging the unique polymorphism of Candida albicans. These therapeutic approaches are promising to address the above challenges and enhance the efficiency of drug development for Candida albicans infections. By harnessing nano-preparation technology to transform existing and preclinical drugs, novel therapeutic targets will be uncovered, providing effective solutions and broader horizons to improve patient survival rates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

EphrinB2, a member of the Ephrin family, has been linked to several orthopaedic conditions. Nevertheless, the correlation between ephrinB2 and post‐traumatic arthritis (PTOA) remains unclear. Human PTOA cartilage from human and mouse knee joints was systematically analysed to investigate the relationship between EphrinB2 and PTOA using SO‐FG and toluidine blue staining, micro‐CT, histomorphometry, immunohistochemistry, immunofluorescence, lentiviral articular injection and in situ end labeling (TUNEL) assays. EphrinB2 expression was significantly downregulated in PTOA chondrocytes. Blocking EphrinB2 increased the breakdown of cartilage matrix in mice with PTOA via reducing the process of chondrocyte autophagy. The presence of severe cartilage damage was evident, as indicated by a considerable decrease in both cartilage thickness and area, accompanied by an increase in chondrocyte death. Altogether, EphrinB2 is required for the maintenance of cartilage homeostasis in post‐traumatic arthritis, and EphrinB2 ablation is associated with accelerated chondrocyte matrix degeneration, finally causing damage to the articular cartilage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Delayed neurocognitive recovery (dNCR) can result in unfavorable outcomes in elderly surgical patients. Physical activity (PA) has been shown to improve cognitive function, potentially by reducing systemic inflammatory responses. However, there is a lack of supportive data indicating whether PA has a protective effect against dNCR. Aims: To examine the correlation between dNCR and PA, and to further analyze if pro-inflammatory cytokines mediate this relationship. Methods: This study is a prospective nested case-control investigation of elderly patients who had knee replacement surgery. dNCR was defined as a decline in cognitive function compared with baseline by using a battery of neuropsychological tests. PA was assessed with the Physical Activity Scale for the Elderly (PASE). Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) was used to measure the serum concentrations of IL-6, IL-1β, and TNF-α. Multivariable logistic regression analysis was conducted to assess the association between PA and dNCR. Mediation analysis was employed to evaluate whether pro-inflammatory cytokines mediate the relationship between them. Results: A cohort of 152 patients was included, resulting in an incidence rate of dNCR of 23.68%. PA was associated with dNCR after full adjustment [OR = 0.199, (95% CI, 0.061; 0.649), P = 0.007]. Mediation analysis showed that the IL-6 mediated the statistical association between PA and dNCR, with mediation proportions (%) of 77.68 (postoperative concentration of IL-6) or 27.58 (the absolute change in IL-6 before and after surgery). Conclusions: PA serves as a protective factor against dNCR, possibly through the reduction of pro-inflammatory cytokine concentrations. The Chinese Clinical Trail Registry: : www.http://chictr.org.cn, Registration No. ChiCTR2300070834, Registration date: April 24, 2023. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lymphocyte receptors independently evolved in both jawed and jawless vertebrates with similar adaptive immune responses. However, the diversity of functional subtypes and molecular architecture in jawless vertebrate lymphocytes, comparable to jawed species, is not well defined. Here, we profile the gills, intestines, and blood of the lamprey, Lampetra morii, with single-cell RNA sequencing, using a full-length transcriptome as a reference. Our findings reveal higher tissue-specific heterogeneity among T-like cells in contrast to B-like cells. Notably, we identify a unique T-like cell subtype expressing a homolog of the nonlymphoid hematopoietic growth factor receptor, MPL-like (MPL-L). These MPL-L+ T-like cells exhibit features distinct from T cells of jawed vertebrates, particularly in their elevated expression of hematopoietic genes. We further discovered that MPL-L+ VLRA+ T-like cells are widely present in the typhlosole, gill, liver, kidney, and skin of lamprey and they proliferate in response to both a T cell mitogen and recombinant human thrombopoietin. These findings provide new insights into the adaptive immune response in jawless vertebrates, shedding new light on the evolution of adaptive immunity. Lymphocyte subsets remain inadequately understood in jawless vertebrates, relative to jawed vertebrates. In this study, the authors combine single-cell RNA and whole-transcriptome sequencing to demonstrate that the lamprey, Lampreta morii, harbours specialised T-like cells that are distinct from those found in jawed vertebrates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Elucidating cellular architecture and cell-type evolution across species is central to understanding immune system function and susceptibility to disease. Adaptive immunity is a shared trait of the common ancestor of cartilaginous and bony fishes. However, evolutionary features of lymphocytes in these two jawed vertebrates remain unclear. Here, we present a single-cell RNA sequencing atlas of immune cells from cartilaginous (white-spotted bamboo shark) and bony (zebrafish and Chinese tongue sole) fishes. Cross-species comparisons show that the same cell types across different species exhibit similar transcriptional profiles. In the bamboo shark, we identify a phagocytic B cell population expressing several pattern recognition receptors, as well as a T cell sub-cluster co-expressing both T and B cell markers. In contrast to a division by function in the bony fishes, we show close linkage and poor functional specialization among lymphocytes in the cartilaginous fish. Our cross-species single-cell comparison presents a resource for uncovering the origin and evolution of the gnathostome immune system. Both cartilaginous and bony fishes have adaptive immune cells, but the evolutionary features of these diverse cell populations remain understudied. Here the authors report single-cell RNA sequencing atlas of both species to define these features and to find reduced evolutionary diversification of immune cells in cartilaginous fishes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To address the problems of salinization of the soil in gully control and land-making projects, the formation mechanism of soil interflow from a gully valley on the Loess Plateau was investigated, regarding its interface, water source, and spatial-temporal distribution characteristics, through field location monitoring and isotope tracer technique. The results showed the following: (1) there are two types of soil interflow in the Loess Plateau, namely soil interflow in slope and in gully, with interflow in gully being the main form; (2) adequate water supply, layered soil structure, and geographic disparity are conditions for the formation of soil interflow in the gully; (3) soil water is recharged by precipitation, surface water, and groundwater. Surface water is an important source of soil water recharge at the 0–100 cm depth, whereas groundwater is an important source of soil water recharge at the 100–200 cm depth. The results provide a basis for the regulation of the soil interflow, resource utilization, and land quality improvement in the Loess Plateau. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To better realize the design and application of particle damping technology, this study explores the physical laws of vibration in granular assemblies within a confined space under forced vibration conditions and investigates the frequency-dependent characteristics of vibration state transitions in cylindrical granular bodies using experimental methods and discrete element methods. The findings indicate that under forced vibration conditions, granular assemblies exhibit five typical states, namely, solid-like, micro-vibrational, intermediate vibrational, strong vibrational, and gas-like. The vibration patterns demonstrate significant frequency-dependent characteristics, and the loss capacity of different vibration states of granular assemblies is discussed. The transition boundary of different vibration states of granular assemblies is analyzed. The influence of particle size, mass, and granular material on the parameters of the vibration state transition boundary is analyzed. The conversion and control of the vibration state of granular assemblies will be beneficial to achieve engineering applications by changing the dynamic behavior of the particles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In most practical engineering applications, the translating belt wraps around two fixed wheels. The boundary conditions of the dynamic model are typically specified as simply supported or fixed boundaries. In this paper, non-homogeneous boundaries are introduced by the support wheels. Utilizing the translating belt as the mechanical prototype, the vibration characteristics of translating Timoshenko beam models with non-homogeneous boundaries are investigated for the first time. The governing equations of Timoshenko beam are deduced by employing the generalized Hamilton's principle. The effects of parameters such as the radius of wheel and the length of belt on vibration characteristics including the equilibrium deformations, critical velocities, natural frequencies, and modes, are numerically calculated and analyzed. The numerical results indicate that the beam experiences deformation characterized by varying curvatures near the wheels. The radii of the wheels play a pivotal role in determining the change in trend of the relative difference between two beam models. Comparing the results unearths that the relative difference in equilibrium deformations between the two beam models is more pronounced with smaller-sized wheels. When the two wheels are of equal size, the critical velocities of both beam models reach their respective minima. In addition, the relative difference in natural frequencies between the two beam models exhibits nonlinear variation and can easily exceed 50%. Furthermore, as the axial velocities increase, the impact of non-homogeneous boundaries on modal shape of translating beam becomes more significant. Although dealing with non-homogeneous boundaries is challenging, beam models with non-homogeneous boundaries are more sensitive to parameters, and the differences between the two types of beams undergo some interesting variations under the influence of non-homogeneous boundaries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the effect of continuous control cuff pressure (CCCP) versus intermittent control cuff pressure (ICCP) for the prevention of ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP) in critically ill patients. Methods: Relevant literature was searched in several databases, including PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, ProQuest, the Cochrane Library, Wanfang Database and China National Knowledge Infrastructure between inception and September 2022. Randomized controlled trials were considered eligible if they compared CCCP with ICCP for the prevention of VAP in critically ill patients. This meta-analysis was performed using the RevMan 5.3 and Trial Sequential Analysis 0.9 software packages. The Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE) framework was used to assess the level of evidence. Results: We identified 14 randomized control trials with a total of 2080 patients. Meta-analysis revealed that CCCP was associated with a significantly lower incidence of VAP compared with ICCP (relative risk [RR] = 0.52; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.37-0.74; P < 0.001), although considerable heterogeneity was observed (I 2 = 71%). Conducting trial sequential analysis confirmed the finding, and the GRADE level was moderate. Subgroup analysis demonstrated that CCCP combined with subglottic secretion drainage (SSD) had a more significant effect on reducing VAP (RR = 0.39; 95% CI = 0.29-0.52; P < 0.001). The effect of CCCP on ventilator-associated respiratory infection (VARI) incidence was uncertain (RR = 0.81; 95% CI = 0.53-1.24; P = 0.34; I 2 = 61%). Additionally, CCCP significantly reduced the duration of mechanical ventilation (MV) (mean difference [MD] = −2.42 days; 95% CI = −4.71-0.12; P = 0.04; I 2 = 87%). Descriptive analysis showed that CCCP improved the qualified rate of cuff pressure. However, no significant differences were found in the length of intensive care unit (ICU) stay (MD = 2.42 days; 95% CI = −1.84-6.68; P = 0.27) and ICU mortality (RR = 0.86; 95% CI = 0.74-1.00; P = 0.05). Conclusion: Our findings suggest that the combination of CCCP and SSD can reduce the incidence of VAP and the duration of MV and maintain the stability of cuff pressure. A combination of CCCP and SSD applications is suggested for preventing VAP. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Activating the cytosolic innate immune sensor, the cGAS-STING pathway, holds great promise for enhancing antitumor immunity, particularly in combination with immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs). However, the clinical application of STING agonists is often hindered by poor tumor accumulation, limited cellular uptake, and rapid clearance. To address these challenges, we developed a human serum albumin (HSA)-based nanoreactor system for the efficient delivery of the STING agonist SR-717, aiming to improve its antitumor efficacy. Methods: Using a biomineralization technique, we encapsulated SR-717 within HSA nanocages to form SH-NPs. These nanoparticles were characterized in terms of size, stability, and cellular uptake, and their ability to activate the STING pathway was assessed in both in vitro and in vivo models, including freshly isolated human renal tumor tissues. In vivo antitumor efficacy was evaluated in a murine renal tumor model, and immune responses were measured. Results: SH-NPs exhibited enhanced stability, efficient cellular uptake, and superior tumor accumulation compared to free SR-717. They robustly activated the STING pathway, as evidenced by increased phosphorylation of TBK1 and IRF3, along with elevated IFN-β production. Additionally, SH-NPs reshaped the immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment, promoting T-cell-mediated immunity and improving the therapeutic efficacy of checkpoint blockade in murine models. The validation in human renal tumor tissues further highlighted their potential for clinical translation. Importantly, SH-NPs were well tolerated with minimal systemic toxicity. Conclusions: This study underscores the potential of HSA-based nanoparticles for the targeted delivery of STING agonists, effectively enhancing antitumor immunity and improving cancer immunotherapy outcomes. SH-NPs offer a promising solution to the limitations of current STING agonists in clinical settings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

RNase H1 has been acknowledged as an endoribonuclease specializing in the internal degradation of the RNA moiety within RNA–DNA hybrids, and its ribonuclease activity is indispensable in multifaceted aspects of nucleic acid metabolism. However, the molecular mechanism underlying RNase H1-mediated hybrid cleavage remains inadequately elucidated. Herein, using single-molecule approaches, we probe the dynamics of the hybrid cleavage by Saccharomyces cerevisiae RNase H1. Remarkably, a single RNase H1 enzyme displays 3′-to-5′ exoribonuclease activity. The directional RNA degradation proceeds processively and yet discretely, wherein unwinding approximately 6-bp hybrids as a prerequisite for two consecutive 3-nt RNA excisions limits the overall rate within each catalytic cycle. Moreover, Replication Protein A (RPA) reinforces RNase H1's 3′-to-5′ nucleolytic rate and processivity and stimulates its 5′-to-3′ exoribonuclease activity. This stimulation is primarily realized through the pre-separation of the hybrids and consequently transfers RNase H1 to a bidirectional exoribonuclease, further potentiating its cleavage efficiency. These findings unveil unprecedented characteristics of an RNase and provide a dynamic view of RPA-enhanced processive hybrid cleavage by RNase H1. RNase H1 functions as an endonuclease degrading the RNA moiety within RNA–DNA hybrids. Here the authors find that RNase H1 displays 3′-to-5′ exonuclease activity. Moreover, RPA reinforces RNase H1's 3′-to-5′ nucleolytic rate and processivity and stimulates its 5′-to-3′ exonuclease activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cross-domain Recommendation (CDR) is an effective method for solving the cold-start problem in traditional recommendation systems. This technique transfers information from the source domain to the target domain, enabling personalized recommendations for cold-start users. Despite the prevalence of existing CDR methods, they often rely on a common preference bridge to convey information to all users, which may not capture complex and diverse preferences unique to each user. Additionally, these methods require direct interaction of user information between clients and servers, which can pose personal privacy concerns. To address these issues, we propose a personalized cross-domain preference bridge for each user using federated meta learning. Our approach trains a common preference bridge for all users using locally stored data and model information with federated learning. Then, a meta-learning network generates a personalized preference bridge for each user based on the common bridge. This approach improves the effectiveness of CDR and ensures user privacy. We conducted extensive experiments on two large datasets to demonstrate the efficiency of our proposed method. The results show that our model outperforms other models in addressing the cold-start problem in recommendation systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Medical device-related pressure injures (MDRPIs) are common in critically ill patients and associated with negative clinical outcomes and elevated healthcare expenses. We aim to estimate worldwide incidence of MDRPI and explore associated factors through systemic review and meta-analysis. Methods: The PubMed, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, and Ovid EMBASE databases were systematically queried to identify relevant studies published from Jan 1, 2010 up until June 30, 2024. Studies were included if they provided data on the incidence or prevalence of MDRPI. Random-effect models were utilized to calculate the overall or domain-specific aggregated estimates of MDRPI. A meta-regression analysis was additionally performed to investigate the heterogeneity among studies. Results: We included 28 observational studies on 117,624 patients in the meta-analysis. The overall incidence of MDRPI was 19.3% (95% confidence interval (CI) 13.5–25.2%). The incidence of MDRPI in Europe, North America, Asia, South America, and Oceania was 17.3% (95% CI 12.7–21.9%), 3.6% (95% CI 0.0–8.5%), 21.9% (95% CI 14.3–29.6%), 48.3% (95% CI 20.8–75.7%), and 13.0% (95% CI 5.0–21.1%), respectively (p < 0.01). Multivariate meta-regressions revealed South America and special inpatient (critically ill patient, etc.) were independently associated with higher MDRPI incidence. Conclusions: Nearly, 20% of the patients in ICU suffered from MDRPI. The incidence of MDRPI in underdeveloped regions is particularly concerning, highlighting the importance of focusing on measures to prevent it, in order to reduce the medical burden and enhance the quality of life for affected patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Curcuminoid boron difluoride dyes have garnered significant attention in the realm of bioimaging, primarily owing to their excellent photophysicochemical properties. However, the strong hydrophobicity limits their optimal near-infrared (NIR) fluorescence emission, and the synthesis process is complicated. In this study, Curc-TPA, a curcuminoid boron difluoride derivative with a high fluorescence quantum yield, was facilely synthesized and surprisingly exhibited aggregation-induced NIR emission in a dimethyl sulfoxide/water mixture. The compound self-assembled into stable and homogeneous nanoparticles through hydrophobic interaction with the amphiphilic polymer 1,2-distearoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphoethanolamine-poly(ethylene glycol), which showed enhanced aggregation-induced emission (AIE) capacity in the NIR region. The nanoparticles specifically enriched at the tumor site due to the enhanced penetration and retention effect and exhibited bright fluorescence in vitro and in vivo. Notably, they showed satisfactory hematological compatibility and unobservable cellular and histological toxicity. Therefore, they are of promising clinical significance in the AIE-enhanced NIR fluorescence imaging-visualized precise diagnosis of cancer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Particle damping technology is a typical passive vibration damping technology. In order to further explore the energy dissipation characteristics of particle dampers under different excitation, the relationship between internal vibration state and energy dissipation is analyzed. Based on the analysis of the motion state of granular assembly inside three‐dimensional cylindrical particles, the steady‐state energy flow method is used to study the loss characteristics of the granular assembly with different vibration laws. The research is carried out under the condition of excitation reduced acceleration of 0–8 and excitation frequency of 0–300 Hz. The results show that the loss capacity of the particles is enhanced when the vibration state of the particles changes from solid‐like to other motion states. At frequencies above 250 Hz, the particle microvibrational and intermediate‐vibrational loss effects are more significant. The loss capacity of the granular assembly shows frequency‐dependent characteristics and is affected by frequency and reduced acceleration. With the increase of the reduced acceleration, the loss capacity of particles is enhanced and shows a local peak effect as the frequency increases. The increase of the particle size enhances the loss ability in the microvibrational state and the intermediate‐vibrational state. By changing the vibrational state, the energy dissipation capacity of particle damper can be enhanced, which may provide a new idea for designing optimal granular dampers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Knee osteoarthritis (KOA) is a chronic joint disease that significantly affects the health of the elderly. As an herbal remedy, Gubi decoction (GBD) has been traditionally used for the treatment of osteoarthritis‐related syndromes. However, the anti‐KOA efficacy and mechanism of GBD remain unclear. This study aimed to experimentally investigate the anti‐KOA efficacy and the underlying mechanism of GBD. The medial meniscus (DMM) mice model and IL‐1β‐stimulated chondrocytes were, respectively, constructed as in vivo and in vitro models of KOA to evaluate the osteoprotective effect and molecular mechanism of GBD. The UPLC–MS/MS analysis showed that GBD mainly contained pinoresinol diglucoside, rehmannioside D, hesperidin, liquiritin, baohuoside I, glycyrrhizic acid, kaempferol and tangeretin. Animal experiment showed that GBD could alleviate articular cartilage destruction and recover histopathological alterations in DMM mice. In addition, GBD inhibited chondrocyte apoptosis and restored DMM‐induced dysregulated autophagy evidenced by the upregulation of ATG7 and LC3 II/LC3 I but decreased P62 level. Mechanistically, METTL3‐mediated m6A modification decreased the expression of ATG7 in DMM mice, as it could be significantly attenuated by GBD. METTL3 overexpression significantly counteracted the protective effect of GBD on chondrocyte autophagy. Further research showed that GBD promoted proteasome‐mediated ubiquitination degradation of METLL3. Our findings suggest that GBD could act as a protective agent against KOA. The protective effect of GBD may result from its promotion on chondrocyte autophagy by suppressing METTL3‐dependent ATG7 m6A methylation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Precipitation plays a crucial role in the hydrological cycle and is vital for water resources management, climate change research, and ecosystem conservation. Precipitation stable isotopes serve as the 'fingerprints' of precipitation, which can clearly trace the formation, transport, and subsequent processes of precipitation. However, due to the scarcity of precipitation stable isotope data, we face challenges of temporal discontinuity and spatial heterogeneity when studying it at large to medium scales. Therefore, we compiled precipitation hydrogen and oxygen stable isotope data (δ18O and δ2H) from 2059 global sites spanning from 1961 to 2023, totaling 141,624 records. Our study indicates significant variations of global precipitation stable isotopes both spatially and temporally. Spatially, the isotopic composition of precipitation in different regions varies significantly due to factors such as geographical location, underlying surface conditions, and atmospheric circulation. Temporally, δ18O and δ2H show decreasing trends, while d-excess shows an increasing trend, with the impact of global temperature rise being very apparent. This precipitation stable isotope dataset provides robust support for our understanding of global precipitation changes and climate change. Through further investigation of precipitation stable isotope data, we hope to uncover more mechanisms and influencing factors of precipitation processes, providing a more accurate basis for the assessment and prediction of climate and water resource changes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Herein, we report a regioselective cycloaddition strategy of N -aminopyridinium ylides with electron-deficient alkenes, in the presence of a hypervalent iodine reagent, PhI(OAc)2. A variety of multifunctionalized pyrazolo[1,5- a ]pyridine architectures were smoothly afforded by the reactions of pyridine-, quinoline-, and isoquinoline-based N -ylides with diverse alkenes with or without a halogen atom adjacent to the electron-withdrawing group (EWG) under facile conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective Individual differences challenge the treatment of vancomycin, linezolid and voriconazole in severe infections. This study aimed to build a simple and economical method for simultaneous determination of the three antibiotics in human plasma by ultra-high performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (UHPLC–MS/MS) and provided a reference for therapeutic drug monitoring (TDM) of infected patients. Methods The plasma samples were precipitated by acetonitrile and detected and separated on a shim-pack GIST C18 column following the gradient elution within 5 min. Mass quantification was performed on multiple reaction monitoring mode under positive electrospray ionization. Results The linear ranges of vancomycin, linezolid and voriconazole were 1.00–100.00, 0.10–15.00 and 0.10–20.00 μg·mL−1, respectively, with good linearity (R 2 > 0.99). The accuracy and precision, matrix effect, extraction recovery and stability were validated, and the results all meet the acceptance criteria of China Food and Drug Administration (CFDA) guidelines. Conclusion The UHPLC–MS/MS method was established and validated for the simultaneous determination of vancomycin, linezolid and voriconazole in human plasma and successfully applied to routine TDM for individualized treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Due to their high energy density and cost‐effectiveness, lithium–sulfur batteries (LSBs) are considered highly promising for the next generation of energy storage technologies. However, the soluble lithium‐polysulfides (LiPSs) notorious for causing the shuttle effect and the sluggish redox kinetics have hindered their practical commercialization. To tackle these challenges, a heterostructural catalyst featuring NiS‐NiCo2O4 interfaces is developed, which serves as an interlayer for LSBs. These interfacial sites leverage the advantages of polar NiCo2O4 and conductive NiS, enabling smooth Li+ diffusion, rapid electron transport, and effective immobilization of LiPSs. This synergistic approach promotes the conversion of sulfur species, resulting in a high discharge capacity of 526 mAh g−1 at 3 C for cells with the NiS‐NiCo2O4 interlayer. Additionally, remarkable cycling stability is achievable with an areal sulfur loading of ≈5.0 mg cm−2. It is believed that this research paves the way for practical applications of LSBs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Traditional cement epoxy pavements suffer from inherent limitations such as terrible tribological properties, poor wear resistance, and weak impact resistance, presenting significant challenges to ensure the safety and continuous operation of urban roads. As a solution, high-performance cement epoxy composite grouting materials have emerged as the preferred option for engineering construction and road maintenance. In this study, CSP/epoxy cement (CSEC) composite materials were prepared by emulsion polymerization. The thermal properties of the materials were characterized, revealing that CSP enhances the thermal properties of epoxy cement (EC) to a certain extent. Furthermore, the frictional properties of CSEC composite materials and pure epoxy cement under different normal loads were investigated. The results indicated that the CSEC composite material exhibited a slight increase in friction coefficient and a notable decrease in wear rate compared to pure epoxy cement (EC). Specifically, the wear rate of CSEC decreased by 14.4% at a load of 20 N, highlighting the enhanced frictional performance facilitated by CSP. Mechanistic analysis attributed the improvement to the unique core-shell structure of CSP, which imparted higher impact resistance and eliminated alleviate residual stresses at the friction interface. This structural advantage further enhanced the wear resistance of materials, making it a promising choice for improving the durability and safety of urban road surfaces. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Many disease resistance genes have been introgressed into wheat from its wild relatives. However, reduced recombination within the introgressed segments hinders the cloning of the introgressed genes. Here, we have cloned the powdery mildew resistance gene Pm13, which is introgressed into wheat from Aegilops longissima, using a method that combines physical mapping with radiation-induced chromosomal aberrations and transcriptome sequencing analysis of ethyl methanesulfonate (EMS)-induced loss-of-function mutants. Pm13 encodes a kinase fusion protein, designated MLKL-K, with an N-terminal domain of mixed lineage kinase domain-like protein (MLKL_NTD domain) and a C-terminal serine/threonine kinase domain bridged by a brace. The resistance function of Pm13 is validated through transient and stable transgenic complementation assays. Transient over-expression analyses in Nicotiana benthamiana leaves and wheat protoplasts reveal that the fragment Brace-Kinase122-476 of MLKL-K is capable of inducing cell death, which is dependent on a functional kinase domain and the three α-helices in the brace region close to the N-terminus of the kinase domain. The powdery mildew resistance gene Pm13 was introgressed into wheat from Aegilops longissima. Here, the authors report the cloning of Pm13 and reveal that it encodes a MLKL_NTD domain-containing kinase. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In 6000-series Al-Mg-Si alloys, Zn is commonly added to enhance the aging response for improved properties. However, the segregation of Zn to interfaces and its interaction mechanisms with strengthening phases remain unclear. Combining experiments and theoretical calculations, we systematically investigated Zn segregation behavior at the β″/Al interfaces in Al-Mg-Si alloys. Using a modified β″-Mg5Al2Si4 model, we determined that the interface (100)β″//(130)Al has a slightly smaller formation energy of 1.06 kJ/mol, while (001)β″//( 3 ¯ 20)Al has a relatively smaller interfacial energy of 116 mJ/m2. HAADF-STEM analysis revealed these interfacial morphologies and atomic distributions, showing that Zn atoms not only enter the β″ phase but are also inclined to segregate at the interfaces by occupying the Si3/Al sites. Furthermore, the stability of the β″/Al interfaces and the Zn segregation behavior are well explained at the atomic scale, with calculations showing that stronger hybridization between Zn-3d and Si-3s orbitals facilitates Zn segregation at the interfaces. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to investigate the differences between mulberry wine and mulberry fruit in terms of the phenolic compounds and antioxidant activity. Qualitative and quantitative analysis of phenolic compounds in mulberry fruit, dry wine and liqueur were performed with HPLC-ESI-MS/MS. It was found that, anthocyanin-3-glucoside and anthocyanin-3-rutinoside were detected in mulberry fruit, dry wine and liqueur. Pelargonidin-3-rutinoside and 4-pyruvate-anthocyanidin-3-glucoside were detected only in mulberry dry wine and liqueur. The content of anthocyanin-3-glucoside and anthocyanin-3-rutinoside in both mulberry dry wine and mulberry liqueur was significantly lower than that in mulberry fruit. In addition, of the eight non-anthocyanidin phenolic compounds identified in mulberry fruit, only four were present in dry wine and liqueur. Compared to the mulberry fruit, mulberry dry wine and liqueur showed significantly higher contents of protocatechin, taxfolin and quercetin. The DPPH free radical scavenging activity of mulberry fruit was between mulberry dry wine and liqueur. In conclusion, there are significant differences between phenolic compounds and antioxidant activities in mulberry fruit and mulberry wine. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In recent years, with the increasing awareness of health and environmental protection, global consumers have become more interested in and supportive of plant-based diets. To prepare oat fermented milk with a balanced taste and quality, the effects of different protein concentrations (1.0%-2.5%) on the acidity, rheological properties, tribological properties, and sensory properties of the product were studied. The results indicated that increasing the protein concentration improved the oat fermented milk's acidity. After 2 hours of fermentation, there was a significant decrease in pH and a substantial increase in acidity of the fermented milk, and the acidity was positively correlated with the protein concentration (R² > 0.981 3) when the fermentation reached 6 hours. Results from rheological tests reveal that the fermented milk exhibited a pseudo shear-thinning behavior, and the higher concentration of protein, the higher apparent viscosity of the oat fermented milk. Tribological results indicated that under mixed lubrication conditions, the friction coefficient of the fermented milk decreased with increasing of rolling speed.Moreover, a higher viscosity led to lower friction coefficient, implying a better lubrication property. Sensory measurement showed that the highest sensory score was obtained with a protein concentration of 2.0%.In conclusion, results from the present study suggest that the oat-fermented milk can be prepared with a protein concentration of 2.0%, ensuring the product with a uniform color, balanced sweet and sour taste, moderate viscosity, and enrichment of oat fermentation aroma. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In recent years, with the increasing awareness of health and environmental protection, global consumers have become more interested in and supportive of plant-based diets. To prepare oat fermented milk with a balanced taste and quality, the effects of different protein concentrations (1.0%-2.5%) on the acidity, rheological properties, tribological properties, and sensory properties of the product were studied. The results indicated that increasing the protein concentration improved the oat fermented milk's acidity. After 2 hours of fermentation, there was a significant decrease in pH and a substantial increase in acidity of the fermented milk, and the acidity was positively correlated with the protein concentration (R²>0.981 3) when the fermentation reached 6 hours. Results from rheological tests reveal that the fermented milk exhibited a pseudo shear-thinning behavior, and the higher concentration of protein, the higher apparent viscosity of the oat fermented milk. Tribological results indicated that under mixed lubrication conditions, the friction coefficient of the fermented milk decreased with increasing of rolling speed. Moreover, a higher viscosity led to lower friction coefficient, implying a better lubrication property. Sensory measurement showed that the highest sensory score was obtained with a protein concentration of 2.0%. In conclusion, results from the present study suggest that the oat-fermented milk can be prepared with a protein concentration of 2.0%, ensuring the product with a uniform color, balanced sweet and sour taste, moderate viscosity, and enrichment of oat fermentation aroma. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Strawberry red core root rot disease affects the growth and yield of strawberry (Fragaria ananassa Duch), which leads to economic losses in China. The study employed a tissue separation method to isolate and identify the causal agent responsible for strawberry red core root rot. This was achieved by the observation of its morphological characteristics, sequencing analyses, and pathogenicity tests. The sensitivity of five chemical fungicides against the two species of Fusarium was determined using the mycelial growth rate method, and the biological characteristics of the two species were examined. The pathogens were identified as Fusarium solani and Fusarium oxysporum. The optimal conditions for the mycelial growth of F. solani and F. oxysporum were determined to be potato sucrose agar at 25 °C and pH 6, and potato dextrose agar at 30 °C and pH 8, respectively, with a 24:24 light cycle. The most suitable carbon and nitrogen sources for the mycelial growth of F. solani were sucrose and sodium nitrate (NaNO3), while for F. oxysporum, they were glucose and peptone. A fungicide sensitivity test indicated that Prochloraz had a good inhibitory effect on the growth of F. solani and F. oxysporum with EC50 values of 0.088 mg L−1 and 0.162 mg. The growth inhibition effect of Azoxystrobin to F. solani and Carbendazim to F. oxysporum was not obvious. This study provides a theoretical basis for further research on strawberry red core root disease and its prevention. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]