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The in-plane thermal conductivity of hexagonal boron nitride (h-BN) with varying thicknesses is a key property that affects the performance of various applications from electronics to optoelectronics. However, the transition of the thermal conductivity from two-dimensional (2D) to three-dimensional (3D) h-BN remains elusive. To answer this question, we have developed a machine learning interatomic potential within the neuroevolution potential (NEP) framework for h-BN, achieving a high accuracy akin to ab initio calculations in predicting its thermal conductivity and phonon transport from monolayer to multilayers and bulk. Utilizing molecular dynamics simulations based on the NEP, we predict the thermal conductivity of h-BN with a thickness up to ∼100 nm, demonstrating that its thermal conductivity quickly decreases from the monolayer and saturates to the bulk value above four layers. The saturation of its thermal conductivity is attributed to the little change in phonon group velocity and lifetime as the thickness increases beyond four layers. In particular, the weak thickness dependence of phonon lifetime in h-BN with a nanoscale thickness results from its extremely high phonon focusing along the in-plane direction. This research bridges the knowledge gap of phonon transport between 2D and 3D h-BN and will benefit the thermal design and performance optimization of relevant applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this contribution, a new Schiff‐base hybrid cross‐linked polymer (TFPT‐SHCP) derived from triazine derivatives and silsesquioxanes was developed, and its photocatalytic performance was systematically investigated. Compared with traditional organic Schiff base catalysts, in TFPT‐SHCP, organic inorganic hybrid silsesquioxanes monomers at the molecular level can serve as a sturdy host backbone, bringing structural ultrastability to the final material. And their excellent strength and durability make them have good application prospects in water treatment. Furthermore, the introduction of triazine derivatives with excellent photoelectric performance and the construction of −C=N‐ result in excellent photocatalytic performance of TFPT‐SHCP. The as‐prepared TFPT‐SHCP exhibits excellent degradation capacity of various organic pollutants under visible light catalysis, with degradation rate constants for Congo Red (CR), rhodamine B (RB) and tetracycline hydrochloride (TH) reaching 0.302 min−1, 0.121 min−1, 0.161 min−1, respectively. Under simulated outdoor conditions, dye solutions with concentrations up to 500 ppm can be degraded to complete decolorization within 5 weeks. This work demonstrates the enormous potential of POSS‐based Schiff base materials as a platform for visible light catalysts, paving the way for the pre design and functionalization of related materials in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Jiangchuan Biota from the Jiucheng Member (Mb.) of the Dengying Formation (Fm.), discovered in Jiangchuan, eastern Yunnan, China, is marked by copious macrofossils at the apex of the Ediacaran strata. This fauna features benthic algae with varied holdfasts and other fossils of indeterminate taxonomic affinity and is compositionally unique compared to the Shibantan and Gaojiashan biotas of the Dengying Fm. and the Miaohe and Wenghui biotas of the Doushantuo Fm., elsewhere in China. One novel benthic saccular macroalgal fossil, named here Houjiashania yuxiensis gen. and sp. nov., from the Jiangchuan Biota is based on fossils that are sausage‐shaped, elongate, tubular, ranging from 0.3 to 4 cm in length, and up to 0.8 cm in diameter. One terminus is blunt and rounded to an obtuse angle, the other is bent with a spread‐out surface resembling a holdfast, suggesting a three‐dimensional thallus. Thin, stipe‐shaped outgrowths, likely vestiges of sessile saccular life forms, are prevalent in macroalgal fossils of analogous size and shape, as well as present brown algae Scytosiphonaceae, such as Colpomenia and Dactylosiphon. The new findings augment the diversity of benthic algae, such as those known from the Early Neoproterozoic Longfengshan Biota in North China. The benthic algal macrofossils in the Jiucheng Mb. add to knowledge of Late Ediacaran metaphyte diversification and offer more clues about the evolutionary positioning of primitive macroalgae. The co‐occurrence of numerous planktonic and benthic multicellular algae and planktonic microbes might have facilitated ecologically the more extensive later Cambrian explosion evidenced by the Chengjiang Biota in Yunnan. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Three-dimensional LiDAR systems that capture point cloud data enable the simultaneous acquisition of spatial geometry and multi-wavelength intensity information, thereby paving the way for three-dimensional point cloud recognition and processing. However, due to the irregular distribution, low resolution of point clouds, and limited spatial recognition accuracy in complex environments, inherent errors occur in classifying and segmenting the acquired target information. Conversely, two-dimensional visible light images provide real-color information, enabling the distinction of object contours and fine details, thus yielding clear, high-resolution images when desired. The integration of two-dimensional information with point clouds offers complementary advantages. In this paper, we present the incorporation of two-dimensional information to form a multi-modal representation. From this, we extract local features to establish three-dimensional geometric relationships and two-dimensional color relationships. We introduce a novel network model, termed MInet (Multi-Information net), which effectively captures features relating to both two-dimensional color and three-dimensional pose information. This enhanced network model improves feature saliency, thereby facilitating superior segmentation and recognition tasks. We evaluate our MInet architecture using the ShapeNet and ThreeDMatch datasets for point cloud segmentation, and the Stanford dataset for object recognition. The robust results, coupled with quantitative and qualitative experiments, demonstrate the superior performance of our proposed method in point cloud segmentation and object recognition tasks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Both GLP-1 receptor (GLP-1R) and insulin receptor (IR) transmit signals for insulin release and/or cellular metabolism although using distinct sets of transducing molecules and separate pathways. We proposed a possible association of IR and GLP-1R, since they are coexpressed in diverse tissues including the pancreatic β-cells and crosstalk between their signaling was frequently reported. We showed a specific interaction between GLP-1R and IR which was independent of intracellular receptor domains and not responsive to ligand binding. In signaling, the IRS-1 was coupled more to GLP-1R and less to IR in the receptor complex at IR activation, with subsequent IRS-1 degradation suppressed rather than its activation inhibited. The Gsα recruitment to the activated GLP-1R was inhibited in the GLP-1R/IR complex, with the signaling in cAMP pathway suppressed at IR activation. Therefore, the identified GLP-1R/IR complex recruits their signaling molecules which are differentially modified, leading to a crosstalk between their signaling. • IR and GLP-1R interacts specifically independent of the cellular context. • The complexed GLP-1R/IR recruits their signaling molecules to both receptors. • GLP-1R/IR complexation reduces IR triggered IRS-1 degradation. • IR activation decreases its coupled GLP-1R signaling in Gsα/cAMP pathway. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Epidemiologic evidence suggests that physical activity benefits cognition, but results from randomized trials in sedentary individuals are limited and inconsistent.Objective: To evaluate the effects of physical activity on cognition among sedentary older adults.Objective: A systematic literature search for eligible studies published up to January 1, 2021, was performed on six international (PubMed, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, Sinomed, FMRS, and OVID) and three Chinese databases (Wanfang, China National Knowledge Infrastructure, and VIP). We estimated the effect of physical activity on the cognition of sedentary elderly by standardized mean differences (SMD) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) using a random-effects model. We evaluated publication bias using funnel plots and heterogeneity using I2 statistics. Subgroup analyses were conducted by baseline cognition, intervention duration, activity type, and country.Results: Seven randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comprising 321 (experimental group, 164; control group, 157) sedentary older adults were included in the meta-analysis. Physical activity significantly improved cognition in sedentary elderly adults compared with controls (SMD: 0.50, 95% CI:0.09-0.92). Subgroup analyses showed significant effects of baseline cognition impairment (SMD: 9.80, 95% CI: 5.81-13.80), intervention duration > 12 weeks (SMD: 2.85, 95% CI: 0.73-4.96), aerobic exercise (SMD: 0.74, CI: 0.19-1.29), and countries other than the United States (SMD: 10.50, 95% CI: 7.08-13.92).Conclusion: Physical activity might have a general positive effect on the cognition of sedentary older adults. Intervention > 12 weeks and aerobic exercise can effectively delay their cognitive decline; however, more rigorous RCTs are needed to support our findings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Photocatalytic nitrogen (N2) reduction with H2O under ambient conditions is a fascinating approach by which to realize clean ammonia (NH3) production. However, the high overpotential of N2 activation and low solar-to-chemical conversion efficiency remain challenging in practical application. In the present work, we propose that introducing sp-hybridized boron atoms into metal-free triphenylene–graphdiyne monolayer (B@TP–GDY) would be a promising solution to achieve highly efficient nitrogen reduction reaction (NRR) under visible and even infrared light. Based on first-principles calculations and the nonadiabatic molecular dynamics method, we find that spin-polarization on sp-hybridized B sites plays a key role in activating N2 molecules through the "acceptance–donation" concept, enabling the NRR process to be driven effectively by the photogenerated electrons. Besides, B@TP–GDY monolayers exhibit a high selectivity towards NH3 production with perfect suppression of the competing hydrogen evolution reaction. Moreover, the defect states induced by B atoms not only enhance the light absorption ability, but also significantly suppress the recombination of photogenerated carriers. The predicted photogenerated carrier lifetime of B@TP–GDY, 198 ps, is about twice that of the pristine TP–GDY monolayer, 110 ps. Our finding broadens the understanding of B-based photocatalytic mechanism for N2 fixation and provides a feasible route to design metal-free NRR photocatalysts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To overcome the inherent bandwidth limitation of non-line-of-sight (NLOS) ultraviolet communication (UVC) channel, a novel space division multiplexing (SDM) framework based on non-coplanar rotation angle is established. The influence of SDM structure parameters on inter-channel interference (ICI) is studied to obtain the optimal antenna configuration. And a Gaussian approximate distribution (GAD) signal detection model is presented, which simplifies the calculation of the Bit error rate (BER) of the Photon multiplier tube (PMT) reception and is suitable for complex ICI analysis. Furthermore, a low ICI scheme based on the relationship between BER and the interference factor is proposed to increase the data transmission rate or reduce the alignment configuration. As a result, the maximum data rate increases to 34 Mbps, or the alignment demand decreases by 33.33% at most. Moreover, these analysis results and techniques can be applied to other NLOS scattering optical wireless communication systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The glucagon‐like peptide‐1 receptor (GLP‐1R), a family B G‐protein coupled receptor (GPCR), regulates the insulin secretion following stimulation by ligands. The transmembrane domain (TM) mediates GLP‐1R homodimerization, which modulates its ligand binding and signaling. We investigated the possible involvement of the N‐terminal extracellular domain (NTD) in dimerization/oligomerization and dimer‐associated ligand binding by NanoLuc Binary Technology (NanoBiT). With improved NanoBiT detection using a decreasing substrate concentration, the negative cooperativity of ligand binding to the NTD was confirmed by accelerated dissociation and Scatchard analysis. The dimerization/oligomerization of the isolated NTD was observed by NanoBiT and validated by analytical ultracentrifugation, deriving the comparable dimerization affinity (~105 M−1). The NTD was also involved in the dimerization/oligomerization of the full‐length GLP‐1R with mutated TM4 at the cellular level. In an analysis of the parameters of the NTD binding, the Kd for the probe GLP‐1 (7‐36, A8G) was similar (6‐8 μM) in both the 1:1 binding model and the receptor dimerization model. Compared with GLP‐1 and dulaglutide, exenatide showed two‐site binding with Ki values of 1.4 pM and 8.7 nM. Our study indicates the involvement of NTD in the GLP‐1R dimerization/oligomerization and suggests that further investigations on the role in other family B GPCRs are needed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

2D layered materials are intrinsically promising mediums for gas adsorption because of their recognized large surface areas and structural stability. Their gas adsorption and desorption processes are usually controlled by changing the temperature or applying high voltage. In this work, though combined density functional theory (DFT) calculations and molecular dynamics (MD) simulations, we propose that external tensile strain can also regulate the gas binding energetics and kinetics using two representative 2D materials, monolayer black phosphorene (BP) and black phosphorus carbide (α-PC), as showpiece models. The DFT results clearly show that CO2 can be physically adsorbed on BP/α-PC with moderate binding strength, which facilities the adsorption and desorption processes. For BP, strain increases the storage capacity from 10.90 ± 0.28 mmol g−1 (strain free) to 12.67 ± 0.33 (30% strain) with a tunability of 16.2%. α-PC, however, has a smaller strain response; its CO2 storage capacity increases from 15.98 ± 0.34 mmol g−1 (strain free) to 17.15 ± 0.36 mmol g−1 for a 10% strained state. DFT calculations reveal that CO2 is an electron acceptor for both BP and α-PC; however, it hardly regulates their electronic structures. The theoretical investigations suggest that BP and α-PC have great potential as gas capture and storage materials. The strain controlling approach can be generalized for the design of tunable nano-devices by external mechanical stimuli. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The asymmetric α-sulfenylation of Ni( II) complex of glycine with S-substituted 4-methylbenzenesulfonothioate is reported. Due to the mild and simple reaction conditions, this asymmetric reaction is compatible with various functional groups. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A comprehensive analysis was conducted using optical microscopy based on wood anatomy to enhance the preservation of wooden components in Tingbao Yang’s former residence. This study identified wood samples, and statistical examination of wood species, variations in their configuration, physical and mechanical properties, and natural durability were examined. The principles for wood species selection were assessed. Findings indicate that Cunninghamia lanceolata, Pseudotsuga spp., Populus spp. and Ulmus spp. are the primary choices for these wooden components. However, certain portions incorporate Larix sect. Multiseriales, Picea brachytyla, Pinus bungeana, Pinus massoniana, Castanea sp. and Quercus subg. Lepidabalanus, sect. Prinus. Pseudotsuga spp., C. lanceolata, Ulmus spp. and Populus spp. are primarily utilized for wooden columns and melon columns. However, C. lanceolata, Ulmus spp. and Populus spp. possess inadequate parallel grain compressive strength for load-bearing compression wooden components. C. lanceolata and Ulmus spp. are widely utilized in beams, lintels, purlins, and rafters owing to their exceptional bending strength. It was noted that Castanea sp. and Quercus subg. Lepidabalanus, sect. Prinus wood varieties demonstrate superior resistance to rotting and insects compared with other types of wood. The selection of wood species for the ancient buildings of Tingbao Yang’s former residence relies on crucial principles, such as the suitability of wood properties and local selection. This selection process involves analyzing the wood properties, assessing the natural durability of wooden components, and considering the distribution of forest resources in Henan Province. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A convenient Rh(III)-catalyzed C-H activation and cascade [4+2] annulation for the synthesis of naphthalenone sulfoxonium ylides has been developed. This method features perfect regioselectivity, mild and redox-neutral reaction conditions, and broad substrate tolerance with good to excellent yields. Preliminary mechanistic experiments were conducted and a plausible reaction mechanism was proposed. The new type naphthalenone sulfoxonium ylides could be further transformed into multi-substituted naphthols, which demonstrates the practical utility of this methodology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The back cover picture shows the asymmetric synthesis of α-substituted mercaptoglycine via nickel(II) complex. The α-substituted mercaptoglycine is an important framework of various peptide drugs and nickel(II) complex can be utilized to generate single enantiomer of α-substituted amino acid efficiently. This work establishes an efficient method to access α-substituted mercaptoglycine with good yield and high stereoselectivity, which can promote the design of new peptide drugs in a broad scope. More details are discussed in the article by Wang et al. on page 1383-1390. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• We demonstrated the Fe-PTC monolayer can serve as a trifunctional electrocatalyst. • Fe-PTC has high electrocatalytic activity for HER with overpotential is −0.23 V. • The p-band center as descriptor is used to reveal the origins of catalytic activity. • Fe-PTC is a potential electrocatalyst for both OER and ORR with low overpotentials. Integrating high efficiency hydrogen evolution reaction (HER), oxygen evolution reaction (OER) and oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) in multifunctional electrocatalysts is attractive for the unitized regenerative fuel cells and overall water splitting technologies. We demonstrated from first-principles calculations the recently- synthesized two-dimensional (2D) metal-organic frameworks (MOFs), namely transition metal 1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8,9,10,11,12- perthiolated coronene (TM-PTC) have multifunctional electrocatalytic activity for HER, OER and ORR. In particular, Fe-PTC monolayer can serve as a trifunctional electrocatalyst for overall water splitting and rechargeable metal-air battery with low overpotentials comparable to those of the well-developed unifunctional electrocatalysts. The origins of the trifunctional electrocatalytic activity were also discussed. This work is expected to open an avenue for the design of highly-efficient multifunctional electrocatalysts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Insulin chains are usually expressed in Escherichia coli as fusion proteins with different tags, including various low molecular weight peptide tags. The objective of this study was to determine if insulin chains could facilitate the recombinant expression of other target proteins, with an emphasis on low molecular weight peptides. A series of short peptides were fused to mini-proinsulin, chain B or chain A, and induced for expression in Escherichia coli . All the tested peptides including glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1), a C -terminal extended GLP-1, oxyntomodulin, enfuvirtide, linaclotide, and an unstructured artificial peptide were expressed with reasonable yields, identified by Tricine-SDS-PAGE and immunoblotting. All recombinant products were expressed in inclusion bodies. The effective accumulation of products was largely attributed to the insoluble expression induced by fusion with insulin chains, and was confirmed by the fusion expression of transthyretin. Insulin chains thus show promise as efficient fusion tags for mass production of heterologous peptides in prokaryotes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Proteolysis, an irreversible post-translational modification catalyzed by proteases, plays a crucial role in various biological processes. Exploring abnormally hydrolyzed proteins in pathological tissues is a valuable approach for elucidating the mechanisms underlying disease development. Herein, we have developed a cleavable 2-pyridinecarboxyaldehyde probe (2PCA-Probe) that enables efficient and in-depth N-terminomics detection, addressing limitations of previous methods. Furthermore, we unexpectedly discovered a new marker capable of identifying N-terminal chemical labeling with the 2PCA-Probe and elucidated the reaction mechanism. Using this probe, we identified 4686 N-terminal peptides in colorectal cancer and adjacent tissues, significantly expanding the depth of the N-terminome and revealing the potential role of abnormal protein hydrolysis in colorectal cancer development.

Point cloud registration based on local descriptors plays a crucial role in 3D computer vision applications. However, existing methods often suffer from limitations such as low accuracy, a large memory footprint, and slow speed, particularly when dealing with 3D point clouds from low-cost sensors. To overcome these challenges, we propose an efficient local descriptor called Binary Weighted Projection-point Height (BWPH) for point cloud registration. The core idea behind the BWPH descriptor is the integration of Gaussian kernel density estimation with weighted height characteristics and binarization components to encode distinctive information for the local surface. Through extensive experiments and rigorous comparisons with state-of-the-art methods, we demonstrate that the BWPH descriptor achieves high matching accuracy, strong compactness, and feasibility across contexts. Moreover, the proposed BWPH-based point cloud registration successfully registers real datasets acquired by low-cost sensors with small errors, enabling accurate initial alignment positions.