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Slow transit constipation (STC) is one of the most common gastrointestinal disorders in children and adults worldwide. Paeoniflorin (PF), a monoterpene glycoside compound extracted from the dried root of Paeonia lactiflora, has been found to alleviate STC, but the mechanisms of its effect remain unclear. The present study aimed to investigate the effects and mechanisms of PF on intestinal fluid metabolism and visceral sensitization in rats with compound diphenoxylate‐induced STC. Based on the evaluation of the laxative effect, the abdominal withdrawal reflex test, enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay, quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction, western blot, and immunohistochemistry were used to detect the visceral sensitivity, fluid metabolism‐related proteins, and acid‐sensitive ion channel 3/extracellular signal‐regulated kinase (ASIC3/ERK) pathway‐related molecules. PF treatment not only attenuated compound diphenoxylate‐induced constipation symptoms and colonic pathological damage in rats but also ameliorated colonic fluid metabolic disorders and visceral sensitization abnormalities, as manifested by increased colonic goblet cell counts and mucin2 protein expression, decreased aquaporin3 protein expression, improved abdominal withdrawal reflex scores, reduced visceral pain threshold, upregulated serum 5‐hydroxytryptamine, and downregulated vasoactive intestinal peptide levels. Furthermore, PF activated the colonic ASIC3/ERK pathway in STC rats, and ASIC3 inhibition partially counteracted PF's modulatory effects on intestinal fluid and visceral sensation. In conclusion, PF alleviated impaired intestinal fluid metabolism and abnormal visceral sensitization in STC rats and thus relieved their symptoms through activation of the ASIC3/ERK pathway.

This study evaluated the effects of flavonoids from mulberry leaves (FML) on plasma biochemical indices, serum activities of lipid metabolism-related enzymes, fat morphology, fatty acid composition, and lipid metabolism in different adipose tissues of finishing pigs. We used 120 Chinese hybrid barrows of Berkshire and Bama mini-pigs with an average initial body weight of 45.11 ± 4.23 kg. The pigs were randomly assigned to five treatment groups and fed a control diet based on corn, soybean meal, and wheat bran or a control diet supplemented with 0.02%, 0.04%, 0.08%, or 0.16% FML. Each experimental group had six replicates (pens), with four pigs per pen. After a 7-d adaptation period, the feeding trial was conducted for 58 d. Blood and adipose tissue samples were collected from 30 pigs (one pig per pen) at the end of the test. The results showed that FML supplementation significantly decreased the feed intake to body gain ratio, the plasma concentrations of total cholesterol and free fatty acids, and the serum activity of 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl coenzyme A reductase (linear or quadratic effects, P < 0.05), and decreased the plasma triglyceride concentration (quadratic, P = 0.07). Increasing FML supplementation increased the average daily gain and serum activities of lipoprotein lipase (linear and quadratic effects, P < 0.05) and adipose triglyceride lipase (linear, P < 0.05). Dietary FML supplementation decreased the adipocyte area in the dorsal subcutaneous adipose (DSA) tissue of finishing pigs (linear, P = 0.05) and increased the adipocyte area in the visceral adipose tissue (quadratic, P < 0.01). Increasing FML supplementation decreased the C20:1 content in DSA, abdominal subcutaneous adipose, and visceral adipose tissues of finishing pigs (P < 0.05) and increased the C18:3n3 and n-3 PUFA contents (P < 0.05). The lipid metabolism genes were regulated by the PPARγ-LXRα-ABCA1 signaling pathway, and their expressions differed in different adipose tissues. These findings suggest that FML improved growth performance, regulated lipid metabolism, inhibited fat production, and improved fatty acid distribution in the adipose tissue of finishing pigs, thereby improving pig fat's nutritional quality and health value.

Despite tremendous efforts in the past decades, relationships among main avian lineages remain heavily debated without a clear resolution. Discrepancies have been attributed to diversity of species sampled, phylogenetic method and the choice of genomic regions1–3. Here we address these issues by analysing the genomes of 363 bird species4(218 taxonomic families, 92% of total). Using intergenic regions and coalescent methods, we present a well-supported tree but also a marked degree of discordance. The tree confirms that Neoaves experienced rapid radiation at or near the Cretaceous–Palaeogene boundary. Sufficient loci rather than extensive taxon sampling were more effective in resolving difficult nodes. Remaining recalcitrant nodes involve species that are a challenge to model due to either extreme DNA composition, variable substitution rates, incomplete lineage sorting or complex evolutionary events such as ancient hybridization. Assessment of the effects of different genomic partitions showed high heterogeneity across the genome. We discovered sharp increases in effective population size, substitution rates and relative brain size following the Cretaceous–Palaeogene extinction event, supporting the hypothesis that emerging ecological opportunities catalysed the diversification of modern birds. The resulting phylogenetic estimate offers fresh insights into the rapid radiation of modern birds and provides a taxon-rich backbone tree for future comparative studies.

Zidovudine/lamivudine tablets are nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors that are used to treat human immunodeficiency virus. The objective of this study was to investigate the bioequivalence and pharmacokinetics (PKs) of test and reference preparations of zidovudine/lamivudine tablets in healthy Chinese subjects. We designed a randomized, open, single‐center, single‐dose, 2‐crossover experiment with a 7‐day washout period involving 20 healthy subjects. The subjects were given a single dose of the test or reference preparation after fasting overnight for 10 hours. Blood samples were subsequently collected at scheduled time points from 0 hour (preadministration) up to 24 hours postadministration. The plasma concentrations of zidovudine and lamivudine were determined by a validated ultra‐performance liquid chromatography‐tandem mass spectrometry method. Analysis of variance (ANOVA) was used to compare differences in the mean values of key PK parameters between the 2 preparations. Bioequivalence was evaluated by 2 one‐sided t‐tests and 90% confidence intervals (CIs) of the geometric mean ratio (GMR). In total, 19 of the 20 subjects completed the trial. Based on the analysis of PK parameters, the relative bioavailability of zidovudine and lamivudine was 101.1% ± 2.0% and 100.3% ± 1.5%, respectively. ANOVA found no significant difference in primary PK parameters when compared between the 2 formulations, and the 90% CIs of the GMR of the 2 formulations were within the bioequivalence margins of 80%–125%. No serious adverse events occurred. Thus, we confirmed that the 2 preparations were bioequivalent in healthy Chinese volunteers. Our analysis demonstrated that both products showed good tolerance in all subjects.

This study examined the impact of current solution treatment on the microstructure and mechanical properties of the Co-28Cr-6Mo-0.22C alloy investment castings. The findings reveal that the current solution treatment significantly promotes the dissolution of carbides at a lower temperature. The optimal conditions for solution treatment are determined as a solution temperature of 1,125 °C and a holding time of 5.0 min. Under these parameters, the size and volume fraction of precipitated phases in the investment castings are measured as 6.2 µm and 1.1vol.%. The yield strength, ultimate tensile strength, and total elongation of the Co-28Cr-6Mo-0.22C investment castings are 535 MPa, 760 MPa, and 12.6%, respectively. These values exceed those obtained with the conventional solution treatment at 1,200 °C for 4.0 h. The findings suggest a phase transformation of M23C6→σ+C following the current solution treatment at 1,125 °C for 5.0 min. In comparison, the traditional solution treatment at 1,200 °C for 4.0 h leads to the formation of M23C6and M6C carbides. It is noteworthy that the non-thermal effect of the current during the solution treatment modifies the free energy of both the matrix and precipitation phase. This modification lowers the phase transition temperature of the M23C6→σ+C reaction, thereby facilitating the dissolution of carbides. As a result, the current solution treatment approach achieves carbide dissolution at a lower temperature and within a significantly shorter time when compared to the traditional solution treatment methods.

Three-dimensional (3D) electronic systems with their potential for enhanced functionalities often require complex fabrication processes. This paper presents a water-based, stimuli-responsive approach for creating self-assembled 3D electronic systems, particularly suited for biorelated applications. We utilize laser scribing to programmatically shape a water-responsive bilayer, resulting in smart 3D electronic substrates. Control over the deformation direction, actuation time, and surface curvature of rolling structures is achieved by adjusting laser-scribing parameters, as validated through experiments and numerical simulations. Additionally, self-locking structures maintain the integrity of the 3D systems. This methodology enables the implementation of spiral twining electrodes for electrophysiological signal monitoring in plants. Furthermore, the integration of self-rolling electrodes onto peripheral nerves in a rodent model allows for stimulation and recording of in vivo neural activities with excellent biocompatibility. These innovations provide viable paths to next-generation 3D biointegrated electronic systems for life science studies and medical applications.

Quantum spins, also known as spin operators that preserve SU(2) symmetry, lack a specific orientation in space and are hypothesized to display unique interactions with superconductivity. However, spin–orbit coupling and crystal field typically cause a significant magnetic anisotropy in d/f shell spins on surfaces. Here, we fabricate atomically precise S= 1/2 magnetic nanographenes on Pb(111) through engineering sublattice imbalance in the graphene honeycomb lattice. Through tuning the magnetic exchange strength between the unpaired spin and Cooper pairs, a quantum phase transition from the singlet to the doublet state has been observed, consistent with the quantum spin models. From our calculations, the particle-hole asymmetry is induced by the Coulomb scattering potential and gives a transition point about kBTk≈ 1.6Δ. Our work demonstrates that delocalized π electron magnetism hosts highly tunable magnetic bound states, which can be further developed to study the Majorana bound states and other rich quantum phases of low-dimensional quantum spins on superconductors.

Luminescent solar concentrators (LSCs) are attractive for the easy operation and high compatibility with building integrated photovoltaics due to their low cost, large-scale and applicability. However, underutilized sunlight in visible wavelengths often impedes the advance of LSCs. Here, we demonstrate an orange-emitting carbon nanodots-based LSC (O-CDs) with excitation concentrated in the visible wavelengths. The orange-emitting carbon nanodots (O-CDs) with highly localized excitonic emission are prepared via atomic condensation of doped pyrrolic nitrogen, delivering a high photoluminescence quantum yield of 80 % and a suitable Stokes shift with absorption spectrum situated in the visible region. The O-CDs are embedded in polyvinylpyrrolidone to obtain a highly transparent, stable and environmentally friendly O-CDs-based LSC. Thanks to efficient utilization of solar radiation in visible areas and well match between the emission of O-CDs and the response bands of photovoltaic cells, the O-CDs-based LSC reveals an optical conversion efficiency of 5.17 %, superior to that of most carbon nanodots-based LSCs. These results provide an effective strategy to develop carbon-based luminescent concentrated materials for architectural integrated photovoltaic technology.

• A combinatorial high-throughput solution is presented to screen and optimize the composition and microstructure for Bi–Se–Te thermoelectric films. • The high-throughput method enables parallel screening of the compositions and microstructures of thermoelectric thin films with just 2–3 preparation batches. • A new portable high-throughput platform based on multiple discrete masks for film preparation is proposed. • High-performance Bi 2 Se 0.1 Te 2.9 films are obtained with a high average ZT = 1.047 in the interval from 313 to 523 K and a peak ZT = 1.303 at 353 K. Thermoelectric materials have drawn extensive interest due to the direct conversion between electricity and heat, however, it is usually a time-consuming process for applying traditional "sequential" methods to grow materials and investigate their properties, especially for thermoelectric films that typically require fine microstructure control. High-throughput experimental approaches can effectively accelerate materials development, but the methods for high-throughput screening of the microstructures require further study. In this work, a combinatorial high-throughput optimization solution of material properties is proposed for the parallel screening and optimizing of composition and microstructure, which involves two distinctive types of high-throughput fabrication approaches for thin films, along with a new portable multiple discrete masks based high-throughput preparation platform. Thus, Bi 2 Te 3– x Se x thin film library with 196 throughputs for locating the optimized composition is obtained in one growth cycle. In addition, another thin film library composed of 31 materials with traceable process parameters is built to further investigate the relationship between microstructure, process, and thermoelectric performance. Through high-throughput screening, the Bi 2 Te 2.9 Se 0.1 film with (00l) orientation is prepared with a peak zT value of 1.303 at 353 K along with a high average zT value of 1.047 in the interval from 313 to 523 K. This method can be also extended to the discovery of other functional thin films with a rapid combinatorial screening of the composition and structure to accelerate material optimization. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• A highly stable strain-insensitive pressure sensor achieved by in-plane strain modulation and quasi-homogenous interfacial design is presented. • Strain modulation of stretchable electrodes realized by "island-ripple" design was employed to suppress microcracks propagation. • Quasi-homogenous interface strategy by the CNTs/PDMS system was employed to enhance the mechanical and electrical stability of the heterogeneous interfaces. • A 4 × 4 pixel array with reduced cross-talk circuit design was integrated to identify the shape and weight of different objects under strains. The urgent requirement of electronic skin conformably attached to nonplanar surfaces to provide stable monitoring in areas of healthcare, prosthetics, and robotics promotes the development of strain-insensitive/unperturbed pressure sensors. The main challenges lie in: (1) stretchability and conductive stability of flexible electrodes and (2) mechanical stability of heterogeneous interfaces. This study presents a highly stable strain-insensitive pressure sensor achieved by in-plane strain modulation and quasi-homogenous interfacial design. Strain modulation of stretchable electrodes by both periodic microstructured engineering and pre-stretching strategies (called "island-ripple") was employed to suppress microcracks propagation. The improvement in stretchability and cyclic conductive stability of electrodes was identified by finite element analysis and experimental verification. The pre-stretched microconed stretchable electrode with a low sheet resistance of 0.546 Ω sq−1 shows a maximum deformation of up to 80% and excellent cyclic conductive stability over 10000 times under 30% strain. Quasi-homogenous interface strategy by the CNTs/PDMS system was employed to enhance the mechanical and electrical stability of the electrode-active materials interface, demonstrating a strong peel strength and shear strength of >40.9 N/m and >124.8 kPa, respectively. The as-prepared strain-insensitive pressure sensor provides constant sensing performance over 5000 stretching-releasing cycles within 20% stretching. In addition, a 4 × 4 pixel strain-insensitive pressure sensor array with reduced cross-talk circuit design was further integrated to identify the shape and weight of different objects under strains. The stretchability and stability of our sensor enable it to be applied in stretchable electronics with great potential. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With the ever-increasing demand of miniature chip cooling and self-powered technology, more attention has arisen on micro thermoelectric (TE) devices. Nevertheless, accurate temperature and performance evaluations for micro TE devices are still challenging due to their high element density and small size. Herein, an in situ integration method using ultrasmall and ultrathin resistance temperature detectors (RTDs) is developed to precisely characterize temperatures across thin TE legs under actual testing scenarios. With theoretical analysis based on a 1-D thermal resistance model, the ratio of effective temperature difference across the TE leg increases to 33.97% comparing with 11.04% using commercial thermocouples. Then, the fabrication of the RTD is shown, and a temperature coefficient of resistance of 0.336% $^{\circ }\text{C}^{-{1}}$ with high linearity, a response time of 43 ms, a resolution of 0.1 °C, and good compatibility is exhibited. By integrating the detector on a leg of a TE device, the in situ temperature of a micro TE device is measured, indicating an increase of 201.2% of the output TE voltage, after temperature correction, as well as an exponential enhancement of power density. This in situ temperature measurement method can be extended to further guide performance evaluations for various microsystems.

In recent years, excessive exploitation and rapid population growth have posed numerous challenges. The climate crisis is deepening because of the unabated use of fossil fuels and the ascendance of greenhouse gas levels, so there is still an urgent need to seek different clean energy sources and electricity generating methods with the purpose of adjusting energy structures and solving environmental problems. In the ubiquitous hydrologic cycle, at least 60 petawatts (1015W) energy can be supplied, but little of it has yet been utilized. Nowadays, hydrovoltaic intelligence has emerged and exhibited an ecofriendly concept of electricity generation compared with traditional methods with the rise of nanoscience and nanomaterials. Hence, it provides the prospect of upgrading the mode of water energy use, constructing a renewable energy industry, and alleviating environmental issues. In this review, starting by introducing different types of hydrovoltaic effect mechanisms─energy harvesting based on drawing potential of liquids; energy harvesting based on water evaporation, and energy harvesting based on moisture adsorption─we summarize the fabrication processes, material classifications, intelligent applications, and representative advances in detail. Moreover, the future development trends of hydrovoltaic intelligence and the challenges for improvement in electrical output are further discussed.

Two-dimensional (2D) crystal-to-crystal transition is an important method in crystal engineering because of its ability to directly create diverse crystal materials from one crystal. However, steering a 2D single-layer crystal-to-crystal transition on surfaces with high chemo- and stereoselectivity under ultra-high vacuum conditions is a great challenge because the transition is a complex dynamic process. Here, we report a highly chemoselective 2D crystal transition from radialene to cumulene with retention of stereoselectivity on Ag(111) via retro-[2 + 1] cycloaddition of three-membered carbon rings and directly visualize the transition process involving a stepwise epitaxial growth mechanism by the combination of scanning tunneling microscopy and non-contact atomic force microscopy. Using progression annealing, we found that isocyanides on Ag(111) at a low annealing temperature underwent sequential [1 + 1 + 1] cycloaddition and enantioselective molecular recognition based on C–H···Cl hydrogen bonding interactions to form 2D triaza[3]radialene crystals. In contrast, a higher annealing temperature induced the transformation of triaza[3]radialenes to generate trans-diaza[3]cumulenes, which were further assembled into 2D cumulene-based crystals through twofold N–Ag–N coordination and C–H···Cl hydrogen bonding interactions. By combining the observed distinct transient intermediates and density functional theory calculations, we demonstrate that the retro-[2 + 1] cycloaddition reaction proceeds via the ring opening of a three-membered carbon ring, sequential dechlorination/hydrogen passivation, and deisocyanation. Our findings provide new insights into the growth mechanism and dynamics of 2D crystals and have implications for controllable crystal engineering.

The oil mobility in unconventional tight/shale oil reservoirs is complex because of the high heterogeneity in the matrix pore structure and connectivity. Thus, it is difficult to evaluate hydrocarbon exploration potential precisely. In this study, multistep temperature pyrolysis (MTP) Rock-Eval and 1D (dimensional) as well as 2D nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) techniques were employed to systematically characterize the oil mobility in lacustrine fine-grained sedimentary rocks from the Lucaogou Formation in the Jimusar Sag, Junggar Basin, NW China. The results show that the Lucaogou Formation fine-grained sedimentary rocks can be subdivided into six types of lithofacies. With the increase of organic matter richness, the content of adsorbed oil increases, whereas the content of movable oil increases first and tends to stabilize (when total organic carbon (TOC) > 4%). This is because when TOC is low, the fine-grained sedimentary rocks need to self-adsorb before oil production; when TOC increases further, the generated oil will break through the absorption limit and charge into the adjacent reservoirs; therefore, the movable oil ceases to increase. Permeability is found to have a greater impact on movable fluid saturation than porosity. Meanwhile, good throat radius and pore connectivity are conducive to oil flow as movable oil is more sensitive to throats rather than pores. Furthermore, a higher content of brittle minerals is not necessarily favorable for oil flow; alternatively, more clay minerals are easy to from cements causing pore blockage, which will essentially hinder oil mobility. Overall, the organic matter content, reservoir pore structure, and rock mineral composition are the main factors affecting tight/shale oil mobility. On the basis of the above research, a conceptual model of oil mobility in different lithofacies’ reservoirs is established. These results have a reference significance for evaluating oil recoverability in fine-grained sedimentary rocks.

The emergence of quantum magnetism in nanographenes provides ample opportunities to fabricate purely organic devices for spintronics and quantum information. Although heteroatom doping is a viable way to engineer the electronic properties of nanographenes, the synthesis of doped nanographenes with collective quantum magnetism remains elusive. Here, a set of nitrogen-doped nanographenes (N-NGs) with atomic precision are fabricated on Au(111) through a combination of imidazole [2+2+2]-cyclotrimerization and cyclodehydrogenation reactions. High-resolution scanning probe microscopy measurements reveal the presence of collective quantum magnetism for nanographenes with three radicals, with spectroscopic features which cannot be captured by mean-field density functional theory calculations but can be well reproduced by Heisenberg spin model calculations. In addition, the mechanism of magnetic exchange interaction of N-NGs has been revealed and compared with their counterparts with pure hydrocarbons. Our findings demonstrate the bottom-up synthesis of atomically precise N-NGs which can be utilized to fabricate low-dimensional extended graphene nanostructures for realizing ordered quantum phases.

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) remains challenging due to the lack of efficient therapy. Promoting degradation of certain cancer drivers has become an innovative therapy. The nuclear transcription factor sine oculis homeobox 1 (SIX1) is a key driver for the progression of HCC. Here, we explored the molecular mechanisms of ubiquitination of SIX1 and whether targeting SIX1 degradation might represent a potential strategy for HCC therapy. Through detecting the ubiquitination level of SIX1 in clinical HCC tissues and analyzing TCGA and GEPIA databases, we found that ubiquitin specific peptidase 1 (USP1), a deubiquitinating enzyme, contributed to the lower ubiquitination and high protein level of SIX1 in HCC tissues. In HepG2 and Hep3B cells, activation of EGFR-AKT signaling pathway promoted the expression of USP1 and the stability of its substrates, including SIX1 and ribosomal protein S16 (RPS16). In contrast, suppression of EGFR with gefitinib or knockdown of USP1 restrained EGF-elevated levels of SIX1 and RPS16. We further revealed that SNS-023 (formerly known as BMS-387032) induced degradation of SIX1 and RPS16, whereas this process was reversed by reactivation of EGFR-AKT pathway or overexpression of USP1. Consequently, inactivation of the EGFR-AKT-USP1 axis with SNS-032 led to cell cycle arrest, apoptosis, and suppression of cell proliferation and migration in HCC. Moreover, we showed that sorafenib combined with SNS-032 or gefitinib synergistically inhibited the growth of Hep3B xenografts in vivo. Overall, we identify that both SIX1 and RPS16 are crucial substrates for the EGFR-AKT-USP1 axis-driven growth of HCC, suggesting a potential anti-HCC strategy from a novel perspective.

Dual-metal-site catalysts (DMSCs) are increasingly important catalysts in the field of electrochemical carbon dioxide reduction reaction (CO2RR) in recent years. However, rapid screening of suitable metal combinations of DMSCs remains a huge challenge. Herein, we constructed an active learning (AL) framework to study CO2RR to HCOOH. This AL framework turned out a success in the accurate prediction of 282 DMSCs for CO2RR through interactive learning between users and machine learning (ML) models. Among the 42 DMSCs calculated in three iteration loops of AL, 29 DMSCs were obtained, where the screening success rate was as high as 70%. Furthermore, we found five experimentally unexplored DMSCs that exhibited better CO2RR activity and selectivity than pure Bi. Low prediction errors on other DMSCs show that the AL model possessed outstanding universality. The results prove the excellent potential of the AL method and provide guidance on the design of high-performance electrocatalysts for CO2RR.

N6-methyladenosine (m6A) is the most pervasive RNA modification and is recognized as a novel epigenetic regulation in RNA metabolism. Although the m6A modification involves various physiological processes, its roles in drug resistance in colorectal cancer (CRC) still remain unknown. We analyzed the RNA expression profile of m6A/A (%) with MRM mass spectrometry in human 5-fluorouracil (5-FU)-resistant CRC tissues, and used the m6A RNA immunoprecipitation assay to validate the m6A-regulated target. Our results have shown that the m6A demethylase FTO was up-regulated in human primary and 5-FU-resistant CRC. Depletion of FTO decreased cell growth, colony formation and metastasis in 5-FU-resistant CRC cells in vitroand in vivo. Mechanistically, we identified SIVA1, a critical apoptotic gene, as a key downstream target of the FTO-mediated m6A demethylation. The m6A demethylation of SIVA1 at the CDS region induced its mRNA degradation via a YTHDF2-dependent mechanism. The SIVA1 levels were negatively correlated with the FTO levels in clinical CRC tissues. Notably, inhibition of FTO significantly reduced the tolerance of 5-FU in 5-FU-resistant CRC cells via the FTO-SIVA1 axis, whereas SIVA1-depletion could restore the m6A-dependent 5-FU sensitivity in CRC cells. In summary, our findings demonstrate a critical role of FTO as an m6A demethylase enhancing chemo-resistance in CRC cells, and suggest that FTO inhibition may restore the sensitivity of chemo-resistant CRC cells to 5-FU.

The microscopic pore structure of fine-grained mixed sedimentary rocks (FMSRs) is of great significance for the occurrence mechanism and sweet spot optimization of mixed shale oil. At present, there is no clear understanding of the microscopic pore system of FMSRs and their coupling relationship with rock composition, which restricts the fine understanding of the reservoir forming mechanism of this type of reservoir. Taking the FMSR samples of the Permian Lucaogou Formation in the Jimusar Sag, the southeastern margin of the Junggar Basin, China, as an example, this paper quantitatively characterizes the full-scale pore structure of lacustrine FMSRs by casting thin sections, scanning electron microscopy, low-temperature nitrogen adsorption (LTNA), high-pressure mercury injection, and nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR); analyzes the coupling relationship between the full-scale pore structure and rock composition; and then summarizes the controlling factors. The results showed that the full-scale pore size distribution (PSD) can be revealed by combining the LTNA and NMR methods. The PSDs of FMSRs are evaluated, mostly corresponding to small pores (30–200 nm) and mesopores (200–1500 nm). The sediment grain size, mineral composition, sedimentary environment, and diagenesis jointly controlled the development of FMSR reservoirs. The development of coarser grain components (such as fine sand and arenaceous dolomite), high content of feldspar, low content of clay and calcite, and appropriate content of dolomite (less than 20%) were conducive to high-quality reservoirs. A near-provenance sedimentary pore throat is better. Siltstones, dolomitic siltstones, and dolarenites were mainly developed in shoreland sandy bar, distal sand bar, and dolomitic mud flat microfacies; type I pore throats with residual intergranular pores and dissolved pores are the most favorable for the Lucaogou Formation.

Owing to the high efficiency and atom economy of homogeneous palladium-catalyzed Suzuki–Miyaura cross-coupling (SMC) reactions, they are considered effective for C–C bond formation. However, the feasibility of this process is limited by the difficulty in separating the catalyst and the high energy consumption. Thus, in this study, to solve these issues, a uniform dispersion of ultrafine Pd and Au nanoparticles was successfully anchored on the surface of BiVO4/TiO2nanotube arrays. Benefiting from the synergistic effect of effective charge carriers separation, wide spectral response, strong component interactions and abundant active centers, the unique Pd/Au bimetallic nanoparticle-anchored BiVO4/TiO2nanotube arrays exhibited excellent photoelectrocatalytic activity and good reusability in SMC reactions of aryl boronic acids with substituted aryl halides under ambient conditions.

Since the release of the complete human genome, the priority of human genomic study has now been shifting towards closing gaps in ethnic diversity. Here, we present a fully phased and well-annotated diploid human genome from a Han Chinese male individual (CN1), in which the assemblies of both haploids achieve the telomere-to-telomere (T2T) level. Comparison of this diploid genome with the CHM13 haploid T2T genome revealed significant variations in the centromere. Outside the centromere, we discovered 11,413 structural variations, including numerous novel ones. We also detected thousands of CN1 alleles that have accumulated high substitution rates and a few that have been under positive selection in the East Asian population. Further, we found that CN1 outperforms CHM13 as a reference genome in mapping and variant calling for the East Asian population owing to the distinct structural variants of the two references. Comparison of SNP calling for a large cohort of 8869 Chinese genomes using CN1 and CHM13 as reference respectively showed that the reference bias profoundly impacts rare SNP calling, with nearly 2 million rare SNPs miss-called with different reference genomes. Finally, applying the CN1 as a reference, we discovered 5.80 Mb and 4.21 Mb putative introgression sequences from Neanderthal and Denisovan, respectively, including many East Asian specific ones undetected using CHM13 as the reference. Our analyses reveal the advances of using CN1 as a reference for population genomic studies and paleo-genomic studies. This complete genome will serve as an alternative reference for future genomic studies on the East Asian population.

DNA methylation is an important epigenetic marker, yet its diversity and consequences in tomato breeding at the population level are largely unknown. We performed whole-genome bisulfite sequencing (WGBS), RNA sequencing, and metabolic profiling on a population comprising wild tomatoes, landraces, and cultivars. A total of 8,375 differentially methylated regions (DMRs) were identified, with methylation levels progressively decreasing from domestication to improvement. We found that over 20% of DMRs overlapped with selective sweeps. Moreover, more than 80% of DMRs in tomato were not significantly associated with single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), and DMRs had strong linkages with adjacent SNPs. We additionally profiled 339 metabolites from 364 diverse accessions and further performed a metabolic association study based on SNPs and DMRs. We detected 971 and 711 large-effect loci via SNP and DMR markers, respectively. Combined with multi-omics, we identified 13 candidate genes and updated the polyphenol biosynthetic pathway. Our results showed that DNA methylation variants could complement SNP profiling of metabolite diversity. Our study thus provides a DNA methylome map across diverse accessions and suggests that DNA methylation variation can be the genetic basis of metabolic diversity in plants.

The dynamic three-dimensional structures of chromatin and extrachromosomal DNA molecules regulate fundamental cellular processes and beyond. However, the visualization of specific DNA sequences in live cells, especially nonrepetitive sequences accounting for most of the genome, is still vastly challenging. Here, we introduce a robust CRISPR-mediated fluorescence in situ hybridization amplifier(CRISPR FISHer) system, which exploits engineered sgRNA and protein trimerization domain-mediated, phase separation-based exponential assembly of fluorescent proteins in the CRISPR-targeting locus, conferring enhancements in both local brightness and signal-to-background ratio and thus achieving single sgRNA-directed visualization of native nonrepetitive DNA loci in live cells. In one application, by labeling and tracking the broken ends of chromosomal fragments, CRISPR FISHer enables real-time visualization of the entire process of chromosome breakage, separation, and subsequent intra- or inter-chromosomal ends rejoining in a single live cell. Furthermore, CRISPR FISHer allows the movement of small extrachromosomal circular DNAs (eccDNAs) and invading DNAs to be recorded, revealing substantial differences in dynamic behaviors between chromosomal and extrachromosomal loci. With the potential to track any specified self or non-self DNA sequences, CRISPR FISHer dramatically broadens the scope of live-cell imaging in biological events and for biomedical diagnoses.

Thermoelectric devices are developing toward high density and miniaturization with a large filling factor for new applications in chip thermal management and microenergy harvesting. Pulsed laser etching has become one of the most effective tools for the patterning construction of highly integrated micro-thermoelectric devices. However, the laser spot size and Gaussian laser energy distribution restrict the processing size and accuracy of microchannels. Moreover, the rapid temperature rise caused by laser energy injection would also raise serious problems such as element volatilization, cracks, and recast layers. Herein, a liquid-assisted nanosecond laser ablation technology with magnetically controlled plasma is proposed to etch microchannels on thermoelectric thick films. By evaluating the size and shape of microchannels, we theoretically investigated the influence of cavitation bubbles on the laser optical path and surface roughness in laser-induced plasma ablation. In addition, the energy criterion for high-precision ablation is revealed, and the effect of magnetic field on ablation threshold is explained by magnetic constraint on energy and kinetic properties of the laser-induced charged plasma plume. Finally, the high-precision and low-damage microchannels are achieved on Bi2Te3thermoelectric thick films with a minimum line width of 19.12 μm and a small sidewall inclination degree of tan θ = 0.085. This work provides a promising alternative for the fabrication of high-density three-dimensional (3D) patterning in semiconductor microdevices.

In this study, a novel self-assembled micelle (Myr-OSADS-CIn) based on OSA-debranched lotus root starch (OSADS) and cationic inulin (CIn) was successfully constructed to enhance the stability and bioavailability of myricetin (Myr). Firstly, lotus root starch and inulin were chemically modified. The results of Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction, Nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy and Element analysis confirmed the successful synthesis of OSADS and CIn. When the optimal weight ratio of Myr/OSADS/CIn was 1:40:120, a stable Myr-OSADS-CIn composite micelle was successfully formed. The key characteristics of the micelle included a polydispersity index (PDI) of 0.321, a zeta-potential of +24.247 mV, and an encapsulation efficiency of 87.536%. Transmission electron microscopy analysis revealed unique core-shell structures within the Myr-OSADS-CIn micelle. The formation and stability of the composite micelle were primarily influenced by hydrogen bonds and electrostatic interactions. Notably, the Myr-OSADS-CIn micelle exhibited excellent biocompatibility, significant antioxidant activity and controlled release of Myr. Furthermore, in vivobioavailability of Myr in the Myr-OSADS-CIn micelle was found to be 4.054 times higher compared to free Myr. In conclusion, the Myr-OSADS-CIn micelle shows promise as a delivery system for the effective use of Myr in the food industry.

Thermoelectric devices (TEDs) exhibit much application potential in thermal camouflage and encrypted display recently, requiring that TEDs possess large responsivity, high resolution and rapid response with flexible configuration design, which are hardly realized by the traditional complex fabrication process. In this work, an innovative laser integrated manufacturing technology including double-side-printing selective laser melting (D-SLM) and selective laser ablation (SLA) is developed for the construction of the dynamic thermal platform based on micro TEDs. Through experimentally determining the laser process window assisted by external temperature field regulation, a flat p-type film can be directly transformed from n-type Bi2Te3film by D-SLM. Thus, high-precision p-n patterns without metal joints are obtained from a single locally modified film, whose thermoelectric properties are further boosted by increasing energy density and introducing a post-annealing process. Then, a dynamic thermal platform with designable shapes and small dimensions can be fabricated rapidly whose working principle is also demonstrated. The thermal platform with 4*4 arrays exhibits imaging function with a pixel size of 2 mm×2 mm, a temperature difference of ∼3 K, and a fast response time of 0.143 s. This work offers an exciting yet effective approach to fabricating TEDs for dynamic thermal programmable information displays.

C24H76CuN8V10O34, monoclinic, P21/n(no. 14), a= 22.416(4) Å, b= 11.7003(18) Å, c= 20.079(3) Å, β= 95.594(7)°, V= 5241.2(14) Å3, Z= 4, Rgt(F) = 0.0243, wRref(F2) = 0.1110, T= 296(2) K.

Recombinant rice quiescin sulfhydryl oxidase (rQSOX) has the potential to improve the flour processing quality, but the mechanisms remain unclear. The effects of rQSOX on bread quality, dough rheology, and gluten structure and composition, with glucose oxidase as a positive control, were investigated. rQSOX addition could improve the dough processing quality, as proved by enhanced viscoelastic properties of dough as well as a softer crumb, higher specific volume, and lower moisture loss of bread. These beneficial effects were attributed to gluten protein polymerization and gluten network strengthening, evidenced by the improved concentration of SDS-insoluble gluten and formation of large gluten aggregates and the increased α-helix and β-turn conformation. Furthermore, decreased free sulfhydryl and increased dityrosine in gluten as well as improved H2O2content in dough suggested that the rQSOX dough strengthening mechanism was mainly based on the formation of disulfide bonds and dityrosine cross-links in gluten by both thiol/disulfide direct exchange and hydrogen peroxide indirect oxidation pathways.

Recently, a ternary-layered material BiOCl has elicited intense interest in photocatalysis, environmental remediation, and ultraviolet light detection because of its unique band gap of around 3.6 eV, low toxicity, and earth abundance. In particular, Gibson et al. reported a measurement of the in-plane thermal conductivity of BiOCl experimentally using a four-point-probe method [Science, 373,1017–1022 (2021)], which is only 1.25 W/m K at 300 K. Motivated by the work, we studied the thermoelectric property of monolayer BiOCl using first-principles calculations combined with the Boltzmann transport equation. The calculated phonon thermal conductivity of monolayer BiOCl is 3 W/m K at 300 K, which is far below that of other promising 2D thermoelectric materials like graphyne and MoS2. A comprehensive analysis of phonon modes is conducted to reveal the low thermal conductivity. Moreover, the maximal ZTvalue is as high as 1.8 at 300 K and 5.7 at 800 K for the p-type doping with the 2 × 1015cm–2concentration. More importantly, we found that the thermoelectric efficiency of such 2D materials is significantly enhanced to 8 at 800 K by applying 1.5% tensile strain, which clearly outperforms that of the reported 2D thermoelectric material SnSe. The results shed light on the promising application in medium-temperature (600–900 K) thermoelectric devices.

As a kind of photodetector, position-sensitive-detectors (PSDs) have been widely used in noncontact photoelectric positioning and measurement. However, fabrications and applications of solar-blind PSDs remain yet to be harnessed. Herein, we demonstrate a solar-blind PSD developed from a graphene/Ga2O3Schottky junction with a 25-nanometer-thick Ga2O3film, in which the absorption of the nanometer-thick Ga2O3is enhanced by multibeam interference. The graphene/Ga2O3junction exhibits a responsivity of 48.5 mA/W and a rise/decay time of 0.8/99.8 μs at zero bias. Moreover, the position of the solar-blind spot can be determined by the output signals of the PSD. Using the device as a sensor of noncontact test systems, we demonstrate its application in measurement of angular, displacement, and light trajectory. In addition, the position-sensitive outputs have been used to demodulate optical signals into electrical signals. The results may prospect the application of solar-blind PSDs in measurement, tracking, communication, and so on.

Selective semihydrogenation of acetylene for the production of polymer-grade ethylene is a significant chemical industrial process. Facile activization of acetylene and weak adsorption of ethylene are critical requirements for high-performance catalysis. Single-atom alloys (SAAs) have strong binding effect on acetylene and weak effect on ethylene, which have been regarded as the superior catalysts for acetylene semihydrogenation. Herein, we established a pioneering machine learning (ML) assisted approach to investigate the reaction activity and selectivity of 70 SAA catalysts for acetylene semihydrogenation. As the most desirable ML model, the gradient boosting regression (GBR) algorithm has been extended to predict the energy barrier of *C2Hn(n= 2–4) hydrogenation with a root-mean-square error (RMSE) of only 0.02 eV. Notably, five candidate SAAs with excellent activity and selectivity for acetylene semihydrogenation are screened out via accessible descriptors. These data of ML prediction have been verified by DFT calculation with a high-accuracy (error less than 0.07 eV). This work demonstrates the potential of ML-assisted approach for predicting the energy barrier of transition state and simultaneously provides a convenient approach for the rational design of efficient catalysts.

Mechanoluminescence (ML), the phenomenon of light emission triggered by mechanical force on a solid material, has gained significant attention in recent years. ML functional devices have represented an important research field with potential impact in a wide realm of materials, scientific disciplines, technologies, and engineering applications. Within the realm of ML emission, the spectral characteristics and overall intensity emerge as pivotal factors for practical utilization. In this review, we focus on the development strategies, with an emphasis on their brightness and color properties, while delving into the associated mechanisms governing structure and performance. Subsequently, we navigate through the cutting-edge advancements in ML functional devices, particularly in burgeoning fields such as self-power sensors, information security, engineering structure diagnosis, and biomedical applications. Finally, existing challenges and future perspectives are proposed, aiming to overcoming current obstacles and propel concerted efforts in the field.

• A self-powered Bi-Te and porous microcone-based temperature/pressure sensor is presented. • A flexible TEG could harvest body heat to power pressure sensor and sense temperature. • Bi-Te based TE thin film with heat sink achieves a high-precision temperature sensor. • The porous microconed architectures greatly enhance the sensitivity of pressure sensor. Electronic skins are artificial skin-type multifunctional sensors, which hold great potentials in intelligent robotics, limb prostheses and human health monitoring. However, it is a great challenge to independently and accurately read various physical signals without power supplies. Here, a self-powered flexible temperature-pressure bimodal sensor based on high-performance thermoelectric films and porous microconed conductive elastic materials is presented. Through introducing flexible heat-sink design and harvesting body heat energy, the thin-film thermoelectric device could not only precisely sense temperature signal but also drive the pressure sensor for detecting external tactile stimulus. The integration of Bi-Te based thermoelectric film with high stability in wide temperature range enables the sensor to sense the ambient temperature with high resolution (<0.1 K) as well as excellent sensitivity (3.77 mV K–1). Meanwhile, the porous microconed elastomer responds to pressure variation with low-pressure detection (16 Pa) and a high sensitivity of 37 kPa–1. Furthermore, the bimodal sensor could accurately and simultaneously monitor human wrist pulse and body temperature in real time, which demonstrates promising applications in self-powered electronic skins for human health monitoring systems. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Environmental thermal energy harvesting based on thermoelectric devices is greatly significant to the advancement of next-generation self-powered wearable electronic devices. However, the rigid electrodes and interface diffusion of electrodes/thermoelectric materials would lead to the wearable discomfort and performance degradation of the thermoelectric device. Here, a flake-structured Al thin-film electrode with high conductivity and excellent reliability is prepared by regulating the microstructure and crystallinity of the films. The as-prepared Al thin film not only maintains its robustness after 1000 bending cycles but also does not delaminate from the substrate when subjected to the 3M tape test, exhibiting excellent flexibility and adhesion to substrate. By comparing with the annealed interface of the double-layer Cu/Bi2Te3film, the interface of the heat-treated Al/Bi2Te3film has almost no element diffusion, demonstrating high interfacial thermal stability. Moreover, a thermoelectric temperature sensor based on the Al thin-film electrode is prepared. The sensitivity of the annealed sensor is still linear, and it can stably monitor the temperature variation, showing high reliability. This discovery could provide a facile and effective strategy to achieving highly reliable thermoelectric devices and flexible electronic devices without any additional diffusion barriers.

The electrical contact resistance between a metal and semiconductor is one of the keys to improving the output performance of thin-film thermoelectric devices. Herein, we reduced the interface contact resistance by controlling the surface energy of a Sb2Te3semiconductor via tuning of the crystallization and orientation, preparing an intrinsically compact and flat Sb2Te3film with high surface energy and low roughness, which can give rise to a low average specific contact resistivity (8.2 × 10–6Ω cm2) with a Ni/Cu metal. The improvement in interface electrical properties is due to the increase in the surface energy and decrease in the surface roughness of the semiconductor surface, which lead to a transformation from three-dimensional island-shaped nucleation to two-dimensional layered nucleation for surface-attached metal films, forming a longitudinally tight connection contact with a low resistance. This approach allows the resistivity to become close to the fundamental theoretically calculated limit. Our work provides a new idea for reducing the contact resistivity of thin-film thermoelectric devices, which is conducive to supporting the development of thermoelectric semiconductor planarization.

With rapidly aging populations worldwide, osteoporosis has become a serious global public health problem. Caused by disordered systemic bone remodeling, osteoporosis manifests as progressive loss of bone mass and microarchitectural deterioration of bone tissue, increasing the risk of fractures and eventually leading to osteoporotic fragility fractures. As fracture risk increases, antiosteoporosis treatments transition from nonpharmacological management to pharmacological intervention, and finally to the treatment of fragility fractures. Calcium-based nanomaterials (CBNMs) have unique advantages in osteoporosis treatment because of several characteristics including similarity to natural bone, excellent biocompatibility, easy preparation and functionalization, low pH-responsive disaggregation, and inherent pro-osteogenic properties. By combining additional ingredients, CBNMs can play multiple roles to construct antiosteoporotic biomaterials with different forms. This review covers recent advances in CBNMs for osteoporosis treatment. For ease of understanding, CBNMs for antiosteoporosis treatment can be classified as locally applied CBNMs, such as implant coatings and filling materials for osteoporotic bone regeneration, and systemically administered CBNMs for antiosteoporosis treatment. Locally applied CBNMs for osteoporotic bone regeneration develop faster than the systemically administered CBNMs, an important consideration given the serious outcomes of fragility fractures. Nevertheless, many innovations in construction strategies and preparation methods have been applied to build systemically administered CBNMs. Furthermore, with increasing interest in delaying osteoporosis progression and avoiding fragility fracture occurrence, research into systemic administration of CBNMs for antiosteoporosis treatment will have more development prospects. Deep understanding of the CBNM preparation process and optimizing CBNM properties will allow for increased application of CBNMs in osteoporosis treatments in the future.

Objective: Several studies indicated that tonsillectomy can improve the prognosis of patients with immunoglobulin A nephropathy (IgAN). However, the relationship between tonsillar immunity and IgAN is still unclear. Methods: A total of 14 IgAN patients were recruited in the current study from May 2015 to April 2016 in Tongji Hospital. B cells, dendritic cells (DCs), and IgA1 positive cells in human tonsils were detected using immunofluorescence and immunohistochemistry. Correlations between these cells and clinicopathologic features were evaluated. Results: CD19+CD5+B cells were predominantly located in germinal centers and mantle zones of lymphoid follicles, the CD208+ DCs were distributed in the interfollicular and subepithelial area, and IgA1-positive cells were predominantly detected in mantle zones of lymphoid follicles and subepithelial tissues. The numbers of CD19+CD5+B cells, CD208+DCs, and IgA1-positive cells in tonsillar tissues from IgAN patients were significantly higher than those in the normal controls (P&lt;0.01, respectively). CD19+CD5+B cells, CD208+DCs, and IgA1-positive cells in tonsillar tissues were significantly associated with 24-h proteinuria levels and tubular atrophy/interstitial fibrosis of IgAN. Conclusion: CD19+CD5+B cells, CD208+DCs, and IgA1-positive cells in tonsillar tissues might be involved in the pathogenesis of IgAN.

Chemiluminescence (CL), as one class of luminescence driven by chemical reaction, exhibits obvious temperature-dependence in its light emission process. Herein, temperature-dependent CL emission of carbon nanodots (CDs) in the chemical reaction of peroxalate and hydrogen peroxide is demonstrated and temperature imaging based on the temperature-dependent CL has been established for the first time. In detail, the temperature-dependent CL emission of CDs in the chemical reaction of peroxalate and hydrogen peroxide is observed, and the linear relationship between the CL intensity and temperature is demonstrated in both the CL solution and film, enabling their applications in temperature sensing and imaging capabilities. The increase of the CL emission with temperature can be attributed to the accelerated electron exchange between the CDs and intermediate generated in the peroxalate system. Meter-scale chemiluminescent CD films have been constructed. The CL sensor based on the films presents a high spatial resolution of 0.4 mm and an outstanding sensitivity of 0.08 °C−1, which is amongst the best values for the thermographic luminophores. With the unique temperature response and flexible properties, non-planar, meter-scale and sensitive palm temperature imaging has been achieved. These findings present new opportunities for designing CL-based temperature probes and thermography.

The sesquiterpene alpha-bisabolol is the predominant active ingredient in essential oils that are highly valued in the cosmetics industry due to its wound healing, anti-inflammatory, and skin-soothing properties. Alpha-bisabolol was thought to be restricted to Compositae plants. Here we reveal that alpha-bisabolol is also synthesized in rice, a non-Compositae plant, where it acts as a novel sesquiterpene phytoalexin. Overexpressing the gene responsible for the biosynthesis of alpha-bisabolol, OsTPS1, conferred bacterial blight resistance in rice. Phylogenomic analyses revealed that alpha-bisabolol-synthesizing enzymes in rice and Compositae evolved independently. Further experiments demonstrated that the natural variation in the disease resistance level was associated with differential transcription of OsTPS1due to polymorphisms in its promoter. We demonstrated that OsTPS1was regulated at the epigenetic level by JMJ705 through the methyl jasmonate pathway. These data reveal the cross-family accumulation and regulatory mechanisms of alpha-bisabolol production.

Molecular adsorption conformations and arrangement configurations on surfaces are important structural aspects of surface stereochemistry, but their roles in steering the structures of metal–organic networks (MONs) remain vague and unexplored. In this study, we constructed MONs by the coordination self-assembly of isocyanides on Cu(111) and Ag(111) surfaces and demonstrated that the MON structures can be steered by surface stereochemistry, including the adsorption conformations of the isocyanide molecules and the arrangement configurations of the coordination nodes and subunits. The coordination self-assembly of 1,4-phenylene diisocyanobenzene afforded a honeycomb MON consisting of 3-fold (isocyano)3–Cu motifs on a Cu(111) surface. In contrast, geometrically different chevron-shaped 1,3-phenylene diisocyanobenzene (m-DICB) failed to generate a MON, which is ascribable to its standing conformation on the Cu(111) surface. However, m-DICB was adsorbed in a flat conformation on a Ag(111) surface, which has a larger lattice constant than a Cu(111) surface, and smoothly underwent coordination self-assembly to form a MON consisting of (isocyano)3–Ag motifs. Interestingly, only C3–Ag nodes with heterotactic configurations could grow into larger subunits; those subunits with heterotactic configurations further grew into Sierpiński triangle fractals (up to fourth order), while subunits with homotactic configurations afforded a triangular MON.

AbstractRuthenium(II) complexes containing phenazine ring have attracted attention to design as ‘molecular light switches’. In this study, we synthesized two ruthenium complexes containing phenazine ring and studied their abilities to function as DNA intercalators, DNA ‘light switches’, DNA topo I inhibitors, DNA photocleavers and potential antitumor reagents. [Ru(bpy)2(mbipz)](PF6)2(1) (bpy = 2,2′-bipyridine, mbipz = 2-(4′-methyl-bipyridine-4-yl)-1H-imidazo[4,5-b]phenazine) exhibited off–on type DNA ‘light swtich’ behavior. DNA binding modes of the two complexes were determined as intercalation by using UV–vis spectra, emission spectra, viscosity and molecular docking experiments. DNA photocleavage experimental results showed that the two ruthenium complexes effectively cleave plasmid DNA by producing singlet oxygen. Furthermore, they displayed good topo I inhibition activities. We further found that the two complexes displayed good antitumor activities against Eca-109 cells and A549 cells. The results demonstrated that introduction of phenazine ring will be helpful to design DNA ‘light switch’ based on ruthenium complex.Communicated by Ramaswamy H. Sarma

Purpose: To investigate the clinical effects of a custom-made conformer wrapped in lower oral mucosa for the correction of severely contracted socket.Methods: Clinical data and photographs of 32 patients with severely contracted socket were retrospectively analyzed. Among the 32 cases, 21 were males and 11 were females. Their ages ranged from 20 to 71 years (mean, 45 years). Each patient underwent conjunctival sac plasty using a custom-made conformer wrapped by oral mucosa, then compression bandage for 1 month. All patients received tarsorrhaphy 6 months postoperatively, and an artificial eye was worn 1 week later.Results: All the grafts were fully vascularized. The conjunctival sacs had enough space to fit the desirable artificial eyes, and adequate aesthetic outcomes were reached postoperatively. The mean depth of the upper fornix was 4.28 ± 0.66 mm preoperatively and 18.84 ± 0.65 mm postoperatively (p< 0.01), and lower fornix depth was 2.69 ± 0.42 and 8.78 ± 0.82 mm, respectively (p< 0.01). Lower lip deformity occurred in one case.Conclusion: A custom-made conformer wrapped in lower oral mucosa was a safe and effective grafting material. The grafts can be effectively used in the reconstruction of severely contracted socket and lead to good cosmetic outcomes.

Water-soluble red afterglow imaging agents based on ecofriendly nanomaterials have potential application in time-gated afterglow bioimaging due to their larger penetration depth and nondurable excitation. Herein, red afterglow imaging agents consisted of Rhodamine B (RhB) and carbon nanodots (CNDs) have been designed and demonstrated. In these agents, CNDs act as energy donors, and RhB acts as an energy acceptor. Both of them are confined into a hydrophilic silica shell to form a CNDs-RhB@silica nanocomposite. The phosphorescence emission spectrum of the CNDs and the absorption spectrum of the RhB match well, and efficient energy transfer from the CNDs to the RhB via Förster resonant energy transfer process can be achieved, with a transfer efficiency can reach 99.2%. Thus, the as-prepared nanocomposite can emit a red afterglow in aqueous solution, and the afterglow spectrum of CNDs-RhB@silica nanocomposite can extend to the first near-infrared window (NIR-I). The luminescence lifetime and afterglow quantum yield (QY) of the CNDs-RhB@silica can reach 0.91 s and 3.56%, respectively, which are the best results in red afterglow region. Time-gated in vivoafterglow imaging has been demonstrated by using the CNDs-RhB@silica as afterglow agents.

AbstractRed raspberry has attracted great interest due to its inherent antioxidant, anticarcinogenic, and antihyperglycemic effects. To brew a beverage with high antioxidant capacity and desirable sensory characteristics (malty aroma, hop aroma, fruit flavor, freshness, fullness, sweetness, sourness, and bitterness), dried red raspberries (Rubus idaeusL.) (30 g L−1wort) were added to beer at different stages of the brewing process (beginning of boiling, before fermentation, before conditioning) and compared to a control without added dried fruits. The beer was fermented with Saccharomyces cerevisiaefor 7 days at 18 °C followed by a secondary fermentation of 3 days at 20 °C. The main physicochemical attributes (original gravity, ethanol content, pH, color, colloidal haze, viscosity, bitterness, diacetyl, acetaldehyde, higher alcohols, and esters), sensory characteristics, and major bioactive compounds were determined. A decline in pH and an increase in color were observed in the raspberry beers. Adding dried fruits at the beginning of boiling imparted the highest oxidative stability and total phenolic and flavonoid content (696 mg GAE L−1and 510 mg QE L−1, respectively). Sensory analysis revealed that the most preferred product according to appearance, flavor, and taste was the beer with dried fruits added at the beginning of boiling.

[Display omitted] • Cu films with controllable micro-nano/nano surface is obtained. • The wide range wettability is realized by controlled surface structure. • A wide range of contact angles ranging from 6° to 152° are fabricated. • Cluster-nanoparticle structure possesses a superhydrophobic surface. • Structure-induced wettability is important to tune and simplify the interface. The wettability of materials used in the production of devices employed in various technological domains have attracted significant attentions. Therefore, it is important to design the surfaces of these materials such that they can provide the required surface free energy and simplify the interfacial structure. Herein, various Cu films with a highly controllable surface wettability and a wide range of contact angles ranging from 6° to 152° were fabricated, and the corresponding mechanism was discussed. A wide range of wettability was realized by controlling the surface structure of the Cu film. The nanogap structure of the vertical nanowire-array film led to a high surface free energy. Similarly, the oblique nanowire-array film increased the surface free energy; however, the surface free energy was dependent on the size of the nanowires rather than on the nanogaps owing to the crystallinity of the film. Additionally, cluster-nanowire-array films were designed to realize a wettability transition from hydrophilicity to hydrophobicity with a constant surface free energy. The Cu foam possessed a superhydrophilic surface owing to its high porosity, whereas the cluster-nanoparticle structure possessed a superhydrophobic surface. In addition, we noted that the structure-induced wettability played an important role in tuning the semiconductor and metal interfacial stress and simplifying the interfacial structure. Furthermore, the outstanding electrical conductivity of the Cu films indicates its promising potential as an electrode. The structure-induced wettability proposed in this study can be applied for a wide range of materials, particularly for films used for advanced applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: The aim of this study is to describe the clinical characteristics and intraoperative findings and further evaluate the efficacy of endoscopic ossiculoplasty for the management of isolated congenital ossicular chain malformation.Methods: A retrospective study was performed on 16 ears (15 patients) with the isolated congenital ossicular chain malformation who underwent endoscopic ossiculoplasty in our department from May 2017 to January 2019. Endoscopic exploratory tympanotomy was conducted to check the ossicular chain; at the same time, endoscopic ossiculoplasty was performed depending on intraoperative findings. Air-conduction thresholds, bone-conduction thresholds, and air-bone gaps (ABGs) were measured before and after surgery, and the hearing outcome was assessed at 6 months postoperatively.Results: The most common malformations of ossicular chain were the missing of the incus long process and stapes suprastructure. A serial assessment of the hearing status was conducted before and 6 months after surgery. It showed the mean postoperative pure-tone average (PTA) was significantly reduced, and the mean postoperative ABG was obviously closed, respectively (P< .001). The mean PTA gain was 36.3 ± 8.6 dB, and the ABG closure was 35.1 ± 8.3 dB; ABG closure to 20 dB or less and ABG closure to 10 dB or less were achieved in 14 cases (87.5%) and 5 cases (31.3%), respectively. No differences were observed in postoperative hearing outcome between type Ⅲ cases and type Ⅳ cases; however, cases with partial ossicular replacement prosthesis implantation showed a larger hearing gain (P= .049) and a higher proportion of postoperative ABG less than 10 dB (P= .021). No facial palsy and significant sensorineural hearing loss occurred; all patients completed the surgery without the need of canalplasty, and the chorda tympani nerve was preserved in all patients.Conclusions: This research showed endoscopic surgery was effective in the diagnosis and management of isolated congenital ossicular chain malformation; the endoscopic ossiculoplasty provides an alternative method to manage congenital ossicular chain malformation, with comfortable hearing outcome and the advantage of excellent vision and less invasion.

The accurate and complete assembly of both haplotype sequences of a diploid organism is essential to understanding the role of variation in genome functions, phenotypes and diseases1. Here, using a trio-binning approach, we present a high-quality, diploid reference genome, with both haplotypes assembled independently at the chromosome level, for the common marmoset (Callithrix jacchus), an primate model system that is widely used in biomedical research2,3. The full spectrum of heterozygosity between the two haplotypes involves 1.36% of the genome—much higher than the 0.13% indicated by the standard estimation based on single-nucleotide heterozygosity alone. The de novo mutation rate is 0.43 × 10−8per site per generation, and the paternal inherited genome acquired twice as many mutations as the maternal. Our diploid assembly enabled us to discover a recent expansion of the sex-differentiation region and unique evolutionary changes in the marmoset Y chromosome. In addition, we identified many genes with signatures of positive selection that might have contributed to the evolution of Callithrixbiological features. Brain-related genes were highly conserved between marmosets and humans, although several genes experienced lineage-specific copy number variations or diversifying selection, with implications for the use of marmosets as a model system.