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Hydrazine‐oxidation‐assisted self‐powered H2 generation system greatly expands the applicability of hydrogen production technology. However, the high cost of hydrazine greatly impedes the widespread adoption of hydrazine‐contained energy systems for large‐scale H2 production. Besides, the gaseous products of hydrazine splitting, comprising a mixture of H2 and N2, necessitate energy‐intensive downstream separation. Here, taking advantage of a low‐potential furfural oxidation reaction (FOR) on the Cu electrode, a self‐powered H2 production system by integrating a direct furfural fuel cell (DFFC) and a bipolar H2 production electrolyser is reported. Ru‐dispersed Cu nanowire with remarkable catalytic activity is developed as a hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) catalyst to couple with the FOR. The HER‐FOR electrolyzer achieves bipolar H2 production with an apparent 200% Faradaic efficiency, attaining a current density of 100 mA cm−2 with a low cell voltage of 0.43 V. The DFFC displays an open circuit potential of 0.969 V and a peak power density up to 193 mW cm−2. Inspired by the bipolar H2 production that eliminates the gas separation, a self‐powered system utilizing furfural as the sole consumable, which yields a pure H2 production rate of 6 mmol h−1 m−2 is demonstrated. This work provides a new avenue for constructing self‐powered H2 production systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Entity relation extraction holds a significant role in extracting structured information from unstructured text, serving as a foundational component for various other tasks within natural language processing. The pipeline method in entity relation extraction separates entity subtask from relation subtask, causing an error propagation. Contemporary researchers are more inclined to amalgamate two subtasks, improve and innovate the structures of models to carry out joint entity relation extraction. However, these models often merely capture surface-level text features, overlooking the profound-level semantics and syntax inherent within sentences, consequently forfeiting valuable knowledge. In this condition, we propose a joint entity relation extraction method that integrates context semantic and dependency syntax. The bidirectional long short-term memory network is employed to explore context semantic features of sentences, and tree-structured LSTM is utilized to extract dependency syntactic features, subsequently two types of features are fused with the attention mechanism for joint extraction. Experiment results demonstrate that compared with other models, the Accuracy, Recall and F1-value of our proposed method are increased evidently, proving that semantic and syntactic information contained in sentences are beneficial for entity relation extraction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hydrogen generation by water electrolysis using solid oxide electrolysis cells (SOECs) is highly promising because of the favorable thermodynamics and kinetics. Commercial applications require SOEC operating at high current densities (ǀiǀ≥1 A·cm−2) to achieve substantial hydrogen production rates. This study demonstrates the operation of a full-size Ni–yttria-stabilized zirconia (Ni–YSZ) cell with an effective area of 16 cm2 at −2 A·cm−2 for 336 h, illustrating the feasibility of operating SOECs at a high current density. The electrochemical characteristics of the SOEC evolved during constant current electrolysis, exhibiting an activation stage with a degradation rate (DR) of 54.6 mV/100 h, followed by a rapid decline process(DR: 180.9 mV/100 h), a gentle decline period (DR: 105.5 mV/100 h), and a stable stage (DR: 11.0 mV/100 h). The contributions of individual processes to cell degradation during each process are identified using the distribution of relaxation times (DRT) and subsequent equivalent circuit model (ECM) fitting. The results suggest that the Ohmic resistance, ionic transport and charge-transfer reaction in the Ni-YSZ fuel electrode contribute the most to performance loss. Ni redistribution is regarded as the dominant degradation mechanism, as verified by detailed post-test characterization. • The degradation of Solid oxide electrolysis cell operating at high current density was studied. • The relaxation time to stability under high current density is shorter. • The degradation stage is divided into more detailed 4 stages. • The degradation in the fuel electrode contribute most of the cell's performance loss. • Sr segregation are observed without generation of high resistance phases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper is devoted to the conditions of the existence of CC-center for the generalized Abel equations. Using some new original methods, we obtain extended results of the main theorems in the paper by Llibre and Valls (2020) and the one by Zhou (2020), respectively. The proofs in this paper are much simpler than the previous ones. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Underwater adhesives are critical for many applications, including marine coatings, sealants, and medical devices. Research on natural underwater adhesives has shown that L-3,4-dihydroxyphenylalanine (DOPA) and amyloid nanostructures are vital to their adhesive abilities. The fusion of DOPA-containing chains and amyloid-forming peptides creates a new space for designing underwater adhesives capable of multi-surface adhesion. One critical question for this design is the interplay between the DOPA and amyloid-forming peptide regions. Here we investigate the effect of the sequence pattern of DOPA-containing chains on the aggregation conformation of conjugates. Discontinuous molecular dynamics simulations were performed for fourteen DOPA-amyloid conjugates with different sequence patterns along the DOPA-containing portion. The amyloid-forming portion is represented by KLVFFAE from the Aβ42 peptide. The structural properties of the DOPA-amyloid conjugates are characterised by the percentages of ordered secondary structures and residue-residue contact maps. The results showed that certain patterns of DOPA and glycine in the DOPA-containing tail allowed the KLVFFAE portions of the conjugates to form distinct ordered β-sheets, and the DOPA-containing portion and the KLVFFAE portion of the conjugates to remain separated both within the same chain and amongst different chains. Among the designs, the most promising sequences are KLVFFAE-G-YYGYYGYY (where Y represents DOPA) and KLVFFAE-G-YYYYGGGG. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

2′-Fucosyllactose (2′-FL) is known for its ability to provide various health benefits to infants, such as gut maturation, pathogen resistance, improved immunity, and nervous system development. However, the production of 2′-FL using α-L-fucosidases is hindered by the lack of low-cost natural fucosyl donors and high-efficiency α-L-fucosidases. In this work, a recombinant xyloglucanase from Rhizomucor miehei (RmXEG12A) was applied to produce xyloglucan-oligosaccharide (XyG-oligos) from apple pomace. Then, an α-L-fucosidase gene (PbFucB) was screened from the genomic DNA of Pedobacter sp. CAU209 and expressed in Escherichia coli. The capability of purified PbFucB to catalyze XyG-oligos and lactose to synthesize 2′-FL was further evaluated. The deduced amino acid sequence of PbFucB shared the highest identity (38.4%) with that of other reported α-L-fucosidases. PbFucB showed the highest activity at pH 5.5 and 35 °C. It catalyzed the hydrolysis of 4-nitrophenyl-α-L-fucopyranoside (pNP-Fuc, 20.3 U mg−1), 2′-FL (8.06 U mg−1), and XyG-oligos (0.43 U mg−1). Furthermore, PbFucB demonstrated a high enzymatic conversion rate in 2′-FL synthesis with pNP-Fuc or apple pomace–derived XyG-oligos as donors and lactose as acceptor. Under the optimized conditions, PbFucB converted 50% of pNP-Fuc or 31% of the L-fucosyl residue in XyG-oligos into 2′-FL. This work elucidated an α-L-fucosidase that mediates the fucosylation of lactose and provided an efficient enzymatic strategy to synthesize 2′-FL either from artificial pNP-Fuc or natural apple pomace–derived XyG-oligos. Key points: • Xyloglucan-oligosaccharide (XyG-oligos) was produced from apple pomace by a xyloglucanase from Rhizomucor miehei. • An α-L-fucosidase (PbFucB) from Pedobacter sp. CAU209 shared the highest identity (38.4%) with reported α-L-fucosidases. •PbFucB synthesized 2′-FL using apple pomace–derived XyG-oligos and lactose with a conversion ratio of 31%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Periodontitis is a chronic inflammation of periodontal tissues. This study is expected to assess the effect of LSD1 on the osteogenic differentiation of hPDLSCs in periodontitis. Methods: hPDLSCs were separated, cultivated, and identified, and then treated by LPS to induce inflammatory microenvironment and subjected to osteogenic differentiation. Subsequently, LSD1 expression was determined, and then silenced to assess its effect on hPDLSCs. Next, the binding relation between LSD1 and miR‐590‐3p was analyzed. miR‐590‐3p expression was detected and then overexpressed to evaluate its role in hPDLSCs in periodontitis. Afterward, the relation between LSD1 and OSX was analyzed. H3K4me2 level and OSX transcription were measured, and the role of H3K4me2 was determined. Additionally, the role of OSX in hPDLSCs was verified. Results: LSD1 was poorly expressed after osteogenic differentiation of hPDLSCs while it was rescued upon LPS induction. The osteogenic differentiation of hPDLSC in periodontitis was strengthened upon LSD1 downregulation. Besides, miR‐590‐3p targeted LSD1 transcription, and LSD1 inhibited OSX transcription via H3K4me2 demethylation. miR‐590‐3p overexpression improved osteogenic differentiation of hPDLSCs in periodontitis. But this improvement was annulled by OSX inhibition. Conclusion: miR‐590‐3p targeted LSD1 transcription and upregulated H3K4me2 methylation to promote OSX transcription, thereby encouraging osteogenic differentiation of hPDLSCs in periodontitis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Modern concrete construction consumes significant amounts of freshwater, which is a valuable natural resource. Using seawater can be an alternative solution to reduce freshwater consumption for sustainable development. The durability of seawater construction materials should be studied for better understanding of their long-term behavior. This study investigated the effect of seawater on the hydration and the sulfate resistance of noncement mortars prepared by mixing ground granulated blast furnace slag (BFS), carbide slag (CS), and silica fume (SF) to understand the feasibility of using seawater and solid waste materials to develop low-carbon construction materials. CS in the mix acted as an alkali activator for the hydration and strength development of the solid wastes. Two batch specimens were prepared, one batch mixed with seawater and the other mixed with freshwater for comparison. A compressive test investigated the effect of seawater on the mechanical properties. Heat flow, X-ray diffractometry (XRD), and thermogravimetry tests were used to understand the hydration. The results suggest that the seawater could accelerate the hydration by producing a large amount of hydrocalumite, which improves the compressive strength at early ages. Durability testing was carried out by immersing specimens in a sulfate solution for various durations. Sulfate resistance was characterized by XRD, and ettringite and Friedel's salt were the main corrosion products when the specimens were immersed in sulfate solution. Corrosion could be reduced by seawater in the specimens. Scanning electron microscopy was used to characterize the microstructure of the hydration products, which showed that the corrosion was a progressive process. A loose and porous microstructure of the specimen surface accelerated corrosion of the noncement specimens. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Convolutional Neural Networks (CNNs) have been widely employed for image Super-Resolution (SR) in recent years. Various techniques enhance SR performance by altering CNN structures or incorporating improved self-attention mechanisms. Interestingly, these advancements share a common trait. Instead of explicitly learning high-frequency details, they learn an implicit feature processing mode that utilizes weighted sums of a feature map's own elements for reconstruction, akin to convolution and non-local. In contrast, early dictionary-based approaches learn feature decompositions explicitly to match and rebuild Low-Resolution (LR) features. Building on this analysis, we introduce Trainable Feature Matching (TFM) to amalgamate this explicit feature learning into CNNs, augmenting their representation capabilities. Within TFM, trainable feature sets are integrated to explicitly learn features from training images through feature matching. Furthermore, we integrate non-local and channel attention into our proposed Trainable Feature Matching Attention Network (TFMAN) to further enhance SR performance. To alleviate the computational demands of non-local operations, we propose a streamlined variant called Same-size-divided Region-level Non-Local (SRNL). SRNL conducts non-local computations in parallel on blocks uniformly divided from the input feature map. The efficacy of TFM and SRNL is validated through ablation studies and module explorations. We employ a recurrent convolutional network as the backbone of our TFMAN to optimize parameter utilization. Comprehensive experiments on benchmark datasets demonstrate that TFMAN achieves superior results in most comparisons while using fewer parameters. The code is available at https://github.com/qizhou000/tfman. • A novel Trainable Feature Matching (TFM) module for super-resolution is proposed. • An lightweight improvement for Non-Local (self-attention) is proposed. • Comprehensive experiments is conducted with BI, BD and DN degradation models. • Our method achieves best super-resolution results on multiple benchmarks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This work presents an alternative method of teaching undergraduate introductory physics laboratory. Students are presented with an experimental scenario "Rolling object on an inclined plane" and guided to develop their own laboratory activities in a studio-style setting. The overall goal of this alternative approach is to shift part of the learning responsibility to students. Through guided self-developed activities, students establish the connections between different physics concepts. Such a shift makes students active participants in the classroom, allows them to explore ideas independently, and discover through doing the exploring. Furthermore, the pedagogy is aimed at (i) motivating and actively engaging students in the learning process, (ii) helping students learn how to think independently, (iii) developing scientific ideas, and (iv) taking ownership of the learning process. Assessment of data from a 3-year pilot study showed improvement in students' technical writing skills (30%), creative lab and research skills (6%), as well as critical thinking and quantitative skills (6%). In addition, students who participated in the study scored higher (6%) than their control group counterparts on the final exam. Other benefits are improvement in understanding of the research process and laboratory technical skills. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The AlSi7Mg alloy was fabricated by selective laser melting (SLM), and its microstructure and properties at different building directions after heat treatment were analyzed. Results show that the microstructure of SLM AlSi7Mg samples containes three zones: fine grain zone, coarse grain zone, and heat affected zone. The fine-grain regions locate inside the molten pool, and the grains are equiaxed. The coarse-grain regions locate in the overlap of molten pools. After T6 treatment, the microstructure at the molten pool boundary is still the network eutectic Si, but the network structure becomes discrete, and is composed of intermittent, chain-like eutectic Si particles. The yield strength at three directions (xy, 45°, z direction) of the AlSi7Mg alloy samples fabricated by SLM is improved after T6 heat treatment. The fracture mechanism of the samples is a mixed ductile and brittle fracture before heat treatment and ductile fracture after heat treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

MXenes, as a new family of 2D materials, have attracted extensive attention for their high electrical conductivity and good electrochemical cycling stability. However, due to the self-stacking nature of MXene materials, the actual specific capacity (260 mAh g−1) of V 2 CT x MXene materials as anodes is much lower than the theoretical specific capacity (940 mAh g−1). Herein, we designed a novel Co-MOF/V 2 CT x composite (denoted as Co-MOF/V 2 CT x), where Co-MOF was in situ grown on the surface and interlayer of the V 2 CT x MXene with larger interlayer spacing. The MOF in the composite provides the additional specific capacity as well as effectively prevented the restacking of V 2 CT x MXene, which exposed more Li+ active sites. Besides, benefiting from the high conductivity, electrochemical stability, and strong bonding with the Co-MOF at the interface of MXene, the structural stability of Co-MOF itself in composite materials can be better improved. Consequently, the cells with Co-MOF/V 2 CT x anodes realize a high specific capacity of 484.3 mAh g−1 after 120 cycles at 100 mA g−1 and superior cycling stability even at a higher current density of 500 mA g−1. The unique synergistic design of this work can provide new ideas for the development of MXene-based composites in energy storage applications. • A pure V 2 CT x MXene with a larger interlayer spacing was obtained under HF solution etching. • The electrostatic interaction of Co2+ with V 2 CT x results in better in situ growth of Co-MOF on V 2 CT x. • The Co-MOF in the composite provides the additional specific capacity as well as prevented the restacking of V 2 CT x. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rice, the most consumed in Asian and constitute important source of amino acids. The present study evaluated the suitability of near-infrared reflectance spectroscopy to predict amino acid contents (AACs) using 1210 rice samples representing a wide range of grain qualities and genetic background. Calibration models established by combining different spectral derivatives, scatter and baseline correction methods, and regression algorithm were compared using full cross validation. A modified partial least square model (MPLS) with the spectral derivative treatment "2, 3, 3, 1" (2nd order derivative computed based on 3 data points, and 3 and 1 data points in the 1st and 2nd smoothing, respectively) and weighted multiplicative scattering correction (WMSC) method was identified as the best model for simultaneously measurement of 14 AACs in brown rice flour. The high model quality is reflected by RSQ of 0.914∼0.969, standard error of calibration (SEC) of 0.0187%∼0.0553%, 1-VR of 0.901∼0.955, SECV of 0.0214%∼0.0579%, and residual prediction deviation (RPD) of 2.58∼3.85. These results indicated that NIRS coupled with an appropriate pre-processing, multivariate regression could be a rapid and reliable method for quantification of AACs in rice breeding programs and quality control in the food industry. Factors that would influence model quality were investigated and discussed. • NIRS is capable of accurately quantifying 14 amino acids contents in diverse rice samples. • MPLS was the most robust regression method. • MSC and 2nd derivation were suitable pre-processing methods. • NIRS is applicable for high-throughput screening. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • CaCu 3 Ti 4 O 12 (CCTO) was firstly adopted to activate sulfite for As(III) removal. • Cu and Ti bimetals heterogeneously activate sulfite on the catalyst interface. • SO 4 •− was predominately responsible for As(III) oxidation. • A kinetic model of CCTO/sulfite system was established. A new activation technology for sulfite (S(IV)) using a perovskite CaCu 3 Ti 4 O 12 (CCTO) catalyst has been proposed to remediate the As(III) polluted water. When 0.05 g·L−1 CCTO and 0.4 mmol·L−1 S(IV) were mixed, 90.6% of As(III) could be removed in 30 min at an initial pH of 8.0. Dissolved oxygen played an indispensable role in the reaction. CCTO can interact with S(IV) via a heterogeneous catalytic route on its surface. Electrochemical characterization indicated that the electron transfer process between the surface Cu/ Ti atoms and S(IV) ions evoked the activation of S(IV), leading to the generation of SO 4 •−, which played a dominant role in the oxidation of As(III). Density functional theory (DFT) calculations have disclosed the spontaneous adsorption of sulfite on CCTO surface. A kinetics study determined the steady-state concentration of SO 4 •− to be 4.29 × 10−14 mol·L−1, which reacts with As(III) with a second-order reaction rate constant of 3.83 × 1010 L·mol−1·s−1. Furthermore, the CCTO catalyst was highly reusable, the structure of which did not significantly alter during the reaction. Therefore, the CCTO/S(IV) system is a promising and efficient advanced oxidation technique for the purification of As(III) in water. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sodium- (Na+) and potassium- (K+) ion batteries are cost-effective alternatives to lithium-ion (Li+) batteries due to the abundant sodium and potassium resources. Solid polymer electrolytes (SPEs) are essential for safer and more efficient Na+ and K+ batteries because they often exhibit low ionic conductivity at room temperature. While zwitterionic (ZW) materials enhance Li+ battery conductivity, their potential for Na+ and K+ transport in batteries remains unexplored. In this study, we investigated the effect of three ZW molecules (ChoPO4, i.e., 2-methacryloyloxyethyl phosphorylcholine, ImSO3, i.e., sulfobetaine ethylimidazole, and ImCO2, i.e., carboxybetaine ethylimidazole) on the dissociation of Na+ and K+ coordination with ethylene oxide (EO) chains in EO-based electrolytes through molecular dynamics simulations. Our results showed that ChoPO4 possessed the highest cation–EO10 dissociation ability, while ImSO3 exhibited the lowest. Such dissociation ability correlated with the cation–ZW molecule coordination strength: ChoPO4 and ImSO3 showed the strongest and the weakest coordination with cations. However, the cation–ZW molecule coordination could slow the cationic diffusion. The competition of these effects resulted in accelerating or decelerating cationic diffusion. Our simulated results showed that ImCO2 enhanced Na+ diffusion by 20%, while ChoPO4 and ImSO3 led to a 10% reduction. For K+, ChoPO4 reduced its diffusion by 40%, while ImCO2 and ImSO3 caused a similar decrease of 15%. These findings suggest that the ZW structure and the cationic size play an important role in the ionic dissociation effect of ZW materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Camellia wumingensis, a neglected species known only from limestone areas of Guangxi, China, is formally described and illustrated here. It is morphologically similar to C. flavida var. patens in having current-year branchlets purplish red, petiole adaxially grooved, flowers axillary or terminal, ovary glabrous, capsule oblate, and seeds brown, but is readily distinguished by the leaf texture and size, number of secondary veins, flower size, flower bud shape and size, number of petals, degree of fusion of the outer filaments, and pericarp thickness. Other related species C. flavida and C. pinguoensis var. terminalis are also compared with C. wumingensis in the paper, and the differences between them are obvious. In addition to a diagnosis and detailed description, information on the geographical distribution, images of morphological characters and pollen grains, and a provisional conservation status assessment are provided for this species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• MMA-grafted PP is prepared with enhanced DC resistivity and more deep traps. • Trap characteristics of MMA-grafted PP based on TSDC is quantitatively analyzed. • MMA deepens the inherent PP trap depth and introduces a new deep trap of 1.8 eV. In this paper, the thermally stimulated depolarization current (TSDC) spectrum of methyl methacrylate (MMA)-grafted polypropylene is quantitatively analyzed by our TSDC peak separating algorithm. The separated trap peaks and extracted trap parameters are verified to be effective and credible by the experimental peak-separating method based on thermo-cleaning. The trap analysis on pristine and MMA-grafted polypropylene is carried out and indicates that grafting MMA can introduce a new high-depth trap peak at about 1.8 eV, meanwhile the intrinsic trap of polypropylene is deepened. This work would provide an opportunity to advance the understanding of trap characteristics in grafting-modified polypropylene. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Diverse rice samples are suitable for an accuracy NIR assay of apparent amylose, amylose and amylopectin content simultaneously. • Calibration optimal equations of NIRs with much high values. • MPLS-DA (discriminant analysis) could classify waxy and non-waxy rice with 100% accuracy. • NIRS applicable for high-throughput screening. Rice starch properties of apparent amylose content (AAC), amylose content (AC), and amylopectin content (AP) are considered as the most important factors influencing grain quality as they are highly correlated with eating quality. This report is the first effort of predicting AC and AP values in rice flours, and recognizing waxy rice from non-waxy rice using NIRS technique. Calibration models generated by different mathematical, preprocessing treatments and combinations of wavelengths and signals were compared and optimized. The model established by modified partial least squares (MPLS) with "2, 8, 8, 2"/ Inverse MSC and ∼138 wavelengths signals yielded high RSQ of 0.977, 0.928, and 0.912 for AAC, AC and AP, respectively, as simultaneous measurement. MPLS-DA (discriminant analysis) could classify waxy and non-waxy rice with 100% accuracy. This high-throughput technology is valuable for breeding programs, and for the purposes of quality control in the food industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Scalable and controllable fabrication of Ni3S2-embedded NiFe LDH porous nanosheets grown on Ni foam in a facile method for OER catalysis. • The Ni3S2-embedded NiFe LDH porous nanosheet integrates merits including abundant interfaces, rapid mass transfer, bubble release and modulated electronic structure. • NiOOH resulting from the in situ partial Ni3S2 phase transformation over an equally important electrically conductive Ni3S2 to drive proficient catalysis. • This OER catalyst only requires an overpotential of 303 mV to deliver 1 A cm-2 toward OER. Ni 3 S 2 -embedded NiFe LDH heterostructured porous nanosheets were in situ grown on nickel foam (Ni 3 S 2 -NiFe LDHs /NF) via a one-pot solution method mediated by NaHS at room temperature in 15 min. Benefiting from the abundant Ni 3 S 2 -NiFe LDH interfaces, the as-prepared catalyst delivers 50, 500 and 1000 mA cm−2 with an overpotential of only 230, 285 and 303 mV for oxygen evolution reaction, respectively, registering as one of the best performing non-precious metal OER catalysts. In situ and ex situ analysis reveal that the Ni 3 S 2 was in situ partially transformed under an electrooxidation environment into NiOOH over an equally important electrically conductive Ni 3 S 2 to drive proficient catalysis. This strategy can be extended to fabricate Ru-Ni 3 S 2 -NiFe LDHs/NF electrocatalyst for high active hydrogen evolution reaction. Coupling these two catalysts achieved remarkable current densities of 10, 100 and 500 mA cm−2 at low voltages of 1.47, 1.71 and 1.85 V upon driving overall water splitting, respectively, superior to the performance of current industrial catalysts (200–400 mA cm−2 at 1.8–2.40 V). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The elastic deformation of the levitation electromagnet (LM) of the high-speed maglev vehicle brings uneven levitation gaps and displacement differences between measured gap signals and the real gap in the middle of the LM, and then reduces dynamic performances of the electromagnetic levitation unit. However, most of the published literature has paid little attention to the dynamic deformation of the LM under complex line conditions. In this paper, considering the flexibility of the LM and the levitation bogie, a rigid-flexible coupled dynamic model is established to simulate deformation behaviors of the LMs of the maglev vehicle passing through the 650 m radius horizontal curve. Simulated results indicate that the deflection deformation direction of the same LM on the front transition curve is always opposite to that on the rear transition curve. Similarly, the deflection deformation direction of a left LM on the transition curve is opposite to that of the corresponding right LM. Furthermore, deflection deformation amplitudes of the LMs in the middle of the vehicle are always very small (less than 0.2 mm). However, the deflection deformation of the LMs at both ends of the vehicle is considerably large, and the maximum deflection deformation is about 0.86 mm when the vehicle passes at the balance speed. This forms a considerable displacement disturbance for the nominal levitation gap of 10 mm. It is necessary to optimize the supporting structure of the LM at the end of the maglev train in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although inherited GJA1 (encoding Cx43) gene mutations most often lead to oculodentodigital dysplasia and related disorders, four variants have been linked to erythrokeratodermia variabilis et progressiva (EKVP), a skin disorder characterized by erythematous and hyperkeratotic lesions. While two autosomal-dominant EKVP-linked GJA1 mutations have been shown to lead to augmented hemichannels, the consequence(s) of keratinocytes harboring a de novo P283L variant alone or in combination with a de novo T290N variant remain unknown. Interestingly, these variants reside within or adjacent to a carboxy terminus polypeptide motif that has been shown to be important in regulating the internalization and degradation of Cx43. Cx43-rich rat epidermal keratinocytes (REKs) or Cx43-ablated REKs engineered to express fluorescent protein-tagged P283L and/or T290N variants formed prototypical gap junctions at cell–cell interfaces similar to wildtype Cx43. Dye coupling and dye uptake studies further revealed that each variant or a combination of both variants formed functional gap junction channels, with no evidence of augmented hemichannel function or induction of cell death. Tracking the fate of EKVP-associated variants in the presence of the protein secretion blocker brefeldin A, or an inhibitor of protein synthesis cycloheximide, revealed that P283L or the combination of P283L and T290N variants either significantly extended Cx43 residency on the cell surface of keratinocytes or delayed its degradation. However, caution is needed in concluding that this modest change in the Cx43 life cycle is sufficient to cause EKVP, or whether an additional underlying mechanism or another unidentified gene mutation is contributing to the pathogenesis found in patients. This question will be resolved if further patients are identified where whole exome sequencing reveals a Cx43 P283L variant alone or, in combination with a T290N variant, co-segregates with EKVP across several family generations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Treatment of ocular infection involves pharmacotherapy with steroids and antibiotic drops, such as moxifloxacin hydrochloride (MFH) and dexamethasone sodium phosphate (DSP). To characterize the pharmacokinetics of these two compounds, we performed and validated a liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) method to quantify them in rabbit ocular tissues and plasma. We used protein precipitation to extract the compounds. The analyte and internal standard (IS) were separated using a Shim-pack Scepter C18 column. The mobile phase was composed of 0.1% formic acid water (A) and methanol (B). MFH and DSP were detected using positive ion electrostatic ionization (ESI) in multiple reaction monitoring mode (MRM). The calibration curves for both compounds showed good linearity over concentrations ranging from 0.5 to 200 ng/mL in rabbit ocular tissues and plasma. The lower limit of quantification for both MFH and DSP was 0.5 ng/mL. We validated this method for selectivity, linearity (r2 > 0.99), precision, accuracy, matrix effects, and stability. Thus, we used this method to assess the pharmacokinetic (PK) characteristics of MFH and DSP in rabbit ocular tissues and plasma after single doses. Our results indicate that this method can be used for the simultaneous analysis of moxifloxacin hydrochloride and dexamethasone sodium phosphate in clinical samples. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Cu 3 N@CoNiCHs heterostructures are fabricated as bifunctional electrocatalysts for HER and OER in alkaline electrolyte. • Cu 3 N@CoNiCHs integrate merits including abundant active sites, rapid charge transfer, and modulated electronic structure. • The dual-phase transformation of Cu 3 N@CoNiCHs during electrolysis provides active sites for HER and OER, respectively. • The Cu 3 N@CoNiCHs not only exhibit excellent HER and OER performance but also accelerate overall water splitting. The intensive pursuit of cost-effective electrocatalysts capable of enabling highly efficient and stable water splitting comprised of hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) and oxygen evolution reaction (OER), is quite imperative but challenging. Herein, a 3-dimensional (3D) hierarchical architecture consisted of copper nitride (Cu 3 N) and Co-Ni carbonate hydroxides (CoNiCHs) on copper foam (CF) was synthesized, and the Cu 3 N@CoNiCHs@CF requires quite small overpotentials (η s) of 182 and 155 mV to afford current density (j 10) of 10 mA cm−2 for HER and OER, respectively. More importantly, it requires a comparably low potential of 1.58 V to deliver j 10 upon driving overall water splitting due to an optimal integration of the 3D hierarchical configuration and the desirable interface interplay of Cu 3 N and CoNiCHs, outperforming those of noble metals and most of the benchmarking bifunctional electrocatalysts. This study paves an attractive way to better unraveling the interface interplay over hierarchical architectures with very promising electrocatalytic activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective. There are variabilities in the distance between the tibial tuberosity and the trochlear groove. The knee angle needs to be considered when talking about patellofemoral instability. Methods. This retrospective study analyses the MRI images of knee angles from 0 and 30 degrees in the patella dislocation group (20 cases) and in the control group (20 cases) from Dec 2017 to Dec 2019. Two experienced orthopedic physicians separately measure the study with a blind experiment method. Results. The TT-TG data of the patella dislocation group and control group are 17.88 ± 3.40 mm and 13.31 ± 3.01 mm when the knee angle is 0, which indicates a difference with statistical significance (P < 0.01). The TT-TG data of the patella dislocation group and control group are 11.51 ± 3.60 mm and 7.40 ± 1.93 mm when the knee angle is at 30 degrees, indicating a statistically significant difference (P < 0.01). Also, the TT-TG data of both the patella dislocation group and control group have statistically significant differences within different knee angles of the same group (P < 0.01). The differences of TT-TG are 6.36 ± 2.43 mm and 5.92 ± 1.65 mm when the knee angle changes from 0 to 30, which shows no statistically significant difference (P > 0.01). Conclusion. This research initially obtained the relevant MRI data of the TT-TG distance from different knee angles between the Chinese patella dislocation patient group and control group. The study received a new criterion to evaluate the TT-TG of patients with patella dislocations when the knee angle is below 30 degrees. The knee flexion angles need to be considered to measure the TT-TG distance when comprehensively evaluating patellofemoral instability. The TT-TG distance gradually increases when the knee changes from flexion to extension. The difference of the TT-TG distances shows no statistically significant difference. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: The recommended treatment for limited‐stage small‐cell lung cancer (LS‐SCLC) is a combination of thoracic radiotherapy (TRT) and etoposide plus cisplatin (EP) chemotherapy, typically administered over 4–6 cycles. Nonetheless, the optimal duration of chemotherapy is still not determined. This study aimed to compare the outcomes of patients with LS‐SCLC who received either 6 cycles or 4–5 cycles of EP chemotherapy combined with TRT. Materials and Methods: In this retrospective analysis, we utilized data from our prior prospective trial to analyze the outcomes of 265 LS‐SCLC patients who received 4–6 courses of EP combined with concurrent accelerated hyperfractionated TRT between 2002 and 2017. Patients were categorized into two groups depending on their number of chemotherapy cycles: 6 or 4–5 cycles. To assess overall survival (OS) and progression‐free survival (PFS), we employed the Kaplan–Meier method after conducting propensity score matching (PSM). Results: Among the 265 LS‐SCLC patients, 60 (22.6%) received 6 cycles of EP chemotherapy, while 205 (77.4%) underwent 4–5 cycles. Following PSM (53 patients for each group), the patients in the 6 cycles group exhibited a significant improvement in OS and PFS in comparison to those in the 4–5 cycles group [median OS: 29.8 months (95% confidence interval [CI], 23.6–53.1 months) vs. 22.7 months (95% CI, 20.8–29.1 months), respectively, p = 0.019; median PFS: 17.9 months (95% CI, 13.7–30.5 months) vs. 12.0 months (95% CI, 9.8–14.2 months), respectively, p = 0.006]. The two‐year and five‐year OS rates were 60.38% and 29.87% in the 6 cycles group, whereas 47.17% and 15.72% in the 4–5 cycles group, respectively. Conclusion: Patients diagnosed with LS‐SCLC who were treated with EP regimen chemotherapy combined with TRT exhibited notably enhanced survival when administered 6 cycles of chemotherapy, as compared to those who underwent only 4–5 cycles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: For patients with unresectable locally advanced esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC), concurrent chemoradiotherapy (CCRT) is the current standard treatment; however, the prognosis remains poor. Immunotherapy combined with chemotherapy has demonstrated improved survival outcomes in advanced ESCC. Nevertheless, there is a lack of reports on the role of induction immunotherapy plus chemotherapy prior to CCRT for unresectable locally advanced ESCC. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of induction immunotherapy plus chemotherapy followed by definitive chemoradiotherapy in patients with unresectable locally advanced ESCC. Methods: This study retrospectively collected clinical data of patients diagnosed with locally advanced ESCC who were treated with radical CCRT between 2017 and 2021 at our institution. The patients were divided into two groups: an induction immunotherapy plus chemotherapy group (induction IC group) or a CCRT group. To assess progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS), we employed the Kaplan–Meier method after conducting propensity score matching (PSM). Results: A total of 132 patients with unresectable locally advanced ESCC were included in this study, with 61 (45.26%) patients in the induction IC group and 71 (54.74%) patients in the CCRT group. With a median follow-up of 37.0 months, median PFS and OS were 25.2 and 39.2 months, respectively. The patients in the induction IC group exhibited a significant improvement in PFS and OS in comparison with those in the CCRT group (median PFS: not reached [NR] versus 15.9 months, hazard ratio [HR] 0.526 [95%CI 0.325–0.851], P = 0.0077; median OS: NR versus 25.2 months, HR 0.412 [95%CI 0.236–0.719], P = 0.0012). After PSM (50 pairs), both PFS and OS remained superior in the induction IC group compared to the CCRT group (HR 0.490 [95%CI 0.280–0.858], P = 0.011; HR 0.454 [95%CI 0.246–0.837], P = 0.0093), with 2-year PFS rates of 67.6 and 42.0%, and the 2-year OS rates of 74.6 and 52.0%, respectively. Multivariate analysis revealed that lower tumor stage, concurrent chemotherapy using double agents, and induction immunotherapy plus chemotherapy before CCRT were associated with better prognosis. Conclusions: Our results showed for the first time that induction immunotherapy plus chemotherapy followed by CCRT for unresectable locally advanced ESCC provided a survival benefit with manageable safety profile. More prospective clinical studies should be warranted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: To explore the potential of dynamic contrast-enhanced MRI (DCE-MRI) quantitative parameters in predicting severe acute radiation-induced rectal injury (RRI) in rectal cancer. Methods: This retrospective study enrolled 49 patients with rectal cancer who underwent neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy and rectal MRI including a DCE-MRI sequence from November 2014 to March 2021. Two radiologists independently measured DCE-MRI quantitative parameters, including the forward volume transfer constant (Ktrans), rate constant (kep), fractional extravascular extracellular space volume (ve), and the thickness of the rectal wall farthest away from the tumor. These parameters were compared between mild and severe acute RRI groups based on histopathological assessment. Receiver operating characteristic curve analysis was performed to analyze statistically significant parameters. Results: Forty-nine patients (mean age, 54 years ± 12 [standard deviation]; 37 men) were enrolled, including 25 patients with severe acute RRI. Ktrans was lower in severe acute RRI group than mild acute RRI group (0.032 min−1 vs 0.054 min−1; p = 0.008), but difference of other parameters (kep, ve and rectal wall thickness) was not significant between these two groups (all p > 0.05). The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve of Ktrans was 0.72 (95% confidence interval: 0.57, 0.84). With a Ktrans cutoff value of 0.047 min−1, the sensitivity and specificity for severe acute RRI prediction were 80% and 54%, respectively. Conclusion: Ktrans demonstrated moderate diagnostic performance in predicting severe acute RRI. Clinical relevance statement: Dynamic contrast-enhanced MRI can provide non-invasive and objective evidence for perioperative management and treatment strategies in rectal cancer patients with acute radiation-induced rectal injury. Key Points: • To our knowledge, this study is the first to evaluate the predictive value of contrast-enhanced MRI (DCE-MRI) quantitative parameters for severe acute radiation-induced rectal injury (RRI) in patients with rectal cancer. • Forward volume transfer constant (Ktrans), derived from DCE-MRI, exhibited moderate diagnostic performance (AUC = 0.72) in predicting severe acute RRI of rectal cancer, with a sensitivity of 80% and specificity of 54%. • DCE-MRI is a promising imaging marker for distinguishing the severity of acute RRI in patients with rectal cancer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Surgical adhesives are crucial for achieving rapid hemostasis and immediate wound management during clinical interventions. However, developing a tissue adhesive that combines instant adhesive strength with biodegradability in dynamic, wet, or hemorrhagic biological environments remains a persistent challenge. Here, a biodegradable supramolecular tissue adhesive with robust instant adhesion to wet tissue surfaces within 5 s is presented. The distinctive synergy of surface‐rich adhesive groups and the hydrophobic main chain enables the adhesive to surmount the hydration layer on the tissue surface, ensuring rapid adhesion. Importantly, the internal structure of this supramolecular adhesive significantly contributes to its exceptional holding adhesion strength. Additionally, in vivo experiments using a rat liver incision model and a skin injury model are conducted. These experiments demonstrate its effectiveness in emergency hemostasis and wound management. Consequently, this supramolecular tissue adhesive exhibits significant potential in surgical applications, addressing critical needs in urgent clinical scenarios and potentially making valuable contributions to the medical field. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A hydrogen-plasma-etching-based plasma-enhanced chemical vapor deposition (PECVD) synthesis route without metal catalyst for preparing the graphene films on flexible glass is developed. The quality of the prepared graphene films is evaluated by scanning electron microscopy, x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, high-resolution transmission electron microscopy, ultraviolet-visible spectroscopy, and electrochemical measurements. In a radio frequency (RF) power range of 50 W–300 W, the graphene growth rate increases with RF power increasing, while the intensity ratio of D- to G-Raman peak (ID/IG) decreases. When the RF power is higher than 300 W, the ID/IG rises again. By optimizing experimental parameters of hydrogen plasma etching and RF power, the properties of as-prepared flexible graphene on glass are modulated to be able to achieve the graphene's transparency, good electrical conductivity, and better macroscopic uniformity. Direct growth of graphene film without any metal catalyst on flexible glass can be a promising candidate for applications in flexible transparent optoelectronics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chinese Tajiks are an Indo‐Iranian‐speaking population in Xinjiang, northwest China. Although the complex demographic history has been characterized, the ancestral sources and genetic admixture of Indo‐Iranian‐speaking groups in this region remain poorly understood. We here provide the genome‐wide genotyping data for over 700 000 single‐nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) and mtDNA multiplex sequencing data in 64 Chinese male Tajik individuals from two dialect groups, Wakhi and Selekur. We applied principal component analysis (PCA), ADMIXTURE, f‐statistics, treemix, qpWave/qpAdm, Admixture‐induced Linkage Disequilibrium for Evolutionary Relationships (ALDER), and Fst analyses to infer a fine‐scale population genetic structure and admixture history. Our results reveal that Chinese Tajiks showed the closest affinity and similar genetic admixture pattern with ancient Xinjiang populations, especially Xinjiang samples in the historical era. Chinese Tajiks also have gene flow from European and Neolithic Iran farmers‐related populations. We observed a genetic substructure in the two Tajik dialect groups. The Selekur‐speaking group who lived in the county had more gene flow from East Asians than Wakhi‐speaking people who inhabited the village. These results document the population movements contributed to the influx of diverse ancestries in the Xinjiang region. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Lung cancer is a highly prevalent malignancy and has the highest mortality rate among all tumors due to lymph node metastasis. Bone marrow and umbilical cord-derived mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have demonstrated tumor-suppressive effects on lung cancer. This study investigated the effects of DPSC lysate on proliferation, apoptosis, migration and invasion of cancer cells were studied in vivo and in vitro. Methods: The proliferation, apoptosis, and migration/metastasis were evaluated by cell counting kit-8 assay, Annexin-V and propidium iodide staining, and the transwell assay, respectively. The expression levels of apoptosis-, cell cycle-, migration-, and adhesion-related mRNA and proteins were measured by qRT-PCR and western blot. The level and mRNA expression of tumor markers carcino embryonic antigen (CEA), neuron-specific enolase (NSE), and squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) were measured by Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and qRT-PCR. Finally, a tumor-bearing mouse model was constructed to observe the tumor-suppressive effect of DPSC lysate after intraperitoneal injection. Results: DPSC lysate decreased the viability of A549 cells and induced apoptosis in lung cancer cells. Western blot confirmed that levels of Caspase-3, Bax, and Bad were increased, and Bcl-2 protein levels were decreased in A549 cells treated with DPSC lysate. In addition, DPSC lysate inhibited the migration and invasion of A549 cells; downregulated key genes of the cell cycle, migration, and adhesion; and significantly suppressed tumor markers. Xenograft results showed that DPSC lysate inhibited tumor growth and reduced tumor weight. Conclusions: DPSC lysate inhibited proliferation, invasion, and metastasis; promoted apoptosis in lung cancer cells; and suppressed tumor growth- potentially providing a cell-based alternative therapy for lung cancer treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Salvia miltiorrhizae Bunge (Lamiaceae) is a traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) for the treatment of 'thoracic obstruction'. Transient receptor potential canonical channel 1 (TRPC1) is a important target for myocardial injury treatment. This work screens the active component acting on TRPC1 from Salvia miltiorrhizae. TCM Systems Pharmacology Database and Analysis Platform (TCMSP) was used to retrieve Salvia miltiorrhiza compounds for preliminary screening by referring to Lipinski's rule of five. Then, the compound group was comprehensively scored by AutoDock Vina based on TRPC1 protein. Surface plasmon resonance (SPR) was used to determine the affinity of the optimal compound to TRPC1 protein. Western blot assay was carried out to observe the effect of the optimal compound on TRPC1 protein expression in HL-1 cells, and Fura-2/AM detection was carried out to observe the effect of the optimal compound on calcium influx in HEK293 cells. Twenty compounds with relatively good characteristic parameters were determined from 202 compounds of Salvia miltiorrhiza. Rosmarinic acid (RosA) was obtained based on the molecular docking scoring function. RosA had a high binding affinity to TRPC1 protein (KD value = 1.27 µM). RosA (50 μM) could reduce the protein levels (417.1%) of TRPC1 after oxygen-glucose deprivation/reperfusion (OGD/R) in HL-1 cells and it could inhibit TRPC1-mediated Ca2+ influx injury (0.07 ΔRatio340/380) in HEK293 cells. We obtained the potential active component RosA acting on TRPC1 from Salvia miltiorrhizae, and we speculate that RosA may be a promising clinical candidate for myocardial injury therapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Metastasis of lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) is a major cause of death in patients. Aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AHR), an important transcription factor, is involved in the initiation and progression of lung cancer. Polo-like kinase 1 (PLK1), a serine/threonine kinase, acts as an oncogene promoting the malignancy of multiple cancer types. However, the interaction between these two factors and their significance in lung cancer remain to be determined. In this study, we demonstrate that PLK1 phosphorylates AHR at S489 in LUAD, leading to epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and metastatic events. RNA-seq analyses reveal that type 2 deiodinase (DIO2) is responsible for EMT and enhanced metastatic potential. DIO2 converts tetraiodothyronine (T4) to triiodothyronine (T3), activating thyroid hormone (TH) signaling. In vitro and in vivo experiments demonstrate that treatment with T3 or T4 promotes the metastasis of LUAD, whereas depletion of DIO2 or a deiodinase inhibitor disrupts this property. Taking together, our results identify the AHR phosphorylation by PLK1 and subsequent activation of DIO2-TH signaling as mechanisms leading to LUAD metastasis. These findings can inform possible therapeutic interventions for this event. Author summary: The spread of lung cancer cells to other parts of the body is a major reason why people with this cancer often do not survive. We studied two important proteins in lung cancer: aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AHR) and Polo-like kinase 1 (PLK1), which are known to worsen many types of cancer. Our research found that PLK1 interacted with AHR in a process called phosphorylation. This interaction initiated a process called epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) in cancer cells, helping them spread to other parts of the body. We also discovered that another molecule called type 2 deiodinase (DIO2) was responsible for this process. DIO2 converted one type of thyroid hormone (T4) into another (T3), which then sent signals that aided the spread of cancer cells. When we exposed lung cancer cells to more T3 or T4, they spread more. However, when we inhibited DIO2, the cancer cells could not spread as much. Our research demonstrated that the interaction between AHR and PLK1, the role of DIO2, and thyroid hormones were significant factors in lung cancer cells spread. Understanding this could help us discover new ways to stop or slow down this undesired process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article presents the results of a genetic analysis of the Ashina, a nomadic Turkic-speaking group from ancient Eurasia. The study used data from ancient DNA samples to investigate the genetic ancestry of the Ashina and their relationships with other Eurasian populations. The results showed that the Ashina had a mixed genetic heritage, with influences from both West Eurasian and East Eurasian populations. The study also found genetic differences between the Ashina and other Turkic-speaking populations, suggesting genetic heterogeneity within the Turkic Khaganate. Additionally, the analysis revealed genetic relationships between the Ashina and other ancient Eurasian populations, such as the Xiongnu and Tianshan nomadic groups. The findings provide insights into the genetic history and diversity of ancient Eurasian populations. [Extracted from the article]

All yellow Camellia plants in China are threatened, but their classification is contentious. Here, we performed a phylogenetic reconstruction based on nuclear double‐digest restriction site‐associated DNA sequencing (ddRAD), transcriptomes, nuclear ribosomal internal transcribed spacer (nrITS), and the small single‐copy region of the chloroplast genome, in combination with morphological evidence to help resolve taxonomic ambiguity of those rare and threatened species. Conflicting relationships were derived from nuclear and chloroplast sequences. The strong hybridization/introgression signal detected suggests reticulate evolution mainly caused this discordance pattern. The nuclear‐ddRAD and RNA‐seq phylogenies fit better to the yellow camellias' morphology, providing a clear resolution for inferring their relationships in China. Based on present phylogenetic analyses and morphological characters, we propose these taxonomic suggestions: (i) Camellia petelotii and Camellia nitidissima are distinct species; (ii) Camellia ptilosperma, Camellia longruiensis, Camellia longgangensis, and C. longgangensis var. grandis are conspecific with Camellia flavida; (iii) Camellia multipetala and C. longgangensis var. patens are synonyms of Camellia quinqueloculosa, and C. quinqueloculosa should be recognized as an independent species; (iv) Camellia wumingensis should be formally recognized as an independent species; (v) Camellia longzhouensis is a synonym of Camellia chrysanthoides; (vi) Camellia xiashiensis and Camellia parvipetala should be treated as synonyms of Camellia micrantha; (vii) Camellia achrysantha is a good species; (viii) Camellia tunghinensis is an independent species; (ix) species status of Camellia huana is well‐supported; and (x) Camellia pingguoensis var. terminals should be correctly identified to species level as Camellia terminalis. These results provide the basis for the recognition 20 yellow Camellia species in China. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Corydalis saxicola Bunting (CSB), whose common name in Chinese is Yanhuanglian, is a herb in the family Papaveraceae. When applied in traditional Chinese medicine, it is used to treat various diseases including hepatitis, abdominal pain, and bleeding haemorrhoids. In addition, Corydalis saxicola Bunting injection (CSBI) is widely used against acute and chronic hepatitis. This review aims to provide up-to-date information on the botanical distribution, description, traditional uses, phytochemistry, pharmacology, and clinical applications of CSB. A comprehensive review was implemented on studies about CSB from several scientific databases, such as SciFinder, Elsevier, Springer, ACS Publications, Baidu Scholar, CNKI, and Wanfang Data. Phytochemical studies showed that 81 chemical constituents have been isolated and identified from CSB, most of which are alkaloids. This situation indicates that these alkaloids would be the main bioactive substances and that they have antitumour, liver protective, antiviral, and antibacterial pharmacological activities. CSBI can not only treat hepatitis and liver cancer but can also be used in combination with other drugs. However, the relationships between the traditional uses and modern pharmacological actions, the action mechanisms, quality standards, and the material basis need to be implemented in the future. Moreover, the pharmacokinetics of CSBI in vivo and the toxicology should be further investigated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In order to find new drugs combined with the sensitive targets to solve the problem of drug resistance of pathogenic bacteria, by constructing the overexpression strain of the outer membrane protein ompC of Escherichia coli, the killing effect of gentamicin on it was tested and compared with that of the wild-type Escherichia coli. Then, the relationship between the protein expression level of ompC and the killing effect of gentamicin was explored by vising the immunoblot assay, and the over-expression strain MIC was further determined. The results showed that the overexpression of ompC could significantly enhance the sensitivity of Escherichia coli to gentamicin, and after the overexpression of ompC, the minimum inhibitory concentration of the strain W3110-pCA24N (ompC) was 8 ug • mL-1, which was significantly lower than that of the strain W3110-pCA24N (wild type) (being 16 ug • mL-1). The gentamicin was more intaken into the cells of Escherichia coli, which enhanced the bactericidal effect of gentamicin. Therefore, the outer membrane protein was expected to be a new candidate target of drug sensitivity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nardosinone, a sesquiterpene peroxide, is one of the main active constituents of the ethnomedicine Nardostachyos Radix et Rhizoma, and it has many bioactivities, such as antiarrhythmia and cardioprotection. To elucidate its in vivo existence forms, its metabolism is first studied using mice. All urine and feces are collected during the six days of oral dosing of nardosinone, and blood is collected at one hour after the last dose. Besides, to validate some metabolites, a fast experiment is performed, in which nardosinone was orally administered and the subsequent one-hour urine is collected and immediately analyzed by UHPLC-Q-TOF-MS. In total, 76 new metabolites are identified in this study, including 39, 51, and 12 metabolites in urine, plasma, and feces, respectively. Nardosinone can be converted into nardosinone acid or its isomers. The metabolic reactions of nardosinone included hydroxylation, hydrogenation, dehydration, glucuronidation, sulfation, demethylation, and carboxylation. There are 56 and 20 metabolites with the structural skeleton of nardosinone and nardosinone acid, respectively. In total, 77 in vivo existence forms of nardosinone are found in mice. Nardosinone is mainly excreted in urine and is not detected in the feces. These findings will lay the foundation for further research of the in vivo effective forms of nardosinone and Nardostachyos Radix et Rhizoma. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article offers information on online medical clerkships in China in a single institution since the outbreak of COVID-19. Topics discussed include groupings made on the physicians according to their subspecialties, teaching contents in each online clerkship, and lessons learned from the initiative.

Although oral probiotics can improve breast microecology and alleviate the inflammatory response, there are no data regarding cases with existing abscesses. We aimed to investigate the effect of Lactobacillus fermentum CECT5716 during needle aspiration in patients with lactational breast abscesses. Patients (aged 20–41 years) with lactational single-cavity breast abscesses (diameter 3–6 cm) from 12 hospitals were randomly assigned to the experimental (n = 51) and control groups (n = 50). Outcome measures included the abscess cure rate on treatment day-5, delactation rate, relieving pain rate, and number of needle aspirations until day-28. The experimental group's 5-day cure rate (43.1%) was significantly higher (p < 0.05). Breastfeeding continuation on day-5 did not differ significantly (experimental group: 88.2%, control group: 96.0%, p = 0.269). In the experimental and control groups, 19.6% and 14.0% of patients experienced moderate to severe pain on day-5, respectively, with no statistically significant differences (p = 0.451). Four patients in each group developed diarrhea, with adverse reaction rates of 7.84% and 8.0%, respectively. No adverse reactions were reported in the infants. L. fermentum can shorten the healing time in patients with lactational breast abscesses. Trial registration This study was registered in the Chinese Clinical Trial Registry (http://www.chictr.org.cn), registration number: ChiCTR2000032682, registration date: 6/May/ 2020; first entry date: 11/May/2020. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Polypropylene (PP) is considered to be a rather potential material for recyclable HVDC cable insulation. Grafting modification has been proven to be effective to further enhance the dielectric properties of PP. To investigate the grafting effect on the performance of different PPs, homopolymerized PP (PPH), ethylene-propylene copolymer (PEC), and impact PP copolymer (IPC) are, respectively, grafting-modified by styrene, and the comprehensive properties are experimentally studied. The results indicate that all these grafting-modified PPs show enhanced dielectric properties, while the enhancement levels differ. Styrene-grafted PPH presents the best dielectric properties improvement and highest thermostability, but the elastic modulus is also the highest. PEC exhibits moderate dielectric properties enhancement after grafting modification. Grafting-modified IPC shows excellent mechanical properties, but the enhancements on dielectric properties are rather limited. Grafting styrene has no significant influence on the thermal and mechanical properties of PP. In conclusion, PPH is preferred to be the matrix for styrene-grafting to achieve enhanced dielectric properties. However, the mechanical properties still need further modification to meet the demands of cable insulation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We aimed to investigate the association between either or both of benzodiazepines (BZDs) and non-BZDs and the incidence of atrial fibrillation (AF) in the Taiwan National Health Insurance Database. The participants with at least two prescriptions of BZDs and/or non-BZDs were identified as hypnotics users, whereas those without any prescription of hypnotics were non-hypnotics users. The hypnotics and non-hypnotics cohorts were 1:1 matched on their propensity scores. A total of 109,704 AF-free individuals were included; 610 AF cases occurred in the 54,852 hypnotics users and 166 in the 54,852 non-hypnotics users during the 602,470 person-years of follow-up, with a higher risk of new-onset AF in the users than the non-users (hazard ratio (HR): 3.61, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 3.04–4.28). The users at the highest tertiles of the estimated defined daily doses per one year (DDD) had a greater risk for AF than the non-users, with the risk increasing by 7.13-fold (95% CI: 5.86–8.67) for >0.74-DDD BZDs, 10.68-fold (95% CI: 6.13–18.62) for >4.72-DDD non-BZDs, and 3.26-fold (95% CI: 2.38–4.47) for > 1.65-DDD combinations of BZDs with non-BZDs, respectively. In conclusion, hypnotics use was associated with elevated incidence of AF in the Taiwanese population, which highlighted that the high-dose usage of hypnotics needs more caution in clinical cardiological practice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Manganese oxides (MnOx) have been regarded as promising catalyst candidates for oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) due to their natural abundance and extremely low toxicity. However, the intrinsic low conductivity of MnOx limits their application. In this work, Mn oxide embedded in N doped porous carbon (MnOx@C-N) electrocatalysts were prepared through a facile zeolitic imidazolate framework (ZIF-8) template method for ORR. The structure, morphology, and composition of the prepared materials were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). Electrocatalytic performances of the prepared materials were investigated by linear sweep voltammetry. Benefiting from the well-defined morphology, high surface area, and porous structure, the MnOx@C-N electrocatalyst showed the highest ORR activity among all investigated materials with the limiting current density of 5.38 mA/cm2 at a rotation speed of 1600 rpm, the positive half-wave potential of 0.645 V vs. RHE, and the electron transfer number of 3.90. This work showcases an effective strategy to enhance ORR activity of MnOx. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Hydrogen bond microstructure of DESs and lignin played a major role in dissolution. • Strong dissolution abilities of the Lac:ChCl and Oxa:ChCl solvents for GGM and GSM were due to the different HB interactions. • Large extended structure of lignin would increase the active exposed areas of β–O–4 bond in DES solvents. • Small |HOMO–LUMO| gap suggested that GGM and GSM had high reactivities in the Lac:ChCl and Oxa:ChCl solvents. • Average surface potential charge confirmed that solvents had different solubilities and effects on the β–O–4 bond. Acid choline chloride (ChCl)–based deep eutectic solvents (DESs), are widely used as effective green solvents of lignin, which contributes to the high–value application of biomass. Understanding the underlying microscopic-scale lignin dissolution mechanism of different acid ChCl–based DESs is important for further DES design due to the heterogeneous and refractory structure of lignin. In this study, we employed molecular dynamics and quantum mechanics methods to investigate the behavior of lignin dimers (guaiacyl–guaiacyl [GGM] and guaiacyl–syringyl [GSM] dimers) in three acid ChCl–based DESs ([i] lactic acid [Lac]:ChCl [2:1], [ii] levulinic acid [Lev]:ChCl [2:1], and [iii] oxalic acid [Oxa]:ChCl [1:1]). Results showed that the dissolution tendencies of different lignin dimers in the three solvents followed different orders. Microstructural analysis revealed that the microstructure of the hydrogen bond (HB) between DESs and lignin dimer played a major role in dissolution. The high dissolution abilities of the Lac:ChCl and Oxa:ChCl solvents for GGM and GSM, respectively, can be attributed to the strong HB interactions between acid–GGM and Chol–GSM, respectively. Moreover, the large extended structure of the lignin dimer would increase the active area (β–O–4 had a large exposed area) in DES solvents. The highest occupied molecular orbital and lowest unoccupied molecular orbital gap between lignin dimers and choline molecules in the three solvents suggested that GGM and GSM had higher reactivities in Lac:ChCl and Oxa:ChCl solvents, respectively, than in other solvents. Finally, the statistical analysis of average surface potential charges further confirmed the different solubilities of the three solvents for different lignin dimers and their effect on β–O–4 bonds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • CoFe-LDH was applied to activate S(IV) for the first time. • A Co-Fe bimetal synergistic effect on electron transfer was confirmed. • The Co/Fe molar ratio greatly affects the generation of reactive species. • BPA is effectively degraded through both radical and non-radical pathways. The sulfite (S(IV))-based advanced oxidation process is an emerging approach for the treatment of phenolic pollution. In this study, CoFe-layered double hydroxides (CoFe-LDHs), showing superior physicochemical properties as catalysts, were applied to activate S(IV) for bisphenol A (BPA) degradation. The results show that the Co/Fe molar ratios play a crucial role in regulating the physicochemical properties, degradation capacity, and activation mechanism of the catalysts, with Co 3 Fe 1 -LDH exhibiting the best performance in BPA degradation. The degradation of BPA is significantly influenced by pH and dissolved oxygen, and proceeds through bimetallic synergism and both radical and non-radical pathways. However, with increasing Co/Fe ratio, SO 4 •− gradually assumes a more prominent role in degradation by the system, and the contributions from high-valent metals and HO• gradually diminish. Additionally, the system brought about a substantial reduction in toxicity after degradation, and the catalyst demonstrated promise in consecutive recycling experiments, the degradation of other organics, and tests in actual water bodies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Spring freeze–thaw process led to higher soil aggregate stability than autumn. • Snow cover could increase the soil aggregate turnover time. • Autumn freeze–thaw process decreased mass loading of Cd in large aggregates. • Seasonal freeze–thaw process decreased the release amounts of Cd in soil. • The residual fraction contributed most of the release of Cd from soil. Seasonal freeze–thaw action has been shown to influence the behaviors of heavy metals in soil by changing soil aggregate formation, stabilization, and breakdown. Using rare earth oxides tracing method, this study conducted in-situ seasonal freeze–thaw experiments to examine the links between aggregate turnover behaviors and cadmium (Cd) release kinetics in black soil. Higher stability and longer turnover time of soil aggregates after spring freeze–thaw process than those just experienced autumn freeze–thaw process were found. Changes of the Cd distribution in different aggregates during the freeze–thaw process were mainly driven by soil aggregate transformations. Autumn freeze–thaw events increased the exchangeable Cd amounts in bulk soil and ≥ 0.25 mm aggregates, while no difference was found for the soils subjected to spring freeze–thaw events. The freeze–thaw process decreased the amounts of Cd released from soil, and the lowest amounts were found in the spring snow-removed treatment. Redundancy analysis indicated that the exchangeable, reducible, and residual Cd fractions accounted for most of the variations in Cd release. This study is the first to apply rare earth oxides as an approach to uncover the role of soil aggregate turnover dynamics in explaining the environmental behaviors of heavy metals in seasonal freeze–thaw regions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]