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The quality and safety of dairy products are highly valued by consumers and dairy manufacturers, which is mainly ensured by thorough cleaning of dairy production equipment. Milk fouling can cause pipes to clog and reduce transmission. Incomplete cleaning can cause microbial breeding, which will affect the quality and safety of dairy products. To achieve efficient and rapid cleaning of dairy processing equipment, cleaning agents have always been a necessary choice for dairy and food enterprises. This paper describes the production mechanism of milk fouling, the cleaning mechanism by cleaning agents, and the cleaning process. Development of cleaning agents are introduced in detail, include compound alkaline/acid/neutral cleaning agents, enzyme cleaning agents and cleaning additives. The factors affecting cleaning efficiency are also viewed, which include type and dosage of cleaning agents, cleaning process (cleaning time, cleaning liquid temperature, cleaning fluid flow rate), and other influencing factors (cleaning fluid pressure, Reynolds number and shear stress, surface types). Four aspects are reviewed in this manuscript, include cleaning objects (milk fouling), cleaning substances (cleaning agents), how to clean (cleaning mechanism) and how to clean efficiently (cleaning influencing factors), which provides a valuable reference for the improvement of the dairy cleaning process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To evaluate the efficacy and safety of herbal medicine and acupuncture combination for pediatric epilepsy treatment. Methods: Databases were searched from their interception until October 2023 to identify randomized controlled trials focusing on the therapeutic efficacy of herbal medicine-acupuncture combination (intervention group) for pediatric epilepsy. The primary outcome was the risk of treatment failure, whereas the secondary outcomes included the risk of post-treatment electroencephalogram (EEG) abnormalities and adverse events. Subgroup analyses were conducted based on the type of herbal compound formulas. Meta-regression analysis was conducted to examine the influence of patient demographics and clinical history on the therapeutic efficacy of herbal medicine-acupuncture combination for pediatric epilepsy. To assess the cumulative evidence, trial sequential analysis (TSA) was performed. Results: The analysis included 10 trials involving a total of 882 pediatric patients. Meta-analysis revealed that the intervention group had a lower risk of treatment failure than the control group (risk ratio [RR] = 0.3, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.19–0.47, P<0.00001, I2 = 0%, 10 trials). Subgroup analyses showed that therapeutic efficacy was consistent among the different herbal compound formulas. Meta-regression analysis revealed that the efficacy of the treatments did not significantly vary with patient age, male sex, and duration of seizure history. TSA suggested that herbal medicine-acupuncture combination exerted a robust and conclusive effect on seizure treatment. Although the combined used of herbal medicine and acupuncture was not associated with a lower risk of post-treatment EEG abnormalities (RR = 0.82, 95%CI:0.6–1.11, P = 0.2, 3 trials), the risk of adverse events was reduced (RR = 0.27, 95%CI:0.18–0.41, P<0.00001, 4 trials). Conclusion: The meta-analysis suggested that combined use of herbal medicine and acupuncture is a promising and safe clinical approach for pediatric epilepsy treatment. Further large-scale studies are necessary to conclusively determine the efficacy and safety of herbal medicine and acupuncture in pediatric epilepsy treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

AbstractInterconnected cracks are prefabricated on plexiglass plates (polymethyl methacrylate, PMMA) to study the effect of crack length on the initiation and propagation of interconnected cracks under impact loads. A new dynamic caustics test system was constructed to analyze the specimen’s initiation process; the fractal method was used to quantify crack propagation; and the numerical simulation was used to monitor the specimen’s full-field stress change. The results show that, with the direction of the impact loads as the axis of symmetry, interconnected cracks with different lengths and symmetrical angles, only the longer cracks initiate under the action of impact loads. With the increase in the length of one side of the interconnected crack, the crack initiation time is delayed, the trajectory of crack propagation becomes more irregular, and the peak propagation velocity of the crack increases first and then decreases. After the analysis, it was concluded that there is a certain competitive relationship in the crack tip propagation law between interconnected cracks with different lengths. In the energy storage stage, the tip of the longer crack is more likely to accumulate energy than that of the shorter crack, and it also has a suppressive effect on the energy storage of the latter. In the initiation and propagation stages, the energy at the tip of the uninitiated shorter crack will transfer to the tip of the longer crack, promoting its propagation. The research provides a basis for analyzing the initiation and propagation laws of interconnected cracks in practical engineering applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Microneedling with topical tranexamic acid (TXA) is a novel treatment option for melasma; however, the efficacy and safety of this combined administration therapy is in controversial. This study is conducted to address this issue of this technique in melasma. Methods: An extensive literature review was performed to identify relevant trials, including randomized split‐face studies, randomized controlled trials and prospective non‐randomized split‐face studies, comparing microneedling plus topical TXA to routine treatments or placebo. The primary outcomes were changes of the Melasma Area Severity Index (MASI)/modified MASI (mMASI)/hemi MASI between before and after treatment, as well as the changes between a particular treatment and microneedling plus TXA. The mean differences (MDs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated for the reduction of melasma severity scores from baseline to each time point. In contrast, the standard mean differences (SMDs) and 95% CIs were calculated for the differences in reduction in melasma severity scores between the experimental and control groups at each time point. Results: A total of 16 trials were included in the systematic review and data synthesis. The pooled analysis demonstrated that MASI, mMASI, and hemiMASI scores decreased significantly at 4 weeks (MD = 1.85; 95% CI = 1.15–2.54), 8 weeks (MD = 3.28; 95% CI = 2.31–4.24), 12 weeks (MD = 4.73; 95% CI = 2.79–6.50), 16 weeks (MD = 3.18; 95% CI = 1.50–4.85), and 20 weeks (MD = 3.20; 95% CI = 1.95–4.46) after treatment when compared with baseline. The reduction in melasma severity scores of microneedling with TXA group at 4 weeks was more significant than the routine treatment group (SMD = 0.97; 95% CI = 0.09–1.86), while insignificant at 8 weeks (SMD = 1.21; 95% CI = −0.17 to 2.59), 12 weeks (SMD = 0.63; 95% CI = −0.03 to 1.29), 16 weeks (SMD = 0.61; 95% CI = −2.85 to 4.07), or 20 weeks (SMD = 1.04; 95% CI = −1.28 to 3.36). Conclusion: Despite the high heterogeneity across these studies, the current findings indicated that microneedling with topical TXA is an alternative treatment option for melasma treatment; and more well‐designed studies are needed to confirm it. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pitongshu (PTS) is a clinically effective empirical formula for the treatment of FD. The efficacy and safety of PTS have been demonstrated in randomized, controlled, double-blind trials, but there is a lack of understanding of the systematic evaluation of the efficacy of PTS and its material basis. To investigate the efficacy of PTS in Functional dyspepsia (FD) mice and possible Q-markers. In this study, we used "irregular feeding + chronic unpredictable chronic stimulation" to establish a mice model of FD with hepatogastric disharmony. The efficacy of PTS was assessed from hair condition, behavioral, pain, gastrointestinal function, and serum 5-HT, GAS, MTL levels in mice by instillation of different doses of PTS. In addition, the composition of drugs in blood was analyzed by LC-QTOF-MS and potential Q-markers were selected by combining network pharmacology, molecular docking and actual content. Our study showed that different doses of PTS increased pain threshold and writhing latency, decreased the number of writhings, increased gastric emptying rate and small intestinal propulsion rate, decreased total acidity of gastric contents and gastric acid secretion, and increased serum levels of 5-HT, GAS, and MTL in mice to different degrees. Enrichment analysis showed that PTS may be anti-FD through multiple pathways such as Serotonergic synapse, thyroid hormone signaling pathway, cholinergic synapse, and dopaminergic synapse. In addition, potential active ingredient substances were explored by LC-QTOF-MS combined with bioinformatics. Combined with the actual contentselected six constituents, hesperidin, neohesperidin, naringin, paeoniflorin, magnolol and honokiol, possible as Q-markers. PTS may exert its anti-FD effects through multi-component, multi-target and multi-pathway". Constituents, hesperidin, neohesperidin, naringin, paeoniflorin, magnolol and honokiol may be the Q-markers of its anti-FD effects. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Short tailed mice can be produced by gene editing of the T gene c.G334T. • Mutation in the T gene lead to the generation of short tail phenotype in mice, which is related to the Wnt signaling pathway. • Successfully produced T gene mutant mice using CRISPR /Cas9 technology. With the change in diet structure, individuals prefer to consume mutton with less fat. However, sheep tail has a lot of fat. We identified a breed of low-fat short-tailed sheep (i.e., Hulunbuir short-tailed sheep). It is necessary to develop an animal model that can promote research on the potential mechanisms of the short-tail phenotype in sheep, which results from the TBXT gene c.G334T mutation. To create animal models, we selected mice as experimental animals. Mouse embryos lacking the TBXT protein, which crucially regulates mouse embryonic development, cannot develop normally. We utilized CRISPR/Cas9 gene editing technology to generate site-specific mutation (c.G334T) in the TBXT gene of mice, and found that the mouse TBXT mutation (c.G334T) leads to a short-tail phenotype. Furthermore, we investigated the interaction between TBXT and Wnt signaling pathways. The expressions of TBXT, Axin2, Dkk1, Wnt3, Wnt3a, and Wnt5a were discovered to be significantly different between mutant embryos and wild embryos by obtaining mouse embryos at various developmental stages and examining the expression relationship between the TBXT and Wnt signaling pathway-related components in all of these embryos. Therefore, as a transcription factor, TBXT regulates the expression of the aforementioned Wnt signaling pathway components by forming a regulatory network for the normal development of mouse embryos. This study enriches the research on the functional role of the TBXT in the development of mouse embryos and the mechanism by which the short-tailed phenotype in sheep develops. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Cow mastitis is the most common and important economic problem among ruminant cows in the world, with bacterial infection constituting one of the main causes of the disease. Lipopolysaccharides (LPS) are one prototype Pathogen-Associated Molecular Pattern (PAMP) of Gram-negative bacteria and an important risk factor of cow mastitis caused by Gram-negative bacteria. Interleukin-17A (IL-17A), which is a signature cytokine of auxiliary T-cell 17, can be secreted by immune and non-immune cells. It has been proved that IL-17A plays a key role in the resistance of host animals against various bacterial infections. However, its role in the resistance of host animals against mastitis is not clear. The aim of this study is to explore the mechanism of IL-17A infection in the development of bacterial mastitis in dairy cows. In this study, RT-qPCR and ELISA were used to measure the promoting effect of IL-17A on the generation of pro-inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6) and chemokine (IL-8). In addition, Western blot (WB) was applied to measure the influences of IL-17A on the inflammation-related ERK and p38 proteins in the MAPK pathways. The results show that under the stimulation of LPS on cow mammary epithelial cells (CMECs), cytokines IL-1β, IL-6, IL-8, TNF-α, and IL-17A will exhibit significantly increased expression levels (p < 0.05). With inhibited endogenous expression of IL-17A, cytokines IL-1β, IL-6, IL-8, and TNF-α will present reduced genetic expression (p < 0.01), with reduced phosphorylation levels of ERK and p38 proteins in the MAPK signaling pathways (p < 0.001). Upon the exogenous addition of the IL-17A cytokine, the genetic expression of cytokines IL-1β, IL-6, IL-8, and TNF-α will increase (p < 0.05), with increased phosphorylation levels of the ERK and p38 proteins in the MAPK signaling pathways (p < 0.001). These results indicate that under the stimulation of CMECs with LPS, IL-17A can be expressed together with relevant inflammatory cytokines. Meanwhile, the inflammatory responses of mammary epithelial cells are directly proportional to the expression levels of IL-17A inhibited alone or exogenously added. In summary, this study shows that IL-17A could be used as an important indicator for assessing the bacterial infections of mammary glands, indicating that IL-17A could be regarded as one potential therapeutic target for mastitis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to investigate whether regional cerebral perfusion patterns on early-phase 18F-FP-CIT PET scans, which is typically coupled to cerebral metabolism, predict the long-term prognosis of Parkinson's disease (PD). We enrolled 397 drug-naïve patients with early-stage PD who underwent dual-phase 18F-FP-CIT PET scans. After quantifying the early-phase 18F-FP-CIT PET images, cluster analysis was performed to delineate the PD subtypes according to the patterns of regional cerebral perfusion. We compared the risk of developing levodopa-induced dyskinesia (LID), wearing-off, freezing of gait (FOG), and dementia between the PD subtypes. Cluster analysis classified patients into three subtypes: cluster 1 (relatively preserved cortical uptake; n = 175), cluster 2 (decreased uptake in the frontal, parietal, and temporal regions; n = 151), and cluster 3 (decreased uptake in more extensive regions, additionally involving the lateral occipital regions; n = 71). Cluster 1 was characterized by a younger age-of-onset, less severe motor deficits, less severely decreased 18F-FP-CIT binding in the caudate, and better cognitive performance. Cluster 3 was characterized by an older age-of-onset, more severe motor deficits, and poorer cognitive performance. Cluster 2 was intermediate between clusters 1 and 3. Cox regression analyses demonstrated that clusters 2 and 3 had a higher risk for dementia conversion than cluster 1, whereas the risk for developing LID, wearing-off, and FOG did not differ among the clusters. The patterns of regional cerebral perfusion can provide information on long-term prognosis with regards to cognitive, but not motor aspects of patients with early-stage PD. • Early-phase 18F-FP-CIT PET can provide information on regional cerebral perfusion. • Cluster analysis delineated three PD subtypes using early-phase 18F-FP-CIT PET. • Clusters with decreased cerebral perfusion had a higher risk for dementia conversion. • Regional cerebral perfusion patterns have prognostic implications in PD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • We synthesized a highly soluble MR emitter for solution-processable OLEDs. • Multi-layered OLED device was fabricated using eco-friendly aliphatic solvents. • This device exhibited a high EQE of 14.0 % and a narrow bandwidth of 30 nm. In general, fabricating multilayer structures in solution-processed organic light-emitting diodes (OLEDs) presents challenges owing to the potential degradation of the initial film during subsequent processing steps. Furthermore, these devices typically require aromatic and halogenated solvents recognized for their adverse effects on human health and their harmful environmental impact. In this study, we successfully synthesized a solution-processable multi-resonance thermally activated delayed fluorescence (MR-TADF) emitter by introducing tert -butyl carbazolyl dendron, which exhibits excellent solubility. In our approach, we fabricated a multilayer OLED for solution processing utilizing eco-friendly, non-halogenated aliphatic solvents, with each layer in the devices developed utilizing water, cyclohexanone, and ethyl acetate for the hole injection layer, hole transport layer, and emitting layer, respectively. The resulting eco-friendly solution-processed OLED achieved a maximum external quantum efficiency (EQE max) of 14.0 % and a narrow bandwidth of 30 nm. Furthermore, utilizing an additional TADF sensitizer led to a remarkable EQE max enhancement of over 15 % and a substantial improvement in efficiency roll-off. Thus, the eco-friendly device fabrication strategy employed here opens novel avenues for diverse research in organic semiconductor devices that must be fabricated with solution processes in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: We investigated whether hippocampal perfusion changes are associated with cognitive decline, motor deficits, and the risk of dementia conversion in patients with Parkinson disease (PD). Methods: We recruited patients with newly diagnosed and nonmedicated PD and healthy participants who underwent dual phase 18F‐N‐(3‐fluoropropyl)‐2β‐carboxymethoxy‐3β‐(4‐iodophenyl) nortropane positron emission tomography scans. Patients were classified into 3 groups according to hippocampal perfusion measured by standard uptake value ratios (SUVRs): (1) PD hippocampal hypoperfusion group (1 standard deviation [SD] below the mean hippocampal SUVR of healthy controls; PD‐hippo‐hypo), (2) PD hippocampal hyperperfusion group (1 SD above the mean; PD‐hippo‐hyper), and (3) the remaining patients (PD‐hippo‐normal). We compared the baseline cognitive performance, severity of motor deficits, hippocampal volume, striatal dopamine transporter (DAT) availability, and risk of dementia conversion among the groups. Results: We included 235 patients (PD‐hippo‐hypo, n = 21; PD‐hippo‐normal, n = 157; PD‐hippo‐hyper, n = 57) and 48 healthy participants. Patients in the PD‐hippo‐hypo group were older and had smaller hippocampal volumes than those in the other PD groups. The PD‐hippo‐hypo group showed less severely decreased DAT availability in the putamen than the other groups despite similar severities of motor deficit. The PD‐hippo‐hypo group had a higher risk of dementia conversion compared to the PD‐hippo‐normal (hazard ratio = 2.59, p = 0.013) and PD‐hippo‐hyper (hazard ratio = 3.73, p = 0.006) groups, despite similar cognitive performance at initial assessment between groups. Interpretation: Hippocampal hypoperfusion may indicate a reduced capacity to cope with neurodegenerative processes in terms of the development of motor deficits and cognitive decline in patients with PD. ANN NEUROL 2024;95:388–399 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Endothelial dysfunction is common in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) and cardiovascular events, but the mechanism is unclear. In our study, we found elevated levels of RIPK1 in patients with CKD and cardiovascular events through bioinformation analysis. Elevated RIPK1 levels were found in serum samples of CKD patients and were associated with vascular endothelial dysfunction and renal function. We constructed the five of six nephrectomy of CKD mice model, finding that RIPK1 expressions were elevated in abdominal aorta endothelial cells. After RIPK1 inhibition and overexpression, it was found that RIPK1 could regulate the expression of endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) and cell adhesion molecule 1 (ICAM‐1), and activation of inflammatory responses and endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress. In addition, uremic toxin induced abnormal expression of RIPK1 in vitro. We observed RIPK1‐mediating endothelial dysfunction and inflammation responses by ER stress pathways through gain and loss of function. In order to explore the specific mechanism, we conducted co‐immunoprecipitation and expression regulation of RIPK1 and IKK, finding that RIPK1 formed complex with IKK and regulated IKK expression. In conclusion, we demonstrated that RIPK1 levels were closely associated with vascular endothelial dysfunction in patients with CKD. With uremic toxins, RIPK1 expression was elevated, which led to the activation of inflammation through the ER stress pathway, resulting in vascular endothelial injury. Besides, activation of RIPK1‐IKK‐NF‐κB axis was a key driver of endothelial dysfunction in CKD. Our study provides a new perspective for the study of cardiovascular events in CKD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Low immunity and sleep disorders are prevalent suboptimal health conditions in contemporary populations, which render them susceptible to the infiltration of pathogenic factors. LJC, which has a long history in traditional Chinese medicine for nourishing the Yin and blood and calming the mind, is obtained by modifying Qiyuan paste. Dendrobium officinale Kimura et Migo has been shown to improve the immune function in sleep-deprived mice. In this study, based on the traditional Chinese medicine theory, LJC was prepared by adding D. officinale Kimura et Migo to Qiyuan paste decoction. Methods: Indicators of Yin deficiency syndrome, such as back temperature and grip strength, were measured in each group of mice; furthermore, behavioral tests and pentobarbital sodium-induced sleep tests were performed. An automatic biochemical analyzer, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay kit, and other methods were used to determine routine blood parameters, serum immunoglobulin (IgG, IgA, and IgM), cont (C3, C4), acid phosphatase (ACP) and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) levels in the spleen, serum hemolysin, and delayed-type hypersensitivity (DTH) levels. In addition, serum levels of γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA) and glutamate (Glu) were detected using high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). Hematoxylin–eosin staining and Nissl staining were used to assess the histological alterations in the hypothalamus tissue. Western blot and immunohistochemistry were used to detect the expressions of the GABA pathway proteins GABRA1, GAD, GAT1, and GABAT1 and those of CD4+ and CD8+ proteins in the thymus and spleen tissues. Results: The findings indicated that LJC prolonged the sleep duration, improved the pathological changes in the hippocampus, effectively upregulated the GABA content in the serum of mice, downregulated the Glu content and Glu/GABA ratio, enhanced the expressions of GABRA1, GAT1, and GAD, and decreased the expression of GABAT1 to assuage sleep disorders. Importantly, LJC alleviated the damage to the thymus and spleen tissues in the model mice and enhanced the activities of ACP and LDH in the spleen of the immunocompromised mice. Moreover, serum hemolysin levels and serum IgG, IgA, and IgM levels increased after LJC administration, which manifested as increased CD4+ content, decreased CD8+ content, and enhanced DTH response. In addition, LJC significantly increased the levels of complement C3 and C4, increased the number of white blood cells and lymphocytes, and decreased the percentage of neutrophils in the blood. Conclusions: LJC can lead to improvements in immunocompromised mice models with insufficient sleep. The underlying mechanism may involve regulation of the GABA/Glu content and the expression levels of GABA metabolism pathway-related proteins in the brain of mice, enhancing their specific and nonspecific immune functions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Outbreaks of fowl adenoviruses (FAdVs) infection with the main clinical signs of hepatitis-hydropericardium-syndrome or inclusion body hepatitis have been frequently reported in ducks and geese in recent years, causing economic losses for the Chinese waterfowl industry. This study investigated 792 samples (391 fattening ducks, 192 breeder ducks and 209 fattening geese) of suspected FAdV-infected waterfowl from 38 farms (21 fattening duck farms, nine breeder duck farms and eight fattening geese farms) in Shandong Province between 2019 and 2022. The results showed a 60.23% infection rate for FAdVs (477/792), while the infection rate for breeder ducks was almost the same as that for fattening geese (55.73% vs. 54.55%). Notably, co-infection with avian influenza virus H9N2 (H9N2), Tembusu virus (TMUV), duck hepatitis virus (DHV), duck circovirus (DuCV), goose astrovirus (GAstV) and duck parvovirus (DPV)/goose parvovirus (GPV) was common among the 477 FAdVs positive cases. Phylogenetic analysis of complete hexon genes of 22 FAdV strains in Shandong Province showed the presence of four species (FAdV-A, C, D, E) and five serotypes (FAdV-1, 4, 8a, 8b, 11). These findings provide the first data on the prevalence and co-infection status of FAdVs in Shandong Province and can be used as a basis for FAdV prevention in the field. Samples of suspected FAdV-infected waterfowl from farms in Shandong Province were collected from 2019 to 2022. Single infections with FAdV were less frequent than mixed infections. 477 out of 792 samples (60.23%) tested positive for FAdV nucleic acids. Detection rate of FAdV was 65.47% in fattening duck farms, 55.73% in breeder duck farms and 54.55% in fattening geese farms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ambient heat exposure is a risk factor for suicide in many regions of the world. However, little is known about the extent to which life expectancy has been shortened by heat-related suicide deaths. This study aimed to evaluate the short-term effects of heat on suicide mortality and quantify the reduced life expectancy associated with heat in China. A time-stratified, case-crossover analysis in 2023 was performed during the warm season (May to September) from 2016 to 2020 to assess the short-term association between extreme heat (the 95th percentile of mean temperature) and suicide mortality in Anhui Province, China. A subgroup analysis was performed according to sex, age, marital status, suicide type, and region. The attributable fraction and years of life lost due to heat were calculated, and the heat-related life expectancy loss was estimated. This study included 9,642 suicide deaths, with an average age of 62.4 years and 58.8% of suicides in males. Suicide risk was associated with an 80.7% increase (95% confidence interval [CI]: 21.4%–68.9%) after exposure to extreme heat (30.6°C) in comparison to daily minimum temperature (7.9°C). Subgroup analysis revealed that heat-related suicide risk was more prominent in the married population than in the unmarried population. Heat was estimated to be associated with 31.7% (95% CI: 18.0%–43.2%) of the suicides, corresponding to 7.0 years of loss in life expectancy for each decedent. Heat exposure was associated with an increased risk of suicide and reduced life expectancy. However, further prospective studies are required to confirm this relationship. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Dendrobium officinale flowers (DOF) have the effects of antiaging and nourishing yin, but it lacks pharmacological research on skin aging. Objective: Confirming the role of DOF in delaying skin aging based on the "in vitro animal–human" model. Methods: In this experiment, three kinds of free radical scavenging experiments in vitro, D‐galactose‐induced aging mouse model, and human antiaging efficacy test were used to test whether DOF can improve skin aging through anti‐oxidation. Results: In vitro experiment shows that DOF has certain scavenging effect on 2,2‐diphenyl‐1‐picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) free radical, hydroxyl free radical, and superoxide free radical, and its IC50 is 0.2090 μg/mL, 15.020, and 1.217 mg/mL respectively. DOF can enhance the activities of T‐AOC, SOD, CAT, and GSH Px in the serum of aging mice, increase the content of GSH, and reduce the content of MDA when administered with DOF of 1.0, 2.0, and 4.0 g/kg for 6 weeks. In addition, it can enhance the activity of SOD in the skin of aging mice, increase the content of Hyp, and decrease the content of MDA, activated Keap1/Nrf2 pathway in the skin of aging mice. Applying DOF with a concentration of 0.2 g/mL on the face for 8 weeks can significantly improve the skin water score and elasticity value, reduce facial wrinkles, pores, acne, and UV spots, and improve the facial brown spots and roughness. Conclusion: DOF can significantly improve skin aging caused by oxidative stress, and its mechanism may be related to scavenging free radicals in the body and improving skin quality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The conversion between guided and free-space waves is crucial for achieving integrated terahertz (THz) communication and signal processing. Herein, a bidirectional conversion mechanism is proposed for bridging two-dimensional (2D) guided waves and free-space waves, which is demonstrated by the wave manipulation of a metallic waveguide with meta-holes (MWMH). Compared with the conventional conversion between one-dimensional guided waves and free-space waves, in the proposed bidirectional conversion process, meta-holes can arbitrarily manipulate the phase of THz waves in higher dimensions, which enables stronger beam-manipulation capability and a higher gain. When used as a transmitting antenna, the MWMH exhibits excellent performance, i.e., a high gain (33.3 dBi), a high radiation efficiency (∼90%), and flexible beam manipulation. When the MWMH is reversely employed as a receiving antenna to obtain the focus of 2D guided waves, it achieves a gain of 27 dB and a focusing efficiency of 50.4%. The measured results for both the transmitting and receiving antennas agree well with the simulation results. The proposed bidirectional conversion mechanism facilitates the development of THz integrated photonic devices and is promising for application in the sixth-generation mobile communication, radar detection, and nondestructive testing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Previous studies did not provide substantial evidence for long‐term immune persistence after the hepatitis B vaccine (HepB) in preterm birth (PTB) children. Consequently, there is ongoing controversy surrounding the booster immunization strategy for these children. Therefore, we conducted a retrospective cohort study to evaluate the disparities in immune persistence between PTB children and full‐term children. A total of 1027 participants were enrolled in this study, including 505 PTB children in the exposure group and 522 full‐term children in the control group. The negative rate of hepatitis B surface antibody (HBsAb) in the PTB group was significantly lower than that in the control group (47.9% vs. 41.4%, p =.035). The risk of HBsAb‐negative in the exposure group was 1.5 times higher than that in the control group (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] = 1.5, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.1–2.0). The geometric mean concentration (GMC) of HBsAb was much lower for participants in the exposure group compared to participants in the control group (9.3 vs. 12.4 mIU/mL, p =.029). Subgroup analysis showed that the very preterm infants (gestational age <32 weeks) and the preterm low birth weight infants (birth weight <2000 g) had relatively low GMC levels of 3.2 mIU/mL (95% CI: 0.9–11.1) and 7.9 mIU/mL (95% CI: 4.2–14.8), respectively. Our findings demonstrated that PTB had a significant impact on the long‐term persistence of HBsAb after HepB vaccination. The very preterm infants (gestational age <32 weeks) and the preterm low birth weight infants (birth weight <2000 g) may be special populations that should be given priority for HepB booster vaccination. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

For the authentication of powdered spices, the possible impact of the natural variations of adulterants on classification or prediction models is always ignored, and research in this area is still quite scarce. This study takes the application of front-face synchronous fluorescence spectroscopy (FFSFS) to the rapid and non-destructive authentication of cumin powder adulterated with ground peanut shells and maize flour as an example to show that how the natural variations of adulterants affect model prediction. Using three samples of each adulterant, two modes of sample set were designed for comparison. Mode 1 used the first adulterant for calibration and the other two for external validation. Mode 2 employed two adulterants in training and the third for external validation. The classification of adulterants by principal component analysis coupled with linear discriminant analysis (PCA–LDA) showed that mode 2 had a higher prediction rate (82%) in external validation than mode 1 (63%). For quantification, prediction models were built by partial least square (PLS) regression, and were validated by both cross- and external validation. The result of mode 2 was better than that of mode 1, with the determination coefficients of prediction (R p 2) greater than 0.93, the root mean square error of prediction (RMSEP) < 4.2% and residual predictive deviation (RPD) at least 2.7. This study demonstrates the necessity of the consideration of the natural variations of adulterants when constructing a robust model for adulteration detection. [Display omitted] • Front-face fluorescent property of cumin powder is investigated. • Its emission is dissimilar to those of ground peanut shells and maize flour. • Flavonoids, phenolic acids and tryptophan contribute to the distinction. • Simultaneous detection of dual adulterants in cumin powder by PLS2. • Effect of natural variation of adulterants on prediction model is evaluated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Multiple‐resonance thermally activated delayed fluorescence (MR‐TADF) emitters exhibit enormous potential for use in organic light‐emitting diodes (OLEDs), owing to their exceptional external quantum efficiencies (EQEs) and narrowband emission spectra. However, planar MR‐TADF emitters often suffer from aggregation‐caused quenching (ACQ) and spectral broadening at high doping concentrations because of strong interchromophore π–π interactions. A method of sterically encapsulating the planar MR skeleton with four bulky 9‐phenyl‐fluorene (Fl) units is devised, resulting in the development of a bright bluish‐green emitter (4FlCzBN). This steric shielding effectively reduces intermolecular interactions, suppresses ACQ, and improves solubility. Consequently, by utilizing 4FlCzBN as a doping‐insensitive MR emitter, solution‐processed OLEDs are fabricated with doping concentrations of 2–16 wt.%, and they show EQEs of 10.1–10.9% with a bandwidth of 28–30 nm. Furthermore, a TADF‐sensitizer‐based device using 4FlCzBN demonstrates a significantly reduced efficiency roll‐off while achieving an EQE of 12.2%. This is a remarkable improvement that overcomes the disadvantages that are difficult to achieve in previously reported MR‐TADF OLEDs. The current work provides valuable insights into the design of efficient MR‐TADF emitters with minimized aggregation and reduced efficiency roll‐off for solution processing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Implementing an exciplex host system in the emitting layer is crucial for achieving highly efficient thermally activated delayed fluorescence (TADF) and phosphorescent organic light-emitting diodes (OLEDs). In this study, we successfully designed and synthesized 3-((3 r ,5 r ,7 r)-adamantan-1-yl)-9-(dibenzo[ b,d ]thiophen-2-yl)-9 H -carbazole (AdCz-DBT) and 9-(dibenzo[ b,d ]thiophen-2-yl)-9 H -carbazole (Cz-DBT) as p -type hosts for the exciplex host implementation, and 7-(4-(tert -butyl)phenyl)-5,9-dioxa-13 b -boranaphtho[3,2,1- de ]anthracene (tPDBA) as an n -type host. The AdCz-DBT host incorporates a large and robust adamantane group into Cz-DBT, increasing molecular weight, film-forming properties and thermal stability. Additionally, AdCz-DBT maintains energy levels and photophysical properties similar to those of adamantane-free Cz-DBT. Efficient exciplex emission was observed in the blend film due to well-matched energy levels of the synthesized p - and n -type hosts. The introduction of adamantane into Cz-DBT did not hinder exciplex formation, resulting in a relatively high photoluminescence quantum yield and improved charge balance in the mixed host with tPDBA. Ultimately, the solution-processed blue TADF-OLED with the AdCz-DBT:tPDBA blend host demonstrated a relatively high external quantum efficiency of 8.00% and a long operational lifetime, exhibiting excellent performance compared to devices using the Cz-DBT:tPDBA blend host. [Display omitted] • AdCz-DBT was successfully synthesized, demonstrating a high glass transition temperature. • AdCz-DBT:tPDBA blend film exhibited promising exciplex emission behavior. • AdCz-DBT-based OLEDs displayed a highly improved external quantum efficiency. • AdCz-DBT based OLEDs showcased significantly improved operational stability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Inflammatory macrophage infiltration plays a critical role in acute kidney disease induced by ischemia-reperfusion (IRI-AKI). Calycosin is a natural flavone with multiple bioactivities. This study aimed to investigate the therapeutic role of calycosin in IRI-AKI and its underlying mechanism.The renoprotective and anti-inflammatory effects of calycosin were analyzed in C57BL/6 mice with IRI-AKI and lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated RAW 264.7 cells. RNA-seq was used for mechanism investigation. The molecular target of calycosin was screened by in silico methods and validated by surface plasmon resonance (SPR). Macrophage chemotaxis was analyzed using Transwell and agarose gel spot assays.Calycosin treatment significantly reduced serum creatinine and urea nitrogen and attenuated tubular destruction in IRI-AKI mice. Additionally, calycosin markedly suppressed NF-κB signaling activation and the expression of inflammatory mediators IL-1β and TNF-α in IRI-AKI kidneys and LPS-stimulated RAW 264.7 cells. Interestingly, RNA-seq revealed calycosin remarkably downregulated chemotaxis-related pathways in RAW 264.7 cells. Among the differentially expressed genes, Ccl2/MCP-1, a critical chemokine mediating macrophage inflammatory chemotaxis, was downregulated in both LPS-stimulated RAW 264.7 cells and IRI-AKI kidneys. Consistently, calycosin treatment attenuated macrophage infiltration in the IRI-AKI kidneys. Importantly, in silico target prediction, molecular docking, and SPR assay demonstrated that calycosin directly binds to macrophage migration inhibitory factor (MIF). Functionally, calycosin abrogated MIF-stimulated NF-κB signaling activation and Ccl2 expression and MIF-mediated chemotaxis in RAW 264.7 cells.In summary, calycosin attenuates IRI-AKI by inhibiting MIF-mediated macrophage inflammatory chemotaxis, suggesting it could be a promising therapeutic agent for the treatment of IRI-AKI.Methods: Inflammatory macrophage infiltration plays a critical role in acute kidney disease induced by ischemia-reperfusion (IRI-AKI). Calycosin is a natural flavone with multiple bioactivities. This study aimed to investigate the therapeutic role of calycosin in IRI-AKI and its underlying mechanism.The renoprotective and anti-inflammatory effects of calycosin were analyzed in C57BL/6 mice with IRI-AKI and lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated RAW 264.7 cells. RNA-seq was used for mechanism investigation. The molecular target of calycosin was screened by in silico methods and validated by surface plasmon resonance (SPR). Macrophage chemotaxis was analyzed using Transwell and agarose gel spot assays.Calycosin treatment significantly reduced serum creatinine and urea nitrogen and attenuated tubular destruction in IRI-AKI mice. Additionally, calycosin markedly suppressed NF-κB signaling activation and the expression of inflammatory mediators IL-1β and TNF-α in IRI-AKI kidneys and LPS-stimulated RAW 264.7 cells. Interestingly, RNA-seq revealed calycosin remarkably downregulated chemotaxis-related pathways in RAW 264.7 cells. Among the differentially expressed genes, Ccl2/MCP-1, a critical chemokine mediating macrophage inflammatory chemotaxis, was downregulated in both LPS-stimulated RAW 264.7 cells and IRI-AKI kidneys. Consistently, calycosin treatment attenuated macrophage infiltration in the IRI-AKI kidneys. Importantly, in silico target prediction, molecular docking, and SPR assay demonstrated that calycosin directly binds to macrophage migration inhibitory factor (MIF). Functionally, calycosin abrogated MIF-stimulated NF-κB signaling activation and Ccl2 expression and MIF-mediated chemotaxis in RAW 264.7 cells.In summary, calycosin attenuates IRI-AKI by inhibiting MIF-mediated macrophage inflammatory chemotaxis, suggesting it could be a promising therapeutic agent for the treatment of IRI-AKI.Results: Inflammatory macrophage infiltration plays a critical role in acute kidney disease induced by ischemia-reperfusion (IRI-AKI). Calycosin is a natural flavone with multiple bioactivities. This study aimed to investigate the therapeutic role of calycosin in IRI-AKI and its underlying mechanism.The renoprotective and anti-inflammatory effects of calycosin were analyzed in C57BL/6 mice with IRI-AKI and lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated RAW 264.7 cells. RNA-seq was used for mechanism investigation. The molecular target of calycosin was screened by in silico methods and validated by surface plasmon resonance (SPR). Macrophage chemotaxis was analyzed using Transwell and agarose gel spot assays.Calycosin treatment significantly reduced serum creatinine and urea nitrogen and attenuated tubular destruction in IRI-AKI mice. Additionally, calycosin markedly suppressed NF-κB signaling activation and the expression of inflammatory mediators IL-1β and TNF-α in IRI-AKI kidneys and LPS-stimulated RAW 264.7 cells. Interestingly, RNA-seq revealed calycosin remarkably downregulated chemotaxis-related pathways in RAW 264.7 cells. Among the differentially expressed genes, Ccl2/MCP-1, a critical chemokine mediating macrophage inflammatory chemotaxis, was downregulated in both LPS-stimulated RAW 264.7 cells and IRI-AKI kidneys. Consistently, calycosin treatment attenuated macrophage infiltration in the IRI-AKI kidneys. Importantly, in silico target prediction, molecular docking, and SPR assay demonstrated that calycosin directly binds to macrophage migration inhibitory factor (MIF). Functionally, calycosin abrogated MIF-stimulated NF-κB signaling activation and Ccl2 expression and MIF-mediated chemotaxis in RAW 264.7 cells.In summary, calycosin attenuates IRI-AKI by inhibiting MIF-mediated macrophage inflammatory chemotaxis, suggesting it could be a promising therapeutic agent for the treatment of IRI-AKI.Conclusions: Inflammatory macrophage infiltration plays a critical role in acute kidney disease induced by ischemia-reperfusion (IRI-AKI). Calycosin is a natural flavone with multiple bioactivities. This study aimed to investigate the therapeutic role of calycosin in IRI-AKI and its underlying mechanism.The renoprotective and anti-inflammatory effects of calycosin were analyzed in C57BL/6 mice with IRI-AKI and lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated RAW 264.7 cells. RNA-seq was used for mechanism investigation. The molecular target of calycosin was screened by in silico methods and validated by surface plasmon resonance (SPR). Macrophage chemotaxis was analyzed using Transwell and agarose gel spot assays.Calycosin treatment significantly reduced serum creatinine and urea nitrogen and attenuated tubular destruction in IRI-AKI mice. Additionally, calycosin markedly suppressed NF-κB signaling activation and the expression of inflammatory mediators IL-1β and TNF-α in IRI-AKI kidneys and LPS-stimulated RAW 264.7 cells. Interestingly, RNA-seq revealed calycosin remarkably downregulated chemotaxis-related pathways in RAW 264.7 cells. Among the differentially expressed genes, Ccl2/MCP-1, a critical chemokine mediating macrophage inflammatory chemotaxis, was downregulated in both LPS-stimulated RAW 264.7 cells and IRI-AKI kidneys. Consistently, calycosin treatment attenuated macrophage infiltration in the IRI-AKI kidneys. Importantly, in silico target prediction, molecular docking, and SPR assay demonstrated that calycosin directly binds to macrophage migration inhibitory factor (MIF). Functionally, calycosin abrogated MIF-stimulated NF-κB signaling activation and Ccl2 expression and MIF-mediated chemotaxis in RAW 264.7 cells.In summary, calycosin attenuates IRI-AKI by inhibiting MIF-mediated macrophage inflammatory chemotaxis, suggesting it could be a promising therapeutic agent for the treatment of IRI-AKI. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To elucidate the therapeutic effects and mechanisms of Atractylodes macrocephala extract crystallize (BZEP) and BZEP self-microemulsion (BZEPWR) on metabolic dysfunction-associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD) induced by "high sugar, high fat, and excessive alcohol consumption" based on the gut–liver axis HDL/LPS signaling pathway. In this study, BZEP and BZEPWR were obtained via isolation, purification, and microemulsification. Furthermore, an anthropomorphic MAFLD rat model of "high sugar, high fat, and excessive alcohol consumption" was established. The therapeutic effects of BZEPWR and BZEP on the model rats were evaluated in terms of liver function, lipid metabolism (especially HDL-C), serum antioxidant indexes, and liver and intestinal pathophysiology. To determine the lipoproteins in the serum sample, the amplitudes of a plurality of NMR spectra were derived via deconvolution of the composite methyl signal envelope to yield HDL-C subclass concentrations. The changes in intestinal flora were detected via 16 S rRNA gene sequencing. In addition, the gut–liver axis HDL/LPS signaling pathway was validated using immunohistochemistry, immunofluorescence, and western blot. The findings established that BZEPWR and BZEP improved animal signs, serum levels of liver enzymes (ALT and AST), lipid metabolism (TC, TG, HDL-C, and LDL-C), and antioxidant indexes (GSH, SOD, and ROS). In addition, pathological damage to the liver, colon, and ileum was ameliorated, and the intestinal barrier function of the model rats was restored. At the genus level, BZEPWR and BZEP exerted positive effects on beneficial bacteria, such as Lactobacillus and norank_f__Muribaculaceae , and inhibitory effects on harmful bacteria, such as unclassified_f__Lachnospiraceae and Blautia. Twenty HDL-C subspecies were detected, and their levels were differentially increased in both BZEPWR and BZEP groups, with BZEPWR exhibiting a stronger elevating effect on specific HDL-C subspecies. Also, the gut–liver axis HDL/LPS signaling pathway was studied, which indicated that BZEPWR and BZEP significantly increased the expressions of ABCA1, LXR, occludin, and claudin-1 proteins in the gut and serum levels of HDL-C. Concomitantly, the levels of LPS in the serum and TLR4, Myd88, and NF-κB proteins in the liver were decreased. BZEPWR and BZEP exert restorative and reversal effects on the pathophysiological damage to the gut–liver axis in MAFLD rats, and the therapeutic mechanism may be related to the regulation of the intestinal flora and the HDL/LPS signaling pathway. [Display omitted] • Comparison of the efficacy of BZEP and its microemulsification on MAFLD. • BZEP self-microemulsion is effective in regulating blood lipid levels, especially in raising levels of various HDL subtypes. • BZEP self-microemulsion may improve HDL/LPS signalling pathway through the gut-liver axis for the treatment of MAFLD in rats. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Four carried gases were used for torrefaction experiments. • The HHV of oxygenated torrefied MSW was nearly twice as much as raw MSW. • Chlorine decreased from 35.57% in N 2 torrefied MSW to 9.73% in air torrefied MSW. • After flue gas torrefaction, 44% of chlorine was left in torrefied MSW. Flue gas torrefaction (FGT) is a promising pretreatment to improve the fuel properties of municipal solid waste (MSW). Four torrefaction carrier gases (N 2 , flue gas, flue gas/air (1:1), and air) were employed for the comparative investigations. As expected, the higher heating value (HHV) of the oxygenated torrefied MSW was nearly twice as much as the raw MSW. In particular, the chlorine content in torrefied MSW decreased from 35.57 % in the N 2 atmosphere to 14.50 %–9.37 % in oxidative torrefaction. Furthermore, the dominant form of chlorine was converted from organic to inorganic. TG-MS results envisaged that the thermodynamic properties of torrefied MSW were affected by the choice of carrier gases. Among them, oxygen carrier gas effectively improved the thermal stability and fuel properties of torrefied MSW. During pyrolysis, the release of H 2 and CH 4 was enhanced by flue gases (flue gas and flue gas/air). The release of H 2 O was reduced during combustion. The emissions of HCl and CH 3 Cl were inhibited. After FGT, 44 % of chlorine was present in torrefied MSW. Notably, torrefaction increased slagging and fouling inclination and was exacerbated with increasing oxygen content. This study provides a reference for further improving the theoretical system and application of flue gas torrefaction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The antenna is an indispensable device in terahertz (THz) wireless communication systems. Owing to the high propagation attenuation of THz waves in atmospheric, THz antennas with high gain and low sidelobe levels (SLLs) are in an urgent need. Here, a metal waveguide transmitarry antenna (MWTA) is proposed to realize high gain and low SLLs at dual THz bands simultaneously. At the frequencies of 0.14 and 0.0972 THz, the peak gains are 32 and 28 dBi, the SLLs are both 21 dB lower than the main lobe, and the 3 dB beamwidths are 4.4° and 5.7°, respectively. As a proof of concept, a prototype with a diameter of 48 mm is fabricated and the measured results are in good agreement with the simulations. The proposed MWTA with high gain and low SLLs at dual THz bands holds great application potential in 6G wireless communication, non-destructive testing, and biomedicine. • A metal waveguide transmitarry antenna is proposed to realize high gain and low sidelobe levels at dual THz bands. • The peak gains are 32 and 28 dBi at the frequencies of 0.14 and 0.0972 THz. • The corresponding sidelobe levels are both 21 dB lower than the main lobes. • A prototype is fabricated and the measured results are in good agreement with the simulations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] Despite the exact biological role of HNF1 homolog A (HNF1A) in the regulatory mechanism of glioblastoma (GBM), the molecular mechanism, especially the downstream regulation as a transcription factor, remains to be further elucidated. Immunohistochemistry was used to detect the expression and clinical relevance of HNF1A in GBM patients. CCK8, TUNEL, and subcutaneous tumor formation in nude mice were used to evaluate the effect of HNF1A on GBM in vitro and in vivo. The correction between HNF1A and epidermal growth factor receptor pathway substrate 8 (EPS8) was illustrated by bioinformatics analysis and luciferase assay. Further mechanism was explored that the transcription factor HNF1A regulated the expression of EPS8 and downstream signaling pathways by directly binding to the promoter region of EPS8. Our comprehensive analysis of clinical samples in this study showed that upregulated expression of HNF1A was associated with poor survival in GBM patients. Further, we found that knockdown of HNF1A markedly suppressed the malignant phenotype of GBM cells in vivo and in vitro as well as promoted apoptosis of tumor cells, which was reversed by upregulation of HNF1A. Mechanistically, HNF1A could significantly activate PI3K/AKT signaling pathway by specifically binding to the promoter regions of EPS8. Moreover, overexpression of EPS8 was able to reverse the apoptosis of tumor cells caused by HNF1A knockdown, thereby exacerbating the GBM progression. Correctively, our study has clarified the explicit mechanism by which HNF1A promotes GBM malignancy and provides a new therapeutic target for further clinical application. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to investigate the prevalence of viral agents causing reproductive failure in pigs in Korea. In addition, two types of multiplex real-time PCR (mqPCR) were developed for the simultaneous detection of Aujeszky's disease virus (ADV) and porcine parvovirus (PPV) in mqPCR and encephalomyocarditis virus (EMCV) and Japanese encephalitis virus (JEV) in reverse transcription mqPCR (mRT-qPCR). A total of 150 aborted fetus samples collected from 2020 to 2022 were analyzed. Porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus was the most prevalent (49/150 32.7%), followed by porcine circovirus type 2 (31/150, 20.7%), and PPV1 (7/150, 4.7%), whereas ADV, EMCV, and JEV were not detected. The newly developed mqPCR and mRT-qPCR could simultaneously detect and differentiate with high sensitivities and specificities. When applied to aborted fetuses, the newly developed mqPCR for PPV was 33.3% more sensitivities than the previously established diagnostic method. Amino acid analysis of the VP2 sequences of PPV isolates revealed considerable similarity to the highly pathogenic Kresse strain. This study successfully evaluated the prevalence of viral agents causing reproductive failure among swine in Korea, the developed mqPCR and mRT-qPCR methods could be utilized as effective and accurate diagnostic methods for the epidemiological surveillance of ADV, PPV, EMCV, and JEV. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Anaerobic digestion is a promising approach to dispose of biodegradable waste and wastewater, generating biogas as an alternative energy resource. This work proposed a so-called M-CADM1 for continuous anaerobic digestion simulation, which combined the machine learning and anaerobic digestion model No.1 (ADM1). The detailed reaction path and intermediate products in different stages of anaerobic digestion are specified in ADM1. The kinetic parameters were modified by machine learning. The characteristics (elemental composition) of feedstocks were used to predict kinetic parameters. A total of 75 biomass samples were used to establish for machine learning models. Five element contents (C, H, O, N, S), feedstock feed rate, and anaerobic digestion temperature were used as the input. The kinetic parameters were set as output. The sensitivities of 17 kinetic parameters were evaluated. 7 kinetic parameters with the highest sensitivities were selected as ADM1 model inputs by sensitivity analysis. The R2 and RMSE were used as the index to evaluated the accuracy of machine learning model. The best R2 and RMSE reached 0.84 and 0.196. The TIC was used as the index to evaluated the accuracy of M-CADM1. By comparing the simulated value with the experimental value, the accuracy of the overall M-CADM1 expressed by TIC of kitchen waste was 0.036. The organic acid content and pH in the reactor were considered as indicators to study the accuracy and stability of the M-CADM1. Trends in organic acids, free ammonia or hydrogen inhibition, and pH were consistent with experimental continuous anaerobic digestion results. [Display omitted] • M-CADM1 model was proposed to simulate biomass continuous anaerobic digestion. • Four machine learning models were tested for crucial kinetic parameters prediction. • Predicted kinetic parameters were embed in ADM1 for products prediction. • The R2 and RMSE for kinetic parameters predicting model reached 0.84 and 0.196. • The optimal overall TIC of established M-CADM1 model was 0.036. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aqueous phase reforming (APR) of biomass-derived products has been widely applied for hydrogen generation, chemicals production, and wastewater treatment. Despite its widespread application, the complexity of the raw materials and reaction mechanisms significantly complicates the APR process, impeding its development. This study investigated the APR performance of biomass-derived products using Ni/α-MoO 3 catalysts toward hydrogen production and pollutant control, conducted at a temperature of 225 °C and a residence time of 30 min, thus comprehensively understanding the effect of different functional groups. The results showed that the amide (R–HCON) exhibited superior hydrogen production potential during APR. In terms of total organic carbon (TOC) removal, ether showed a 98.10% removal efficiency without a catalyst, whereas the presence of catalyst greatly enhanced the TOC removal efficiency of acetaldehyde (-CHO) from 62.26% to 86.68%. The performed APR of biomass-derived products on Ni/α-MoO 3 catalysts primary resulted in the presence of N, N-Dimethylformamide (HCON-(CH 3) 2), and aminobenzene (Ph-NH 2) for Ni leaching with a lower concentration. The carbon deposition on the catalyst primarily resulted from the combined effects of various compounds and the oxygen vacancies within the catalysts. This study aims to provide novel insights into the APR process for both biomass and biomass-derived materials. [Display omitted] • Insight from functional groups to study APR for biomass energy was proposed. • Ni/α-MoO 3 had the higher catalytic reactivity for the APR of amide (-HCON). • Ether and acetaldehyde were significantly removed by the APR over Ni/α-MoO 3. • The reaction-induced strong metal−support interactions inhibited the Ni leaching. • Carbon deposition was affected by the interaction effects of functional groups. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effect of fine particulate matter (PM 2.5) components on prediabetes and diabetes is of concern, but the evidence is limited and the specific role of different green space types remains unclear. This study aims to investigate the relationship of PM 2.5 and its components with prediabetes and diabetes as well as the potential health benefits of different types and combinations of green spaces. A multicenter cross-sectional study was conducted in eastern China by using a multi-stage random sampling method. Health screening and questionnaires for 98,091 participants were performed during 2017–2020. PM 2.5 and its five components were estimated by the inverse distance weighted method, and green space was reflected by the Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI), percentages of tree or grass cover. Multivariate logistic regression and quantile g-computing were used to explore the associations of PM 2.5 and five components with prediabetes and diabetes and to elucidate the potential moderating role of green space and corresponding type combinations in these associations. Each interquartile range (IQR) increment of PM 2.5 was associated with both prediabetes (odds ratio [OR]: 1.15, 95%CI [confidence interval]: 1.10–1.20) and diabetes (OR: 1.18, 95% CI: 1.11–1.25), respectively. All five components of PM 2.5 were related to prediabetes and diabetes. The ORs of PM 2.5 on diabetes were 1.49 (1.35–1.63) in the low tree group and 0.90 (0.82–0.98) in the high tree group, respectively. In the high tree-high grass group, the harmful impacts of PM 2.5 and five components were significantly lower than in the other groups. Our study suggested that PM 2.5 and its components were associated with the increased risk of prediabetes and diabetes, which could be diminished by green space. Furthermore, the coexistence of high levels of tree and grass cover provided greater benefits. These findings had critical implications for diabetes prevention and green space-based planning for healthy city. • The first study to investigate the relationship between PM 2.5 components and prediabetes. • Exposure to PM 2.5 and its components is associated with diabetes and, more importantly, prediabetes. • Green spaces and their types attenuate the harmful effects of PM 2.5 and its components on prediabetes and diabetes. • Coexisting tree and grass are more likely to mitigate the harmful effects of PM 2.5 components on prediabetes and diabetes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• A THz meta-polarizer consisting of rectangular metallic holes is proposed. • The THz meta-polarizer can realize the simultaneous control of amplitude, phase and polarization. • The near- and far-field THz holograms can be decoupled by using the meta-polarizer. Terahertz (THz) waves hold immense potential for advancements in areas such as in 6G wireless communications, non-destructive testing, and biomedicine. However, the underdeveloped control level of THz devices has been a severe obstacle. Here, a THz meta-polarizer, comprising rectangular metallic holes, is proposed to achieve the simultaneous control of the amplitude, phase, and polarization. Each unit of this meta-polarizer can function as a miniature linear polarizer. The component polarized along the short side can pass through the unit, while the component polarized orthogonally is unable to do so. Leveraging the principles of the Malus' law, we can adjust the desired amplitude distribution of the transmitted x -polarized wave by modifying its polarization distribution. This adjustment is made possible by tuning the azimuth angle of each hole. The phase delay of the transmitted wave can be further manipulated by adjusting the hole dimensions perpendicular to the polarization direction. For given near-field amplitude distributions, the required phase distributions for generating far-field target holograms can be calculated using the Gerchberg–Saxton algorithm based on Fresnel diffraction theory. The meta-polarizer then realizes calculated phase distributions, enabling the creation of the required holograms. As a proof of concept, we designed THz meta-polarizers that can achieve two- and four-level amplitude holograms in the near field, respectively. Moreover, we also manipulated the phase distributions, allowing us to decouple the near- and far-field holograms. The experimental results agree well with the simulations. Owing to its ability to simultaneously control the phase, amplitude and polarization, the proposed THz meta-polarizer holds great application potential in 6G wireless communications, radar detection systems, and holography. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]