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Flexoelectric effect in ferroelectric epitaxy films has attracted significant attention due to its theoretical and application potentials. However, the origin and control of flexoelectric field is not yet fully understood. In this study, we investigated the surface structure of single-domain epitaxial BiFeO 3 films with a (111) orientation using grazing incidence X-ray diffraction and X-ray reflection methods. We observed large strain gradient on the surface of the BiFeO 3 films, which produces a giant flexoelectric field up to 82.55 MV/m at the surface of 15 nm thick BiFeO 3 film. Additionally, we discovered the presence of a surface layer with lower electron density than that of the underlying BiFeO 3 layer, which is related to the flexoelectric field. Moreover, with increased film thickness, we found the strain distribution along growth direction of the film is changed, thereby leads to the decreased flexoelectric field and increasing thickness of the surface layer respectively. These findings convinced the coupling between the strain state and surface structure, changing the thickness of the ferroelectric film and consequently the strain state is an efficient way to adjust the flexoelectric field and the surface structure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sorption‐based atmospheric water harvesting (SAWH) has great potential for clean water acquisition and renewable energy use. Adsorption and desorption properties of sorbents play a crucial role in SAWH systems. However, most sorbents with high adsorption capacities are hindered by either slow sorption/desorption kinetics or poor regeneration performance. Here, a highly efficient block copolymer composite sorbent with dual functions of thermo‐responsive and photothermal properties is designed based on rape pollens. This sorbent has a hierarchical porous structure, in which the outermost layer of poly‐pyrrole enables it to convert light energy into heat and the second layer of poly(N‐isopropylacrylamide) imparts thermo‐responsive properties to improve the desorption ability. Meanwhile, confined LiCl improves its sorption capacity and cavities of the pollen can store captured moisture to avoid liquid leakage. This sorbent can sorb moisture to more than 144% of its own weight within 3 h under 20 °C&80% relative humidity (RH) and 82% of captured water can be released within 0.5 h under 1 sun. The water harvester using this sorbent can realize an exceptional water productivity of up to 2.21gwater gsorbent−1 day−1 only by three continuous water adsorption‐desorption cycles in a day. The high‐performance sorbent smooths the path for efficiently extracting water from the atmosphere to tackle water scarcity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In order to further clarify the growth-promoting effect of the non-core Metarhizium sp. Marquandomyces marquandii on plants, M. marquandii SGSF043, which was obtained via pre-screening in the laboratory, was selected as a test strain and the seed soaking method was adopted. The effects of a fermentation broth obtained from this strain on the seed germination, seedling growth, and rhizosphere soil enzyme activity of maize were studied. The results were as follows: In seed germination tests, M. marquandii SGSF043 fermentation liquid had a certain inhibitory effect on corn seed germination, and the germination rate was only 15%. When the fermentation solution was diluted 10 times, the germination rate reached 97%. After the germination test, the growth of maize plumules was promoted in the groups treated with 10-times and 1000-times dilutions. In the field community experiment, based on the comprehensive evaluation of seedling biomass indicators, the solution diluted 100 times had the best growth-promoting effect. The aboveground fresh weight was increased by 127.13% compared with the control group. The results show that M. marquandii SGSF043 has the potential to promote the growth of maize and improve the soil environment, which provides a theoretical basis for the research on and the application of M. marquandii in farmland. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The potential application of conducting Scholte‐wave analysis using electroseismic pressure fields excited by an electric current source due to the electrokinetic effect in fluid‐saturated porous seabed sediments is investigated. First, we develop a numerical modelling algorithm by combining the Luco–Apsel–Chen generalized reflection and transmission method with the peak‐trough averaging method to simulate the electroseismic wave fields in stratified fluid/porous media. The modelling results show that the electroseismic pressure signals recorded on the seafloor are mainly composed of evanescent electroseismic waves, and Scholte waves are the dominant wave pattern. Their amplitudes are generally within the order of magnitudes capable of being detected by current seismic instruments. Then, the modified frequency–Bessel transform method is extended to extract the Scholte‐wave dispersion curves from electroseismic pressure fields. Results demonstrate that Scholte‐wave dispersion curves extracted from electroseismic records are superior to those extracted from conventional seismic wave fields excited by an airgun source under the same source–receiver geometry because they contain many overtones and are almost free from the interferences of dispersive guided waves. Furthermore, the Scholte‐wave dispersion inversion results obtained by employing the Levenberg–Marquardt method show that the shear‐wave velocity model inverted by Scholte‐wave dispersion curves extracted from the electroseismic pressure field is more accurate than those obtained by dispersion curves extracted from the seismic wave fields with the guided‐wave removal. The above results indicate that the electroseismic Scholte‐wave analysis method has the potential to evaluate the shear‐wave velocities of shallow‐water seabed sediments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nonmetallic ionic liquids (ILs) exhibit unique advantages in catalyzing poly (ethylene terephthalate) (PET) glycolysis, but usually require longer reaction times. We found that exposure to UV radiation can accelerate the glycolysis reaction and significantly reduce the reaction time. In this work, we synthesized five nonmetallic dibasic ILs, and their glycolysis catalytic activity was investigated. 1,8-diazabicyclo [5,4,0] undec-7-ene imidazole ([HDBU]Im) exhibited better catalytic performance. Meanwhile, UV radiation is used as a reinforcement method to improve the PET glycolysis efficiency. Under optimal conditions (5 g PET, 20 g ethylene glycol (EG), 0.25 g [HDBU]Im, 10,000 µW·cm−2 UV radiation reacted for 90 min at 185 °C), the PET conversion and BHET yield were 100% and 88.9%, respectively. Based on the UV-visible spectrum, it was found that UV radiation can activate the C=O in PET. Hence, the incorporation of UV radiation can considerably diminish the activation energy of the reaction, shortening the reaction time of PET degradation. Finally, a possible reaction mechanism of [HDBU]Im-catalyzed PET glycolysis under UV radiation was proposed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Regasification of liquefied natural gas (LNG) releases significant cooling potential, but improper usage can easily lead to wastage of resources and environmental pollution. The study developed an integrated air separation system and Organic Rankine Cycle (ORC) power generation system to effectively harness the inherent cold energy within LNG. Two distinct optimization algorithms, the Non-Dominated Sorting Genetic Algorithm II (NSGA-II) and the Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO), were employed to determine the optimal operational parameters. The results showed the superior performance of PSO over NSGA-II, as demonstrated by the exergy efficiency, net output power, and levelized cost of energy at 78.12 %, 2.29*1011 kW, and 0.0665 $/kWh, respectively. Additionally, an assessment of various factors influencing the system's performance was conducted. The performance of both conventional and proposed systems was studied under varying regasification rates. The findings indicated that incorporating the cold recovery and storage unit enhanced the efficient utilization of LNG cold energy, resulting in an increased valley-to-peak ratio of the total power output from 0.03 in the conventional system to 0.5. The proposed system exhibits alignment with the energy consumption demands of users, and this study is anticipated to furnish a theoretical foundation for harnessing the cooling capacity of liquid hydrogen. [Display omitted] • The novel utilization of LNG cold energy by combining air separation with ORC. • PSO is superior than NSGA-II for optimization: 14.4 % decrement in LCOE. • PSO: 17.9 % and 7.0 % increment in the exergy efficiency and net output power. • Both LNG steady state and fluctuating in regasification rates were investigated. • The valley-to-peak ratio of the system's power output was increased to 0.5. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To fully utilize the advantages of Si3N4 and Silicon-On-Insulator to achieve a high-efficiency wideband grating coupler, we propose and numerically demonstrate a grating coupler based on Si3N4 and a Silicon-On-Insulator heterogeneous integration platform. A two-dimensional model of the coupler was established and a comprehensive finite difference time domain analysis was conducted. Focusing on coupling efficiency as a primary metric, we examined the impact of factors such as grating period, filling factor, etching depth, and the thicknesses of the SiO2 upper cladding, Si3N4, silicon waveguide, and SiO2 buried oxide layers. The calculations yielded an optimized grating coupler with a coupling efficiency of 81.8% (−0.87 dB) at 1550 nm and a 1-dB bandwidth of 540 nm. The grating can be obtained through a single etching step with a low fabrication complexity. Furthermore, the fabrication tolerances of the grating period and etching depth were studied systematically, and the results indicated a high fabrication tolerance. These findings can offer theoretical and parameter guidance for the design and optimization of high-efficiency and broad-bandwidth grating couplers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

During the operation of multi-electric aircraft, the polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) material used to insulate the aviation cable is subjected to a high electric field while working under the extreme conditions of high temperatures for a long time, which can easily cause a partial discharge and even flashover along the surface, which seriously threaten the safe operation of the aircraft. In this paper, the electrical insulation properties of PTFE were regulated via modification by the magnetron sputtering of TiO2 under high temperatures, and modified PTFE with different sputtering times was prepared. The direct current (DC) surface discharge, surface flashover, and electric aging characteristics of modified PTFE were studied under the condition of 20~200 °C, and the mechanisms by which modification by sputtering of TiO2 and high temperature influence the insulation properties were analyzed. The results show that the surface discharge intensity increases with the increase in temperature, the modification by sputtering of TiO2 can significantly inhibit the partial discharge of PTFE, and the flashover voltage first increases and then decreases with the increase in the modification time. The modification by magnetron sputtering can effectively increase the surface potential decay rate of the PTFE, increase the shallow trap energy density, effectively avoid charge accumulation, inhibit the partial discharge phenomenon, and improve the surface electrical insulation and anti-aging properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nitrogen (N) is an essential element both affecting rhizosphere microorganisms within soil and supporting plant nutrition; however, little is known about how the rhizosphere microbial community composition of tiger nut in sandy soil responds to nitrogen addition. In this study, high-throughput sequencing technology is employed to analyze the shifts in composition and co-occurrence networks of rhizosphere microbial communities in tiger nut after nitrogen addition in sandy farmland. Results reveal that nitrogen addition significantly increases several soil parameters, including total organic matter (SOC, 32.2%), total nitrogen (TN, 46.2%), alkali-hydro nitrogen (AN, 92.7%), β-1,4-glucosidase (BG, 12.6%), L-leucine aminopeptidase (LAP, 8.62%), β-1,4-xylosidase(XYL, 25.6%), and β-1,4-N-acetylglucosaminidase (NAG, 32.3%). Meanwhile, bacterial α-diversity decreases with nitrogen addition, while fungi remain unaffected. Network analysis indicates a reduction in connections between microorganisms; however, increasing stability is observed in the interaction network after nitrogen addition. Importantly, nitrogen addition leads to the enhancement of rhizosphere soil multifunctionality, with fungal diversity identified as the primary driver of soil multifunctionality. The positive impact of microbial diversity on soil multifunctionality outweighs the relative negative effects. This study sheds light on the nuanced effects of nitrogen addition on rhizosphere microbial diversity and its consequent impact on soil multifunctionality, with Acidobacteria, Proteobacteria and Ascomycota having positive effects, providing a comprehensive understanding of the complex environmental–plant–soil–microbe interactions in sandy farmland ecosystems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, the interface characteristics during the two-phase invasion of silicon oil and water were investigated using high-precision optical experiments and molecular dynamics simulations. An experimental system composed of a CCD (charge coupled device) industrial camera and an optical microscope was designed to observe the interface state between the dispersed phase at the silicone oil-water interface. At the same time, the microscopic image and energy spectrum results of the silicone oil-water mixture were obtained using a cryo-scanning electron microscope (Cryo-SEM). The molecular dynamics method was also used to simulate the dynamic process of the mass transfer of the silicone oil-water mixture. Through experimental results and molecular dynamics simulations, the phenomenon of diffuse mass transfer during the phase invasion and the existence of silicon oil-water associations were confirmed. The results showed that the silicone oil and water molecules were associated with each other due to the hydrogen bonding and van der Waals interactions, but the interfacial association matter was loose and unstable. The C–H, Si–O, and H–O bonds were the main factor in the formation of the silicone oil-water dispersion association matter. The findings revealed the rationality of the dispersion associated substances at the silicon oil-water interface, and showed its microstructure characteristics. The study is expected to provide an insight for the study of silicon oil-water interface and enrich the emulsification and separation theories between silicon oil and water solutions. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The rational design of electrodes is crucial for the performance and practical applications of flexible zinc-ion hybrid supercapacitors (ZIHS). In this paper, we have developed an easy strategy to design electrodes based on current collectors with vertically aligned nanohole arrays on their surfaces. Zinc nanosheet arrays were deposited on a porous aluminum oxide/aluminum (AAO) film to form a Zn@AAO anode. Graphene nanoribbons (GR) unzipped for carbon nanotubes were coated on a unique three-dimensional carbon pre-coated AAO (CAAO) film to form a GR@CAAO composite cathode. After assembling with ZnSO 4 /gelatin gel electrolyte, a quasi-solid Zn@AAO//GR@CAAO ZIHS with a potential of 1.6 V was obtained. The as-prepared ZIHS exhibits an areal capacitance of 156 mF cm−2 at 0.25 mA cm−2 and a high energy density of 56 μW h cm−2 at 0.202 mW cm−2, an excellent flexibility as well as long cycle life. • A zinc/aluminum oxide/aluminum (Zn@AAO) anode was developed. • Graphene ribbon and 3D carbon nanomaterial on AAO (GR@CAAO) was prepared as the cathode. • Zn@AAO//GR@CAAO hybrid supercapacitor exhibited excellent performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus (PRRSV) poses a significant threat to the global pork industry, resulting in substantial economic losses. Current control measures rely on modified live virus (MLV) vaccines with safety concerns. However, the lack of consensus on protective PRRSV antigens is impeding the development of effective and safety subunit vaccines. In this study, we conducted in vitro virus neutralization (VN) assays in MARC-145 and CRL-2843CD163/CD169 cell lines and primary porcine alveolar macrophages (PAMs) to systemically identify PRRSV structural proteins (SPs) recognized by virus-neutralizing antibodies in hyperimmune serum collected from piglets infected with highly pathogenic PRRSV (HP-PRRSV). Additionally, piglets immunized with different combinations of recombinant PRRSV-SPs were challenged with HP-PRRSV to evaluate their in vivo protection potential. Intriguingly, different in vitro VN activities of serum antibodies elicited by each PRRSV SP were observed depending on the cell type used in the VN assay. Notably, antibodies specific for GP3, GP4, and M exhibited highest in vitro VN activities in PAMs, correlating with complete protection (100% survival) against HP-PRRSV challenge in vivo after immunization of piglets with combination of GP3, GP4, M and N (GP3/GP4/M/N). Further analysis of lung pathology, weight gain, and viremia post-challenge revealed that the combination of GP3/GP4/M/N provided superior protective efficacy against severe infection. These findings underscore the potential of this SP combination to serve as an effective PRRSV subunit vaccine, marking a significant advancement in pork industry disease management. • In vitro VN titers of serum sample against PRRSV were variable in different cells. • Antibodies specific for PRRSV-SPs show variable VN activity in MARC-145 and PAMs. • Antibodies against GP3, GP4 and M show VN activity against PRSSV in PAMs. • Antibodies against GP2 and GP5 show no VN activity against PRSSV in PAMs. • Immunization of GP3, GP4 and M combined with N show best efficiency against HP-PRRSV challenge. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There is a growing interest in desiccant coated heat exchanger (DCHE)-based systems due to characteristics of isothermal dehumidification and compact structure. To enhance the dehumidification efficiency and reduce the regeneration temperature of DCHE-based systems, a thermo-responsive composite desiccant coated heat exchanger (PSLCHE) was developed. This study focuses on investigating the influence of operating parameters (such as air temperature, relative humidity, regeneration temperature and adsorption/desorption time ratio) on the dynamic performance, average dehumidification capacity (D avg) and thermal coefficient of performance (COP th) of the system. Under the air condition of 30 °C & 60% RH, the PSLCHE demonstrates remarkable performance with the D avg of 7.3 g·kg−1 and COP th of 0.93 at 40 °C. This study provides a route to the design of highly efficient air conditioning systems using thermo-responsive composite for ultra-low grade thermal energy at 40 °C. • A thermo-responsive composite coated heat exchanger PSLCHE was developed. • The average dehumidification capacity (D avg) of PSLCHE can be up to 9.87 g kg−1. • The thermal coefficient of performance (COP th) of PSLCHE can be as high as 1.15. • PSLCHE can be regenerated at ultra-low temperatures (40 °C). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Topological insulators have garnered considerable attention in recent years due to their unique electronic properties. However, pressure-induced topological materials often located in the middle of the two diamonds and cannot be detected by Angle resolved electron spectra. Such topological materials only stay in theoretical calculated. Since diamond has a high optical transmittance, its optical properties have been extensively studied to probe the band structure of topological insulators under pressure. In this paper, we determine the high-pressure infrared (IR) properties by measuring the transmittivity and reflectivity of Sb 2 Te 3 up to 23.2 GPa. The plasma edge shows jumping at 4.2 GPa and 8.5 GPa, where is caused by the change of charge carrier features and a new phase appears at 8.5 GPa. Furthermore, by analyzing the position of plasma edge under pressure, we find that the absence of plasma edge at high pressure corresponds to the disappearance of the Sb 2 Te 3 topological structure. Therefore, utilizing the plasma edge to investigate the modification of band structure in materials under high pressures is highly effective. • Topological insulators have garnered considerable attention in recent years due to their unique electronic properties. However, pressure-induced topological materials often located in the middle of the two diamonds and cannot be detected by Angle resolved electron spectra. Such topological materials only stay in theoretical calculated. Since diamond has a high optical transmittance, its optical properties have been extensively studied to probe the band structure of topological insulators under pressure. In this paper, we find that the absence of plasma edge at high pressure corresponds to the disappearance of the Sb 2 Te 3 topological structure. Therefore, utilizing the plasma edge to investigate the modification of band structure in materials under high pressures is highly effective. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bearings are regarded as a crucial element that impacts the overall performance of the seismic analysis of bridges. The assessment of seismic performance in bridges heavily depends on the nonlinear features of bridge bearings. Therefore, it is essential to simulate the nonlinear mechanical behavior of bridge bearings to attain the required accuracy of seismic analysis. This paper examines the friction features of pot bearings using the Bouc-Wen hysteretic model, based on which a nonlinear model of pot bearings is proposed. The proposed model can rapidly and effectively analyze the nonlinear mechanical behaviors of bridge bearings under horizontal earthquakes by adequately simplifying the mechanical properties of these bearings. The accuracy of the model for horizontal seismic effects analysis is validated using a numerical simulation method. The simulation compares the nonlinear model seismic effects of the bearing with a linear-elastic model that ignores the bearing frictional effects under horizontal seismic action. The results demonstrated that in the proposed nonlinear model, the ratio of the composite bending moment and yield bending moment of the pier bottom section (demand capacity ratio) is lower than that of the linear elastic model, leading to a more accurate analysis of horizontal seismic effects and thus preventing overestimation of seismic consequences. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Acute kidney injury (AKI) constitutes a significant public health concern, with limited therapeutic options to mitigate injury or expedite recovery. A novel therapeutic approach, local renal treatment, encompassing pharmacotherapy and surgical interventions, has exhibited positive outcomes in AKI management. Peri-renal administration, employing various delivery routes, such as the renal artery, intrarenal, and subcapsular sites, has demonstrated superiority over peripheral intravenous infusion. This review evaluates different drug delivery methods, analyzing their benefits and limitations, and proposes potential improvements. Renal decapsulation, particularly with the availability of minimally invasive techniques, emerges as an effective procedure warranting renewed consideration for AKI treatment. The potential synergistic effects of combined drug delivery and renal decapsulation could further advance AKI therapies. Clinical studies have already begun to leverage the benefits of local renal treatments, and with ongoing technological advancements, these modalities are expected to increasingly outperform systemic intravenous therapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, we present an improved calculation for the decay rate of the rare Z-boson decay into J / ψ + J / ψ. This decay is dominated by the photon fragmentation mechanism, i.e., the transition Z → J / ψ + γ ∗ followed by the fragmentation γ ∗ → J / ψ. In our calculation, the amplitude of γ ∗ → J / ψ is extracted from the measured value of Γ (J / ψ → e + e -) , and the amplitude of Z → J / ψ + γ ∗ is calculate through the light-cone approach. The higher-order QCD and relativistic corrections in the amplitude of γ ∗ → J / ψ and the large logarithms of m Z 2 / m c 2 that appear in the amplitude of Z → J / ψ + γ ∗ are resummed in our calculation. Besides, the non-fragmentation amplitude is calculated based on the NRQCD factorization, and the next-to-leading order QCD and relativistic corrections are included. The obtained branching fraction for this Z decay channel is 8. 66 - 0.69 + 1.48 × 10 - 11. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• A method combining S-transform and Vold-Kalman filtering (STRE-VK) was proposed. • The harmonic vibration components of the faulty samples can be separated accurately. • Online BSR diagnosis can be achieved by combining the STRE-VK with PR calculations. To establish an efficient method for the buzz-squeak-rattle (BSR) noise diagnosis of faulty power seat frame on the noisy production line, the S-transform ridgeline extraction & Vold-Kalman filtering (STRE-VK) method was proposed for the purpose of revealing the time–frequency characteristics of vibration signals of the power seat frame. The extraction of ridgelines from the time–frequency distribution was achieved through the utilization of adaptive generalized S-transform, and the separation of multiple harmonic components was accomplished by the Vold-Kalman filtering algorithm. The simulation analysis results demonstrated that the STRE-VK method performed better in terms of extracting ridgelines and segregating harmonic components. Then, the STRE-VK method was employed to the online BSR diagnosis of faulty power seat frames, and the prominence ratio of critical bands inspired by ECMA-74 was further calculated as a metric to identify different BSR noise types based on the separated vibration components. The results showed that the rapid online BSR diagnosis of power seat frame can be achieved accurately. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article titled "[Retracted] Upregulation of CENPF is linked to aggressive features of osteosarcoma" was published in Oncology Letters in 2021. However, it has since been retracted by the editor due to concerns raised by a reader. The reader pointed out that certain data and images in the article were similar to those published by different authors at different research institutes. The authors were asked for an explanation but did not respond. The editor apologizes for any inconvenience caused. [Extracted from the article]

Long-span bridges are the key component of the human transportation system, linking communities over vast obstacles. To ensure the safe operation of long-span bridges, structural health monitoring (SHM) is perhaps the most effective solution. This study takes a 430m four-span continuous girder bridge as an example and systematically presents an implementation example of the SHM system on the bridge regarding monitoring items, sensor placement, and sensor parameters. The monitoring data including operational load and bridge response are analyzed and the statistical rules of these monitoring data are presented. Besides, the modal parameters of the girder are tracked from long-term vibration monitoring data. Furthermore, the correlations between structural temperature and bridge response are analyzed, and the correlation formulas between bridge modal frequency, static responses, and structural temperature are finally given. The analysis results reveal significant seasonal variations in the responses of the continuously monitored girder bridge, offering valuable insights for data-driven assessment and early warning systems for bridges. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Neddylation, a post-translational modification process, plays a crucial role in various human neoplasms. However, its connection with kidney renal clear cell carcinoma (KIRC) remains under-researched. Methods: We validated the Gene Set Cancer Analysis Lite (GSCALite) platform against The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database, analyzing 33 cancer types and their link with 17 neddylation-related genes. This included examining copy number variations (CNVs), single nucleotide variations (SNVs), mRNA expression, cellular pathway involvement, and methylation. Using Gene Set Variation Analysis (GSVA), we categorized these genes into three clusters and examined their impact on KIRC patient prognosis, drug responses, immune infiltration, and oncogenic pathways. Afterward, our objective is to identify genes that exhibit overexpression in KIRC and are associated with an adverse prognosis. After pinpointing the specific target gene, we used the specific inhibitor MLN4924 to inhibit the neddylation pathway to conduct RNA sequencing and related in vitro experiments to verify and study the specificity and potential mechanisms related to the target. This approach is geared towards enhancing our understanding of the prognostic importance of neddylation modification in KIRC. Results: We identified significant CNV, SNV, and methylation events in neddylation-related genes across various cancers, with notably higher expression levels observed in KIRC. Cluster analysis revealed a potential trade-off in the interactions among neddylation-related genes, where both high and low levels of gene expression are linked to adverse prognoses. This association is particularly pronounced concerning lymph node involvement, T stage classification, and Fustat score. Simultaneously, our research discovered that PSMB10 exhibits overexpression in KIRC when compared to normal tissues, negatively impacting patient prognosis. Through RNA sequencing and in vitro assays, we confirmed that the inhibition of neddylation modification could play a role in the regulation of various signaling pathways, thereby influencing the prognosis of KIRC. Moreover, our results underscore PSMB10 as a viable target for therapeutic intervention in KIRC, opening up novel pathways for the development of targeted treatment strategies. Conclusion: This study underscores the regulatory function and potential mechanism of neddylation modification on the phenotype of KIRC, identifying PSMB10 as a key regulatory target with a significant role in influencing the prognosis of KIRC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Rice is an important staple food to deliver nutrients broadly. • Recent emerging methods of paddy drying in rice processing industry are highlighted. • Effects of innovative heating techniques on dried rice quality are discussed. • Modern drying techniques improve the milling and cooking properties of rice. Rice is an important staple food in the world. Drying is an important step in the post-harvest handling of rice and can influence rice qualities and thus play a key role in determining rice commercial and nutritional value. In rice processing, traditional drying methods may lead to longer drying times, greater energy consumption, and unintended quality losses. Thus, it is imperative to improve the physical, chemical, and milling properties of rice while preserving its nutritional value, flavor, and appearance as much as possible. Additionally, it is necessary to increase the efficiency with which heat energy is utilized during the thermal processing of freshly harvested paddy. Moreover, this review provides insights into the current application status of six different innovative drying technologies such as radio frequency (RF) drying, microwave (MW) drying, infrared (IR) drying, vacuum drying (VD), superheated steam (SHS) drying, fluidized bed (FB) drying along with their effect on the quality of rice such as color, flavor, crack ratio, microstructure and morphology, bioactive components and antioxidant activity as well asstarch content and glycemic index. Dielectric methods of drying due to volumetric heating results in enhanced drying rate, improved heating uniformity, reduced crack ratio, increased head rice yield and better maintain taste value of paddy grains. These novel emerging drying techniques increased the interactions between hydrated proteins and swollen starch granules, resulting in enhanced viscosity of rice flour and promoted starch gelatinization and enhanced antioxidant activity which is helpful to produce functional rice. Moreover, this review not only highlights the existing challenges posed by these innovative thermal technologies but also presents potential solutions. Additionally, the combination of these technologies to optimize operating conditions can further boost their effectiveness in enhancing the drying process. Nevertheless, future studies are essential to gain a deeper understanding of the mechanism of quality changes induced by emerging processing technologies. This knowledge will help expand the application of these techniques in the rice processing industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Salt stress is an important abiotic stress that seriously affects plant growth. In order to research the salt tolerance of walnut rootstocks so as to provide scientific basis for screening salt-tolerant walnut rootstocks, two kinds of black walnut seedlings, Juglans microcarpa L. (JM) and Juglans nigra L. (JN), were treated under salt stress with different concentrations of NaCl (0, 50, 100, and 200 mM) and the growth situation of seedlings were observed. The physiological indexes of JM and JN seedlings were also measured in different days after treatment. Our study showed salt stress inhibited seedlings growth and limited biomass accumulation. Walnut mainly increased osmotic adjustment ability by accumulation Pro and SS. Furthermore, with the duration of treatment time increased, SOD and APX activities decreased, TPC and TFC contents increased. Walnut accumulated Na mostly in roots and transported more K and Ca to aboveground parts. The growth and physiological response performance differed between JM and JN, specifically, the differences occurred in the ability to absorb minerals, regulate osmotic stress, and scavenge ROS. Salt tolerance of JM and JN was assessed by principal component analysis (PCA) and resulted in JN > JM. In conclusion, our results indicated that JN has higher salt tolerance than JM, and JN might be used as a potential germplasm resource for the genetic breeding of walnuts. • Salt stress inhibits normal growth of two kinds of black walnut seedlings. • Under salt stress, black walnut seedlings can accumulate more Na in the roots and transport less Na to the leaves. • Juglans microcarpa L. and Juglans nigra L. responded differently at the growth and physiological level. • Juglans nigra L. has higher salt tolerance than Juglans microcarpa L. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mechanoluminescence (ML) refers to the photon emission from materials subjected to mechanical stimuli. A general concept concerning ML materials is that they cannot directly record a stress history (mechanical record; MR). Here, we report an approach that retrieves a quantitative recording of stress history through the afterglow characteristics analysis of a specific multi-piezo ML material Li0.12Na0.88NbO3:Pr (LNNO), which has been designated to exist near the structural phase boundary of rhombohedral R3c and orthorhombic P21ma. Contrary to the general expectation that the afterglow characteristics are irrelevant to mechanical loading history, LNNO was strongly correlated with the stress distribution after UV excitation. This enabled us to read the recorded stress precisely from the afterglow image of the material. Furthermore, the spatial distribution of the MR was also realized, showing the capability of the readout of stress history in both time and space. This unusual MR function is attributed to eliminating shallow trap sites, which affected the afterglow characteristics upon applying mechanical load. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Surface engineering in perovskite solar cells, especially for the upper surface of perovskite, is widely studied. However, most of these studies have primarily focused on the interaction between additive functional groups and perovskite point defects, neglecting the influence of other parts of additive molecules. Herein, additives with ‐NH3+ functional group are introduced at the perovskite surface to suppress surface defects. The chain lengths of these additives vary to conduct a detailed investigation into the impact of molecular size. The results indicate that the propane‐1,3‐diamine dihydroiodide (PDAI2), which possesses the most suitable size, exhibited obvious optimization effects. Whereas the molecules, methylenediamine dihydroiodide (MDAI2) and pentane‐1,5‐diamine dihydroiodide (PentDAI2) with unsuitable size, lead to a deterioration in device performance. The PDAI2‐treated devices achieved a certified power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 25.81% and the unencapsulated devices retained over 80% of their initial PCE after 600 h AM1.5 illumination. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Due to being rooted in the ground, maize (Zea mays L.) is unable to actively escape the attacks of herbivorous insects such as the Asian corn borer (Ostrinia furnacalis). In contrast to the passive damage, plants have evolved defense mechanisms to protect themselves from herbivores. Salicylic acid, a widely present endogenous hormone in plants, has been found to play an important role in inducing plant resistance to insects. In this study, we screened and identified the insect resistance gene SPI, which is simultaneously induced by SA and O. furnacalis feeding, through preliminary transcriptome data analysis. The functional validation of SPI was carried out using bioinformatics, RT-qPCR, and heterologous expression protein feeding assays. Results: Both SA and O. furnacalis treatment increased the expression abundance of SA-synthesis pathway genes and SPI in three maize strains, and the upregulation of SPI was observed strongly at 6 hours post-treatment. The expression of SPI showed a temporal relationship with SA pathway genes, indicating that SPI is a downstream defense gene regulated by SA. Protein feeding assays using two different expression vectors demonstrated that the variation in SPI protein activity among different strains is mainly due to protein modifications. Conclusions: Our research results indicate that SPI, as a downstream defense gene regulated by SA, is induced by SA and participates in maize's insect resistance. The differential expression levels of SPI gene and protein modifications among different maize strains are one of the reasons for the variation in insect resistance. This study provides new insights into ecological pest control in maize and valuable insights into plant responses to SA-induced insect resistance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Exercise-induced adaptation is achieved by altering the epigenetic landscape of the entire genome leading to the expression of genes involved in various processes including regulatory, metabolic, adaptive, immune, and myogenic functions. Clinical and experimental data suggest that the methylation pattern/levels of promoter/enhancer is not linearly correlated with gene expression and proteome levels during physical activity implying a level of complexity and interplay with other regulatory modulators. It has been shown that a higher level of physical fitness is associated with a slower DNA methylation-based aging clock. There is strong evidence supporting exercise-induced ROS being a key regulatory mediator through overlapping events, both as signaling entities and through oxidative modifications to various protein mediators and DNA molecules. ROS generated by physical activity shapes epigenome both directly and indirectly, a complexity we are beginning to unravel within the epigenetic arrangement. Oxidative modification of guanine to 8-oxoguanine is a non-genotoxic alteration, does not distort DNA helix and serves as an epigenetic-like mark. The reader and eraser of oxidized guanine is the 8-oxoguanine DNA glycosylase 1, contributing to changes in gene expression. In fact, it can modulate methylation patterns of promoters/enhancers consequently leading to multiple phenotypic changes. Here, we provide evidence and discuss the potential roles of exercise-induced ROS in altering cytosine methylation patterns during muscle adaptation processes. [Display omitted] • Physical activity significantly contributes to specific DNA base methylation and oxidation signatures. • ROS modification serves not only for the re-establishment of redox homeostasis but also plays an epigenetic role. • 8-oxoGua functions as a ROS-generated epigenetic-like mark and can potentially interfere with DNA methylation. • OGG1.•8-oxoGua signaling regulates satellite cell functions, providing a new mechanism for muscle regeneration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nitrogen is a major driving force for the improvement of crop yield worldwide but brings detrimental effects on ecosystems. Therefore, enhancing nitrogen use efficiency (NUE) is vital for sustainable agriculture. The nitrate transporter (NRT1/NPF) family associated with nitrogen uptake and utilization is indispensable to the improvement of NUE in crops. As an important food security crop, cassava (Manihot esculenta) produces an acceptable yield in nutrient‐deficient soil. Here, we identified and systematically analyzed the NPF gene family in cassava, including phylogenetic relationship, chromosome location, gene duplication, and gene expression in response to different nitrogen supplies. The stem is involved in nitrogen transportation and remobilization. Gene expression analysis revealed that MeNPF5.4 and MeNPF6.2 were specifically expressed in the stem, and have diverse expression in different nitrogen conditions. To facilitate the functional analysis of MeNPF5.4 and MeNPF6.2, we constructed their overexpression (OE) lines in rice. A NO3− flux assay showed that MeNPF5.4 and MeNPF6.2 OE lines exhibited a marked decrease in NO3− efflux and significant NO3− influx compared with WT, which suggests that they might have contributed to the NUE improvement of rice. Notably, overexpressing MeNPF5.4 showed increased grain size, grain number, and grain weight per panicle. More importantly, the MeNPF5.4 OE line contributed to salt tolerance. Nevertheless, an obvious reduction in grain number and grain weight per panicle was detected in the MeNPF6.2 OE line compared with WT. Strikingly, the MeNPF6.2 OE line showed higher salt stress tolerance than WT in LN conditions. Taken together, our results demonstrated that MeNPF5.4 can potentially improve the NUE and salt stress tolerance of rice, which reveals valuable breeding targets to improve crop yield and stress tolerance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to present an evidence-based guideline for primary teeth with deep caries or trauma requiring vital pulp therapies (VPT). Methods: A systematic review/meta-analysis on vital primary teeth resulting from trauma or caries was conducted using GRADE to assess the certainty of evidence for clinical recommendations. A decision tree was provided for choosing VPTs. Results: No articles on trauma VPT were found. For VPT in primary teeth with deep caries, indirect pulp treatment (IPT) or pulpotomy using the calcium silicate cement (mineral trioxide aggregate [MTA] or Biodentine®) show increased success over using direct pulp capping (DPC) and other pulpotomies. Different liners do not affect IPT success (high certainty) or DPC capping agents' success (very low certainty) after 24 months. It is strongly recommended, with high certainty from 24-month data, that calcium silicate cement pulpotomy is preferred over formocresol, ferric sulfate, zinc oxide eugenol pulpotomy, and other pulpotomies. Using selective caries removal and IPT for deep caries is strongly recommended with moderate certainty over complete and stepwise removal. Statistically, this results in significantly fewer pulp exposures. No caries removal and Hall technique crown may be used when indicated (moderate certainty at 24 months). For vital primary incisors with deep caries, pulpotomy was significantly better statistically than pulpectomy. Teeth diagnosed with/without reversible pulpitis pain showed comparable success after 12 months of treatment by IPT or calcium silicate cement pulpotomy. The following had little or no significant effect on MTA pulpotomy success: coronal pulp removal methods; irrigation solution; method to control hemorrhage; base over MTA; treatment in one or two visits; anterior or posterior teeth. Conclusions: Indirect pulp treatment or calcium silicate cement pulpotomy is likely to increase vital pulp therapy success over other VPTs such as direct pulp capping and other pulpotomies after 24 months (moderate certainty). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cervical cancer cells possess high levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS); thus, increasing oxidative stress above the toxicity threshold to induce cell death is a promising chemotherapeutic strategy. However, the underlying mechanisms of cell death are elusive, and efficacy and toxicity issues remain. Within DNA, 8-oxo-7,8-dihydroguanine (8-oxoG) is the most frequent base lesion repaired by 8-oxoguanine glycosylase 1 (OGG1)-initiated base excision repair. Cancer cells also express high levels of MutT homolog 1 (MTH1), which prevents DNA replication-induced incorporation of 8-oxoG into the genome by hydrolyzing 8-oxo-7,8-dihydro-2′-deoxyguanosine 5′-triphosphate (8-oxo-dGTP). Here, we revealed that ROS-inducing agents triggered cervical cancer to undergo parthanatos, which was mainly induced by massive DNA strand breaks resulting from overwhelming 8-oxoG excision by OGG1. Furthermore, the MTH1 inhibitor synergized with a relatively low dose of ROS-inducing agents by enhancing 8-oxoG loading in the DNA. In vivo , this drug combination suppressed the growth of tumor xenografts, and this inhibitory effect was significantly decreased in the absence of OGG1. Hence, the present study highlights the roles of base repair enzymes in cell death induction and suggests that the combination of lower doses of ROS-inducing agents with MTH1 inhibitors may be a more selective and safer strategy for cervical cancer chemotherapy. • ROS-inducing agents trigger cervical cancer cells undergoing parthanatos. • Massive DNA strand breaks caused by 8-oxoG excision by OGG1 lead to parthanatos. • MTH1 inhibitor synergizes ROS-inducing agents by enhancing 8-oxoG loading in DNA. • This drug combination can suppress the growth of cervical cancer in vivo. • The synergistic antitumor effect is significantly decreased when OGG1 is absent. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Provides clearly mechanism of the emission of DAAzF at ambient condition. • Pressure-induced emission enhancement of DAAzF at low pressure via the variation of hydrogen-bond interaction. • Luminescence attenuation of DAAzF at 8.9 GPa via the deviation of NH 2 from the molecular plane. • Molecular conformation changes of DAAzF by bending of the C–C–N = N bond at ∼21 GPa. The luminescence and electronic structure of 3,3′-Diamino-4,4′-azofurazan (DAAzF) were studied under high pressure conditions through experimental and calculation approaches. The transition of π* → π was primarily responsible for DAAzF's broad light emission. Upon applying pressure to DAAzF, high-pressure-stiffened hydrogen-bond interactions enable the restriction of the stretching vibration of NH 2 group. The reduced energy loss through nonradiative rotational relaxation and molecular motions lead to a ∼20 times luminescent enhancement of DAAzF from 1 atm to 8.9 GPa. With the further strengthening of interlayer hydrogen bond interactions at higher pressure, the deviation of hydrogen atoms in amino groups from the molecular plane lessens the radiation transition efficiency. In addition, the bending of the C–C–N=N bond further leads to molecular conformation changes at approximately 20.7 GPa, which induces an abrupt redshift and moderate quenching of the luminescence. Furthermore, the band gap of DAAzF is significantly influenced by pressure. As the color undergoes a transition from yellow to red, and becomes darker as the pressure increases, the absorption edge shifted towards red. At 3.4, 9, and 21 GPa, three conformational variations were identified in conjunction with electronic structural alterations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Climate chamber experiments were conducted to simulate winter commute conditions. • The interactive effects of physical and mental activities on thermal comfort analyzed. • The skin and core temperatures were not significantly affected by mental activities. • Both metabolic rate and mood can affect TSV and TCV by changing heart rate. • Indoor mental status should also be considered when evaluating thermal comfort. The indoor thermal comfort requirements of occupants after winter commutes are subject to variations compared to stable indoor environments. However, the comprehensive effect of mood and physical activities on thermal responses is poorly understood. In this study, 20 sex-balanced participants were recruited to investigate differences in thermal perceptions and physiological responses to thermal environments after winter commutes in a climate chamber. Six different conditions with three different indoor seated activities after step-changing from two different outdoor physical activities were studied. Our findings revealed significant disparities in mood scores among participants engaged in activities such as quiet sitting, office work (typing), and entertainment (watching comedy). The thermal sensation and thermal comfort votes were significantly different between sitting quietly/working and entertainment cases after winter commute by running. Notably, both physical and mental activities exhibited the capacity to impact TSV through alterations in heart rate. This was particularly evident in the context of entertainment activities, where a positive mood was found to mitigate the increase in heart rate, as indicated by wrist pulse measurements, under conditions of elevated metabolic activity. Conversely, no significant differences were observed in skin and core temperatures across different indoor mental activities. This suggests that wrist pulse or heart rate could serve as a valuable additional parameter for enhancing the accuracy of real-time thermal comfort predictions in environments with a constant room temperature. A more satisfying indoor thermal environment could be dynamically created for the well-being of commuters based on the results of this study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Zircon U-Pb dating indicates that the Yunxian-Jinggu volcanic rocks were formed between 245 and 230 Ma. • Wenyu arc basalts originated from mantle metasomatized by fluids released from the subducted Paleo-Tethys slab. • Magmas of the Yunxian-Jinggu volcanic arc are less conducive to porphyry copper mineralization. Porphyry copper deposits are commonly associated with porphyries generated in arc environments. Assessing the contemporaneous arc volcanic rocks provides crucial insights into the potential for porphyry copper mineralization. The Triassic Yidun arc in the northern part of the Sanjiang orogen in southwest China, which formed in association with the subduction of the Paleo-Tethys Oceanic slab, hosts several porphyry copper deposits. However, the potential for porphyry copper mineralization in the Yunxian-Jinggu volcanic arc in the southern part of the Sanjiang orogen, which was also linked to the subduction of the Paleo-Tethys Oceanic slab, remains unclear. This study reports zircon U–Pb ages, trace element compositions and Hf isotopes, and whole-rock element compositions and Sr–Nd–Pb isotopes of the basaltic-andesitic-dacitic rocks in the Yunxian-Jinggu volcanic arc. Zircon SHRIMP U–Pb dating of the Wenyu basalts and andesites yielded ages of 244.3 ± 1.9 Ma and 242.5 ± 2.5 Ma, respectively. The basalts have arc geochemical affinities with ε Hf (t) values of 2.3 to 9.3, ε Nd (t) values of –0.6 to 0.2, and (87Sr/86Sr) i values of 0.7065 to 0.7068. They have high Ba concentrations (∼ 550 ppm), highly variable Ba/La ratios (0.01 to 0.10), and a narrow range of Th/Yb ratios (1.2 to 1.9). These characteristics suggest that the basalts were derived from mantle metasomatized by fluids likely released from the subducted Paleo-Tethys slab. The Wenyu andesites, with ε Hf (t) values range from 1.6 to 7.0, ε Nd (t) value of –0.4, and (87Sr/86Sr) i value of 0.7031, along with distinct Pb isotopes, were probably produced through basaltic magmas undergoing crustal fractional crystallization. The Minle dacites, sharing similar ε Hf (t) value (–1.6 to 10.7) but lower ε Nd (t) values (–3.1 to –4.9) compared to Wenyu volcanics, are interpreted as derived from partial melting of basaltic magmas with contamination from ancient crustal components. The zircon Eu/Eu* ratios (mostly < 0.4), zircon ΔFMQ value (–0.6 ± 1.1), and bulk-rock Sr/Y ratios (< 10.3) for the Yunxian-Jinggu volcanic rocks indicate that co-genetic intrusions, if present, would likely be less hydrous and less oxidized, making them less favorable for porphyry copper mineralization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]