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Abstract: To identify a predictor to forecast superovulation response on the basis of associations between superovulation performance and gene polymorphism, variation in the bovine follicle stimulating hormone receptor (FSHR) gene was investigated using PCR-single-strand conformational (PCR-SSCP) and DNA sequencing. One single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) of G-278A located in the 5′ upstream region of bovine FSHR gene was found in 118 Chinese Holstein cows treated for superovulation. Two SNPs of G-278A (GU253337) and A-320T (rs43676359) were analyzed. In polymorphic locus −278, all cows without superovulation response were mutations with genotypes of CD and DD. Cows with CC genotype had a significant increase in the total number of ova (TNO) (P <0.01), and produced more transferable embryos (NTE) than those of the CD and DD genotypes (P <0.01). At this locus, the additive effects seemed to be highly significant (P <0.01) and allele C was associated with an increase in the TNO and NTE. These results indicated that the FSHR is a potential marker for superovulation response and can be used as a predictor for superovulation in Chinese Holstein cows. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The alkaline niobate-based perovskite ceramics (K,Na,Li)(Nb,Sb)O3 has been regarded as a new candidate of lead-free piezoelectric materials due to its excellent piezoelectric properties. In this study, 0.948(Na0.5K0.5)NbO3-0.052LiSbO3 (KNN-LS) based ceramics were prepared by a conventional solid-state reaction method. The effects of ZnO, CuO and MnO2 on the structure, dielectric and piezoelectric properties of KNN-LS were investigated in this study. When 1mol% oxide dopants were added, respectively, KNN-LS piezoelectric ceramics became “hard”. Mechanical quality factor Q value increased significantly with unobvious change of d 33 (93–119pC/N). KNN-LS ceramics kept high Curie temperature Tc around 350°C. Dielectric loss at 1KHz decreased a lot to below 5%. The results show that the oxide-doped KNN-LS ceramics are promising lead-free piezoelectric materials for electromechanical transducer applications. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: A new high transmission Y-junction based on two-dimensional photonic crystal waveguides of triangular lattice is designed. The Y-junction is designed by moving the corner rods of Y-junction into a resonant cavity and placing additional rods between the resonant cavity and the output waveguides. By changing the radius of the additional rods, the transmission coefficient of the Y-junction can be optimized. The coupled mode theory is used to explain the transmission properties. Two-dimensional numerical simulation is performed to verify the Y-junction structure with near-complete transmission. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Gossypol is a yellow natural polyphenolic compound extracted from the seeds, leaves, stems, and flower buds of the cotton plant. Several studies have shown that exposure to gossypol impacts reproductive health in both humans and animals. However, whether gossypol exposure would influence oocyte quality has not yet been determined. Here, we studied the effects of gossypol on the meiotic maturation of mouse oocytes in vitro. The results revealed that gossypol exposure did not affect germinal vesicle breakdown (GVBD) but significantly reduced polar body extrusion (PBE) rates. Moreover, we observed meiotic spindle organization and chromosome alignment were entirely disturbed after gossypol exposure. Further, gossypol exposure also caused mitochondrial dysfunction and abruptly decreased the levels of cellular ATP, and diminished the mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP). Accordingly, gossypol-induced oxidative stress was confirmed through an increased level of reactive oxygen species (ROS). Early apoptosis incidence also increased as identified by positive Annexin-V signaling. Collectively, the above findings provide evidence that gossypol exposure impaired oocyte meiotic maturation, disturbed spindle structure and chromosome dynamics, disrupted mitochondrial function, induced oxidative stress, and triggered early apoptosis. These findings emphasize gossypol's adverse effects on oocyte maturation and thus on female fertility. • Gossypol exposure compromised the meiotic maturation of mouse oocytes. • Gossypol exposure disturbed the spindle assembly and chromosome alignment. • Gossypol exposure caused mitochondrial damage and reduced ATP content and MMP. • Gossypol exposure increased ROS level in mouse oocytes. • Gossypol exposure induced early apoptosis in mouse oocytes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The effects of a 0.4T horizontal magnetic field (HMF) on the open-circuit corrosion states of iron in static aqueous solutions are studied by in situ monitoring the responses of two electrochemical parameters to the applied magnetic field, i.e. the open-circuit potential (OCP) and the current under potentiostatic polarization. The applied magnetic field makes the OCP shift in the noble direction. Withdrawing the magnetic field causes a negative shift of the OCP in acidic solutions, but it does not cause any significant change of OCP in neutral solutions. Imposing a magnetic field induces a cathodic current for iron that was previously potentiostatically polarized at the OCP without magnetic field. Withdrawing the magnetic field induces an anodic current for iron that was previously potentiostatically polarized at the OCP with the magnetic field. The magnetic field effect is more significant in the acid solutions than in the salt solutions. The magnetic field effects on the oxygen reduction and on the activation-controlled iron dissolution reaction are found to be insignificant. The magnetic field effect on the hydrogen reduction reaction on iron in acidic solutions is demonstrated. Results show the possibility that a magnetic field would affect the hydrogen evolution by enhancing the electron-transfer process that has been categorized in the classical electrochemistry kinetics to be the rate-determining process. The memory effect of the magnetic field on the electrochemical reaction is identified and discussed. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Diabetic nephropathy is the major cause of end-stage renal disease. Many studies show that chronic kidney disease can be prevented, or its progression to end-stage renal disease delayed, by effective intervention. The aim of this study was to estimate the prevalence of proteinuria and renal impairment in patients with type 2 diabetes. A community-based screening for chronic kidney disease in type 2 diabetic patients was conducted in 1999–2001. Proteinuria was defined in terms of urine protein-to-creatinine ratio. The glomerular filtration rate per 1.73m2 body surface area was calculated using an equation from the Modification of Diet in Renal Disease Study. The overall response rate was about 78.6%. Prevalence rates of proteinuria and renal impairment were 29.4% and 15.1%, respectively. Females had higher prevalence of proteinuria and renal impairment than males. And prevalence increased with increasing age. Hypertension was associated with both proteinuria and renal impairment. Only 43.0% of patients with stages 3–5 chronic kidney disease had proteinuria. Proteinuria and renal impairment screening may identify different segments of the diabetic population. Both a glomerular filtration rate and proteinuria test are recommended as screening tools for early detection of chronic kidney disease in type 2 diabetics. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Mathematical models were applied to predict the results of different strategies to improve automotive fuel cell driving systems. First, a fuel cell system was optimized on the base of a fuel cell stack model. Then calculations about the utilization of recovered energy from air exhaust steam were carried out. Two methods to combine the turbocharger with an electric compressor, namely in series and in parallel, were evaluated for a fuel cell system. Finally, research on the effect of removing the big power DC/DC converter, which is located between the fuel cell system and the driving motor, was conducted for a fuel cell driving system. The main results show that it is highly advantageous to connect the turbocharger with an electric compressor in series than in parallel; and that the fuel cell driving system without DC/DC converter before its motor could reach much higher performance characteristics, and even be so in lower power range while the cell voltage was designated to be lower. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Multiexponentiation, for the 2-dimension one especially, is a very important but time-consuming operation in many ElGamal-like public key cryptosystems. An efficient multiexponentiation method is firstly proposed by Shamir in ElGamal’s paper. Shamir’s method requires 1.75n modular multiplications in average, where n is the bit-length of the exponents. Using minimal weight binary signed-digit (BSD) representations in Shamir’s method can reduce the number of multiplications to 1.556n. Due to there are many minimal weight BSD representations for an integer, Dimitrov et al. proposed a new 2-dimension multiexponentiation algorithm to recode the canonical binary signed-digit representations. The average number of the number 1.556n is reduced to 1.534n. After the publish of the Dimitrov–Jullien–Miller algorithm, there are many research on receding BSD representation of a pair of integers. The most interesting one is the joint sparse form. The number of multiplication can be reduced to 1.500n in joint sparse form when the exponent length is near infinite. In this paper, we propose a new asynchronous recoding algorithm to reduce the factor to 1.509n. For comparison to all the previous algorithm, the property of asynchronous receding is especially suitable for multi-dimension multiexponentiation. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: A structure–activity relationship study of the amine portion of the calcilytic compound NPS-2143 resulted in the discovery of substituted 2-benzylpyrrolidines as replacements for the 1,1-dimethyl-2-naphthalen-2-yl-ethylamine. When compared to NPS-2143, a newly discovered compound, 3h, exhibited similar potency as a calcium-sensing receptor (CaR) antagonist and a superior human ether-a-go-go related gene (hERG) profile. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

A series of 3-aryl-7-hydroxybenzoxazine analogues have been prepared and evaluated as ligands for the two estrogen receptor subtypes (ERα and ERβ). From the radioligand binding assay, compounds with more than a 10-fold binding selectivity toward the ERβ subtype have been identified. These compounds have also been shown to be potent full agonists in the functional assay by activation of ERE promoted transcription, with the best compound being 20-fold more potent than genistein. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Nd2O3 nanopowders were prepared by a novel sol–gel auto-combustion method using additive agent polyvinyl alcohol. The gel transformed from the aqueous solutions of metal nitrate, citric acid and small quality of polyvinyl alcohol underwent a self-propagation combustion process when ignited and yielded voluminous ashes. These ashes were single phase Nd2O3 powders with a particle size of 20–30 nm. The influences of preparation conditions such as the molar ratio of Nd3+ to citric acid, the amount of additive agent polyvinyl alcohol, the pH value of the reaction system on the formation of the particles have been studied in detail. X-ray diffraction (XRD), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), atomic force microscopy (AFM) were used for the sample characterization. It was found that the optimum molar ratio of Nd3+ to citric acid was 1:2, the optimum amount of polyvinyl alcohol was 10% of Nd(NO3)3. In addition, we also studied the catalytic activity of nanometer Nd2O3 and super solid acid SO42−/Nd2O3 in the synthesis of isobutyl acetate. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

New synthetic chemical inducers of dimerization, comprising homodimeric FKBP ligands with engineered specificity for the designed point mutant F36V, have been evaluated for inducing targeted gene expression in mammalian cells. Structure–activity studies indicated that high-affinity dimerizers such as AP1903 are ineffective, perhaps due to kinetic trapping of non-productive dimers, whereas lower-affinity molecules, exemplified by AP1889 and AP1966, potently activate transcription. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The shuttle effect of dissolved polysulfides migrating to and depositing on anodes often leads to low round-trip efficiency and short cycle life for lithium-sulfur (Li-S) batteries. Herein, we report the rational design of cobalt-embedded nitrogen-doped hollow carbon microspheres (Co@N-HCMSs) as a multifunctional sulfur host for Li-S batteries. The hollow carbon microspheres exhibit large central cavities wrapped by a hierarchically porous shell, showing a large surface area of 1954 m2 g−1. Furthermore, the carbon shells display a unique porous architecture, in which small pores are scattered on the outside and large pores are inside, thereby functioning as a selection barrier to confine polysulfides and diffuse Li+ simultaneously. Moreover, the highly dispersed cobalt nanoparticles in the porous shell activate the surrounding N-doped carbon layer, which not only promote chemical adsorption of polysulfides but also catalyze polysulfide conversion. This facilitation effect has been confirmed by Bader charge and density function theory (DFT) calculations. When applied in Li-S batteries, the sulfur-impregnated Co@N-HCMSs cathode material exhibits excellent electrochemical performances, especially with a high sulfur content of 90.5 wt% and a high areal sulfur loading of 5.1 mg cm−2. The cobalt-embedded nitrogen-doped hollow carbon microspheres exhibit excellent performance under high sulfur loadings for Li-S batteries. [Display omitted] • The hierarchical hollow carbon sphere is synthesized based on Kirkendall effect. • The porous carbon shell selectively confines polysulfide and permits Li+ diffusion. • Encapsulated Co facilitates chemical affinity and catalyzes sulfur conversion. • The hollow sphere shows a large surface area to accommodate up to 90.5 wt% sulfur. • The Li-S cell exhibits excellent performance at high sulfur content/loading. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper investigates the exponential stability problem for a class of singularly perturbed impulsive systems in which the flow dynamics is unstable and is affected at discrete time instants by impulses that have both destabilizing and stabilizing effects. More precisely the impulses have stabilizing effects on the slow variables but destabilizing effects on the fast ones. Thus, a first contribution of our work is related to stability analysis of singularly perturbed impulsive systems in the case when neither the flow dynamics nor the impulsive one is stable. In order to take full advantage of the jump matrix structure and its stabilizing effects on the slow dynamics, we introduce a new impulse-dependent vector Lyapunov function. This function allows us to better describe the behavior between two consecutive impulses as well as the jumps at impulse instants. Several numerically tractable criteria for stability of singularly perturbed impulsive systems are established based on vector comparison principle. Additionally, upper bounds on the singular perturbation parameter are derived. Finally, the validity of our results is verified by two numerical examples. • Neither the flow dynamics nor the jump dynamics of the model is stable. • The impulse's stabilizing effect is explored by developing vector Lyapunov function. • Several numerically tractable criteria for stability of SPSs are established. • The upper bound on the singular perturbation parameter is derived. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The spontaneous firing activity of nigral dopaminergic neurons is associated with some important roles including modulation of dopamine release, expression of tyrosine hydroxylase (TH), as well as neuronal survival. The decreased neuroactivity of nigral dopaminergic neurons has been revealed in Parkinson's disease. Central glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) functions as a neurotransmitter or neuromodulator to exert multiple brain functions. Although morphological studies revealed the expression of GLP-1 receptors (GLP-1Rs) in the substantia nigra pars compacta, the possible modulation of GLP-1 on spontaneous firing activity of nigral dopaminergic neurons is unknown. The present extracellular in vivo single unit recordings revealed that GLP-1R agonist exendin-4 significantly increased the spontaneous firing rate and decreased the firing regularity of partial nigral dopaminergic neurons of adult male C57BL/6 mice. Blockade of GLP-1Rs by exendin (9–39) decreased the firing rate of nigral dopaminergic neurons suggesting the involvement of endogenous GLP-1 in the modulation of firing activity. Furthermore, the PKA and the transient receptor potential canonical (TRPC) 4/5 channels are involved in activation of GLP-1Rs-induced excitatory effects of nigral dopaminergic neurons. Under parkinsonian state, both the exogenous and endogenous GLP-1 could still induce excitatory effects on the surviving nigral dopaminergic neurons. As the mild excitatory stimuli exert neuroprotective effects on nigral dopaminergic neurons, the present GLP-1-induced excitatory effects may partially contribute to its antiparkinsonian effects. • GLP-1R agonist exendin-4 increased the firing rate of nigral dopaminergic neurons. • Endogenous GLP-1 is involved in the modulation of firing activity. • PKA and TRPC 4/5 channels are involved in GLP-1R-induced excitation. • GLP-1 is functional on the surviving nigral dopaminergic neurons in PD mice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper systematically reviews the PM sampling and measurement methods, formation mechanisms, distribution, inorganic composition and the factors influencing PM emission during combustion of coal/biomass/MSW. Particle sampling and measurement methods are developing rapidly utilizing various techniques, however, the direct sampling techniques for particle in the high temperature flue gas is still lacking. Particle is generated by a series of physical processes (evaporation, condensation, fragmentation etc.) and chemical reaction processes of inorganic mineral components and organically bound metal compounds in the solid fuels. The available literature data shows that the emission of coarse particles from coal combustion is generally higher than that from biomass, while the emission of ultrafine and fine particle from biomass combustion is higher than that of coal. Particle emission is related to a variety of influencing factors such as solid fuels particle size, inherent ash content, mineral properties, binding form of inorganic elements, combustion parameters (temperature, pressure, residence time, oxygen concentration etc.) and ash chemical composition. The content of Na, K, S, Cl, Si and Al plays a decisive role in PM 10 emissions, the (Na 2 O + K 2 O)/(SiO 2 + Al 2 O 3) ratio of ash can be used as an index to predict the yield of PM 0.3 in coal and biomass combustion. Unlabelled Image • The direct sampling techniques for PM in the high temperature flue gas is lacking. • PM chemical composition generated from coal, biomass and MSW combustion was different. • Ultrafine particles yields follows: Biomass> Coal, Forest biomass> Agricultural biomass. • The (Na 2 O + K 2 O)/(SiO 2 + Al 2 O 3) mass ratio of ash can be used as an index to predict PM 0.3 yields. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Na metal is regarded as a potential anode material for next-generation Na metal batteries owing to its high theoretical capacity and low cost. However, the severe dendrite growth and infinitely volume changes of Na limit its practical applications as an anode material. In this study, a three-dimensional (3D) Cu foam skeleton with hierarchical ZnO nanorod arrays (CF@ZnO) was prepared as a stable host for dendrite-free Na metal anodes. Commercially available Cu foam was treated via a simple chemical precipitation method to grow hierarchical ZnO nanorod arrays, exhibiting a 3D porous structure with a cylindrical core-shell skeleton. The highly "sodiophilic" ZnO nanorod arrays provided abundant Na nucleation sites and exhibited low nucleation overpotential, which facilitated the homogeneous nucleation and uniform growth of Na on the electrode. Moreover, the 3D porous core-shell cylindrical structure of the nanorod arrays efficiently reduced the local effective current density, thus suppressing the growth of Na dendrites, as indicated by COMSOL Multiphysics simulations. As a result, the CF@ZnO electrode exhibited dendrite-free morphology during repeated Na plating/striping and excellent cycling stability with very small voltage hysteresis even at high current densities. When paired with a Na 3 V 2 (PO 4) 3 cathode, the CF@ZnO/Na electrode showed significant potential for application in full cells. This study provides a facile approach to design 3D sodiophilic hosts for high-energy-density Na metal batteries. ga1 • 3D Cu foam skeleton with hierarchical ZnO nanorod arrays have developed as a stable host for dendrite-free Na metal anode. • CF@ZnO electrode exhibited a dendrite-free morphology during repeated Na plating/striping and excellent cycling stability. • COMSOL Multiphysics simulations verified homogeneous nucleation and uniform growth of Na on the surface of CF@ZnO. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Highly flexible CNT scaffolds were prepared and firstly used to stabilize Zn anodes. • The CNT scaffold-stabilized Zn anodes displayed superior cycling stability. • Ultralong-life zinc-ion batteries/hybrid capacitors with Zn anodes were constructed. The merits of zinc metal anodes such as high chemical stability, low cost and ultrahigh volumetric capacity endow Zn based batteries/hybrid capacitors with great potential applications for electronic products. However, unstable stripping/plating of zinc anodes tends to cause the formation of protuberances/dendrites and side reactions such as water decomposition on anode surfaces, eventually leading to the failure of Zn based electrochemical energy storage devices. Herein, we report the fabrication of free-standing, highly flexible and conductive carbon nanotube (CNT)/paper scaffolds to stabilize zinc metal anodes. The free-standing CNT scaffolds only need to be placed between zinc anodes and separators when assembling zinc anode-based batteries/hybrid capacitors. On the surface of the zinc electrode, the scaffolds' porous skeleton mechanically regulates Zn2+ deposition sites and their conductive CNT networks maintain a stable electric field during Zn stripping/plating processes, thus retarding the formation of protuberances/dendrites and the occurrence of side reactions. The scaffold-stabilized zinc anodes displayed small polarization voltages, a long cycling life over 1800 h and superior capability for fast charging-discharging. In addition, benefiting from the high electrochemical stability and reversibility of the scaffold-stabilized zinc anodes, zinc-ion batteries/hybrid capacitors with ultralong cycle lives were successfully constructed. This work provides a scalable approach to stabilize zinc metal anodes for long-life zinc-ion batteries and zinc-ion hybrid capacitors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, we study the exponential stability problem for singularly perturbed switched systems(SPSSs), in which subsystems with two-time-scale property are all unstable, and both the destabilizing and stabilizing switching behaviors coexist. To estimate the state divergence during each two consecutive switching instants, the general property of a two-dimensional matrix involving singular perturbation parameter is explored. The switching sequence is properly reordered to provide an appropriate way to describe different switching behaviors. In addition, multiple composite Lyapunov functions(MCLFs) are employed to derive some stability criteria for the nonlinear SPSSs. Furthermore, by using switching-time-dependent MCLFs and dwell time method, some computable stability condition is given for the linear case. The obtained results show the relationship between the ratio of the stabilizing switching behavior and the singular perturbation parameter. Besides, the obtained results are free of ill-conditioning and stiffness problems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Polyurethane elastomers are commonly employed as binder in propellant propellants and explosives due to their excellent mechanical properties. In-situ block copolymer synthesis of polyurethane for several advantages, including the elimination of the need for solvents in the reaction process, avoidance of excessive reaction steps, and minimizing the generation of byproducts. On the other hand, the in-situ method utilizes a low-cost prepolymer, making it highly suitable for large-scale production. Polyethylene glycol is currently one of the most widely used prepolymer in polymerization. PCL possesses favorable solubility and exhibits hydrophobicity with a low melting point, remarkably noteworthy are its thermoplastic properties, including a high decomposition temperature and a low glass transition temperature. This work employed an in-situ block copolymerization method to synthesize polyurethane elastomers and subsequently investigated their mechanical properties, surface structure, evolution over time, and thermal decomposition process. Polyurethane elastomers exhibited favorable mechanical properties, the elongation properties of these polyurethane systems herein are influenced by the proportion of hydrogen-bonded carbonyl groups within the urethane. The thermal decomposition of polyurethane elastomers can be divided into two distinct processes. Random scission of the polyurethane yielding PCL occurs under low-temperature conditions, while specific cleavage events take place at higher temperatures. [Display omitted] • Polyurethane elastomers exhibited favorable mechanical properties. • The elongation properties of these polyurethane systems herein are influenced by the proportion of hydrogen-bonded carbonyl groups within the urethane. • As R value increases, an improved phase separation effect in the in-situ synthesized polyurethane system. • Random scission of the polyurethane yielding PCL occurs under low-temperature conditions, while specific cleavage events take place at higher temperatures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights • The spreading characteristics of cyber rumors over mobile social networks are addressed. • A new compartmental compartmental model for cyber rumor spreading is developed. • Rumor-denier's behavior of refuting rumors is incorporated. • The dynamic properties of the model are analyzed. • Numerical simulations illustrate theoretical results and indicate suggestions for inhibiting rumours spreading. Abstract By incorporating the spreading characteristics of cyber rumors over mobile social networks, we newly develop a dynamic system to model rumor spreading dynamics by the compartment method. Specifically, a couple of a user and an attached device is viewed as a node, and all network nodes are separated into four compartments: Rumor-Neutral, Rumor-Received, Rumor-Believed and Rumor-Denied. Some transition parameters among these groups are introduced. Additionally, the role of memory, user's ability to distinguish the rumors and rumor-denier's behavior of refuting rumors are also incorporated. The stability of the equilibria of the model system is addressed, and the influence of model parameters upon the threshold is analyzed. Finally, numerical simulations illustrate the theoretical results, and also motivate us to propose suitable measures to control cyber rumor spreading by properly adjusting the parameter values. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The safety issue of using carbamate pesticides in medicinal plants (MPs) has been a global concern and hence attracted attention of many researchers to develop analytical tools for trace pesticides detection. Derived from the fluorescence-based techniques, a rapid, convenient and efficient method for the detection of three carbamate pesticides, including carbofuran, aldicarb and methomyl has been developed by using core-shell QDs. By optimizing experimental parameters, the system demonstrated high detection sensitivities for the investigated carbamates, with the lowest detectable concentrations less than 0.05 μM. The molecular docking study indicated that the selected carbamate pesticides bound to the catalytic active site of acetylcholinesterase via π-π or H-π interactions, which also revealed the potential mechanism of the differences in inhibition strength among the three pesticides on AChE. Moreover, in order to investigate the applicability and reliability of the proposed method for the pesticide analysis in real sample with complex matrix, the matrix effects of eight common MPs have been systematically explored. These findings suggested that this technique was a simple, sensitive and reliable method for rapid determination of carbamate pesticides in real samples, especially those with complex matrices like MPs, vegetables, fruits, and other agricultural crops. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, the robust consensus problem of fractional-order multi-agent systems with input saturation and external disturbances is studied under a directed fixed topology. It’s the first time to consider the fractional-order agent subject to input saturation. When there exist input saturation and external disturbances simultaneously, by means of the Mittag–Leffler stability theorem and low gain feedback technique, a control protocol is presented to guarantee the robust consensus can be achieved. Moreover, as a special case, the leader-following consensus can be achieved when there only exists input saturation. Finally, the results are verified by several simulation examples. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

It is highly desirable to improve the high voltage stabilities of cathode materials for Li-ion battery materials since it can deliver a higher reversible capacity at high cutoff voltage. Herein, we propose a novel facile strategy to generate La 2 O 3 -modified LiNi 1/3 Co 1/3 Mn 1/3 O 2 with superior electrochemical performance in the voltage range of 2.5–4.5 V via a solid-state method. It can be observed that La 2 O 3 -modified LiNi 1/3 Co 1/3 Mn 1/3 O 2 can greatly enhance the electrochemical performance due to the synergistic effect of ion doping and surface-modifying. La ions doping can alleviate the Li + /Ni 2+ mixing, and substantially enhance the structure stability of LiNi 1/3 Co 1/3 Mn 1/3 O 2 during charge/discharge cycles at high cutoff voltage. LaNi 0.4 Co 0.6 O 3 /LaMnO 3.26 spreading on the surface layer is very useful in improving the diffusion of Li + and inhibiting the particles from reacting with the electrolyte, enhancing the high voltage stabilities of the interface between electrode and electrolyte. The capacity retention of 0.7% (molar fraction) La 2 O 3 -modified LiNi 1/3 Co 1/3 Mn 1/3 O 2 is 79.0% after 300 cycles compared to 61.7% for bare LiNi 1/3 Co 1/3 Mn 1/3 O 2 . And its discharge capacity at 10 C is 141.7 mAh g −1 in the voltage range of 2.5–4.5 V, which is higher than those of other samples. This work not only offers a facile novel strategy to achieve superior electrochemical performances of cathode materials but also presents some new insights into the stabilization mechanism of modified cathode materials during charge/discharge cycles or long-term storage at high cutoff voltage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this paper is to study the distributed optimization problem for continuous-time multi-agent systems with the existence and the interference of external disturbance, therein each agent is described as double-integrator dynamic. To reject the exogenous disturbance, the distributed algorithm is proposed for each agent based on the internal model principle. The proposed algorithm only utilizes the position information of each agent from its neighbors subject to the undirected graph, which can reduce communication costs and energy consumptions in applications. Moreover, the algorithm only needs the cost functions of the agent itself, which can greatly protect the privacy of other agents. The optimal solution of the problem is thus obtained with the design of Lyapunov function and the help of convex analysis, LaSallel’s Invariance Principle. Finally, two numerical simulation examples and the comparison of proposed algorithm with other previous research are presented to illustrate the persuasive effectiveness of the theoretical result. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Phenolic compounds are widely distributed in nature and industrial environment, and their detoxification or bioactive enhancement is of great value to environmental protection and industrial development. Laccases are multicopper oxidases that catalyse the oligo- or polymerisation of phenolic compounds. Identifying new laccase producers and investigating their application potential are of great importance. In this study, a white-rot fungus, Trametes hirsuta EZ1, with significantly high laccase productivity was isolated. The optimum conditions were studied for the maximum fermentation of extracellular laccase, which was achieved at 150 U/mL with a medium containing 10% strain EZ1, 7% maltodextrin, 1.5% peptone, and 0.5 mM Cu2+, and incubation at initial pH 6.0, 32 °C, and 180 rpm for nine days. Subsequently, a 70-kDa laccase was purified that showed activity over a wide range of temperature and pH, sensitivity to many metal ions and sodium dodecyl sulphate, and high tolerance to organic solvents. Purified laccase showed a significant unreported effect by catalysing catechol or ferulic acid into dimers, trimers, and tetramers or caffeic acid into dimers, trimers, tetramers, and pentamers. The oligomeric mixtures exhibited increased antioxidative capacity compared to that of each parent monomer, except for caffeic acid derivatives. Our study offers a novel strain source for laccase production and broadens its application in the enhancement of bioactive compounds. [Display omitted] • Isolation of a novel strain (Trametes hirsuta EZ1) with high laccase-productivity. • 150 U/mL of maximum yielding was achieved after fermentation optimization. • A 70-kDa single laccase was purified and performed valuable properties. • EZ1-laccase oligomerized three phenolic compounds into unfocused oligomers. • All oligomers performed altered antioxidative capacity and acceptable stability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An abstract of the article "Some Mechanistic Insights into GPCR Activation From Detergent-Solubilized Ternary Complexes on Beads," by Tione Buranda and colleagues is presented.

Presents a letter to the editor regarding herb-associated carcinogenicity and chronic renal failure in Asian patients with kidney cancer and hypertension, previously published in the journal "Kidney International."

Leukocyte cell-derived chemotaxin 2 (LECT2) acts as a tumor suppressor in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). However, the antineoplastic mechanism of LECT2, especially its influence on hepatic cancer stem cells (CSCs), remains largely unknown. In The Cancer Genome Atlas cohort, LECT2 mRNA expression was shown to be associated with stage, grade, recurrence, and overall survival in human HCC patients, and LECT2 expression was downregulated in hepatoma tissues compared with the adjacent nontumoral liver. Here, we show by immunofluorescence and immunoblot analyses that LECT2 was expressed at lower levels in tumors and in poorly differentiated HCC cell lines. Using functional assays, we also found LECT2 was capable of suppressing oncogenic behaviors such as cell proliferation, anchorage-independent growth, migration, invasiveness, and epithelial-mesenchymal transition in hepatoma cells. Moreover, we show exogenous LECT2 treatment inhibited CSC functions such as tumor sphere formation and drug efflux. Simultaneously, hepatic CSC marker expression was also downregulated, including expression of CD133 and CD44. This was supported by infection with adenovirus encoding LECT2 (Ad-LECT2) in HCC cells. Furthermore, in animal experiments, Ad-LECT2 gene therapy showed potent efficacy in treating HCC. We demonstrate LECT2 overexpression significantly promoted cell apoptosis and reduced neovascularization/CSC expansion in rat hepatoma tissues. Mechanistically, we showed using immunoblot and immuno-fluorescence analyses that LECT2 inhibited β-catenin signaling via the suppression of the hepatocyte growth factor/c-MET axis to diminish CSC properties in HCC cells. In summary, we reveal novel functions of LECT2 in the suppression of hepatic CSCs, suggesting a potential alternative strategy for HCC therapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A metal porous carbon (Ni@NC) supported nickel/cobalt layered double hydroxide (NiCo-LDH) (Ni@NC@NiCo-LDH) with a cauliflower morphology was synthesized by a successive double template method. At first a nickel metal-organic framework (Ni-MOF) was prepared and used as a sacrifice template to produce metal porous carbon (Ni@NC). Then the prepared conductive porous carbon material was exploited as a substrate for in-situ growing of ZIF-67 on its surface. Lastly the obtained Ni@NC@ZIF-67 was further used as a sacrifice template to prepare the final electrode material Ni@NC@NiCo-LDH by Ni2+ etching and co-precipitation. The cooperation of Ni@NC with excellent conductivity and NiCo-LDH with superior pseudocapacitive property yielded a synergistic effect, which effectively improved the electrochemical performance of the resulted electrode material. And the special flower morphology exposed more redox active sites and provided proper charge transport path for enhanced electrochemical performance. The prepared Ni@NC@NiCo-LDH exhibited a high specific capacitance of 1761.8 F·g−1 at the current density of 1 A·g−1. The assembled Ni@NC@NiCo-LDH//AC asymmetric supercapacitor also displayed an acceptable energy density (39.27 Wh·kg−1 at the power density of 757.21 W·kg−1) and ultrahigh cycling stability (94.74% capacitance retention after 25000 cycles at 10 A g−1). [Display omitted] • Ni@NC@NiCo-LDH was prepared by combination of Ni@NC and NiCo-LDH for the first time. • Ni@NC@NiCo-LDH had a big specific capacitance. • The assembled supercapacitor with Ni@NC@NiCo-LDH and AC had excellent cycle stability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Bianjiadayuan Pb–Zn–Ag deposit in the Southern Great Xing'an Range consists of quartz-sulfide vein-type and breccia-type mineralization related to granite. Vein orebodies are localized in NW-trending extensional faults. Hydrothermal alteration is well developed and includes silicification, potassic alteration, chloritization and sericitization. Three stages of mineralization are recognized based on field evidence and petrographic observation and are marked by assemblages of quartz–arsenopyrite–pyrite (stage I), quartz–pyrrhotite–chalcopyrite–sphalerite (stage II) and quartz–galena–silver minerals (stage III). The granite, with a zircon age of 143.2 ± 1.5 Ma (n = 14, MSWD = 0.93), is subalkaline, peraluminous and is classified as A2-type granite originating in a post-orogenic extensional setting during the opening of suture zone between the North China Craton and the Siberia Craton from the Late Jurassic to the Early Cretaceous. The δ 34 S CDT values of sulfides, ranging from 3.19 to 10.65‰, are not consistent with the majority of magmatic hydrothermal deposits in the SGXR, possibly implying accessory source in addition to magmatic source. Microthermometric measurements show that ore minerals were deposited at intermediate temperatures (347.8–136.4 °C) with moderate salinities (2.9–14.4 wt.% NaCl). Ore-forming fluids were derived largely from magmatic hydrothermal processes, with the addition of meteoric water in late stage. Successive precipitation of Pb, Zn and Ag occurred with changes of physicochemical conditions. Overall considering mineralization features, ore-forming fluids and materials and tectonic setting and comparing with adjacent deposits, the Bianjiadayuan deposit is a mesothermal magmatic hydrothermal vein-type Pb–Zn–Ag deposit controlled by fractures and related to A2-type granite in response to the tectonic/magmatic/hydrothermal activity in late Jurassic. Besides, the explosive breccias in the west area require more attention in future exploration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To investigate the role of the PPARγ-PI3K/AKT-NO signaling pathway in cardiac hypertrophy induced by high glucose and insulin. Methods: Cardiomyocyte hypertrophy induced by high glucose (25.5 mmol/L) and insulin (0.1 μmol/L) (HGI) was characterized in rat primary cardiomyocytes by measuring the cell surface area, protein content, and atrial natriuretic factor mRNA expression level. Protein and mRNA expressions were measured by Western blotting and real time RT-PCR, respectively. A spectrophotometric assay was used to measure the enzymatic concentration of endothelial NO synthase (eNOS), and the Griess assay measured the NO concentration. Results: HGI induced significant cardiomyocyte hypertrophy and decreased the expression of PPARγ, AKT and eNOS at the mRNA and protein levels, which occurred in parallel with declining eNOS activity and NO concentration (P < 0.05). The effects of HGI were inhibited by rosiglitazone (0.1 μmol/L), a selective PPARγ agonist (P < 0.05). However, GW9662, a selective PPARγ antagonist, abolished the effects of rosiglitazone (P < 0.05). LY294002, a PI3K/AKT inhibitor, and NG-nitro-l-arginine-methyl ester, an NOS inhibitor, partially blocked the effects of rosiglitazone (P < 0.05). Conclusion: These results suggest that the PPARγ-PI3K/AKT-NO signal transduction pathway might be involved in HGI-induced cardiomyocyte hypertrophy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In-depth profiling of cancer cells/tissues is expanding our understanding of the genomic, epigenomic, transcriptomic, and proteomic landscape of cancer. However, the complexity of the cancer microenvironment, particularly its immune regulation, has made it difficult to exploit the potential of cancer immunotherapy. High-throughput spatial omics technologies and analysis pipelines have emerged as powerful tools for tackling this challenge. As a result, a potential revolution in cancer diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment is on the horizon. In this review, we discuss the technological advances in spatial profiling of cancer around and beyond the central dogma to harness the full benefits of immunotherapy. We also discuss the promise and challenges of spatial data analysis and interpretation and provide an outlook for the future. • Spatial omics provide multi-layer molecular profiling of cancer with high resolution. • mIHC/IF and spatial transcriptomics techniques are advancing immunotherapy. • Spatial metabolomics, proteomics, and epigenomics are emerging as powerful tools. • AI enables multi-molecule virtual staining for effective TME analysis in H&E context. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To determine whether MTNR1B rs4753426 and rs10830963 polymorphisms are correlated with AIS. Summary of background: Adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) is the most common form of spinal deformity, while its etiology remains uncertain. Melatonin receptor 1B (MTNR1B) gene polymorphisms have been found to be significantly associated with AIS risk; however, some of these results are controversial. Methods: An systematic online search was performed using PubMed, EMBASE, Web of Science and the Cochrane Library to identify case-control studies investigating the relationship between MTNR1B rs4753426 and rs10830963 polymorphisms and the susceptibility of AIS. The pooled odds ratio (OR) with 95 % confidence interval (95 % CI) was calculated to assess the associations, and subgroup meta-analyses were performed according to the ethnicity of the study populations. Results: A total of five studies involving 2395 cases and 3645 controls met the inclusion criteria after assessment by two reviewers. Overall, no significant associations were found between MTNR1B rs4753426 polymorphism and AIS risk (C vs. T: OR = 1.11, 95 % CI 0.94-1.30, P = 0.21; CC vs. TT: OR = 1.15, 95 % CI 0.97-1.36, P = 0.12; CT vs. TT: OR = 1.14, 95 % CI 0.97-1.35, P = 0.10; CC/CT vs. TT: OR = 1.14, 95 % CI 0.98-1.33, P = 0.09; CC vs. CT/TT: OR = 1.10, 95 % CI 0.84-1.45, P = 0.48), as well as the MTNR1B rs10830963 polymorphism (G vs. C: OR = 0.99, 95 % CI 0.88-1.12, P = 0.91; GG vs. CC: OR = 0.99, 95 % CI 0.74-1.33, P = 0.96; CG vs. CC: OR = 1.00, 95 % CI 0.84-1.18, P = 0.88; GG/CG vs. CC: OR = 0.99, 95 % CI 0.84-1.17, P = 0.93; GG vs. CG/CC: OR = 0.99, 95 % CI 0.75-1.30, P = 0.92). When stratified by ethnicity, there were no significant associations between MTNR1B rs4753426 and MTNR1B rs10830963 polymorphisms and AIS risk in either Asian or Caucasian populations. Conclusion: MTNR1B rs4753426 and MTNR1B rs10830963 polymorphisms are not obviously associated with risk of AIS in either Asian populations or Caucasian populations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The mitochondrial branched-chain α-ketoacid dehydrogenase complex (BCKDC) is negatively regulated by reversible phosphorylation. BCKDC kinase (BDK) inhibitors that augment BCKDC flux have been shown to reduce branched-chain amino acid (BCAA) concentrations in vivo. In the present study, we employed high-throughput screens to identify compound 3,6-dichlorobenzo[b]thiophene-2-carboxylic acid (BT2) as a novel BDK inhibitor (IC50 = 3.19 µM). BT2 binds to the same site in BDK as other known allosteric BDK inhibitors, including (S)-α-cholorophenylproprionate ((S)-CPP). BT2 binding to BDK triggers helix movements in the N-terminal domain, resulting in the dissociation of BDK from the BCKDC accompanied by accelerated degradation of the released kinase in vivo. BT2 shows excellent pharmacokinetics (terminal T1/2 = 730 min) and metabolic stability (no degradation in 240 min), which are significantly better than those of (S)-CPP. BT2, its analog 3-chloro-6-fluorobenzo[b]thiophene-2-carboxylic acid (BT2F), and a prodrug of BT2 (i.e. N-(4-acetamido-1,2,5-oxadiazol-3-yl)-3,6-dichlorobenzo[b]thiophene-2-carboxamide (BT3)) significantly increase residual BCKDC activity in cultured cells and primary hepatocytes from patients and a mouse model of maple syrup urine disease. Administration of BT2 at 20 mg/kg/day to wild-type mice for 1 week leads to nearly complete dephosphorylation and maximal activation of BCKDC in heart, muscle, kidneys, and liver with reduction in plasma BCAA concentrations. The availability of benzothiophene carboxylate derivatives as stable BDK inhibitors may prove useful for the treatment of metabolic disease caused by elevated BCAA concentrations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The utilization of renewable energy is an essential way to address climate change and achieve "carbon neutrality". As one of the most promising strategies for energy development, photovoltaic (PV) power generation has gained significant attention. In order to scientifically estimate its ecological benefits and potential for carbon reduction, it is imperative to have an accurate and efficient understanding of the current spatial deployment status of such facilities. As a novel economic mode, agrivoltaic systems innovatively integrate solar power generation to agricultural activities. The corresponding systems can achieve the diversity of land use, resulting in the mitigation of the issue of poor land utilization (caused by traditional PV panels' large footprint), which demonstrates the comprehensive benefits of clean energy supply, food production, and adaptation to climate change. However, there is still a lack of a systematic methodology for accurately mapping large-scale centralized PV plants in agrivoltaic systems (CAPVs), while simultaneously assessing their carbon reduction benefits over their entire lifespan. In this case, a systematic methodological framework in Zhejiang Province, China has been established and applied in this study. Firstly, a sample database of CAPVs by visual interpretation and data enhancement against satellite images has been built. Secondly, the CAPVs has been mapped using Google Earth images and U-Net network. Finally, CAPVs' carbon emission reduction benefits have been estimated based on Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) and corresponding spatial distribution patterns have been analyzed. The findings from the remote-sensing mapping indicate that the total area of the obtained CAPVs has reached 57.40 km2, with the majority of these facilities situated in the eastern and northwestern regions of Zhejiang Province. The overall accuracy of the deep learning model has reaches 90.42%, with the Mean Intersection over Union reaching 76.96%. Based on results from the carbon emission and reduction assessment, the CAPVs in Zhejiang Province have the potential to generate a total annual carbon dioxide (CO 2) output of 0.94 Mt./year over their lifespan with the accompanying carbon reduction benefit of 2.58 Mt./year, while, the CO 2 emission payback period would be only 3.95 years. The implementation of this study could offer valuable methodological guidance and data references for researchers and policymakers involved in technical research and decision-making related to agrivoltaic systems. Moreover, this study contributes to the synergy of multiple Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) that pertain to the renewal of energy structures, reduction of carbon emissions, and enhancement of food security. • A deep learning-based high-precision framework for remote-sensing mapping of CAPVs is proposed. • A LCA-based method for estimating the carbon emission reduction benefits of CAPVs is proposed. • Agrivoltaic systems show considerable ecological benefits compared to traditional thermal power. • Agrivoltaic systems help to mitigate or avoid possible conflicts between SDGs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • A simple synthesis scheme introduced abundant oxygen vacancies. • SnO 2 @NiFe-LDH is verified with a very low OER overpotential of 255 mV at 100 mA cm−2. • Synergistic effect of heterojunction and oxygen vacancies can modulate the electronic states. • DFT calculations and experiments explained the reasons for facilitating the lattice oxygen mechanism. • Synergistic strategies aimed at enhancing catalytic activity and stability are provided. In Oxygen Evolution Reaction (OER), catalysts with lattice oxygen, utilizing the Lattice Oxygen Mechanism (LOM), directly participate in oxygen evolution, effectively reducing activation energy. NiFe-Layered Double Hydroxides (NiFe-LDHs), rich in surface hydroxyls, are potential for LOM. However, their stability is challenged in alkaline conditions due to metal cation dissolution from the lattice, limiting catalytic efficiency. In this work, we modify NiFe-LDH by combining hydrothermal and electrodeposition techniques, coupling NiFe-LDH with the metal oxide SnO 2. This process creates a heterojunction enriched with oxygen vacancies through interfacial and defect engineering. In 1 M KOH solution, this modified catalyst exhibits an OER overpotential of just 209 mV at a current density of 10 mA cm−2. Furthermore, when the current density is increased to 100 mA cm−2, the overpotential only increases by a modest 46 mV. Subsequent DFT investigations reveal that in the heterostructured system, there is an enhanced overlap between the O 2p and metal 3d orbitals, which optimizes the covalency of the metal–oxygen bond and promotes the participation of lattice oxygen in the reduction reaction. The heterojunction, in concert with oxygen vacancies, aligns the energy bands of oxygen and metal closer to the Fermi level, resulting in improved continuity of electronic orbitals near the Fermi level. This synergistic arrangement significantly reduces the energy barrier for the rate-determining step of the OER, substantiating the improved performance and activation of lattice oxygen. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Offshore wind turbines are often constructed on the foundation of soft clay, which often experience strength and stiffness weakening and internal plastic strain under cyclic loading. These changes in the mechanical properties of soft clay foundation can negatively impact the normal operation of the upper turbine. Due to the complexity of the mechanical properties of soft clay, most of the existing cyclic pile-soil load transfer models for soft clay foundations are based on hyperbolic models, which are more complicated and less efficient. To address this problem, this paper introduces a mechanical model that can describe the cyclic weakening characteristics of soft clay in pile-soil interaction, and realizes the weakening characteristics of the soil with the cyclic loading by using ABAQUS subroutine secondary development. By introducing the cyclic weakening model of soft clay into the numerical simulation of pile-soil model, the weakening law of side resistance of pile with the number of cycles is obtained. The pile side load transfer model under the traditional static condition is improved, and a trilinear model of pile side load transfer that can consider the cyclic weakening effect of soft clay is proposed; in addition, the calculation method of pile foundation vertical bearing capacity is established according to the load transfer method which can consider the cyclic weakening effect of soft clay, and compared with the model test results in the existing literature, the correctness and effectiveness of the calculation method of pile foundation vertical bearing capacity considering the cyclic weakening effect of soft clay proposed in this paper are verified. Finally, the method is applied to the actual project of an offshore wind power pile foundation, and the vertical bearing capacity of offshore wind power pile foundation is calculated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]