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• The MHSHP coupled with thermal energy storage was implemented in plant factories. • The MHSHP was studied under different user-side parameters by experiment. • The MHSHP demonstrated superior the CASHP system in thermodynamic performance. • MHSHP system control temperature with deviation by 0.4 °C. • Raising COP of CASHP and GSHP decreased CO 2 emission by 56.6% and 69.2%. CO 2 air source heat pump (CASHP) faces challenges of performance degradation caused by the high return water temperature and the low ambient temperature for building heating. This study proposed a novel multi-heat source heat pump system (MHSHP) that combined with a CO 2 air source heat pumps (CASHP) and ground source heat pumps (GSHP) with the implementation of a thermal storage tank. The performance and CO 2 emissions of both CASHP and MHSHP systems were investigated by applying a plant factory located in Beijing, China. The effects of user-side parameters and ambient temperature were explored with the storage water temperatures ranging from 20 °C to 40 °C. The results demonstrated that the heating performance of the CASHP improved with an increase of user water flow rate and ambient temperatures, while it decreased as the storage water temperature increased. At the flow rate of 1.1 m3/h, the increase of the compressor frequency from 40 Hz to 60 Hz led to a significant improvement in heating capacity by 53.3 %, and a reduction in COP by 23.3 %. When the user-side water flow ratio decreased or the total flow rate increased, the COP of the MHSHP system showed improvement and outperformed that of the CASHP system, with an increase ranging from 46.9 % to 61.5 %. Additionally, it exhibits reduced sensitivity to ambient temperature fluctuations, resulting in a decrease in COP variability from 33.3 % to 20.6 %. Moreover, the CO 2 emissions of the system decrease as the COP increases, with significant reduction of 69.2 %. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Myocardial infarction (MI) stands as the predominant cause of morbidity and mortality within the spectrum of cardiovascular diseases, with an unfavorable long-term prognosis. Vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) emerges as a potential clinically significant intervention for alleviating myocardial remodeling after MI, offering promise as a therapeutic approach. However, challenges persist in addressing the fundamental issues of flexibility, miniaturization, and the long-term use of VNS devices. Here, we devised an implantable ultrasound-driven piezoelectret-based nanogenerator (UPN) as a wireless-powered and battery-free vagus nerve stimulator. The UPN with the features of flexibility and lightweight exhibited a maximum output of 10.68 V and 261 μA (peak to peak) under an ultrasonic probe setup at 700 mW cm−2. In the in vivo efficacy study, VNS therapy resulted in a notable improvement in cardiac function with the treatment of UPN, a 20.42 % enhancement in left ventricular ejection fraction and an 11.76 % increase in fractional shortening on the 28th day were realized. Concomitantly, inflammatory responses, myocardial fibrosis, and sympathetic nerve remodeling witnessed a significant reduction. Particularly noteworthy is the observed therapeutic effect linked to the inhibition of the IL-17 and TNF signaling pathways. In summary, this study introduces a novel strategy for nerve stimulation, offering a potential avenue for treating chronic inflammatory diseases. [Display omitted] • A high-performance flexible ultrasound-driven piezoelectret-based nanogenerator (UPN) was fabricated. • This implantable UPN can realize ultrasound-driven long-term vagus nerve stimulation. • The stimulation of the vagus nerve by a UPN shows remarkable effectiveness in the treatment of MI. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Social-emotional competence, as a core competence in the process of social development, holds significant importance for enhancing individual social responsibility, constructing social relations, and improving individual well-being. However, how social- emotional competence affects the interpersonal relationship circle of contemporary college students in the context of Chinese interaction culture remains unexplored. Based upon the Chinese interaction culture, this study aims to explore the impact of social-emotional competence on interpersonal relationship circle, with a focus on the influence of relation capital and interaction culture on interpersonal relationship circle development. The study randomly selected a total of 3847 college students from 10 colleges and universities in Henan Province to participate in a questionnaire survey, with structural equations used for data analysis. The study revealed that: 1. After controlling for factors such as gender and learning stage, social-emotional competence was found to directly predict the development of interpersonal relationship circle, and could positively mediate the relationship between relation capital and interaction culture; 2. It could also serve as a serial mediator in relation capital and interpersonal relationship circle, together with the interaction culture; 3. Male students exhibited significantly higher social-emotional competence at the individual level compared to female students. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Processing techniques have been shown to alter the nutritional composition of rice bran (RB) and wheat bran (WB), influencing their ability to modify microbiota, but a systematic comparison is currently lacking. This study aimed to comprehensively investigate the effects of various processing methods, including physical modifications (grinding, extrusion, and steam explosion), enzymolysis (amylase, hemicellulose, and xylanase), and their combinations, on the modification of gut microbiota by RB and WB. Processing methods significantly altered the nutrient components of RB and WB as well as their capacity for gas and SCFAs production during in vitro fermentation. The RB23 (amylase treatment), RB31 (extrusion and hemicellulose treatment), and RB33 (steam explosion and xylanase treatment) samples exhibited the highest production of total SCFAs and butyric acid during in vitro fermentation. Overall, the microbiota responses to brans were conserved within individuals and the processing methods explained 21.6% of the variance. Fermentation of RB23, RB31, and RB33 samples was observed to enhance the richness of gut microbiota, decrease the Firmicutes/Bacteroidetes ratio, and stimulate the growth of Butyricicoccus and Faecallbacterium, while inhibiting the growth of Bilophila , Fusobacterium , and Escherichia-shigella. These findings may provide valuable insights for the processing of RB and WB. [Display omitted] • Various processing methods modified the nutrient composition and the digestive and fermentation characteristics of brans. • Rice bran underwent a combined physical and enzymatic treatment, which promoted the hemostasis of the gut microbiota. • Microbiota responses to different brans were largely conserved within individuals and associated with processing parameters. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Proposed a hardware-oriented algorithm for infrared images compression and enhancement, achieving an algorithm delay of 0.31 ms at 50hz; • The image layering algorithm based on anisotropic guided filtering solves the problem of detail "halo"; • Proposed a dynamic range compression algorithm based on local information histogram statistics to improve image clarity and preserve small target information; • Proposed an improved non local mean filtering algorithm that can be implemented on FPGA. We proposed a hardware-oriented framework for infrared images compression and enhancement. The aim is to achieve high-quality imaging with minimal delay. Specifically, we introduce several key improvements: Firstly, we adopt the anisotropic guided filtering for layering, which effectively addresses the issue of detail halo. Secondly, we proposed a dynamic range compression algorithm (LIHS&HRC), which is based on local information histogram statistics and thus highlights the gray scales with abundant details. Thirdly, we propose a low-complexity adaptive two-dimensional non-local mean algorithm, which preserves important details while reducing noise. Through extensive experimentation, it is demonstrated the proposed algorithm framework significantly reduces latency and Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) resource requirements. It generates high-quality infrared image sequences in a minimal delay of only 0.31 ms at a frame rate of 50fps, with consuming a mere 0.0362 MB of shift register and 0.0312 MB of BRAM. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights • Fluorescent immunochromatographic strip was developed for rapid and simultaneous detection of two gastric cancer screening biomarkers. • Based on a long-life LED light and full-closure optical path, a miniature and low-power fluorescence analytical device was designed. • Only 7.5 μL of plasma was needed to realize simultaneous detection of PG I and PG II within 15 min and the obtained results were comparable with ELISA. • The developed assay coupled with device was used for detecting 30 clinical samples, which has potential for mass screening of gastric cancer. Abstract Pepsinogen I (PG I) and pepsinogen II (PG II) are gastric disease-associated proteins that have been utilized as biomarkers for gastric cancer screening. However, the current methods for detecting PG I and PG II can barely satisfy the needs of mass screening, especially in remote areas. In this study, a rapid and sensitive fluorescent immunochromatographic test strip with a miniature analytical device (20.0 cm × 18.9 cm × 11.2 cm, 2.4 kg) was developed for the simultaneous determination of PG I and PG II in one sample in a single assay, which is promisingly suitable for the mass screening of gastric cancer. Under the optimum conditions, PG I and PG II concentrations as low as 2.6 ng/mL and 1.0 ng/mL could be detected in 15 min with only 7.5 μL plasma specimen, and no cross-reactivity was observed. The detection range was linear over 10.0–210.0 ng/mL for PG I and 3.0–63.0 ng/mL for PG II. The immunosensor also demonstrated high recoveries (93.6–110.8% for PG I and 95.4–110.4% for PG II) with low coefficient of variation (CV) (4.8–8.1% for PG I and 6.6–11.7% for PG II) when testing actual human plasma. The analyses by the proposed assay correlated well with those by ELISA of 30 spiked samples. The assay was finally applied to 30 clinical samples, and the results showed its clinical significance for the early screening of gastric cancer. Therefore, the assay proposed in this study provides a rapid, sensitive, and simultaneous detection strategy in the pepsinogen test, and the results indicated its potential capacity in the mass screening of gastric cancer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Respiratory diseases have been increasingly affecting people worldwide, posing a major public health challenge due to rising morbidity and mortality rates. Subtle abnormal respiratory sounds s may present early in the pulmonary or respiratory tract diseases, therefore urging an instant intervention in critical clinical conditions. However, the current monitoring and signal analysis technologies pose significant challenges in achieving real-time, convenient, and accurate respiratory disease monitoring. Here, we propose a novel automatic auxiliary diagnosis system that utilizes a flexible electret-based self-powered sensor (FESS), signal processing technology, and machine learning algorithms. The FESS is based on a strain-enhanced laminated electret with an edge-to-edge hollow hemisphere array structure, which enables the system to detect and prevent various respiratory diseases with high accuracy rates of 99.43%, sensitivity of 98.30%, and specificity of 99.02%. Our system holds immense potential in reducing medical burden and improving the overall health of individuals. [Display omitted] • A strain-enhanced stacked electret with high sensitivity was developed by introducing an edge-to-edge hollow hemisphere array structure. • The sensor can monitor the physiological information contained in the respiratory sound signal in real time and accurately. • The automatic diagnosis of respiratory diseases is realized by analyzing the respiratory sound signal by machine learning method for five respiratory diseases with high accuracy rates of 99.43%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Many very large bridges with high piers and long spans are under rapid construction in mountainous regions especially in Western China. However, the current seismic design methods in China are based on a code which only applies to bridges with span up to 150 m. To evaluate the risk of the inapplicable design method and the influence of spatially variable ground motions (SVGM) on the seismic response of very large bridges, a high-pier, long-span, continuous RC frame bridge is numerically studied. This study considers whether multiple support excitation can be simplified into specific uniform excitation cases while guaranteeing the conservative seismic demands for this bridge. Non-stationary SVGM on both bedrock and the surface of multiple soil layers are simulated including wave passage effects, coherency effects and site amplification effects. The nonlinear dynamic finite element model of the bridge is analysed for two groups of earthquake motions, namely group 1 - bedrock and group 2 - ground surface excitations. Each group contains three different excitations, i.e. i) multiple support excitation ii) the largest and iii) the smallest accelerations from the SVGM. The relative displacements, internal force responses and ultimate damage modes are obtained and compared. For this bridge the uniform ground motion input with the largest accelerations provides conservative seismic demands for most structural components when the site amplification effect is not considered (group 1). However, for the ground surface motions, where site amplification needs to be taken into account (group 2), in several cases the uniform ground motion with the largest accelerations results in lower response than that predicted when considering SVGM. The present results indicate that only when the bridges are located on ideal simple topography where site effects have little influence, the uniform excitation with the largest accelerations taken from the SVGM may be an alternative input for seismic analysis. However, for bridges on complex terrain, where site effects can significantly amplify the ground motions at the bedrock, SVGM need to be applied as input for the seismic analysis. As spatial variability of input motion is not a mandatory requirement in the Chinese bridges design code, these results suggest that the existing design code for very large bridges should be modified accordingly. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Understory vegetation management is prevalent in successive short rotation eucalyptus plantations to control interspecies competition and improve tree growth and timber yields. Managing for multiple ecosystem services is critical for sustainable forests. Yet trade-offs and synergies between plant diversity, biomass carbon stock, and timber yields under different management approaches is poorly understood. Using eucalyptus plantations under different understory vegetation management approaches, in subtropical China, we examined the effects of understory vegetation management on tree growth, biomass carbon stocks, timber production, the composition and diversity of understory plant communities. We then assessed trade-offs and synergies among biomass carbon stocks, plant diversity attributes and timber production. Manual band tending (manual removal of the above-ground portion of understory vegetation in a 1 m band around the eucalyptus trees) did not affect the diversity of understory plant communities and favored biomass carbon stock and timber production. Thus, this treatment resulted in positive synergies between biomass carbon stock, plant diversity and timber production. Repeated broadcast herbicide application led to declines in understory plant diversity and increased exotic plant invasion, but also improved biomass carbon stock and stand volume. Trade-offs favoring carbon stock and timber production existed in broadcast herbicide application plots. Intensive disturbance of the understory and 0–5 cm topsoil removal led to declines in biomass carbon stock, plant diversity and timber production, and a negative synergy existed among these services. Our results confirm that manual band tending of understory vegetation in eucalyptus plantations, which results in positive synergies among plant diversity, biomass carbon stock, and timber production, should be a favorable management strategy for multiple ecosystem services. Although broadcast herbicide application can effectively improve carbon stock and timber production, attention should be paid to controlling invasive species after application. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Effects of superfine YBP on gut microbiota was evaluated by microbiome and metabolome. • Size reduction during digestion allowed superfine YBP to release more Ca2+ than CaCO 3. • Indigestible YBP increased the relative abundances of gut Megasphaera and Megamonas. • Indigestible YBP was associated with greater production of gut short-chain fatty acids. • Indigestible YBP was associated with up-regulation of favorable lipid-related metabolites. The effects of superfine yak bone powder (YBP) on human gut microbiota (HGM) were investigated by in vitro digestion and fermentation combined with microbiomics and metabolomics. Results showed that size reduction and protein structural degradation during digestion allowed superfine YBP to release more Ca2+ than CaCO 3 powders with similar particle size. Moreover, the indigestible YBP further influenced HGM and was associated with increased occurrence of beneficial bacteria such as Megasphaera spp., Megamonas spp., Acidaminococcus spp., and Prevotella spp. The altered HGM was associated with greater production of short-chain fatty acids with 4–6 carbon atoms. Furthermore, the indigestible YBP was associated with up-regulation of many lipid-related metabolites, including taurine, secondary bile acids, saturated long-chain fatty acids, and ω-3/ω-6 polyunsaturated fatty acids, which modulated favorably lipid metabolic pathways. These findings implied the potential activity of superfine YBP as a food fortifier in favorably altering HGM community structure and regulating lipid metabolism. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With advantages of portability, low-cost and noninvasive detection, electrical impedance tomography (EIT) has great potential application value as a bedside monitor. Because image reconstruction in EIT involves addressing serious ill-posed inverse problems, realizing EIT online dynamic display still remains a challenging work. In this paper, an EIT imaging system with the function of online dynamic display was designed. Split augmented Lagrangian shrinkage algorithm (SALSA), which transforms an unconstrained optimization EIT inverse problem into an equivalent constrained optimization problem, was adopted in the proposed system. On the basis of EIT imaging simulation, a high-precise Compact PCI-based EIT system was implemented with FPGA. And experiments of EIT cylinder imaging and in-vivo monitoring were conducted to verify the feasibility of the system. The results indicated that the online dynamic display frame rate of the system, which was centered with a computer (Intel i7 2.2 GHz, 4 GB RAM), was up to 32 fps. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

It has been proven that EIT can distinguish respiration and cardiac activities. However, the quality of EIT images of cardiac activities is poor because the induced/sensed impedance signal from the heart is much weaker than the ventilation signal. For EIT imaging of cardiac activities, induced voltages should differ at different excitation frequencies, owing to the cardiac capacitive reactance. At the same time, there are only few existing EIT systems designed for cardiac imaging. Based on these reasons, we present herein a preliminary study on the frequency response of cardiac activities. Three aspects have been improved in the designed system: i) The designed dual-band belt is shown to maintain good body contact for more than four hours of testing, ii) the recovery time of channel switching was quantified, and the signal recovery time is estimated to be approximately 23 us in the final system, and iii) the electrode belt and the load value were taken into consideration for system correction. The corrected system has an SNR greater than 80 dB for excitation frequencies up to 1 MHz. Five healthy male volunteers were tested in the siting position, and the results showed that the frequency response amplitudes reach maximum values when the excitation frequency is 50 kHz. Therefore, it is possible to conduct a preliminary qualitative analysis of cardiac function using impedance spectroscopy. At the same time, additional details on the impedance of cardiac activities can be obtained using a lower excitation frequency. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Preeclampsia (PE) is a serious pregnancy-related syndrome, which is characterized by gestational hypertension and proteinuria. The microRNA-93 (miR-93) is upregulated in the maternal plasma of patients with PE. However, the functional role of miR-93 in PE remains unknown. Here, we identified that miR-93 inhibits trophoblastic invasion, which is correlated with PE development. In immortalized trophoblast cell lines, transwell assay showed that miR-93 mimics significantly inhibited the migration and invasion of immortalized trophoblast cells, whereas miR-93 inhibitors significantly promoted cell migration and invasion. Moreover, luciferase assays confirmed that miR-93 directly bound to the 3'untranslated region of matrix metalloproteinase-2 (MMP-2), and western blotting showed that miR-93 suppressed the expression of MMP-2 at the protein levels. This study indicated that miR-93 inhibits MMP-2 and reduces migration and invasion of immortalized trophoblast cells. Thus, miR-93 may represent a potential therapeutic target for PE intervention. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Transmission modes of symbionts with fungus-growing insects are closely related to the stability of symbioses. As compare to social fungus-farming insects, transmission modes of nonsocial fungus-farming insects need to be further investigated. Euops chinensis , a nonsocial leaf-rolling weevil, harbors a symbiotic fungus Penicillium herquei in the specialized mycangium. Previous works have indicated that P. herquei is cultivated to host plants by females during oviposition process, however, it is still unclear when (before or after oviposition) and how P. herquei is transmitted. In this study, we observed fungal cultivating behaviors and adult bodies by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and compared isolation rates of P. herquei on ovary eggs, newly oviposited eggs, cradle leaves (leaf pieces cut before rolling cradles), cradles, and female mycangia. Fungal isolates were identified by internal transcribed spacers (ITS) and cytochrome oxidase I (COI) genes. We found the female's serrated tarsi and comb-like setae on the abdomen were specialized structures for fungal transmission. Newly oviposited eggs showed 81.11% frequency of fungal symbionts, but ovary eggs did not show any growth of fungal symbionts. Isolation rates of P. herquei on cradle leaves, mycangia and cradles were 76.67%, 77.71% and 87.72%, respectively. Analyses of ITS and COI genes showed that isolated fungal strains belong to the same species. We concluded that P. herquei was transmitted before oviposition, and the female's tarsi are newly found specialized structures for fungal transmission. This study elucidates the cultivar transmission mode with fungus-farming attelabid weevils, and might be useful to study of other fungiculture mutualisms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • The formation of biofilms on the epidermis of fermented radishes was firstly reported. • Wheat bran promoted the formation of biofilms in advance and accelerated the whole fermentation process. • Wheat bran stimulated the growth of Lactobacillus , along with a more reddish-yellow color, higher titratable acidity, and fracturability. • The growth of Rothia and Pseudomonas , which are potentially pathogenic and spoilage bacteria, was suppressed by wheat bran. • The differences in bacterial communities were found in the pickled radishes and in their fermented brines. Co-fermentation of wheat bran, a nutrient-rich by-product, enhances the nutritional value of foods. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of wheat bran on the physicochemical and organoleptic properties, and bacterial community succession of pickled radishes and related brines during a 56-day fermentation process. Scanning electron microscopy showed that the formation of a biofilm on the radish epidermis was promoted by wheat bran, along with a more reddish-yellow color, higher crispness, and better overall organoleptic properties at the maturation point (day 28). In addition, the co-fermentation of wheat bran promoted both ripening and aging, which meant it not only shortened the maturation period of fermented radishes, but also sped up the deterioration process. Analysis of 16S rRNA gene sequencing revealed that wheat bran addition stimulated the growth of Lactobacillus , leading to a higher titratable acid environment, which, in turn, suppressed the growth of potential pathogenic and spoilage bacteria (Rothia and Pseudomonas). Our results suggested a positive role of wheat bran on the quality and bacterial community of pickled radishes at the ripening stage. To better understand bacterial communities in fermented vegetables, epidermal and autochthonous microbiota should be monitored besides brine microbiota. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: While a wide array of insects form symbiotic relationships with microbes, the underlying mechanisms of these relationships are various and complex. In this study, we investigated the role that the mycangial fungus Penicillium herquei plays in the development of the leaf-rolling weevil Euops chinesis, which feeds on the knotweed Fallopia japonica. The weevil inoculates the fungus during oviposition into a leaf-roll that it creates for its larvae. We found that removal of P. herquei inocula from leaf-rolls significantly decreased the weevil’s survival rate especially in the larval stage. Although inoculation with P. herquei had no effect on the plant’s lignin content, it significantly decreased the cellulose content of the knotweed leaves. P. herquei also showed antibiotic properties against two fungi (Rhizopus sp.) that attack the weevil’s leaf-rolls. Our results suggest that the mycangial fungus may help alter leaf chemical components and protect against pathogens thus improve leaf-rolls for the development of E. chinesis. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

• The biofunctionality of COS was associated with the modification of gut microbiota. • Prebiotic effect of COS was related to an increase in Bacteroides and Faecalibacterium , and a decrease in Klebsiella. • The increased acetic acid production by COS was positively correlated with Bacteroides abundance. • The antiglycation activity of COS and acetic acid was dose-dependent. • COS may prevent CML (a marker of AGEs) accumulation in adipose tissue. Chitooligosaccharides (COS) have garnered great attention in the field of human healthcare. The prebiotic activities and antiglycation of COS were investigated using a combination of in vitro and in vivo studies. COS supplementation dramatically increased the levels of acetic acid, while reducing the concentrations of propionic and butyric acids. It also decreased the total bacterial population; however, it did not affect diversity and richness of the gut microbiota. In addition, COS modulated the gut microbiota composition by increasing Bacteroidetes, decreasing Proteobacteria and Actinobacteria, and lowering the Firmicutes/Bacteroidetes ratio. COS promoted the generation of beneficial Bacteroides and Faecalibacterium genera, while suppressing the pathogenic Klebsiella genus. The antiglycation activity of COS and acetic acid was dose-dependent. Furthermore, COS prevented the decrease of serum Nε-(carboxymethyl) lysine (CML) level caused by CML ingestion in a mouse model of diet-induced obesity. To improve host health, COS could be potential prebiotics in food products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• A novel ejector-based detection system was proposed. • A numerical method was proposed to calculate the ejector structure. • The thermodynamic performance of the compressor was investigated. • The discharge temperature and COP of the virtual HTHP reached 184.8 °C and 3.94. • Economic comparison between ejector-based and HTHP detection system are evaluated. The research of the high-temperature heat pump compressors above 100 °C has brought great challenges by its detection system, and in this study, a novel ejector-based detection system has been proposed to measure the thermodynamic performance of the heat pump compressors. The paper began with a numerical method to design the nozzle and diffuser of the ejector. Compared with the results of gas dynamics calculation, the deviations of nozzle and the diffuser were lower than 10.38% and 3.38%, respectively. Furthermore, the compressor performance was analyzed at the suction temperature in the range of 90–110 °C while the speed in the range of 2820–3060 r/min. The results showed that the compression ratio varied from 2.3 to 2.7, and the volumetric efficiency as well as isentropic efficiency was 90% and 70%, respectively. Assuming that the compressor was used in a heat pump system at the same operating condition, it was noteworthy that the highest discharge temperature was 184.8 °C and the coefficient of performance was more than 3.9. In an actual case, the initial investment cost of the ejector-based detection system is 3311 $, while that of the heat pump detection system is 59,795 $, the economical saving can reach to 94.5%. This is due to the exchanger has been omitted in ejector-based detection system compared with the traditional heat pump detection system. All in all, the novel system was reliable and economical. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• We implemented in vitro simulated fermentation using a composite probiotic and grape seed extract. • Short-chain fatty acids, metabolic products, and gut microbiota were examined. • Individual variations in the utilization rate of grape seed extract were identified. • Compound probiotics enhanced utilization of catechins and epicatechins in grape seed extract. Fecal samples from 20 healthy adults were collected for in vitro fermentation experiments to investigate the effects of combined probiotics on the utilization of grape seed extract in humans. After fermenting for 24 h, short-chain fatty acids, metabolites, and gut microbiota composition were analyzed. Short-chain fatty acids in the grape seed extract probiotics group were significantly higher than those in the grape seed extract group. Probiotics significantly enhanced the conversion and utilization of catechins and epicatechins in grape seed extract group and increased the production of 3-hydroxyphenylacetic acid. The 16S rRNA sequencing results revealed that compound probiotics significantly increased the relative abundance of Lacticaseibacillus , HT002, Bifidobacterium , and Lactobacillus and reduced that of Escherichia-Shigella. Our findings showed considerable individual variability in the metabolic utilization of grape seed extract in humans. The consumption of probiotics appears to significantly enhance the utilization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The complexity of space environment will lead to a series of health problems, especially the bone loss caused by weightlessness is one of the key medical problems limiting long-term manned space flight. However, the size and energy constraints of the aircraft make conventional bone loss detection methods impractical. Hence, it is necessary to establish on-orbit bone loss detection methods to ensure the health of astronauts. As one of NASA's recommended methods, the lateral flow assay (LFA) would be an ideal tool to solve this problem. Herein, a surface-enhanced Raman based molecular probe was designed and integrated with LFA to detect carboxy-terminal cross-linked telopeptides of type I collagen (CTX I) with high sensitivity and specificity, and the limit of detection was 232 pg/mL. This method was not interference by the serum matrix or other targets, and the storage life of LFA was up to 6 months at 4 °C. Compared with the method previously reported, SERS-based LFA was an ideal detection method with simple operation, convenient and time saving. It is also expected to be chosen as a potential analytical tool to detect bone loss for long-term on-orbit, and guarantee the health of astronauts. [Display omitted] • A new CTX I detection method using a surface-enhanced Raman scattering lateral flow assay was developed. • Rapid and sensitive quantification of CTX I at 480 pg/mL was achieved within 15 min. • SERS-based LFA is also expected to be chosen as a potential analytical tool to detect bone loss for long-term on-orbit, and guarantee the health of astronauts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Bacteria play a vital role in vegetable fermentation and preservation. However, the influence of a modified atmosphere (MA) on the storage of fermented vegetables has rarely been reported. In this study, the bacterial community composition and quality of fermented potherb mustard under carbon dioxide (CO 2) and nitrogen (N 2) conditions were investigated under 7% salt storage at room temperature (18–20 °C). Analysis of 16S rRNA gene sequencing showed dominant bacterial genera Halomonas and Psychrobacter were present under natural air conditions, while Lactobacillus was the major genus present under MA conditions. The bacterial communities differed significantly between MA and natural air conditions, and demonstrated wide diversity. In addition, titrable acidity (TAA) and nitrite contents were significantly reduced under MA conditions as compared to natural air condition. However, N 2 -MA resulted in TAA values that were rarely exceeding the ripe level 0.3% lactic acid. Thus, CO 2 -MA may represent a valuable approach to avoid the excessive acidification or incompletely ripe of the fermented vegetable. Present data also indicated better color and higher firmness of the fermented product under CO 2 conditions when compared to N 2 conditions. These results indicated that CO 2 -MA has a positive influence on bacterial community and the quality of fermented potherb mustard, which enlighted a new strategy for enhancing the quality of fermented vegetables. Graphical abstract Unlabelled Image Highlights • The bacteria community of fermented potherb mustard under controlled carbon dioxide (CO2) and nitrogen (N2) condition were investigated. • Halomonas and Psychrobacter were the main bacteria under natural air condition. • Lactobacillus was main bacteria in potherb mustard preserved under CO 2 and N 2 , and higher firmness in samples under MA condition than natural air condition. • The final fermented mustard product exhibited better quality characteristics under modified atmospheres of CO 2 than that of N 2. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purely data-driven modeling methods exhibit inherent "black box" characteristics when applied to the air source heat pump (ASHP) systems for energy efficiency improvement (EEI). Therefore, hybrid physics and data-driven modeling (HPDM) methods have been developed to enhance model interpretability, transparency, and generalizability. The comprehensive and systematic application of HPDM methods in ASHP systems for EEI are reviewed in this work. Firstly, recognizing the combined methods of data-driven and physical information, they are categorized as three essential types: (1) knowledge-infused data, (2) physics-guided modeling, and (3) physics-embedded loss. Secondly, three types of HPDM applied in the important sides (knowledge discovery, building load prediction, faults detection and diagnosis) of the ASHP systems for EEI are reviewed, and the superiority and bottleneck of HPDM in addressing issues in different application scenarios are summarized. Finally, the prospective directions and challenges of HPDM applied in the ASHP systems for EEI are discussed from the perspective of data acquirement and privacy protection, HPDM construction, real-model integration and implementation, method scalability and transferability for the future research reference. • Studies on hybrid-driven methods applied in air source heat pump systems have been reviewed. • Combined methods of physics and data-driven have been summarized into three essential types. • The application of hybrid-driven methods in various aspects of building have been analyzed. • Research trends, future challenges and opportunities are identified. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To verify the role of myricetin in alleviating the symptoms of type 2 diabetes and regulating the intestinal flora, we established a type 2 diabetes mouse model. After being fed a high-fat and high-sugar diet for six weeks, mice were intraperitoneally injected with streptozotocin (80 mg/kg body weight [BW]) 2–3 times. Type 2 diabetes mice were randomly divided into type 2 diabetes control (T2DM) and myricetin intervention groups. Water and food intake, fasting blood glucose (FBG), and BW were monitored weekly. After six weeks of myricetin administration, superoxide dismutase (SOD) levels and blood lipid content were measured. Furthermore, 16S rRNA sequencing was used to detect the gut microbiota composition. FBG and blood lipid levels of T2DM mice were significantly reduced upon myricetin treatment, while SOD levels were increased. Myricetin improved polydipsia, polyphagia, polyuria, and weight loss in T2DM mice. In addition, the signature type 2 diabetes microflora was established by analyzing the microflora structure of healthy mice, type 2 diabetes mice, and mice treated with myricetin. Results showed that type 2 diabetes disrupted the mice intestinal flora, and myricetin intervention normalized the intestinal flora. In conclusion, our results indicate that myricetin alleviates type 2 diabetes in mice and regulates the intestinal microflora. [Display omitted] • Myricetin relieves the symptoms of type 2 diabetes mice and regulates intestinal microbiology. • Myricetin rescued type 2 diabetes-related disruption of the mouse intestinal flora. • Intestinal flora is significantly associated with symptoms of type 2 diabetes. • The diversity index of microflora was significantly correlated with superoxide dismutase activity and blood lipid content. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Objective: To establish a new mouse model for autoimmune-type recurrent spontaneous abortion (AI-RSA) and demonstrate the potential role of intrauterine immunization with β2GP-1-like antigen in AI-RSA, we performed an intrauterine injection of human β2GP-1 in BALB/c mice and unrelated protein, adjuvants, and normal saline (NS) as controls. The mean number of embryos implanted (MNEI), embryo loss rate (ELR), mean embryo bulk (MEB), and mean placental weight (MPW) were analyzed. Compared with the control mice, BALB/c mice injected with human β2GP-1 showed increased anti-β2GP-1 and MPW. Moreover, BALB/c mice immunized with human β2GP-1 exhibited hypercoagulability and vascular thrombus formation in the placenta. Electron microscopy confirmed the existence of platelet aggregation, mitochondrial swelling, and endothelial cell necrosis in the placentas of BALB/c mice immunized with human β2GP-1. These finding indicated that intrauterine immunization with β2GP-1 successfully induced AI-RSA in mice. Increased anti-β2GP-1 antibody could independently induce hypercoagulability, vascular endothelial injury, and vascular thrombus formation in the placenta, which led to AI-RSA. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Shenqi Yizhi Granule (SYG), a modern preparation herbs based on the theory of traditional Chinese medicine, has been proved to be effective against Alzheimer's disease in clinical trials, APP/PS1 mice and 5XFAD transgenic mice. But the underlying mechanism remains ambiguous. Increasing evidence supports the crucial role of astrocyte reactivity in the pathogenesis of Alzheimer's disease (AD). In the present study, we attempt to explore the underlying mechanisms of SYG from astrocyte reactivity in Aβ 1 – 42 -induced rat model of Alzheimer's disease. After SYG treatment, the impairment of learning and memory induced by Aβ 1 – 42 was significantly improved and the hippocampal neuron damages were alleviated. Additionally, the activity of glutamine synthetase and the concentration of glutamate, which might be involved in the cognitive dysfunctions, were outstandingly reduced. Meanwhile, the astrocyte reactivity was also remarkably inhibited. The expressions of JAK2 and STAT3, key proteins in the JAK2/STAT3 signaling pathway that is tightly associated with reactive astrocytes, were clearly attenuated, too. Collectively, our data demonstrate that SYG might exert protective effects on cognitive impairment induced by amyloid-β oligomers via inhibition of astrocyte reactivity regulated by the JAK2/STAT3 signaling pathway. It may be a potential therapeutic for cognitive dysfunctions in many neurological and psychiatric disorders such as Alzheimer's disease. • SYG could inhibit the excessive activity of astrocytes. • SYG improved the activity of glutamine synthetase and promotes glutamate-glutamine cycle. • SYG could significantly inhibit the expression of p-JAK2/JAK2 and p-STAT3/STAT3. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lubricants are almost necessary for carbon dioxide systems in the energy, chemical, and refrigeration industries. The study of the solubility behavior of lubricants with working fluids requires a proper equation of state as necessary tools. The solubility of CO 2 in synthetic precursors for polyol esters lubricants has been investigated by SAFT-VR-Mie EoS with variable fluid potential, including pure component pentaerythritol esters (PEC) molecules and CO 2 -PECs mixed system. The correlations between the molecular parameters in SAFT-VR-Mie EoS and mass of PECs with different branched lengths are given under the constraints of experimental PρT data. According to the parameterized molecular model, the prediction of the critical point and the constant-pressure specific heat of the PECs is introduced in this work. The dissolution balance model of CO 2 in PECs was developed by the quantitative model of temperature and molecular mass dependent molecular interaction factor k ij. The explanation for the variation of the interaction factors is given by the analysis of the intermolecular volume differences effect, and the extension of this model to commercial lubricants still proves to be valid and accurate. • SAFT-VR-Mie EoS provides flexibility to the modelization of homologous PECs. • High pressure density data supports wide range of phase equilibrium predictions. • Molecular volume differences determine the direction of EoS interaction factors. • Serialized molecular models remain reliable for comparable commercial lubricants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Compressed carbon dioxide energy storage (CCES), as one of the compressed gas energy storage (CGES) technologies, can make the system capable of combined heat and power supply by storing and releasing electrical energy in the form of heat and potential energy, which is of positive significance for realizing efficient and comprehensive energy utilization and promoting the development of energy storage technology. A combined heat and power supply system based on compressed carbon dioxide energy storage (CCES-CHP) and its mathematical model are constructed. In order to construct a visualized operational feasibility domain, the dimensionless factors γ 1 and γ 2 and the ratio parameters α 1 and α 2 are defined to reflect the coupling relationship between the system storage/release energy power, mass flow rate and cooling/heat release power. A dual state of charge (SOC) model of heat and gas storage is also constructed. Further research is conducted on the shape and characteristics of the operational feasibility domain under the combined heat and power mode. The change of the ratio of themoelectric distribution ratio dispatch and wide operating conditions are analyzed. Thus provide an idea for evaluating the flexibility of the system operation combined heat and power capacity and response tracking. Finally, the analysis process and application potential of the proposed operational feasibility domain analysis method were validated for a typical integrated energy system. • A combined heat and power system based on compressed carbon dioxide energy storage (CCES-CHP) is proposed. • An operational feasibility domain approach for CCES-CHP distribution analysis is proposed. • Characterized the actual operation of the system with visual images. • Performs a research methodology covering theoretical model construction and case validation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Astronauts face serious health threats during spaceflight. The two major factors that may lead to an astronauts' physiological dysfunction are space radiation and microgravity. Heavy ion radiation, one of the important components of charged particles in orbit, can cause deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) damage and gene mutations. Microgravity can also affect a series of cell physiology functions, including cytoskeleton remodeling, DNA modification, interactions between molecules, etc. Several ionizing radiation experiments performed in our previous study suggested the variation in the mutation across different selected immune genes. Here, we performed a further experiment (IGM-BIT-1) on board the International Space Station (ISS) to explore the molecule evolution rules of the selected DNA. To conduct the on-orbit amplification of the DNA fragments from the antibody encoding genes in the ISS, a self-developed portable and programmable PCR device was designed and produced. We developed a novel PCR chip that consists of a multi-channel optical adhesive reaction chamber and a miniature thermal cycler. The reaction chamber was cost effective and disposable. The thermal cycler was used to achieve both rapid heating and cooling. As the DNA amplification yield of IGM-BIT-1 PCR device was much similar or even higher than the commercial devices, the IGM-BIT-1 payload has been proven to be suitable for space life science research. • A multi-channel PCR chip suitable for microgravity environment was developed. • A miniaturized PCR device containing twelve PCR chips was developed. • 20 types PCR reaction system and conditions were obtained with this PCR device. • This PCR device has been applied on board the International Space Station (ISS). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Excessive fructose corn syrup (FCS) intake brings a series of health problems. The aim of the present study was to explore the mechanism of FCS-induced metabolic disorders from the perspective of gut microbiota. Mice were fed for 16 weeks with normal or 30% FCS drinking water. Compared to the control group, FCS caused significantly higher fat deposition, hepatic steatosis, liver and intestinal inflammatory damages (P <.05). FCS increased the abundance of Muribaculaceae in vivo and in vitro , which was positively correlated with the indices of metabolic disorders (P <.05). In vivo and in vitro data indicated that FCS enhanced the microbial function involved in pentose phosphate pathway and arachidonic acid metabolism, metabolomics further demonstrated that FCS led to an increase in prostaglandins (the catabolites of arachidonic acid) (P <.05). Our study confirmed that FCS can directly promote gut microbiota to synthesize inflammatory factor prostaglandins, which provides new insights and directions for the treatment of FCS-induced metabolic disorders and inflammation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The organic aerogel with numerous polarization groups provides a proper chemical environment for absorption of ferric ions. The resultant carbon aerogel composite with uniform Fe 3 O 4 covering on the framework exhibits superior electromagnetic wave absorption capacity by well impedance matching and strong attenuation. [Display omitted] • Distinctive coupling microstructures between dielectric and magnetic lossy materials are constructed. • Impedance matching and attenuation are optimized via interfacial microstructure. • A minimum RL value of −51.8 dB and a broad EAB of 5.24 GHz is achieved. Generation of multi-components synergistic absorbers is of value for efficient electromagnetic wave (EMW) absorption. This study constructed two kinds of nano-Fe 3 O 4 decorated carbon aerogels with disparate microstructures (either Fe 3 O 4 nucleated on the surface of carbon skeleton or the pore inside the aerogel) and highlighted the significance of the coupling microstructure on the EMW absorption capacity of the magnetic-dielectric material. The results demonstrate that the readily Fe 3 O 4 coated and distributed carbon aerogel favors to improve EMW absorbing performance. A minimum reflection loss (RL min) value of −51.8 dB is achieved at 4.9 GHz. In addition, the effective absorption bandwidth (EAB) covered the Ku bands under the matching thickness of only 1.8 mm. The favorable impedance matching and abundant hetero-interfaces collectively contribute to the EMW attenuation. The work with respect to interfacial structural control is of great reference value for designing excellent EMW absorber candidates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To reduce the energy consumption of the shrimp blanching process and improve the economic value of the blanched product, a transcritical CO 2 heat pump blanching system (THPB system) was designed in this paper. The trends of astaxanthin were investigated at atmospheric pressure near boiling temperature, combined with the color and structural properties of shrimp samples, and the optimal blanching times of 270 s and 240 s were obtained at 90°C and 95°C, respectively. In contrast to the fuel blanching system (FB system) at 100°C, the annual standard coal consumption of the THPB system with 90°C blanching is decreased by 79%, and the annual operating cost can be saved by CNY 63,800, with a payback period of about 3.13 years. Blanching is one of the effective ways to prolong the shelf life of shrimp. However, the research on the blanching time and temperature of shrimp is not comprehensive. In addition, the traditional fuel blanching process has high energy consumption and pollution, and can no longer meet the quality requirements of the modern food processing industry. Heat pump has been shown to have better performance in food drying, but it is less used in blanching. The information presented in this study may provide other insights into food processing. • A novel method of blanching shrimp is proposed with CO 2 heat pump system. • The blanched shrimp can also obtain higher quality with temperature below 100°C. • The optimal blanching time at 90°C and 95°C is 270 s and 240 s respectively. • The energy consumption of THPB system could decrease by 79% than FB system. • The annual operating cost of THPB system can be saved by CNY 63,800. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Colorectal cancer (CRC) recurrence after surgical resection results in poor clinical outcomes. Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) are emerging new targets for mediating tumorigenesis and immunosuppression within tumor microenvironment. We develop a bio-scaffold encapsulating lncRNA-targeting biomimetic nanosystems for mediating triple immune effects against postoperative CRC recurrence. Liposome (termed as "D")-decorated CRC cells' membrane (CM) envelops a plasmid encoding a short hair-pinned RNA (shRNA) against plasmacytoma variant translocation 1 (Pvt1), forming the shPvt1-CM-D nanosystem. This nanosystem and the chemodrug Oxaliplatin (Oxa) are embedded in a hyaluronic acid and alginate-based bio-scaffold for postoperative implantation. (1) ShPvt1-CM-D-mediated Pvt1 knockdown strengthens Oxa-induced immunogenic cell death (ICD). (2) Such tumor antigens released from enhanced ICD and the CM from shPvt1-CM-D act as dual vaccines of dendritic cells. (3) Pvt1 knockdown by shPvt1-CM-D within granulocytic myeloid-derived suppressor cells (G-MDSCs) ameliorates G-MDSC-mediated immunosuppression. The nanosystem-carrying bio-scaffold significantly suppresses perioperative CRC local recurrence by 97.8% with survival rate (SR) of 62.5%. The bio-scaffold generates robust immune memory responses for completely suppressing tumor ectopic rechallenging and metachronous metastasis (SR: 100%). Additionally, the bio-scaffold reduces synchronously distant metastasis by 70.8%. This work presents a potent nanotechnology-facilitated lncRNA-targeting immunotherapy for postoperative CRC treatments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents a high-temperature cascade heat pump system with a high compression ratio for recovering the waste heat of the chemical plant and replacing the steam. To analyze the economic and the thermodynamic performance of the high-temperature cascade heat pump, a mathematical model, considering energy, exergy, economy and environment, has been developed under different heat source inlet temperature. The proposed system here indicated good stability and feasibility under various operating conditions according to the simulation results. However, as the heating capacity and the annual net profit were found to be conflicting with each other, a multi-objective optimization method was developed to solve this problem. In addition, the technique for Order of Preference by Similarity to Ideal Solution method was selected as the decision-making method to search for the final optimal result of the system. The optimization results showed that if the optimized heating capacity project was selected, the average heating capacity and the average annual net profit were 2.8% and 6.7% lower than their maximum possible values. At the optimal heat source inlet temperature of 71 °C and condensing temperature of 145 °C, the heating capacity of the system was 498.9 kW and the payback period was 3.9 year. [Display omitted] • A HTCHP system for recovering waste heat and replacing steam was studied. • Mathematical model was developed to analyze thermodynamic and economic performance. • Multi-objective optimization was used to solve the contradiction. • TOPSIS method was applied to selected the final optimal results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]