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Opinion dynamics (OD) models simulate the evolution of personal opinions using computer science, social dynamics, physics, and complexity science tools on social networks. However, current opinion dynamics models mainly utilize agent-based models to simulate user interactions but still need to leverage large-scale data fully. Social networks typically involve a vast number of users and information, making it difficult for models to capture the complex interactions in real social networks. Additionally, many models overlook the specific mechanisms of user interactions, such as how network individuals influence and interact with one another, resulting in inaccuracies in modeling individual opinion evolution. This paper proposes a novel approach that integrates the probabilistic bounded confidence model (PBC) with deep learning, i.e., Neural Probabilistic Bounded Confidence (NPBC), to tackle these challenges. The NPBC model adopts an attention network, a long short-term memory (LSTM) network, and a feedforward neural network to approximate the evolution of individual opinions within networks. It satisfies the data approximation and the users' opinion update rule that conforms to the PBC model. This model enhances the understanding of opinion dynamics, helping to develop effective strategies for opinion guidance in social networks. Finally, the proposed NPBC model is evaluated on three synthetic and Twitter datasets. The results demonstrate that the proposed NPBC model performs better than the six baseline methods in predicting user opinions. Compared to baseline models, the model's accuracy (ACC) and comprehensive evaluation (F1) scores improve by up to 18% and 7%, respectively. • Combining deep learning and probabilistic bounded confidence model. • Using fully connected layers to map users and time to the same vector space. • The attention mechanism captures the internal correlations between users and time. • The long short-term memory network is used to capture the sequence features. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Post-earthquake secondary fire is the major hazard prefabricated concrete (PC) structures face and is currently a hot research topic. Fully-grouted sleeve connection (FGSC) is the main connection method for PC structures, whose failure can result in serious consequences. However, the research on FGSC with tensile damage at elevated temperatures is limited and only at the experimental stage. To enrich the related studies, we proposed a 2D model that considers material damage in good agreement with the corresponding experimental results. 15 finite element models are established with two key parameters, tensile displacement, and temperature, to further investigate the mechanical performance of FGSC under force-thermal coupling. The temperature and damage distribution of FGSC are presented, in addition to the critical temperatures that cause the force state to change. The study results show that the damage pattern of FGSC mainly depends on the tensile phase, and the temperature-induced force can create non-negligible damage to the material. Based on this, the trends of axial and radial forces of FGSC have been summarized as well as their new prediction equations whose coefficients of determination are 99.36 % and 99.83 % in the elevated temperature stage. The numerical simulation method and conclusions obtained are the essential basis for the subsequent study of the response of PC structures under post-earthquake secondary fires. • In the context of multiple factors such as thermal coupling, a 2D-axisymmetric modeling method that is experimentally validated and can quantitatively assess material damage is proposed. • The damage to FGSC by thermal stress was investigated, as well as the first study of the variation rule of radial force RF1 with temperature. • Summarized the formula of axial and radial forces of FGSC due to heat as a function of temperature. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ventricular remodeling refers to the structural and functional changes of the heart under various stimuli or disease influences and may also be accompanied by myocardial fibrosis, where an excessive amount of fibrous tissue appears in the myocardial tissue, affecting the heart's normal contraction and relaxation. Hypertension is posing the potential risk of causing myocardial injury and remodeling. The significance of the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS) in myocardial remodeling cannot be overlooked. Drug targeting of RAAS can effectively lower blood pressure and reduce left ventricular mass. Studies have shown that ginsenoside Rh4 can inhibit oxidative stress and inflammatory responses. In this study, a myocardial remodeling model was established using angiotensin (Ang) II, and the inhibitory effect of RH4 on myocardial hypertrophy and remodeling induced by Ang II was investigated using pathological staining and quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR). Immunofluorescence and qPCR demonstrated that Rh4 causes myocardial hypertrophy and the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in vitro. The Rh4 target was identified using transcriptomics. The findings indicated that RH4 could inhibit myocardial hypertrophy, inflammatory fibrosis, and oxidative stress induced by Ang II, suggesting potential cardiovascular protection effects. In vitro experiments have shown that Rh4 inhibits myocardial hypertrophy. Transcriptomics revealed that nuclear factor interleukin-3 (NFIL3) is a downstream regulator of Rh4. By constructing AAV9-NFIL3 and injecting it into mice, it was found that NFIL3 overexpression interfered with anti-Ang II-induced myocardial remodeling of Rh4. These results indicate that Rh4 demonstrates potential therapeutic effects on myocardial hypertrophy and fibrosis. [Display omitted] • Ginsenoside RH4 inhibits Ang II-induced myocardial remodeling. • Rh4 plays cardiac protective role via the downstream regulatory gene of NFIL3. • Rh4 has potential therapeutic effects on myocardial hypertrophy and fibrosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• The financial figures for CGTs are still promising despite severe disruption. • COVID-19 repositioning strategies provide opportunities for manufacturers of CGTs. • CGTs industry needs to increase its resilience to navigate potential future crises. • More restrictions on CGTs price and reimbursement are foreseeable. • Value-based price and alternative payment mechanisms will be increasingly leveraged. Coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) has caused significant disruption to the cell and gene therapy (CGT) industry, which has historically faced substantial complexities in supply of materials, and manufacturing and logistics processes. As decision-makers shifted their priorities to COVID-19-related issues, the challenges in market authorisation, and price and reimbursement of CGTs were amplified. Nevertheless, it is encouraging to see that some CGT developers are adapting their efforts toward the development of promising COVID-19-related therapeutics and vaccines. Manufacturing resilience, digitalisation, telemedicine, value-based pricing, and innovative payment mechanisms will be increasingly harnessed to ensure that market access of CGTs is not severely disrupted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• The proposal was made to introduce gelatin into the test solution to utilize the coffee ring effect of liquid droplets for the enrichment of heavy metals in the solution. • The influence of different gelatin mass fractions on the deposition morphology of droplet surfaces and the LIBS spectral intensity was analyzed. • The spectral enhancement mechanism of four different substrate materials, namely Zn plate, Al plate, Ni plate, and Polymethyl methacrylate plate, was investigated. In order to enhance the stability and lower the detection limit of Laser-Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy (LIBS) technology, gelatin was introduced into the test solution in this study to enrich heavy metals using the coffee ring effect. The effects of different gelatin mass fractions on the surface deposition morphology of droplets and the intensity of spectroscopy were analyzed. Explored the spectral enhancement mechanisms of four substrate materials. The results demonstrated that the best coffee ring enrichment was achieved with a gelatin mass fraction of 2.5 %. The signal-to-noise ratios of Cu and Cr were enhanced by 5.5 and 3.6, and the relative standard deviations decreased by 59.5 % and 53.8 %. When Zn plate was used as the substrate material, the detection limits for Cu and Cr were 0.715 mg/L and 3.881 mg/L. The research indicates that surface-enhanced LIBS based on coffee ring enrichment can improve spectral stability and lower the detection limit. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] Pyrrolopyrrole aza-BODIPY (PPAB), a dimeric BODIPY analogue containing a pyrrolopyrrole structure at the center, exhibits intense far-red and near-infrared (NIR) absorption and emission. Herein, tetracyanobuta-1,3-diene-appended PPABs (TCBD-PPABs) were synthesized by post-modification based on a [2+2] cycloaddition-retroelectrocyclization (CA-RE) reaction with tetracyanoethylene. Owing to the redshift of the PPAB absorption in the NIR region and the emergence of the intramolecular charge-transfer band in the visible region, TCBD-PPABs exhibit panchromatic absorption in the visible/NIR regions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

China has enacted the dual credit policy to enhance electric vehicle (EV) diffusion, and the impact of information transmission on manufacturers' decisions has not been well considered under the policy compliance pressure. We developed a complex network-based evolutionary game model to study the proliferation of EVs under the dual credit policy and explore the impact of different information transmission mechanisms. Our results suggest that stricter enforcement of corporate average fuel consumption credit requirements can promote the effective diffusion of EVs. Surprisingly, increasing the EV credit ratio requirement does not significantly promote the EV proliferation. Credit prices play a crucial role in policy effectiveness. Furthermore, our study highlights the heterogeneous effect of information transmission on policy effectiveness, which indicates a dual effect of industry information. Mixed information transmission can combine the advantages of both modes, avoiding crowding-out effects while reducing volatility and maximizing the benefits of information transmission. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With the abolition of the purchase subsidies for electric vehicles (EVs) in China commencing from 2023, expanding the incentive policy system has become a priority. In the absence of subsidies, different types of information from multiple dimensions become important references for EV adoption, which were rarely studied. To fill the gap, we developed an evolutionary model based on multiplex networks to analysis the effectiveness of different types of policies based on consumers' dynamic decisions. Furthermore, different interaction mechanisms were constructed to examine the influence of information dimensions of EV quantity and evaluations. Our results show that: (1) The value retention rate of EVs exerts a significant impact on the adoption rate. (2) Restricting the purchase and driving of traditional vehicles can stimulate the diffusion of EVs. However, due to crowding-out effect, no better policy effect can be achieved when both policies are strictly implemented. (3) The behavioral information possesses a dual impact. Demonstration policies can enhance adoption by improving consumers' perception of the number of EVs. Education and publicity can promote the adoption by enhancing consumers' evaluation. (4) Compared with the evaluation information, the quantity of EVs is more reliable, which also reflects the subtle influence of the environment. • A dynamic consumer decision model based on two-layer multiplex networks. • The dynamics between consumer behavior and preference are considered. • Social information in the two dimensions of electric vehicles quantity and evaluation. • Alternative incentive policy systems beyond subsidies. • Policies based on economic value perception and social information interaction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Microgels are colloidal particles with crosslinked polymer networks and dimensions ranging from tens of nanometers to micrometers. Specifically, smart microgels are fascinating capable of responding to biological signals in vivo or remote triggers and making the possible for applications in biomaterials and biomedicines. Therefore, how to fundamentally design microgels is an urgent problem to be solved. In this review, we put forward our important fundamental opinions on how to devise the intelligent microgels for cancer therapy, biosensing and biological lubrication. We focus on the design ideas instead of specific implementation process by employing reverse synthesis analysis to programme the microgels at the original stage. Moreover, special insights will be, for the first time, as far as we know, dedicated to the particles completely composed of DNA or proteins into microgel systems. These are discussed in detail in this review. We expect to give readers a broad overview of the design criteria and practical methodologies of microgels according to the application fields, as well as to propel the further developments of highly interesting concepts and materials. Graphical abstract Unlabelled Image Highlights • We expect to give readers a broad overview of the design criteria and practical methodologies of microgels. • We focus on design ideas instead of specific implementation process. • A reverse synthesis analysis was employed to programme the microgels at the original stage. • For the first time, it decicated to the particles composed completely of DNA or proteins into microgel systems. • The mechanism of the most basic and the most commonly used methods for synthesizing microgels are briefly reviewed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract A field experiment was conducted to investigate the resistance to wind erosion of consolidated soil layer (CSL) on the edge of Ulan Buh Desert in Inner Mongolia, China under natural conditions during Aug. 2015–Apr. 2016. The CSLs consisted of sandy soil, fly ash (FA) (5%, 10% and 15% (w/w) soil) and polyacrylamide (PAM) (0.05% and 0.1% (w/w) soil). The experimental site was divided equally into Regions A and B where dry FA and PAM powder were applied in two ways in mid-Jul. 2015. In Region A, FA and PAM were mixed homogeneously with the 0–0.3 m depth topsoil. In Region B, FA alone was mixed homogeneously with the 0–0.3 m depth topsoil. PAM was then scattered uniformly on top of the surface layer. Finally, CSLs were formed by spraying an appropriate amount of water onto the surface to dissolve PAM fully and being equilibrated for one week to achieve a moisture content close to the initial soil moisture content (0.6%). It was found that during 2–26 Aug. 2015, the wind erosion rate (WER) was reduced most significantly by 77% in CSL (10%FA + 0.05%PAM) in Region A and by 58% in CSL (10%FA + 0.1%PAM) in Region B compared with control (CK) (WER = 10.2 kg/m2). However, during 3–27 Sep. 2015, there was no significant difference in WER between treatments in Regions A and B compared with CK (WER = 1.4 kg/m2). Whereas, during the following longer period of wind erosion (viz. 27 Sep. 2015–21 Apr. 2016), the WER was reduced most significantly by 69% in CSL (5%FA + 0.1%PAM) in Region A and by 32% in CSL (5%FA + 0.05%PAM) in Region B compared with CK (WER = 80.7 kg/m2). The resistance to wind erosion of CSL in Region A was much stronger than in Region B. The WER of CSL was influenced by wind conditions including wind speed and direction. Precipitation also had an impact on the WER of CSL as the cohesive effect of PAM can be influenced by precipitation. The CSL as a mixture of sandy soil, FA and PAM is recommended for wind erosion control. Graphical abstract Unlabelled Image Highlights • Fly ash, PAM and sandy soil formed consolidated soil layer (CSL) on dune surface. • Wind erosion rate of CSL was determined under natural conditions. • Higher daily wind speed could increase the wind erosion rate of CSL. • Precipitation could improve CSL's resistance to wind erosion. • PAM is recommended to be mixed with fly ash and sandy soil for longer CSL's lifespan. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Malignant bone tumors associated with aggressive osteolysis are currently hard to be cured by the clinical strategies. Nevertheless, nanomedicine might provide a promising therapeutic opportunity. Here, we developed a multifunctional melanin-like nanoparticle for bone-targeted chemo-photothermal treatment of malignant bone tumors. The particle was originally fabricated from alendronate-conjugated polydopamine nanoparticle (PDA-ALN) that exhibited excellent photothermal effect and high affinity to hydroxyapatite. PDA/Fe-ALN significantly enhanced the magnetic resonance contrast of the bone tumors in vivo , suggesting that more PDA-ALN accumulated at the osteolytic bone lesions in the tumors compared with the non-targeting PDA. Chemodrug SN38 was efficiently loaded on PDA-ALN, and the drug release could be triggered by near-infrared irradiation and acidic stimulus. Finally, the combined chemo-photothermal therapy efficiently suppressed the growth of bone tumors and reduced the osteolytic damage of bones at a mild temperature around 43 °C. This study provides an efficient and robust nanotherapeutics for the treatment of malignant bone tumors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• A novel FeMo-based catalyst was successfully synthesized and characterized. • N/O co-doped strategy was applied to the electrochemical O2-to-H2O2 synthesis. • The new insights may open an effective pathway to the design of more catalysts. In electrochemical O 2 -to-H 2 O 2 synthesis, the lack of systematic strategies and proof-of-concept studies is one of the key problems for practical applications. Herein, as exemplified by the FeMo bimetallic material for a two-electron oxygen reduction reaction (2e- ORR), we report a substantial improvement by facilitating the surface reconstruction of oxides or nitrides into N/O co-doped electrocatalyst. Additionally, in-depth evidence including electrochemical signals, H 2 O 2 -proof work, in-situ Raman and density functional theory (DFT) calculations, identified that the N/O co-doped FeMo catalyst has been favored by 2e- ORR, opening an effective pathway to the design of more bimetallic catalysts for electroreduction of O 2 to H 2 O 2. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• A systematic competency model for international engineering project managers. • State very clear of assessment method steps and a case calculation is carried, which may be a reliable reference for related studies. • Besides Evaluation, the parts of interactions between factors are also helpful for decision making. • Suggestions are proposed to help employment and future development of project managers for companies. Due to the Belt and Road Initiative, Chinese engineering contracting companies have ushered in excellent opportunities in the international engineering market. However, for the lack of comprehensive talents, Chinese international engineering projects are currently facing various difficulties. How to select, evaluate, and train highly competitive engineering project managers is of great significance to them. In this paper, an improved Multi-Attribute Decision Making Method (MADM) is used to construct the competency model of international engineering project managers, so as to provide a reliable reference and suggestions for the evaluation process and future development. The current study of project managers' competency is mainly focused on the local level rather than the international level, and discussed about the competency of general project managers instead of a specific industry of engineering. Also, we noticed the lack of a systematic method of competency evaluation for Chinese international engineering project managers. Aiming at the manager competency of international engineering projects, this paper firstly combines Repertory Grid technique (RepGrid) with the help of Chinese experts abroad and factor analysis to construct a competency evaluation index system, and then combines Decision-making Trial and Evaluation Laboratory (DEMATEL) and Analytic Network Process (ANP) to explore the interaction between various indicators and determine the weight of each indicator. Finally, through improved Vlse kriterijumska Optimizacija I Kompromisno Resenje (VIKOR) method the five candidates from a Chinese company in the case are evaluated. The final parts of this article provide a methodological reference and improvement suggestions for the recruitment, performance evaluation, training and career development of international engineering project managers based on the constructed model. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The treatment of bone tumors is a challenging problem due to the inefficient delivery of therapeutics to bone and the bone microenvironment-associated tumor resistance to chemo- and radiotherapy. Here, we developed a bone-targeted nanoparticle, aspartate octapeptide-modified dendritic platinum-copper alloy nanoparticle (Asp-DPCN), for photothermal therapy (PTT) of bone tumors. Asp-DPCN showed much higher affinity toward hydroxyapatite and bone fragments than the non-targeted DPCN in vitro . Furthermore, Asp-DPCN accumulated more efficiently around bone tumors in vivo , and resulted in a higher temperature in bone tumors during PTT. Finally, Asp-DPCN-mediated PTT not only efficiently depressed the tumor growth but also significantly reduced the osteoclastic bone destruction. Our study developed a promising therapeutic approach for the treatment of bone tumors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• A numerical simulation method for the multifactor coupling of stress field and temperature field is developed. • The numerical simulation method is in good agreement with the experiment results at elevated temperatures. • The numerical simulative description of the grout material failure and fracture of a steel bar. • Prediction of the yield point and the ultimate point of FGSC from 25 °C to 1000 °C. Fire is one of the main objects of study at the cutting edge of the research on disaster prevention and mitigation in structures. In the event of a fire, the mechanical properties of the structural material will be significantly reduced, resulting in serious consequences. This paper simulates the tensile properties of sleeve grouting members at five different temperatures, to contribute to the research here. The simulated member stress-strain curves fit well with the corresponding experimental results. The paper introduces constitutive models of concrete, steel, and sleeve. Beyond that, a feasible finite element model of the grouted sleeve is proposed. Two special points' (yield point, ultimate point) coordinate formulas which are related to different temperatures (25–1000 °C) are presented. It indicates the regularity of fully-grouted sleeve tensile force-displacement curves in various temperatures. Meanwhile, the research content provides the basis for further research on reinforcing bars spliced by grout-filled coupling sleeves. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We design a novel bone tumor cell targeting nanosystem for chemo-photothermal combined therapy. The nanosystem is constructed by hybridization of Mn-Co metal organic frameworks as core and polydopamine as shell. Its surface is loaded with doxorubicin and modified bone tumor cell targeting peptide. The nanosystem can break through the "barrier" of bone microenvironment and target bone tumor cells efficiently. [Display omitted] • One-step method to prepare Metal organic framework@polydopamine nanoparticles. • Design and synthesis of bone tumor targeting peptide modified nanosystem. • Nanosystem targets bone tumor cells by break through the bone microenvironment. • Nanosystem can treat bone tumors by chemo-photothermal combined therapy. • Nanosystem can inhibit bone tumors growth and the accompanying osteolysis. The bone microenvironment provides a "barrier" for bone tumors to resist clinical chemoradiotherapy, implying that molecules targeting tumor cells alone cannot effectively target bone tumor cells. One restriction of using nanosystems in the treatment of bone tumors is bone tumor cell-targeting. In this study, a novel chemo-photothermal combined therapy (CPT) bone tumor cell-targeting nanosystem was designed. A bone tumor cell-targeting peptide (BTTP) was covalently attached to the surface of the nanosystem. The nanosystem was constructed by hybridization of a core Mn-Co metal-organic framework and polydopamine as the shell (TM@P). The TM@P/DOX nanosystem could be first targeted to the bone damage interface by the bone-targeting peptide octapolyaspartic acid (D 8) of BTTP. Then the KCQGWI↓GQPGCK polypeptide fragment of BTTP could be cut off by matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) secreted by bone tumors, and finally guided specifically the nanosystem into bone tumor cells by cell penetrating peptides (R 8) of BTTP. Doxorubicin (DOX) was loaded onto the TM@P surface (TM@P/DOX). The nanosystem targeted bone tumor cells well in vivo and enhanced the contrast of bone tumor (MRI). Finally, the TM@P/DOX nanosystem-mediated CPT effectively inhibited bone tumor growth and osteolysis. This study provides an effective new approach for the treatment of malignant bone tumors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We design a novel bone tumor cell targeting nanosystem for chemo-photothermal combined therapy. The nanosystem is constructed by hybridization of Mn-Co metal organic frameworks as core and polydopamine as shell. Its surface is loaded with doxorubicin and modified bone tumor cell targeting peptide. The nanosystem can break through the "barrier" of bone microenvironment and target bone tumor cells efficiently. [Display omitted] • One-step method to prepare Metal organic framework@polydopamine nanoparticles. • Design and synthesis of bone tumor targeting peptide modified nanosystem. • Nanosystem targets bone tumor cells by break through the bone microenvironment. • Nanosystem can treat bone tumors by chemo-photothermal combined therapy. • Nanosystem can inhibit bone tumors growth and the accompanying osteolysis. The bone microenvironment provides a "barrier" for bone tumors to resist clinical chemoradiotherapy, implying that molecules targeting tumor cells alone cannot effectively target bone tumor cells. One restriction of using nanosystems in the treatment of bone tumors is bone tumor cell-targeting. In this study, a novel chemo-photothermal combined therapy (CPT) bone tumor cell-targeting nanosystem was designed. A bone tumor cell-targeting peptide (BTTP) was covalently attached to the surface of the nanosystem. The nanosystem was constructed by hybridization of a core Mn-Co metal-organic framework and polydopamine as the shell (TM@P). The TM@P/DOX nanosystem could be first targeted to the bone damage interface by the bone-targeting peptide octapolyaspartic acid (D 8) of BTTP. Then the KCQGWI↓GQPGCK polypeptide fragment of BTTP could be cut off by matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) secreted by bone tumors, and finally guided specifically the nanosystem into bone tumor cells by cell penetrating peptides (R 8) of BTTP. Doxorubicin (DOX) was loaded onto the TM@P surface (TM@P/DOX). The nanosystem targeted bone tumor cells well in vivo and enhanced the contrast of bone tumor (MRI). Finally, the TM@P/DOX nanosystem-mediated CPT effectively inhibited bone tumor growth and osteolysis. This study provides an effective new approach for the treatment of malignant bone tumors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Peer enterprises face similar market environment and development prospects. For the purpose of economic rationality and avoiding risks, enterprises imitate and learn from peer enterprises' green innovation decisions. However, few studies focus on the relationship between peer effect and government policies. In order to fill the gap, an evolutionary game model based on complex network is built, and different information interaction mechanisms are constructed to study the dynamic impact of government policies on the diffusion of green innovation among peer enterprises. The results show that: (1) based on peer effect, green innovation incentive, environmental protection tax and innovation subsidy are effective policy tools to promote green innovation diffusion. (2) green innovation incentive and innovation subsidy have the best policy effect threshold. Peer alliances invalidate further incentives for generosity. (3) Increasing the intensity of environmental tax will first promote and then inhibit the diffusion of green innovation. (4) Different information interaction mechanisms of peer effect significantly impact the effectiveness of policies, and there are differences. Compared with the positive information, enterprises are more vulnerable to the negative information of the industry. This reflects the conservative attitude of enterprises. The conclusions provide a multi perspective reference for the implementation of government policies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Bi 2 S 3 nanorods with abundant sulfur vacancies exhibit superior and sustainable photocatalytic nitrogen fixation activity under near-infrared irradiation and full solar irradiation. [Display omitted] • Controllable fabrication of sulfur-vacancy-rich Bi 2 S 3 nanorods were fabricated by a simple solvothermal route. • The abundant SVs can absorb nitrogen and decrease the photoinduced carriers recombination. • Bi 2 S 3 nanorods exhibit effective and sustainable photocatalytic N 2 fixation under near-infrared irradiation. Herein, orthorhombic phase Bi 2 S 3 nanorods with different concentration of sulfur vacancies (SVs) were controllably synthesized via a facile solvothermal strategy. Benefited from the high specific surface area, proper band gap, good reduction capacity and abundant SVs, the Bi 2 S 3 nanorods exhibit remarkable photocatalytic nitrogen fixation performance. The ammonia yield of the sulfur-vacancy-rich Bi 2 S 3 -3 is around 51.04 μmol g−1 h−1 under full solar irradiation. Moreover, Bi 2 S 3 -3 also responds sensitively to near-infrared (NIR) light, and the nitrogen reduction rate is 33.37 μmol g−1 h−1. The superior photocatalytic performance of Bi 2 S 3 is mainly attributed to SVs, which can absorb nitrogen and afford plentiful active sites to activate molecular nitrogen. Moreover, SVs also can trap the photoinduced electrons and contribute to the separation of the interfacial charge. This work provides a promising and sustainable defect-rich photocatalyst for the fixation of atmospheric nitrogen using solar energy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Design of an efficient gene vector based on dendrimer remains a great challenge due to the presence of multiple barriers in gene delivery. Single-functionalization on dendrimer cannot overcome all the barriers. In this study, we synthesized a list of single-, dual- and triple-functionalized dendrimers with arginine, phenylalanine and histidine for gene delivery using a one-pot approach. The three amino acids play different roles in gene delivery: arginine is essential in formation of stable complexes, phenylalanine improves cellular uptake efficacy, and histidine increases pH-buffering capacity and minimizes cytotoxicity of the cationic dendrimer. A combination of these amino acids on dendrimer generates a synergistic effect in gene delivery. The dual- and triple-functionalized dendrimers show minimal cytotoxicity on the transfected NIH 3T3 cells. Using this combination strategy, we can obtain triple-functionalized dendrimers with comparable transfection efficacy to several commercial transfection reagents. Such a combination strategy should be applicable to the design of efficient and biocompatible gene vectors for gene delivery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • A. splendens was grown in FA- and PAM-consolidated soil layer (CSL) in the desert. • Factors influencing A. splendens growth in the CSLs were investigated. • The resistance to wind erosion of CSL was further improved by A. splendens cover. Vegetation restoration is an important part of effective desertification control. Consolidated soil layer (CSL) formed by mixing coal fly ash (FA), dry anionic polyacrylamide (PAM) granules, and sandy soil can increase the resistance to wind erosion of the soil. This study further investigated the effect of CSL on vegetation recovery on the sandy land in the Ulan Buh Desert, North China. FA and PAM were applied into the 0–0.3 m depth sandy soil layer at varying application rates to form CSLs (viz. T1 (5%FA + 0.05%PAM), T2 (5%FA + 0.1%PAM), T3 (10%FA + 0.05%PAM), T4 (10%FA + 0.1%PAM), T5 (15%FA + 0.05%PAM), and T6 (15%FA + 0.1%PAM)) where Achnatherum splendens (Trin.) Nevski (A. splendens) was planted. The results showed that the moisture content of T3 and T4 was consistently higher than that of untreated sandy soil (CK) along the 0.1–0.2 m depth soil layer, which was attributed to the increased water holding capacity of sandy soil by FA and PAM via alteration of coarse soil texture by fine-sized FA particles and binding of soil particles by PAM as well as the formation of soil surface crust. As a result, the growth traits of A. splendens including average height, tillers number, and leaf-area coverage were promoted in CSLs during the one-year growth period, with the most distinctly improved final growth traits noted in T4 and T6. The eight-month field observation found that the resistance to wind erosion of CSL with A. splendens cover was significantly improved than that of CK, and the wind erosion rate decreased with increasing FA application rate. The improvement in the resistance to wind erosion of CSL was attributed to the pozzolanic action and filling effect of fine FA particles and adhesive action and inter-particle binding of PAM. A. splendens cover was demonstrated to effectively protect the CSL from being eroded by wind in the field. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Starch obtained from seedless breadfruit (Artocarpus altilis) procured from Xinglong and the Spice and Beverage Research Institute were isolated and their granule and physicochemical characteristics were analyzed. Both Xinglong seedless breadfruit starch (XBS) and Spice and Beverage Research Institute seedless breadfruit starch (SBS) exhibited a B-type diffraction patterns. SBS showed higher amylose content (25.71%), weight average molecular weight (Mw) (2.17 × 107 g/mol), A chains (degrees of polymerization (DP) 6–12) (17.26%), B2 chains (DP 24–36) (22.67%), B3 chains (DP ≥ 37) (14.42%), gelatinization enthalpy (Δ H g) (13.29 J/g), crystallinity (R c) (19.97%), short-range molecular order (0.59), gelatinization temperature (T p) (73.01 °C), pasting temperature (Pt) (75.95 °C), final viscosity (FV) (8125 cP), setback viscosity (SBV) (2366 cP), gel hardness (23.33 g) and adhesiveness (−79.14 g s) than those of XBS (24.33%, 1.68 × 107 g/mol, 16.83%, 20.74%, 13.10%, 12.39 J/g, 10.90%, 0.55, 68.56 °C, 71.80 °C, 8073 cP, 1694 cP, 10.72 g and −85.72 g s, respectively). However, lower B1 chains (DP 13–24) (45.72%), water absorption capacity (WAC) (117.32%), peak viscosity (PV) (6047 cP) and breakdown viscosity (BDV) (288 cP) were found for SBS, compared to those obtained for the XBS (49.33%, 139.10%, 7343 cP and 964 cP). The average particle size of SBS (7.44 μm) was similar to that of XBS (7.54 μm). Principal component analysis indicated that a significantly positive correlation was found among Mw, A1 chains, B2 chains, B3 chains, 1047/1022, gel hardness, amylose content, R c , T p , FV, Pt, Δ H g and SBV (p < 0.05). In addition, the proportions between the B1 chains, PV, porosity, WAC, gel adhesiveness, and ΔH were negatively correlated with Mw, A1 chains, B2 chains, B3 chains, 1047/1022, gel hardness, amylose content, R c , T p , FV, Pt, Δ H g and SBV (p < 0.05). Significantly negative correlation was also found among BDV and SBV, and T p and FV (p < 0.05). This paper can potentially be used as a theoretical reference to prompt more investigations for the extensive utilization of SBS and XBS in the food industry. [Display omitted] • The seedless breadfruit is a potential starch resource, which has not been exploited. • Starches were from Xinglong (XBS) and Spice and Beverage Research Institute (SBS). • Both the SBS and XBS was observed B-type pattern with various relative crystallinity. • The gelatinization enthalpy and gel hardness of SBS were higher than those of XBS. • Compared with XBS, SBS showed higher molecular weight and ratio of long chain. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

π-conjugated systems containing boron have emerged as exciting subjects in contemporary organic materials chemistry. A number of fascinating organoboron materials have been reported, however, knowledge of how the substituents on the boron affect electronic properties is inadequate. Herein, three new C, N chelates were designed, changing the substituent at boron led to the formation of tetra- and tri-coordinated systems that have distinct electronic structures and photophysical properties. The fluorophores containing different coordinate boron atom always exhibited distinctive optical properties, however, the exploration of the influence of the boron substituent on the molecular structures and electronic properties is inadequate. Herein, three new C, N chelates were designed, changing the substituent at boron led to the formation of tetra- and tri-coordinated systems that have distinct electronic structures and photophysical properties. [Display omitted] • Novel C and N chelates were designed to the formation of tetra- and tri-coordinated systems. • Remarkable spectral and electronic properties were observed for the tri- and tetra-coordinated compounds. • Theoretical calculations were carried out to analyze the structure-property relationships of organoboron system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: We prepared and characterized the inclusion complexes of daidzein with poly(amidoamine) (PAMAM) and poly(propylene imine) (PPI) dendrimers. Aqueous solubility of daidzein was significantly enhanced by both PAMAM and PPI (186- and 650-fold at 0.36mM, respectively). Daidzein in G3 PAMAM solution is more stable than that in G4 PPI. NMR studies reveal the encapsulation of daidzein within the interior cavities of PPI through hydrophobic interactions. Daidzein exhibits a slower release behavior from PPI than that from PAMAM. PPI/daidzein complex is much more toxic than PAMAM/daidzein complex on several cell lines. PAMAM/daidzein complexes showed similar protective effect on oxidative stress-induced cytotoxicity as compared to free daidzein. These results suggest that the inclusion of daidzein with dendrimer can effectively improve the solubility, prolong the delivery, and maintain the anti-oxidant activity of daidzein. This research provides new insights into dendrimer-based drug delivery systems and will be helpful for the design of novel dendrimer/drug formulations. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

• A stochastic model that can reproduce spatial and temporal correlation, as well as stochasticity is proposed. • A new indicator is proposed to measure the reproduction of natural stochasticity. • The new stochastic model is evaluated and compared to two other stochastic models. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of sequential recommendation systems is to assist users in efficiently discovering relevant information that they need within vast online environments. Existing studies have frequently overlooked users' diverse interests, failing to capture their multiple latent interests effectively, particularly in cases wherein users have extensive interaction histories. We introduce a novel approach, called A ccurate M ulti- I nterest M odeling for sequential recommendation to address this limitation. The proposed model combines users' long- and short-term preferences by using an attention-based module, allowing for comprehensive preference modeling. Furthermore, it incorporates a distillation capsule network-based module that models different user interests, with each capsule representing a unique interest. These interests are further refined using an interest distiller to identify the top-k interests of each user. Moreover, a module based on the multi-head self-attention mechanism captures hidden preference transition patterns within user interaction sequences. Finally, a complete user interest representation is obtained by aggregating the outputs of the aforementioned modules. This decoupling-then-fusion strategy allows the model to capture various detailed features better and consider the interactions among different features to model user needs more comprehensively. Experimental results conducted on three datasets unequivocally demonstrate the superiority of our proposed model. • Improved capsule network design for more accurate multi-interest extraction. • Combining long/short term preferences and multi-interest. • Using decoupling-then-fusion strategy, the performance of each module is improved. • Our model outperforms several strong baselines on three datasets. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In general, the grains of an AA6061 alloy cannot be refined without mechanical and heat treatments. Interestingly, in this work, the grain refinement of AA6061 alloy is successfully realized by a cyclic electropulsing treatment without any plastic deformation or matrix transformation (NP&D). In addition, unlike the gradually decreased dislocation density and homogenized evolution of crystal orientations in cyclic conventional-treated samples, in the cyclic electropulse-treated samples, the dislocation motion in {111} slipping planes is activated so that the dislocation density, the intensity of the [101]//ED texture and the distribution of the{111} planes in the sample coordinate are enhanced with an increase in the number of treatment cycles. Moreover, the strength and ductility of the AA6061 alloy are both improved through cyclic electropulsing treatment. In contrast to the cyclic conventional-treated sample, the yield strength and elongation of the optimized cyclic electropulse-treated sample are enhanced by 72.1% and 2.1%, respectively. Consequently, the electropulsing treatment can be used as a promising approach for the grain refinement of NP&D materials. This discovery also provides a theoretical supplement to the evolution of the nonequilibrium microstructure of NP&D alloys. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Curcumin was encapsulated into zeolitic imidazolate frameworks through drug eutectic. • The drug loading efficiency, stability and bioavailability of curcumin was greatly improved by the as-prepared CCM@ZIF-8. • The hierarchical micro/nanofibrous scaffolds release curcumin and zinc ions on demand during the stage of wound healing. • The as-prepared scaffolds exhibited an outstanding anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant and promoting the diabetic wound healing. Persistent excessive inflammation and oxidative stress are main causes for the impaired wound healing in diabetic patient. To reduce the excessive reactive oxygen species (ROS) and inflammatory response of wound in acute inflammatory phase is a key strategy for diabetic wound healing. In this work, a kind of metal organic frameworks (MOFs) with curcumin as ligand and Zn2+ as center were synthesized by a eutectic method, and a controllable double release system of curcumin and Zn2+ for diabetic wound repair was constructed by loading the MOFs into the hierarchical micro/nanofibrous poly (L-lactic acid) (PLLA) scaffolds. The results showed that the synthetic MOFs could significantly improve the bioavailability of curcumin, and the fabricated hierarchical micro/nanofibrous scaffolds could not only promote the adhesion and growth of skin tissue cells, but also release curcumin and Zn2+ on-demand in the early stage of inflammation. In vivo experiments further demonstrated that the scaffolds could effectively inhibit the inflammatory response and promote collagen deposition, angiogenesis as well as re-epithelialization of the skin wound, which ultimately promoted diabetic would healing in mice. The mechanism lying behind is closely related to the finding that ROS generation and inflammatory reaction in the acute inflammation stage of wound healing were significantly reduced by the scaffolds. Our results suggest that the designed hierarchical micro/nanofibrous scaffolds with curcumin and Zn2+ eutectic MOFs incorporated can effectively promote the skin wound healing in diabetic mice, providing a new strategy for the treatment of chronic wound. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Easy-to-perform and cost-effective fabrication of PDA-IR820-DAP coating. • Triple therapy for Staphylococcus aureus biofilm. • Outstanding antibacterial and osseointegration-promoting performances. Surgical site infection (SSI) with instrumentation is an undesired and troublesome complication in orthopaedics. Surgical debridement is currently the main treatment option. However, the poor prognosis remains the major problem and over 40% of patients needed additional surgery to remove the implant. To eliminate SSI, antibacterial and biocompatible implants are urgently needed. Herein, a novel biocompatible polydopamine (PDA)-IR820-Daptomycin (DAP) coating with triple therapy functions was successfully fabricated to enhance the anti-infection ability and osteogenic property of titanium implants. In which, PDA served as a biocompatible binder to immobilize IR820 and DAP, and possessed photothermal and osteogenic properties. The releasing of DAP inhibited the growth of Staphylococcus aureus and damaged the bacterial membrane. Meanwhile, after 808 nm laser irradiation, the combination of hyperthermia generated by PDA and singlet oxygen (1O 2) produced by IR820 eradicated the biofilm noninvasively. Furthermore, this coating successfully accelerated glutathione (GSH) oxidation and destroyed the bacterial membrane, reaching an anti-bacterial efficiency of 97.2% in vitro. Additionally, the coating significantly stimulated the proliferation and osteogenic differentiation of rat bone marrow stem cells (rBMSCs). In vivo, Ti-PDA-IR820-DAP reached an anti-bacterial efficiency of 97.9% in a S. aureus biofilm-infected rat model with 15 min of irradiation at 50 °C and drastically promoted the bone-implant osseointegration in a rat femur condyle defect model. The present study demonstrates that combining antibiotics and phototherapy represents a feasible way to treat bone-implant-associated infections. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A facile and direct C–H amination reaction at the 3-positions of BODIPY core was proceeded with high regioselectivity upon treatment with various amines. Spectroscopic properties of the 3-aminoBODIPY were substantially modulated by electron-donating nitrogen atoms. Theoretical calculations had been used to analyze the structure-property relationships and could be well explained for the regioselectivity of amination. Image 1 • A facile and direct C–H amination reaction of BODIPY core was proceeded with high regioselectivity. • This reaction did not require any catalysts and pre-functionalization of BODIPY. • Theoretical calculations were carried out to analyze the structure-property relationships and regioselectivity of amination. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Recrystallization and multiple precipitation are promoted by electro-pulsing. • Regularly dislocation networks are formed under the effect of electro-pulsing. • The PLC effect is weakened by electro-pulsing. • Strength and ductility of Al-Mg-Si alloy are both enhanced by electro-pulsing. In this work, electro-pulsing is executed on the Al-Mg-Si alloy to weaken the PLC effect. It is found that during only 260 ms of electro-pulsing treatment, more completely recrystallized α-Al grains are obtained. Besides, multiple distributed Mg 2 Si precipitates and Mg 4 (Si,Cu) clusters combined with regularly distributed dislocation networks are observed in the electro-pulsing treated Al-Mg-Si alloy. Compared with traditionally annealed sample, because of the weakened PLC effect and obviously different substructures, both of the strength and ductility of the Al-Mg-Si are improved via electro-pulsing treatment. This interesting finding laid the foundation of developing new Al-Mg-Si alloy with better properties more efficiently from the viewpoint of deformation behavior, not the microstructure-property relationship. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Spinal cord injury (SCI), as one of the intractable diseases in clinical medicine, affects thousands of human beings, and the pathologic changes after injury have been a hot spot for exploration in clinical medicine. With the development of new treatments, the survival of patients has shown an increasing trend; however, the inflammatory response after injury has not yet been effectively controlled. SCI is divided into primary injury and secondary injury according to the time of injury and pathophysiologic changes. Primary injury occurs immediately and the damage to the injury site is irreversible; however, secondary injury occurs after primary injury and involves pathologic changes at the cellular and molecular levels, which are reversible. Thus, the inflammatory response from secondary injuries has become the main direction of research. In recent years, a complex pathophysiologic mechanism has gradually been unveiled, which has been followed by an upgrade of treatment methods. This article describes the mechanisms of the inflammatory response after SCI and the mainstream treatment modalities. Also, neuroprotective agents and nerve regeneration agent agents are commonly used in the treatment of SCI; the therapeutic mechanism and classification of these agents are reviewed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of Kappa (к)-carrageenan on texture and perception of saltiness of low salt surimi. The low-field nuclear magnetic resonance (LF-NMR) and microstructure results showed that к-carrageenan could promote the formation of more immobilized water in low salt surimi gel, change its matrix structure, and lead to the uneven spatial distribution of sodium, thus enhancing saltiness perception. The rheological properties of surimi showed that к-carrageenan could increase the network strength of low salt surimi gel and improve its thermostability. Furthermore, the low salt surimi gel added with к-carrageenan has lower cooking loss, higher water holding capacity (WHC), gel strength and improved texture properties. Therefore, к-carrageenan has the effects of improving the quality and increasing salt perception of surimi gel. This study provides a new method for reducing salt consumption in food industry. • κ-Carrageenan promotes the release of saltiness perception. • κ-Carrageenan progmotes the transformation of free water to immobilized water. • κ-Carrageenan alters the structure of food matrix and improves their texture. • κ-Carrageenan can improve the thermostability of surimi protein. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Stacking faults and finer grain are formed by electro-pulsing within 480 ms. • Lamellar pearlites are formed in tempered EPQ sample. • Extra exothermic peaks are found in DSC curves of EPQ sample. • Tempered EPQ sample possesses better properties than tempered TQ sample. In this contribution, a totally different tempered microstructural sequence induced by electro-pulsing is observed in 42CrMo steel. Compared with the granular carbides in tempered TQ (traditional quenched) sample, ultrafine lamellar pearlites are found in tempered EPQ (electro-pulsing treated, followed with water-cooling) sample. The formation of this special tempered microstructure is related with the stacking faults in EPQ sample. Moreover, the grains and microstructure of 42CrMo steel are also refined via electro-pulsing. Results of mechanical properties indicate that tempered 42CrMo steel with ultrafine lamellar pearlites possesses higher strength, ductility and hardness. This interesting finding paves the way for developing 42CrMo steel with higher properties more efficiently. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

MgH 2 is regarded as one of the most favorable materials for hydrogen storage caused by its safety, high efficiency, considerable capacity for storing hydrogen, and low cost. However, the application of this material is limited owing to subpar thermodynamics and kinetics, which can be improved via combination with other materials. A hydrangea-like NiO@KNbO 3 was prepared by solvent thermal, hydrothermal, and calcination methods. Then, different amounts of NiO@KNbO 3 (3, 5, 7, and 10 wt %) were added to MgH 2 using ball-milling. MgH 2 composite material doped with 5 wt % NiO@KNbO 3 exhibits the most superior hydrogen storage performance, with a hydrogen absorption capacity of 4.95 wt % H 2 within 5 min at 150 ℃ and 1.5 MPa H 2 pressure. Furthermore, H 2 release started approximately at 175 °C with 5.96 wt % H 2 at 300 °C. The composite's H 2 desorption activation energy was decreased to 71.75 kJ/mol. The Mg 2 NiH 4 /Mg 2 Ni generated in situ can serve as a "hydrogen pump" by creating numerous activation sites and pathways for hydrogen diffusion, thereby facilitating H 2 dissociation during the process of hydrogen absorption. Additionally, the NiO@KNbO 3 -doped MgH 2 samples exhibited excellent integrated hydrogen storage properties due to the combined effect of KNbO 3 and the in situ formed NbO. The study provides clear evidence that NiO@KNbO 3 , a bimetallic oxide, can effectively enhance the hydrogen storage performance of MgH 2 as an additive. Furthermore, the straightforward synthesis of NiO@KNbO 3 offers guidance for the development of high-performance oxide catalysts that can improve the properties of MgH 2. • Hydrangea-like NiO@KNbO 3 synthesized via solvo- and hydrothermal methods. • NiO@KNbO 3 (3, 5, 7, and 10 wt %) added to MgH 2 using ball-milling. • 5 wt % NiO@KNbO 3 -doped MgH 2 composite exhibited best hydrogen storage performance. • Bimetallic oxide NiO@KNbO 3 effective additive to modify H 2 storage performance of MgH 2. • Study can facilitate design of high-performance oxide catalysts to enhance MgH 2. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To improve the optoelectronic properties and charge extraction efficiency of perovskite devices, precise device design and expert interface engineering are essential. In this study, we utilized first-principles simulations to investigate the structural, electrical, and optical characteristics of the interfaces between MAPbI 3 and Ti 3 C 2 T 2 (T = Cl, Br, I). Our computed charge density differences indicate that the internal electric field of MAPbI 3 /Ti 3 C 2 T 2 promotes the transfer and separation of photoinduced electrons and holes. Furthermore, the heterostructures exhibit enhanced optical absorption, with higher absorption intensity observed in the visible band. Notably, the PbI 2 /Ti 3 C 2 Br 2 interface shows the strongest cohesive energy, charge transfer, and optical absorption among the interfaces investigated. These findings provide detailed insights into the atomic-level interfacial properties of MAPbI 3 /Ti 3 C 2 T 2 and offer valuable theoretical recommendations for the development of novel perovskite devices. • The study focuses on analyzing the effects of halogen substitution on the interfacial properties of MAPbI 3 (110)/Ti 3 C 2 T 2 (001). • The interface bonding strength is related to the terminal types of MAPbI 3 and the halogen types of Ti 3 C 2 T 2. • The formation of bonds between Pb and halogens passivates defect states and improves charge extraction efficiency. • The PbI 2 /Ti 3 C 2 Br 2 heterostructure has promising stability, significant charge transfer, and strong light absorption in the visible range. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights • SWAT was modified for the multi-source water irrigation system with paddy rice. • A method was proposed to calculate return flow and its reuse amount based on the modified SWAT. • Two indicators were employed to analyze the spatial scale effect of reuse of return flow. • With the increase of spatial scale, the reuse rate of return flow increased and tended to stabilize. Abstract Return flows in irrigation systems are often reused contributing to overall efficiency. To investigate the fate of return flows and the scale effects of reuses, the SWAT (Soil and Water Assessment Tool) model was modified to better represent the characteristics of paddy rice irrigation systems, which includes a simulation module for automatic multi-source irrigation (AMSIM). The modified SWAT model was used to simulate the hydrological processes in the Yangshudang (YSD) watershed of the Zhanghe Irrigation System (ZIS) in China. Furthermore, we proposed a method to calculate the amounts of return flows and the reused amount based on the output of the model. The sub-basins nesting method was used to divide the study area into six scales. We calculated the rainfall & irrigation water reuse rates (η I + P ) and the irrigation water reuse rates (η I) at different scales and analyzed the changes of these two indicators over different scales. The results revealed that the modified SWAT model succeeded in simulating hydrological processes in a paddy rice irrigation system. η I + P and η I increased with the increase of scale. η I + P was higher in the wet years and lower in the dry years, while η I was higher in the dry years and lower in the wet years. The reason for increase of η I + P and η I as the scales increases were due to the fact that the return flows was repeatedly intercepted by downstream paddy fields, farm ponds, and drainage channels at larger scales, This reuse rates however reach the upper limit at a scale of 3500 ha, after which η I + P and η I no longer increase. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cubic perovskite oxide BaSnO 3 has attracted increasing attention because of its exceptional optoelectronic properties and promising device applications. However, its composition of the most stable surface and relative thermodynamic stability of the different surface terminations remain controversial. Here we report a comprehensive computational and theoretical study of various (001) surface structures of BaSnO 3 using first-principles electronic structure calculations. Our calculations show that the stoichiometric BaO surface termination has a slightly lower surface energy than SnO 2 surface termination, although their values are comparable to each other and about one-half of the cleavage energy of BaSnO 3. The calculated phase stability diagrams of the BaSnO 3 (001) surface show that BaO surface termination is thermodynamically preferred to other surface terminations in the allowed range of BaSnO 3 without forming secondary phases. Our calculations of cleavage energy reveal that eliminating the surface layer of BaO ⋅ H 2 O requires less energy compared to the surface layer of SnO 2 ⋅ H 2 O. These results explain the experimental findings why BaSnO 3 films have a Ba-excess surface after oxygen annealing while SnO 2 surface termination can only be achieved upon water leaching. This work may offer some guidelines for achieving precise control over the surface terminations of BaSnO 3. [Display omitted] • BaO termination has a slightly lower surface energy than SnO 2 termination. • Surface energies of BaO and SnO 2 terminations are nearly half of the cleavage energy. • BaO termination is thermodynamically preferred in the allowed chemical potential range. • Removing surface BaO ⋅ H 2 O layer requires less energy than SnO 2 ⋅ H 2 O layer. • Explain the occur of BaO termination by O 2 annealing but SnO 2 termination by H 2 O leaching. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Various methods for fabricating indium oxide-based heterojunctions and their applications in degradation of pollutants and energy sources are introduced. • The charge transfer mechanism and design of indium oxide based heterojunction are discussed in detail. • The future expectations and challenges of indium oxide-based materials are presented. In the past several decades, photocatalysis has shown great potential in solving energy and environmental problems, and indium oxide as a semiconductor photocatalyst has received much attention. Many photocatalyst systems based on indium oxide heterojunctions have been designed to develop new photocatalysts with even better performance. However, relatively few research reviews have focused on indium oxide-based photocatalytic systems. This paper discusses the charge transfer mechanisms in different heterostructures: type-II; all-solid-state Z-scheme; direct Z-scheme, S-scheme, and p-n heterojunctions, etc. Later, the recent research progress of different indium oxide-based heterojunction photocatalytic systems is reviewed, the role of indium oxide in different heterojunction photocatalytic systems is analyzed, and the characteristics of various heterojunction photocatalytic systems are compared, and the reasons limiting the photocatalytic applications of indium oxide-based materials are discussed. Finally, the future expectations and challenges of indium oxide-based materials are presented [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigates the effect of slope site conditions on ground motion amplification based on the seismic response analysis of 3D finite element slope models with different soil types and multidirectional seismic loadings. The numerical results indicate that the amplification ability of the lateral infinite extension slope model on the horizontal x- and y-components of input motion is equivalent and slightly less than that of the vertical component. Then, the effects of several site parameters (soil type, slope height, slope angle and peak acceleration of input motion) on topographic amplification of ground motions are discussed. The ability of topographic amplification decreases with increasing soil's shear wave velocity or peak acceleration of input motion. In addition, the amplification ability does not increase monotonously with increasing slope height or slope angle. Finally, the relationships between the evaluation indices and the distance from the slope crest are discussed. The results show that the maximum topographic amplification factor predominantly occurs near the slope crest within x/H = 1.5, and the correction factor defined in the Chinese seismic code could be insufficient for slope sites with low shear wave velocity soils. • The seismic response of sloping topography is simulated by 3D finite element method. • The effects of soil types on topographic amplification are discussed. • The effects of slope geometry and the PGA of input motion are discussed. • The results of numerical simulation are compared with seismic code provisions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Photothermal-chemotherapy (PT-CT) is a promising strategy for cancer treatment, but its development is hindered by the issues regarding to the long-term safety of carriers and imperfect drug release profiles. In this article, we use polyethylene glycol-modified polydopamine nanoparticles (PDA-PEG) as an outstanding PT-CT agent for cancer treatment. PDA-PEG possesses excellent biocompatibility and photothermal effect, and could easily load anticancer drugs such as doxorubicin (DOX) and 7-ethyl-10-hydroxycamptothecin (SN38) via π-π stacking and/or hydrogen binding. Moreover, the drug-loaded PDA-PEG showed great stability and drug-retaining capability in physiological condition, and could respond to multiple stimuli including near infrared light, pH and reactive oxygen species to trigger the release of loaded anticancer drugs. The in vitro and in vivo studies demonstrated that PDA-PEG-mediated PT-CT showed synergetic effect for cancer therapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • The H igh lig hts of this study were as follows: in both Il-10-/- and TNBS mice, Pm treatment improved CD-like colitis symptoms; the protective effect of Pm against colitis was to maintain the function of intestinal barrier by inhibiting apoptosis of IECs; and Pm activated the Nrf2/HO1 signaling pathway in IECs, which was related to the effects of Pm on the inhibition of apoptosis. Impaired intestinal barrier function is key in maintaining intestinal inflammation in Crohn's disease (CD). However, no targeted treatment in clinical practice has been developed. Peiminine (Pm) strongly protects the epithelial barrier, the purpose of this study is to investigate whether Pm affects CD-like colitis and potential mechanisms for its action. Trinitro-benzene-sulfonic acid (TNBS)-induced mice and Il-10-/- mice were used as CD animal models. Colitis symptoms, histological analysis, and intestinal barrier permeability were used to assess the Pm's therapeutic effect on CD-like colitis. The colon organoids were induced by TNF-α to evaluate the direct role of Pm in inhibiting apoptosis of the intestinal epithelial cells. Western blotting and small molecule inhibitors were used to investigate further the potential mechanism of Pm in inhibiting apoptosis of intestinal epithelial cells. Pm treatment reduced body weight loss, disease activity index (DAI) score, and inflammatory score, demonstrating that colonic inflammation in mice were alleviated. Pm decreased the intestinal epithelial apoptosis, improved the intestinal barrier function, and prevented the loss of tight junction proteins (ZO1 and claudin-1) in the colon of CD mice and TNF-α-induced colonic organoids. Pm activated Nrf2/HO1 signaling, which may protect intestinal barrier function. Pm inhibits intestinal epithelial apoptosis in CD mice by activating Nrf2/HO1 pathway. This partially explains the potential mechanism of Pm in ameliorating intestinal barrier function in mice and provides a new approach to treating CD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Fe-6.5wt.%Si alloy exhibits remarkable soft magnetic characteristics, such as high magnetic permeability, low coercivity, high resistivity, and nearly zero magnetostriction. These attributes establish it as an ideal material for low-power, low-noise electric motors and transformers. This investigation aimed to assess the impact of annealing temperature (ranging from 800 to 1200 °C for 1 h) on the microstructure, texture, and magnetic properties of a 0.15 mm thick Fe-6.5wt.%Si alloy sheet, which was obtained by subjecting the strips produced through the top side-pouring twin-roll casting (TSTRC) process to multi-pass warm rolling in the temperature range of 600 ∼ 800 °C, avoiding hot rolling. Additionally, the recrystallization mechanism of the annealed sheet at 1100 °C for 1 h was explored. The findings indicate that enhancing the annealing temperature corresponded to a reduction in magnetic induction (B 8 and B 50) as well as iron losses (P 10/50 , P 10/400 , and P 2/1000). The annealed sheet at 1200 °C for 1 h demonstrated the most favorable magnetic properties, displaying iron losses of 0.486 W/kg, 6.895 W/kg, and 1.232 W/kg for P 10/50 , P 10/400 , and P 2/1000 , respectively. These results illustrate excellent overall magnetic characteristics. The coercivity (Hc) of both B 8 and B 50 decreased as the annealing temperature increased in the hysteresis loop measurements. Specifically, for B 8 , it decreased from 62.84 A/m to 24.50 A/m, and for B 50 , it decreased from 78.10 A/m to 35.50 A/m. The average grain size of the samples gradually increased as the annealing temperature ranged from 800 to 1200 °C. The dominant texture observed was {1 1 1}, and the volume fraction of {1 1 1} texture increased while the volume fractions of {1 0 0} and {1 1 0} textures decreased. Upon annealing at 1100 °C for 8 s, the elongated and flattened deformed structures were mainly replaced by equiaxed grains, indicating the completion of the recrystallization process. However, there was a noticeable distinction in the coarsening degree of equiaxed grains based on their orientations. The presence of λ-oriented grains was less prominent, while α-oriented and γ-oriented grains were relatively more abundant. As the annealing time increased from 8 s to 1 h, there was a decrease in the presence of λ-oriented and α-oriented grains, while the presence of γ-oriented grains significantly increased. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Plasticization of phosphoric acid (PA) leads to deterioration of the mechanical properties of polybenzimidazole membranes. It has been widely accepted that cross-linking is an effective method to improve mechanical properties of membranes. However, cross-linked membranes generally exhibit decreased proton conductivity and poor fuel cell performance. In this work, a self-cross-linking copolymer based on rigid fluorenone-modified polybenzimidazole (FPBI) are designed and synthesized as high-temperature proton exchange membranes for the first time. The cross-linked FPBI membranes are prepared through solvent casting and the cross-linking degrees of the membranes can be controlled by adjusting membrane preparation temperature and evaporation speed of the solvent. The membranes exhibit excellent mechanical properties and high proton conductivities. The membrane with FPBI-80 °C exhibits high oxidation resistance (>80 wt%), PA retention property (>90 wt%), tensile strength (12.08 MPa), and elongation at break (212.7%). The single cell based on FPBI-80 °C exhibits a high open-circuit voltage (1.01 V) and excellent peak power density of 859.5 mW cm−2 at 160 °C in an anhydrous environment. Herein, the FPBI membrane is expected to be applied in high-temperature fuel cells. [Display omitted] • FPBI can easily control the cross-linking degree and effectively prevent embrittlement of the membranes. • Rigid fluorenone units can help the FPBI membranes to obtain relatively high acid doping level. • Cross-linked FPBI membranes have excellent comprehensive performances. • FPBI-80 °C exhibits excellent OCV (1.01 V) and peak power densities of 859.5 mW cm−2 at 160 °C without humidification. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Exopolysaccharide (EPS-1) was isolated from Aureobasidium pullulans CGMCC 23063 and purified with DEAE 650M and Sephadex G-100 column chromatography. The structural characteristics and immunomodulatory activity of EPS-1 were investigated. The results showed EPS-1 (294.9 KDa) was β-glucan consisting of the backbone (1→3)-linked β-Glc p and β-(1,6)-branches by Ion chromatography, gas chromatography–mass spectrometry, and 1D/2D NMR spectroscopy. The SEM and AFM showed that EPS-1 composed spheres joined by triple-helix conformation into chains and circles. In vitro cell experiments, EPS-1 displayed immunological activity on the RAW264.7 cells. After being treated with EPS-1 (400 μg/mL), the concentration of NO, TNF-α, and IL-6 could reach 17.05 μM, 448.46 pg/mL, and 15.18 pg/mL, respectively. In addition, the cytokines mRNA levels also demonstrated the above results at the molecular level. The western-blot results demonstrated that the expression of phosphorylated p65 and p-erk associated with cytokine release, was increased with the dose of EPS-1. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Study of non-conventional under-utilized starch sources is gaining interest in food science. Here, the multi-scale supramolecular structure of starch from Pouteria campechiana seed (PCSS) and pulp (PCPS) was analyzed. Amylopectin free side chain, α-1,6 glycosidic bond, and double helix content of PCSS and PCPS were similar to those of wheat, pea, and rice starch, respectively. Average semi-crystalline lamellae thickness (d) and PCSS and PCPS weight-average molar mass (Mw) were similar to those of jackfruit starch. Short-range order and blocklet size (Rq) were similar to those of corn and wheat starch. Fractal dimensions of PCSS and PCPS were lower than those of potato starch. PCSS showed higher α-1,6 content (9.98%), free side chain (11.14%), double helix content (44.70%), Mw (3.64 × 107 g/mol), and V-type polymorphism (4.78%), lower d (8.858 nm), gyration radius (Rg) (82.1 nm), fractal dimension (2.06), Fwhm at 480 cm−1 (13.19), and Rq (8.5 nm) than PCPS (8.75%, 9.88%, 39.24%, 2.79 × 107 g/mol, 3.33%, 9.074 nm, 89.4 nm, 2.23, 16.11 and 18.00 nm, respectively). Compared to PCPS, denser nano nodules of amylopectin clusters were formed in PCSS resulting from the relatively stronger intermolecular hydrogen forces among numbers of double helix or V-polymorph arrangements. This led to the higher molecular density in the amorphous and crystalline layer, the smaller Rg, Rq and higher Mw in PCSS. We provide a basis for further applications of P. campechiana starches in the food industry. [Display omitted] • Multi-scale supramolecular structure of Pouteria campechiana starch was researched. • P. campechiana seed starch (PCSS) showed higher homogeneity and molar mass. • P. campechiana plup starch (PCPS) had looser lamellar structure than that of PCSS. • PCSS had more α-1,6 glycosidic bond, double helix, V-type polymorphism than PCPS. • Smaller blocklet structure and gyration radius was displayed for PCSS than PCPS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] A facile and efficient synthesis of C1-aminosugar derivatives under catalyst-free conditions is described here. In particular, readily available benzoyl glycosyl bromides react smoothly to give a broad scope of C1-aminosugar derivatives in good yields. The present method proves to be efficient and facile in terms of short reaction time, high yield and the broad substrate scope. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The repair of bone defects in patients with diabetes mellitus (DM) is a challenge in clinical treatment mainly because of inhibited osteogenesis caused by stem cell dysfunction. Our research found that high glucose induced the activation of GSK-3β, which played an important role in this process. Inhibited GSK-3β induced an acceptable osteogenic effect of lithium ions. However, whether lithium-containing biomaterials can exert a good bone-repair effect under the pathological state of DM is still unclear. Therefore, we synthesized a type of lithium-containing mesoporous bioactive glasses (Li-MBG), and explored their in vitro roles in regulating the proliferation, migration and osteogenic differentiation of BMSCs under the high-glucose microenvironment, and the underlying mechanism. Meanwhile, Li-MBG/PLGA composite scaffolds were prepared by 3D printing, followed by investigating their in vivo effects on repairing critical skull defects of DM mice. We found that Li-MBG reversed high glucose-induced suppression in the proliferation, migration and osteogenic differentiation of BMSCs by upregulating Itga3 and activating the β-catenin/Tcf7/Ccn4 signaling pathway. Li-MBG/PLGA composite scaffolds could effectively repair skull defects of DM mice by recruiting stem cells, presenting an excellent osteogenesis effect. Our findings provide references for clinical bone defect repair in DM patients. [Display omitted] • Fabrication of Li-containing mesoporous bioactive glasses (Li-MBG) and 3D-printed Li-MBG/PLGA composite scaffolds. • Li-MBG reversed high glucose-induced inhibition of BMSCs migration via up-regulating expression of Itga3. • Li-MBG promoted BMSCs osteogenesis by activating the β-catenin/Tcf7/Ccn4 pathway under the high glucose microenvironment. • Li-MBG/PLGA composite scaffolds promoted stem cells recruitment and cranial defect repair in diabetic mice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a progressive age-related disease characterised by pathological changes in the synovium, articular cartilage, and subchondral bone, significantly reducing the patients' quality of life. This study investigated the role of glucocorticoids, specifically dexamethasone, in OA progression, with a particular focus on their effects on chondrocytes. Although glucocorticoids are commonly used for OA pain relief, our research demonstrated that high concentrations of dexamethasone may accelerate OA progression by enhancing the ability of reactive oxygen species to inhibit chondrocyte autophagy, resulting in cell death and accelerated cartilage degeneration. Despite reports on the acceleration of pathogenesis and cartilage damage in some patients of OA taking corticosteroids, the mechanism behind the same has not been investigated. This necessitates an investigation of the concentration-dependent changes in the cartilage cells upon dexamethasone administration. In addition, the protective effect of PPAR γ on chondrocytes can prevent the decrease in chondrocyte autophagy and delay cartilage degeneration. Therefore, our study suggests that the therapeutic use of glucocorticoids in OA treatment should be more nuanced considering their potential detrimental effects. Future investigations should focus on the mechanisms underlying the glucocorticoid-mediated modulation of cell death processes, which could provide insights into new therapeutic strategies for OA treatment. • We studied the role of dexamethasone in osteoarthritis (OA) progression. • High concentrations of dexamethasone accelerate OA progression. • Effects of PPAR γ on chondrocyte can prevent reduced chondrocyte autophagy. • Therapeutic use of glucocorticoids in OA treatment should be nuanced. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]