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Morphological design and interfacial engineering are pivotal strategies for advancing electrocatalysis, however, achieving the optimization of both simultaneously remains a major challenge. To address this, we designed a multi-heterostructured bifunctional electrocatalyst cobalt-nickel-iron-phosphorus-sulfur composite (CoNiFe-PS) with a two-dimensional/three-dimensional (2D/3D) hierarchical structure, which was synthesized through simultaneous phosphating and sulfuration based on cobalt-nickel layered double hydroxide (CoNi-LDH) nanosheets grafted with Prussian blue analogue (PBA) nanocubes. Notably, due to the distinctive morphology and synergistic effect between multi-heterostructure, the CoNiFe-PS catalyst demonstrated excellent performance in terms of ultralow overpotentials of 196 and 263 mV for oxygen evolution reaction (OER), as well as 63 and 235 mV for hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) at current densities of 10 and 100 mA cm−2. Moreover, the CoNiFe-PS|| CoNiFe-PS cell was constructed for overall water splitting in alkaline condition and exhibited minimal voltage requirements of 1.479 and 1.693 V to achieve 10 and 100 mA cm−2, respectively. This study provides a new perspective on fabricating multi-heterostructured bifunctional catalysts with unique morphology for highly efficient overall water splitting. [Display omitted] • The 2D/3D hierarchical and multi-heterostructured CoNiFe-PS catalyst was constructed. • The synergetic effect of morphological design and interfacial engineering greatly enhanced the catalytic activity. • The catalyst exhibited an ultrasmall voltage of 1.479 V at 10 mA cm−2 for overall water splitting. • It provided a design idea to fabricate high-performance bifunctional catalysts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Let G be a (simple) graph on n ≥ 3 vertices and (d 1 , ... , d n) be the degree sequence of G with d 1 ≤ ⋯ ≤ d n . The classical Chvátal's theorem states that if d m ≥ m + 1 or d n − m ≥ n − m for each m with 1 ≤ m < n 2 (called the Chvátal-condition), then G is hamiltonian. Similarly, let G be a (simple) balanced bipartite graph on n ≥ 4 vertices and (d 1 , ... , d n) be the degree sequence of G with d 1 ≤ ⋯ ≤ d n . The classical Chvátal's theorem states that if d m ≥ m + 1 or d n 2 ≥ n 2 − m + 1 for each m with 1 ≤ m ≤ n 4 (called the Chvátal-condition), then G is hamiltonian. In this paper, for an abelian group A of order at least 4, we show that if a graph G satisfies the Chvátal-condition, then G is A -connected if and only if G ≠ C 4 , where C ℓ is a cycle of length ℓ. Moreover, for an abelian group A of order at least 5, we also show that if a balanced bipartite graph G satisfies the Chvátal-condition, then G is A -connected if and only if G ≠ C 6 . [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lithium aluminum hydrides are promising hydrogen storage materials due to their high hydrogen storage density. Hydrolysis of LiAlH 4 is an ideal path to reach the operating temperature (−40/60 °C) target released by department of energy without extra heating processes. Ethylene glycol is a common antifreeze agent ingredient for low temperature reactions. However, the reaction features of ethylene glycol with LiAlH 4 are still unknown. Here, the reaction behaviors of ethylene glycol with LiAlH 4 have been studied. The reaction of LiAlH 4 powder with ethylene glycol has been found to be hindered by the thin layer alcoholysis products on the surface. The alcoholysis products have been found to be easily react with water to yield Li–Al layered double hydroxides. The alcoholysis products have been demonstrated to be Li–Al double layered alcoholates, which is analogous to Li–Al layered double hydroxides. The ethylene glycol groups in the alcoholysis products are easily substituted by –OH in the presence of water. Thus, only water is consumed from the antifreeze agents for low temperature hydrogen release. [Display omitted] • The alcoholysis reaction of LiAlH 4 powder with ethylene glycol was hindered by the passivation product layer. • The alcoholysis products have a layered structure with the basal lattice parameter of about 8.37 Å. • The formation of layered structure followed the 2D diffusion-controlled and deceleratory nucleation mechanism. • Protonation made ethylene glycol moieties in alcoholysis products easily substituted by –OH in water. • Water will be the only consumed agent in the reaction of LiAlH 4 with antifreeze agents at low-temperature. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The optimal P2Y 12 inhibitor in high bleeding risk (HBR) patients with acute coronary syndrome (ACS) remains unclear. We compared the in-hospital efficacy and safety of ticagrelor versus clopidogrel in ACS patients at HBR. We identified 22,120 hospitalized ACS patients with HBR treated with aspirin combined with either clopidogrel (n = 17,420) or ticagrelor (n = 4700) in the Improving Care for Cardiovascular Disease in China-ACS (CCC-ACS) project between November 2014 and December 2019. The median length of hospital stay was 10 days (interquartile range, 7–14 days). Compared with clopidogrel, ticagrelor was associated with a higher risk of in-hospital TIMI major or minor bleeding (4.8% vs 3.8%; adjusted OR 1.20; 95% CI 1.03–1.41; P = 0.022). The incidence of TIMI major bleeding (1.7% vs 1.1%, P = 0.005) and intracranial bleeding (0.8% vs 0.5%, P = 0.005) were also higher in the ticagrelor group than in the clopidogrel group. There was no significant difference in the rate of in-hospital major adverse cardiovascular and cerebrovascular event (MACCE) (a composite of all-cause death, myocardial infarction, stent thrombosis, or ischemic stroke) with ticagrelor compared with clopidogrel therapy (4.2% vs 4.3%; adjusted OR 1.08; 95% CI 0.90–1.28; P = 0.411). Outcomes in the propensity-matched cohorts and in sensitivity analyses were consistent with the those of the main analysis. Among ACS patients with HBR, ticagrelor as compared with clopidogrel was associated with an increased risk of in-hospital major bleeding without a significant reduction in in-hospital MACCE. https://www.clinicaltrials.gov. Unique identifier: NCT02306616. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper explores sellers' addressing behaviours in Chinese e-commerce live streaming discourse by focusing on the impact of gender. Data were drawn from a self-built corpus comprising 120 h of transcribed texts from live streaming on Taobao. By conducting a corpus-based analysis, we compared males' and females' keywords for addressing customers and their performative functions of suggestive selling. The findings show that: (1) both males and females use a small percentage of kinship terms; (2) males' ratio of address pronouns to nouns greatly surpasses females', but their frequency of ' nín ' (deferential you) is much lower than females'; (3) females are more likely to consistently use nouns with the meaning of baby, whereas males prefer utilising diverse friendship terms; and (4) females frequently use a pattern of 'thank/greet + baby' to conduct ritual interactions more often than males. We argue that both males' and females' addressing behaviours function to promote successful selling; however, gender distinctions do exist in terms of their lexical choices and pragmatic uses of addressing words. The current study contributes to both pragmatics and the sociolinguistic study of gender and language. • Provides research data on Chinese addressing behaviors in e-commerce live streaming context. • Explores how sellers manage rapport via address pronouns and nouns for suggestive selling. • Focuses on gender's impact on addressing forms by conducting a corpus-based analysis. • Finds both similarities and differences in males' and females' use of addressing forms. • Contributes to both pragmatics and the sociolinguistic study of gender and language. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The continuous-flow pasteurization apparatus was presented, and the electric field within orange juice was produced via an oscillating magnetic field at 50 kHz, causing the volumetric heating of the juice with initial conductivity of 6.85 mS/cm and 8.76 mS/cm. The process principle, especially numerical relationships between excitation voltage, magnetic field, induced electric field (IEF), induced current density, and temperature profile were elaborated. When applying a rectangular wave of the voltage at 50–1000 V, the waveforms of the magnetic field and IEF in the juice were sine-like and sawtooth waves, respectively. Through electromagnetic simulation, the model was established, which indicated the indirect heating of orange juice via oscillating magnetic field was feasible. As the magnetic field increased, the outlet temperature and induced current density in the juice was improved. Notably, the 4–5 logs CFU/ml inactivation effects on aerobic bacteria, yeast and mold in orange juice could be achieved at 65 °C for 60 s after the treatment. • Engineering characteristics of induced electric field technology was elaborated. • Electromagnetic simulation model was conduced to verify its thermal effect. • Waveform of magnetic field and induced electric field was investigated. • Difference between experimental and predicted temperature was not significant. • Inactivation effects on aerobic bacteria, yeast and mold was achieved. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The complex microstructure with multi-scale features in CoCrFeMnNi alloy, prepared by laser powder bed fusion (LPBF), significantly improves strength while maintaining sufficient ductility, but it theoretically has thermal instability. The thermal stability of these multi-scale microstructure features and their impact on mechanical properties are systematically analyzed by means of annealing. The multi-scale microstructure features are characterized by asynchronous changes as temperature increases, leading to non-uniform changes in mechanical properties, notably at 400 °C and 1000 °C. The entangled dislocations and segregated elements at cellular substructure boundaries exhibit limited thermal stability, beginning to disintegrate at 400 °C and complete by 1000 °C. In contrast, both low-angle and high-angle grain boundaries maintain their effectiveness up to 1000 °C. The strengthening effect of low-angle grain boundaries (LAGBs), distinct from dislocation strengthening, has been quantitatively assessed through experimental methods, revealing that LAGBs contribute 17.13% to the overall strengthening, effective up to 1000 °C. However, dislocation strengthening contributes only 25.87%，marking a notable deviation from the traditionally estimated 50% dislocation contribution. This study provides a new perspective on understanding the relationship between the microstructure and mechanical properties of alloys prepared by LPBF. • Microstructural features undergo asynchronous changes with temperature increase. • Asynchronous microstructural changes lead to uneven mechanical property changes. • Cellular substructures exhibit limited thermal stability, stable up to 400 °C. • LAGBs significantly contribute to alloy strength by 17.13%, effective up to 1000 °C. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

For large-scale multi-objective evolutionary algorithms (LSMOEAs), obtaining efficient evolutionary directions in an ultrahigh-dimensional decision space to produce high-quality offspring is a major challenge. This study proposes a novel framework called the directed quick search-guided large-scale evolutionary framework (QSLMOF) to address multi-objective optimization problems on a large scale. The framework contains two innovative strategies: the bidirectional vector-based sampling strategy (BDVS) and the quick search-guided directed reproduction strategy (QS-DRS). BDVS is introduced as an approach to swiftly discern promising solutions that can steer the exploration in the large-scale decision space. This is achieved by formulating two distinct types of sampling directions to rapidly reduce the search space and strike a delicate balance between convergence and diversity. In QS-DRS, we introduced the concept of the potential convergence gradient (PCG), incorporating directional information from historical searches and convergence directions indicated byelite solutions in the current population. With this property, inferior solutions can obtain excellent search directions to explore the decision space, which can improve the convergence rate and prevent the search from falling into a local optimum. The proposed large-scale evolutionary framework incorporates an existing environmental selection mechanism. Comprehensive experiments show that the two novel strategies improve the search efficiency and evolutionary quality of LSMOEAs in ultrahigh-dimensional decision spaces. Moreover, the proposed framework outperformed seven state-of-the-art LSMOEAs for nine large-scale multi-objective benchmark problems LSMOP1-LSMOP9 with up to three objectives and 10 000 decision variables. • Our guiding idea is to obtain accurate search directions in large-scale search space. • A sampling method that can obtain promising solutions in reduced space. • A quick search way in original space can provide direction improvement for solutions. • A framework that can make existing MOEAs more competent for large-scale problems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to explore the effect of induced electric field (IEF) treatment on acid hydrolysis of corn starch by altering the connection modes of sample coils of a 4-reactor IEF system. Results suggested that IEF treatment could enhance the hydrolysis of corn starch and series connection (1. RRRR, η = 16 E Si 2 P in 4 Z Si + Z load ) exhibited higher energy efficiency than parallel (9. (RRRR), η = 4 E Si 2 P in Z Si + 4 Z load ), thus contributing to more extensive hydrolysis. Although no new functional group was formed, the starch granules were partially cracked into pieces and the crystallinity was slightly increased after IEF-assisted hydrolysis. Differential scanning calorimetry results indicated that IEF-assisted hydrolysis increased the gelatinization temperatures but decreased the enthalpy of starch, with a greatest variation was observed by series connection. Rapid visco-analysis showed that IEF-assisted hydrolysis greatly decreased the pasting viscosity of corn starch and also series connection showed the strongest reduction. The obtained results could provide a theoretical guide for the applications of IEF technology in biomaterial processing. [Display omitted] • Induced electric field (IEF) could enhance the acid hydrolysis of corn starch. • IEF-assisted hydrolysis highly depends on the energy efficiency of IEF system. • Series connection of IEF reactors showed the highest energy efficiency. • IEF-assisted hydrolysis largely decreased the pasting viscosity of corn starch. • IEF-assisted hydrolysis increased gelatinization temperatures but decreased enthalpy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Unicellular microalga Chlorella pyrenoidosa is an excellent source of protein, but its ability to produce functional proteins has received less attention. In this study, a strategy to enhance the levels of functional proteins and biomass, by adding sodium selenite under heterotrophic cultivation, is reported for C. pyrenoidosa 038F. Activities of catalase, superoxide dismutase, and glutathione peroxidase were significantly enhanced by 1.94-, 1.90- and 32.73-fold, respectively, in C. pyrenoidosa 038F exposed to 20 mg/L of sodium selenite. Further, western blot analysis confirmed that sodium selenite promoted the synthesis of glutathione peroxidase, which might be due to the up-regulation of peroxisome and selenocysteine-synthesis-related genes. Sodium selenite also increased biomass, the content of protein and soluble sugar by 1.32-, 1.29-, 1.46-fold, respectively. Subsequent transcriptomic analysis confirmed that cellular respiration and the gluconeogenesis pathway were enhanced. This study highlights the potential use of heterotrophic C. pyrenoidosa 038F as a novel selenoprotein-rich carrier while simultaneously producing soluble sugar and biomass. These results might be helpful for increasing economic production of C. pyrenoidosa under heterotrophic cultivation. • The activity and content of glutathione peroxidase in C. pyrenoidosa were enhanced by sodium selenite. • The biomass, protein content and soluble sugar content in C. pyrenoidosa were increased by sodium selenite. • Sodium selenite promoted cellular respiration through increasing tricarboxylic acid cycle and pentose phosphate pathway. • This strategy could facilitate the production of high value-added Chlorella products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cyclodextrin-based metal-organic frameworks (CD-MOFs) are gaining traction in the realm of drug delivery due to their inherent versatility and potential to amplify drug efficacy, specificity, and safety. This article explores the predominant preparation techniques for CD-MOFs, encompassing methods like vapor diffusion, microwave-assisted, and ultrasound hydrothermal approaches. Native CD-MOFs present compelling advantages in drug delivery applications. They can enhance drug loading capacity, stability, solubility, and bioavailability by engaging in diverse interactions with drugs, including host-guest, hydrogen bonding, and electrostatic interactions. Beyond their inherent properties, CD-MOFs can be customized as drug carriers through two primary strategies: co-crystallization with functional components and surface post-modifications. These tailored modifications pave the way for controlled release manners. They allow for slow and sustained drug release, as well as responsive releases triggered by various factors such as pH levels, glutathione concentrations, or specific cations. Furthermore, CD-MOFs facilitate targeted delivery strategies, like pulmonary or laryngeal delivery, enhancing drug delivery precision. Overall, the adaptability and modifiability of CD-MOFs underscore their potential as a versatile platform for drug delivery, presenting tailored solutions that cater to diverse biomedical and industrial needs. [Display omitted] • Comprehensive overview of preparative techniques for diverse CD-MOFs. • Utilization of CD-MOFs in enhancing drug delivery through improvements in solubility, stability, and bioavailability. • Tailoring CD-MOFs to enable controlled, targeted, and stimulus-responsive drug release. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effect of magnetic field (MF) on the postharvest quality and energy metabolism of green chili was investigated. An MF of 4 mT intensity was applied during the refrigeration of green chili pepper. Conventional refrigeration (CR) was used as a control, and the chili pepper fruit was stored at 10 °C and sampled at 1, 5, 10, 20, and 30 d after harvest. The results showed that MF inhibited the senescence of chili pepper and quality deterioration, as evidenced by higher water content, vitamin C (VC) and flesh firmness as well as lower weight loss and decay incidence. The decrease of hue angle values and the chlorophyll content were remarkably depressed by MF treatment, indicating an efficient delay in the yellowing of chili pepper. In terms of metabolism, MF sustained high adenosine triphosphate (ATP) content, energy charge (EC), and activities of key enzymes engaged in energy metabolism (H+-ATPase, Ca2+-ATPase, succinate dehydrogenase, and cytochrome C oxidase). Additionally, there was an increase in the concentration of major energy metabolites, including citric-acid, isocitric-acid, D-Glucose-6-phosphate, and D-Fructose-6-phosphate. These results suggested that MF may be used as a promising strategy for preventing the decay of postharvest green chilies and prolonging their shelf life. [Display omitted] • MF slowed down senescence and quality deterioration of green chilies. • MF inhibited the loss of chlorophyll and VC content. • MF sustained ATP, EC, and key enzyme activities for energy metabolism. • Major energy metabolites were maintained at high level by MF. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A novel electromagnetic heat extraction method was presented, whereby mandarin peels residue solution was located in a winding coil subjected to an oscillating magnetic field, and the pectin was extracted under appropriate conditions. Numerical relationships between applied magnetic field and induced electric field (IEF) in the extraction process were elaborated. The results showed that the induced current density, IEF and terminal temperature increased with increasing magnetic field. The maximum current density of 0.35 A/cm corresponds to the highest terminal temperature of 84.6 °C and IEF intensity of 26.6 V/cm. When magnetic field intensity was 1.39 T and the extraction time was 15 min, the maximum yield of pectin reached 9.16 %. In addition, all treatments impacted the ash content, protein content, water-holding capacity (WHC), and oil-holding capacity (OHC) of the obtained pectin. The pectin extracted by electromagnetic heat had the lowest DE value of 71.3 % with 126.55 kDa molecular weight, while the GalA content was at the highest level of 76.18 %. After different treatments, the composition of pectin monosaccharides changed, but there were slight differences in the composition of pectin polysaccharides. Moreover, the electromagnetic heat extracted pectin had light color and an obvious surface fragmentation of the peel residue. [Display omitted] • Novel electromagnetic heat method was presented for the extraction of pectin. • The maximum yield of pectin reached 9.16 % at 1.39 T and 15 min. • Electromagnetic heat extracted pectin had brighter color and highest GalA level. • There were slight differences in the composition of polysaccharides. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Polyethyleneimine (PEI) nanofiltration (NF) membranes hold great application prospects in lithium extraction from salt lakes due to their high positive charge properties. However, the poor permeability of the membranes caused by the dense separation layer structure severely hinders their further application. Herein, a functional end-capping strategy was employed to address this problem by adding the effective end-capping reagent, Girard's Reagent T (GRT), to the PEI aqueous phase as the co-reaction reagent. Under the dual functions of the end-capping effect and the quaternary ammonium groups of GRT, the looseness and positive charge of the membrane were simultaneously optimized. After the modification of GRT, the looser structure of the PEI/GRT NF membrane improved its pure water flux (PWF) to 115 L m−2 h−1 at 6 bar, which was around 3.7 times higher than that of the original PEI NF membrane. Meanwhile, the enhanced positive charge (from −8 to 9 mV, pH = 7) of the membrane bottom surface allowed it to maintain the high rejection rate of MgCl 2 at 97.2 %. Besides, the PEI/GRT NF membrane exhibited good Mg2+/Li+ selectivity (S Mg 2+ /Li + = 22.7, 2000 ppm, Mg2+/Li+ mass ratio: 20:1). Therefore, this study provides a simple and feasible strategy for the preparation of high-permeable PEI NF membranes with good Mg2+/Li+ separation performance. [Display omitted] • A high permeable PEI-based NF membrane was prepared by the end-capping strategy. • The cross-linking degree of membrane was reduced by end-capping function of GRT. • The surface positive charge of membrane was enhanced by –N+ groups of GRT. • The optimized NF membrane exhibited high permeability and Mg2+/Li+ selectivity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To study the effects of mineral fulvic acid (FuA) on broiler performance, slaughter performance, blood biochemistry index, antioxidant function, immune performance, and intestinal microflora, 360 Arbor Acres (AA) broiler chickens with similar body weights were randomly divided into 5 groups with 6 replicates in each group and 12 chickens in each replicate in the current study. Chickens in the control group (C) were fed with the basal diet, and chickens in the test groups (I, II, III, and IV) were fed with the diet supplemented with 0.05%, 0.1%, 0.2%, and 0.3% mineral FuA, respectively. The indicators were measured on the hatching day, d 21 and d 35. From the whole experimental period, FuA supplement significantly increased average body weight (ABW) (P < 0.05), average daily gain (ADG) of broilers (P < 0.05), and thymus weight (P < 0.05) in II and IV groups, but bascially reduced the pH value of thigh meat. FuA supplement significantly improved aspartate aminotransferase (AST) activity in the group III on d 35 (P < 0.05) and the serum levels of IgA and IgG on d 21 and d 35 (P < 0.05), but reduced glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) level on d 21 (P < 0.05) and malondialdehyde (MDA) level in serum on d 35 (P < 0.05). FuA supplement significantly affected the abundance of Barnesiella, Lachnospiraceae, Alistipes, Lactobacillus , and Christensenellaceae on genus level. Differences between group III and other groups were significant in the genera microflora composition on d 21 and d 35. Functional analysis showed that the cecum microbiota were mainly enriched in carbohydrate metabolism, amino acid metabolism, and energy metabolism. In conclusion, FuA may potentially have significant positive effects on the growth performance and immune function of AA chickens through the modulation of the gut microbiota, and the 0.1% FuA was the best in broiler diet based on the present study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Reader engagement has often been explored from a metadiscourse perspective, but little research has been conducted on the variation in engagement across participants, especially readers. Based on data from a collection of 120 Chinese letters of advice from governments and hospitals produced during the COVID-19 pandemic, a cross-interactant analysis of metadiscourse is conducted in this paper, and the interactants' impacts on reader engagement are discussed. The findings reveal that (1) both governments and hospitals utilize engagement markers, boosters, attitude markers, and frame markers more than other types of metadiscourse items; (2) differences exist in the use of metadiscourse among the issuing agencies; (3) as reader identity varies from ingroup to outgroup membership, the probability of booster use by a hospital is higher than that by a government; and (4) the likelihood of using frame, transition and attitude markers is higher for governments than for hospitals. The paper concludes by discussing different communicative styles adopted by two agencies in a crisis context. • This article studies reader engagement in crisis from a metadiscourse perspective. • It conducts a cross-interactant analysis of metadiscourse in letters of advice. • Letters of advice play a pivotal role in the Chinese fighting against COVID-19. • As the interpersonal variables change, the public agencies' engagement style varies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Gelatin, a natural macromolecular substance formed by the hydrolysis of collagen, offers the advantages of abundant resources and low cost. It is a good precursor for the synthesis of N, O-doped carbon materials. Although some gelatin-derived carbon materials have been used for electrochemical energy storage, there have been few studies for the mechanism of gelatin carbonization. In addition, the influence of heteroatoms and defects on the K-ion storage performance remains unclear. In this work, in situ and ex situ characterization methods have been used to study the mechanism of gelatin carbonization. The pathways leading to formation of the carbon framework, heteroatom doping and defect generation in gelatin-based carbons during the pyrolysis process have been clearly identified. Moreover, by means of DFT calculations and experimental measurements, it has been confirmed that heteroatoms and defects both play important roles in improving the storage performance of potassium ions. By virtue of its abundance of both heteroatoms and defects, our optimized anode shows better electrochemical performance than graphite anodes. This study not only clarifies our understanding of carbonization mechanism and mechanism of K-ion storage in carbon materials, but also provides pathways for the synthesis and applications of new carbon-based anode materials for alkali-ion batteries. The structural and compositional changes of gelatin during thermo-chemical conversion process have been investigated using in-situ and ex-situ characterization methods. Moreover, in-situ Raman spectroscopy are also used to analyze the K-ion storage performance of the GC anodes. [Display omitted] • The carbonization mechanism of GCs is detailly investigated. • In-situ and ex-situ methods are used to analyze the thermo-chemical conversion process. • DFT calculations unravels the effects of heteroatoms on K-ion storage performance. • The GC-800 anode shows good rate capability and cycling performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nowadays, developing separation materials for oil-water mixture and even emulsion have drawn extensive interest, with increasing oily wastewater pollution. Among kinds of separation materials, hydrophobic magnetic particles can rapidly and high-efficiently separate oil from either oil-water mixtures or emulsions. However, they not only commonly suffer from complicated preparation procedures and poor resistance to harsh conditions, but also are almost unable to satisfy the demand of multitasking separations towards oil-water mixtures and micro/nanoemulsions with surfactant. Herein, a facile, simple and scalable approach is introduced to prepare superhydrophobic magnetic hollow carbon microspheres (SMHCMs) with micro/nano hierarchical surface. Thanks to the special wettability properties, micro/nano hierarchical surface, nano-porous shell and hollow cores, the as-prepared SMHCMs show an unprecedented absorption capacity of over 10 g/g for oil-water mixtures within an absorption time of 60 s as well as a superior separation efficiency of near 99% for surfactant-free and surfactant-stabilized micro/nanoemulsions at an extremely short time of as low as 10 s. In addition, the SMHCMs also possess stable performance, good reusability, durability and resistance to harsh environments (e.g., acidic, alkaline and high-saline). This work proposes a new prospect for designing advanced materials applied to the fast and highly-efficient oil-water separation. Image 1 • A facile, simple and scalable approach is introduced to prepare superhydrophobic magnetic hollow carbon microspheres (SMHCMs) with micro/nano hierarchical surface. • SMHCMs show an unprecedented absorption capacity for oil-water mixture. • SMHCMs exhibit a superior separation efficiency for micro/nanoemulsions within a extremely short time. • SMHCMs possess good reusability, durability and resistance to harsh environments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: Our aim was to generalize the available evidence and evaluate the effectiveness of acupuncture for urinary incontinence in middle-aged and elderly women.Methods: Six databases including VIP, CNKI, Wan Fang, Web of Science, PubMed and The Cochrane Library were systematically searched to retrieve similar studies updated to December 2019 to gather RCTs regarding the effectiveness of acupuncture for middle-aged and elderly women with urinary incontinence. Two researchers independently performed the whole process of retrieving the studies, extracting the data and assessing the risk of bias of the included studies. The current meta-analysis was performed using RevMan 5.3 software.Results: A total of eight studies with 607 patients were included in the evaluation. The current meta-analysis showed that Compared with rehabilitation exercise or medication, acupuncture intervention significantly improved the clinical effectiveness (OR = 5.52, 95 % CI, 3.13-9.73), reduced the urine leakage in pad test (SMD = -2.67, 95 % CI, -4.05 to -1.29) and decrease the ICIQ-SF score (MD = -3.46, 95 % CI, -3.69 to -3.22). The results indicated that acupuncture intervention can help the patients alleviate the symptoms effectively.Conclusion: Based on this study, acupuncture intervention of stress urinary incontinence in middle-aged and elderly women can improve the clinical effectiveness, reduce the urine leakage in pad test and ICIQ-SF score. More high-quality studies with large sample size are required for further verification. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Protein arginine methyltransferase 5 (PRMT5) is an epigenetics related enzyme that has been validated as an important therapeutic target for treating various types of cancer. Upregulation of tumor suppressor hnRNP E1 has also been considered as an effective antitumor therapy. In this study, a series of tetrahydroisoquinolineindole hybrids were designed and prepared, and compounds 3m and 3s4 were found to be selective inhibitors of PRMT5 and upregulators of hnRNP E1. Molecular docking studies indicated that compounds 3m occupied the substrate site of PRMT5 and formed essential interactions with amino acid residues. Furthermore, compounds 3m and 3s4 exerted antiproliferative effects against A549 cells by inducing apoptosis and inhibiting cell migration. Importantly, silencing of hnRNP E1 eliminated the antitumor effect of 3m and 3s4 on the apoptosis and migration in A549 cells, suggesting a regulatory relationship between PRMT5 and hnRNP E1. Additionally, compound 3m exhibited high metabolic stability on human liver microsomes (T 1/2 = 132.4 min). In SD rats, the bioavailability of 3m was 31.4%, and its PK profiles showed satisfactory AUC and C max values compared to the positive control. These results suggest that compound 3m is the first class of dual PRMT5 inhibitor and hnRNP E1 upregulator that deserves further investigation as a potential anticancer agent. [Display omitted] • Tetrahydroisoquinolineindoles were screened as PRMT5 inhibitors/hnRNP E1 promoters. • Some compounds exhibited significant antitumor activities. • Compounds 3m and 3s4 significant up-regulate hnRNP E1 protein level. • The study firstly indicates the regulatory relationship between PRMT5 and hnRNP E1. • Compound 3m was observed a 31.4% F and quite satisfying T 1/2 , AUC and Cmax values. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mockery is pervasive in conversational humour. However, little research has been conducted to explore the influence of localised sociocultural constraints on the linguistic choices of interlocutors during jocular mockery acts, especially in non-English-speaking contexts. This paper was written with a focus on examining the jocular mockery strategies that speakers of Mandarin Chinese use to amuse others and the extent to which the speakers adapt themselves to a playful frame. Data were collected from the jocular episodes of 'The Smiling Proud Wanderer' (' Xiao'ao Jianghu '), a television show that was broadcast in standard Mandarin Chinese at the national level in 2016. Based on a detailed analysis of the data, we classified jocular mockery strategies into four categories: jocular depreciation, jocular criticism, jocular directive, and jocular praise. The results indicate that the Chinese prefer using face-threatening strategies (rather than face-saving strategies) to construct a playful frame while mitigating the denigrating force of jocular mockery in the RTV show context. In addition, while the Chinese with high institutional status tend to contextualise the playful frame in an other-denigrating manner, those with low status tend to construct the frame in a self-denigrating way. • This study examines how Chinese manage conversational humour through jocular mockery in interactions. • Four types of jocular mockery strategies are identified: jocular depreciation, jocular criticism, jocular directives, and jocular praise. • The Chinese prefer using face-threatening strategies to construct a playful frame. • Chinese with a high institutional and social status tend to frame other-directed playfulness. • Chinese with a low institutional and social status generally frame playfulness in a more self-directed way. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Array-induced voltages and conventional heating were used for pectin extraction. • Differential effect on the extraction caused by the layout of the induced voltages. • Physicochemical properties and morphology of the pectin were investigated. • Neutral sugars, molecular weight, and esterification degree were affected. Array-induced voltage was used to enhance the extraction of pectin from grapefruit peel. The voltages induced by synchronous alternating magnetic fluxes as stimulus, provided an efficient extraction approach. The dynamics of pectin extraction is described by a pseudo-first-order model. The pectin yield and extraction rate of pectin depended on the vector of the in-phase and reverse-phase voltages. The transposed arrangement of the voltages had no significant influence on the pectin extraction rate. The maximum yield of 10.34%, obtained at 1000 V, a 0° phase difference and a 3 × 3 in-phase voltage array, was 5.74- and 1.3-fold higher than that of the control (0 V) and conventional heating method, respectively. This approach led to a rapid release of pectin with lower neutral sugar content, average molecular weight, Galacturonic acid content, esterification degree, and dynamic viscosity as a result of local heating by the voltage sources (potential hotspots) in the sample solution. Morphological analysis demonstrated the increased extraction of pectin from grapefruit peel by array-induced voltages. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Apelin and its G protein-coupled receptor APJ are specifically expressed in endocrine organs. As well known, the hypothalamus is the regulatory center of endocrine activity, which combined with the pituitary and other gonads form regulatory axes involved in endocrine function. Evidence to date has shown that the apelin/APJ system plays an important role in mediating these axes, such as food intake, acute stress, steroid release, as well as, an anti-depressant-like activity. Here we review the effect of the apelin/APJ system on hypothalamic-pituitary-thyroid, hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal and hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axes. Although the apelinergic system exerts a positive effect on these axes, there are contradictory reports on the role of apelin in endocrine disease caused by hypothalamic-pituitary disorders. Thus, as research continues to evolve we expect that apelin-related drugs can be used as a treatment for clinical diseases resulting from hypothalamic-pituitary dysfunction. • Apelin/APJ system is widely distributed in the hypothalamic-pituitary axes. • Apelin/APJ system affects hypothalamic-pituitary axes via signaling pathways. • Drugs for apelin used as a treatment for hypothalamic-pituitary dysfunction-related diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A catalase-inorganic hybrid nanoflowers-based colorimetric platform was prepared for visual detection of hydrogen peroxide. • Catalase-inorganic hybrid nanoflowers were prepared for colorimetric detection of H 2 O 2. • Catalase-inorganic hybrid nanoflowers showed enhanced activity compared with free catalase. • Catalase-inorganic hybrid nanoflowers exhibited good stability and reusability. A catalase-inorganic hybrid nanoflowers (Cat-HNFs)-based colorimetric platform was prepared for visual detection of hydrogen peroxide (H 2 O 2). Catalase via coordination was self-assembled and embedded in the copper phosphate crystals by sonication. Under the designed colorimetric system, Cat-HNFs showed linear absorbance responses toward H 2 O 2 in the concentration range of 1 μM to 1 mM, and the detection limit was 1 μM. Compared to free catalase, Cat-HNFs exhibited enhanced activity and stability for H 2 O 2 detection. Moreover, after 5 cycles via centrifugal recovery, Cat-HNFs still remained 68% of their initial activity. The detection result in human serum suggested Cat-HNFs can be a promisng candidate for the detection of H 2 O 2 in biomedical field. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Accurate estimation of potential evapotranspiration (ET 0) is important for the sound design of irrigation schedules, management of water resources, assessment of hydrological drought, and research on atmospheric variations. The present study proposed a novel deep learning (DL) approach for daily ET 0 estimations with limited daily climate data: HS- LSTM. This approach was constructed based on a classic ET 0 model and a long short-term memory neural network (LSTM). Specifically, the Hargreaves-Samani (HS) model was employed as the classic model, and the predictors were restricted to the daily maximum and minimum air temperature data. Ground truth data for ET 0 were employed to train, validate, and test the models. Traditional machine learning (ML) algorithms comprising adaptive neuro-fuzzy inference system (ANFIS), genetic programming (GP), multi-gene genetic programming (MGGP), and one-dimensional CNN (1D-CNN), as well as the HS-ML models (HS-ANFIS, HS-GP, HS-MGGP, HS-1D-CNN), were also established and assessed for daily ET 0 estimations. Compared to the other tested approaches, the errors of the HS-LSTM technique significantly decreased, demonstrating that the novel HS-LSTM approach significantly outperformed the other techniques beyond the study area (in Songliao Basin, Northeast China, which is a semi-humid zone with temperate continental climate). The developed models can then be used to estimate future ET 0 with only air temperature forecasts, which can be readily obtained from public weather forecasts. The present study provides a new and promising strategy that can provide more accurate estimations of daily ET 0 with limited meteorological data, along with significant implications for enhancing atmospheric research. • We propose a novel HS-LSTM approach for improving daily ET 0 estimation. • The approach was applied in Northeast China with a temperate continental climate. • The proposed approach performed better than traditional machine learning approaches. • The developed models can accurately estimate daily ET 0 using only air temperature data. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) is emerging as a serious liver disorder characterized by hepatic steatosis and liver inflammation. Nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD+) and NAD+-dependent deacetylase, SIRT1, play important roles in lipid metabolism in non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). However, their effects on liver inflammation and homeostasis of bile acids (BAs), the extensively proved pathophysiological actors in NASH, have not been fully understood. NASH animal model was induced by a methionine-choline-deficient (MCD) diet in C57BL/6J mice and intraperitoneally injected with NAD+ precursor, an agonist of upstream rate-limiting enzyme NAMPT or downstream SIRT1, or their vehicle solvents. Free fatty acid (FFA) was applied to HepG2 cells to construct the cell model. Induction of NAMPT/NAD+/SIRT1 axis could remarkably alleviate the aggravated inflammation in the liver of NASH mice, accompanied by decreased levels of total BAs throughout the enterohepatic system and a switch of BA synthesis from the classic pathway to the alternative pathway, resulting in less production of pro-inflammatory 12-OH BAs. The expressions of key enzymes including cyp7a1 , cyp8b1 , cyp27a1 and cyp7b1 in BA synthesis were significantly modulated after NAMPT/NAD+/SIRT1 axis induction in both animal and cell models. The levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines in liver were significantly negatively correlated with the intermediates in NAD+ metabolism, which may also be related to their regulation on BA homeostasis. Our results indicated that induction of NAMPT/NAD+/SIRT1 axis may be a potential therapeutic strategy for NASH or its complications related with BAs. [Display omitted] • Induction of NAMPT/NAD+/SIRT1 axis alleviates liver inflammation in NASH mice. • Total BAs and pro-inflammatory 12-OH BAs decreased after NAMPT/NAD+/SIRT1 induction. • A switch of BAs from the classic to alternative pathway occurred in NASH mice. • NAMPT/NAD+/SIRT1 directly influenced the key enzymes of BAs in HepG2 cell model. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cardiovascular diseases are the primary cause of mortality in patients with diabetes and obesity. Hyperglycemia and hyperlipidemia in diabetes alters cardiac function, which is associated with broader cellular processes such as aberrant inflammatory signaling. Recent studies have shown that a pattern recognition receptor called Dectin-1, expressed on macrophages, mediates pro-inflammatory responses in innate immunity. In the present study, we examined the role of Dectin-1 in the pathogenesis of diabetic cardiomyopathy. We observed increased Dectin-1 expression in heart tissues of diabetic mice and localized the source to macrophages. We then investigated the cardiac function in Dectin-1-deficient mice with STZ-induced type 1 diabetes and high-fat-diet-induced type 2 diabetes. Our results show that Dectin-1 deficient mice are protected against diabetes-induced cardiac dysfunction, cardiomyocyte hypertrophy, tissue fibrosis, and inflammation. Mechanistically, our studies show that Dectin-1 is important for cell activation and induction of inflammatory cytokines in high-concentration glucose and palmitate acid (HG + PA)-challenged macrophages. Deficiency of Dectin-1 generate fewer paracrine inflammatory factors capable of causing cardiomyocyte hypertrophy and fibrotic responses in cardiac fibroblasts. In conclusion, this study provides evidence that Dectin-1 mediates diabetes-induced cardiomyopathy through regulating inflammation. Dectin-1 may be a potential target to combat diabetic cardiomyopathy. [Display omitted] • Dectin-1 is upregulated in cardiac tissue of diabetic mice. • Dectin-1 aggravates diabetic cardiomyopathy via regulating Syk/NF-κB activation and cardiac inflammatory response. • Dectin-1-mediated cytokines in macrophages promote hypertrophy in cardiomyocytes and fibrosis in cardiac fibroblasts. • Targeting Dectin-1 may offer new promises in diabetes-induced cardiac injuries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Graphical abstract Highlights • Gracilaria lemaneiformis grew well under different nutrient conditions. • Gracilaria lemaneiformis had high nutrient removal efficiencies under different nutrient conditions. • Gracilaria lemaneiformis showed high ecosystem services in mariculture areas. Abstract The growth and nutrient uptake of Gracilaria lemaneiformis under different nutrient conditions, with implications for ecosystem services, were evaluated in the laboratory and in an enclosed mariculture sea area in Yantian Bay at the coast of East China Sea. In laboratory experiments, the specific growth rate (SGR) ranged 1.29%/d–7.99%/d, and nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and dissolved inorganic carbon (C) uptake rate was 0.067–1.603 μmol/(g∙h), 0.002–0.069 μmol/(g∙h), and 4.01–31.25 μmol/(g∙h), respectively, under different nutrient conditions. In field experiments, the SGR ranged from 6.30%/d to 13.00%/d, and the average C sequestration rate was 9.25 mg/(g DW·h) and 6.68 mg/(g DW·h) in the G. lemaneiformis cultivation area (region 1) and fish cage area (region 4), respectively. The NH 4 +-N uptake rate of G. lemaneiformis was the highest in region 1 and region 4 with 56.98 ± 4.81 μg/(g DW·h) and 38.68 ± 7.12 μg/(g DW·h), respectively. The maximum removal efficiency of NH 4 +-N, NO 3 −-N, NO 2 --N, and PO 4 3--P were 45.99–59.79%, 13.10–30.21%, 12.88–14.11%, and 27.07–31.49% in G. lemaneiformis cultivated areas compared with those in fish cage area. The extrapolated results showed that 1192.03 tonnes of C, 128.10 tonnes of N and 15.89 tonnes of P would be simultaneously sequestered from the seawater through G. lemaneiformis cultivation in Yantian Bay. Results indicated that G. lemaneiformis had high growth rates and nutrient removal efficiencies under different nutrient conditions, which made it a good candidate for seaweed/animals integrated multi-trophic aquaculture in nutrient bioextraction and economic diversification. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Chemical waste compositions are important for municipal solid waste management, as they determine the pollution potentials from different waste strategies. A representative dataset for chemical characteristics of individual waste fractions is frequently required to assess chemical waste composition, but it is usually reported in developed countries and not in developing countries. In this study, a dataset for Chinese waste was established through careful data screening and assessment, named as CN dataset. Meanwhile, a dataset for Danish waste (DK dataset) was also summarized based on previous studies. In order to quantitatively evaluate the reliabilities of CN and DK datasets, the chemical waste compositions in four Chinese cities were estimated by utilizing both of them, respectively. It is indicated that the usage of CN datasets led to significantly lower discrepancies from the actual values based on laboratory analysis in most cases. Within the datasets, the moisture contents of food waste, paper, textiles, and plastics, the carbon content of food waste, as well as the oxygen content of plastics would induce significant divergences, which should be paid special attention when gathering the information. In addition, the fractional waste compositions in China showed similar features with other developing countries but differ significantly with developed countries. Thus the above-mentioned conclusions could also be true in other developing countries. Graphical abstract Unlabelled Image [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract This paper proposes a framework to predict the buckling limit states of C-section purlins under wind uplift load with top flange restrained by the sheeting. The prediction framework includes a nonlinear twisting model to account for the flexural-torsional behavior and the application on the Direct Strength Method. The torsional effect induced by load eccentricity and the diaphragm effects provided by sheeting are incorporated into the flexural-torsional differential equations of the nonlinear twisting model. The biaxial bending moments and bi-moment, the flexural-torsional buckling strength and the stress distribution of the purlin can be obtained from the proposed model. On the basis of the Finite Strip Method (FSM), the elastic buckling load can be calculated through reducing the applied bending moments by the load factor. Thereafter, the Direct Strength Method is modified to account for the buckling interaction behavior influenced by the warping-torsion and diaphragm effects. A database of 17 simple-span purlin tests is used to validate the proposed model. Graphical abstract Unlabelled Image Highlights • Proposed a nonlinear twisting model to calculate the biaxial bending moments and bi-moment. • Elastic buckling load can be obtained based on the biaxial bending moments and bi-moment combined with FSM. • Proposed a modified Direct Strength Method to account for the interaction behavior considering the diaphragm effects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A disposable continuous-flow system was established by treating apple juice with induced electric field (IEF). Under synchronous alternating magnetic flux, rather than electrodes, the electrical treatment was implemented in multi-series coils consisting of the flowing sample. An activation effect at 50 °C and inactivation effect at 70 °C were observed under IEF. High excitation voltage (900 V) caused a significant decrease in the residual activities (RA). As the flow rate decreased from 87.5 to 17.5 mL/min, RA of PPO and POD were changed without applying IEF indicated shear effect of the pump had an impact on the RAs. At 17.5 mL/min, PPO was inactivated after IEF treatment for 7.6 min. In compared with the control (0 V), the fluid impedance was increased at 70 °C and 80 °C under IEF, whereas it was decreased at 30 °C and 40 °C. IEF had no adverse influence on the color and volatile compounds of apple juice in this system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Flexible supercapacitors have important implications in the field of smart clothing and wearables due to the ultra-fast charging/discharging rate, long cycle life, environmental friendliness and sustainability. However, a simple method is lacking to synthesize wearable electrodes with both wide electrochemical voltage and high capacitance performance in one step. A coaxial electrospinning method is applied herein for preparation of self-supported nanofiber electrode with polycaprolactone (PCL) as the core and Na-MnO 2 as the sheath combined with impregnation of acid-modified carbon nanotubes (CNTs). Na-MnO 2 prepared by hydrothermal method provides extra pseudo-capacitance and wide working window, polycaprolactone (PCL) and acid-modified CNTs further guarantee the stretchability and electrical conductivity. The stretchable symmetric supercapacitors based on the nanofiber electrodes with elongation at break of 62.39 % are further assembled with a capacitance of 0.655 mF/cm2 at 100 mV/s and excellent tensile properties at the wide working voltage of 0–1.2 V. The stretchability and wide voltage of the devices constructed herein only by one-step core-shell spinning demonstrate the great potential of the doped MnO 2 -based nanofiber for applications in wearable energy storage field. [Display omitted] • Stretchable nanofiber electrode was prepared by one-step coaxial electrospinning. • The self-supported electrode was prepared with elongation at break of 62.39 %. • Na-MnO 2 provided extra pseudo-capacitance and wide working window. • PCL and CNTs guaranteed the stretchability and electrical conductivity. • Symmetrical solid-state supercapacitor was assembled at wide working voltage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The gut microbiota colonizing the gastrointestinal tract, is an indispensable "invisible organ" that affects multiple aspects of human health. The gut microbial community has been assumed to be an important stimulus to the immune homeostasis and development, and increasing data support the role of the gut microbiota-immunity axis in autoimmune diseases. Host's immune system requires recognition tools to communicate with the gut microbial evolutionary partners. Among these microbial perceptions, T cells enable the widest spectrum of gut microbial recognition resolution. Specific gut microbiota direct the induction and differentiation of Th17 cells in intestine. However, the detailed links between the gut microbiota and Th17 cells have not been well established. In this review, we describe the generation and characterization of Th17 cells. Notably, we discuss the induction and differentiation of Th17 cells by the gut microbiota and their metabolites, as well as recent advances in our understanding of interactions between Th17 cells and the gut microbiota in human diseases. In addition, we provide the emerging evidences in support of interventions targeting the gut microbes/Th17 cells in human diseases. [Display omitted] ● Th17 cells are clinically correlated with the gut microbiota in human diseases. ● The gut microbiota and their metabolites trigger the induction and differentiation of Th17 cells. ● The gut microbiota can interact with Th17 cells in human diseases. ● The interactions between the gut microbiota and Th17 cells provide opportunities to improve human diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To better understand the correlation between structure and properties in thermoplastic starch biopolymer blend films, the effects of amylose content, chain length distribution of amylopectin and molecular orientation of thermoplastic sweet potato starch (TSPS) and thermoplastic pea starch (TPES) on microstructure and functional properties of thermoplastic starch biopolymer blend films were studied. After thermoplastic extrusion, the amylose contents of TSPS and TPES decreased by 16.10 % and 13.13 %, respectively. The proportion of the chains with the degree of polymerization between 9 and 24 of amylopectin in TSPS and TPES increased from 67.61 % to 69.50 %, and from 69.51 % to 71.06 %, respectively. As a result, the degree of crystallinity and molecular orientation of TSPS and TPES films increased as compared to sweet potato starch and pea starch films. The thermoplastic starch biopolymer blend films possessed a more homogeneous and compacter network. The tensile strength and water resistance of thermoplastic starch biopolymer blend films increased significantly, whereas thickness and elongation at break of thermoplastic starch biopolymer blend films decreased significantly. • The structure-function relationship of thermoplastic starch films was analyzed. • Thermoplastic starch films showed higher molecular orientation and crystallinity. • The chains with DP between 9 and 24 and molecular orientation were the dominant factors. • Thermoplastic starch films showed a better tensile strength and water resistance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Strawberries are prone to rapid quality deterioration after harvest. Research has confirmed that a magnetic field can improve fruit quality during postharvest storage. However, how the magnetic field impacts the postharvest physiology of strawberries is far from being explored. In this study, the magnetic field (MF, 4 mT, and 50 Hz) was employed during the storage of strawberries at 4 °C for 1, 3, 5, 7, 10, and 15 d, and conventional refrigeration (CR) was used as the control. The results showed that the MF maintained better fruit quality, as indicated by lower decay incidence, declined weight loss, and greater firmness retention. The decrease in soluble solids content and titratable acidity of strawberries caused by respiratory depletion was also alleviated by MF. Furthermore, an improvement in the adenosine triphosphate level, energy charge, activity of enzymes (H+-ATPase, Ca2+-ATPase, succinate dehydrogenase, and cytochrome oxidase) involved in the respiratory metabolism, as well as primary respiratory metabolites (D -glucose, succinic acid, fumaric acid, and citric acid) were observed for the strawberries of MF group. Accumulations of hydrogen peroxide, superoxide anion, and malondialdehyde were suppressed with the application of MF. Overall, the MF contributed to maintaining higher energy and membrane integrity and function, regulating the levels of energy metabolism enzymes, and mitigating reactive oxygen species accumulation, which might be a part of the mechanism involved in retarding the senescence and decay of harvested strawberries. [Display omitted] • MF treatment maintained better strawberries' quality. • MF could maintain ATP content and energy charge. • MF could maintain energy metabolism enzymes activity. • MF treatment alleviated the accumulation of ROS. • MF treatment delayed the postharvest senescence of strawberries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • COF-SO 3 H/polydopamine was used as composite interlayer to tailor TFC-PC X membrane. • The interlayer served as a regulator to control the polyamide layer morphologies. • The hydrophilicity and surface charge of membrane were enhanced by the interlayer. • The TFC-PC 0.08 membrane exhibited high permeability and Na 2 SO 4 rejection. Thin-film composite nanofiltration (TFC NF) membranes can separate neutral/charged solutes and play an essential role in water purification. However, the permeability of traditional NF membranes is severely limited by excessive mass transfer resistance due to the thick polyamide (PA) layer. Introducing porous nanomaterials as an interlayer into PA NF membranes has been recognized as an effective approach to improve permeability. Herein, a novel composite interlayer consisting of anionic covalent organic frameworks with abundant sulfonic acid groups (COF-SO 3 H) and polydopamine was designed to regulate interfacial polymerization to construct the highly permeable TFC NF membranes. The surface negative charge and hydrophilicity of the TFC NF membranes can be controlled by the abundant polar groups in the composite interlayer. Moreover, mass transfer resistance can be reduced by introducing COF-SO 3 H to create additional water transport channels. The results showed that the optimal membrane manifested attractive permeability (44.2 L⋅m−2⋅h−1⋅bar−1) and a high Na 2 SO 4 rejection (98.7 %), almost 3-fold higher than that of the original TFC membrane. Furthermore, the optimal membrane exhibited favorable anti-fouling performance and stability. This work provides insight into strategies for fabricating highly permeable TFC NF membranes through the introduction of an interlayer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Balancing the convergence and diversity of the population is crucial for solving multi-objective problems. As the number of objectives increases, the inherent conflict between maintaining diversity and ensuring convergence becomes more significant. To address this challenge, we propose a novel evolutionary algorithm that selectively emphasizes either convergence or diversity, guided by the convergence and diversity indicators of the current population and a predefined priority criterion. During the iterative process, the algorithm strategically aims to either approach the true Pareto front to improve convergence or foster a more uniform distribution within the current Pareto layer to enhance diversity. Continuous monitoring of these indicators enables the algorithm to effectively manage and fine-tune the convergence and diversity of the population. We meticulously evaluated the performance of the proposed algorithm by comparing it with eight state-of-the-art evolution algorithms on 31 benchmark problems. The experimental results unequivocally demonstrated the outstanding performance of the proposed algorithm in solving multi-objective problems. Furthermore, the algorithm can be seamlessly incorporated into other evolution algorithms to strike a delicate balance between diversity and convergence, thereby empowering them to tackle challenging many-objective optimization tasks with enhanced efficiency and accuracy. • A mechanism for managing convergence-diversity trade-offs in MaOPs as objectives grow. • An MOEA balances convergence and diversity via indicators and priority criterion. • Extensive experiments validated SEA's superior performance in MaOPs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study explored the effect of constant-current pulsed electric field thawing (CC-T) on the proteins and water-holding capacity of pork. Fresh meat (FM), and frozen meat after constant-voltage thawing (CV-T), air thawing (AT) and water immersion thawing (WT) were considered as controls. The results indicated that CC-T had a higher thawing rate than conventional thawing during ice-crystal melting stage (−5 to −1 °C). It also showed a lower water migration and thawing loss, maintaining pH and shear force closer to FM. Meanwhile, CC-T decreased myoglobin oxidation, resulting in a favorable surface color. The results of protein solubility, differential scanning calorimetry, total sulfhydryl, carbonyl and surface hydrophobicity demonstrated that CC-T reduced myofibrillar protein oxidative denaturation by suppressing the formation of disulfide and carbonyl bonds, thus enhancing solubility and thermal stability. Additionally, microstructural observation found that CC-T maintained a relatively intact muscle fiber structure by reducing muscle damage and myosin filament denaturation. [Display omitted] • CC-T reduced the conversion of immobilized water to free water in the meat. • CC-T resulted in higher protein solubility and thermal stability than AT and WT. • CC-T had a lower degree of myofibrillar protein oxidation compared to AT and WT. • CC-T resulted in less muscle tissue damage, making the fiber structure more complete. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Free-standing and flexible polypyrrole (PPy) nanotube/reduced graphene oxide (rGO) hybrid films were prepared by vacuum filtration of a mixture of PPy nanotubes and GO nanosheets followed by hydrogen iodide (HI) treatment. The hybrid films were fabricated by the homogeneous intercalation of PPy nanotubes into the lamellar rGO nanolayers. The unique network in the PPy nanotube/rGO hybrid films helped to prevent the aggregation of graphene nanosheets and supply effective conducting channels for electron transfer. As a result, the films exhibited improved flexibility, mechanical strength and electrical conductivity. The power factor of PPy/rGO hybrid film at room temperature was about 135 times larger than that of PPy nanotube film. Furthermore, the PPy/rGO hybrid films exhibited excellent stable thermoelectric performance after repeated mechanical bending. These results indicate that PPy nanotube/rGO hybrid film exhibits promising potential for application in high-performance and flexible thermoelectric materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Novel pyrazole carboxamides with a diarylamine-modified scaffold were modified based on the bixafen (Bayer) fungicide, which has excellent activity against Rhizoctonia solani, Rhizoctonia cerealis and Sclerotinia sclerotiorum. To discover the potential insecticidal activity of these novel pyrazole carboxamides, the present study explored their possible cytoactivity on the insect neuronal cells (RP-HzVNC-AW1) in Helicoverpa zea . The preliminary bioassays showed that some of the target compounds exhibited good cytoactivity against AW1 cells. Among them, compounds a5 and b4 – b7 showed good activity in vitro with IC 50 values of 11.28, 10.46, 9.04, 11.72 and 12.19 μM, respectively. Notably, the IC 50 value of compound b5 was better than 11.81 μM for fipronil. We subsequently attempted to illustrate the mechanism of b5 . Intracellular biochemical assays showed that b5 induced AW1 cell apoptosis with a decrease in themitochondrial membrane potential, as well as a significantly increased intracellular calcium ion concentration and caspase-3 activity. A significant decrease in Bcl-2 levels and a marked augmentation of cytochrome-c and Bax were also detected. These results indicate that a mitochondrially dependent intrinsic pathway contributes to compound b5 -induced apoptosis in AW1 cells. This study suggests that b5 may act as a potential insecticide that can be used for further optimization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A novel organic small molecule with D-Pi-A structure was prepared, which was found to be a promising colorimetric and ratiometric UV–vis spetral probe for detection of phosphorylated proteins with the help of tetravalent zirconium ion. Such optical probe based on chromophore WYF-1 shows a rapid response (within 10 s) and high selectivity and sensitivity for phosphorylated proteins, giving distinct colorimetric and ratiometric UV–vis changes at 720 and 560 nm. The detection limit for phosphorylated proteins was estimated to be 100 nM. In addition, detection of phosphorylated proteins in placental tissue samples with this probe was successfully applied, which indicates that this probe holds great potential for phosphorylated proteins detection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effect of tree species on microbial communities, secondary metabolites (phenolic acids) and soil chemical properties need to be further studied. Four tree species (poplar, Korean pine, larch and Mongolian pine) and abandoned land were selected, and the impact on soil microbial communities, soil chemical properties and phenolic acids were studied in northeastern China. This study found that soil organic carbon (SOC), total nitrogen (TN), and total phosphorus (TP) were higher in all plantations compared to the abandoned land and were significantly higher in the poplar plantation. The complex phenol content was significantly higher in forest soils compared to the abandoned land, and the complex phenol and water-soluble phenol contents showed the opposite trend. All plantations except Mongolian pine had improved soil microbial biomass to varying degrees compared with the abandoned land. Fungal biomass was changed by afforestation to a greater extent than by bacteria. Principal component analysis (PCA) showed that the tree species significantly influenced the soil microbial composition and structure. Redundancy analysis (RDA) indicated that soil C, N and the N/P ratio were significantly associated with PLFA markers. Pearson correlation analysis showed that SOC and TN were positively associated with fungi, while soil phenolic acids did not show any significant correlation with soil microorganisms. The soil chemical properties and microbial communities were improved by the conversion of abandoned land to forest. The poplar plantation had improved soil nutrient and fungal biomass contents compared to the three conifer plantations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of alcohol-acid degradation on the structural and physicochemical characteristics of guar gum. Guar gum (50 wt.%) was treated with methanol, ethanol, 2-propanol, or 1-butanol containing 1 or 2 mL 36% hydrochloric acid at 75 °C for 30–240 min. The linear relationship between 1/Mw and time suggested that alcohol-acid degradation followed first-order kinetics with rate constants varying directly with the number of alcohol carbon atoms and acid concentration. Alcohol-acid treatment exerted no effect on the chemical and crystal structure of guar but significantly decreased shear viscosity, slightly increased solubility, mildly reduced thermostability, and dramatically darkened colour. This study extended the knowledge of the effect of alcohol on the acid hydrolysis of guar and will contribute to the development of a large-scale procedure for guar gum degradation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Compared to traditional heating methods by static immersion or stirring, induced electric field (IEF) treatment can significantly increase hydrolysis rate of potato starch. The aim of this study was to examine the characterization of acid hydrolysis of granular potato starch under IEF. Potato starch was hydrolyzed using 0.15 mol/L HCl combined with IEF (IEF-HCl) at an excitation voltage of 75 V from 4 h to 120 h. The changes in granular, crystal, and molecular structure of starch granules during IEF-HCl hydrolysis were investigated. Scanning electron microscope analysis showed the outer surface of potato starch was firstly attacked by free ions and then the inner structures was completely disrupted and broken into pieces. X-ray diffraction studies indicated that the crystallinity decreased from 38.92% to 34.9% after 4-h hydrolysis, and then gradually increased to 41.88% as hydrolysis time increased to 96 h, but decreased thereafter. The weight-average molecular weight dramatically decreased from 104.7 × 10 6 Da to 9.291 × 10 6 Da in the first 24 h and then decreased gradually. These results suggested that there were three steps in the catalytic process of IEF-HCl hydrolysis. Initially, hydrogen ions destroyed the external crystalline shell of granules. Next, hydrogen ions attacked the loose amorphous region and dense crystalline part within starch granules simultaneously. Finally, the remaining crystalline region was hydrolyzed slowly. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Gas diffusion electrodes (GDEs), including GDE-In 0.90 Sn 0.10 , GDE-In 0.47 Sn 0.53 and GDE-In 0.22 Sn 0.78 , were prepared by electrodeposition of In–Sn alloys on carbon fiber paper, and then used to explore the electroreduction of CO 2 to formate in aqueous solution. Compared with commercial indium or Sn foil catalysts, the GDE-In 0.90 Sn 0.10 electrode in particular is shown to have excellent catalytic performance towards electroreduction of CO 2 to formate, with a high Faradaic efficiency (~ 92%). More importantly, the catalytic activity of GDE-In 0.90 Sn 0.10 remained reasonably stable over a 22-hour period of electrolysis, and a relatively high electrolytic current density (15 mA cm − 2 ) was obtained in an aqueous medium, demonstrating its potential for electrochemical reduction of CO 2 to formate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Three-dimensional carbon nanotube frameworks have been prepared via pyrolysis of polypyrrole nanotube aerogels that are synthesized by the simultaneous self-degraded template synthesis and hydrogel assembly followed by freeze-drying. The microstructure and composition of the materials are investigated by thermal gravimetric analysis, Raman spectrum, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, transmission electron microscopy, and specific surface analyzer. The results confirm the formation of three-dimensional carbon nanotube frameworks with low density, high mechanical properties, and high specific surface area. Compared with PPy aerogel precursor, the as-prepared three-dimensional carbon nanotube frameworks exhibit outstanding adsorption capacity towards organic dyes. Moreover, electrochemical tests show that the products possess high specific capacitance, good rate capability and excellent cycling performance with no capacitance loss over 1000 cycles. These characteristics collectively indicate the potential of three-dimensional polypyrrole-derived carbon nanotube framework as a promising macroscopic device for the applications in environmental and energy storages. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The induced electric field assisted hydrochloric acid (IEF-HCl) hydrolysis of potato starch was investigated in a fluidic system. The impact of various reaction parameters on the hydrolysis rate, including reactor number (1–4), salt type (KCl, MgCl 2 , FeCl 3 ), salt concentration (3–12%), temperature (40–55 °C), and hydrolysis time (0–60 h), were comprehensively assessed. Under optimal conditions, the maximum reducing sugar content in the hydrolysates was 10.59 g/L. X-ray diffraction suggested that the crystallinity of IEF-HCl-modified starches increased with the intensification of hydrolysis but was lower than that of native starch. Scanning electron microscopy indicated that the surface and interior regions of starch granules were disrupted by the hydrolysis. The solubility of IEF-HCl-modified starches increased compared to native starch while their swelling power decreased, contributing to a decline in paste viscosity. These results suggest that IEF is a notable potential electrotechnology to conventional hydrolysis under mild conditions without any electrode touching the subject. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The toxicity effects of chiral pesticides on living organisms have attracted an increasing public attention. This study aims to investigate the toxicity effect and mechanism of hexaconazole (HEX) to human breast cancer cell (MCF-7) at enantiomer levels. HEX exposure obviously inhibited cells activities in a dose-dependent manner. Under the conditions of VIP >1 and p < 0.05, a total of 255 and 177 differential metabolites (DMs), 17 and 15 amino acid- and lipid-related metabolic pathways were disturbed after (+)-HEX and (−)-HEX exposure, respectively. HEX exposure may affect cell membrane function, signal transduction, and cell differentiation. We further investigated the mechanism of enantioselective differences by using molecular docking which showed that CYP17A1 was the main enzyme that leading to endocrine disrupting effects with the binding energy of −6.30 and −6.08 kcal/mol compared to CYP19A1 enzyme which were −5.81 and −5.93 kcal/mol for (+)-HEX and (−)-HEX, respectively. The docking results explained the reasons why (+)-HEX achieved higher cytotoxicity and induced more seriously metabolic profiles than its antipode. These findings could provide a new insight to understand the enantioselective cytotoxicity effect and mechanism of HEX and will be conducive to assessing its risk to human health at enantiomer levels. [Display omitted] • Enantioselective toxicity effect to MCF-7 cells by hexaconazole had been observed. • Hexaconazole exposure significantly affect the metabolic profiles of MCF-7. • Hexaconazole mainly affect lipid- and amino acid-related metabolites and pathways. • (+)-hexaconazole achieved higher cytotoxicity effect to MCF-7 cells than its antipode. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To illustrate the correlations between molecular structures and the film-forming properties of thermoplastic starch from various botanical sources, starches from cereal, tuber and legume were modified by thermoplastic extrusion and the corresponding thermoplastic starch films were prepared including thermoplastic corn starch (TCS), thermoplastic rice starch (TRS), thermoplastic sweet potato starch (TSPS), thermoplastic cassava starch (TCAS) and thermoplastic pea starch (TPES) films. TPES film displayed a higher tensile strength (6.28 MPa) and stronger water resistance, such as lower water solubility (15.70 %), water absorption (42.35 %), and water vapor permeability (0.285 g·mm· h −1· m −2·kPa−1) due to higher contents of amylose and B 1 chains. TCAS showed a smoother and more amorphous film due to higher amylopectin content, resulting higher elongation at break and larger opacity. TCS film was the most transparent due to a compacter network and more ordered crystallinity structure, which was suit for the packaging of fresh vegetables and aquatic products, whereas TCAS film was the opaquest, which protected package foods from light such as meat products, etc. The outcome would provide an innovative theory to regulate accurately the functional properties of thermoplastic starch films for different food needs. • The structure-function relationship of thermoplastic starch films was studied. • TPES film with higher contents of amylose and B1 chains displayed a stiffer structure. • TPES film displayed a stronger water resistance with higher amylose content and B1 chains. • TCAS film with higher amylopectin showed a higher elongation at break and opacity. • TCS film was the most transparent due to more ordered crystallinity structure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]