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The teaching objectives of traditional approaches in higher education emphasize mostly students' mastery of knowledge and have insufficient directionality to social needs. In this study, we developed a BOPPPS (Bridge-in, Objectives, Pre-assessment, Participatory Learning, Post-assessment and Summary) teaching model combined with the OBE (Outcome Based Education) concept to enhance the teaching outcomes. Firstly, based on the graduation requirements and professional training objectives of students, we divided the course objectives into three dimensions (knowledge, ability and quality), and further specified into index points. Then, the teaching content of each chapter was set to correspond with the index points. Finally, the BOPPPS teaching model was used to meet each requirement. Clinical biochemistry testing course was used as a model to assess the effects of the teaching reform. After the class, the teaching effect was analyzed based on the questionnaire surveys from the students and their scores of both the chapter and final examinations. The results showed that compared with the traditional approach, the BOPPPS teaching model combined with the OBE concept has demonstrated a notable enhancement in student engagement, and significant improvement of their mastery of knowledge, application skills, and problem-solving abilities. The examination scores of the BOPPPS group were markedly higher than those of the traditional group. Moreover, the difference between the two groups diverse assessment scores was much bigger than that between the two group examination scores. Our study indicates that the BOPPPS teaching model combined with the OBE concept is a highly effective teaching model for enhancing the learning effectiveness of students. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Real-time detection of tissue oxygenation in the nervous system is crucial in neuroscience studies and clinical diagnostics. Complementary to blood oxygenation levels, the partial pressure of oxygen in brain tissue ( p bt O 2 ) plays a key role in regulating local neural activities and metabolism. Here we develop an implantable optoelectronic probe that wirelessly and continuously monitors p bt O 2 signals in the deep brain of freely moving rodents. The thin-film, microscale implant integrates a light-emitting diode and a photodetector, and is coated with an oxygen-sensitive phosphorescent film. Powered by a battery or an inductive coil, a miniaturized circuit is capable of recording and wirelessly transmitting p bt O 2 signals. The wireless micro-probe captures cerebral hypoxia states in mice in various scenarios, including altered inspired oxygen concentrations and acute ischaemia. In mouse models with seizures, the micro-probe associates temporal p bt O 2 variations in multiple brain regions with electrical stimulations applied to the hippocampus. Our probe and method offer important insights into neuroscience studies regarding neurometabolic coupling and pave the way for the clinical application of implantable wireless optoelectronic probes. A wireless optoelectronic probe integrates a microscale light-emitting diode and a photodetector coated with oxygen-sensitive dyes to monitor the partial pressure of oxygen in the deep brain of freely moving mice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To investigate the suppression effect of fluorine-containing explosion suppressants (FESs) on methane (CH4) explosions and the corresponding suppression mechanism, a 20-L spherical explosion testing device was used to analyze and compare the effects of perfluorohexanone (C6F12O) and heptafluoropropane (C3F7H) on CH4 explosion parameters. The explosion limit and pressure were obtained before and after adding these FESs. CH4 explosion triangles under the action of the FESs were drawn, and the explosion hazard degree (F) was determined. The results reveal that the addition of C6F12O and C3F7H reduces the upper explosion limit (UEL) and lower explosion limit (LEL) of CH4, with increased concentrations of C6F12O and C3F7H causing faster decreases in the UEL than in the LEL. The explosion limit range of CH4 with C6F12O is smaller than that with C3F7H. When the concentration of CH4 is low, increases in the C6F12O and C3F7H concentrations first cause an increase and then a decrease in the explosion pressure, and the rise rate of explosion pressure increases. After adding the aforementioned FESs, F first increases and then decreases. When the concentration of CH4 is high, the two FESs only inhibit the explosion pressure. Compared with C3F7H, C6F12O has a stronger inhibitory effect; C6F12O has a smaller CH4 explosion triangle area, higher critical oxygen concentration (18.27% vs. 17.70%), and lower F value. Both FESs have promotion and inhibition effects on CH4 explosion because of the comprehensive physical and chemical effects on CH4 explosions; however, the performance of C6F12O is superior to C3F7H. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pyruvate kinase M2 (PKM2), a subtype of pyruvate kinase, plays a crucial role as a key enzyme in the final step of glycolysis. It is involved in regulating the tumor microenvironment and accelerating tumor progression. However, the relationship between PKM2 expression and the prognosis and immune infiltration remains unclear in lung cancer. In this study, we analyzed PKM2 expression in pan-cancer, and investigated its association with prognosis and immune cell infiltration of lung cancer by using multiple online databases, including Gent2, Tumor Immune Estimation Resource (TIMER), Gene Expression Profiling Interactive Analysis (GEPIA), PrognoScan, Kaplan–Meier plotter, and The Human Protein Atlas (HPA). The results showed that PKM2 expression is elevated in tumor tissues compared with the adjacent normal tissues of most cancers, including lung cancer. Prognostic analysis indicated that high expression of PKM2 was associated with poorer prognosis in overall lung cancer patients, especially in lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD). Notably, PKM2 exhibited a strong correlation with B cells and CD4+ T cells in LUAD; and with B cells, CD8+ T cells, CD4+ cells, and macrophages in lung squamous cell carcinoma (LUSC). Furthermore, PKM2 expression displayed a significant negative correlation with the expression of immune cell markers in both LUAD and LUSC. These findings suggested that PKM2 could serve as a promising prognostic biomarker for lung cancer and provided insights into its essential role in modulating the immune cell infiltration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To study the protective effect of anthocyanins extracted from Vaccinium Uliginosum (VU) on retinal 661W cells against microwave radiation induced retinal injury. Methods: 661W cells were divided into 6 groups, including control, model [661W cells radiated by microwave (30 mW/cm2, 1 h)] and VU groups [661W cells pretreated with anthocyanins extracted from VU (25, 50, 100 and 200 µg/mL, respectively) for 48 h, and radiated by microwave 30 mW/cm2, 1 h]. After treatment with different interventions, the cell apoptosis index (AI) was determined using Heochst staining; contents of malonaldehyde (MDA), glutataione (GSH), and activity of superoxide dismutase (SOD) were measured. mRNA expressions of nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) and heme oxygenase 1(HO-1) were detected by real time quantitative polymerase chain reaction, and the expression of HO-1 protein was examined by Western blot analysis. Nucleus and cytoplasm were separated and Nrf2 protein expression was further verified by Western blot analysis. Results: There was significant difference in AI among the groups (F=322.83, P<;0.05). Compared with the control group, AI was significantly higher in the model group and was lower in 4 VU-pretreated groups (P<;0.05). Linear regression analysis showed the decline of AI was in a dose-dependent manner with VU treatment (r=0.8419, P<;0.05). The MDA and GSH contents of 661W cells in VU-treated groups were significantly lower than the model group (P<;0.05). Compared with the model group, the SOD activity in the VU-treated groups (50, 100 and 200 µg/mL) was significantly higher (all P<;0.05). The Nrf2 and HO-1 mRNA expressions were slightly increased after irradiation, and obviously increased in 100 µg/mL VU-treated group. After irradiation, the relative expressions of HO-1 and Nrf2 proteins in nucleus were slightly increased (P<;0.05), and the changes in cytoplasm were not obvious, whereas it was significantly increased in both nucleus and cytoplasm in the VU treatment groups. Conclusions: Anthocyanins extracted from VU could reduce apoptosis, stabilize cell membrane, and alleviate oxidant injury of mouse retinal photoreceptor 661W cells. The mechanism might be through activating Nrf2/HO-1 signal pathway and inducing HO-1 transcription and translation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tongue strengthening exercise (TSE) has been proposed as an intervention to increase tongue strength and improve swallowing. However, clinical evidence of its effectiveness is lacking. In this review, seven databases were searched from inception to September 30, 2021 for randomized controlled trials that compared tongue strengths between the TSE intervention and control groups, obtained from maximal tongue elevation peak force in kilopascals (kPa). The Cochrane risk of bias tool was used for quality assessment. In total, 12 studies with 388 participants were included. The pooled meta-analysis demonstrated that the anterior tongue strength (ATS) (MD = 5.34 kPa; 95% CI 3.28–7.40; I2 = 71%) and posterior tongue strength (MD = 8.12; 95% CI 3.45–12.79; I2 = 90%) were significantly higher in the TSE intervention than that in the control group. Among healthy participants, subgroup analysis showed that TSE had improvements on ATS in all age groups, with the greatest improvement in old people (≥ 65 years) (MD = 8.01; 95% CI 4.39–11.64; I2 = 30%). Meta-regression analysis revealed a nonsignificant trend toward greater improvement on tongue strength with increasing TSE duration. This study provides positive evidence that TSE may be beneficial in improving tongue strength and could be applied for adults, especially healthy older adults. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: NPHS2 is the causative gene of nephrotic syndrome type 2 (MIM 600995) which often clinically manifests as steroid-resistant nephrotic syndrome (SRNS). The NPHS2 gene encodes a slit diaphragm (SD) associated protein podocin. Objective: This study reported a novel disease-causing mutation of NPHS2 in a Chinese family with SRNS. We also investigated the pathogenic mechanism of the variants in this family. Method: A Chinese family with SRNS was recruited. Whole exome sequencing was performed to screen for disease-causing mutation. Sanger sequencing was used to confirm the results. In vitro functional experiments including immunoblotting, co‐immunoprecipitation and double immunofluorescence staining were performed to explore the pathogenic mechanisms of mutations. Results: In this family, compound heterozygous mutations of NPHS2 (c.467dupT and c.865A > G) were identified and segregated with the disease. The maternal c.865A > G was a novel variant, leading to amino acid substitution (p.K289E). In vitro functional assays indicated that c.467dupT (p.L156FfsX11) mutant lost interaction with nephrin. Both K289E and L156FfsX11 mutants showed sharply diminished plasma membrane localization. Furthermore, abnormal distribution of podocin mutants also altered the cell membrane localization of nephrin. Conclusion: We reported a family with SRNS caused by compound heterozygous mutations of NPHS2 (c.467dupT and c.865A > G). c.865A > G (p.K289E) in NPHS2 was a novel causative variant associated with SRNS. Both variants in this family not only affected the normal cell membrane localization of podocin, but also altered the cell membrane localization of nephrin which is the major architectural protein of SD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The harmful gases produced from coal spontaneous combustion (CSC) can cause the environmental pollution. Being able to predict the experimental minimum period of CSC (EMPCSC) is essential in controlling CSC and effectively reducing harmful gas emissions. To obtain high prediction accuracy, we used three optimization algorithms, namely the genetic algorithm (GA), ant colony algorithm (ACO), and particle swarm optimization algorithm (PSO), to optimize the backpropagation neural network (BPNN). R2, MSE, RMSE, and MAPE were used as evaluation indexes to determine the most accurate prediction model for EMPCSC. Data of 424 coal samples from 15 regions in China were analyzed, with 207 and 217 samples having a spontaneous combustion period of less than 40 days (W) and more than 40 days (V), respectively. The two groups were further distributed between low-temperature slow oxidation (W0 and V0) and low-temperature fast oxidation (W1 and V1). The results indicated that the prediction performance of the BPNN model optimized using PSO (PSO–BPNN) was better than that of the GA–BPNN and ACO–BPNN models. After optimization through PSO, the goodness of fit (R2) of groups W0, W1, V0, and V1 increased from 0.9180, 0.8746, 0.9987, and 0.9782 to 0.9857, 0.9639, 0.9997, and 0.9994, respectively. Therefore, the results can provide a theoretical reference for selecting the optimal neural network model to predict EMPCSC with high accuracy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, a polydopamine-graphene composite gel (PDA-GA) was prepared from graphene oxide by a facile in-situ reduction assembly method using ascorbic acid combined with dopamine (DA). The morphology and microstructure of PDA-GA were characterized by SEM, XRD, FTIR, BET-BJH, and MIP, and the adsorption behavior of PDA-GA for Cu2+ was studied. Furthermore, the response ability of graphene composite gel-modified glassy carbon electrode (PDA-GH-GCE) to trace Cu2+ was investigated by linear sweep anodic stripping voltammetry. Results showed that when the mass ratio of graphene oxide to DA was 1:3, the adsorption effect of PDA-GA for Cu2+ was the best, and the adsorption capacity reached 316 mg/g. PDA-GA-GCE was sensitive to trace Cu2+, and the detection limit could reach 1.6 × 10−7 mol/L. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Optogenetic methods provide efficient cell-specific modulations, and the ability of simultaneous neural activation and inhibition in the same brain region of freely moving animals is highly desirable. Here we report bidirectional neuronal activity manipulation accomplished by a wireless, dual-color optogenetic probe in synergy with the co-expression of two spectrally distinct opsins (ChrimsonR and stGtACR2) in a rodent model. The flexible probe comprises vertically assembled, thin-film microscale light-emitting diodes with a lateral dimension of 125 × 180 µm2, showing colocalized red and blue emissions and enabling chronic in vivo operations with desirable biocompatibilities. Red or blue irradiations deterministically evoke or silence neurons co-expressing the two opsins. The probe interferes with dopaminergic neurons in the ventral tegmental area of mice, increasing or decreasing dopamine levels. Such bidirectional regulations further generate rewarding and aversive behaviors and interrogate social interactions among multiple mice. These technologies create numerous opportunities and implications for brain research. Simultaneous neural activation and inhibition in the same brain region of animals is highly desirable. Here the authors report a wireless, dual-colour optogenetic probe with the co-expression of two spectrally distinct opsins to allow for bidirectional neuronal activity manipulation in a rodent model. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Conventional bioelectrical sensors and systems integrate multiple power harvesting, signal amplification and data transmission components for wireless biological signal detection. This paper reports the real-time biophysical and biochemical activities can be optically captured using a microscale light-emitting diode (micro-LED), eliminating the need for complicated sensing circuit. Such a thin-film diode based device simultaneously absorbs and emits photons, enabling wireless power harvesting and signal transmission. Additionally, owing to its strong photon-recycling effects, the micro-LED's photoluminescence (PL) emission exhibits a superlinear dependence on the external conductance. Taking advantage of these unique mechanisms, instantaneous biophysical signals including galvanic skin response, pressure and temperature, and biochemical signals like ascorbic acid concentration, can be optically monitored, and it demonstrates that such an optoelectronic sensing technique outperforms a traditional tethered, electrically based sensing circuit, in terms of its footprint, accuracy and sensitivity. This presented optoelectronic sensing approach could establish promising routes to advanced biological sensors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A two-phase closed thermosyphon (TPCT) with a CuO–H2O nanofluid was used to effectively harness the internal accumulation of thermal energy from a coal pile, formerly subject to the risk of spontaneous combustion. The heat transfer effect of different insertion ratios of the TPCT (evaporation section:condensation section = 1:3, 1:2, and 2:3) and inclination angles (30°, 45°, 60°, and 90°) was investigated for bituminous coal. The results indicated that the heat transfer effect of the insertion ratio, in descending order of preference, was 2:3 > 1:2 > 1:3. When the TPCT insertion ratio was 2:3, the maximum temperature difference was up to 37.7 °C. The heat transfer effects of the TPCT were strengthened when it was inserted at a given angle. In decreasing order of effectiveness, the tested inclination angles showed the following order of preference: 60° > 30° > 45° > 90°. Therefore, 60° was the optimal insertion angle. In general, TPCT has the optimal transfer effects when the insertion ratio is 2:3 and the inclination angle is 60°. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Triangular Ag nanoplates have been synthesized via the seed-mediated method, which has good morphology and can be reproduced stably. The wavelength of local surface plasmon resonance (LSPR) can be easily controlled in the range of 500–900 nm. When triangular Ag nanoplates were applied to surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) based on suspension aggregates and solid aggregates, the detection limit of rhodamine 6G (R6G) were greatly increased to 3.125 × 10−7 M and 10−11 M, respectively, and there was an excellent linear relationship between the intensity of Raman peak and the concentration of R6G. In addition, when the excitation light was tuned to the LSPR wavelength, the surface plasmon resonance will be excited to the maximum extent, and the enhanced electromagnetic field will maximize the Raman scattering. Furthermore, some progress has been made in the optimization of SERS by compounding graphene hydrogels in solid aggregates and adding mercapto polyethylene glycol in suspension aggregates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The first-principle method is adopted to study doping of different atoms X (X = Cr, Mo, or W) in ZnTe compound. The spin-down bandgaps of the X-doped Zn0.96875X0.03125Te alloys are 1.368, 1.415, and 1.399 eV for X = Cr, Mo, and W, respectively. All the doped Zn0.96875X0.03125Te (X = Cr, Mo, or W) alloys presents half-metallic (HM) feature, which is different from the ZnTe semiconductor, thus the doped HM alloys are the potential materials for spintronic applications. The Cr-3d(t2g) and Te-5p spin-up states of the Zn0.96875Cr0.03125Te alloy intersect the Fermi level, but only the Mo-4d(t2g) and W-5d(t2g) spin-up states of the Zn0.96875Mo0.03125Te and Zn0.96875W0.03125Te alloys, respectively, intersect the Fermi level. For the Zn0.96875Cr0.03125Te alloy, the double-degenerate d yz and d xz spin-up states of Cr atom are occupied, but the undegenerated d xy states of Cr atom are unoccupied. But for Zn0.96875X0.03125Te (X = Mo or W) alloys, the threefold degenerate d xy , d yz , and d xz states of X atoms are half-occupied. All the X-doped Zn0.96875X0.03125Te (X = Cr, Mo, or W) alloys are magnetic with the total magnetic moments of 4.000 μ B mainly contributed by the X atom and neighboring Te atoms. The doped Zn0.96875X0.03125Te (X = Cr, Mo, or W) alloys have promising applications in infrared devices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Real-time sensing of nitric oxide (NO) in physiological environments is critically important in monitoring neurotransmission, inflammatory responses, cardiovascular systems, etc. Conventional approaches for NO detection relying on indirect colorimetric measurement or built with rigid and permanent materials cannot provide continuous monitoring and/or require additional surgical retrieval of the implants, which comes with increased risks and hospital cost. Herein, we report a flexible, biologically degradable and wirelessly operated electrochemical sensor for real-time NO detection with a low detection limit (3.97 nmol), a wide sensing range (0.01–100 μM), and desirable anti-interference characteristics. The device successfully captures NO evolution in cultured cells and organs, with results comparable to those obtained from the standard Griess assay. Incorporated with a wireless circuit, the sensor platform achieves continuous sensing of NO levels in living mammals for several days. The work may provide essential diagnostic and therapeutic information for health assessment, treatment optimization and postsurgical monitoring. Real-time continuous sensing of biological analytes is of importance in a range of biomedical applications. Here, the authors report on a flexible and physically transient sensor for the detection of nitric oxide and demonstrate applications in nitric oxide sensing in organs ex vivo and in vivo. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Polydopamine (PDA)-coated gold nanoparticles (Au@PDA) were used as electronic transport layer (ETL) modifiers in PTB7:PC71BM polymer solar cells. PDA can effectively modify the surface of gold nanoparticles (Au NPs) and improve the stability of them. In addition, PDA also effectively binds to ZnO ETL, reducing surface defect and improving the combination between the interface layer and the active layer. In this study, AuNPs with particle size of about 30 nm was prepared by Frens reduction method, and then the dopamine (DA) self-polymerized on the surface of them to obtain a core–shell structural material Au@PDA. By regulating the polymerization time of DA, different PDA shell thickness was obtained. The Au@PDA was introduced into ZnO ETL to generate local plasmon resonance adsorption. When dopamine polymerized for an hour, the short current density of the modified solar cells reached 13.98 mA/cm2, and the power conversion efficiency reached 6.03%, which was 130% of the device without Au@PDA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ionic liquids (ILs) are a type of environmentally friendly solvents. Several studies have proven that ILs can inhibit the spontaneous combustion of coal (SCC). In this study, a synchronous thermal analyzer was used to analyze the effects of the imidazolium-based IL [BMIM][BF4] on coal of three metamorphic grades. A coal sample exhibiting the optimal inhibiting result was selected to investigate the effect of the oxygen concentration on IL inhibition. The results revealed that the influence of IL on the mass loss process of the three metamorphic grades of coal varied considerably. High inhibition was observed in lignite. However, the IL promoted the mass loss process in 1/3 coking coal and anthracite. The IL delayed the ignition temperature of lignite by 42 °C, whereas those of 1/3 coking coal and anthracite were advanced by 10 and 8 °C, respectively. Furthermore, the initial exothermic temperature of the three treated coal samples was higher than those of the raw coal samples. Compared with the raw coal samples, the heat released per gram of lignite, 1/3 coking coal, and anthracite was reduced by 1142, 353, and 226 J, respectively. The results indicated that the IL had a prominent inhibiting effect on the exothermic properties of the three coal samples, and the inhibiting effect decreased with an increase in the metamorphic grade of coal. Moreover, the oxygen concentration did not alter the inhibition properties of the IL on the SCC. However, the inhibiting effect weakened as the oxygen concentration decreased. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Heat transfer in a coal mass is governed by thermophysical properties such as thermal diffusivity, specific heat capacity, and thermal conductivity. Coal samples were preoxidized at 90, 150, and 200 °C in a temperature-programmed oxidation apparatus, with raw coal acting as the control group. A laser flash method was employed to examine the thermophysical properties of the coal samples and establish a relationship between the thermophysical properties and the coal's microcrystalline structure/pore structure. The results indicated that thermal diffusivity decreased and specific heat capacity and thermal conductivity raised when the temperature increased. Furthermore, when the preoxidation temperature increased, aromatic microcrystalline structures developed and the specific surface area of the coal samples first decreased and then increased. Moreover, thermal diffusivity and thermal conductivity increased with the elevated preoxidation temperature, and specific heat capacity was the highest at 90 °C. The reason for this was that preoxidation of the coal samples influenced the development of aromatic microcrystalline structures and pore structures, promoting the heat transfer on coal mass. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Due to its controlled reaction with water and biofluids, Mg as a dissolvable conductor has enabled the development of many transient electronic devices. In addition, Mg is a novel plasmonic material with high extinction efficiency, but its transientoptical properties have not been explored thoroughly. In this study, for the first time, we exploit the transient and tunable plasmonic properties of Mg in environmental and biomedical sensor applications. We used soft nanoimprint lithography to fabricate flexible and large-area Mg plasmonic structures that can be applied on the human skin. Their resonance (or color) can be tuned in the visible range by gradual Mg dissolution in a water fluid or vapor-rich environment; these structures can be easily implemented as passive optical sensors without the need for complex electronic circuits or a power supply. We demonstrate the applications of our optical sensors in the accurate monitoring of environmental humidity and physiological detection of sweat loss on the human skin during exercise. Our devices could be used as decomposable/resorbable optical sensors and can help minimize long-term health effects and environmental risks associated with consumer device waste, which will lead to many new possibilities in transient photonic device applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Molten oxide electrolysis (MOE) is an electrometallurgical technique that enables the direct production of metal in the liquid state from oxide feedstock, and compared with traditional methods of extractive metallurgy offers both a substantial simplification of the process and a significant reduction in energy consumption. MOE is also considered a promising route for mitigation of CO2 emissions in steelmaking, production of metals free of carbon, and generation of oxygen for extra-terrestrial exploration. Until now, MOE has been demonstrated using anode materials that are consumable (graphite for use with ferro-alloys and titanium) or unaffordable for terrestrial applications (iridium for use with iron). To enable metal production without process carbon, MOE requires an anode material that resists depletion while sustaining oxygen evolution. The challenges for iron production are threefold. First, the process temperature is in excess of 1,538 degrees Celsius (ref. 10). Second, under anodic polarization most metals inevitably corrode in such conditions. Third, iron oxide undergoes spontaneous reduction on contact with most refractory metals and even carbon. Here we show that anodes comprising chromium-based alloys exhibit limited consumption during iron extraction and oxygen evolution by MOE. The anode stability is due to the formation of an electronically conductive solid solution of chromium(iii) and aluminium oxides in the corundum structure. These findings make practicable larger-scale evaluation of MOE for the production of steel, and potentially provide a key material component enabling mitigation of greenhouse-gas emissions while producing metal of superior metallurgical quality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To study the effect of Vaccinium uliginosum L., (VU) on the electroretinogram (ERG) and retinal pathological changes in rabbits after light-induced damage. Methods: Twenty-eight Chinchilla rabbits were randomly divided into four groups: administration beforehand (A), administration after injury (B), light injury without administration (C), and blank (D) groups. After a 4-week administration of VU homogenate at 4.8 g/(kg·d) once a day in group A, ERG in groups A, B and C were recorded according to the standards set by the International Society for Clinical Electrophysiology of Vision (ISCEV). Except for group D, the groups were then exposed to strong light. Just after that, group A stopped receiving VU treatment and group B started to receive it. Then ERGs in all groups were recorded after 1 day, 1 week, and 2 weeks. Throughout the whole process groups which were not fed with VU were fed with normal saline. Finally, the tissues and structures of all the groups were observed and the thickness of the outer nuclear layers (ONL) was measured. Results: (1) After 4-week feeding with VU, the latency time of ERG in group A became shorter than those in the other groups and the amplitude increased. After being exposed to strong light, the latency time lengthened and amplitude decreased in all the injury groups, but comparing at each time point, the measured values in group A were better than those in group C. With the accumulation of VU, the ERG in group B improved, and finally, all of the detected values became better than those in group C. (2) Retinae in group D were normal in histology and the layers were in order but those in group C became disarranged. The injuries in groups A and B were minor compared with those in group C. The thickness of the ONL in group C was significantly thinner than in the other groups ( P=0.000), and that in groups A and B was thicker than that in group C, although thinner than in group D. That in group A was thicker than in group B. Conclusions: VU can relieve the injury to rabbit retinae exposed to normal day and night rhythm, alleviate the harm caused by light when used beforehand, and repair the light damage to the retina. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Surface hot shortness is of concern in scrap-based electric arc furnace (EAF) steelmaking. The excessive amount of residual copper (Cu) in the steel scrap enriches during the oxidation of the solid steel, and as a result a Cu-rich layer could form which causes inter-granular grain boundary cracking. Other residuals can also influence hot-shortness. Ni is known to improve the resistance to hot shortness whereas Sn is known to worsen it. In this paper, the mechanism through which nickel (Ni) counters the detrimental effects of tin (Sn) on surface hot shortness are investigated in detail. A series of Fe-0.3 wt%Cu- x wt%Ni-0.03 wt%Sn alloys with x content ranging from 0.03 to 0.45 wt% was oxidized in air at 1,423 K (1,150 °C) for 60, 300 and 600 seconds using thermogravimety (TG). The microstructure investigation under scanning electron microscopy (SEM) showed that, significant grain boundary cracking was suppressed by eliminating the highly embrittling Sn containing Cu-rich liquid, through increasing Cu solubility and/or solidifying the liquid phase by the presence of sufficient amount of Ni. Occlusion and decreased oxidation kinetics caused by Ni were shown not to play a significant role. A previous proposed diffusion numerical model was applied to the Fe-Cu-Ni-Sn system to quantitatively support experimental results and provide insight to the enrichment kinetics at the oxide/metal interface. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Scrap-based electric arc furnace (EAF) steelmaking is limited by a surface cracking problem in the recycled steel products, which is known as surface hot shortness. This problem originates from the excessive amount of copper (Cu) in the steel scrap, which enriches during the oxidation of iron (Fe) and consequently melts and penetrates into the austenite grain boundaries. In this article, the effects of arsenic (As), antimony (Sb), and tin (Sn) on surface hot shortness were investigated. A series of Fe-0.3 wt pct Cu- x wt pct (As, Sb, or Sn) alloys with x content ranging from 0.06 to 0.10 wt pct was oxidized in air at 1423 K (1150 °C) for 60, 300, and 600 seconds inside the chamber of a thermogravimety analyzer (TGA) where heat is supplied through infrared radiation. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) investigations show that (1) the presence of Sb and Sn results in severe grain boundary cracking, whereas the presence of As does not, (2) open cracks with Fe oxides were found beneath the oxide/metal interface in the Sb and Sn alloys, and (3) the oxide/metal interfaces for all As, Sb, and Sn alloys are planar. Penetration experiments of pure Cu and Cu-30 wt pct Sn liquid were also conducted in the chamber of a hot-stage confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM) in nonoxidizing atmosphere: (1) on the Fe-35 wt pct manganese (Mn) alloys to study the correlation between cracking and grain boundary characters, and (2) on the pure Fe substrates to exclude the bulk segregation effects of Sn on grain boundary cracking. It was found that grain boundary cracking rarely took place on low-energy grain boundaries. The results also suggest that the bulk segregation of Sn in the substrate is not necessary to promote significant grain boundary cracking, and as long as the liquid phase contains Sn, it will be highly embrittling. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study was conducted to investigate whether Ginkgo biloba extract (EGb) 761 could protect spinal cord neurons from H2O2-induced toxicity. In primary spinal cord neurons isolated from embryonic day 14 rats, H2O2 administration resulted in a significant decrease in the survival of spinal cord neurons. Terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase-mediated dUTP nick-end labeling (TUNEL) and Hoechst 33342 nuclear staining showed that these cells die by apoptosis. Such neuronal death, however, was significantly reversed by EGb761 in a dose-dependent manner. Moreover, a marked increase in intracellular free radical generation was found after the H2O2 administration which could be reversed almost completely by EGb761, indicating that inhibition of free radical generation is an important mechanism of the anti-apoptosis action of EGb761. Finally, treatment of cells with H2O2 for 12 h reduced the expression of Bcl-2, an anti-apoptotic gene, by 70% but showed no effect on the level of Bax, a pro-apoptotic gene. EGb76 treatment, however, significantly reversed H2O2-induced reduction of Bcl-2 expression and inhibited Bax expression by 2.3-fold. Thus, our study provided evidence showing that the protective effect of EGb761 on spinal cord neuronal apoptosis after oxidative stress is mediated, at least in part, by its anti-oxidative action and regulation of apoptosis-related genes Bcl-2 and Bax. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The biological effects of interleukin (IL)-1 are mediated by two distinct receptors, the p80 or type I (IL-1RI) and p68 or type II (IL-1RII) receptors. Because IL-1RII has a short, 29-amino acid cytoplasmic domain which may not be sufficient for signaling, there is considerable evidence indicating that IL-1 may signal exclusively through the IL-1RI receptor. Here, we report the expression, distribution, and cellular localization of the IL-1RI protein in the adult rat spinal cord in vivo and embryonic spinal cord in vitro. We found that IL-1RI was expressed in both the gray and white matter throughout the entire length of the spinal cord and was localized in neurons of the anterior horn, astrocytes, oligodendrocytes, and central canal ependymal cells. Interestingly, resting microglia were negative for IL-1RI. In primary cultures obtained from the embryonic day (E) 15 rats, IL-1RI was expressed in eeurons, astrocytes, and oligodendrocytes as well as microglia. These data provide both in vivo and in vitro evidence that neurons and glial cells express the IL-1RI proteins. The differential expression of IL-1RI in the developing, but not mature, microglia may indicate the difference of these cells in response to IL-1 stimuli during maturation. The distribution and cellular localization of IL-1RI proteins in the spinal cord provide a molecular basis for understanding the reciprocal interaction between the immune and the central nervous systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Physical and chemical technologies have been continuously progressing advances in neuroscience research. The development of research tools for closed-loop control and monitoring neural activities in behaving animals is highly desirable. In this paper, we introduce a wirelessly operated, miniaturized microprobe system for optical interrogation and neurochemical sensing in the deep brain. Via epitaxial liftoff and transfer printing, microscale light-emitting diodes (micro-LEDs) as light sources and poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene) polystyrene sulfonate (PEDOT:PSS)-coated diamond films as electrochemical sensors are vertically assembled to form implantable optoelectrochemical probes for real-time optogenetic stimulation and dopamine detection capabilities. A customized, lightweight circuit module is employed for untethered, remote signal control, and data acquisition. After the probe is injected into the ventral tegmental area (VTA) of freely behaving mice, in vivo experiments clearly demonstrate the utilities of the multifunctional optoelectrochemical microprobe system for optogenetic interference of place preferences and detection of dopamine release. The presented options for material and device integrations provide a practical route to simultaneous optical control and electrochemical sensing of complex nervous systems. Optogenetics: Simultaneous sensing and control A novel probe combines electrochemical sensing and optical control in a single wireless device, enabling researchers to remotely influence animal behavior and simultaneously measure their dopamine response. In optogenetic systems, light is used to switch on specific genetically-engineered neurons. A team led by Xing Sheng of China's Tsinghua University engineered a device with a microscale LED for optogenetic stimulation and an electrochemical sensor to detect dopamine. The two elements are separated by a diamond film for electrical and thermal insulation. The resulting device is roughly 2.2 × 1.3 cm and weighs 2 grams, including a miniaturized wireless circuit for control and a rechargeable battery for power. The team used the device to remotely train mice to prefer one chamber of a test environment via optogenetic stimulation and to measure animals' dopamine response. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The bayberry is an important economic fruit as well as a minor crop in China, and few pesticide products are registered for bayberry. Prochloraz is a widely used fungicide with a high detection rate on bayberry. This study evaluated the potential dietary risk of prochloraz for different populations in China based on field trial data and market surveillance. The results indicate that one-time applications at dosages of 1000 and 1500 mg/kg with a recommended preharvest interval of 20 days do not pose a chronic or acute dietary risk. However, applying the above dosages twice will cause a potential short-term dietary risk. Risk assessment results conducted on surveillance samples indicated acceptable long-term risks for the general population, with a hazard quotient < 0.82. Furthermore, simulated washing and wine production processes were performed to mimic household practices to investigate residue transfer and distribution. We found that rinsing with tap water for 1 min was an effective way to remove residue, and the processing factors of prochloraz for both bayberry and wine were < 1, indicating that wine production could reduce residue levels. Prochloraz had a strong capacity to transfer to wine due to its high log Kow value, with transfer percentages up to 43%. This study supports the recommendation on good agricultural practices for prochloraz application and provides a guide for safe consumption. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Thermal runaway (TR) considerably restricts the applications of lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) and the development of renewable energy sources, thus causing safety issues and economic losses. In the current study, the staged TR characteristics of three LIBs are examined using a self-built experimental platform and cone calorimeter. The results indicate that the TR of the ternary lithium and lithium cobalt batteries successively underwent the following stages: smoke production, swelling, bursting and combustion. By contrast, the lithium iron phosphate battery experiences smoulder instead of combustion during TR process. The TR time of the ternary lithium, lithium cobalt oxide and lithium iron phosphate batteries are 728 s, 689 s and 849 s, and the critical temperatures are 260.02 °C, 240.84 °C and 290.88 °C, respectively. Moreover, the lithium cobalt oxide battery has the largest heat release of 0.027 MJ m-2, the ternary lithium battery presents the most mass loss rate of 0.75 g s-1, and the lithium iron phosphate battery produced the largest smoke, CO and CO2 during the TR process. These results reveal the safety and stability of three LIBs and can be beneficial for studies on the proactive process safety and potential hazard prevention of LIBs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Air leakage rates are a crucial factor affecting the oxygen supply and heat storage capacity of coal spontaneous combustion (CSC) in goaf in underground coalmines. A suitable airflow rates in goaf can significantly promote CSC. To accurately reveal the effect of airflow rate on CSC, a bituminous coal was selected, and the thermogravimetric and differential scanning calorimetry were used to receive the mass loss characteristics and enthalpy changes for sample. Six characteristic temperatures and five reaction stages were identified under multiple airflow rates, the combustion characteristics were calculated, and apparent activation energy was obtained by Coats–Redfern, FWO and Starink methods. The results indicate that with the increasing airflow rate, the characteristic temperatures decreased firstly and then rose, of which all characteristic temperatures at 150 mL min−1 were the lowest. Meanwhile, the stability and combustion capability of sample were prominently enhanced, and its exothermic ability and heat release enlarged, and the reaction capability with oxygen was the highest at 150 mL min−1. Then, the Avrami–Erofeev equation (n = 3/2) was verified to be the most appropriate mechanism of the coal sample. In addition, apparent activation energy of sample was the lowest at 150 mL min−1, and the CSC ability was sensibly strengthened. The findings will serve as a theoretical basis for the initial stage on CSC in underground coalmines. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]