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This article presents observational results of the vertical structural evolution of ionospheric holes during two rocket launches. A combination of observations from the newly built Sanya incoherent scatter radar (SYISR) and Global Navigation Satellite System networks was employed. The vertical structural evolution of two rocket‐induced ionospheric holes over the SYISR could be divided into three stages. Firstly, 10–11 min after launch, the holes initially appeared in the topside ionosphere. Then, the holes expanded rapidly toward higher and lower altitudes. At ∼30 min after launch, the holes extended to an altitudinal range of ∼200 km to over 700 km. The maximum depletion altitude was 425 km for the afternoon event and 283 km for the midnight event. Finally, the holes recovered slowly, with faster recovery at higher altitudes. Our work contributes to further understanding the vertical structural evolutionary mechanisms of the ionospheric holes and relevant ionospheric processes. Plain Language Summary: When rockets fly in the ionosphere, numerous H2O or H2 molecules in the rocket exhaust rapidly react with the O+ in the background ionosphere and produce positive ions, which then react with electrons and lead to a large electron depletion known as ionospheric holes. The vertical structure of these holes has rarely been observed before. In this study, we observed the full vertical profile and the complete vertical structural evolution of two rocket‐induced ionospheric holes, using the newly built Sanya incoherent scatter radar (SYISR), combined with the Global Navigation Satellite System networks for their horizontal features. These two ionospheric holes occurred in the afternoon and around midnight in local time, with maximum electron depletion of 15% and 83% relative to the background ionosphere, and altitudinal distribution of 255–775 km and 202–535 km over SYISR, respectively. The vertical structural evolution of the holes displays the vertical variations of ionospheric characteristics and crucial ionospheric processes like plasma transport and chemistry. Our study contributes to a deeper understanding of the dynamics process of ionospheric holes as an artificial space weather process, which is of potential significance for monitoring space objects such as rockets. Key Points: Observations of the full vertical profile of the rocket‐induced ionospheric holes were presentedThe holes first appeared in topside ionosphere and then expanded both upwards and downwards to an altitude range of ∼200–∼700 kmThe recovery of electron density is faster for the midnight hole than the daytime one and is faster at high altitude than at low altitude [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the continuous casting process, the heat transfer effect of secondary cooling plays an important role in the quality of the slab. The cooling intensity and cooling uniformity of the secondary cooling nozzle need more efficient spray cooling to achieve. Herein, the cold characteristics of different types of nozzles were compared. It is found that the second type of air mist nozzles have more uniform water density and striking force. On this basis, high‐temperature heat transfer experiments for casting billets were carried out to study the heat transfer coefficients of different air mist nozzles in the secondary cooling zone of continuous casting. It is found that the heat transfer coefficient increases as the distance of the temperature measurement point from the nozzle directly below increases. The heat transfer coefficients of the casting billet in both the jet and non‐jet zones are decreasing to varying degrees. When the temperature drops to 600 °C, the second type of air mist nozzle shows a faster temperature drop at the point of measurement, a smaller difference in time taken for temperature drop between jet and non‐jet zones, and faster and more uniform spraying, leading to a more significant trend of increasing heat transfer coefficient. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lensless microscopy provides a wide field of view (FOV) determined by the image sensor size, allowing visualization of large sample areas. Coupled with advanced and even pixel super‐resolution phase retrieval algorithms, it can achieve resolutions up to the sub‐micron level, enabling both large‐FOV and high‐resolution imaging. However, high‐throughput lensless imaging encounters challenges in rapid data acquisition and large‐scale phase retrieval. Furthermore, when examining biological samples over a large FOV, focal plane inconsistencies often emerge among distinct regions. This study introduces a fast acquisition and efficient reconstruction method for coherent lensless imaging. Multiple measurements are manually modulated using an axial translation stage and sequentially captured by an image sensor, requiring no hardware synchronization. Optical parameter calibration, region‐wise auto‐focusing, and region‐wise phase retrieval algorithms are integrated to establish a general parallel computing framework for rapid, efficient, and high‐throughput lensless imaging. Experimental results demonstrate a 7.4 mm × 5.5 mm FOV and 1.38 µm half‐pitch resolution imaging of human skin and lung tumor sections with region‐wise focusing, requiring ≈0.5‐s acquisition time and 17‐s reconstruction time. By incorporating pixel super‐resolution, a 0.98 µm half‐pitch resolution is achieved in full‐FOV peripheral blood smears without additional data required, advantageous for discerning hollow shapes and segmenting blood cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Monitoring the generation and movement of equatorial plasma bubbles (EPBs) in a large longitude region is crucial important for better understanding their day‐to‐day variability. Using the newly developed Low lAtitude long Range Ionospheric raDar (LARID) at Dongfang (19.2°N, 108.8°E, dip lat. 13.8°N), China, an extremely long‐range experiment for observing EPB irregularities in a range of ±9,600 km to the radar site was first carried out. The results show that EPB irregularities with ranges up to 7,000 and 9,500 km were observed by the east and west beams of LARID, respectively. By incorporating simultaneous observations from GNSS receiver and ionosonde networks, it is demonstrated that the EPBs generated from post‐sunset to sunrise over a very wide longitude of ∼140°, from Pacific to Africa could be observed by LARID. The results, for the first time, demonstrate the possibility for tracing global EPBs in real time using a few low latitude over‐the‐horizon radars. Plain Language Summary: Equatorial plasma bubble (EPB), which can cause severe ionospheric scintillation, is an important space weather phenomenon. The occurrence of EPBs exhibits complex longitude variation characteristics. Due to the fact that most of the equatorial and low latitude region is covered by ocean, it is challenging to monitor the generation and movement of global EPBs. Recently, an over‐the‐horizon (OTH) radar at low latitude, that is, the LARID, has been built for observing EPB irregularities. However, it is not clear that how far an OTH radar at low latitude can observe irregularities. This would be very important in the design of a low latitude OTH radar network for tracing global EPB irregularities. To address this issue, an extremely long‐range experiment covering a wide longitude of about 180° was performed for the first time with LARID. The successful observation of EPB irregularities from Pacific to Africa sectors demonstrates the possibility of monitoring the complex longitudinal variations of EPBs by an OTH radar, even during geomagnetic storms. The results provide meaningful insight for building a low latitude OTH radar network in future, that consists of three to four OTH radars could have the capability to obtain global EPBs in real time. Key Points: First extremely long‐range experiment for observing equatorial plasma bubbles over a large longitude was conductedEquatorial plasma bubbles with ranges as far as 9,500 km were successfully observed by an over‐the‐horizon radarThe results demonstrate the capability for tracing global equatorial plasma bubbles using a few low latitude over‐the‐horizon radars [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The application of deep learning in high‐precision ionospheric parameter prediction has become one of the focus in space weather research. In this study, an improved model called Mixed Convolutional Neural Networks (CNN)—Bi‐Long Short Term Memory is proposed for predicting future ionospheric Total Electron Content (TEC). The model is trained using the longest available (25 years) Global Ionospheric Maps‐TEC and evaluated the accuracy of ionospheric storm predictions. The results indicate that using historical TEC in the solar‐geographical reference frame as input driving data achieves higher prediction accuracy compared to that in the geocentric coordinate system. Additionally, by comparing different input parameters, it is found that incorporating the Kp, ap, and Dst indices as inputs to the model effectively improves its accuracy, especially in long‐term forecasting where R2 increased by 3.49% and Root Mean Square Error decreased by 13.48%. Compared with BiLSTM‐Deep Neural Networks (DNN) and CNN‐BiLSTM, the Mixed CNN‐BiLSTM model has the highest prediction accuracy. It suggests that the utilization of CNN modules for processing spatial information, along with the incorporation of DNN modules to incorporate geomagnetic indices for result correction. Moreover, in short‐term predictions, the model accurately forecasts the evolution process of ionospheric storms. When extending the predicted length, although there are cases of prediction errors, the model still captures the entire process of ionospheric storms. Furthermore, the predicted results are significantly influenced by longitude, magnetic latitude, and local time. Plain Language Summary: To address some limitations in the research on ionospheric storm prediction using deep learning, this paper developed a model called Mixed Convolutional Neural Networks ‐ Bi‐Long Short‐Term Memory that considers both temporal and spatial information to predict Total Electron Content (TEC). Subsequently, the predicted TEC is used to identify the evolution of ionospheric storms. The data set used spans from 1998 to 2023 and consists of global TEC measurements. The evaluation of the model's performance was conducted using selected data samples. The evaluation reveals that using data in the solar‐geographical reference frame, along with geomagnetic indices, enhances the prediction accuracy of the model. Additionally, the model exhibits higher prediction accuracy in low latitude and mid latitude regions compared to high latitude regions, and higher accuracy during daytime compared to nighttime. Meanwhile, the influence of geomagnetic index on long‐term prediction is more significant. Key Points: Development of an improved deep learning model for future Total Electron Content predictionThe model enhances accuracy in solar‐geographical reference frame by incorporating Kp, ap, Dst indicesThe evaluation confirmed accurate prediction of ionospheric storm occurrence, disturbance amplitude, and evolution process by the model [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chiral metasurface based on bound state in the continuum (BIC) possesses extremely high Q factor. However, intrinsic chiral BIC only can be realized by breaking out‐of‐plane mirror symmetry with complicated 3D structures. In this work, a design of planar intrinsic chiral metasurface supporting orthogonal BICs is proposed. The coupling strength, eigenfrequency, and radiation loss of the two quasi‐BICs can be tuned by metasurface parameters. By adjusting the metasurface parameters, the two quasi‐BICs merge to an exceptional point (EP). Around EP, one of the BICs transforms to chiral BIC with circular eigenstate polarization. In the parameter space, different elliptical eigenstate polarizations with the same helicity wind around the EP. The polarizations of the quasi‐BICs nearly fully cover the Poincaré sphere by changing the geometry parameters. The superchiral fields of the quasi‐BICs will also be greatly enhanced near the EP. The simulation result shows high circular dichroism at resonance frequency. The design provides a new strategy for polarization detection and chiral light sources. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: The polyphagous mirid bug Apolygus lucorum (Meyer‐Dür) and the green leafhopper Empoasca spp. Walsh are small pests that are widely distributed and important pests of many economically important crops, especially kiwis. Conventional monitoring methods are expensive, laborious and error‐prone. Currently, deep learning methods are ineffective at recognizing them. This study proposes a new deep‐learning‐based YOLOv5s_HSSE model to automatically detect and count them on sticky card traps. RESULTS: Based on a database of 1502 images, all images were collected from kiwi orchards at multiple locations and times. We trained the YOLOv5s model to detect and count them and then changed the activation function to Hard swish in YOLOv5s, introduced the SIoU Loss function, and added the squeeze‐and‐excitation attention mechanism to form a new YOLOv5s_HSSE model. Mean average precision of this model in the test dataset was 95.9%, the recall rate was 93.9% and the frames per second was 155, which are higher than those of other single‐stage deep‐learning models, such as SSD, YOLOv3 and YOLOv4. CONCLUSION: The proposed YOLOv5s_HSSE model can be used to identify and count A. lucorum and Empoasca spp., and it is a new, efficient and accurate monitoring method. Pest detection will benefit from the broader applications of deep learning. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Near‐infrared multispectral imaging technology enhances target detection and recognition by distinguishing the spectral characteristics of various targets. However, traditional imaging systems heavily rely on complex optical filter designs that are often bulky and mechanically unstable, posing significant challenges for miniaturization and integration challenging. In this study, a freeform dielectric metasurface with the wavelength‐multiplexing focusing effect based on a deep learning model is designed, which can separate the mixed near‐infrared light into distinct wavelengths. To effectively modulate the complex amplitude of the transmitted light at three distinct near‐infrared wavelengths (1150, 1350, and 1550 nm), high‐index silicon freeform nanostructures supporting rich resonant modes are proposed. An inverse design model based on deep learning is utilized to generate individual freeform nanostructures pixel by pixel, satisfying the complex amplitude requirement for a multiplexed metalens design. Both the simulated and experimental results show that the wavelength‐multiplexing effect of the devices is in good agreement with the target with negligible crosstalk. Finally, a metasurface is employed to realize near‐infrared multispectral imaging, which allows for the distinct detection and decoding of images at the three target wavelengths. The proposed technology has a wide range of applications in clinical medicine, biological tissue imaging, and deep‐space exploration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Head‐and‐neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) patients often exhibit insensitivity to immunotherapy, leading to treatment failure. Identifying potential biomarkers that can predict prognosis and improve the efficacy of treatment is crucial. In this study, we aimed to identify necroptosis‐related long noncoding RNAs (NRlncRNAs) as potential therapeutic targets to improve the prognosis of HNSCC patients. By exploring the Genotype‐Tissue Expression Project (GTEx) and the Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) databases, we identified NRlncRNAs and developed a risk model comprising 17 NRlncRNAs to predict the prognosis of HNSCC patients and to classify patients into two clusters based on their expression levels. We conducted various analyses, such as the Kaplan–Meier analysis, GSEA and IC50 prediction, to evaluate the differences in sensitivity to immunotherapy between the two clusters. Our findings suggest that NRlncRNAs have potential as therapeutic targets for improving the prognosis of HNSCC patients, and that individualized treatment approaches based on NRlncRNA expression levels can improve the sensitivity of immunotherapy and overall treatment outcomes. This study highlights new perspectives within clinical cancer informatics and provides insight into potential therapeutic strategies for HNSCC patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Optical aberration is a crucial issue in optical microscopes, fundamentally constraining the achievable imaging performance. As a commonly encountered one, spherical aberration is introduced by the refractive index mismatches between samples and their surrounding environments, leading to problems like low contrast, blurring, and distortion in imaging. Light‐field microscopy (LFM) has recently emerged as a powerful tool for rapid volumetric imaging. The presence of spherical aberration in LFM will cause substantial changes of the point spread function (PSF) and thus greatly affects the imaging performance. Here, the aberration‐modeling view‐channel‐depth (AM‐VCD) network is proposed for LFM reconstruction, effectively mitigating the influence of severe spherical aberration. By quantitatively estimating the spherical aberration in advance and incorporating it into the network training, the AM‐VCD achieves aberration‐corrected high‐speed visualization of 3D processes with uniform spatial resolution and real‐time reconstruction speed. Without necessitating hardware modifications, this method provides a convenient way for directly observing the 3D dynamics of samples in solution. The capability of AM‐VCD under a large refractive index mismatch is demonstrated through volumetric imaging of a large‐scale fishbone of a largemouth bass. Furthermore, the capability of AM‐VCD in nearly 100 Hz volumetric imaging of neutrophil migration and a beating heart in living zebrafish is investigated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Previous studies have demonstrated that lipopolysaccharide (LPS), as a central toxic factor of gram‐negative bacteria, can induce oxidative stress and cellular inflammation to result in the impairment of female fertility in different organisms. Particularly, it has harmful effects on the oocyte quality and subsequent embryonic development. However, the approach concerning how to prevent oocytes from LPS‐induced deterioration still remains largely unexplored. We assessed the effective influences of velvet antler water extract (VAWE) by immunostaining and fluorescence intensity quantification on the meiotic maturation, mitochondrial function and sperm binding ability of oocytes under oxidative stress. Here, we report that VAWE treatment restores the quality of porcine oocytes exposed to LPS. Specifically, LPS exposure contributed to the failed oocyte maturation, reduced sperm binding ability and fertilization capability by disturbing the dynamics and arrangement of meiotic apparatuses and organelles, including spindle assembly, chromosome alignment, actin polymerization, mitochondrial dynamics and cortical granule distribution, the indicators of oocyte nuclear and cytoplasmic maturation. Notably, VAWE treatment recovered these meiotic defects by removing the LPS‐induced excessive ROS and thus inhibiting the apoptosis. Collectively, our study illustrates that VAWE treatment is a feasible strategy to improve the oocyte quality deteriorated by the LPS‐induced oxidative stress. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Purpose: New remedies are required for the treatment of diabetic neuropathic pain (DNP) due to insufficient efficacy of available therapies. Here, we used chemogenetic approaches combined with in vivo pharmacology to elucidate the role of basolateral amygdala (BLA) astrocytes in DNP pathogenesis and provide new insights into therapeutic strategies for DNP. Experimental Approach: A streptozotocin‐induced DNP model was established. Designer receptors exclusively activated by designer drugs (DREADDs) were used to regulate astrocyte activity. Mechanical hyperalgesia was assessed using the electronic von Frey test. Anxiety‐like behaviours were detected using open field and elevated plus maze tests. Astrocytic activity was detected by immunofluorescence, and cytokine content was determined by ELISA. Key Results: BLA astrocytes were regulated by DREADDs, and inhibition of BLA astrocytes attenuated mechanical allodynia and pain‐related negative emotions in DNP rats. In contrast, temporary activation of BLA astrocytes induced allodynia without anxious behaviours in naive rats. In addition, koumine (KM) alleviated mechanical allodynia and anxiety‐like behaviours in DNP rats, inhibited the activation of BLA astrocytes and suppressed the inflammatory response. Furthermore, persistent activation of BLA astrocytes through chemogenetics mimicked chronic pain, and KM alleviated the pain hypersensitivity and anxiety‐like behaviours. Conclusion and Implications: DREADDs bidirectionally regulate the activity of BLA astrocytes, which proves for the first time the role of BLA astrocyte activation in the pathogenesis of DNP and represents a novel therapeutic strategy for DNP. KM ameliorates DNP, perhaps by inhibiting the activation of BLA astrocytes and reveal KM as a potential candidate for treating DNP. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tanc2 is a large multi‐domain postsynaptic scaffold protein mainly expressed in the brain. In humans, tanc2 mutations have been associated with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and other related neurodevelopmental disorders. However, the role of tanc2 in neurodevelopment and in controlling behaviors are not fully understood. Here, we generated and characterized a tanc2 knockout allele in zebrafish. Loss of tanc2 increases the larval brain size and body length by promoting proliferation and inhibiting apoptosis. We observed that the glutamatergic neuron population is significantly increased in tanc2 mutants while the GABAergic and the glycinergic neurons are not affected, suggesting that an excitatory/inhibitory (E/I) imbalance. Indeed, the tanc2 knockout larvae exhibited increase sleep. In adult zebrafish, the mutants display anxiolytic‐behavior, reduced aggression, and impaired social preference. The alterations in these behaviors are phenotypically similar to the ASD patients carrying tanc2 mutations. Therefore, the tanc2 knockout allele could serve as a valuable model to further study the role of tanc2 in the nervous system. Lay Summary: In this study, we generated a zebrafish model of tanc2, which is a risk gene for autism spectrum disorder. We characterized the molecular and behavioral phenotypes in tanc2 knockout model to determine its functions in neurodevelopment and behavior. We show that loss of tanc2 in zebrafish resulted in enlarged brain size, increased population of glutamatergic (excitatory) neurons, and alterations in various behaviors, including sleep, anxiety, aggression and social preference. This model would be useful for further studies and drug screening. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We used dense global navigation satellite system data from China to track the propagation of traveling ionospheric disturbances (TIDs) triggered by the 2022 January 15 Tonga volcanic eruption. We identified two TIDs originating from the eruption. One, which has been reported widely by a number of recent investigations, had a velocity of ∼361 m/s. However, another long‐distance propagating TID with a velocity of ∼264 m/s has not been widely discussed. The velocities of these TIDs coincide with previous simulation results of gravity‐wave L0 and L1 modes. We propose that these TIDs were caused by the L0 and L1 ducted modes of gravity waves excited by the volcanic eruption. However, the L1 mode is usually negligible due to its weak amplitude in comparison with that of the L0 mode. The enormous energy release resulted in a stronger amplitude of the L1 mode, which induced a detectable TID in the ionosphere. Plain Language Summary: A massive volcanic eruption occurred at 04:15 UT on 15 January 2022 in the Hunga Tonga‐Hunga Ha'apai volcano. The volcanic eruption generated atmospheric waves with circular wave fronts, similar to a "stone dropping in a pond leading to ripples." Atmospheric waves can propagate around the globe through waveguides, which guide waves from point to point like a transmission tube. We observed a group of atmospheric waves in China using global navigation satellite system receivers from 902 stations. Three disturbances events, induced by atmospheric waves, were observed in Eastern China 6 hr and 45 min after the eruption. In addition to the first disturbance that supports the long‐distance propagation, there are some slow‐velocities and small‐amplitude traveling ionospheric disturbances, which follow the first one with a velocity of 264 m/s. Upward energy leakage caused ionospheric disturbances, which possibly introduced errors in the positioning and navigation of global navigation satellite systems. Key Points: Two traveling ionospheric disturbances (TIDs) excited by the Tonga volcanic eruption were observed in Eastern ChinaThe velocities of these TIDs are consistent with previous simulation results of gravity‐wave L0 and L1 modesThe enormous energy release resulted in a stronger amplitude of the L1 mode, which induced a detectable TID in the ionosphere [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, multiple data sets from Beidou geosynchronous Earth orbit (GEO) satellite, ionosonde, magnetometer, Swarm satellite, and meteor radar were used to investigate an anomalous disturbance of the ionosphere in East Asia on 1 November 2016. During 03:00–08:00 universal time (UT), the total electron content (TEC) observed by the Beidou GEO satellite decreased by up to 8.17% at low latitudes and increased by up to 140.19% at middle to low latitudes in East Asia compared to the average TEC on the reference days. The F2 peak electron density (NmF2) measured by ionosondes decreased by 16.00% at Sanya (109.4°E, 18.3°N) and increased by 51.96% and 53.97% at Wuhan (114.4°E, 30.5°N) and Shaoyang (111.3°E, 27.1°N), respectively. The equatorial electric field (EEF) observed by the Swarm satellite at 06:59 UT on 1 November was approximately 77.57% higher than on 4 November. The variations of equatorial electrojet near 100°E and 120°E on 1 November presented an east‐west asymmetry in which there was a significant enhancement in the east while there was no obvious increase in the west. The TEC enhancement derived by the Center for Orbit Determination in Europe also showed the same east‐west asymmetry in the two longitudes. Based on the comprehensive analysis of multiple observational data, the increase in EEF caused the ionospheric TEC and NmF2 to decrease at low latitudes and increase at middle to low latitudes in East Asia during 03:00–08:00 UT on 1 November 2016. The lower atmospheric tidal forcing could contribute to the enhancement of the EEF. Key Points: An anomalous disturbance of ionospheric total electron content (TEC) and NmF2 occurred in East Asia during the geomagnetic quiet day on 1 November 2016The enhancements in the equatorial electrojet and CODE‐TEC near 100°E and 120°E present an east‐west asymmetryThe equatorial electric field enhancement causes the ionospheric TEC to decrease at low latitudes and increase at middle to low latitudes [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Maximum residue limit (MRL) is the primary policy instrument to regulate the application of pesticides in agri‐food sectors. Partially due to the lack of scientific consensus on risk assessments, the prescriptions of MRLs vary substantially across markets and products. We provide the first empirical analysis of the political economy of MRLs at the market‐product‐chemical level, while accounting for long‐term toxicological effects of the regulated substances. Applying a Poisson model to the Health Scores derived from both the literal MRLs and their long‐run health impacts, we find that countries spending more on public health set more restrictive MRLs. We also find that countries possessing comparative advantages in fruits and vegetables adopt more lenient MRLs. Finally, products subject to lower tariffs are generally taxed with tougher MRLs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims: We aimed to investigate whether sacubitril–valsartan could further improve the prognosis, cardiac function, and left ventricular (LV) remodelling in patients following acute myocardial infarction (AMI). Methods and results: We searched the PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, and China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI) from inception to 10 May 2021 to identify potential articles. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) meeting the inclusion criteria were included and analysed. Thirteen RCTs, covering 1358 patients, were analysed. Compared with angiotensin‐converting enzyme inhibitors (ACEI)/angiotensin receptor blockers (ARB), sacubitril–valsartan did not significantly reduced the cardiovascular mortality [risk ratio (RR) 0.65, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.22 to 1.93, P = 0.434] and the rate of myocardial reinfarction (RR 0.65, 95% CI 0.29 to 1.46, P = 0.295) of patients following AMI, but the rate of hospitalization for heart failure (HF) (RR 0.48, 95% CI 0.35 to 0.66, P < 0.001) and the change of LV ejection fraction (LVEF) [weighted mean difference (WMD) 5.49, 95% CI 3.62 to 7.36, P < 0.001] were obviously improved. The N‐terminal pro‐brain natriuretic peptide (NT‐ProBNP) level (WMD −310.23, 95% CI −385.89 to −234.57, P < 0.001) and the LV end‐diastolic dimension (LVEDD) (WMD −3.16, 95% CI −4.59 to −1.73, P < 0.001) were also significantly lower in sacubitril–valsartan group than in ACEI/ARB group. Regarding safety, sacubitril–valsartan did not increase the risk of hypotension, hyperkalaemia, angioedema, and cough. Conclusions: This meta‐analysis suggests that early administration of sacubitril–valsartan may be superior to conventional ACEI/ARB to decrease the risk of hospitalization for HF, improve the cardiac function, and reverse the LV remodelling in patients following AMI. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: Histone deacetylase 8 (HDAC8) is one of the class I HDAC family proteins, which participates in the neuronal disorders, parasitic/viral infections, tumorigenesis and many other biological processes. However, its potential function during female germ cell development has not yet been fully understood. Materials and methods: HDAC8‐targeting siRNA was microinjected into GV oocytes to deplete HDAC8. PCI‐34051 was used to inhibit the enzyme activity of HDAC8. Immunostaining, immunoblotting and fluorescence intensity quantification were applied to assess the effects of HDAC8 depletion or inhibition on the oocyte meiotic maturation, spindle/chromosome structure, γ‐tubulin dynamics and acetylation level of α‐tubulin. Results: We observed that HDAC8 was localized in the nucleus at GV stage and then translocated to the spindle apparatus from GVBD to M II stages in porcine oocytes. Depletion of HDAC8 led to the oocyte meiotic failure by showing the reduced polar body extrusion rate. In addition, depletion of HDAC8 resulted in aberrant spindle morphologies and misaligned chromosomes due to the defective recruitment of γ‐tubulin to the spindle poles. Notably, these meiotic defects were photocopied by inhibition of HDAC8 activity using its specific inhibitor PCI‐34051. However, inhibition of HDAC8 did not affect microtubule stability as assessed by the acetylation level of α‐tubulin. Conclusions: Collectively, our findings demonstrate that HDAC8 acts as a regulator of spindle assembly during porcine oocyte meiotic maturation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Broadband tuning of polarization states is pivotal yet challenging in modern photonics technologies, especially for miniaturized or integrated systems. Metasurfaces potentially provide an effective approach to resolve this challenge. However, once a metadevice is fabricated, its functionalities are determined, and it is hard to actively tune the polarization states. Here, the electrically tunable broadband polarization states by combining phase‐change material (vanadium dioxide) and dispersion‐free metasurface are demonstrated for the first time. The polarization states are modulated through the electrically driven, Joule‐heat‐induced phase transition of vanadium dioxide, where the output polarization state can be continuously tuned from horizontal one to vertical one, or from circular polarization to linear polarization. With accurate on‐chip control of the phase transition, continuous and reversible modulation of polarization is verified in a scanning display. Moreover, a proof‐of‐concept demonstration for dynamically independent control of multiple polarization display is carried out. Different images are produced by applying electrical currents in N separate channels to generate a dynamic multiplexing polarization display with 2N encoding states. Such an active metasurface can be readily integrated with electronics and has potential applications in display, encryption, camouflage, and information processing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Forest transition theory posits that socioeconomic development in a country or region may cause its forestland to shift from net loss to net gain. However, forest transition may also occur under various policies, resulting in forest gains in some regions but deforestation in other regions. We used the telecoupling framework to address this crucially important issue that has rarely been examined. Using time series satellite images and statistical yearbook data from 2000 to 2020, this study seeks to understand land use change patterns, the corresponding regional spillover effects, and the driving forces behind such patterns in Zhejiang Province, China. The results show that large‐scale continuous deforestation has taken place since 2000, causing a total loss of forestland by 22,823 ha. In parallel with this forest loss and a slight decrease in arable land, urban construction land has soared by 169.45%. We found that more developed municipalities such as Hangzhou witnessed increases in urban land at the expense of large‐scale deforestation in less developed municipalities such as Lishui. This cross‐region land use change pattern may arise from the balance of arable land system (BALS) policy that seeks to achieve a goal of no net loss of arable land. Land use policy—such as the BALS policy—must strike a good balance among competitive land uses that have different objectives such as residents' living, ecology, and production. In addition to enriching the forest transition theory, this study provides a solid basis for future land use decisions in developing regions or countries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background. Abnormal lipid metabolism is closely associated with the invasiveness and metastasis of cancer. Fatty acid-binding proteins (FABPs) play essential roles in lipid metabolism, and miRNAs can affect lipid metabolism by targeting FABPs. However, the exact mechanism is unknown. Methods. FABP1 expression in HCC tissues was analyzed by immunochemistry with tissue microarrays. The lipid content was detected by Oil Red O staining, and the interaction between FABP1 and free fatty acid (FFA) was studied by a labeling and tracking method. miRNA arrays were used to detect the expression of miRNAs in IL-6-stimulated HCC cells. miR-603 expression was verified by qPCR. The proteins were checked by Western blot analysis. Gain and loss function evaluation was assessed by lentivirus and miRNA mimic transfection in Huh-7 cells, while reactive oxygen species (ROS) were detected by fluorescence. Results. FABP1 expression was significantly decreased in approximately 90% (81/90) of HCC patients. FABP1 expression in adjacent tissues was closely associated with overall survival. Meanwhile, lipid was abundant in the adjacent tissues, yet significantly reduced in HCC tissues. FABP1 and FFA can promote each other for being uptaken by Huh-7 cells. FABP1 overexpression induced apoptosis and inhibited the proliferation, migration, invasion, and metastasis of Huh-7 cells. IL-6 treatment affected the expression of miRNAs, and miR-603 was overexpressed in HCC tissues. Also, miR-603 overexpression promoted the proliferation, migration, invasion, and metastasis of Huh-7 cells. Bioinformatic analysis predicted that miR-603 targets the 3 ′ -UTR region of FABP1. However, miR-603 overexpression inhibited the expression of the FABP1 but increased the CPT1A, PPAR-α, and SREBP1 expressions. FABP1 overexpression reduced ROS in HCC cells, while miR-603 can reverse these effects. Conclusion. Our results indicate that in the pathogenesis of HCC, IL-6 induces miR-603 expression, which subsequently inhibits FABP1 expression, promotes the lipid metabolism- and synthesis-related proteins, and finally increases the cellular oxidative stress level and leads to the metastasis of HCC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The existing studies of the corrosion of reinforced concrete have mainly focused on the interface area and chemical ion erosion, ignoring the specific service environment of the reinforced concrete. In this study, the effect of freeze-thaw damage was investigated via corrosion experiments under different freeze-thaw cycle conditions. Steel reinforcement corrosion mass, ultimate pull-out force, corrosion rate, and bond slippage were chosen as characteristic parameters in the experiments, and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analysis was used to explain the mechanism of action of freeze-thaw damage on corrosion. The results showed that, under identical corrosion conditions, the mass of steel reinforcement corrosion and corrosion rate increased by 39.6% and 39.7% when comparing 200 freeze-thaw cycles to 0 cycles, respectively. The ultimate pull-out force and bond slippage after 200 freeze-thaw cycles decreased by 73% and 31%, respectively, compared with 0 freeze-thaw cycles. In addition, SEM analysis indicated that microstructure damage caused by freeze-thaw cycles accelerated the corrosion reaction and decreased cementitious properties, leading to decreasing ultimate pull-out force and bond slippage. The effect of freeze-thaw cycles and steel reinforcement corrosion on the macro mechanical properties of concrete is not a simple superposition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Microbial production of l‐tryptophan (l‐trp) has received considerable attention because of its diverse applications in food additives and pharmaceuticals. Overexpression of rate‐limiting enzymes and blockage of competing pathways can effectively promote microbial production of l‐trp. However, the biosynthetic process remains suboptimal due to imbalanced flux distribution between central carbon and tryptophan metabolism, presenting a major challenge to further improvement of l‐trp yield. In this study, we redistributed central carbon metabolism to improve phosphoenolpyruvate (PEP) and erythrose‐4‐phosphate (E4P) pools in an l‐trp producing strain of Escherichia coli for efficient l‐trp synthesis. To do this, a phosphoketolase from Bifidobacterium adolescentis was introduced to strengthen E4P formation, and the l‐trp titer and yield increased to 10.8 g/L and 0.148 g/g glucose, respectively. Next, the phosphotransferase system was substituted with PEP‐independent glucose transport, meditated by a glucose facilitator from Zymomonas mobilis and native glucokinase. This modification improved l‐trp yield to 0.164 g/g glucose, concomitant with 58% and 40% decreases of acetate and lactate accumulation, respectively. Then, to channel more central carbon flux to the tryptophan biosynthetic pathway, several metabolic engineering strategies were applied to rewire the PEP‐pyruvate‐oxaloacetate node. Finally, the constructed strain SX11 produced 41.7 g/L l‐trp with an overall yield of 0.227 g/g glucose after 40 h fed‐batch fermentation in 5‐L bioreactor. This is the highest overall yield of l‐trp ever reported from a rationally engineered strain. Our results suggest the flux redistribution of central carbon metabolism to maintain sufficient supply of PEP and E4P is a promising strategy for efficient l‐trp biosynthesis, and this strategy would likely also increase the production of other aromatic amino acids and derivatives. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Traditional microlens focuses the beam with spherical convex surface, which achieves high transmission by restraining the scattering loss yet brings spherical aberration and chromatic aberration. While recently‐developed metalens, which relies on phase modulation by elaborately designing local resonators, has realized diffraction‐limited focusing. Yet, the issues of scattering loss of nanoresonators and chromatic aberration remain serious. Here, the design strategies of both metalens and traditional microlens are combined by introducing accurate phase modulation for the wavefront into microlens designing; and a broadband, polarization‐independent, and achromatic microlens with high efficiency is realized. With concentric‐circular polymer (phenolic resin) terrace as basic building blocks, a precise thickness profile is constructed and a high‐index polymer microlens is formed by electron‐beam grayscale lithography. The diffraction‐limited focusing possesses less than 5% change of focal length when the wavelength varies from 425 to 700 nm, showing the full‐color imaging and detection with a focusing efficiency of 80% (at 700 nm wavelength). Moreover, the rotation symmetry of the microstructures of microlens makes it work for arbitrary polarization. The achromatic imaging capability of the microlens is verified by whitelight imaging. It is expected that this high‐efficiency polarization‐independent broadband achromatic polymer microlens may have wide applications in high‐efficient imaging and sensing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A comprehensive trade agreement has the potential to intensify agricultural trade between the United States and the European Union (EU). The cooperation on non‐tariff barriers including food safety standards and sanitary and phytosanitary issues will expand trade in fruits and vegetables. Using quarterly bilateral trade data at the U.S. state level, we deployed gravity models and probit equations and found that a 10% reduction in MRL stringency would promote trade by 5%. If the final provisions endorse the Codex MRLs, the U.S.‐EU agreement would boost U.S. exports of fruits and vegetables to the EU by $473 million a year. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Methyl jasmonate (MeJA) is an airborne signaling phytohormone that can induce changes in endogenous jasmonates (JAs) and cause photosynthetic responses. However, the response of these two aspects of citrus plants at different MeJA concentrations is still unclear. Four MeJA concentrations were used in two citrus varieties, Huangguogan (C. reticulata × C. sinensis) and Shiranuhi [C. reticulata × (C. reticulata × C. sinensis)], to investigate the effects of MeJA dose on the endogenous JAs pathway and photosynthetic capacity. We observed that MeJA acted in a dose‐dependent manner, and its stimulation in citrus leaves showed a bidirectional character at different concentrations. This work demonstrates that MeJA at only a concentration of 2.2 mM or less contributed to the activation of magnesium protoporphyrin IX methyltransferase (ChlM, EC 2.1.1.11) and protochlorophyllide oxidoreductase (POR, EC 1.3.1.11) and the simultaneous accumulation of Chl a and Chl b, which in turn contributed to an improved photosynthetic capacity and PSII photochemistry efficiency of citrus. Meanwhile, the inhibition of endogenous JAs synthesis by exogenous MeJA was observed. This was achieved by reducing the ratio of monogalactosyl diacylglycerol (MGDG) to diagalactosyl diacylglycerol (DGDG) and inhibiting the activities of key enzymes in JAs synthesis, especially 12‐oxo‐phytodienoic acid reductase (OPR, EC 1.3.1.42). Another noteworthy finding is that there may exist a JA‐independent pathway that could regulate 12‐oxo‐phytodienoic acid (OPDA) synthesis. This study jointly analyzed the internal hormone regulation mechanism and the external physiological response, as well as revealed the effects of exogenous MeJA on promoting the photosynthesis and inhibiting the endogenous JAs synthesis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Deforestation affects environmental systems worldwide by increasing disaster risk and carbon emissions and also by reducing soil fertility rejuvenation and biodiversity. Here, we inspected the patterns and processes of deforestation in Zhejiang Province of China since 2000 under a background of national forest restoration. By integrating the Hansen high‐resolution forest cover change products and a field study, the relationship between forest loss dynamics and topography and also the proximity to settlement and rivers, were evaluated. The results show that the total forest loss in Zhejiang Province was 266,984 ha in 2001–2018. Forest loss magnitude reached a maximum in 2008 and has maintained a high level of annual loss about 17,000 ha since. While forest loss patches are mainly located on the mountaintops, the slope and altitude of the deforested patches reached maximal values in 2008, and both of them decreased since then even though the amount of forest loss remains high. The most significant forest loss was recorded at the south of Zhejiang Province around Lishui City and the least forest loss was in the area of Jiaxing city near Hangzhou, the capital city of Zhejiang Province. The area of deforestation decreases while the distance to settlements increases. We analyze the spatiotemporal characteristics and potential factors that affect deforestation in Zhejiang Province and highlight the role of market and policy, which transformed land use. This study further enriches the forest transition theory and provides a basis for the future decision making on clearing forest for compensating farmland loss. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Genetic mutations are the major pathogenic factor of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). In recent years, more and more ASD risk genes have been revealed, among which there are a group of transcriptional regulators. Considering the similarity of the core clinical phenotypes, it is possible that these different factors may regulate the expression levels of certain key targets. Identification of these targets could facilitate the understanding of the etiology and developing of novel diagnostic and therapeutic methods. Therefore, we performed integrated transcriptome analyses of RNA‐Seq and microarray data in multiple ASD mouse models and identified a number of common downstream genes in various brain regions, many of which are related to the structure and function of the synapse components or drug addiction. We then established protein–protein interaction networks of the overlapped targets and isolated the hub genes by 11 algorithms based on the topological structure of the networks, including Sdc4, Vegfa, and Cp in the Cortex‐Adult subgroup, Gria1 in the Cortex‐Juvenile subgroup, and Kdr, S1pr1, Ubc, Grm2, Grin2b, Nrxn1, Pdyn, Grin3a, Itgam, Grin2a, Gabra2, and Camk4 in the Hippocampus‐Adult subgroup, many of which have been associated with ASD in previous studies. Finally, we cross compared our results with human brain transcriptional data sets and verified several key candidates, which may play important role in the pathology process of ASD, including SDC4, CP, S1PR1, UBC, PDYN, GRIN2A, GABRA2, and CAMK4. In summary, by integrated bioinformatics analysis, we have identified a series of potentially important molecules for future ASD research. Autism Res 2020, 13: 352–368. © 2019 International Society for Autism Research, Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Lay Summary: Abnormal transcriptional regulation accounts for a significant portion of Autism Spectrum Disorder. In this study, we performed transcriptome analyses of mouse models to identify common downstream targets of transcriptional regulators involved in ASD. We identified several recurrent target genes that are close related to the common pathological process of ASD, including SDC4, CP, S1PR1, UBC, PDYN, GRM2, NRXN1, GRIN3A, ITGAM, GRIN2A, GABRA2, and CAMK4. These results provide potentially important targets for understanding the molecular mechanism of ASD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Brefeldin A (BFA) is a lactone antibiotic synthesized from palmitic acid by several fungi that could block anterograde transport of proteins from endoplasmic reticulum to Golgi apparatus by reversible disruption of the Golgi complex. Previous investigations have shown that BFA induces the apoptosis of cancer cells in mitosis and impairs asymmetric spindle positioning in meiosis. Here, we document that exposure to BFA in porcine oocytes compromises the meiotic maturation via disrupting both nuclear and cytoplasmic maturation. We found that BFA exposure collapsed the cytoskeleton assembly by showing the aberrant spindle organization with misaligned chromosomes and defective actin dynamics. Furthermore, the distribution of both mitochondria and cortical granules (CGs), two important indexes of cytoplasmic maturation of oocytes, was disturbed following BFA exposure. We finally validated that the localization of ovastacin, a component of CGs that is essential for the postfertilization removal of sperm‐binding sites in the zona pellucida, was also perturbed in BFA‐exposed oocytes, which might weaken their fertilization capacity. Collectively, these findings indicate that Golgi‐mediated protein transport is indispensable for the porcine oocyte meiotic maturation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper deals with load extrapolation methods and algorithms for the estimation of the energy efficiency of induction motors, starting from the electrical data generally available after parameter identification. The main aim of this paper is to help the readers move from the theoretical analysis to the experimental verification, which is suitable to be included in its own testing. For this reason, step‐by‐step algorithms are included in this paper. The first part deals with the determination of energy efficiency based on an original load extrapolation. Finally, experimental verification of the high‐power and high‐voltage induction motors is provided. Comparison between the values of the in–out method and load extrapolation method confirms the validity of the proposed algorithms. Compared to the direct in–out method, the error of the load extrapolation proposed in this paper is less than 1%.The load extrapolation method is mainly used for the high‐voltage and high‐power asynchronous motor. The high‐voltage and high‐power motor can be used to drive a low‐power motor to achieve coaxial twin trawling in the absence of a suitable power supply and matched load. The energy efficiency of a high‐power motor under different loads are measured and estimated using a mathematical fitting method. The estimated energy efficiency curves in the whole load range can be used to evaluate the high‐power and high‐voltage induction motor. © 2019 Institute of Electrical Engineers of Japan. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Inc. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Histone deacetylases (HDACs) are involved in a wide array of biological processes. However, the role of HDAC3 in porcine oocytes remains unclear. In the current study, we examine the effects of HDAC3 inhibition on porcine oocyte maturation using RGFP966, a selective HDAC3 inhibitor. We find that suppression of HDAC3 activity prevents not only the expansion of cumulus cells but also the meiotic progression of oocytes. It is interesting to note that HDAC3 displays a spindle‐like distribution pattern as the porcine oocytes enter meiosis. In line with this, confocal microscopy reveals the high frequency of spindle defects and chromosomal congression failure in metaphase oocytes exposed to RGFP966. Moreover, HDAC3 inhibition results in the hyperacetylation of α‐tubulin during oocyte meiosis. These findings indicate that HDAC3 activity might control the microtubule stability via the deacetylation of tubulin, which is critical for maintaining the proper spindle assembly, accurate chromosome separation, and orderly meiotic progression during porcine oocyte maturation. Our findings indicate that histone deacetylases 3 (HDAC3) activity might control the microtubule stability via the deacetylation of tubulin, which is critical for maintaining the proper spindle assembly, accurate chromosome separation, and orderly meiotic progression during porcine oocyte maturation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Intersectins (ITSNs) have been shown to act as adaptor proteins that govern multiple cellular events via regulating Cdc42 activity. However, it remains to be determined whether the ITSN‐Cdc42 pathway is functional in porcine oocytes. To address this question, we used a small molecule, ZCL278, to selectively disrupt the ITSN2‐Cdc42 interaction. In the present study, we find that porcine oocytes exposed to ZCL278 are unable to completely progress through meiosis. Meanwhile, the spindle defects and chromosomal congression failure are frequently detected in these oocytes. In support of this, we observed the accumulated distribution of vesicle‐like ITSN2 signals around the chromosome/spindle region during porcine oocyte maturation. In addition, our results also showed that inhibition of the ITSN‐Cdc42 interaction impairs the actin polymerization in porcine oocytes. In summary, the findings support a model where ITSNs, through the interaction with Cdc42, modulates the assembly of meiotic apparatus and actin polymerization, consequently ensuring the orderly meiotic progression during porcine oocyte maturation. Our findings support a model where intersectins, through the interaction with Cdc42, modulates the assembly of meiotic apparatus and actin polymerization, consequently ensuring the orderly meiotic progression during porcine oocyte maturation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The feasibility of removal of sulfate ions from the sodium alkali FGD wastewater using the ettringite precipitation method was evaluated. Factors affecting the removal of sulfate ions, such as NaAlO2 dosage, Ca(OH)2 dosage, solution temperature, anions (Cl−, NO3− and F−), and heavy metal ions (Mg2+ and Mn2+), were investigated, and the optimal experimental conditions for the removal of sulfate ions were determined. Experimental results indicate that the ettringite precipitation method can effectively remove SO42− with removal efficiency of more than 98%. All the investigated factors have influences on the removal of sulfate ions, and among them, the dosage of reagents, solution temperature, and fluoride ions have the strongest influence. In addition, the method can effectively synergistically remove F− and heavy metal ions with removal efficiencies of more than 90% and 99%, respectively; meanwhile, Cl− and NO3− also can be removed minimally by the method. The result of actual wastewater treatment shows that the method is feasible for treating high-concentration sulfate wastewater. The ettringite precipitation method has the potential to be a commercial application in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: A possible Transatlantic Trade and Investment Partnership agreement will further integrate agricultural markets between the United States and the European Union. The elimination of tariffs and cooperation on sanitary and phytosanitary measures will promote cross‐Atlantic trade. We empirically estimate the impacts of tariffs and maximum residue limits on trade in plant products between the two partners. Furthermore, we simulate trade expansions under plausible negotiation outcomes. We find that a TTIP agreement promotes cross‐Atlantic trade in plant products, in both directions, by nearly 60% if tariffs are removed and MRLs are mutually recognized or harmonized to the Codex levels. [EconLit citations: Q17, F15] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The desulfurization and denitrification wastewater (DDW) from the wet flue gas treatment project is difficult to be treated and recycled because of high chloride ion (Cl−) concentration. Cl− can cause equipment and piping corrosion. However, there is a lack of cost-effective treatment technologies for the removal of Cl− from the DDW. In this research, the feasibility of Cl− removal from the DDW using Friedel’s salt precipitation method was evaluated. Factors affecting the Cl− removal, such as Ca(OH)2 dosage, NaAlO2 dosage, solution’s initial pH, solution’s temperature, reaction time, stirring speed, and anions (SO42−, NO3−, and F−), were investigated, and the optimal experimental conditions for Cl− removal were determined. Experimental results showed that Friedel’s salt precipitation method can remove Cl− effectively and can achieve synergistic removal of SO42−, F−, and heavy metal ions. Under the best experimental conditions, the average removal efficiencies of Cl−, SO42−, F−, and heavy metal ions reach more than 85%, 98%, 94%, and 99%, respectively. The Cl− removal mechanism studies showed that Cl− can be removed by precipitation as Ca4Al2Cl2(OH)12. The purified wastewater and the precipitated solid can be reused to reduce the consumption of water and alkali. Friedel’s salt precipitation method is an effective control technology for the synergistic removal of Cl−, SO42−, F−, and heavy metal ions and has enormous potential to be applied in the industrial wastewater treatment field. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Plasmonic color filtering and color printing have attracted considerable attention in recent years due to their supreme performance in display and imaging technologies. Although various color‐related devices are designed, so far very few studies have touched the topic of dynamic color generation. In this article, dynamic color generation is demonstrated by integrating plasmonic nanostructures with vanadium dioxide based on its tunable optical properties through insulator–metal transition. Periodic arrays of silver nanodisks on a vanadium dioxide film are fabricated to realize different colors, relying on the excitation of localized and propagating surface plasmons, and Wood's anomaly. By tuning spatial periodicity of the arrays and diameter of the silver nanodisks, various colors can be achieved across the entire visible spectrum. Further, using insulator–metal transition of vanadium dioxide, the colors can be actively tuned by varying temperature. The approach of dynamic color generation based on the phase transition of vanadium dioxide can easily realize diverse color patterns, which makes it beneficial for display and imaging technology with distinct advantages of multifunctionality, flexibility, and high efficiency. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

FHOD1 is a member of Diaphanous-related formins (DRFs) which belongs to the Formin family. Previous studies have shown that the DFRs might affect several cellular functions such as morphogenesis, cytokinesis, cell polarity, and embryonic differentiation. However, there is no evidence showing the functions of FHOD1 during oocyte meiosis. This study is aimed at exploring the roles of FHOD1 during the mammalian oocyte maturation. Immunofluorescent staining showed that FHOD1 was restricted to the nucleus in germinal vesicle (GV) stage of the oocytes, after the GV breakdown FHOD1 was primarily located at two poles of the spindle at both metaphases I and II stages. Knockdown of FHOD1 by siRNA injection did not affect polar body extrusion but generated the large polar bodies. In addition, we observed the spindle migration failure in metaphase I oocytes, with a large number of meiotic spindles anchoring in the center of cytoplasm. The expression level of cytoplasmic actin but not cortex actin was significantly reduced, indicating that FHOD1 regulates cytoplasmic actin distribution for the spindle movement. Furthermore, we found that the disruption of ROCK (the Rho-dependent protein kinase) with inhibitor Y-27632 caused the decreased FHOD1 protein expression. Therefore, our data indicate that FHOD1 is regulated by ROCK for cytoplasm actin assembly and spindle migration during mouse oocyte meiosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper proposes a new reinforcement structure called soil nets firstly, which is capable of strengthening foundations, slopes, and other structures with better effect than that of soilbags. This proposed geotextile structure typically contains several layers of soil net, which are placed in a unique way. One layer of soil net can be described as a collection of spherical soilbags that are connected together in two directions, one in which they are connected by ropes and another in which they are connected by the PP woven bags that contain the soil. A mechanical property analysis of the soil nets shows that the yield stress of the soil within the soil nets is improved, the tensile capacity of the soil nets is greater than that of the soil with which it is filled, and the equivalent coefficient of interlayer friction between the connected soil nets is larger than that for soilbags. Applications of this new reinforcement structure in the reinforcement of a foundation and a slope are considered, and the corresponding reinforcement effects are calculated. The calculation results demonstrate that the soil nets concept yields efficient reinforcement structures with many advantages. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Regional trade agreements are the dominant arrangement for economic integration. What does a dual membership mean for countries participating in multiple regional negotiations? We address the question from the perspective of tea exporters in Vietnam, a member of both the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP) and the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP). Focusing on the removal of tariffs and the cooperation on pesticide residue standards, we find that the TPP agreement will raise Vietnam's tea exports by about $4 million a year if TPP endorses Codex standards. However, Vietnamese tea exports will decline if TPP endorses American standards, unless sufficient technical assistance is provided. After the RCEP agreement takes effect, tea exporters from China and India will further penetrate the TPP markets by re-exporting from Vietnam. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bisphenol A (BPA) has been reported to adversely affect the mammalian reproductive system in both sexes. However, the underlying mechanisms regarding how BPA disrupts the mammalian oocyte quality and how to prevent it have not been fully defined. Here, we document that BPA weakens oocyte quality by impairing both oocyte meiotic maturation and fertilization ability. We find that oral administration of BPA (100 μg/kg body weight per day for 7 days) compromises the first polar body extrusion (78.0% vs 57.0%, P<.05) by disrupting normal spindle assembly, chromosome alignment, and kinetochore-microtubule attachment. This defect could be remarkably ameliorated (76.7%, P<.05) by concurrent oral administration of melatonin (30 mg/kg body weight per day for 7 days). In addition, BPA administration significantly decreases the fertilization rate of oocytes (87.2% vs 41.1%, P<.05) by reducing the number of sperm binding to the zona pellucida, which is consistent with the premature cleavage of ZP2 as well as the mis-localization and decreased protein level of ovastacin. Also, the localization and protein level of Juno, the sperm receptor on the egg membrane, are strikingly impaired in BPA-administered oocytes. Finally, we show that melatonin administration substantially elevates the in vitro fertilization rate (63.0%, P<.05) by restoring above defects of fertilization proteins and events, which might be mediated by the improvement of oocyte quality via reduction of ROS levels and inhibition of apoptosis. Collectively, our data reveal that melatonin has a protective action against BPA-induced deterioration of oocyte quality in mice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new paraffin/surfactant/water emulsion (PSW) for volatile organic compounds (VOCs) controlling was prepared and its potential for VOCs removal was investigated. Results indicated that PSW-5 (5%, v/v) provided higher toluene absorption efficiency (90.77%) than the other absorbents used. The saturation pressure, Henry’s constant, and activity coefficient of toluene in PSW-5 were significantly lower than those in water, and toluene solubility (1.331 g·L−1) in the PSW-5 was more than 2.5 times higher than the value in water. Several factors potentially affecting the toluene absorption efficiency were systematically investigated. The results suggested that concentration and pH of PSW, absorption temperature, and gas flow rate all had a strong influence on the toluene absorption, but the inlet concentration of toluene had little effect on the toluene absorption. There were different absorbing performances of PSW-5 on different VOCs, and the ketones, esters, and aromatics were more easily removed by the PSW-5 than the alkanes. Regeneration and reuse of the PSW were possible; after 3 runs of regeneration the absorption efficiency of PSW-5 for toluene also could reach 82.42%. So, the PSW is an economic, efficient, and safe absorbent and has a great prospect in organic waste gas treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aims to describe and report the effectiveness of a novel, pressure-sensing colostomy plug for reducing fecal leakage. Nine miniature Tibetan pigs, aged 6-8 months, were given colostomies and divided into three groups ( n = 3 each group). A novel pressure-sensing colostomy plug was placed in each pig and set to indicate when intestinal pressures of either 5, 10, or 15 mm Hg, respectively, were reached. When the pressure thresholds were reached, the animals' bowels were examined for the presence of stool and/or stomal leakage, and the data were recorded at weeks 1, 4, and 8 after surgery. The colostomy plug calibrated to 15 mm Hg pressure demonstrated the greatest accuracy in predicting the presence of stool in the bowels of study animals, averaging >90% sensitivity. In general, the sensitivity for predicting the presence of stool did not vary significantly over time, though there was a slight increase in accuracy in the 5 mm Hg group at later time-points. The sensitivity for predicting stool in the bowel did not change significantly over time in any of the three groups. Stomal leakage was found to be inversely proportional to the pressure-sensor setting, in that the 15 mm Hg group exhibited the greatest amount of leakage. This difference, however, was found to be significant only at week 1 postsurgery. The intelligent, pressure-sensing colostomy plug was able to accurately predict the presence of stool in the bowel and maintain continence, allowing negligible leakage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]