Search

Background: Candida albicans is an opportunistic pathogen, but since it also belongs to the normal fungal flora, positive sputum culture as the solely basis for the diagnosis of invasive Candida albicans pneumonia can easily lead to excessive antifungal therapy. Therefore, identification of a pneumonia biomarker might improve diagnostic accuracy.Methods: A rabbit model was established by inoculating 5 × 107 cfu/mL C. albicans into the trachea of 20 rabbits with 20 rabbits as control group. Infection was monitored by chest thin-layer computed tomography (CT). 2 mL blood samples were collected daily during each infection and serum levels of potential biomarkers were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Seven-day post-inoculation the rabbits were sacrificed by CO2 asphyxiation and lung tissue was histopathologically examined and blood was brought to culture. Data were statistically analyzed.Results: Infection became evident as early as day 3 post-inoculation. The levels of soluble triggering receptor expressed on myeloid cells-1 (sTREM-1), soluble hemoglobin-haptoglobin scavenger receptor (sCD163), procalcitonin (PCT) and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) were elevated in the experimental group compared to the control (P < 0.01), whereas the levels of C-reactive protein (CRP), interleukin-6 (IL-6), IL-8 and IL-10 showed no significant differences (P > 0.05). The dynamic curves of the levels of CRP, IL-6, IL-8, IL-10, SCD163 and TNF-α in both groups demonstrated a similar trend during infection but differences between the groups was observed only in the sTREM-1 levels. Receiver-operating characteristics (ROC) curve analysis showed that the sensitivity and specificity were 85 and 80% for sTREM-1 (cut-off value: 45.88 pg/mL) and 80 and 75% for SCD163 (cut-off value: 16.44 U/mL), respectively. The values of the area under the ROC curve (AUCROC) of sTREM-1 and SCD163 were 0.882 (95% CI: 0.922-0.976) and 0.814 (95% CI: 0.678-0.950), respectively. Other markers did not exhibit significant differences.Conclusion: sTREM-1 and SCD163 might be suitable biomarkers for pneumonia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The whitefly Bemisia tabaci is a notorious agricultural pest of many crops worldwide. Although it is thought that B. tabaci secretes saliva into the host plant to counter plant defenses, knowledge on the whitefly salivary proteome is limited. Here, we characterized the gene/protein repertoires of B. tabaci salivary glands and secreted saliva by transcriptomic and liquid chromatography tandem mass spectroscopy analyses. A total of 698 salivary gland‐enriched unigenes and 171 salivary proteins were identified. Comparative analysis between the B. tabaci salivary proteins and those of different arthropod species revealed numerous similarities in proteins associated with binding, hydrolysis, and oxidation‐reduction, which demonstrates a degree of conservation across herbivorous saliva. There were 74 proteins only identified in B. tabaci saliva, of which 34 were B. tabaci‐specific. In addition, 13 salivary proteins, of which 11 were B. tabaci‐specific, were differentially regulated when B. tabaci fed on different hosts. Our results provide a good resource for future functional studies of whitefly salivary effectors, and might be useful in pest management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Volcanic rifted margins are characterized by voluminous magmatism during continental breakup. Despite their common characteristics including seaward-dipping reflectors (SDRs) and high-velocity lower crust body (LCB), volcanic margins also exhibit large variations in structural style and amount and distribution of magmatism. For example, the Greenland – Norwegian (Type I) conjugate margins are narrow and have thick SDR and LCB layers as well as thicker-than-usual oceanic crust. In contrast, the Southern South Atlantic (Type II) margins are very wide (>250 km) and have thick SDR but normal oceanic crust. Factors controlling such variations remain controversial. In this study we perform high-resolution thermo-mechanical simulations to investigate volcanic margin formation. The thermo-mechanical models are coupled with melt prediction and surface processes in order to simulate inter-bedding of volcanic flows and sediments during SDR formation. We model deposition of extrusives as melt sediments followed by sedimentation of normal deposits. The fraction of extruded melt (Fext) is assumed to be 50% during rifting and 20% during spreading. We tested parameters including mantle potential temperature, crustal rheology and sedimentation rate. Our results show that mantle potential temperature has a first-order effect on the thickness of oceanic crust and magmatic lower crustal bodies. Both sedimentation rate and crustal rheology affect the total volume of SDRs. In particular, with a weak crustal rheology, the continental crust tends to experience a long period of rifting and develop wide margins and thick SDR sequences. We illustrate that our models are comparable with natural examples as along the North Atlantic and Sothern South Atlantic margins. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Anti-disturbance vibration control is a crucial component in a hydraulic suspension system. However, random input excitation and prolonged service can cause hydraulic suspension system parameters to drift, leading to system vibration with suppression failure. The resulting states of nonlinearity and disturbance will lead to a gradual deterioration of pressure control. Therefore, designing a viable controller for a hydraulic suspension system that considers system nonlinearity, computing capacity, and sensor configuration is essential. To address this need, we present a double-layer control strategy in this work. A hybrid sliding mode control algorithm based on the reference skyhook and groundhook model is proposed to regulate the expected force of reverse compensation. An output controller is then applied based on the expected force observer to mitigate low-frequency vibrations to realize a steady state. A logic rule is designed to ensure that the two controllers work to suppress sprung mass vibration, and a comprehensive system model is derived to help characterize system nonlinearities and design the hybrid sliding model controller. Numerical and physical validations are then carried out to demonstrate the feasibility of the strategy and test the performance of the controller. The experimental results show that the hybrid sliding mode controller can suppress vibration under disturbance excitation and reduce the vibration acceleration to a 2.3 m/s2 random response when system parameters vary. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hydrophilic coatings were prepared by dip-coating bare glass in polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP)/silicon dioxide (SiO2) or polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP)/carboxybetaine acrylamide (CBAA) suspensions. The effects of surface wettability on the anti-fogging and anti-icing properties of the two coatings were investigated. The surface morphologies of the coatings were characterized by polarized light microscopy and laser confocal microscopy, and the hydrophilicity of the coatings depended on the binding capacity of the hydrophilic functional groups in the fillers with water. The wettability of the coating surface was characterized by contact angle measurements, and it improved with increasing filler content. The coatings with the addition of more than 80 wt % of SiO2 or 1 wt % of CBAA showed superhydrophilic behavior. The anti-fogging and anti-frosting test results showed that the two coatings successfully prevented the development of fog and frost. The anti-icing properties of the coatings were also characterized. At three different temperatures, the anti-icing performance of the CBAA coating was better than that of the SiO2 coating. For, instance, at −15 °C, the icing delay time of PVP/SiO2 coating was 306.7 s and that of PVP/CBAA coating was 630.0s. Thus, the icing time of the CBAA coating was 323.3s longer than that of the SiO2 coating. When less than 80 wt% SiO2 or 10 wt% CBAA was added, the coating had good transparency. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Axially chiral open‐chained olefins are an underexplored class of atropisomers, whose enantioselective synthesis represents a daunting challenge due to their relatively low racemization barrier. We herein report rhodium(I)‐catalyzed hydroarylative cyclization of 1,6‐diynes with three distinct classes of arenes, enabling highly enantioselective synthesis of a broad range of axially chiral 1,3‐dienes that are conformationally labile (ΔG≠(rac)=26.6–28.0 kcal/mol). The coupling reactions in each category proceeded with excellent enantioselectivity, regioselectivity, and Z/E selectivity under mild reaction conditions. Computational studies of the coupling of quinoline N‐oxide system reveal that the reaction proceeds via initial oxidative cyclization of the 1,6‐diyne to give a rhodacyclic intermediate, followed by σ‐bond metathesis between the arene C−H bond and the Rh−C(vinyl) bond, with subsequent C−C reductive elimination being enantio‐determining and turnover‐limiting. The DFT‐established mechanism is consistent with the experimental studies. The coupled products of quinoline N‐oxides undergo facile visible light‐induced intramolecular oxygen‐atom transfer, affording chiral epoxides with complete axial‐to‐central chirality transfer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Axially chiral open‐chained olefins are an underexplored class of atropisomers, whose enantioselective synthesis represents a daunting challenge due to their relatively low racemization barrier. We herein report rhodium(I)‐catalyzed hydroarylative cyclization of 1,6‐diynes with three distinct classes of arenes, enabling highly enantioselective synthesis of a broad range of axially chiral 1,3‐dienes that are conformationally labile (ΔG≠(rac)=26.6–28.0 kcal/mol). The coupling reactions in each category proceeded with excellent enantioselectivity, regioselectivity, and Z/E selectivity under mild reaction conditions. Computational studies of the coupling of quinoline N‐oxide system reveal that the reaction proceeds via initial oxidative cyclization of the 1,6‐diyne to give a rhodacyclic intermediate, followed by σ‐bond metathesis between the arene C−H bond and the Rh−C(vinyl) bond, with subsequent C−C reductive elimination being enantio‐determining and turnover‐limiting. The DFT‐established mechanism is consistent with the experimental studies. The coupled products of quinoline N‐oxides undergo facile visible light‐induced intramolecular oxygen‐atom transfer, affording chiral epoxides with complete axial‐to‐central chirality transfer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Subduction initiation is a crucial process for plate tectonics. Two scenarios of induced subduction initiation–subduction polarity reversal and subduction transference–are primarily attributed to the accretion of oceanic plateaus. However, the factors governing these two distinct types of subduction initiation remain elusive. Here, we employ 2D thermomechanical numerical models to investigate the dynamics of induced subduction initiation during oceanic plateau accretion. Specifically, we explore the impact of the thickness, density, and rheological strength of the oceanic plateau on subduction initiation. Our results reveal three geodynamic regimes: continuous subduction, subduction transference, and subduction polarity reversal. Thin oceanic plateaus tend to subduct along with slabs into the deep mantle, while thick oceanic plateaus often accrete to the margin, triggering subduction initiation. The rheological strength and density of an oceanic plateau play a significant role in determining whether subduction transference or polarity reversal occurs. Increasing the viscosity and decreasing the density of the oceanic plateau promotes strain concentration in front of the oceanic plateau, resulting in subduction polarity reversal. Our model results provide insights into the dynamics of subduction transference in the Caroline Sea and polarity reversal in Solomon in the western Pacific Ocean. • Numerical modeling of subduction transference and polarity reversal. • The styles of induced subduction initiation depend on the rheological strength and density of an oceanic plateau. • The formation of the lithospheric-scale shear zone is critical forthe type of induced subduction initiation. • The dynamics of two subduction initiations in the western Pacific Ocean are interpreted and analyzed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Geometrical description of the egg shape is of a great importance in a variety of studies and can be instrumental in predicting quality traits of table and hatching poultry eggs. Importantly, developments of non-destructive oomorphological models can drive novel insights in engineering and physical science and lead to new egg-related technologies and egg sorting systems for poultry industry. We attempted to test the Hügelschäffer's egg model according to which an egg profile curve can be transformed from an ellipse using a specific parameter w. For this purpose, two-dimensional digital imaging and follow-up image processing techniques of chicken eggs were employed. The formulae for recalculation of the egg volume and surface area were consequently deduced from the Hügelschäffer's equation. Eventually, we refined the Hügelschäffer's egg model and proved its applicability for defining the contours of hen's eggs. For practical use in poultry industry and food engineering, the proposed non-destructive methodology can be contributory in defining accurately the contour of any avian egg and determining such characteristics of the egg shape as volume, surface area, etc., with an expected potential in designing automated systems in poultry industry and in egg-related applications in biology, physical science, engineering and other areas. • Egg volume and surface area are valuable predictors of egg quality traits. • Hügelschäffer's egg model was examined to describe contours of hen's eggs. • The formulae for recalculation of the egg volume and surface area were deduced. • 2D digital imaging and image processing were applied to describe the egg geometry. • Amended Hügelschäffer's method is excellent for calculating volume (R = 0.962, SE < 1%). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Unfortunately, the corresponding author name was incorrectly published in the original article and the same is corrected here. The original article was corrected. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD), which include mainly Crohn's disease (CD) and ulcerative colitis (UC), are common chronic inflammatory conditions of the digestive system. The diagnosis of IBD relies on the use of a combination of factors including symptoms, endoscopy and levels of serum proteins such as C-reactive protein (CRP) or faecal calprotectin. Currently there is no single reliable biomarker to determine IBD. Galectins are a family of galactoside-binding proteins that are commonly altered in the circulation of disease conditions such as cancer and inflammation. This study investigated serum galectin levels as possible biomarkers in determining IBD and IBD disease activity. Levels of galectins-1, -2, -3, -4, -7 and -8 were analysed in 208 samples from ambulant IBD patients (97 CD, 71 UC) patients and 40 from healthy people. Disease activity was assessed using Harvey-Bradshaw Index for CD and simple clinical colitis activity index for UC. The relationship of each galectin in determining IBD and IBD disease activity were analysed and compared with current IBD biomarker CRP. It was found that serum level of galectin-1 and -3, but not galectins-2, -4, -7 and -8, were significantly higher in IBD patients than in healthy people. At cut-off of 4.1ng/ml, galectin-1 differentiated IBD from healthy controls with 71% sensitivity and 87% specificity. At cut-off of 38.5ng/ml, galectin-3 separated IBD from healthy controls with 53% sensitivity and 87% specificity. None of the galectins however were able to distinguish active disease from remission in UC or CD. Thus, levels of galectins-1 and -3 are significantly elevated in both UC and CD patients compared to healthy people. Although the increased galectin levels are not able to separate active and inactive UC and CD, they may have the potential to be developed as useful biomarkers for IBD diagnosis either alone or in combination with other biomarkers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The galactoside-binding protein galectin-3 is commonly overexpressed by cancer cells and promotes cancer progression and metastasis. Over the past few years, evidence has emerged that galectin-3 is also overexpressed in several metabolic malfunction conditions such as diabetes, obesity and atherosclerosis and is involved in the regulation of the occurrence and development of these diseases. Recently, Galectin-3 expression is shown also to be associated with glycolysis and mitochondrial metabolism in tumors, and promotes tumor metabolic reprogramming for their adaption to the microenvironment stress imposed by oxygen and nutrients deprivation. This brief review summarizes the current understanding of the roles and actions of galectin-3 in these metabolic diseases and in tumor metabolism. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work, we report a new method for extending the response spectra of organic photodetectors (OPDs) by incorporating PBDT-TT-C and PBDT-TT-F in the P3HT:PC 61 BM. The effects of PBDT-TT-C and PBDT-TT-F incorporation on the optical and electrical properties of OPDs were investigated, It was found that when the mass ratio of P3HT:PBDT-TT-F:PBDT-TT-C:PC 61 BM was 12:2:2:8, the response spectrum of the active layer was extended to 780 nm. The responsivity (R) and external quantum efficiency (EQE) of the OPDs reached 340, 376, 315 mA/W and 67%, 88%, 85% under 630, 530, and 460 nm illumination and −1 V bias, respectively, and the detectivity (D*) reached 1012 Jones. The results show that the inclusion of an appropriate amount of donor material with similar chemical structure and complementary absorption spectrum can reduce the influence of the doping material on the micro-morphology of the original film while improving the absorption of the spectrum. The interaction between the donor materials promotes the generation of photogenerated carriers and increases the photocurrent of the OPDs. In addition, the incorporation of the different component promotes crystallization of the film, resulting in a reduction in dark current of the OPDs. Image 1 • A quaternary organic photodetectors (q-OPDs) using P3HT:PBDT-TT-F:PBDT-TT-C:PC 61 BM was prepared. • The effects of PBDT-TT-F and PBDT-TT-C added to P3HT:PC 61 BM on properties of the OPDs were analyzed. • The essential reasons for the influence of the addition of PBDT-TT-C and PBDT-TT-F of P3HT:PC 61 BM film were studied. • High detectivity OPDs were prepared using commercially available low-cost organic materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We report a simple method to control the end shape of silver nanowires by adding pure water in the conventional polyol synthesis. The use of 0.2–0.4% (v/v) water in ethylene glycol as a solvent provides pencil-like silver nanowires with sharp ends in a high yield. We have demonstrated remote excitation of SHG on the sharp nanowires, promising a point light source for super resolution microscopy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Currently, obesity has achieved epidemic levels in reproductive‐aged women with a myriad of consequences. Obesity is susceptible to several reproductive complications that eventually affect fertility rates. These complications originate from the deteriorated quality of oocytes from mothers with obesity, which increases the probability of chromosomal aneuploidy, elevated reactive oxygen species production, compromised embryonic developmental competency, and eventually reduced fertility. Maternal obesity is linked to pregnancy complications such as implantation error, abortion, miscarriage, and early pregnancy loss. This review highlights the adverse effects of maternal obesity on female fertility, with a focus on the mechanistic link between maternal obesity and oocyte quality and discusses possible measures to reduce its associated risks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Plant height is a key agronomic trait regulated by several phytohormones such as gibberellins (GAs) and auxin. However, little is known about how cytokinin (CK) participates in this process. Here, we report that SlRR6 , a type-A response regulator in the CK signaling pathway, positively regulates plant height in tomato. SlRR6 was induced by exogenous kinetin and GA3, but inhibited by indole-3-acetic acid (IAA). Knock out of SlRR6 reduced tomato plant height through shortening internode length, while overexpression of SlRR6 caused taller plants due to increased internode number. Cytological observation of longitudinal stems showed that both knock out and overexpression of SlRR6 generated larger cells, but significantly reduced cell numbers in each internode. Further studies demonstrated that overexpression of SlRR6 enhanced GA accumulation and lowered IAA content, along with expression changes in GA- and IAA-related genes. Exogenous paclobutrazol and IAA treatments restored the increased plant height phenotype in SlRR6 -overexpressing lines. Yeast two-hybrid, bimolecular fluorescence complementation, and co-immunoprecipitation assays showed that SlRR6 interacts with a small auxin up RNA protein, SlSAUR58. Moreover, SlSAUR58 -overexpressing plants were dwarf with decreased internode length. Overall, our findings establish SlRR6 as a vital component in the CK signaling, GA, and IAA regulatory network that controls plant height. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sperm motility and structural integrity are essential for successful fertilization in vivo, and any hindrance of the correct assembly of the axoneme and peri-axonemal structures in the sperm flagellum can lead to fertility problems. While there has been considerable advancement in studying diseases related to the flagellum, the underlying mechanisms that control sperm movement are not yet fully understood. In this study, we reveal that the tetratricopeptide repeat protein 6 (Ttc6) gene, expressed mainly in the testes, plays a crucial role in maintaining male fertility in mice. We further demonstrate that the knockout of Ttc6 in mice results in decreased sperm motility and induces an abnormal circular swimming pattern, consequently leading to male subfertility. Morphological analysis showed an atypical hairpin-like appearance of the spermatozoa, and ultrastructural studies showed unsheathed flagella at the juncture between the midpiece and principal piece. Collectively, these findings suggest that TTC6 plays an essential role in maintaining the stability of the annulus region of the sperm flagellum, thus ensuring the swift and directed motion of sperm. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, we report a wide band spectrum tri-receptor quaternary organic photodetector (OPD) based on the additional two non-fullerene acceptor materials, ITIC and IEICO-4F, with the polymer material P3HT as donor and the fullerene PC61BM as the first acceptor. The second acceptor ITIC and the third accptor IEICO-4F, with different molecular structures and absorption, were introduced into the conventional system P3HT:PC61BM to improve narrow response spectral range and the uneven response of OPDs. The experiments results show, that proposed non-fullerene acceptor materials of the narrow optical band gap were successful to broaden the absorption spectral range to near infrared. Respectively, the responses (R) and external quantum efficiency at 630, 530, and 460 nm, are up to 0.293 A W−1, 0.288 A W−1, 0. 243 A W−1, and 58%, 67%, and 66%. The quaternary OPDs achieve significant response spectrum across the 400–950 nm range with the specific detection rate (D *) exceeding 1012 Jones. It demonstrates that expanding spectrum non-fullerene materials ITIC and IEICO-4F can improve the mixing degree of the mixed materials, decrease agglomeration brought on by single widening excess, and increase spectrum absorption and moderate non-uniform response. The exciton dissociation efficiency is considerably increased by simultaneous charge transfer between the receptors and the receptors in the active layer. Moreover, the carrier mobility is improved, bimolecular recombination is suppressed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • The system of Fe0 integrated 1T/2H MoS 2 coupled with PMS was constructed. • Abundant generation of sulfate radicals is promising for high salinity challenge. • Optimal selection of reaction parameters is vital towards carbamazepine removal. To tackle high salinity challenge, differently from singlet oxygen-governed systems, extremely abundant and highly reactive sulfate radicals (SO 4 •─)-dominated systems might be also feasible. Ingenious integration of two active popular catalysts, and optimal selection of reaction parameters could sufficiently activate the added peroxymonosulfate (PMS) to efficiently degrade complicated pollutants within a short time so as to overlook the negative effects of inorganic anions. Herein, zero-valent iron decorated metallic 1T/semiconducting 2H hybrid phased molybdenum disulfide with different Mo/S feeding ratio (Fe0/Nx-MoS 2) were constructed and compared to activate PMS for carbamazepine (CBZ) removal, where Fe0/N2-MoS 2 (M(Mo):M(S) = 7:30) with ultrathin sheet morphology presented most charming decontamination performance. Optimal Fe0/N2-MoS 2 dosage and PMS amount was respectively selected as 75 and 50 mg·L-1 in treating 10 mg·L-1 CBZ at pH = 3.00 via tailoring reaction parameters. CBZ could be completely removed in a short time of 10 min with a high pseudo-first-order kinetic rate constant of 0.939 ± 0.016 min−1. The system exhibits the promising anti-interference capacity toward Cl─, NO 3 ─ and SO 4 2─ of high concentration (even up to 3000 mg·L-1). Electron paramagnetic resonance and scavenging experiments of reactive species suggested that SO 4 •─ played a dominant function. Furthermore, Mo and Fe bimetallic cycles could efficiently promote PMS activation to produce rich reactive radicals. Degradation pathways and toxicity evolutions for CBZ in the (Fe0/N2-MoS 2 + PMS) system were proposed via liquid chromatography time-of-flight mass spectrometer and Toxicity Estimation Software Tool, and we hope that the system would be applied in high salinity wastewater treatment in future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• The synergistic strategy of multi-phase and multi-domain structures is employed. • The modulated phase structure and PNRs can maintain a large Δ P of 47.5 μC/cm2. • The W rec = 3.61 J/cm3 and η = 80.6% are achieved in x=0.02 ceramic at 200 kV/cm. • The optimized ceramic shows better temperature and frequency stability. Lead-free dielectric ceramics with ultrahigh-power density, fatigue properties, and excellent thermal stability are regarded as potential dielectric energy storage materials for the next-generation advanced pulse power capacitors. However, the large energy storage density (W rec) and high discharging efficiency (η) of dielectric capacitors are generally achieved under ultrahigh electric fields. Developing dielectric capacitors with high energy storage performances under low electric fields is of great significance. Herein, we utilized a synergistic design strategy of multi-phase and multi-domain structures to successfully synthesize the (0.65- x)(Na 0.5 Bi 0.5)TiO 3 -0.35(Sr 0.7 Bi 0.2)TiO 3 - x Ag 0.97 Nd 0.01 Ta 0.2 Nb 0.8 O 3 ((0.65- x)BNT-0.35SBT- x ANTN) ceramics suitable for the low electric field situation. The formed multi-phase coexistence structure of the Rhombohedral (R3c) and Tetragonal (P4bm) phases and the elevated concentration of Bi3+ at A site in BNT-SBT-ANTN ceramics are beneficial to obtain the high maximum polarization (P max). Meanwhile, the introduction of ANTN in the BNT-SBT matrix can disrupt the long-range order ferroelectric domain structures and also form the local polar nanoregions (PNRs), leading to the small remnant polarization (P r) and the improvement of the relaxation behavior. Encouragingly, the optimized 0.63BNT-0.35SBT-0.02ANTN composition exhibits excellent energy storage performances with a large W rec of 3.61 J/cm3 and relatively high η of 80.6% at a low electric field of 200 kV/cm. In addition, this 0.63BNT-0.35SBT-0.02ANTN sample presents better thermal stability (20–120 ℃) and frequency stability (10–1000 Hz). Moreover, the high charge power density (P D) of 69.42 MW/cm3, the rapid discharge speed rate (τ 0.9) of 0.22 μs, and the good fatigue endurance are also achieved in the 0.63BNT-0.35SBT-0.02ANTN sample. This work may provide an effective method for designing dielectric ceramics with remarkable comprehensive energy storage performances at low electric fields to meet the requirements of advanced energy storage capacitors under extreme conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Recent studies have revealed that the post-storm thermospheric mass density at a fixed altitude could be lower than the pre-storm mass density. This phenomenon has been attributed to an overcooling effect caused by enhanced infrared emissions from nitric oxide (NO). Here we report that thermospheric density decrease can take place under both storm and non-storm conditions. Relevant observations are presented during two superstormes, one intense storm, and one non-storm case. Thermospheric neutral density variations observed by GOCE and CHAMP satellites are investigated along with simultaneous measurements of thermospheric nitric oxide density and emissions from TIMED/GUVI and TIMED/SABER, respectively, together with auroral hemispheric power from DMSP, Joule heating rate from the Assimilative Mapping of Ionospheric Electrodynamics (AMIE) algorithm, and solar extreme ultraviolet (EUV) flux from SOHO/SEM and TIMED/SEE. It was found that the apparent storm-time density decrease or "overcooling" is a result of combined effects: an increase in NO cooling and a decrease in both the solar EUV flux and the auroral energy input. It was also found that whether or not a density decrease exists depends on whether there are auroral activities prior to the pre-storm reference day and how the reference day is chosen. The relative contributions of the different drivers (namely, enhanced NO cooling and variations in auroral hemispheric power, Joule heating, and solar EUV at the pre-storm and post-storm days) to thermospheric density decrease remain to be determined. Highlights • Thermospheric density decrease can be found under both storm and non-storm conditions. • Not all superstorms will cause a post-storm thermospheric density reduction or "overcooling". • Excessive NO cooling is not the only mechanism that can produce thermospheric density reduction. • Other processes (Joule, auroral particle, and solar EUV heating) also affect the thermospheric density. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract In this study, a new method was developed for the deacidification of acidic papers, by using a deacidifying dispersion of oleic acid-modified magnesium oxide (MgO) nanoparticles in cyclohexane. We reported that oleic acid-modified MgO nanoparticles were prepared by using a surface modification method. The results showed that the carboxylic group of oleic acid could react with the hydroxyl group on the surface of nanoparticles and the reaction was esterification. MgO nanoparticles were transformed from hydrophilic to lipophilic, with well dispersibility in cyclohexane for 6 h. Pure MgO nanoparticles all sank in cyclohexane after 30 s, so the deacidifying agents of pure MgO nanoparticles in cyclohexane could not be prepared for the deacidification of papers. The stable dispersion of oleic acid-modified MgO nanoparticles in cyclohexane then was used for the deacidification of papers. The accelerated aging tests were also used to evaluate the effect of the new method. Results showed that the surface pH of all types of papers were alkaline after the deacidification treatment and tensile strength values of those remained stable after accelerated aging. The deacidification treatment had ignorable influence on the appearance of papers, as well as inks and pigments on the paper surface. As the use of hydrophobic oleic acid-modified MgO nanoparticles, hydrophobicity of papers changed from hydrophilic to hydrophobic. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The microscopic mechanism of potassium permanganate (KMnO4) modification and the properties of ramie fiber/polypropylene (RF/PP) composites were investigated with experiments and molecular dynamics (MD) simulations at the molecular and atomic levels. The MD simulations suggested that the microscopic modification mechanism for the improved properties of the KMnO4 modified RF/PP composites were contributed to the decrease of the free volume of cellulose molecular and increase of the weak Van der Waals force at the interface of the modified fiber and PP matrix. The decrease of the free volume of cellulose molecular can reduce the water absorption of natural fiber. Conversely, the increase in the weak Van der Waals force at interface can improve the interface adhesion strength of the composites and further result in the improvement of the compatibility of RF/PP composites. Additionally, the experimental work showed that KMnO4 treatment led to a higher surface roughness of the modified fiber besides the oxidization effect of oxidizing hydroxyl groups within cellulose molecular to be aldehyde and carboxyl groups. This can achieve a better bond strength at interface of fiber and polymer matrix, and finally resulted in the good mechanical properties of the KMnO4 modified RF/PP composites. POLYM. COMPOS., 39:3353–3362, 2018. © 2017 Society of Plastics Engineers [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Healable silicone materials have great technical impact in coatings, smart actuators, and flexible electronics, however, current healable silicone materials lack mechanical tunability. Herein, we designed and synthesized a new type of healable silicone through hydrogen‐bond assisted multiphase assembly of siloxane oligomers. Besides the enhanced mechanical strength, unique water‐enhanced healing was observed in the polymer network which is due to the reversible dissociation/association of multivalent hydrogen bonds in the presence of water. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Healable silicone materials have great technical impact in coatings, smart actuators, and flexible electronics, however, current healable silicone materials lack mechanical tunability. Herein, we designed and synthesized a new type of healable silicone through hydrogen‐bond assisted multiphase assembly of siloxane oligomers. Besides the enhanced mechanical strength, unique water‐enhanced healing was observed in the polymer network which is due to the reversible dissociation/association of multivalent hydrogen bonds in the presence of water. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The axoneme and accessory structures of flagella are critical for sperm motility and male fertilization. Sperm production needs precise and highly ordered gene expression to initiate and sustain the many cellular processes that result in mature spermatozoa. Here, we identified a testis enriched gene transmembrane protein 232 (Tmem232), which is essential for the structural integrity of the spermatozoa flagella axoneme. Tmem232 knockout mice were generated for in vivo analyses of its functions in spermatogenesis. Phenotypic analysis showed that deletion of Tmem232 in mice causes male-specific infertility. Transmission electron microscopy together with scanning electron microscopy were applied to analyze the spermatozoa flagella and it was observed that the lack of TMEM232 caused failure of the cytoplasm removal and the absence of the 7th outer microtubule doublet with its corresponding outer dense fiber (ODF). Co-IP assays further identified that TMEM232 interacts with ODF family protein ODF1, which is essential to maintain sperm motility. In conclusion, our findings indicate that TMEM232 is a critical protein for male fertility and sperm motility by regulating sperm cytoplasm removal and maintaining axoneme integrity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The harsh working environments of proton exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs) pose huge challenges to the stability of Pt‐based alloy catalysts. The widespread presence of metallic bonds with significantly delocalized electron distribution often lead to component segregation and rapid performance decay. Here we report L10−Pt2CuGa intermetallic nanoparticles with a unique covalent atomic interaction between Pt−Ga as high‐performance PEMFC cathode catalysts. The L10−Pt2CuGa/C catalyst shows superb oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) activity and stability in fuel cell cathode (mass activity=0.57 A mgPt−1 at 0.9 V, peak power density=2.60/1.24 W cm−2 in H2‐O2/air, 28 mV voltage loss at 0.8 A cm−2 after 30 000 cycles). Theoretical calculations reveal the optimized adsorption of oxygen intermediates via the formed biaxial strain on L10−Pt2CuGa surface, and the durability enhancement stems from the stronger Pt−M bonds than those in L11−PtCu resulted from Pt−Ga covalent interactions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The harsh working environments of proton exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs) pose huge challenges to the stability of Pt‐based alloy catalysts. The widespread presence of metallic bonds with significantly delocalized electron distribution often lead to component segregation and rapid performance decay. Here we report L10−Pt2CuGa intermetallic nanoparticles with a unique covalent atomic interaction between Pt−Ga as high‐performance PEMFC cathode catalysts. The L10−Pt2CuGa/C catalyst shows superb oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) activity and stability in fuel cell cathode (mass activity=0.57 A mgPt−1 at 0.9 V, peak power density=2.60/1.24 W cm−2 in H2‐O2/air, 28 mV voltage loss at 0.8 A cm−2 after 30 000 cycles). Theoretical calculations reveal the optimized adsorption of oxygen intermediates via the formed biaxial strain on L10−Pt2CuGa surface, and the durability enhancement stems from the stronger Pt−M bonds than those in L11−PtCu resulted from Pt−Ga covalent interactions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

On behalf of the journal, AGU, and the scientific community, the editors of Geophysical Research Letters would like to sincerely thank those who reviewed manuscripts for us in 2022. The hours reading and commenting on manuscripts not only improve the manuscripts, but also increase the scientific rigor of future research in the field. With the advent of AGU's data policy, many reviewers have also helped immensely to evaluate the accessibility and availability of data, and many have provided insightful comments that helped to improve the data presentation and quality. We greatly appreciate the assistance of the reviewers in advancing open science, which is a key objective of AGU's data policy. We particularly appreciate the timely reviews in light of the demands imposed by the rapid review process at Geophysical Research Letters. We received 6,687 submissions in 2022 and 5,247 reviewers contributed to their evaluation by providing 8,720 reviews in total. We deeply appreciate their contributions in these challenging times. Plain Language Summary: Individuals in italics provided three or more reviews for GRL in 2022. Key Points: The editors thank the 2022 peer reviewers [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The development of an electrochemical process method for the synthesis of P-chiral phosphine derivatives poses a considerable challenge. Here, we present an electricity-driven cobalt-catalyzed enantioselective C–H annulation of arylphosphinic amides and alkynes, which provides rapid access to P-chiral cyclicphosphorus oxides in good yields with excellent enantioselectivities (48–99% yields, 94–>99% ee). The reaction was compatible with aqueous solvents and proceeded efficiently in a shorter reaction time compared with the previous work using oxidants. The process employs a combination of readily available chiral salicyloxazoline and cobalt acetate tetrahydrate as an inexpensive catalyst. Notably, the kinetic resolution process was also achieved with s factors up to 347.8. Experimental, kinetic and computational studies on cobalta-electrocatalysis provide insights into the catalyst's working mode. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Horseradish peroxidase was substituted by the artificial DNAzyme in ELISA (DLISA). • Ultrasensitive detection demonstrated the feasibility and efficiency of this DLISA. • Antibody and DNA could be quickly and easily functionalized on AuNPs as the probes. In this presented work, an artificial deoxyribozyme was employed as the substitute for horseradish peroxidase (or alkaline phosphatase) in ELISA for generating amplified signals. The feasibility of the proposed deoxyribozyme-based ELISA (DLISA) was demonstrated in the detection of a forbidden veterinary drug, chloramphenicol. And its efficiency was praised since that ultrahigh sensitivity was accomplished with a detection limit of 0.1 ng/L. The wide linear range from 0.000001 μg/mL to 1.0 μg/mL, as well as good recoveries from 86 % to 104 % in whole milk samples showed its excellent practical performances. Besides, the DLISA was worth popularizing due to the easy connection of antibody and DNAzyme through a facile functionalization process of gold nanoparticles. These advantages showed the possibility of DLISA for developing commercial kits, and the utilization of flexible DNA fluorescent probes in DLISA would inspire more work on innovations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The key to promoting the development of triggered vacuum switch is an in-depth research on the physical process of its trigger phase. This paper mainly divides the trigger process into metal electrode melt evaporation, neutral metal vapor layer expansion, electron collision ionization multiplication, and charged particle migration. An approximate analytical formulation of the trigger delay time theory is presented based on a one-dimensional heat conduction model and an electron collision ionization multiplication process. The trigger delay time experimental platform is built with a removable vacuum chamber. The influence factors involved in the mathematical description proposed are studied experimentally. Theoretical analysis and experimental results show that both trigger current rise rate and main electrode operating voltage have an approximate inverse relationship with trigger delay time. The main electrode gap distance is directly proportional to the trigger delay time, but the effect will be weaker as the main electrode gap distance increases. Overall, the consistency of the experimental results and theoretical analysis on influence trends well support the theoretical model. • Approximate analytical formulation of STVS trigger delay time. • Trigger delay time is inversely proportional to the trigger current rise rate. • Trigger delay time is inversely related to the main electrode operating voltage. • Trigger delay time is proportional to the main electrode gap distance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The lithium dispersion reductive lithiation of phenyl thioethers, alkyl chlorides, acrolein diethyl acetal, and isochroman is investigated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

By introducing the Butterfly catastrophe to optics, the far-zone vectorial structures of Butterfly-Gauss beam with vortex and non-vortex are studied using the angular spectrum representation and stationary phase method. The influence of topological charge, linear-polarized angle, off-axis distance and scaling length on the far-zone vectorial structures, especially in the Poynting vector and angular momentum density of the corresponding beam is emphasized. The results show that the embedded optical vortex at source plane lead to special dark zones in the far zone, where the number of dark zone equals the absolute value of topological charge of optical vortex. Furthermore, the symmetry and direction of the special dark zones can be controlled by off-axis distance and scaling length, respectively. The linear-polarized angle adjusts only the Poynting vectors of TE and TM terms, but it does not affect those of whole beam. Finally, the vectorial expressions also indicate that the total angular momentum density is certainly zero owing to the far-zone stable structures rather than rotation behaviors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

When double‐break vacuum circuit breakers (VCBs) interrupt the fault current, the series arc will generate their individual magnetic fields in different breaks. The magnetic field in one break will influence the arc in another break if the magnetic field is strong enough or the two breaks are very close. In this case, an interactive magnetic field effect happens. This field is also called the bias magnetic field (BMF). BMF can cause anode erosion and affect the performance at current zero. The distribution of BMF and the optimal configuration of the double‐break VCBs were obtained by the electromagnetic field simulation using the Ansoft Maxwell software. Based on the simulated magnetic field data, in the experiments, the interaction between the series vacuum arcs in double‐break VCBs was equivalent to the interaction between a single vacuum arc and the magnetic field generated by a Helmholtz coil. A high‐speed CMOS camera was used to record the trajectory of the vacuum arc plasma under different BMFs with different types of contacts. The results show the BMF can increase the arc voltage, and the arc becomes unstable. When the BMF becomes stronger, the arc voltage increases, and the arc becomes more unstable. In addition, for different types of contacts, the development process of the arc and the influence level are different under the same BMF. For a Wan‐type transverse magnetic field (TMF) contact or strong BMF, metal sputtering is evident and anode erosion becomes serious. For a cup‐type axial magnetic field (AMF) contact, the influence of BMF on the series arc plasma in double‐break VCBs is less than that of the Wan‐type TMF contact. The results of this work may be helpful for the design of compact double‐break VCBs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background The association between venous reflux patterns with aggressive intracranial lesions (AILs), including intracranial edema (IE), intraparenphymal hemorrhage (IPH), and subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH), has not been well established in cranial dural arteriovenous fistulas (DAVFs). We propose an updated classification system based on venous drainage. Methods We retrospectively assessed the catheter angiography findings of venous drainage patterns. Cranial DAVFs with no reflux flow and those with reflux flow drainage into the sinus only, the bridge vein only, the bridge vein and pial vein, and the sinus, bridge vein, and pial vein were designated as types 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5, respectively. We analyzed the associations between venous reflux patterns with AILs in 73 patients with DAVFs. Results AILs were found in 43 patients (58.9%), including 8 (11%) with SAH, 8 (11%) with IPH, and 27 (36.9%) with IE. Our proposed classification scheme was significantly associated with AILs ( P < 0.001). SAH was found in patients with type 3 (62.5%) and type 4 (37.5%), whereas IPH was seen mostly in those with type 4 (87.5%). The proportion of IE gradually increased from type 3 to type 5 (11.1% to 29.6% to 59.2%). Significant difference was found among each type between complete resolution and uncompleted resolution after endovascular treatment ( P = 0.034), which also demonstrated a gradually increasing proportion of uncompleted resolution from type 1 to type 5 (4.5%, 4.5%, 9.1%, 31.8%, and 50%). Conclusions Our proposed classification system effectively demonstrates a correlation between venous reflux patterns and AILs and outcomes of endovascular treatment in patients with DAVFs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Mosquitoes are vectors of many pathogens, such as malaria, dengue virus, yellow fever virus, filaria and Japanese encephalitis virus. Wolbachia are capable of inducing a wide range of reproductive abnormalities in their hosts, such as cytoplasmic incompatibility. Wolbachia has been proposed as a tool to modify mosquitoes that are resistant to pathogen infection as an alternative vector control strategy. This study aimed to determine natural Wolbachia infections in different mosquito species across Hainan Province, China. Methods: Adult mosquitoes were collected using light traps, human landing catches and aspirators in five areas in Hainan Province from May 2020 to November 2021. Species were identified based on morphological characteristics, species-specific PCR and DNA barcoding of cox1 assays. Molecular classification of species and phylogenetic analyses of Wolbachia infections were conducted based on the sequences from PCR products of cox1, wsp, 16S rRNA and FtsZ gene segments. Results: A total of 413 female adult mosquitoes representing 15 species were identified molecularly and analyzed. Four mosquito species (Aedes albopictus, Culex quinquefasciatus, Armigeres subalbatus and Culex gelidus) were positive for Wolbachia infection. The overall Wolbachia infection rate for all mosquitoes tested in this study was 36.1% but varied among species. Wolbachia types A, B and mixed infections of A × B were detected in Ae. albopictus mosquitoes. A total of five wsp haplotypes, six FtsZ haplotypes and six 16S rRNA haplotypes were detected from Wolbachia infections. Phylogenetic tree analysis of wsp sequences classified them into three groups (type A, B and C) of Wolbachia strains compared to two groups each for FtsZ and 16S rRNA sequences. A novel type C Wolbachia strain was detected in Cx. gelidus by both single locus wsp gene and the combination of three genes. Conclusion: Our study revealed the prevalence and distribution of Wolbachia in mosquitoes from Hainan Province, China. Knowledge of the prevalence and diversity of Wolbachia strains in local mosquito populations will provide part of the baseline information required for current and future Wolbachia-based vector control approaches to be conducted in Hainan Province. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Feline infectious peritonitis (FIP), which is caused by feline infectious peritonitis virus (FIPV), is a fatal and immunologically mediated infectious disease among cats. At present, due to the atypical clinical symptoms and clinicopathological changes, the clinical diagnosis of FIP is still difficult. The gold standard method for the differential diagnosis of FIP is immunohistochemistry (IHC) which is time-consuming and requires specialized personnel and equipment. Therefore, a rapid and accurate clinical diagnostic method for FIPV infection is still urgently needed. In this study, based on the etiological investigation of FIPV in parts of southern China, we attempted to explore a new rapid and highly sensitive method for clinical diagnosis. The results of the etiological investigation showed that the N gene of the FIPV BS8 strain had the highest homology with other strains. Based on this, a specific FIPV BS8 N protein monoclonal antibody was successfully prepared by expression of the recombinant proteins, immunization of mice, fusion and selection of hybridoma cell lines, and screening and purification of monoclonal antibodies. Furthermore, we carried out a time-saving combination method including indirect immunofluorescence assay (IFA) and nested reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-nPCR) to examine FIP-suspected clinical samples. These results were 100% consistent with IHC. The results revealed that the combined method could be a rapid and accurate application in the diagnosis of suspected FIPV infection within 24 hours. In conclusion, the combination of IFA and RT-nPCR was shown to be a fast and reliable method for clinical FIPV diagnosis. This study will provide insight into the exploitation of FIPV N antibodies for the clinical diagnosis of FIP-suspected ascites samples. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The solvent effects in Friedel–Crafts cycloalkylation of epoxides and Cope rearrangement of aldimines were investigated by using ab initio molecular dynamics simulations. Explicit molecular treatments were applied for both reactants and solvents. The reaction mechanisms were elucidated via free energy calculations based on metadynamics simulations. The results reveal that both reactions proceed in a concerted fashion. Key solvent‐substrate interactions are identified from the structures of transition states with explicit solvent molecules. The remarkable promotion effect of hexafluoroisopropanol solvent is ascribed to the synergistic effect of H‐bonding networks and C−H/π interactions with substrates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Janus kinase-signal transducer and activator of transcription (JAK-STAT) pathway is an evolutionarily conserved signaling pathway that can regulate various biological processes. However, the role of JAK-STAT pathway in the persistent viral infection in insect vectors has rarely been investigated. Here, using a system that comprised two different plant viruses, Rice stripe virus (RSV) and Rice black-streaked dwarf virus (RBSDV), as well as their insect vector small brown planthopper, we elucidated the regulatory mechanism of JAK-STAT pathway in persistent viral infection. Both RSV and RBSDV infection activated the JAK-STAT pathway and promoted the accumulation of suppressor of cytokine signaling 5 (SOCS5), an E3 ubiquitin ligase regulated by the transcription factor STAT5B. Interestingly, the virus-induced SOCS5 directly interacted with the anti-apoptotic B-cell lymphoma-2 (BCL2) to accelerate the BCL2 degradation through the 26S proteasome pathway. As a result, the activation of apoptosis facilitated persistent viral infection in their vector. Furthermore, STAT5B activation promoted virus amplification, whereas STAT5B suppression inhibited apoptosis and reduced virus accumulation. In summary, our results reveal that virus-induced JAK-STAT pathway regulates apoptosis to promote viral infection, and uncover a new regulatory mechanism of the JAK-STAT pathway in the persistent plant virus transmission by arthropod vectors. Author summary: The Janus kinase-signal transducer and activator of transcription (JAK-STAT) pathway acts as an innate antiviral immunity in mammals, while its role in the persistent transmission of plant viruses by insect vectors remains largely unknown. In this study, we reported that plant viral infection activated the JAK-STAT pathway and this pathway regulated apoptosis to benefit virus accumulation in the insect vector. This is a new regulatory mechanism of virus-induced apoptosis for persistent viral infection. Moreover, our new findings greatly expand our knowledge on the complex crosstalk between JAK-STAT and other pathways to facilitate persistent virus transmission in their insect vectors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The stability of Pt‐based catalysts for oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) in hydrogen fuel cells is seriously handicapped by the corrosion of their carbon supports at high potentials and acidic environments. Herein, a novel SnS2/SnO2 hetero‐structured support is reported for Pt nanoparticles (NPs) as the ORR catalyst, where Pt NPs are mainly deposited at the interfaces of SnS2 and SnO2 moieties. The Pt‐support interactions, which can be tuned by the concentration of the heterointerfaces, can accelerate the electronic transfer and enrich the electron density of Pt with a favorable shift of the d‐band center. In electrochemical measurements, the ORR mass activity (MA) of the optimal Pt‐SnS2/SnO2 catalyst at 0.9 V versus RHE (0.40 A mgPt−1) is four times higher than that of Pt/C. As for the stability, the electrochemical active surface area and MA of Pt‐SnS2/SnO2 are only decreased by 18.2% and 23.7% after 50 000 potential cycles at a high potential region (1.0–1.6 V), representing the best ORR stability among the reported Pt‐based catalysts. Density functional theory calculations indicate that the binding energy and migration barrier of Pt atom/cluster on the SnS2/SnO2 heterojunction are much higher relative to other supports, accounting for the outstanding stability of the catalyst. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The origins of ligand effects on PhCF3 reductive elimination from PdII complexes were computationally investigated by using energy decomposition analysis. The results indicate weak electrostatic interactions between ligands and Ph−Pd−CF3 lead to small barriers of PhCF3 reductive elimination. Two major factors affecting the electrostatic interactions are identified. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Photocatalytic hydrogen evolution on Au/TiO 2 is boosted after being selectively functionalized with cysteamine molecules. • The HER enhancement is attributed to the cysteamine-induced separation of photo-generated hot carriers. • The cysteamine-induced HER enhancement can be further tuned by changing the pH value of the reaction system. • Our strategy is highly simple, convenient and effective, easily extended to many other nanocatalysts / catalytic reactions. Photocatalytic evolution of hydrogen is becoming a research hotspot because it can help to produce clean energy and reduce environmental pollution. Titanium dioxide (TiO 2) and its composites are photocatalysts that are widely used in hydrogen evolution because of their high abundance in nature, low price, and high photo/chemical stability. However, their catalytic performances still need to be further improved, particularly in the visible light spectrum. Herein, visible light-driven photocatalytic evolution of hydrogen on Au/TiO 2 nanocomposite is enhanced ∼ 10 folds by selectively functionalizing the nanocomposite with cysteamine molecules. It is revealed that the amine group (–NH 2) in cysteamine favors the transfer and separation of photo-generated hot carriers. The rate of hydrogen produced can be further tuned by varying the ionization of the functionalized molecules at different pH values. This work provides a simple, convenient, and effective method that can be used to improve the photocatalytic evolution of hydrogen. This method can also be used for many other nanocatalysts (e.g., Au-MoS 2 , Au-BiVO 4) and catalytic reactions (e.g., carbon dioxide reduction, nitrogen reduction). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Canine influenza virus (CIV) significantly threatens the canine population and public health. Tetherin, an innate immune factor, plays an important role in the defense against pathogen invasion and has been discovered to restrict the release of various enveloped viruses. Two isoforms of canine tetherin (tetherin-X1 and tetherin-X2) were identified in peripheral blood leukocytes of mixed-breed dogs using reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT–PCR). Amino acid alignment revealed that relative to full-length tetherin (tetherin-X1) and truncated canine tetherin (tetherin-X2) exhibited deletion of 34 amino acids. The deletion occurred at the C-terminus of the coiled-coiled ectodomain and the N-terminus of the glycosylphosphatidylinositol (GPI)-anchor domain. Tetherin-X2 was localized subcellularly at the cell membrane, which was consistent with the localization of tetherin-X1. In addition, canine tetherin-X1 and tetherin-X2 restricted the release of H3N2 CIV. However, canine tetherin-X1 had higher antiviral activity than canine tetherin-X2, indicating that the C-terminus of the coiled-coiled ectodomain and the N-terminus of the GPI-anchor domain of canine tetherin (containing the amino acids deleted in tetherin-X2) are critical for its ability to restrict H3N2 CIV release. This study provides insights for understanding the key functional domains of tetherin that restrict CIV release. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Studies whether intact peanut lectin enters the blood after eating peanuts. Lectins being proteins that bind specifically to carbohydrates and agglutinate eukaryotic cells; Methods; Findings; Conclusion that the overall effect of the uptake of dietary lectins can affect cell-to-cell adhesion and proliferation.

The FRUITFULL genes regulate tomato fruit ripening in a redundant manner. They are functional diversely in fruit shape regulation through affecting cellular differentiation and expansion.The tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) protein MADS-RIN plays important roles in fruit ripening. In this study, the functions of two homologous tomato proteins, FUL1 and FUL2, which contain conserved MIKC domains that typify plant MADS-box proteins, and which interact with MADS-RIN, were analysed. Transgenic functional analysis showed that FUL1 and FUL2 function redundantly in fruit ripening regulation, but exhibit distinct roles in the regulation of cellular differentiation and expansion. Over-expression of FUL2 in tomato resulted in a pointed tip at the blossom end of the fruit, together with a thinner pericarp, reduced stem diameter, and smaller leaves, but no obvious phenotypes resulted from FUL1 over-expression. Dual suppression of FUL1 and FUL2 substantially inhibited fruit ripening by blocking ethylene biosynthesis and decreasing carotenoid accumulation. In addition, the levels of transcript corresponding to ACC SYNTHASE2 (ACS2), which plays a key role in ethylene biosynthesis, were significantly decreased in the FUL1/FUL2 knock-down tomato fruits. Overall, our results suggest that FUL proteins can regulate tomato fruit ripening through fine-tuning ethylene biosynthesis and the expression of ripening-related genes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: The present work focused on the RNA virome analysis of an agricultural pest. In this study, the four novel RNA viruses in A. sinensis were reported. According to the phylogenetic analysis, they were classified as nege-like virus, iflavirus, chu-like virus, and ollusvirus. The complete genome sequence of four RNA viruses were obtained with RACE. Moreover, the analysis of virus-derived small interfering RNAs showed that most of the RNA viruses were targeted by the host antiviral RNA interference pathway. A large number of RNA viruses have been discovered in most insect orders using high-throughput sequencing (HTS) and advanced bioinformatics methods. In this study, an RNA virome of the grasshopper was systematically identified in Atractomorpha sinensis (Orthoptera: Pyrgomorphidae), an important agricultural pest known as the pink-winged grasshopper. These insect viruses were classified as the nege-like virus, iflavirus, ollusvirus, and chu-like virus using HTS and phylogenetic analyses. Meanwhile, the full sequences of four novel RNA viruses were obtained with RACE and named Atractomorpha sinensis nege-like virus 1 (ASNV1), Atractomorpha sinensis iflavirus 1 (ASIV1), Atractomorpha sinensis ollusvirus 1 (ASOV1), and Atractomorpha sinensis chu-like virus 1 (ASCV1), respectively. Moreover, the analysis of virus-derived small interfering RNAs showed that most of the RNA viruses were targeted by the host antiviral RNA interference pathway. Moreover, our results provide a comprehensive analysis on the RNA virome of A. sinensis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Conjugated polyelectrolytes (CPEs) comprised of conjugated backbones and pendant ionic functionalities are versatile organic semiconductors with myriad optoelectronic applications. Although polarons are dominant charge carriers in conducting CPEs owing to strong electron‐phonon coupling, their properties are not well understood, especially from a first‐principles perspective. In this study, a comprehensive study on the stability, structural deformation, electronic structure, and optical absorption of positive (or hole)/negative (or electron) polarons and bi‐polarons in CPEs is conducted. It is explored how these properties depend on the electrostatic interaction between the polarons and ionic functionalities, including alkyl chains, ionic groups, and counterions. It is then examined how the bandgap, polaron binding energy, and optoelectronic structure of CPEs can be tuned by various combinations of the donor and acceptor units in their backbones. Finally, electrochemical stability of CPEs is studied and light is shed on the absence of negative polarons in CPEs. The strategy to improve the electrochemical stability of n‐doped CPEs is also discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An increasing number of non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) have been discovered recently with the advance of RNA-seq. Nevertheless, the function of ncRNAs in leaf senescence was not fully elucidated. In this study, the whole transcriptome sequencing was employed to characterize the expression profiles of mRNA, lncRNA and miRNA during leaf senescence. A total of 2774 mRNAs, 160 lncRNAs and 117 miRNAs were identified to be significantly differentially expressed between the senescent and the young leaves. Co-expression analysis showed that 160 differential expressing (DE) lncRNAs potentially regulated 946 protein-coding genes in trans , but only 32 targeted protein-coding genes were predicated to be regulated by 30 lncRNAs in cis. Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) enrichment analysis of these trans - and cis -target genes revealed that the DE lncRNAs participated in pathways, such as photosynthesis, transporters and circadian rhythm. Furthermore, virus-induced gene silencing (VIGS) was employed to illuminate the role of lncRNAs. The silence of MSTRG.16920 and MSTRG.7613, two intergenic lncRNAs, significantly inhibited leaf senescence induced by darkness, presumably attributed to the downregulated expression of their corresponding target genes Solyc02g069960 and Solyc06g050440 , respectively. Notably, Solyc02g069960 and Solyc06g050440 encoding senescence-related NAC transcription factor and reactive oxygen species (ROS)-related peroxidase, respectively, served as positive regulators of leaf senescence. Collectively, our study provides a comprehensive expression profile of lncRNAs in senescent leaf with the concurrent integrated expression of mRNAs and miRNAs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]