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The damage of road base course has the characteristics of strong concealment and difficulty in detecting. For this reason, the impact imaging method has been used for detection of road base course. This paper discussed systematically collection points setting, excitation mode and data processing method. Through the application in testing for highway pavement base before and after grouting maintenance, the results show that the method is simple and accurate. The detection results can be displayed in a two-dimensional image form and it is easy to be used in road maintenance. This method can be used to identify and locate the damages of the pavement base, to judge the uniformity of the pavement base structure. It can also be used to evaluate the effectiveness of internal damage after grouting repairing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Protected areas (PAs) are pivotal to biodiversity conservation, yet their efficacy is compromised by insufficient funding and management. So‐called other effective area‐based conservation measures (OECMs) present a paradigm shift and address PA limitations. Such measures can expand conservation areas, enhance connectivity, and improve the existing system. To assess the conservation status of biodiversity in Tibetan cultural areas in China, we investigated the spatial distribution of wildlife vulnerable to human disturbance (large‐ and medium‐sized mammals and terrestrial birds) in Xinlong, a traditional Tibetan cultural area. In particular, we compared a PA (Xionglongxi Nature Reserve) and OECMs targeting species conservation. We also investigated the relationship of wildlife with human temporal and spatial activities. The OECMs complemented areas not covered by PA, especially in rich understory biodiversity regions. More species in OECMs tolerated human presence than species in the PA. Existing biodiversity reserves failed to cover areas of high conservation value in Tibet and offered limited protection capacity. Expanding PAs and identifying OECMs improved Xinlong's system by covering most biodiversity hotspots. Building on the tradition of wildlife conservation in Tibet, harnessing OECMs may be an effective means of augmenting biodiversity conservation capacity. We recommend further evaluation of OECMs effectiveness and coverage in Tibetan area as a way to enhance the current PA system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: In critically ill patients receiving invasive mechanical ventilation (IMV), it is unable to determine early which patients require tracheotomy and whether early tracheotomy is beneficial. Methods: Clinical data of patients who were first admitted to the ICU and underwent invasive ventilation for more than 24 h in the Medical Information Marketplace in Intensive Care (MIMIC)-IV database were retrospectively collected. Patients were categorized into successful extubation and tracheotomy groups according to whether they were subsequently successfully extubated or underwent tracheotomy. The patients were randomly divided into model training set and validation set in a ratio of 7:3. Constructing predictive models and evaluating and validating the models. The tracheotomized patients were divided into the early tracheotomy group (< = 7 days) and the late tracheotomy group (> 7 days), and the prognosis of the two groups was analyzed. Results: A total of 7 key variables were screened: Glasgow coma scale (GCS) score, pneumonia, traumatic intracerebral hemorrhage, hemorrhagic stroke, left and right pupil responses to light, and parenteral nutrition. The area under the receiver operator characteristic (ROC) curve of the prediction model constructed through these seven variables was 0.897 (95% CI: 0.876–0.919), and 0.896 (95% CI: 0.866–0.926) for the training and validation sets, respectively. Patients in the early tracheotomy group had a shorter length of hospital stay, IMV duration, and sedation duration compared to the late tracheotomy group (p < 0.05), but there was no statistically significant difference in survival outcomes between the two groups. Conclusion: The prediction model constructed and validated based on the MIMIC-IV database can accurately predict the outcome of tracheotomy in critically ill patients. Meanwhile, early tracheotomy in critically ill patients does not improve survival outcomes but has potential advantages in shortening the duration of hospitalization, IMV, and sedation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: The main objective of this research is to find an effective way to reduce the reliance of broiler chickens on soybean meal. ZBM is a byproduct obtained by squeezing Zanthoxylum bungeanum, which contains high levels of protein, fat, and minerals. Currently, there is no existing research on the application of ZBM in broiler chickens. Therefore, this experiment aims to validate the effectiveness of using ZBM as a substitute for soybean meal in broiler chicken feed. The validation process involves two parts: in vitro biomimetic digestion experiments and broiler production experiments. The results demonstrated that the utilization of 5–10% ZBM led to notable enhancements in the growth and development of broilers. Additionally, it was observed that digestibility and utilization of nutrients were increased. Based on our research findings, we strongly believe that ZBM has the potential to be a suitable replacement for soybean meal in broiler feed. Zanthoxylum bungeanum seed meal (ZBM), a novel plant protein raw material, has shown promising potential in enhancing the growth of broiler chickens as a substitute for soybean meal (SBM) in feed. In the artificial digestive experiment of vitro experiments, the digestibility of ZBM and SBM were assessed using the SDS-III Single Stomach Animal Biometric Digestion System. Subsequently, 180 1-day old AA chicks were divided into three groups for in vivo experiments: corn–soybean-meal-based diet (CON group); ZBM replacing 5% soybean meal in the basal diet (ZBM-1 group); ZBM replacing 10% soybean meal in the basal diet (ZBM-2 group). The experiment period lasted for 42 days. Compared to SBM, ZBM demonstrated higher crude protein content, dry matter digestibility, and extracorporeal digestible protein. Compared with the CON group, the broilers in the ZBM-2 group showed improved ADG and ADFI during the 1–21 d, 22–42 d, and 1–42 d periods (p < 0.05). Furthermore, the ZBM groups exhibited significant increases in slaughter performance compared with the CON group (p < 0.05). The substitution of ZBM for SBM also leads to a significant reduction in serum enzyme indicators (p < 0.05). Additionally, the lipoprotein and total cholesterol of the ZBM groups were significantly lower than those of the CON group (p < 0.05). Substituting SBM with ZBM significantly enhances the activity of superoxide dismutase and the content of immunoglobulin G in broiler serum, while reducing the content of malondildehyde (p < 0.05). The ZBM groups showed significantly higher utilization of dry matter, crude protein, and energy compared with the CON group (p < 0.05). In conclusion, the study confirmed that the substitution of SBM with 5–10% ZBM in broiler diets has a significant positive effect on growth, development, antioxidant capacity, immune function, and nutrient utilization. This study not only provides a theoretical foundation for the utilization of ZBM in broiler diets but also offers an effective approach for reducing reliance on soybean meal. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effective transition metal‐free photoredox/bismuth dual catalytic reductive dialkylation of nitroarenes with benzaldehydes has been reported. The nitroarene reduction through visible light‐driven photoredox catalysis was integrated with subsequent reductive dialkylation of anilines under bismuth catalysis to enable the cascade reductive alkylation of nitroarenes with carbonyls. Salient features of this relay catalysis system include mild reaction conditions, no requirement for transition metal catalysts, easy handling, step‐economy, and high selectivity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work, a novel multiscale topology optimization method has been proposed for the design of electromechanical energy-harvesting systems converting mechanical vibrations into electric currents made of non-piezoelectric materials. At the microscopic scale, the material is assumed to be periodic, porous, and flexoelectric, although not piezoelectric. A first step of topology optimization is performed, in order to maximize the effective (homogenized) flexoelectric properties of the material, where a flexoelectric homogenization model is first formulated. As a result, the effective material, although made of a non-piezoelectric material, has apparent piezoelectric properties. In a second step, these properties are used to model the behavior of a dynamic electromechanical energy-harvesting system structure. A second topology optimization step, this time performed at the structural scale, aims to maximize the system electromechanical coupling factor (ECF) for a given forced vibration frequency, including the micro-inertial effect. At both scales, an isogeometric analysis method is employed to solve the strain-gradient problems numerically. We show that the optimized structure obtained offers significant gains in terms of ECF (by a factor of between 2 and 20) compared with non-optimized structures of the same volume, over a wide range of excitation frequencies. The procedure could open up new possibilities in the design of energy recovery systems without the use of piezoelectric materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ba[(Ca0.2Mg0.2Zn0.2Co0.2Ni0.2)1/3Nb2/3]O3 and Ba[(Mg0.25Zn0.25Co0.25Ni0.25)1/3Nb2/3]O3 perovskite single‐phase ceramics were synthesized by a solid‐state reaction method, and they were annealed at different temperatures in order to investigate the effect of B′‐site configurational entropy on phase stability, ordered domain structure and microwave dielectric characteristics. By comparing the B′‐site high‐entropy composition with B′‐site medium‐entropy and low‐entropy compositions, the entropy‐dominated phase‐stabilization effect and sluggish diffusion effect were observed in Ba[(Ca0.2Mg0.2Zn0.2Co0.2Ni0.2)1/3Nb2/3]O3. These effects enhanced the temperature stability of the B‐site 1:2 ordered structure. Ba[(Ca0.2Mg0.2Zn0.2Co0.2Ni0.2)1/3Nb2/3]O3 even reached a higher Qf value after annealing above the order‐disorder transition temperature (To‐d). This research extends the entropy regulation to ordered complex perovskite and provides a promising way to modify the performances of complex perovskite dielectric ceramics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Millimeter‐wave dielectric characteristrics of Sr1−xCaxSmAlO4 ceramics were investigated together with their structures. The solid solution in the space group I4/mmm was determined in the entire composition range, and the excellent microwave dielectric characteristics were not only obtained in the centimeter‐wave range but also in the millimeter‐wave range. The dielectric constant εr indicated a slight decrease from 19.5, and the significantly improved Q×f value was achieved, while the temperature coefficient of resonant frequency τf became more negative (from −3.4 to −12 ppm/°C) with increasing x. Q×f value showed apparent increase with increasing frequency, and the Q×f value at 28 GHz was improved from 88 000 to 160000 GHz with increasing x. The best combination of millimeter‐wave dielectric characteristics was achieved at x = 0.6: εr = 19, Q×f = 143 300 GHz (at 27.3 GHz), and τf = −9.3 ppm/°C. The present ceramics could be expected as the promising candidates as millimeter‐wave dielectric ceramics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Freshwater megafish species, such as sturgeons, salmonids, carps, and catfishes, have a maximum reported weight ≥30 kg. Due to their charisma and economic value, they have been widely introduced outside of their native ranges. Here, we provide a comprehensive overview of the introduction of freshwater megafish and an assessment of their environmental impacts. Of the 134 extant freshwater megafish species, 46% have been introduced to new environments, and of these, 69% have established self‐sustaining alien populations. These introductions affect 59% of the world's main basins, with the USA and western Europe being particular hotspots of megafish introductions. The common carp (Cyprinus carpio) is the most widely introduced species. Using the Environmental Impact Classification for Alien Taxa (EICAT and EICAT+) frameworks, we assessed the severity and type of negative and positive impacts posed by alien megafish on native species. Alien megafish caused negative impacts through nine different mechanisms, with predation being the most frequently reported mechanism, followed by herbivory and competition. Moreover, 58% of the alien megafish species with sufficient data to evaluate the severity of their impacts caused declining populations of native species, or worse, extirpations of native species populations. The positive environmental impacts of alien megafish were far less frequently documented. They include biotic interactions that benefit native species, and the provision of trophic resources or habitats. Widely introduced or extensively studied species are more likely to have documented severe impacts on native species. There is a clear trade‐off between the economic benefits associated with megafish introductions and the severe adverse impacts they have on native biodiversity. Our study highlights the need for comprehensive risk assessments to evaluate the potential environmental impacts of megafish. More research and long‐term monitoring schemes are required to inform management actions to protect biodiversity, particularly in the Global South. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: Protein‐based nanoparticles have gained considerable interest in recent years due to their biodegradability, biocompatibility, and functional properties. However, nanoparticles formed from hydrophobic proteins are prone to instability under environmental stress, which restricts their potential applications. It is therefore of great importance to develop green approaches for the fabrication of hydrophobic protein‐based nanoparticles and to improve their physicochemical performance. RESULTS: Gliadin/shellac complex nanoparticles (168.87 ~ 403.67 nm) with various gliadin/shellac mass ratios (10:0 ~ 5:5) were prepared using a pH‐driven approach. In comparison with gliadin nanoparticles, complex nanoparticles have shown enhanced stability against neutral pH, ions, and boiling. They remained stable under neutral conditions at NaCl concentrations ranging from 0 to 100 mmol L−1 and even when boiled at 100 °C for 90 min. These nanoparticles were capable of effectively reducing oil–water interfacial tension (5 ~ 11 mNm−1) but a higher amount of shellac in the nanoparticles compromised their ability to lower interfacial tension. Moreover, the wettability of the nanoparticles changed as the gliadin/shellac mass ratio changed, leading to a range of three‐phase contact angles from 52.41° to 84.85°. Notably, complex nanoparticles with a gliadin/shellac mass ratio of 8:2 (G/S 8:2) showed a contact angle of 84.85°, which is considered suitable for the Pickering stabilization mechanism. Moreover, these nanoparticles exhibited the highest emulsifying activity of 52.42 m2 g−1 and emulsifying stability of 65.33%. CONCLUSIONS: The findings of the study revealed that gliadin/shellac complex nanoparticles exhibited excellent resistance to environmental stress and demonstrated superior oil–water interfacial behavior. They have strong potential for further development as food emulsifiers or as nano‐delivery systems for nutraceuticals. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The practical application of room‐temperature sodium‐sulfur (RT Na–S) batteries is blocked by the notorious shuttle effect of sodium polysulfides (NaPSs) and sluggish refox reaction kinetics. Single‐atom catalysts (SACs) have been widely studied for boosting the energy storage performance of RT Na‐S batteries. Nevertheless, the catalytic centers of SACs reported so far have focused mainly on symmetrical metal–N4 structures, which offer weak bonding affinity toward polar NaPSs, leading to detrimental shuttle effect and sluggish sulfur conversion kinetics. Herein, a novel asymmetrical Mn–N2 structure is implanted into nitrogen‐doped carbon nanofibers (Mn‐N2/CNs) through thermal NH3 etching of a symmetrical Mn–N2O2 structure. The Mn–N2 structure promotes the bonding affinity and catalytic conversion of NaPSs due to the strengthened d‐p orbital‐hybridization between the d orbital of Mn in the Mn–N2 structure and the p orbital of S in NaPSs. Consequently, Mn‐N2/CNs@S achieves a high capacity of 458 mAh g−1 at 3.0 C with a capacity decay of 0.23% over 2300 cycles. This work offers a promising pathway for regulating the coordination number of SACs with strengthened d‐p orbital‐hybridization for high‐performance RT Na–S batteries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

\nHIGHLIGHTSThe nutritional value of dietary meat protein is closely related to its digestion and subsequent fermentation profiles. Therefore, the understanding of its digestion and its metabolic behaviors in the gut in terms of source and thermal processing attracts an interest for academia and industry. This review focuses on the digestion, absorption, metabolism and health-related outcomes of meat protein based on animal models and human trials. As for meat protein source, fish and chicken are generally associated with a better hepatic lipid metabolism, a higher energy metabolism, a lower intestinal excretion of trimethylamine-N-oxide, N-nitroso compounds, lipoperoxides and a higher abundance of Lactobacillus and A. muciniphila than beef and pork. In terms of thermal processing, a moderate heating can induce positive outcomes in digestibility of meat protein for young people, while well-cooked meat is recommended for the elderly to improve postprandial protein utilization. This review expands knowledge that will be essential for the rational selection of meat sources and thermal processing conditions of meat and meat products for optimal nutritional benefits. The nutritional value of meat protein is related to its digestion and fermentation.Meat protein source and thermal processing effects are the main focus.Fish and chicken show different metabolic responses with pork and beef.Moderate cooking favors meat protein digestion in young people but not the elderly.The nutritional value of meat protein is related to its digestion and fermentation.Meat protein source and thermal processing effects are the main focus.Fish and chicken show different metabolic responses with pork and beef.Moderate cooking favors meat protein digestion in young people but not the elderly. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Cervical cancer poses a heavy health burden in China, with the second highest incidence and mortality rate among female tumors, yet human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination rate among female university students remain remains low. This study conducted a cross-sectional survey to assess the degree of HPV vaccine hesitancy among female university students and to explore the potential association between knowledge, risk perception, trust, and HPV vaccine hesitancy. Methods: A total of 1,438 female university students from four Chinese cities were recruited through stratified, multistage, cluster sampling method. The mediation model was constructed using the Bootstrap method, introducing trust and risk perception as mediating variables to examine the effect of knowledge on HPV vaccine hesitancy. Results: The study found that 8.9% (95%CI:7.4%∼10.4%) of the female university students exhibited HPV vaccine hesitancy. Pearson's correlation analysis revealed a negative association between vaccine hesitancy and knowledge, risk perception, and trust. The mediation model showed that knowledge had significant indirect effects on HPV vaccine hesitancy through trust (indirect effect: -0.224, 95% CI: -0.293 ∼ -0.167) and risk perception (indirect effect: -0.013, 95% CI: -0.033 ∼ -0.002). Conclusion: HPV vaccine hesitancy among female university students has mitigated, but still needs to be addressed. In addition, trust and risk perception are mediators mediating the relationship between knowledge with HPV vaccine hesitancy. Therefore, there is a need to strengthen public health education to improve knowledge, with a particular focus on providing information about trust and risk perception to reduce HPV vaccine hesitancy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To develop a fast and effective image deblurring method, the blind recovery of motion‐blurred images based on DeblurGAN(GAN, Generative Adversarial Networks) is researched.Firstly, the number of residual modules in the DeblurGAN network is changed, and an attempt is made to optimize the network structure to achieve better results in the blind recovery of motion‐blurred images. Secondly, an image deblurring method based on the improved DeblurGAN network is proposed.This paper makes corresponding adjustments to the generator and discriminator networks to change their input and output size to 512 × 512 while keeping the overall structure of the network unchanged, and the experimental results show that the quality of the restored images has been greatly improved. In addition, the images were divided into four classes of images,to achieve improved restoration of blurred images with specific content. Experimental results on the benchmark GoPro dataset validate that the improved DeblurGAN achieves more than 1.5 dB improvement than DeblurGAN in terms of peak signal‐to‐noise ratio (PSNR) as trained utilizing the same amount of data, and structural similarity assessment (SSIM) evaluation means and maximum values increased between 0.2 and 0.3. The improved DeblurGAN is more effective in terms of both blur removal and detail recovery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A study was conducted to investigate the multi-scale pore structure-based mechanism controlling the hydraulic conductivity of polymer-enhanced geosynthetic clay liners (GCLs) prepared by the wet-mixed method to bauxite liquors (BLS and BLA). The multi-scale pore structures were evaluated using MIP and N 2 GA tests quantitatively. Conventional GCL permeated with BLS had a larger flow path volume than with DI water (0.194 > 0.119 cm³/g), attributed to the bentonite swelling inhibition and the montmorillonite dissolution, leading to the higher hydraulic conductivity (3.0 × 10−7 > 2.7 × 10−11 m/s). Polymer-enhanced GCLs developed more micropores and had a smaller quantity proportion and volume of flow paths since polymer formed more micropores to clog pores, contributing to a lower hydraulic conductivity than conventional GCL to BLS. The hydraulic conductivity of polymer-enhanced GCL to BLS (ionic strength: 622.5 mM) was higher than that to BLA (156.9 mM) (2.6 × 10−9 > 6.0 × 10−12 m/s), given that the coiled or contracted polymer conformation left a smaller quantity proportion (5.54% < 6.71%) and volume (0.0002 cm3/g < 0.0035 cm3/g) of micropores. [Display omitted] • This study evaluated the multi-scale pore structures of GCLs by combining MIP and N 2 GA tests. • Conventional GCL had higher hydraulic conductivity to bauxite liquors because of wider flow paths. • The polymer formed micropores to clog pores, leading to narrower flow paths and lower hydraulic conductivity. • The higher ionic strength affected micropores by changing polymer conformation, resulting in higher hydraulic conductivity. • GCLs with higher polymer loading had lower hydraulic conductivity since sufficient polymers created more micropores. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This special issue focuses on computational model for drug research regarding drug bioactivity prediction, drug-related interaction prediction, modelling for immunotherapy and modelling for treatment of a specific disease, as conveyed by the following six research and four review articles. Notably, these 10 papers described a wide variety of in-depth drug research from the computational perspective and may represent a snapshot of the wide research landscape. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Existing formats based on the simplified molecular input line entry system (SMILES) encoding and molecular graph structure are designed to encode the complete semantic and structural information of molecules. However, the physicochemical properties of molecules are complex, and a single encoding of molecular features from SMILES sequences or molecular graph structures cannot adequately represent molecular information. Aiming to address this problem, this study proposes a sequence graph cross-attention (SG-ATT) representation architecture for a molecular property prediction model to efficiently use domain knowledge to enhance molecular graph feature encoding and combine the features of molecular SMILES sequences. The SG-ATT fuses the two-dimensional molecular features so that the current model input molecular information contains molecular structure information and semantic information. The SG-ATT was tested on nine molecular property prediction tasks. Among them, the biggest SG-ATT model performance improvement was 4.5% on the BACE dataset, and the average model performance improvement was 1.83% on the full dataset. Additionally, specific model interpretability studies were conducted to showcase the performance of the SG-ATT model on different datasets. In-depth analysis was provided through case studies of in vitro validation. Finally, network tools for molecular property prediction were developed for the use of researchers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Intelligent Vehicle–Infrastructure Collaboration Systems (i-VICS) put forward higher requirements for the real-time security of dynamic traffic information interaction. It is difficult to ensure the safety of dynamic traffic information interaction by means of traditional static information security. In this study, a method was proposed through machine learning-based lane-changing (LC) behavior recognition and information credibility discrimination, based on the utilization and exploitation of traffic business characteristics. The method consisted of three stages: LC behavior recognition based on Support Vector Machine (SVM), LC speed prediction based on Recurrent Neural Network (RNN), and credibility discrimination of speed information under LC states. Firstly, the labeling rules of vehicle LC behavior and the input/output of each stage model were determined, and the raw NGSIM data were processed to obtain data sets for LC behavior identification and LC speed prediction. Both the SVM classification and RNN prediction models were trained and tested, respectively. Afterwards, a model of credibility discrimination speed information under an LC state was constructed, and the real vehicle speed data were processed for model verification. The results showed that the overall accuracy of vehicle status recognition by the SVM model was 99.18%, and the precision of the RNN model was on the order of magnitude of cm/s. Considering transverse and longitudinal abnormal velocity, the accuracy credibility discrimination of LC velocity was more than 97% in most experimental groups. The model can effectively identify the abnormal speed data of LC vehicles and provide support for the real-time identification of LC vehicle speed information under i-VICS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: Changes in surface thaw onset in Arctic permafrost can regulate terrestrial ecosystem dynamics. Permafrost surface thaw onset has advanced significantly because of strong Arctic warming. However, surface thaw onset change effects on vegetation during the different growing season stages remain unclear. Location: Arctic and subarctic permafrost region. Time Period: 1982–2016. Major Taxa Studied: Arctic vegetation. Methods: This study investigated surface thaw onset change effects on vegetation growth in the Arctic permafrost region by analysing the relationships between surface thaw onset dates and vegetation indices obtained via satellite remote sensing from 1982 to 2016. Results: The leaf area index (LAI) from April to June was negatively correlated (−0.16 area‐averaged partial correlation coefficient) with surface‐thawed dates in over 78.6% of the Arctic permafrost region, and the LAI from August to October was positively correlated (0.17 area‐averaged partial correlation coefficient) with surface‐thawed dates in over 79.9% of the Arctic permafrost region. These distinct relationships suggest that earlier thaw onset may have a positive effect on vegetation growth during the early stage of the growing season. However, earlier thaw onset can limit vegetation growth during the late stage of the growing season. The different relationships between surface thaw onset and LAI can be explained by moisture availability. This difference occurred because 67.3% of the Arctic permafrost region was more constrained by temperature during the early stage of the growing season, therefore, the earlier thaw onset alleviated this temperature constraint and benefited vegetation growth. During the late stage of the growing season, 47.7% of the Arctic permafrost region was more constrained by moisture. Main Conclusions: Our results suggest that surface thaw onset change effects on vegetation vary by period, and this difference requires careful consideration when predicting ecosystem changes in permafrost regions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study firstly examines the causal effect of environmental information disclosure on political trust and then provides a novel psychological mechanism through which the effect occurred. Exploiting the staggered rolled‐out implementation of a national program in China that provides real‐time air‐pollution information to the public, we find that air pollution adversely moderates the positive effect of information disclosure on political trust. Notably and surprisingly, this “adverse moderation” is concentrated in less polluted areas, where the lack of visible smog led citizens to remain unaware of the actual pollution levels until information is disclosed. Heterogeneity analysis shows that the adverse moderation is more pronounced among urban residents using Internet, an important source for pollution information. Furthermore, we establish that the causal effect operates through the channels of citizens' mental well‐being, demonstrated by a large and statistically significant increase in the risk of mild depression due to heightened concern over pollution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Goat products have played a crucial role in meeting the dietary demands of people since the Neolithic era, giving rise to a multitude of goat breeds globally with varying characteristics and meat qualities. The primary objective of this study is to pinpoint the pivotal genes and their functions responsible for regulating muscle fiber growth in the longissimus dorsi muscle (LDM) through DNA methylation modifications in Hainan black goats and hybrid goats. Methods: Whole-genome bisulfite sequencing (WGBS) was employed to scrutinize the impact of methylation on LDM growth. This was accomplished by comparing methylation differences, gene expression, and their associations with growth-related traits. Results: In this study, we identified a total of 3,269 genes from differentially methylated regions (DMR), and detected 189 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) through RNA-seq analysis. Hypo DMR genes were primarily enriched in KEGG terms associated with muscle development, such as MAPK and PI3K-Akt signaling pathways. We selected 11 hub genes from the network that intersected the gene sets within DMR and DEGs, and nine genes exhibited significant correlation with one or more of the three LDM growth traits, namely area, height, and weight of loin eye muscle. Particularly, PRKG1 demonstrated a negative correlation with all three traits. The top five most crucial genes played vital roles in muscle fiber growth: FOXO3 safeguarded the myofiber's immune environment, FOXO6 was involved in myotube development and differentiation, and PRKG1 facilitated vasodilatation to release more glucose. This, in turn, accelerated the transfer of glucose from blood vessels to myofibers, regulated by ADCY5 and AKT2, ultimately ensuring glycogen storage and energy provision in muscle fibers. Conclusion: This study delved into the diverse methylation modifications affecting critical genes, which collectively contribute to the maintenance of glycogen storage around myofibers, ultimately supporting muscle fiber growth. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Cottonseed protein concentrate (CPC) is a novel plant protein source that has been developed using advanced cottonseed processing technology. It was extensively utilized as a replacement for fish meal in feed within the aquaculture industry. However, there was limited research on using CPC as a protein source to replace soybean meal in broiler diets. This study conducted a comprehensive analysis of the chemical and amino acid composition of CPC, and assessed its protein and amino acid digestibility, metabolizable energy value, and net energy value in the broiler chickens. Additionally, the experiment examined the effects of replacing 25% and 50% of soybean meal in feed with CPC on the growth performance, blood parameters, antioxidant capacity, and immunoglobulin content of broiler chickens. These findings provide valuable insights into the potential use of CPC as a substitute for soybean meal in broiler feed formulation. Cottonseed protein concentrate (CPC) has the function of replacing soybean meal to maintain normal animal growth and development. This study involved 180 Arbor Acres (AA) broilers, which were randomly assigned to three different treatments. Each treatment had six replicates, with each replicate consisting of 10 chicks. The control group was fed a basal diet, while the CPC-1 and CPC-2 groups used CPC to replace 25% and 50% of the soybean meal in the basal diet, respectively. The study showed that replacing soybean meal with 25% CPC in broilers' diets can maintain normal growth, while substituting 50% of soybean meal with CPC negatively affects the growth and development of broiler chickens. Furthermore, the CPC-1 group showed a significant increase in serum total antioxidant capacity, superoxide dismutase enzyme activity, and immunoglobulin content, along with a decrease in malondialdehyde content. Based on the research results mentioned above, it was speculated that CPC has the potential to replace around 25% of soybean meal in broiler feed without causing any negative impact on growth performance. This suggests that CPC could be a viable alternative to soybean meal in broiler diet. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An efficient and direct approach to pyrroles was successfully developed by employing 3-formylchromones as decarboxylative coupling partners, and facilitated by microwave irradiation. The protocol utilizes easily accessible feedstocks, a catalytic amount of DBU without any metals, resulting in high efficiency and regioselectivity. Notably, all synthesized products were evaluated against five different cancer cell lines and compound 3l selectively inhibited the proliferation of HCT116 cells with an IC50 value of 10.65 μM. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The world's deepest yongle blue hole (YBH) is characterized by sharp dissolved oxygen (DO) gradients, and considerably low-organic-carbon and high-inorganic-carbon concentrations that may support active autotrophic communities. To understand metabolic strategies of autotrophic communities for obtaining carbon and energy spanning redox gradients, we presented finer characterizations of microbial community, metagenome and metagenome-assembled genomes (MAGs) in the YBH possessing oxic, hypoxic, essentially anoxic and completely anoxic zones vertically. Firstly, the YBH microbial composition and function shifted across the four zones, linking to different biogeochemical processes. The recovery of high-quality MAGs belonging to various uncultivated lineages reflected high novelty of the YBH microbiome. Secondly, carbon fixation processes and associated energy metabolisms varied with the vertical zones. The Calvin–Benson–Bassham (CBB) cycle was ubiquitous but differed in affiliated taxa at different zones. Various carbon fixation pathways were found in the hypoxic and essentially anoxic zones, including the 3-hyroxypropionate/4-hydroxybutyrate (3HP/4HB) cycle affiliated to Nitrososphaeria, and Wood-Ljungdahl (WL) pathway affiliated to Planctomycetes, with sulfur oxidation and dissimilatory nitrate reduction as primary energy-conserving pathways. The completely anoxic zone harbored diverse taxa (Dehalococcoidales, Desulfobacterales and Desulfatiglandales) utilizing the WL pathway coupled with versatile energy-conserving pathways via sulfate reduction, fermentation, CO oxidation and hydrogen metabolism. Finally, most of the WL-pathway containing taxa displayed a mixotrophic lifestyle corresponding to flexible carbon acquisition strategies. Our result showed a vertical transition of microbial lifestyle from photo-autotrophy, chemoautotrophy to mixotrophy in the YBH, enabling a better understanding of carbon fixation processes and associated biogeochemical impacts with different oxygen availability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • MoO 2 nanoparticles coupling with N -doped MCNTs (MoO 2 / N -MCNTs) heterostructure is fabricated. • The MoO 2 / N -MCNTs heterostructure with strong coupled interfaces demonstrate superior lithium-storage performance. • DFT calculation indicates enhanced charge accumulation and Li+ diffusion through the interface. • The structural conversion between MoO 2 and Li 2 MoO 4 is revealed. The low-rate capability and fast capacity decaying of the molybdenum dioxide anode material have been a bottleneck for lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) due to low carrier transport, drastic volume expansion and inferior reversibility. Furthermore, the lithium-storage mechanism is still controversial at present. Herein, we fabricate a new kind of MoO 2 nanoparticles with nitrogen-doped multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MoO 2 / N -MCNTs) as anode for LIBs. The strong chemical bonding (Mo O C) endows MoO 2 / N -MCNTs a strong metal oxide–support interaction (SMSI), rendering electron/ion transfer and facilitate significant Li+ intercalation pseudocapacitance, which is evidenced by both theoretical computation and detailed experiments. Thus, the MoO 2 / N -MCNTs exhibits high-rate performance (523.7 mAh/g at 3000 mA g−1) and long durability (507.8 mAh/g at 1000 mA g−1 after 500 cycles). Furthermore, pouch-type full cell composed of MoO 2 / N -MCNTs anodes and commercial LiNi 0.6 Co 0.2 Mn 0.2 O 2 (NCM622) cathodes demonstrate impressive rate performance and cyclic life, which displays an unparalleled energy density of 553.0 Wh kg−1. Ex-situ X-ray absorption spectroscopy (XAS) indicates the enhanced lithium-storage mechanism is originated from a partially irreversible phase transition from Li 0.98 MoO 2 to Li 2 MoO 4 via delithiation. This work not only provides fresh insights into the enhanced lithium-storage mechanism but also proposes new design principles toward efficient LIBs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The impact of phytophenols on myofibrillar protein (MP) has attracted great interest, due to the advantageous effects of phytophenols on the quality of meat and meat products under differential oxidation scenarios. Under natural oxidation scenarios, phytophenols can not only preserve product from quality deterioration, but also strengthen textural and organoleptic properties by structural and functional modification of MP. Meanwhile, phytophenols as structural modifiers are deliberately applied in gelled muscle foods under artificial oxidant scenarios. To successfully realize the application of phytophenols in meat products, the impact of phytophenols on MP should be explored, and the application scenarios which were commonly neglected must be considered. Therefore, this review provided a scenario structured summary on the phenol-modified MP structure, functionality and the ultimate quality of muscle foods to underline this fact. Moreover, the innovation applications of MP−phytophenols interaction, such as structure formation of MP gelled foods, functional packaging material, protein valorization and functional MP colloids, were also introduced. This work can foster better understanding on MP−phytophenols interaction and its emerging applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Human activities posed an increasing threat to leopard cats' habitats. By utilizing infrared camera trapping, we analyzed the spatial distribution and habitat suitability of the leopard cats on Xinlong, located in the mountains of Southwest China. We also investigated the interaction between leopard cats and human disturbances in high-altitude regions. Our findings indicated that human disturbances had minimal effects on the habitat suitability, landscape structure, and spatial relationships of leopard cats. Their habitat preferences were shaped by competition with small carnivores like yellow-throated martens and environmental factors such as distance to water and terrain roughness index. This limited human impact may be attributed to local wildlife-friendly customs and leopard cat's adaptability. To protect leopard cats and other wildlife, we recommend a conservation strategy that capitalizes on Xinlong's distinctive ecological and cultural dynamics. The habitat plays a crucial role in ensuring the survival of wildlife. However, the increasing disturbances caused by human activities present a substantial threat to habitats, especially for species such as the leopard cat (Prionailurus bengalensis), which is a significant small predator. Currently, research on leopard cats predominantly focuses on low-altitude regions within its distribution range, leaving plateau areas understudied. To enhance our understanding of the impact of human disturbances on leopard cat habitats, we undertook a study employing infrared camera trappings to monitor leopard cats' activity in Xinlong of southwestern China between 2015 and 2023. We analyzed the spatial distribution and habitat suitability of the leopard cats by utilizing ensemble species distribution models (ESDMs). Moreover, we employed two-species occupancy models to investigate the spatial interaction between leopard cats and human disturbances. The results indicated that (1) the potential suitable habitat area for leopard cats encompassed approximately 1324.93 km2 (14.3%), primarily located along the banks of Yalong river. (2) The distribution of suitable habitat was predominantly influenced by competitors, specifically the yellow-throated marten (YTM), accounting for 52.4% of the influence, as well as environmental factors such as distance to water (DTW) at 12.0% and terrain roughness index (TRI) at 10.0%. Human interference, including cattle presence (4.6%), distance to road (DTD, 4.9%), and distance to settlement (DTS, 3.5%), had a limited impact on the habitat distribution. (3) Within a 5 km radius, habitat suitability increased with proximity to human settlements. (4) Leopard cats exhibited spatial independence from humans and domestic cattle (species interaction factor (SIF) = 1.00) while avoiding domestic horses (SIF = 0.76 ± 0.03). The relatively minor impact of human disturbances in Xinlong could be attributed to traditional cultural practices safeguarding wildlife and the leopard cat's environmental adaptability. We recommend establishing a novel conservation paradigm based on the living dynamics of wildlife communities in Xinlong, thereby offering a more targeted approach to biodiversity preservation in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Coral reefs are one of the most biodiverse and productive ecosystems, providing habitat for a vast of species. Reef-building scleractinian corals with a symbiotic microbiome, including bacteria, archaea, viruses and eukaryotic microbes, are referred to coral holobionts. Among them, coral diseases, mainly caused by Vibrio spp., have significantly contributed to the loss of coral cover and diversity. Habitat filtering across the globe has led to a variety structure of marine bacterial communities. Coral species, quantity and characteristics are significant differences between the Xisha Islands and Daya Bay (Guangdong Province). Thus, the Vibrio communities may be distinct between coral rich and poor areas. Results: Through comparison of Vibrio dynamics between coral-rich (Xisha Islands) and coral-poor (Daya Bay) locations, we uncovered differences in Vibrio abundance, diversity, community composition and assembly mechanisms associated with corals. The higher abundance of Vibrio in coral rich areas may indicate a strong interaction between vibrios and corals. V. campbellii, Paraphotobacterium marinum and V. caribbeanicus were widely distributed in both coral rich and poor areas, likely indicating weak species specificity in the coral-stimulated growth of Vibrio. Random-forest prediction revealed Vibrio species and Photobacterium species as potential microbial indicators in the coral rich and coral poor areas, respectively. Ecological drift rather than selection governed the Vibrio community assembly in the Xisha Islands. Comparatively, homogenizing selection was more important for the Daya Bay community, which may reflect a role of habitat filtration. Conclusion: This study revealed the different distribution pattern and assembly mechanism of Vibrio spp. between coral rich and poor areas, providing the background data for the research of Vibrio community in coral reef areas and may help the protection of coral reef at the biological level. The main reasons for the difference were different number and species of corals, environmental (e.g., temperature) and spatial factors. It reflected the strong interaction between Vibrio and corals, and provided a new perspective for the investigation of Vibrio in coral reef ecosystem. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Basilar invagination (BI) is a common disease in the craniocervical junction (CVJ) area. Posterior fossa decompression with/without fixation is a controversial surgical strategy for BI type B. This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of simple posterior fossa decompression in treating BI type B. Methods: This study retrospectively enrolled BI type B patients who underwent simple posterior fossa decompression at Huashan Hospital, Fudan University between 2014.12 and 2021.12. Patient data and images were recorded pre- and postoperatively (at the last follow-up) to evaluate the surgical outcomes and craniocervical stability. Results: A total of 18 BI type B patients (13 females), with a mean age of 44.2±7.9 years (range 37–62 years), were enrolled. The mean follow-up period was 47.7±20.6 months (range 10–81 months). All patients received simple posterior fossa decompression without any fixation. At the last follow-up, compared with preoperation, the JOA scores were significantly higher (14.2±1.5 vs. 9.9±2.0, p = 0.001); the CCA was improved (128.7±9.6° vs. 121.5±8.1° p = 0.001), and the DOCL was reduced (7.9±1.5 mm vs. 9.9±2.5 mm, p = 0.001). However, the follow-up and preoperative ADI, BAI, PR, and D/L ratio were similar. No patients had an unstable condition between the C1-2 facet joints that was observed in the follow-up CT and dynamic X-ray. Conclusions: In BI type B patients, simple posterior fossa decompression could improve neurological function and will not induce CVJ instability in BI type B patients. Simple posterior fossa decompression could be a satisfactory surgical strategy for BI type B patients, but preoperative CVJ stability assessment is crucial. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sulfate ions are commonly found in water, but excessive concentrations of these ions can have detrimental effects on the aquatic environment. In this study, reed straw was chosen as the raw material for producing biochar, which was then pyrolyzed with coal gangue to create environmentally friendly adsorption materials. This innovative approach aims to combat the issue of elevated SO42− concentrations in water while efficiently utilizing solid waste. The results showed that the adsorption process best fit the when the was pH 2 and the dosage was 8 g·L−1, and the adsorption capacity reached the maximum of 49.56 mg·g−1. Via extensive characterization, kinetic studies, and isotherm experiments on the modified biochar, we determined that the mechanism of SO42− adsorption primarily involves electrostatic adsorption, physical adsorption, and chemical adsorption. The toxicology experiments showed that the activity of antioxidant enzymes and the amount of malondialdehyde decreased, and the content of chlorophyll and soluble protein increased. These findings suggest that modified biochar can mitigate the harmful effects of SO42− on reeds to a certain extent, ultimately promoting the growth of these plants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cellular proteins are dynamically regulated in response to environmental stimuli. Conventional proteomics compares the entire proteome in different cellular states to identify differentially expressed proteins, which suffers from limited sensitivity for analyzing acute and subtle changes. To address this challenge, nascent proteomics has been developed, which selectively analyzes the newly synthesized proteins, thus offering a more sensitive and timely insight into the dynamic changes of the proteome. In this Minireview, we discuss recent advancements in nascent proteomics, with an emphasis on methodological developments. Also, we delve into the current challenges and provide an outlook on the future prospects of this exciting field. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cellular proteins are dynamically regulated in response to environmental stimuli. Conventional proteomics compares the entire proteome in different cellular states to identify differentially expressed proteins, which suffers from limited sensitivity for analyzing acute and subtle changes. To address this challenge, nascent proteomics has been developed, which selectively analyzes the newly synthesized proteins, thus offering a more sensitive and timely insight into the dynamic changes of the proteome. In this Minireview, we discuss recent advancements in nascent proteomics, with an emphasis on methodological developments. Also, we delve into the current challenges and provide an outlook on the future prospects of this exciting field. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fluid‐rock dissolution occurs ubiquitously in geological systems. Surface‐volume scaling is central to predicting overall dissolution rate R involved in modeling dissolution processes. Previous works focused on single‐phase environments but overlooked the multiphase‐flow effect. Here, through limestone‐based microfluidics experiments, we establish a fundamental link between dissolution regimes and scaling laws. In regime I (uniform), the scaling is consistent with classic law, and a satisfactory prediction of R can be obtained. However, the scaling for regime II (localized) deviates significantly from classic law. The underlying mechanism is that the reaction‐induced gas phase forms a layer, acting as a barrier that hinders contact between the acid and rock. Consequently, the error between measurement and prediction continuously amplifies as dissolution proceeds; the predictability is poor. We propose a theoretical model that describes the regime transition, exhibiting excellent agreement with experimental results. This work offers guidance on the usage of scaling law in multiphase flow environments. Plain Language Summary: Fluid‐rock dissolution is ubiquitous in natural and engineered systems, including karst formation, geological carbon sequestration, and acid stimulation. Recent developed method for CO2 sequestration relies on mineralization, which transforms CO2 into carbonate minerals through geochemical reactions involving dissolution. The precise modeling of dissolution processes at the continuum‐scale is dependent on the estimation of the overall dissolution rate using surface‐volume scaling laws. This important scaling law is always established in a single‐phase system. Here, through limestone‐based microfluidics experiments, we find that the scaling is significantly affected by the dissolution regime in a multiphase flow environment. When the injection rate is lower, and the geometry is more homogeneous, the dissolution regime adheres to classic law. On the other hand, when the flow is stronger and the heterogeneity exhibits, the dissolution scaling significantly diverges. Our discovery indicates that a layer of CO2 gas attaches to the uneven surface, causing a shielding effect on the dissolution and resulting in a notable deviation. Through establishing a theoretical model for the regime transition, this work offers guidance on the usage of scaling law across various dissolution scenarios. The newly developed scaling can enhance dissolution modeling precision in multiphase flow‐dissolution systems such as geologic carbon sequestration. Key Points: We observe two regimes, and the scaling in regime II deviates significantly from classic law, with a poor predictability of dissolution rateWe identify a barrier effect in real rock samples that inhibits the contact of acid and rock for the deviation of scaling in regime IIWe propose a theoretical model for regime transition that offers guidance on the usage of scaling law in multiphase environments [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Resveratrol, as a promising bioactive, has received significant attention in the food industry owing to its multiple health-benefits. The increasing studies on resveratrol encapsulation to overcome application limitations highlight the need to summarize the current advances. This review firstly outlined the health benefits of resveratrol and their action principles. Afterwards, the current development of edible delivery systems of resveratrol was comprehensively introduced. Finally, the future research on the exploration of safe-to-eat and environment-friendly encapsulation systems with high loading capacity, concise delivery and versatile applications was prospected. This review will help foster the research and development of resveratrol-based healthy promoting products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article overviewed the principle of biological treatment of waste gas and the characteristics of three biological technologies. According to the different production technology of biological fiilersnatural filers and synthetic filers were briefly described and the characteristics and applications of combined filers were emphatically summarized. In view of the lack of nutrients and poor bio aggregation of some fillersslow-release filers and embedded microbial filers were introduced. The prospect of the development of boiler in the future was put forward. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, we find that for each given spatial graph, the number of its maximal trees is finite, and the quotient space corresponding to some maximal tree is also a spatial graph and it is homeomorphic to a disjoint union of wedge sum of circles. That means this quotient space is orientable and colorable. Thus, we define two equivalence invariants of spatial graphs, the coloring number bracket and the Alexander invariant set, which are coming from the coloring invariant and Alexander matrix. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We established a deep convolutional neural network (CNN) model based on ultrasound images (US-CNN) for predicting the malignant potential of gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs). A total of 980 ultrasound images from 245 pathology-confirmed GIST patients after surgical operation were retrospectively collected and divided into a low (very-low-risk, low-risk) and a high (medium-risk, high-risk) malignant potential group. Eight pre-trained CNN models were used to extract the features. The CNN model with the highest accuracy in the test set was selected. The model's performance was evaluated by calculating accuracy, sensitivity, specificity, positive-predictive value (PPV), negative-predictive value (NPV) and the F1 score. Three radiologists with different experience levels also predicted the malignant potential of GISTs in the same test set. US-CNN and human assessments were compared. Subsequently, gradient-weighted class activation diagrams (Grad-CAMs) were used to visualize the model's final classification decisions. Among the eight transfer learning-based CNNs, ResNet18 performed best. The accuracy, sensitivity, specificity, PPV, NPV and F1 score were 0.88, 0.86, 0.89, 0.82, 0.92 and 0.90, respectively, which were significantly better than those achieved by radiologists (resident doctor: 0.66, 0.55, 0.79, 0.74, 0.62 and 0.69; attending doctor: 0.68, 0.59, 0.78, 0.70, 0.69 and 0.73; professor: 0.69, 0.63, 0.72, 0.51, 0.80 and 0.76). Model interpretation with Grad-CAMs revealed that the activated areas mainly focused on cystic necrosis and margins. The US-CNN model predicts GIST malignant potential well, which can assist in clinical treatment decision-making. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Large terrestrial carnivores play a crucial role in the top–down control of terrestrial ecosystems by maintaining ecosystem stability and biodiversity. However, intense interspecific competition typically occurs among large sympatric carnivores, leading to population reduction or extinction. Spatial partitioning through divergent habitat selection mitigates such competition. In this study, we analyzed the main environmental factors influencing the habitat selection and fragmentation of suitable habitats in Xinlong County, Sichuan Province, using 410 infrared cameras from 2015 to 2023. By employing generalized linear and maximum entropy models, we developed an ensemble model to predict the suitable habitat distribution of leopards (Panthera pardus) and wolves (Canis lupus). The results revealed significant disparities in suitable habitat distributions of leopards and wolves as coexisting large carnivores. Leopards prefer understory, whereas wolves prefer high-altitude meadows. Wolves spatially avoid leopards, who secure relatively superior resources and relegate wolves to inferior habitats. Although suitable habitat patches for both species cluster intensely, habitat connectivity remains low owing to pronounced anthropogenic disturbances, which is especially evident in the higher fragmentation of wolf habitats. These results suggest that sympatric large carnivores can reduce spatial competition intensity and promote spatial partitioning by selecting divergently suitable habitats, thereby facilitating species coexistence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cool paint (CP) is effective to decrease cooling energy consumption, but it brings heating penalty. Phase change material (PCM) can alleviate the heating penalty caused by CP. In this work, eight cities with different climates are analyzed. According to cooling/heating energy consumption, these cities are divided into different categories. Compared with CP roof, adding PCM on the CP has little effect for further reducing the cooling energy use or peak load. CP increases heating energy consumption, but does not aggravate the peak heating load range. The higher the proportion of heating energy consumption increased by CP, the more PCM amount needs to compensate for the heating penalty. When increasing PCM thickness, the peak heating load decreases first and then unchanged. For the total energy consumption, CP + PCM is always superior to CP. Applying CP alone is only preferable in cities whose heating energy consumption ratio does not exceed 0.66. In other cities, applying 10–20 mm PCM on the basis of CP can realize positive energy saving benefits, which broadens the applicable climate for CP. This work provides valuable guides for the application of CP alone, and the optimization effect of PCM on CP under different climates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In recent years, the power conversion efficiency of organic solar cells (OSCs) and perovskite (PVSCs) has increased to over 19% and 25%, respectively. Meanwhile, the long-term stability of OSCs and PVSCs was also significantly improved with a better understanding of the degradation mechanism and the improvement of materials, morphology, and interface stability. As both the efficiency and lifetime of solar cells are approaching the commercialization limit, fabrication methods for large-area OSCs and PVSCs that can be directly transferred from lab to fab become essential to promote the industrialization of OSCs and PVSCs. Compared with the coating methods, inkjet printing is a mature industrial technology with the advantages of random digital patterning, excellent precision and fast printing speed, which is considered to have great potential in solar cell fabrication. Many efforts have been devoted to developing inkjet-printed OSCs and PVSCs, and much progress has been achieved in the last few years. In this review, we first introduced the working principle of inkjet printing, the rheology requirements of inks, and the behaviors of the droplets. We then summarized the recent research progresses of the inkjet-printed OSCs and PVSCs to facilitate knowledge transfer between the two technologies. In the end, we gave a perspective on inkjet-printed OSCs and PVSCs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Skeleton‐based gait recognition models suffer from the robustness problem, as the rank‐1 accuracy varies from 90% in normal walking cases to 70% in walking with coats cases. In this work, we propose a state‐of‐the‐art robust skeleton‐based gait recognition model called Gait‐TR, which is based on the combination of spatial transformer frameworks and temporal convolutional networks. Gait‐TR achieves substantial improvements over other skeleton‐based gait models with higher accuracy and better robustness on the well‐known gait dataset CASIA‐B. Particularly in walking with coats cases, Gait‐TR gets a ∼90% accuracy rate. This result is higher than the best result of silhouette‐based models, which usually have higher accuracy than the skeleton‐based gait recognition models. Moreover, our experiment on CASIA‐B shows that the spatial transformer network can extract gait features from the human skeleton better than the widely used graph convolutional network. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

1. Freshwater megafauna species (i.e., animals that can reach a body mass ≥30 kg, including fish, reptiles, mammals, and amphibians) play important roles in freshwater systems (e.g., by influencing habitat structure, trophic dynamics, or the dispersal of smaller species). As they tend to be large and charismatic, they may also function as flagship umbrella species in future freshwater conservation initiatives. Despite this, as a group they are highly threatened, and our knowledge of the nature of these threats is limited. In this study, we aim to improve our understanding of the impacts of alien species on native freshwater megafauna. 2. We undertook the first global assessment of the impacts of alien species on native freshwater megafauna using the Environmental Impact Classification for Alien Taxa (EICAT) framework. We conducted a literature review to identify published and grey literature on impacts, which we quantified and categorised by their severity and type, following the EICAT guidelines. 3. Negative impacts on native freshwater megafauna were caused by 61 alien species from a diverse range of taxonomic groups, including both freshwater and terrestrial alien species, and both vertebrates and invertebrates. They adversely affected 44 of 216 native freshwater megafauna species, including amphibians, fish, mammals, and reptiles. The Great Lakes Basin had the highest number of affected megafauna species (six of the 14 freshwater megafauna species it supports, mainly fish). Impacts occurred through a broad range of mechanisms (10 of the 12 identified mechanisms under EICAT); predation and competition were the most frequently reported mechanisms. Some impacts were relatively minor, adversely affecting the performance of individuals of native freshwater megafauna species. However, some reported impacts did cause declining populations of native freshwater megafauna species, and one impact contributed to the local extinction of the ship sturgeon (Acipenser nudiventris) in the Aral Sea. The vulnerability of native freshwater megafauna species to different types of impact varies during different life‐cycle stages (egg, juvenile, and adult). 4. Our understanding of impacts posed by alien species on native freshwater megafauna is limited because data are unavailable for many regions, particularly the Global South, including hotspots for freshwater megafauna diversity such as the Amazon, Congo, Mekong, and Ganges‐Brahmaputra basins. Freshwater megafauna species are often subject to multiple threats, which makes it difficult to determine the significance of alien species impacts relative to other threats such as habitat degradation and overexploitation. In addition, short‐term studies are likely to be masking the severity of the impacts identified. We call for more long‐term studies that attempt to identify population‐level impacts, and for studies that identify impacts in data‐deficient regions. 5. The EICAT assessments undertaken for this study will be reviewed by the EICAT Authority and subsequently incorporated into the IUCN EICAT database. They may be used to guide future research and conservation actions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Acoustic artificial structures have attracted great interest due to their unique capacity in manipulating acoustic waves. Among them, acoustic metasurfaces are highlighted for tuning acoustic waves in the subwavelength scale, which is expected for realizing acoustic device miniaturization. However, traditional acoustic metasurfaces are passive and non-multifunctional, which limits their further practical applications. In this paper, a magnetically controlled approach is investigated for achieving a multifunctional acoustic metasurface. The properties of the proposed acoustic metasurface, consisting of elastic films and additional mass, could be continuously modulated by magnetic force. Through switching the magnetic forces, the transmitted acoustic wave is easily tailored and different functions such as focusing, beam-splitting-like, and other near-field acoustic displays are switched. This work extends the research of multifunctional metasurfaces and has excellent potential in a wide range of applications including acoustic imaging, communications, and particle manipulation (such as suspension and acoustic tweezers). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

MicroRNA (miR)-23b-3p is known to target various genes that are involved in cancer-related pathways. Exosomes are emerging intercellular communication agents. Exosomes secreted by cancer cells can deliver active molecules to the surrounding stromal cells, thereby influencing the recipient cells and promoting the development of cancers. However, the role of exosomal miR-23b-3p in salivary adenoid cystic carcinoma (SACC) is not yet clear. In this study, we set out to investigate the potential role of cancer-derived exosomal miR-23b-3p-related phosphatase and tensin homolog deleted on chromosome 10 in the alteration of angiogenesis and vascular permeability in SACC. We investigated the effect of exosomal miR-23b-3p on the progression of SACC. In vitro experiments indicated that exosomal miR-23b-3p led to an upregulation of vascular permeability, and reduced expression of tight junction proteins. In addition, exosomal miR-23b-3p also enhanced angiogenesis and migration. Next, the angiogenic effect of exosomal miR-23b-3p was validated in vivo , as it led to an increase in the tumor microvasculature. Furthermore, the growth rate of SACC was faster after injection of exosomes loaded with cholesterol-modified miR-23b-3p in mice. In conclusion, these results revealed that SACC cell-derived exosomes play an important role in promoting angiogenesis and local vascular microleakage of SACC by transporting miR-23b-3p, which suggests that miR-23b-3p in the exosomes may be a potential biomarker for distant metastasis of SACC. This suggests the potential of a novel therapeutic target by delivering anti-miR-23b-3p that focuses on exosomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: Novel thermo‐reversible hydrogels that undergo gelation in feedback to external stimuli have numerous applications in the food, biomedical, and functional materials fields. Muscle myofibrillar protein (MP) has long been known for thermally irreversible gelation. Once the reversible gelation of MP is achieved, its scope for research and application will expand. RESULTS: The work reported here achieved, for the first time, a thermo‐reversible MP gelation by elaborate deamidation using protein glutaminase (PG). The protein concentration and PG reaction time within windows of 1.0–2.5% and 8 h or 12 h were observed to be vital for creating thermo‐reversible gels. The gel strength increased with protein concentration. The gel displayed a perforated lamellar microstructure, which resulted in a high water‐holding capacity. The rheological results revealed the thermo‐reversibility of the gel was robust for up to five cycles of heating and cooling. The thermally reversible gelation is closely related to the reversible assembly between individual α‐helix and helical coiled coil. Hydrophobic interactions proved to be predominantly involved in the formation and stabilization of the gel network structure. CONCLUSION: This work increases the scope of research into the thermo‐responsive behavior of MP‐based gel. It can foster advances in research into the applications of muscle proteins and into the use of PG as a novel ingredient in the food industry. © 2022 Society of Chemical Industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: This study was performed to evaluate the degree of radiological sacroiliac joint (SIJ) degeneration in patients with degenerative lumbar spondylolisthesis (DLS). The related risk factors for SIJ degeneration were also investigated. Methods: We retrospectively analyzed the lumbar and pelvic computed tomography (CT) scans of 303 patients with DLS admitted from January 2018 to December 2021. One hundred and fifty-six age-, gender-, and body mass index-matched patients without lumbar anomality who underwent lower abdominal or pelvic computed tomography scans were included in the control group. Sagittal parameters were measured on full-length lateral radiographs. Two protocols (Backlund's grade and Eno's classification) were used to assess SIJ degeneration. Univariate analysis and bivariate and multivariate regression analysis were performed to identify the factors affecting SIJ degeneration in patients with DLS. Results: According to Backlund's grade and Eno's classification, SIJ degeneration was more severe in the DLS group than in the control group (P < 0.001). Multi-segment degenerative changes (P = 0.032), two-level DLS (P = 0.033), a history of hysterectomy (P < 0.001), lower extremity pain (P = 0.016), and pelvic pain (P = 0.013) were associated with more significant SIJ degeneration as assessed by Backlund's grade. The results of Pearson's correlation analysis showed positive correlation between the sagittal vertical axis and SIJ degeneration (r = 0.232, P = 0.009). The multivariate linear regression analysis showed that a history of hysterectomy was significantly correlated with SIJ degeneration in patients with DLS (r = 1.951, P = 0.008). Conclusions: SIJ degeneration was more severe in patients with than without DLS. We should take SIJ degeneration into consideration when diagnosing and treating DLS especially those who had undergone previous hysterectomy or showed sagittal malalignment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Penicillin-binding proteins (PBPs) are considered essential for bacterial peptidoglycan biosynthesis and cell wall assembly. Clavibacter michiganensis is a representative Gram-positive bacterial species that causes bacterial canker in tomato. pbpC plays a significant role in maintaining cell morphological characteristics and stress responses in C. michiganensis. The current study demonstrated that the deletion of pbpC commonly enhances bacterial pathogenicity in C. michiganensis and revealed the mechanisms through which this occurs. The expression of interrelated virulence genes, including celA, xysA, xysB, and pelA, were significantly upregulated in △pbpC mutants. Compared with those in wild-type strains, exoenzyme activities, the formation of biofilm, and the production of exopolysaccharides (EPS) were significantly increased in △pbpC mutants. It is noteworthy that EPS were responsible for the enhancement in bacterial pathogenicity, with the degree of necrotic tomato stem cankers intensifying with the injection of a gradient of EPS from C. michiganensis. These findings highlight new insights into the role of pbpC affecting bacterial pathogenicity, with an emphasis on EPS, advancing the current understanding of phytopathogenic infection strategies for Gram-positive bacteria. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The participation of circular RNAs (circRNAs) in carcinogenesis is widely established. Numerous circRNAs with aberrant expression in cervical cancer (CC) are identified by RNA sequencing, whereas the function of these circRNAs remains unclear. We thus aimed to unveil the effects and mechanisms of circ_0042986 in CC. Circ_0042986 with aberrant downregulation in CC was obtained from GSE10286 dataset. qPCR and western blotting were employed for the detection of circ_0042986, miR-582-3p, and paternally expressed 3 (PEG3) expressions. EdU assay, colony formation assay, wound healing assay, transwell assay, tube formation assay, and flow cytometry assay were applied for functional analyses. The potential binding site was ensured by dual-luciferase reporter analysis, and their binding relationship was verified by pull-down assay. The transplanted tumor models were constructed for in vivo function verification of circ_0042986. Our findings exposed that the downregulation of circ_0042986 was verified in clinical CC samples. Circ_0042986 overexpression largely attenuated CC cell growth, invasiveness, angiogenesis, and survival. MiR-582-3p was targeted by circ_0042986, and the inhibitory roles of circ_0042986 presence were partly abolished by miR-582-3p enrichment. MiR-582-3p combined with PEG3, and circ_0042986 increased PEG3 expression via decoying miR-582-3p. The interaction between miR-582-3p and PEG3 on CC cell functions was confirmed, evidenced by the reversal effects of PEG3 knockdown on miR-582-3p deficiency-inhibited cancer cell malignant behaviors. Circ_0042986 overexpression also limited tumorigenesis of CC in animal models. In summary, circ_0042986 overexpression decoyed miR-582-3p to increase PEG3 expression, thereby blocking the malignant progression of CC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Due to the different electron affinity, the construction of a donor-acceptor (DA) system in the graphitic carbon nitride (g-CN) matrix is an attractive tactic to accelerate photo-induced electron-holes separation, and then further elevate its photocatalytic performance. In this work, perylene tetracarboxylic dianhydride (PTCDA) with magnificent electron affinity and excellent thermal stability was chosen to copolymerize with urea via facile one-pot thermal copolymerization to fabricate g-CN-PTCDA equipped with DA structures. The specific surface area of g-CN-PTCDA would be enlarged and the visible light absorption range would be broadened simultaneously when adopting this copolymerization strategy. A series of characterizations such as electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR), steady and transient photoluminescence spectra (PL), electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS), and photocurrent tests combined with computational simulation confirmed the charge separation and transfer efficiency dramatically improved due to the DA structures construction. When 0.25% wt PTCDA was introduced, the CO evolution rate was nearly 23 times than that of pristine g-CN. The CO evolution rate could reach up to 87.2 μmol g−1 h−1 when certain Co2+ was added as co-catalytic centers. Meanwhile, g-CN-1 mg PTCDA-Co exhibited excellent long-term stability and recyclability as a heterogeneous photocatalyst. This research may shed light on designing more effective DA structures for solar-to-energy conversion by CO2 reduction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]