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The aryl‐to‐vinyl nickel 1,4‐migration (1,4‐Ni migration) reaction has been reported for the first time. The generated alkenyl Ni species undergo a reductive coupling reaction with unactivated brominated alkanes affording a series of trisubstituted olefins. This tandem reaction exhibits mild conditions, a broad substrate scope, high regioselectivity, and excellent Z/E stereoselectivity. A series of controlled experiments have shown that the critical 1,4‐Ni migration process is reversible. In addition, the alkenyl nickel intermediates obtained after migration are highly Z/E stereoselective and do not undergo Z/E isomerization. The obtained trace isomerization products are caused by the instability of the product. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aryl‐to‐vinyl nickel 1,4‐migration (1,4‐Ni migration) reaction has been reported for the first time. The generated alkenyl Ni species undergo a reductive coupling reaction with unactivated brominated alkanes affording a series of trisubstituted olefins. This tandem reaction exhibits mild conditions, a broad substrate scope, high regioselectivity, and excellent Z/E stereoselectivity. A series of controlled experiments have shown that the critical 1,4‐Ni migration process is reversible. In addition, the alkenyl nickel intermediates obtained after migration are highly Z/E stereoselective and do not undergo Z/E isomerization. The obtained trace isomerization products are caused by the instability of the product. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Overexpression of the thymidine phosphorylase (TP) enzyme induces angiogenesis, which eventually leads to metastasis and tumor growth. The crucial role of TP in cancer development makes it an important target for anticancer drug discovery. Currently, there is only one US-FDA-approved drug, i.e., Lonsurf, a combination of trifluridine and tipiracil, for the treatment of metastatic colorectal cancer. Unfortunately, numerous adverse effects are associated with its use, such as myelosuppression, anemia, and neutropenia. Since the last few decades, the discovery of new, safe, and effective TP inhibitory agents has been rigorously pursued. In the present study, we evaluated a series of previously synthesized dihydropyrimidone derivatives 1–40 for their TP inhibitory potential. Compounds 1, 12, and 33 showed a good activity with IC50 = 314.0 ± 0.90, 303.5 ± 0.40, and 322.6 ± 1.60 µM, respectively. The results of mechanistic studies revealed that compounds 1, 12, and 33 were the non-competitive inhibitors. These compounds were also evaluated for cytotoxicity against 3T3 (mouse fibroblast) cells and were found to be non-cytotoxic. Finally, the molecular docking suggested the plausible mechanism of non-competitive inhibition of TP. The current study thus identifies some dihydropyrimidone derivatives as potential inhibitors of TP, which can be further optimized as leads for cancer treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Continuous blood pressure (BP) monitoring is of great significance for the real-time monitoring and early prevention of cardiovascular diseases. Recently, wearable BP monitoring devices have made great progress in the development of daily BP monitoring because they adapt to long-term and high-comfort wear requirements. However, the research and development of wearable continuous BP monitoring devices still face great challenges such as obvious motion noise and slow dynamic response speeds. The pulse wave transit time method which is combined with photoplethysmography (PPG) waves and electrocardiogram (ECG) waves for continuous BP monitoring has received wide attention due to its advantages in terms of excellent dynamic response characteristics and high accuracy. Here, we review the recent state-of-art wearable continuous BP monitoring devices and related technology based on the pulse wave transit time; their measuring principles, design methods, preparation processes, and properties are analyzed in detail. In addition, the potential development directions and challenges of wearable continuous BP monitoring devices based on the pulse wave transit time method are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Electronic skin (e-skin) has attracted tremendous interest due to its diverse potential applications, including in physiological signal detection, health monitoring, and artificial throats. However, the major drawbacks of traditional e-skin are the weak adhesion of substrates, incompatibility between sensitivity and stretchability, and its single function. These shortcomings limit the application of e-skin and increase the complexity of its multifunctional integration. Herein, the synergistic network of crosslinked SWCNTs within and between multilayered graphene layers was directly drip coated onto the PU thin film with self-adhesion to fabricate versatile e-skin. The excellent mechanical properties of prepared e-skin arise from the sufficient conductive paths guaranteed by SWCNTs in small and large deformation under various strains. The prepared e-skin exhibits a low detection limit, as small as 0.5% strain, and compatibility between sensitivity and stretchability with a gauge factor (GF) of 964 at a strain of 0–30%, and 2743 at a strain of 30–60%. In physiological signals detection application, the e-skin demonstrates the detection of subtle motions, such as artery pulse and blinking, as well as large body motions, such as knee joint bending, elbow movement, and neck movement. In artificial throat application, the e-skin integrates sound recognition and sound emitting and shows clear and distinct responses between different throat muscle movements and different words for sound signal acquisition and recognition, in conjunction with superior sound emission performance with a sound spectrum response of 71 dB (f = 12.5 kHz). Overall, the presented comprehensive study of novel materials, structures, properties, and mechanisms offers promising potential in physiological signals detection and artificial throat applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Three novel tube-tube premixers were designed and their macromixing were simulated. • Micromixing efficiency in RPBs with tube-tube premixers were experimentally studied. • Coupling mechanism of tube-tube premixers and RPBs was revealed. • Micromixing times of RPBs with tube-tube premixers ranged from 2 to 10 ms. Rotating packed beds (RPBs), as the typical chemical intensification devices, have been widely applied in liquid-phase fast reactions and precipitation processes. In this study, three novel tube-tube premixers were designed, and three-dimensional CFD models of the flow and mixing processes for non-Newtonian fluids in tube-tube premixers were established. Meanwhile, the micromixing efficiency in RPBs with different tube-tube premixers was experimentally investigated. The results show that TG-2 premixer exhibits the best premixing performance. The segregation index decreases as the rotational speed or flow rate increases, indicating the increase in micromixing efficiency. With the increase of CMC mass fraction, the segregation index initially decreases and then increases. Moreover, the micromixing efficiency of TG-0-RPB is the highest in aqueous solution, the micromixing efficiency of TG-4-RPB is the highest in 0.2 wt.% CMC system, and the micromixing efficiency of TG-2-RPB is the highest when the CMC concentrations is equal to or greater than 0.4 wt.%. The micromixing times of non-Newtonian fluid in RPBs range from 2 to 10 ms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To evaluate the changes of uterine leiomyoma size during pregnancy and determine the factors influencing it. Methods: A prospective study was conducted from June 2016 to June 2018. Women with pregnancies complicated by leiomyoma were recruited. Ultrasound examinations were conducted to measure the size of leiomyoma during 6–7, 11–14, 22–24, 28–34 weeks of pregnancy and before delivery. The clinical characteristics and delivery details of the pregnant women were collected. Changes in leiomyoma size during different gestation periods and the influencing factors were analyzed. Results: Leiomyoma size commonly increased before 22–24 weeks of pregnancy and the fastest growth occurred before 11–14 weeks. From 22–24 weeks to the date of delivery, the size of leiomyoma remained unchanged. The initial size of the leiomyoma showed negative correlation with the changes in leiomyoma diameters during pregnancy. Pre-pregnancy body mass index, fetus number, leiomyoma location, and parity were positively correlated with the size changes in leiomyoma from 22–24 to 28– 34 weeks of pregnancy. Conclusion: Before 22–24 weeks of pregnancy, the size of the leiomyoma was gestation-dependent, which increases with gestational weeks. The fastest growth rate was before 11–14 weeks. The growth of leiomyoma is affected by multiple factors, and different factors can play different roles during different periods of the pregnancy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Organic-contaminated soils are a major health issue because pollutants can be transferred to waters, air, and living organisms. Many remediation technologies have been developed, yet single methods are usually not fully efficient due to the wide diversity of soil and pollutant properties. Therefore, combining several methods has recently shown wider application range, higher efficiency, and better economic benefits. Here we compare combined remediation technologies to clean organic-contaminated soils, with focus on physical–chemical, physical–chemical-biological, and biological-microbial methods. Physical–chemical methods are the most widely used due to their high efficiency, yet they are costly, and they alter soil properties. These issues can be alleviated by adding a biological treatment. Combined biological-microbial methods are more recent and rely on bioengineering. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Conjugated porous polymers were successfully synthesized through dynamic covalent condensation polymerization using aromatic anhydrides and triacylhydrazine benzene. The obtained conjugated polymers with unique chemical stability, high specific surface area and electrochemically active carbonyl functional groups exhibited excellent performance as cathode materials for lithium-ion batteries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Herein, we propose a novel dry-suspension granulation process and compare it with the conventional spray granulation process used in the ceramic industry. The proposed granulation process, which is based on dry grinding, uses airflow as the driving force and raw material particles combined with atomized water, bonded together within a humidifying chamber. Then, this mixture is reformed and separated inside a cyclone to prepare the pressed powders. The results showed the novel process can effectively prepare powders, with less energy and water required than that by the wet granulation process. Under the current working conditions, the receiving rate was 87%, the water content of the product was 5.8%, and 63% of the particles were bigger than 0.2 mm. Both the fluidity and compressibility were able to meet the basic requirements for pressed powders in industrial production. Therefore, this proposed process can be expected to be widely used in ceramic tile production in the future. Unlabelled Image • Dry suspension granulation process can effectively prepare pressed powders. • The powder obtained has a good fluidity and compressibility. • Suspended particles collide with each other, then reformed by suspension rolling. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Immune-modulatory therapy, especially with immune-checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs), has reshaped cancer therapeutics. Immunotherapy is relatively a novel approach that can effectively delay the progression of aggressive tumors and inhibit tumor recurrence and metastasis in many different tumor types. In the past years, ICIs have shown a sustained response and promising long-term survival in patients with advanced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Nevertheless, ICI therapy can unbalance the immune system and result in a wide range of immune-related adverse events (irAEs), which are generally manageable but occasionally lead to a fatal outcome. HCC generally develops in the context of liver cirrhosis which is typically caused by viral hepatitis and non-alcoholic steatohepatitis. These underlying diseases may cause symptoms that overlap with irAEs and lead to consequences such as late recognition, inadequate work-up, and inappropriate treatment. Owing to the growing use of immunotherapy in HCC, it is necessary for clinicians to strengthen their understanding of the frequency, clinical features, and management of irAEs. This review focuses on the common toxicities associated with ICI therapy in patients with HCC and summarizes therapeutic strategies that can be used to monitor and manage such toxicities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• CO 2 can be activated to carbonate species on different MgO surfaces. • High coverage of hydroxyl would promote CO 2 protonation to carboxyl (HOCO). • Nucleophilicity of Mg x −H complex can promote CO 2 hydrogenation to HCOO. The first-principles calculations based on the density functional theory (DFT) have been applied to explore the CO 2 adsorption as well as the activity and selectivity of CO 2 dissociation and hydrogenation on six MgO surfaces. CO 2 activation can be occurred by forming carbonate species on (110), (210), (211), (111) O and (111) Mg surfaces but the direct dissociation of CO 2 looks thermodynamically unfavorable due to the high reaction energies (≥3.54 eV). The occurrence of CO 2 protonation to carboxyl (HOCO) by hydroxyl on MgO surfaces seems to be thermodynamically and kinetically unfavorable. The upsurge noted in the hydroxyl coverage, due to the homolytic dissociation of H 2 , supports the CO 2 conversion to HOCO with a lower barrier (1.98 eV). However, the dissociated H 2 O can reversibly lead to the consumption of HOCO (HOCO*+ OH*→ H*+ OH*+ CO 2 *). Hydride species might be produced by the heterolytic dissociation of H 2 on (111) O , (111) Mg , and (211) surfaces. Two pathways have been considered for the CO 2 hydrogenation to HCOO: (i) hydride H reaction with adsorbed CO 2 by Langmuir-Hinshelwood mechanism and (ii) molecular CO 2 electrophilic attacking the hydride H by Eley-Rideal mechanism. CO 2 hydrogenation to HCOO by hydride H is more feasible on MgO surfaces in comparison with CO 2 protonation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hereditary hearing loss is one of the most common sensory disabilities worldwide. Mutation of POU domain class 4 transcription factor 3 (POU4F3) is considered the pathogenic cause of autosomal dominant nonsyndromic hearing loss (ADNSHL), designated as autosomal dominant nonsyndromic deafness 15. In this study, four novel variants in POU4F3, c.696G>T (p.Glu232Asp), c.325C>T (p.His109Tyr), c.635T>C (p.Leu212Pro), and c.183delG (p.Ala62Argfs ∗ 22), were identified in four different Chinese families with ADNSHL by targeted next-generation sequencing and Sanger sequencing. Based on the American College of Medical Genetics and Genomics guidelines, c.183delG (p.Ala62Argfs ∗ 22) is classified as a pathogenic variant, c.696G>T (p.Glu232Asp) and c.635T>C (p.Leu212Pro) are classified as likely pathogenic variants, and c.325C>T (p.His109Tyr) is classified as a variant of uncertain significance. Based on previous reports and the results of this study, we speculated that POU4F3 pathogenic variants are significant contributors to ADNSHL in the East Asian population. Therefore, screening of POU4F3 should be a routine examination for the diagnosis of hereditary hearing loss. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

By employment of the flexible bis-(imidazole-4,5-dicarboxylate) ligand (H4L) ligand, a new luminescent Eu(III)-containing coordination polymer {[Eu(HL)(H2O)2]·2(H2O)}n has been successfully synthesized under hydrothermal condition by reaction of Eu(NO3)3·6H2O with H4L with the presence of NaOH as the pH modulator. The chemical composing of the as-prepared complex 1 has been determined via the elemental analysis and the structural arrangement was probed via the single crystal X-ray diffraction. Furthermore, complex 1 could also be applied as a luminescent sensor for the detection of p-nitroaniline, which has high sensitivity and selectivity. In biological research, the related anti-colon cancer activity on SW480 cancer cells was further evaluated. Firstly, the effect of compound on TRIB3 gene expression was evaluated by RT-PCR. The CCK-8 and transwell assay were next be performed to detect the inhibitory function of compound on SW480 cancer cell proliferation and migration. Finally, the results obtained through molecular docking simulation shed light on the understanding of Eu(II) metallic complex on DNA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Carbon nanofibers with hierarchical structure were synthesized by combining Co-containing zeolitic imidazolate frameworks (ZIF-67) with natural eggshell membranes (ESMs). Benefiting from the hierarchical structure and element modification of Co/N, the obtained nanofibers exhibited excellent oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) performance. The reusing of ESMs trash made this strategy meaningful for environment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper proposes a tunable optoelectronic oscillator (OEO) by using a silicon nitride high-Q microring resonator (MRR) with a Q value of 4.36 × 105. Inserting the high-Q MRR into a phase-modulated link, an 8–38 GHz tunable microwave photonic filter (MPF) is realized with a 3-dB bandwidth of ∼ 610 MHz. Based on the tunable MPF, a tunable OEO is established. The frequency range of the OEO is 14.60 to 25.65 GHz, and the measured phase noise of the 25.65-GHz oscillation signal is -88 dBc/Hz@10 kHz. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The theory-led prediction of LaBeH8, which has a high superconducting critical temperature (Tc) above liquid nitrogen under a pressure level below 1 Mbar, has been experimentally confirmed. YBeH8, which has a structural configuration similar to that of LaBeH8, has also been predicted to be a high-temperature superconductor at high pressure. In this study, we focus on the structural phase transition and superconductivity of YBeH8 under pressure by using first-principles calculations. Except for the known face-centered cubic phase of Fm 3 ̄ m, we found a monoclinic phase with P 1 ̄ symmetry. Moreover, the P 1 ̄ phase transforms to the Fm 3 ̄ m phase at ∼200 GPa with zero-point energy corrections. Interestingly, the P 1 ̄ phase undergoes a complex electronic phase transition from semiconductor to metal and then to superconducting states with a low Tc of 40 K at 200 GPa. The Fm 3 ̄ m phase exhibits a high Tc of 201 K at 200 GPa, and its Tc does not change significantly with pressure. When we combine the method using two coupling constants, λopt and λac, with first-principles calculations, λopt is mainly supplied by the Be–H alloy backbone, which accounts for about 85% of total λ and makes the greatest contribution to the high Tc. These insights not only contribute to a deeper understanding of the superconducting behavior of this ternary hydride but may also guide the experimental synthesis of hydrogen-rich compounds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A novel base-mediated direct difluoroalkylation of 1,6-enynes involving a CF2 radical process has been developed. In the absence of metal catalysts, two different difluoroalkylated cyclization products have been synthesized with good functional group applicability and high stereoselectivity. Notably, the properties of a base have been shown to play a crucial role in the generation selectivity of this transformation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Despite reports of 2D hexagon‐free carbon allotrope anode materials for Li‐ion batteries (LIBs), rate performance enhancement and the practical application of these materials are still major challenges. Here, a novel 2D hexagon‐free carbon allotrope C358X with a unique combination of triangular, pentagonal, octagonal, and decagonal rings is predicted to be a high‐performance anode material in LIBs. The special hexagon‐free configuration enables C358X to introduce many serviceable local strain regions and electron‐deficient regions on the surface. The formation of these regions is very important for enhancing the rate performance of C358X as an anode material for LIBs. C358X has rich adsorption active sites for lithium ions, a lower lithium‐ion diffusion energy barrier of 0.29 eV, a lower average open circuit voltage of 0.31 V, and a high theoretical capacity of 1116.7 mA h g−1. This work may facilitate the utilization of 2D carbon‐based anode materials for cost‐effective LIBs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mesoporous TS-1 nanocrystals were facilely synthesized without involving additional templates. The usage of inorganic silicon source, less structure-directing agent and high yields of nearly 100% made this template-free strategy suitable for large-scale synthesis with low cost. Furthermore, the as synthesized TS-1 exhibited comparable epoxidation performance than those obtained by other methods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pd nanoparticles were successfully encapsulated inside mesoporous silicalite-1 nanocrystals (Pd@mnc-S1) by a one-pot method. The as-synthesized Pd@mnc-S1 with excellent stability functioned as an active and reusable heterogeneous catalyst. The unique porosity and nanostructure of silicalite-1 crystals endowed the Pd@mnc-S1 material general shape-selectivity for various catalytic reactions, including selective hydrogenation, oxidation, and carbon-carbon coupling reactions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pd nanoparticles were successfully encapsulated inside mesoporous silicalite-1 nanocrystals (Pd@mnc-S1) by a one-pot method. The as-synthesized Pd@mnc-S1 with excellent stability functioned as an active and reusable heterogeneous catalyst. The unique porosity and nanostructure of silicalite-1 crystals endowed the Pd@mnc-S1 material general shape-selectivity for various catalytic reactions, including selective hydrogenation, oxidation, and carbon-carbon coupling reactions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Kirkendall effect was utilized to synthesize mesoporous silicalite-1 zeolite nanocrystals without the involvement of additional templates. The mesopore size as well as the particle size can be easily controlled by nanoscale Kirkendall growth via significantly reducing the amount of water or tetrapropylammonium hydroxide, which were used in large quantities in conventional methods. The Kirkendall growth method is thus suitable for large-scale synthesis of mesoporous MFI zeolites with very high yields but low cost for practical applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work, we developed a novel multisignal output for simultaneous detection of multiple proteases by using nanoprobes labeled with distinguishable electrochemical probes. First, biotinylated peptide1 (S1) and biotinylated peptide2 (S2) were associated with biotinylated DNA1 and DNA2 via biotin-streptavidin interaction, forming DNA1-S1 and DNA2-S2, respectively. Two distinguishable signal nanoprobes (DNA1'- Au NPs-Thi and DNA2-Au NPs-Fc) were prepared by initial assembling DNA1' and DNA2' on the Au NPs surface, respectively, and then carrying corresponding thionine (Thi) and 6-(Ferrocenyl)hexanethiol (Fc). Then, the peptide substrates (DNA1-S1 and DNA2-S2) were immobilized on gold electrode surface through Au- S bonds, and the DNA1'-Au NPs-Thi and DNA2'-Au NPs-Fc were assembled to the peptide-DNAmodified electrode surface via DNA hybridization. The targets of trypsin and chymotrypsin can specifically recognize and cleave peptides with different sequences, releasing DNA1'-Au NPs-Thi and DNA2'- Au NPs-Fc from the electrode surface into solution, thus decreasing the current of Thi and Fc. The decrease in the electrochemical currents of the two signal nanoprobes enables us to simultaneously and quantitatively determine the targets trypsin and chymotrypsin. More importantly, this strategy can be extended easily by designing various proteases-specific peptide substrates and utilizing corresponding electrochemical detectable elements for simultaneous multiplex protease assay in various biosystems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A straightforward hydrothermal synthesis of NiMoS active phases loaded on SBA-15 was attempted. We initially prepared a catalyst by impregnating metal precursors sequentially onto SBA-15 and the subsequent hydrothermal treatment with sublimed sulfur. To obtain the one-pot catalyst, we performed the hydrothermal treatment of a mechanical mixture containing metal precursors, sublimed sulfur, and SBA-15. The catalysts were characterized by powder X-ray diffraction, Raman spectroscopy, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, N 2 adsorption-desorption study, and high-resolution transmission emission spectroscopy. Compared to impregnation-assisted synthesis, the one-pot synthesis promoted the generation of dispersed shorter MoS 2 slabs with desirable average stacking number, i.e., increased number of edge and rim sites. Therefore, the one-pot catalyst enabled the ultra-deep sulfur removal (~100%) in the dibenzothiophene hydrodesulfurization. Unlike Ni(acac) 2 , the utilization of Ni(NO 3) 2 inhibits the sulfidation of molybdenum and the dispersion of MoS 2 layers, decreasing the hydrodesulfurization activity. The one-pot catalyst was able to achieve ~80% sulfur removal even after six consecutive catalytic runs under batch reactor conditions (320 °C, 6 MPa (H 2), 500 ppmw S, 100 mg (m cat)) due to the persistent stability of NiMoS active phases. [Display omitted] • Facile one-pot hydrothermal synthesis of supported NiMoS catalyst is achieved. • Ni(acac) 2 delays Ni sulfidation and enhanced Mo sulfidation is reached. • The prepared catalysts contain more HYD-selective sites than DDS-selective sites. • One-pot synthesis disperses MoS 2 layers well than impregnation-assisted synthesis. • One-pot catalyst is highly reusable and its multi-stacked MoS 2 layers are stable. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The pristine edge of a 2D material generally undergoes an edge self‐passivation into its ground‐state configuration. To date, several self‐passivated edges of 1H‐phase transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDCs) have been reported in theories and experiments. However, no self‐passivated edges of its sister material 1T‐phase TMDCs are found. Here, taking 1T‐VS2 as an example, a self‐passivated V2 dimer‐like metal Klein (DM‐Klein) edge of 1T‐TMDCs is reported. It exhibits high thermodynamic stability and can spontaneously form at V‐rich chemical potential conditions. Unexpected intermetallic d–d orbital interaction of edge metal atoms results in metal dimerization. This edge self‐passivation mode is universal in group IV and V 1T‐TMDCs. Furthermore, strong intermetallic interaction and appropriate edge sulfur saturation make DM‐Klein edges of 1T‐TMDCs show excellent catalytic activity in the hydrogen evolution reaction compared to that of well‐known Pt(111) surface. This study provides opportunities for the further practical application of 1T‐TMDCs in catalysts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

COVID-19 is a highly contagious human infectious disease caused by the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), and the war with the virus is still underway. Since no specific drugs have been made available yet and there is an imbalance between supply and demand for vaccines, early diagnosis and isolation are essential to control the outbreak. Current nucleic acid testing methods require high sample quality and laboratory conditions, which cannot meet flexible applications. Here, we report a laser-induced graphene field-effect transistor (LIG-FET) for detecting SARS-CoV-2. The FET was manufactured by different reduction degree LIG, with an oyster reef-like porous graphene channel to enrich the binding point between the virus protein and sensing area. After immobilizing specific antibodies in the channel, the FET can detect the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein in 15 min at a concentration of 1 pg/mL in phosphate-buffered saline (PBS) and 1 ng/mL in human serum. In addition, the sensor shows great specificity to the spike protein of SARS-CoV-2. Our sensors can realize fast production for COVID-19 rapid testing, as each LIG-FET can be fabricated by a laser platform in seconds. It is the first time that LIG has realized a virus sensing FET without any sample pretreatment or labeling, which paves the way for low-cost and rapid detection of COVID-19. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Purpose: A multi-center prospective randomized trial was conducted to evaluate the efficacy and safety of Actovegin in the prevention and treatment of chemoradiotherapy-induced acute oral mucositis. Methods and materials: Between February 2006 and May 2007, 156 evaluable patients with nasopharyngeal carcinoma were randomized to Group 1 (n =53) for prevention, Group 2 (n =51) for treatment, and Group 3 (n =52) for control. All patients received concomitant chemoradiotherapy±induction chemotherapy. Radiation technique and dose were similar among 3 groups. Intravenous Actovegin of 30ml daily (5days/week) was administrated from day 1 of the radiotherapy for Group 1 and from the onset of grade 2 mucositis for Group 2, until the end of the radiotherapy. Results: The incidence of grade 3 mucositis was lower in Group 1 compared with Group 3 (26.4% vs. 55.8%, P= 0.002). Group 2 had a lower progression rate of mucositis from grade 2 to 3 compared with Group 3 (39.2% vs. 60.4%, P= 0.035). There was no difference in the onset time of grade 3 mucositis among 3 groups. Actovegin was well tolerated and no treatment-related adverse events were observed. Conclusions: Actovegin is effective in the prevention and treatment of chemoradiotherapy-induced oral mucositis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Due to the BCS theory, hydrogen, the lightest element, would be the prospect of room-temperature superconductor after metallization, but because of the difficulty of the hydrogen metallization, the theory about hydrogen pre-compression was proposed that the hydrogen-rich compounds could be a great option for the high Tc superconductors. The superior properties of TmH6, YbH6 and LuH6 indicated the magnificent potential of heavy rare earth elements for low-pressure stability. Here, we designed XTmH12 (X = Y, Yb, Lu, and La) to obtain higher Tc while maintaining low pressure stability. Most prominently, YbTmH12 can stabilize at a pressure of 60 GPa. Compared with binary TmH6 hydride, its Tc was increased to 48 K. The results provide an effective method for the rational design of moderate pressure stabilized hydride superconductors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mesoporous Beta zeolite nanocrystals with tunable porosity and size have been facilely prepared without additional mesoporous template or post-synthetic procedure. This synthetic strategy for mesoporosity could be realized by simply adjusting the reaction conditions without any special raw material. The as-prepared mesoporous Beta zeolite exhibits much higher adsorption efficiency compared with the bulk phase. The shorten crystallization time (8 h) and high yield (99%) allow this strategy suitable for the large-scale synthesis of mesoporous Beta zeolite with low cost. Image 1 • Mesoporous beta zeolite nanocrystals were synthesized in high yield. • No additional mesoporous template or post-synthetic modification was involved. • The particle size and mesopore size were tunable. • The meso-beta showed much higher adsorption efficiency than that of bulk-beta. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ca 2 Nb 2 O 7 is a promising material for high-temperature piezoelectric applications due to its ultra-high Curie temperature, which makes it a suitable candidate for use in harsh environments. However, their piezoelectric performance needs improvement. Here, through chemical engineering methods, we have successfully grown Bi3+ doped Ca 2 Nb 2 O 7 single crystals using the optical floating zone technique. The Ca 1.94 Bi 0.06 Nb 2 O 7 single crystals achieved better high-temperature stability, transparency and a higher piezoelectric constant of 12.8 pC/N at 298 K and 20.0 pC/N at 660 K. In addition to the dopant effects, mechanisms for enhancing the piezoelectric properties of perovskite-like layer structure (PLS) materials have been identified, highlighting the significant contribution of the NbO 6 octahedron and interlayer ions. These findings offers valuable insights into improving the performance of PLS materials, which is crucial for promoting their practical applications as high-temperature lead-free piezoelectric materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As compressed hydrides constantly refresh the records of superconducting critical temperatures (Tc) in the vicinity of room temperature, this further reinforces the confidence to find more high-temperature superconducting hydrides. In this process, metastable phases of superhydrides offer enough possibilities to access superior superconducting properties. Here we report a metastable hexagonal lanthanum superhydride (P 63 /mmc -LaH10) stabilized at 146 GPa by introducing an appropriate proportion of Al, which exhibits high-temperature superconductivity with Tc ∼ 178 K, and this value is enhanced to a maximum Tc ∼ 223 K at 164 GPa. A huge upper critical magnetic field value Hc2(0) reaches 223 T at 146 GPa. The small volume expansion of P 63 /mmc -(La, Al) H10 compared with the binary LaH10 indicates the possible interstitial sites of Al atoms filling into the La–H lattice, instead of forming conventional ternary alloy-based superhydrides. This work provides a new strategy for metastable high-temperature superconductors through the multiple-element system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Polygonatum odoratum is appreciated for its edible and medicinal benefits especially for lung protection. However, the contained active components have been understudied, and further research is required to fully exploit its potential application. We aimed to probe into the beneficial effects of Polygonatum odoratum polysaccharide (POP) in lipopolysaccharide‐induced lung inflammatory injury mice. POP treatment could ameliorate the survival rate, pulmonary function, lung pathological lesions, and immune inflammatory response. POP treatment could repair intestinal barrier, and modulate the composition of gut microbiota, especially reducing the abundance of Klebsiella, which were closely associated with the therapeutic effects of POP. Investigation of the underlying anti‐inflammatory mechanism showed that POP suppressed the generation of pro‐inflammatory molecules in lung by inhibiting iNOS+ M1 macrophages. Collectively, POP is a promising multi‐target microecological regulator to prevent and treat the immuno‐inflammation and lung injury by modulating gut microbiota. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The skin covers the entire outer part of the body as the largest organ. Because this organ is directly exposed to microbial, thermal, mechanical, and chemical damage, several factors may injure it, including acute trauma, chronic wounds, or even surgical procedures. Mesenchymal stem cells- (MSCs-) derived extracellular vesicles (EVs) can inhibit the inflammatory response in the early stage of skin wound healing, promote angiogenesis and the proliferation and migration of epithelial cells, and regulate collagen synthesis and inhibit scar proliferation in the later stage. While MSCs-EVs have broad prospects for clinical applications, it will still be a long way to seamless healing. In this brief review, we focus on the role of MSCs-EV in skin wound repair, therapeutic effects, and potential mechanisms of MSCs-EV in reducing scar formation. It is concluded that MSCs-EV can reduce scar formation in skin wound repair by interfering with multiple inflammatory factors, regulating fibroblast proliferation, and expressing type I and type III collagens at different phases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Low-molecular mass protein 7 (LMP7) is a proteolytic subunit of the immunoproteasome that is involved in regulating inflammatory responses. However, the role of LMP7 in the pathogenesis of abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) remains unknown. In this study, ApoE knockout (KO) or LMP7/ApoE double KO (dKO) mice were infused with angiotensin II (Ang II, 1000 ng/kg per minute) for up to 28 d. We found that LMP7 expression was significantly upregulated in AAA tissues from ApoE KO mice and human patients. Moreover, Ang II infusion markedly increased the incidence and severity of AAA in ApoE KO mice, which was considerably reduced in LMP7/ApoE dKO mice. Histological alterations, including aortic wall thickening, collagen deposition, elastin fragmentation, and vascular smooth muscle cell apoptosis in AAA tissue of ApoE KO mice, were also significantly attenuated in LMP7/ApoE dKO mice. Interestingly, LMP7/ApoE dKO mice showed a marked reduction of infiltration of CD3+ T cells, especially CD4+ T cells in AAA tissues compared with ApoE KO mice. Moreover, ablation of LMP7 substantially inhibited the differentiation of CD4+ T cells into Th1 and Th17 cells by reducing the activation of multiple transcriptional factors. We also investigated the effects of an LMP7-specific inhibitor PR-957 (also known as ONX 0914) on AAA formation in ApoE KO mice. PR-957 treatment could reduce the AAA incidence and severity. In conclusion, our results provide, to our knowledge, novel evidence that ablation or pharmacological inhibition of LMP7 attenuates Ang II-induced AAA formation, and LMP7 might be a novel therapeutic target for treating AAA in humans. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

First-principles calculations (USPEX and CASTEP code) using plane-wave pseudopotentials under the generalized gradient approximation functional of Perdew-Burke-Ernzerhof are performed to investigate the structural, electronic, and elastic properties of N2O4 and N2O5. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: The transtibial pull‐out repair (TP) is a relatively new method for treating meniscal root tear; however, the clinical evaluation of its healing effect remains controversial. Due to ethical constraints and limitations of imaging techniques in humans, here we dynamically observe the healing effects of TP and TP with platelet‐rich plasma gel (PRG) at the histological level using an animal model. Methods: Platelet‐rich plasma (PRP) and PRG of rabbits were prepared. Platelet‐derived growth factor (PDGF) and transforming growth factor‐β1 (TGF‐β1) levels in PRP and PRG were determined using an enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay. A rabbit model of anterior horn tear of the medial meniscus and TP surgery were created. PRG was injected between the anterior horn of the medial meniscus and the tibial tunnel. Rabbits were divided into three groups: the anterior horn tear group (Tear group), the anterior horn tear + TP group (TP group), and the anterior horn tear + TP + PRG group (TP + PRG group). The healing effect was observed dynamically using histopathological studies and biomechanical experiments. Results: The platelet content in PRP significantly increased to approximately 4.57 times that of whole blood. PDGF and TGF‐β1 concentrations in PRG increased to 2.46 and 4.15 times those in PRP, respectively. Hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) and Masson staining showed that the number of inflammatory cells in healing tissue decreased and the collagen fibers significantly increased in TP and TP + PRG groups at 4, 8, and 12 weeks postoperatively compared to those in Tear group. Neatly arranged, interlaced, and dense collagen fibers were found between the anterior horn and bone at 12 weeks. H&E and toluidine blue staining showed that the injury to the femoral condyle cartilage was alleviated. The healing performance in TP + PRG group was better and faster than that in TP group. The maximum tensile fracture strength of the meniscus progressively increased at 8 and 12 weeks postoperatively. Conclusions: Anterior horn injury of the medial meniscus in rabbits can be repaired using the TP technique, and the addition of autologous PRG to the bone tunnel promotes early healing of the meniscus and bone postoperatively. Meanwhile, both treatments can reduce the secondary damage to the cartilage due to osteoarthritis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of the present study was to investigate the optimal strategy and dosimetric measurement of thoracic radiotherapy based on three-dimensional (3D) modeling of mediastinal lymph nodes (MLNs). A 3D model of MLNs was constructed from a Chinese Visible Human female dataset. Image registration and fusion between reconstructed MLNs and original chest computed tomography (CT) images was conducted in the Eclipse? treatment planning system (TPS). There were three plans, including 3D conformal radiotherapy (3D-CRT), intensity-modulated radiotherapy (IMRT) and volumetric-modulated arc therapy (VMAT), which were designed based on 10 cases of simulated lung lesions (SLLs) and MLNs. The quality of these plans was evaluated via examining indexes, including conformity index (CI), homogeneity index and clinical target volume (CTV) coverage. Dose-volume histogram analysis was performed on SLL, MLNs and organs at risk (OARs). A Chengdu Dosimetric Phantom (CDP) was then drilled at specific MLNs according to 20 patients with thoracic tumors and of a medium-build. These plans were repeated on fused MLNs and CDP CT images in the Eclipse? TPS. Radiation doses at the SLLs and MLNs of the CDP were measured and compared with calculated doses. The established 3D MLN model demonstrated the spatial location of MLNs and adjacent structures. Precise image registration and fusion were conducted between reconstructed MLNs and the original chest CT or CDP CT images. IMRT demonstrated greater values in CI, CTV coverage and OAR (lungs and spinal cord) protection, compared with 3D-CRT and VMAT (P<0.05). The deviation between the measured and calculated doses was within ± 10% at SLL, and at the 2R and 7th MLN stations. In conclusion, the 3D MLN model can benefit plan optimization and dosimetric measurement of thoracic radiotherapy, and when combined with CDP, it may provide a tool for clinical dosimetric monitoring. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The ultra-wideband low-reflectance materials are ideal core materials for advanced optical instruments, which are difficult to synthesize at present. Herein, in-situ one-step hydrothermal method was firstly introduced to prepare spinel films with nanostructures on low-cost Fe–Cr alloy substrates. The film shows excellent low reflectance in the range of 0.3–2.5 μm and 2.5–13 μm, which are 4.34% and 4.99% respectively, due to the uniform nano-micron structure on surface. The synthesized spinel film can be an ideal candidate ultra-wideband low-reflectance material for improving high-precision for optical instruments. [Display omitted] • The spinel film can improve the accuracy of the optical instruments and provide an innovative preparation strategy. • The films successfully achieve excellent low-reflectance of 4.34% in 0.3–2.5 μm and 4.99% in 2.5–13 μm due to its nano-structured surface. • The preparation process has advantages of simple process, simple equipment, low cost, no pollution and is suitable for mass production. • The spinel films can help optical instruments enhance accuracy in UV–Vis-IR by reducing inner-wall stray light or reflected light. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

High-quality P6322 Mn2N0.86 samples were synthesised using a high-pressure metathesis reaction, and the properties of the material were investigated. The measurements revealed that the Vickers hardness was 7.47 GPa, which is less than that predicted by commonly used theoretical models. At low air pressure, Mn2N0.86 and MnO coexist at 500 to 600 °C, and by excluding air, we succeeded in producing Mn4N by heating Mn2N0.86 in nitrogen atmosphere; we carefully studied this process with thermogravimetry and differential scanning calorimetry (TG-DSC). This gives a hint that to control temperature, air pressure and gas concentration might be an effective way to prepare fine Mn-N-O catalysis. Magnetic measurements indicated that ferromagnetism and antiferromagnetism coexist within Mn2N0.86 at room temperature and that these magnetic properties are induced by nitrogen vacancies. Ab intio simulation was used to probe the nature of the magnetism in greater detail. The research contributes to the available data and the understanding of Mn2N0.86 and suggests ways to control the formation of materials based on Mn2N0.86. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hydrogen-rich compounds provide an efficient route to pre-compressing hydrogen molecules and facilitating the creation of metallic hydrogen at much reduced pressure. Motivated by the long-sought theoretically proposed calcium hydrides, we have performed high-pressure experiments on the Ca–H system in a laser-heated diamond anvil cell. The unconventional compound CaH4 with I4/mmm symmetry has been discovered to be stable above 25.5 GPa. Of particular significance is the crystal structure of CaH4, which has an elongated H2 molecular unit whose intramolecular bond strength changes with pressure. Below the dissociation pressure of pure hydrogen, the elongated H2 unit is likely to dissociate into an atomic one. Our findings indicate that the presence of Ca atoms causes a very positive chemical pre-compression effect to potentially prompt the dissociation of the H2 unit. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We have performed high pressure-temperature Brillouin scattering measurements on single crystal hydrogen sulfide using externally heated diamond anvil cell techniques. The pressure dependences of the acoustic velocities, isothermal elastic constants, and moduli of single crystal hydrogen sulfide have been determined along four isotherms. Both elastic constants and moduli increase monotonously with pressure along each isotherm, while they show a decreased tendency with temperature elevated under the same pressure points. The experimental equation of state of single crystal hydrogen sulfide is obtained by fitting with a third-order Birch-Murnaghan and Tait equation. It is proposed that the effect of hydrogen bonds contributes to the unique tendency of elastic anisotropy in single crystal hydrogen sulfide. Through our work, we have extended the melting curve and phase diagram of hydrogen sulfide up to 12 GPa and 580 K. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Despite extensive research on photoelectric sensors that typically output signals to indicate the transient ultraviolet (UV) intensity, developing wearable, electrometric photodetectors that can reveal the cumulative UV exposure remains challenging. Here, an organic–inorganic hybrid bulk heterojunction (BHJ) is used to construct a skin‐mimicking, wearable photodetector, based on conductive polymer sensitized with semiconducting nanoparticles. Owing to the UV‐induced reduction reactions, the BHJ photodetectors (PDs) can long remember the UV radiation previously exposed. Moreover, based on the solution processability of bulk heterojunction blends and rich surface functional groups of polydopamine, BHJ PDs can fully inherit the ultraflexibility from electrospun fiber‐networked structure. Thus, this fiber‐configured photodetector is working well even at the strains of up to 60%. Without requiring any complicated analytical tool, its memory effect and simple‐to‐process output facilitate the working mechanism of power‐free UV monitor, while catering to the individual need of different skin types. This work combines the bottom materials design to the top device application, pointing out a new direction in wearable UV sensor technologies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

1. Rhein, an active ingredient in the root of rhubarb, is used for its beneficial effects in a variety of clinical applications including the treatment of osteoarthritis and diabetic nephropathy. However, its hepatotoxicity has been reported in recent years. Rhein belongs to the conjugate structure which could be activated to reactive metabolites (RMs) inducing side-effects. This study is to explore the relationship between RMs and hepatotoxicity. 2. Based on the early detection of RMs, we have established a series of key technologies to research rhein hepatotoxicity mechanism: IC50 shift experiments and reduced glutathione (GSH) trapping experiment are adopted to identify RMs. The model of low activity of CYP450 enzymes (CYPs) in primary rat hepatocyte is constructed to analyze the relationship between the primary metabolic enzyme and hepatotoxicity of rhein better. 3. The IC50 shift value for CYP2C19 is 1.989, it suggests that CYP2C19 could activate rhein to RM. The structure of RM is epoxide intermediate. Besides, it is found that CYP2C19 is a primary metabolic enzyme for rhein. In the cytotoxicity assay, it is reported that rhein could cause mitochondrial dysfunction. Furthermore, mitochondrial membrane potential (Δ ψm) and AST levels could be restored by adding inhibitor of CYP2C19 together with rhein, which further shows that CYP2C19 could mediate the hepatotoxicity of rhein. 4. We put forward the possible mechanism that reactive metabolite activation by CYP2C19 mediated rhein hepatotoxicity, it provides important information on predicting in vivo drug-induced liver injury (DILI). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Titanium niobate (TiNb2O7) possesses excellent photocatalytic properties, dielectric properties, and lithium-insertion capacity. High-pressure (HP) treatment is a powerful tool for bandgap engineering aiming at widening its applications. Herein, we report the growth of TiNb2O7 single crystals by the optical floating zone (OFZ) method and the engineering of the TiNb2O7 bandgap via HP. To obtain the physical mechanism of the bandgap variation under HP, the detailed pressure-dependent properties and structure information have been characterized by using in situ Raman spectroscopy and angle dispersive synchrotron radiation X-ray diffraction (ADXRD). During compression, the TiNb2O7 crystals were amorphized and the amorphized phase was maintained under ambient conditions. The microstructures of the uncompressed crystalline and decompressed amorphized samples have also been investigated accordingly. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

SO x emission, one of the significant contributors to air pollution, is primarily caused by the combustion of sulfur-containing liquid fuels. Thus, ultra-low sulfur or sulfur-free fuels production gains more attention to construct the SO x -free environment. Despite the oxidative desulfurization using polyoxometalates and hydrogen peroxide showing promising results, the requirement of hydrogen peroxide in excess and the complicated synthesis of heterogeneous polyoxometalates are the key drawbacks. So, in this paper, facile hydrothermal synthesis of mesoporous tin oxide-supported octamolybdates containing MoV and MoVI sites is reported for oxidative desulfurization with near stoichiometric hydrogen peroxide. The current catalytic system seems competitive among molybdenum-based oxidative desulfurization catalysts due to its higher turnover frequencies of 28.1 h−1. The straightforward synthesis of catalysts and their excellent oxidative desulfurization activity would be attractive in building the SO x -free environment via clean transport energy. [Display omitted] • Clean liquid fuels for curbing SO x -emission are aimed by oxidative desulfurization. • Facile hydrothermal synthesis of heterogeneous MoV–MoVI octamolybdates is achieved. • MoV sites of catalysts accelerate activation of H 2 O 2. • Among known Mo-based catalysts, excellent TOF (28.1 h−1) is obtained at less O/S. • Advantageous MoV sites are present in catalyst even after oxidative desulfurization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

High-strength steel investigation is focused on the production of low carbon microalloying steel, particularly in the enhancement of steel strength through microstructure control, which is an urgent problem nowadays. This paper investigates the effect of various thermal mechanical control processing parameter on the properties and microstructures of Mn-Ti low carbon steels. The steel exhibited yield strength of 920 to 1069 MPa, elongation of approximately 10%, and impact absorbed energy between 16.7 and 45.3 J. At constant coiling temperature, more lath-shaped carbonless ferrites, retained austenitic films with finer width, and island-like twin martensites were generated. Strength and yield ratio increased with increase in finishing rolling temperature, but impact absorbed energy and total elongation decreased. When the finishing rolling temperature and coiling temperature were 860 and 220°C, respectively, the steel exhibited the highest strength and yield ratio but the lowest plasticity and toughness. At increased coiling temperature and unchanged finishing rolling temperature, more lath-shaped ferrites with greater width were generated and gradually changed from carbonless to low-bainite because of precipitations inside them. The width of the retained austenite increased with increase in coiling temperature. Thus, the strength and yield ratio decreased, but plasticity and impact toughness increased. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ternary transition metal borides (TTMBs) will break materials application limitation in harsh service environments, owing to their structure versatility and high component tunable ability. Herein, we reported a solid solution boride CrFeB synthesized by high pressure and high temperature method. CrFeB yields an asymptotic hardness of 14.2 GPa and thermal stability temperature is up to 1250 K. DC magnetic susceptibility measurements revealed that there is a separation between zero-field cooled and field cooled curve at around 5 K, which indicated the spin glass behavior for CrFeB. Temperature dependence AC susceptibility analysis gives further evidence that the freezing temperature increases with frequency following Vogel-Fulcher law. On the basis of XPS results and first-principle calculations, we speculate that the complex magnetic behaviors may derive from the short-range magnetic exchange of same occupation sites two metal atoms. Cr and Fe atoms tend to have opposite magnetic moments in these short-range exchange behaviors. The intrinsic magnetic disorder and short-range frustration lead to spin random freezing of CrFeB at low temperatures, which conforms to typical spin glass characteristics. These results will contribute to understanding the complex magnetism behavior of CrFeB and provides a new idea to design multifunctional TTMBs. [Display omitted] • Novel ternary solid solution boride CrFeB was fabricated by high pressure and high temperature method. • CrFeB exhibits high hardness, excellent antioxidant capacity and spin-glass behavior at low temperature. • The short-range magnetic exchange and long-range random occupancy of two metals lead to the spin glass behavior for CrFeB. • Regulating the interactions between metal components will help optimize the performance of multicomponent metal borides. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Polygonatum odoratum (Yu-Zhu) can be utilized to treat the digestive and respiratory illness. Previous studies have revealed that the underlying therapeutic mechanism of P. odoratum polysaccharides (POPs) is associated with remodeling the gut microbiota. However, POPs in terms of the chemical composition and fermentation activities have been understudied. Here we developed the three-level fingerprinting approaches to characterize the structures of POPs and probed into the beneficial effects on promoting the growth and fermentation of Lactobacillus johnsonii. POPs were prepared by water decoction followed by alcohol sedimentation, while trifluoroacetic acid under different conditions to prepare the hydrolyzed oligosaccharides and monosaccharides. POPs exhibited three main molecular distribution of 601–620 kDa, 4.12–6.09 kDa, and 3.57–6.02 kDa. Hydrolyzed oligosaccharides with degree of polymerization (DP) 2–13 got primarily characterized by analyzing the rich fragmentation information obtained by hydrophilic interaction chromatography/ion mobility-quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry (HILIC/IM-QTOF-MS). Amongst them, the DP5 oligosaccharide was characterized as 1,6,6-kestopentaose. The molecular ratio of Fru: Ara: Glc: Gal: Xyl was 87.72: 0.30: 11.56: 0.19: 0.23. In vitro fermentation demonstrated that 4.5 mg/mL of POPs could significantly promote the growth of L. johnsonii. Co-cultivated with 4.5 mg/mL of POPs, L. johnsonii exhibited stronger antimicrobial activity against Klebsiella pneumoniae. The concentrations of short-chain fatty acids in the POPs-lactobacilli fermented products, including acetic acid, isobutyric acid, and isovaleric acid, were increased. Conclusively, POPs represent the promising prebiotic candidate to facilitate lactobacilli, which is associated with exerting the health benefits. [Display omitted] • P. odoratum polysaccharides (POP) were characterized by three-level fingerprinting. • POP promoted the growth and antimicrobial activity of L. johnsonii. • POP enhanced the production of SCFAs after L. johnsonii fermentation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A high-quality Zn2TiO4 crystal was used as a prototype for determination of the optical interband transitions by measuring the absorption spectrum of the crystal along the a-axes at room temperature in the range of 200-1000 nm. Based on the theory of band-to-band transitions, the indirect energy gap and the phonon energy were determined as Egi = 3.29 eV and Ep = 0.09 eV, respectively. Also, this phonon was just the vibrational mode at 721 cm−1 in the Raman spectra, which participated in the indirect transitions of the Zn2TiO4. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]