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Improving the properties of metallic bipolar plates is very crucial for high performance of proton exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs). Cr–C films are prepared on the stainless steel 316L substrate by RF multi-point magnetron co-sputtering of Cr sheets and graphite target for the first time. Effect of the number of Cr sheets on the morphology, composition, corrosion resistance, conductivity, and hydrophobicity of Cr–C films are investigated systematically. With the increase of the number of Cr sheets, the ratio of sp2/sp3 hybrid in the Cr–C films is decreased, and the films become more compact and smoother. When the number of Cr sheets is 8, the ratio of sp2/sp3 hybrid is 5.01, and the Cr–C film shows the best comprehensive performance. The corrosion current densities of anode and cathode are 0.31 μA cm−2 and -0.087 μA cm−2 at constant potential, respectively, and 0.229 μA cm−2 and -0.276 μA cm−2 at galvanic potential, respectively. The corrosion resistance property of the Cr–C film is superior to DOE standards. Compared with uncoated 316L stainless steels, the properties of corrosion resistance, conductivity, and hydrophobicity of the ones coated with the Cr–C films have been improved significantly. This work opens up a new way for the preparation of metal bipolar plate films. • A method for RF multi-point magnetron co-sputtering is proposed. • The effect of the number of sheet on the properties of CrC films is studied. • CrC films with excellent corrosion resistance and hydrophobicity are prepared. • The films deposited with the number of 8 Cr sheets has the best performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Colletotrichum gloeosporioides is widely distributed and causes anthracnose on many crops, resulting in serious economic losses. Common fungal extracellular membrane (CFEM) domain proteins have been implicated in virulence and their interaction with the host plant, but their roles in C. gloeosporioides are still unknown. In this study, a CFEM-containing protein of C. gloeosporioides was identified and named as CgCFEM1. The expression levels of CgCFEM1 were found to be markedly higher in appressoria, and this elevated expression was particularly pronounced during the initial stages of infection in the rubber tree. Absence of CgCFEM1 resulted in impaired pathogenicity, accompanied by notable perturbations in spore morphogenesis, conidiation, appressorium development and primary invasion. During the process of appressorium development, the absence of CgCFEM1 enhanced the mitotic activity in both conidia and germ tubes, as well as compromised conidia autophagy. Rapamycin was found to basically restore the appressorium formation, and the activity of target of rapamycin (TOR) kinase was significantly induced in the CgCFEM1 knockout mutant (∆CgCFEM1). Furthermore, CgCFEM1 was proved to suppress chitin-triggered reactive oxygen species (ROS) accumulation and change the expression patterns of defense-related genes. Collectively, we identified a fungal effector CgCFEM1 that contributed to pathogenicity by regulating TOR-mediated conidia and appressorium morphogenesis of C. gloeosporioides and inhibiting the defense responses of the rubber tree. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We investigated the association between paradoxical leadership and employee innovative behaviours, and the role of proactive personality and work engagement in the relationship. Participants were 514 employees of a large Chinese internet company (female = 259; mean age = 29.85 years, SD = 5.88 years). Following a moderated mediating model, results indicated that paradoxical leadership was associated with higher employee innovative behaviours via work engagement. Furthermore, proactive personality strengthened the effects of paradoxical leadership on employee work engagement and innovative behaviours associated with higher employee productivity. Specifically, the integrative leading style of paradoxical leadership was conducive to improve employee work engagement and innovative behaviours, especially for employees with high proactive personality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, we focus on the nonsmooth composite optimization problems over networks, which consist of a smooth term and a nonsmooth term. Both equality constraints and box constraints for the decision variables are also considered. Based on the multi-agent networks, the objective problems are split into a series of agents on which the problems can be solved in a decentralized manner. By establishing the Lagrange function of the problems, the first-order optimal condition is obtained in the primal-dual domain. Then, we propose a decentralized algorithm with the proximal operators. The proposed algorithm has uncoordinated stepsizes with respect to agents or edges, where no global parameters are involved. By constructing the compact form of the algorithm with operators, we complete the convergence analysis with the fixed-point theory. With the constrained quadratic programming problem, simulations verify the effectiveness of the proposed algorithm. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Emulsion solidified by interpenetrating networks consisting of SBP and SPI. • SBP/SPI based emulsion-filled gel exhibited the outstanding hardness properties. • SBP from interpenetrating emulsion-filled gel could not affect β-carotene bioaccessibility. • SBP could slow down the protein hydrolysis and free fatty acids released in SIF. This study investigated the effects of different matrices on gel properties, lipid digestibility, β-carotene bioaccessibility, released free amino acids and gel network degradation. Microstructure studies have proven that sugar beet pectin/soy protein isolate-based emulsion-filled gel (SBP/SPI-E) with interpenetrating networks was formed. SBP/SPI-E exhibited higher hardness (2.67 N, p < 0.05) and released lesser free amino acids (269.48-μmol/g SPI) than soy protein isolate-based emulsion-filled gel (SPI-E) in simulated intestinal fluid (SIF); however, both had similar free amino acids contents in simulated colonic fluid. SBP has the potential to delay gel network degradation in SIF, as evidenced by the sugar stain strips of SDS-PAGE and microstructure observation. Furthermore, SBP/SPI-E and SPI-E exhibited similar β-carotene bioaccessibility in SIF, suggesting that SBP from composite gel could not affect the aforementioned bioaccessibility. The study provides useful information for the design of functional gels in the application of fat-soluble nutrient delivery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The asymmetric halogen surfaces on both sides of Janus Bi 2 O 2 XY lead to the electrostatic potential difference and the staggered band alignment. Bi 2 O 2 XY display more suitable band edge positions and the stronger internal electric field for HER than pristine BiOX. The superior HER performance is demonstrated by the Δ G H calculations. [Display omitted] The electronic and catalytic properties of Janus bismuth oxyhalide (Bi 2 O 2 XY, where X/Y = Cl, Br, or I, and X ≠ Y) for the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) are evaluated through first-principles calculations. Janus Bi 2 O 2 XY shows an enhanced separation efficiency of electron−hole pairs and an augmented utilization of solar energy due to Janus asymmetry. The asymmetric halogen surfaces on both sides of Janus Bi 2 O 2 XY induce an electrostatic potential difference, which leads to a staggered band alignment. The solar-to-hydrogen (STH) efficiencies of Janus Bi 2 O 2 BrI and Bi 2 O 2 ClI have greatly improved compared to those of pristine BiOBr and BiOCl. Additionally, Janus Bi 2 O 2 XY achieves stronger internal electric fields (IEFs) and a more suitable Gibbs free energy of hydrogen adsorption (Δ G H) than pristine BiOX. Moreover, the halogen layer with a smaller electronegativity in Janus Bi 2 O 2 XY forms a stronger IEF with the oxygen layer; consequently, the Δ G H of terminations value is closer to the ideal value for the HER. The localized edge states in the p -orbital density of states (DOS) projected onto O atoms are responsible for the HER activity of terminations. This work provides a comprehensive understanding of Janus Bi 2 O 2 XY for the HER and provides a strategy for improving photocatalysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To explore the practicality and effectiveness of a flexible low-dose protocol in the fresh embryo transfer cycle: reducing the total amount of antagonist by increasing the interval between administrations of Cetrotide. Methods: A total of 211 patients with normal ovarian reserve who accepted GnRH-ant protocol for IVF-ET were selected, and they were randomized to the flexible low-dose antagonist group (test group, n = 101) or the conventional dose antagonist group (control group, n = 110). The initial dose of Cetrotide in the test group was 0.25 mg every other day, and then the dose was adjusted to 0.25 mg every day based on the subsequent luteinizing hormone (LH) levels. The dosage of Cetrotide in the control group was 0.25 mg per day. The primary outcome was the clinical pregnancy rate. Secondary outcomes included the incidence of premature LH rise, total dosage of Cetrotide, number of oocytes retrieved, number of fertilized oocytes, number of high-quality embryos, biochemical pregnancy rate and ongoing pregnancy rate. Results: There was no significant difference in the general condition of the two groups. There was no significant difference in the clinical pregnancy rate (51.49% vs. 48.18%, p = 0.632) or the incidence of premature LH rise (18.81% vs. 15.45%, p = 0.584) between the two groups. However, the amount of Cetrotide used in the test group was significantly lower than that in the conventional dose antagonist group (1.13 ± 0.41 vs. 1.61 ± 0.59 mg, p < 0.001). Conclusion: The flexible low-dose antagonist protocol and the conventional dose antagonist protocol were equally effective in people with a normal ovarian reserve in the fresh embryo transfer cycle of IVF-ET. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We investigated how and when paradoxical leader behaviour (PLB) positively influenced employee taking charge, a typical exemplar of proactive behaviours. Participants were 644 employees of a large Chinese high-tech manufacturing company (male = 50.8%; mean age = 29.63 years, SD = 5.72 years). Based on hierarchical regression analysis and bootstrap analysis, the results indicated that PLB was associated with a higher probability of employee taking charge, with role breadth self-efficacy (RBSE) acting as a mediator for this relationship. Furthermore, promotion focus moderated this mediation relationship, such that the relationship was stronger for subordinates high in promotion focus. We concluded that contextual factor of PLB and individual differences of promotion focus were essential to enhance employees' perception of RBSE and possibilities of taking charge. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Considering the different potential roles of the small intestine and colon in the functions of bioactive components, this study was performed to design a pectin-based controlled delivery system targeting different intestinal sections according to emulsification gelation methods (i.e., pectin gelated with acidified ethanol, iron, and calcium: PE-H, PE-Fe, and PE-Ca, respectively). The properties and targeted delivery of pectin-based emulsion gels were compared. All emulsion gels exhibited similar diameter and acceptable roundness with naringin encapsulation efficiency of approximately 90%. Cross-sections of PE-H, PE-Fe, and PE-Ca exhibited loose networks, large voids, and dense structures, resulting in diverse time dependence during digestion. Furthermore, PE-Ca showed the fastest completion of gelation and exhibited excellent hardness properties, suggesting that it would have the strongest anti-digestive effect. PE-Fe showed time- and pH-dependent swelling behavior in simulated intestinal fluid. Simulated digestion experiments indicated burst release and slow release of naringin from PE-H and PE-Fe, respectively, due to their differences in pH responsiveness and time dependence; a similar amount of naringin was released from PE-Ca after enzyme-triggered digestion in simulated colon fluid. Overall, distinct emulsion gels achieved targeted disintegration in intestinal sites. PE-H and PE-Fe would contribute to the rapid and sustained release of naringin in the small intestine, respectively, whereas PE-Ca would contribute to naringin release in the colon. These findings provide new insights for the future design of specific delivery systems that can be used in the functional food industry; they indicate the robust potential for including pectin in emulsion-based foods with targeted functions. [Display omitted] • Pectin-based spherical emulsion gels were prepared by different gelation methods. • Their physicochemical properties and digestive delivery behaviors were compared. • PE-H and PE-Fe showed rapid and sustained release of naringin in SIF, respectively. • PE-Fe was time-dependent and pH-triggered dual-sensitive in simulated digestion. • As an enzyme-triggered delivery system, PE-Ca released 88.4% of naringin in SCF. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • A template-free one-step carbonization method to prepare hollow porous carbon spheres. • The hollow porous carbon spheres show large surface area of 747.9 m2/g. • NHPC-based device has voltage of 2.6 V, excellent rate capability in 17.0 M NaClO 4. • NHPC has high energy density, speed capacity and cycle stability. The expansion of the operational voltage in supercapacitors (SCs) through the utilization of water-in-salt electrolytes (WISEs) has garnered considerable attention for achieving elevated energy density. However, the poor rate performance of assembled SCs persists due to the heightened viscosity of WISEs (e.g., 17.0 mol kg−1 NaClO 4), so designing the porous structure of electrode materials to improve the rate performance of SC in WISEs has become a research focus. In this study, we present a straightforward approach to fabricate hierarchical porous carbon spheres, designing to expedite ion infilling and transport within WISE-based SCs. The hollow porous carbon is synthesized via one-step pyrolysis process, wherein the decomposition of inner colloid particles yields gases, while the outer resorcinol–formaldehyde resin carbonizes to form a spherical shell. In the WISE of 17.0 mol kg−1 NaClO 4 , the resulting symmetric SCs exhibit an operational voltage of 2.6 V and significantly improved rate capability with a capacitance retention of 47.7 % at 100 A g−1. Notably, the energy density can reach 31.0 Wh kg−1 at a power density of 2.4 kW kg−1. Even under high power density conditions of 120.0 kW kg−1, the energy density of 14.7 Wh kg−1 can remain. Additionally, the SC device manifests an impressive capacitance retention of 99.1 % after 20,000 cycles, showcasing exceptional cyclic stability. This research introduces a novel synthesis strategy for hierarchical porous carbon materials, enabling the development of high-rate SCs with both elevated energy density and power density. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bismuth oxyhalides, BiOX (X = I, Br, and Cl), as a new class of promising catalysts for hydrogen evolution reaction (HER), have attracted growing interest from researchers. However, the active sites of BiOX are limited to the edges, leaving a large area of inert basal planes to HER. Herein, the activation of the inert basal planes of monolayer BiOX is explored by the first-principles calculations. It is found that the Gibbs free energies of hydrogen adsorption (Δ G H 0) on halogen vacancies (V X , X = I, Br, and Cl) sites are close to the ideal value of 0 eV, indicating that the inert basal planes of BiOX can be activated by V X. With the increasing V X concentration, Δ G H 0 decreases and hydrogen is more strongly attached to V X sites. Moreover, the compressive strain can strengthen hydrogen adsorption on V X sites, whereas the opposite role is observed for the tensile strain. Hence, the highest HER of the basal planes can be achieved by the combinations of V X and strain. Furthermore, the resonant states of the Bi-p orbital of Bi atoms on V X sites are responsible for the flexible HER, which can be further determined according to the p-band center of Bi-p orbital. These results provide a comprehensive strategy to activate the inert basal plane and optimize the HER activity for two-dimensional (2D) catalyst. • The inert basal planes of monolayer BiOX are activated for HER by introducing halogen vacancy. • Δ G H 0 on halogen vacancy sites can reach the ideal value of 0 eV. • The dual effect of halogen vacancy and strain can effectively and flexibly modulate HER activity. • The resonant states of Bi- p orbital on halogen vacancy sites are responsible for the adsorption of hydrogen. • The value of Δ G H 0 can be determined by p -band center of Bi- p orbital density of states for HER. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Two-dimensional (2D) layered bismuth oxyhalides, BiOX (X = I, Br, and Cl), have great potential in optoelectronics and photocatalysis applications. The intrinsic point defects are crucial for carrier conductivity and transport. However, the understanding for defect physics of 2D atomic-scale BiOX are still unclear. Herein, through the first-principles calculations, we investigate the formation of intrinsic point defects and their effect on charge carrier trapping in 2D monolayer BiOX. Under a O-poor condition, the donor defects, such as the Bi ad , Bi X , V O , and V X , can form spontaneously and induce a high n -type conductivity. The V X shows a shallow transition level and has no defect states. In contrast, the Bi ad , Bi X , and V O display deep transition levels and obvious localized defect states that are responsible for the charge carrier trapping. As O becomes richer, the concentration of acceptor defects increases. Nevertheless, the donor and the acceptor defects can strongly compensate each other, pinning the Fermi energy in the band gap. The dominant acceptor defects, such as the Br Bi , O Br , and O Cl , show the deep transition levels and serve as carrier traps due to the charge localized around the defect sites. Our work gives an insight into the defect physics of atomic-scale 2D BiOX and provides a guidance for their optoelectronics and photocatalysis applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Food bioactives exhibit various health-promoting effects and are widely used in functional foods to maintain human health. After oral intake, bioactives undergo complex biological processes before reaching the target organs to exert their biological effects. However, several factors may reduce their bioavailability. Colloidal systems have attracted special attention due to their great potential to improve bioavailability and bioefficiency. Herein, we focus on the importance of in vivo studies of the biological fates of bioactives delivered by colloidal systems. Increasing evidence demonstrates that the construction, composition, and physicochemical properties of the delivery systems significantly influence the in vivo biological fates of bioactives. These results demonstrate the great potential to control the in vivo behavior of food bioactives by designing specific delivery systems. We also compare in vivo and in vitro models used for biological studies of the fate of food bioactives delivered by colloidal systems. Meanwhile, the significance of the gut microbiota, targeted delivery, and personalized nutrition should be carefully considered. This review provides new insight for further studies of food bioactives delivered by colloidal systems, as well as scientific guidance for the reasonable design of personalized nutrition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Transparent soil (TS) presents immense potential for root phenotyping due to its ability to facilitate high-resolution imaging. However, challenges related to transparency, mechanical properties, and cost hinder its development. Herein, we introduce super-transparent soil (s-TS) prepared via the droplet method using low acyl gellan gum and hydroxyethyl cellulose crosslinked with magnesium ions. The refractive index of the hydroxyethyl cellulose solution (1.345) closely aligns with that of water (1.333) and the low acyl gellan gum solution (1.340), thereby significantly enhancing the transmittance of hydrogel-based transparent soil. Optimal transmittance (98.45%) is achieved with polymer concentrations ranging from 0.8 to 1.6 wt.% and ion concentrations between 0.01 and 0.09 mol·L−1. After 60 days of plant cultivation, s-TS maintains a transmittance exceeding 89.5%, enabling the detailed visualization of root growth dynamics. Furthermore, s-TS exhibits remarkable mechanical properties, withstanding a maximum compressive stress of 477 kPa and supporting a maximum load-bearing depth of 186 cm. This innovative approach holds promising implications for advanced root phenotyping studies, fostering the investigation of root heterogeneity and the development of selective expression under controlled conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper studies the security location mechanism of the sensor network node under the attack of Sybil and analyzes the safe attacks which are possibly accepted and safe requirement in the location system. Since RSSI (Received Signal Strength Indicator) possesses the energy transmission function, different transmission energy will cause it to produce different RSSI readings. Furthermore, this kind of method cannot increase the burden on Wireless Sensor Network (WSN). It conducts an analysis between two receiving nodes, compares RSSI ratios to tickle the problem of time inconsistency of RSSI, and sets a threshold to detect Sybil by the emulation results. Research shows that the ratio value of different receiving nodes by using RSSI can resolve time difference because of the RSSI or unreliability which results from the asymmetry of transmission ratio. The thesis makes a comparison that the number of receiving nodes has an influence on attack effect. Utilizing the RSSI ratio values can exactly detect the Sybil attack. Emulation findings demonstrate that the detection method put forward by the thesis owns better security. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Emulsion stabilized by 1 wt% Tween 20 was added to the sugar beet pectin (SBP)/soy protein isolate (SPI)-based gel matrix to obtain emulsion-filled gels via laccase-induced cross-linking reaction and heat treatment. The influence of emulsion concentrations (the ratio of the emulsion to the mixed colloidal solution) on the textural characteristics, swelling degrees, rheological properties and microstructural properties of gels was investigated. The highest hardness, adhesiveness and chewiness of the gels were reached with an emulsion concentration of 10 wt%, accompanied by the formation of a stiffer gel with smoother surface. The results indicated that the increase in emulsion concentration helped to improve the swelling properties of the gel. The rheological property of the gel filled with 5 wt% of emulsion was mainly influenced by the SPI solutions. The presence of emulsion slowed down the gelling process. Furthermore, the loss tangent (G"/G′) of the gel with emulsion concentration at 10 wt% exhibited a slight increase during the gelling process, suggesting a stronger interaction between SBP and SPI. The microstructure results showed that the integrated and interconnected pores appeared in the gel with 10 wt% emulsion concentration. The CLSM observations indicated that the interactions among the matrix macromolecules were influenced by the addition of emulsion and droplet clusters could be observed in gel with higher concentration of emulsion. Overall, the addition of suitable concentration of emulsion was beneficial for improving the texture and microstructure of emulsion filled-gel as a controlled-release delivery system. Graphical abstract Image 1 Highlights • The emulsion-filled gel was prepared by laccase catalysis and thermal treatment. • Influence of emulsion concentrations on the properties of gels were investigated. • The gel cross-linking and interactions between matrix molecules were affected. • The gel with 10 wt% of emulsion exhibited desired properties as a nutrients carrier. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Oxidative stress–mediated fetal membrane cell aging is activated prematurely in preterm premature rupture of membranes (PPROMs). The mechanism of this phenomenon is largely understudied. Progesterone receptor membrane component 1 (PGRMC1) has been recognized as a potential protective component for maintaining fetal membrane integrity and healthy pregnancies. We aimed to investigate the effects of oxidative stress (represented by hydrogen peroxide [H2O2]) on fetal membrane and chorion cell senescence, p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) phosphorylation, and sirtuin 3 (SIRT3) and to examine the roles of PGRMC1 in these effects. Methods: Following serum starvation for 24 hours, full-thickness fetal membrane explants and primary chorion cells were treated with H2O2 at 100, 300, and 500 µM for 24 hours. Cells were fixed for cell senescence-associated β-galactosidase assay. Cell lysates were harvested for quantitive reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction to quantify SIRT3 messenger RNA. Cell lysates were harvested for Western blot to semi-quantify SIRT3 protein and p38 MAPK phosphorylation levels, respectively. To examine the role of PGRMC1, primary chorion cells underwent the same treatment mentioned above following PGRMC1 knockdown using validated PGRMC1-specific small-interfering RNA. Results: Hydrogen peroxide significantly induced cell senescence and p38 MAPK phosphorylation, and it significantly decreased SIRT3 expression in full-thickness fetal membrane explants and chorion cells. These effects were enhanced by PGRMC1 knockdown. Discussion: This study further demonstrated that oxidative stress–induced cell aging is one of the mechanisms of PPROM and PGRMC1 acts as a protective element for maintaining fetal membrane integrity by inhibiting oxidative stress–induced chorion cell aging. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Vaccine development efforts against Streptococcus suis serotype 2 ( S. suis 2) are often constrained by strain/serotype antigen variability. Bioinformatics analyses revealed two highly conserved S. suis 2 factors, EF-Tu and FtsZ. Murine immunization with recombinant proteins emulsified in white oil adjuvant or eukaryotic DNA vaccine vectors provided significant protection against lethal S. suis 2 challenge. Immune responses elicited by recombinant protein immunization revealed the robust generation of humoral immune responses, with a mixed induction of Th1-type and Th2-type responses. Furthermore, the antiserum from mice immunized with recombinant proteins significantly inhibited the growth of S. suis 2 in healthy pig whole blood, suggesting the triggering of a strong opsonizing response. Histological examination found that immunizing mice with purified recombinant proteins reduced neutrophil and macrophage accumulation in brain and lung tissues after challenge with virulent S. suis . Taken together, these findings reveal that EF-Tu and FtsZ may be promising targets for subunit and DNA vaccine candidates against S. suis 2 infection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of present study is to design food-grade W/O/W double emulsions encapsulating Mg2+ and investigate their stability and release properties. Prepared emulsions were characterized in terms of global stability, particle size, rheological properties, and interfacial tension. The double emulsions were sensitive to the presence of magnesium salt. The mean droplet size and viscosity of emulsions was positively correlated to MgCl2 concentration. The microscopic pictures confirmed that the water transfer between two aqueous phases caused the reduced stability of double emulsions. It was suggested that swelling breakdown was the main mechanism in controlling the release of encapsulated Mg2+. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Thrombin (Thr) generation at the uteroplacental interface induces inflammation and weakens fetal membranes. Tissue factor (TF) is a powerful procoagulant that is increased by Thr in decidual cells (DCs). The TF expression may play an important role in modulating Thr-induced inflammation. The purpose of this study was to assess the effect of heparin, including nonanticoagulant (desulfated) heparins, on basal and Thr-induced expression of TF and inflammatory cytokines in DCs. Methods: Fetal membranes were collected from term pregnancies undergoing unlabored cesarean delivery and then DCs were isolated and cultured. Third passage DCs were conditioned in defined media for 1 week and then treated with 1 of the 4 heparins (enoxaparin, unfractionated heparin, and 2 desulfated heparins) with and without Thr (2.5 U/mL) for 24 hours. Supernatant levels of interleukin (IL) 6, IL-8, IL-10, tumor necrosis factor α, and interferon γ (IFN-γ) were determined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Western blots were performed on cell lysates to determine TF expression. A Kruskal-Wallis test was used to compare cytokine concentrations and normalized TF expression among treatments. Results: Treatment of DCs with Thr alone increased the expression of TF, IL-6, IL8, IL-10, and IFN-γ compared to basal levels (P < .05 for each). Cotreatment of DCs with Thr and any of the tested heparins did not decrease the expression of TF or inflammatory cytokines compared to treatment with Thr alone. Discussion: Heparins do not appear to affect basal or Thr-induced expression of TF or inflammatory cytokines in human term DCs. Additional work is needed to determine whether nonanticoagulant heparins can reduce inflammation and membrane weakening due to bleeding in pregnancy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND Ultrasound treatment has been shown to be an effective technique for improving the activity of immobilized enzymes. However, its mechanism is unclear. RESULTS The effect of ultrasonic pretreated chitosan-sodium alginate ( CHI-ALG) on the enzymatic activity of papain was investigated via a single factor (temperature, time, frequency, power) experiment. The maximum relative enzyme activity of papain was observed when it was mixed with ultrasound pretreated CHI-ALG at 135 kHz, 0.25 W cm−2 and 50 °C for 20 min, during which the relative activity increased by 72.14% compared to untreated CHI-ALG. Viscosity analysis of papain mixed with CHI-ALG pretreated and untreated with ultrasound revealed that stronger association interactions between the polymers were formed compared to the untreated sample. Fluorescence and circular dichroism spectra indicated that the ultrasonic pretreatment of CHI-ALG increased the number of tryptophan on the papain surface and also increased the content of α-helix by 6.97% and decreased the content of β-sheet by 3.45% compared to the untreated solution. CONCLUSION The results of the present study indicate that papain combined with CHI-ALG pretreated with the appropriate ultrasound could be effective technique for improving the activity of immobilized enzymes as a result of changes in its structure and intermolecular interactions. It is important to extend the application of CHI-ALG gel in the immobilized enzyme industry. © 2016 Society of Chemical Industry [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, the effects of ultrasound with different ultrasonic frequencies on the properties of sodium alginate (ALG) were investigated, which were characterized by the means of the multi-angle laser light scattering photometer analysis (GPC-MALLS), rheological analysis, circular dichroism (CD) spectrometer and scanning electron microscope (SEM). It showed that the molecular weight (M w ) and molecular number (M n ) of the untreated ALG was 1.927 × 10 5 g/mol and 4.852 × 10 4 g/mol, respectively. The M w of the ultrasound treated ALG was gradually increased from 3.50 × 10 4 g/mol to 7.34 × 10 4 g/mol while the M n of ALG was increased and then decreased with the increase of the ultrasonic frequency. The maximum value of M n was 9.988 × 10 4 g/mol when the ALG was treated by ultrasound at 40 kHz. It indicated that ultrasound could induce ALG degradation and rearrangement. The number of the large molecules and small molecules of ALG was changed by ultrasound. The value of d n /d c suggested that the ultrasound could enhance the stability of ALG. Furthermore, it was found that ALG treated by ultrasound at 50 kHz tended to be closer to a Newtonian behavior, while the untreated and treated ALG solutions exhibited pseudoplastic behaviours. Moreover, CD spectra demonstrated that ultrasound could be used to improve the strength of the gel by changing the ratio of M/G, which showed that the minimum ratio of M/G of ALG treated at 135 kHz was 1.34. The gel-forming capacity of ALG was correlated with the content of G-blocks. It suggested that ALG treated by ultrasound at 135 kHz was stiffer in the process of forming gels. The morphology results indicated that ultrasound treatment of ALG at 135 kHz increased its hydrophobic interaction and interfacial activity. This study is important to explore the effect of ultrasound on ALG in improving the physical properties of ALG as food additives, enzyme and drug carriers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Flame retardants are widely used in consumer products to reduce their flammability. Previously used flame retardants have been sequentially banned due to their environmental and human toxicity. Currently, tris(1,3-dichloropropyl) phosphate (TDCIPP) and triphenyl phosphate (TPHP) are among the most commonly used flame retardants. TDCIPP and TPHP are reproductive toxins and have carcinogenic, neurotoxic, and endocrine-disrupting properties. Although high levels of TDCIPP and TPHP have been found in drinking water, seawater, and office air in China, data regarding human exposure are lacking. In this study, we assessed the level of urinary TPHP and TDCIPP metabolites (DPHP and BDCIPP, resp.) in a cohort of pregnant women (N = 23) from Shanghai, China, using liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry. DPHP were detected in 100% urine samples, while only four urine samples had detectable level of BDCIPP in this cohort (17% detected). Geometric means of DPHP and BDCIPP concentrations were 1.1 ng/mL (interquartile range [IQR]: 0.6, 1.5 ng/mL) and 1.2 ng/mL (IQR: 0.6, 2.2 ng/mL), respectively. In this small cohort, urinary DPHP and BDCIPP levels were not significantly correlated with miscarriages, neonatal birthweight, gestational diabetes, or maternal age. These data suggest that exposure to TPHP is widespread, and they demonstrate the feasibility of using urinary biomarkers to measure exposures to modern flame-retardant chemicals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ureaplasma parvum (U. parvum) is gaining recognition as an important pathogen for chorioamnionitis and preterm premature rupture of membranes. We aimed to investigate the roles of progesterone (P4) and a novel progesterone receptor, progesterone receptor membrane component 1 (PGRMC1), in the response of fetal membranes to U. parvum. Fetal membrane cells (amnion, chorion and decidua) were isolated and confirmed to be free of Mycoplasmataceae. Cells were treated with U. parvum (5x106 CFU), and adherence was quantified by qPCR. Amnion and chorion cells were transfected with scrambled siRNA or validated PGRMC1 siRNA for 72h. Cells were then treated with U. parvum for 4h with or without pretreatment with P4 (10−7 M) or ethanol for 1h. Interleukin-8 (IL-8), matrix metalloproteinase 9 (MMP9) and cyclooxygenase (COX-2) mRNA expression were quantified by qRT-PCR. Culture medium was harvested and analyzed for IL-8 and prostaglandin (PGE2) secretion by ELISA and MMP9 activity by zymography. U. parvum had a mean adherence of 15.0±0.6%, 16.9± 3.7% and 4.7±0.3% in cultured amnion, chorion and decidua cells, respectively. Exposure to U. parvum elicited significant inflammatory responses including induction of IL-8, COX-2, PGE2 and MMP9. A possible role of PGRMC1 was identified in the inhibition of U. parvum-stimulated COX-2 and MMP9 mRNA expression in chorion cells and MMP9 activity in amnion cells. On the other hand, it might enhance the U. parvum-stimulated IL-8 protein secretion in amnion cells. P4, mediated through PGRMC1, significantly inhibited U. Parvum-induced MMP9 mRNA and COX-2 mRNA expression in chorion cells. P4 appeared to attenuate U. parvum induced IL-8 mRNA expression in chorion cells, but this P4 effect might not mediated through PGRMC1. In summary, U. parvum preferentially adheres to and induces inflammatory responses in chorion and amnion cells. P4 and PGRMC1 appear to differentially modulate the inflammatory responses induced by U. parvum among amnion and chorion cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of the study was to investigate the impact of sodium alginate (ALG) pretreated by ultrasound on the enzyme activity, structure, conformation and molecular weight and distribution of papain. ALG solutions were pretreated with ultrasound at varying power (0.05, 0.15, 0.25, 0.35, 0.45 W/cm 2 ), 135 kHz, 50 °C for 20 min. The maximum relative activity of papain increased by 10.53% when mixed with ALG pretreated by ultrasound at 0.25 W/cm 2 , compared with the untreated ALG. The influence of ultrasound pretreated ALG on the conformation and secondary structure of papain were assessed by fluorescence spectroscopy and circular dichroism spectroscopy. The fluorescence spectra revealed that ultrasound pretreated ALG increased the number of tryptophan on papain surface, especially at 0.25 W/cm 2 . It indicated that ultrasound pretreatment induced molecular unfolding, causing the exposure of more hydrophobic groups and regions from inside to the outside of the papain molecules. Furthermore, ultrasound pretreated ALG resulted in minor changes in the secondary structure of the papain. The content of α-helix was slightly increased after ultrasound pretreatment and no significant change was observed at different ultrasound powers. ALG pretreated by ultrasound enhanced the stability of the secondary structure of papain, especially at 0.25 W/cm 2 . The free sulfhydryl (SH) content of papain was slightly increased and then decreased with the increase of ultrasonic power. The maximum content of free SH was observed at 0.25 W/cm 2 , under which the content of the free SH increased by 6.36% compared with the untreated ALG. Dynamic light scattering showed that the effect of ultrasound treatment was mainly the homogenization of the ALG particles in the mixed dispersion. The gel permeation chromatography coupled with the multi-angle laser light scattering photometer analysis showed that the molecular weight ( M w ) of papain/ALG was decreased and then increased with the ultrasonic pretreatment. Results demonstrated that the activity of immobilized papain improved by ultrasonic pretreatment was mainly caused by the variation of the conformation of papain and the effect of interactions between papain and ALG. This study is important to explain the intermolecular interactions of biopolymers and the mechanism of enzyme immobilization treated by ultrasound in improving the enzymatic activity. As expected, ALG pretreated by appropriate ultrasound is promising as a bioactive compound carrier in the field of immobilized enzyme. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of the study was to investigate the impact of ultrasound on the physical properties and interaction of chitosan (CHI)-sodium alginate (ALG) by rheological behavior, dynamic light scattering, and isothermal titration calorimetry (ITC). The CHI–ALG solutions were treated with ultrasound at 50°C, 0.45 W/cm2and different frequencies (28 and 40 kHz) for different times (10 and 30 minutes). Ultrasonic treatment effectively decreased the viscosity and consistency coefficient and increased the flow behavior index of the CHI–ALG solution, leading to its change in the flow behavior from pseudoplastic to near-Newtonian behavior. It was interesting to find that ultrasonic treatment slightly decreased G′ and increased G″, which indicated that ultrasound strengthened the fluid character and weakened the solid nature of CHI–ALG. The particle size distribution of ultrasonic treated CHI–ALG solutions was shifted to lower values compared to the untreated sample. ITC analysis showed that there was an increase in the affinity constant. However, thermodynamic parameters enthalpy (ΔH), entropy (ΔS), and Gibbs free energy change (ΔG) were not obviously affected by ultrasonication. These results suggested that ultrasonic treatment of CHI–ALG would affect the molecular diffusion by changing the wall material nature and further impact the immobilized enzyme activity. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

An improved SIRS model considering communication radius and distributed density of nodes is proposed. The proposed model captures both the spatial and temporal dynamics of worms spread process. Using differential dynamical theories, we investigate dynamics of worm propagation to time in wireless sensor networks (WSNs). Reproductive number which determines global dynamics of worm propagation in WSNs is obtained. Equilibriums and their stabilities are also found. If reproductive number is less than one, the infected fraction of the sensor nodes disappears and if the reproduction number is greater than one, the infected fraction asymptotically stabilizes at the endemic equilibrium. Based on the reproduction number, we discuss the threshold of worm propagation about communication radius and distributed density of nodes in WSNs. Finally, numerical simulations verify the correctness of theoretical analysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Phenolic resin was synthesized in the presence of thiourea and tetraethyl orthosilicate. • N, S codoped porous carbon was obtained from the resin via carbonizing & activating. • The porous carbon exhibits meso , micro pores and large surface area of 3599 m2 g−1. • Porous carbon has specific capacitance of 461.7F g−1, good stability & rate capability. Introducing fast pseudo-capacitance is an effective strategy to improve the capacitive performances of carbon-based materials. Here, thiourea is used as nitrogen and sulfur source to dope resorcinol formaldehyde polymer. Besides the forming of copolymer of thiourea and resorcinol formaldehyde resin, the thiourea resin also acts as template to adjust the hierarchical microstructure. The N, S co-doped porous carbon exhibits specific surface area of 3599.0 m2 g−1 and wide pore distribution. The specific capacitance of the optimized sample can reach 461.7 F g−1 in 6.0 mol L−1 KOH electrolyte at current density of 0.1 A g−1, and still retains 337.5 F g−1 at current density of 10.0 A g−1, indicting good rate capability. The assembled symmetric device exhibits the maximum energy density of 14.9 Wh kg−1 at the power density of 61.9 W kg−1 based on the active materials. The capacitance can retain 98.3 % of the initial capacitance after 10,000 cycles at current of 10.0 A g−1. Using organic electrolyte, the operating voltage can be extended to 2.1 V, so the energy density of the device reaches 38.3 Wh kg−1 at 262.5 W kg−1. This co-doped strategy provides an effective approach to prepared carbon-based materials with high capacitive performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Huang-huai Plain of China is featured of heavy rainfall in June-September, which accounts for 60%-70% of total annual precipitation. The heavy rainfall-induced soil waterlogging stress during the summer rainy season (June-September) is one of the major constraints for summer maize (Zea mays L.) production in the region. It is necessary to determine the critical days that crops can tolerate stress for minimizing the adverse effect of stress on crop production. In this study, a field experiment was conducted during the summer maize growing season from 2011 to 2012 at Hefei Agrometeorological Experimental Station in Anhui province in order to investigate the effect of waterlogging stress on the growth and grain yield of summer maize and determine the critical days of waterlogging stress. The Xundan No.20 widely cultivated in Huang-huai Plain was used as tested maize. Surface (3 and 5 days) and subsurface (5, 7 and 10 days) waterlogging duration the jointing and tasseling stages were designed. The surface waterlogging was assumed to be 5 cm depth of water on soil surface and the subsurface waterlogging was considered to be 90% of field capacity. Meanwhile, the control soil (CK) had soil moisture kept at 70%-80% of field capacity. Each waterlogging treatment in a plot about 20 m2 had three replicates The aboveground dry matter and leaf area per plant were measured at the jointing, tasseling, milking and maturity stages, respectively. Yield characteristics of summer maize, such as ear length, ear diameter, length of bare tip, grain number per spike, 100-seed weight and harvest index were determined. The results showed that the effect of waterlogging on the growth and yield varied with types and duration of waterlogging at different developmental stages of summer maize. Compared with CK, the surface waterlogging for 3 days at the jointing and for 5 days at tasseling stages resulted in an average decrease in yield with 28.4% and 42.8%, while the subsurface waterlogging for 5 days at jointing or tasseling stages resulted in an average decrease in yield with 3.0%(2012)-13.8%(2011) and 3.4%(2012)-5.5%(2011), respectively. The damage degree due to waterlogging stress at the jointing stage was greater (P<0.05) than at the tasseling stage under the same waterlogging duration, and the yield loss rates were increased with the prolonged waterlogging days. The yield loss rates of surface waterlogging for 5 days was 3.1 times that of surface waterlogging for 3 days at jointing stages, while the yield loss rates of subsurface waterlogging for 10 days were 1.3-3.0 times (2011) and 2.4-3.2 times (2012) that of subsurface waterlogging for 5 days, respectively. The yield losses were related with 100-grain weight and grains per spike. Waterlogging stress not only reduced the grain yield of maize, but also affected the characters of spike, harvest index, the accumulation and distribution of aboveground dry matter weight, leaf area per plant and the grain filling rates. Leaf areas per plant at the milky stage were decreased by 21.2%-65.7% and 4.0%-8.5% in the surface waterlogging and subsurface waterlogging treatments, respectively. The aboveground dry matter weight were reduced by 43.6% and 6.5% in the treatments of surface waterlogging for 5 days and subsurface waterlogging for 10 days at jointing stages, respectively, and the proportion of dry matter in corncob was reduced by 18.8% and 4.2%. The grain filling rate at 25-35 days after silking in the surface waterlogging for 5 days at the jointing or tasseling stages and subsurface waterlogging for 10 days at the jointing stage was decreased by 59.6%, 50.0% and 28.9%, respectively. Therefore, effective measures should be taken to avoid waterlogging for 3 days at jointing stages or 5 days at tasseling stages, when heavy rainfall occurred in the growing season of summer maize. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Progesterone (P4) and the progestin, 17α-hydroxyprogesterone caproate, are clinically used to prevent preterm births (PTBs); however, their mechanism of action remains unclear. Cytokine-induced matrix metalloproteinase 9 (MMP-9) activity plays a key role in preterm premature rupture of the membranes and PTB. We demonstrated that the primary chorion cells and the HTR8/SVneo cells (cytotrophoblast cell line) do not express the classical progesterone receptor (PGR) but instead a novel progesterone receptor, progesterone receptor membrane component 1 (PGRMC1), whose role remains unclear. Using HTR8/SVneo cells in culture, we further demonstrated that 6 hours pretreatment with medroxyprogesterone acetate (MPA) and dexamethasone (Dex) but not P4 or 17α-hydroxyprogesterone hexanoate significantly attenuated tumor necrosis factor α-induced MMP-9 activity after a 24-hour incubation period. The inhibitory effect of MPA, but not Dex, was attenuated when PGRMC1 expression was successfully reduced by PGRMC1 small interfering RNA. Our findings highlight a possible novel role of PGRMC1 in mediating the effects of MPA and in modulating cytokine-induced MMP-9 activity in cytotrophoblast cells in vitro. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Smoking in pregnancy reduces preeclampsia risk, but the mechanism of this effect is unknown. Prior studies have demonstrated that women with preeclampsia have lower placental adrenomedullin (AM) expression, and cigarette smoke extract (CSE) treatment of placental trophoblast cells in culture increases AM cellular production. We hypothesized that CSE alters trophoblast invasion through an AM-mediated mechanism, and that placental AM expression is greater among smokers. HTR-8/SVneo trophoblast cells were incubated for 24 hours in Matrigel-invasion chambers with 6 treatment groups: nonstimulated (NS), AM, AM inhibitor (AM22-52), 1% CSE, AM + AM22-52, and 1% CSE + AM22-52. Cells that penetrated the lower surface of the chambers were quantified, invasion indices were calculated, and compared using a 1-way analysis of variance with Bonferroni corrections for multiple comparisons. Trophoblast cells treated with both AM and 1% CSE demonstrated increased cellular invasion compared to NS controls (1.5-fold [P < .01] and 1.45-fold [P < .01], respectively). Cotreatment with the AM inhibitor significantly attenuated the increased invasion seen with both AM and CSE alone. Next, the placental tissue was obtained from 11 smokers and 11 nonsmokers at term and processed for immunohistochemistry (IHC) and real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (PCR) for AM. Placentas from smokers demonstrated more intense AM staining and increased AM gene (ADM) expression compared to placentas from nonsmokers (P = .004 for IHC, P = .022 for PCR). The CSE increases trophoblast cell invasion through an AM-mediated process, and placental AM expression is increased among term smokers compared to nonsmokers. These findings provide evidence that the AM pathway may play a role in the protection from preeclampsia seen in smokers. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Preterm premature rupture of the membranes (PPROM) is an important etiology of preterm birth and source of significant neonatal morbidity. We propose that PPROM occurs in the setting of long-standing altered tissue remodeling, which creates a vulnerable environment for the fetal membranes and pregnancy. We tested the hypothesis that PPROM is the result of tissue remodeling in the fetal membranes, specifically the chorion, and this weakening of the chorion compromises the protection provided to the amnion. The purpose of this study was to quantify thickness and apoptosis in the choriodecidua of fetal membranes in patients with PPROM, preterm labor (PTL), preterm no labor (PTNL), and women with term labor (TERM). We conducted a retrospective evaluation of fetal membrane samples from 86 placentas. Immunohistochemistry was performed using a cytokeratin antibody, and mean chorion cellular thickness was compared between each clinical group. To evaluate chorion apoptosis, fetal membranes from patients with PPROM, PTL, and TERM were stained with the M30 antibody, and the degree of cellular apoptosis was determined. Statistical analysis was performed using analysis of variance with corrections for multiple comparisons. The chorion cellular layer was thinner in patients with PPROM compared to patients with PTNL and TERM (62, 140, and 169 µm, respectively, P < .0001), though not significantly different from PTL (95 µm, P > .05). The percentage of apoptotic cells within the chorion among the patients with PPROM was greater compared to PTL and TERM (24.2%, 13.1%, and 8.4%, respectively, P < .001). The chorion cellular layer is thinner and demonstrates increased apoptosis in PPROM compared to patients with PTL, PTNL, and TERM, suggesting differential remodeling between clinical phenotypes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: A variable infection rate is more realistic to forecast dynamical behaviors of malware (malicious software) propagation. In this paper, we propose a time-delayed SIRS model by introducing temporal immunity and the variable infection rate. The basic reproductive number R 0 which determines whether malware dies out is obtained. Furthermore, using time delay as a bifurcation parameter, some necessary and sufficient conditions ensuring Hopf bifurcation to occur for this model are derived. Finally, numerical simulations verify the correctness of theoretical results. Most important of all, we investigate the effect of the variable infection rate on the scale of malware prevalence and compare our model with stationary analytical model by simulation. According to simulating results, some strategies that control malware rampant are given, which may be incorporated into cost-effective antivirus policies for organizations to work quite well in practice. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: In this paper, a novel computer virus propagation model with dual delays and multi-state antivirus measures is considered. Using theories of stability and bifurcation, it is proven that there exists a critical value of delay for the stability of virus prevalence. When the delay exceeds the critical value, the system loses its stability and a Hopf bifurcation occurs. Furthermore, the explicit formulas determining the stability and direction of bifurcating periodic solutions are obtained by applying the center manifold theorem and the normal form theory. Finally, some numerical simulations are performed to verify the theoretical analysis. The conclusions of this paper can contribute to a better theoretical basis for understanding the long-term actions of virus propagation in networks. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

We tested the hypothesis that cigarette smoke extract (CSE) leads to differences in expression of genes involved in angiogenesis and affects cell viability and migration in a first-trimester cytotrophoblast cell line (HTR-8/SVneo). HTR-8/SVneo cells were treated with 1% CSE, and gene expression for adrenomedullin (ADM), placental growth factor (PlGF), soluble fms-like tyrosine kinase 1 (sFLT-1), and vascular endothelia growth factor (VEGF) and protein content for ADM, PlGF, and sFlt-1 determined. A cell viability assay and a cell migration scratch assay were utilized following treatment with CSE with and without ADM inhibitor. Adrenomedullin, PlGF, and VEGF gene transcripts were significantly upregulated by 1% CSE treatment compared with unstimulated cells or cells treated with nicotine alone. Neither 1% CSE nor nicotine treatment alone affected sFlt-1 gene expression. There was a significant increase in secreted ADM protein from cells treated with 1% CSE detected by enzyme-linked immunosorbant assay, though no differences in PlGF or sFlt-1 production were seen. Treatment with 1% CSE increased cell viability and cell migration compared with unstimulated cells and was inhibited by co-treatment with ADM inhibitor. Treatment of a first-trimester trophoblast cell line with CSE increases cell viability and cell migration that are reversed by co-treatment with ADM inhibitor, suggesting that ADM at least partially mediates cell growth and viability following CSE treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Abstract: Because of increasing competition for water, water-saving technologies such as alternate wetting and drying and aerobic rice are being developed to reduce water use while maintaining a high yield of rice. The components of the water balance of these systems need to be disentangled to extrapolate water savings at the field scale to the irrigation system scale. In this study, simulation modelling was used to quantify yield, water productivity, and water balance components of alternate wetting and drying and aerobic rice in the conjunctive surface-groundwater Liuyuankou Irrigation System, Henan, China. The study on aerobic rice was supported by on-farm testing. In the lowland rice area, where groundwater tables are within the root zone of the crop, irrigation water savings of 200–900mm can be realized by adopting alternate wetting and drying or rainfed cultivation, while maintaining yields at 6400–9200kgha−1. Most of the water savings are caused by reduced percolation rates, which will reduce groundwater recharge and may lead to decreased opportunities for groundwater irrigation. Evaporation losses can be reduced by a maximum of 60–100mm by adopting rainfed cultivation. In the transition zone between lowland rice and upland crops, groundwater tables vary from 10cm to more than 200cm depth, and aerobic rice yields of 3800–5600kgha−1 are feasible with as little as two to three supplementary irrigations (totaling 150–225mm of water). Depending on groundwater depth and amount of rainfall, either groundwater recharge or net extraction of water from the soil or the groundwater takes place. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: China''s grain basket in the North China Plain is threatened by increasing water scarcity and there is an urgent need to develop water-saving irrigation strategies. Water savings in rice can be realized by alternate wetting and drying (AWD) under lowland conditions, or by aerobic rice in which the crop is grown under nonflooded conditions with supplemental irrigation. Field experimentation and simulation modelling are a powerful combination to understand complex crop-water interactions and to extrapolate site-specific empirical results to other environments and conditions. In this paper, we present results from 4 years of field experiments on AWD and aerobic rice in 2001–2004 near Kaifeng, Henan Province, China. The experimental data were used to parameterize and evaluate the rice growth model ORYZA2000. A subsequent paper reports on the extrapolation of the experimental results using ORYZA2000 and on farmer-participatory testing of aerobic rice. In the lowland area of the study site, rice yields under flooded conditions were around 8000kgha−1 with 900mm total (rain, irrigation) water input. Irrigation water savings were 40–70% without any yield loss by applying AWD. In the upland area of the study site, aerobic rice yielded 2400–3600kgha−1, using 750–1100mm total water input. ORYZA2000 satisfactorily reproduced the dynamics in measured crop variables (biomass, leaf area, N uptake) and soil water variables (ponded water depth, soil water tension). The root mean square error of predicted yield was 11% for lowland rice and 19% for aerobic rice, which was only one and a half times the error in the measured values. We concluded that ORYZA2000 is sufficiently accurate to extrapolate our results on AWD and aerobic rice to different management and environmental conditions in our study area. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Sapphire is a desired material for infrared-transmitting windows and domes because of its excellent optical and mechanical properties. However, its thermal shock resistance is limited by loss of compressive strength along the c-axis of the crystal with increasing temperature. In this paper, double layer films of SiO2/Si3N4 were prepared on sapphire (α-Al2O3) by radio frequency magnetron reactive sputtering in order to increase both transmission and high temperature mechanical performance of infrared windows of sapphire. Composition and structure of each layer of the films were analyzed by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and X-ray diffraction (XRD), respectively. Surface morphology and roughness of coated and uncoated sapphire have been measured using a talysurf. Flexural strengths of sapphire sample uncoated and coated with SiO2/Si3N4 have been studied by 3-point bending tests at different temperatures. The results show that SiO2/Si3N4 films can improve the surface morphology and reduce the surface roughness of sapphire substrate. In addition, the designed SiO2/Si3N4 films can increase the transmission of sapphire in mid-wave infrared and strengthen sapphire at high temperatures. Results for 3-point bending tests indicated that the SiO2/Si3N4 films increased the flexural strength of c-axis sapphire by a factor of about 1.4 at 800°C. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Silicon dioxide (SiO2) films were prepared on sapphire (α-Al2O3) by radio frequency magnetron reactive sputtering in order to increase both transmission and high temperature mechanical performance of infrared windows of sapphire. The transmittance of the uncoated and coated sapphire was measured using a Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectrometer. Effects of the coatings on flexural strength of sapphire at elevated temperatures were investigated and rain erosion tests of the uncoated and coated sapphire were performed for 211m/s impact velocity with an exposure time ranging from 1 to 8min on a whirling arm rig. The results show that the designed SiO2 films can improve the transmission of sapphire in mid-wave IR and strengthen sapphire at high temperature. From three-point bending tests, it was indicated that SiO2 coatings increased the flexural strength of c-axis sapphire by a factor of about 1.5 at 800°C. After the rain erosion tests, the decreases in normalized transmission were less than 1% for the coated sapphires. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Neurofibromin, a neurofibromatosis type I (NF1) tumor suppressor gene product, has a domain acting as a GTPase activating protein and functions in part as a negative regulator of Ras. Loss of neurofibromin expression in NF1 patients is associated with elevated Ras activity and increased cell proliferation. Therefore, regulation of the function of neurofibromin is heavily involved in cell growth and differentiation. In the present study, we identified a novel cellular neurofibromin-associating protein, 14-3-3, which belongs to a highly conserved family of proteins that regulate intracellular signal transduction events in all eukaryotic cells. The interaction of 14-3-3 is mainly directed to the C-terminal domain (CTD) of neurofibromin, and the cAMP-dependent protein kinase (PKA)-dependent phosphorylation clustered on CTD-Ser (2576, 2578, 2580, 2813) and Thr (2556) is required for the interaction. Interestingly, the increased phosphorylation and association of 14-3-3 negatively regulate the function of neurofibromin. These findings indicate that PKA phosphorylation followed by 14-3-3 protein interaction may modulate the biochemical and biological functions of neurofibromin. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

A 3-aza-enediyne that undergoes rapid aza-Bergman rearrangement was treated with trifluoromethanesulfonic acid in the presence of 1,4-cyclohexadiene in an attempt to trap the putative 2,5-didehydropyridinium aza-Bergman intermediate. No pyridine products were detected; rather, a cyclopropane derivative of 1,4-cyclohexadiene derived from a 5-oxazolylcarbene was isolated. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

[Display omitted] Zinc-iodine batteries (ZIBs) have been recognized as a promising energy storage device due to their high energy density, low cost and environmental friendliness. However, the development of ZIBs is hindered by the shuttle effect of polyiodides which results in capacity degradation and poor cycling performance. Inspired by the ability of starch to form inclusion compounds with iodine, we propose to use a starch gel on the cathode to suppress the shuttle of polyiodides. Herein, porous carbon is utilized as a host for iodine species and provides an excellent conductive network, while starch gel is used as another host to suppress polyiodides shuttle, resulting in improved battery performance. The test results demonstrate that the conversion between I−/I 2 /I 3 − in the cathode and the effective inclusion role of starch suppress the shuttle of polyiodides during the charging process. Meanwhile, based on the electrochemical tests and theoretical DFT calculations, it is found that starch has a stronger ability to adsorb polyiodides compared to carbon materials, which enables effective confinement of polyiodides. The ZIBs used the cathode with starch gel exhibit high coulombic efficiency (>95 % at 0.2 A/g) and low self-discharge (86.8 % after resting for 24 h). This strategy is characterized by its simplicity, low cost and high applicability, making it significant for the advancement of high-performance ZIBs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Cucumber Productivity Simulation Model (CPSM) was developed to precisely predict the dynamic process of cucumber productivity in a solar greenhouse. This research conducted a variety of sowing experiments and collected data on cucumber productivity and meteorological conditions from 2013 to 2015 and 2018 to 2020. Employing the principles of least squares, the relationship between cucumber productivity indicators and effective accumulated temperature (EAT) was fitted, determining key crop parameters and constructing the CPSM. Validation of the model was conducted using independent experimental data, evaluating its simulation accuracy. The results indicate that (1) CPSM can dynamically and meticulously simulate the formation process of different productivity indicators in cucumber. Normalized root mean square errors (NRMSE) ranged from 0.44% to 19.64%, and mean relative errors (MRE) ranged from 0.31% to 17.23% across different productivity indicator models. The models for organ water content, maximum root length, specific leaf area, and organ fresh weight distribution index demonstrated high simulation accuracy, while others showed relatively high accuracy. (2) Simulation accuracy varied with indicators and varieties. 19 indicators (34.55%) exhibited high simulation accuracy and 30 indicators (54.55%) showed relatively high accuracy. The JY35 variety (10.44 ± 8.49%) outperformed the JS206 variety (13.44 ± 8.50%) in terms of simulation accuracy. The JY35 variety had 39 superior productivity indicators (70.91%) while the JS206 variety had sixteen (29.09%). CPSM utilizes easily accessible temperature data as its input, allowing for precise and detailed simulation of productivity indicators for cucumber production in solar greenhouses. This research lays a theoretical foundation and provides technical support for guiding intelligent production management, efficient utilization of agricultural resources, and climate change productivity assessment in solar greenhouse cucumber production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The current study focused on how matrix ratio affected the gel properties and microstructures of sugar beet pectin (SBP)/soy protein isolate (SPI)-based gels with and without emulsion. Roles of emulsion stabilized by Tween 20 and different ratios of matrices in gelation induced by laccase and heat treatment were evaluated. The textural, rheological and thermal stability properties of either gels or gels containing emulsion were enhanced with increasing level of SBP and weakened with increasing concentration of SPI. With the increase of SBP concentration, the emulsion addition showed no significant influence on the textural parameters of gels. However, the thermal stability of gel was weakened because of the emulsion addition. The E/P212 showed improved textural and rheological properties compared with the gel without emulsion. All gels exhibited a frequency-independent behavior, and the water holding capacity of each gel was about 90%. Moreover, microstructure analysis indicated that the well-filled honeycomb gel was formed in E/P212. The gelation behavior was mainly dominant by SBP, and the underlying gelation mechanism was that the SBP was cross-linked to promote the gelatinization reaction and rate of SPI. • The mechanical and thermal stability properties of emulsion-filled gels are positively correlated with the content of SBP. • The well-filled honeycomb gel structure was formed in E/P212. • The SBP was cross-linked to promote the gelatinization reaction and rate of SPI. • Tailoring matrix ratio is a potential way to modulate gel strength and structure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Explores the democratic and elitist aspects of the May Fourth period in China through an examination of May Fourth theories in literature. Contradictions in May Fourth discourse in literature; May Fourth condemnation of traditional style of literature; Politicization of May Fourth writers; Early works of Lao She.

Layered semiconductor BiOI has gained considerable interests in the field of optoelectronics, but the basic knowledge of its optical and dielectric properties is still lack of a full investigation. Here, by using spectroscopic ellipsometry (SE), the complex refractive indexes and dielectric constants of ultrathin BiOI films over a wide spectral range are measured for the first time. The ellipsometric angle Δ is found to be linear with the layer number of BiOI, suggesting that SE could be a facile way to estimate the thickness of 2D BiOI. The optical properties of BiOI show a distinct layer-dependent feature, and the bandgap values of 2D BiOI increase from 1.99 to 2.33 eV with decreasing thickness. Further, the results from absorption spectrometer also show a blue shift of bandgap energy with decreasing thickness. Our work provides valuable data about the optical properties of ultrathin BiOI, and can shed a light on the exploration of original applications based on 2D BiOI. • The optical and dielectric properties of ultrathin BiOI films are firstly investigated by SE. • A linear relationship between ellipsometric angle Δ and layer number is observed. • Layer-dependent optical properties are measured for few layers BiOI. • The absorption spectrometer measurements show that the bandgap energy of BiOI increases with decreasing thickness. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Many recent studies have shown that perovskite solar cells (PSCs) employing SnO 2 as an electron transport layer (ETL) exhibit extremely high efficiency which is close to that of the device with the same structure using TiO 2. Considering the sensitivity of the PSC performance to the ETL/perovskite interface, interface engineering of the SnO 2 electron transport layer helps to further release the potential of planar structure PSCs and promote their commercialization. Herein, we introduce an amino acid self-assembled layer onto the SnO 2 ETL as the buffer layer to modulate the SnO 2 /perovskite lattice mismatch induced interface stress, and enhanced the interface interaction between SnO 2 and perovskite caused by hydrogen-bonding and/or electrostatic interactions between the amino groups and the perovskites framework. Due to the improved perovskite film quality and enhanced interface charge transfer/extraction, a champion efficiency of 20.68% (J sc = 24.15 mA/cm2, V oc = 1.10 V, and FF = 0.78) is obtained for Cs 0.05 MA y FA 0.95-y PbI 3-x Cl x planar PSCs. • The amino acid buffer layer as the buffer layer is introduced on SnO 2 ETL. • The interface interaction between SnO 2 and perovskite is enhanced. • The buffer layer enhances the charge transfer and collection at interface. • High efficiency perovskite solar cells over 20% and good stability are achieved. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fruits are the main source of pectin, with more than 90% of commercial pectins being derived from fruit by-products. Fruit pectins are complex heterogeneous polysaccharides that exhibit a variety of physicochemical properties and health functions. Fruit pectins exist in the primary cell walls and middle lamella of plants and are usually crosslinked with cellulose and hemicellulose; their extraction involves hydrolysis, isolation, and solubilization processes. Conventional studies have focused solely on individual extraction methods, structural characteristics, or functional properties, while neglecting the relationships between these factors. This review systematically summarizes the principles and features of single, i.e., acid, alkali, and enzymatic digestion, and combined, i.e., subcritical water, ultrasound-, microwave-, and ultrasound-microwave-assisted, methods for extracting pectins from fruit. We discuss the effects of different extraction methods on the structural characteristics of fruit pectins including molecular weight, monosaccharide composition, degree of esterification, and conformation. The impacts of these structural characteristics on the physicochemical properties and health functions, specifically the regulation of gut microbiota and anti-inflammatory, antiglycation, and immunomodulating effects of fruit pectins are also discussed. Different extraction methods result in pectins with different structural characteristics. These, in turn, strongly affect the physicochemical properties and health functions of the pectin. Therefore, a comprehensive understanding of the extraction-structure-property relationships of pectin is crucial to realizing pectin preparations with targeted functional effects. • Features of different extraction methods of fruit pectins were summarized. • Effects of extraction methods on pectin structural characteristics were discussed. • Impacts of structural characteristics on functional properties were explored. • Relationships between extraction, structure and properties of pectins were emphasized. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]