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The operations of the operators are important for nuclear safety, but conventional operating experience feedback and common data-driven methods make it difficult to explicitly find valuable information hidden in these operational sequences that can help the operator to provide advice at the operational level. During the nuclear power plant (NPP) operation, a large amount of historical operating data is accumulated, which records the operational sequences of the operators and the state parameters of equipment. Therefore, this paper proposes the use of association rule techniques to mine the NPP operating data to discover the operational characteristics of operators and reveal their possible impact on the NPP operation. This work helps to improve the operational performance of operators and prevent human-factor events. To this end, the concept of state switching values for describing the operating states of NPPs is proposed to enable the proposed method to be adapted to different practical application scenarios. A sequence segmentation method is proposed to be able to transform historical NPP operating data into a sequence data set for association rule mining. Furthermore, an ensemble algorithm based on sequence pattern mining and sequence rule mining and its postprocessing method are designed. The empirical study was carried out using 20 batches of historical operating data of the cold start-up. A total of 164 original association rules are generated using the proposed method and were analyzed by experts. The recommendations were made for 4 different cases that would improve the operational performance of the operators. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Usually, solid‐state fluorescence quenching is thought to be caused by π–π interaction. Hence, the common design strategies for materials with high‐brightness solid‐state luminescent rely on incorporating molecular rotors to weaken the intermolecular π–π packing. In this work, four types of BAs with the performance of solid‐state fluorescence and without molecular rotors have been synthesized. Among them, B‐4 was found to be a typical AIE compound and had a close cofacial packing mode, while it emitted strongly fluorescence in the solid state. The AIE characteristics of B‐4 was attributed to more electron‐donating groups and extended π‐conjugation. However, the other three BAs showed almost no fluorescence emission due to their more closed face‐to‐face packing mode or less electron‐donating groups. These results indicated that tight stacking mode unnecessarily lead to fluorescence quenching. This study suggests there may be fewer constraints to develop new AIE materials, and there might be a large number of tightly packed AIE molecules. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Neuron-specific enolase (NSE), which is a highly specific marker for neurons, could be a predictor for prognosis in patients with symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage (sICH) with acute ischemic stroke who are receiving endovascular treatment (EVT). This study aimed to investigate the relationship between NSE and sICH in patients with acute anterior circulation stroke undergoing EVT. A total of 215 consecutive patients with acute stroke treated with EVT were included. Patients with stroke and acute anterior circulation occlusion, receiving EVT treated at our hospital, were enrolled between January 2017 and August 2021. NSE level was measured on arrival at the neurology intensive care unit after EVT. The patients were divided into 2 groups according to whether sICH was present. Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed. NSE level was also incorporated into the TAG score (modified Thrombolysis in Cerebral Infarction score, Alberta Stroke Program Early CT Score, and glucose level), which was developed as a scoring system to predict sICH, and the prediction capability was compared with the TAG score alone. Causal inference was performed using the package DoWhy in Python to evaluate the causal relationship between NSE and sICH. The area under the curve (AUC) value of NSE showed moderate accuracy, with an AUC value of 0.729 (95% confidence interval, 0.655–0.795; P < 0.001). The NSE cutoff value was set at 23.88 ng/mL. When the NSE level ≥23.88 ng/mL, the sensitivity was 58.33% and the specificity was 78.72% (P < 0.001). The AUC for the TAG + NSE score was 0.801 compared with an AUC of 0.632 for the TAG score (Z = 2.034; P = 0.042). A causal inference model using the DoWhy library shows a proportional relationship between NSE and the diagnosis of sICH. This study is the first to show that increased NSE level is an independent predictor of sICH in patients with acute anterior circulation stroke who are undergoing endovascular treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The deep integration of Internet of Medical Things (IoMT) and Artificial intelligence makes the further development of intelligent medical services possible, but privacy leakage and data security problems hinder its wide application. Although the combination of IoMT and federated learning (FL) can achieve no direct access to the original data of participants, FL still can't resist inference attacks against model parameters and the single point of failure of the central server. In addition, malicious clients can disguise as benign participants to launch poisoning attacks, which seriously compromises the accuracy of the global model. In this paper, we design a new privacy protection framework (BFG) for decentralized FL using blockchain, differential privacy and Generative Adversarial Network. The framework can effectively avoid a single point of failure and resist inference attacks. In particular, it can limit the success rate of poisoning attacks to less than 26%. Moreover, the framework alleviates the storage pressure of the blockchain, achieves a balance between privacy budget and global model accuracy, and can effectively resist the negative impact of node withdrawal. Simulation experiments on image datasets show that the BFG framework has a better combined performance in terms of accuracy, robustness and privacy preservation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In a solid-state photonics-based Lidar, all essential components can be integrated into a silicon chip. It is simple and effective to use a tunable laser source to implement Lidar's beam steering. However, how to effectively increase the steering angle in a small wavelength tuning range is usually a key challenge due to the limited material and waveguide dispersion. In Silicon-on-insulator waveguide, we design a novel solid-state Lidar using two trans-electrical (TE) polarized beams counter-propagating towards each other. Two corresponding output beams from just a single grating coupler (GC) can be seamlessly combined to double the beam steering angle. Furthermore, a low-priced solid-state Lidar is designed for TE polarized beams counter-propagating towards each other by using wavelength division multiplexed laser array. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The ultralight boson represents a promising dark matter candidate exhibiting unique wave-like behaviors. These properties could transfer to the dark mediator, such as the kinetic mixing dark photon, which can be a link between the dark and Standard Model sectors, resulting in periodic oscillations of its mass. We propose a method to detect ultralight dark matter using dark mediators in collider and beam dump experiments, distinguishing it from conventional atomic, molecular, and optical methods. The time-varying nature of dark mediator mass exhibits a double-peak spectrum, reducing traditional constraints by 1 to 2 orders of magnitude, due to decreased luminosity exposure in each resonant mass bin. To enhance sensitivity, we utilize event time-stamps in the CMS Open Data and demonstrate that this technique boosts sensitivity by approximately one order of magnitude compared to the time-blind method. Moreover, it proves effective in detecting the invisible decay of the dark mediator. The authors present an approach for detecting ultralight bosonic dark matter using collider and beam dump experiments. The method relies on the time-varying mass of dark sector mediators, which serve as a portal between the dark and Standard Model sector. CMS Open Data are used to demonstrate that this method enhances sensitivity by around one order of magnitude compared to the double-peak method. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Malignant cerebral edema (MCE) is a common and feared complication after endovascular thrombectomy (EVT) in acute ischemic stroke (AIS). This study aimed to establish a nomogram to predict MCE in anterior circulation large vessel occlusion stroke (LVOS) patients receiving EVT in order to guide the postoperative medical care in the acute phase. In this retrospective cohort study, 381 patients with anterior circulation LVOS receiving EVT were screened from 636 hospitalized patients with LVOS at 2 stroke medical centers. Clinical baseline data and imaging data were collected within 2–5 days of admission to the hospital. The patients were divided into 2 groups based on whether MCE occurred after EVT. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was used to evaluate the independent risk factors for MCE and to establish a nomogram. Sixty-six patients out of 381 (17.32%) developed MCE. The independent risk factors for MCE included admission National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) ≥16 (odds ratio [OR] 1.851; 95% CI 1.029–3.329; P = 0.038), ASPECT score (OR 0.621; 95% CI 0.519–0.744; P < 0.001), right hemisphere (OR 1.636; 95% CI 0.941–2.843; P = 0.079), collateral circulation (OR 0.155; 95% CI 0.074–0.324; P < 0.001), recanalization (OR 0.223; 95% CI 0.109–0.457; P < 0.001), hematocrit (OR, 0.937; 95% CI: 0.892–0.985; P =0.010), and glucose (OR 1.118; 95% CI 1.023–1.223; P = 0.036), which were adopted as parameters of the nomogram. The receiver operating characteristic curve analysis showed that the area under the curve of the nomogram in predicting MCE was 0.901(95% CI 0.848–0.940; P < 0.001). The Hosmer-Lemeshow test results were not significant (P = 0.685), demonstrating a good calibration of the nomogram. The novel nomogram composed of admission NIHSS, ASPECT scores, right hemisphere, collateral circulation, recanalization, hematocrit, and serum glucose provide a potential predictor for MCE in patients with AIS after EVT. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To improve the ability of rare‐earth (RE) silicates to resist molten calcium–magnesium–aluminosilicate (CMAS) at high temperature, a novel high‐entropy (4RE0.25)2Si2O7/(4RE0.25)2SiO5 (RE = Y, Yb, Er, and Sc) multiphase ceramic was prepared by a two‐step process. During sintering, (4RE0.25)2SiO5 can react with SiO2 at the grain boundaries of (4RE0.25)2Si2O7, which can not only purify the grain boundary but also promote the growth of the original (4RE0.25)2Si2O7 grains, thereby significantly improving the ability to resist molten CMAS corrosion at high temperature. After corroding at 1500°C for 48 h, the reaction layer of the multiphase ceramic was only 55 μm thick. Our results confirm that the high‐entropy RE silicate multiphase ceramics represent an effective way to improve the ability to resist molten CMAS corrosion at high temperature. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR) and their associated proteins (Cas) are promising molecular diagnostic tools for rapidly and precisely elucidating the structure and function of genomes due to their high specificity, programmability, and multi-system compatibility in nucleic acid recognition. Multiple parameters limit the ability of a CRISPR/Cas system to detect DNA or RNA. Consequently, it must be used in conjunction with other nucleic acid amplification techniques or signal detection techniques, and the reaction components and reaction conditions should be modified and optimized to maximize the detection performance of the CRISPR/Cas system against various targets. As the field continues to develop, CRISPR/Cas systems have the potential to become an ultra-sensitive, convenient, and accurate biosensing platform for the detection of specific target sequences. The design of a molecular detection platform employing the CRISPR/Cas system is asserted on three primary strategies: (1) Performance optimization of the CRISPR/Cas system; (2) enhancement of the detection signal and its interpretation; and (3) compatibility with multiple reaction systems. This article focuses on the molecular characteristics and application value of the CRISPR/Cas system and reviews recent research progress and development direction from the perspectives of principle, performance, and method development challenges to provide a theoretical foundation for the development and application of the CRISPR/CAS system in molecular detection technology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The deep integration of Internet of Medical Things (IoMT) and Artificial intelligence makes the further development of intelligent medical services possible, but privacy leakage and data security problems hinder its wide application. Although the combination of IoMT and federated learning (FL) can achieve no direct access to the original data of participants, FL still can't resist inference attacks against model parameters and the single point of failure of the central server. In addition, malicious clients can disguise as benign participants to launch poisoning attacks, which seriously compromises the accuracy of the global model. In this paper, we design a new privacy protection framework (BFG) for decentralized FL using blockchain, differential privacy and Generative Adversarial Network. The framework can effectively avoid a single point of failure and resist inference attacks. In particular, it can limit the success rate of poisoning attacks to less than 26%. Moreover, the framework alleviates the storage pressure of the blockchain, achieves a balance between privacy budget and global model accuracy, and can effectively resist the negative impact of node withdrawal. Simulation experiments on image datasets show that the BFG framework has a better combined performance in terms of accuracy, robustness and privacy preservation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As one of the commonly used data mining algorithms, K‐means has the advantage of fast clustering speed, but the disadvantage is that it is less effective for clustering non‐spherical data. An improved K‐means algorithm (IK‐means) is proposed to enhance clustering efficiency for non‐spherical data. The original dataset is clustered into a relatively larger number of high‐density sub‐clusters, and the final result is obtained by merging connected sub‐clusters respectively. The connectivity among sub‐clusters is evaluated by the sub‐clusters density and the nearest distance class between sub‐clusters. By testing on University of California, Irvine(UCI) datasets and several other artificial simulation datasets, the comparison of proposed IK‐means algorithm against DBSCAN, KGFCM shows its clustering capability for data of arbitrary shape. The clustering Adjusted Rand Index (ARI) value for 72,000 sizes data is 24% higher than DBSCAN, and 95.2% higher than KGFCM. For larger datasets, the IK‐means algorithm is faster than DBSCAN and KGFCM. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Neurologic disorders (NDs) are serious diseases that threaten public health. However, due to the complex pathogenesis and significant individual differences in traditional treatments, specific treatment methods for NDs are still lacking. Exosomes, the smallest extracellular vesicles secreted by eukaryotic cells, are receiving increasing attention in the field of NDs. They contain misfolded proteins related to various NDs, including amyloid-beta, Tau proteins, and α-synuclein, indicating their promising roles in the diagnosis and treatment of NDs. In this review, an overview of the biogenesis, composition, and biological functions of exosomes is provided. Moreover, we summarize their potential roles in the pathogenesis of three prevalent NDs (including Alzheimer's disease, Ischemic stroke, and Parkinson's disease). On this basis, the diagnostic potential and therapeutic value of exosomes carrying various bioactive molecules are discussed in detail. Also, the concerns and perspectives of exosome-based diagnosis and therapy are discussed. [Display omitted] • Exosomes play a crucial role in the occurrence and development of NDs. • Exosomes contain components that can be utilized for NDs diagnosis. • Exosomes can be potential therapeutic targets and drug delivery carriers for NDs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We prepared the novel high‐entropy (xRE1/x)2Si2O7 (RE = Y, Yb, Er, Sc, Gd and Eu, x = 2–6) ceramics by a two‐step method for the application of thermal environmental barrier coatings (TEBCs), and the effect of configuration entropy and lattice distortion on microstructures and thermal properties at high temperature were investigated. The results showed that the configuration entropy resulted from mass disorder can only contribute to the stability of thermal properties and microstructure. Lattice distortion should be responsible for reduction in thermal properties, which may be due to the enhancement of atomic nonharmonic vibration, resulting in intensified phonon scattering and hindering atomic amplitude oscillation. As‐prepared high‐entropy (Y1/6Yb1/6Er1/6Sc1/6Gd1/6Eu1/6)2Si2O7 ceramic exhibited the relatively low thermal diffusivity, thermal conductivity and coefficient of thermal expansion, which were 0.89–0.50 mm2 s–1, 1.99–2.50 W m–1 K–1 and (3.01–3.78) × 10–6 K–1 in the temperature range of 293–1373 K, respectively. This work provides a solid guarantee for the application of TEBC materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The coannihilation mechanism is a well-motivated alternative to the simple thermal freeze-out mechanism, where the dark matter relic density can be obtained through the coannihilation with a partner particle of similar mass with dark matter. When the partner particle is neutral, the inelastic nature of dark matter can help it to escape the direct detection limits. In this work, we focus on the coannihilation scenario in which the annihilation cross section is dominated by the partner-partner pair annihilation. We pay special interest on the parameter space where the coannihilation partner is long-lived, which leads to displaced signatures at the collider. In such case, it opens the heavy mass parameter space for the coannihilation dark matter, comparing with those dominated by the partner-dark matter annihilation. Specifically, we study an inelastic scalar dark matter model with a specific parameter space, which realizes the domination of partner-partner pair annihilation. Then, we study two different realizations of the coannihilation partner decay and the existing constraints from the relic abundance, direct and indirect dark matter detection and the collider searches. We focus on the channel that the long-lived coannihilation partner decays to dark matter plus leptons. The high-luminosity LHC can reach good sensitivities for such heavy dark matter and coannihilation partner around 100–700 GeV. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nuclear power plant operating data are characterized by a large variety, strong coupling, and low data value density. When using machine learning techniques for fault diagnosis and other related research, feature selection enables dimensionality reduction while maintaining the physical meaning of the original features, thus improving the computational efficiency and generalization ability of the learning model. In this paper, a correlation-based feature selection algorithm is developed to implement feature selection of nuclear power plant operating data. The proposed algorithm is verified by experiments and compared with traditional correlation-based feature selection algorithms. The experiments and comparison results show that the proposed algorithm is effective in realizing the dimensionality reduction of nuclear power plant operating data. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To facilitate the on‐demand release of hydrophilic antibiotics for accelerated repair of infected wounds, a self‐powered wound dressing incorporating a "Lock‐ON/OFF" electric field (EF)‐driven drug release mechanism combined with electrical stimulation (ES) therapy is presented. When subjected to mechanical stress, the drug exhibits controlled, slow‐release behavior, achieving a remarkable cumulative release rate of 88.57%—89 times higher than the non‐mechanical stress group. Conversely, in the absence of mechanical stress, the drug remains unreleased, maintaining a 0% cumulative release rate in a fully closed state. The dressing utilizes its piezoelectric effect to establish an electric field, enabling precise control of hydrophilic drug release by regulating the electrostatic balance between the drug carrier and the drug. Moreover, the piezoelectric field acts as an exogenous electric field, remodeling the endogenous electric field of the wound, and accelerating wound closure. Combining EF‐driven drug release with ES result in a 1.26 fold improvement in wound healing compared to ES alone. This study addresses precision therapy limitations in fully automated diagnosis and treatment, paving the way for advancements in remote diagnosis, wireless therapy, and on‐demand precision medicine. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The novel rare earth monosilicates (xRE 1/x) 2 SiO 5 (RE=Yb, Tm, Er, Y, Dy and Tb, x = 2–6) were prepared in order to establish the relationship between configurational entropy and lattice distortion, and the effect of configurational entropy on their properties was investigated. The results showed that the lattice distortion of (xRE 1/x) 2 SiO 5 increased gradually with the increase of configurational entropy, but the multi-principal component solid solution tended to form a highly symmetrical crystal structure when the configurational entropy was large enough, thus inhibiting the lattice distortion. (5RE 1/5) 2 SiO 5 had a maximum lattice distortion, which leaded to a relatively low thermal conductivity and coefficient of thermal expansion, and good CMAS corrosion resistance. • The effect of configurational entropy on microstructure and properties was investigated. • (5RE 0.2) 2 SiO 5 ceramic had a maximum lattice distortion. • (5RE 0.2) 2 SiO 5 ceramic presented the relatively good thermal properties and CMAS corrosion resistance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, undoped carbon quantum dots (UCQDs, UCQDs-peel) and N-doped carbon dots (NCQDs) were prepared by a facile one-pot environmentally friendly hydrothermal method using grapefruit as carbon sources in the absence and presence of area, respectively. The structure, morphology, and fluorescence properties of three samples were characterized by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and photoluminescence (PL). It was found that three types of CQDs could emit blue fluorescence with different intensities when irradiated with ultraviolet light. Compared to the luminescence properties of UCQDs, NCQDs, and UCQDs-peel, it can be seen that the fluorescence intensity of NCQDs was strongest due to the presence of NH and C-N bonds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Oxidative stress disrupts the intracellular redox balance that modulate many signaling pathways, including nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2)/Keap1 signaling. However, the antioxidant roles of Nrf2 in the testis before adulthood have not been reported. Accordingly, in this study, we aimed to investigate the effects of the Nrf2 antioxidant system on protection of testicular cells against oxidative stress at different stages of development in the testis of mice before adulthood. Male mice (1, 2, 4, and 8 weeks old) were used, and their relative testes weights were calculated. Malondialdehyde (MDA) contents and superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity were detected to evaluate the antioxidant capacity in the testes. Additionally, Nrf2 signaling pathway and mitochondrial apoptotic pathway proteins were evaluated by western blotting, and the localizations of Nrf2, protein gene product (PGP) 9.5, and activated-caspase 3 in testicular cells were examined using immunohistochemistry. The results showed that the activities of caspase-8 and caspase-3 and the number of activated-caspase 3-positive testicular cells per tubule were increased after 1 week of age. Moreover, MDA contents were increased and SOD activity was decreased with age in mouse testes before adulthood. The expression of PGP9.5 was increased, as well as the number of positive testicular cells per tubule. In addition, Nrf2 translocation to the nuclei of testicular cells also increased, accompanied by activation of the Nrf2/Keap1 signaling pathway. Moreover, nuclear factor-κB was inhibited, and the mitochondrial apoptotic pathway was activated in mouse testes before adulthood. Overall, our findings demonstrated that oxidative stress increased with age in mouse testes before adulthood and that oxidative stress could induce apoptosis in testicular cells. However, testicular cells are still in a rapid proliferative state owing to the antioxidant protection of Nrf2. Thus, our study provided new insights into oxidative stress-mediated impairment of spermatogenesis with age in mouse testes before adulthood and evidence for the protective role of Nrf2 in male fertility. • Oxidative stress increased with age in mouse testis before adulthood. • Oxidative stress can induce apoptosis of mouse testicular cells before adulthood. • Nrf2 has a protective effect in testis before mouse adulthood. • The protection of Nrf2 makes testicular cells in a proliferative state. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Soil salinity significantly reduces soybean (Glycine max L.) production worldwide. Plants resistance to stress conditions is a complex characteristic regulated by multiple signaling pathways. The v-Myb avian myeloblastosis viral oncogene homolog (MYB) transcription factor (TF) plays a crucial role in plant development, secondary metabolism, and abiotic stress responses. GmMYB68-overexpression and RNA interference (RNAi) lines were established for examining the function of G. max GmMYB68 in plant responses to abiotic stresses. The predicted amino acid sequence of GmMYB68 was similar to that of R2R3-MYB proteins. Quantitative real-time PCR analysis revealed that GmMYB68 expression varied in response to abiotic stresses. GmMYB68-overexpression lines showed enhanced resistance to salt and alkali stresses and their osmotic adjustment and photosynthetic rates were also stronger than that of GmMYB68-RNAi and wild type plants. Although wild type and transgenic plants showed no significant differences in agronomic traits under normal conditions, the overexpression of GmMYB68 increased grain number and 100-grain weights under salt stress. Our study identified a valuable TF associated with stress response in soybean, as its overexpression might help improve salt and alkali tolerance in soybean and other crops. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The removal of F− from aqueous solution using lanthanum and cerium modified mesoporous alumina (La/MA and Ce/MA) was studied, and characteration of the adsorbents by XRD, BET, XRF, FTIR, TEM, XPS and the pH ZPC measurements were carried out. The adsorption was investigated in both batch and column adsorption systems. Batch experimental results showed that adsorption capacities of adsorbents were recorded in the following order: La/MA > Ce/MA > mesoporous alumina (MA). Besides, adsorption datas were fitted well by Sips isotherm model and Elovich kinetics model, and the maximum adsorption capacity of La/MA was 26.45 mg·g−1 in Sips model at the dosage of 2.0 g·L−1 and near neutral condition (pH = 6.0 ± 0.1). Moreover, thermodynamic parameters were illustrated that adsorption process of fluoride ion over La/MA was spontaneous and endothermic. In the adsorption process, the interaction between metal and fluoride, the adsorption capacity was increased due to form the bond of M···F (M = La or Ce). Furthermore, the influence of coexisted anions on F− removal was investigated, and it was indicated that removal efficiency was slightly affected by the presence of Cl− and NO 3 −, while SO 4 2− and CO 3 2– caused a sharp fall in removal efficiency. Column experiments results were indicated that time of break-through of La/MA was twice as much as that of MA. Unlabelled Image • Rare earth (La and Ce) modified alumina were used as effective adsorbents for removing fluoride. • Adsorption mechanisms were illustrated according to various characterizations. • The effects of Cl−, NO3−, SO 4 2− and CO 3 2– on F− removal were investigated. • The adsorption capacity of La modified alumina was about three times that of alumina. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • CeO 2 -loaded spinel catalysts exhibited significant morphology-dependent catalytic activity. • Nanocubes CeO 2 -loaded spinel (CFOC-C) composite displayed superior peroxymonosulfate activation performance. • Increased radicals could be generated via stronger peroxymonosulfate adsorption from the CFOC-C catalyst. • The Ce sites in the crystal phase of CeO 2 (1 0 0) had a preferable electron migration capacity towards the PMS molecule. The composite catalysts with different morphologies (nanorods, nanocubes, nano-polyhedra and nanosphere) of ceria as loadings are prepared by using spinel as the carrier to investigate the crystal plane effect of ceria on the formation of oxygen vacancies in the catalyst and the activation efficiency of peroxymonosulfate (PMS). The results show that the CeO 2 nanocubic-based composite (CFOC-C) with more (1 0 0) crystal phase has superior catalytic performance in each individual condition, providing rapid activation of PMS and pollutant degradation. Through characterizations, the largest oxygen vacancy concentration is observed on the CFOC-C surface and the strongest reactive oxygen detection signal is obtained in the CFOC-C/PMS system. Moreover, the more active (1 0 0) crystal phase on the CeO 2 surface promotes the electron delocalization at Ce sites, accelerating the adsorption of PMS molecules and the cleavage of O-O bonds, subsequently generating more active species. With levofloxacin as the target, the main degradation intermediates and the degradation pathways in the CFOC-C/PMS system are analyzed in detail. The toxicity estimation results suggest that the toxicity of the degradation products decreases progressively with the reaction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Quantitative guidance for graph-structured data preprocessing is proposed. • Deep learning structure based on ARMAGCN and GRU considering the interactions among multisensor signals with a graph structure is developed. • Physics-informed loss function is proposed to train neural networks, specifically for RUL estimation. • Risk eliminations and high accuracy parallelled for data-driven method in RUL estimation. Data-driven models, especially deep learning models, are proposed for remaining useful life (RUL) estimation with multisensor signals. Various treatments to reduce data sensitivity, addressing the difficulty of learning dynamic topologies, and coping with the lack of engineering physics guidance for model training limit the performance of these models and their use. This study proposes a systematic method to estimate RUL with multisensory data under dynamic operating conditions and multiple failure modes. Firstly, ARMA regression is introduced into the graph convolutional network(GCN) model. This allows the information loss in the GCN model following training to be lifted with low computational complexity. Secondly, the physics equations of balancing for economy and security in preventive maintenance policies is introduced in the loss function for training. This involves in a way to impose a higher penalty on delayed predictions, so to focus the neural network training on the control of high-risk situations. Finally, the method is validated on the popular C-MAPSS dataset. Compared with other cutting-edge methods, the proposed method can ensure high-fitting accuracy with strong security. In practice, the controllability and flexibility of deep learning models are enhanced, ensuring the reduction of high-risk, uncertain situations while sacrificing as little accuracy as possible. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Advanced strategies for enhancing catalytic performance of catalysts include multi-metal active site exposure, vacancy growth and electronic structure optimization. Here, carbon nanotube-loaded CoSe 2 /FeSe 2 catalysts (Co/Fe-CNT) with multiphase boundaries and embedded selenium vacancies (V Se) were prepared using a one-step hydrothermal method. The catalysts feature unique electronic structures and abundant active sites, and were found to exhibit unexpectedly high activity and stability in photocatalytic mediated sulphate radical (SR-photo) system, with impressive oxidation capacity for complex matrix polluted water. The spontaneously formed internal electric field strongly promoted charge transport and significantly enhanced the photocatalytic property. The V Se formed at the heterogeneous interface could modulate the surface electronic structure and accelerate the redox cycling of transition metals, thereby accelerating the production of reactive oxygen species and boosting the efficiency of contaminant degradation. This work provides guidance for the design of high-performance catalysts for V Se engineering and expands their potential for application in wastewater purification. [Display omitted] • A nanorods embedded with crystal-like Co/Fe-CNT containing heterostructure and selenium vacancies (VSe) was prepared. • 1Co/1Fe-CNT with heterojunction interface exhibited excellent photocatalytic PMS activation for pollutants degradation. • The built-in electric field in Co/Fe-CNT boosted charge separation confirmed by DFT calculation. • The introduction of VSe promoted the redox cycle of transition metals and enhanced the adsorption of PMS on active sites. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Myeloblastosis (MYB) transcription factor (TF) plays a positive role in the growth and stress response of plants; however, information on the functions of MYB repressors in soybean is limited. In the present study, the gene GmMYB3a was identified and characterized as a member of the R2R3 MYB repressor family, which is induced by various abiotic stresses. To understand the functions of GmMYB3a , a transgenic soybean over-expressing GmMYB3a was obtained and the photosynthetic index under salt–alkali treatments was evaluated. The transgenic line exhibited a series of negative regulation relative to the wild-type control. Quantitative real time polymerase chain reaction revealed that the physiological parameters, including soluble sugar, free proline, and chlorophyll contents; and photosynthetic rate decreased in the transgenic plants. Furthermore, GmMYB3a overexpression down-regulated a set of key genes associated with plant defense signal pathways. These finding suggest that GmMYB3a negatively affects the response of plants to salt stress. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A natural gas pipeline system (NGPS), as a crucial energy transportation network, exhibits intricate systemic characteristics. Both uncertain disturbances and complex characteristics result in higher requirement of supply safety. The investigation into NGPS resilience addresses the constraints of pipeline integrity and reliability, centering around the vulnerability, robustness, and recovery of an NGPS. Based on a literature review and practical engineering insights, the generalized concept of NGPS resilience is elucidated. The research methodologies of NGPS resilience are classified into three types: indicator construction method, process analysis method, and complex networks method. The practical applications of NGPS resilience research are analyzed, which are based on NGPS operation safety, information safety, and market safety. The ongoing applications and detailed measures are also concluded, which can guide the researchers and engineers from NGPS resilience. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Protein kinase 2 subunit alpha 2 (CK2α’), a serine/threonine-selective protein kinase, is associated with sperm apoptosis. However, the presence of CK2α’ in ram sperm during the freezing-thawing process has not been previously reported. Thus, this study was conducted to determine the effect of cryopreservation on the association between CK2α’ and ram sperm function. Sperm variables, including sperm motility, DNA damage and acrosome integrity, were measured in fresh (F), cooled (CO) and freeze-thawed (FT) sperm. Sperm proteins and total mRNA were extracted form cells of each group, and subjected to western blot and real-time PCR analysis for detection of CK2α’ proteins and relative abundance of mRNA. The distribution pattern of CK2α’ protein in ram sperm was also monitored in each group using an immunofluorescence technique. The results provided evidence that the freeze-thaw process has an impact on ram sperm variables, and the normalized CK2α’ protein and relative abundance of CK2α’ mRNA were both significantly less in FT than F sperm. The amount of CK2α’ in FT extended seminal plasma was increased as compared with F samples. Furthermore, immunofluorescence revealed that CK2α’ was distributed throughout the acrosome of ram sperm. The association of CK2α’ with DNA damage and acrosome integrity was confirmed using Pearson’s linear correlation. In conclusion, the understanding the molecular effects of cryopreservation on CK2α’ in ram sperm could provide insight into methods for improving fertility associated with frozen-thawed ram sperm. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims Proteomic analysis of serum biomarkers to determine liver toxicity after exposure to cosmic radiation has not been performed previously. This study was to identify serum biomarkers associated with hepatotoxicity following exposure to iron ion radiation. Main methods Male mice were whole-body irradiated with a 2 grayunit (Gy) iron ion beam, and after 3 months, serum and liver samples were collected. Two-dimensional electrophoresis (2-DE) was used to separate the identified serum proteins, and matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization tandem mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF-TOF) was performed to identify differentially expressed proteins. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays and immunoblotting were applied to evaluate protein expression, and immunohistochemistry and immunofluorescence were used to investigate protein localization. Real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was performed to confirm altered gene expression. Key findings A total of 11 spots that showed differential expression were screened and identified as seven proteins. Of these, six proteins were in the same bioinformatics network and included complement component 3, serum amyloid P-component, apolipoprotein E, alpha-2-macroglobulin, fibrinogen alpha chain, and fibrinogen gamma chain. All of these proteins are synthesized by the liver, and may play an important role in liver toxicity. We also confirmed the mRNA transcription, and found that mRNA expression of the six identified proteins increased in the liver in irradiated mice. Significance These results suggest that these proteins may be potential biomarkers of hepatotoxicity in astronauts enduring long space missions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The toxicological mechanism of low sperm motility induced by iron ion radiation (IIR) was investigated in mice. Reproductive organ indices were measured following whole-body irradiation with a 2 Gy iron ion beam. Two-dimensional gel electrophoresis, immunoblotting and immunofluorescence were used to analyze protein expression, and real-time polymerase chain reaction was performed to confirm altered gene expression. Reproductive organ indices and sperm motility were lowest 2 weeks after IIR. Sperm function changes via testis and cauda epididymis function were also determined at this time point. Sixteen differentially expressed proteins were identified in sperm 2 weeks after IIR. Bioinformatics analysis indicated that alpha-enolase (Eno1) may be important in the regulation of glycolysis in sperm, and Eno1 expression was correlated with sperm motility. Eno1 may be a potential marker for low sperm motility induced by IIR, and these results may provide a useful reference for changes in astronaut fertility during long space missions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In recent years, many efforts have been made to modulate the interaction between carriers and nanoparticles under the integrity of the active site structure. Herein, SrFeO 3 @CoSe 2 nanocomposite was fabricated by loading CoSe 2 onto SrFeO 3 particles with a perovskite structure in the form of an encapsulation. The optimized SFO@CS-0.3 catalyst exhibited high catalytic activity in photo-peroxymonosulfate-based reaction and the catalyst was structurally stable over a wide temperature range. Characterization and theoretical results demonstrated that the charge in the SrFeO 3 was transferred from Fe to Co cation of the CoSe 2 via the interfacial oxygen atom. Moreover, the newly established oxygen-metal structure (Fe-O v -Co) acted as a catalytic site, accelerating the cleavage of the peroxymonosulfate bond to generate radicals, which were desorbed into solution to attack the contaminant. Simultaneously, the heterojunction constructed by the catalyst underwent internal electron transfer under visible light, creating a field in which multiple reactive oxygen species co-oxidized organic contaminant. [Display omitted] • A novel encapsulated structural SFO@CS catalyst was constructed to enhance PMS activation. • SFO@CS-0.3 exhibited excellent performance in the activation of PMS for recalcitrant pollutant elimination. • SO 4 •- and •OH played dominating roles in catalyst/PMS/Vis-light system. • The oxygen-metal structure (Fe-O v -Co) acted as newly site to facilitate the cleavage of the O-O bond in PMS. • The interfacial charge transfer took place from the Fe-d and O-p orbitals of SrFeO 3 to the Co-d orbital of CoSe 2. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study proteomics analysis was performed to investigate damage caused to ram sperm by the freeze-thaw process. Sperm motility, viability, reactive oxygen species (ROS) and adenosine triphosphate (ATP) content were measured to evaluate sperm quality. Compared with fresh groups, motility, viability and ATP content were all lower in freeze–thawed sperm (P < 0.001), and ROS content was higher (P < 0.001). Moreover, 25 differential protein spots were detected in two-dimensional gels using PDQuest 8.0 software and the corresponding proteins were identified using matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization tandem time-of-flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF-TOF MS) coupled with searching of the NCBI protein sequence database. Among these proteins, hexokinase1 (HXK1), the enzyme that catalyzes the first step of glycolysis in the sperm glycolytic pathway, is known to be associated with sperm motility. Casein kinase II subunit alpha (CSNK2A2), a serine/threonine-selective protein kinase, is associated with sperm apoptosis. We used immunoblotting and immunofluorescence to analyze the expression and localization of these two proteins. HXK1 and CSNK2A2 expression levels in fresh sperm were significantly higher than that in freeze-thawed sperm (P < 0.001). HXK1 and CSNK2A2 were detected in the main part of the sperm flagellum, and the immunofluorescence signal from these proteins was weakened in the freeze-thawed group. Decreased expression of HXK1 and CSNK2A2 may be associated with decreased sperm motility and viability following freeze-thawing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Visual relationship detection aims at detecting the interaction between objects from flat image, where visual appearance and spatial relationship between different objects are two key factors for detection. However, most existing methods usually extract 2D information of object from flat images, which lacks depth information compared to actual 3D space. To obtain and utilize depth information for visual relationship detection, we construct Depth VRDs dataset as an extension of the VRD dataset and propose adaptive depth-aware visual relationship detection network(ADVRD). In terms of visual appearance, we propose depth-aware visual fusion module to use additional depth visual information to guide RGB visual information where needs to be strengthened. In terms of spatial relationship, to generate a more accurate depth representation when locating object depth spatial position, we propose adaptive depth spatial location method which uses regional information variance to measure information relevance in each small region in object bounding box. Experiment results show that depth information can significantly improve the performance of our network on visual relationship detection tasks, especially for zero shots. • We construct Depth VRDs to make up the lack of depth information of the VRD dataset. • We propose depth-aware visual fusion module to improve visual appearance features. • We propose adaptive depth spatial location method to extract depth location. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This work presents a novel model of emergency medical logistics for quick response to public health emergencies. The proposed methodology consists of two recursive mechanisms: (1) the time-varying forecasting of medical relief demand and (2) relief distribution. The medical demand associated with each epidemic area is forecast according to a modified susceptible-exposed-infected-recovered model. A linear programming approach is then applied to facilitate distribution decision-making. The physical and psychological fragility of affected people are discussed. Numerical studies are conducted. Results show that the consideration of survivor psychology significantly reduces the psychological fragility of affected people, but it barely influences physical fragility. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • MoS 2 embedded manganese ferrite doped perovskite nanocomposites were synthesized. • Accelerated decomposition of PMS via SMM nanocomposites under visible light irradiation. • The SMM-3 nanocomposite showed excellent catalytic activity and applicability for LVF degradation in real water matrix. • MoS 2 embedded structure contributed to efficient electron transfer of SMM. • Radicals (SO 4 •-, HO• and O 2 •-) and non-radical (1O 2) processes are involved in the degradation reaction. The nanocomposite of MoS 2 embedded manganese ferrite doped perovskite (SrCoO 3 /MnFe 2 O 4 /MoS 2 , abbreviated as SMM) was successfully synthesized for peroxymonosulfate (PMS) activation under visible-light. It was optimized that the SMM-3 (mass ratio of MoS 2 modified nanocomposite was 0.3) exhibited excellent catalytic performance to activate PMS for levofloxacin (LVF) degradation, with the degradation efficiency of 95.1% in 20 min. Besides, SMM-3 was able to efficiently degrade LVF under real water matrix. The quenching experiments and electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) analysis revealed that SO 4 •- and HO• played a dominant role in reaction. Due to the photocatalytic property of nanocomposites, the visible light could excite electrons to react with oxygen and form O 2 •-, which further reacted with HO• to produce 1O 2. In the reaction process, the rapid redox cycle of metal ions (including Co, Mn, Fe and Mo) boosted the activation of PMS and promoted the degradation of LVF in a short time. The Density functional theory (DFT) calculation and LC-MS/MS further revealed that oxidation of piperazine ring, decarboxylation and defluorination processes were the main LVF degradation pathways. Finally, the toxicity analysis based on Toxicity Estimation Software Tool (T.E.S.T) verified the ecological risks of transformation residues. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights: [•] Proteomics of pubertal mice testes after carbon ion radiation were examined. [•] Differential proteins in 2-DE gels were investigated 14 days after irradiation. [•] Eight proteins were identified among the differentially expressed protein spots. [•] The relationship between mRNA and the abundance of proteins were confirmed. [•] These proteins may lead to new insights into the information of CIR toxicity. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

[Display omitted] • Stable encapsulated SC@MoS 2 crystal was facilely fabricated by hydrothermal method. • MoS 2 coating facilitated electron transfer and rapidly activated PMS to generate reactive oxygen species. • Oxygen defects and transition metals act as active sites for the activation of PMS. • Feasibility of SC@MoS 2 /PMS system was proved by organic pollutants degradation and reusability. Perovskite oxides and molybdenum sulfide (MoS 2) are both promising catalysts for advanced oxidation processes in environmental pollutant degradation. Herein, a core-shell structure of MoS 2 encapsulating Sr-Co perovskite microcrystalline (SC@MoS 2) was used to activate peroxymonosulfate (PMS) for degradation of organics. Levofloxacin (LVF) degradation by SC@MoS 2 /PMS system was improved obviously, and 0.2-SC@MoS 2 exhibited the optimized activation for PMS with best LVF degradation performance (97%) within 15 min. In the 0.2-SC@MoS 2 /PMS system, the dosage of catalyst was the key determinant of LVF degradation. Simultaneously, 0.2-SC@MoS 2 achieved outstanding reusability and good degradation capacity of different contaminants. The encapsulation of molybdenum disulfide layer facilitated electron transfer between PMS and core-shell structure. According to the EPR analysis and quenching experiments, both radicals (SO 4 − and OH), and nonradical (1O 2) were involved in the degradation of LVF. Under visible light irradiation, O 2 − participated in the reaction and enhanced LVF degradation efficiency, because the valence band and conduction band of components are different. Furthermore, the density functional theory (DFT) calculation, intermediates determination and Toxicity Estimation Software Tool (T.E.S.T) analysis provided meaningful support in the degradation pathways and ecological risks of LVF residues. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To enhance the ability of α-Si 3 N 4 /O′-Sialon coating on porous Si 3 N 4 ceramics for resisting the damage caused by aerodynamic loading and heating, h-BN nanosheets (BNNSs) were used as reinforcement phase to improve mechanical and thermal properties of the coating. The results show that the prepared coating exhibited good softening and toughening effects due to the mechanisms of the BNNSs including bridging, kinking, slipping and crack deflection, thereby improving the damage tolerance and toughness of the coating. At the same time, the thermal diffusivity and conductivity of the coating were significantly improved due to the ultra-high thermal conductivity of BNNSs, which can quickly disperse heat during thermal cycling and greatly reduce thermal stress. Therefore, as-prepared coating showed a good thermal shock resistance. After thermal cycling for 15 times at ΔT=1100 °C, the water absorption of coated samples only increased to 14.4%, and the residual strength ratio reached to 73%. The results will be a solid foundation for the practical application of the coating in the long-term extreme environment of aerospace engineering. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, the impact of three unsaturated fatty acids (Oleic acid: OA, Eicosapentaenoic acid: EPA, Docosahexaenoic acid: DHA) on the oxidation and structure of rainbow trout myofibrillar protein (MP) was explored. The findings revealed a notable increase in carbonyl content (P < 0.05) and a significant decrease in total sulfhydryl content (P < 0.05) of MP with the concentration increase of the three unsaturated fatty acids. Endogenous fluorescence spectroscopy and surface hydrophobicity analyses showed that unsaturated fatty acids can cause unfolding and exposure of hydrophobic groups in MP. In addition, SDS-PAGE showed that disulfide bonds were associated with MP cross-linking and aggregate size induced by unsaturated fatty acids. Overall, three unsaturated fatty acid treatments facilitated the oxidation of myofibrillar proteins, and the extent of protein oxidation was closely associated with the concentration of unsaturated fatty acids. • The relationship between MP oxidation and fatty acids in rainbow trout was revealed. • Degree of protein oxidation is dependent on the concentration of unsaturated fatty acids. • Unsaturated fatty acids induced oxidation also causes structural changes in proteins. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Phosphorus (P) availability in soil is often limited, posing a challenge for sustainable agricultural production. Phosphate solubilizing microorganisms (PSMs) have emerged as a promising biological approach to enhance soil P availability while minimize negative environmental impacts. Exploring the impact of PSMs on increasing soil available P is crucial for optimizing the utilization of insoluble P in soil and promoting sustainable agricultural practices. In this article, we provide a comprehensive review on the dynamics of soil available P, including its input, loss and transformation processes. Additionally, we draw a conclusion about how PSMs increase the availability of P in soil, including solubilizing inorganic P (Pi) and organic P (Po) by secreting substances such as protons, organic acids, inorganic acids, exopolysaccharides, hydrogen sulfide, siderophores and phosphatases. Notably, the factors influencing the P solubilizing activity of PSMs in soil are thoroughly discussed. Moreover, practical applications of PSMs for increasing soil P availability are summarized. Future research should focus on exploring novel PSM isolates, conducting long-term field experiments to assess the effects and potential risk of PSMs under diverse conditions, and investigating synergistic approaches with other P activators or beneficial microorganisms. This review will advance our understanding of PSMs and their practical application, enabling their widespread adoption in agricultural systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sea urchin gonads (SUGs) are rich in phospholipid (PL) which is easily oxidized and hydrolyzed during cold storage. PL changes were evaluated to clarify the quality changes of sea urchins during 72 h storage at 4°C. During storage at 4°C, PL content decreased, including phosphatidylethanolamine and phosphatidylinositol content decreased significantly and lysophosphatidylcholine (LPC) was detected after 36 h storage. At the same time, phospholipase C and phospholipase D remained active, and the content of free choline and free fatty acids increased, suggesting that PL was hydrolyzed. The addition of n‐butanol inhibited the activity of phospholipases C and D, decrease of total PL content, and the production of LPC and free choline, indicating that phospholipase‐mediated hydrolysis of PL in gonads occurred during refrigeration. The addition of vitamin E inhibited lipoxygenase, reduced lipid peroxidation (POV), and thiobarbituric acid reactive substances. It indicated that lipoxygenase in SUG mediated the oxidative degradation of PL during cold storage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rational design of molecular phototheranostic platform for NIR-II fluorescence Imaging-guided Chemodynamic-Photothermal combined therapy. Herein, a NIR-II fluorescence imaging-guided organic small molecular phototheranostic platform (IR-FE-Fc@DSPE-S-S-PEG) was designed via a convenient strategy, which can act not only as a PTT agent to produce a thermal effect of killing cancer cells under near-infrared laser (808 nm) irradiation but also as a CDT agent converts the endogenously less reactive H 2 O 2 into the harmful •OH and simultaneously with the depletion of GSH to achieve an amplified CDT. This work proposes a novel strategy for PTT-CDT combined efficacy treatment via a rational design of a disintegrable NIR-II fluorescence imaging-guided organic molecular phototheranostic platform. [Display omitted] • A newly NIR-II organic small molecular probe was established for real-time tumor location detection and visualization of the therapeutic process. • 4-Arm functional ferrocenes linkage enhances the loading of CDT reactants, and organic composition makes good biocompatibility. • The multiple synergistic strategies under the conditions of high-loading Fe2+, GSH depletion, and photothermal effect improved the Fenton reaction efficiency. • The enhanced CDT-PTT therapy reversed immunosuppression and stimulated the immune system in a mouse model. The strategy of synergetic chemodynamic treatment (CDT) and photothermal therapy (PTT) to improve the anticancer effect has been a hot spot in the field of biomedicine. Herein, a high-performance near-infrared II (NIR-II) fluorescence imaging-guided molecular phototheranostic platform (IR-FE-Fc@DSPE-S-S-PEG) was designed via a convenient strategy. IR-FE-Fc@DSPE-S-S-PEG can serve as a PTT agent to kill cancer cells under near-infrared laser (808 nm) irradiation and a CDT agent to convert the endogenously less reactive H 2 O 2 into the harmful •OH, simultaneously deplete the glutathione (GSH) to achieve an amplified CDT as well. Notably, PTT-induced hyperthermia can further enhance the CDT effect, achieving a synergistic PTT/CDT therapy. Due to the enhanced permeability and retention (EPR) effect and the high GSH microenvironment of the tumor, IR-FE-Fc@DSPE-S-S-PEG exhibited much higher tumor accumulation revealed by NIR-II fluorescence imaging. More importantly, IR-FE-Fc@DSPE-S-S-PEG efficiently damages tumorous tissues without inducing side effects to normal tissues under 808 nm laser irradiation. This work has proposed an alternative PTT-CDT combined therapy platform based on a rational design of disintegrable NIR-II fluorescence imaging-guided molecular for effective tumor treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Plant diversity is hypothesized to strengthen biological control by promoting top-down pressure of predators on herbivores. However, studies on the effects of plant diversity on actual predation rates are still scarce, particularly in forest ecosystems. We analyzed the effect of tree species richness, and the potential influence of neighbor tree density, on predation rates of arthropods and birds on artificial clay caterpillars in a large-scale forest biodiversity experiment in south-east China. Our study was focused on three broadleaved tree species that are frequently damaged by lepidopteran caterpillars. Predation rates were influenced by tree species richness on only one of the three tree species, on which arthropod predation increased and bird predation decreased with increasing tree species richness. Importantly, these relationships were mediated by neighbor tree density, being most pronounced when focal trees had fewer surrounding neighbor trees. Our findings indicate that low tree density reduced arthropod predator abundances and predation rates, but that negative effects of this reduction were compensated for in more diverse tree mixtures by a functionally more diverse predator community. In contrast, lower tree densities might have benefited insectivorous birds by making trees more accessible particularly in monocultures, which are often structurally more uniform and denser than tree mixtures. Overall, our results point to an important role of species-specific and density-dependent mechanisms in modifying the consequences of biodiversity loss on top-down effects in forest ecosystems. Future work should aim at separating the effects of different predator guilds and those of host diversity from host density. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Quinoxalin-2(1H)-one, Katritzky salt, deaminative alkylation, electron catalysis, radical cascade R. Torviso, D. Mansilla, S. Garcia, B. Lantanõ, S. Barata-Vallejo, A. Postigo, J. Fluorine Chem. 2017, 197, 42 - 48. 54 Y. Cheng, C. Mück-Lichtenfeld, A. Studer, J. Am. Chem. Soc. 2018, 140, 6221 - 6225; 55 J. Wu, L. He, A. Noble, V. K. Aggarwal, J. Am. Chem. Soc. 2018, 140, 10700 - 10704; 56 L. Zhang, L. Jiao, Chem. Sci. 2018, 9, 2711 - 2722. Very recently, Adiyala and co-workers reported a C3 alkylation reaction of quinoxalin-2(1 I H i )-ones with Katritzky salts, however a photocatalyst was still required.[68] Herein, we disclose a simple and efficient deaminative C3 alkylation of quinoxalin-2(1 I H i )-ones with Katritzky salts, which enables the metal- and photocatalyst-free synthesis of 3-alkylated quinoxalin-2(1 I H i )-ones (Scheme 1c). Keywords: deaminative alkylation; quinoxalin-2(1H)-one; Katritzky salt; electron catalysis; radical cascade EN deaminative alkylation quinoxalin-2(1H)-one Katritzky salt electron catalysis radical cascade 865 870 6 03/27/23 20230321 NES 230321 A visible-light initiated deaminative C3 alkylation of quinoxalin-2(1 I H i )-ones with Katritzky salts is reported. [Extracted from the article]

C11H12N4O2, monoclinic, Cc (no. 9), a = 16.146(5) Å, b = 14.653(4) Å, c = 14.621(4) Å, β = 106.052(8)°, V = 3324.3(16) Å3, Z = 12, Rgt(F) = 0.0415, wRref(F2) = 0.0965, T = 173(2) K. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Phototherapy is a conducive and non-invasive strategy for cancer therapy under light irradiation. Inspiringly, fluorescence imaging in the second near-infrared window (NIR-II, 1000–1700 nm) holds a great promise for imaging-guided phototherapy with deep penetration and high spatiotemporal resolution. However, most phototherapeutics still face great challenges, including complicated synthesis of agents, potential biotoxicity and unsatisfied therapeutic outcomes. Herein, a near-infrared laser triggered molecular photosensitizer FEPT, modified with triphenylphosphine PEGylation (PEG2000-TPP), is developed for NIR-II imaging-guided mitochondria-targeting synergistic photothermal therapy (PTT)/photodynamic therapy (PDT)/immune therapy (IMT). The mitochondria-targeting photosensitizer FEPT can produce reactive oxygen species (ROS) and hyperpyrexia upon 808 nm laser irradiation, resulting in mitochondrial dysfunction and photo-induced apoptosis via caspase-3 pathway. Phototherapy-induced hyperthermia or ROS triggers the release of immunogenic intracellular substrates from dying tumor cells, thereby promoting the activation of antitumor immunity. Herein, this work provides a practicable strategy to develop a molecular phototheranostic platform for imaging-guided cancer therapy via mitochondria-targeting. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To study the relationship between sea urchin phospholipids (SUP) and sea urchin gonads (SUG) in flavor production, volatile flavor components of SUG and SUP were analyzed and characterized with gas‐ion mobility spectrometry (GC‐IMS) combined with a flavor analyzer (Flavourspec®‐G.A.S). A total of 48 volatile flavor compounds, mainly aldehydes (29), ketones (6), and esters (4), were identified in the heated SUG and SUP. By constructing flavor fingerprints of SUG and SUP, significant changes of flavor compounds were observed before and after heating. It was shown that some volatile compounds were detected in both SUG and SUP, such as E‐2‐octanal, 3‐methylbutyraldehyde, 2,3 pentanedione, 2‐pentylfuran, and trimethyl pyrazine, which were presumed to be mainly generated from flavor precursors in SUP after heating. Principal Component Analysis (PCA) showed significant differences of volatile flavor in SUG and SUP before and after heating, suggesting that heating played an important role in flavor production in sea urchins. Therefore, SUP heated was responsible for key flavor substances production in SUG, which can provide a scientific basis for the flavor fortmation mechanism of sea urchins. Novelty Impact Statement: Analysis of the role of phospholipids on sea urchin flavor formation by comparing the flavor changes of sea urchin gonads and sea urchin phospholipids after heating will help understand the flavor formation mechanism in foods. Flavor components in sea urchin gonads and phospholipids were significantly changed after heating suggested that heating plays an important role in flavor production. Changes in phospholipids in sea urchin gonads may be related to changes in flavor. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

While some reports show that the existing real-life medical resources allocations during epidemic outbreaks are myopic, some experts claim that medical resources allocations based on foresighted future allocations might enable a better balance of supply and demand. To investigate this claim, we develop a foresighted medical resources allocation model to help governments manage large-scale epidemic outbreaks. We formulate a demand forecasting model with a general demand forecasting function based on the last-period demands, extra demand caused by the last-period unfulfilled demand, and uncertain demand. In the foresighted allocation model, the government decides the current-period allocation based on the foresighted demand, which considers the last-period area demand and uncertain demand from the current period to the end of a planning horizon, using a stochastic dynamic program. We find that the optimal allocation is a function of the allocation capacity in each period. The optimal foresighted allocation is always higher than the optimal static (one-period) allocation and decreases with allocation capacity. When the allocation capacity is sufficiently large, the foresighted demand is close to the static demand. Besides, if the cost of oversupply is close to zero, the optimal allocations for both the foresighted allocation and one-period models are the allocation capacity. Our results provide useful managerial implications for a government contemplating medical resources allocation in response to an epidemic outbreak. • Based on real practice in Hubei Province, China, during the COVID-19 outbreak. • Investigate foresighted medical resources allocation and static (myopic) allocation. • Develop and solve a stochastic dynamic program for the foresighted allocation. • Compare the two allocations and investigate conditions that they perform the same. • Provide useful managerial implications for medical resources allocation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The plant dormancy period in the riparian zone affects the activity of microorganisms and their related nitrogen (N) process, which necessitates an investigation of the influence of the dormancy period on the microbial community. This study sampled two groups of soils (ashore and offshore soils) of two typical plants (Acorus calamus, Canna indica) in rhizosphere soils and bulk soils during the dormancy period to study the microbial communities. The results suggested that in ashore soils, especially in Canna indica soils, there was a lower abundance of N-related genes (4.79 × 106 copies/g) due to relatively competitive ecological niche competition because of possible sufficient substrate. Therefore, microbial communities still play a major role in the removal of N-related nutrients during plants' dormancy period. In addition, the results also showed that during the plant dormancy period, the cell necrosis processes accounted for relatively lower proportions (15.75%, 7.54%, 21.46%, and 5.23% in ashore and offshore Canna indica and ashore and offshore Acorus calamus, respectively), suggesting an unexpected fairly strong microbial survival ability in the dormancy period compared to the commonly expected weak microbial state. This high microbial vitality provides us insight into the restoration of riparian soils during the plant dormancy period. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The analysis of cell membrane permeability plays a crucial role in improving the procedures of cell cryopreservation, which will affect the specific parameter settings in loading, removal and cooling processes. However, existing studies have mostly focused on deriving permeability parameters through osmotic theoretical models and cell volume response analysis, and there is still a lack of the direct experimental evidence and analysis at the single-cell level regarding the migration of cryoprotectants. In this work, a side perfusion microfluidics chips combined with Raman spectroscopy system was built to monitor in situ the Raman spectroscopy of extracellular and intracellular solution during loading and elution process with different cryoprotectant solution systems (single and dual component). And it was found that loading a high concentration cryoprotectant solution system through a single elution cycle may result in significant residual protective agent, which can be mitigated by employing a multi-component formula but multiple elution operations are still necessary. Furthermore, the collected spectral signals were marked and analyzed to was perform preliminary relative quantitative analysis. The results showed that the intracellular concentration changes can be accurately quantified by the Raman spectrum and are closely related to the extracellular solution concentration changes. By using the method of small flow perfusion (≤20 μL/min) in the side microfluidic chip after the gravity sedimentation of cells, the continuous loading and elution process of different cryoprotectants on chip and the spectral acquisition can be realized. The intracellular and extracellular concentrations can be quantified in situ based on the ratio of spectral peak intensities. These results indicate that spectroscopic analysis can be used to effectively monitor intracellular cryoprotectant residues. Dynamic evaluation of cell permeability by combining Raman spectroscopy and Microfluidics technology. [Display omitted] • In-situ non-destructive monitoring of the cryoprotectant loading and elution process by Raman spectroscopy. • Loading and elution the cryoprotectants at low perfusion flow rates after cell gravity deposition. • The spectral curve reveals the residue of the cryoprotectant after a single elution inside the cell sample. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: In agricultural basins, riparian buffers maintained along stream channels reduce nitrogen (N) concentrations in agricultural runoff, thereby improving water quality. Investigating the role of riparian vegetation in the related processes will provide insights into the mechanisms by which riparian zones retain soil N. Methods: In our study, the proportion of plant N uptake, fine root (diameter < 1mm) biomass and fine root morphology at five soil depths (0-15, 15-30, 30-45, 45-60, and 60-75 cm) for Acorus calamus, Canna indica and Phragmites communis were measured in Taihu Lake Basin. Results: The soil layer from which the majority of N was absorbed was 0-15 cm (50.8±1.0, 56.0±1.4 and 37.5±3.2% for A. calamus, C. indica, and P. communis, respectively). The N uptake from 45 to 75 cm for P. communis (21.2±2.2%) was significantly higher than A. calamus (14.9±0.7%) and C. indica (9.2±1.5%) (P < 0.05). Our results showed that N uptake was directly proportional to root morphological characteristics such as specific root surface area (SRA, P < 0.05) and specific root length (SRL, P < 0.01), but the relationships varied among species. Changes in environmental factors caused by soil depth strongly influenced some of the root morphological indicators (e.g., fine root biomass, mean diameter (D)). Conclusions: Soil environmental factors and plant root morphology jointly influenced plant N uptake. During vegetation selections of the riparian restoration projects, plants with high SRL or SRA should be given priority due to their expected high capacity in N uptake. But cautions need to be taken as the positive relationships between SRL and SRA and plant N uptake may vary between plant species. Optimal selection of diverse species with complementary nutrient uptake strategies could maximize N uptake at various soil depths and overall N removal from agricultural runoff. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]