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Achieving high crystalline quality germanium‐tin (Ge1 − xSnx) semiconductors at Sn content exceeding 10% is quintessential to implement the long sought‐after silicon‐compatible mid‐infrared photonics. Herein, by using sub‐20 nm Ge nanowires as compliant growth substrates, Ge1 − xSnx alloys with a Sn content of 18% exhibiting a high composition uniformity and crystallinity along a few micrometers in the nanowire axial direction are demonstrated. The measured bandgap energy of the Ge/Ge0.82Sn0.18 core/shell nanowires is 0.322 eV enabling the mid‐infrared photodetection with a cutoff wavelength of 3.9 µm. These narrow bandgap nanowires are also integrated into top‐gated field‐effect transistors and phototransistors. Depending on the gate design, these transistors are found to exhibit either ambipolar or unipolar behavior with a subthreshold swing as low as 228 mV/decade at 85 K. Moreover, varying the top gate voltage from ‐1 to 5 V yields nearly one order of magnitude increase in the photocurrent of the nanowire phototransistor under a 2330 nm illumination. This study shows that the core/shell nanowire architecture with a very thin core not only mitigates the challenges associated with strain build‐up observed in thin films but also provides a promising platform for all‐group IV mid‐infrared photonics and nanoelectronics paving the way toward sensing and imaging applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

It is crucial to explore the impact of dietary interventions on depression and develop functional antidepressant foods, due to the significant side effects and poor treatment compliance of antidepressant drugs. Osmanthus fragrans flowers are edible and medicinal materials owing to their delightful floral aroma and significant health benefits. Here, we evaluated the antidepressant effects of the ethanolic extract of O. fragrans var. thunbergii flowers (OFE) and investigated the mechanisms of action on the serotonin system and neuroinflammation, and analyzed the main chemical components of OFE. A single administration of OFE significantly reduced the immobility duration in the forced swimming and tail suspension tests in mice without affecting locomotor activity. OFE exhibited selective enhancing effects on 5‐HTergic function in vivo, as demonstrated by its potentiating effects on 5‐hydroxytryptophan (5‐HTP)‐induced head‐twitch behavior and alleviation effects on reserpine‐induced ptosis deficits. In addition, OFE increased 5‐hydroxytryptamine (5‐HT) concentration and upregulated 5‐HT1A expression in reserpine‐treated mice, further validating its effects on 5‐HT transmission. Interestingly, OFE significantly alleviated microglia activation and the production of inflammatory mediators, both in reserpine‐treated mice in vivo and lipopolysaccharide (LPS)‐stimulated BV‐2 cells in vitro. Additionally, 62 components in OFE were identified using ultra‐performance liquid chromatography quadrupole time‐of‐flight high‐resolution mass spectrometry, and glycoside derivatives were shown to be the major constituents of OFE. The present study showed that OFE can alleviate depressive‐like behaviors by modulating the serotonin system and reducing neuroinflammation. These results suggest that OFE can be valuable dietary supplements with therapeutic effects on depression. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The mechanical performance of tissue-engineered grafts is crucial in determining their functional properties, integration with native tissue and long-term repair outcome post-implantation. To date, most approaches for testing the mechanical properties of tissue-engineered grafts are non-sterile and invasive. There is an urgent need to develop novel sterile approaches for online monitoring mechanical properties of engineered tissues in order to ensure these engineered products meet the desired mechanical strength prior to implantation. In this paper, we overview various approaches for mechanical testing of engineered tissues, which span from traditional methods to medical imaging concepts in magnetic resonance elastography, ultrasound elastography, and optical coherence elastography. We focused on the applicability of these methods to the manufacturing of tissue-engineered products online, e.g., if such approach provides a sterile monitoring capacity and is capable of defining mechanical heterogeneity in engineered tissues throughout their growth in vitro in real-time. The review delves into various imaging modalities that employ distinct methods for inducing displacement within the sample, utilizing either strain-based or shear wave-based approaches. This displacement can be achieved through external stimulation or by harnessing ambient vibrations. Subsequently, the imaging process captures and visualizes the resultant displacement. We specifically highlight the advantages of novel non-invasive imaging methods such as ultrasound elastography and optical coherence elastography to assess the mechanical properties of engineered tissues in vitro, as well as their potential applications in cancer study, drug screening and the in vivo evaluation of the engineered tissues. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A neutral Polygonatum cyrtonema polysaccharide (NPCP) was isolated and purified from Polygonatum cyrtonema by various chromatographic techniques, including DEAE-52 and Sephadex-G100 chromatography. The structure of NPCP was characterized by HPLC, HPGPC, GC-MS, FT-IR, NMR, and SEM. Results showed that NPCP is composed of glucose (55.4%) and galactose (44.6%) with a molecular weight of 3.2 kDa, and the sugar chain of NPCP was →1)-α-D-Glc-(4→1)-β-D-Gal-(3→. In vitro bioactivity experiments demonstrated that NPCP significantly enhanced macrophages proliferation and phagocytosis while inhibiting the M1 polarization induced by LPS as well as the M2 polarization induced by IL-4 and IL-13 in macrophages. Additionally, NPCP suppressed the secretion of IL-6 and TNF-α in both M1 and M2 cells but promoted the secretion of IL-10. These results suggest that NPCP could serve as an immunomodulatory agent with potential applications in anti-inflammatory therapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The purpose of this paper is to investigate the effects of chloride ion concentration and applied bias voltage on the electrochemical migration (ECM) behavior between Cu and Ag under an NaCl thin electrolyte layer (TEL). Design/methodology/approach: A self-made experimental setup for the ECM behavior between Cu and Ag was designed. An HD video measurement microscopy was used to observe the typical dendrite/corrosion morphology and pH distribution. Short-circuit time (SCT), short-circuit current density and the influence of the galvanic effect between Cu and Ag on their ECM behavior were studied by electrochemical tests. The surface morphology and composition of dendrite were characterized by FESEM/EDS. Findings: The SCT increased with increasing NaCl concentration but decreased with increasing applied bias voltage, and the SCT between Cu and Ag was less than that between Cu and Cu because their galvanic effect accelerated the dissolution and migration of Cu. When NaCl concentration was less than or equal to 6 mmol/L, cedar-like dendrite was formed, whereas no dendrite formed and only precipitation occurred at high chloride ion concentration (100 mmol/L). The composition of the dendrite between Cu and Ag was copper. Research limitations/implications: The significance of this study is to clarify the ECM failure mechanism of printed circuit board (PCB) with an immersion silver surface finish (PCB-ImAg). Practical implications: This study provides a basic theoretical basis for the selection of protective measures and metal coatings for PCB. Social implications: The social implication of this study is to predict the service life of PCB. Originality/value: The ECM behavior of dissimilar metals under a TEL was investigated, the influence of the galvanic effect between them on their ECM was discussed, and the SCT increased with increasing NaCl concentration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study tested a cross-level moderated mediation model depicting the dynamism of individual resource loss through sickness presenteeism precipitated by long working hours and resource gain from group-level team support and the consequent effect on turnover intention over time. Employing a two-wave survey with 4 months in between, data were obtained from 294 nurses (37 teams) working in 12 hospitals across Taiwan. The hierarchical linear modeling analyses revealed that presenteeism partially mediated the effects of working long hours on later turnover intention. Moreover, group-level team support moderated the presenteeism-turnover linkage. Specifically, the damaging effect of working while ill on heightenedturnover intention was drastically attenuated for those with high team support. Our cross-level moderated mediation model has thus identified team support as a viable resource that can alleviate the damages of working in precarious conditions and help hospitals to retain nurses. We discussed the theoretical and managerial implications of our findings in the context of resource loss and gain, especially when stress and burnout are highly prevalent for the health care professions in the postpandemic era. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Cultivated peanut (Arachis hypogaea L.) is an important oil and cash crop. Pod size is one of the major traits determining yield and commodity characteristic of peanut. Fine mapping of quantitative trait locus (QTL) and identification of candidate genes associated with pod size are essential for genetic improvement and molecular breeding of peanut varieties. In this study, a major QTL related to pod size, qAHPS07, was fine mapped to a 36.46 kb interval on chromosome A07 using F2, recombinant inbred line (RIL) and secondary F2 populations. qAHPS07 explained 38.6%, 23.35%, 37.48%, 25.94% of the phenotypic variation for single pod weight (SPW), pod length (PL), pod width (PW) and pod shell thickness (PST), respectively. Whole genome resequencing and gene expression analysis revealed that a RuvB‐like 2 protein coding gene AhRUVBL2 was the most likely candidate for qAHPS07. Overexpression of AhRUVBL2 in Arabidopsis led to larger seeds and plants than the wild type. AhRUVBL2‐silenced peanut seedlings represented small leaves and shorter main stems. Three haplotypes were identified according to three SNPs in the promoter of AhRUVBL2 among 119 peanut accessions. Among them, SPW, PW and PST of accessions carrying Hap_ATT represent 17.6%, 11.2% and 26.3% higher than those carrying Hap_GAC，respectively. In addition, a functional marker of AhRUVBL2 was developed. Taken together, our study identified a key functional gene of peanut pod size, which provides new insights into peanut pod size regulation mechanism and offers practicable markers for the genetic improvement of pod size‐related traits in peanut breeding. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Serpin is a superfamily of serine proteinase inhibitors. They have anticoagulative activities and immunoregulatory effects. The family has been widely studied in stroke patients and animal stroke models. However, results from clinical and preclinical studies are controversial. The systematic review and meta‐analysis aimed to determine whether serpin activities are affected by stroke and whether members of the serpin family could be used in stroke treatment. Methods: Literature was systematically searched in six databases until September 5, 2022. In the included studies, 47 clinical studies (8276 subjects) reported concentrations of serpin proteins in stroke patients and healthy controls. In total, 41 preclinical studies (742 animals) reported neurological outcomes in animal models with serpin treatment and vehicle. Results: Meta‐analysis of clinical studies showed that both ischemic (IS) and hemorrhagic stroke patients had higher thrombin‐antithrombin complex (TAT) levels and lower antithrombin (AT) levels which were persistent in the acute and subacute phase of IS. Meta‐analysis of preclinical studies reported the efficacy of serpins in treating stroke. C1‐INH and FUT175 reduced brain infarct size and improved sensorimotor and motor behavior in a dose‐ and time‐dependent manner in the MCAO models. Conclusions: Our study confirmed the important roles serpin family proteins played in the onset, progression, and treatment of stroke. Among serpins, AT and TAT may be used as blood biomarkers in the early diagnosis of stroke. C1‐INH and FUT175 could be potential medications for IS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chemoradiation-induced hearing loss (CRIHL) is one of the most devasting side effects for nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) patients, which seriously affects survivors' long-term quality of life. However, few studies have comprehensively characterized the risk factors for CRIHL. In this study, we found that age at diagnosis, tumor stage, and concurrent cisplatin dose were positively associated with chemoradiation-induced hearing loss. We performed a genome-wide association study (GWAS) in 777 NPC patients and identified rs1050851 (within the exon 2 of NFKBIA), a variant with a high deleteriousness score, to be significantly associated with hearing loss risk (HR = 5.46, 95% CI 2.93–10.18, P = 9.51 × 10–08). The risk genotype of rs1050851 was associated with higher NFKBIA expression, which was correlated with lower cellular tolerance to cisplatin. According to permutation-based enrichment analysis, the variants mapping to 149 hereditary deafness genes were significantly enriched among GWAS top signals, which indicated the genetic similarity between hereditary deafness and CRIHL. Pathway analysis suggested that synaptic signaling was involved in the development of CRIHL. Additionally, the risk score integrating genetic and clinical factors can predict the risk of hearing loss with a relatively good performance in the test set. Collectively, this study shed new light on the etiology of chemoradiation-induced hearing loss, which facilitates high-risk individuals' identification for personalized prevention and treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The role of the mechanical environment in defining tissue function, development and growth has been shown to be fundamental. Assessment of the changes in stiffness of tissue matrices at multiple scales has relied mostly on invasive and often specialist equipment such as AFM or mechanical testing devices poorly suited to the cell culture workflow.In this paper, we have developed a unbiased passive optical coherence elastography method, exploiting ambient vibrations in the sample that enables real-time noninvasive quantitative profiling of cells and tissues. We demonstrate a robust method that decouples optical scattering and mechanical properties by actively compensating for scattering associated noise bias and reducing variance. The efficiency for the method to retrieve ground truth is validated in silico and in vitro, and exemplified for key applications such as time course mechanical profiling of bone and cartilage spheroids, tissue engineering cancer models, tissue repair models and single cell. Our method is readily implementable with any commercial optical coherence tomography system without any hardware modifications, and thus offers a breakthrough in on-line tissue mechanical assessment of spatial mechanical properties for organoids, soft tissues and tissue engineering. A method is described for assessing spatial mechanical properties for organoids, soft tissues and tissue engineering. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aromatic organoboron compounds are highly valuable building blocks in organic chemistry. They were mainly synthesized through aromatic C−H and C−Het borylation, in which transition metal‐catalysis dominate. In the past decade, with increasing attention to sustainable chemistry, numerous transition metal‐free C−H and C−Het borylation transformations have been developed and emerged as efficient methods towards the synthesis of aromatic organoboron compounds. This account mainly focuses on recent advances in transition metal‐free aromatic C−H, C−N, C−S, and C−O borylation transformations and provides insights to where further developments are required. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) unlocked new prospects of developing novel adsorbing materials for H 2 storage. However, MOF porosity is not yet fully utilized. To compensate for that disadvantage, we synthesized MIL-101(Cr) MOF-based activated carbon AC@MIL-101 (Cr) composites using in situ hydrothermal method. Different amounts of activated carbon (AC) derived from fir bark were added to adjust the pore structure of the resulting MOF-based composites. The pore number and their sizes increased and decreased, respectively, after pristine MIL-101(Cr) was combined with AC. The surface area and pore volume of pristine MIL-101(Cr) were equal to 2299 m2/g and 1.06 cm3/g, respectively. These values became equal to 3367 m2/g and 1.64 cm3/g after AC was combined with MIL-101(Cr) to form AC@MIL-101(Cr) composite. The highest H 2 uptake by AC@MIL-101(Cr) was equal to 6.93 wt % at 77 K and 40 bar. Such excellent hydrogen storage performance (a 32.3% increase than what was observed for unmodified MIL-101(Cr) material) was attributed to a synergy between AC and MIL-101(Cr). [ [Display omitted] ] • Proportion of AC@MIL-101 (Cr) composites have significantly effect on H 2 storage. • AC@MIL-101(Cr) composite has the highest surface area of 3367 m2/g. • The largest H 2 storage capacity obtained was 6.93 wt % at 77 K and 40 bar. • H 2 storage performance benefit from the synergistic effect of both AC and MIL-101. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ethnopharmacological relevance: The genus Polygonatum Tourn, ex Mill. contains numerous chemical components, such as steroidal saponins, polysaccharides, flavonoids, alkaloids, and others, it possesses diverse pharmacological activities, such as anti-aging, anti-tumor, immunological regulation, as well as blood glucose management and fat reducing properties. Aim of the review: This study reviews the current state of research on the systematic categorization, chemical composition, pharmacological effects, and processing changes of the plants belonging to the genus Polygonatum, to provide a theoretical foundation for their scientific development and rational application. Materials and methods: The information was obtained by searching the scientific literature published between 1977 and 2022 on online databases (including PubMed, CNKI, SciFinder, and Web of Science) and other sources (such as the Chinese Pharmacopoeia 2020 edition, and Chinese herbal books). Results: The genus Polygonatum contains 79 species, and 233 bioactive chemical compounds were identified in them. The abundance of pharmacological activities, such as antioxidant activities, anti-fatigue activities, anti-inflammatory activities, etc., were revealed for the representatives of this genus. In addition, there are numerous processing methods, and many chemical constituents and pharmacological activities change after the unappropriated processing. Conclusions: This review summarizes the taxonomy classification, chemical composition, pharmacological effects, and processing of the plants belonging to the genus Polygonatum, providing references and research tendencies for plant-based drug development and further clinical applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• High-quality sand bodies of the recent strata in the Guanzhong Basin mainly occur in the north of the Weinan Fault, south of the Kouzhen-Guanshan Fault, and north of the Yuxia-tieluzi Fault. The thickness of the sand bodies decreases from south to north and from east to west. • Precipitation from the Qinling and Beishan mountains is the main source of recharge for the guanzhong Basin. The recharge range of the qinling Mountains is greater than that of the Beishan Mountains. • The two sides of the Jing River fault form two relatively independent geothermal water circulation systems. Geothermal water in west of the Jing River fault converges towards the Xi'an-Xianyang area, and geothermal water in east of the Jing River fault converges towards the Huaxian-Pucheng area. The Guanzhong Basin is a Neogene faulted basin with rich geothermal resources. The faults are well developed, and the EW and NNE trending faults have better water conductivity. The main sandstone reservoirs, from young to old, include the Zhangjiapo Formation, the Lantian Bahe Formation, and the Gaoling Formation. This study focuses on the distribution of high-quality sand bodies in the Neogene sandstone reservoirs and the characteristics of geothermal water migration. The overall characteristic of the Neogene sediments in the Guanzhong Basin is coarse in the south and fine in the north, and coarse in the west and fine in the east. The sand bodies in deltas, rivers and near-shore lakes have good reservoir conditions and favourable physical properties, which are conducive to groundwater flow and recharge. The distribution of high-quality sand bodies serves as preferential pathways and reservoir areas for groundwater. Among them, the high-quality sand bodies of the Gaoling Formation are close to the northern foothills of the Qinling Mountains, the sand body area of the Lantian Bahe Formation is the largest, and the sand thickness of the Zhangjiapo Formation is relatively thin. The majority of sandstone geothermal waters in the Guanzhong Basin are of the Cl-Na type, with the most mature water chemistry being on the north side of the Weibei fault. The sandstone geothermal waters in the central and southern parts of the basin mainly receive recharge from the southern Qinling Mountains. The recharge area of geothermal water in the Guanzhong Basin is located in the Xi'an-Xianyang and Huaxian-Pucheng regions. The areas on both sides of the Jing River fault form two relatively independent geothermal water circulation systems. The high-quality sand bodies of the Neogene reservoirs, as well as the east-west trending faults with good water conductivity, serve as preferential pathways and enrichment spaces for geothermal water. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background. Enriched environment (EE) can protect the brain against damages caused by an ischemic stroke; however, the underlying mechanism remains elusive. Autophagy and mitochondria quality control are instrumental in the pathogenesis of ischemic stroke. In this study, we investigated whether and how autophagy and mitochondria quality control contribute to the protective effect of EE in the acute phase of cerebral ischemia–reperfusion injury. Methods. We exposed transient middle cerebral artery occlusion (tMCAO) mice to EE or standard condition (SC) for 7 days and then studied them for neurological deficits, autophagy and inflammation-related proteins, and mitochondrial morphology and function. Results. Compared to tMCAO mice in the SC group, those in the EE group showed fewer neurological deficits, relatively downregulated inflammation, higher LC3 expression, higher mitochondrial Parkin levels, higher mitochondrial fission factor dynamin-related protein-1 (Drp1) levels, lower p62 expression, and lower autophagy inhibitor mTOR expression. Furthermore, we found that the EE group showed a higher number of mitophagosomes and normal mitochondria, fewer mitolysosomes, and relatively increased mitochondrial membrane potential. Conclusion. These results suggested that EE enhances autophagy flux by inhibiting mTOR and enhances mitophagy flux via recruiting Drp1 and Parkin to eliminate dysfunctional mitochondria, which in turn inhibits inflammation and alleviates neurological deficits. Limitations. The specific mechanisms through which EE promotes autophagy and mitophagy and the signaling pathways that link them with inflammation need further study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Neuronal pyroptosis and neuroinflammation with excess microglial activation are widely involved in the early pathological process of ischemic stroke. Repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS), as a non-invasive neuromodulatory technique, has recently been reported to be anti-inflammatory and regulate microglial function. However, few studies have elucidated the role and mechanism of rTMS underlying regulating neuronal pyroptosis and microglial polarization.Methods: We evaluated the motor function in middle cerebral artery occlusion/reperfusion (MCAO/r) injury mice after 1-week intermittent theta-burst rTMS (iTBS) treatment in the early phase with or without depletion of microglia by colony-stimulating factor 1 receptor (CSF1R) inhibitor treatment, respectively. We further explored the morphological and molecular biological alterations associated with neuronal pyroptosis and microglial polarization via Nissl, EdU, TTC, TUNEL staining, electron microscopy, multiplex cytokine bioassays, western blot assays, immunofluorescence staining and RNA sequencing.Results: ITBS significantly protected against cerebral ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury-induced locomotor deficits and neuronal damage, which probably relied on the regulation of innate immune and inflammatory responses, as evidenced by RNA sequencing analysis. The peak of pyroptosis was confirmed to be later than that of apoptosis during the early phase of stroke, and pyroptosis was mainly located and more severe in the peri-infarcted area compared with apoptosis. Multiplex cytokine bioassays showed that iTBS significantly ameliorated the high levels of IL-1β, IL-17A, TNF-α, IFN-γ in MCAO/r group and elevated the level of IL-10. ITBS inhibited the expression of neuronal pyroptosis-associated proteins (i.e., Caspase1, IL-1β, IL-18, ASC, GSDMD, NLRP1) in the peri-infarcted area rather than at the border of infarcted core. KEGG enrichment analysis and further studies demonstrated that iTBS significantly shifted the microglial M1/M2 phenotype balance by curbing proinflammatory M1 activation (Iba1+/CD86+) and enhancing the anti-inflammatory M2 activation (Iba1+/CD206+) in peri-infarcted area via inhibiting TLR4/NFκB/NLRP3 signaling pathway. Depletion of microglia using CSF1R inhibitor (PLX3397) eliminated the motor functional improvements after iTBS treatment.Conclusions: rTMS could alleviate cerebral I/R injury induced locomotor deficits and neuronal pyroptosis by modulating the microglial polarization. It is expected that these data will provide novel insights into the mechanisms of rTMS protecting against cerebral I/R injury and potential targets underlying neuronal pyroptosis in the early phase of stroke. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Ti 3 C 2 T x with excellent conductivity is used to design a novel cobalt-based ZIF-67/Ti 3 C 2 T x composite, sulfide derivative (Co 3 S 4 /Ti 3 C 2 T x) of which is then applied as an active supercapacitor material. The excellent electrochemical performance of the novel composite, as well as the stability of its three-dimensional (3D) structure, make it a very promising material for energy storage applications. [Display omitted] The Ti 3 C 2 T x with excellent conductivity is used in a novel cobalt-based ZIF-67/Ti 3 C 2 T x composites, sulfide derivative (Co 3 S 4 /Ti 3 C 2 T x) of which is then applied as an active supercapacitor material. The specific capacitance of ZIF-67/Ti 3 C 2 T x is significantly higher than that of unmodified ZIF-67. The sulfide-containing derivatives of these compounds demonstrated pseudocapacitance. The specific capacitance of an electrode containing Co 3 S 4 /Ti 3 C 2 T x as an active material is very high and equal to 602F/g at 1 A/g, which is 2.6 times higher than of a ZIF-67/Ti 3 C 2 T x -containing electrode. The supercapacitor based on Co 3 S 4 /Ti 3 C 2 T x maintained 81.6% of its original capacitance even at 10 A/g current density. Thus, the introduction of Ti 3 C 2 T x into the ZIF-67 improves not only the electrical conductivity of the hybrid material but also its structural stability, which allows to act as support. An asymmetric Co 3 S 4 /Ti 3 C 2 T x //AC supercapacitor (ASC) containing activated carbon (AC) as an anode showed a high energy density equal to 44.9 Wh/kg at 800.3 W/kg power density. This ASC also demonstrated high rate-performance (equal to 79.2%) and excellent cycling stability (with 88.3% capacitance retention and 99.23% Coulombic efficiency after 5000 cycles). The excellent electrochemical performance of our novel composite and conductivity, as well as the stability of its three-dimensional (3D) structure, make it a very promising material for energy storage applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Auxin response factors (ARFs) play important roles in plant growth and development; however, research in peanut (Arachis hypogaea L.) is still lacking. Here, 63, 30, and 30 AhARF genes were identified from an allotetraploid peanut cultivar and two diploid ancestors (A. duranensis and A. ipaensis). Phylogenetic tree and gene structure analysis showed that most AhARFs were highly similar to those in the ancestors. By scanning the whole-genome for ARF-recognized cis-elements, we obtained a potential target gene pool of AhARFs, and the further cluster analysis and comparative analysis showed that numerous members were closely related to root development. Furthermore, we comprehensively analyzed the relationship between the root morphology and the expression levels of AhARFs in 11 peanut varieties. The results showed that the expression levels of AhARF14/26/45 were positively correlated with root length, root surface area, and root tip number, suggesting an important regulatory role of these genes in root architecture and potential application values in peanut breeding. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

By applying the phosphonic acid ligand to the solvothermal reaction of nitrobenzylphosphonic acid (H2L) with Cd(NO3)2·4H2O in a mixed solvent of water and DMF, a novel Cd(II)-based coordination polymer, {[Cd(L)(H2O)2](H2O)}n (1), was successfully synthesized in this study. The excellent fluorescence performance of complex 1 was confirmed through fluorescence spectroscopy testing, and the obtained CIE standard coordinates (0.1599, 0.0786) positioned it in the blue fluorescence region. Transparent hyaluronic acid/carboxymethyl chitosan hydrogels were prepared using chemical synthesis, and their internal microstructure was observed. Using budesonide as a drug model, a new budesonide metal gel was prepared, and its therapeutic efficacy in treating pediatric asthma was evaluated. Molecular docking simulations indicated that the Cd complex formed three hydrogen bonding interactions with the target protein through its nitro group, revealing the potential origin of its biological activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although skeletal muscle is the main effector organ largely accounting for disability after stroke, considerably less attention is paid to the secondary abnormalities of stroke-related skeletal muscle loss. It is necessary to explore the mechanism of muscle atrophy after stroke and further develop effective rehabilitation strategy. Here, we evaluated the effects of high-intensity interval (HIIT) versus moderate-intensity aerobic training (MOD) on physical function, muscle mass, and stroke-related gene expression profile of skeletal muscle. After the model of middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) was successfully made, the blood lactate threshold corresponding speed ( S LT ) and maximum speed ( S max ) were measured. Different intensity training protocols (MOD < S LT ; S LT < HIIT < S max ) were carried out for 3 weeks beginning at 7 days after MCAO in the MOD and HIIT groups, respectively. We found that both HIIT and MOD prevented stroke-related gastrocnemius muscle mass loss in MCAO mice. HIIT was more beneficial than MOD for improvements in muscle strength, motor coordination, walking competency, and cardiorespiratory fitness. Furthermore, HIIT was superior to MOD in terms of reducing lipid accumulation, levels of IL-1β and IL-6 in paretic gastrocnemius, and improving peripheral blood CD4+/CD8+ T cell ratio, level of IL-10. Additionally, RNA-seq analysis revealed that the differentially expressed genes among HIIT, MOD, and MCAO groups were highly associated with signaling pathways involved in inflammatory response, more specifically the I-kappaB kinase/NF-kappaB signaling. Following the outcome, we further investigated the infiltrating immune cells abundant in paretic muscles. The results showed that HIIT modulated macrophage activation by downregulating CD86+ (M1 type) macrophages and upregulating CD163+ (M2 type) macrophages via inhibiting the TLR4/MyD88/NFκB signaling pathway and exerting an anti-inflammatory effect in paretic skeletal muscle. It is expected that these data will provide novel insights into the mechanisms and potential targets underlying muscle wasting in stroke. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Temperature is one of the key factors that affects the growth and development of macrofungi. Heat stress not only negatively affects the morphology and growth rate of macrofungi, but also destroys cell structures and influences cell metabolism. Due to loosed structure of cell walls and increased membrane fluidity, which caused by heat stress, the outflow of intracellular nutrients makes macrofungi more vulnerable to invasion by pathogens. Macrofungi accumulate reactive oxygen species (ROS), Ca2+, and nitric oxide (NO) when heat-stressed, which transmit and amplify the heat stimulation signal through intracellular signal transduction pathways. Through regulation of some transcription factors including heat response factors (HSFs), POZCP26 and MYB, macrofungi respond to heat stress by different mechanisms. In this paper, we present mechanisms used by macrofungi to adapt and survive under heat stress conditions, including antioxidant defense systems that eliminate the excess ROS, increase in trehalose levels that prevent enzymes and proteins deformation, and stabilize cell structures and heat shock proteins (HSPs) that repair damaged proteins and synthesis of auxins, which increase the activity of antioxidant enzymes. All of these help macrofungi resist and adapt to heat stress. Key points: • The effects of heat stress on macrofungal growth and development were described. • The respond mechanisms to heat stress in macrofungi were summarized. • The further research directions of heat stress in macrofungi were discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The N and B co-doped hierarchical porous carbon with excellent textured properties by using two-step of activation and hydrothermal post-treatment process using ammonium pentaborate tetrahydrate (NH 4 B 5 O 8 ·4H 2 O) as both nitrogen and boron source are developed. The results showed that BNAC-3 has the maximum surface area (2471 m2/g) caused by the highest degree of micro/mesopores (0.82 and 0.35 cm3/g) and the linked 3D network are advantageous for the circulation of electrolytes and electrostatic adsorption. The contribution of Faradaic pseudocapacitance may be caused by high B (3.12 wt percent) and N (2.02 wt percent) contents of BNAC-3. Additionally, BNAC-3 exhibits excellent electrochemical efficiency with an ultra-high specific ability of 369 F/g at 1 A/g current density (CD) and maintains 240 F/g at 20 A/g in three-electrode systems. Notably, in a two-electrode device, maximum energy density can be almost 12.0 W h/kg at a power density (PD) of 375 W/kg. [Display omitted] • Both B and N have been successfully doped into the carbon framework. • Excellent electrochemical performance of 369 F/g at 1.0 A/g were obtained. • An assembled supercapacitor shows energy density of 12.0 W h/kg at the power density of 375 W/kg. • The capacitance was retained at 99.0% after 10,000 charge-discharge cycles at 10 A/g. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Supercapacitors (SCs) is a promising energy storage approach to solve the intermittent problems of most renewable energy sources. N-doped hierarchically activated porous carbon materials (ACBS) for supercapacitor applicaitons are obtained by pre-carbonization and KOH activation of N-rich sword bean shells. ACBS containing 1–2% of N show hierarchical porosity, very high surface area and pore volume (equal to 2917 m2/g and 1.73 cm3/g, respectively). These materials are incorporated into supercapacitors. The device containing ACBS obtained using 700 °C as a post-treatment temperature shows a very high specific capacity (equal to 264 F/g at 1 A/g), which remains high (∼180 F/g) even at 20 A/g current density. Corresponding symmetric coin-cell supercapacitor demonstrats 12.5 Wh/kg energy density at 100 W/kg power density. This cell is capable of maintaining its energy density at the 11.1 Wh/kg level at 5000 W/kg power density and demonstrats almost 100% capacity retention after one thousand 1 A/g charge/discharge cycles. Such superior electrochemical performance of devices fabricated using ACBS as active materials is possible because of synergy between electrical double-layer capacitance and faradaic pseudocapacitance, which strongly depend on the surface area, pore volume and size distribution as well as dopant of heteroatoams. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Studies have reported a supraphysiologic estradiol (E2) level during ovarian stimulation may be related to low birthweight after fresh embryo transfer (ET), but whether a high E2 level in the stimulation cycle affects birthweight via frozen ET remained controversial. The study was to investigate whether a supraphysiologic E2 level in ovarian stimulation cycle affects birth weight in infants conceived via subsequent FET. In this retrospective cohort study, 2525 singletons conceived via FET and 2668 singletons conceived via fresh ET were analyzed. The birthweight and incidences of small for gestational age (SGA) in infants conceived via FET in groups with low and high levels of E2 did not differ significantly. Multivariate analyses showed that the peak E2 level was not predictive of SGA in infants conceived via FET. Singletons conceived via fresh ET had a higher risk of SGA than those conceived via FET even after comparable previous exposure to a high level of E2 > 3000 pg/mL. Our study results indicated that the increased risk of SGA was at least partly a result of the supraphysiologic E2 exposure to the intrauterine environment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • OH and CH 3 C(O)OO were identified as the main reactive species in UV/PAA process. • CH 3 C(O)OO exhibited lower reaction rates but higher concentration compared to OH. • RAF was proposed as the main initial reaction mechanism in UV/PAA process. • CH 3 C(O)OO possessed higher selectivity than OH towards TrOCs. Peracetic acid (PAA) is a promising peroxyacid to combine with ultraviolet (UV) to eliminate trace amounts of organic contaminants (TrOCs), with growing importance in water treatment. In spite of a large number of research on UV/PAA process, the underlying mechanism still require further investigation, due to the difficulties in analyzing the carbon-centered radicals. Here we demonstrated the crucial roles of the carbon-centered radicals (namely CH 3 C(O)OO), via electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) and kinetic models, with concentration of 4 orders magnitude higher than that of OH. Then, the theoretical calculation using density functional theory (DFT) showed that CH 3 C(O)OO and OH tended to attack phenol mostly through the route of radical adduct formation. The generated CH 3 C(O)OO and OH adducts may undergo further reactions to produce catechol and hydroquinone. Further, the environmental applicability of UV/PAA process for TrOC abatement was evaluated, including the effects of pH, PAA dosage, water constituents, as well as the variation of acute toxicity. Different from the OH-dominated process, kinetic analysis revealed that CH 3 C(O)OO was almost immune to the presence of water constituents, leading to the outperformance of UV/PAA process in actual water samples. Our present study could inform the application of UV/PAA process in water and wastewater treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An enriched environment (EE) has been demonstrated to improve functional recovery in animal models of ischaemic stroke through enhancing vascular endothelial growth factor- (VEGF-) mediated neuroprotection accompanied by angiogenesis in the ischaemic hemisphere. Whether EEs also promote VEGF-mediated neuroprotection and angiogenesis in the contralateral hemisphere remains unclear. Here, we explored the effect of EEs on VEGF expression and angiogenesis within the contralateral cerebral cortex in a rat middle cerebral artery occlusion/reperfusion (MCAO/r) model. We assessed the expression levels of platelet endothelial cell adhesion molecule-1 (CD31), VEGF, and endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) in the whole contralateral cerebral cortex using Western blotting assay but did not find an increase in the expression of CD31, VEGF, or eNOS in MCAO/r rats housed in EEs, which suggested that EEs did not enhance the overall expression of VEGF and eNOS or angiogenesis in the entire contralateral cortex. We further analysed the local effect of EEs by immunohistochemistry and found that in and around the bilateral cingulum in MCAO/r rats housed in EEs, haematopoietic progenitor cell antigen- (CD34-) positive endothelial progenitor cells were significantly increased compared with those of rats housed in standard cages (SCs). Further experiments showed that EEs increased neuronal VEGF expression surrounding the cingulum in MCAO/r rats and robustly upregulated eNOS expression. These results revealed that EEs enhanced angiogenesis, VEGF expression, and activation of the VEGF-eNOS pathway in and/or around the cingulum in MCAO/r rats, which were involved in the functional recovery of MCAO/r rats. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Glyphosate is an ingredient widely used in various commercial formulations, including Roundup®. This study focused on tight junctions and the expression of inflammatory genes in the small intestine of chicks. On the sixth day of embryonic development, the eggs were randomly assigned to three groups: the control group (CON, n = 60), the glyphosate group (GLYP, n = 60), which received 10 mg of active glyphosate/kg egg mass, and the Roundup®-based glyphosate group also received 10 mg of glyphosate. The results indicated that the chicks exposed to glyphosate or Roundup® exhibited signs of oxidative stress. Additionally, histopathological alterations in the small intestine tissues included villi fusion, complete fusion of some intestinal villi, a reduced number of goblet cells, and necrosis of some submucosal epithelial cells in chicks. Genes related to the small intestine (ZO-1, ZO-2, Claudin-1, Claudin-3, JAM2, and Occludin), as well as the levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines (IFNγ, IL-1β, and IL-6), exhibited significant changes in the groups exposed to glyphosate or Roundup® compared to the control group. In conclusion, the toxicity of pure glyphosate or Roundup® likely disrupts the small intestine of chicks by modulating the expression of genes associated with tight junctions in the small intestine. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As a follow-up study to a cross-sectional national study that established the linkage between gender as well as family factors and the likelihood of being Taiwanese adolescent readers, this study attempted to utilize the same data set with longitudinal data to explore whether the association between family factors and being an avid adolescent readers differs between male and female adolescents. The results of the study suggest that unlike their female counterparts, higher parental educational level, richer family cultural environment, and better parental reading modeling might not be as relevant to male adolescents' likelihood of being avid readers: they need support from parent-child literacy interactions along the way as they grow up. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Knowledge of the optimal protocol and safety of particularly high-intensity exercise applied to individuals with stroke is lacking. This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to investigate the effect of high-intensity exercise on cardiorespiratory fitness in stroke survivors. We performed a systematic electronic search for articles in MedLine via PubMed, EMBASE, Web of Science, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, CINAHL, and SPORTSDiscus up to April 1, 2019. Peak oxygen consumption (VO 2 peak), 6-min walk test (6MWT), fastest 10-m walk test (10MWT), and adverse events were assessed. The standardized mean difference (SMD), weighted mean difference (WMD), and odds ratios (ORs) were used to compute the effect size, and subgroup analysis was conducted to test the consistency of results as well as sensitivity analysis to assess the robustness of the results. The quality of evidence was assessed with the Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE) system. We included 17 studies (PEDro score ≥ 4) in the meta-analysis. Post-intervention, high-intensity exercise had a significant effect on peak oxygen uptake (VO 2 peak; SMD = 0.56, P < 0.01, I2 = 8%; WMD = 2.53 mL/kg/min; high quality of evidence) and 6MWT (SMD = 0.26, P < 0.01, I2 = 40%; WMD = 17.08 m; moderate quality of evidence) but not fastest 10MWT (SMD = 0.33, P = 0.27, I2 = 77%; WMD = 0.05 m/s; low quality of evidence). Subgroup analysis showed better effects of higher-intensity treadmill training (≥ 70% heart rate reserve/VO 2 peak) for a longer duration (≥ 12 weeks) on VO 2 peak and 6MWT in sub-acute or chronic stroke survivors. The high-intensity exercise and control groups did not differ in adverse events including falls [odds ratio (OR) 1.40, P = 0.35, I2 = 11%; low quality of evidence], pain (OR 3.34, P = 0.09, I2 = 0%; moderate quality of evidence), or skin injuries (OR 1.08, P = 0.90, I2 = 0%; low quality of evidence). Our meta-analysis suggests that high-intensity exercise is beneficial for cardiorespiratory fitness in stroke survivors and might be safe as a novel intervention in cardiopulmonary rehabilitation after stroke. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We investigated effects of early and later life housing on attention bias, as an indicator of affective state, in pigs differing in coping style [reactive (LR) vs. proactive (HR)]. Pigs (n = 128) in barren or enriched housing from birth (B1 vs. E1) that experienced either a switch in housing at 7 weeks of age or not (creating B1B2, B1E2, E1E2, and E1B2 treatments), were studied in a 180-s attention bias test at 11 weeks. Pigs exposed to a 10-s-auditory-and-sudden-motion threat in the test arena paid more attention to the location of the threat, were more vigilant, showed less eating, more walking and were more likely to utter high-pitched vocalisations than non-threat pigs. During threat presence, HR pigs from post-switch enriched housing (E2-HR, i.e., B1E2 + E1E2) showed more vigilance but less exploration than others. After threat removal, no effects were found on time spent paying attention to the threat, vigilance, and eating, but E2-HR pigs paid attention to the threat more frequently, were more likely to utter high-pitched vocalisations and walked more compared to (part of) other groups, suggesting the most negative affective state in these animals. E2 pigs grunted more than B2 pigs. Thus, current housing, but not early life housing, affected behaviour in a personality-dependent manner in this attention bias test. Housing effects were opposite to expectation, possibly due to the short-term effect of the relative contrast between the home pens of the pigs and the test room. This potentially overruled putative long-term effects of environmental conditions on attention bias. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Many studies have shown that multifetal reduction of high-order multiple pregnancies results in improved pregnancy outcomes. However, whether conducting elective fetal reduction from dichorionic twins after in vitro fertilization (IVF) is worthwhile remains controversial. This study aimed to determine whether elective fetal reduction of dichorionic twins after IVF and embryo transfer (IVF-ET) is associated with increased take-home baby rate.Material and Methods: This was a retrospective cohort study of 3600 dichorionic twin pregnancies after IVF-ET. The reduced group included 71 women with transvaginal elective fetal reduction between 7 and 8 weeks of gestation. The control group (n = 3529) comprised women who were managed expectantly. Propensity score matching was conducted before pregnancy outcomes were compared.Results: The take-home baby rate was significantly lower in the reduced group (83.1% vs 92.8%, P = 0.004). The total miscarriage rate was significantly higher in the reduced group (12.7% vs 6.2%, P = 0.04). Although preterm delivery rate was lower in the reduced group (P < 0.001), over 90% were over 32 weeks, whereas the proportions were equal in the reduced group.Conclusions: In dichorionic twin pregnancies after IVF-ET, elective fetal reduction to singleton significantly decreased the chance of taking home live babies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • NH 2 -CNT and TEOS changed cross-section morphology, and increased flux of PAN membrane. • The composite membrane showed a dye flux of 108 L/m2 h, 98% rejection of Congo red from 0.1% NaCl aqueous solution. • Heating at 100 C in glycerol show better compromise between thermal stability and reduced flux. • The heated membrane showed a dye flux of 64 L/m2 h, with 80% rejection of Methyl blue from 0.1% NaCl aqueous solution. • Pore size change mechanisms of different membranes triggered by heating were investigated. The preparation of ultrafiltration (UF) membranes for dye removal at higher temperature is a challenging task. In this study, hydroxyurea-modified polyacrylonitrile (PAN-Hu) was used to prepare hydrophilic UF membrane. The further addition of NH 2 -grafted carbon nanotube (CNT) and tetraethoxysilane (TEOS) resulted in a change of the cross-section morphology of the membrane from half-sponge to an asymmetrical one, with an increased pore size due to the hydrophobic nature of the fillers. The resulting PHT/Si membrane showed a higher pure water flux (130 L/m2 h at 1 bar) than PAN-Hu, with a 98% rejection rate of Congo red (CR) from a 0.1% NaCl aqueous solution. The dye rejection mechanism was explained based on the molecular size and surface charge density of dyes, as well as force analysis inside the spongy skin layer. Subsequently, two heating methods were adopted to stabilize the structure of membrane, and improve its thermal stability for filtration at medium temperature (60 °C). After heating in water at 60 °C for 5 days, the rejection rate of Methyl blue (MB) in a 0.1% NaCl solution increased by 80%, but the flux of membrane decreased by more than 50%. On the other hand, heating at 100 °C in glycerol for 10 hrs led to a similar increase in dye rejection but a lower decrease in flux. Specifically, the heated PHT/Si membrane showed a dye flux of 64 L/m2 h, and an MB rejection rate of 94% from water, 80% from a 0.1% NaCl solution at 20 °C. Additionally, all membranes showed a higher flux and slightly lower rejection at 60 °C compared with that at 20 °C. Instrumental characterization revealed that morphology change of membrane was caused by the shrinkage effect through chain rearrangement as a result of heat treatment. But PAN-Hu showed a greater decrease in pore size than PHT/Si membrane. The reason lies in that CNT or SiO 2 in PHT/Si membrane acts as physical crosslinking point. Their dimension stabilization effect limits the free movement of polymer chains and affects the pore size change of membrane. Overall, this study can help to tailor the porous structure of UF membranes for dye removal under different temperatures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Microbial communities and their correlation with flavor compound formation during the mechanized production of light-flavor Baijiu were first recognized. • The physicochemical characteristics and microbial community succession of mechanized and traditional fermentation process are different, especially during the soaking process. • Saccharomyces and Lactobacillus were found to be the most important fungal and bacterial groups during both the mechanized and traditional fermentation process. • Saccharomyces , Naumovozyma , Hanseniaspora , Kazachstania , Lactobacillus , and Acetilactobacillus were found to be the main contributors to the formation of alcohol, acidity and other flavor compounds. Light-flavor Baijiu fermentation is a typical spontaneous solid-state fermentation process fueled by a variety of microorganisms. Mechanized processes have been increasingly employed in Baijiu production to replace traditional manual operation processes, however, the microbiological and physicochemical dynamics in mechanized processes remain largely unknown. Here, we investigated the microbial community succession and flavor compound formation during a whole mechanized fermentation process of light-flavor Baijiu using the conventional dilution plating method, PacBio single-molecule real-time (SMRT) sequencing and headspace solid-phase microextraction coupled with gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. The results showed that largely different fungal and bacterial communities were involved in the soaking and fermentation processes. A clear succession from Pantoea agglomerans to Bacillus (B.) smithii and B. coagulans in dominant bacterial species and from Cladosporium exasperatum to Saccharomyces cerevisiae and Lichtheimia ramosa in dominant fungal species occurred in the soaking processes. In the fermentation process, the most dominant bacterial species was shifted from Pantoea agglomerans to Lactobacillus (La.) acetotolerans and the most dominant fungal species were shifted from Lichtheimia ramose and Rhizopus arrhizus to Saccharomyces cerevisiae. The bacterial and fungal species positively associated with acidity and the formation of ethanol and different flavor compounds were specified. The microbial species exhibited strong co-occurrence or co-exclusion relationships were also identified. The results are helpful for the improvement of mechanized fermentation process of light-flavor Baijiu production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To examine the incidence of spontaneous fetal reduction during dichorionic diamniotic (DCDA) twin pregnancy after in vitro fertilization and embryo transfer (IVF-ET) and its influence on pregnancy outcomes.Methods: This was a retrospective cohort study of 4447 DCDA twin pregnancies and 14,551 singleton pregnancies after IVF-ET at a single center between 2009 and 2015. The spontaneous pregnancy reduction (SPR) group included 759 women. The remaining 3688 women with DCDA twins showing no spontaneous reduction were included in the non-SPR group. Outcomes were compared to a singleton group (n = 14,551) treated over the same period. The overall rate of spontaneous reduction and frequency distribution across gestational epochs were determined and pregnancy outcomes were compared among the three groups. Further regression analysis was conducted to investigate whether spontaneous reduction was an independent risk factor for decreased take-home baby rate.Results: The overall rate of spontaneous DCDA twin reduction after IVF-ET was 17.1%, with most cases (89.8%) occurring in the first trimester. Pregnancy outcome measures, including miscarriage rate, premature delivery rate, live birth rate, take-home baby rate, gestational age of delivery, and neonatal birth weight, were significantly better in the SPR group than the non-SPR group. Live birth rate, take-home baby rate, neonatal birth weight, and other primary outcome measures in the SPR group were not inferior to the singleton group. Multivariate regression analysis showed that the take-home baby rate was significantly lower in the non-SPR group (OR =0.73, 95%CI: 0.44-0.92, p = .008) and that SPR did not decrease the take-home baby rate.Conclusions: Spontaneous pregnancy reduction is common in DCDA twin pregnancy after IVF-ET, but has little adverse influence on pregnancy outcomes and does not reduce the probability of taking home live babies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Accurate neural representations of acoustic signals under noisy conditions are critical for animals' survival. Detecting signal against background noise can be improved by binaural hearing particularly when an interaural-time-difference (ITD) disparity is introduced between the signal and the noise, a phenomenon known as binaural unmasking. Previous studies have mainly focused on the binaural unmasking effect on response magnitudes, and it is not clear whether binaural unmasking affects the accuracy of central representations of target acoustic signals and the relative contributions of different central auditory structures to this accuracy. Frequency following responses (FFRs), which are sustained phase-locked neural activities, can be used for measuring the accuracy of the representation of signals. Using intracranial recordings of local field potentials, this study aimed to assess whether the binaural unmasking effects include an improvement of the accuracy of neural representations of sound-envelope signals in the rat IC and/or auditory cortex (AC). The results showed that (1) when a narrow-band noise was presented binaurally, the stimulus-response (S-R) coherence of the FFRs to the envelope (FFR envelope) of the narrow-band noise recorded in the IC was higher than that recorded in the AC. (2) Presenting a broad-band masking noise caused a larger reduction of the S-R coherence for FFR envelope in the IC than that in the AC. (3) Introducing an ITD disparity between the narrow-band signal noise and the broad-band masking noise did not affect the IC S-R coherence, but enhanced both the AC S-R coherence and the coherence between the IC FFR envelope and AC FFR envelope. Thus, although the accuracy of representing envelope signals in the AC is lower than that in the IC, it can be binaurally unmasked, indicating a binaural-unmasking mechanism that is formed during the signal transmission from the IC to the AC. • The accuracy of representing envelope signals is higher in the IC than that in the AC. • Envelope-signal representation in the IC is more vulnerable to masking than that in the AC. • Binaural unmasking improves the accuracy of representing envelope signals in the AC but not in the IC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights • The unbalance between BDNF and proBDNF in the ischemic hippocampus played an important role in the pathogenesis of PSD. • The hippocampal neurogenesis played a crucial role in the pathophysiology of depression. • Aerobic exercise improved depression-like behaviors, BDNF/proBDNF ratio and hippocampal neurogenesis in the PSD rats. Abstract BDNF and proBDNF play an opposite role in hippocampal neurogenesis. What remains to be known is the effect of balance between BDNF and proBDNF in the ischemic hippocampus on pathogenesis of post-stroke depression (PSD) and the potential mechanisms of aerobic exercise (AE) on PSD. Wistar rats were randomly divided into control, Sham, Sedentary and AE groups. After PSD model was successful made, the blood lactate threshold corresponding speed (S LT) were measured. The behavioral tests (open field, forced swimming and sucrose preference tests) were performed before and after 4 weeks of aerobic treadmill training. HE staining and immunostaining for doublecortin (DCX)+ neurons were used to observe the changes of neuronal cell morphology and proliferation, migration of the neural progenitor cells (NPCs). The expression of mature brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), tropomyosin receptor kinase B (TrkB), precursor BDNF (proBDNF), pan-neurotrophin receptor 75 (p75NTR) proteins, BDNF mRNA in the ischemic hippocampus and serum adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) and corticosterone (CORT) were detected by Western blotting, immunohistochemistry, RT-PCR and ELISA. Higher immobility time and levels of proBDNF, p75NTR, ACTH, CORT proteins and lower sucrose preference, total distance, climbing frequency and levels of BDNF, TrkB proteins, BDNF mRNA were observed in the Sedentary group. Neuronal cells in the ischemic hippocampus were loosely arranged and expression of DCX reduced in the Sedentary group. There were significant differences in above results between Sedentary and AE groups after 4 weeks of aerobic exercise. The balance between BDNF and proBDNF in the ischemic hippocampus are likely to play an important role in the pathogenesis of PSD. And AE could improve depression, hippocampal neurogenesis, and increase BDNF/proBDNF ratio in the ischemic hippocampus of the PSD rats. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract In this work, a highly concentrated Mg-18 wt%Gd binary alloy was prepared and its tensile creep behaviors were studied. Both as-solution (AS) and as-aged (AA) samples were subjected to creep tests at 523 K under various stresses. The results showed that precipitate variants and sizes became similar in AS and AA samples during their secondary creep stages. Strain aging and artificial aging play equivalent roles in the strengthening effects on AS and AA samples. Dislocation climb composed by edge < a > dislocations was the dominant creep mechanism of AS sample, and dislocations bypassing precipitates strengthened AS sample limitedly. By contrast, cross-slip composed by basal < a > and prismatic < a > dislocations was the dominant creep mechanism of AA sample, and dislocations cutting precipitates strengthened AA sample obviously. Furthermore, compared to AS sample, a high density of precipitate-free zones (PFZs) were developed in AA sample during creep testing. These high-density PFZs then relieved local stress concentration and catalyzed a homogeneous stress distribution, which postponed the occurrence of creep rupture rather than accelerated it. Accordingly, AA sample had an increased creep resistance than that of AS sample at 523 K. This unexpected discovery that PFZs could contribute to the increase in creep resistance is believed to extend the application of the Mg-Gd alloys with vast potentials. Graphical abstract Image 1 Highlights • As-solution (AS) and as-aged (AA) Mg-18Gd alloys are creep tested at 523 K. • Dislocation climb is the dominant creep mechanism of AS sample. • Cross-slip is the dominant creep mechanism of AA sample. • A higher density of precipitate-free zone (PFZ) is observed in AA sample. • High-density PFZs lead to an amazing enhancement of creep resistance of AA sample. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose Determine the frequency and prognostic value of circulating Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) DNA copy number in angioimmunoblastic T-cell lymphoma (AITL) patients who were treated with dose-adjusted etoposide, prednisone, vincristine, cyclophosphamide and doxorubicin (DA-EPOCH) regimens. Materials and Methods Sixty newly-diagnosed AITL patients were retrospectively enrolled in the present study. All patients were treated with DA-EPOCH regimen. Results Twenty-two subjects (36.7%) had a EBV DNA-positive test at diagnosis. EBV DNA-positive patients were associated with lower lymphocyte-monocyte ratio (p=0.024). Median followup was 40 months (range, 14 to 100 months). The overall response rate for all the 60 AITL patents were 71.7% (95% confidence interval [CI], 58.6 to 82.5) with 3-year progressivefree survival (PFS) rate of 30.9%±6.1% and overall survival (OS) rate of 60.1%±6.6%. Not only did PFS estimation differ between the EBV DNA-positive and EBV DNA-negative group (hazard ratio [HR], 2.24,95% CI, 1.15 to 4.35,p=0.006), but also worse OS was observed in the pretreatment EBV DNA-positive group than in the EBV DNA-negative group (HR, 2.74,95% CI, 1.22 to 6.19,p=0.006). EBV DNA test positivity was independent prognostic marker for both PFS (HR, 2.17,95% CI, 1.17 to 4.00,p=0.014) and OS (HR, 3.24,95% CI, 1.48 to 7.11,p=0.004) after adjusting International Prognostic Index and prognostic index for AITL score. Reduction in EBV copies was significantly associated with therapy-response. Conclusion Circulating EBV DNA level was an important prognostic and monitoring marker for AITL patients who treated with DA-EPOCH regimens which cannot improve outcomes for AITL patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract A new thought of enhancing the creep properties of a hot-rolled Mg-4 wt%Y binary alloy was reported in this work. Using various characterization methods, it was indicated that cross-slip composed of basal ⟨ a ⟩ and prismatic ⟨ a ⟩ dislocations was the origin of creep rupture for the homogeneous annealed alloy. But amazingly, cross-slip was successfully inhibited by performing a pre-compression and introducing {10-12} twins into this alloy. As a result, pyramidal ⟨ c + a ⟩ slip became the dominant creep mechanism and enhanced creep properties were obtained in the pre-compressed alloy. It is hoped that this new thought of inhibiting cross-slip can enrich the basic theories and extend the application fields of Mg alloys. Graphical Abstract Unlabelled Image Highlights • Pre-compression along TD is successfully applied to rolled Mg-4Y alloy. • Pre-compression induces two types of {10-12} twins and a few of basal dislocations. • Cross-slip is the dominant creep mechanism of NPC sample. • Pyramidal ⟨ c + a ⟩ slip is the dominant creep mechanism of PC sample. • Creep properties of rolled Mg-4Y alloy are enhanced by inhibiting cross-slip. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A hot-extruded AZ80 Mg alloy rod was subjected to pre-treatments and post-hot compression in this work. Microstructure evolutions and resultant mechanical properties were investigated using samples with different states. The sample processed by solid solution and pre-aging (SSA) contained large-scale precipitates at the triple points of grain boundaries, while the sample processed by solid solution, pre-deformation and pre-aging (SSPDA) contained fine precipitates and different types of dislocations in the {10–12} twin interiors. Meanwhile, substructures were formed through dislocations surrounding the fine precipitates in SSPDA sample. During hot compression at 593 K, continuous dynamic recrystallization (DRX) was promoted by substructures in SSPDA sample, resulting in a full development of fine grains and a weakened texture. Inversely, discontinuous DRX happened in SSA sample, resulting in a low volume fraction of DRX grains and a relatively strong texture. The tensile testing showed that SSPDA sample had much higher strength and ductility than those of SSA sample. The enhanced mechanical properties were attributed to the completely developed DRX with grain refinement and texture weakening. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The multi walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) were treated with acid mixture (volume ratio of H2SO4 and HNO3 was 3 : 1) to make them carboxylated. And using carboxylated-MWCNTs as fillers, MWC- NTs/PVDF dielectric composites were formed by solution blending into poly(vinylidene fluoride) (PVDF). The structures and morphologies of the materials were characterized by XRD, Raman, TEM and SEM. The effects of the amount of MWCNTs on the thermal stability, mechanical properties and dielectric properties of MWC- NTs/PVDF composites were investigated by using TG, tensile test and LCR impedance analyzer. The result showed that with the increase of carboxylated-MWCNTs content, the thermodynamic and dielectric properties of the composites were significantly improved compared with those of pure PVDF. When m (MWCNTs) was 10%, the mass retention rate of the composites reached 76%. At room temperature and 1 kHz frequency, a per-colation threshold was achieved when m (MWCNTs) was 8%, and the dielectric constant of the composites reached 163.5, which was 16 times of that of the pure PVDF and the dielectric loss was 0.06. At this time, the mechanical properties of the composites were best. The tensile strength, elongation at break and modulus of elasticity were 58.92 MPa, 215.83% and 2 025.42 MPa, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The early miscarriage rate is reported to be higher in patients with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) compared with non-PCOS patients. However, whether PCOS is an independent risk factor for early miscarriage is still controversial; to what extent embryonic aneuploidy accounts for miscarriages of PCOS is still unknown. In this 1:3 matched-pair study, 67 lean PCOS patients and 201 controls matched for age, body mass index (BMI) and embryo scores undergoing a single euploid blastocyst transfer in vitrified-warmed cycles were analysed. Clinical pregnancy, early miscarriage and live birth rates were compared. Logistic regression analysis was performed to further evaluate the factors associated with early miscarriage and live birth. Clinical pregnancy rates were 50.7% in PCOS and 55.2% in control groups. Early miscarriage rate was significantly ( P = 0.029) increased in the PCOS group compared with controls; non-PCOS patients had a significantly higher live birth rate than PCOS patients, P < 0.001. Further regression analyses showed that PCOS was significantly associated with a higher risk of early miscarriage and decreased chance of live birth. In conclusion, PCOS in women undergoing pre-implantation genetic diagnosis may, independently from BMI and karyotype, increase the risk of miscarriage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Perceptual segregation of multiple sounds, which overlap in both time and spectra, into individual auditory streams is critical for hearing in natural environments. Some cues such as interaural time disparities (ITDs) play an important role in the segregation, especially when sounds are separated in space. In this study, we investigated the neural representation of two uncorrelated narrowband noises that shared the identical spectrum in the rat inferior colliculus (IC) using frequency-following-response (FFR) recordings, when the ITD for each noise stimulus was manipulated. The results of this study showed that recorded FFRs exhibited two distinctive components: the fast-varying temporal fine structure (TFS) component (FFR TFS ) and the slow-varying envelope component (FFR ENV ). When a single narrowband noise was presented alone, the FFR TFS, but not the FFR ENV , was sensitive to ITDs. When two narrowband noises were presented simultaneously, the FFR TFS took advantage of the ITD disparity that was associated with perceived spatial separation between the two concurrent sounds, and displayed a better linear synchronization to the sound with an ipsilateral-leading ITD. However, no effects of ITDs were found on the FFR ENV . These results suggest that the FFR TFS and FFR ENV represent two distinct types of signal processing in the auditory brainstem and contribute differentially to sound segregation based on spatial cues: the FFR TFS is more critical to spatial release from masking. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Xianyang geothermal field located in Guanzhong Basin is being used for space heating so it is necessary to understand the recharge and circulation of the thermal water in order to ensure sustainability of production. Weibei Fault that cuts through the field is believed to play a key role in the formation of the geothermal field and is investigated in this study. Isotope results indicate that the geothermal water in Xianyang geothermal field is recharged mainly from Qinling Mountain on the southern side of the Guanzhong Basin. Geothermal water in the northern side of Weibei Fault is more matured than that in the southern side in terms of chemistry. The deeper reservoir exhibits a stronger oxygen shift. The maximum reservoir temperature estimated for the south and north sectors are markedly different: 134 °C and 106 °C, respectively. Accordingly, the average thermal gradients based on well logging in the south range from 2.2 to 3.5 °C/100 m, and in the north range from 3.2 to 3.3 °C/100 m. The circulation depths of geothermal water in the south and north of the Weibei Fault are calculated to be 2352–4120 m and 2444–2780 m, respectively. Using geothermometry, in combination with geothermal gradients, greatly improves depth estimation of geothermal reservoirs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

New monolithic nitrogen-containing microporous cellular activated carbon was successfully prepared from phenol-urea-formaldehyde (PUF) organic foam for CO2 and H2 adsorption and was characterized by thermogravimetric analysis (TG), scanning electron microscope (SEM), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), elemental analysis (EA), a mechanical testing machine, N2-sorption and H2/CO2 sorption. The carbon yield was approximately 50% for carbonization and the burn off for activation ranged from 40% to 56%, which linearly increased with activation time. The macroporosity corresponded to the connected network of cells with diameters ranging from 100m to 600m, and the pinholes in the cell walls had diameters ranging from 1m to 2m. The micro/mesoporosity is located at the inner surface of the cells. Thus, higher adsorption kinetics than usual from activated carbon are expected. The developed carbon with the highest (1674 m2/g) and highest (0.86cm3/g) contained 1.5% nitrogen, had a CO2 adsorption capacity of 3.53mmol/g at 298K, and had an H2 adsorption capacity of 1.9wt.% at 77K, both at atmospheric pressure (1 bar), which were among the best in activated carbons from physical activation. In the current study, a new monolithic-activated carbon with nitrogen-containing from phenol-ureaformaldehyde (PUF) resin, which is widely used in wood industry is successfully prepared. It was found that the micropores, mesopores and macropores are located in the foams. These cellular-activated carbons are good candidate materials for gas adsorption due to the high surface area and cellular structure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• A physics-based coupled surface–subsurface modeling approach is presented to understand coastal flooding. • Both sea-level rise and total rainfall can exacerbate coastal flooding via different mechanisms. • Rise of local water table was identified though total groundwater storage kept unchanged. • Physics-based modeling approach can capture temporal dynamics of coastal flooding with limited spatial capability. Rising sea levels increase coastal extreme events of inundation along the global coastlines. Existing hydrologic and groundwater models simulate inundation processes but simplify groundwater-surface water interactions, a key control on flood generation in coastal areas. Here we apply a coupled surface–subsurface hydrologic model to evaluate the sensitivity of shallow groundwater to sea-level rise across three watersheds in Southeast China. It was found that historical decrease of annual rainfall resulted in no changes in total water storage but lower streamflow. Sea-level rise can increase low flow and local groundwater inundation, without changes in total water storage. GIS analysis of elevation can give a first approximation of vulnerability to marine inundation. Our physics-based modeling approach helped capture the temporal dynamics of water table and improved process understanding on coastal flooding. This study provides a new insight to quantify the spatiotemporal dynamics of groundwater inundation and river floods across coastal watersheds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• A physics-based coupled surface–subsurface modeling approach is presented to understand coastal flooding. • Both sea-level rise and total rainfall can exacerbate coastal flooding via different mechanisms. • Rise of local water table was identified though total groundwater storage kept unchanged. • Physics-based modeling approach can capture temporal dynamics of coastal flooding with limited spatial capability. Rising sea levels increase coastal extreme events of inundation along the global coastlines. Existing hydrologic and groundwater models simulate inundation processes but simplify groundwater-surface water interactions, a key control on flood generation in coastal areas. Here we apply a coupled surface–subsurface hydrologic model to evaluate the sensitivity of shallow groundwater to sea-level rise across three watersheds in Southeast China. It was found that historical decrease of annual rainfall resulted in no changes in total water storage but lower streamflow. Sea-level rise can increase low flow and local groundwater inundation, without changes in total water storage. GIS analysis of elevation can give a first approximation of vulnerability to marine inundation. Our physics-based modeling approach helped capture the temporal dynamics of water table and improved process understanding on coastal flooding. This study provides a new insight to quantify the spatiotemporal dynamics of groundwater inundation and river floods across coastal watersheds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A prospective cohort study was conducted to determine whether chromosome aneuploidy increases the risk of early spontaneous abortions in patients with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). A total of 1461 patients who conceived after IVF and embryo transfer were followed; 100 patients who had experienced clinical spontaneous abortion were recruited, 32 with PCOS and 68 without PCOS. Before 2013, genetic analysis comprised conventional cultured villus chromosome karyotyping and a multiplex ligation-dependent probe amplification subtelomere assay combined with fluorescence in-situ hybridization; since 2013, array-based comparative genomic hybridization technique combined with chromosome karyotyping has been used. Age, BMI, pregnancy history, gestational age and total gonadotrophin dosage did not differ significantly between the PCOS and non-PCOS groups. In the PCOS group, 28.1% of abortuses demonstrated aneuploidy, which was significantly lower ( P = 0.001) than in the non-PCOS group (72.1%). Further statistical analyses controlling for maternal age demonstrated that abortuses of women with PCOS were significantly less ( P = 0.001) likely to have chromosome aneuploidy. Embryonic aneuploidy does not play a vital role in early spontaneous abortion in women with PCOS. Maternal factors resulting in endometrial disorders are more likely to be responsible for the increased risk of early spontaneous abortion in patients with PCOS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aims to demonstrate the possible relationship between the insulin-like growth factor (IGF) system and early miscarriage in polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) patients with euploid embryos. 40 pregnant women included. 9 had PCOS and miscarried; 20 had PCOS and a successful ongoing pregnancy; the remaining 11 women did not have PCOS and miscarried. An ultrasound scan was performed to prove clinical pregnancy and a blood sample was taken on day 55 ± 4 of gestation. Serum samples of IGF-1, insulin-like growth factor binding protein-1 (IGFBP-1), total testosterone, serum hormone binding protein (SHBG), leptin and soluble leptin receptor (sOb-R) were obtained. In miscarriages, samples of decidua were obtained during vaccum curettage. Embryonic chromosomes in all miscarriages were proven to be normal. The expression of IGF-1, IGFBP-1, leptin, long-form leptin receptor and androge sOb-R n receptor (AR) were examined in the decidua. We found that miscarried PCOS patients showed significantly increased free androgen index and free IGF index, as well as decreased SHBG and IGFBP-1 than other two groups in peripheral blood. In the decidua, miscarried PCOS patients showed significantly increased expression of IGF-1 and decreased IGFBP-1 when compared with non-PCOS. AR was not expressed in the decidua of either group. Our results suggest that early miscarriage is associated with increased IGF-1 and decreased IGFBP-1 in PCOS patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nitrogen-doped hierarchical carbon cryogels with good monolithic structure are synthesized from phenol (P), melamine (M), and formaldehyde (F) by sol-gel, freeze-drying, and carbonization process with different molar ratios of F/(P + M). The synthesized cryogels have the characteristics of cost-effective and abundant hierarchical pores. The pore structures, chemical properties, and CO 2 adsorption performance of the prepared carbon cryogels are investigated. The results reveal that the PF carbon cryogel without N doping shows poor porosity characteristics, which leads to lower CO 2 adsorption performance. For the N -doped PMF carbon cryogels, with the increase in the molar ratio of F/(P + M), the specific surface area and micropore volume decreases from 1160.6 to 874.1 m2/g and from 0.47 to 0.35 cm3/g, respectively, indicating that a lower formaldehyde content is conducive to the formation of more micropores and higher specific surface area. The carbon cryogel PMF2.0 (F/(P + M) = 2.0) exhibits a CO 2 adsorption capacity as high as 5.79 mmol/g, and it also has a high CO 2 /N 2 adsorption selectivity (13.43) and isosteric adsorption heat (33.06 kJ/mol). Thus, the PMF carbon cryogel exhibits immense potential as an adsorbent for CO 2 capture, and its excellent performance is attributed to the synergistic effect of N doping and abundant micropores with appropriate size. The present manuscript used phenol and melamine as inexpensive raw materials to fully replace resorcinol, with a more economical freeze-drying process for cost-effective nitrogen-doped monolithic hierarchical carbon cryogel preparation, which is a promising candidate for CO 2 capture. [Display omitted] • Hierarchical N -doped monolithic carbon cryogels were prepared cost effectively. • Specific surface area as high as 1160 m2/g was performed by PMF carbon cryogel. • CO 2 adsorption capacity of PMF sample was increased by 145.5% than that PF sample. • High isosteric adsorption heat of PMF carbon cryogel up to 33.06 kJ/mol was obtained. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]