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Background: Submucosal fibrosis (OSF) of the oral cavity is a chronic scarring disease. Arecoline (Are) is the driving factor for the occurrence and deterioration of OSF. Curcumin plays a vital anti‐inflammatory role in Are‐induced OSF development. However, its potential pharmacological mechanism needs to be elucidated. Methods: The relative molecular level was measured via qRT‐PCR or Western blot. MTT assay, transwell assay and flow cytometry detected cell proliferation, migration, and apoptosis. The correlation between hypoxia‐inducible factor‐1α (HIF‐1α) and LTBP2 promoter was confirmed through dual‐luciferase reporter assay. ELISA was performed to detect inflammatory cytokines levels. Results: Curcumin alleviated Are‐induced oral mucosal fibroblast cells fibrosis by reducing oral mucosa fibroblasts viability, promoting cell apoptosis, suppressing cell migration, and down‐regulating the levels of fibrosis markers and inflammatory factors. Curcumin relieved Are‐induced OSF via inhibiting HIF‐1α. Mechanically, HIF‐1α bound to the promoter of LTBP2 to transcriptionally activated LTBP2. LTBP2 knockdown relieved Are‐induced OSF, and curcumin down‐regulated LTBP2 via inhibiting HIF‐1α to relieve Are‐induced OSF. Moreover, curcumin decreased NF‐κB signal associated proteins via inhibiting LTBP2 to relieve Are‐induced OSF. Conclusion: Curcumin reduced the transcription level of LTBP2 by inhibiting HIF‐1α, thereby inactivating NF‐κB pathway to alleviate Are‐induced OSF. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Key Clinical Message: COVID‐19 infection may increase the likelihood of neutropenia in patients already on clozapine. In clozapine treated patients experiencing COVID‐19 associated neutropenia, adjunct therapy with lithium can be considered. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: Obesity induces insulin resistance and chronic inflammation, impacting human health. The relationship between obesity, gut microbiota, and regulatory mechanisms has been studied extensively. Dendrobium officinale polysaccharide (DOP), a traditional Chinese herbal medicine, potentially reduces insulin resistance. However, the mechanism through which DOP affects gut microbiota and alleviates obesity‐induced insulin resistance in rats requires further investigation. RESULTS: The current study aimed to assess the impact of DOP on gut microbiota and insulin resistance in rats on a high‐fat diet. The results revealed that DOP effectively reduced blood lipids, glucose disorders, oxidative stress, and inflammatory infiltration in the liver of obese Sprague Dawley rats. This was achieved by downregulating SOCS3 expression and upregulating insulin receptor substrate‐1 (IRS‐1) by regulating the JAK/STAT/SOCS3 signaling pathway. Notably, DOP intervention enhanced the abundance of beneficial gut microbiota and reduced harmful microbiota. Correlation analysis demonstrated significant associations among intestinal microbiota, SOCS3‐mediated IRS‐1 expression, and inflammatory factors. CONCLUSION: Dendrobium officinale polysaccharide regulated the gut microbiota, enhanced IRS‐1 expression, and mitigated liver injury and insulin resistance due to a high‐fat diet. These findings depict the potential anti‐insulin resistance properties of DOP and offer further evidence for addressing obesity and its complications. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tiger nuts (Cyperus esculentus L.) have been widely cultivated as a bioenergy crop in northern China. The value of tubers is receiving special attention, but the lack of information on how organs of tiger nuts coordinate resources to adapt to arid environments has limited the potential tuber production and diverse use. To address this knowledge gap, we experimented in the Ulan Buh Desert, Inner Mongolia (106° 33′ 28″ E, 40° 27′ 32″ N). Three fertilizer treatments were applied: zero fertilizer (N:P = 0:0), traditional fertilizer (N:P = 15:15), and additional nitrogen fertilizer (N:P = 60:15). Investigations were conducted at seedling, rhizome production, tuber formation, and tuber maturation stages. The results showed that under zero fertilizer, tiger nuts allocated biomass predominantly to propagative organs, namely rhizomes and tubers. However, an increase in leaf area or root surface area would necessitate more investment in leaf or root dry mass, resulting in diminishing returns. For biomass allocation, tiger nut responded the same way to traditional fertilizer treatment and zero fertilizer treatment, but the tuber number and yield increase under traditional fertilizer application. Additional nitrogen fertilizer stimulated shoot production through accelerated rhizome production aided by leaf area increasing. Fertilizer application can significantly increase both the number of tiger nuts and tuber yield. Nitrogen addition positively influenced aboveground biomass and enhanced rhizome tillering. Strong adaptability of tiger nuts makes the plant a suitable pioneer crop for developing marginal lands. The robust aboveground growth after nitrogen application enhances suitability for pasture utilization. Core Ideas: Tiger nuts have been promoted as a bioenergy crop in Inner Mongolia, with potential uses yet to be explored.Tiger nuts demonstrate strong adaptability in arid areas, enabling them to thrive in nutrient‐deficient conditions.Tiger nuts with strong adaptability can fully exploit their production potential in marginal lands of Inner Mongolia.Nitrogen fertilizer application plays a major role in biomass partitioning in tiger nuts in an arid ecosystem. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purposes: Developing the cultivation and utilization of tiger nuts on marginal land is an effective approach to tackle the shortage of arable land in northern China. However, key information on their growth is unclear. This study aims to reveal the adaption potential of tiger nuts to on marginal land to help improve and adjust management practices. Methods: Three treatments were arranged to plant tiger nut in marginal land: no fertilization (N:P = 0:0), traditional fertilization (N:P = 15:15), and additional nitrogen fertilizer (N:P = 60:15). Functional traits of tiger nut and soil nutrients over three growth periods were investigated. Results: Under no fertilization, tiger nuts extended roots and toughened leaves to maximize nutrient absorption, and then quickly transported those nutrients to tubers. However, the lack of available phosphorus in the soil prevented the expansion of tubers. With the addition of fertilizers, tiger nuts produced more individuals, and their abundant belowground tissues resulted in soil organic matter increase. Under traditional fertilization, the tuber remains the main reproductive organ for tiger nuts, and phosphorus has a significant effect on the expansion of tubers. But under additional nitrogen fertilizer, the main reproductive organ changed to the stolon, nitrogen and phosphorus acted on stolons to promote their extension. Conclusion: Tiger nuts outstandingly adapt to marginal land environments and adjust their adaptation strategies according to varying soil nutrient conditions, Best tuber production will be achieved in soils with higher phosphorus availability, and a significant nitrogen proportion increase in fertilizers is necessary for enhancing aboveground production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Various barriers lead to a shortage of organs for transplantation in Malaysia. One drive to improve the organ donation rate operates through future healthcare practitioners and practitioner advocacy. This scoping review was carried out to establish and summarise findings about organ donation-related articles among the public, health sciences students and health personnel. A further aim was to synthesise the latest data on knowledge and attitudes towards organ donation in the Malaysian population. Methods: PubMed, Scopus, Google Scholar and the Malaysian Medical Repository (MyMedR) were used for a search conducted up to May 2022. Relevant search terms included 'Organ donation' and 'Malaysia'. Journal articles related to knowledge, attitudes and intention were grouped under the general public and health science. Students and health personnel were included. Eligible studies were reviewed by two independent reviewers. Any disagreements were resolved by consensus with a third reviewer. Results: The 31 included articles revealed an increased level of awareness among the public regarding organ donation. The analysis identified that nonrecognition of brainstem death (38.5%), no knowledge of how to contact the Organ Transplant Coordinator (82.3%) and never approaching the families of a potential donor (63.9%) led to a lack of confidence among healthcare practitioners to promote organ donation. Conclusion: The shortage of organ donors is the result of the failure to identify the expected donor, obtain consent and procure the organs due to the passivity of Malaysian health professionals in promoting the organ donation process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The rare sugar D-allulose is a potential replacement for sucrose with a wide range of health benefits. Conventional production involves the employment of the Izumoring strategy, which utilises D-allulose 3-epimerase (DAEase) or D-psicose 3-epimerase (DPEase) to convert D-fructose into D-allulose. Additionally, the process can also utilise D-tagatose 3-epimerase (DTEase). However, the process is not efficient due to the poor thermotolerance of the enzymes and low conversion rates between the sugars. This review describes three newly identified DAEases that possess desirable properties for the industrial-scale manufacturing of D-allulose. Other methods used to enhance process efficiency include the engineering of DAEases for improved thermotolerance or acid resistance, the utilization of Bacillus subtilis for the biosynthesis of D-allulose, and the immobilization of DAEases to enhance its activity, half-life, and stability. All these research advancements improve the yield of D-allulose, hence closing the gap between the small-scale production and industrial-scale manufacturing of D-allulose. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

All-inorganic CsPbBr3 perovskite solar cells have received growing attention in the photovoltaic field due to their high stability, low cost, and simple preparation processes. However, the high-density defects in perovskite films and the large energy differences at interfaces have been the main challenges for achieving high power conversion efficiency and good stability. In this work, nickel oxide (NiOx) decorated graphene oxide (GO) is used as a hole collector at the perovskite/carbon interface for a carbon-based CsPbBr3 perovskite solar cell. The crystallinity of the CsPbBr3 perovskite layer and the hole extraction ability are markedly enhanced because of the p-type charge transfer doping of GO from oxygenic groups to NiOx. Finally, the all-inorganic CsPbBr3 perovskite solar cell achieves a power conversion efficiency of 8.59%. More importantly, the best solar cell free of encapsulation retains 94.2% of its initial efficiency in an air environment over 21 days. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A photovoltaic–hydrovoltaic-coupled carbon-based, all-inorganic Cs0.91Rb0.09PbBr3 perovskite solar cell achieved a peak power conversion efficiency of 9.40% under one sun illumination and a maximum voltage of 0.39 V and current of 1.40 μA in a flowing vapor atmosphere. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Carbon-based all-inorganic perovskite solar cells have attracted growing interest owing to their simple fabrication process, low cost, and high stability in air. On account of the large interfacial energy barriers and polycrystalline features of perovskite films, the carrier interface recombination and inherent defects in the perovskite layer are still great challenges in further increasing the power conversion efficiency and stability of carbon-based PSCs. We present here a trifunctional polyethylene oxide buffer layer at the perovskite/carbon interface to promote the PCE and stability of carbon-based all-inorganic CsPbBr3 PSCs: (i) the PEO layer increases the crystallinity of inorganic CsPbBr3 grains for low defect state density; (ii) the oxygenic groups in PEO chains passivate the defects on the perovskite surface; and (iii) the long hydrophobic alkyl chains improve the stability in moisture. The best encapsulated PSC achieves a PCE of 8.84% and maintains 84.8% of its initial efficiency in air with 80% RH over 30 days. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The graphene-like wrapped Ni@C catalysts were facilely synthesized by a modified sol–gel method. Nickel nitrate and citric acid (CA) were adopted as the raw materials to form sol–gel mixture. Under the circumstances, the additive CA were employed not only as a complexing agent but also as a carbon source. It is found that the calcination temperature and the mole ratios between Ni and CA are the key factors affecting the physical property and the catalytic performance of catalysts in the conversion of nitroarenes into corresponding anilines. The results show that the Ni@C-500(1:1) catalyst exhibited the best performance in the hydrogenation of o -chloronitrobenzenes (o -CNB) to o -chloroanilines (o -CAN). The yield of o -CAN was achieved at 100% when o -CNB was completely converted at 40.0 °C under 2.0 MPa H2 for 2.0 h. Furthermore, the Ni@C-500(1:1) catalyst could be separated and recovered easily after reaction by an external magnetic field. The investigated results indicate that the Ni@C-500(1:1) catalyst remained higher activity after using twelve times. More importantly, this kind of catalyst is also active for the selective hydrogenation of other nitroarenes into the corresponding anilines. This new synthetic method may pave a way for producing low-cost Ni@C catalysts on a large scale, which is attractive for industrial anilines applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This review addresses the latest advancements in the integration of aggregation‐induced emission (AIE) materials with polymer electrospinning, to accomplish fine‐scale electrospun fibers with tunable photophysical and photochemical properties. Micro‐ and nanoscale fibers augmented with AIE dyes (termed AIEgens) are bespoke composite systems that can overcome the limitation posed by aggregation‐caused quenching, a critical deficiency of conventional luminescent materials. This review comprises three parts. First, the reader is exposed to the basic concepts of AIE and the fundamental mechanisms underpinning the restriction of intermolecular motions. This is followed by an introduction to electrospinning techniques pertinent to AIE‐based fibers, and the core parameters for controlling fiber architecture and resultant properties. Second, exemplars are drawn from latest research to demonstrate how electrospun nanofibers and porous films incorporating modified AIEgens (especially tetraphenylethylene and triphenylamine derivatives) can yield enhanced photostability, photothermal properties, photoefficiency (quantum yield), and improved device sensitivity. Advanced applications are drawn from several promising sectors, encompassing optoelectronics, drug delivery and biology, chemosensors and mechanochromic sensors, and innovative photothermal devices, among others. Finally, the outstanding challenges together with potential opportunities in the nascent field of electrospun AIE‐active fibers are presented, for stimulating frontier research and explorations in this exciting field. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Selenium (Se) is an essential trace element in human health. In this article, egg white polypeptide (EWP) was used as the reducing agent and stabiliser to prepare a novel type of EWP‐selenium complex nanoparticles (EWP‐SeNPs). Particle size, morphology, FT‐IR, stability, and functional properties of EWP‐SeNPs were characterised. The results showed that EWP‐SeNPs were 30–50 nm in diameter and were spherical. The SeNPs complexed with the EWP through O‐ and N‐ containing groups. This reaction was entropy‐driven spontaneous and the binding force was mainly hydrophobic. The stability of EWP‐SeNPs was best at pH = 10. Moreover, EWP‐SeNPs showed significantly inhibitory effect on HepG‐2 cells in the range of 6.2500 to 50.0000 μg mL−1. Anti‐bacterial effect occurred when the concentration of EWP‐SeNPs was 1.2500 mg mL−1. This study would provide a green method for synthesising stable SeNPs, which was helpful for further evaluation in the food field. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims/Introduction: Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is related to prediabetes and diabetes. Whether patients with OSA have a higher risk of prediabetes/diabetes remains unclear. We aimed to carry out a meta‐analysis of published studies to evaluate the relationships between OSA and prediabetes and diabetes, and the impact of the severity of OSA on diabetes. Materials and Methods: The PubMed, EMBASE and Cochrane databases were searched from January 2011 to July 2021. The associations between OSA and impaired fasting glucose, impaired glucose tolerance, impaired glucose regulation and diabetes mellitus were analyzed. We estimated the pooled odds ratios using fixed or random effects models. We included 25 studies comprising a total of 154,948 patients with OSA and risk factors for prediabetes/diabetes (20 and 16, respectively) in the analysis. Results: OSA was associated with a higher risk of impaired fasting glucose, impaired glucose tolerance, impaired glucose regulation and diabetes mellitus in the cohort studies and cross‐sectional studies. The pooled odds ratios were 2.34 (95% confidence interval [CI] 1.16–4.72), 1.58 (95% CI 1.15–2.15), 1.65 (95% CI 1.12–2.42), 2.15 (95% CI 1.68–2.75) and 3.62 (95% CI 2.75–4.75), respectively. Subgroup analyses were based on the proportions of men and women. The results showed that OSA was a risk factor, and there was no significant difference between the two groups. The risk of diabetes increased with the severity of OSA. Conclusions: The risk of developing prediabetes and diabetes was higher in patients with OSA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The freight transport sector is a critical sector for achieving carbon peak and carbon neutrality targets. However, there are many uncertainties regarding the e-commerce development, promotion speed of low-carbon measures, and freight transport technologies. Existing research lacks considering the multiple uncertainties on the low-carbon technological pathway for freight transport. Consequently, a bottom-up National Energy Technology-Transport (NET-Transport) model is developed based on the principle of cost minimization for optimizing the low-carbon transition pathway of the freight transport. The study comprehensively evaluates the sustainable technological pathway, energy saving and carbon emission reduction of various measures, including shifting to low-carbon transport modes, improving transport energy efficiency and promoting clean energy. Results show that the freight transport demand will reach 24.1–60.5 trillion ton-kilometers by 2060. CO 2 emission would peak at 0.8–1.0 billion tons in 2030–2041 if the breakthrough technologies are not developed on a large scale. Carbon neutrality in the freight sector is difficult to achieve by relying on the low-carbon transition of the energy system alone, with 57–555 million tons of remaining CO 2 emissions in 2060. The advanced technologies have significant effects on energy saving and emission reduction. The research, development, and application of hydrogen-fueled heavy trucks should be accelerated. • A National Energy Technology model is established for China's freight transport. • The freight demand under the influence of e-commerce development is forecasted. • The uncertain impacts of various low-carbon measures are investigated. • China's freight transport is difficult to achieve carbon neutrality in 2060. • A low-carbon development pathway is proposed for China's freight transport. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Intermittent hypoxia (IH) is the predominant pathophysiological disturbance in obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), characterized by neuronal cell death and neurocognitive impairment. We focus on the accumulated mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) in the cytosol, which acts as a damage-associated molecular pattern (DAMP) and activates the cyclic GMP-AMP synthase (cGAS)—stimulator of interferon genes (STING) pathway, a known trigger for immune responses and neuronal death in degenerative diseases. However, the specific role and mechanism of the mtDNA-cGAS-STING axis in IH-induced neural damage remain largely unexplored. Here, we investigated the involvement of PANoptosis, a novel type of programmed cell death linked to cytosolic mtDNA accumulation and the cGAS-STING pathway activation, in neuronal cell death induced by IH. Our study found that PANoptosis occurred in primary cultures of hippocampal neurons and HT22 cell lines exposed to IH. In addition, we discovered that during IH, mtDNA released into the cytoplasm via the mitochondrial permeability transition pore (mPTP) activates the cGAS-STING pathway, exacerbating PANoptosis-associated neuronal death. Pharmacologically inhibiting mPTP opening or depleting mtDNA significantly reduced cGAS-STING pathway activation and PANoptosis in HT22 cells under IH. Moreover, our findings indicated that the cGAS-STING pathway primarily promotes PANoptosis by modulating endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress. Inhibiting or silencing the cGAS-STING pathway substantially reduced ER stress-mediated neuronal death and PANoptosis, while lentivirus-mediated STING overexpression exacerbated these effects. In summary, our study elucidates that cytosolic escape of mtDNA triggers cGAS-STING pathway-dependent neuronal PANoptosis in response to IH, mainly through regulating ER stress. The discovery of the novel mechanism provides theoretical support for the prevention and treatment of neuronal damage and cognitive impairment in patients with OSA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: This study aims to explore the feasibility of employing convolutional neural networks for detecting and localizing implant cutouts on anteroposterior pelvic radiographs.The research involves the development of two Deep Learning models. Initially, a model was created for image-level classification of implant cutouts using 40191 pelvic radiographs obtained from a single institution. The radiographs were partitioned into training, validation, and hold-out test datasets in a 6/2/2 ratio. Performance metrics including the area under the receiver operator characteristics curve (AUROC), sensitivity, and specificity were calculated using the test dataset. Additionally, a second object detection model was trained to localize implant cutouts within the same dataset. Bounding box visualizations were generated on images predicted as cutout-positive by the classification model in the test dataset, serving as an adjunct for assessing algorithm validity.The classification model had an accuracy of 99.7%, sensitivity of 84.6%, specificity of 99.8%, AUROC of 0.998 (95% CI: 0.996, 0.999) and AUPRC of 0.774 (95% CI: 0.646, 0.880). From the pelvic radiographs predicted as cutout-positive, the object detection model could achieve 95.5% localization accuracy on true positive images, but falsely generated 14 results from the 15 false-positive predictions.The classification model showed fair accuracy for detection of implant cutouts, while the object detection model effectively localized cutout. This serves as proof of concept of using a deep learning-based approach for classification and localization of implant cutouts from pelvic radiographs.Materials and methods: This study aims to explore the feasibility of employing convolutional neural networks for detecting and localizing implant cutouts on anteroposterior pelvic radiographs.The research involves the development of two Deep Learning models. Initially, a model was created for image-level classification of implant cutouts using 40191 pelvic radiographs obtained from a single institution. The radiographs were partitioned into training, validation, and hold-out test datasets in a 6/2/2 ratio. Performance metrics including the area under the receiver operator characteristics curve (AUROC), sensitivity, and specificity were calculated using the test dataset. Additionally, a second object detection model was trained to localize implant cutouts within the same dataset. Bounding box visualizations were generated on images predicted as cutout-positive by the classification model in the test dataset, serving as an adjunct for assessing algorithm validity.The classification model had an accuracy of 99.7%, sensitivity of 84.6%, specificity of 99.8%, AUROC of 0.998 (95% CI: 0.996, 0.999) and AUPRC of 0.774 (95% CI: 0.646, 0.880). From the pelvic radiographs predicted as cutout-positive, the object detection model could achieve 95.5% localization accuracy on true positive images, but falsely generated 14 results from the 15 false-positive predictions.The classification model showed fair accuracy for detection of implant cutouts, while the object detection model effectively localized cutout. This serves as proof of concept of using a deep learning-based approach for classification and localization of implant cutouts from pelvic radiographs.Results: This study aims to explore the feasibility of employing convolutional neural networks for detecting and localizing implant cutouts on anteroposterior pelvic radiographs.The research involves the development of two Deep Learning models. Initially, a model was created for image-level classification of implant cutouts using 40191 pelvic radiographs obtained from a single institution. The radiographs were partitioned into training, validation, and hold-out test datasets in a 6/2/2 ratio. Performance metrics including the area under the receiver operator characteristics curve (AUROC), sensitivity, and specificity were calculated using the test dataset. Additionally, a second object detection model was trained to localize implant cutouts within the same dataset. Bounding box visualizations were generated on images predicted as cutout-positive by the classification model in the test dataset, serving as an adjunct for assessing algorithm validity.The classification model had an accuracy of 99.7%, sensitivity of 84.6%, specificity of 99.8%, AUROC of 0.998 (95% CI: 0.996, 0.999) and AUPRC of 0.774 (95% CI: 0.646, 0.880). From the pelvic radiographs predicted as cutout-positive, the object detection model could achieve 95.5% localization accuracy on true positive images, but falsely generated 14 results from the 15 false-positive predictions.The classification model showed fair accuracy for detection of implant cutouts, while the object detection model effectively localized cutout. This serves as proof of concept of using a deep learning-based approach for classification and localization of implant cutouts from pelvic radiographs.Conclusion: This study aims to explore the feasibility of employing convolutional neural networks for detecting and localizing implant cutouts on anteroposterior pelvic radiographs.The research involves the development of two Deep Learning models. Initially, a model was created for image-level classification of implant cutouts using 40191 pelvic radiographs obtained from a single institution. The radiographs were partitioned into training, validation, and hold-out test datasets in a 6/2/2 ratio. Performance metrics including the area under the receiver operator characteristics curve (AUROC), sensitivity, and specificity were calculated using the test dataset. Additionally, a second object detection model was trained to localize implant cutouts within the same dataset. Bounding box visualizations were generated on images predicted as cutout-positive by the classification model in the test dataset, serving as an adjunct for assessing algorithm validity.The classification model had an accuracy of 99.7%, sensitivity of 84.6%, specificity of 99.8%, AUROC of 0.998 (95% CI: 0.996, 0.999) and AUPRC of 0.774 (95% CI: 0.646, 0.880). From the pelvic radiographs predicted as cutout-positive, the object detection model could achieve 95.5% localization accuracy on true positive images, but falsely generated 14 results from the 15 false-positive predictions.The classification model showed fair accuracy for detection of implant cutouts, while the object detection model effectively localized cutout. This serves as proof of concept of using a deep learning-based approach for classification and localization of implant cutouts from pelvic radiographs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The remote and non-invasive optical thermometer exploiting fluorescence intensity ratio technology is of great importance in various intelligent optoelectronic sensors. Dual-emitting YNbO 4 :Bi3+, Eu3+ phosphor is synthesized and investigated for the development of temperature sensing materials. The phosphor excited at 318 nm shows a blue broad band emission and several red sharp peaks. The value of Bi3+→Eu3+ energy transfer can reach 98.2% when Eu3+ doping content is 0.14. Benefiting from diverse thermal response behaviors due to Bi3+ and Eu3+ ions completely different electronic configurations, a dual-emitting optical thermometer is designed. The maximum values of absolute and relative sensitivities are as high as 2.51% K−1 at 473 K and 1.43% K−1 at 423 K, respectively. The thermochromic phosphor possesses a great chromaticity shift (ΔE = 317×10−3) with temperature. Based on superior color discriminability, visual colorimetry temperature measurement relied on thermal characteristic is proposed. All the results demonstrate that YNbO 4 :0.01Bi3+, 0.005Eu3+ phosphor as a sensitive and reliable optical thermometer has great potentials in temperature measurement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

For the authentication of powdered spices, the possible impact of the natural variations of adulterants on classification or prediction models is always ignored, and research in this area is still quite scarce. This study takes the application of front-face synchronous fluorescence spectroscopy (FFSFS) to the rapid and non-destructive authentication of cumin powder adulterated with ground peanut shells and maize flour as an example to show that how the natural variations of adulterants affect model prediction. Using three samples of each adulterant, two modes of sample set were designed for comparison. Mode 1 used the first adulterant for calibration and the other two for external validation. Mode 2 employed two adulterants in training and the third for external validation. The classification of adulterants by principal component analysis coupled with linear discriminant analysis (PCA–LDA) showed that mode 2 had a higher prediction rate (82%) in external validation than mode 1 (63%). For quantification, prediction models were built by partial least square (PLS) regression, and were validated by both cross- and external validation. The result of mode 2 was better than that of mode 1, with the determination coefficients of prediction (R p 2) greater than 0.93, the root mean square error of prediction (RMSEP) < 4.2% and residual predictive deviation (RPD) at least 2.7. This study demonstrates the necessity of the consideration of the natural variations of adulterants when constructing a robust model for adulteration detection. [Display omitted] • Front-face fluorescent property of cumin powder is investigated. • Its emission is dissimilar to those of ground peanut shells and maize flour. • Flavonoids, phenolic acids and tryptophan contribute to the distinction. • Simultaneous detection of dual adulterants in cumin powder by PLS2. • Effect of natural variation of adulterants on prediction model is evaluated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dinoflagellates, which are responsible for more than 80% of harmful algal blooms in coastal waters, are competitive in low-phosphate environments. However, the specific acclimated phosphorus strategies to adapt to phosphorus deficiency in dinoflagellates, particularly through intracellular phosphorus metabolism, remain largely unknown. Comprehensive physiological, biochemical, and transcriptomic analyses were conducted to investigate intracellular phosphorus modulation in a model dinoflagellate, Prorocentrum shikokuense , with a specific focus on membrane lipid remodeling and autophagy in response to phosphorus deficiency. Under phosphorus deficiency, P. shikokuense exhibited a preference to spare phospholipids with nonphospholipids. The major phospholipid classes of phosphatidylcholine and phosphatidylethanolamine decreased in content, whereas the betaine lipid class of diacylglyceryl carboxyhydroxymethylcholine increased in content. Furthermore, under phosphorus deficiency, P. shikokuense induced autophagy as a mechanism to conserve and recycle cellular phosphorus resources. The present study highlights the effective modulation of intracellular phosphorus in P. shikokuense through membrane phospholipid remodeling and autophagy and contributes to a comprehensive understanding of the acclimation strategies to low-phosphorus conditions in dinoflagellates. [Display omitted] • P. shikokuense effectively modulates cellular P resources under P deficiency. • P. shikokuense spares and recycles phospholipids under P deficiency. • PC and PE increase whereas DGCC decreases in content under P deficiency. • P. shikokuense triggers autophagy under P deficiency. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We derive a novel two-phase flow system in porous media as a relaxation limit of compressible multi-fluid systems. Considering a one-velocity Baer–Nunziato system with friction forces, we first justify its pressure-relaxation limit toward a Kapila model in a uniform manner with respect to the time-relaxation parameter associated with the friction forces. Then, we show that the diffusely rescaled solutions of the damped Kapila system converge to the solutions of the new two-phase porous media system as the time-relaxation parameter tends to zero. In addition, we also prove the convergence of the Baer–Nunziato system to the same two-phase porous media system as both relaxation parameters tend to zero. For each relaxation limit, we exhibit sharp rates of convergence in a critical regularity setting. Our proof is based on an elaborate low-frequency and high-frequency analysis via the Littlewood–Paley decomposition and includes three main ingredients: a refined spectral analysis of the linearized problem to determine the frequency threshold explicitly in terms of the time-relaxation parameter, the introduction of an effective flux in the low-frequency region to overcome the loss of parameters due to the overdamping phenomenon, and renormalized energy estimates in the high-frequency region to cancel higher-order nonlinear terms. To justify the convergence rates, we discover several auxiliary unknowns allowing us to recover crucial O (ε) bounds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hypoxia is a pathological condition common to many diseases, although multiple organ injuries induced by hypoxia are often overlooked. There is increasing evidence to suggest that the hypoxic environment may activate innate immune cells and suppress adaptive immunity, further stimulating inflammation and inhibiting immunosurveillance. We found that dysfunctional immune regulation may aggravate hypoxia-induced tissue damage and contribute to secondary injury. Among the diverse mechanisms of hypoxia-induced immune dysfunction identified to date, the role of programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1) has recently attracted much attention. Besides leading to tumour immune evasion, PD-L1 has also been found to participate in the progression of the immune dysfunction which mediates hypoxia-induced multiple organ injury. In this review, we aimed to summarise the role of immune dysfunction in hypoxia-induced multiple organ injury, the effects of hypoxia on the cellular expression of PD-L1, and the effects of upregulated PD-L1 expression on immune regulation. Furthermore, we summarise the latest information pertaining to the involvement, diagnostic value, and therapeutic potential of immunosuppression induced by PD-L1 in various types of hypoxia-related diseases, including cancers, ischemic stroke, acute kidney injury, and obstructive sleep apnoea. 61Qdns8RY7g31YGFsWcfG1 Video Abstract [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Autophagy is a critical cytoprotective mechanism that takes a hand in innate or adaptive immune responses. Hypoxia is a common pathophysiological mechanism that can lead to systemic pathological reactions. In recent years, the impact of hypoxia on the central nervous system has attracted more attention. In the past, autophagy was thought to be directly involved in the apoptosis of nerve cells under hypoxia. An increasing amount of evidence shows that the neuroinflammatory response plays an indispensable role in the neural damage caused by hypoxia. There are many mechanisms related to the neuroinflammatory response induced by hypoxia, among which autophagy is an important aspect, but the role of autophagy is still unclear. This article focuses on how autophagy flux of central immune cells is modified under hypoxic conditions, and how this autophagy affects neuroinflammatory response. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We prove the global well-posedness of the Cauchy problem to the 3D incompressible Hall-magnetohydrodynamic system supplemented with initial data in critical Besov spaces that allowing for different integrability indices for the velocity field u and magnetic field b (and its current J), which generalize the result in [13]. Meanwhile, we analyze the long-time behavior of the solutions and get some decay estimates. Finally, a stability theorem for global solutions is established. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sperm is the key media between the father's aberrant exposure and the offspring's phenotype. Whether paternal hypertension affects offspring through sperm epigenetics remains to be explored. To investigate the underlying mechanisms, we constructed a hypertensive mice model induced by drinking l -NAME and found that spermatocytes and spermatids in the testis were increased significantly after l -NAME treatment. The sequencing of sperm showed that tsRNA profiles changed with 315 tsRNAs (195 up-regulated and 120 down-regulated) altered. Meanwhile, KEGG pathway analysis showed that the target genes of these altered tsRNAs were involved in influencing some important signaling pathways, such as the cAMP signaling path, the mTOR signaling path, the Hippo signaling path, and the Ras signaling path. Bioinformatics of tsRNA-miRNA-mRNA pathway interactions revealed several ceRNA mechanisms, such as tsRNA-00051, the ceRNA of miR-128-1-5p, co-targeting Agap1. This study provides evidence for enriching and further understanding the pathophysiology and paternal epigenetic mechanisms of testicular reproduction, as well as contributing to a rethinking of the transgenerational reprogramming mechanisms of paternal exposure in hypertension. • l -NAME-induced paternal hypertension alters sperm tsRNA profiles. • KEGG analysis of the altered sperm tsRNA sequence shows that affected signaling pathways are involved in cell growth, development, metabolism, and aging. • The tsRNA-miRNA-mRNA expression network provides a possible mechanism for the effects of hypertension on sperm function and offspring development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Reveal the formation mechanism of complex non-plane fractures near the wellbore. • The fracture initiation and propagation mechanisms of multiple hydraulic fractures are investigated. • Hydraulic fracture propagation is affected not only by stress shadow but also by inclined well orientation. • Stress shadowing effect in staged fracturing results in a large deflection angle of fractures when the horizontal principal stress difference is small. Multi-cluster fracturing in horizontal wells is an important stimulation technology for unconventional tight reservoirs. The interference among multiple simultaneously growing hydraulic fractures results in a non-uniform fluid distribution into fractures and non-planar fracture geometries. In this paper, the competition mechanism between perforations under the stress shadow, the formation mechanism of complex non-plane fractures near the wellbore, and the initiation and propagation mechanism of multiple hydraulic fractures are investigated by using the 3D lattice method. Also, the effects of fracture geometry, fracture spacing and rock mechanics parameters on the stress interaction among fractures are analyzed by the dislocation theory. The results showed the complexity of fracture initiation near the wellbore and the low efficiency of the perforation initiation in the case of spiral perforation, due to a strong interaction between perforations. However, these initial micro-cracks will eventually coalesce to be a macroscopical fracture which perpendicular to the direction of minimum principal stress. The study indicated that stress interaction and fracture propagation is significantly affected by inclined well orientation. The hydraulic fracture is more likely to deflect and propagate non-uniformly with the increasing width of hydraulic fracture, the decreasing spacing between perforation clusters and the increasing rock modulus. When the horizontal principal stress difference is small, it is obvious to cause a large deflection angle and sometimes furcation of fractures. This study can provide a theoretical basis and technical guidance for hydraulic fracturing design in tight reservoirs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We investigate the existence and uniqueness issues of the 3D incompressible Hall-magnetohydrodynamic system supplemented with initial velocity u0 and magnetic field B0 in critical regularity spaces. In the case where u0, B0 and the current J 0 : = ∇ × B 0 belong to the homogeneous Besov space B ̇ p , 1 3 p − 1 , 1 ≤ p < ∞ , and are small enough, we establish a global result and the conservation of higher regularity. If the viscosity is equal to the magnetic resistivity, then we obtain the global well-posedness provided u0, B0 and J0 are small enough in the larger Besov space B ̇ 2 , r 1 2 , r ≥ 1. If r = 1 , then we also establish the local existence for large data, and exhibit continuation criteria for solutions with critical regularity. Our results rely on an extended formulation of the Hall-MHD system that has some similarities with the incompressible Navier–Stokes equations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Inspired by an open question by Chemin, Zhang and Zhang about the regularity of the 3D Navier–Stokes equations with one initially small component, we investigate symmetry breaking and symmetry preservation. Our results fall in three classes. First we prove strong symmetry breaking. Specifically, we demonstrate third component norm inflation (3rdNI) and Isotropic Norm Inflation (INI) starting from zero third component. Second we prove symmetry breaking for initially zero third component, even in the presence of a favorable initial pressure gradient. Third we study certain symmetry preserving solutions with a shear flow structure. Specifically, we give applications to the inviscid limit and exhibit explicit solutions that inviscidly damp to the Kolmogorov flow. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Advances in energy‐efficient lighting and display technologies demand innovative materials with tailored broad‐spectrum emission properties. Hybrid aggregation‐induced emission metal‐organic frameworks (AIE‐MOFs) offer a promising avenue, combining unique characteristics of organic and inorganic components to yield enhanced luminescence efficiency and robust material stability. The study introduces a spectrum of D (donor)‐A (acceptor) type AIE‐active ligands into MOFs, enabling tunable emission across the visible spectrum, thus underscoring the versatility of these hybridized MOF materials. The emission properties of AIE‐MOFs are further harnessed by integrating them into polymer matrices, resulting in high‐performance electrospun fibers with tunable emission. A significant achievement involves the fabrication of Janus‐type white light‐emitting AIE‐MOF fiber composites via side‐by‐side electrospinning, accomplishing a high quantum yield of 58%, which doubled the performance of homogeneous fibers. Complementing the experimental findings, micro‐Raman and nano‐Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy are employed as local spectroscopic probes, affording a deeper understanding of the material properties and the mechanisms contributing to enhance light emission. In the understanding, this study presents an unconventional implementation of hybrid AIE‐MOFs in Janus‐type structures for white light emission. It significantly improves the efficiency of white light sources in optoelectronics, charting a promising direction for future research in the emergent AIE‐MOF field. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We elucidate two annealing assisted mechanochemical methods to achieve one-pot encapsulation of anti-cancer drug 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) in the iron-based MIL-100 metal–organic framework (MOF). We compare the structural and physicochemical properties of drug@MIL-100 systems derived from in situ manual and vortex grinding, where the former technique exhibits a slower drug release due to stronger guest–host interactions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Aims The genus Allium L., one of the largest monocotyledonous genera and one that includes many economically important crops with nutritional and medicinal value, has been the focus of classification or phylogeny studies for centuries. Recent studies suggested that the genus can be divided into 15 subgenera and 72 sections, which were further classified into three evolutionary lineages. However, the phylogenetic relationships reconstructed by one or two loci showed weaker support, especially for the third evolutionary lineage, which might not show the species relationships very clearly and could hinder further adaptive and evolutionary study. Methods In this study, a total of 39 complete chloroplast genomes of Allium (covering 12 Allium subgenera) were collected, and combining these with 125 species of plastomes from 19 other families of monocots, we reconstructed the phylogeny of the genus Allium , estimated the origin and divergence time of the three evolutionary lineages and investigated the adaptive evolution in this genus and related families. Results Our phylogenetic analysis confirmed the monophyly and three evolutionary lineages of Allium , while new species relationships were detected within the third evolutionary lineage. The divergence time of the three evolutionary lineages was estimated to be in the early Eocene to the middle Miocene, and numerous positive selected genes (PSGs) and PSGs with high average Ka/Ks values were found in Allium species. Conclusions Our results detected a well-supported phylogenetic relationship of Allium. The PSGs and PSGs with high Ka/Ks values, as well as diversified morphologies, complicated chromosome characteristics and unique reproductive modes may play important roles in the adaptation and evolution of Allium species. This is the first study that conducted phylogenetic and evolutionary analyses on the genus Allium combined with the plastome and morphological and cytological data. We hope that this study can contribute to further analysis of Allium for other researchers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Intestinal fibrosis and subsequent stricture formation are major clinical challenges in inflammatory bowel disease, resulting in an increased rate of operation and poor prognosis compared with those without. With the changing perception that intestinal fibrosis is irreversible to the point of view that it is reversible in recent years, various candidate serum biomarkers have been studied over the past decades, which may stratify patients based on their risks of developing stenosis and enable the detection of early stages of fibrosis. However, reliable and accurate biomarkers are still unavailable due to conflicting results and the lack of high‐quality evidence. In this review we summarized the serum biomarkers that have been proposed for intestinal fibrosis in recent years, which includes gene polymorphisms or variants, epigenetic markers, extracellular matrix components, growth factors, and antibodies, aiming to provide clues for future research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An immobilized benzotriazolium ionic liquid system has been developed for the efficient catalytic transformation of CO2 to cyclic carbonates without using any co‐catalyst or solvent. Two novel multifunctional periodic mesoporous organosilica supported benzotriazolium ionic liquids PMO‐ILTiCl5 and PMO‐ILSnCl5 were prepared, characterized and demonstrated excellent catalytic activity in the cycloaddition of CO2 with epoxides. The superior catalytic performance was observed for PMO‐ILTiCl5 in the synthesis of cyclic carbonates with high yields and selectivities. Furthermore, the catalyst PMO‐ILTiCl5 could be separated readily and reuse for at least five successful times without obvious losses in its catalytic activity, owing to the presence of intramolecular synergistic effect between active hydroxyl sites and TiCl5 nucleophile and thus provide sufficiently stable catalytic sites. Therefore, this work provided a novel strategy for highly efficient and environmentally benign catalytic conversion of CO2 to cyclic carbonates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) stand as a promising chemically active host scaffold for the encapsulation of functional guests, because they could enhance luminescent properties by molecular separation of fluorophores in the nanoscale pores of the MOF crystals. Herein, simultaneous nanoconfinement of two fluorophores is shown, namely, A) fluorescein and B) rhodamine B in the sodalite cages of ZIF‐8, constructed under ambient conditions through a simple one‐pot reaction. A novel Dual‐Guest@MOF system is reported, termed: A+B@ZIF‐8, which overcomes the intrinsic problem of aggregation‐caused quenching in the solid state to gain bright yellow emission under UV irradiation. Subsequently, this yellow emitter is combined with a blue‐emitting photopolymer resin, to yield a 3D printable luminescent composite material. A number of 3D printable composite objects for converting UV into warm white light emission are designed, achieving a high quantum yield of ≈44% in the solid state 3D printed form. This research instigates the bespoke application of a vast range of 3D printable Guest@MOF designer composites targeting energy‐saving lighting devices, smart sensors, and future optoelectronics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As the deployment of wind and solar energy increases in the USA, energy storage (ES) will play an important role in future electric power grids to help manage the variability from high penetration levels of renewable generation, ES can provide promising power/energy demand to coordinate with renewables generation, as a virtual power plant (VPP). There is an industry need for the capability in power system studies to model ternary pumped storage hydropower (T‐PSH), a pumped storage technology that offers increased system benefits. This study presents a comprehensive vendor‐neutral dynamic model of T‐PSH in GE's commercial software positive sequence load flow. A new governor model is developed with detailed gate valve modelling and a shared‐penstock function. Specifically, this model is designed to simulate the seamless transition among three operation modes: generation mode, pumping mode, and hydraulic short‐circuit mode. The developed T‐PSH model has been tested and validated on a 10‐bus test system. A comparison study of T‐PSH to conventional pumped storage hydropower has also been conducted on the Western interconnection system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new methodology for the highly efficient and atom‐economic oxidation of alcohols and benzylic compounds to the corresponding aldehydes and ketones with environmental‐friendly hydrogen peroxide using a magnetic MOF nanocatalyst has been developed. We demonstrated that the resulting magnetic nanocomposite CoFe2O4@SiO2@MIL‐53(Fe) can show excellent catalytic performances in the highly selective oxidation at room temperature, based on a synergetic effect between iron sites and CoFe2O4@SiO2. The nanocatalyst offers simple operation for recovery and the recycling test showed that it could be reused for successive runs without significant degradation in catalytic activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • The migration of water in frozen dough was restricted by compound modifier (CM). • The deterioration of rheological properties in frozen dough was minimized by addition of CM. • The aging of frozen dough steamed bread was significantly delayed by addition of CM. • CM strengthened the gluten network and delayed the quality deterioration of frozen dough. To retard the quality deterioration of the dough during frozen storage, the effects of a compound modifier (CM) comprised of sodium stearoyl lactate, VC, and β-glucanase on the properties of the frozen dough, as well as the quality of the frozen dough steamed bread were investigated. The results revealed that CM restricted the migration of water in the dough and improved its rheological properties. Furthermore, CM minimized the deterioration of specific volume and textural properties, and prevented starch retrogradation in the frozen dough steamed bread. Moreover, the addition of CM strengthened the secondary structure of gluten protein and formed a more resilient gluten network. The microstructure of the frozen dough steamed bread showed that CM reduced the damage caused by ice crystals on the gluten network. Overall, the use of CM strengthened the gluten network and effectively delayed the quality deterioration of the frozen dough, thus is potential as an improver for frozen dough. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article focuses on a 53-year-old man who had a femur fracture after a fall and was found to have an abnormal lower-eyelid indentation, which led to a diagnosis of keratoconus, a corneal disorder, necessitating repeat corneal transplantation.

• Distributed DVAs affect the vibration of rectangular structure especially when the excitations and receivers are close to its center. • Ribbed-plate model with free boundary conditions and multiple SDOF mass-spring systems. • Approximation of the plate beam interface connection in ribbed-plate model. Typical solutions to reduce excessive floor vibration and radiated sound to the room below include increasing floor mass, stiffening floor structure, and adding a floating floor in the source room. However, these methods may not be effective for lightweight floors at low frequencies. The use of dynamic vibration absorbers (DVAs) to reduce low-frequency structural vibration has attracted the attention of researchers in recent years. In this paper, an analytical model is proposed to study the effect of DVAs on the vibration of a lightweight joist structure by combining the bending modes of the plate with the bending and torsional modes of the beams. The analytical model is compared with the results from finite element models and measurements on a scaled wooden joist floor structure with fabricated spring-mass-type DVAs. A good consistency between the analytical results with results from the latter two are found in terms of the structural vibration and the DVAs' effects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, an extended car-following model is proposed to investigate the impacts of driver's risk illusions on traffic flow stability, velocity, acceleration and headway fluctuation frequency in fog weather. Through stability analysis and numerical simulation, the results indicate that risk illusions weaken the stabilization of traffic system. Furthermore, it is shown that the proposed model is more dangerous than the full velocity difference model from the perspectives of the maximum velocity and acceleration. Additionally, risk illusions increase the headway fluctuation frequency, which means that more adjustments of the headway are needed, increasing driver's workload. Therefore, the impact of risk illusions on traffic flow is disadvantageous. • A car-following model is proposed by considering the risk illusions in fog weather. • Risk illusions weaken the stability of traffic flow. • The impacts of risk illusions on traffic velocity, acceleration and headway fluctuation frequency are studied. • The results can be used to explain why traffic accidents are more likely to happen in fog weather. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background. To study the expression and clinical significance of long noncoding RNA- (lncRNA-) MIAT in patients with coronary atherosclerotic heart disease (CAD). Methods. Serum MIAT, interleukin-6 (IL-6), and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) in 106 CAD patients and 89 healthy donors were detected. Correlations between serum MIAT and serum IL-6 and TNF-α were analyzed. Risk factors for patients with CAD were analyzed by multiple factor analysis. Results. Compared with healthy donors, serum lncRNA-MIAT was significantly increased in CAD patients. Serum MIAT was positively correlated with serum IL-6 and TNF-α in CAD. Multivariate analysis found that hypertension (OR (95% CI) = 3.471 (2.180–4.091), P=0.011), diabetes (OR (95% CI) = 3.682 (1.698–4.897), P=0.003), HDL-C (OR (95% CI) = 3.372 (1.760–6.920), P=0.001), and serum MIAT expression (OR (95% CI) = 2.687 (1.683–7.468), P=0.001) were independent risk factors for CAD. Conclusions. Serum lncRNA-MIAT in CAD patients was significantly increased, which may be a potential marker for diagnosis and prognosis of CAD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A range of multifunctional magnetic metal–organic framework nanomaterials consisting of various mass ratios of the metal–organic framework MIL-53(Fe) and magnetic SiO2 @NiFe2 O4 nanoparticles were designed, prepared, characterized, and evaluated as heterogeneous catalysts for the Knoevenagel condensation. The as-fabricated nanomaterials, especially the nanocatalyst MIL-53(Fe)@SiO2 @NiFe2 O4 (1.0), showed good catalytic performance in the Knoevenagel condensation at room temperature as a result of synergistic interaction between the Lewis acid iron sites of MIL-53(Fe) and the active sites of the magnetic SiO2 @NiFe2 O4 nanoparticles. In addition, the heterogeneous catalyst was readily recovered and a recycling test showed that it could be reused for five times without significant loss of its catalytic activity, making it economical and environmentally friendly. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights • First observation of front-face fluorescence of methylxanthines. • Utilization of synchronous front-face fluorescence of dark chocolate. • Rapid detection of theobromine and caffeine in dark chocolate. • Non-destructive test of commercial brands of dark chocolate. • Ability to roughly estimate cocoa solids in dark chocolate. Abstract To circumvent the limitation of conventional high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) method, synchronous front-face fluorescence spectroscopy was applied for the rapid and non-destructive determination of two major methylxanthines (theobromine and caffeine) and cocoa solid contents in dark chocolate for the first time. Total synchronous fluorescence spectra at wavelength interval (Δλ) between 30–100 nm of 21 brands of commercial dark chocolate bars with labeled cocoa solids of 50–100% were directly obtained at front-face geometry. The contents of the two methylxanthines were determined by HPLC. Partial least squares regression (PLSR) models for quantification were constructed, optimized, and validated by both full (leave-one-out) cross-validation and external validation. The coefficients of determination (R 2) values are larger than 0.8, and the relative errors of prediction were ca. 10%. The built models were applied to the detection of four real samples and compared with HPLC method. The combination of front-face fluorescence and PLSR provides a fast and non-invasive procedure for the quantification of theobromine and caffeine in dark chocolate, as an effective alternative for the traditional HPLC method. The further application of the proposed strategy is the rough estimation of cocoa solids in dark chocolate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mesoporous material supported functionalized ionic liquids have been designed and synthesized, characterized and evaluated as novel heterogeneous catalysts for the Hantzsch reaction. The as‐fabricated catalysts show good performance in the Hantzsch synthesis of 1,4‐dihydropyridines under ambient conditions, especially the titanium incorporated mesoporous material supported ionic liquid Ti‐SBA‐15@IL‐BF4, based on a synergetic effect of titanium site of mesoporous material carrier and the acidic sites of ionic liquid. In addition, the heterogeneous catalyst offers simple operation for recovery and the recycling test showed that it could be reused for five times without significant loss of catalytic activity. Mesoporous material supported functionalized ionic liquids have been designed and synthesized, and evaluated as heterogeneous catalysts for the Hantzsch reaction. Research shows that Ti‐SBA‐15@IL‐BF4 show the best catalytic performance under ambient conditions. The catalyst offers simple operation for recovery and the recycling test showed that it could be reused for five runs without significant loss of catalytic activity, thus making this method economical and environment‐friendly. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background/Aims: Intermittent hypoxia (IH) causes apoptosis in pancreatic β-cells, but the potential mechanisms remain unclear. Endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress, autophagy, and apoptosis are interlocked in an extensive crosstalk. Thus, this study aimed to investigate the contributions of ER stress and autophagy to IH-induced pancreatic β-cell apoptosis. Methods: We established animal and cell models of IH, and then inhibited autophagy and ER stress by pharmacology and small interfering RNA (siRNA) in INS-1 cells and rats. The levels of biomarkers for autophagy, ER stress, and apoptosis were evaluated by immunoblotting and immunofluorescence. The number of autophagic vacuoles was observed by transmission electron microscopy. Results: IH induced autophagy activation both in vivo and in vitro, as evidenced by increased autophagic vacuole formation and LC3 turnover, and decreased SQSTM1 level. The levels of ER-stress-related proteins, including GRP78, CHOP, caspase 12, phosphorylated (p)-protein kinase RNA-like ER kinase (PERK), p-eIF2α, and activating transcription factor 4 (ATF4) were increased under IH conditions. Inhibition of ER stress with tauroursodeoxycholic acid or 4-phenylbutyrate partially blocked IH-induced autophagy in INS-1 cells. Furthermore, inhibition of PERK with GSK2606414 or siRNA blocked the ERstress-related PERK/eIF2α/ATF4 signaling pathway and inhibited autophagy induced by IH, which indicates that IH-induced autophagy activation is dependent on this signaling pathway. Promoting autophagy with rapamycin alleviated IH-induced apoptosis, whereas inhibition of autophagy with chloroquine or autophagy-related gene (Atg5 and Atg7) siRNA aggravated pancreatic β-cell apoptosis caused by IH. Conclusion: IH induces autophagy activation through the ER-stress-related PERK/eIF2α/ATF4 signaling pathway, which is a protective response to pancreatic β-cell apoptosis caused by IH. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The piano sound is made audible by the vibration of its soundboard. A pianist pushes the key to release a hammer that strikes the strings, which transfer the energy to the soundboard, set it into vibration and the piano sound is heard due to the compression of air surrounding the soundboard. However, as piano is being played, other components such as the rims, cast-iron frame and the lid are also vibrating. This raises a question of how much of their vibrations are contributing to the sound as compared to the soundboard. To answer this question, operational transfer path analysis, a noise source identification technique used widely in automotive acoustics, is carried out on a Bösendorfer 280VC-9 grand piano. The “noise” in a piano system would be the piano sound while the “sources” are soundboard and the aforementioned components. For this particular piano, it is found out that the soundboard is the dominant contributor. However, at high frequencies, the lid contributes the most to the piano sound. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Staphylococcus aureus is able to form multilayer biofilms embedded within a glycocalyx or slime layer. Biofilm formation poses food contamination risks and can subsequently increase the risk of food poisoning. Identification of food‐related S. aureus strains will provide additional data on staphylococcal food poisoning involved in biofilm formation. A total of 52 S. aureus strains isolated from sushi and sashimi was investigated to study their ability for biofilm formation using crystal violet staining. The presence of accessory gene regulator (agr) groups and 15 adhesion genes was screened and their associations in biofilm formation were studied. All 52 S. aureus strains showed biofilm production on the tested hydrophobic surface with 44% (23/52) strains classified as strong, 33% (17/52) as moderate, and 23% (12/52) as weak biofilm producers. The frequency of agr‐positive strains was 71% (agr group 1 = 21 strains; agr group 2 = 2 strains; agr group 3 = 12 strains; agr group 4 = 2 strains) whereas agr‐negative strains were 29% (15/52). Twelve adhesion genes were detected and 98% of the S. aureus strains carried at least one adhesion gene. The ebps was significantly (p < .05) associated with strong biofilm producing strains. In addition, eno, clfA, icaAD, sasG, fnbB, cna, and sasC were significantly higher in the agr‐positive group compared to the agr‐negative group. The results of this study suggest that the presence of ebps, eno, clfA, icaAD, sasG, fnbB, cna, and sasC may play an important role in enhancing the stage of biofilm‐related infections and warrants further investigation. Practical Application: This work contributes to the knowledge on the biofilm formation and the distribution of agr groups in S. aureus strains as well as microbial surface components in recognizing adherence matrix molecules of organisms isolated from ready‐to‐eat sushi and sashimi. The findings provide valuable information to further study the roles of specific genes in causing biofilm‐related infections. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The oil palm trunk (OPT) biosorbents (i.e. OPT-W, OPT-D and OPT-T) were prepared for the recovery of Au(III) from an aqueous solution. Simple preparation procedures were carried out to minimize the use of hazardous chemicals and reduce the preparation costs. The biosorbent characterization results show that the prepared OPT biosorbents have nearly similar morphological structure, surface area, porosity, net surface charge and functional groups. The highest Au(III) biosorption capacity of 91.47 mg g −1 was observed for the OPT-D followed by OPT-T (75.30 mg g −1 ) and OPT-W (74.11 mg g −1 ). The Au(III) isotherm data fitted well with the Langmuir model, while the Au(III) kinetic data were well described by the pseudo-second order model. The mechanisms for the Au(III) biosorption were governed by diffusional and chemical interaction mechanisms in which the film diffusion was the rate-controlling step. The chemical interaction via electrostatic and reduction mechanisms between Au(III) and biosorbent surface active sites played a significant role for Au(III) biosorption in acidic condition. The OPT-D showed a good selectivity towards Au(III) from the coexisting ions in aqueous solution. The OPT-D also shows better reusability potential towards Au(III) which indicates the potential applications of OPT biosorbents as low-cost biosorbents for the recovery of Au(III). The Au(III) can be recovered from the burning residues of the Au(III) loaded OPT biosorbents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Novel Z-scheme BaFe 2 O 4 /BiOCl nanocomposite was synthesized. • The synthesized nanocomposite showed superior POME treatment under visible light. • The nanocomposite can be magnetically separated and reused. • Z-scheme e − transfer accelerated charge separation and granted high redox ability. • Enhanced bactericidal activities towards E. coli and B. cereus were observed. In recent years, organic pollution and biological hazards have become indisputable considerable environmental issues. Semiconductor-based photocatalysis has been regarded as a promising and sustainable solution in minimizing the negative impacts of these issues. Herein, a two-step precipitation-hydrothermal method was employed to fabricate novel Z-scheme BaFe 2 O 4 /BiOCl nanocomposites as efficient visible light-driven photocatalysts. The physicochemical properties and morphological characteristics of the fabricated nanocomposites were investigated via multiple characterization methods. The BiOCl nanosheets loaded with 5 wt% BaFe 2 O 4 particles (5 wt% BaFe 2 O 4 /BiOCl) demonstrated the best visible light photoactivity with a palm oil mill effluent (POME) degradation efficiency of 61 % and a reaction rate constant of 0.0045 min−1 within 210 min. The photocatalytic enhancement benefited from the formation of Z-scheme heterojunction between BaFe 2 O 4 and BiOCl, hence accelerating the interfacial charge transfer and maintaining strong redox potential for active radical generation. Moreover, by regulating the pH value of photoreaction system, more superior POME degradation efficiency was attained and reached 85 % at the same duration. Interestingly, the 5 wt% BaFe 2 O 4 /BiOCl nanocomposite also possessed a convenient catalyst separation along with good recyclability with only 7 % loss in efficiency after four successive runs. Based on the active species scavenging experiment, superoxide radical was found as the eminent active species during the POME treatment. In addition to the investigation of POME treatment, the fabricated 5 wt% BaFe 2 O 4 /BiOCl nanocomposite was also successfully employed to inactivate the E. coli and B. cereus. This study revealed that the as-fabricated BaFe 2 O 4 /BiOCl nanocomposite had great potential applications to degrade various organics and to inactivate bacteria from wastewater. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]