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[Display omitted] • Novel urchin-like (NH 4) 2 V 10 O 25 ·8H 2 O are synthesized by solvothermal method. • The enlarged interlayer spacing speeds up the Zn2+ insertion/extraction. • The interlayer pillaring facilitates rapid and stable zinc ion storage. • NH 4 + provides a flexible framework structure. • The urchin-like morphology maintains the structural stability during (dis)charging. The practical application of zinc ion batteries (ZIBs) can be facilitated by designing cathode materials with unique structures that can overcome the critical problems of slow reaction kinetics and large volume expansion associated with the intercalation reaction of divalent zinc ions. In this study, a novel urchin-like (NH 4) 2 V 10 O 25 ·8H 2 O assembled from nanorods was synthesized by a simple hydrothermal method, noted as U-NVO. The interlayer organic pillar of cetyltrimethylammonium cation (CTAB) has been intercalated between layers to regulate the interlayer microstructure and expand the interlayer spacing to 1.32 nm, which effectively increased the contact between the electrode and electrolyte interface and shortened the diffusion path of electrolyte ions. The interlayer pillars of structural H 2 O and NH 4 + provide a flexible framework structure and enhance the cohesion of the layered structure, which helps to maintain structural stability during the charging and discharging process, resulting in long-term durability. These unique properties result in the U-NVO cathodes demonstrating high specific capacity (401.7 mA h g−1 at 0.1 A g−1), excellent rate capability (99.6 % retention from 0.1 to 5 A g−1 and back to 0.1 A g−1), and long-term cycling performance (∼87.5 % capacity retention after 2600 cycles). These results offer valuable insights into the design of high-performance vanadium oxide cathode materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Transforming growth factor-beta (TGFβ) mediates various biological processes including cell growth, cell death, cellular differentiation and stemness, among others. TGFβ also regulates tumor formation and metastasis in a context-dependent manner. This research aims to investigate and define the role of the TGFβ cell signaling pathway in melanoma, which is a deadly form of skin cancer. Using relevant melanoma cancer cell lines and preclinical models of melanoma, we show that TGFβ acts as a potent tumor suppressor and negative regulator of cancer stemness and metastasis in melanoma. These findings will be instrumental for the future development of targeted therapy in melanoma. The secreted protein transforming growth factor-beta (TGFβ) plays essential roles, ranging from cell growth regulation and cell differentiation in both normal and cancer cells. In melanoma, TGFβ acts as a potent tumor suppressor in melanoma by blocking cell cycle progression and inducing apoptosis. In the present study, we found TGFβ to regulate cancer stemness in melanoma through the Smad signaling pathway. We discovered that TGFβ/Smad signaling inhibits melanosphere formation in multiple melanoma cell lines and reduces expression of the CD133+ cancer stem cell subpopulation in a Smad3-dependent manner. Using preclinical models of melanoma, we further showed that preventing Smad3/4 signaling, by means of CRISPR knockouts, promoted both tumorigenesis and lung metastasis in vivo. Collectively, our results define new functions for the TGFβ/Smad signaling axis in melanoma stem-cell maintenance and open avenues for new therapeutic approaches to this disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] Transition-metal sulfides (TMS) have piqued a great deal of interest due to their unprecious nature and high intrinsic catalytic activity for water splitting. In this work, a low-cost and efficient route was developed, which included electrodeposition to prepare Ni-Co layered double hydroxide (NiCo-LDH) followed by ion exchange to form nickel cobalt sulfide (NiCoS x). Electrochemical reduction was used to modulate sulfur vacancies in order to produce sulfur vacancies-rich NiCoS x with nanosheet arrays on -three-dimensional nickel foam (NiCoS x -0.4/NF) with a large area of more than 250 cm2. Combining data from experiments and density functional theoretical (DFT) calculations reveals that engineered sulfur vacancies change the electronic structure, electron transfer property, and surface electron density of NiCoS x , significantly improving the free energy of water adsorption and boosting electrocatalytic activity. The developed NiCoS x -0.4/NF has long-term stability of more than 300 h at 500 mA cm−2 in 1 M KOH at ambient temperature and only needs a 289 mV overpotential at 100 mA cm−2. Remarkably, the synthesized electrocatalyst rich in sulfur vacancies, exhibits exceptional performance with a high current density of up to 1.9 A cm−2 and 1 A cm−2 in 6 M KOH and leads to overpotentials of 286 mV at 80 °C and 358 mV at 60 °C, respectively. The catalyst's practicability under quasi-industrial conditions (60 °C, 6 M KOH) is further demonstrated by its long-term stability for 220 h with only a 3.9 % potential increase at 500 mA cm−2. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] Transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDs) as materials for aqueous zinc-ion batteries (ZIBs) have received a lot of interest because of their large theoretical capacity and unique layered structure. However, the sluggish kinetics and inferior cyclic stability limit the usefulness of ZIBs. In the present investigation, the interlayer spacing enlarged MoSe 2 hollow nanospheres comprised of nanosheets with ultrathin shells have been successfully synthesized through a combined strategy of template assistance and anion-exchange reaction. The hierarchical ultrathin nanosheets and hollow structure effectively suppress the agglomeration of pure nanosheets and ameliorate volume fluctuations induced by ion migration during (dis)charging/charging. The interlayer expansion provides good channels for the transport of Zn2+ ions and speeds up the insertion/extraction of Zn2+. In addition, in-situ carbon modification can significantly improve electronic conductivity. Therefore, the electrode prepared from MoSe 2 hollow nanospheres with enlarged interlayer spacing not only exhibits outstanding cycle stability (capacity retention of 94.5% after 1600 cycles) but also exhibits high-rate capability (266.1 mA h g−1 at 0.1 A g−1 and 203.6 mA h g−1 at 3 A g−1). This work could provide new insights into the design of cathode using TMDs of hollow structure for Zn2+ storage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small single‐stranded non‐coding RNAs involved in a variety of cellular events by regulating gene expression at the post‐transcriptional level. Several core genes in miRNA biogenesis have been reported to participate in a wide range of physiological events, in some insect species. However, the functional significance of miRNA pathway core genes in Nilaparvata lugens remains unknown. In the present study, we conducted a systematic characterisation of five core genes involved in miRNA biogenesis. We first performed spatiotemporal expression analysis and found that miRNA core genes exhibited similar expression patterns, with high expression levels in eggs and relatively high transcriptional levels in the ovaries and fat bodies of females. RNA interference experiments showed that injecting third‐instar nymphs with dsRNAs targeting the miRNA core genes, NlAgo1, NlDicer1, and NlDrosha resulted in high mortality rates and various degrees of body melanism, moulting defects, and wing deformities. Further investigations revealed that the suppression of miRNA core genes severely impaired ovarian development and oocyte maturation, resulting in significantly reduced fecundity and disruption of intercellular spaces between follicle cells. Moreover, the expression profiles of miR‐34‐5p, miR‐275‐3p, miR‐317‐3p, miR‐14, Let‐7‐1, and miR‐2a‐3p were significantly altered in response to the knockdown of miRNA core genes mixture, suggesting that they play essential roles in regulating miRNA‐mediated gene expression. Therefore, our results provide a solid theoretical basis for the miRNA pathway in N. lugens and suggest that the NlAgo1, NlDicer1, and NlDrosha‐dependent miRNA core genes are essential for the development and reproduction of this agricultural pest. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

One of the challenges to reinforced concrete slabs in bridges is deterioration due to rebar corrosion by deicing salts. In order to simulate a concrete slab subjected to deicing salt penetration from the top surface of the bridge slab during winter, high-strength steam-cured concrete with double-layer reinforcements was exposed to 10% sodium chloride solution to investigate rebar corrosion. Five concrete mix proportions were prepared, including high early strength concrete and concrete containing fly ash and blast furnace slag as supplementary cementitious materials (SCMs). For both the high early strength and fly ash concretes, alkali active andesite in the pessimum proportion was mixed with coarse aggregates to investigate the effect of alkali–silica reaction (ASR) on rebar corrosion. It was found that the combined effects of chloride attack and ASR adversely affected the corrosion resistance of high early strength concrete. Fly ash concrete had excellent performance as to corrosion resistance and ASR mitigation. Results also showed that a widely used electrochemical technique known as the half-cell potential test can satisfactorily diagnose corrosion of double-layer reinforced concrete. Concrete specimens containing SCMs with no ASR threat showed no signs of steel bar corrosion and significantly low chloride diffusion coefficients after 3 years. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Colorectal cancer (CRC), one of the most prevalent cancers, has complex etiology. The dysbiosis of intestinal bacteria has been highlighted as an important contributor to CRC. Fusobacterium nucleatum , an oral anaerobic opportunistic pathogen, is enriched in both stools and tumor tissues of patients with CRC. Therefore, F. nucleatum is considered to be a risk factor for CRC. This review summarizes the biological characteristics and the mechanisms underlying the regulatory behavior of F. nucleatum in the tumorigenesis and progression of CRC. F. nucleatum as a marker for the early warning and prognostic prediction of CRC, and as a target for prevention and treatment, is also described. Fusobacterium nucleatum has been related to genetic and epigenetic lesions, such as microsatellite instability (MSI), CpG island methylator phenotype (CIMP), and genome mutation in colorectal cancer (CRC) tissues. F. nucleatum could promote the proliferation and metabolism, remodel the immune microenvironment, and facilitate metastasis and chemoresistance in the tumorigenesis and development of CRC. F. nucleatum could function as a biomarker for screening the high-risk population for CRC. Although further in-depth studies are warranted, several virulence- or phage-based therapeutics specific to F. nucleatum may be novel promising methods in CRC treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The impact of development on the ecological environment is a matter of concern, especially in the ecologically fragile agro-pastoral ecotone. The agro-pastoral ecotone of northern Shaanxi (ANS) is a representative region of the agro-pastoral ecotone in northern China. The agricultural use of sand land (AUSL) is an effective way to respond to the development needs of this region. The AUSL will certainly have an impact on water yield services in the ANS, where water resources are already scarce. In this study, the Integration Valuation of Ecosystem Services and Tradeoffs Tool (InVEST) model was used to simulate the water yield of the ANS under different intensity scenarios of AUSL. The results showed that AUSL reduces the regional water yield, but the impact is limited. At the maximum scale of development, the total regional water yield decreased by 1.35% compared to the base year of 2020. In terms of distribution pattern, water yield decreased the most in Yuyang District and the least in Fugu County due to the uneven distribution of sand land. At the land use and land cover (LULC) scale, the AUSL has a diminishing effect on the water yield of both cultivated land and sand land due to the more intense evapotranspiration from cropland. This study can provide data and decision support for the ANS region for building the resource-economical and environment-friendly society. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims: Thermophilic spoilage bacteria and their biofilms formed during milk powder processing posed threats to safety and quality of dairy products. This research aims to understand more about the bacterial behaviours and their social models in biofilms. Methods and Results: Interactional effects from both extracellular metabolites and co‐culture on biofilms formation of the contaminating thermophilic bacteria were determined. The results showed that strong biofilm formers always had high AI‐2 activities, including Geobacillus stearothermophilus gs1, Bacillus licheniformis bl1 and Thermoactinomyces vulgaris tv1. Metabolites from themself or other species altered their biofilm biomass detected by crystal violet staining. Dual‐species cultures observed by confocal laser scanning microscope indicated either synergistic or inhibitory effects between B. circulans bc1 and G. stearothermophilus gs1, as well as B. licheniformis bl1 and G. stearothermophilus gs1. Fourier transform infrared spectrometry results revealed the significant diversities in polysaccharides of the biofilm matrix. Conclusions: Cell communication played an important role on biofilm formation in the complex microbial community. Intraspecific and interspecific extracellular metabolites influenced collective bacterial behaviours under mixed circumstances. Significance and impact of study: This research provided evidences on cell communication and biofilm formation of thermophilic bacteria in dairy industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective. To explore the application value of diversified health education combined with psychological nursing in the treatment of patients with infectious bone defects by induction membrane surgery. Methods. A total of 52 patients with infectious bone defects treated by induction membrane surgery from May 2018 to January 2022 were selected as the research subjects and divided into an observation group (with diversified health education combined with psychological care) and a control group according to the random number table method (routine nursing care). There were 26 patients in each group, and the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS) and Self-Care Ability Scale (ESCA) were compared. Results. At admission, there was no significant difference in anxiety dimension, depression dimension, and total score of anxiety and depression between the two groups (P > 0.05). At admission, there was no significant difference in self-care responsibility, self-concept, self-care skills, health knowledge level, and total score between the two groups (P > 0.05). Skills, health knowledge level, and total score were higher than those in the control group (P < 0.05). The total incidence of complications in the observation group was lower than that in the control group (P < 0.05). Conclusion. Diversified health education combined with psychological nursing is beneficial to reduce negative emotions, improve self-care ability, and reduce the incidence of complications in the treatment of patients with infectious bone defects by induction membrane surgery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Herbal medicines are frequently blended in the form of multi-drug combinations primarily based on the precept of medicinal compatibility, to achieve the purpose of treating diseases. However, due to the lack of appropriate techniques and the multi-component and multi-target nature of Chinese medicine compounding, it is tough to explain how the drugs interact with each other. As a rising discipline, cyber pharmacology has formed a new approach characterized by using holistic and systematic “network targets” via the cross-fertilization of computer technology, bioinformatics, and different multidisciplinary disciplines. It can broadly screen the active ingredients of traditional Chinese medicine, enhance the effective utilization of drugs, and elucidate the mechanism of drug action. We will overview the principles of Chinese medicine compounding and dispensing, the research methods of network pharmacology, and the software of network pharmacology in the lookup of compounded Chinese medicines, aiming to supply thoughts for the better application of network pharmacology in the research of Chinese medicines. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Zinc-ion batteries (ZIBs) have received considerable attention as promising energy storage devices because of their impressive energy densities and inexpensive cost. However, there are still challenges to be addressed regarding the performance and cycling stability of ZIBs. In this work, a straw-sheaf-like AgVO 3 structure assembled from multiple strongly bonded nanowires was successfully synthesized using a one-step hydrothermal route. We investigate the structural advantages offered by the AgVO 3 compound for ZIBs. The AgVO 3 , which is distinguished by one-dimensional nanowires and a straw-sheaf-like architecture, possesses remarkable properties that facilitate efficient zinc ion deintercalation and electron transfer processes. These include the shortened diffusion length caused by the presence of nanowires, which allows for faster ion migration. The tightly bundled nanowires also provide robust structural support, accommodating the significant volume changes caused by repeated electrochemical reactions. Notably, a single crystal structure enables excellent conductivity and electrochemical kinetics. Remarkably, the straw-sheaf-like AgVO 3 electrode exhibited excellent reversible capacity (292.3 mAh g−1 at 0.1 A g−1) and long cycling stability. The remarkable electrochemical properties illuminate the potential of AgVO 3 as a viable material for ZIBs, paving the way for improved performance and durability in this promising energy storage technology. [Display omitted] • The Straw-sheaf-like (SSL) AgVO 3 nanowires are successfully synthesized. • SSL structure can accommodate volume change by repetitive electrochemical reactions. • Nanowires shorten the diffusion length, allowing for faster ion migration. • Single-crystal structure enables good conductivity and electrochemical kinetics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The oxygen evolution reaction (OER) is regarded as a critical component in the water splitting system. Creating vacancies, increasing active surface area, and optimizing electronic structure would improve electrocatalytic performance. Herein, a facile electrochemical reduction method is used to generate sulfur vacancies in nickel iron sulfide (NiFe-S) with a large geometry area of 15 × 16 cm2, which is synthesized using an electrodeposition process assisted with the ion exchange (IOE) method. The X-ray absorption spectroscopies (XAS) are applied for atomic-level structural analysis, verifying that electrochemical desulfurization generates abundant S vacancies. The NiFe-S with abundant sulfur vacancies (NiFe-S-V s) exhibits a low overpotential (252 mV at 100 mA cm−2), and long stability for 260 h at 500 mA cm−2. More importantly, the NiFe-S-V s catalyst also delivers a small overpotential (235 mV at 1000 mA cm−2) and high alkaline tolerance (140 h at 500 mA cm−2) in 6 M KOH at 60 °C), implying a potentially significant industrial application prospect. Finally, theory calculation further illustrates the high performance of as-prepared vacancies-rich catalyst. [Display omitted] • Rich vacancies were created by electrochemical reduction. • Sulfur vacancy can modulate the electronic structure from XAS and DFT results. • Scaled-up sulfides with more than 15 × 16 cm2 were prepared. • NiFe-S-0.6/NF only needs 235 mV to reach 1000 mA cm−2 in industry conditions. • NiFe-S-0.6/NF can maintain over 140 h in industry-like conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Insects have a robust capacity to produce offspring for propagation, and the reproductive events of female insects have been achieved at the molecular and physiological levels via regulatory gene pathways. However, the roles of MicroRNAs (miRNAs) in the reproductive development of the brown planthopper (BPH), Nilaparvata lugens, remain largely unexplored. To understand the roles of miRNAs in reproductive development, miRNAs were identified by Solexa sequencing in short-winged (SW) female adults of BPH. Small RNA libraries derived from three developmental phases (1 day, 3 days, and 5 days after emergence) were constructed and sequenced. We identified 905 miRNAs, including 263 known and 642 novel miRNAs. Among them, a total of 43 miRNAs were differentially expressed in the three developmental phases, and 14,568 putative targets for 43 differentially expressed miRNAs (DEMs) were predicted by TargetScan and miRanda. Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway analysis of the predicted miRNA targets illustrated the putative roles for these DEMs in reproduction. The progress events were annotated, including oogenesis, lipid biosynthetic process, and related pathways such as apoptosis, ABC transporters, and amino acid metabolism. Four highly abundant DEMs (miR-9a-5p, miR-34-5p, miR-275-3p, and miR-317-3p) were further screened, and miR-34-5p was confirmed to be involved in the regulation of reproduction. Overexpression of miR-34-5p via injecting its mimics reduced fecundity and decreased Vg expression. Moreover, target genes prediction for miR-34-5p showed they might be involved in 20E signaling cascades, apoptosis, and gonadal development, including hormone receptor 4 (HR4), caspase-1 (Cp-1), and spermatogenesis-associated protein 20 (SPATA20). These findings provide a valuable resource for future studies on the role of miRNAs in BPH reproductive development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective. To study the effects of mind mapping combined with microvideo explanation on disease perception control and nursing cooperation during membrane induction therapy in patients with infectious nonunion after tibial trauma. Methods. 30 patients with infectious nonunion after tibial trauma treated in the hospital between March 2018 and March 2022 were selected as the research subjects, and the patients were divided into a control group (n = 15) and an observation group (n = 15) by the random number table method. During membrane induction therapy, the control group adopted a routine nursing method while the observation group was given a nursing method of mind mapping combined with microvideo explanation. The disease perception control, nursing cooperation, and self-care ability of the two groups of patients were compared. Results. After nursing, the scores of aspects of "life impact (3.87 ± 0.92)," "duration (3.20 ± 1.01)," and "emotions (3.93 ± 0.59)" of the Brief Illness Perception Questionnaire (B-IPQ) in the observation group were lower than those in the control group (5.27 ± 0.88, 4.67 ± 1.05, and 4.93 ± 0.80, respectively) (P < 0.05) while the scores of "self-control (6.80 ± 1.21)" and "disease awareness (7.27 ± 0.70)" were higher than those in the control group (5.00 ± 1.07 and 5.93 ± 0.70, respectively) (P < 0.05). There was no significant difference in the total compliance rate between the two groups (P > 0.05). After nursing, the scores of dimensions and the total score of the Exercise of Self-Care Agency Scale (ESCA) were increased in the two groups, and the scores were higher in the observation group than those in the control group (P < 0.05). Conclusion. Mind mapping combined with microvideo explanation can improve the disease perception control during membrane induction therapy in patients with infectious nonunion after tibial trauma, improve the self-care ability, and facilitate the smooth progress of treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • SOC prediction in the agro-pastoral transitional zone of northwest China was realised using VIS-NIRS and chemometrics. • Ten spectral transforms coupled with correlation analysis and the Boruta algorithm for feature wavelength selection. • SOC content prediction model based on Boruta-FD-RF was developed. • Integrating spectral preprocessing, feature selection and chemometrics strategies has good prediction accuracy and stability. Rapidly and accurately grasp the change of soil organic carbon content in farmland, which is of great significance in guiding the timely and effective mastery of farmland soil fertility and improvement of soil physical properties. In this study, an ASD FieldSpec 4 spectrometer was used to collect spectral reflectance data on 128 agricultural soil samples taken from Jingbian County, Yulin City, Shaanxi Province, China. Firstly, descriptive statistics of the SOC in the study area were performed, and secondly, after 10 spectral transformations were performed, the correlation analysis and the Boruta algorithm were used to extract the characteristic wavebands of soil organic carbon, respectively, in order to reduce the redundancy of the data. Finally, by comparing the accuracies of different strategies, we constructed a spectral prediction model of soil organic carbon in farmland of the Northwest Agricultural and Animal Husbandry Intertwined Zone that integrates the optimal preprocessing, feature selection strategy and modelling method. The results indicate that: 1) The mean SOC content of the farmland in the study area was low and at the nutrient deficient level, with the standard errors and coefficients of variation for the modelling and validation sets were 1.596 g kg−1, 1.457 g kg−1, 54 % and 52 %, respectively; 2) The shape and trend of spectral special curves with different SOC contents show consistency, and the SOC content is negatively correlated with spectral reflectance; 3) CA selects more feature bands, but the feature bands are more homogeneous, while the Boruta algorithm can effectively remove irrelevant variables and improve the SOC feature selection effect; 4) The SOC prediction model based on Boruta-FD-RF can be better for soil organic carbon estimation, with R2 of 0.899 and 0.748 for the training set and validation set, respectively, RMSE of 1.432 g kg−1 and 1.967 g kg−1, and RPD of 2.557 and 1.647, respectively. The results show that the SOC model established by integrating optimal spectral pre-processing, feature selection strategy and chemometrics strategy has obvious improvement in prediction accuracy and stability, and this study provides an important reference for the fast and accurate estimation of SOC content in farmland of Agro-pastoral Transitional zone in northwest China. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The "shuttle effect" caused by polysulfide (LiPSs) dissolution and diffusion is a great challenge for sulfur (S) cathode in lithium-sulfur batteries (LSBs). Herein, we have successfully constructed Co/CoV 2 O 6 tandem catalytic heterostructure anchored by N-doped carbon (Co/CoV 2 O 6 /NC) via an impregnation-assisted pyriaolysis method. The "adsorption-transfer-conversion" tandem catalytic mechanism for LiPSs is realized by utilizing the three behaviors of the strong chemical adsorption of CoV 2 O 6 to LiPSs, the strong conversion of Co to LiPSs, and the transport effect of CoV 2 O 6 ←Co interfacial built-in electric field to polysulfide ions. This can effectively suppress the "shuttle effect" by separating the adsorption and conversion process of LiPSs at different active sites. The tandem catalytic characteristic coupled with the interfacial Co-N and V-N bonds among Co, CoV 2 O 6 and NC, the high electrical conductivities of metal Co and NC conducting network, the hierarchical porous structure of polyhedral framework, collectively endow Co/CoV 2 O 6 /NC@S cathode with strong structural stability, weak electrochemical polarization, good electrochemical reversibility and fast electrochemical kinetics. As a result, Co/CoV 2 O 6 /NC@S cathode presents the significantly enhanced electrochemical performance with a high capacity of 558.4 mAh g−1 at 0.2 C after 100 cycles and a low-capacity decay rate of 0.123% per cycle during 300 cycles at 1 C. • Co/CoV 2 O 6 tandem catalytic heterostructure was successfully constructed. • The adsorption-transfer-conversion tandem catalytic mechanism was realized. • The shuttle effect was suppressed by separating adsorption and conversion. • A high capacity of 558.4 mAh g−1 at 0.2 C after 100 cycles was achieved. • A low-capacity decay rate of 0.123%/cycle during 300 cycles at 1 C was achieved. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Triple negative breast cancer (TNBC) remains exceptionally challenging to treat. While CDK4/6 inhibitors have revolutionized HR + breast cancer therapy, there is limited understanding of their efficacy in TNBC and meaningful predictors of response and resistance to these drugs remain scarce. We conducted an in vivo genome-wide CRISPR screen using palbociclib as a selection pressure in TNBC. Hits were prioritized using microarray data from a large panel of breast cancer cell lines to identify top palbociclib sensitizers. Our study defines TGFβ3 as an actionable determinant of palbociclib sensitivity that potentiates its anti-tumor effects. Mechanistically, we show that chronic palbociclib exposure depletes p21 levels, contributing to acquired resistance, and that TGFβ3 treatment can overcome this. This study defines TGFβ3 as an actionable biomarker that can be used to improve patient stratification for palbociclib treatment and exploits the synergistic interaction between CDK4/6 and TGFβ3 to propose a new combinatorial treatment for TNBC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The Chinese government implemented the first round of National Centralized Drug Procurement (NCDP) pilot (so-called "4 + 7" policy) in mainland China in 2019. This study aims to examine the impact of "4 + 7" policy on the price of policy-related drugs.Methods: This study used drug purchasing order data from the Centralized Drug Procurement Survey in Shenzhen 2019, covering 24 months from January 2018 to December 2019. "4 + 7" policy-related drugs were selected as study samples, including 25 drugs in the "4 + 7" procurement list and 57 alternative drugs that have an alternative relationship with "4 + 7" List drugs in clinical use. "4 + 7" List drugs were then divided into bid-winning and bid-non-winning products according to the bidding results. Single-group Interruption Time Series (ITS) analysis was adopted to examine the change of Drug Price Index (DPI) for policy-related drugs.Results: The ITS analysis showed that the DPI of winning (- 0.183 per month, p < 0.0001) and non-winning (- 0.034 per month, p = 0.046) products significantly decreased after the implementation of "4 + 7" policy. No significant difference was found for the immediate change of DPI for alternative drugs (p = 0.537), while a significant decrease in change trend was detected in the post-"4 + 7" policy period (- 0.003 per month, p = 0.014). The DPI of the overall policy-related drugs significantly decreased (- 0.261 per month, p < 0.0001) after "4 + 7" policy.Conclusions: These findings indicate that the price behavior of pharmaceutical enterprises changed under NCDP policy, while the price linkage effect is still limited. It is necessary to further expand the scope of centralized purchased drugs and strengthen the monitoring of related drugs regarding price change and consumption structure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The mechanism of formic acid decomposition on the Pd(111) surface has been investigated by several theoretical methods in previous studies, including PBE and PW91. These results indicated that the mechanism is different from different methods, and even by using the same method (i.e., PBE), the mechanism is also different. In this study, we have revisited the formic acid decomposition on Pd(111) surface by using another density functional RPBE and by including van der Waals interaction which is neglected in the previous studies. Our results showed that the formic acid is decomposed via O–H bond cleavage to form bi-HCOO*, and the most favorable pathway is HCOOH* → bi-HCOO* + H* → CO2* + 2H*. The energy barrier is 0.55 eV at the rate-determining step. This conclusion is consistent with one of the PBE study. This demonstrated that computational methods have a great influence on the reaction mechanism, and care should be taken in selecting the appropriate computational methods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Several childhood asthma risk loci that relate to immune function have been identified by genome‐wide association studies (GWAS), but the underlying mechanisms remain unknown. Objective: Here, we examined whether perturbed innate immune responses mediate the association between known genetic risk variants and development of childhood asthma. Methods: Peripheral blood mononuclear cells from 336 six‐month‐old infants from the Copenhagen Prospective Studies on Asthma in Childhood (COPSAC2000) cohort were stimulated in vitro with six different innate ligands (LPS, CpG, poly(I:C), R848, HDMAPP and aluminium hydroxide together with low levels of LPS) followed by quantification of 18 released cytokines and chemokines 40 h after the stimulations. The innate immune response profiles were decomposed by principal component (PC) analysis, and PC1‐5 were used in mediation analyses of the effect of 25 known genetic risk variants on childhood asthma until age 7. Results: The effects of two variants from the 17q21 locus (rs7216389, rs2305480) on asthma and exacerbation risk were significantly mediated by immune parameters induced in response to ligands mimicking intracellular colonization; bacterial DNA (CpG) and double‐stranded viral RNA (poly(I:C)). The Th17 and innate lymphoid cell type 3‐amplifying cytokine IL‐23 was the most prominent cytokine involved. Conclusion: The 17q21 effect on childhood asthma and exacerbations was partly mediated by deregulation of IL‐23 in response to intracellular microbial ligands, which may suggest ineffective clearance of intracellular pathogens in the lungs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Various pollutants in wastewater including water-insoluble oils and water-soluble toxic organic pollutants, have been threatening ecosystems and human health, making wastewater purification difficult. Inspired by the hierarchical structures and chemical compositions of lotus leaf, we combined the usage of polydopamine (PDA) chemistry and photocatalytically active TiO2 to develop a facile approach toward composite PDA-based TiO2 coated mesh with restorable superhydrophobicity. In this procedure, PDA assisted loading of TiO2 nanoparticles onto stainless steel mesh with a result of micro/nanoscale hierarchical surface was achieved via a single-step solvothermal method. After modified with 1H, 1H, 2H, 2H-perfluorodecyltriethoxysilane, this mesh became superhydrophobic. The TiO2 coated mesh exhibited enhanced superhydrophobicity, excellent environmental stability, robust chemical resistance and high mechanical durability. Moreover, it has been demonstrated the high separation capacity and extraordinary recyclability for various oils collection from water due to its special surface superhydrophobicity. Importantly, such a mesh possessed photocatalytic activity due to the embedded TiO2, which allowed for the effective degradation of organic pollutants under UV irradiation, representing a plausible way to restore superhydrophobic surface by photocatalytically decomposing the attached contaminants. This investigation suggests a green and facile way to prepare superhydrophobic materials with restored surface wetting property, which will be useful for wastewater purification. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: In China, an indigenously developed electronic medication monitor (EMM) was designed and used in 138 counties from three provinces. Previous studies showed positive results on accuracy, effectiveness, acceptability, and feasibility, but also found some ineffective implementations. In this paper, we assessed the effect of implementation of EMMs on treatment outcomes. Methods: The longitudinal ecological method was used at the county level with aggregate secondary programmatic data. All the notified TB cases in 138 counties were involved in this study from April 2017 to June 2019, and rifampicin-resistant cases were excluded. We fitted a multilevel model to assess the relative change in the quarterly treatment success rate with increasing quarterly EMM coverage rate, in which a mixed effects maximum likelihood regression using random intercept model was applied, by adjusting for seasonal trends, population size, sociodemographic and clinical characteristics, and clustering within counties. Results: Among all 69 678 notified TB cases, the treatment success rate was slightly increased from 93.5% [95% confidence interval (CI): 93.0–94.0] in second quarter of 2018 to 94.9% (95% CI: 94.4–95.4) in second quarter of 2019 after implementing EMMs. There was a statistically significant effect between quarterly EMM coverage and treatment success rate after adjusting for potential confounders (P = 0.0036), increasing 10% of EMM coverage rate will lead to 0.2% treatment success rate augment. Besides, an increase of 10% of elderly or bacteriologically confirmed TB will lead to a decrease of 0.4% and 0.9% of the treatment success rate. Conclusions: Under programmatic settings, we found a statistically significant effect between increasing coverage of EMM and treatment success rate at the county level. More prospective studies are needed to confirm the effect of using EMM on TB treatment outcomes. We suggest performing operational research on EMMs that provides real-time data under programmatic conditions in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• The Pd 13 /Fe-N-Gra exhibits high activity for the decomposition of formic acid. • The Pd 13 /Fe-N-Gra catalyst shows higher activity for CO 2 production than Pd 13 /Gra. • The deformation of Pd 13 will improve the selectivity for CO production. • The Fe-N-C site can keep the electron of Pd 13 to prevent its deformation. The reaction mechanism of HCOOH dissociation on the Fe-N 4 -Gra supported Pd 13 (Pd 13 /Fe-N-Gra) is systematically investigated by using the density functional method. For Pd 13 /Fe-N-Gra, the two possible active sites, i.e., the top site (T) and interface (synergy) site (S site), are all considered. The results show that, besides pathway via HCOO (HCOOH → HCOO → CO 2), there is a new favorable channel (HCOOH → COOH → CO 2) for producing the CO 2 , which is different from that of pure Pd (prefer HCOO pathway). More importantly, the new pathway at T site shows higher selectivity and activity for HCOOH dissociation to CO 2 , compared with the S site. Further analysis based on energy splitting method and electronic structure indicate that the higher electron transfer during the intermediate COOH dissociation brings the deformation of Pd 13 , which increases the selectivity for CO. In conclusion, the Fe-N 4 can not directly act as the active center for the reaction, while it can effectively keep the number of active electrons in Pd 13 , especially for the T site, to keep high activity and selectivity for the HCOOH dissociation to CO 2. Meanwhile, the results also propose that the effective method for reducing the adsorption of OH species at the interface site or fast release the OH species can further improve the catalytic activity and life of Pd 13 /Fe-N-Gra for HCOOH dissociation. The Pd 13 /Fe-N-Gra catalyst shows high activity for the dissociation of formic acid to form CO 2 and H 2. The Fe-N 4 site will modulate the electronic structure of Pd cluster and prevent the deformation of Pd cluster, which is beneficial for hindering the formation of CO. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Erysipelas is a common skin infection that is prone to recur. Recurrent erysipelas has a severe effect on the quality of life of patients. The present study aimed to investigate the risk factors of recurrent erysipelas in adult Chinese patients.Methods: A total of 428 Chinese patients with erysipelas who met the inclusion criteria were studied. The patients were divided into the nonrecurrent erysipelas group and the recurrent erysipelas group. Clinical data were collected on the first episode and relapse of erysipelas. The patients were followed up every 3 months. Statistical analysis was performed to analyze and determine the risk factors of erysipelas relapse.Results: Univariate analysis was performed to analyze the data, including surgery, types of antibiotics administered in the first episode, obesity, diabetes mellitus, venous insufficiency, lymphedema, and malignancy. The differences between the groups were statistically significant (p < 0.05). The Cox proportional hazards regression model analysis showed that the final risk factors included surgery, obesity, diabetes mellitus, venous insufficiency, and lymphedema.Conclusions: Surgery, obesity, diabetes mellitus, venous insufficiency, and lymphedema are considered as risk factors for recurrent erysipelas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: In China, an indigenously developed electronic medication monitor (EMM) was used. EMM recorded each time the device was opened (no real time data), offering an indirect measure of tuberculosis treatment adherence. Previous study in China showed that the EMM uptake was satisfactory, missing adherence data were common in the information management system (25%) and shift to directly observed therapy (DOT) based on poor adherence documented by EMMs were seldom. Objectives: Among people with tuberculosis notified in 30 counties (July-December 2018) where EMM supported self-administered therapy (SAT) was suggested to all eligible (no communication impairment, ambulatory), we assessed the relative differences in unfavourable outcomes and deaths among those started on EMM at baseline (within first month of diagnosis) when compared to SAT alone. Methods: This was a cohort study using secondary data. We employed an intention to treat analysis, and used modified Poisson regression with robust variance estimates to assess the association. Results: Of 1810 eligible people, 1047 used EMM at baseline and of them, 216 (20.1%) stopped using EMM midway. Of 763 people who did not use EMM at baseline, 267 (35.0%) started using EMM later during the treatment. Among those who started using EMM at baseline, 6.3% [95% CI: 4.9, 8.0] had unfavourable outcomes compared to 6.7% [95% CI: 5.1, 8.8] among those who did not (p = 0.746). Lesser deaths were observed in people who started EMM at baseline when compared to those who did not: 2.5% [95% CI: 1.7, 3.7] versus 3.5% [95% CI: 2.4, 5.2], p = 0.191. The lack of association remained after adjusting for potential confounders (occupation, TB classification and TB category). Conclusion: Under programmatic settings, we did not find significant differences in the outcomes. Optimization of EMMs by shifting to DOT when indicated, addressing the issue of missing data and ensuring continuous use is required. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Microfibril angle (MFA) of secondary cell wall has an important effect on the mechanical properties of flax fibers. It is therefore essential to study the relationships between MFA and mechanical properties. This paper investigated MFA of seven flax fibers by using X-ray diffraction (0.6T method) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM; direct observation). The results showed that there is no significant difference between MFA obtained by X-ray diffraction (6.2–7.2°) and SEM (5.8–7.3°). Correlation analysis results showed a good linear correlation (>0.9) between two methods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Biofilms on the surface of food processing equipment act as potential reservoirs of microbial contamination. Bacterial interactions are believed to play key roles in both biofilm formation and antimicrobial tolerance. In this study, Aeromonas hydrophila, Chryseobacterium oncorhynchi, and Pseudomonas libanensis, which were previously isolated from Chinese raw milk samples, were selected to establish two dual-species biofilm models (P. libanensis plus A. hydrophila and P. libanensis plus C. oncorhynchi) on stainless steel at 78C. Subsequently, three disinfectants, hydrogen peroxide (100 ppm), peracetic acid (100 ppm), and sodium hypochlorite (100 ppm), were used to treat the developed sessile communities for 10 min. Structural changes after exposure to disinfectants were analyzed with confocal laser scanning microscopy. The cell numbers of both A. hydrophila and C. oncorhynchi recovered from surfaces increased when grown as dual species biofilms with P. libanensis. Dual-species biofilms were more tolerant of disinfectants than were each single-species biofilm. Peracetic acid was the most effective disinfectant for removing biofilms, followed by hydrogen peroxide and sodium hypochlorite. The results expand the knowledge of mixed-species biofilms formed by psychrotrophic bacteria and will be helpful for developing effective strategies to eliminate bacterial mixed-species biofilms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Several H−H bond forming pathways have been proposed for the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER). Revealing these HER mechanisms is of fundamental importance for the rational design of catalysts and is also extremely challenging. Now, an unparalleled example of switching between homolytic and heterolytic HER mechanisms is reported. Three nickel(II) porphyrins were designed and synthesized with distinct steric effects by introducing bulky amido moieties to ortho‐ or para‐positions of the meso‐phenyl groups. These porphyrins exhibited different catalytic HER behaviors. For these Ni porphyrins, although their 1e‐reduced forms are active to reduce trifluoroacetic acid, the resulting Ni hydrides (depending on the steric effects of porphyrin rings) have different pathways to make H2. Understanding HER processes, especially controllable switching between homolytic and heterolytic H−H bond formation pathways through molecular engineering, is unprecedented in electrocatalysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Several H−H bond forming pathways have been proposed for the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER). Revealing these HER mechanisms is of fundamental importance for the rational design of catalysts and is also extremely challenging. Now, an unparalleled example of switching between homolytic and heterolytic HER mechanisms is reported. Three nickel(II) porphyrins were designed and synthesized with distinct steric effects by introducing bulky amido moieties to ortho‐ or para‐positions of the meso‐phenyl groups. These porphyrins exhibited different catalytic HER behaviors. For these Ni porphyrins, although their 1e‐reduced forms are active to reduce trifluoroacetic acid, the resulting Ni hydrides (depending on the steric effects of porphyrin rings) have different pathways to make H2. Understanding HER processes, especially controllable switching between homolytic and heterolytic H−H bond formation pathways through molecular engineering, is unprecedented in electrocatalysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: China piloted a digital adherence technology called electronic medication monitor (EMM) to support self-administered treatment for tuberculosis. EMM is a portable plastic box that records each time the device is opened, offering an indirect measure of treatment adherence. During the monthly patient visits to tuberculosis designated hospitals, the doctors access the data from the EMM. Objectives: Among people with tuberculosis notified in 30 counties in China (July-December 2018) where EMM supported self-administered treatment was suggested to all those eligible (no communication impairment, ambulatory care), we assessed the i) proportion eligible for using EMM ii) uptake of EMM and factors associated and iii) treatment adherence, including the proportion shifted to DOT. Methods: This was an observational study using secondary programme data. Single instance of ≥50% or continued instance of 20–49% monthly missed doses was the eligibility criteria to shift to DOT. We used log binomial regression to identify factors associated with not using EMM within first month. Results: Of 2227 with EMM eligibility data, 1810 (81%) were eligible for EMM. Of 1810 people, 1314 (73%) ever used EMM anytime during treatment, among them, 134 (10%) were eligible for shift to DOT (based on EMM data), and 29 (22%) were shifted. In addition, 70 were shifted while the EMM data was missing. Of 1047 people who started using EMM within first month, we observed 6381 person-months of follow up and there were 1526(25%) instances of missing EMM data. Children (<15 years), elderly (≥65 years), semi-skilled or unemployed people, people with tuberculosis pleurisy and previous tuberculosis treatment were less likely to use EMM within first month. Conclusion: The EMM uptake was satisfactory but shift to DOT has to be ensured based on adherence data from EMM. The subsequent follow-up action when EMM data is missing has to be clarified in the guidelines. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Owing to the large number of wind turbines (WTs) and long transmission lines in large wind farms (WFs), the wake effect and power loss in a WF have a more significant impact on the active output of the WF. The improper operation of WTs decreases their lifetime and increases their maintenance costs. To minimise the levelised production cost of a WF, this study proposes an optimal active and reactive power cooperative dispatch strategy that considers the minimisation of total WF power loss, maximisation of WF lifetime, and maximisation of total WF power generation. The proposed strategy is compared with a traditional control strategy in a 125 MW WF, and the simulation results prove the effectiveness of the proposed strategy. • An optimal active and reactive power cooperative dispatch strategy of wind farm is proposed to minimise the LPC. • The total power generation, power losses, the lifetime of wind farm are considered in finding the optimal strategy. • The proposed strategy can reduce the LPC compared with traditional strategies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As a perennial herbaceous species, Panax ginseng is widely cultivated and used as traditional herbal medicine. The root of Panax ginseng commonly remains expensive as conventional breeding of Panax ginseng is difficult. Somatic embryogenesis (S.E.) is a useful tool for plant propagation and optimal model for understanding the mechanisms of plant embryogenesis. In Panax ginseng, increasing studies have been widely performed to optimize the technology of S.E., while the underlying mechanism remains unclear. In this paper, we cloned and identified a WRKY family gene named PgWRKY6 which is upregulated in response to 2,4-D (2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetic acid)-induced embryogenic callus development. The silencing of PgWRKY6 obviously reduces the induction rate of embryogenic callus, indicating its crucial role in S.E. of Panax ginseng hairy root. The expressions of several ROS-scavenging genes are also inducible during embryogenic callus development, and the transcriptions of PgGST, PgAPX1, and PgSOD are demonstrated to be regulated by PgWRKY6. Recombinant PgWRKY6, an approximate 40-KDa protein purified from Escherichia coli, shows a specific DNA-binding activity with a potential recognition site of TTGAC(C/T). This work demonstrated that as a conserved WRKY family transcription factor, PgWRKY6 functions upstream of PgGST, PgAPX1, and PgSOD, and potentially mediated auxins –ROS signaling pathway in the process of S.E. in Panax species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As wind power penetration increases, large wind farms (WFs) need to provide reactive power according to modern grid codes. Permanent magnet synchronous generator-based wind turbines (WTs) can generate reactive power, by assigning the appropriate reactive power to each WT to meet the reactive power requirements of the grid. This is a more economical method than setting up additional reactive power compensation equipment. This study proposes an optimal reactive power dispatch strategy for minimising a levelised production cost, and is implemented in two ways: minimising the power loss of a WF, and maximising the lifetime of WTs. The reactive power references of each WT are chosen as the optimisation variables, and a particle swarm optimisation algorithm is adopted to solve the optimisation problem. The proposed and traditional reactive power dispatch strategies are demonstrated and compared on a WF with 25 WTs to validate the effectiveness of the proposed approach. • An optimal reactive power dispatch of wind farm is proposed to minimise the LPC. • The power loss and lifetime of wind farm are both considered in the optimal strategy. • The LPC of proposed strategy is 3.59 DKK/kWh smaller than traditional strategy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, an inverse problem to identify the initial value for high dimension time fractional diffusion equation on spherically symmetric domain is considered. This problem is ill-posed in the sense of Hadamard, so the quasi-boundary regularization method is proposed to solve the problem. The convergence estimates between the regularization solution and the exact solution are presented under the a priori and a posteriori regularization parameter choice rules. Numerical examples are provided to show the effectiveness and stability of the proposed method. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract With the development of wind power, wind farms are required to provide reactive power to the power system. For permanent magnet synchronous generator (PMSG) based large wind farms (WF), it may be an economical way to generate reactive power using the power electronic devices inside each wind turbine (WT). In this paper, an optimal reactive power dispatch of PMSG WF is proposed to minimize the power loss. Both the losses inside WTs and the losses of transmission system are all considered. Particle swarm optimization (PSO) algorithm is adopted to find the reactive power references of each WT which makes the total loss of WF minimal. A WF with 25 5 MW PMSG WTs arranged in 5 rows and 5 columns is used in the case study. And two traditional reactive power dispatch strategies are compared comprehensively with the proposed strategy at different scenarios, the results have shown that the proposed strategy obtains lower power loss than the other two traditional strategies in all the studied cases. Highlights • An optimal reactive power dispatch is proposed to minimize the total power loss of wind farms. • The power losses of wind turbines and transmission system of wind farms are both considered. • Compared to the traditional strategy, the proposed strategy can reduce the power loss of 0.98% in the most effective case. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Microstructure significantly affects materials' physical properties. Predicting and characterizing temporal microstructural evolution is valuable and helpful for understanding the processing-structure-property relationship but is rarely conducted on experimental data for its scarcity, unevenness, and uncontrollability. As such, a self-designed in-situ tensile system in conjunction with a scanning electron microscope was adopted to observe the grain evolution during the tensile process. We then used a deep learning-based model to capture grain growth behavior from the experimental data and characterize grain boundary and orientation evolution. We validated the framework's effectiveness by comparing the predictions and ground truths from quantitative and qualitative perspectives, using data from (1) a tensile experimental dataset and (2) a phase-field simulation dataset. Based on the two datasets, the model's predicted results showed good agreement with ground truths in the short term, and local differences emerged in the long term. This pipeline opened an opportunity for the characterization of microstructure evolution and could be easily extended to other scenarios, such as dendrite growth and martensite transformation. [Display omitted] • It's the first study using a deep learning method to predict and characterize temporal grain evolution on experimental data. • We accurately predict future grain evolution without any subjective assumptions and hand-crafted features. • We can provide valuable reference and guidance for future experiments based on the model's performance. • This pipeline opens a new way of shortening experimental time and characterizing temporal microstructure evolution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Energy system optimization models are widely used to aid long-term investment decision-making for energy systems. From a socio-technical system viewpoint, existing models focus on the cost modeling of the technical subsystem, while the indirect costs of the social subsystem are not often modeled. This paper incorporates indirect costs into such a model, including those associated with generation capacity, energy production, and bilateral trades, respectively. As a proof-of-concept, the model has been applied to a case study for the Dutch power system, reflecting the Dutch national program Regional Energy Strategies, where regions collectively plan wind and solar energy capacities. We conclude that incorporating indirect costs significantly changed the optimal investment capacities and the associated costs for the regions compared to benchmark results from the conventional models. Furthermore, in this case study, a potential free-rider problem with regard to the national climate target occurs. Our model is used as a negotiation simulator to inform the regions about the hypothetical free-riding behaviors and thus helps to achieve a socially acceptable investment plan. The proposed energy system optimization model with indirect costs goes beyond the prevalent cost-minimization paradigm, and can be used to study transaction costs, trading barriers, and willingness to pay. • Existing energy system optimization models largely ignore the social subsystem. • We propose a model incorporating several indirect costs. • This unique model goes beyond the prevalent cost-minimization paradigm. • A proof-of-concept case study for the Dutch power system is conducted. • The model is used as a negotiation simulator for a hypothetical free-rider problem. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Extracting a channel network based on the Digital Elevation Model (DEM) is one of the key research topics in digital terrain analysis. However, when the channel area is wide and flat, it is easy to form parallel channels, which seriously affect the accuracy of channel network extraction. To solve this problem, this study proposes a method to identify and eliminate parallel channels extracted by classical methods. First, the channel level in the study area is marked based on the flow accumulation data, and the parallel channels are then identified using the positional relationship between the different channel levels. Finally, the modification point of the identified parallel channels is determined to eliminate the parallel channels, with the help of the change relationship between the parallel channel and its upper-level channel. In this study, two watersheds in southeast China are selected as examples for method verification and analysis. Experimental results show that the parallel channel identification method proposed in this paper can accurately identify all parallel channels and eliminate the identified parallel channels one by one. The location relationship of the modified channels is consistent with the actual situation, indicating that the proposed method has good application potential in DEM-based channel extraction networks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Resistin, a diminutive secretory adipokine, has been linked to obesity and its related ailments. A growing body of evidence suggests that resistin may also be related to the pathogenesis preeclampsia. However, results of previous studies were not consistent. We performed a systematic review and meta-analysis to evaluate the level of circulating resistin in women with PE. A systematic search of Medline, Web of Science, and Embase databases from inception to April 28, 2023, was conducted to identify studies that compared blood resistin levels in pregnant women with and without PE. A random-effects model was utilized to pool the results, accounting for heterogeneity. The present study analyzed eighteen datasets from sixteen observational studies. The results of the meta-analysis demonstrated a statistically significant increase in blood resistin levels among women with PE compared to the control group. (standardized mean difference=0.35, 95% confidence interval: 0.16 to 0.54, p<0.001; I2=74%). The findings of the subgroup analysis indicate that various study characteristics, including study design, timing, and methods for measuring resistin, matching of body mass index between cases and controls, and study quality scores did not exert a significant impact on the outcomes. Nonetheless, it is noteworthy that the diagnostic criteria for PE employed in the studies included in the analysis may have influenced the results (p for subgroup difference=0.001). Women with preeclampsia exhibit a greater concentration of resistin in circulation when compared to healthy pregnant controls. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Puerariae Thomsonii Radix (PTR) is not only widely used in disease prevention and treatment but is also an important raw material as a source of starch and other food. The growth years of PTR are closely related to its quality. The rapid and nondestructive identification of growth year is essential for the quality control of PTR and other traditional Chinese medicines. In this study, we proposed a convolutional neural network (CNN)-based classification framework in conjunction with hyperspectral imaging (HSI) technology for the rapid identification of the growth years of PTRs. Traditional treatment methods (i.e., multiplicative scatter correction, standard normal variate, and Savitzky-Golay smoothing) combined with machine learning algorithms (i.e., random forest, logistic regression, naive Bayes, and eXtreme gradient boost) were used as baseline models. Among them, the F1-score of CNN-based models based on PTRs' outer surfaces was over 90%, outperforming all the other baseline models. These results showed that it was feasible to use a deep learning algorithm in conjunction with HSI technology to identify the growth years of PTR. This method provides a fast, nondestructive, and simple method of identifying the growth years of PTR. It can be easily applied to other scenarios, such as for the identification of the locality or years of growth for other traditional Chinese herbs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Graphical abstract A facile and low-cost approach is developed to fabricate magnetic, durable, and superhydrophobic carbon sponges, which facilitate potential applications in oil/water separation and remote controlled oil removal from oil spills. Highlights • Magnetic superhydrophobic carbon sponges (MSCS) were fabricated via a facile and low-cost approach. • MSCS can act as "smart absorbents" to adsorb oils from oil-water mixtures. • MSCS exhibit stable adsorption efficiencies and recyclability, as well as robust durability against harsh environment. Abstract The clean-up of oil spills is a worldwide challenge for the prevention of serious environmental pollution. Therefore, it is imperative to develop materials for oil-spill cleanup that have high absorption/separation capacity, good selectivity, controlled collection and easy recyclability. Here, we present a facile and low-cost approach for fabricating magnetic, durable, and superhydrophobic carbon sponges. The resultant carbon sponges feature fast magnetic response, excellent superhydrophobicity/superoleophilicity, high chemical resistance, environmental stability and mechanical durability, as well as high oil/water separation efficiency and oil absorbency. More importantly, given the magnetically controllable property endowed by magnetic particles to superhydrophobic carbon sponges, which act as magnetically controlled "smart absorbents", the carbon sponges can therefore controllably and selectively adsorb oils from oil-water mixtures. Thus, our strategy may open up a new avenue for developing magnetic responsive intelligent oil sorbent materials suitable for practical applications in the fields of water remediation, oil spill clean-up and oil recovery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Novel nanostructured Fe 2 O 3 with a network of 3D mesoporous nanosheets was synthesized by depositing on carbon fabric (Fe 2 O 3 @CF) for use as an anode using a potentially low-cost electrodeposition technique. The electrode with freestanding binder-free Fe 2 O 3 @CF of high surface area displayed an exceptional specific capacitance of 394.2 F g−1. Moreover, a flexible solid-state asymmetric supercapacitor (ASC) was fabricated with a negative electrode based on Fe 2 O 3 @CF and a positive electrode based on MnO 2 @CF in the presence of PVA-LiCl as gel electrolyte. The above ASC exhibited a high operating potential up to 1.8 V, a favorable specific capacitance of 93.5 F g−1 (2.92 F cm−3), long-term stability (91.3% retention of initial value over 5000 cycles), and remarkable mechanical stability and flexibility, suggesting its potential application for wearable electronics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Herein, we propose a facile incomplete phase separation strategy unlike the tedious synthesis approaches of the past to fabricate P/N co-doped porous and interconnected carbon (PNPC) particles with a specific surface area (S A) of 1920 m2 g−1. The heteroatom doped porous carbons were demonstrated to possess improved conductive property and excellent stability for supercapacitor application. The PNPC bunch delivered a high specific capacitance of 318 F g−1 at 1 A g−1 and a remarkable cycling stability, i.e., 96.2% initial capacitance after 10,000 cycles in 6 M KOH electrolyte solution. In addition, an asymmetric supercapacitor (ASC) employing LaNi 0.5 Co 0.5 O 3 /0.333Co 3 O 4 hollow spheres with a mesoporous shell as a positive electrode and PNPC bunch as a negative electrode showed a maximum specific capacitance of 109.6 F g−1 at 1 A g−1 in a potential window of 0–1.7 V. More importantly, the reformative ASC can be discharged up to 0.5 s at a charge current density of 1 A g−1 to deliver an ultrahigh power density of 89.7 kW kg−1, much higher than those of the reported ASCs. This exciting result paves a way for practical application in high power devices. Graphical abstract Image 1 Highlights • A facile incomplete phase separation strategy to fabricate doped porous carbon. • The sample delivers a high specific capacitance of 318 F g−1 at 1 A g−1. • The assembled ASC exhibits a specific capacitance of 109.6 F g−1 at 1 A g−1 in 0–1.7 V. • An ultra-high power density of 89.7 W kg−1 can be addressed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Graphical abstract Partly nitrogenized NiO hollow spheres with mesoporous shell are developed as hybrid supercapacitors exhibited superior energy density and outstanding cyclic stability. Highlights • Partly nitrogenized nickel oxide hollow spheres with mesoporous shell are prepared. • Our sample contains multiple compositions including NiO, Ni 2 O 3 , Ni 3 N, and N-doped NiO. • Excellent conductivity is confirmed by measurement results and first-principles calculations. • Our sample can compare favorably with the NiO/CNT and NiO/rGO composites in electrochemical properties. Abstract In order to improve the conductivity of NiO, a simple and effective strategy has been utilized. Here, we synthesized partly nitrogenized nickel oxide hollow spheres and used them as an electrode material of a supercapacitor. It was found that the prepared partly nitrogenized material possessed a mesoporous shell of multiple compositions consisting of NiO, Ni 2 O 3 , Ni 3 N, and N-doped NiO, the latter partly substituted with nitrogen. The first-principles calculations were also employed to investigate the composite structure and the result demonstrated an improved electronic conductivity. The partly nitrogenized NiO spheres acted as a battery-type electrode material delivering a gravimetric specific capacity of 492C g−1 at 1 A g−1 and a long-term stability in a three-electrode system. The assembled hybrid supercapacitor exhibited a maximum capacitance of 121F g−1 at 1 A g−1, a high energy density of 37.8 Wh kg−1 and power density of 37.5 kW kg−1, and high capacitance retention after 5000 charge–discharge cycles. The excellent electrochemical performance indicates that the partly nitrogenized NiO hollow spheres can compare favorably with nanostructured NiO materials composited with carbon nanotubes and reduced graphene oxide for application in energy storage devices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Herein we designed and synthesized a cell penetrating peptide- and cancer-targeted molecule-functionalized multi-walled carbon nanotube for precise orthotopic glioma therapy. In addition to reduced toxicity, this nanosystem exhibited enhanced cancer recognition, blood–brain barrier (BBB) penetration, and anticancer activity through increased ROS production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) have been classically defined as regulatory RNA members >200 nucleotides in length, without detectable open-reading frames to encode proteins. Previous studies have demonstrated that lncRNAs serve critical roles in multiple cancer types. Colon cancer-associated transcript 1 (CCAT1), a novel cancer-associated lncRNA, is significantly overexpressed in a number of malignancies. Functionally, as an oncogenic lncRNA, CCAT1 is involved in proliferation, migration, cell cycle progression, apoptosis, chemoresistance and other biological processes of cancer cells through complex regulation mechanisms in the cytoplasm or nucleus. In clinical applications, CCAT1 is additionally positively associated with histological differentiation, tumour node metastasis stage, vascular invasion, overall survival and recurrence-free survival, which demonstrates its important role as a diagnostic and prognostic marker in cancer. The present review summarises the current research progress of the oncogenic potential and clinical uses of CCAT1 in various human cancer types. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

It is imperative to develop efficient and environmentally friendly oil-spill cleanup materials to solve the problems raised by frequent oil spillages and industrial discharge of organic solvents. Here, we present a bioinspired one-step construction of hierarchical superhydrophobic surfaces on various commercial porous materials by immersing the materials into an alkaline aqueous mixture consisting of dopamine (DA) and dodecyltrimethoxysilane (DTMS). The self-polymerization of DA constructs the bumpy surfaces, while the DTMS coatings enhance the hydrophobicity of the surfaces. The combined use of both results in the hierarchical superhydrophobic surfaces. This surface modification of porous materials allows them as the potential candidates for collecting a wide variety of oils/organic solvents from water in a highly efficient, recyclable, and durable way. This approach proposes a general, yet green path for constructing superhydrophobic surfaces, which can be further adapted to prepare economic oil/organic solvents absorbents applied in the fields of oil/water separation, wastewater remediation, and organics recovery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nitrogen (N)-doped carbon cloth (NCC) was obtained by carbonizing polypyrrole coated on the CC to improve the specific surface area and introduce nitrogen functional groups. The surface area of the NCC was 147 m2 g−1, which was 16.7 times that of CC (8.8 m2 g−1). X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy demonstrated that two types of N dopants (pyrrolic-N and quaternary-N) were successfully doped in the NCC. The NCC had a high specific capacitance of 1.2 F cm−2 at 8 mA cm−2 as determined using a three-electrode system in 1 M Na2SO4. The asymmetric supercapacitor used with the NCC as negative electrode exhibited an energy density of 2.43 mWh cm−3 at 208 mW cm−3 with a voltage window of 2 V. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Here, we report a new synthetic strategy to fabricate mesoporous film of Ni 0.8 Fe 0.2 nanosheets for high performance oxygen evolution reaction (OER). Mesoporous Ni 0.8 Fe 0.2 film self-supported on stainless steel mesh (SLS) was prepared via a novel hydrothermal electrodeposition process. Hydrothermally driven electrodeposition method showed significant advantages toward OER: (1) high temperature makes H 2 generated on the cathode to overflow faster. Both the gas generated on the cathode and hydrothermal condition impacted coating surface, hence, the film possessed more active sites to improve OER properties and (2) hydrothermal condition improved the crystallization of the coating leading to excellent electrode stability under OER test. The mesoporous Ni 0.8 Fe 0.2 film exhibited an overpotential of 206 mV at 10 mA cm −2 (i.e., 1.436 V vs. RHE), a Tafel slope of 64 mV dec −1 and excellent stability after 2 × 10 5  s (more than 55 h) at 10 mA cm −2 . The superior OER properties could be attributed to the film’s novel synthetic process, porous structure and high electrical conductivity. This work shows a new strategy to fabricate mesoporous alloy films as OER catalysts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]