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Fumonisins (FBs), particularly fumonisin B1 (FB1) and fumonisin B2 (FB2) produced mainly by Fusarium verticillioide and Fusarium proliferatum, are common contaminants in animal feed and pose a serious threat to both animal and human health. The use of microbial enzymes to efficiently and specifically convert fumonisins into non-toxic or low-toxic metabolites has emerged as the most promising approach. However, most of the available enzymes have only been evaluated in vitro and lack systematic evaluation in vivo. In this study, the detoxification efficacy of two carboxylesterases, FumD (FUMzyme®) and FumDSB, was evaluated comparatively in piglets. The results show that feeding piglets 4.4 mg/kg FBs-contaminated diets for 32 days did not significantly affect the average daily gain, organ indices, and immunoglobulins of the piglets. However, a significant reduction (21.2%) in anti-inflammatory cytokine interleukin-4 was observed in the FBs group, and supplementation with FUMzyme® and FumDSB significantly increased interleukin-4 by 62.1% and 28.0%, respectively. In addition, FBs-contaminated diets resulted in a 3-fold increase in the serum sphinganine/sphingosine (Sa/So) ratio, which is a specific biomarker that has been used to accurately reflect fumonisin levels. The serum Sa/So ratio was significantly reduced by 48.8% after the addition of FUMzyme®, and was insignificantly reduced by 8.2% in the FumDSB group. These results suggested that FUMzyme was more effective than FumDSB in mitigating FBs toxicity in piglets by down-regulating the Sa/So ratio. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Purpose Methods Results Conclusion The education and training of coaches is considered central to maintaining and improving the quality of coaching. Formal coach education is accessed by thousands of coaches each year. However, evidence would suggest this form of learning plays only a minor role in coaches’ development. One possible reason for this is the lack of consideration of the coaches’ perspective in the design of current programmes.The purpose of this study was to systematically review the existing empirical evidence about how coaches experience formal coach education programmes developed by NGBs.A systematic review was conducted. Based on the ENTREQ guidelines, a comprehensive search was performed in six electronic databases (ERIC, PsycInfo, PsycARTICLES, Sport Discus, Scopus, Web of Science) using key words related to coach experience, coach education and national governing bodies. The inclusion criteria were: coach, coach trainee, coach learner; formal coach education courses developed by NGBs; peer-reviewed articles in English published between 2000 and 2021; qualitative methods studies. Thematic analysis was used to analyse data from the included articles.15 studies met the study’s inclusion criteria. Analysis showed three main themes influenced coaches’ course experience: (1) coach educator pedagogy (2) learning design, and (3) course content. More specifically, coaches’ experience depended heavily on (a) whether the educator used pedagogical approaches which include interactive elements and (b) whether educators had good interpersonal skills. In addition, coaches experienced their NGB course positively when there were opportunities to apply their learning in practical-based workshops.The review provides a detailed understanding of what coaches perceive they want and need from NGB coach education courses. While we cannot claim that the perceptions from the coaches in this systematic review can be generalised or represent the experiences of every coach, these findings provide insight to inform how future NGB’s designers and educators could think about what coaches want and need from their education and training experiences. What we found surprising was the limited number of published, peer-reviewed work, which has attempted to learn about how coaches’ experience NGB led coach education. This is especially so given this is often the only mandatory learning coaches are required to complete. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Glass‐embossing technology has attracted great attention due to its promise of low‐cost and environmentally conscious fabrication of well‐defined and controllable surfaces and nanostructured devices. The embossed surface quality of glass structures is a very important index for optics. However, the evolutions of nanosurfaces and their microcontact mechanism during glass‐embossing process have not been deeply and comprehensively investigated. Here, we studied the surface morphology evolution of optical glass under different processing conditions using a tungsten carbide surface plate with nanoscale roughness as the mold. The light transmittances of different embossed glasses were detected by an ultraviolet spectrophotometer. The flow deformation and microcontact mechanism of glass‐supercooled liquids were revealed during glass‐embossing process. The result showed that the rough optical glass can successfully replicate the nanoscale smoothness of the tungsten carbide template without grinding or polishing. On the basis of the previous study, the glass‐surfaced structures from nanoscale to macroscale are fabricated. This work provides better understanding for the evolution of nanosurfaces and the fabrication of nanostructured optics during glass‐embossing process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With the requirement for self-powering functionality in wearable electronics, a small power range flexible photovoltaic micro-power system is evidently needed. Furthermore, non-flexibility, large volume/weight, power consumption constraints, and cost considerations make it impractical to directly use the large power range complex maximum power point tracking (MPPT) algorithm and hardware in wearable electronics. This work aims to design a fully flexible photovoltaic micro-power system for reliable energy supply within the low power range for wearable electronics. In this study, a customized fractional open circuit voltage (FOCV) algorithm and a performance-matching DC-DC converter are designed, and then integrated with a flexible perovskite solar module to develop a fully flexible photovoltaic micro-power system. Indoor and outdoor experiments are conducted to evaluate its performance. The designed MPPT system achieves a high tracking accuracy of 99.25% at a power of 0.539 W with a fast tracking time of 0.20 s, which is an effective improvement over the traditional algorithms. These values are 97.8% and 0.21 s under shaded lighting conditions. The MPPT system is lightweight (4.6 g) with a size of <3 × 3 cm2. Tracking experiments with flexible solar modules after bending also demonstrate the flexibility of the system, which also shows the high utilization and fast response capability for small power range photovoltaic outputs. The fully flexible photovoltaic micro-power system demonstrates great potential for future wearable electronics and expands the way to efficiently harvest solar energy in highly adaptive and dynamic applications. • A customized MPPT algorithm and hardware is proposed. • The customized MPPT exhibits a high power tracking accuracy of 99.25% and a fast tracking time of 0.20 s. • A fully flexible photovoltaic micro-power system is developed by integrating a flexible MPPT and a flexible solar module. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Achieving efficient oxygen evolution reaction (OER) and hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) simultaneously in the electrocatalytic water-splitting is essential to achieve a green hydrogen economy. However, a rational catalyst design still faces great challenges due to the slow kinetic limitations such as electron transfer at the electrode-electrolyte interface. Herein, a porous 3D CoPt 3 /a-FCWO-NS heterostructures was formed by morphology modulation and interfacial engineering. Notably, the catalyst requires only 1.51 V to achieve 10 mA cm−2 in 1 M KOH, and a commercial 1.5 V cell can drive the overall water-splitting with excellent stability. DFT combined with XPS results reveal the electron transfer between CoPt 3 and FeCoW oxides. Due to the ensemble effect CoPt 3 exhibits an electron deficient state moderating the slow kinetics of the OER process. Furthermore, the substrate FeCoW oxides modulates the d -band position of CoPt 3 , and the suitable adsorption energy for hydrogen-containing intermediates makes CoPt 3 /a-FCWO favorable for the HER process. [Display omitted] • A new strategy to synthesize porous ultrathin nanosheets with crystalline-amorphous heterostructure. • Morphology modulation and interfacial engineering to improve the catalytic activity of materials. • DFT combined with XPS verified the electron transfer between heterogeneous interfaces. • Only a 1.5 V commercial battery to perform the overall water-splitting is required. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The rising prevalence of antibiotic resistance poses the greatest health threats. Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) are regarded as the potentially effective therapy. To avoid current crisis of antibiotic resistance, a comprehensive understanding of AMP resistance is necessary before clinical application. In this study, the development of resistance to the anti-Gram-negative bacteria peptide N6NH2 (21 residues, β-sheet) was characterized in E. coli ATCC25922. Three N6NH2-resistant E. coli mutants with 32-fold increase in MIC were isolated by serially passaging bacterial lineages in progressively increasing concentrations of N6NH2 and we mainly focus on the phenotype of N6NH2-resistant bacteria different from sensitive bacteria. The results showed that the resistance mechanism was attributed to synergy effect of multiple mechanisms: (i) increase biofilm formation capacity (3 ~ 4-fold); (ii) weaken the affinity of lipopolysaccharide (LPS) with N6NH2 (3 ~ 8-fold); and (iii) change the cell membrane permeability and potential. Interestingly, a chimeric peptide-G6, also a N6NH2 analog, which keep the same antibacterial activity to both wild-type and resistant clones (MIC value: 16 μg/mL), could curb N6NH2-resistant mutants by stronger inhibition of biofilm formation, stronger affinity with LPS, and stronger membrane permeability and depolarization than that of N6NH2. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To explore the clinical significance of the perioperative counts of circulating tumor cells (CTCs), mesenchymal CTCs (MCTCs), and CTC- white blood cells (WBCs) in renal cell carcinoma patients. A total of 131 patients with renal cancer who underwent operation excision from our hospital were enrolled. In addition, 20 patients with benign renal diseases were recruited as a control. Blood samples were collected from the 131 patients, before operation and 3 months after surgery. Samples were also obtained simultaneously from the control group. CanPatrol CTC detection technique was used to enrich and identify CTCs, MCTCs, and CTC-WBCs. All enrolled patients were T1-3N0M0. From these, 52 patients with renal cancer underwent radical resection, while other 79 patients underwent nephron-sparing surgery. The positive rate of CTC, MCTC, and CTC-WBC before surgery were 95.4% (125/131), 61.1% (80/131), and 11.5% (15/131), respectively. Preoperative total CTCs, MCTCs, or CTC-WBCs were poorly correlated with patients' parameters. Preoperative CTC, MCTC, or CTC-WBC showed no association with progression-free survival (PFS). In contrast, postoperative total CTCs (≥6), positive MCTCs, and positive CTC-WBCs significantly correlated with recurrence and metastasis. These results remained independent indicators for worse PFS. In addition, the increased CTC and MCTC count after surgery also correlated with unfavorable PFS. The detection of six or more total CTCs, MCTC, or CTC-WBCs in peripheral blood after surgery might help to identify a subset of patients that have higher recurrent risk than the overall population of patients with at different stages of renal cancer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aeromonas veronii can cause a variety of diseases such as sepsis in humans and animals. However, there has been no effective way to eradicate A. veronii. In this study, the intracellular antibacterial activities of the C-terminal aminated marine peptide N6 (N6NH2) and its D-enantiomer (DN6NH2) against A. veronii were investigated in macrophages and in mice, respectively. The result showed that DN6NH2 with the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of 1.62 μM is more resistant to cathepsin B than N6NH2 (3.23 μM). The penetration percentages of the cells treated with 4–200 μg/mL fluorescein isothiocyanate (FITC)-DN6NH2 were 52.5–99.6%, higher than those of FITC-N6NH2 (27.0–99.1%). Both N6NH2 and DN6NH2 entered macrophages by macropinocytosis and an energy-dependent manner. DN6NH2 reduced intracellular A. veronii by 34.57%, superior to N6NH2 (19.52%). After treatment with 100 μg/mL DN6NH2, the levels of tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interleukin-6 (IL-6), and IL-1β were reduced by 53.45%, 58.54%, and 44.62%, respectively, lower than those of N6NH2 (15.65%, 12.88%, and 14.10%, respectively); DN6NH2 increased the IL-10 level (42.94%), higher than N6NH2 (7.67%). In the mice peritonitis model, 5 μmol/kg DN6NH2 reduced intracellular A. veronii colonization by 73.22%, which was superior to N6NH2 (32.45%) or ciprofloxacin (45.67%). This suggests that DN6NH2 may be used as the candidate for treating intracellular multidrug-resistant (MDR) A. veronii. Key points: • DN6NH2improved intracellular antibacterial activity against MDR A. veronii. • DN6NH2entered macrophages by micropinocytosis and enhanced the internalization rates. • DN6NH2effectively protected the mice from infection with A. veronii. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In recent years, the rise of antibiotic resistance has become a primary health problem. With the emergence of bacterial resistance, the need to explore and develop novel antibacterial drugs has become increasingly urgent. Filamentous temperature‐sensitive mutant Z (FtsZ), a crucial cell division protein of bacteria, has become a vital antibacterial target. FtsZ is a filamentous GTPase; it is highly conserved in bacteria and shares less than 20% sequence identity with the eukaryotic cytoskeleton protein tubulin, indicating that FtsZ‐targeting antibacterial agents may have a low cytotoxicity toward eukaryotes. FtsZ can form a dynamic Z‐ring in the center of the cell resulting in cell division. Furthermore, disturbance in the assembly of FtsZ may affect cellular dynamics and bacterial cell survival, making it a fascinating target for drug development. This review focuses on the recent discovery of FtsZ inhibitors, including peptides, natural products, and other synthetic small molecules, as well as their mechanism of action, which could facilitate the discovery of novel FtsZ‐targeting clinical drugs in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pathogenic Escherichia coli can cause fatal diarrheal diseases in both animals and humans. However, no antibiotics or antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) can adequately kill resistant bacteria and clear bacterial endotoxin, lipopolysaccharide (LPS) which leads to inflammation and sepsis. Here, the LPS-targeted smart chimeric peptides (SCPs)-A6 and G6 are generated by connecting LPS-targeting peptide-LBP14 and killing domain-N6 via different linkers. Rigid and flexible linkers retain the independent biological activities from each component. SCPs-A6 and G6 exert low toxicity and no bacterial resistance, and they more rapidly kill multiple-drug-resistant E. coli and more effectively neutralize LPS toxicity than N6 alone. The SCPs can enhance mouse survival more effectively than N6 or polymyxin B and alleviate lung injuries by blocking mitogen-activated protein kinase and nuclear factor kappa-B p65 activation. These findings uniquely show that SCPs-A6 and G6 may be promising dual-function candidates as improved antibacterial and anti-endotoxin agents to treat bacterial infection and sepsis. Wang ZL and Wang XM design bactericidal peptides in which an antimicrobial domain is fused to a domain that facilitates the neutralisation of lipoplysaccaride (LPS) to prevent inflammation associated with the targeting of Gram-negative bacteria. They characterise their properties and structures, and show their efficiency in vitro and in vivo. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper develops a new combined technology to fabricate complex 3D microstructure based on micro milling and micro sinking electro-discharge machining (micro-SEDM). Graphite microform electrode is in-situ prepared by micro milling and subsequently used for micro-SEDM, integrating the advantages of two processes. Material removal rate (MRR) and electrode wear ratio (EWR) are experimentally investigated to determine proper parameters for different micro-SEDM performances. Three different machining strategies including single, double and treble micro-SEDM are adopted to fabricate 3D microstructure. The surface roughness, size accuracy, machining duration and cost of micro-cavities, and electrode wear under different strategies have been compared. The results show that treble micro-SEDM produces superior surface quality with 0.83 μm Ra and size accuracy with ≤ 28.05 μm tolerance. The proposed method broadens the machining flexibility and capability of micro-fabrication techniques. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pigeons have natural advantages in robotics research, including a wide range of activities, low energy consumption, good concealment performance, strong long-distance weight bearing and continuous flight ability, excellent navigation, and spatial cognitive ability, etc. They are typical model animals in the field of animal robot research and have important application value. A hot interdisciplinary research topic and the core content of pigeon robot research, altering pigeon motor behavior using brain stimulation involves multiple disciplines including animal ethology, neuroscience, electronic information technology and artificial intelligence technology, etc. In this paper, we review the progress of altering pigeon motor behavior using brain stimulation from the perspectives of the neural basis and neuro-devices. The recent literature on altering pigeon motor behavior using brain stimulation was investigated first. The neural basis, structure and function of a system to alter pigeon motor behavior using brain stimulation are briefly introduced below. Furthermore, a classified review was carried out based on the representative research achievements in this field in recent years. Our summary and discussion of the related research progress cover five aspects including the control targets, control parameters, control environment, control objectives, and control system. Future directions that need to be further studied are discussed, and the development trend in altering pigeon motor behavior using brain stimulation is projected. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The ZrB2-SiC-graphite composite is one of the most promising ceramics, which show significant potential in manufacturing parts served in ultra-high temperature. Micro-electrical discharge machining (micro-EDM) is an effective method in machining this conductive hard ceramic. However, the recast layer characterized by craters and micro-cracks is formed on the machined surface, resulting in poor surface quality. In this paper, micro-EDM and micro-ultrasonic machining (micro-USM) combined milling is proposed for manufacturing 3D micro-cavities in the ZrB2-SiC-graphite composite. The micro-cavity is firstly machined by micro-EDM milling, followed by micro-USM finish milling to remove the recast layer in the same system without changing the micro-tool. The machining performances are investigated with consideration of the surface topography and finishing depth. It is found that the more recast layer is removed when a higher ultrasonic amplitude, larger abrasive grain size, and lower tool feedrate are employed. Based on the preliminary experiments, the proper machining parameters are obtained and applied to the fabrication of micro-cavities. The machining results show that the surface quality is improved with the low surface roughness and absence of defect layer. Meanwhile, the high machining accuracy in the depth direction and processing efficiency are achieved. It is verified that the micro-EDM and micro-USM combined milling process is feasible for fabricating 3D micro-cavities in the ZrB2-SiC-graphite composite. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To present our single-center experience with retroperitoneal laparoscopic partial nephrectomy (LPN) and retroperitoneal laparoscopic radical nephrectomy (LRN) for T1 renal hilar tumors and evaluate which one is better.Methods: A retrospective review of 63 patients with hilar tumors undergoing retroperitoneal LPN or LRN was performed. The perioperative characteristics, change in estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) from baseline to month 3, and oncologic outcomes were summarized.Results: In total, 25 patients underwent LPN, and 38 patients underwent LRN. The mean tumor size in the LPN and LRN groups was 4.5 and 4.9 cm, respectively. The mean operation time was longer in the LPN group than that in the LRN group (212.5 minutes versus 160.7 minutes, respectively; P < .05). Patients undergoing the LPN had a longer median length of hospital stay after surgery (9 days versus 7 days, P < .05). Four percent of patients in the LPN group experienced postoperative complications compared with 5% of patients in the LRN group, which was not significantly different. Compared with preoperative eGFR, postoperative eGFR at 3 months decreased by 15.2 mL/min/1.73 m2 and 27.8 mL/min/1.73 m2 in the LPN and the LRN groups, respectively (P < .05). There was one local recurrence in the LPN group and three local or distant recurrences in the LRN group (P > .05).Conclusions: In experienced hands, although retroperitoneal LRN can result in shorter operation times and shorter lengths of stay, retroperitoneal LPN can preserve renal function better than LRN. Retroperitoneal LPN should be the priority in selected patients with T1 renal hilar tumors, especially for patients with renal insufficiency. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents the manufacture of micro-rotating structure combining micro reciprocated wire electrical discharge machining (wire-EDM) and multi-cutting strategy. A novel rotating spindle is developed to achieve the rotation of cylindrical workpiece and the multi-cutting strategy including rough, semi-finish, and finish machining is attempted to improve the machining removal rate (MRR) and reduce the surface roughness (SR) of micro-rotating structure. To determine proper parameters for multi-cutting process, the effects of machining parameters such as open voltage, discharge capacitance, and rotation rate on MRR and SR are studied by systematically performing experiments planed by single factor design and central composite design (CCD) of response surface methodology (RSM). Analysis of variance (ANOVA) is conducted to identify the significant factor and confirm the adequacy of the established models of MRR and SR. The mathematical models are used to predict MRR and SR within 8.18 and 8.74% prediction error compared with the additivity tests, respectively. Desirability method in RSM technique is used to determine three sets of parametric combinations for multi-cutting process, which are verified by confirmation experiments with 1.75~7.76% prediction error for MRR and 2.77~8.59% prediction error for SR. Finally, a typical microballoon probe is successfully machined with 0.435 Ra and 98.7-μm diameter by the proposed method, which provides a feasible approach for the fabrication of micro-rotating structure with high efficiency and smooth surface. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents a hybrid process combine micro reciprocated wire-EDM which uses reciprocated travelling wire with 50 μm diameter as tool electrode, with the precision forging, achieving the economical and high-efficiency sustainable production of micro gears. A micro gear mold with 0.1 mm module and 10 tooth number is devised, and the 14.5 μm mold fit clearance is determined by analyzing the established mold matching model and conducting the numerical simulation of precision forging. During the micro reciprocated wire-EDM of micro gear mold from SKD11, the basic experiments are performed to study the effect of the main parameters on machining accuracy and productivity, and whilst the proper machining parameters are obtained. The micro gear punch and die are successfully fabricated by micro reciprocated wire-EDM, showing good surface quality with 0.90 μm and 0.83 μm Ra respectively, and low dimensional deviations of ≤1.3 μm and 2.1 μm respectively. Finally, the precision forging of the micro gears are conducted on ultrafine grained (UFG) high purity copper by the machined micro gear mold. The forged micro gears have high forming precision with ≤4.1 μm deviation from the micro gear mold and smooth surface with 0.86 μm copied from the micro gear die cavity, verifying the feasibility of the proposed method for the sustainable production of micro gears. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Beryllium copper alloys are the ideal materials to fabricate the supporting parts owing to their excellent physical and chemical properties. Many high aspect ratio micro-holes are often required to realize the special missions. However, they were not easily fabricated by the traditional machining methods owing to the materials' mechanical strength. Here, we presented a high efficiency method for drilling high aspect ratio micro-holes on C17200 beryllium copper alloy by combining deionized water based micro-EDM and in situ PMEDM with boron carbide additives. The machining parameters were systematically investigated and optimized to realize the ever high aspect ratio of 23.26 at the holes' diameter of 215 μm. The surface quality of the micro-hole was improved further by in-situ PMEDM, which was demonstrated by the decreasing of surface roughness (Ra) from 2.65 μm to 0.92 μm. Our method will open an avenue to fabricate high aspect ratio micro-holes on C17200 with high efficiency. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Beryllium copper alloys known as high-reliability engineered materials are widely used in many engineering fields. Micro-electrical discharge machining (micro-EDM) provides a safely and effectively machining process to machine beryllium copper alloys regardless of their toxicity and mechanical strength. During micro-EDM, the higher material removal rate and the lower electrode wear rate are observed when deionized water is used as a dielectric fluid. However, there are many stray-current corrosion pits on the end surface of holes which directly affect the performance and life span of parts. In this study, the method of auxiliary electrode was used to suppress the effects of stray-current corrosion on the end surfaces of holes on C17200 beryllium copper alloy. The end surfaces of holes were protected by sacrificing the auxiliary electrode. The feasibility of micro-EDM with an auxiliary electrode was verified by an experiment of a hole machined with half coved by the auxiliary electrode and the others without. The effects of the thickness of the auxiliary electrode on end surface quality and machining time were studied. The effects of the auxiliary electrode to suppress stray-current corrosion on C17200 beryllium copper alloy were proved under diffident pulse currents and pulse widths. Machining time and electrode wear were investigated. The results show that the electrode wear is scarcely affected by the auxiliary electrode. However, the machining time is slightly increased when the pulse current is lower than 0.55 A, and the pulse width is shorter than 20 μs. Beyond that level, the effect of the auxiliary electrode on machining time is not obvious. The end surface quality decreases when the pulse width is longer than 20 μs. In addition, the results also show that, when the thickness of the auxiliary electrode is 60 μm, a value of 0.34 A pulse current and 20 μs pulse width could be considered as ideal parameters for C17200 beryllium copper alloy machined by micro-EDM with an auxiliary electrode in deionized water. Furthermore, it is confirmed that the auxiliary electrode can be easily fixed on different radii of curvature surface and effectively protect the end surface of micro-holes from stray-current corrosion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The ZrB-SiC-graphite composite is a promising engineering material for ultra-high temperature applications. However, the fabrication of micro-hole in this ceramic composite is difficult due to the high hardness. This paper presents micro-electrical discharge machining (EDM) drilling of the ZrB-SiC-graphite composite using the micro sheet-cylinder tool electrode to improve the machining efficiency and quality of micro-hole. The micro-hole is firstly drilled by the sheet segment of electrode under the high capacitance, and then finish drilling is conducted using the cylinder segment of electrode under the low capacitance. The material removal rate, surface roughness, surface microcracks, debris, and material removal mechanisms are investigated. It is found that the material is removed by melting/evaporation and thermal spalling during micro-EDM of the ZrB-SiC-graphite composite, and the thermal spalling effect produces the large size irregular debris. The electrode with the sheet shape can significantly increase the machining efficiency compared with the electrode with the cylinder shape. Furthermore, the surface roughness is reduced in finish drilling with the low capacitance. The experiment results of micro-holes machined by the sheet-cylinder electrode demonstrate that the presented method can improve the machining efficiency, surface quality, and machining accuracy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Catalysts with amorphous structures have shown excellent performance in electrocatalytic water oxidation, but it remains a challenge to prepare efficient catalysts using simple methods while maintaining high yields. Herein, amorphous Fe x Co y W z oxides nanoparticles were prepared by a one-step co-precipitation method, and the Fe content was optimized to ensure efficient water oxidation. The prepared Fe 0.05 Co 0.09 W 0.61 O 0.25 had the best OER performance with a yield of 95.6% when the Co and Fe feeding ratio was 2:1. The Fe 0.05 Co 0.09 W 0.61 O 0.25 possessed an overpotential of 267 mV at 10 mA cm−2 with a small Tafel slope of 39.4 mV dec−1. The activation energy at 1.5 V is only 49.4 kJ mol−1, and Faraday efficiency is close to 100%. The water oxidation performance of the two-electrode test shows that the voltages at 10 mA cm−2 are only 1.50 V. In addition, it still maintained high activity after 72 h of chronoamperometry test, which exhibits excellent water oxidation performance among similar non-precious transition metal catalysts. Therefore, the present work provides a simple and easy way to prepare high-activity and high-yield transition metal amorphous electrocatalysts. [Display omitted] • The simple method successfully prepared high performance amorphous Fe 0.05 Co 0.09 W 0.61 O 0.25. • Fe modulates the electronic configuration and morphology of CoWO 4. • The optimal ratio of Fe doping into CoWO 4 is regulated. • Co acts as the main catalytic site in the OER process instead of Fe. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Wire electric discharge machining (WEDM) and electrical discharge machining (EDM) promise to be effective and economical methods for the machining of metal matrix composites and conducting ceramic blanks. However, the machining process of Ni-AlO functionally graded materials (FGMs) is extremely difficult because the insulating ceramic layer cannot be machined directly by EDM. In this paper, the pure AlO layer has been machined by self-induced EDM, using the conductive layers of Ni-AlO FGMs to trigger the discharges in the insulating ceramic layer. Machining experiments have been performed to investigate the effects of discharge capacitance, pulse off-time, and charging resistance on the process performance of the pure AlO layer using RC-type pulse generator. From the experimental results, the discharge waveform of pure AlO layer includes long pulse discharge waveform, in addition to conventional normal discharge of conductive layers. The shape of long pulse discharge waveform can be changed by pulse off-time. The appropriate pulse off-time not only improves the stability of EDM but also increases the material removal rate (MRR). Moreover, it was observed that the MRR increases with increasing discharge capacitance and decreasing charging resistance. The surface roughness increases with increasing discharge capacitance. Finally, a small hole with a depth-diameter ratio of 5, little tapper is machined based on the experimental analysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Beryllium copper alloys with excellent features are widely used in many engineering fields, and their fabrication requires high machining speed. However, the fabrication of beryllium copper alloys by traditional processes has serious problems. In this study, high-speed electrochemical discharge drilling (HSECDD), a hybrid process containing electrical discharge machining (EDM) and electrochemical machining (ECM) in deionized water, was used to machine micro-holes on C17200 beryllium copper alloy. The material removal mechanism of HSECDD was studied and compared with traditional EDM. The performance of the process was investigated under different conductivities of peak current and pulse width. The results show that HSECDD is a high-efficiency method to machine C17200 beryllium copper alloy. During HSECDD, the material removal depends mainly on EDM. And, the ECM occurs at the entrance region of micro-holes machined by EDM. The function of ECM is to expand the gap between the electrode and the hole. The machining speed and average diameter of micro-holes increase with the increasing of peak current and pulse width. Increasing the pulse width will reduce the electrode wear. However, the taper angle will increase. In addition, the results also show that a value of 0.34-A peak current and 10-μs pulse width can be considered an ideal parameter for HSECDD to machine micro-holes on C17200 beryllium copper alloy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pathogenesis of Crohn's disease (CD) is thought to involve the chronic activation of T helper 1 (Th1)- and Th17-mediated inflammation, such as the production of interferon-gamma (IFN-γ) and interleukin 17 (IL-17). However, studies have also shown that although IFN-γ is required, IFN-γ-producing or T-bet-expressing Th1 cells are dispensable. We therefore examined T-bet-expressing B cells as another source of IFN-γ that potentially supported intestinal inflammation in CD patients. We found that the frequencies of T-bet-expressing B cells were significantly upregulated and abundantly present in the gut of active, but not quiescent, CD patients. The frequencies of T-bet-expressing B cells were also directly correlated with CD disease activity. These T-bet+ B cells were almost exclusively IgG expressing and produced significantly higher amounts of IFN-γ, IL-6, and IL-12 than IgA- and IgM-expressing T-bet− B cells. These B cells also supported IFN-γ production of CD4+ T cells. T-bet expression was induced in vitro in peripheral blood B cells through the stimulation of B-cell receptor (BCR), Toll-like receptor 7 (TLR7), and IFN-γ, which resembled gut T-bet+ B cells in terms of elevated IFN-γ. We found that these stimulated B cells, but not unstimulated B cells, supported the IFN-γ and IL-12 production from autologous CD4+ T cells. In addition, in patients with higher gut T-bet+ B-cell percentage, a higher frequency of gut-infiltrating IFN-γ+ and IL-12+ T cells was also observed. Together, our results suggested that T-bet-expressing B cells could contribute to the intestinal Th1 inflammation in CD patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Because of the pollution and energy depletion caused by the burning of fossil energy, the direct glucose fuel cell under alkaline conditions as a clean and efficient device is conducive to the development of human. In this work, we discovered NiCo 2 O 4 and Co 3 O 4 with spinel structure synthesized by the solvothermal method using F127 as the soft template. Then, the structure and electrochemical performance of NiCo 2 O 4 and Co 3 O 4 were systematically studied. The research results of catalytic performance show that NiCo 2 O 4 has better catalytic performances than Co 3 O 4 for the catalytic decomposition of glucose. The specific surface area of NiCo 2 O 4 (123.44 m2 g−1) is higher than Co 3 O 4 (49.55 m2 g−1), and it has a smaller pore size and larger pore volume. The diffusion coefficient and the sensitivity to glucose of NiCo 2 O 4 is 17.83 times and 4 times than Co 3 O 4 , respectively. And after 30 days of repeated tests, the catalytic activity of the electrode to glucose can still maintain 93.8% of the initial value. This can be attributed to the porous structure of the spinel phase NiCo 2 O 4 , which adds abundant active sites and improves the catalytic activity. Nanoporous NiCo 2 O 4 synthesized by using F127 as a soft template exhibit a high activity for the catalytic decomposition of glucose can be attributed to the porous structure of the spinel phase NiCo 2 O 4 , which adds abundant active sites and improves the catalytic activity. [Display omitted] • Nanoporous NiCo 2 O 4 was successfully synthesized by using F127 as a soft template. • Nanoporous NiCo 2 O 4 provides more active sites for the catalytic oxidation of glucose. • NiCo 2 O 4 shows better catalytic performances of high sensitivity and stability for glucose. • Ni as active center and defects on the surface improve glucose catalytic oxidation capacity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ni-AlO functionally graded materials (FGMs) have become important for high-temperature applications due to a continuous change in composition. However, the manufacturing of Ni-AlO FGMs with conventional machining methods is a long and costly process because of the insulating ceramic composition. This paper presents a new method of machining Ni-AlO FGMs by self-induced electrical discharge machining (EDM). Self-induced EDM uses the conductive compositions of Ni-AlO FGMs to trigger the discharges in the insulating composition. Machining characteristics of a four-layered Ni-AlO FGMs drilled by self-induced EDM have been investigated, which include the material removal mechanisms, discharge properties, surface characteristics, material removal rate, and electrode wear ratio. It has been found that graded layers, 70 % Ni-graded layer and 30 % Ni-graded layer, are removed by dislodgement of AlO particles, in addition to conventional melting and evaporation. Pure AlO layer is melted and evaporated by utilizing conductive layer-induced discharges. The discharge properties, surface characteristics, material removal rate, and electrode wear ratio are significantly influenced by the material removal mechanisms of graded compositions. These findings demonstrate that self-induced EDM is able to effectively machine Ni-AlO FGMs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Interleukin-21 (IL-21) upregulation was observed in Crohn's disease (CD) patients and was shown to contribute to ongoing mucosal inflammation in CD patients through stabilizing Th1 cell differentiation and IFN-γ production. Given the role of IL-21 in mediating adaptive B cell antibody responses in healthy individuals, we examined the effect of IL-21 upregulation in B cell responses in patients with active CD, including ileum, ileocolonic and colon subtypes, defined by the primary site of CD involvement. We first observed an upregulation of blood plasma IL-21 concentration and IL-21 production from CD4+T cells in CD patients compared to healthy individuals. The IL-21-expressing T cells were more concentrated in the CD4+CXCR5+compartment, both in unstimulated medium and after stimulation with SEB. ICOS and PD-1 expressions were also concentrated in the CD4+CXCR5+subset in CD patients. Since peripheral blood CD4+CXCR5+T cell-mediated antibody secretion is IL-21-dependent, we examined the plasma antibody concentration in CD patients and healthy controls. We found that CD patients had significantly higher plasma Ig level than healthy patients, with no significant differences between different CD subtypes. Higher plasma IL-21 concentration and increased IL-21 production from CD4+T cells were directly correlated with higher plasma antibody levels. Moreover, we found that IL-21 and CD4+CXCR5+T cells can directly enhance B cell antibody response in CD patients. Depletion of secreted IL-21 by sIL-21R addition compromised the CD4+CXCR5+T cell-mediated increase in antibody production. Together, our results demonstrated a novel role of IL-21 in mediating B cell inflammation in CD development. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Although helical electrodes have been proven to improve the EDM (electrical discharge machining) speed of small holes, there are few studies on the morphological characteristics of the machined small holes and the influence of electrode structures. In this paper, the influence of the helical electrode structure on the machining effect is studied by the method of orthogonal experiment, and the internal mechanism of the influence of the helical electrode on the machining is explained by the method of CFD (computational fluid dynamics) simulation. The results show that the larger depth and width of the helical groove and the helix angle of 60° are beneficial to increase the machining speed and reduce the relative loss rate, and at the same time, avoid serious defects in the small hole morphology. These conclusions provide a valuable reference for future researchers to choose the reasonable structure of the helical electrode, which is of great significance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Erythropoietin (EPO) is a glycoprotein hormone, expressed mainly in fetus liver and adult kidneys. EPO plays an important role in enhancing red blood cell formation in bone marrow under hypoxia. Plateau zokor (Myospalax baileyi), an subterranean burrowing endemic rodent inhabiting areas of 2 800–4 200m above sea level on Qinghai–Tibet Plateau, is a typical high hypoxia tolerant mammal with high ratio of oxygen utilization in adaptation to the harsh plateau environment. To investigate the possible mechanisms of adaptation of plateau zokor EPO to high altitude, the complete cDNA and amino acid sequences of plateau zokor EPO have been described. Phylogenetic tree of Epo showed the convergence of the Spalax and Myospalax, indicating that, the convergent evolution was driven by similar hypoxic ecological niches. Our results showed that some common sites under positive selection in zokor (116M and 144A) and Spalax (102R, 116M, 144A and 152P) are the important sites for Epo biological activity. This study thus reports a gene level observation which may be involved in adaptation to underground life at high altitude. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

All organisms respond to variation in their environments and manage environmental stress through metabolic adjustments. The plateau zokor ( Myospalax baileyi) is an endemic and keystone subterranean rodent species that inhabits the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau between 2800 and 4200 m above sea level. It is a hypoxic-tolerant mammal with a high ratio of oxygen utilization that enables it to cope with its harsh surroundings. To explore the molecular mechanism of altitude acclimatization of the plateau zokor, we cloned the zokor erythropoietin ( Epo) gene and used real-time PCR to compare Epo mRNA levels in zokors inhabiting 16 different altitudes. The full-length zokor Epo open reading frame was 579 bp that encoded a precursor peptide of 192 amino acids with a signal peptide of 26 residues. The Epo gene of the plateau zokor was 81%-95% homologous to that of human, mouse, rat, root vole and the Golan Heights blind mole rat, with the highest homology (95%) to species of the genus Spalax. Epo mRNA was detected mainly in the zokor kidney and spleen among 8 selected tissues. The level of Epo mRNA increased in the liver and kidney with increases in altitude. The increase in the kidney was 5 times that in the liver. Remarkably, expression of Epo mRNA in the kidney of zokors living at the highest altitude (4268 m) was 12-fold higher than that of zokors living at the lowest (2492 m) altitude. These findings provide essential information for understanding the possible role of Epo in adaptation to hypoxia in the plateau zokor. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Predation risk is one of the most important selective forces in nature and has significant effects on the behavior and physiology of prey individuals. Prey species have evolved several different traits to reduce and avoid this predation pressure. This research aimed to determine the behavioral and physiological responses of striped field mice to predator risk. In the present study, we compared the agonistic behavior in male and female striped field mice ( Apodemus agrarius Pallas, 1771) of the same sexes under the odor derived from a male Himalayan weasel ( Mustela sibirica). Dyads were subjected to 5 min staged encounters in neutral arenas once a week for 3 weeks during which agonistic and social behaviors were recorded and fecal hormone concentrations were determined using pre-column derivatization and high performance liquid chromatography methods. Furthermore, we also tested the effects of weasel odor on the adrenal glands. The results showed that: (i) male striped field mice did not exhibit any change in body weight and physiological characteristics but their aggressive behavior changed over time, and (ii) females responded to predation risk by significantly decreasing body mass and through increases in fecal cortisol levels and adrenal gland indices. These data show significant sex differences in the body weight, adrenal gland indices and fecal cortisol levels of striped field mouse under predation risk. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Mandarin voles (Lasiopodomys mandarinus) spend almost all their lives underground and must have evolved remarkable physiological adaptations to subterranean hypoxic stress. To understand the response to hypoxia in blood system of this rodent in a region with lower altitude, we tested and compared the responding characteristics between Mandarin vole and Kunming mouse (Mus musculus) under chronic normobaric hypoxic treatment (10.0% O2, 4w). The results showed that: 1) as for responses to chronic hypoxia, HIF-1α, EPO and VEGF exhibited similar patterns in two species. The expression of HIF-1α and VEGF significantly increased while EPO decreased significantly, and HIF-1α showed a greater increase at 10.0% oxygen level in Mandarin voles; 2) both rodents responded to chronic hypoxia mainly by increasing MCH, though KM mouse responded more acutely; 3) the change in MCHC in Mandarin vole was ignorable though it is significantly higher than that in KM mouse whose MCHC changed extensively and 4) both before and after hypoxic treatment, the capillary density in Mandarin vole was significantly higher than that in KM mouse, and it increased sharply in KM mouse after treatment. Our results indicated that, compared to KM mice, Mandarin voles did respond effectively to hypoxia stress after long-term adaptation to subterranean life environment. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: A new micromachining method for the fabrication of micro-metal structures by using micro-reversible electrical discharge machining (EDM) was investigated. The reversible machining combines the micro-EDM deposition process with the selective removal process, which provides the ability of depositing or removing metal material using the same micro-EDM machining system. From the discharge mechanism of micro-EDM, the process conditions of micro-EDM deposition were analyzed firstly. Using the brass and steel materials as a tool electrode, the micro-cylinders with 200μm in diameter and height-to-diameter ratio of more than 5 were deposited on a high-speed steel surface. Then the machining procedure was transformed easily from deposition to selective removal process by switching the process conditions. Different removal strategies including micro-EDM drilling and micro-EDM milling were used in the machining. Micro-holes with 80μm in diameter are drilled successfully in the radial direction of the deposited micro-steel cylinder. Also, a brass square column with 70μm in side length and 750μm in height, and a micro-cylinder with 135μm in diameter and 1445μm in height are obtained by using micro-EDM milling. Finally, the characteristics of the deposited material were analyzed. The results show that the material components of a deposited micro-cylinder are almost the same as those of the tool electrode, and the metallurgical bonding has been formed on the interface. In addition, the Vickers-hardness of 454Hv of the steel deposited material is higher when compared to the hardness of 200Hv of the raw steel electrode. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Agonistic behavior is crucial for conspecific members to maintain a social hierarchy, optimum population density, and high fitness. It is known that agonistic behavior and social ranking often interact with hormones such as testosterone (T) and glucocorticoids (GCs). The challenge hypothesis states that T levels in males are promoted by the agonistic behaviors of other males and has been widely testified in many taxa of vertebrates, even in humans, but seldom attempted in rodents. Here, we examined how fecal T and corticosterone (CORT) concentrations changed during prolonged social conflict in male greater long-tailed hamsters (Tscheskia triton). Dyads were subjected to 5 min staged encounters daily for 15 days during which agonistic and social behaviors were recorded and fecal hormone concentrations were determined by radioimmunoassay. Our results showed that pairwise male hamsters developed overt and stable dominant–subordinate relationships rapidly and that the agonistic behavior decreased over the course of the experiment. Dominant males exhibited more frequent flank marking and locomotion and shorter latency to initial attack than their subordinate counterparts. Testosterone levels were significantly increased in both dominant and subordinate males during early encounters, but T and CORT levels were higher in subordinate males. After five encounters, we found no difference between hormone levels and behavior for all males, implying some kind of behavioral and physiological habituation. This complex pattern of hormonal change during social conflict is discussed and correlations between behavioral and physiological habituation are hypothesized. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: A flexible biomimetic fin propelled micro-robot fish is presented. Fish muscle and the musculature of squid/cuttlefish fin are analyzed firstly. Since the latter one is easier to be realized in the engineering field, it is emulated by biomimetic fin. Shape memory alloy (SMA) wire is selected as the most suitable actuator of biomimetic fin. Elastic energy storage and exchange mechanism is incorporated into the biomimetic fin for efficiency improvement. Furthermore the bending experiments of biomimetic fin were carried out to verify the original ideas and research concepts. Thermal analysis is also conducted to find a proper actuation strategy. Fish swimming mechanism is reviewed as the foundation of the robot fish. A radio frequency controlled micro-robot fish propelled by biomimetic fin was built. Experimental results show that the micro-robot fish can swim straight and turn at different duty ratios and frequencies. Subcarangiform- and carangiform-like swimming modes were realized. The maximum swimming speed and the minimum turning radius reached 112mm/s and 136mm, respectively. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

[Display omitted] • A novel inulin fructotransferase from Arthrobacter sp. ISL-85 was identified. • The inulin fructotransferase from Arthrobacter sp. ISL-85 was stable up to 80 °C. • Difructose anhydride III was improved in burdock root by this enzyme under 80 °C. Inulin fructotransferase converts prebiotic polysaccharide inulin to difructose anhydride III, known for its numerous beneficial physiological effects. While previous studies focused on using inulin extracts under optimal conditions, this study delves into the enzyme's behavior when dealing with more complex food materials, inulin-rich burdock root, which possesses greater nutritional value but may influence the enzymatic reaction. An inulin fructotransferase from Arthrobacter sp. ISL-85 was identified and characterized, which has the highest activity of 783 U mg−1 at pH 6.5 and 65 °C and remains stable even up to 80 °C. When applied to inulin-rich burdock root (pH 4.7) at 80 °C for 2 h, the enzyme yielded 4.1 g of difructose anhydride III, concurrently increasing fructo-oligosaccharides. This study demonstrates the potential of this enzyme as a valuable tool for efficiently processing inulin within whole food materials under high temperatures. Such an approach could pave the way for enhancing nutrition and promoting health benefits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lunar water ice resources are important space assets for human survival and sustainable living on the Moon. Detection data indicates that the permanently shadowed regions at the lunar poles contain water ice resources. The efficiency of in-situ extraction of lunar water ice resources depends on its volatile characteristics. In the context of extraction and utilization of water ice resources in the permanently shadowed regions, the sublimation and diffusion processes of lunar water ice are investigated by combining the theory of pure ice sublimation with the fractal theory of porous media. On this basis, a volatilization model for lunar water ice is established to examine the effect of temperature, relative density, and water content on the volatile behaviors of lunar water ice. The findings of this study can provide technical and theoretical support for the in-situ exploration, extraction, and utilization of lunar water ice resources and offer insights into the existence and distribution of lunar water ice resources. • Apply the fractal theory of porous media on the research of icy lunar regolith volatilization. • Establish a volatilization model of water ice within icy lunar regolith. • Investigate the effect of temperature, relative density, and water content on volatilization. • Provide technical support for the exploration and extraction of lunar water ice resources. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Network microstructure titanium matrix composites (NMTMCs), featuring Ti6Al4V as the matrix and network-distributed TiB whiskers (TiBw) as reinforcement, exhibit remarkable potential for diverse applications due to their superior physical properties. Due to the difficulty in machining titanium matrix composites, electrical discharge machining (EDM) stands as one of the preferred machining techniques for NMTMCs. Nevertheless, the compromised surface quality and the recast layer significantly impact the performance of the workpiece machined by EDM. Therefore, for the purpose of enhancing the surface quality and restraining the defects of NMTMCs, this study conducted comparative EDM milling experiments between NMTMCs and Ti6Al4V to analyze the effects of discharge capacitance, charging current, and pulse interval on the surface roughness, recast layer thickness, recast layer uniformity, and surface microcrack density of both materials. The results indicated that machining energy significantly influences workpiece surface quality. Furthermore, comparative experiments exploring the influence of network reinforcement on EDM milling revealed that NMTMCs have a higher melting point, leading to an accumulation phenomenon in low-energy machining where the reinforcement could not be completely removed. The residual reinforcement in the recasting layer had an adsorption effect on molten metal affecting the thermal conductivity and uniformity within the recasting layer. Finally, specific guidelines are put forward for optimizing the material's surface roughness, recast layer thickness, and uniformity, along with minimizing microcrack density, which attain a processing effect that features a roughness of Ra 0.9 μm, an average recast layer thickness of 6 μm with a range of 8 μm, and a surface microcrack density of 0.08 μm−1. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A superhydrophobic surface with robust structures on a metallic surface could improve its application in various harsh conditions. Herein, we developed a new strategy to fabricate robust micro-/nanoscale hierarchical structures with electrical discharge machining and electrochemical etching on a titanium substrate. After modification by fluorinated silane, the static water contact angle and slide angle of the surface could reach 162 ± 2° and 4 ± 1°, respectively. The superhydrophobic surfaces showed good corrosion resistance and mechanical stability after scratching with sandpapers. In addition, the superhydrophobic surfaces had good self-cleaning performance even in an acidic environment as well as the potential to be used as guiding tracks in droplet microfluidics and lab-on-a-chip systems. These results are expected to be helpful in designing the surface of liquid float gyroscope parts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nutrient intake of animals is influenced by an interplay of external and internal factors, such as food availability and reproductive state, respectively. We used the nutritional geometry framework to analyze individual‐based data on energy and nutrient intake in relation to reproductive state in a population of rhesus macaques (Macaca mulatta tcheliensis), which live in a harsh high‐latitude habitat, the Taihangshan mountains of China, and exhibit strong reproductive seasonality. We combined data over a 3‐year period on food availability, diets, reproductive output, and components of maternal investment to understand how Taihangshan macaques respond to variation in food availability and nutrition in reproduction. Our results show there was high interannual variation in availability of an important staple source of fat and carbohydrates (nonprotein energy), seeds of oak (Quercus spp). Despite this variability in seed availability skewing the dietary macronutrient ratios considerably (from 12.96% to 30.12% dietary energy from protein), total metabolizable energy intake was maintained across years during pregnancy. Lactating females had higher mean daily energy intakes than pregnant females. As in pregnant females, energy intake was maintained constant across years, but only when seed availability enabled the contribution of available protein to energy intake to be maintained between 15.32% (2013) and 17.97% (2015). In 2014, when seeds were scarce, lactating females had a shortfall in energy intake compared with 2013 and 2015. This corresponded with a reduction in the number of females giving birth (11 out of 23), but there was no interannual difference in survival rates. Compared to 2013 and 2015, in 2014 females had greater weight loss (drew on body reserves), moved less, and spent more time nursing their offspring. We discuss implications of these results for range limitation in Taihangshan macaques. Research Highlights: 1.We have previously shown that the Taihangshan macaques respond to this interannual variation in dietary balance by ingesting constant energy regardless of its macronutritional composition (Cui et al., 2018, Behav Ecol, 29(4), 804–813). Our study thus suggests that flexible macronutrient handling is a key capacity that enables Taihangshan macaques to inhabit an extreme temperate environment characterized by both seasonal and interannual macronutrient variation. Here we extend this study, to test whether the edge‐of‐range status of the Taihangshan population of macaques might be accounted for by limits to the capacity for flexible macronutrient handling. We focused on reproduction, which is both a common, if not the most common, demographic explanation for range limits, and the most energetically demanding phase of the life cycle.2.Our results, together with our previous study (Cui et al., 2018, Behav Ecol, 29(4), 804–813), show that Taihangshan rhesus macaques are remarkably tolerant of interannual dietary variability. Nonetheless, they are likely living close to the limits of their tolerance, as evidenced by the fact that in years with low seed availability they are incapable of matching energy intakes of better years, and reproduction is reduced despite the investment of additional maternal effort.3.Our paper not only will make a contribution to the theory of ecological generalism, but will also contribute to understanding how nutrition contributes to range limitation in primates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: The aim was to investigate the risk factors for recurrence after transurethral resection of bladder tumor (TURBT) in patients with non-muscle invasive bladder cancer (NMIBC) and to provide a basis for clinical prevention of recurrence of NMIBC. Methods: From January 2012 to December 2020, 592 patients with NMIBC who underwent TURBT attending the Second Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University were retrospectively included in this study. Patients were divided into relapse and relapse-free groups according to whether relapse occurred within 2 years. Ultimately, 72 patients were included in the relapse group and 350 patients were included in the relapse-free group. Observation indicators included age, sex, smoking, underlying disease (hypertension, diabetes, coronary heart disease), two or more lesions, tumor size, hematuria, pathology grading (low, medium, high), staging (Ta, T1), muscular invasion in initial pathology, tumor base (sessile, pedunculated), use of intravesical drug (pirarubicin, bacillus Calmette-Guerin [BCG], mitomycin, hydroxycamptothecin, gemcitabine). Results: In this study, the 2-year recurrence rate of NMIBC patients after TURBT was 17.06%. There were significant differences in comparison of pirarubicin, BCG, and mitomycin treatment between the two groups (p < 0.05). To avoid missing risk factors for recurrence, factors with p < 0.1 were analyzed. The results of univariate logistic regression analysis showed that NMIBC patients with BCG treatment (OR = 5.088, 95% CI = 1.444–17.73, p = 0.012), high pathology grading (OR = 0.415, 95% CI = 0.197–0.880, p = 0.023), T1 stage (OR = 2.097, 95% CI = 0.996–4.618, p = 0.059), mitomycin treatment (OR = 5.029, 95% CI = 1.149–21.77, p = 0.031), and pirarubicin treatment (OR = 1.794, 95% CI = 1.079–3.030, p = 0.024) had significantly higher risk of recurrence within 2 years after TURBT. The results of multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that NMIBC patients with high pathology grading (OR = 0.4030, 95% CI = 0.1702–0.8426, p = 0.0241), pirarubicin treatment (OR = 1.961, 95% CI = 1.159–3.348, p = 0.0125), and BCG treatment (OR = 6.201, 95% CI = 1.275–29.73, p = 0.0190) had significantly higher risk of recurrence within 2 years after TURBT. Conclusion: Our study highlights the importance of postoperative surveillance and individualized treatment for patients with NMIBC. Our findings show that high pathology grading, pirarubicin treatment, and BCG treatment are independent risk factors for recurrence after TURBT in patients with NMIBC. However, caution is warranted when interpreting our findings due to the small sample size and the need for further research to confirm the negative impact of mitomycin and BCG on recurrence rates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Photoperiod is a pivotal factor in affecting testicular function and spermatogenesis in seasonal‐breeding animals. Mitophagy is essential for spermatogenesis, but its association with seasonal photoperiods has not been studied extensively. To explore this, we exposed male Brandt's voles (Lasiopodomys brandtii) to long‐photoperiod (LP, 16 h/day) and short‐photoperiod (SP, 8 h/day) conditions from their embryonic stages. Our results indicated that testis weight, volume, and relative testes weight were all significantly increased in LP compared to SP. Additionally, blood testosterone levels were markedly higher in LP than SP. Histological examination revealed that seminiferous diameter and epithelium thickness were greater in LP, with an increased abundance of germ cell types and cell numbers compared to SP. RT‐qPCR analysis showed that mitophagy‐promoting genes, such as Pink1, Prkn, Tomm7, Mnf2, Lc3, Optn, Gabarap, and Nbr1 were all upregulated in LP. Fluorescence in situ hybridization indicated that Pink1 expression was present in spermatogonia in SP, while in LP, Pink1 expression extended to almost all germ cell types with significantly higher mean optical density. Prkn expression was found in all germ cell types in both LP and SP, with a significantly higher mean optical density of 10‐week‐old LP males. Transmission electron microscopy showed normal mitochondrial morphology with clear membranes in SP, while the LP group had reduced cristae in mitochondria and damaged mitochondria undergoing autophagy. This study suggests that mitophagy may be involved in the photoperiodic spermatogenesis in Brandt's voles, providing insights into the role of photoperiod in seasonal reproduction in wild animals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The design and development of microscopic surface structures and surface defects of nanomaterials provide infinite possibilities for optimizing their catalytic activity. In this study, the microscopic surface structure of MgCo 2 O 4 was modified while introducing combustible porous defective carbon (PDC) in MgCo 2 O 4 by taking advantage of the incomplete decarbonization during solution combustion after the addition of biotemplates. The double-modified C x -MgCo 2 O 4 (x denotes the abbreviations of Reed, Cherry, Bougainvillea-spectabilis, Crab-apple-flower and Cotton: Re, Ch, Bs, Cf and Co) exhibited high activity in catalyzing the thermal decomposition of AP. Among them, C Co –MgCo 2 O 4 with the highest carbon defect level (I D / I G = 4.54) significantly optimized the thermal decomposition performance of AP. The addition of C Co –MgCo 2 O 4 ensured both the reduction of the AP thermal decomposition T HTD (From 473.48 °C to 258.17 °C) and the increase of the AP heat of decomposition (ΔH , From 888.26 J/g to 3669.38 J/g). The introduction of combustible defective carbon in C x -MgCo 2 O 4 not only provides favorable conditions for the electron transfer process, but also generates synergistic heat during the thermal decomposition of AP and optimizes its energy release behavior. Compared with MgCo 2 O 4 , C Co –MgCo 2 O 4 further accelerates the ignition (From 17 ms to 14 ms) of the composite solid propellants (CSPs) and ensures the energy release during combustion. [Display omitted] • One-step construction of porous structure of C–MgCo 2 O 4 in combination with biomimetic combustion. • Double modification of C–MgCo 2 O 4 microscopic surface structure, defects. • Combustible PDC offer unlimited possibilities for high energy release from AP decomposition. • PDC, MgCo 2 O 4 double active surface for catalytic AP thermal decomposition presents ultra-high activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Drought stress is one of the major abiotic stresses to wheat worldwide, with negative effects on wheat growth and yield. Assessing genetic variation and drought stress tolerance of key agronomic and physiological traits of spring wheat and screening germplasm resources for higher drought tolerance and yield stability are a prerequisite for developing new, better-adapted spring wheat varieties. This study evaluated nine important agronomic and physiological traits in 152 spring wheat cultivars under non-stress (NS) and drought-stress (DS) conditions. Under DS conditions, grain yield per plot (GYP) and grain weight per spike (GWE) were significantly reduced by 33.8% and 31.7%, and their drought-tolerance indexes (DIs) were only 0.66 and 0.69, respectively, indicating that GYP and GWE are the most susceptible traits to drought stress. The SPAD value of flag leave at flowering stage decreased by 13.9% under DS conditions, and the DI of SPAD was 0.86. In addition, DI-SPAD was significantly positively correlated with DIs of plant height (PH), grain number per spikelet (GPS), grain number per spike (GNS), GWE and GYP, indicating that the drought tolerance and yield of wheat are closely related to chlorophyll retention. Six wheat germplasm accessions were identified for their ability to sustain grain yield and improve drought tolerance simultaneously. These results provide insights into the genetic co-variation between grain yield and drought stress tolerance and provide a theoretical basis for the development of new wheat cultivars with excellent drought tolerance and high yields in the presence and absence of drought. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: In this study, we aimed to determine the impact of lymphadenectomy (LND) on clinical outcomes in ICC patients aged ≥ 70 years. Methods: Four hundred and three eligible patients diagnosed with ICC who underwent hepatectomy between 2004 and 2019 were enrolled in the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results database. The impact of LND on perioperative mortality and overall survival (OS) as well as the optimal total number of lymph nodes examined (TNLE) was estimated. Results: One hundred thirty-nine pairs of patients were matched by propensity score matching. Perioperative mortality was comparable between the LND and non-LND (nLND) groups (0.7% vs. 2.9%, P = 0.367). The median OS in the LND group was significantly longer (44 vs. 32 months, P = 0.045) and LND was identified as an independent protective factor for OS by multivariate analysis (HR 0.65, 95% CI 0.46–0.92, P = 0.014). Patients with the following characteristics were potential beneficiaries of LND: white, female, no/moderate fibrosis, tumor size > 5 cm, solitary tumor, and localized invasion (all P < 0.05). TNLE ≥ 6 had the greatest discriminatory power for identifying lymph node metastasis (area under the curve, 0.704, Youden index, 0.365, P = 0.002). Patients with pathologically confirmed lymph node metastasis are likely to benefit from adjuvant therapy (40 months vs. 4 months, P = 0.052). Conclusions: Advanced age (≥ 70 years) was not a contraindication for LND, which facilitates accurate nodal staging and guides postoperative management. Appropriately selected elderly populations could benefit from LND. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

High-speed jump motion in electrical discharge machining (EDM) has been proven to be an important reason for flexible impact and vibration on EDM machine tools. Especially for large EDM machines, the moving parts possess large mass, and different jump control strategies cause different vibration characteristics. However, little attention has been paid to the kinematic comparison between different strategies, and the effect of jump motion on EDM spindle dynamics behaviour is also neglected. In this paper, the dynamic behaviour of spindle on a large EDM machine induced by high-speed jump motion has been investigated. Control strategies including trapezoidal velocity profile, constant jerk profile and sinusoidal jerk profile are considered. The kinematic characteristics of these jump control strategies and corresponding dynamic behaviour of EDM spindle were studied. As a result, under the same maximum velocity of 80 mm/s and maximum jerk of 128 m/s3, the jump period and height of sinusoidal jerk profile are about 0.05 s longer and 1.2 mm larger than that of the other two strategies, respectively. Trapezoidal control strategy causes the largest vibration amplitude of 48.7 μm on spindle during jump motion and thus the strongest forced vibration. The experimental measurement platform for vibration displacement was established. Comparing simulation and experiment data, the relative error is lower than 14%, which verifies the simulation model. Moreover, it can be found that large jump velocity increases vibration amplitude of spindle significantly during machining. When the velocity is 80 mm/s, the maximum vibration amplitude is 23.0 μm. And large velocity of jump motion makes spindle amplitude attenuate faster. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tool electrode wear varying with different materials in electrical discharge machining (EDM) is unavoidable, thus inevitably reducing the machining quality and accuracy of microstructures. To convert this disadvantageous phenomenon into a beneficial process, the paper proposed a wear-variation EDM (WV-EDM) approach to fabricate a laminated disc electrode (LDE) with stable-shape micro channels on the outer edge surface; this electrode was subsequently used to machine micro grooves on workpieces by EDM. The WV-EDM formation of the LDE, the relationship between relative volume wear rate of the disc foils and the machining depth, and flow field distribution in the machining gap of the LDE during processing were investigated. The results show that the method proposed herein could reliably produce LDEs with stable micro channels on the outer edge surfaces that could subsequently be employed to continuously machine micro groove arrays with the same machining depth on the same material workpiece by EDM, and especially LDE reshaping was unnecessary. Additionally, the "pump effect" of the vortex, located in the flow field between micro channels on the LDE and workpiece, was beneficial for debris removal. Using the proposed method, micro groove arrays and columnar microstructures were successfully fabricated on Ti–6Al–4V alloy workpieces. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A novel hot embossing process to fabricate the hierarchical macro/nano optical glass lens is innovatively proposed. [Display omitted] • A novel hot embossing strategy to fabricate the hierarchical macro/nano optical glass lens is innovatively proposed. • The hierarchical macro-/nano glass lens made by second hot embossing show good optical performance. • The deformation history and forming mechanism of hierarchical macro-/nano glass structures are revealed. Constructing nanostructured surfaces on the macro/micro-scale optical lens is of great importance in the improvement of light transmittance, reflection, and surface functionality of optical devices. In this paper, a flexible and novel material interface design and manufacturing method for hierarchical macro/nano optical glass lenses is proposed. To verify the feasibility of the presented manufacturing strategy, the deformation history and flow driving mechanism of multiscale structured surfaces during second hot embossing were studied by simulations and experiments. The results showed that solid-like glass preform exhibits a higher nanoscale deformation resistance and elastic recovery, which can reduce the distortion levels of the nanostructured surface. At small scales, molecular confinement greatly reduces the tectonic deformation of nanostructured surface at relatively low applied heat and pressure. However, beyond a specific thermal energy threshold, nanostructured convex surfaces are easily compressed into a smooth flattened surface. By collaborative control of embossing conditions, the nano-surface integrity of multiscale structured surface can be ensured during second hot embossing. Compared to the smooth macroscale optical lens, the hierarchical macro/nano glass lens exhibited better optical transmittance and antireflection properties. The proposed design and manufacturing strategy provides a facile and flexible solution for building the hierarchical macro/micro/nanostructure functional optics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Glass hot embossing is a well-established and cost-effective manufacturing method for glass microstructures. However, the spatial volume affects deformation behaviors in closed mold cavities, which determines the final shape of the embossed glass. To investigate the spatial gas effect on the glass deformation mechanism during hot embossing, we used the focused ion beam (FIB) to fabricate blind micro-hole array structures with different depths as embossing templates. The experimental results demonstrated that the spatial volume of the mold cavity has a great influence on the energy of gas expansion, thus affecting the deformation height of glass microstructures during hot embossing. The deeper the cavity depth, the bigger the surface tension, resulting in larger surface concave deformation. Due to the surface tension of gas expansion, the deformation height of the edge zone is higher than that of the center zone at a higher embossing temperature until the heated glass is completely compressed into the mold cavity. Additionally, at lower embossing temperatures (520 °C), the heated glass has a large deformation resistance and elastic recovery. The more deformation volume escape from the shallower mold cavity because of the spatial effect, thus the deformation height decreases as the cavity depth reduces. The work provides a better understanding of manufacturing glass microstructures in hot embossing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To investigate the value of gemcitabine and pirarubicin in patients with non-muscle-invasive bladder cancer (NMIBC). Methods: 405 patients with non-muscle invasive bladder cancer admitted to our hospital from January 2012 to December 2020 who underwent transurethral bladder tumor electronic resection were studied. 177 patients were treated with gemcitabine (Gemcitabine group) and 228 patients were treated with pirarubicin (Pirarubicin group) after surgery. The efficacy and adverse effects of the two groups were observed and the patients were followed up. Results: No differences were found when comparing age, gender, smoking, bladder mass, number of masses, hypertension, diabetes, coronary artery disease, hematuria and tumor diameter between the 2 groups (P > 0.05). In the Gemcitabine group, bladder irritation signs, meatus hematuria, fever, nausea and vomiting were lower than those in the Pirarubicin group (P < 0.05). The recurrence rates were 6.21% and 12.28% at 1 year, 11.86% and 23.68% at 2 years, 15.82% and 25.88% at 3 years in the Gemcitabine and Pirarubicin groups respectively, with the Gemcitabine group having a significantly lower recurrence rate than the Pirarubicin group (P < 0.05). The tumor recurrence-free survival rate for 5 years of gemcitabine was significantly higher than that of the Pirarubicin group (P < 0.05). Conclusion: Gemcitabine and pirarubicin are both effective in treating patients with non-muscle invasive bladder cancer, with gemcitabine having a lower incidence of adverse reactions, a higher safety rating, a lower recurrence rate and an improved survival outcome. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]