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BACKGROUND RESULTS CONCLUSION Morden advanced analytical tools offer valuable information into the understanding of molecular mechanism of traditional food processing. Chopping temperature is well‐known to affect the surimi gel quality of silver carp, but the detailed molecular mechanism is not very clear. In this study, a gel‐based proteomics was performed on the extracted surimi proteins under different chopping temperatures (0, 5, 10, and 25 °C) along with other physicochemical characterization of surimi proteins and gels.With increased chopping temperature, protein extractability (in 3% sodium chloride) generally decreased, while the extracted protein generally exhibited larger surface hydrophobicity, reduced intrinsic fluorescence intensity, lower sulfhydryl content. Sodium dodecyl sulfate‐polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS‐PAGE) profile of extracted protein showed a clear difference at 25 °C when compared with the other three temperatures, and more protein fragmentation occurred. Proteomic analysis of selected bands indicated that major myofibrillar proteins react differently with chopping temperatures, especially at 25 °C. The selected bands contained a variety of other proteins or their fragments, including adenosine triphosphate (ATP) synthase, glyceraldehyde‐3‐phosphate dehydrogenase, glucose‐6‐phosphate isomerase, heat shock protein, parvalbumin, collagen, and so forth. For the surimi gel, water‐holding capacity and gel strength generally decreased with increased chopping temperature.Our results suggested that chopping at 0–10 °C is acceptable for the production of silver carp surimi in terms of gel strength and water‐holding capacity. However, a chopping temperature near 0 °C led to less protein oxidation and denaturation. The inferior gel quality at 25 °C is linked to a decreased concentration of extracted protein and degradation of major myofibrillar protein, the latter is likely crosslinked with sarcoplasmic proteins. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study focuses on the heavily Mg-doped GaN in which the passivation effect of hydrogen and the compensation effect of nitrogen vacancies (VN) impede its further development. To investigate those two factors, H ion implantation followed by thermal annealing was performed on the material. The evolution of relevant defects (H and VN) was revealed, and their distinct behaviors during thermal annealing were compared between different atmospheres (N2/NH3). The concentration of H and its associated yellow luminescence (YL) band intensity decrease as the thermal annealing temperature rises, regardless of the atmosphere being N2 or NH3. However, during thermal annealing in NH3, the decrease in H concentration is notably faster compared to N2. Furthermore, a distinct trend is observed in the behavior of the blue luminescence (BL) band under N2 and NH3. Through a comprehensive analysis of surface properties, we deduce that the decomposition of NH3 during thermal annealing not only promotes the out-diffusion of H ions from the material, but also facilitates the repair of VN on the surface of heavily Mg-doped GaN. This research could provide crucial insights into the post-growth process of heavily Mg-doped GaN. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, we study the relation between the images of polynomial derivations and their simplicity. We prove that the images of simple Shamsuddin derivations are not Mathieu–Zhao spaces. In addition, we show that the images of some simple derivations in dimension three are not Mathieu-Zhao spaces. Thus, we conjecture that the images of simple derivations in dimension greater than one are not Mathieu–Zhao spaces. We also prove that locally nilpotent derivations are not simple in dimension greater than one. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The farnesoid X receptor (FXR) has been recognized as a potential drug target for the treatment of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). FXR agonists benefit NAFLD by modulating bile acid synthesis and transport, lipid metabolism, inflammation, and fibrosis pathways. However, there are still great challenges involved in developing safe and effective FXR agonists. To investigate the critical factors contributing to their activity on the FXR, 3D-QSAR molecular modeling was applied to a series of isoxazole derivatives, using comparative molecular field analysis (CoMFA (q2 = 0.664, r2 = 0.960, r2pred = 0.872)) and comparative molecular similarity indices analysis (CoMSIA (q2 = 0.706, r2 = 0.969, r2pred = 0.866)) models, which demonstrated strong predictive ability in our study. The contour maps generated from molecular modeling showed that the presence of hydrophobicity at the R2 group and electronegativity group at the R3 group in these compounds is crucial to their agonistic activity. A molecular dynamics (MD) simulation was carried out to further understand the binding modes and interactions between the FXR and its agonists in preclinical or clinical studies. The conformational motions of loops L: H1/H2 and L: H5/H6 in FXR–ligand binding domain (LBD) were crucial to the protein stability and agonistic activity of ligands. Hydrophobic interactions were formed between residues (such as LEU287, MET290, ALA291, HIS294, and VAL297) in helix H3 and ligands. In particular, our study found that residue ARG331 participated in salt bridges, and HIS447 participated in salt bridges and hydrogen bonds with ligands; these interactions were significant to protein–ligand binding. Eight new potent FXR agonists were designed according to our results, and their activities were predicted to be better than that of the first synthetic FXR agonist, GW4064. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the paper, we give an affirmative answer to the conjecture in [1]. We prove that a Shamsuddin derivation D is simple if and only if Aut (K [ x , y 1 , ... , y n ]) D = { i d }. In addition, we calculate the isotropy groups of the Shamsuddin derivations D = ∂ x + ∑ j = 1 r (a (x) y j + b j (x)) ∂ j of K [ x , y 1 , ... , y r ]. We also prove that Im D is a Mathieu-Zhao subspace if and only if a (x) ∈ K. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: In recent decades, the correlation between gut microbiota and the performance of animals has been widely examined. However, there is still a lack of research about the influence of different host breeds. We used five local Chinese chicken breeds as experiment materials to establish the relationship between the characteristics of hosts and the composition of microorganisms. In this study, metagenomic sequencing was used to explore the differences in the intestinal microbial composition of different breeds. Then, the functions of differentially expressed microorganisms were analyzed. Combined with previous research, we discussed the links between microorganisms and different breeds. Our study explains the relationship between the gut microbiome and the host breeds of local chickens, and reveals the specific flora in the gut of each breed of local chicken, which lays a foundation for the exploration of high-quality traits and the improvement of feeding conditions in the future. Intestinal microorganisms are closely related to the health, development, and production performance of animals and can also provide basic information for us to fully understand and explore the germplasm characteristics and traits of local chicken breeds. In this experiment, we used five local Chinese chicken breeds as research materials; metagenomic sequencing technology was used to explore the differences in the composition of intestinal microorganisms in different breeds, and it was found that each local chicken breed had unique unigenes, of which Silkies had the most, with a total of 12,948. GO and KEGG analyses found that the biological processes most enriched by differential functional genes include genetic coding, macromolecular transport, protein synthesis, and molecular functions such as glycoprotein binding, protein hydrolysis, etc. Each breed is enriched with specific pathways, such as Anyi tile-like gray chickens, which are enriched with pathways related to disease resistance, while Gamecocks' enrichment is related to amino acid metabolism. Random Forest and LEfSe analyses revealed specific species of intestinal microorganisms in the cecum of different breeds, such as Exiguobacterium, which is associated with melanin deposition in Silkies. Therefore, we infer that gut microorganisms are closely related to the formation of chicken breed characteristics, and the results of this experiment can provide a theoretical basis for the discovery of high-quality traits and the improvement of feeding conditions in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract In the paper, we study the isotropy groups of K [ x ] if D is a simple derivation. We first study the derivation of the form: D = ∂ x 1 + ∑ i = 2 n ( a i x i + b i ) ∂ x i with a i , b i ∈ K [ x 1 , … , x i − 1 ] for all 2 ≤ i ≤ n . We prove that Aut ( K [ x ] ) D = { i d } if D is simple with deg x i − 1 a i ≥ 1 for all 2 ≤ i ≤ n or a i ∈ K * for all 3 ≤ i ≤ n or 0 ≤ deg x j b i ≤ deg x j a i for all 2 ≤ j ≤ i − 1 , 3 ≤ i ≤ n . Thus, we conjecture that Aut ( K [ x ] ) D = { i d } if D is simple with ∏ i = 2 n a i ≠ 0 , a i , b i ∈ K [ x 1 , … , x i − 1 ] for all 2 ≤ i ≤ n . Then we prove that Aut ( K [ x ] ) D = { ( x 1 , … , x n − 1 , x n + c ) | c ∈ K } if D = ( x 1 s x 2 + g ) ∂ x 1 + x 1 s − 1 ∂ x 2 + g 3 ∂ x 3 + ⋯ + g n ∂ x n or D = ( x 1 s x 2 t + c ) ∂ x 1 + x 1 r ∂ x 2 + g 3 ∂ x 3 + ⋯ + g n ∂ x n with g ∈ K [ x 1 ] , deg ( g ) ≤ s , g ( 0 ) ≠ 0 and g i ∈ K [ x i − 1 ] \ K for all 3 ≤ i ≤ n . [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Exploiting efficient and stable photocatalysts is the primary goal of photocatalytic water splitting for H2 production. In this work, a sea urchin-like bimetallic NiCo2O4-decorated ZnIn2S4 heterojunction was fabricated via a solvent evaporation method. Investigation shows that the introduction NiCo2O4 can expand the UV-vis absorption range, enhance the absorption intensity, promote the charge separation, decrease the charge transfer resistance, induce more active sites, and decrease the H2 evolution overpotential of the composite. Besides, the charge transfer between NiCo2O4 and ZnIn2S4 follows a Z-scheme route based on the ˙OH radical capture experiments; this can preserve the strong oxidation–reduction reaction ability of photogenerated electrons and holes, leading to a faster H2 evolution rate, which reaches 17.28 mmol g−1 h−1 over the 4.8%-NiCo2O4/ZnIn2S4 composite under 300 W Xe lamp irradiation in 20 vol% triethanolamine (TEOA) solution and is 3.0 times higher than that of ZnIn2S4. In addition, NiCo2O4/ZnIn2S4 also has excellent stability during 5 consecutive cycles. This work provides an effective method for constructing a highly effective Z-scheme heterojunction system for photocatalytic H2 production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: This study was designed to analyze the clinical effect of autologous fat-granule transplantation in augmentation rhinoplasty and explore methods to improve the fat retention rate. Methods: A total of 70 enrolled patients were randomly divided into 2 groups: the platelet-rich fibrin (PRF) combined with high-density fat transplantation group (combined group) and the conventional fat-granule transplantation group (control group; n = 35 in each group). In the combined group, an appropriate amount of autologous fat was extracted and centrifuged, and the lower layer of high-density fat was taken and mixed with PRF isolated from whole blood for autotransplantation. In the control group, only fat was extracted and centrifuged for transplantation. The patients were followed up with for more than one year to observe the short- and long-term effects, complications, safety, and patient satisfaction. Results: Six months after the operation, the nasal shape was stable, the contour was higher and more stereoscopic than before, the average increase of nasal height was 3.0 mm in the combined group and 2.0 mm in the control group. No complications, such as fat embolism, infection, or necrosis occurred during the 1-year follow-up. The satisfaction rate between the 2 groups has statistical significance (P <.05). Conclusion: Overall, PRF combined with autologous high-density fat transplantation is simple to perform, has a significantly increased fat-retention rate than the control group, and has stable long-term effects without obvious adverse reactions. A sufficient amount of fat and PRF transplantation can achieve a good orthopedic effect. Thus, this method can be widely used in clinical augmentation rhinoplasty. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Let G be a finite group and K a splitting field of G of characteristic p > 0. Denote by KG the group algebra of G over K and Z(KG) the center of KG. Let VG be the K-subspace of trace-zero elements of KG. We give some numerical sufficient and necessary conditions for VG and VG ∩ Z(KG), respectively, to be Mathieu subspaces of KG in terms of the degrees of irreducible representations of G over K. The same numerical conditions also characterize the finite groups G that KG has no nonzero trace-zero idempotents and the finite groups G that KG has no nonzero central trace-zero idempotents, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Brønsted-base active sites on a Pd4L2 cage facilitates enhanced catalytic efficiency, wide substrate scope and high turnover number (TON) for the one-pot photooxidation/Knoevenagel condensation reaction under mild conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Several studies have examined the crucial role of inflammatory indexes such as the ratio of monocyte and lymphocyte (MLR), systemic-immune-inflammation-index, and the ratio of neutrophil and lymphocyte (NLR) in stroke-associated pneumonia (SAP). However, the function of the systemic inflammation response index (SIRI) in SAP is not known. This study investigated whether SIRI at admission could predict the incidence of SAP in patients with acute ischemic stroke (AIS). Patients and Methods: 2,802 AIS patients collected from 2013 to 2021 were divided into the SAP and non-SAP groups. The predictive performance of SIRI in SAP was evaluated by the receiver operating characteristic curve. Multivariate regression analysis and the restricted cubic spline (RCS) were performed to explore the relationship between SIRI and SAP risk. Results: The SIRI at admission in SAP patients was significantly higher than that in non-SAP patients (median [IQR]: 3.75 [2.05, 6.99] vs. 1.51 [0.94, 2.62], p < 0.001). SIRI had a predictive ability for predicting the incidence of SAP with area under the curve of 0.757, better than NLR and MLR (both p < 0.05). SIRI ≥2.74 was an independent risk factor for the incidence of SAP (odds ratio: 5.82, 95% confidence interval: 4.54, 7.49, p < 0.001). The RCS model showed an increasing trend of the SAP risk with the increase of SIRI. Conclusion: SIRI showed a good predictive value for SAP. In clinical practice, AIS patients with high SIRI levels (SIRI ≥2.74) should be aware of the risk of SAP. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Neurodevelopmental disorder with spastic diplegia and visual defects (NEDSDV) is a rare autosomal dominant syndrome, which is caused by the heterozygous germline loss‐of‐function variants in CTNNB1. Methods: We evaluated the clinical and genetic findings of 24 previously undescribed Chinese patients affected by CTNNB1‐related disorders and explored the possible ethnicity‐related phenotypic variations. Results: Twenty‐one loss‐of‐function variants were identified within these 24 NEDSDV patients, including 14 novel CTNNB1 variants and 7 recurrent ones. The prominent clinical manifestations in our cohort are developmental delay/intellectual disability (100%), motor delay (100%), speech impairment (100%), dystonia (87.5%) and microcephaly (69.6%). The common facial dysmorphisms were consistent with previous reports, including wide nasal bridge (58.3%), bulbous nose (45.8%), long philtrum (45.8%) and thin upper lip (45.8%). In addition, 19 patients (79.2%) in our cohort had mild visual defects, while one affected individual (4.2%) had familial exudative vitreoretinopathy. Notably, we discovered that 20 patients (83.3%) exhibited various behavioral abnormalities, which is described in Chinese patients for the first time. Conclusion: We provided the largest known Chinese cohort with pathogenic CTNNB1 variants, which not only helps to expand the variant spectrum of CTNNB1 gene, but further delineates the typical phenotype of this disorder in Chinese population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Artificial hosts with rich conformational dynamics are attractive to supramolecular chemists due to their adaptive guest‐binding properties and enzyme‐like catalytic functions. We report here the adaptive self‐assembly and host‐guest catalysis of a new water‐soluble organo‐palladium host (Pd2L2) built from a pyridinium‐bonded macrocyclic ligand (L) and cis‐blocked palladium corners (Pd). While the direct self‐assembly of L with Pd gives rise to a dynamic mixture of products, both neutral polyaromatic hydrocarbons and an anionic polyoxometalate cluster (W10O324−) can template the dominant formation of the Pd2L2 host. Guest‐adaptive conformational changes and induced‐fit cavity deformation of the Pd2L2 host have been clearly observed in the crystal structures. Moreover, the installation of the electron‐rich W10O324− cluster within the cationic redox‐active host (W10O32⊂Pd2L2) facilitates the efficient and selective C−H photooxidation of toluene derivatives to aldehyde products under mild conditions, thus representing an ideal platform for green supramolecular catalysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Artificial hosts with rich conformational dynamics are attractive to supramolecular chemists due to their adaptive guest‐binding properties and enzyme‐like catalytic functions. We report here the adaptive self‐assembly and host‐guest catalysis of a new water‐soluble organo‐palladium host (Pd2L2) built from a pyridinium‐bonded macrocyclic ligand (L) and cis‐blocked palladium corners (Pd). While the direct self‐assembly of L with Pd gives rise to a dynamic mixture of products, both neutral polyaromatic hydrocarbons and an anionic polyoxometalate cluster (W10O324−) can template the dominant formation of the Pd2L2 host. Guest‐adaptive conformational changes and induced‐fit cavity deformation of the Pd2L2 host have been clearly observed in the crystal structures. Moreover, the installation of the electron‐rich W10O324− cluster within the cationic redox‐active host (W10O32⊂Pd2L2) facilitates the efficient and selective C−H photooxidation of toluene derivatives to aldehyde products under mild conditions, thus representing an ideal platform for green supramolecular catalysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Reconstructing the process of plate subduction is challenging, but clues can be found in sedimentary basins and the nature of deformation of the overriding plate. Here we analyse a seismic‐reflection dataset that indicates tectonic inversion in the southwestern Songliao basin, NE China, to construct the geodynamics of Palaeo‐Pacific plate. The study area consists of Lower Cretaceous rift sediments that were cut by normal faults, folded, and subsequently overlain by undeformed Upper Cretaceous strata, revealing a process of basin inversion. The timing of inversion is constrained to the interval between deposition of the Lower and Upper Cretaceous sediments (i.e. 87–71 Ma). Mud volcanoes and similar structures associated with inversion are observed in basins throughout the region. The change from tectonic extension to shortening in the overriding plate is recorded by sedimentation and inversion of the basins, and was triggered by an increase in the rate of motion of the subducting Palaeo‐Pacific plate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Stroke‐associated pneumonia (SAP) occurs frequently after a stroke. Geriatric Nutritional Risk Index (GNRI) is a valuable indicator of elderly individuals' nutritional status. This research was designed to obtain insight into the link between GNRI and SAP. Methods: Patients with acute ischemic stroke (AIS) were categorized into the SAP and non‐SAP groups. GNRI scores were divided into four layers: Q1, GNRI < 82; Q2, 82≤ GNRI < 92; Q3, 92≤ GNRI ≤98; Q4, GNRI > 98. To identify the independent risk and protective factors of developing SAP, logistic regression analyses were conducted. Additionally, we utilized the restricted cubic spline (RCS) analysis to test the effect of GNRI on the SAP risk. Results: The SAP group showed lower GNRI scores than the non‐SAP group (96.88 ± 9.36 vs. 100.88 ± 8.25, p < 0.001). According to the logistic regression model, the Q1 and Q2 layers showed a higher risk of SAP than the Q3 layer, while the Q4 layer showed a lower SAP risk (all p < 0.05). Besides, the RCS model found that the risk of SAP dropped dramatically as GNRI scores increased, which got stable when the GNRI score was more significant than 100. Conclusion: Lower GNRI scores were linked to a higher prevalence of SAP. In clinical practice, GNRI showed predictive value for SAP, which could be helpful in early SAP intervention and therapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the paper, we study the isotropy groups of K [ x ] if D is a simple derivation. We prove that Aut (K [ x ]) D = { (x 1 , ... , x n − 1 , x n + c) | c ∈ K } if D = ∂ 1 + (x 1 x 2 + 1) ∂ 2 + x 2 ∂ 3 or D = (1 − x 1 x 2) ∂ 1 + x 1 3 ∂ 2 + x 2 ∂ 3 + ⋯ + x n − 1 ∂ n. We also prove that Aut (K [ x ]) D = { i d } if D = p (x 1) ∂ 1 + ∑ i = 2 n q i (x 1 , x i) ∂ i , deg x 2 q 2 = ⋯ = deg x n q n and D is simple. Thus, we conjecture that Aut (K [ x ]) D is conjugate to a subgroup of translations if D is simple. In addition, we prove some properties of simple derivations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • A one-step synthesis of bi-element gradient doped TiO 2 with B/N non-uniform distribution. • Boron tends to be surface doped while nitrogen intervenes at deeper positions. • Ti3+/O v defects and positive charge surface in the B/N-TiO 2-x are formed due to Ti-B bonding. • High catalytic performance is reflected in the treatment of g/L level Cr(VI). • The interfacial catalytic properties of the composites are highly Boron dose-dependence. Studying the influence of non-uniform distribution of bi-element doping on the surface structure and photocatalytic performance of TiO 2 in interface photocatalytic processes can be an interesting research topic. Taking B/N bi-element doped TiO 2 as an example, this article reports an extremely simple gradient doping method of TiO 2 and its enhancement mechanism for high concentration wastewater treatment. The surface enrichment and doping of B caused by electrostatic and atomic radius factors changed the charge properties of the complex during the induction of in-situ reduction of Ti4+. The defects in gap N and Ti3+ lead to the formation of intermediate states, resulting in a narrowing of the band gap of the composite to 2.58 eV. The gradient doping of two atoms endows the optimal photocatalyst with a larger specific surface area (114 m2∙g), stronger photocurrent response (0.179 mA·cm−2), suitable Ti3+/O v double defect structure, and surface positive charge properties. These characteristics improve the effective treatment of high-concentration pollutants by the preferred B 2 /N-TiO 2-x [ e.g. , 0.0059 min−1 for 0.5 g·L-1 Cr(VI)] and sustainable treatment (removal efficiency > 90 % within 5 cycles). The synthesis strategy will provide a fast, simple, and safe method for the design and synthesis of new TiO 2 based catalysts in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The dynamic variations of the strain field and associated tectonic deformation during fault evolution can provide useful insights into the fault growth mechanisms. As one of the longest strike-slip fault system in the world, the ∼3000-km length Tan–Lu fault zone (TLFZ) in eastern China, is ideal for studying the mechanisms of fault propagation and linkage. This study investigated the Cenozoic Liaodong Bay subbasin, which hosts main structures of four faults in the central TLFZ, using structural analysis and strain calculations based on abundant seismic data. Our new results reveal three stages of fault growth (D 1 , D 2 , and D 3) during the Cenozoic. Strain partitioning occurred during D 1 , with non-coaxial deformation within the high-strain regions leading to the growth of individual fault segments. D 2 involved the redistribution of strain partitioning, with localized strain overlapping along fault tips to produce both left- and right-stepping fault sets. The locally increased simple-shear component favored the development of right-stepping fault arrays. Fault linkage appears to be achieved in two ways: 1) left-stepping, dextral faults were linked by folds dominated by pure shear along overlapping fault tips, and 2) fault segments were linked via fractures developed in simple-shear-dominated right-stepping overlap zones. D 3 was characterized by the continued accumulation of simple shear, which resulted in fault linkage through fractures and formed continuous faults with high strain. Therefore, we propose a tectonic model in which strain partitioning results in linkage of segmented faults along fault tips. This model takes into account the spatial and temporal variations in fault geometry and strain type during the growth of the strike-slip fault, provides theoretical support for the structural patterns observed in natural faults worldwide. • The Tan–Lu fault zone was formed by linking individual fault segments through folds or fractures. • Two dominated strain types with different strain intensities were identified within the Tan-Lu fault zone. • Segmented fault propagation and fault linkage along fault tips occurred by strain partitioning. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We classify all polynomial maps of the form H = (u (x , y , z) , v (x , y , z) , h (x , y , z)) in the case when the Jacobian matrix of H is nilpotent and the highest degree of z in v is no more than 1. In addition, we generalize the structure of polynomial maps H to H = (H 1 (x 1 , x 2 , ⋯ , x n) , b 3 x 3 + ⋯ + b n x n + H 2 (0) (x 2) , H 3 (x 1 , x 2) , ... , H n (x 1 , x 2)). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of pre-rigor salting on the quality characteristics of surimi gels prepared from snakehead fish muscle. Pre-rigor and post-rigor muscle were mixed with 0.3% or 3% NaCl (w /w) and made into surimi gels, respectively. Results showed that pre-rigor muscle had a higher content of ATP, longer sarcomere, higher pH and greater protein solubility. Metabolic profile suggested that pre-rigor muscle had higher content (a 28-fold increase) of antioxidants such as butyryl- l -carnitine. Transmission electron microscopy showed more damage of mitochondria in post-rigor muscle. Surimi paste from pre-rigor meat chopped with 3% NaCl generally showed greater radical scavenging ability and had higher content of free sulfhydryl. Surimi gel made from pre-rigor muscle salted with 3% NaCl showed a larger gel strength (3.18 kg*mm vs. 2.22 kg*mm) and better water-holding (86% vs. 80%) than that of post-rigor group. Based on these findings, we hypothesized that: In addition to other factors such as pH, degree of denaturation, etc., less protein oxidation in pre-rigor salted surimi also contributes to the improved gel properties. [Display omitted] • Effects of pre-rigor salting on the properties of surimi gels were investigated. • Pre-rigor muscle had more antioxidants such as butyryl- l -carnitine. • TEM showed more mitochondria damage in post-rigor muscle than pre-rigor. • Pre-rigor muscle showed greater protein extractability and aggregation potential. • Pre-rigor salting led to an increased gel strength and water-holding of surimi. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• An in-depth investigation on the functions of Fibulin-1 in VSMCs development. • Combined with RNA sequencing, miR-24-3p was found to target FBLN1. • MiR-24-3p negatively regulated FBLN1 expression by directly binding to FBLN1 3′UTR. • MiR-24-3p inhibited cell proliferation, migration by downregulating FBLN1. • Inhibition of FBLN expression can restrain VSMCs phenotypic transformation. Extracellular matrix (ECM) and vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) are the main components of atherosclerosis (AS) plaque. VSMCs participate in plaque formation through phenotypic transformation. The complex interplay between ECM and VSMCs plays vital roles in the progression of AS throughout the disease. An in-depth investigation into the functions of ECM-related molecules in VSMC development might contribute to deciphering the complexity of AS pathogenesis. In this study, the roles and molecular mechanisms of the ECM-related molecule Fibulin-1 (FBLN1) in the development of AS and VSMCs were explored using RNA sequencing, bioinformatics analysis, and cell experiments. Furthermore, the expression of FBLN1, as determined by western blot analysis, immunohistochemistry, and real-time quantitative PCR, was significantly increased in AS vascular samples compared to normal vascular samples. Silencing the FBLN1 through AAV viral injection in mice revealed an improvement in AS. Functional analyses revealed that FBLN1 promoted VSMC proliferation, migration, and wound healing. Combined with RNA sequencing and TargetScan7.2 prediction data, 22 microRNAs (miRNAs) were found to have the potential for direct interaction with the FBLN1 3′UTR in VSMCs. Among these 22 miRNAs, it was demonstrated that microRNA-24-3p (miR-24-3p) could negatively regulate FBLN1 expression by directly binding to the FBLN1 3′UTR. Moreover, miR-24-3p inhibited cell proliferation, migration, and wound healing, and suppressed the expression of Ki67, matrix metalloproteinase-2 and −9 (MMP2/9) by targeting FBLN1 in VSMCs. Meanwhile, inhibition of FBLN1 expression could restrain VSMC phenotypic transformation. In conclusion, miR-24-3p inhibited VSMC proliferation and migration by targeting FBLN1. Additionally, multiple miRNAs with the potential to interact with the FBLN1 3′UTR were identified. These findings might deepen our understanding of ECM gene regulatory networks and the complex etiology of AS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The cornea serves as a vital protective barrier for the eye; however, it is prone to injury and damage that can disrupt corneal epithelium and nerves, triggering inflammation. Therefore, understanding the biological effects and molecular mechanisms involved in corneal wound healing and identifying drugs targeting these pathways is crucial for researchers in this field. This study aimed to investigate the therapeutic potential of progranulin (PGRN) in treating corneal injuries. Our findings demonstrated that PGRN significantly enhanced corneal wound repair by accelerating corneal re-epithelialization and re-innervation. In vitro experiments with cultured epithelial cells and trigeminal ganglion cells further revealed that PGRN stimulated corneal epithelial cell proliferation and promoted axon growth in trigeminal ganglion cells. Through RNA-sequencing (RNA-seq) analysis and other experimental techniques, we discovered that PGRN exerted its healing effects modulating Wnt signaling pathway, which played a critical role in repairing epithelial cells and promoting axon regeneration in trigeminal neurons. Importantly, our study highlighted the anti-inflammatory properties of PGRN by inhibiting the NF-κB signaling pathway, leading to decreased infiltration of macrophages. In conclusion, our findings underscored the potential of PGRN in facilitating corneal wound healing by promoting corneal epithelial cell proliferation, trigeminal ganglion cell axon regeneration, and suppressing ocular inflammation. These results suggest that PGRN could potentially expedite the healing process and improve visual outcomes in patients with corneal injuries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Farnesoid X receptor (FXR) is a nuclear ligand-activated receptor of bile acids that plays a role in the modulation of insulin content. However, the underlying molecular mechanisms remain unclear. Forkhead box a2 (Foxa2) is an important nuclear transcription factor in pancreatic β-cells and is involved in β-cell function. We aimed to explore the signaling mechanism downstream of FXR to regulate insulin content and underscore its association with Foxa2 and insulin gene (Ins) transcription. All experiments were conducted on FXR transgenic mice, INS-1 823/13 cells, and diabetic Goto-Kakizaki (GK) rats undergoing sham or Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) surgery. Islets from FXR knockout mice and INS-1823/13 cells with FXR knockdown exhibited substantially lower insulin levels than that of controls. This was accompanied by decreased Foxa2 expression and Ins transcription. Conversely, FXR overexpression increased insulin content, concomitant with enhanced Foxa2 expression and Ins transcription in INS-1 823/13 cells. Moreover, FXR knockdown reduced FXR recruitment and H3K27 trimethylation in the Foxa2 promoter. Importantly, Foxa2 overexpression abrogated the adverse effects of FXR knockdown on Ins transcription and insulin content in INS-1 823/13 cells. Notably, RYGB surgery led to improved insulin content in diabetic GK rats, which was accompanied by upregulated FXR and Foxa2 expression and Ins transcription. Collectively, these data suggest that Foxa2 serves as the target gene of FXR in β-cells and mediates FXR-enhanced Ins transcription. Additionally, the upregulated FXR/Foxa2 signaling cascade could contribute to the enhanced insulin content in diabetic GK rats after RYGB. • RYGB improves β cell function, leading to remission of type 2 diabetes. • FXR induces inhibition of H3K27 trimethylation at the Foxa2 promoter. • FXR/Foxa2 axis-mediated Ins transcription links to RYGB-enhanced insulin content. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Constraining the processes of deformation during tectonic switching from compression to extension is difficult because of the scarcity or absence of associated sedimentary and magmatic rocks and weak metamorphism. The east margin of the eastern North China Craton experienced Early to Middle Jurassic compression and Early Cretaceous extension. However, the period of tectonic quiescence lasting ∼13 million years (between 153 and 140 Ma) during which this transition occurred is poorly understood. This paper reports the identification of small-scale N-S-trending thrust and sinistral strike-slip faults (TSS) and NW-trending thrust and dextral strike-slip faults (TDS) in the Tongyuanpu-Aiyang region, which is part of the northern Liaodong Peninsula. Calculation of the tectonic stress field using striations, fault planes and kinematics reveals a NW-SE-oriented maximum principal axis (σ1) and sub-horizontal σ2 and σ3. Assemblages of N-S-trending TSS and NW-trending TDS were arranged with right stepping and resulted in local uplift and erosion at the junctions between fault terminations, which partitioned the Early and Middle Jurassic basins into residual smaller volcanic-sedimentary basins. These basins were unconformably overlain by small Early Cretaceous volcanic-sedimentary basins, such as those at Tongyuanpu and Fangjiaweizi. Magmatic ages and the timing of basin formation constrain the initiation of tectonic switching to 156–153 Ma, and its termination to 140–139 Ma. We suggest that R-R′ Riedel shears controlled the formation of the N-S-trending TSS and NW-trending TDS. The R-R′ shears were produced by continued sinistral strike-slip and northward growth along the Bohai Bay segment of the Tan-Lu fault zone during the Late Jurassic to early Early Cretaceous, simultaneous with a gradual weakening in the tectonic stress field during a switch in the direction of subduction of the Palaeo-Pacific plate from NW-ward to NNW-ward. This tectonic switching might have promoted the dissolution of gold and migration of gold-bearing fluids. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although the protective effect of ginsenoside on cisplatin-induced renal injury has been extensively studied, whether ginsenoside interferes with the antitumor effect of cisplatin has not been confirmed. In this paper, we verified the main molecular mechanism of 20(R)-ginsenoside Rg3 (R-Rg3) antagonizing cisplatin-induced acute kidney injury (AKI) through the combination of in vivo and in vitro models. It is worth mentioning that the two cell models of HK-2 and HepG2 were used simultaneously for the first time to explore the effect of the activation site of tumor-associated protein p53 on apoptosis and tumor suppression. The results showed that a single injection of cisplatin (20 mg/kg) led to weight loss, the kidney index of the mice increased, and creatinine (CRE) and blood urea nitrogen (BUN) levels in mice sharply increased. Continuous administration of R-Rg3 at doses of 10 and 20 mg/kg for 10 days could significantly alleviate this symptom. Similarly, R-Rg3 treatment reduced oxidative stress damage caused by cisplatin. Moreover, R-Rg3 could observably reduce the apoptosis and inflammatory infiltration of renal tubular cells induced by cisplatin. We used western blotting analysis to demonstrate that R-Rg3 restored cisplatin-induced AKI might be related to PI3K/AKT and NF- κ B mediated apoptosis and inflammation pathways. In the meantime, we also verified that R-Rg3 could activate different sites of p53 to control renal cell apoptosis induced by cisplatin without affecting its antitumor effect. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lung squamous cell carcinoma (LUSC) is a common type of lung cancer with high incidence and mortality rate. Tumor mutational burden (TMB) is an emerging biomarker for selecting patients with non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) for immunotherapy. This study aimed to reveal TMB involved in the mechanisms of LUSC and develop a model to predict the overall survival of LUSC patients. The information of patients with LUSC were obtained from the cancer genome atlas database (TCGA). Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) between low- and the high-TMB groups were identified and taken as nodes for the protein–protein interaction (PPI) network construction. Gene oncology (GO) enrichment analysis and gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA) were used to investigate the potential molecular mechanism. Then, we identified the factors affecting the prognosis of LUSC through cox analysis, and developed a risk score signature. Kaplan–Meier method was conducted to analyze the difference in survival between the high- and low-risk groups. We constructed a nomogram based on the risk score model and clinical characteristics to predict the overall survival of patients with LUSC. Finally, the signature and nomogram were further validated by using the gene expression data downloaded from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database. 30 DEGs between high- and low-TMB groups were identified. PPI analysis identified CD22, TLR10, PIGR and SELE as the hub genes. Cox analysis indicated that FAM107A, IGLL1, SELE and T stage were independent prognostic factors of LUSC. Low-risk scores group lived longer than that of patients with high-risk scores in LUSC. Finally, we built a nomogram that integrated the clinical characteristics (TMN stage, age, gender) with the three-gene signature to predict the survival probability of LUSC patients. Further verification in the GEO dataset. TMB might contribute to the pathogenesis of LUSC. TMB-associated genes can be used to develope a model to predict the OS of lung squamous cell carcinoma patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To explore the corrosion properties of magnesium alloys, the chemical behavior of a high strength Mg97Zn1Y2-1wt.%SiC alloy in different corrosion environments was studied. Three solutions of 0.2 mol·L-1 NaCl, Na2SO4 and NaNO3 were selected as corrosion solutions. The microstructures, corrosion rate, corrosion potential, and mechanism were investigated qualitatively and quantitatively by optical microscopy (OM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), immersion testing experiment, and electrochemical test. Microstructure observation shows that the Mg97Zn1Y2-1wt.%SiC alloy is composed of a-Mg matrix, LPSO (Mg12ZnY) phase and SiC phase. The hydrogen evolution and electrochemical test results reflect that the Mg97Zn1Y2-1wt.%SiC in 0.2 mol·L-1 NaCl solution has the fastest corrosion rate, followed by Na2SO4 and NaNO3 solutions, and that the charge-transfer resistance presents the contrary trend and decreases in turn. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As a leading cause of vision impairment and blindness, corneal alkali burns lead to long-term visual deterioration or even permanent visual impairment while effective treatment strategies remain a challenge. Herein, a thermo-sensitive hydrogel with the combination of multi-functional protein progranulin (PGRN), a biological macromolecule consisting of several hundred amino acids and possessing a high molecular weight, is efficiently prepared through a convenient stirring and mixing at the low temperature. The hydrogel can be easily administrated to the ocular surface contacting with the cornea, which can be immediately transformed into gel-like state due to the thermo-responsive behavior, realizing a site-specific coating to isolate further external stimulation. The smart coating not only exhibits excellent transparency and biocompatibility, but also presents a constant delivery of PGRN, creating a nutritious and supportive micro-environment for the ocular surface. The results show that the prepared functional hydrogel can efficiently suppress inflammation, accelerate re-epithelization, and intriguingly enhance axonal regeneration via modulation of multiple signaling pathways, indicating the novel designed HydrogelPGRN is a promising therapy option for serious corneal injury. Schematic illustration of the thermo-sensitive Pluronic F-127 HydrogelPGRN formation for treating corneal alkali injury. The hydrogel could easily encapsulate therapeutic macromolecule progranulin (PGRN), and be administrated onto the ocular surface. Upon contact with the cornea, the hydrogel quickly gelatinized and coated the whole ocular surface. It exhibited great therapeutic efficacy and massively restored the structural and function of the ocular surface, which not only accelerated the re-epithelization process of the cornea, but also significantly suppressed stromal inflammation. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Cenozoic evolution of SE Asia is marked by thousands of kilometres extension on the continental margin, including normal faults, half‐grabens, and volcanic rocks, but dating of brittle faults in the shallow crust is difficult because of a lack of synkinematic minerals. The Cenozoic extension in the Youjiang fold‐thrust belt in southwest China is marked by brittle normal faults and half‐grabens filled with Paleogene sediments in the region. Here, we identified a strongly weathered mafic sill that was truncated by normal faults in the fold‐thrust belt and present the age and chemistry of zircons from a weathered sill. The zircons from the sill yielded a mean age of ~35 Ma. Integrating cross‐cutting relationship and zircon U–Pb dating suggest that the Cenozoic extension was initiated later than ~35 Ma in Youjiang fold‐thrust belt in southwest China. Combined with structural analysis and previous fission track data in the region, we suggest that the normal faults in this study provide evidence of surface fault activity of Cenozoic extension in SE Asia caused by retreat of a trench system. Furthermore, this study provides a case study to discuss how to decipher brittle normal faulting using zircon geochronology and structural and textural analysis from the mesoscale to the microscale. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Senescent cells that accumulate are regarded as promising therapeutic targets. However, senolytic therapy failed to achieve satisfactory results. We previously discovered that young human plasma improved vascular endothelial cell senescence, and UNC5B might be a novel intervention target. Netrin-1, as a natural ligand of UNC5B, plays roles in multiple age-related vascular disorders, but its involvement in aging is still unclear. Here, we observed a significant decrease in plasma Netrin-1 levels in old healthy subjects compared to the young. In vivo, adeno-associated-virus-mediated delivery of Netrin-1 into aged mice significantly improved functional recovery in a model of hindlimb ischemia, promoted angiogenesis in ischemic tissues, and activated the endothelial nitric oxide synthase. Furthermore, we revealed that low-dose Netrin-1 recombinant protein significantly reduced senescence-associated-β-galactosidase-positive cells, inhibited the P53 pathway, promoted cell migration, increased tubule formation, and elevated nitric oxide production in senescent endothelial cells. However, UNC5B inhibition blocked the pro-angiogenesis effect of low-dose Netrin-1 on senescent cells or aortic rings. In summary, this study depicts that modulating Netrin-1 signaling can result in improved vascular health and Netrin-1 may have therapeutic potential for age-related ischemic diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As environmental problems increase, there is an urgent demand for new eco-friendly materials. Natural rubber latex (NRL) is a natural material extracted from rubber trees. But its dyeing process with chemical dyes might result in contamination and environmental degradation. Here, NRL is composited with a photonic crystal (PhC) structure by spin coating for the first time. The polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) photonic nanostructure has been embedded into NRL to give it colors and provide it with optical functionalities. Colors of the composite could be designed and controlled by the sizes of the nanocolloids from 180 nm to 295 nm. The colors have strong stability under external stretching. The 3D natural rubber latex photonic crystal (NRLPC) is used as a responsive material to detect volatile organic compounds (VOCs) including formaldehyde, acetone, toluene, xylene and styrene. With its visual color appearance, biocompatibility and flexibility, NRLPC has promising potential in various sensing applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As the north‐eastern margin of the North China Block, the Liaodong Peninsula has undergone multiple tectonic events during the Mesozoic, as well as simultaneous large‐scale gold mineralization. In this study, we focus on the history of Early Cretaceous basin formation, during the interval of time prior to and during a major extensional tectonic event that is characterized by formation of metamorphic core complexes (MCCs), detachment faults, and half‐graben basins. Two representative Early Cretaceous basins, the Tongyuanpu and Fangjiaweizi basins, expose two parts of the Xiaoling Formation (K1x); these two sequences, K1x1 of the Tongyuanpu Basin and K1x2 of the Fangjiaweizi Basin, were selected for detailed sedimentary and geochronological study. Both the K1x1 and K1x2 are dominated by sedimentary sequences of fluvial facies clastic rocks to volcani‐clastic and volcanic rocks. Clastic and volcanic rock samples, including three samples from the K1x1, four samples from K1x2, and one mafic dyke sample, were analysed for U–Pb on zircon, to constrain the crystallization ages for volcanic units and maximum deposition age (MDA) for clastic units. The zircon U–Pb age results date the K1x1 at ~135–127 Ma, while the K1x2 at ~127–122 Ma. Comparing the detrital zircon age peaks with the main potential source areas, provenance of both the K1x1 and K1x2 units was mainly from igneous rocks in the Liaodong Peninsula. Integrating our observations from the Tongyuanpu and Fangjiaweizi basins with those from other basins in the Liaodong Peninsula, we suggest south‐westward basin migration during the transition from transpressional basin formation to development of back‐arc extension basin. This basin migration responded to the tectonic transition from sinistral strike‐slip motion on the Tan‐Lu Fault to the rollback of the Paleo‐Pacific Plate coinciding with formation of MCCs. This tectonic transition and basin migration is important for understanding the transition from compression to extension in the eastern North China Block during the Early Cretaceous. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recently, double perovskite A2B(I)B′(III)X6 has attracted a huge amount of interest due to its wide application in the field of light detection. However, the biggest limitation in the pursuit of further developments in this area is the narrow detection range and the low carrier mobility. It is well known that the effective mean to overcome the above shortcomings is changing the B site ions of A2B(I)B′(III)X6 concentration for the double perovskite. In this study, we study the photoelectronic properties included atomic structure, electronic properties and optical properties of Cs2AgxCu1-xInyTb1-yCl6 (x = 0, 0.25, 0.5, 0.75, 1; y = 0, 0.25, 0.5, 0.75, 1) using first-principles methods. Besides, we systematically investigate carrier mobility of Cs2Ag0.75Cu0.25In0.75Tb0.25Cl6. The results demonstrate Cs2Ag0.75Cu0.25In0.75Tb0.25Cl6 is the most excellent photoelectronic performance with the narrow band gap reduced of 0.56 eV, compared with Cs2AgInCl6, broadening the light detection range. Moreover, the hole mobility is increased from 0.001 to 2.81 cm2 v−1 s−1, which promotes the separation of photogenerated carriers and enhance the photoelectron conversion efficiency. Our works demonstrate that the modification of metal concentration will modulate the optoelectronic performance properties of double perovskites, which provides a theoretical basis for the other double perovskites in potential infrared detection application. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Deep brain stimulation is a method of nerve regulation that uses human body conductance characteristics; signals are diffused and transmitted through human tissues to regulate diseases.Objective: We analyzed the distribution and the transmission mechanism of implantable electrical signals from a point source field in the human body using the point source field implanting channel model.Methods: The model was established using a mathematical modeling method, with reasonable boundary conditions and assumptions. Further, we established an equivalent numerical solution model to verify its accuracy and compared the model to published experimental results to evaluate its consistency.Results: The analysis results of the two models revealed that both had errors of < 1%. A comparison of the experimental results to published experimental data revealed that the error between the two was < 4 dB, and the model displayed excellent consistency.Conclusions: Our proposed model is accurate and exhibits good consistency with published experimental results. We therefore conclude that the proposed model is reliable. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective. Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is among the most common chronic liver diseases. However, the pathogenesis of NAFLD is not still unclear. This study aims at evaluating the role of zinc finger and BTB domain-containing 7A (ZBTB7A) in NAFLD. Methods. Western blotting, real-time reverse transcription PCR (RT-PCR), and immunohistochemistry were submitted to evaluate the level of ZBTB7A in the high fatty diet- (HFD-) induced NAFLD mouse model. In vitro, the expression of ZBTB7A was assessed in oleic acid- (OA-) induced HepG2 cells with western blotting and RT-PCR. The luciferase reporter assay was used to estimate the effect of ZBTB7A on the SREBP1 and NF-κB, and the ChIP assay was subjected to evaluate the direct binding to the SREBP1 promoter. Oil Red staining was used to detect lipid accumulation, and the ELISA was used to verify the levels of TG, T-CHO, and MDA. ZBTB7A was knocked down with siRNA, and RT-PCR was performed to analyze the lipogenesis-, fatty acid transporter-, and oxidation metabolism-related genes expression. The levels of ZBTB7A in primary hepatocyte, Kupffer, and hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) were tested by RT-PCR. Results. The upregulation of ZBTB7A expression was assessed in NAFLD mice, and ZBTB7A expression was positively correlated with TNFα, IL-6, TG, T-CHO, and MDA. ZBTB7A was highly expressed in the hepatocytes. In vitro, OA-induced ZBTB7A expression and ZBTB7A expression were closely associated with SREBP1c. ZBTB7A could activate the promoter activity of SREBP1 and activate NF-κB activity. Interestingly, the direct binding of ZBTB7A in the SREBP1 promoter was acquired in HepG2 cells. Inhibition of ZBTB7A expression could attenuate OA-induced lipid accumulation, inhibit the expression of the lipogenesis-related genes and fatty acid transporter genes, and promote the expression of oxidation metabolism-related genes. Conclusion. ZBTB7A plays a significant role in the development process of NAFLD, and obesity-induced upregulation of ZBTB7A promotes lipid accumulation through activation of SREBP1 and NF-κB. ZBTB7A may be a potential novel target for the therapy of NAFLD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims/Introduction: Increased blood lipopolysaccharide (LPS) or free fatty acid (FFA) levels correlate with an increased risk of type 2 diabetes. The purpose of the present study was to evaluate the interactive effect of serum LPS and FFA levels on the prevalence of type 2 diabetes. Materials and Methods: This cross‐sectional study included 2,553 community‐dwelling Chinese adults. Fasting serum LPS levels were determined using the Limulus Amebocyte Lysate Chromogenic Endpoint assay, and FFA levels were determined using an enzymatic method. The participants were divided into three groups according to the tertiles of LPS or FFA levels or nine groups according to the tertiles of LPS and FFA levels. The odd ratios (ORs) for type 2 diabetes were estimated using logistic regression analysis. Results: We found that higher serum LPS or FFA levels were associated with higher high‐sensitivity C‐reactive protein levels (P < 0.001), homeostatic model assessment of insulin resistance levels (P < 0.001) and ORs for type 2 diabetes (P < 0.01). Meanwhile, there were significant interactions between LPS and FFA in terms of the high‐sensitivity C‐reactive protein level (P < 0.001), homeostatic model assessment of insulin resistance level (P < 0.001) and ORs for type 2 diabetes (P < 0.001). In the fully adjusted logistic regression model, the OR for participants with type 2 diabetes in the higher LPS and FFA level group were 6.58 (95% confidence interval 3.05–14.18, P < 0.001) compared with that in participants in the lower LPS and FFA level group. Conclusions: The interaction between LPS and FFA was associated with an increased risk of type 2 diabetes in community‐dwelling Chinese adults. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copper oxide (CuO) particles with loose agglomeration of porous flakes were treated by ultrasound in different solvents. CuO particles with completely discrete flakes were obtained with ultrasonic surface treatment in ethyl alcohol as a polar solvent while CuO particles with compacted flake agglomeration were found after ultrasonic treatment in diethyl ether as a non-polar solvent. CuO particles after ultrasonic treatment were characterized to investigate the effects of morphological appearance on size distribution, sedimentation velocity, specific surface area, ultraviolet-visible (UV–vis) absorption spectra, diffraction angle of X-ray diffraction (XRD) pattern, binding energy of X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), Raman intensity and dissolution rate. CuO particles with completely discrete flakes exhibited a fastest dissolution rate of 7 s in 12.5 vol% H 2 SO 4 for rapid complement of cupric ions so that the electrolyte for copper electrodepositon could meet the requirement of stable concentration of cupric ions to generate fine copper deposits in a plating system with insoluble anode. Unlabelled Image • Ultrasonic treatment of CuO agglomerates was solvent-dependent on morphological appearance. • CuO particles with compacted flake agglomeration were found after ultrasonic treatment in diethyl ether. • CuO particles with completely discrete flakes were obtained with ultrasonic surface treatment in ethyl alcohol. • CuO with ultrasonic treatment in ethyl alcohol could rapidly complement Cu2+ for copper electrodepostion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Improving energy efficiency and reducing environmental pollution emissions are two important ways to alleviate energy problems. Despite the progress in energy efficiency, the growth in energy demand still exceeds the efficiency improvements. This study adopts nonparametric methods to estimate the total factor energy efficiency (TFEE) of 105 resource-based cities covering the period 2010–2016 in China and analyzes the spatiotemporal characteristics of changes in energy efficiency. Furthermore, panel quantile regression is applied to analyze the multiple impacts of economic level, industrial structure, resource endowment, energy price, government intervention and degree of openness on energy efficiency. The main findings are as follows. (1) Each determinant has a different influence on TFEE at different levels; among them, the influence of the fuel and energy price index show an inverted U-shaped distribution as the quantile increases, and that of the GDP per capita shows a stronger heterogeneity than those of other factors. (2) Resource-based cities with lower efficiency are more sensitive to government intervention than are cities with higher efficiency. (3) A city's openness has a negative effect on TFEE, which partly supports the pollution haven hypothesis: the more foreign investment a resource-based city receives, the lower its energy and technology efficiency. Finally, some practical suggestions for the sustainable development of resource-based cities are discussed. Unlabelled Image • Panel quantile regression is used to analyze the impacts of 6 determinants on TFEE. • GDP per capita shows a stronger heterogeneity than those of other factors. • The influence of the fuel and energy price show an inverted U-shaped distribution. • Cities with lower efficiency are more sensitive to government intervention. • The relationship between city openness and TFEE partly supports the pollution haven hypothesis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The rising atmospheric CO2 level is partly responsible for global warming. Despite numerous warnings from scientists during the past years, nations are reacting too slowly, and thus, we will probably reach a situation needing rapid and effective techniques to reduce atmospheric CO2. Therefore, advanced engineering methods are particularly important to decrease the greenhouse effect, for instance, by capturing CO2 using solvents. Experimental testing of many solvents under different conditions is necessary but time-consuming. Alternatively, modeling CO2 capture by solvents using a nonlinear fitting machine learning is a rapid way to select potential solvents, prior to experimentation. Previous predictive machine learning models were mainly designed for blended solutions in water using the solution concentration as the main input of the model, which was not able to predict CO2 solubility in different types of physical solvents. To address this issue, here, we developed a new descriptor-based chemoinformatics model for predicting CO2 solubility in physical solvents in the form of mole fraction. The input factors include organic structural and bond information, thermodynamic properties, and experimental conditions. We studied the solvents from 823 data, including methanol (165 data), ethanol (138), n-propanol (98), n-butanol (64), n-pentanol (59), ethylene glycol (52), propylene glycol (54), acetone (51), 2-butanone (49), ethylene glycol monomethyl ether (46 data), and ethylene glycol monoethyl ether (47), using artificial neural networks as the machine learning model. Results show that our descriptor-based model predicts the CO2 absorption in physical solvents with generally higher accuracy and low root-mean-squared errors. Our findings show that using a set of simple but effective chemoinformatics-based descriptors, intrinsic relationships between the general properties of physical solvents and their CO2 solubility can be precisely fitted with machine learning. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this article, we study the K-derivation of the form: with and. We show that D is simple if and only if and. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Increased blood lactate or uric acid (UA) levels are associated with an increased risk of metabolic syndrome (MS). The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of an interactive association between blood lactate and UA levels on MS. Methods This community-based cross-sectional study included 2584 Chinese subjects aged ≥ 18 years. Participants were classified into 3 groups based on lactate or UA level tertiles or into 9 groups based on a combination of lactate and UA level tertiles. Results The serum high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) and homeostatic model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) levels and odds ratios (ORs) for MS increased across the blood lactate or UA level tertiles (all P for trend<0.05). Interactions between lactate and UA with hs-CRP level, HOMA-IR level, and ORs for MS (P <0.05 for all interactions) were also observed. The adjusted ORs for MS in participants in the third tertile of lactate and UA levels, in the third tertile of lactate levels and first tertile of UA levels, and in the first tertile of lactate levels and third tertile of UA levels were 6.02 (95% CI 2.87–12.64, P <0.001), 2.92 (95% CI 1.39–6.10, P =0.005), and 2.70 (95% CI 1.23–5.96, P =0.014), respectively, compared with those in the first tertiles of both lactate and UA levels. Conclusion The interaction between lactate and UA is associated with a higher prevalence of MS in the Chinese population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Two phases of diabase-sill-forming magmatism are recorded within the Badu anticline where magmas were emplaced into upper Palaeozoic carbonates and clastic rocks of the Youjiang fold-and-thrust belt in the SW South China Block, China. Zircons from these diabase units yield weighted mean U–Pb ages of 249.2±2.0 Ma and 187.1±3.3 Ma, and magmatic oxygen fugacity values from ‒20 to ‒6 (average of ‒12, equating to FMQ +5) and ‒20 to ‒10 (average of ‒15, equating to FMQ +2), respectively. These data indicate that the sills were emplaced during Early Triassic and Early Jurassic times. The discovery of c. 250 Ma mafic magmatism in this area was probably related to post-flood-basalt extension associated with the Emeishan mantle plume or rollback of the subducting Palaeo-Tethys slab. The c. 190 Ma diabase sills indicate that the southwestern South China Block records Early Jurassic mafic magmatism and lithospheric extension that was likely associated with a transition from post-collisional to within-plate tectonic regimes. The emplacement of diabase intrusions at depth may have driven hydrothermal systems, enabling the mobilization of elements from sedimentary rocks and causing the formation of a giant epigenetic metallogenic domain. The results indicate that high-oxygen-fugacity materials within basement rocks caused crustal contamination of the magmas, contributing to the wide range of oxygen fugacity conditions recorded by the Au-bearing Badu diabase. In addition, data from inherited xenocrystic zircons within the Badu diabase and detrital zircons from basement rocks suggest that the Neoproterozoic Jiangshao suture extends to the south of the Badu anticline. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Schematic illustration of the preparation of the functional engineered exosomes (ExoKAI) and its mechanism for treatment of the ischemia-induced retinopathy. A dual-functional drug, ExoKAI, was developed by conjugating exosomes derived from adipose mesenchymal stromal cells (ADMSCs) with KAI1 peptide (KAI) using CP05 as an anchor peptide. A matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) responsive peptide sequence was added between KAI1 peptide and exosomes, which could respond to retinal inflammatory microenvironment. This innovative approach aimed to combine the benefits of both ADMSC-derived exosomes and the therapeutic properties of KAI1 peptide into a single treatment modality. Ischemic stress could stimulate resting microglia to activated state, inducing inflammatory and angiogenic microenvironment. After intravitreal injection, delivered ExoKIA was "activated" by MMPs-dominated inflammatory microenvironment, and cleaved into two parts——Exo and KAI peptide. Exo exhibited immune modulatory capacity by interrupting the feedback loop of activated microglia involved in promoting angiogenesis. They reset inflammatory microglia from M1 phenotype via inactivating cGAS-STING signaling pathway and re-established the homeostasis in the retinal tissue after ischemic injury. As a molecular regulator that counterbalances the effect of angiogenic factors, KAI could assist Exo, by quenching both angiogenic factors of PDGF and VEGF, to further block the progression of retinal pathological neovascularization. [Display omitted] • Exosomes and KAI peptides combine for targeted therapy, addressing inflammation and angiogenesis in retinal neovascularization. • Cleavable linker controlled by MMPs enables precise release of KAI peptides, enhancing their efficacy against multiple angiogenic factors. • Exosome-mediated phagocytosis by microglia inhibits STING/NF-κB signaling, resetting activation status, and suppressing neovascularization in the retina. Retinal neovascularization (RNV), a major cause of blindness, is usually treated with anti-VEGF drugs. Despite successes, incomplete patient responses push for alternative strategies. In this study, a combined approach was devised by conjugating exosomes (Exo) derived from adipose mesenchymal stromal cells (ADMSCs) with specially designed peptides called KAI, using a cleavable linker controlled by matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs). This allowed for an environmentally responsive release of the peptide from Exo. Intravitreal injection of Exo resulted in the inhibition of pathological angiogenesis, accompanied by downregulation of immune response genes. Mechanistically, Exo were specifically phagocytized by microglia, resetting their activation status through the inhibition of the innate STING/NF-κB signaling pathway. Moreover, upon MMP stimulation in the retina, KAI was cleaved, effectively quenching multiple angiogenic factors simultaneously. This dual anti-inflammatory and anti-angiogenic strategy demonstrated significant therapeutic effects, including suppressed neovascularization, and reduced vascular leakage in the retina. ExoKAI treatment demonstrated no noticeable side effects, positioning these engineered nanodrugs as a promising alternative for ischemic retinopathy and refractory ocular neovascularization due to their combined effects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]