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In the context of China's market‐oriented transformation, the marketization of urban land transfer (MULT) plays an important role. However, the intrinsic link between MULT and carbon emissions remains unclear. This study aims to revise the assessment methodology of MULT using large‐scale land transaction record data and tested its impact on carbon emissions at the city level. The results indicate that the competitive bidding mechanism of MULT suppresses “bottom line” competition between local authorities and has beneficial effects on carbon emissions reduction. Further analysis shows that MULT has indirectly reduced carbon emissions by industrial structure optimization. The heterogeneity test showed that the effectiveness of MULT on carbon emissions varies significantly across cities with different levels of resource endowment and location. The lag effect test shows that MULT has a negative impact on carbon emissions in the current year and second year but is no longer significant in the third year. This research expands the understanding of the intrinsic link between institutional and sustainable development, providing new insights and policy rationale for mitigating the environmental crisis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a prevalent and high-mortality cancer worldwide, and its complexity necessitates novel strategies for drug selection and design. Current approaches primarily focus on reducing gene expression, while promoting gene overexpression remains a challenge. In this work, we studied the effect of cytoplasmic polyadenylation element binding protein 2 (CPEB2) in HCC by constructing tissue microarrays (TAMs) from 90 HCC cases and corresponding para-cancerous tissues. Our analysis showed that CPEB2 expression was significantly reduced in HCC tissues, and its low expression was associated with a higher recurrence risk and poorer prognosis in patients with head and neck cancer. CPEB2 was found to regulate HCC epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT) and metastasis through the HIF-1α/miR-210-3p/CPEB2 feedback circuit. Using the RNA binding protein immunoprecipitation (RIP) assay, we demonstrated that miR-210 directly governs the expression of CPEB2. The inverse relationship between CPEB2 expression and miR-210-3p in HCC tissues suggested that this regulatory mechanism is directly linked to HCC metastasis, EMT, and clinical outcomes. Moreover, utilizing the SM2miR database, we identified drugs that can decrease miR-210-3p expression, consequently increasing CPEB2 expression and providing new insights for drug development. In conclusion, our findings illustrated a novel HIF-1α/miR-210-3p/CPEB2 regulatory signaling pathway in HCC and highlighted the potential of enhancing CPEB2 expression through targeting miR-210-3p as a novel predictive biomarker and therapeutic strategy in HCC, as it is modulated by the HIF-1α/miR-210-3p/CPEB2 feedback circuit. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, density function theory (DFT) is employed to compute Raman spectra of 40 important Perfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) as listed in Draft Method 1633 by U.S. Environmental Protection Agent. A systematic comparison of their spectral features is conducted, and Raman peaks and vibrational modes are identified. The Raman spectral regions for the main chemical bonds (such as C-C, CF 2 & CF 3 , O-H) and main functional groups (such as -COOH, -SO 3 H, -C 2 H 4 SO 3 H, and -SO 2 NH 2) are identified and compared. The impacts of branching location in isomer, molecular chain length, and functional groups on the Raman spectra are analyzed. Particularly, the isomers of PFOA alter the peak locations slightly in wavenumber regions of 200 – 800 and 1000 – 1400 cm−1, while for PFOS, spectral features in the 230 – 360, 470 – 680, and 1030 – 1290 cm−1 regions exhibit significant difference. The carbon chain length can significantly increase the number of Raman peaks, while different functional groups give significantly different peak locations. To facilitate differentiation, a spectral database is constructed by introducing controlled noise into the DFT-computed Raman spectra. Subsequently, two chemometric techniques, principal component analysis (PCA) and t-distributed stochastic neighbor embedding (t-SNE), are applied to effectively distinguish among these spectra, both for 40 PFAS compounds and the isomers. The findings demonstrate the promising potential of combining Raman spectroscopy with advanced spectral analysis methods to discriminate between distinct PFAS compounds, holding significant implications for improved PFAS detection and characterization methodologies. [Display omitted] • Raman spectra of 40 PFAS compounds calculated by DFT show distinct fingerprint features. • Isomer, molecular chain length, and functional groups can impact Raman spectra differently. • A spectral database is created by introducing controlled noise into DFT Raman spectra. • Machine learning can effectively distinguish 40 PFAS compounds using Raman spectra. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: MicroRNAs (miRNAs or miRs) play an important role in the initiation and development of chondrosarcoma (CS). However, the role of miR-21-5p in CS progression and its underlying molecular mechanisms remains unclear. Materials and Methods: miR-21-5p expression was measured by qRT-PCR. Cell proliferation, migration, and invasion were detected by CCK-8 and Transwell assay. Dual-luciferase reporter assay was used to validate the target of miR-21-5p. Western blot was applied to explore the expressions of CCR7 and EMT biomarkers. Then, the xenograft model was established to confirm the effects of miR-21-5p. Results: miR-21-5p was significantly downregulated in CS tissues and cells and negatively correlated with grade, recurrence, and 5-year overall survival. In vitro, miR-21-5p caused G0/G1 cell cycle arrest and induced apoptosis by decreasing cyclin D1 expression and Bcl-2/Bax ratio. miR-21-5p suppressed cell migration and invasion of CS cells by inhibiting epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT). In vivo, miR-21-5p inhibited xenograft tumor formation of SW1353 cells. Mechanistically, miR-21-5p targeted the 3'-UTR of C-C chemokine receptor 7 (CCR7) mRNA to inhibit its expression. Overexpression of CCR7 reversed the inhibitory effects of miR-21-5p on CS cell behaviors. However, the silencing of CCR7 enhanced the inhibitory effects of miR-21-5p on CS cells. Besides, the overexpression of miR-21-5p or silencing of CCR7 obviously reduced the expression levels of p-STAT3, p-p56, and p-IκBα. Conclusion: miR-21-5p targeted CCR7 expression to inhibit the STAT3 and NF-κB signaling, thereby suppressing cell proliferation, migration, invasion, and EMT in CS cells, which might be a novel mechanistic study for CS therapy. Abbreviations: 3'-UTR: 3'-untranslated region; CCR7: C-C chemokine receptor type 7; CS: chondrosarcoma; DMEM: dulbecco's modified eagle's medium; EMT: epithelial–mesenchymal transition; HEK-293T: human embryonic kidney-293T; miR-21-5p: microRNA-21-5p; miR-NC: negative control miRNA; SD: standard deviation; si-CCR7: CCR7 siRNAs [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Curcumin is a lipophilic polyphenol with poor solubility and stability. This review summarizes the structural and physicochemical characteristics of curcumin and explores the various carrier materials to achieve nanocurcumin, with a view to elucidating their respective advantages and drawbacks. Furthermore, the review emphasizes the applications of curcumin in different food products, ranging from milk products and beverages to meat products and dressings. By highlighting these applications, this review offers invaluable insights into the potential for incorporating curcumin into a diverse range of food items, thereby capitalizing on its health-promoting properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aims to propose a deployment optimization method based on IEEE 802.11 heterogeneous wireless mesh networks (WMNs) for the condition monitoring system (CMS) of wind turbines. This method can provide a flexible, low-cost, and easy-to-implement network framework for wind farms in harsh environments, thereby avoiding interference of the newly installed CMS on the communication network of the SCADA system. The K-medoids clustering algorithm transforms the continuous space location problem into the discrete space location problem. Moreover, the mesh client (MC) coverage and backbone network connectivity issues are considered to ensure that the generated candidate point set can meet the coverage and connectivity requirements without generating numerous redundant nodes. Firstly, according to the characteristics of the model, the K-medoids clustering algorithm is used to obtain a set of candidate points of mesh routers (MRs) that meet the coverage rate. Secondly, a reasonable connection algorithm is proposed according to the constraints, and the optimal deployment is selected from the candidate points. Thirdly, taking the number of hops from MR to MG and the priority of MC as the weight. The path planning with the least number of MRs and load balancing is obtained by constructing a minimum spanning tree (MST) based on the improved Kruskal algorithm. Finally, Multi-channel inter-frequency networking technology is adopted to reduce interference between co-channels and between adjacent channels. The result shows that the method proposed can minimize network operating costs, meet the capacity requirements of MC, and reduce link losses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Detected the major crop phenological stages using an improved EVI-curve-based approach over North America during 2000–2016. • Offered the first attempt to characterize the spatial and temporal patterns in crop phenology at a continental scale. • Crop planting and harvesting dates are highly correlated with the min/maximum temperatures. Crop phenology represents an integrative indicator of climate change and plays a vital role in terrestrial carbon dynamics and sustainable agricultural development. However, spatiotemporal variations of crop phenology remain unclear at large scales. This knowledge gap has hindered our ability to realistically quantify the biogeochemical dynamics in agroecosystems, predict future climate, and make informed decisions for climate change mitigation and adaptation. In this study, we improved an EVI-curve-based approach and used it to detect spatiotemporal patterns in cropping intensity and five major phenological stages over North America during 2000–2016 using vegetation index in combination with agricultural survey data and other ancillary maps. Our predicted crop phenological stages showed strong linear relationships with the survey-based datasets, with R2, RMSEs, and MAEs in the ranges of 0.35 –0.99, three to ten days, and two to eight days, respectively. During the study period, the planting dates were advanced by 0.60 days/year (p < 0.01), and harvesting dates were delayed by 0.78 days/year (p < 0.01) over North America. A minimum temperature increase by 1 °C caused a 4.26-day planting advance (r = −0.50, p < 0. 01) or a 0.66-day harvest delay (r = 0.10, p < 0.01). While, a higher maximum temperature resulted in a planting advance by 4.48 days/°C (r = −0.62, p < 0.01) or a harvest advance by 2.22 days/°C (r = −0.40, p < 0.01). Our analysis illustrated evident spatiotemporal variations in crop phenology in response to climate change and management practices. The derived crop phenological datasets and cropping intensity maps can be used in regional climate assessments and in developing adaptation strategies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In recent years, the environmental problems caused by excessive carbon emissions from energy sources have become increasingly serious, which not only aggravates the climate change caused by the greenhouse effect but also seriously restricts the sustainable development of Chinese economy. An attempt is made in this paper to use energy consumption method and input-output method to study the carbon emission structure of China's energy system and industry in 2015 from two perspectives, namely China's energy supply side and energy demand side, by taking into account the two factors of energy invest in gross capital formation and export. The results show that neglecting these two factors will lead to underestimation of intermediate use carbon emissions and overestimation of final use carbon emissions. On energy supply side, the carbon emission structure of China's energy system is still dominated by high-carbon energy (raw coal, coke, diesel, and fuel oil, etc.), accounting for more than 70% of total energy carbon emissions; on the contrary, the natural gas such as clean energy accounts for only 3.45% of total energy carbon emissions, indicating that the energy consumption structure optimization and emission reduction gap of China's energy supply side are still substantial. On energy demand side, the final use (direct consumption by residents and government) produces less carbon emissions, while the intermediate use (production by enterprises) produces more than 90% of the total energy carbon emissions. Fossil energy, power sector, heavy industry, chemical industry, and transportation belong to industries with larger carbon emissions and lower carbon emission efficiency, while agriculture, construction, light industry, and service belong to industries with fewer carbon emissions and higher carbon emission efficiency. This means that the optimization of industrial structure is conducive to slowing down the growth of energy carbon emissions on the demand side. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• We have efficiently synthesized Curcumin loaded Zinc nanoparticles (ZnO@Cur). • The ZnO@Cur nanoparticle shows excellent in vitro cytotoxicity against human lung cancer cells. • Further we evaluated the mode of cell death through AO-EB staining and induced ROS mediated apoptosis. • ZnO@Cur shows excellent biocompatibility. Lung cancer is one of the major life-threatening cancers, with a higher mortality rate and morbidity. Curcumin acts as a potential anticancer agent but it shows less aqueous solubility so its clinical application is limited. In this present study, we developed curcumin-surface decorated Zinc Oxide nanoparticles ZnO@Cur to enhance its aqueous formulation and improve the anti-cancer activity of curcumin. The synthesized ZnO@Cur confirmed by various spectroscopies (UV–vis and fluorescence) and electroscopic techniques (Powder XRD, SEM, TEM, and DLS). ZnO@Cur dramatically suppressed the proliferation of A549 and HEL-299 cells and showed low toxicity in MTT assays. Compared with free ZnO and curcumin, ZnO@Cur significantly inhibited the migration ability of A549 cells. Moreover, the induction of apoptosis in A549 cells by ZnO@Cur was resulted by AO-EB staining. ZnO@Cur activated to promote intracellular ROS overproduction and induced apoptosis. ZnO@Cur shows excellent biocompatibility compared to free ZnO and Curcumin, the present study explained that ZnO@Cur as a safe and hopeful strategy for chemotherapeutics of lung cancer therapy and deserve for further clinical evaluations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Prior research tends to propose and examine the negative relationship between market segmentation and energy efficiency. Does market segmentation necessarily impair energy efficiency? Considering the critical role that Chinaese government play in managing erergy efficiency, we propose a non-linear relationship between market segmentation and energy efficiency. Using data of 30 provinces in Mainland China during 2000 to 2017, we find an inverse U-shaped relationship between market segmentation and energy efficiency. Our findings remain robust after controlling endogeneity issues. Therefore, a moderate level of market segmentation is acceptable and beneficial for long-term improvement of energy efficiency in emerging economies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A cyanine-derivative photosensitizer, CYBF2, was synthesized for photodynamic therapy of cancer. The photosensitizer can be activated by red-light with enhanced photostability compared to traditional cyanine photosensitizers. CYBF2 was able to generate singlet oxygen inside the cell mitochondria, which efficiently resulted in apoptosis of cancer cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Land-cover classification provides the crucial data component for related Earth-science research. Currently, although multiscale remote-sensing images are the main source of data for classifying land-cover, the response of multi-resolution images to land-cover classification remains highly uncertain. In addition, because of the scarcity of time-synchronous multiscale satellite images of certain regions, up-scaling algorithms are generally used to generate and apply multiscale images. However, when using resolution-resampling images, it remains uncertain to what extent spectral loss or information distortion is responsible for the underlying differences in the accuracy of land-cover classification of various landscapes. To clarify this situation, we study the Hetian basin of Changting County in Fujian Province, south-east China by using quasi-synchronous multiple-resolution satellite observations (seven spatial resolution levels: 1 m, 2 m, 4 m, 8 m, 16 m, 30 m, and 50 m) to investigate possible correlations between spatial resolution and the land-cover classification. The classification is obtained by applying a support vector machine spectral classifier to random recordings made in 1875 sample plots. We also explore the effect of using lower-resolution images by comparing the classification results obtained by using several common up-scaling algorithms, such as nearest neighbour (NN), bilinear (BI), cubic convolution (CC), and pixel aggregation (PA). The results indicate that classification accuracy is significantly influenced by the spatial resolution of images (p < 0.05), with the accuracy increasing as the spatial resolution goes from 1 m to 4 m, then decreasing as the spatial resolution decreases beyond 4 m. In addition, for a resolution of 1 m to 30 m, almost all the up-scaled images provide a classification accuracy that differs from that obtained by using the native remote-sensing images of each resolution (p < 0.05), and the difference increases as the spatial-resolution ratio or up-scaling amplification factor increases. According to an analysis of the spatial scale of images using, e.g., multiband spectral reflectance and vegetation index, the up-scaling algorithms are less sensitive to spatial resolution and represent poorly the actual image characteristics. This result is attributed to the strong dependence of the spectral information in up-scaled images on the original images, which leads to discrepancies with respect to actual observations at the given scale. These results indicate that the effects of resolution cannot be ignored and that resampling data may not be adequate for multi-spatial-scale classification compared with the native satellite images. It is thus urgent to obtain an effective up-scaling algorithm that sharply reduces the problems caused by spatial heterogeneity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights • A transcriptome of C. morifolium leaves under UV-B radiation has been sequenced. • A great number of differential expressed genes (DEGs) were screened. • Genes involved in bioactive ingredient biosynthesis were induced by UV-B radiation. • The contents of flavonoids and caffeoylquinic acids were induced by UV-B radiation. • The contents of fatty acids were induced by UV-B radiation. Abstract Ultraviolet-B is an effective elicitor that enhances the production of bioactive ingredient in various plants. However, the mechanism underlying ultraviolet-B responses in the genus Chrysanthemum is largely unknown. Chrysanthemum morifolium Ramat is used as herbal medicine, beverage material, and seasoning in many Asian regions. A massive amount of bioactive ingredients, such as caffeoylquinic acids and flavonoids, are contained in C. morifolium flowers and leaves, leading to an extensive number of applications for their extracts. In this study, complementary DNA libraries from Chrysanthemum morifolium Ramat leaves under ultraviolet-B radiation at various time points (0 h, 3 h, 6 h and 12 h) were separately sequenced. A large number of differential expressed genes were screened during the ultraviolet-B radiation process. The expression of most glycosylsis-, glycosyltransferase-related genes, flavonoid, fatty acid and caffeoylquinic acid biosynthesis related genes were largely induced by ultraviolet-B radiation. Furthermore, the contents of flavonoids, caffeoylquinic acids and fatty acids were significantly induced by ultraviolet-B radiation, suggesting a close relationship between the contents of flavonoids, caffeoylquinic acids and fatty acids and the resistance of plant to ultraviolet-B-induced stress. Our data provides a comprehensive resource for identifying genes associated with ultraviolet-B-induced variations in the bioactive ingredients of C. morifolium. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ultraviolet-B (UV-B) is an effective elicitor that enhances bioactive ingredient biosynthesis in different plants. Chrysanthemum morifolium Ramat (C. morifolium) is a well-known herbal medicine and beverage material, which is cultivated in many Asian countries and regions. The C. morifolium inflorescences are the main accumulation sites for active ingredients, which include flavonoids and chlorogenic acid. However, the molecular mechanisms underlying UV-B-mediated bioactive ingredient biosynthesis in C. morifolium inflorescences remain largely unknown. High-throughput sequencing technologies have been applied to identify the messenger RNAs (mRNAs) and microRNAs (miRNAs) responsive to UV-B radiation in C. morifolium inflorescences. Many UV-B responsive genes are enriched in flavonoid, unsaturated fatty acid, phenylpropanoid, and carotenoid biosynthesis pathways. In this study, we identified 169 miRNAs belonging to 38 typical families were detected in our constructed libraries. In total, 1954 unigenes were predicted to be targets of 118 miRNAs. Six miRNAs, PC-5p-7136_1319 , PC-3p-78379_156 , ath-MIR414-p5_2ss2CT21AC , PC-3p-154888_69 , nta-miR171a_2ss8GT18GA and htu-miR403a were involved in the regulation of active ingredient biosynthesis by targeting 4CL-like 5/9 , CYP81E8 , UGT91D1 and UGT72B1 genes. Five miRNAs, PC-5p-79_56613 , ath-miR858a_L-1 , ath-MIR414-p5_2ss15AC18AT , ath-MIR414-p5_2ss2CT21AC , and aly-miR393a-5p were involved in regulation of flavonoid biosynthesis by targeting MYB-bHLH complex-related transcription factor genes. Our data provides a platform for identifying mRNAs and miRNAs involved in the UV-B-induced accumulation of bioactive ingredients in C. morifolium inflorescences. • In C. morifolium inflorescences, 169 miRNAs belonging to 38 typic families were detected in all libraries. • A total of 1954 unigenes were predicted to be the targets of 118 miRNAs. • Six miRNAs were involved in the regulation of active ingredient biosynthesis. • Data reveals the function of UV-B in bioactive ingredient biosynthesis of the Chrysanthemum species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recently, there has been an exponential growth in the number of publications focusing on surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS), primarily driven by advancements in nanotechnology and the increasing demand for chemical and biological detection. While many of these publications have focused on the development of new substrates and detection-based applications, there is a noticeable lack of attention given to various practical issues related to SERS measurements and detection. This review aims to fill this gap by utilizing silver nanorod (AgNR) SERS substrates fabricated through the oblique angle deposition method as an illustrative example. The review highlights and addresses a range of practical issues associated with SERS measurements and detection. These include the optimization of SERS substrates in terms of morphology and structural design, considerations for measurement configurations such as polarization and the incident angle of the excitation laser, and exploration of enhancement mechanisms encompassing both intrinsic properties induced by the structure and materials, as well as extrinsic factors arising from wetting/dewetting phenomena and analyte size. The manufacturing and storage aspects of SERS substrates, including scalable fabrication techniques, contamination control, cleaning procedures, and appropriate storage methods, are also discussed. Furthermore, the review delves into device design considerations, such as well arrays, flow cells, and fiber probes, and explores various sample preparation methods such as drop-cast and immersion. Measurement issues, including the effect of excitation laser wavelength and power, as well as the influence of buffer, are thoroughly examined. Additionally, the review discusses spectral analysis techniques, encompassing baseline removal, chemometric analysis, and machine learning approaches. The wide range of AgNR-based applications of SERS, across various fields, is also explored. Throughout the comprehensive review, key lessons learned from collective findings are outlined and analyzed, particularly in the context of detailed SERS measurements and standardization. The review also provides insights into future challenges and perspectives in the field of SERS. It is our hope that this comprehensive review will serve as a valuable reference for researchers seeking to embark on in-depth studies and applications involving their own SERS substrates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Physalin B from Physalis angulata L. (Solanaceae) is a naturally occurring secosteroid with multiple biological activities. But its anti-inflammatory activity and mechanism remain unclear. Physalin B effects on RAW264.7 macrophages stimulated by lipopolysaccharide (LPS) were observed in this study. The expression and secretion of tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) and interleukin-6 (IL-6) induced by LPS were significantly inhibited by physalin B. Meanwhile, the NF-κB nuclear translocation induced by LPS was inhibited by physalin B. The anti-inflammatory effects of physalin B could not be inhibited by mifepristone (RU486), the blocker of glucocorticoid receptor. In conclusion, physalin B can suppress inflammatory response to LPS in macrophages by inhibiting the production of inflammatory cytokines via NF-κB signaling. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There is a great potential for greenhouse tomato fruit yield improvement in China for the low yield per hectare. We evaluated the effects of multi-factors (plant density, nitrogen (N) and K2O fertilizer) on fruit yield of tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum Mill. cv. Jinfan 4) by response surface methodology with a 5-level-3-factor central composite design. A multivariate quadratic regression model of fruit yield was established. Results showed that N fertilizer was the most significant for fruit yield, followed by K2O fertilizer and plant density. Fruit yield showed a parabolic trend with increasing fertilizer levels or plant density. There was a significant interaction effect between plant density and fertilizer levels. Optimal conditions were obtained: 4.83 × 104 plants ha−1 for density, 262 kg ha−1 for N and 513 kg ha−1 for K2O. Under these conditions, the predicted fruit yield was 119,381 kg ha−1, while the actual fruit yield from verification test was 121,005 kg ha−1. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Local government intervention in land resource allocation can lead to the misallocation of land resources and serious pollutant emissions. As an important market-oriented economic reform in China, the marketization of urban land transfer (MULT) might have the potential to contribute to improving resource allocation efficiency by curbing local government intervention. Therefore, this study aims to provide empirical evidence on the impact of MULT on energy efficiency. We improve the MULT evaluation method to test the mechanism through which MULT affects energy efficiency. The results show that, first, the proportion of land sold by allocation and listing methods, which is characterized by a low degree of marketization, has rapidly increased in recent years, lowering the overall level of MULT. Second, MULT has a direct and significant positive impact on improving energy efficiency. Third, the mechanism analysis indicates that MULT helps enhance energy efficiency by advancing industrial structure optimization and technological progress. Moreover, the heterogeneity analysis demonstrates that the impact of MULT on improving energy efficiency differs significantly in different reform stages and between central and peripheral cities. This study sheds light on the importance of land resource allocation in improving energy efficiency and thus has practical policy implications for promoting low-carbon energy transition in emerging countries. • The impact of MULT on energy efficiency is empirically investigated. • Overall, the MULT reform has not improved the marketization level of land transfer. • The screening effect of MULT has a direct positive effect on energy efficiency. • Industrial structure optimization and technological progress are mechanisms. • The impact of MULT on energy efficiency differs in reform stages and cities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The louse flies of the genus Lipoptena spp. (Diptera: Hippoboscidae) are obligate blood-feeding species and potential vectors of several pathogens. These ectoparasites are known for their potential harm to wild animals. This review summarized the recent research on Lipoptena spp. 's role as potential vectors of pathogens and the impact of climate change on their distribution. The review focused on the biological characteristics, medical and veterinary significance, rapid geographic expansion, and challenges in controlling Lipoptena spp. Finally, we provided some considerations for future research on the Lipoptena spp. • Deer keds are a threat. • Their range is expanding. • Their control remains a challenge. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rapid and sensitive pathogen detection is important for prevention and control of disease. Here, we report a label-free diagnostic platform that combines surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) and machine learning for the rapid and accurate detection of thirteen respiratory virus species including SARS-CoV-2, common human coronaviruses, influenza viruses, and others. Virus detection and measurement have been performed using highly sensitive SiO 2 coated silver nanorod array substrates, allowing for detection and identification of their characteristic SERS peaks. Using appropriate spectral processing procedures and machine learning algorithms (MLAs) including support vector machine (SVM), k-nearest neighbor, and random forest, the virus species as well as strains and variants have been differentiated and classified and a differentiation accuracy of >99% has been obtained. Utilizing SVM-based regression, quantitative calibration curves have been constructed to accurately estimate the unknown virus concentrations in buffer and saliva. This study shows that using a combination of SERS, MLA, and regression, it is possible to classify and quantify the virus in saliva, which could aid medical diagnosis and therapeutic intervention. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In recent years, a novel family of calmodulin-binding transcription activators (CAMTAs) has been reported in various species. The CAMTAs share a conserved domain organization, with a CG-1 DNA-binding domain, a transcription factor immunoglobulin domain, several ankyrin repeats, a calmodulin-binding domain, and a varying number of IQ motifs. CAMTAs participate in transcriptional regulation by recognizing and binding to a specific cis-element: (G/A/C) CGCG(C/G/T). Plants suffer from the environmental challenges, including abiotic and biotic stresses. Investigations in various plant species indicate a broad range of CAMTA functions involved in developmental regulation, environmental stress response, and hormone cross talk. In this review, we focus on the expression patterns and biological functions of CAMTAs to explore their probable applications in biotechnology. Furthermore, the identification and phylogenetic analysis of CAMTAs in crops could open new perspectives for enhancing stress tolerance, which could lead to improved crop production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A rapid, portable, and cost-effective method to detect the infection of SARS-CoV-2 is fundamental toward mitigating the current COVID - 19 pandemic. Herein, a human angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 protein (ACE2) functionalized silver nanotriangle (AgNT) array localized surface plasmon resonance (LSPR) sensor is developed for rapid coronavirus detection, which is validated by SARS-CoV-2 spike RBD protein and CoV NL63 virus with high sensitivity and specificity. A linear shift of the LSPR wavelength versus the logarithm of the concentration of the spike RBD protein and CoV NL63 is observed. The limits of detection for the spike RBD protein, CoV NL63 in buffer and untreated saliva are determined to be 0.83 pM, 391 PFU/mL, and 625 PFU/mL, respectively, while the detection time is found to be less than 20 min. Thus, the AgNT array optical sensor could serve as a potential rapid point-of-care COVID-19 diagnostic platform. Localized surface plasmon resonance (LSPR) virus sensor was developed based on human angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 protein (ACE2) functionalized silver nanotriangle (AgNT) arrays. The sensor has high sensitivity and specificity to the receptor binding domain (RBD) of SARS-CoV-2 as well as human coronavirus NL63. [Display omitted] • ACE2 functionalized LSPR virus sensor has high sensitivity and specificity. • The limit of detection for human coronavirus NL63 is 625 PFU/mL in untreated saliva. • The detection time for coronavirus is determined to be less than 20 min. • This simple LSPR sensor can be performed using a handheld UV-Vis spectrometer. • Coronavirus detection model of LSPR sensor has been established. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Auxin plays a pivotal role in the regulation of plant growth and development by controlling the expression of auxin response genes rapidly. As one of the major auxin early response gene families, Gretchen Hagen 3 ( GH3) genes are involved in auxin homeostasis by conjugating excess auxins to amino acids. However, how GH3 genes function in environmental stresses and rhizobial infection responses in Medicago truncatula are largely unknown. Here, based on the latest updated M. truncatula genome, a comprehensive identification and expression profiling analysis of MtGH3 genes were performed. Our data showed that most of MtGH3 genes were expressed in tissue-specific manner and were responsive to environmental stress-related hormones. To understand the possible roles of MtGH3 genes involved in symbiosis establishment between M. truncatula and symbiotic bacteria, quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) was used to test the expressions of MtGH3 genes during the early phase of Sinorhizobium meliloti infection. The expression levels of most MtGH3 genes were upregulated in shoots and downregulated in roots by S. meliloti infection. The differences in expression responses to S. meliloti infection between roots and shoots were in agreement with the results of free indoleacetic acid (IAA) content measurements. The identification and expression analysis of MtGH3 genes at the early phase of S. meliloti infection may help us to understand the role of GH3-mediated IAA homeostasis in the regulation of nodule formation in model legumes M. truncatula. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

By analyzing meteorological data during 2000–2009, the characteristics of fog in Changzhi region and weather situation of fog weather occurrence were summarized, and forecast equation was established. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although chemo-photodynamic therapy demonstrates promising synergetic therapeutic effects in malignant tumors, the light-controlled drug release, synergism and biocompatibility of current nanocarriers are limited. Herein, we report a red light-responsive, self-destructive carrier constructed using polyethylene glycol-modified, diselenide-bridged mesoporous silica nanoparticles. The carrier is co-encapsulated with the chemo-drug doxorubicin and the photosensitizer methylene blue for chemo-photodynamic therapy. Upon low-dose red light irradiation during photodynamic therapy (PDT), the reactive oxygen species (ROS) mediates a diselenide bond cleavage resulting in the degradation of the organosilica matrix and a dual drug release. This, in turn, results in a synergistic chemo-photodynamic performance in vitro and in vivo. More importantly, such cascade chemo-PDT boosts immunogenic cell death and robust anti-tumor immunity responses. Combination with a PD-1 checkpoint blockade further evokes a series of systemic immunity responses that suppress distant tumor growth and the pulmonary metastasis of breast cancer, as well as offer long-term protection against recurrent tumors. The presented work offers a controllable self-destruction nanoplatform for cascade-amplifying chemo-photodynamic therapy in response to external red light radiation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Surface-breaking cracks affect the material and structural properties of concrete pipes. Therefore, the nondestructive evaluation of the crack depth is important to assess the serviceability of these pipes, which are commonly used in underground infrastructure and trenchless installations (micro-tunneling). This paper presents theoretical, numerical and experimental results for the depth evaluation of surface-breaking cracks. The wall of a concrete pipe is represented as a plate in the numerical and the analytical studies. In the experiments, an ultrasonic piezoelectric transmitter is used as a source. The propagation of the ultrasonic pulse is analyzed using the wavelet transform. A newly proposed wavelet transmission coefficient (WTC) is measured using an equal spacing configuration for the crack depth evaluation in concrete pipes and concrete plates. The results from laboratory and in situ tests show good potential for the practical application of the WTC for the depth evaluation of surface-breaking cracks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Surface-breaking cracks affect the material and structural properties of concrete members, e.g. concrete plates. Therefore, the non-destructive measurement of the crack depths is important to assess the structural strength and serviceability of concrete plates. In this paper, a theoretical transfer function for a pulse propagating as Lamb modes is used to study the effects from the dispersion of Lamb modes and the participation of high-order Lamb modes. It is found that the fundamental symmetric Lamb mode dominates when a vertical Morlet pulse is applied at the surface; thus, wavelet transform is used for the analysis of the surface responses to extract information of the fundamental Lamb mode. The recently proposed wavelet transmission coefficient (WTC) is sensitive to normalized crack depths up to one-third of the wavelength. The crack depth is successfully evaluated not only in numerical simulations but also in experimental tests. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Accurate phenological information is essential for monitoring crop development, predicting crop yield, and enhancing resilience to cope with climate change. This study employed a curve-change-based dynamic threshold approach on NDVI (Normalized Differential Vegetation Index) time series to detect the planting and harvesting dates for corn and soybean in Kentucky, a typical climatic transition zone, from 2000 to 2018. We compared satellite-based estimates with ground observations and performed trend analyses of crop phenological stages over the study period to analyze their relationships with climate change and crop yields. Our results showed that corn and soybean planting dates were delayed by 0.01 and 0.07 days/year, respectively. Corn harvesting dates were also delayed at a rate of 0.67 days/year, while advanced soybean harvesting occurred at a rate of 0.05 days/year. The growing season length has increased considerably at a rate of 0.66 days/year for corn and was shortened by 0.12 days/year for soybean. Sensitivity analysis showed that planting dates were more sensitive to the early season temperature, while harvesting dates were significantly correlated with temperature over the entire growing season. In terms of the changing climatic factors, only the increased summer precipitation was statistically related to the delayed corn harvesting dates in Kentucky. Further analysis showed that the increased corn yield was significantly correlated with the delayed harvesting dates (1.37 Bu/acre per day) and extended growing season length (1.67 Bu/acre per day). Our results suggested that seasonal climate change (e.g., summer precipitation) was the main factor influencing crop phenological trends, particularly corn harvesting in Kentucky over the study period. We also highlighted the critical role of changing crop phenology in constraining crop production, which needs further efforts for optimizing crop management practices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to describe a case of ovarian torsion necrosis due to delayed treatment of luteoma in a woman with IVF twin pregnancy who was misdiagnosed with acute appendicitis. We summarized the clinical manifestations and diagnosis of luteoma in a woman with IVF twin pregnancy and reviewed the relevant literature. We report the case of a 34-year-old Asian female who became pregnant through in vitro fertilization (IVF) and had acute right underbelly pain at 26 weeks and 6 days of gestation, which was misdiagnosed as acute appendicitis. Written consent was obtained from the patient. After fasting for a short duration and receiving anti-inflammatory and intravenous fluid replacement treatment after admission, the woman experienced increased right lower abdominal pain without relief and decreased fetal movement. B-ultrasound and CT examination showed that luteoma torsion was possible, and we performed emergency surgical laparotomy. During the operation, it was found that the right ovary was enlarged, the fallopian tube was twisted 720 degrees, and there was no lesion in the appendix. The right necrotic ovary was removed, and pathological results showed a hemorrhagic corpus luteum in the right ovary. The patient's abdominal pain was relieved after the operation and the pregnancy was continued. This is a typical case of ovariectomy associated with a luteoma of pregnancy. Whether in vitro fertilization and related procedures increase the risk of luteoma and whether they increase the risk of ovarian torsion necrosis in the case of luteoma formation are questions that need further study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary The rapid shell‐less curing method significantly simplifies the processing cycle of salted egg yolks (SEYs). However, differences in flavour attributes between rapidly cured SEYs and traditionally cured SEYs have yet to be clearly established. Herein, a comprehensive evaluation of the volatile compounds in SEYs using HS‐SPME‐GC‐MS and HS‐GC‐IMS aims to delineate the flavour characteristics under varying preparation methods. Despite reduced oil exudation, the rapid salting process resulted in higher levels of free amino acids than the traditional approach. Hexanal, nonanal, 1‐octen‐3‐ol, 2‐pentyl‐furan, phenylacetaldehyde, benzaldehyde, 2‐octenal, and 2,5‐dimethyl‐pyrazine were identified as significant contributors to the SEY flavour profile. Conversely, salted hen egg yolks contained methional, decanal and 2‐methyl‐pyrimidine; whereas salted duck egg yolks presented with (E,E)‐2,4‐decadienal, 2,6‐diethyl‐pyrazine and nonanoic acid. Principal component analysis of the E‐nose revealed that the aroma profile of rapid curing (SHY‐R25) was more similar to that of traditional curing (SHY). The rapid preparation technology presented a viable alternative to traditional pickling, capable of partially replicating the flavour of traditional salted egg yolks within a single day. These findings contributed to a more scientific application and preparation of SEY flavouring bases, providing a theoretical basis for flavour enhancement and development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Physalin B (PB) from Physalis angulata L. (Solanaceae) is a naturally occurring secosteroid with multiple biological activities, including anti‐inflammatory and anticancer activity. However, PB's effects and mechanisms in human gastric cancer (GC) cells are not well characterized. Methods: The undifferentiated GC cell line HGC‐27 and semi‐differentiated GC cell line SGC‐7901 were treated with PB. Cell counting kit‐8 (CCK‐8) and colony formation assays were performed to evaluate cell viability. Apoptosis and the cell cycle were assessed by Annexin V/PI and PI/RNase DNA staining assays, respectively, and Western blotting was used to evaluate the expression of a protein. Results: PB significantly inhibited the proliferation of HGC‐27 cells in a dose‐ and time‐dependent manner. Moreover, PB induced G0/G1 cycle arrest and caspase‐dependent apoptosis of HGC‐27 cells. Cleaved caspases 8, 3, and 7, poly(ADP)‐ribose polymerase (PARP), and the cyclin‐dependent kinase (CDK) inhibitor p‐Chk2 was induced by PB in HGC‐27 cells, while the cell cycle‐related proteins cyclin D1, cyclin D3, CDK4, CDK6, cyclin E, and phosphorylated retinoblastoma tumor suppressor protein (p‐Rb) were downregulated in a dose‐dependent manner. Conclusions: PB inhibits proliferation via cyclin‐dependent kinase and induces caspase‐dependent apoptosis in HGC‐27 cells, suggesting that PB might be a novel and effective agent for undifferentiated GC therapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The malignant progression of oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) has been confirmed to be mediated by a variety of factors, including circular RNA (circRNA). However, the role of circLPAR3 in OSCC development is still unclear. 70 paired OSCC tissues and normal control tissues were obtained from 70 OSCC patients. Quantitative real-time PCR was used to detect the expression of circLPAR3, microRNA (miR)-643, and high-mobility group box 2 (HMGB2). Cell proliferation, apoptosis, metastasis and stemness were assessed using cell counting kit 8 assay, colony-formation assay, flow cytometry, transwell assay and sphere formation assay. Marker protein expression and HMGB2 protein expression were determined by western blot analysis. The interaction between miR-643 and circLPAR3 or HMGB2 was confirmed by RNA pull-down assay, dual-luciferase reporter and RIP assay. The role of circLPAR3 in OSCC tumorigenesis was explored by constructing the xenograft models. Our data showed that circLPAR3 was highly expressed in OSCC tissues and cells. CircLPAR3 silencing suppressed OSCC cell proliferation, metastasis and stemness, while promoted apoptosis. On the mechanism, we discovered that circLPAR3 could sponge miR-643 to positive regulate HMGB2. MiR-643 overexpression had an inhibition effect on OSCC progression, and its inhibitor could reverse the negative regulation of circLPAR3 knockdown on OSCC progression. In addition, overexpressed HMGB2 also reversed the suppressive effect of circLPAR3 silencing on OSCC progression. Animal experiments results showed that downregulated circLPAR3 repressed OSCC tumorigenesis in vivo. Taken together, our data showed that circLPAR3 contributed to OSCC malignant progression through regulating the miR-643/HMGB2 axis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• The contents of several bioactive ingredient increased under UV-B radiation. • UV-B radiation responsive microRNAs were identified. • Key genes for glycolysis were predicated as potential target genes. • Genes involved in the biosynthesis of chlorogenic acids were predicated. • Genes involved in the biosynthesis of flavonoids were predicated. MicroRNAs (miRNA) play a key roles in ultraviolet-B (UV-B) induced accumulation of bioactive ingredients in plants. Chrysanthemum (Chrysanthemum morifolium Ramat) is a popular ornamental herb with numerous biological activities, but its miRNAs and their roles in UV-B-induced active ingredient accumulation remain unexplored. High-throughput miRNA sequencing technology was used to identify miRNAs responsive to UV-B radiation. Four libraries were constructed from Chrysanthemum ' Xiaoyangju ' leaves harvested at different time points under UV-B radiation. In total, 245 miRNAs belonging to 42 classical families were identified. Under UV-B treatment, 137 miRNAs showed differential expression, including 71 known and 67 novel miRNAs,. In addition, 1,779 unique target genes involving diverse biological processes were predicted for 80 known and 85 novel miRNAs. Three key glycolysis genes, Glyceraldehyde-3-Phosphate Dehydrogenase , Pyruvate Kinase and Glucan Endo-1,3-beta-D-Glucosidase , were predicated as potential target genes of miR396f-5p, PC-5p-294053_21 and miR397a, respectively. Among identified target genes, five key genes involved in the biosynthesis of chlorogenic acids and flavonoids were predicated as potential targets genes of MIR4367-p5, PC-3p-40855_284, MIR393b-p5, and PC-3p-114893_93. The expression of identified miRNAs relating to bioactive ingredient biosynthesis was significantly affected by UV-B radiation, suggesting a strong effect of UV-B radiation on bioactive ingredient accumulation in Chrysanthemum. Interestingly, several miRNAs related to flavonoids biosynthesis such as PC-3p-114893_93 and MIR4367-p5, were inhibited by short-term UV-B radiation, suggesting that the contribution of UV-B to flavonoids accumulation depends on a low dose of UV-B radiation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: Salted hen egg yolks are less oily and less flavorful than salted duck egg yolks. However, hen eggs have a more adequate market supply and have a broader application prospect than duck eggs. In the present study, egg yolks, plasma, and granules were dehydrated by adding 1% NaCl to simulate traditional curing process of salted egg yolk. The changes in the pickling process of hen egg yolks (HEY) and duck egg yolks (DEY) plasma and granules were compared to reveal the gelation mechanism and the underlying causes of quality differences in salted HEY and DEY. Salted HEY can be compared with the changes in DEY during the pickling process to provide a theoretical basis for the quality improvement of salted HEY to salted DEY. RESULTS: The results showed that both plasma and granules were involved in gel formation, but exhibited different aggregation behaviors. Based on the intermolecular forces, the HEY proteins achieved aggregation mainly through hydrophobic interactions and DEY proteins mainly through covalent binding. According to spin–spin relaxation time, HEY gels immobilized a large amount of lipid and interacted strongly with lipids. DEY gels showed much free lipid and had weak interaction with lipid. The microstructure showed that HEY proteins were easily unfolded to form a homogeneous three‐dimensional gel network structure after salting, whereas heterogeneous aggregates were formed to hinder the gel development in DEY. Changes in protein secondary structure content showed that pickling can promote the transformation of the α‐helices to β‐sheets structure in HEY gels, whereas more α‐helices structure was formed in DEY gels. CONCLUSION: The present study has demonstrated that different gelation behaviors of hen and duck egg yolk proteins (especially in plasma) through salting treatment led to the difference in the quality of salted HEY and DEY. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Pre-heating SPI and TG showed synergistic effect on the properties of composite gels. • TG crosslinking action led to improved egg-soybean protein gel hardness. • Egg-soybean gels treated with TG showed lower water-holding capacity. • A dense and fine network was obtained in gels when treated with pre-heating and TG. The objective of this study was to determine the effects of pre-heating soybean protein isolate (SPI) and transglutaminase (TG) induced cross-linking on egg-SPI composite gels. Solubility, surface hydrophobicity, electrophoresis and rheology of the prepared solutions were determined, whereas texture, water-holding capacity and microstructure of the composite gels were evaluated. SPI pre-heating improved solutions' solubility and protein's surface hydrophobicity; thus enhancing TG cross-linking evidenced by sodium dodecyl sulfate polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS-PAGE). When only TG was used, solubility and surface hydrophobicity of the composites remained unchanged or decreased, forming strong gels but with low springiness and water-holding capacity. When SPI pre-heating and TG action were combined, a denser and finer gel network was obtained that exhibited improved mechanical properties and better water-holding capacity. The results of this research demonstrate that the combination of pre-heating SPI and TG treatment is a reliable method to improve the gelling properties of egg-SPI composite gels. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to compare the properties of foams stabilized by egg white protein (EWP) and egg white protein microgels (EWPM), and combinations thereof (EWP + EWPM; 1.0 + 0, 0.7 + 0.3, 0.5 + 0.5, 0.3 + 0.7 or 0 + 1.0, wt%) without or with processing treatments (freezing at −20 °C/30 min, oven-heating at 80 °C/30 min, or microwaving at 700 W/15 s). In order to provide a twofold benefit of high initial foam volume (dictated by rapid adsorption of EWP) and high foam stability (governed by Pickering stabilization by EWPM), various ratios of EWP + EWPM on foam stabilization were investigated. The EWP + EWPM systems generated similar initial foam volumes as compared to those prepared solely with EWP (p > 0.05), and foams generated with increasing ratios of EWPM + EWP showed higher stability to bubble shrinkage and coalescence at longer time scales (9 h). Confocal images revealed that EWPM were preferentially located at the air/water interface with the increasing EWPM + EWP ratio, suggesting pure Pickering stabilization at 1.0 wt% EWPM. Plateauing of bubble size at ca. 75 μm occurred only at EWPM> 0.5 wt% for EWP + EWPM = 1.0 wt% total protein, when stability became EWPM-dominated. Frozen foams showed the most stable bubbles, irrespective of the systems (p > 0.05). The combination of EWP + EWPM significantly improved the stability of the bubbles during oven-heating as compared to the EWP-stabilized counterparts (p < 0.05), whilst the EWPM system was the most stable during microwaving. These results suggest that microgels could be used to formulate food foams with enhanced stability to processing conditions, whereas combination with non-microgel protein can improve the initial foamability. • Foams were stabilized by egg white protein (EWP), microgels (EWPM) or combinations. • Foamability was higher in EWP-stabilized foams than in the EWPM-stabilized ones. • EWP:EWPM combinations showed higher stability against bubble disproportionation. • More particles were adsorbed at A/W interface with increasing ratios of EWMP to EWP. • With EWPM, foams showed higher stability during different processing treatments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Bluegrass Region is an area in north-central Kentucky with unique natural and cultural significance, which possesses some of the most fertile soils in the world. Over recent decades, land use and land cover changes have threatened the protection of the unique natural, scenic, and historic resources in this region. In this study, we applied a fragmentation model and a set of landscape metrics together with the satellite-derived USDA Cropland Data Layer to examine the shrinkage and fragmentation of grassland in the Bluegrass Region, Kentucky during 2008–2018. Our results showed that recent land use change across the Bluegrass Region is characterized by grassland decline, cropland expansion, forest spread, and suburban sprawl. The grassland area decreased by 14.4%, with an interior (or intact) grassland shrinkage of 5%, during the study period. Land conversion from grassland to other land cover types has been widespread, with major grassland shrinkage occurring in the west and northeast of the Outer Bluegrass Region and relatively minor grassland conversion in the Inner Bluegrass Region. The number of patches increased from 108,338 to 126,874. The effective mesh size, which represents the degree of landscape fragmentation in a system, decreased from 6629.84 to 1816.58 for the entire Bluegrass Region. This study is the first attempt to quantify recent grassland shrinkage and fragmentation in the Bluegrass Region. Therefore, we call for more intensive monitoring and further conservation efforts to preserve the ecosystem services provided by the Bluegrass Region, which has both local and regional implications for climate mitigation, carbon sequestration, diversity conservation, and culture protection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The development of ultrasensitive and specific methods for facile detection of trace nucleic acids is of great significance to human health and safety. In the present work, an ultrasensitive SERS-based strategy for detecting nucleic acids was proposed by integrating the SERS-active AgNRs array with double signal amplifications, i.e. the primary target-triggered enzyme-free amplification recycling and the secondary signal enhancement of multiple-reporter. By comparing two SERS sensing routes, i.e. solid interface recycling (Route A) and solution recycling (Route B), the superior solution recycling was determined first, and then the sensing strategy was optimized by investigating the immobilization time, surface blocking, and number of reporters utilized in the SERS sensing. The experimental results indicate that an ultrasensitive SERS strategy can be achieved via the primary amplification of target-triggered enzyme-free recycling and additional enhancement by the usage of multiple reporters. Under the optimal conditions, the SERS sensing showed good specificity and uniformity, and a linear calibration curve of DNAs in human serum solution, ranging from 1 μM to 1 fM, was obtained with LOD as low as 40.4 aM, and the following recovery rate measurements confirmed that the proposed SERS sensing had good repeatability and reliability, which shows great potential for facile detecting trace DNAs, especially disease-related nucleic acids in the liquid biopsy of early-stage cancer detection. • An ultrasensitive SERS sensing for nucleic acids was proposed by integrating the target-triggered enzyme-free amplification recycling with SERS-active AgNRs array. • Additional secondary enhancement was realized by the usage of multiple reporters. • A linear calibration curve of DNAs in human serum solution ranged from 1 μM to 1 fM was obtained with LOD as low as 40.4 aM. • The proposed ultrasensitive SERS sensing with good specificity, uniformity and reliability shows great potential for facile detecting trace nucleic acids. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: High internal phase emulsions (HIPEs) are potential carriers of fat‐soluble nutrients due to their high loading capacity. In this study, egg white protein particles (EWPP) and rhamnolipid (Rha) were used to co‐emulsify oil/water HIPEs to carry curcumin (Cur). The results showed that the Cur loading efficiency, microstructure, protein composition, molecular distribution of protein hydrolysates, protein interfacial adsorption rate and Cur bioavailability were measured. The results showed that, incorporation with Rha was unhelpful for improving loading efficiency of Cur, which decreased from 80.8% to 73.7% at pH 3.8 after incorporation with Rha, due to the decreased viscosity and destroyed continuous interface membrane, while beneficial for restricting coalescence of oil droplets. As studied, Rha could effectively reduce the droplet size to slow down the speed of coalescence and form EWPP–Rha complex to inhibit proteolysis. Finally, Cur bioavailability in EWPP–Rha co‐emulsified HIPE was the highest (40.3%), indicating the synergistic effect of EWPP and Rha promoting the effective adsorption of Cur, related to the increased coalescence stability during digestion and participation of Rha in the micellisation reaction. In comparison, fibrous (pH 3.8) and granular (pH 7.0) EWPP stabilised HIPEs, showed no obvious difference in Cur bioavailability, due to the balance between the interfacial adsorption ability and the digestion resistance of EWPP with various morphologies. This study has important significance for the construction of lipid soluble nutrient 'carriers' with high load and high bioavailability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: To investigate the expression of formyl peptide receptor 2 (FPR2) in maternal blood, umbilical blood, and placenta of patients with gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM), and to analyze the changes of other pro‐inflammatory cytokines in blood, including interleukin 33 (IL‐33), IL‐1β, tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF‐α), and C‐reactive protein (CRP), so as to reveal the pathogenesis of GDM. Methods: FPR2, IL‐33, IL‐1β, T TNF‐α, and CRP in maternal blood and umbilical cord blood of 50 pregnant women with GDM and 30 normal pregnant women were analyzed by ELISA method to explore the correlation between inflammatory factors and blood glucose. The expression of FPR2 in placental tissues was analyzed by PCR and immunohistochemistry. Results: The expression of FPR2 in maternal blood of gestational diabetes patients was significantly higher than that of normal pregnant women, and other inflammatory factors IL‐33 and IL‐1β in maternal blood were also significantly increased. The expression of FPR2 in umbilical cord blood of gestational diabetes was higher than that of normal pregnant women, but the difference was not significant. Other inflammatory factors IL‐33, IL‐1β, and CRP in umbilical cord blood were also significantly increased. The expression of FPR2mRNA and protein in placental tissues of gestational diabetes was significantly higher than that of normal pregnant women. Conclusions: The level of FPR2, IL‐33, and IL‐1β in maternal blood was related to the pathogenesis of GDM and these inflammatory factors could be used as special candidate direction of marks for the prevention, clinical treatment and drug design of GDM, laying a new theoretical foundation for the treatment of GDM. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Winter wheat is one of the major cereal crops in the world. Monitoring and mapping its spatial distribution has significant implications for agriculture management, water resources utilization, and food security. Generally, winter wheat has distinguished phenological stages during the growing season, which form a unique EVI (Enhanced Vegetation Index) time series curve and differ considerably from other crop types and natural vegetation. Since early 2000, the MODIS EVI product has become the primary dataset for satellite-based crop monitoring at large scales due to its high temporal resolution, huge observation scope, and timely availability. However, the intraclass variability of winter wheat caused by field conditions and agricultural practices might lower the mapping accuracy, which has received little attention in previous studies. Here, we present a winter wheat mapping approach that integrates the variables derived from the MODIS EVI time series taking into account intraclass variability. We applied this approach to two winter wheat concentration areas, the state of Kansas in the U.S. and the North China Plain region (NCP). The results were evaluated against crop-specific maps or statistical data at the state/regional level, county level, and site level. Compared with statistical data, the accuracies in Kansas and the NCP were 95.1% and 92.9% at the state/regional level with R2 (Coefficient of Determination) values of 0.96 and 0.71 at the county level, respectively. Overall accuracies in confusion matrix were evaluated by validation samples in both Kansas (90.3%) and the NCP (85.0%) at the site level. Comparisons with methods without considering intraclass variability demonstrated that winter wheat mapping accuracies were improved by 17% in Kansas and 15% in the NCP using the improved approach. Further analysis indicated that our approach performed better in areas with lower landscape fragmentation, which may partly explain the relatively higher accuracy of winter wheat mapping in Kansas. This study provides a new perspective for generating multiple subclasses as training inputs to decrease the intraclass differences for crop type detection based on the MODIS EVI time series. This approach provides a flexible framework with few variables and fewer training samples that could facilitate its application to multiple-crop-type mapping at large scales. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Fasting is known to influence the immune functions of leukocytes primarily by regulating their mobilization and redistribution between the bone marrow and the peripheral tissues or circulation, in particular via relocalization of leukocytes back in the bone marrow. However, how the immune system responds to the increased risk of invasion by infectious pathogens with fewer leukocytes in the peripheral blood during fasting intervention remains an open question. Results: We used proteomic, biochemical and flow cytometric tools to evaluate the impact of short-term intensive fasting (STIF), known as beego, on red blood cells by profiling the cells from the STIF subjects before and after 6 days of fasting and 6 days of gradual refeeding. We found that STIF, by triggering the activation of the complement system via the complement receptor on the membrane of red blood cells, boosts fairly sustainable function of red blood cells in immune responses in close relation to various pathogens, including viruses, bacteria and parasites, particularly with the pronounced capacity to defend against SARS-CoV-2, without compromising their oxygen delivery capacity and viability. Conclusion: STIF fosters the immune function of red blood cells and therefore, it may be considered as a nonmedical intervention option for the stronger capacity of red blood cells to combat infectious diseases. Keypoints: STIF fosters the immune response of red blood cells to various pathogens, in particular SARS-CoV-2, via activation of the complement receptor on their membranes. STIF does not compromise the oxygen transport capacity or viability of red blood cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: Ovalbumin (OVA), accounting for 50% of proteins in egg white, is a kind of high‐quality protein with excellent nutritional and processing functions. Acid heat treatment will induce the deformation and filtration of OVA, endowing it with improved functionality. However, the molecular kinetic process during the fibrillation of OVA and the application of the fabricated OVA fibrils (OVAFs) have not been thoroughly studied and revealed. RESULTS: In this study, the fabrication mechanism and the application OVAFs as an interfacial stabilizer and polyphenol protector were investigated. Acidic (pH 3.0) heat treatment was used to induce the fibrillation of OVA, and thioflavin T fluorescence intensity, molecular weight distribution, and the tertiary and secondary structures of OVAF samples were recorded to determine the fibrillation efficiency and the molecular mechanism. The results showed that, in the initial stage of fibrillation, OVA first hydrolyzed to oligopeptides, accompanied by the exposure of hydrophobic domains. Then, oligopeptides were connected by disulfide bonds to form primary fibril monomers. Hydrophobic interaction and hydrogen bonding may participate in the further polymerization of the fibrils. The fabricated OVAFs were characterized by a β‐sheet‐rich structure and possessed improved emulsifying, foaming, and polyphenol protection ability. CONCLUSION: The research work was meaningful for exploring the application of globular water‐soluble OVA in an emerging nutritious food with novel texture and sensory properties. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Curcumin is acknowledged for its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-cancer, and wound-healing properties. However, the biological activity and the molecular mechanisms of T59, which is a new derivative of curcumin, are not fully understood. The present study was aimed to determine the cytoxicity role of T59 in human lung cancer and the molecular mechanisms. Cytotoxicity and cell apoptosis effects induced by T59 were determined by MTT, AO staining, Annexin V, and JC-1. Compared with curcumin, T59 exerted more effective cytotoxicity and cell apoptosis effects in A549 and H1975. With the decreasing level of the mitochondrion membrane potential, the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) was increased and induced by T59. Furthermore, the expressions of cleaved-caspase-3 and Bax were increased, which were reversed by NAC mainly through the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway. Our results suggested that T59 has the potential for further investigation and study to act as an anti-cancer therapeutic against human lung cancer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Fasting is known to influence the immune functions of leukocytes primarily by regulating their mobilization and redistribution between the bone marrow and the peripheral tissues or circulation, in particular via relocalization of leukocytes back in the bone marrow. However, how the immune system responds to the increased risk of invasion by infectious pathogens with fewer leukocytes in the peripheral blood during fasting intervention remains an open question. Results: We used proteomic, biochemical and flow cytometric tools to evaluate the impact of short-term intensive fasting (STIF), known as beego, on red blood cells by profiling the cells from the STIF subjects before and after 6 days of fasting and 6 days of gradual refeeding. We found that STIF, by triggering the activation of the complement system via the complement receptor on the membrane of red blood cells, boosts fairly sustainable function of red blood cells in immune responses in close relation to various pathogens, including viruses, bacteria and parasites, particularly with the pronounced capacity to defend against SARS-CoV-2, without compromising their oxygen delivery capacity and viability. Conclusion: STIF fosters the immune function of red blood cells and therefore, it may be considered as a nonmedical intervention option for the stronger capacity of red blood cells to combat infectious diseases. Keypoints: STIF fosters the immune response of red blood cells to various pathogens, in particular SARS-CoV-2, via activation of the complement receptor on their membranes. STIF does not compromise the oxygen transport capacity or viability of red blood cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Being able to use PO 4 3− and phosphate ester (C O P) to support growth. • A strong tolerance of phosphorus starvation or 2-aminoethylphosphonic acid (2-amin). • Up-regulation of genes related to phosphorus transport and metabolism under P free. • Up-regulation of antioxidation and stress-related genes under 2-amin. Phosphorus (P) is an important factor driving algal growth in aquatic ecosystems. In the present study, the growth, P uptake and utilization, photosynthesis, and transcriptome profile of Nostoc sp. were measured when Nostoc sp. cultured in media containing β-glycerol phosphate (β-gly, containing C O P bonds), 2-aminoethylphosphonic acid (2-amin, containing C P bonds), or orthophosphate (K 2 HPO 4), and in P-free (NP) medium. The results revealed that NP treatment adversely affected the growth and photosynthesis of Nostoc sp. and significantly down-regulated the expression of genes related to nutrient transport and material metabolism. Furthermore, 2-amin treatment reduced the growth of Nostoc sp. but did not significantly reduce photosynthesis, and the treatments of NP and 2-amin up-regulated the expressions of genes related antioxidation and stress. Additionally, there were no obvious differences in growth, photosynthesis, and phosphorus utilization between the β-gly and K 2 HPO 4 treatments. These results suggested that Nostoc had a flexible ability to utilize P, which might play an important role in its widespread distribution in the environment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A latest coding scheme named polarization‐adjusted convolutional (PAC) codes is shown to approach the dispersion bound for the code (128,64) under list decoding. However, to achieve the near‐bound performance, the list size of list decoding needs to be excessively large, which leads to insufferable time complexity. In this paper, to improve the speed of list decoding, fast list decoders for PAC codes are proposed. Four types of constituent nodes are defined and fast list decoding algorithms are provided for each of them. Simulation results present that fast list decoding with three types of constituent nodes can yield exactly the same error‐correction performance as list decoding, and reduce more than 50% time steps for the code (128,64). Moreover, fast list decoding with four types of constituent nodes can further reduce decoding complexity with negligible performance degradation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Overconsumption of fat‐rich foods has led to a significant increase in the incidence of chronic diseases in humans. With the increased pursuit of a healthy lifestyle, low‐fat products are gradually developing. In this study, egg white protein microparticle (EWPM) was used as a fat mimetic in low‐fat mayonnaise, as well as xanthan gum (XG) and gum arabic (GA) were used as texture and rheology modifiers. The results showed that XG and GA had a synergistic effect on modifying viscosity and recovery of EWPM‐structured low‐fat mayonnaise. The addition of XG could effectively increase the viscosity of low‐fat system, due to the electrostatic binding with EWPM and the intermolecular entanglement. The incorporation of XG with GA could effectively intervene intermolecular interactions to improve recovery, verified by the decreased particle size and weakened electrostatic binding. The results would provide practical guidance for the development of high‐protein and low‐fat nutritious mayonnaise. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]