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Developing stretchable strain sensors with high sensitivity and stability is crucial for various applications such as prosthetic hands, human health monitoring, and human‐machine interactions. However, achieving these qualities simultaneously remains challenging. Here, an inherently stretchable strain sensor is presented that integrates ultrahigh sensitivity and robust stability, enabling stretch, press, or bend sensing capabilities. This sensor employs a softer elastomeric channel filled with liquid metal (LM) as the conductive path. A stiffer elastomer convex integrated into the channel serves as a strain‐manipulated gate, controlling opening gap of electrical current flow path. During deformation, the softer elastomer undergoes cross sectional reduction due to the Poisson effect, while the stiffer convex gate retains its geometry. This heterogeneous deformation behavior leads to significant contraction or closure of the LM channel, resulting in increased resistance and a remarkable enhancement in sensitivity by more than two orders of magnitude. The all‐soft design maintains exceptional stability even under extended or repetitive substantial deformations. With the ability to monitor subtle and large human body movements, detect grip actions of soft grippers reliably, and monitor the gradual and extended growth process of plants, this sensor holds significant potential for advancements in flexible electronics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The extensive application of neonicotinoid insecticides (NNIs) has resulted in its worldwide detection in waters, leading to risks to human health and ecology safety. Presently, various remediation techniques for NNIs have been developed. However, the critical reviews concerning the remediation approaches for the elimination of NNIs from water are limited. Considering tremendous efforts have been made in the research topic of NNIs removal recently, this study systematacially reviewed the current advances on NNIs remediation approaches, including adsorption, Fenton, ozonation, photodegradation, sulfate radicals based-advanced oxidation processes (AOPs), electrochemical AOPs, percarbonate-based AOPs, periodate-based AOPs, microbial remediation, and phytoremediation. Moreover, NNIs removal by these methods have been critically discussed, compared, and analyzed. Furthermore, mechanisms of different treatment processes have been summarized in detail. Finally, the challenges and perspectives have been proposed. This study highlights the current progresses on NNIs removal technologies and proposes the future research needs in this area, which will provide support to further researches to halt the NNIs contamination. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nickel chloride (NiCl2) is a typical hexagonal layered semiconductor material with wide application. However, it is mainly restricted by complicated technological process within ultrahigh dehydration temperature. Utilizing copper doping, a sort of high purity and remarkable crystallinity NiCl2 is fabricated using a simple low‐temperature calcination technique. The dehydration temperature is decreased from 600 to 400 °C because the adsorbed copper ions on NiCl2 dihydrate surface can weaken NiO bond strength. Serving for thermal battery cathode, copper‐doped NiCl2 exhibits remarkable discharge ability at 500 mA cm−2, equipped with supernormal power density of 16.27 kW kg−1 and energy density of 717 Wh kg−1 simultaneously. Its energy density is increased by 28% compared to NiCl2. Copper doping optimizes thermodynamics process of discharge reaction and modifies local electronic structure of NiCl2. For copper‐doped NiCl2, the shift of Ni 3d and Cl 3p to lower energy level results in elevated redox potential, and the reduction of bandgap accelerates the carrier mobility, further promoting discharge degree. Utilizing metal ions dopant, this research surmounts the low‐temperature synthesis of NiCl2 and addresses its inferior electrochemical performance, ensuring high energy‐power output. This will expand the application scenarios of NiCl2‐based cathode materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Polyimide covalent organic frameworks (PI-COFs) are outstanding functional materials for electrochemical energy conversion and storage owing to their integrated advantages of the high electroactive feature of polyimides and the periodic porous structure of COFs. Nevertheless, only anhydride monomers with C2 symmetry are generally used, and limited selectivity of electron-deficient monomers has become a major obstacle in the development of materials. The introduction of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) is a very effective method to regulate the structure–activity relationship of PI-COFs due to their excellent stability and electrical properties. Over the past two years, various star-shaped electron-deficient PAH building blocks possessing different compositions and topologies have been successfully fabricated, greatly improving the monomer selectivity and electrochemical performances of PI-COFs. This paper systematically summarizes the recent highlights in PI-COFs based on these building blocks. Firstly, the preparation of anhydride (or phthalic acid) monomers and PI-COFs related to different star-shaped PAHs is presented. Secondly, the applications of these PI-COFs in energy conversion and storage and the corresponding factors influencing their performance are discussed in detail. Finally, the future development of this meaningful field is briefly proposed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] Cephalopods have evolved an all-soft skin that can rapidly display colors for protection, predation, or communication. Development of synthetic analogs to mimic such color-changing abilities in the infrared (IR) region is pivotal to a variety of technologies ranging from soft robotics, flexible displays, dynamic thermoregulatory systems, to adaptive IR disguise platforms. However, the integration of tissue-like mechanical properties and rapid IR modulation ability into smart materials remains challenging. Here, by drawing inspiration from cephalopod skin, we develop an all-soft adaptive IR composite that can dynamically change its IR appearance upon equiaxial stretching. The biomimetic composite is built entirely from soft materials of liquid metal droplets and elastic elastomer, which are analogs of chromatophores and dermal layer of cephalopod skin, respectively. Driven by externally applied strains, the liquid metal inclusions transition between a contracted droplet state with corrugated surface and an expanded platelet state with relatively smooth surface, enabling dynamic variations in the IR reflectance/emissivity of the composite and ultimately resulting in reversible IR adaption. Strain-actuated flexible IR displays and pneumatically-driven soft devices that can dynamically manipulate their IR appearance are demonstrated as examples of the applicability of this material in emerging adaptive soft electronics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Current stretchable conductors, often composed of elastomeric composites infused with rigid conductive fillers, suffer from limited stretchability and durability, and declined conductivity with stretching. These limitations hinder their potential applications as essential components such as interconnects, sensors, and actuators in stretchable electronics and soft machines. In this context, an innovative elastomeric composite that incorporates a 3D network of liquid metal (LM), offering exceptional stretchability, durability, and conductivity, is introduced. The mechanics model elucidates how the interconnected 3DLM architecture imparts softness and stretchability to the composites, allowing them to withstand tensile strains of up to 500% without rupture. The relatively low surface‐to‐volume ratio of the 3DLM network limits the reforming of the oxide layer during cyclic stretch, thereby contributing to low permanent strain and enhanced durability. Additionally, the 3D architecture facilitates crack blunting and stress delocalization, elevating fracture resistance, while simultaneously establishing continuous conductive pathways that result in high conductivity. Notably, the conductivity of the 3DLM composite increases with strain during substantial stretching, highlighting its strain‐enhanced conductivity. In comparison to other LM‐based composites featuring 0D LM droplets, the 3DLM composite stands out with superior properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Syringoma is a common but refractory benign skin tumor. Conventional treatment, such as ultra‐pulsed carbon dioxide (CO2) laser or cryotherapy, often requires multiple treatment and can easily cause prolonged erythema, scarring, or depression, which are frustrating, so there is an urgent need to seek a safer and more effective method. In this article, we tried to demonstrate the Er:YAG laser combined with botulinum toxin A (BTXA) as a safer and more efficacious method for treating syringomas. Materials and methods: Twenty‐one patients with local syringomas were treated with erbium laser ablation. Immediately after laser treatment, approximately 10 units of BTXA were sprayed on the wound for 10 min. Result: In total, 21 patients underwent 1.62 ± 0.74 treatments; their Periorbital Syringoma Severity Index (PSSI) score declined from 4.19 (before treatment) to 1.10 (after treatment), and the number of treatments was significantly lower than those reported in previous literature using the erbium laser alone. Conclusion: The Er:YAG laser combined with botulinum toxin A for the treatment of syringoma is a safer and more effective treatment than traditional treatment methods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nickel chloride (NiCi2), as a cathode material of high potential thermal battery, its poor conductivity limits Is application in thermal battery. In this study, cuprous ion doped nickel chloride (NiCl2-Cu.r) was prepared vasa liquid-phase mixing and low temperature calcination process. NiCl2-Cu5 possesses the best electro- chemical performance. Compared wk. NiCl2, NiCl2-Cu5 exhibits the advantages of high voltage and high specie- c energy. Especially at the current dimity of 500 cm2, NiCl2-Cu5 shows a high specific energy of 724 kg, which Ls about 82% higher than that of NiCl2. Pulse test shows that NiCl2-Cu5 cathode material has lower internal resistance and can aureate ohm polarization doing discharge, thus realizing high specific energy output. This work provides a new approach for the development of high-performance cathode materials for thermal battery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cr-Co-Mo-Ni high-hardness steel is widely used in critical mechanical transmission components. It has the difficult-to-cut characteristic because of its high hardness and high strength. In the cutting process, the machining cutting force is large, the tool is worn quickly, and the machining accuracy is poorly maintained. It has become one of the crux of restricting the improvement of quality and production efficiency of innovative products. In order to solve the above problems, this paper carried out research on the electrochemical machining process to achieve high-quality and efficient machining of high-hardness gear steel splines. Firstly, the process characteristics of ECM of internal spline are analyzed. The electrochemical field model is established by the multi-physical field coupling simulation platform, and the effects of the main electrolytic process parameters on the forming accuracy were numerically simulated and analyzed. Meanwhile, the three-dimensional simulation model of electrolyte flow field in the inner cavity of the electrolytic fixture is established, and the influence of electrolyte flow direction and electrolyte back pressure on the flow field distribution is explored. The platform of electrochemical machining system is set up. An experimental study on electrochemical machining of involute internal splines is carried out to further optimize the electrochemical machining process parameters. The test results showed that the electrolysis accuracy and efficiency of the 41-tooth involute spline workpiece are optimized when the electrolyte is 8% NaNO3, the back pressure of the electrolyte is 0.2 MPa, the feed speed is 1.8 mm/min, and the processing voltage is 16.0 V. The machining accuracy of the method proposed in this paper meets the actual requirements of actual gear application. Compared with the traditional slotting process, the machining efficiency is improved by 62.5%, the tool wear is reduced, and the machining accuracy retention is improved. It has important application value for advanced machining technology of high-performance materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Vonoprazan is an emerging option for the treatment of Helicobacter pylori infection. We aimed to assess the research trends and hotspots of vonoprazan‐based therapy for H. pylori eradication through bibliometric analysis. Materials and Methods: Vonoprazan‐based studies for eradicating H. pylori published from 2015 to 2023 were extracted from the Web of Science using a combination of the search terms "H. pylori" and "vonoprazan." Each study was weighted according to the number of included patients. Results: A total of 65 studies were included. Japan was the most productive and cooperative country, accounting for 69.2% of publications. Vonoprazan in combination with amoxicillin and clarithromycin (41.8%) was most used for eradicating H. pylori, followed by vonoprazan in combination with amoxicillin (20.4%) and vonoprazan in combination with amoxicillin and metronidazole (19.4%). The eradication rates for first‐line vonoprazan‐based therapies by intention to treat were: dual therapy (82.9%, 95% CI: 77.7%–88.0%), triple (83.3%, 95% CI: 79.7%–86.8%) and quadruple therapy (91.5%, 95% CI: 85.5%–97.4%), and per protocol: dual therapy (86.1%, 95% CI: 81.5%–90.7%), triple (89.3%, 95% CI: 87.9%–90.6%) and quadruple therapy (94.0%, 95% CI: 88.6%–99.4%). Vonoprazan was superior to proton pump inhibitors in triple therapy regarding empirical therapy (RR = 1.18, 95% CI, 1.14–1.22, p < 0.01) and clarithromycin‐resistant group (RR = 1.71, 95% CI, 1.33–2.20, p < 0.01), but there is no significant difference between triple therapy and dual therapy (RR = 1.02, 95% CI, 0.98–1.07, p = 0.33). Conclusions: Vonoprazan has been widely used for H. pylori eradication. Further studies are needed to optimize the best duration and dosage of vonoprazan‐based regimens in different regions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Paeoniflorin (PF), the main active glucoside of Paeonia Lactiflora, has many pharmacological activities, such as inhibition of vasodilation, hypoglycemia, and immunomodulation. Although the current evidence has suggested the therapeutic effects of PF on diabetic nephropathy (DN), its potential mechanism of action is still unclear. Purpose: A systematic review and meta-analysis of the existing literature on paeoniflorin treatment in DN animal models was performed to evaluate the efficacy and mechanism of PF in DN animal models. Methods: The risk of bias in each study was judged using the CAMARADES 10-item quality checklist with the number of criteria met varying from 4 / 10 to 7 / 10, with an average of 5.44. From inception to July 2022, We searched eight databases. We used the Cochrane Collaboration's 10-item checklist and RevMan 5.3 software to assess the risk of bias and analyze the data. Three-dimensional dose/time-effect analyses were conducted to examine the dosage/time-response relations between PF and DN. Results: Nine animal studies were systematically reviewed to evaluate the effectiveness of PF in improving animal models of DN. Meta-analysis data and intergroup comparisons indicated that PF slowed the index of mesangial expansion and tubulointerstitial injury, 24-h urinary protein excretion rate, expression of anti-inflammatory mediators (mRNA of MCP-1, TNF-α, iNOS, and IL-1 β), and expression of immune downstream factors (P-IRAK1, TIRF, P-IRF3, MyD88, and NF-κBp-p65). Furthermore, modeling methods, animal species, treatment duration, thickness of tissue sections during the experiment, and experimental procedures were subjected to subgroup analyses. Conclusion: The present study demonstrated that the reno-protective effects of PF were associated with its inhibition on macrophage infiltration, reduction of inflammatory mediators, and immunomodulatory effects. In conclusion, PF can effectively slow down the progression of DN and hold promise as a protective drug for the treatment of DN. Due to the low bioavailability of PF, further studies on renal histology in animals are urgently needed. We therefore recommend an active exploration of the dose and therapeutic time frame of PF in the clinic and in animals. Moreover, it is suggested to actively explore methods to improve the bioavailability of PF to expand the application of PF in the clinic. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Previous works on the thermal modelling for face gear grinding usually used Hertzian contact theory and ignored the material removal mechanism. By contrast, a comprehensive force–thermal model was founded on the wheel–gear geometry and material mechanism for economical and efficient prediction of grinding temperature field in this work. In the process of grinding face gear, a force model was established on the basis of single-grain model under the action of grinding fluid. The temperature analytical model for face gear was derived considering the contribution of the cross-sectional area of the undeformed chip thickness to the heat flux. Moreover, energy partition ratio to workpiece was optimized by applied the idea of averaging to solving formulas. The temperature field responses to different grinding conditions were simulated and investigated. The aftereffect of grinding parameters on the temperature fields on the tooth surface and the reason for variations in the grinding temperature to different grinding positions of face gear was analysed. The experimental results with newly measurement method are highly consistent with the simulation results with the error of −6.10% to −13.69%, thereby validating the proposed model. This work provides theoretical support for obtaining a uniform grinding temperature during grinding face gear and to obtain a high tooth surface integrity. [Display omitted] • Comprehensive force–thermal modelling for face gear grinding. • Mechanical properties of abrasive grain and workpiece materials with grinding fluid. • Temperature field responses to face gear grinding conditions. • Analysis of grinding condition to temperature field. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Previous models for predicting the surface topography of internal splines do not consider the correlation between the tool and workpiece geometry and the cutter edge wear. In this work, considering the relationship between the tool and workpiece geometry, a model for the tooth topography of the internal spline is built via the micro-element method. A gear shaper wear model which consists of abrasive, adhesive, and diffusion wear is established based on the cumulative cutting distance of the cutter edge and the accumulation of undeformed chip thickness of the cutter edge micro-element. The distribution features of tooth topography are analyzed throughout an internal spline shaping experiment, which confirms the validity of the presented model. Moreover, a shaping process optimization algorithm is proposed through the advance-and-retreat method to obtain an even tooth topography and surface roughness. This work provides a reference for the prediction and optimization of the internal spline surface topography, which can enhance the integrity of the tooth surface and prolong the serviceable life of gear shaper. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Fe/N-BC derived from rape straw was efficient for CIP and Cu2+ adsorption. • Competition for adsorption between CIP and Cu2+ cannot be ignored. • CIP and Cu2+ co-adsorption by Fe/N-BC was a pH-dependent process. • Fe/N-BC could achieve a highly selective CIP/Cu2+ separation from mixed solution. • Fe/N-BC exhibited excellent stability in different water matrixes. The treatment of combined antibiotics and heavy metals pollution is a critical challenge. Herein, iron and nitrogen co-doped biochar (Fe/N-BC) was synthesized using rape straw as precursor, and applied for the adsorption of ciprofloxacin (CIP) and Cu2+ in single and binary systems. The q max for CIP and Cu2+ were 46.45 mg g−1 and 30.77 mg g−1, respectively. Adsorption decreased in a binary matrix, indicating that there was a competitive effect between CIP and Cu2+, which might be due to CIP and Cu2+ sharing similar active adsorption sites on Fe/N-BC. Interestingly, CIP and Cu2+ co-adsorption was a pH-dependent process. Fe/N-BC has potential to highly selectively separate CIP/Cu2+ from mixed solutions through adjusting pH values. Furthermore, adsorption mechanisms were systematically investigated in this research. This research could help to provide a deeper understanding of the synchronously removing specific antibiotics and heavy metals by biochar adsorbents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Manual cytological diagnosis for early esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (early ESCC) and high‐grade intraepithelial neoplasia (HGIN) is unsatisfactory. Herein, we have introduced an artificial intelligence (AI)‐assisted cytological diagnosis for such lesions. Methods: Low‐grade squamous intraepithelial lesion or worse was set as the diagnostic threshold for AI‐assisted diagnosis. The performance of AI‐assisted diagnosis was evaluated and compared to that of manual diagnosis. Feasibility in large‐scale screening was also assessed. Results: AI‐assisted diagnosis for abnormal cells was superior to manual reading by presenting a higher efficiency for each slide (50.9 ± 0.8 s vs 236.8 ± 3.9 s, p = 1.52 × 10−76) and a better interobserver agreement (93.27% [95% CI, 92.76%–93.74%] vs 65.29% [95% CI, 64.35%–66.22%], p = 1.03 × 10−84). AI‐assisted detection showed a higher diagnostic accuracy (96.89% [92.38%–98.57%] vs 72.54% [65.85%–78.35%], p = 1.42 × 10−14), sensitivity (99.35% [95.92%–99.97%] vs 68.39% [60.36%–75.48%], p = 7.11 × 10−15), and negative predictive value (NPV) (97.06% [82.95%–99.85%] vs 40.96% [30.46%–52.31%], p = 1.42 × 10−14). Specificity and positive predictive value (PPV) were not significantly differed. AI‐assisted diagnosis demonstrated a smaller proportion of participants of interest (3.73%, [79/2117] vs.12.84% [272/2117], p = 1.59 × 10−58), a higher consistence between cytology and endoscopy (40.51% [32/79] vs. 12.13% [33/272], p = 1.54 × 10−8), specificity (97.74% [96.98%–98.32%] vs 88.52% [87.05%–89.84%], p = 3.19 × 10−58), and PPV (40.51% [29.79%–52.15%] vs 12.13% [8.61%–16.75%], p = 1.54 × 10−8) in community‐based screening. Sensitivity and NPV were not significantly differed. AI‐assisted diagnosis as primary screening significantly reduced average cost for detecting positive cases. Conclusion: Our study provides a novel cytological method for detecting and screening early ESCC and HGIN. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In order to better model the acoustic signal propagation and attenuation of pipeline leaks, a laboratory gas pipeline leak detection platform taking air as the experimental medium is hereby adopted to investigate the law of hole spacing on acoustic signal propagation and attenuation at different pressures for double-point leaks. The results show that in the case of a fixed pressure, the amplitude of the three hole spacing in the propagation along the pipe decreases gradually, while that near the leak point decreases the most, with a maximum difference being up to 90%, after which the difference gap between the amplitude is gradually narrowed; different hole spacing has little effect on the RMS voltage along the downstream of the double-point leak pipe but exercises a greater effect on the RMS voltage propagation between the double-point leak; the attenuation coefficient of the leak signal decreases generally with the distance, which generally becomes smaller with the increasing distance and that along the downstream of the pipeline and near the leakage point decreases the most in the case of the double-point leakage, with a decrease rate reaching close to 50%. Then, the decrease rate becomes smaller gradually and reaches close to 20%, while that of the attenuation coefficient of the two distances between the three sensors is relatively close for the double-point leakage, with the first section close to 50% to 60% and the second section close to 60% to 80%. Under the condition where the pressure is different and the hole spacing remains the same, the acoustic signal increases with the increasing pressure when the attenuation coefficient decreases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the development of modern tools, the flute (or profiling flute) after design optimization is often obtained by grooving with a forming grinding wheel. At present, the main method of reverse forming wheel profile is the analytical method, which needs to solve the contact line equation according to the contact conditions. It is difficult to solve the equation. The solution value is unstable, which leads to the design error of the grinding wheel profile. In order to solve this problem, this paper proposes a new algorithm, called the pixel matrix method for short. This method is based on the spiral motion envelope method and mathematical morphology. First, the cross-section of the flute is discretized into a point cloud, and then, the envelope motion is carried out in the grinding wheel coordinate system. Second, the point cloud of the grinding wheel radial section is collected and converted into a binary image of pixel points. Finally, the profile of the binary image is extracted by erosion and dilation. The optimized profile of the formed grinding wheel reaches the accuracy requirements of the design and processing in the actual machining verification. This method can accurately reverse the profile of the forming grinding wheel. The calculation process is intuitive, avoiding the solution of the contact line equation, and the solution value is stable. It provides a new way to reverse the profile of the machining tool for cylindrical spiral products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ag2ZnSnSe4 (AZTSe) thin films were synthesized using a simple solution approach combined with a post-selenization technique. A single phase of the AZTSe film with kesterite structure and high crystal quality was obtained at the optimized selenization temperature and time. The AZTSe film showed an optical bandgap of 1.4 eV, an n-type conduction with an electron concentration of 5.7 × 1015 cm−3, and a mobility of 9.1 cm2 V−1 s−1. An optimized n-type AZTSe film was fabricated on a p-GaN/sapphire to form an n-AZTSe/p-GaN heterojunction. The current–voltage measurement of the n-AZTSe/p-GaN heterojunction photodetector showed good rectification characteristics. The response wavelength of the photodetector covered a wide range from ultraviolet to infrared (370–960 nm). The response peak was located at 810 nm with a responsivity of 2.9 × 10−4 A/W. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

1. Revealing the ecological consequences of bark multifunctionality and its underlying traits has become a relatively new but essential focus in plant ecology. Although the enormous differences between the most crucial bark layers, that is, inner and outer bark, in structure and functions have been widely recognized, the overall bark has been regarded as a homogenous tissue in most bark-related studies. This has led to poor knowledge on the functional independence, specialized contributions and possible linkages of inner and outer bark traits across tree species when further evaluating the crucial ecosystem functions that bark provides, especially in driving variation in bark decomposition. 2. To fill this research gap, we used a ‘common garden experiment’ on deadwood of six gymnosperms in a temperate forest in the Netherlands over 4 years of decomposition. We evaluated the differences and associations between the inner and outer bark in initial functional traits, decomposition rates and afterlife effects of traits in driving in situ bark decomposition across tree species at the earlier decomposition stage. 3. We report four main findings: (1) inner and outer bark traits varied significantly and were not coordinated across tree species; (2) correspondingly, the decomposition of the inner and outer bark were asynchronous and not coordinated across species and inner bark generally decomposed faster than outer bark; (3) the strong predictive traits driving bark decomposability were bark layer-specific, with several inner bark traits controlling inner bark decomposition rates but outer bark decomposability being poorly predicted by outer bark traits and (4) besides being controlled by inner bark traits, inner bark decomposition was also indirectly regulated by several functional traits and the structure-related trait spectrum of outer bark. 4. Synthesis. This is the first study that has linked functional traits, decomposability and afterlife effects of the inner and outer bark within the bark quantitatively. We highlight the significance of separating functional traits and ecological consequences of the inner and outer bark in research in bark ecology and deadwood dynamics, rather than erroneously considering bark as a homogeneous tissue. Such research will help to better evaluate the function-oriented contribution of bark to the turnover of forest carbon and biogeochemical cycles from local to global scale. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Osteoporosis is a bone disease, characterized with bone tissue deterioration and decreasing level of bone mineral. Appropriate diagnostic is mandatory to prevent osteoporosis and provide a space for enough surgical and pharmacologic treatments. Available radiological techniques cause various health issues and research proved that biological markers are playing a major role for bone mineralization, can be a good alternative for diagnosing osteoporosis. C-terminal telopeptide (CTx) has been found as a potential biomarker, this study uses interdigitated electrode (IDE) sensor to identify CTx. Carbon nanofiber (CNF) measured as 50 nm by high-resolution microscope was used to modify the sensing electrode surface through amine-linker and it promotes higher anti-CTx antibody immobilization. CTx was quantified on this antibody anchored surface and attained the limit of detection to be 25 pg/mL. A regression co-efficient [y = 0.566x − 0.2627, R2 = 0.9823] with triplicates (n = 3) determined the high-performance of IDE. Control molecules failed to increase the current flow, is indicating the selective CTx detection and CTx serum spiked human serum provided an increment in current–volt at linear concentrations are from 25 to 800 pg/mL, indicating the selective detection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We studied the effects of dietary protein levels and water temperatures on growth performance, body composition, serum biochemistry, and digestive gland antioxidant enzyme activities of juvenile hybrid abalones Haliotis discus hannai♀ × H. fulgens♂ (1.47 ± 0.03 g ; 20.73 ± 0.16 mm). A 3 × 6 factorial design feeding trial was conducted with three water temperatures (19°C, 23°C, and 27°C) and six protein levels (152.5, 202.5, 252.6, 302.6, 352.7, and 402.7 g/kg) for 90 days. Dietary protein levels and temperature significantly affected the growth performance of the hybrid abalones, but there was no interaction effect except for daily increment in shell length. Body moisture decreased with increasing water temperature, and crude protein showed a contrary tendency. Crude lipid and ash were not affected by dietary protein level or water temperature. The alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase, and alkaline phosphatase activities and the triglyceride content in serum increased with increasing water temperature, whereas the opposite was true for albumin activity and total protein and glucose contents. Total cholesterol contents decreased with increasing dietary protein levels. Dietary protein levels and water temperature did not affect contents of high-density lipoprotein cholesterol and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (P > 0.05). A significant interaction was observed between dietary protein levels and water temperature in all antioxidation parameters (reactive oxygen species, total antioxidant capacity, protein carbonyl, superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione s-transferase, and glutathione peroxidase except for malondialdehyde content). Based on specific growth rate, the optimal dietary protein levels for juvenile hybrid abalones were 333.1, 318.6, and 306.3 g protein/kg diet at 19°C, 23°C, and 27°C, respectively. These findings will help to develop multidiet feeding strategies at different water temperatures throughout the culture period of juvenile hybrid abalones. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Triplet–triplet annihilation upconversion (TTA-UC) is a very promising technology that could be used to convert low-energy photons to high-energy ones and has been proven to be of great value in various areas. Porphyrins have the characteristics of high molar absorbance, can form a complex with different metal ions and a high proportion of triplet states as well as tunable structures, and thus they are important sensitizers for TTA-UC. Porphyrin-based TTA-UC plays a pivotal role in the TTA-UC systems and has been widely used in many fields such as solar cells, sensing and circularly polarized luminescence. In recent years, applications of porphyrin-based TTA-UC systems for photoinduced reactions have emerged, but have been paid little attention. As a consequence, this review paid close attention to the recent advances in the photoreactions triggered by porphyrin-based TTA-UC systems. First of all, the photochemistry of porphyrin-based TTA-UC for chemical transformations, such as photoisomerization, photocatalytic synthesis, photopolymerization, photodegradation and photochemical/photoelectrochemical water splitting, was discussed in detail, which revealed the different mechanisms of TTA-UC and methods with which to carry out reasonable molecular innovations and nanoarchitectonics to solve the existing problems in practical application. Subsequently, photoreactions driven by porphyrin-based TTA-UC for biomedical applications were demonstrated. Finally, the future developments of porphyrin-based TTA-UC systems for photoreactions were briefly discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this letter, a novel wideband circularly polarized (CP) monopole antenna (CPMA) with modified characteristics is proposed. The CPMA comprises a rectangular ground with an L‐shaped strip, an inverted L‐shaped monopole, and an asymmetric U‐shaped strip as a parasitic element. Note that the proposed CPMA is fed by a coaxial probe instead of the traditional microstrip feed. The L‐shaped strip in the rectangular‐ground and parasitic asymmetric U‐shaped strip are used simultaneously to excite multiple CP resonant modes, which increase the CPMA's CP bandwidth. Both the simulated and measured results validate the proposed design. The proposed CPMA features a −10‐dB impedance bandwidth ranging from 2.06 to 4.05 GHz (65.1% centered at 3.055 GHz), and a wide 3‐dB axial ratio bandwidth ranging from 1.78 to 4.44 GHz (85.5% centered at 3.11 GHz), which has a potential application in the satellite digital audio radio service system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Oxygen evolution reaction (OER) plays a pivotal role in the development of renewable energy methods, such as water-splitting devices and the use of Zn–air batteries. First-row transition metal complexes are promising catalyst candidates due to their excellent electrocatalytic performance, rich abundance, and cheap price. Metalloporphyrins are a class of representative high-efficiency complex catalysts owing to their structural and functional characteristics. However, OER based on porphyrin systems previously have been paid little attention in comparison to the well-described oxygen reduction reaction (ORR), hydrogen evolution reaction, and CO2 reduction reaction. Recently, porphyrin-based systems, including both small molecules and porous polymers for electrochemical OER, are emerging. Accordingly, this review summarizes the recent advances of porphyrin-based systems for electrochemical OER. Firstly, the electrochemical OER for water oxidation is discussed, which shows various methodologies to achieve catalysis from homogeneous to heterogeneous processes. Subsequently, the porphyrin-based catalytic systems for bifunctional oxygen electrocatalysis including both OER and ORR are demonstrated. Finally, the future development of porphyrin-based catalytic systems for electrochemical OER is briefly prospected. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background. Brugada syndrome is a hereditary cardiac disease associated with mutations in ion channel genes. The clinical features include ventricular fibrillation, syncope, and sudden cardiac death. A family with Brugada syndrome with sudden cardiac death was analyzed to locate the associated mutation in the SCN5A gene. Methods and Results. Three generations of a Han Chinese family with Brugada syndrome were recruited in the study; their clinical phenotype data were collected and DNA samples extracted from the peripheral blood. Next-generation sequencing was carried out in the proband, and candidate genes and mutations were screened using the full exon capture technique. The family members who participated in the survey were tested for possible mutations using Sanger sequencing. Six family members were diagnosed with Brugada syndrome, including four asymptomatic patients. A newly discovered heterozygous mutation in the proband was located in exon 25 of SCN5A (NM_000335.5) at c.4313dup(p.Trp1439ValfsTer32). Among the surviving family members, only those with a Brugada wave on their electrocardiogram carried the c.4313dup(p.Trp1439ValfsTer32) variant. Bioinformatics prediction revealed that the frameshift of the c.4313dup (p.Trp1439ValfsTer32) mutant led to a coding change of 32 amino acids, followed by a stop codon, resulting in a truncated protein product. Conclusion. The newly discovered mutation site c.4313dup(p.Trp1439ValfsTer32) in exon 25 of SCN5A may be the molecular genetic basis of the family with Brugada syndrome. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

COVID-19, caused by SARS-CoV-2, has been spreading worldwide for more than two years and has led to immense challenges to human health. Despite the great efforts that have been made, our understanding of SARS-CoV-2 is still limited. The viral helicase, NSP13 is an important enzyme involved in SARS-CoV-2 replication and transcription. Here we highlight the important role of the stalk domain in the enzymatic activity of NSP13. Without the stalk domain, NSP13 loses its dsRNA unwinding ability due to the lack of ATPase activity. The stalk domain of NSP13 also provides a rigid connection between the ZBD and helicase domain. We found that the tight connection between the stalk and helicase is necessary for NSP13-mediated dsRNA unwinding. When a short flexible linker was inserted between the stalk and helicase domains, the helicase activity of NSP13 was impaired, although its ATPase activity remained intact. Further study demonstrated that linker insertion between the stalk and helicase domains attenuated the RNA binding ability and affected the thermal stability of NSP13. In summary, our results suggest the crucial role of the stalk domain in NSP13 enzymatic activity and provide mechanistic insight into dsRNA unwinding by SARS-CoV-2 NSP13. • The stalk domain plays a critical role in NSP13 enzymatic activities. • The rigid connection between ZBD and helicase domains is essential to helicase activity. • Linker insertion between stalk and helicase domains affects the RNA binding activity and the stability of NSP13. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, the effect of simultaneously using two active and passive methods, namely the magnetic turbulator and the helical coil wire (HCW) turbulator, on the hydrothermal parameters of a double tube heat exchanger is being evaluated for the first time. The results are also being compared with those of a simple heat exchanger, a heat exchanger equipped with a magnetic turbulator, and a heat exchanger with a HCW turbulator insert. Finally, the most optimal option is selected using TEF. Tests have been conducted using different pitch ratios of the HCW turbulator (ranging from 2.5 to 10) and fluid flow rates (ranging from 0.5 to 4 l/min). According to the results, the usage of the HCW turbulator, magnetic turbulator, and the simultaneous use of both turbulators increases heat transfer by 237 %, 262 %, and 491 %, respectively. Additionally, the pressure drop in the presence of these two methods is 3.8 times that of a simple heat exchanger. Furthermore, with the help of TEF, the heat exchanger armed with both turbulators is chosen as the optimal option, achieving a TEF of 3.78. • Magnetic turbulator and HCW turbulator were utilized separately as well as in combination in a DTHEX. • Effect of the pitch ratio of HCW on hydrothermal parameters of a DTHEX was investigate. • Heat transfer in the simultaneous presence of two turbulators is up to 3.8 times of the simple DTHEX. • The highest amount of TEF was observed in the simultaneous presence of two turbulators (TEF = 3.78). • The pitch ratio of 5 was chosen as the most optimal pitch ratio using TEF. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper compiles indices for the El Niño—Southern Oscillation (ENSO) and seven unforced decadal-to-multidecadal climate modes (Interdecadal Pacific Oscillation (IPO), Tripole Pacific Index (TPI), Pacific Decadal Oscillation focused over North Pacific (PDO) and South Pacific (SPDO), North Atlantic Multidecadal Oscillation (AMO), South Atlantic Multidecadal Oscillation (SAMO), and Indian Ocean basin (IOB)) in a 100-member ensemble of the Max Planck Institute Earth System Model (MPI-ESM1.1) and a 35-member ensemble of Community Earth System Model (CESM1). Comparison among various detrending approaches indicates that the best approach to remove the unforced component is by subtracting the ensemble average temperature at each grid point from the original model output. Similar characteristics are investigated in the indices of both MPI-ESM1.1 and CESM1 ensemble models. The results further indicate no statistically significant lead-lag correlations between the unforced multidecadal climate modes originating from North Pacific (e.g., PDO) and North Atlantic (e.g., AMO), suggesting that a high correlation found in previous observational studies may be due to biased detrending approaches. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aggregate nearest neighbor (Ann) query in both the euclidean space and road networks has been extensively studied, and the flexible aggregate nearest neighbor (Fann) problem further generalizes Ann by introducing an extra flexibility parameter $\phi$ ϕ that ranges in $(0, 1]$ (0 , 1 ] . In this article, we focus on Fann on road networks, denoted as Fann $_\mathcal {R}$ R , and its keyword-aware variant, denoted as KFann $_\mathcal {R}$ R . To solve these problems, we propose a series of universal (i.e., suitable for both max and sum) algorithms, including a Dijkstra-based algorithm that enumerates $P$ P instead of $\phi |Q|$ ϕ | Q | -combinations of $Q$ Q , a queue-based approach that processes data points from-near-to-far, and a framework that combines incremental euclidean restriction (IER) and $k$ k NN. We also propose a specific exact solution to max-Fann $_\mathcal {R}$ R and a constant-factor ratio approximate solution to sum-Fann $_\mathcal {R}$ R . These specific algorithms are easy to implement and can achieve excellent performance in some scenarios. Besides, we further extend this problem to top- $k$ k and multiple Fann $_\mathcal {R}$ R (resp., KFann $_\mathcal {R}$ R ) queries. We conduct a comprehensive experimental evaluation for the proposed algorithms on real datasets to demonstrate their superior efficiency and high quality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To describe the rationale and application of triggered EMG (T‐EMG) in intraoperative neurophysiological monitoring, and to explore the efficacy and safety of posterior percutaneous endoscopic cervical discectomy (PPECD) in the treatment of cervical spondylotic radiculopathy (CSR) under multimodal intraoperative neurophysiological monitoring (IOM). Methods: This study was a retrospective cohort control study. The clinical data of 74 patients with single‐segment CSR from June 2015 to August 2018 were analyzed retrospectively, of whom 35 underwent IOM‐assisted PPECD with triggered EMG (T‐EMG group), while 39 were subjected to IOM‐assisted PPECD alone (IOM group). Operation time, hospital stay, and complications were recorded for both groups. The curative effect was evaluated according to the Visual Analog Scale (VAS) of neck and arm pain, Japanese Orthopaedic Association (JOA) score, and modified MacNab scale. Results: Operations were successful and all patients were followed up for at least 24 (average 31.77 ± 9.51) months with no patient lost to follow‐up. No significant difference was found in preoperative baseline data between the T‐EMG and the IOM group (P > 0.05). Also, no significant difference was found in the operation time between the T‐EMG (108.29 ± 11.44 min) and the IOM (110.13 ± 12.70 min) (P > 0.05) group, but the difference in hospital stay (T‐EMG: 5.66 ± 0.99 days; IOM: 7.10 ± 1.43 days) was statistically significant (P < 0.05). The VAS for the neck and upper limbs in the two groups at 1 month post‐operation (T‐EMG: 2.09 ± 1.07, 2.26 ± 0.92; IOM:2.18 ± 1.05, 2.31 ± 0.77) and the last follow‐up (T‐EMG: 0.83 ± 0.62, 0.86 ± 0.55; IOM: 0.90 ± 0.50, 0.87 ± 0.61) were significantly different from the preoperative scores (T‐EMG: 6.14 ± 1.09, 7.17 ± 1.04; IOM: 6.18 ± 1.28, 7.15 ± 1.23) (P < 0.05). However, no significant difference was found between the two groups (P > 0.05). The 1‐month postoperative JOA scores for the two groups (12.69 ± 0.76; 12.59 ± 0.82) and those at the last follow‐up (14.60 ± 0.77; 14.36 ± 0.78) were significantly different from the preoperative scores (11.09 ± 0.98; 11.05 ± 0.89) (P < 0.05), but the difference between the two groups was not significant (P > 0.05). One patient in the T‐EMG group developed a transient aggravation of symptoms on the first day after surgery. In the IOM group, three patients had intraoperative cerebrospinal fluid leakage, and symptoms of C5 nerve root paralysis were presented in four patients following surgery. Compared with the IOM group, the T‐EMG group had fewer complications (1/35; 7/39, P < 0.05). At the last follow‐up, the modified MacNab criteria were 91.43% (32/35) and 89.7% (35/39) for the T‐EMG group and IOM group, respectively. Conclusions: Triggered EMG prevents the occurrence of neurological complications, which not only aids PPECD for CSR treatment in achieving satisfactory results, but also reduces average hospital stay and complication rates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the current study, on the basis of 1,3,5-tris(2-methylimidazol-1-yl)benzene (timb), a designed tripodal connector, a novel two-dimensional luminescent Zn(II)-coordination polymer whose chemical formula is {[Zn5(timb)4(OH–IPA)4]·2NO3·2DMA·2H2O}n was generated through the reaction between timb and Zn(NO3)2·6H2O in the presence of the OH functionalized isophthalic acid ligand (OH-H2IPA). Furthermore, for the Fe3+ ion, complex 1 reflects superb luminescence sensing performances in the water solution with high selectivity and high sensitivity. The assessment of its promotion activity on the flap transplantation was implemented. Meanwhile, its detailed mechanism was also studied. First of all, the detection of the proliferation activity levels on vascular endothelial cells was conducted with the Cell Counting Kit-8. Subsequently, the signaling pathway of HIPPO activation level was further detected in the vascular endothelial cells after compound treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Anaplastic lymphoma kinase (ALK) rearrangement is extremely rare in lung squamous cell carcinoma (LSCC), and it remains controversial as to whether LSCC patients with ALK rearrangement can benefit from ALK tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs). Here, we report an LSCC patient with ALK rearrangement who was treated with sequential ALK TKI therapies and experienced a clinical benefit of 35 months. Although the use of ALK TKIs showed clinical benefits, targeted next-generation sequencing (NGS) for dynamic monitoring of circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) from patient plasma revealed the accumulation of ALK resistance mutations, which could provide valuable information in designing the treatment strategy. Our study highlights the importance of dynamic monitoring of ctDNA using NGS to discover tumor evolution to guide treatment decision-making and provides meaningful insights into the potential treatment options for ALK-positive LSCC patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents experimental studies to investigate the compressive and shear behaviors of cold-formed thin-walled steel-foam concrete composite walls. Three compressive walls and three shear walls were tested. The failure mode and load-displacement curve of the specimen were obtained from the compressive experiment. The compressive wall infilled with foam concrete mainly experienced distortion buckling of the end stud and local crushing failure of the concrete. The stud openings had a limited effect on the compressive bearing capacity of the composite wall. The failure mode and load-deformation curve were obtained in shear tests. The ductility index, shear stiffness, yield load, peak load, energy dissipation, and stiffness degradation were analyzed. The shear composite wall filled with foam concrete mainly occurred concrete crushing failure, local or distortional buckling failure of the end stud, and cracking failure of the calcium silicate board. The shear stiffness, shear capacity, ductility, and energy dissipation of the composite wall could be significantly improved after filling with foam concrete. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fault detection is an important part of aeroengine health management. Intelligent fault detection methods represented by machine learning have been widely studied. However, most studies assume that training and test data follow the same distribution, which is unrealistic. Due to the degradation of engine performance or change of engine operating environment, the historical operation data of aeroengines are different from the current operation data of the engine. If the engine history operation data are directly used to train a fault detection model, the fault detection of the current engine may lead to low efficiency and affect the reliability of fault detection. In order to overcome this problem, transfer learning is introduced into aircraft engine fault detection in this paper. This paper combines transfer learning with support vector data description (SVDD), a common fault detection algorithm, and proposes SVDD-based transfer learning (SVDD-TL). This algorithm takes the spherical center of the SVDD as the knowledge structure to transfer from the source domain to the target domain, which can improve the detection accuracy of the model in the target domain. A fault detection experiment for an aeroengine was designed. Single and mixed fault data were used in the experiment, and the variation of fault data quantity was considered. Experimental results showed that the proposed method can improve the fault detection accuracy of the model in the target domain and still have good detection performance when the amount of fault data changes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Artificial synapses are the key building blocks for low‐power neuromorphic computing that can go beyond the constraints of von Neumann architecture. In comparison with two‐terminal memristors and three‐terminal transistors with filament‐formation and charge‐trapping mechanisms, emerging electrolyte‐gated transistors (EGTs) have been demonstrated as a promising candidate for neuromorphic applications due to their prominent analog switching performance. Here, a novel graphdiyne (GDY)/MoS2‐based EGT is proposed, where an ion‐storage layer (GDY) is adopted to EGTs for the first time. Benefitting from this Li‐ion‐storage layer, the GDY/MoS2‐based EGT features a robust stability (variation < 1% for over 2000 cycles), an ultralow energy consumption (50 aJ µm−2), and long retention characteristics (>104 s). In addition, a quasi‐linear conductance update with low noise (1.3%), an ultrahigh Gmax/Gmin ratio (103), and an ultralow readout conductance (<10 nS) have been demonstrated by this device, enabling the implementation of the neuromorphic computing with near‐ideal accuracies. Moreover, the non‐volatile characteristics of the GDY/MoS2‐based EGT enable it to demonstrate logic‐in‐memory functions, which can execute logic processing and store logic results in a single device. These results highlight the potential of the GDY/MoS2‐based EGT for next‐generation low‐power electronics beyond von Neumann architecture. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective To explore the correlation between the different glycemic variability (GV) indices calculated by self-monitoring of blood glucose (SMBG) and mean amplitude of glycemic excursion (MAGE) obtained from the continuous glucose monitor (CGM) system in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Methods This was a retrospective study. We analyzed the data of T2DM patients who received 48-72 h CGM and 7-point SMBG (pre and post-breakfast, lunch, dinner and prior to bedtime) simultaneously in Department of Endocrinology and Metabolic Disease, the Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun-Yat-sen University from January 2018 to October 2019. The GV indices calculated from the 7-point SMBG data included the standard deviation (SDBG) of the 7-point glucose profiles, the largest amplitude of glycemic excursions (LAGE) and the postprandial glucose excursion (PPGE), coefficient of variation of blood glucose (CV) and mean amplitude of glucose excursion (MAGE', calculated by SMBG profile). Spearman's correlation analysis, simple linear regression and multiple stepwise regression analysis were used to analyze the relationship between the different GV indices calculated from 7-point SMBG and MAGE obtained by CGM, and the receiver operator characteristic (ROC) curve was drawn to evaluate the ability of the former to predict the latter. Results Among 105 patients with T2DM, the SDBG, PPGE, LAGE and CV calculated by 7-point glucose profiles of SMBG were (2.02±0.77) mmol/L, (2.75±1.13) mmol/L, (5.62±2.13) mmol/L and (25.92±0.77)%, respectively, while the level of MAGE' and median MAGE were 4.11 (2.84, 5.92) mmol/L and 4.00 (2.65, 5.00) mmol/L, respectively. SDBG, PPGE, LAGE, CV and MAGE' were significantly correlative with MAGE (r=0.614, 0.499, 0.588, 0.533 and 0.473, respectively, all P<0.01). Multiple stepwise regression analysis was performed with MAGE as dependent variable and SDBG, PPGE, LAGE, CV and MAGE' as independent variables, and only SDBG entered the equation (P<0.01). The areas under ROC curve for SDBG [0.795, 95% confidence interval (CI) was 0.708-0.882], LAGE (0.782, 95%CI was 0.692-0.872) and CV (0.769, 95%CI was 0.677-0.846) were larger than those for PPGE (0.718, 95%CI was 0.620-0.816) and MAGE' (0.704, 95%CI was 0.607-0.789, all P<0.01) in reflecting the unqualified MAGE. Conclusions GV indices calculated from 7-point SMBG data including SDBG, LAGE, PPGE, CV and MAGE' are positively correlated with MAGE obtained from CGM. And SDBG has higher accuracy than the other four parameters. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Two trials were conducted to determine the optimal replacement level of rice bran meal (RBM) as a substitute for kelp meal (KM) in the diet of the hybrid abalone Haliotis discus hannai ♀ × H. fulgens ♂. This study also investigated whether betaine as an attractant supplementation could be used to facilitate RBM as a replacement for KM. In Trial 1, RBM was used to replace 25%, 50%, and 100% of the dietary KM (RBM25, RBM50, and RBM100, respectively) based on a diet containing 30% KM (Con). In Trial 2, RBM50 was the same as in Trial 1, and betaine was supplemented in RBM50 at 0.2% (B1), 0.4% (B2), and 0.8% (B3) in the diets. Abalone (weight approximately 4 g) were randomly assigned to four groups replicated in triplicate (60 abalone/replicate). The abalone were fed the experimental diets for 10 weeks. In Trial 1, compared to the Con group, no significant differences were observed in final weight (FW), final shell length (FSL), specific growth rate (SGR), or daily increment in shell length (DISL) at 25% KM replacement by RBM. However, 50% KM replacement significantly reduced the FW, FSL, SGR, and DISL compared to the Con group. There were no significant differences in the proximate composition of the soft body tissues of the abalone. In Trial 2, growth performance parameters of the hybrid abalone were significantly improved with increasing levels of betaine in the diets compared to those fed diet RBM50, reaching the maximum value in the B2 group. Consistent with the feed intake results, the hormone concentrations of neuropeptide Y (NPY) and orexins in the digestive gland and cerebral ganglia of abalone were significantly increased when the supplementation level of betaine in the diets was increased to 0.2%. However, no apparent impacts were observed on NPY or orexin concentrations among the B1, B2, and B3 groups. Finally, we suggest 0.4% betaine supplementation along with replacing 50% of the KM with RBM in the hybrid abalone diet. The optimal diet is a cost-effective alternative feed formulation that can reduce the dependence on KM for abalone production in China. This study also demonstrates the potential of betaine as a feed attractant in abalone aquaculture. • 25% kelp meal (KM) can be replaced by rice bran meal (RBM) without obvious adverse impacts on the growth performance of the hybrid abalone. • The addition of 0.4% betaine in diets increased the replacement level of KM by RBM to 50% without negatively affecting the growth performance of the hybrid abalone. • Development of such diets will significantly reduce feed cost and reliance on KM for abalone feed company in China. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Flavobacterium columnare (F. columnare) is one of the deadliest fish pathogens causing bacterial gill rot disease in various freshwater fish species globally. Tea polyphenols (TPs) are an inexpensive product extracted from tea that have received much attention as a feed additive in aquaculture. The current study was designed to investigate the underlying mechanisms and protective effects of dietary TPs against F. columnare -induced gill injury via suppression of oxidative stress, apoptosis, and inflammation in grass carp. TPs were not supplemented to the diet (control) and were supplemented at 40, 80, 120, 160 or 200 mg/kg diet. The feeding experiment was carried out for 60 days, followed by a 3-Day F. columnare challenge test. The results showed that 120 mg/kg TPs in the diet exerted the following five protective effects in fish gill: (1) control gill-rot disease and improved histopathology, (2) inhibit excessive apoptosis, (3) enhance the activity of antioxidant enzymes and upregulate related gene expression via the Nrf2/Keap1 pathway, (4) increase the activity of immune enzymes, And (5) mediate inflammatory cytokine gene expression via the JAK/STAT3 pathway. Taken together, dietary supplementation with TPs is a compelling approach to protect the gill function of fish against F. columnare. • Tea polyphenols level reduced the incidence of rotten gill and protected gill morphology of grass carp. • Tea polyphenols attenuated the adverse effects induced by F. columnare of grass carp by enhancing antioxidant capacity, immunity and mediating excessive apoptosis and inflammatory response in gill. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Osteoporosis (OP) is a skeletal disorder characterized by decreased bone density, alterations in bone microstructure, and increased damage to the bones. As the population ages and life expectancy increases, OP has become a global epidemic, drawing attention from scientists and doctors. Because of polyphenols have favorable antioxidant and anti-allergy effects, which are regarded as potential methods to prevent angiocardipathy and OP. Polyphenols offer a promising approach to preventing and treating OP by affecting bone metabolism, reducing bone resolution, maintaining bone density, and lowering the differentiation level of osteoclasts (OC). There are multiple ways in which polyphenols affect bone metabolism. This article provides an overview of how polyphenols inhibit oxidative stress, exert antibacterial effects, and prevent the occurrence of OP. Furthermore, we will explore the regulatory mechanisms and signaling pathways implicated in this process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, the optimal dietary protein levels for adult hybrid abalone (H. discus hannai♀ × H. fulgens♂) were evaluated at two representative temperatures, and the interactive influences of dietary protein and water temperature on abalone meat quality were examined. Six isoenergetic and isolipidic diets containing graded levels of protein (15%, 20%, 25%, 30%, 35%, and 40%) were fed to the hybrid abalone for 90 days. Based on the specific growth rate, the optimum dietary protein levels for adult hybrid abalone using a quadratic curve model were estimated to be 28.07% and 26.47% of the diet at 23 °C (optimum temperature) and 27 °C (high temperature), respectively. The amount of crude protein in the abalone body increased linearly with the dietary protein levels and water temperature. Antioxidation enzyme activities of abalone muscle, including GPx and GST were significantly affected by the interaction of dietary protein levels and water temperature. As for texture analysis, the abalone kept at 23 °C exhibited higher meat hardness than those fed the same diets at 27 °C. The n-3 PUFAs (particularly DHA and EPA) in abalone meat were significantly influenced by dietary protein levels, and the highest content was observed in the 30% dietary protein group. These levels were not affected by water temperature. In addition, higher dietary protein levels and water temperatures increased the total contents of free amino acids and flavor amino acids (Asp + Glu + Gly + Ala + Arg + Tau). The cooking loss of abalone meat was reduced with increased protein levels and was significantly lower in the 23 °C group, along with a higher meat postmortem pH value. The collagen fiber ratio and collagen content of abalone meat were higher in the 23 °C group. In summary, for multiple diet feeding strategies in practical production of abalone aquaculture, the balance between the seasonally specific feeds cost benefits and the abalone meat quality should be carefully evaluated. • The optimum dietary protein levels of adult hybrid abalone were estimated to be 28.07% and 26.47% of the diet by the quadratic curve model at 23 °C (optimum temperature) and 27 °C (high temperature), respectively. • Beyond 30% dietary protein, the growth performance declined, but relatively increased the nutritional, flavor quality, and hardness of abalone meat at both water temperatures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Three distinct synthetic strategies for porous organic polymers (POPs) and related functional derivatives are presented. • Various types of POP-based materials, each possessing unique functional groups, and their applications in the adsorptive removal of Cr(VI) are summarized. • Two specific classes of POP-based materials, showcasing their significance in the field of photocatalytic reduction of Cr(VI), are highlighted. • A thorough analysis and discussion of the different photocatalytic mechanisms utilized in the reduction of Cr(VI) is discussed. Chromium plays important roles in many industrial processes, and hexavalent chromium (Cr(VI)) has become a major pollutant of global concern. Great efforts have been taken for Cr(VI) detoxification. Among the many technologies, adsorptive removal and photocatalysis stand out owing to the merits of high efficiency, simplicity, and low cost. Porous organic polymers (POPs), which contain permanent and tunable porosity, a high specific surface area, abundant structural adjustability, and excellent stability, can be excellent materials for adsorption and photocatalysis. The structural diversity of building units and the wide compatibility with other materials make POPs suitable for precisely regulating the structure–activity relationship of POPs for Cr(VI) removal. This article provides an overview of recent advancements in the utilization of POPs for adsorptive removal and photocatalytic reduction of Cr(VI). Firstly, we introduce diverse synthetic strategies for POP-based materials bearing different functional groups, including bottom-up synthesis, post-synthetic modification, and in-situ polymerization technology. Secondly, we delve into the comprehensive discussion of various POP-based materials specifically designed for adsorptive Cr(VI) removal, with a focus on nitrogen-rich POPs such as diverse ionic POPs. Thirdly, we present novel POP-based materials essential for the photocatalytic reduction of Cr(VI), including donor–acceptor POPs and hybrid heterojunctions. Finally, we conclude by discussing the future prospects and potential developments in this field. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • E-Fe 1 Ni 5 -NC-600 system exhibited satisfactory performances for TC degradation. • Synergy existed between electro- and catalytic-activation for PS activation. • Electric field accelerated the redox cycles of Fe0/Fe2+/Fe3+ and Ni0/Ni2+/Ni3+. • Both reactive species and electron-transfer process contributed to TC removal. • E-Fe 1 Ni 5 -NC-600/PS system had a low energy consumption (0.34 kWh/m3-log). The booming demand for modern medicine has led to the widespread occurrence of antibiotics in aquatic environments. The co-activation of persulfate (PS) by electrochemical and catalytic processes has now drawn increasing interests for the treatment of refractory contaminants in water. Herein, N-doped porous carbon decorated with Fe/Ni bimetallic composite catalyst (FeNi-NC) was prepared with Fe-doped Ni-MOFs as a precursor. The composite catalyst was evaluated for it performance to catalyze PS in the presence of an electric field for the destruction of tetracycline (TC). Thanks to the synergistic effect between the electrochemical and Fe 1 Ni 5 -NC-600 catalytic processes to activate PS, the E-Fe 1 Ni 5 -NC-600 system exhibited a satisfactory performance for TC degradation, attaining a 91.94 % removal within 90 min. Electric field accelerated the redox cycles of Fe0/Fe2+/Fe3+ and Ni0/Ni2+/Ni3+ to realize the sustainable catalytic activation of PS to form reactive species (OH, SO 4 −, and 1O 2) for enhanced TC degradation. Competition kinetics studies suggested OH was the dominant reactive species, and electron-transfer process also contributed to TC removal. Moreover, the E-Fe 1 Ni 5 -NC-600/PS system exhibited a low energy consumption (0.34 kWh/m3-log), wide effectiveness in the elimination of on different organic pollutants, and good applicability for real water treatment. This study provided new insights into the application of PS-based advanced oxidation process for the high-performance treatment of antibiotic-containing wastewater. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In recent years, spatial-keyword queries have attracted much attention with the fast development of location-based services. However, current spatial-keyword techniques are disk-based, which cannot fulfill the requirements of high throughput and low response time. With the surging data size, people tend to process data in distributed in-memory environments to achieve low latency. In this paper, we present the distributed solution, i.e., Skia (Spatial-Keyword In-memory Analytics), to provide a scalable backend for spatial-textual analytics. Skia introduces a two-level index framework for big spatial-textual data including: (1) efficient and scalable global index, which prunes the candidate partitions a lot while achieving small space budget; and (2) four novel local indexes, that further support low latency services for exact and approximate spatial-keyword queries. Skia can support common spatial-keyword queries via traditional SQL programming interfaces. The experiments conducted on large-scale real datasets have demonstrated the promising performance of the proposed indexes and our distributed solution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Forward radiative transfer models (RTM) are an indispensable tool for quantitative applications of satellite radiometers, e.g., for data calibration, instrument development, retrieval, and so on. In this study, we develop an accurate and efficient RTM for radiometers onboard Fengyun satellites, namely FYRTM (RTM for Fengyun Radiometers). Correlated k-distribution models are developed to improve the computational efficiency for gas absorption, and the effects of cloud and aerosol multiple scattering and emission are accelerated with pre-computed look-up tables. FYRTM is evaluated with a rigorous simulation based on discrete ordinate radiative transfer model (DISORT) as well as a popular fast forward model, i.e., the Community Radiative Transfer Model (CRTM). Results indicate that FYRTM-based simulations are two to three orders of magnitudes faster than the DISORT-based simulations. Compared to the rigorous model, FYRTM relative errors are within 2% at solar channels, and brightness temperatures (BT) differences are within 1 K at infrared channels. Compared with CRTM, FYRTM is computationally similar at solar channels, but three times faster at infrared channels. Furthermore, simulated reflectances/BTs using FYRTM are in a good agreement with the satellite observations. Overall, FYRTM is capable to simulate satellite observations under different atmospheric conditions, and can be extended to other radiometers onboard the Fengyun satellites (both geostationary and polar-orbiting satellites). It is expected to play important roles in future applications with Fengyun observations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To deal with class imbalance learning (CIL) problems, a novel algorithm is proposed based on kernel extreme learning machine (KELM), named KELM-CIL. To solve it, two algorithms are developed from the dual and primal spaces, respectively, thus yielding D-KELM-CIL and P-KELM-CIL. However, both D-KELM-CIL and P-KELM-CIL are not sparse algorithms. Hence, a sparse strategy based on Cholesky factorization is utilized to realize their sparseness, producing CD-KELM-CIL and CP-KELM-CIL. For large-size problems, a probabilistic trick is applied to accelerate them further, hence obtaining PCD-KELM-CIL and PCP-KELM-CIL. To test the effectiveness and efficacy of the proposed algorithms, experiments on benchmark datasets are carried out. When the proposed algorithms are applied to fault detection of aircraft engine, they show good generalization performance and real-time performance, especially for CP-KELM-CIL and PCP-KELM-CIL, which indicates that they can be developed as candidate techniques for fault detection of aircraft engine. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To deal with class imbalance learning (CIL) problems, a novel algorithm is proposed based on kernel extreme learning machine (KELM), named KELM-CIL. To solve it, two algorithms are developed from the dual and primal spaces, respectively, thus yielding D-KELM-CIL and P-KELM-CIL. However, both D-KELM-CIL and P-KELM-CIL are not sparse algorithms. Hence, a sparse strategy based on Cholesky factorization is utilized to realize their sparseness, producing CD-KELM-CIL and CP-KELM-CIL. For large-size problems, a probabilistic trick is applied to accelerate them further, hence obtaining PCD-KELM-CIL and PCP-KELM-CIL. To test the effectiveness and efficacy of the proposed algorithms, experiments on benchmark datasets are carried out. When the proposed algorithms are applied to fault detection of aircraft engine, they show good generalization performance and real-time performance, especially for CP-KELM-CIL and PCP-KELM-CIL, which indicates that they can be developed as candidate techniques for fault detection of aircraft engine. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Propose To analyze the clinical and epidemiological features of patients who underwent wrist arthroscopy procedures. Methods: This is a cross‐sectional epidemiological study. The study included a cohort of patients who underwent wrist arthroscopy procedures in a national orthopaedic referral center from 1 February, 2014 to 1 February, 2019. The medical records, diagnosis, and every wrist arthroscopy procedure of all the patients were collected and reviewed. The epidemiological features, detail of the diagnoses, and the procedures of all the patients were systemically analyzed. All the patients were divided into two groups: trauma and non‐trauma conditions. The complexity of the wrist arthroscopy procedure was classified into simple procedures (exploration or debridement) and complex procedures (repair or reconstruction). χ2 test was used to compare proportions between the procedures of different complexity and the two groups of patients. Results: A total of 533 patients (332 males and 201 females) were included in this study. More than half (56%) of the patients were in the age group 21–40 and nearly two thirds (62%) of all the 533 patients were male. The diagnoses of all the patients could be classified into eight categories: (i) TFCC injury; (ii) ulnar impactions syndrome; (iii) carpal trauma (carpal bone fractures and/or carpal ligament injures); (iv) distal radius fractures; (v) carpal bone cyst or necrosis; (vi) ganglion cyst; (vii) wrist arthritis; and (viii) disorders of small joint of the hand. The most common conditions treated with wrist arthroscopy were TFCC injury (172 cases), followed by carpal trauma (125 cases) and ulnar impaction syndrome (84 cases). The simple arthroscopic procedures (exploration or debridement) account for 53% of all the procedures while complex reparative or reconstructive procedures account for 47%. There was a significant difference in the proportion between simple procedures and complex procedures in both trauma and non‐traumatic patients. Repair or reconstruction procedures were more frequently performed for wrist trauma patients, whereas exploration or debridement procedures were more frequently performed for non‐trauma patients. Conclusions: The largest group of patients who underwent wrist arthroscopy surgery are those who complained of ulnar‐sided wrist pain and the commonly conducted wrist arthroscopy procedures have evolved from simple exploration/debridement to the more complex repair or reconstruction procedures in China. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To compare the efficacy and safety of percutaneous transforaminal endoscopic discectomy (PTED) and fenestration discectomy (FD) for posterior ring apophyseal fractures (PRAF). Methods: This study was a retrospective cohort control study. A total of 96 patients with lumbar PRAF who underwent surgical treatment at the Henan Provincial People's Hospital of Henan University from September 2013 to December 2017 were retrospectively examined, of which 51 were treated by PTED and 45 by FD. The average age of those in the PTED group was 28.24 years, including 38 males and 13 females. The average age of those in the FD group was 28.07 years, with 33 males and 12 females. Operation time, total blood loss, hospitalization days, preoperative and postoperative visual analog scale (VAS), and Oswestry disability index (ODI) scores were evaluated. Modified MacNab criteria were used to evaluate the clinical effect at the last follow‐up. Results: Both operations were successful and no serious complications occurred. All patients were followed up for 12–30 (average 16.7 ± 3.2) months, and no patients were lost to follow‐up. No statistically significant difference was found in the mean age and gender between the PTED group and the FD group (P < 0.05). Operation time, total blood loss, and length of hospital stay were significantly lower in the PTED group (87.65 ± 13.15 min, 12.78 ± 4.95 mL, and 6.80 ± 1.67 days, respectively) than in the FD group (114.11 ± 14.39 min, 30.89 ± 7.09 mL, and 11.71 ± 1.98 days, respectively) (P < 0.05). The VAS and ODI scores of the two groups at postoperative day 1 (PTED: 3.82 ± 0.97, 37.73% ± 3.72%; FD: 3.62 ± 1.09, 36.62% ± 3.05%), and at 3 months (PTED: 2.90 ± 1.08, 26.02% ± 2.90%; FD: 3.07 ± 0.99, 27.16% ± 4.02%), 6 months (PTED: 2.31 ± 0.88, 22.53% ± 2.67%; FD: 2.36 ± 0.77, 21.18% ± 3.35%), and the last follow‐up (PTED: 1.90 ± 0.83, 19.88% ± 3.01%; FD: 1.89 ± 0.86, 18.22% ± 3.03%) were significantly different from the preoperative scores (PTED: 6.53 ± 1.00, 55.24% ± 4.54%; FD: 6.78 ± 1.31, 53.56% ± 5.73%) (P < 0.05). The VAS and ODI scores at 3 months postoperatively, 6 months postoperatively, and the last follow up were not significantly different between the two groups (P > 0.05). In the PTED group, 2 patients developed a transient nerve stimulation symptom within 1 day after surgery and 1 patient had recurrence at 3 months after surgery. In the FD group, 2 patients had severe dural ruptures due to adhesion during surgery, 1 patient developed infection complications, and 2 patients relapsed at 2 and 3 months after surgery. At the last follow‐up, the modified MacNab criteria for clinical effect were 93.3% and 94.1% in the FD and PTED groups, respectively. Conclusion: While PTED has the same efficacy as FD for treating PRAF, it is associated with shorter operation time, less trauma, and quicker recovery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effects of post-annealing on conductivity of phosphorus-doped ZnO (PZO) films grown at 500 °C by radio frequency magnetron sputtering are investigated in a temperature ranging from 600 °C to 900 °C. The as-grown PZO exhibits n-type conductivity with an electron concentration of 1.19 × 1020 cm-3, and keeps n-type conductivity as annealed at 600 °C-700 °C but electron concentration decreases with increasing temperature. However, it converts to p-type conductivity as annealed at 800 °C. Further increasing temperature, it still shows p-type conductivity but the hole concentration decreases. It is found that the P occupies mainly Zn site (PZn) in the as-grown PZO, which accounts for good n-type conductivity of the as-grown PZO. The amount of the PZn decreases with increasing temperature, while the amount of Zn vacancy (VZn) increases from 600 °C to 800 °C but decreases greatly at 900 °C, resulting in that the amount of PZn-2VZn complex increases with increasing temperature up to 800 °C but decreases above 800 °C. It is suggested that the PZn-2VZn complex acceptor is responsible for p-type conductivity, and that the conversion of conductivity is due to the change of the amount of the PZn and PZn-2VZn with annealing temperature. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]