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Background and aim: An increasing amount of research has indicated obesity greatly affects individuals with overactive bladder (OAB). However, traditional anthropometric methods present challenges in accurately assessing the likelihood of OAB. Hence, this study's objective was to identify the correlation between the body roundness index (BRI) and OAB. Methods: The research included 12,401 individuals who participated in the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey spanning 2005–2018. The correlation between BRI and OAB was explored by using weighted multiple logistic regression and weighted restricted cubic spline (RCS). Subgroup analyses showed the associations based on different population types. The study also analyzed the predictive capability of various anthropometric indices, including BRI, body mass index, waist circumference, and weight, in assessing the likelihood of OAB through Receiver-operating characteristic (ROC) curves. Results: An independent positive correlation between OAB and BRI was identified after adjusting for potential confounders in weighted multivariate logistic models[odds ratio (OR) = 1.15, 95% confidence interval (CI), 1.12–1.17]. Weighted RCS analysis found a positive dose-response correlation between OAB and BRI. The effect size of BRI on OAB remained stable across all prespecified subgroups (all P for interactions > 0.05). In ROC analysis, BRI showed better discriminatory ability for OAB compared with other anthropometric measures for both genders (all P < 0.01). The best BRI cutoff for predicting OAB was lower for men (5.151) than for women (5.383), suggesting that men were more susceptible to changes in BRI than women. Conclusions: This study demonstrated that a raised BRI is correlated with a higher likelihood of OAB. Due to the effectiveness and non-invasiveness of BRI in predicting OAB, it is expected to become the preferred method for early detection and management strategies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to provide a novel noninvasive method to quantify abscopal immune activation and predict combinational treatment response using [68Ga]-NOTA-GZP positron emission tomography (PET) imaging. 4T1 breast cancer cells were implanted bilaterally in the mammary fat pad of Balb/c mice and Lewis's lung cancer cells (LLC) were implanted bilaterally on the shoulders of C57/Bl6 mice. One of the tumors received a single fraction of 12 Gy irradiation followed by combination of concurrent PD-1 and CTLA-4 inhibitors or controls. Tumor growth of the irradiated and nonirradiated tumors was measured and compared with 12 Gy irradiation only, checkpoint inhibitor only, and no treatment control group. Changes in granzyme B activity were assessed with [68Ga]-NOTA-GZP PET imaging from baseline and every 3 days until day 9. In the 4T1 model, concurrent treatment with dual checkpoint inhibitors and radiation resulted in reduction of the irradiated tumor volume at day 30. At this same time point, the nonirradiated tumor volume for combination treatment decreased significantly, consistent with abscopal immune activation. Similarly, in the LLC model, concurrent treatment inhibited tumor growth on the nonirradiated tumor at day 15. On day 9, granzyme B PET signal in both 4T1 and LLC models was significantly higher in the nonirradiated tumors that responded to concurrent treatment compared with subsequent nonresponding tumors. A similar lack of granzyme B signal was observed in the nonirradiated tumors from mice that received radiation or checkpoint inhibitors only and control tumors. Receiver operating characteristic analysis identified a PET threshold of 1.505 and 1.233 on day 9 that predicted treatment response in 4T1 and LLC models, respectively. [68Ga]-NOTA-GZP PET imaging was able to noninvasively predict abscopal immune activation before subsequent tumor volume changes after combination treatment. It provides a potential translational paradigm for investigating distal immune activation postradiation in a clinical setting. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Preliminary clinical trials of adamgammadex, a new cyclodextrin-based selective reversal agent, have demonstrated its efficacy in reversing neuromuscular block by rocuronium. This multicentre, randomised, double-blind, positive-controlled, non-inferiority phase III clinical trial compared the efficacy and safety of adamgammadex and sugammadex. We randomised 310 subjects to receive adamgammadex (4 mg kg−1) or sugammadex (2 mg kg−1) at reappearance of the second twitch of the train-of-four (TOF), and standard safety data were collected. For the primary outcome, the proportion of patients with TOF ratio ≥0.9 within 5 min was 98.7% in the adamgammadex group vs 100% in the sugammadex group, with a point estimate and 95% confidence interval (CI) of 1.3% (–4.6%, +1.3%); the lower limit was greater than the non-inferiority margin of –10%. For the key secondary outcome, the median (inter quartile range) time from the start of administration of adamgammadex or sugammadex to recovery of TOF ratio to 0.9 was 2.25 (1.75, 2.75) min and 1.75 (1.50, 2.00) min, respectively. The difference was 0.50 (95% CI: 0.25, 0.50); the upper limit was lower than the non-inferiority margin of 5 min. In addition, there were no inferior results observed in secondary outcomes. Adamgammadex had a lower incidence of adverse drug reactions compared with sugammadex (anaphylactic reaction, recurarisation, decreased heart rate, and laryngospasm; P =0.047). Adamgammadex was non-inferior to sugammadex with a possible lower incidence of adverse drug reactions compared with sugammadex. Adamgammadex may have a potential advantage in terms of its overall risk–benefit profile. Chinese Clinical Trial Registry, ChiCTR2000039525. Registered October 30, 2020. https://www.chictr.org.cn/showproj.html?proj=56825 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The nuclear resonant scattering (NRS) experiment requires photon-counting detectors with high time resolution, short dead time, large dynamic range, low noise, and large detection area. An 8-channel avalanche photodiode (APD) array detector system with high integrity, flexibility, and reliability has been developed to adapt to the demands of NRS experiments. The detector system mainly consists of four key parts: (i) an array-APD sensor, (ii) 8-channel integrated fast preamplifiers, (iii) the time-to-digital converter readout electronics, and (iv) a data acquisition system and EPICS support software. Remarkably, the system exhibits a time resolution of better than 500 ps and has a sufficiently low noise level, allowing for the lowest detection energy threshold of 4 keV. The performance of the new array-APD system as well as its real application in nuclear forward scattering (NFS) and nuclear resonant inelastic x-ray scattering (NRIXS) experiments was tested in two synchrotron facilities. With the new system, the NFS signal very close to the prompt electronic scattering signal can be extracted. Thanks to the customized EPICS-areaDetector-based control software, NRIXS spectra can be readily measured with time and energy information of the NRIXS signal stored in the raw data, which is promising for developing NRIXS data analysis in the time domain. The array-APD detector can be deployed for nuclear resonant scattering experiments at various synchrotron radiation facilities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The magnetic order in 2D material CrI3 has a significant impact on the Raman polarization selection rules of phonons, as evidenced by magneto-optical Raman spectroscopy. In a monolayer, the forbidden Raman scattering of A1g mode can be detected in the XY channel at low temperatures. However, in the bilayer, the Ag mode splits into two modes, and the selection rules of the splitting modes are determined by the magnetic order and symmetry. In contrast, the inversion symmetry of the spin structure is maintained in both antiferromagnetic (AFM) and ferromagnetic (FM) states in the trilayer (3L) CrI3, and the evolution of its Raman scattering with magnetic field is not yet clear. In this work, we use magneto-optical polarized Raman spectroscopy and reflective magnetic circular dichroism to investigate the Davydov splitting of the Ag phonon mode and its coupling to layered magnetism in 2–5L CrI3. Our results show that the Raman scattering of the Ag mode is strongly coupled to the layered magnetic order, indicating strong spin–phonon coupling in CrI3. Our study might shed light on the research on interaction between magnetic and vibrational properties of 2D magnetic materials and provide important implications for developing novel 2D spintronic devices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Liquid–liquid phase separation (LLPS) of proteins and nucleic acids underlies the formation of biomolecular condensates in cell. Dysregulation of protein LLPS is closely implicated in a range of intractable diseases. A variety of tools for predicting phase-separating proteins (PSPs) have been developed with the increasing experimental data accumulated and several related databases released. Comparing their performance directly can be challenging due to they were built on different algorithms and datasets. In this study, we evaluate eleven available PSPs predictors using negative testing datasets, including folded proteins, the human proteome, and non-PSPs under near physiological conditions, based on our recently updated LLPSDB v2.0 database. Our results show that the new generation predictors FuzDrop, DeePhase and PSPredictor perform better on folded proteins as a negative test set, while LLPhyScore outperforms other tools on the human proteome. However, none of the predictors could accurately identify experimentally verified non-PSPs. Furthermore, the correlation between predicted scores and experimentally measured saturation concentrations of protein A1-LCD and its mutants suggests that, these predictors could not consistently predict the protein LLPS propensity rationally. Further investigation with more diverse sequences for training, as well as considering features such as refined sequence pattern characterization that comprehensively reflects molecular physiochemical interactions, may improve the performance of PSPs prediction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

High-energy resolution core-level spectroscopies, including a group of different techniques to obtain element-specific information of the electronic structure around an absorption site, have become powerful tools for studying the chemical state, local geometric structure, and the nature of chemical bonding. High-resolution x-ray absorption and x-ray emission spectroscopies are well-established experimental techniques but have always been limited by the number of emitted photons and the limited acceptance of solid angles, as well as requiring high energy stability and repeatability for the whole experimental setup. A full-cylindrical x-ray spectrometer based on flexible HAPG (highly annealed pyrolitic graphite) mosaic crystals is an effective solution for the above issues. However, large-area HAPG remains expensive and is often not easy to access. Here, we present an alternative approach by using segmented single crystals (Si and Ge) with different orientations instead of the HAPG as a dispersive element. The proposed method drastically improved the energy resolution up to 0.2–2 eV in the range of 2–10 keV. High-pressure x-ray emission and resonant x-ray emission spectra are presented to demonstrate the capabilities of the instrument. The new design is particularly suitable for high-resolution spectroscopy applications at fourth-generation synchrotron radiation sources or free-electron lasers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Direct conversion of cyclohexane to adipic acid (AA) under mild conditions is an attractive technology in response to the increasing industrial demand of chemical intermediate AA. Exploring advanced free radical oxidation systems is the key to converting cyclohexane in a direct and mild manner. This study demonstrates that electrocatalytic water oxidation can quantitatively generate hydroxyl radicals (⋅OH) to selectively oxidize cyclohexane to AA by a vanadium oxide (VOx)‐platinum (Pt) composite catalyst coupled with persulfate (PS) redox mediator at the electrode/electrolyte interface under ambient temperature and pressure. The three active components of VOx, Pt, and PS can produce different concentrations of ⋅OH radicals alone or in combination, resulting in different AA selectivity and cyclohexane conversion, and the activity increased with the increase of free radical concentration before AA peroxidation. The optimized ternary oxidation system of VOx‐Pt‐PS achieved a cyclohexane conversion of 85 % with 95 % AA selectivity and the corresponding yield was 81 %, better than most traditional oxidation systems. Electrochemical interfaces‐driven radical oxidation provides opportunities to oxidatively convert many other inexpensive hydrocarbons to value‐added chemicals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) are extracellular fibrous networks consisting of depolymerized chromatin DNA skeletons with a variety of antimicrobial proteins. They are secreted by activated neutrophils and play key roles in host defense and immune responses. Gastrointestinal (GI) malignancies are globally known for their high mortality and morbidity. Increasing research suggests that NETs contribute to the progression and metastasis of digestive tract tumors, among them gastric, colon, liver, and pancreatic cancers. This article explores the formation of NETs and reviews the role that NETs play in the gastrointestinal oncologic microenvironment, tumor proliferation and metastasis, tumor-related thrombosis, and surgical stress. At the same time, we analyze the qualitative and quantitative detection methods of NETs in recent years and found that NETs are specific markers of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). Then, we explore the possibility of NET inhibitors for the treatment of digestive tract tumor diseases to provide a new, efficient, and safe solution for the future therapy of gastrointestinal tumors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: To introduce the surgical approach and clinical effect of transferring the partial slips of the flexor digitorum superficialis (FDS) tendon to reconstruct the insertion of the central slip of the extensor tendon (CSET) through an established bone tunnel (BT). Materials and methods: From April 2019 to March 2021, nine patients (six males and three females) with the CSET insertion rupture or defect were admitted to the institution and the CSET insertion was reconstructed with partial tendon slips on both sides of the FDS. The active range of motion of the interphalangeal joint of the affected finger was measured by a goniometer, the degree of pain was evaluated by visual analogue scale (VAS), and the grip strength of the affected limb was measured by an electronic hand dynamometer. Results: The average postoperative follow-up was 12 months. No complications occurred. At the last follow-up, six of the patients were very satisfied and three were satisfied with their recovery. Conclusion: The reconstruction of the CSET insertion by transferring the partial tendon slips of the FDS seem to be safe and feasible with minimal invasion to the donor tendon. Type of study/level of evidence: Therapeutic IV. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This current phase II clinical trial was to compare the effect and safety of adamgammadex, a new cyclodextrin-based selective relaxant binding agent, with sugammadex to reverse rocuronium-induced neuromuscular block. Patients were randomised to receive adamgammadex (4 or 6 mg kg−1) or sugammadex (2 mg kg−1, as a positive control group) at the reappearance of the second twitch (T2) in response to TOF stimulation. The standard safety data were collected. The 4 mg kg−1 (n = 16) and 6 mg kg−1 (n = 20) adamgammadex- and 2 mg kg−1 (n = 20) sugammadex-induced recovery time of TOF ratio to 0.9 were 2.3, 1.6, and 1.5 min, respectively (p = 0.49). The 4 mg kg −1 adamgammadex-induced median recovery time was longer than that of 2 mg kg−1 sugammadex (p = 0.01), and there was no difference between the 6 mg kg −1 adamgammadex group and 2 mg kg−1 sugammadex group (p = 0.32). Then, the number of patients who experienced adverse events (AEs) was 6, 11, and 14 for adamgammadex at 4, 6 mg kg−1 and sugammadex at 2 mg kg−1, respectively. The treatment emergent AEs that occurred more than twice were detailed as follows: incision site pain, hypotension, emesis, fever, throat pain, blood bilirubin increase, abnormal T-wave of ECG, dizziness, incision site swelling, postoperative fever, expectoration, and nausea. For drug-related AEs, the increased urine acetone bodies and first-degree atrioventricular block were observed in two patients from sugammadex group. Then, the previously reported AEs were not observed in this study, including anaphylaxis, haemorrhage, recurarization, abnormal basic vital signs, or lengthened QRS intervals and QT intervals. Adamgammadex was found to be effective for reversal of rocuronium-induced neuromuscular block as sugammadex. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Emulsified isoflurane was designed to circumvent the deficiencies of inhalation anesthetics, which have a longer time to onset, result in a higher drug consumption, and for which a specific anesthesia machine is required for clinical use. The aim of this study was to compare the efficacy and safety of emulsified isoflurane with propofol for anesthesia induction in adults patients.Methods: This multicenter, randomized, double-blind, positive-controlled, non-inferiority, phase III clinical trial compared the efficacy and safety of emulsified isoflurane with propofol for anesthesia induction. Each patient in the emulsified isoflurane group received a single bolus injection of 12% emulsified isoflurane at a dose of 30 mg/kg, and each patient in the propofol group received a single bolus injection of 0.8% propofol at a dose of 2 mg/kg. The primary outcome of the efficacy evaluation was the proportion of participants with successful anesthesia induction, which was regarded as a Modified Observer's Assessment of Alertness/Sedation (MOAA/S) score of < 1 and lack of use of other sedative drugs. A number of secondary efficacy outcomes were also assessed. Safety was monitored based on (1) adverse events, (2) repeated measurement of vital signs; (3) physical examination, (4) routine laboratory examinations of hematology, biochemistry, urine, coagulation function, and (5) 12-lead electrocardiogram.Results: A total of 416 patients were enrolled (n = 208 in each group) and 398 patients were administered study drug. The proportion of participants with successful anesthesia induction was 100% with a 95% confidence interval of - 1.9% to + 1.9% for the emulsified isoflurane and propofol groups, which met the predesigned non-inferiority criteria of 5%. The study demonstrated the non-inferiority of sedation produced by emulsified isoflurane compared to propofol. Among the secondary efficacy outcomes, emulsified isoflurane showed a better cardiovascular stability than propofol. The number of patients from the emulsified isoflurane group who experienced drug-related adverse events was significantly higher than that of patients from the propofol group. However, there was no significant difference between the two groups in terms of adverse events or drug-related adverse events of grades 3-5.Conclusions: Emulsified isoflurane exhibited non-inferiority of anesthesia/sedation compared to propofol in patients undergoing anesthesia induction.Clinical Trial Registration: ChiCTR2000038185, registered on 12 December, 2020 ( www.chictr.org.cn ). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Breast cancer (BC), the most common cancer in women, is caused by the uncontrolled proliferation of mammary epithelial cells under the action of a variety of carcinogenic factors. Cuproptosis-related targets have been found to be closely associated with breast cancer development. TCGA obtained 1226 tumor samples, 1073 clinical data, and 37 lncRNAs during univariate Cox multivariate analysis. We used nonnegative matrix factoring (NMF) agglomeration to spot thirty-three potential molecular subsets with totally different cuproptosis-related lncRNA expression patterns. The least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) formula and variable Cox multivariate analysis were not used to construct the best prognostic model. The variations in neoplasm mutation burden and factor gene ontology (GO) and gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA) within the high- and low-risk teams were analyzed, and therefore, the potential mechanism of the development of carcinoma was analyzed. We created a prognostic profile consisting of nineteen cuproptosis-related genes (NFE2L2, LIPT1, LIPT2, DLD, etc.) and their connected targets. The correlation between tumor mutational burden (TMB) and clinical manifestations of tumors demonstrates the importance of high- and low-expression bunch data on the incidence of clinical manifestations of tumors. The area under the curve (AUC) shows moderate prophetic power for copper mortality. GO enrichment analysis showed that immunorelated responses were enriched. Correlation analysis of immune cells showed that pathology could play an important role in the prevalence and prognosis of tumors, and there were variations in immune cells between the probable and low-risk groups. Our study suggests that the prognostic characteristic genes associated with cuproptosis can be used as new biomarkers to predict the prognosis of breast cancer patients. In addition, we found that immunotherapy may play a key role in breast cancer treatment regimens. Levels of immune-associated cells and pathways vary significantly among risk groups of breast cancer patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Vertical Radial Plume Mapping (VRPM) is a method for measuring fluxes of fugitive surface source gases, lacking sufficient temporal sequence information as it inversely calculates fluxes only based on the current cycle's measurements. We propose an improved VRPM flux inversion model, incorporating Weighted Iterative Average (WIA) corrected Path-Integrated Concentration (PIC) and Adaptive Weighted Sum of Squared Errors (AWSSE). Compared to the original VRPM, our model introduces historical measurement PICs and reconstructed PICs. Using the Bayesian Optimization Gaussian Processes (BO-GP), we derive optimal weight factor for the hyperparameter of the WIA component in the model. Validation on simulated data highlights the superior flux inversion capability of the WIA-AWSSE-VRPM model across diverse surface sources, efficiently leveraging historical data. The improved VRPM method achieves a significant 9.65% reduction in root mean square error (RMSE) within consistent source sets and decreases RMSE from 1.6979 to 0.1513 across varied sources, underscoring its effectiveness in accurately measuring emissions from fugitive sources. Finally, we apply the model to characterize gas emissions in field experiments. • Novel VRPM Flux Inversion Model with WIA and AWSSE Enhancements. • Optimal Hyperparameter Determination Using BO-GP for WIA Component. • Simulation Validation Demonstrates Robust Accuracy and Generalization. • Comparative Statistical Evaluation Highlights Superior Performance of the VRPM Model. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Surprisingly efficient decomposition approach is used to decompose unknown parameters for many different photovoltaic models, such as the SDM, DDM and PV module model. • Self-adaptive enhanced learning differential evolution—is designed to identify the nonlinear parameters obtained by decomposition, and then, by computing the derived matrix equations to obtain the linear parameters. • Considering the installation scenario of real photovoltaic generator sets, photovoltaic module models under different ambient temperatures and different irradiances are tested using the SaELDE. In order for the photovoltaic power generation system to convert energy with the highest efficiency after installation, the unknown parameters of the photovoltaic model need to be accurately set in advance. Therefore, in order to identify unknown parameters of photovoltaic models more reliably, effectively, and accurately, this paper first uses the decomposition approach that is extremely effective for different types of photovoltaic models, called matrix rotation decomposition. The unknown parameters of different photovoltaic models are decomposed into linear parameters and nonlinear parameters through matrix rotation decomposition approach. Then a simple and effective algorithm—Self-adaptive enhanced learning differential evolution (SaELDE)—is proposed to identify the decomposed nonlinear parameters. In SaELDE, there are three improvements: (1) the classification mutation learning mechanism is designed to make classified individuals evolve towards the promising direction; (2) the introduced crossover rate sorting approach effectively makes up for the neglected relationship between individuals and crossover rates; (3) combined with the population reduction strategy, it avoids the impact of the initial population setting on algorithm performance and balances the transition between the exploration and exploitation phases. Finally, the linear parameters are calculated by calculating the derived matrix equations according to the nonlinear parameters. Experimental results from a variety of common photovoltaic models, and even photovoltaic module models that need to face different temperatures and irradiance, show that the proposed SaELDE performs more accurately and has better robustness. In addition, the correlation coefficient of SaELDE is 1 under all conditions, which further proves the accuracy of the parameters extracted by SaELDE. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• The rapid improvement of biomaterials and engineering technology significantlyaccelerates the development of emerging mRNA vaccine therapy. • mRNA vaccines have unique advantages versus traditional anti-tumor therapies. • mRNA vaccines as the promising strategy in individual cancer therapy of colorectal cancer. Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a typical cancer that accounts for 10% of all new cancer cases annually and nearly 10% of all cancer deaths. Despite significant progress in current classical interventions for CRC, these traditional strategies could be invasive and with numerous adverse effects. The poor prognosis of CRC patients highlights the evident and pressing need for more efficient and targeted treatment. Novel strategies regarding mRNA vaccines for anti-tumor therapy have also been well-developed since the successful application for the prevention of COVID-19. mRNA vaccine technology won the 2023 Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine, signaling a new direction in human anti-cancer treatment: mRNA medicine. As a promising new immunotherapy in CRC and other multiple cancer treatments, the mRNA vaccine has higher specificity, better efficacy, and fewer side effects than traditional strategies. The present review outlines the basics of mRNA vaccines and their advantages over other vaccines and informs an available strategy for developing efficient mRNA vaccines for CRC precise treatment. In the future, more exploration of mRNA vaccines for CRC shall be attached, fostering innovation to address existing limitations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Plug-flow electrocatalytic membrane reactor (PF-ECMR) was firstly constructed. • The state-of-the-art performance: 95.6% CHA conversion; > 99% selectivity to KA oil. • Excellent stability: 10-day run with > 90.6% CHA conversion and > 99% selectivity. • Auxo-action of the product was verified via DFT calculation and experiment. • Green synthesis with mild conditions: room temperature, 4.8 V, no oxidant required. To further improve the capability of flow electrochemistry, the multistage plug-flow electrochemical membrane reactor (PF-ECMR) with membrane electrode was developed for enhancing the oxidation of cyclohexane (CHA) to produce KA oil (mixture of cyclohexanol and cyclohexanone). The catalytic results demonstrated that the CHA conversion and the selectivity to KA oil were up to 95.6% and > 99%, which was the highest in comparison with most of the state-of-the-art catalytic processes reported in the previous works. The mechanism was explored by density functional theory (DFT) calculations, indicating the auxo-action effect of cyclohexanone was beneficial for the formation of cyclohexyl hydroperoxide so as to enhance the CHA conversion. The excellent performance of PF-ECMR was also attributed to the staggered electric field and the accumulative effect of the multi-electrodes. This study provided a successful case of a combination of theoretical prediction and experimental verification together for organic synthesis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The exchange bias effect is extremely expected in 2D van der Waals (vdW) ferromagnetic (FM)/antiferromagnetic (AFM) heterostructures due to the high‐quality interface. CrOCl possesses strong magnetic anisotropy at 2D limit, and is an ideal antiferromagnet for constructing FM/AFM heterostructures to explore the exchange bias effect. Here, the exchange bias effect in Fe3GeTe2 (FGT)/CrOCl heterostructures through both anomalous Hall effect (AHE) and reflective magnetic circular dichroism (RMCD) measurements is studied. In the AHE measurements, the exchange bias field (HEB) at 3 K exhibits a distinct increase from ≈150 Oe to ≈450 Oe after air exposure, and such variation is attributed to the formation of an oxidized layer in FGT by analyzing the cross‐sectional microstructure. The HEB is successfully tuned by changing the FGT/CrOCl thickness and the cooling field. Furthermore, a larger HEB of ≈750 Oe at 1.7 K in FGT/CrOCl heterostructure through RMCD measurements is observed, and it is proposed that the larger HEB in RMCD measurements is related to the distribution of uncompensated spins at the interface. This work reveals several intriguing phenomena of the exchange bias effect in 2D vdW magnetic systems, which paves the way for the study of related spintronic devices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Investigation of ultrafast dynamic behaviors can provide novel insights about the coupling mechanisms among multiple degrees of freedom in condensed matters, such as lattice, magnetism and electronic structure. Here we investigate both the ferromagnetic (FM) and antiferromagnetic (AFM) dynamics of a strongly correlated oxide system, GdBaCo2O5.5 thin film by time-resolved x-ray magnetic circular dichroism in reflectivity (XMCDR) and resonant magnetic x-ray diffraction (RMXD). A photo-induced AFM-FM transition characterized by an increase of the transient XMCDR (sensitive to FM order) beyond the unpumped value and a decay of RMXD (sensitive to AFM order) was observed. The photon-energy dependence of the transient XMCDR and reflectivity could be interpreted as a concomitant photo-induced spin-state transition (SST). The AFM-FM transition and SST couple with each other in the time domain, resulting in unusual dynamic behaviors of the magnetism. Ultrafast magnetisation dynamics can reveal transient magnetic states and enable the observation of exotic physics not accessible on shorter timescales. Here, the authors investigate a photo-induced antiferromagnetic-ferromagnetic transition in a strongly correlated thin film using time resolved X-ray based techniques. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Floor water hazards pose an increasingly prominent risk in China as coal mining depths progressively increase. Two general models of complete and structural floor water inrush that consider the coupled effect of mining stress and water pressure were developed to address the problems caused by highly confined aquifers under these complex stress conditions. We developed an integrated floor water inrush model, and the floor rock mass was rezoned based on the deformation, failure characteristics, and water inrush mechanism of water-resistant floor strata under the combined action of confined water pressure and mine pressure. The formation of the coupled solid–fluid confined water uplift zone was studied from the perspective of fracture propagation. A formulation was obtained that describes the confined floor water under the coupled effects of mine pressure, water pressure, and solid–fluid interaction. An inrush risk prediction is proposed that considers the relationship between the confined water pressure and horizontal principal stress in the bottom plate's pressure relief zone. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) and their mimics are rapidly gaining attention as a new class of antimicrobials due to their clinical potential. AMPs are widely distributed throughout nature and participate in the innate host defense. In this study, 18 AMPs, including 3 β-defensins, 3 hepcidins, 4 liver-expressed antimicrobial peptide 2 (LEAP-2) compounds, 4 g-type lysozymes, 2 c-type lysozymes, and 2 NK-lysins, were identified from the genome of Carassius auratus by a homologous search and were further classified based on their fundamental structural features and molecular phylogeny. C. auratus AMPs were found to be ubiquitously distributed in all tested tissues and showed similar expression profiles, with the exception of β-defensins, when RT-qPCR was used to investigate the tissue distribution of AMPs in healthy Carassius gibel. In addition, the expression levels of NK-lysin genes in the tested tissues tended to be upregulated upon bacterial and viral infection when representative NK-lysins were chosen to examine their relative expression levels in various tissues. Importantly, the synthetic peptide caNKL2 102-119 , which targets the functional domain of saposin B in caNK-lysins, could effectively counter Aeromonas hydrophila , Staphylococcus aureus , and Escherichia coli with minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) values of 3–6 μg/mL, as well as inhibit the proliferation of spring viraemia of carp virus (SVCV). These results provide potential targets for antibiotic-free breeding in the aquaculture industry. • 18 AMPs from gibel carp were identified by bioinformatics techniques. • AMPs of gibel carp were ubiquitously distributed in all tested tissues and showed diverse expression pattern. • The expression levels of NK-lysin genes were upregulated upon bacterial and viral infection. • A synthetic peptide of NK-lysin exhibited antibacterial activity and antiviral activity by disrupting membranes of tested microorganisms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• This study explores how RNA-binding proteins (RBPs) affect tumor microenvironment (TME) in colorectal cancer (CRC) patients. • It highlights RBPs' role as epigenetic regulators in TME, especially the tumor immune and inflammatory microenvironment. • The study aims to enhance knowledge of CRC pathogenesis, its interaction with TME, and to identify new therapeutic targets. • This inspires the development of RBP-targeted therapies to hinder CRC progression and metastasis by modulating TME. Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the third most common cancer and has the second highest mortality rate among cancers. The development of CRC involves both genetic and epigenetic abnormalities, and recent research has focused on exploring the ex-transcriptome, particularly post-transcriptional modifications. RNA-binding proteins (RBPs) are emerging epigenetic regulators that play crucial roles in post-transcriptional events. Dysregulation of RBPs can result in aberrant expression of downstream target genes, thereby affecting the progression of colorectal tumors and the prognosis of patients. Recent studies have shown that RBPs can influence CRC pathogenesis and progression by regulating various components of the tumor microenvironment (TME). Although previous research on RBPs has primarily focused on their direct regulation of colorectal tumor development, their involvement in the remodeling of the TME has not been systematically reported. This review aims to highlight the significant role of RBPs in the intricate interactions within the CRC tumor microenvironment, including tumor immune microenvironment, inflammatory microenvironment, extracellular matrix, tumor vasculature, and CRC cancer stem cells. We also highlight several compounds under investigation for RBP-TME-based treatment of CRC, including small molecule inhibitors such as antisense oligonucleotides (ASOs), siRNAs, agonists, gene manipulation, and tumor vaccines. The insights gained from this review may lead to the development of RBP-based targeted novel therapeutic strategies aimed at modulating the TME, potentially inhibiting the progression and metastasis of CRC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Gliomas advance rapidly and are associated with a poor prognosis. Epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) accelerates the progression of gliomas, exerting a pivotal role in glioma development. Proteasome subunit alpha type-2 (PSMA2) exhibits high expression levels in gliomas. however, its specific involvement in glioma progression and its correlation with EMT remain elusive. This study aims to elucidate the role of PSMA2 in glioma progression and its potential association with EMT. Online tools were employed to analyze the expression patterns and survival curves of PSMA2 in gliomas. The relationship between PSMA2 and various characteristics of glioma patients was investigated using data from the TCGA and CGGA databases. In vitro, cell proliferation and migration were assessed through CCK-8, colony formation, and transwell assays. Furthermore, a tumor xenograft model in nude mice was established to evaluate in vivo tumorigenesis. Protein binding to PSMA2 was scrutinized using co-immunoprecipitation MS (co-IP MS). The potential biological functions and molecular pathways associated with PSMA2 were explored through GO analysis and KEGG analysis, and the correlation between PSMA2 and EMT was validated through correlation analysis and Western blot experiments. Bioinformatics analysis revealed a significant upregulation of PSMA2 across various cancers, with particularly heightened expression in gliomas. Moreover, elevated PSMA2 levels were correlated with advanced tumor stages and diminished survival rates among glioma patients. Inhibition of PSMA2 demonstrated a pronounced suppressive effect on glioma cell proliferation, both in vitro and in vivo. Knockdown of PSMA2 also impeded the migratory capacity of glioma cells. GO and KEGG enrichment analyses indicated that PSMA2-binding proteins (identified through Co-IP-MS) were associated with cell adhesion molecule binding and cadherin binding. Western blot results further confirmed the role of PSMA2 in promoting epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) in glioma cells. Our study provides evidence supporting the role of PSMA2 as a regulatory factor in EMT and suggests its potential as a prognostic biomarker for glioma progression. • PSMA2 is highly expressed in gliomas. • PSMA2 promotes the proliferation and metastasis of gliomas. • PSMA2 is associated with epithelial-mesenchymal transition in gliomas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Epidermal growth factor receptor‐tyrosine kinase inhibitor (EGFR‐TKI) has been considered as an effective treatment in epidermal growth factor receptor‐mutant (EGFR‐mutant) advanced non‐small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). However, most patients develop acquired resistance eventually. Here, we compared and analyzed the genetic alterations between tissue assay and circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) and further explored the resistance mechanisms after EGFR‐TKI treatment. Methods and Materials: Amplification refractory mutation system‐polymerase chain reaction (ARMS‐PCR), Cobas® ARMS‐PCR and next‐generation sequencing (NGS) were performed on tissue samples after pathological diagnosis. Digital droplet PCR (ddPCR) and NGS were performed on plasma samples. The association between genetic alterations and clinical outcomes was analyzed retrospectively. Results: Thirty‐seven patients were included. The success rate of re‐biopsy was 91.89% (34/37). The total detection rate of EGFR T790M was 62.16% (23/37) and the consistency between tissue and ctDNA was 78.26% (18/23). Thirty‐four patients were analyzed retrospectively. For tissue re‐biopsy, 24 patients harbored concomitant mutations. Moreover, tissue re‐biopsy at resistance showed 21 patients (21/34, 61.76%) had the concomitant somatic mutation. The three most frequent concomitant mutations were TP53 (18/34, 52.94%), MET (4/34, 11.76%), and PIK3CA (4/34, 11.76%). Meanwhile, 21 patients (21/34, 61.76%) with EGFR T790M mutation. Progression‐free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) were better in patients with T790M mutation (p = 0.010 and p = 0.017) or third‐generation EGFR‐TKI treatment (p < 0.0001 and p = 0.073). Interestingly, concomitant genetic alterations were significantly associated with a worse prognosis for patients with EGFR T790M mutation receiving third‐generation EGFR‐TKIs (p = 0.037). Conclusions: Multi‐platforms are feasible and highly consistent for re‐biopsy after EGFR‐TKI resistance. Concomitant genetic alterations may be associated with a poor prognosis for patients with EGFR T790M mutation after third‐generation EGFR‐TKIs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We studied the water inrush mechanism in deep mines using experiments to determine the full stress–strain permeability of different lithologies in deep coal seam floors. We also performed numerical simulations of rock floor failure and confined water uplift variation, fracture evolution, permeability variations of coal seam floor failure, and monitored confined water uplift. The results show that water inrush is related to the coupling of mining pressure and water pressure, which expand after unloading, similar to the way rocks soften in stress–strain permeability experiments after peak stress. This conclusion has been confirmed by field drilling, water injection tests, and numerical simulations. The water-bearing layer of the floor strata can be modified (strengthened) by grouting to reduce confined water flow. Technical measures can be taken to divert pressure from and reduce damage to the floor strata and thereby prevent water inrush through the coal floor. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Superwetting, high-performance Pt catalyst with nitrogen-doped carbon aerogels as support was prepared by nanocapsule method. • The distribution of Pt nanoparticles on porous support was controlled by nanocapsule method. • Two-layered cathode catalyst layer with hydrophilic inner layer was constructed to improve water management. • The output of the best-improved liquid-feed DMFC was 43 % higher than the conventional one. • The performance and stability of vapor-feed DMFC were significantly improved. In this paper, an effective water management structure for direct methanol fuel cell (DMFC) is designed based on the super-hydrophilicity of nitrogen-doped carbon aerogel which functions as the support of Pt catalyst. Considering the case where Pt nanoparticles deposited into the nanopores of the support are difficult to contact with the ionomer, the catalyst is synthesized by nanocapsule method, and the experimental results prove that a favorable improved oxygen reduction reaction activity of the prepared catalyst has been achieved. The produced hydrophilic catalyst is used to construct a two-layered cathode catalyst layer (CCL) with hydrophilic inner layer and hydrophobic outer layer as water management structure, since a single-layered hydrophilic CCL shows poor performance due to serious water flooding. A mathematical model is developed to study the influence of two-layered CCL, and its effect on cell performance is also analyzed by polarization tests. For the improved liquid-feed DMFCs, high hydraulic pressure is formed in CCL to promote water recovery and inhibit methanol crossover. For the improved vapor-feed DMFC, the enhanced water recovery secures the water required for the anodic oxidation reaction, which increases the output performance and stability greatly. This study provides a new method for the optimization of DMFC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• V 2 O 5 nanorods (NRs) on Ti membrane were prepared by electrodeposition. • Defect-rich V 2 O 5 NRs/Ti electrodes were tailored by H 2 -induced treatment at 350 °C. • 55.5% CHA conversion & >99% selectivity were obtained at 30 °C & ambient pressure. • Oxygen vacancy defects promoted the enhancement of electrocatalyst efficiency. • DFT calculations were in good agreement with the experimental observations. Understanding the surface defect chemistry of oxides has proven to be highly important in electrochemical oxidation. V 2 O 5 nanorods (NRs) were loaded onto porous Ti membranes, then treated with H 2 to generate reduced defect-rich V 2 O 5 NRs/Ti (r-V 2 O 5 NRs/Ti) electrodes. These r-V 2 O 5 NRs/Ti electrodes were used to construct an electrocatalytic membrane reactor (ECMR) for the electro-oxidation of cyclohexane (CHA) to cyclohexanone (K) and cyclohexanol (A). The electrocatalytic results showed that the r-V 2 O 5 NRs/Ti membrane electrode exhibited superior catalytic performance compared with the original V 2 O 5 NRs catalyst. 55.5% conversion and more than 99% selectivity were obtained at 30 °C and ambient pressure without any oxidant, which is superior to most catalysts reported in the literature. More importantly, density functional theory (DFT) calculations confirmed that the existence of oxygen vacancies on the r-V 2 O 5 NRs/Ti electrode led to the lower band gap facilitated electron transition, resulting in enhanced conductivity and superior electrochemical activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Matrix-associated autologous chondrocyte implantation (MACI) achieves good clinical efficacy in young patients with focal cartilage injury; however, phenotypic de-differentiation of chondrocytes cultured in monolayer and the treatment of older OA patients are still challenges in the field of cartilage tissue engineering. This study aimed to assess the in vitro re-differentiation potential and in vivo chondrogenic capacity of human OA chondrocytes inoculated into collagen I scaffolds with different cellular phenotypes and seeding densities. Methods: OA chondrocytes and articular chondrocyte-laden scaffolds were cultured over 2 weeks in in vitro. Reverse transcriptase quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) and histological staining were used to detect the mRNA expression profiles and extracellular matrix secretion of chondrocyte-specific markers. OA chondrocyte-laden collagen I scaffolds with different cellular phenotypes, and seeding densities were implanted into SCID mice over 4 weeks to evaluate the chondrogenic capacity in vivo. Results: Increased COL2a1, ACAN, COMP, SOX9, and BMP2 expression levels and decreased COL1a1, VCAN, MMP13, and ADAMTS5 amounts were observed in OA chondrocytes seeded in collagen I scaffolds; Implantation of phenotypically superior OA chondrocytes in collagen I scaffolds at high density could improve the chondrogenic capacity of human OA chondrocytes, as confirmed by RT-qPCR assessed gene expression patterns in vitro and histological evaluation in vivo. Conclusions: Freshly isolated chondrocytes from OA patients could be a source of replacement for articular chondrocytes being commonly used in MACI. Implantation of phenotypically superior OA chondrocytes in collagen I scaffolds at high density could be a promising tool for the treatment of elderly OA patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Silicon nitride (Si 3 N 4) based composites have been extensively studied and widely used in industrial applications. Herein, SiC/Si 3 N 4 composites were prepared through hot press sintering at 1700 °C under nitrogen (N 2) atmosphere. Fluoride additives (AlF 3 and MgF 2) were used to reduce lattice oxygen content, which can affect the bulk density and a source to increase the porosity of the composite. Experimental results revealed that the chemical compatibility between silicon carbide (SiC) and Si 3 N 4 matrix under high temperature sintering could be effectively improved by integrating SiC/Si 3 N 4 ceramics interphase. The X-ray diffraction (XRD) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) results indicate that a complete transformation of α to β-Si 3 N 4 and intergranular behavior of material occurred, which revealed that the phase transformation was unaffected by the addition of SiC. Furthermore, the enhanced crystallization degree and a strong interfacial effect of the SiC/Si 3 N 4 composites enabled to obtain a significant increase in thermal conductivity (90.67–145.66 W/mK), fracture toughness (8.52–10.3 MPa m0.5) and Vickers hardness (1849–2125 HV). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents a novel approach—an efficient closed-form approximation iterative fitting algorithm based on laser absorption spectra. Through this closed-form approximation iterative fitting, key parameters such as peak value, spectral line width, and normalized signal area serve as indicators for iteration completion, improving the speed without compromising accuracy. Furthermore, it employs the spectral signal of n cycles as a window for further processing, minimizing external interference. The results show that the proposed method averages 9.75 iterations, while the Levenberg–Marquardt fitting method averages 60.17 iterations. The average iteration time for the proposed method is 588.83 ms, a substantial 81.7% reduction compared to the 3210.5 ms required by the Levenberg–Marquardt fitting. These results decisively demonstrate the efficacy of the proposed method in reducing iteration time and enhancing measurement precision. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In solid oxide fuel cells (SOFCs), chromium deposition and poisoning of metallic interconnect is one of the most important issues in the electrochemical activity and stability of the cathode for the oxygen reduction reaction (ORR). In this paper, the chromium evaporation characteristics, oxide scale growth, and deposition of chromium on the ORR on (La,Sr)MnO 3 (LSM) cathode are studied at 700–800 °C for SUS430 alloy interconnect material in the intermediate-temperature solid oxide fuel cells. The chromium vaporization rate is measured using the transpiration technique and the surface morphologies, and cross-sections of oxide scales are examined by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and energy dispersive X-ray analysis (EDX). The results indicate that chromium volatilization is correlated with the composition and morphology of the oxide scale, the Cr volatilization process presents two stages according to the structural evolution of the oxide scale. In addition, deposition and poisoning of Cr species released from metallic interconnect on the LSM cathode are studied and the formation of MnCr 2 O 4 phase on the LSM backbone degrades the ORR electrochemical activity, causing the increase of overpotential of the cathode. The results obtained give insight into the mechanism of the Cr poisoning effect in intermediate-temperature. [Display omitted] • Chromium volatilization is correlated with the composition of the oxide scale. • The amount of chromium volatilization increases with the temperature. • The deposition of Cr species deteriorates the ORR activity of the cathode. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• We propose using Radial Basis Function (RBF) interpolation to increase the number of data pairs in Vertical Radial Plume Mapping (VRPM), a mass balance method used to quantify area source emissions. • Our results show that RBF interpolation significantly improves the accuracy of flux inversion, with reduced mean absolute error (MAE) and root mean square error (RMSE), especially using the Gaussian RBF interpolation method. • The average flux calculated after performing RBF interpolation is closer to the real result, reflecting the average emission level more accurately. • Our proposed method can be used to improve the accuracy of VRPM without changing the original measurement settings, providing an innovative and valuable approach for accurately quantifying fugitive gas emissions from non-point sources. The Vertical Radial Plume Mapping (VRPM) method proposed by the U.S. EPA in Other Test Method 10 (OTM-10) is widely used to measure nonpoint source emissions. However, the accuracy of the VRPM is affected by the large number of parameters relative to the measurement data and the presence of measurement noise. To improve the accuracy of flux estimation, we propose to apply evenly spaced radial basis function (RBF) interpolation to the measurement data before using the VRPM. The experiment was tested and validated under various measurement configurations. The results indicate that RBF interpolation techniques, especially Gaussian RBF (GSRBF) interpolation, reduce the mean absolute error and root mean square error of flux estimation, leading to improved flux estimation accuracy. The mean emission rate calculated after RBF interpolation is closer to the true value, indicating that this interpolation technique helps to reflect more accurately the average emission level over time. Even in the most challenging validation set, the percentage error of mean flux decreased by 3.8% after interpolation. The proposed method can be a simple and measurement-cost-effective way to improve the accuracy of VRPM measurements. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Postoperative pain is a major concern for most of the surgical patients, and an inadequate postoperative pain control may cause a series of complications. With an effective pain control and lesser side effects, local anesthetics are preferred for use in postoperative pain management. However, the action duration of current local anesthetics is too short to meet the requirements of postoperative analgesia. In this study, an injectable levobupivacaine (LB)-loaded thermo-sensitive hydrogel system based on biodegradable poly(D,L-lactide)-poly(ethylene glycol)-poly(D,L-lactide) (PLEL) was developed for long-acting local anesthetic, in which the soluble charged cation form of LB (LB HCl) was partly alkalified to the poorly soluble base form (LB base). This hybrid LB loaded PLEL system (hLB/PLEL) is a free flowable liquid at room temperature and changes into a semi-solid hydrogel once injection in response to the physiological temperature. Then, the dissolved LB HCl could release firstly from the hydrogel contributing to a quick work, and the insoluble LB base dissolved and released gradually as the decrease of the pH during the biodegradation of PLEL hydrogel, resulting in a long-term LB release in local. The drug release behavior, pharmacokinetic, and biocompatibility of the thermo-sensitive hLB/PLEL were studied in vitro and in vivo. The anesthetic effects of hLB/PLEL system were evaluated in the rat models of sciatic nerve block, subcutaneous infiltration anesthesia and postoperative pain as well. This hLB/PLEL system generated a significantly prolonged analgesic effect in rat models, which produced approximately 7 times longer duration than 0.75% LB HCl and effectively relieved the spontaneous pain for 3 days. In general, the presented hLB/PLEL system can not only achieve a fast-acting but also sustainably release LB to block the nerve and significantly extend the effect of local analgesia, which means a promising candidate for long-acting postoperative pain management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The selective oxidation of cyclohexane (CHA) is still a significant challenge in the field of current catalysis chemistry and chemical industry. Here, nano-V2O5/Ti porous membrane electrodes with different morphologies, i.e., nanorods (NRs), nanosheets (NSs), and nanoparticles (NPs), were prepared by loading nano-V2O5 onto porous Ti membranes. Simultaneously, a nano-V2O5/Ti membrane electrode was employed to constitute an electrocatalytic membrane reactor (ECMR) for CHA oxidation. Results indicated that the electrochemical performance was significantly associated with the morphology of the nano-V2O5 catalysts on the membrane electrode. ECMR with V2O5 NSs/Ti electrode exhibited superior properties. Excellent electrochemical activity was obtained in the application of CHA oxidation with 28.4% conversion and 99.9% selectivity to cyclohexanone and cyclohexanol (KA oil), which is better than most noble-metal-based catalysts reported in the literature under aerobic reaction conditions. Further, a prominent catalytic activity (10.5% conversion and 99.5% selectivity to KA oil) was first achieved even under 0 °C. The preferable electrocatalytic performance of V2O5 NSs/Ti electrode for CHA oxidation was attributed to the large effective electrocatalytic surface area, high electron transfer rate, and high rate of hydroxyl radical (ṖOH) generation. Furthermore, the mechanism of CHA oxidation was explored. It was established that the valence change of V catalysts is an essential step during the selective oxidation of CHA by ECMR. Moreover, the V2O5 NSs/Ti electrode displayed excellent stability of oxidation during the selective oxidation of CHA. Therefore, our research opens up a new avenue toward the fundamental understanding and design of nanocatalysts in heterogeneous and electrochemical catalysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

REFERENCE 1 Z. Guo, Y. Zhang, W. Xu, S. Jin, X. Gan, H. Zhang, D. Chen, and Q. Jia, "A von Hamos full-cylindrical spectrometer based on striped Si/Ge crystal for advanced x-ray spectroscopy", Rev. Sci. Instrum. Erratum: "A von Hamos full-cylindrical spectrometer based on striped Si/Ge crystal for advanced x-ray spectroscopy" [Rev. Sci. Instrum. The letter "X" should be lowercase, so the correct name is "Shuoxue Jin.". [Extracted from the article]

Zirconia is a material commonly used for denture repair due to its excellent mechanical properties. However, the low bond strength between zirconia dentures and natural teeth may cause the prosthesis to fall off, which is a major obstacle to its clinical success. Improving the bonding strength between dental zirconia and teeth and resisting the adhesive failure of zirconia prosthesis have been difficult problems in recent years. Thus, this study aims to infiltrate synthesized fluorapatite (Ca 5 (PO 4) 3 F, FAp) glass-ceramics on an unsintered zirconia surface. The microstructure, phase characterization, surface morphology, mechanical properties, and bonding strength were comprehensively evaluated in this study. Scanning electron microscopy images of the cross-section of infiltrated zirconia revealed a residual FAp glass-ceramics coating on the surface, under which is the graded layer, demonstrating that the FAp glass-ceramics infiltrated the loose porous zirconia embryo to form a mechanical chimera. Energy dispersive spectroscopy results showed that silicon, which is the principal element of the FAp glass-ceramics, penetrated the zirconia to a depth of nearly 150 μm. These results verified the mechanical stability of the FAp glass-ceramics coating. Meanwhile, the shear strength test between the infiltrated zirconia and teeth showed that the bonding strength increased by approximately 3-fold, while the bond durability and flexural strength of the infiltrated zirconia also increased. As a new material for infiltrating zirconia, the application of the synthesized FAp glass-ceramics on the surface of unsintered zirconia with an appropriate coating time can ensure a high penetration depth and prevent stripping. Meanwhile, the bond strength and durability of the infiltrated zirconia can be significantly enhanced without reducing its mechanical properties. [Display omitted] • Infiltrating fluorapatite on zirconia could improve bonding strength and durability. • Fluorapatite infiltrated zirconia form a large penetration depth and non-stripping. • Flexural strength of fluorapatite infiltrated zirconia could increase. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To construct an injectable fibrin glue system loaded with kaempferol (FG@F) to improve the bioavailability of kaempferol and observe its efficacy in the treatment of intervertebral disc degeneration (IVDD). Kaempferol-loaded fibrin glue was first synthesized in advance. Subsequently, the materials were characterized by various experimental methods. Then, nucleus pulposus cells (NPCs) were stimulated with lipopolysaccharide (LPS) to establish a degenerative cell model, and the corresponding intervention treatment was conducted to observe the effect in vitro. Finally, the tail disc of rats was punctured to establish a model of IVDD, and the therapeutic effect of the material in vivo was observed after intervertebral disc injection. The FG@F system has good injectability, sustained release and biocompatibility. This treatment reduced the inflammatory response associated with IVDD and regulated matrix synthesis and degradation. Animal experimental results showed that the FG@F system can effectively improve needle puncture-induced IVDD in rats. The FG@F system has better efficacy than kaempferol or FG alone due to its slow release and mechanical properties. The drug delivery and biotherapy platform based on this functional system might also serve as an alternative therapy for IVDD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives Genetic profiles of primary and metastatic lung tumor have been investigated by previous studies. However, whether they can be replaced by each other to guide treatment remains controversial. Moreover, it is unclear that whether genetic profiles of plasma can reflect genetic divergence between primary and metastatic lesions. Materials and methods In this prospective study, we collected 35 pairs of matched primary tumor tissue, metastatic lymph nodes and plasma from treatment-naïve patients with advanced non-squamous non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) and applied to capture-based sequencing using a panel consisting 56 NSCLC-related genes to interrogate the heterogeneity and similarity among the 3 sites. Results We observed 62.0% (67/108) by-variant concordance rate among primary tumor, metastatic lymph nodes and plasma as well as 76.4% (81/106) by-variant concordance rate between primary tumor and metastatic lymph nodes. When the analysis restricted to driver genes, we achieved 60.9% (28/46) and 77.3% (34/44) concordance, respectively. Furthermore, there is no statistically significant difference in progression-free survival (PFS) of 17 patients who used matched targeted therapy between patients having 100% concordance rate between primary tumor and metastatic lymph nodes and patients having partially matched mutational profiles. Conclusion Collectively, our study revealed a similar genetic profile shared between primary tumor and metastatic lymph nodes. The limited discordance observed can be partially reflected by plasma. Sequencing results obtained from either site can be utilized for providing treatment guidance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

QX-OH, a new synthetic local anesthetic, produced concentration-dependent, reversible, and long-acting local anesthesia in animal models, with moderate local toxicity. As part of preclinical research for drug development, we developed and validated a method for the determination of QX-OH in the plasma, muscle, and sciatic nerve using liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry. After a simple protein precipitation procedure, analysis was performed on an Extend C18 column (100 mm × 3 mm, 3.5 μm) by isocratic elution with 0.05% formic acid/acetonitrile (78:22, v/v) at a flow rate of 0.3 mL/min. A multiple-reaction monitoring mode at the transitions of m / z 279.1 → 102.1 for QX-OH and m / z 275.2 → 126.1 for an internal standard (ropivacaine hydrochloride) was used for the quantification, with a positive electrospray ionization interface. The approach was validated as per the U.S. Food and Drug Administration guidelines and successfully used in a pharmacokinetic study of QX-OH after a sciatic nerve block with 0.2 mL of 35 mM QX-OH. The results demonstrated that the new local anesthetic, QX-OH, had a high concentration in tissue, low systemic exposure, and long duration in the sciatic nerve. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

1T-TiSe 2 is a model transition metal dichalcogenide material that develops charge density waves (CDWs). Here we present variable-temperature Raman spectroscopy study on both CDW and optical phonon modes of 1T-TiSe 2 thin layers exfoliated onto SiO 2 substrate. Raman scattering intensities of all modes reach a maximum when the sample thickness is about 12 nm. This phenomenon can be explained by optical interference effect between the sample and the substrate. The CDW amplitude modes experience redshift and broadening as temperature increases. We extract CDW transition temperature ( T CDW ) from temperature dependence of the frequency of A 1 g CDW mode. We find that T CDW decreases in thinner flakes, which could be due to extrinsic effects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Membrane distillation (MD) is a promising desalination technology as it is less sensitive to feed's salinity and can handle high-salinity water. However, the industrial application of MD is restricted by the limited availability of cost-effective hydrophobic membranes. This study developed a simple method to fabricate hydrophobic MD membranes through the coating of a fluoroethylene vinyl ether polymer called LUMIFLON™ LF-200. The fluoropolymer was effectively coated on porous nitrocellulose (NC) and nylon membrane through dip-coating followed by a thermal crosslinking. The coating layer was thin and uniform, covering the surface of the whole membrane matrix, while the high porosity and the microstructure of the membranes were still mostly preserved. After modification, the originally hydrophilic NC and nylon membranes were transformed into hydrophobic, with water contact angles of ∼130°. The 12LF-NC membrane showed a high flux of 10.1 kg m−2 h−1 with salt rejection >99.99% over 120 h in the direct contact MD fed with 10 wt% NaCl solution, which outperformed the commercial PVDF membrane. This coating method has the potential to modify various substrates to produce MD membranes with good performance, which broadens the availability of appropriate membranes for MD application. [Display omitted] • Fluorinated copolymer, LUMIFLON LF-200 is used to prepare hydrophobic MD membranes. • LF-200 was simply dip-coated on hydrophilic substrates and crosslinked under mild heating. • The WCAs of modified nitrocellulose and nylon membranes increased to ∼130° from 0°. • The 12LF-NC membrane had excellent flux >10 kg m−2 h−1 treating 10 wt% salt water. • This method has high efficiency, wide versatility and the potential to scale up. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work, we synthesized cryptate copper(II) followed by complexed with sulfonate chitosan (SCS). After characterization, the evaluation of the antioxidant properties of resulting complexes were carried out by 1,1-Diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl radical (DPPH•), hydroxyl radical (•OH), and 2,2′-Azinobis-(3-ethylbenzthiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) (ABTS•+), while the antibacterial and biofilm inhibitory activity against Pseudomonas aeruginosa PAO1 (P. aeruginosa PAO1) were also investigated. According to the results, cryptate copper(II) exhibited the best antioxidant activity followed by cryptate copper(II)/SCS complexes, and SCS. Significant antibacterial activity of cryptate copper(II) against P. aeruginosa PAO1 was observed with the minimum inhibitory concentration of MIC value 12.50 μg/mL and minimum bactericidal concentration of MBC value 100.00 μg/mL, followed by cryptate copper(II)/SCS complexes and SCS. Cryptate copper(II) and cryptate copper(II)/SCS exhibited antibacterial activity which copper ions might enter the interior of cells, and the intracellular ions made the killed bacteria serve as an antibacterial agent showing a zombie effect. The copper ions complexed with cryptate and SCS rendering potential unlimited biological activities, might become one of the most popular research areas because of their unique coordination chemistry and their long-term biological activities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, comprehensive field observations were collected out in urban, suburban and industrial areas of Wuhan, China in winter to compare and analyse the concentration level, source and secondary transformation potential of volatile organic compounds (VOCs). And the CJZ, SLDD and HGQ sites were used to assess the atmospheric VOC pollution in urban, suburban and industrial areas respectively. The total VOC (TVOC) concentrations at the three sites were 25.35 ± 12.66, 28.55 ± 9.19 and 66.81 ± 65.40 ppb, respectively, which shows that pollution in the industrial area is more serious. Vehicle exhaust and industrial emissions are the main sources of VOC emissions in Wuhan. The contributions of vehicle exhaust and industrial emissions to the VOCs are 57.03%, 48.44% and 55.18% at the CJZ, SLDD and HGQ sites, respectively. High potential source contribution function values mainly occur in the east and southwest areas of the sampling sites, indicating that Wuhan has a strong local VOC source. In addition, alkenes and aromatics play a leading role in secondary conversion during selected periods of relatively high O 3 concentration. At the same time, the simulation results of the F0AM model fall within the VOC-limited regimes, and the suburban and industrial area are more sensitive to VOCs. The O 3 concentration can be effectively reduced when the reduction ratio of AVOCs/NOx is 1.25–1.56, 1.11–1.20 and 1.42–1.61. In general, it is imperative to reduce VOC emissions by region and implement active VOC-species-focused strategies. [Display omitted] • The TVOC concentration in the industrial area was 2–3 times higher than that in the urban and suburban areas. • Different functional areas had distinct chemical features in atmosphere. • Emissions from industrial areas had a significant transmission impact on urban areas. • Alkenes and aromatics played a dominant role in secondary transformation. • Industrial areas had a higher reduction ratio of AVOCs/NOx. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

QX-314 has been shown to produce long-acting local anesthesia in vivo in animals; however, translation to humans has been impeded by concerns about toxicity. We investigated whether the newly emerged QX-OH molecule could confer long-lasting anesthesia with a low local toxicity in rats. In rat sciatic nerve block model, QX-OH 25 mM produced a longer sensory block than QX-314 25 mM (median [25th, 75th percentiles], 5.5 [4.25, 6] h vs. 3 [3, 4] h; P = 0.03). QX-OH 35 mM produced a longer sensory block than QX-314 35 mM (8 [6, 12] h vs. 6 [4, 6.5] h, P = 0.038). QX-OH at 35 and 45 mM generated longer motor blocks than QX-314, with tissue toxicity less than that of QX-314 at the same concentration. In contrast with bupivacaine, QX-OH was clearly superior in terms of sensory and motor blockade durations after a single bolus injection. There was no significant difference in tissue toxicity between QX-OH (25 and 35 mM) and bupivacaine. In rat cutaneous trunci pinprick model, the QX-OH-induced pain threshold remained significantly different from baseline at 6 h (25 mM, P < 0.0001), 10 h (35 mM, P < 0.0001), and 12 h (45 mM, P < 0.0001). The time required for full recovery from the subcutaneous anesthetic effect was significantly longer for QX-OH than for QX-314 and bupivacaine. So QX-OH produced concentration-dependent, reversible, and long-acting local anesthesia in animal models with a moderate local toxicity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The bandgap nature and near-edge band structure of the chalcopyrite ZnXP 2 (X = Si, Ge, Sn) are investigated using the first-principles approaches. For these materials, whereas the valence band maximums are well defined, there are several competing near-extrema at the conduction band-edge. Moreover, the energetically near-degenerate conduction states are usually derived from different electron orbitals, which results in distinct optical properties and thus different bandgap types. A pseudo-direct bandgap, which is related to a weak optical absorption onset, can also be found beside the well-known direct and indirect bandgaps. In this work, we first investigate the fundamental properties of the band-edge electronic states using the density functional theory with the generalized gradient approximation. The origins of bandgap anomaly of the ZnXP 2 systems are then analyzed. Finally, we perform the many-body electronic structure calculations for more reliable band orderings. The quasiparticle calculations indicate that whereas ZnSiP 2 and ZnSnP 2 have a pseudo-direct and a direct bandgap, respectively. However, ZnGeP 2 has a bandgap with mixed pseudo-direct and indirect characters. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Reaction-bonded silicon carbide ( RBSC) was prepared by ceramic injection molding ( CIM) technique with feedstocks containing silicon carbide (SiC), a wax-based organic system and different amounts of carbon black. As a critical effect of the reaction sintering process, carbon was introduced from the carbon black and the decomposition product of the organic polymers, respectively. This study described the influence of carbon content on the mixing and injection process firstly and then emphasized the debinding process since it played a large role in the process of the pyrolysis of organic. Results indicated that the preferable thermal debinding was performed in N2 and the optimal performance was obtained for RBSC with 7 wt.% of carbon black, with the density of 2.98 g/cm3, apparent porosity of 0.24%, bending strength of 301.59 MPa and fracture toughness of 4.18 MPa·m1/2. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A method based on direct absorption spectroscopy (DAS) without baseline fitting procedure, which we called baseline-free DAS (BFDAS), is proposed. The BFDAS utilizes three transmission spectra at different pressures and a simulated absorbance at the smallest pressure to derive the difference of integral absorbances at the other two pressures, where gas concentration or line intensity can be obtained. The proposed method is experimentally validated by comparing the line intensities of ammonia measured by conventional DAS and BFDAS, which demonstrates good performance of the BFDAS in broadened or narrowly scanned spectra where baseline fitting is difficult to be implemented. • A novel method based on direct absorption spectroscopy is proposed. • The method retrieves concentration or line intensity without baseline fitting procedure. • Line intensities of ammonia are measured by this method. • The method has good performance for broadened or narrowly scanned spectra. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We investigate the change of magnetism and electronic structure across the antiferromagnetic (AFM) -ferromagnetic (FM) transition of Ni-doped FeRh epitaxial thin films by x-ray magnetic circular dichroism (XMCD) and hard x-ray photoemission spectroscopy (HAXPES). The Rh L edge XMCD results indicate that the remnant FM phase at low temperature possesses smaller Rh moment than the normal FM phase which can undergo AFM-FM transition. The HAXPES results confirm an increase of Rh 4 d density of state at the Fermi level and a possible "well-screened" state at the Ni 2 p photoemission in the FM phase. FM fluctuation of the inter-site Fe-Fe exchange coupling within the AFM phase can be interpreted from the temperature dependence of the Fe 2 p HAXPES results. • Element-specific characterization of magnetism and electronic structure of FeRh. • Rh moment size in FeRh is related to the existence of the AFM-FM transition. • Information about Rh density of states and FM fluctuation is obtained by HAXPES. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Solvent resistant membrane distillation (SR-MD) is a novel technology to effectively separate water from waste streams containing solvents with high boiling points, avoiding the high chemical costs and release of harmful gas in conventional treatments. Ceramic membranes are promising for this process as they are highly stable chemically but they require modification to tune the hydrophilicity to hydrophobicity. However, the widely used silanization for hydrophobic modification often involves expensive chemicals and may produce toxic substances. Here, we present a new hydrophobic modification method with the use of fatty acid chloride (FAC), as a greener and cheaper alternative to silanes. In the grafting reaction, the acyl chloride groups react with the –OH groups on the ceramic membranes to form strong ester bonds. We successfully grafted stearoyl chloride (SC) and palmitoyl chloride (PC) on the ceramic tubular membranes. With long carbon chains grafted, the modified membranes exhibited high hydrophobicity with a water contact angle >141° and a liquid entry pressure >3 bar. When tested in SR-MD with a feed solution containing 50 wt% dimethyl sulfoxide, the PC-modified membrane demonstrated a flux of 3.2 kg m−2 h−1, with rejection >98% and separation factor >110 at 60 °C, and a high flux of 4.5 kg m−2 h−1 with rejection >96% at 70 °C. The FAC-modified membranes allow a cost-effective treatment of challenging wastewater containing organic solvents through SR-MD. [Display omitted] • Hydrophobic ceramic membranes for solvent resistant MD were synthesized through fatty acid chloride grafting. • The acyl chloride groups formed strong ester bonds on ceramic surface and the modified membranes had high hydrophobicity. • Flux of 3.2 kg m−2 h−1, rejection >98% and separation factor >110 can be achieved when treating 50 wt% DMSO in SR-MD. • The hydrophobicity and separation performance are comparable to ceramic membrane grafted with silanes. • This study presents a greener and cheaper surface modification chemistry to synthesize hydrophobic ceramic membranes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• An ECMR with V 2 O 5 /Ti electrode was used to activate Na 2 S 2 O 8 to produce AA from CYH. • Na 2 S 2 O 8 as electrolyte promoted ECMR to produce SO 4 ·−, HO· and non-radicals. • 68.5% CYH conversion and the selectivity to AA (53.2%) and KA oil (39.5%) achieved. • The CYH oxidation is ascribed to HO· (30.7%), SO 4 ·− (18.1%) and non-radicals (51.1%). • High performance is due to the synergistic effect of electrolysis and PS oxidation. A flow flow-through electrocatalytic membrane reactor (ECMR) with a nano-V 2 O 5 loaded porous Ti membrane (V 2 O 5 /Ti) as an anode and persulfate (PS) (Na 2 S 2 O 8) as co-oxidants was developed for one-step production of adipic acid (AA) from cyclohexane (CYH). Electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) spectroscopy, in-situ Raman spectroscopy as well as the corresponding electrochemical analyses were employed to investigate the production of active species and reaction mechanism. Results showed that the addition of PS significantly increased the conversion of CYH and achieved one-step oxidation of CYH (conversion:68.5%) to produce AA (selectivity: 53.2%) and KA oil (selectivity: 39.5%). The ECMR can efficiently activate PS to SO 4 ·−, HO· and non-radicals (V 2 O 5 -PS). Besides, the direct conversion from CYH to AA was attributed to the composite electrode formed by PS and V 2 O 5 , which can increase the open circuit potential of the working electrode. Lastly, a mechanistic pathway for the oxidation of CYH to AA was proposed. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]