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The commercial potential of composite polymer electrolytes (CPEs) is significant due to their ability to combine the advantages of both inorganic and polymer solid electrolytes. However, the unstable interface and insufficient ionic conductivity remain important challenges in practical applications of CPEs for achieving high-performance solid-state lithium batteries (SLBs). Herein, we construct a double-layer composite polymer electrolyte (D-CPE) by incorporating nanosized TiO 2 fillers with adjustable concentrations of oxygen vacancies into poly (ethylene oxide) (PEO)-based electrolyte composites. In the D-CPE structure, one CPE layer containing TiO 2 fillers with oxygen vacancies exclusively interfaces with the LiFePO 4 cathode, while the other CPE layer consisting of pristine TiO 2 fillers (with negatively charged surfaces) solely contacts the lithium anode. This design of D-CPE achieves high ionic conductivity, a broad electrochemical window, and interfacial stability without additional resistance at the electrolyte-electrolyte interface simultaneously. The LiFePO 4 /D-CPEs/Li battery exhibits excellent cycling stability at 0.1 C, maintaining a capacity of 157.2 mAh g−1 with a capacity retention rate of 99.1% after 100 cycles. Furthermore, even at 0 °C, it delivers an impressive discharge capacity of 133.1 mAh g−1 at 0.1 C. This work presents a simple and effective approach to achieving superior polymer-based electrolytes for high-performance solid-state lithium batteries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cymbidium sinense, a type of orchid plant, is more drought-resistant and ornamental than other terrestrial orchids. Research has shown that many members of the NUCLEAR FACTOR Y (NF-Y) transcription factor family are responsive to plant growth, development, and abiotic stress. However, the mechanism of the NF-Y gene family's response to abiotic stress in orchids has not yet been reported. In this study, phylogenetic analysis allowed for 27 CsNF-Y genes to be identified (5 CsNF-YAs, 9 CsNF-YBs, and 13 CsNF-YC subunits), and the CsNF-Ys were homologous to those in Arabidopsis and Oryza. Protein structure analysis revealed that different subfamilies contained different motifs, but all of them contained Motif 2. Secondary and tertiary protein structure analysis indicated that the CsNF-YB and CsNF-YC subfamilies had a high content of alpha helix structures. Cis-element analysis showed that elements related to drought stress were mainly concentrated in the CsNF-YB and CsNF-YC subfamilies, with CsNF-YB3 and CsNF-YC12 having the highest content. The results of a transcriptome analysis showed that there was a trend of downregulation of almost all CsNF-Ys in leaves under drought stress, while in roots, most members of the CsNF-YB subfamily showed a trend of upregulation. Additionally, seven genes were selected for real-time reverse transcription quantitative PCR (qRT-PCR) experiments. The results were generally consistent with those of the transcriptome analysis. The regulatory roles of CsNF-YB 1, 2, and 4 were particularly evident in the roots. The findings of our study may make a great contribution to the understanding of the role of CsNF-Ys in stress-related metabolic processes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The PEBP gene family plays a significant role in regulating flower development and formation. To understand its function in Dendrobium chrysotoxum and D. nobile flowering, we identified 22 PEBP genes (11 DchPEBPs and 11 DnoPEBPs) from both species. We conducted analyses on their conserved domains and motifs, phylogenetic relationships, chromosome distribution, collinear correlation, and cis elements. The classification results showed that the 22 PEBPs were mainly divided into three clades, as follows: FT, MFT, and TFL1. A sequence analysis showed that most PEBP proteins contained five conserved domains, while a gene structure analysis revealed that 77% of the total PEBP genes contained four exons and three introns. The promoter regions of the 22 PEBPs contained several cis elements related to hormone induction and light response. This suggests these PEBPs could play a role in regulating flower development by controlling photoperiod and hormone levels. Additionally, a collinearity analysis revealed three pairs of duplicate genes in the genomes of both D. chrysotoxum and D. nobile. Furthermore, RT-qPCR has found to influence the regulatory effect of DchPEBPs on the development of flower organs (sepals, petals, lip, ovary, and gynostemium) during the flowering process (bud, transparent stage, and initial bloom). The results obtained imply that DchPEBP8 and DchPEBP9 play a role in the initial bloom and that DchPEBP7 may inhibit flowering processes. Moreover, DchPEBP9 may potentially be involved in the development of reproductive functionality. PEBPs have regulatory functions that modulate flowering. FT initiates plant flowering by mediating photoperiod and temperature signals, while TFL1 inhibits flowering processes. These findings provide clues for future studies on flower development in Dendrobium. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The TCP gene family are plant-specific transcription factors that play important roles in plant growth and development. Dendrobium chrysotoxum, D. nobile, and D. huoshanense are orchids with a high ornamental value, but few studies have investigated the specific functions of TCPs in Dendrobium flower development. In this study, we used these three Dendrobium species to analyze TCPs, examining their physicochemical properties, phylogenetic relationships, gene structures, and expression profiles. A total of 50 TCPs were identified across three Dendrobium species; they were divided into two clades—Class-I (PCF subfamily) and Class-II (CIN and CYC/TB1 subfamilies)—based on their phylogenetic relationships. Our sequence logo analysis showed that almost all Dendrobium TCPs contain a conserved TCP domain, as well as the existence of fewer exons, and the cis-regulatory elements of the TCPs were mostly related to light response. In addition, our transcriptomic data and qRT-PCR results showed that DchTCP2 and DchTCP13 had a significant impact on lateral organs. Moreover, changes in the expression level of DchTCP4 suggested its important role in the phenotypic variation of floral organs. Therefore, this study provides a significant reference for the further exploration of TCP gene functions in the regulation of different floral organs in Dendrobium orchids. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Gastric cancer (GC) remains a global challenge due to its high morbidity and mortality rates especially in Asia as well as poor response to treatment. As a member of the adhesion protein family and transmembrane glycoprotein, EpCAM expressed excessively in cancer cells including GC cells. The database assay showed that EpCAM is excessively expressed and easily mutated in cancers, especially in early stage of GC. Methods: To explore the roles EpCAM plays in oncogenesis and progression of GC, the expression of EpCAM was deleted in GC cells with CRISPR/Cas9 method, and then the changes of cell proliferation, apoptosis, motility and motility associated microstructures in EpCAM-deleted GC cells (EpCAM-/-SGC7901) were detected to evaluate the rules EpCAM played. Results: The results showed that EpCAM deletion caused cell proliferation, motility and the development of motility-relevant microstructures inhibited significantly, apoptotic trend and contact inhibition enhanced in EpCAM-deleted GC cells. The results of western blot suggested that EpCAM modulates the expression of epithelial/endothelial mesenchymal transition (EMT) correlated genes. All results as above indicated that EpCAM plays important roles to enhance the oncogenesis, malignancy and progression as a GC enhancer. Conclusions: Combining our results and published data together, the interaction of EpCAM with other proteins was also discussed and concluded in the discussion. Our results support that EpCAM can be considered as a novel target for the diagnosis and therapy of GC in future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The small plant-specific YABBY gene family plays key roles in diverse developmental processes in plants. Dendrobium chrysotoxum, D. huoshanense, and D. nobile are perennial herbaceous plants belonging to Orchidaceae with a high ornamental value. However, the relationships and specific functions of the YABBY genes in the Dendrobium species remain unknown. In this study, six DchYABBYs, nine DhuYABBYs, and nine DnoYABBYs were identified from the genome databases of the three Dendrobium species, which were unevenly distributed on five, eight, and nine chromosomes, respectively. The 24 YABBY genes were classified into four subfamilies (CRC/DL, INO, YAB2, and FIL/YAB3) based on their phylogenetic analysis. A sequence analysis showed that most of the YABBY proteins contained conserved C2C2 zinc-finger and YABBY domains, while a gene structure analysis revealed that 46% of the total YABBY genes contained seven exons and six introns. All the YABBY genes harbored a large number of Methyl Jasmonate responsive elements, as well as anaerobic induction cis-acting elements in the promoter regions. Through a collinearity analysis, one, two, and two segmental duplicated gene pairs were identified in the D. chrysotoxum, D. huoshanense, and D. nobile genomes, respectively. The Ka/Ks values of these five gene pairs were lower than 0.5, indicating that the Dendrobium YABBY genes underwent negative selection. In addition, an expression analysis revealed that DchYABBY2 plays a role in ovary and early-stage petal development, while DchYABBY5 is essential for lip development and DchYABBY6 is crucial for early sepal formation. DchYABBY1 primarily regulates sepals during blooming. Furthermore, there is the potential involvement of DchYABBY2 and DchYABBY5 in gynostemium development. The results of a comprehensive genome-wide study would provide significant clues for future functional investigations and pattern analyses of YABBY genes in different flower parts during flower development in the Dendrobium species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

SPL transcription factors regulate important processes such as plant growth and development, metabolic regulation, and abiotic stress. They play crucial roles in the development of flower organs. However, little is known about the characteristics and functions of the SPLs in the Orchidaceae. In this study, Cymbidium goeringii Rchb. f., Dendrobium chrysotoxum Lindl., and Gastrodia elata BI. were used as research objects. The SPL gene family of these orchids was analyzed on a genome-wide scale, and their physicochemical properties, phylogenetic relationships, gene structures, and expression patterns were studied. Transcriptome and qRT-PCR methods were combined to investigate the regulatory effect of SPLs on the development of flower organs during the flowering process (bud, initial bloom, and full bloom). This study identifies a total of 43 SPLs from C. goeringii (16), D. chrysotoxum (17), and G. elata (10) and divides them into eight subfamilies according to the phylogenetic tree. Most SPL proteins contained conserved SBP domains and complex gene structures; half of the genes had introns longer than 10 kb. The largest number and variety of cis-acting elements associated with light reactions were enriched, accounting for about 45% of the total (444/985); 13/43 SPLs contain response elements of miRNA156. GO enrichment analysis showed that the functions of most SPLs were mainly enriched in the development of plant flower organs and stems. In addition, expression patterns and qRT-PCR analysis suggested the involvement of SPL genes in the regulation of flower organ development in orchids. There was little change in the expression of the CgoSPL in C. goeringii, but DchSPL9 and GelSPL2 showed significant expression during the flowering process of D. chrysotoxum and G. elata, respectively. In summary, this paper provides a reference for exploring the regulation of the SPL gene family in orchids. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• This review revealed the process of flower morphogenesis and the molecular mechanisms underlying orchid morphogenesis. • The article summarizes reported flower development models in orchids, including structural genes involved in pigment synthesis pathways and transcription factors that regulate orchid flower color formation. • Additionally, the potential correlation between flower morphogenesis and color presentation in orchids is explored, providing theoretical references for genetic improvement and new variety creation. Orchidaceae is one of the largest monocotyledon families and contributes significantly to worldwide biodiversity, with value in the fields of landscaping, medicine, and ecology. The diverse phenotypes and vibrant colors of orchid floral organs make them excellent research objects for investigating flower development and pigmentation. In recent years, a number of orchid genomes have been published, laying the molecular foundation for revealing flower development and color presentation. In this article, we review transcription factors, the structural genes responsible for the floral pigment synthesis pathways, the molecular mechanisms of flower morphogenesis, and the potential relationship between flower type and flower color. This study provides a theoretical reference for the research on molecular mechanisms related to flower morphogenesis and color presentation, genetic improvement, and new variety creation in orchids. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Transfer RNA (tRNA) modifications are critical for protein synthesis. Queuosine (Q), a 7-deaza-guanosine derivative, is present in tRNA anticodons. In vertebrate tRNAs for Tyr and Asp, Q is further glycosylated with galactose and mannose to generate galQ and manQ, respectively. However, biogenesis and physiological relevance of Q-glycosylation remain poorly understood. Here, we biochemically identified two RNA glycosylases, QTGAL and QTMAN, and successfully reconstituted Q-glycosylation of tRNAs using nucleotide diphosphate sugars. Ribosome profiling of knockout cells revealed that Q-glycosylation slowed down elongation at cognate codons, UAC and GAC (GAU), respectively. We also found that galactosylation of Q suppresses stop codon readthrough. Moreover, protein aggregates increased in cells lacking Q-glycosylation, indicating that Q-glycosylation contributes to proteostasis. Cryo-EM of human ribosome-tRNA complex revealed the molecular basis of codon recognition regulated by Q-glycosylations. Furthermore, zebrafish qtgal and qtman knockout lines displayed shortened body length, implying that Q-glycosylation is required for post-embryonic growth in vertebrates. [Display omitted] • Two tRNA Q-glycosylation enzymes QTGAL and QTMAN were identified • Q-glycosylation of tRNA contributes to optimal translation and proteostasis • Structural analyses revealed molecular basis of codon recognition by Q-glycosylation • Q-glycosylation of tRNA is required for post-embryonic growth of zebrafish Queosine (Q) is a modified nucleoside present in tRNA anticodons. Identification and characterization of two vertebrate Q-glycosylases unveil new regulatory mechanism in protein translation and proteostasis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Engineering T lymphocytes is an emerging approach in a variety of biomedical applications. However, delivering large biologics to primary T lymphocytes directly in vivo is technically challenging due to the low transfection efficacy. Herein, we investigated a library of synthetic lipid‐like molecules (lipidoids) for their capability of delivering mRNA into primary T lymphocytes both ex vivo and in vivo. We initially screened a library with a large structural variety of lipidoids ex vivo and identified imidazole‐containing lipidoids that are particularly potent in T lymphocytes transfection. We further optimized lipidoid structures by constructing and screening a detailed lipidoid library containing imidazole or imidazole analogues to perform a structure–activity correlation analysis. Using the lead lipidoid as a delivery vehicle for Cre mRNA in vivo through intravenous injection, we achieved 8.2 % gene recombination in mouse T lymphocytes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Engineering T lymphocytes is an emerging approach in a variety of biomedical applications. However, delivering large biologics to primary T lymphocytes directly in vivo is technically challenging due to the low transfection efficacy. Herein, we investigated a library of synthetic lipid‐like molecules (lipidoids) for their capability of delivering mRNA into primary T lymphocytes both ex vivo and in vivo. We initially screened a library with a large structural variety of lipidoids ex vivo and identified imidazole‐containing lipidoids that are particularly potent in T lymphocytes transfection. We further optimized lipidoid structures by constructing and screening a detailed lipidoid library containing imidazole or imidazole analogues to perform a structure–activity correlation analysis. Using the lead lipidoid as a delivery vehicle for Cre mRNA in vivo through intravenous injection, we achieved 8.2 % gene recombination in mouse T lymphocytes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The conjugation of ligands to nanoparticles as drug delivery systems that target specific cells is a promising approach for the delivery of therapeutic agents to tumor cells. Herein, we prepared green-emission fluorescent carbon nanodots (CNDs) by a facile hydrothermal method with D -(+)-glucosamine hydrochloride and L -aspartic acid as the precursors, then covalently conjugated with folate (FA), polyethyleneimine (PEI) and hyaluronic acid (HA) to develop dual ligand-decorated nanocarriers (FA-PEI-HA-CNDs) for the targeted imaging of cancer cells. FA-PEI-HA-CNDs integrated the excellent fluorescence property of CNDs, and can be used for the real-time and noninvasive location tracking of cancer cells. The cellular uptake study demonstrated that FA-PEI-HA-CNDs markedly improved the internalization efficiency in A-549 cells via folate/CD44 receptor-mediated endocytosis in comparison with that of the A549 cells pretreated with excess FA, HA, and FA and HA. Therefore, these dual folate/CD44 receptor-targeted CNDs (FA-PEI-HA-CNDs) show promising potential for cancer detection, drug delivery, and individualized treatment as performance platforms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Carbon nanotubes (CNTs) have been integrated with silicon to construct CNT-Si heterojunction solar cells; doping CNTs is one of the promising techniques to improve the solar cell performance. Here, we propose a gas-doping method by exposing as-fabricated CNT-Si solar cells to ozone for a short time. We find that a 5-min ozone treatment does not destroy the CNT structure but produces a significant impact on the cell characteristics (output voltage and fill factor), increasing the cell efficiency from 5.29% to 12.70% without degradation in 24 h. Ozone treatment donates holes to CNTs; this p-doping effect increases the work function of CNTs and subsequently enhances the built-in potential and Schottky barrier at the heterojunction for more efficient charge separation. Moreover, the ozone-treated CNT-Si cell could combine other established techniques such as colloidal antireflection and acid doping, to achieve an instantaneous high efficiency of >17% under standard illumination conditions (air mass 1.5, 100 mW/cm2). Compared to many reported doping methods relying on liquid or hazardous chemicals, our dry gas-doping strategy is very simple, highly effective, environmentally benign, and compatible to low-cost large-area solar cell manufacturing. Image 1 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

WNK (With No Lysine) kinases are members of serine/threonine protein kinase family, which lack conserved a catalytic lysine (K) residue in protein kinase subdomain II and this residue is replaced by either asparagine, serine, or glycine residues. They are involved in various physiological regulations of flowering time, circadian rhythms, and abiotic stresses in plants. In this study, we identified the WNK gene family in two species of Acorus, and analyzed their phylogenetic relationship, physiochemical properties, subcellular localization, collinearity, and cis-elements. The results showed twenty-two WNKs in two Acorus (seven in Ac. gramineus and fifteen in Ac. calamus) have been identified and clustered into five main clades phylogenetically. Gene structure analysis showed all WNKs possessed essential STKc_WNK or PKc_like superfamily domains, and the gene structures and conserved motifs of the same clade were similar. All the WNKs harbored a large number of light response elements, plant hormone signaling elements, and stress resistance elements. Through a collinearity analysis, two and fourteen segmental duplicated gene pairs were identified in the Ac. gramineus and Ac. calamus, respectively. Moreover, we observed tissue-specificity of WNKs in Acorus using transcriptomic data, and their expressions in response to salt stress and cold stress were analyzed by qRT-PCR. The results showed WNKs are involved in the regulation of abiotic stresses. There were significant differences in the expression levels of most of the WNKs in the leaves and roots of Acorus under salt stress and cold stress, among which two members in Ac. gramineus (AgWNK3 and AgWNK4) and two members in Ac. calamus (AcWNK8 and AcWNK12) were most sensitive to stress. In summary, this paper will significantly contribute to the understanding of WNKs in monocots and thus provide a set up for functional genomics studies of WNK protein kinases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Early diagnosis is pivotal in subsequent prognosis and treatment of cancer. Herein, folic acid-conjugated carbon dots (FA-CDs) as a fluorescent nanoprobe were fabricated for identifying cancer cells visually. Green luminescent carbon dots (CDs) from active dry yeast (ADY) were readily prepared in scale-up to reach macroscopic production with a high yield of ~50% via a facile and rapid microwave approach. The as-prepared CDs were further combined with folic acid (FA) by covalent bonding to fabricate the FA-CDs for identification of cancer cells over-expressing folate receptor (FR). Experimental outcomes demonstrated that the resultant FA-CDs noninvasively entered into cancer cells via receptor-mediated endocytosis and could differentiate FR-positive HepG2 cells from a cell mixture by fluorescence imaging, which suggests a promising prospect of the FA-CDs as an efficient probe for cancer diagnosis and succeeding personalized therapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

By analyzing and investigating the system of shipping transfer for Patinopecten yessoensis in Dalian Zhangzi Island, a new type of high efficiency and reasonable scallop shipping transfer system were designed and improved. In order to prove that its structure is reasonable, a compared test was executed in Da Lian Zhangzi Island. The research showed that scallop (Patinopecten yessoensis) with an average shell length of (120±10) mm and average mass of (110±10) g were collected from the Da Lian Zhangzi Island sea area. The scallop capture ship length is 23 m, has one cabin and cabin size is 2 400 mm×1 900 mm×2 300 mm, full and complete scallops are 3t, diesel power is 112 kW. The test scallop transport ship is Liao Chang Yu Yun 18023, which has 4 cabins, one cabin size is 7 700 mm×3 400 mm× 2 300 mm, hatch size is 3 800 mm×2 000 mm×800 mm, full and complete with scallops is 57 t. Original cage size is 510 mm×360 mm×265 mm, mesh size is 30 mm×30 mm, and the material is rigid plastic. Improved cage (folding cage) is 1 150 mm×900 mm×900 mm, mesh size is 40 mm×40 mm, the folded size is 1 150 mm×900 mm×150 mm, and the material is Zn hot dipped steel. Tests were based on actual production situation, lasted 5 months (from August to December, 2013) and working 4 times per month. 18023 scallop transport ship's 4 cabins were marked as 1, 2, 3, 4. Original scallop cages were stored in 1 and 2 fresh water cabins, which can be stored 1 400 original cages and one cage can store 16 kg of scallops. Improved scallop cages were stored in 3 and 4 fresh water cabins, which can store 64 improved cages and one cage can store 350 kg scallops. In order to improve the work efficiency, 1 and 2 cabins were equipped with 8 scallop capture ships, which adopt an original work mode. 3 and 4 cabins were equipped with 8 scallops capture ships, which were equipped with a work platform system and a folding cage. By the end of test every day, calculate the amounts of loading and unloading time of scallops and the rates of mantle shrink and mortality and breakage of scallops. The results showed that by equipping the work platform system and folding cage, working efficiency was improved and the rates of mantle shrink and mortality and breakage of scallops were decreased. Scallops loading and unloading time of improved shipping transfer system were decreased 1.12 h and employed workers were reduced to 46. Rates of mantle shrink and mortality were decreased 1.43% and breakage rates of scallops were decreased 1.99%. Meanwhile, the improved shipping transfer system of scallops has significant economic benefit. According to statistics, an improved shipping transfer system can save an investment cost of 20.39821 million yuan per year. It is able to significantly reduce transport consumption, and ensure the scallops vividness. This method meets the development needs of green industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Extrusion cooking is a highly efficient food processing technology. During the extrusion process, there are many desirable and undesirable reactions which will determine final product quality. While being heated and sheared simultaneously, food raw materials experience a non-isothermal process and their residence time in the extruder is distributed. All these factors contribute to the difficulties in determining the kinetic parameters for those reactions. Therefore, this paper attempts to review the reaction kinetics in food extrusion. First of all, the kinetic models for the reactions are outlined. After elucidating how to determine reaction time in an extruder, the methodological approaches for determining the reaction order, rate constant, and activation energy of a reaction under isothermal or non-isothermal conditions with or without residence time distribution (RTD) are presented. Then, different models relating the rate constant to its various impact factors, with especially focusing on shear stress, are reviewed. Subsequently, how shear stress is estimated in an extruder, is illustrated. In the last part of this paper, the reported data of rate constant, reaction order, and activation energy for the reactions occurring during food extrusion are summarized, with detailed impacts of temperature, moisture content, shear stress, and determination method on these kinetic parameters. Finally, future research needs are suggested. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In some food processing operations, raw materials sustain shearing and heating simultaneously. These thermomechanical treatments will induce chemical, physicochemical, and biochemical changes, such as starch degradation and gelatinization, protein denaturalization, loss of nutritious components, and inactivation of enzymes and their inhibitors. In this article, only kinetic aspects of these changes are reviewed. The Basedow and Zhurkov models are commonly used to describe shear effects on the rate constants of mechanochemical reactions. After a brief description of these 2 models, their applications in food are reviewed deeply, with emphasis on the activation energy reduction in the Zhurkov model and the shear activation energy in the Basedow model. Since the changes occurring in food systems often involve various interactions at the atomic, molecular, and supramolecular levels, they were described only phenomenonlogically by the mechanochemical kinetic models. The limitation, opportunity, and extension of the mechanochemical approach to modeling food kinetics are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this article, we demonstrated novel methods to improve the performance of p-i-n photodetectors (PDs) on a germanium-on-insulator (GOI). For GOI photodetectors with a mesa diameter of 10 μm, the dark current at −1 V is 2.5 nA, which is 2.6-fold lower than that of the Ge PD processed on Si substrates. This improvement in dark current is due to the careful removal of the defected Ge layer, which is formed with the initial growth of Ge on Si. The bulk leakage current density and surface leakage density of the GOI detector at −1 V are as low as 1.79 mA/cm2 and 0.34 μA/cm, respectively. GOI photodetectors with responsivity of 0.5 and 0.9 A/W at 1550 and 1310 nm wavelength are demonstrated. The optical performance of the GOI photodetector could be remarkably improved by integrating a tetraethylorthosilicate (TEOS) layer on the oxide side due to the better optical confinement and resonant cavity effect. These PDs with high performances and full compatibility with Si CMOS processes are attractive for applications in both telecommunications and monolithic optoelectronics integration on the same chip. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Regenerable all-round Li–O 2 cathode featuring ultralong cycle life (up to 1423 cycles, 2846 h) and large areal capacity (over 20 mAh cm−2) at high rates (no less than 0.5 mA cm−2) is developed by integrating a series of complementary and comprehensive cathode material design and system engineering strategies. [Display omitted] Lithium–oxygen batteries promise ultrahigh energy density, yet one of the key barriers toward applications is the rapid performance decay during cycling especially at high rates, owing to the sluggish redox kinetics and severe parasitic reactions under elevated overpotentials within the cathode. In face of the above challenge, here we present a carbon nanotube sponge-based high-performance lithium–oxygen cathode by a series of approaches such as tailoring discharge product morphology to lower the overpotential, controlled sponge-compression for high mass loading to facilitate high-rate cycling, gradient electrolyte-immersion to rationally utilize its interior for efficient multiphase transport, and water treating for regenerated use. These 4 methods target different aspects of the electrochemical behavior in a Li–O 2 cathode, thus constituting a complementary and integrated strategy to overcome the challenges in this field. As a result, we achieve simultaneously an ultralong cycle life (1423 cycles, 2846 h) at high rate (0.5 mA cm−2) under low overpotential (charging below 4.0 V throughout 1100 cycles), also with an areal capacity over 20 mAh cm−2 and extended 500 cycles after regeneration. Such an overall performance is much superior to recently developed 3D metal foam or carbon-based cathodes. Our designed sponge cathode represents a promising candidate for developing durable, high-energy and high-power metal–air battery systems, pushing forward their practical application. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The WUSCHEL-related homeobox (WOX) transcription factor plays a vital role in stem cell maintenance and organ morphogenesis, which are essential processes for plant growth and development. Dendrobium chrysotoxum, D. huoshanense, and D. nobile are valued for their ornamental and medicinal properties. However, the specific functions of the WOX gene family in Dendrobium species are not well understood. In our study, a total of 30 WOX genes were present in the genomes of the three Dendrobium species (nine DchWOXs, 11 DhuWOXs, and ten DnoWOXs). These 30 WOXs were clustered into ancient clades, intermediate clades, and WUS/modern clades. All 30 WOXs contained a conserved homeodomain, and the conserved motifs and gene structures were similar among WOXs belonging to the same branch. D. chrysotoxum and D. huoshanense had one pair of fragment duplication genes and one pair of tandem duplication genes, respectively; D. nobile had two pairs of fragment duplication genes. The cis-acting regulatory elements (CREs) in the WOX promoter region were mainly enriched in the light response, stress response, and plant growth and development regulation. The expression pattern and RT-qPCR analysis revealed that the WOXs were involved in regulating the floral organ development of D. chrysotoxum. Among them, the high expression of DchWOX3 suggests that it might be involved in controlling lip development, whereas DchWOX5 might be involved in controlling ovary development. In conclusion, this work lays the groundwork for an in-depth investigation into the functions of WOX genes and their regulatory role in Dendrobium species' floral organ development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents a three-dimensional model of gas foil bearings with consideration of axial variation of the structural deflection. The top and bump foils are modeled with shell elements; hence, membrane, bending and shear effects are involved. The penalty method and node-to-segment contact scheme are used for contact modeling. To avoid numerical difficulties caused by discontinuity, the Coulomb law is modified by a regularization technique. Due to the nonlinear behavior of friction, the incremental iterative method is adopted for solution. The effect of misalignment on the static performance of the first and second generation foil bearings is studied. The results show that misalignment decreases the bearing load capacity and the second generation foil bearings exhibit better performance when misalignment occurs. • A three-dimensional model of gas foil bearings is proposed with consideration of axial variation of structural deflection. • A nonlinear frictional contact model and the incremental form of the system equation are given in detail. • The effect of misalignment on the performance of the first generation foil bearing is studied. • The second generation foil bearings whose stiffness varies in the axial direction are studied. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article focuses on the genome sequencing of Dendrobium thyrsiflorum, emphasizing its implications for understanding the genetic basis of important horticultural traits such as flower color, shape, and environmental adaptability. It explores genomic insights into the terpenoid biosynthetic pathway and the evolution of specific genes linked to flower development and pigmentation.

Fructose is an important platform compound for the production of chemicals and renewable fuels. Here, the CeO2/ATP catalysts were developed for glucose isomerization in water. The effects of CeO2 loading, glucose concentration and the catalyst dosage to glucose ratio on the activity for the reaction were investigated. Glucose was easily transformed over ATP in the presence of CeO2, and the 10 % CeO2/ATP catalyst exhibited a good fructose yield of 36.4 %. Meanwhile, the reaction activity of glucose was affected by glucose concentration and the catalyst dosage to glucose ratio, and more fructose would be generated at lower glucose concentration, wherein the highest yield of fructose was obtained 39.2 % at 5 % of glucose solution with the catalyst dosage to glucose ratio of 0.1. In addition, the characterization resultsrevealed that CeO2 had a positive interaction with ATP on the adjustment of its structural properties and the amount and distribution of basic sites, and therefore facilitated glucose isomerization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Silicon encapsulated in conductive layers has proven to be an excellent method for retaining the high capacity of silicon in lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) throughout cycling. This study presents an ultra-fast, single-step, and scalable method for synthesizing graphene@Fe–Si nanoparticles via an atmospheric pressure surface-wave-sustained plasma. The verification of the synthesized nanoparticles, encompassing graphene cladding and silicon nanoparticles encapsulated in iron, was conducted through energy-dispersive x-ray spectroscopy mapping, line scanning in the transmission electron microscopy mode, and high-resolution transmission electron microscopy. Additionally, Raman spectroscopy corroborated the identity of the cladding as graphene. This study provides a viable strategy for the industrial production of anode materials for high-performance LIBs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Bronchial Dieulafoy's disease (BDD) is a rare disease that causes massive hemoptysis. This paper reports a case of BDD treated surgically. At the same time, we summarize the data of BDD patients reported in domestic and foreign literature to improve the understanding, diagnosis and treatment of this disease. Methods: A case of BDD with hemoptysis during bronchoscopy was reported. In addition, we searched for "bronchial Dieulafoy disease" through Pubmed, Web of Science, CNKI and Wanfang databases, covering the literature related to BDD that was definitely diagnosed or highly suspected from January 1995 to December 2021, and summarized the clinical characteristics, chest imaging, bronchoscopic manifestations, angiographic characteristics, pathological characteristics, treatment and outcome of patients. Results: The patient was a 68 year old male. Tracheoscopy revealed nodular and mass like changes in the basal segment of the left lower lobe, which appeared massive hemorrhage when touching the surface. The computed tomography angiophy of the bronchial artery confirmed that the branches of the left bronchial artery were tortuous and dilated, and then the left lower lobe of the lung was resected. During the operation, 3 thick tortuous nutrient artery vessels were sent out from the descending aorta, and 1 thick tortuous nutrient artery was sent out from the autonomic arch. All of them were ligated and cut. The pathology after the operation was in accordance with BDD; The patient did not have hemoptysis after discharge and is still under follow-up. The database identified 65 articles from January 1995 to December 2021. After removing repeated reports, meetings, incomplete information and nursing literature, 60 articles were included to report 88 cases of BDD. BDD can occur at all ages, with a male to female ratio of about 1.6:1. It mainly starts with hemoptysis, and can also be seen due to cough, infection, and respiratory failure; Inflammatory changes such as pulmonary patch shadow, exudation shadow and ground glass shadow of pulmonary hemorrhage were more common in chest imaging; The diagnosis of BDD is mainly based on the bronchoscopy, bronchial angiography and pathological findings of surgical or autopsy specimens. Bronchoscopic findings were mostly non pulsating, smooth nodular or mucosal processes. Bronchial angiography mainly showed tortuous dilatation of bronchial artery, and the lesions were mainly located in the right bronchus, more from the bronchial artery; Diagnosis depends on pathology, showing submucosal expansion of bronchus or abnormal artery rupture and bleeding; 54 cases underwent selective bronchial artery embolization, 39 cases underwent pulmonary lobectomy, 66 cases improved, and 10 cases died (all of them were caused by massive hemorrhage during bronchoscopic biopsy). Conclusion: BDD is rare, but may cause fatal massive hemoptysis. Bronchial angiography is considered to be an effective method to diagnose BDD. Since pathological biopsy may lead to fatal bleeding, the necessity of pathological diagnosis remains controversial. Interventional and surgical treatment plays an important role in patients with cough accompanied by massive hemoptysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Glucose isomerization to fructose is a sustainable approach for the production of renewable chemicals from biomass derived carbohydrate and attracts increasing interest. In this work, HY was optimized by thermal modification and developed for glucose isomerization in the mixture of methanol and water. The effects of calcination temperature and the reaction key factors such as reaction temperature, reaction time, solution pH, the amount of water addition, and the catalyst dosage on the activity of HY for the reaction were studied. The results showed that the glucose isomerization was influenced by thermal modification of HY and reaction conditions, and a higher yield of fructose was achieved to be 31.7% over HY600 in methanol/water (5% by volume) at 120 °C for 2 h. The yield of fructose was decreased sharply with increasing amount of water addition, and obtained the value of only 7.7% in pure water. In addition, the catalysts were characterized by XRD, N2 physical adsorption, IR, NH3-TPD and Py-IR techniques. The characterization results revealed that thermal treatment of HY could adjust the structural properties and the amount and strength distribution of acidic sites, wherein the Lewis acidic sites was influenced slowly than the Brønsted ones under higher temperature, indicating the occurrence of the dealuminium of framework Al groups partially during thermal treatment of HY, which plays an important role in the tautomerization of aldehyde and ketone. Glucose isomerization can be efficiently carried out in methanol/water over HY zeolite with proper thermal treatment by controlling the amount and distribution of acidity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Among photodetectors, avalanche photodiodes (APDs) have an important place due to their excellent sensitivity to light. APDs transform photons into electrons and then multiply the electrons, leading to an amplified photocurrent. APDs are promising for faint light detection owing to this outstanding advantage, which will boost LiDAR applications. Although Si APDs have already been commercialized, their spectral region is very limited in many applications. Therefore, it is urgently demanded that the spectral region APDs be extended to the short-wavelength infrared (SWIR) region, which means better atmospheric transmission, a lower solar radiation background, a higher laser eye safety threshold, etc. Up until now, both Ge (GeSn) and InGaAs were employed as the SWIR absorbers. The aim of this review article is to provide a full understanding of Ge(GeSn) and InGaAs for PDs, with a focus on APD operation in the SWIR spectral region, which can be integrated onto the Si platform and is potentially compatible with CMOS technology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The realization of high-performance Si-based III-V quantum-dot (QD) lasers has long attracted extensive interest in optoelectronic circuits. This manuscript presents InAs/GaAs QD lasers integrated on an advanced GaAs virtual substrate. The GaAs layer was originally grown on Ge as another virtual substrate on Si wafer. No patterned substrate or sophisticated superlattice defect-filtering layer was involved. Thanks to the improved quality of the comprehensively modified GaAs crystal with low defect density, the room temperature emission wavelength of this laser was allocated at 1320 nm, with a threshold current density of 24.4 A/cm−2 per layer and a maximum single-facet output power reaching 153 mW at 10 °C. The maximum operation temperature reaches 80 °C. This work provides a feasible and promising proposal for the integration of an efficient O-band laser with a standard Si platform in the near future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives Our study aimed to evaluate the effect of cordycepin on human lung cancer cell lines A549 and NCI-H460. Methods Human lung cancer A549 cells and NCI-H460 cells were treated with different concentrations of cordycepin for different times. Cells incubated without cordycepin were defined as a control. The cell proliferation, migration and apoptosis were, respectively, determined by MTT assay, transwell migration assay and flow cytometry. Additionally, the expression levels of related proteins associated with cell cycle, epithelial-mesenchymal transition ( EMT) and apoptosis were examined. Key findings The survival rate of A549 cells and NCI-H460 cells treated with cordycepin significantly decreased compared with untreated cells in a concentration-dependent manner, while the apoptosis rate increased. The migration number of cells treated with cordycepin significantly decreased as the increase in concentration. qRT- PCR and Western blot analysis showed that the aberrant expression of related molecules associated with cell cycle, m igration and apoptosis was observed in the lung cancer cells, such as cyclin B, cyclin E, MMP-9, caspase-3 and Bcl-2. Conclusions Cordycepin may exert inhibitory effects on the development of human lung cancer via inhibiting cell proliferation, suppressing m igration and inducing apoptosis, suggesting that cordycepin may have therapeutic potential for the treatment of this disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study examines the effects of flaxseed gum (FG) on the aggregate structure, pasting and rheological properties of waxy rice starch (WRS). Results display an increase in the ordered molecular structure (R 1047/1024), relative crystallinity (RC), compactness (α), and microphase heterogeneity (ε , density degree of nanoaggregates, from 3.52 to 4.23) for WRS-FG complexes. These suggested FG facilitated the development of more organized molecular and crystalline structures of WRS, accompanied by the formation of ordered nanoaggregates with higher density (i.e. , nano-aggregation structure). Also, FG addition resulted in the formation of enhanced gel network structure characterized by thicker layer walls and more uniform pores. These structural transformations contributed to a rise in gelatinization temperature (T o , from 56.90 °C to 62.10 °C) and enthalpy (Δ H), as well as alterations in paste viscosities (PV, from 1285.00 mPa·s to 1734.00 mPa·s), and the rigidity of network structure (e.g. , decreased loss tangent). These results indicate that FG could effectively regulate the techno-functional properties of WRS by rationally controlling the starch intrinsic structures of starch. And this study may improve the pasting and gelling properties of starch, thus driving the development of high-quality starchy foods and prolonging their shelf life, especially for glutinous rice flour products. • How flaxseed gum affected starch structure and characteristics was evaluated. • Flaxseed gum addition increased the viscosity and gel rigidity of waxy rice starch. • Starch-flaxseed gum complexes presented more ordered aggregate structure. • Interactions between flaxseed gum and starch is promoted with raised concentration. • Structure-functionality relationships of starch-gum complexes were revealed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study examines the effects of flaxseed gum (FG) on the aggregate structure, pasting and rheological properties of waxy rice starch (WRS). Results display an increase in the ordered molecular structure (R 1047/1024), relative crystallinity (RC), compactness (α), and microphase heterogeneity (ε , density degree of nanoaggregates, from 3.52 to 4.23) for WRS-FG complexes. These suggested FG facilitated the development of more organized molecular and crystalline structures of WRS, accompanied by the formation of ordered nanoaggregates with higher density (i.e. , nano-aggregation structure). Also, FG addition resulted in the formation of enhanced gel network structure characterized by thicker layer walls and more uniform pores. These structural transformations contributed to a rise in gelatinization temperature (T o , from 56.90 °C to 62.10 °C) and enthalpy (Δ H), as well as alterations in paste viscosities (PV, from 1285.00 mPa·s to 1734.00 mPa·s), and the rigidity of network structure (e.g. , decreased loss tangent). These results indicate that FG could effectively regulate the techno-functional properties of WRS by rationally controlling the starch intrinsic structures of starch. And this study may improve the pasting and gelling properties of starch, thus driving the development of high-quality starchy foods and prolonging their shelf life, especially for glutinous rice flour products. • How flaxseed gum affected starch structure and characteristics was evaluated. • Flaxseed gum addition increased the viscosity and gel rigidity of waxy rice starch. • Starch-flaxseed gum complexes presented more ordered aggregate structure. • Interactions between flaxseed gum and starch is promoted with raised concentration. • Structure-functionality relationships of starch-gum complexes were revealed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Understanding the hierarchical structure and physicochemical properties of starch isolated from fermented dough with different times (0–120 min) is valuable for improving the quality of fermented dough-based products. The results indicate that fermentation disrupted the starch granule surface and decreased the average particle size from 19.72 μm to 18.45 μm. Short-term fermentation (< 60 min) disrupted the crystalline, lamellar, short-range ordered molecular and helical structures of starch, while long-term fermentation (60–120 min) elevated the ordered degree of these structures. For example, relative crystallinity and double helix contents increased from 23.7 % to 26.8 % and 34.4 % to 37.2 %, respectively. During short-term fermentation, the structural amorphization facilitated interactions between starch molecular chains and water molecules, which increased the peak viscosity from 275.4 to 320.6 mPa·s and the swelling power from 7.99 to 8.52 g/g. In contrast, starches extracted from long-term fermented dough displayed the opposite results. Interestingly, the hardness and springiness of starch gels gradually decreased as fermentation time increased. These findings extend our understanding of the starch structure-property relationship during varied fermentation stages, potentially benefiting the production of better-fermented foods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this manuscript, a novel dual-step selective epitaxy growth (SEG) of Ge was proposed to significantly decrease the defect density and to create fully strained relaxed Ge on a Si substrate. With the single-step SEG of Ge, the threading defect density (TDD) was successfully decreased from 2.9 × 107 cm−2 in a globally grown Ge layer to 3.2 × 105 cm−2 for a single-step SEG and to 2.84 × 105 cm−2 for the dual-step SEG of the Ge layer. This means that by introducing a single SEG step, the defect density could be reduced by two orders of magnitude, but this reduction could be further decreased by only 11.3% by introducing the second SEG step. The final root mean square (RMS) of the surface roughness was 0.64 nm. The strain has also been modulated along the cross-section of the sample. Tensile strain appears in the first global Ge layer, compressive strain in the single-step Ge layer and fully strain relaxation in the dual-step Ge layer. The material characterization was locally performed at different points by high resolution transmission electron microscopy, while it was globally performed by high resolution X-ray diffraction and photoluminescence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents a novel FDSOI FinFETs with SiGe channel/Si cap layer (35 nm/5 nm) formed on SOI wafers with 20 nm Si body. Electrical characterization result shows that JL FDSOI FinFETs with SiGe channel exhibited low subthreshold slope (SS) of 86 mV/decade and record high ON-OFF current ratio (I ON /I OFF = 2 × 106) at V D = -0.5V, respectively. Device performance improvement was mainly attributed to high-epitaxial quality compressive strained SiGe channel and novel device structure. The strain in the channel of the transistors was estimated locally in TEM using Nano beam diffraction (NBD) technique. The FDSOI FinFET with SiGe channel, lays the foundation for the further development of high speed, high density, low cost, and 3D monolithic integration circuits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Binodal curves of the aqueous N-ethylpyridinium tetrafluoroborate ([EPy]BF4)+trisodium citrate (Na3C6H5O7), [EPy]BF4 +ammonium citrate tribasic ((NH4)3C6H5O7), [EPy]BF4 +sodium succinate (Na2C4H4O4) and [EPy]BF4 +sodium tartrate (Na2C4H4O6) systems have been determined experimentally at T =298.15K. The Merchuk equation and two other equations were used to correlate the binodal data. The effective excluded volume (EEV) values obtained from the binodal model for these four systems were determined. The Othmer–Tobias, Bancroft, two-parameter and Setschenow-type equations were used for the correlation of the tie-line data. The results show that good agreement was obtained with the experimental data with the two-parameter and the Setschenow-type equations. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

To measure large and heavy micro-structured workpieces in situ and improve the measurement accuracy, which strongly depends on the environment during the measurement of micro-structured surfaces, a workpiece rotating technique is proposed. This method utilizes the precise rotation of machine tools to drive the workpiece and records a set of elemental image arrays for the pickup stage to overcome the upper-resolution limit imposed by the Nyquist sampling theorem, which allows the increase in the two-dimensional spatial resolution of the computed depth images in integral imaging. By extracting the depth position, we can obtain accurate depth information and measurement results for micro-structured surfaces. We carried out simulations and experiments to demonstrate the proposed method, and the results show the feasibility of our method. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background. Parkinson's disease (PD) is a common neurological degenerative disease that cannot be completely cured, although drugs can improve or alleviate its symptoms. Optogenetic technology, which stimulates or inhibits neurons with excellent spatial and temporal resolution, provides a new idea and approach for the precise treatment of Parkinson's disease. However, the neural mechanism of photogenetic regulation remains unclear. Objective. In this paper, we want to study the nonlinear features of EEG signals in the striatum and globus pallidus through optogenetic stimulation of the substantia nigra compact part. Methods. Rotenone was injected stereotactically into the substantia nigra compact area and ventral tegmental area of SD rats to construct rotenone-treated rats. Then, for the optogenetic manipulation, we injected adeno-associated virus expressing channelrhodopsin to stimulate the globus pallidus and the striatum with a 1 mW blue light and collected LFP signals before, during, and after light stimulation. Finally, the collected LFP signals were analyzed by using nonlinear dynamic algorithms. Results. After observing the behavior and brain morphology, 16 models were finally determined to be successful. LFP results showed that approximate entropy and fractal dimension of rats in the control group were significantly greater than those in the experimental group after light treatment (p < 0.05). The LFP nonlinear features in the globus pallidus and striatum of rotenone-treated rats showed significant statistical differences before and after light stimulation (p < 0.05). Conclusion. Optogenetic technology can regulate the characteristic value of LFP signals in rotenone-treated rats to a certain extent. Approximate entropy and fractal dimension algorithm can be used as an effective index to study LFP changes in rotenone-treated rats. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

One of the most important aspects of clinical acupuncture practice, like diabetic gastroparesis, is the selection of suitable acupoints. Furthermore, it is critical to examine the therapeutic impact differences between distal and local acupoints, as well as the prescription of their combination. In this study, diabetic gastroparesis rats were treated by needling Zhongwan (CV12) and Zusanli (ST36), and then used Single Photon Emission Computed Tomography-CT (SPECT-CT) technology to assess the effects of promoting gastric motility. In addition, morphological observation, immunohistochemical examination, and biomarker assays, such as determination of growth factor 1, motilin, and ghrelin contents in serum samples, were performed to better understand the impact of certain various acupuncture treatments. All of the therapies improved the symptoms of diabetic gastroparesis rats, according to the findings. Stimulating these acupoints, on the other hand, can have a different therapeutic effect. In addition, needling local and distal acupoints together can have an antagonistic or synergistic impact on specific physiological and biochemical indexes such as gastric motility, ghrelin, gastrin, and growth factor 1, among others. Our findings demonstrated the benefits of acupoints and acupuncture in the management of diabetic gastroparesis, as well as a new insight into acupuncture therapeutics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background The main purpose of this study was to compare the postoperative complications caused by surgical reconstruction via either retrosternal (RS) or prevertebral (PV) routes in thoracoscopic and laparoscopic esophagectomy patients. Materials and Methods We retrospectively screened the perioperative data in total 59 patients who underwent minimally invasive esophagectomy in time period from January 2016 to January 2018. All the patients were subgrouped into two cohorts according to the surgical routes being taken: the RS route group (28 patients) and the PV route group (31 patients). The perioperative data including operation and hospitalization time and surgical complications were comparatively analyzed. Results The surgical procedure in all patients was successful and no case of death occurred during perioperative stage in both groups. Notably, patients in the RS group had significantly lower propensity of pneumonia than patients in the PV group (p < 0.05). However, comparative analysis revealed almost an identical time for both operative process and postoperative hospitalization. And there was no statistical significance in the rate of anastomotic leakage and stricture as well as other complications (p > 0.05). Conclusion RS and PV paths are both safe and effective routes that yielded similar postoperative complications. Reconstruction after thoracoscopic and laparoscopic esophagectomy via the RS route had lower propensity of pneumonia than PV route. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND Soybean is among the 'big eight' allergenic foods, and β‐conglycinin, the main antigenic protein of soybean, has high levels of antigenic activity. Why the antigenic activity of soybean β‐conglycinin is not eliminated by enzymatic hydrolysis is not clear. In this study, changes in the molecular composition and antigenicity of β‐conglycinin hydrolyzed by pepsin were analyzed and it was determined whether complete sequential epitopes exist in the resulting hydrolysates. The nature and antigenic activity of protein subunits obtained after β‐conglycinin hydrolysis were also assessed by sodium dodecyl sulfate‐polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis and competitive enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay, respectively. RESULTS: The residual antigenic activity of β‐conglycinin was 52%, α′‐ and α‐subunits completely disappeared, the 49 kDa fraction partially disappeared, and peptides measuring 27 and 23 kDa were newly formed after 60 min of enzymatic hydrolysis. Prolonged enzymatic hydrolysis did not result in remarkable changes in these peptides; thus, the peptides show some resistance to enzymatic hydrolysis. The amino acid sequences of the peptide chains were analyzed by matrix‐assisted laser desorption / ionization‐time of flight mass spectrometry and aligned with the related sequences in the corresponding protein and antigen databases. Ten complete sequential epitopes were identified in the residual 49 kDa fraction, of these epitopes, two were from α‐subunits and eight were from β‐subunits. CONCLUSION: The presence of complete sequential epitopes in hydrolysates obtained from the enzymatic hydrolysis of soybean is an important reason for the incomplete disappearance of the antigenic activity of β‐conglycinin. © 2020 Society of Chemical Industry [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Journal bump foil bearing (JBFB) is the key component in high-speed turbomachinery. In this paper, load carrying performance of the 2nd and 3rd generation JBFBs with axial and circumferential stiffness variations are investigated applying a curve shell model. A nonlinear algorithm is employed to impose contact/separate and stick/slide constraints to foil structures. An effective inverse method is proposed to design the circumferential variations of bump radii, obtaining evidently wider area (over 110°) where higher film pressure distributes. Reduced stiffness of edge bump strips increases bearing load capacity and frictional energy dissipation particularly for the misaligned rotor. Results indicate the 3rd generation JBFB can achieve over 60% load capacity improvement compared to the 1st generation bearing with uniform bump structure. • The 2nd an 3rd generation journal bump foil bearings are modeled and studied. • Circumferential and axial stiffness variations of bump structures are included. • An effective inverse method is proposed to obtain evidently wider area where higher film pressure distributes in circumferential direction. • The 3rd generation bump foil bearing can achieve over 60% load capacity improvement compared to the 1st generation bearing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights • PGS addition led to enhanced viscosity and gel network for glutinous rice flour. • PGS addition induced structural disorganization for glutinous dumplings. • PGS addition improves storage and textural properties of glutinous dumplings. • PGS addition increases the SDS and bound water content of glutinous dumplings. • Statistical correlation found between flour properties and qualities of dumplings. Abstract In this study, the impacts of pregelatinized starch (PGS) with different conditions (2–8%, w/w) on the characteristics, microstructures and quality parameters of glutinous rice flour and dumplings were determined. The results indicated PGS favored the formation of elastic gel-like network structure on starch granules. PGS addition, especially at high PGS content, significantly influenced the granular, crystalline and molecular structure of glutinous dumplings, probably due to the structural amorphization of PGS. Accordingly, the dumplings complexation with suitable PGS exhibited a better storage, an increased content of slowly digestible starch (SDS), and integrated quality attributes including transmittance, cracking rate, and textural properties via weakening the water mobility. Pearson's correlation matrix exhibited that the quality of glutinous dumplings could be well predicted by physicochemical properties of rice flour. Thus, it is feasible to improve the textural and nutritional attribute of glutinous rice dumplings via simply complexation with PGS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Vacuum mixing is a new method of dough making, and little literature is available regarding its effects on the product quality of frozen food. This research studied the effects of different degrees of vacuum (0.00, −0.02, −0.04, −0.06, −0.08 MPa) on the water state, thermal properties, cooking characteristics and microstructure of fast frozen dumpling wrappers during different storage times (0, 14 and 30 days). Vacuum mixing significantly decreased the spin–spin relaxation times (T2) and freezing water content, thus indicating that it decreased the mobility of moisture and enhanced the binding of dough components with water molecules. Furthermore, the increases in the cooking loss rate and hardness of fast frozen dumpling wrappers during storage were inhibited by vacuum mixing, especially after storage for 30 days, possibly because vacuum mixing formed a more continuous and compacted dough structure, thereby generating a smaller ice crystal structure. These results should provide a theoretical basis for the application of vacuum mixing to fast frozen dumplings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To compare the clinical effectiveness of two approaches of minimally invasive esophagectomy (MIE) in esophagectomy patients. Materials and Methods: We retrospectively screened the perioperative data in a total of 49 patients who underwent MIE. Among them, 30 patients underwent thoracoscopy combined with laparoscopy (Group A), while the rest received mediastinoscopy combined with laparoscopy (Group B). Clinical effectiveness and postoperative complications were comparatively analyzed. Results: The patients with mediastinoscopy showed a shorter average surgical time, less blood loss during surgery, diminished drainage volume in the first 3 days after surgery, and reduced hospitalization time, compared with the patients with thoracoscopic approach (P < .05). However, the mediastinoscopic route seems to render a higher incidence of postoperative hoarseness than thoracoscopy combined with laparoscopy (P < .05). In mediastinal lymph node dissection, the number of right recurrent laryngeal nerve lymph nodes (RLN LNs) in mediastinoscopic route was significantly less than that of thoracoscopy (P < .05). Conclusion: Mediastinoscopy was less invasive, with shorter surgical time, faster recovery, and better patient comfort, although it had certain limitations in the dissection of right RLN LNs. It is beneficial to patients with poor pulmonary function and no obvious mediastinal lymphadenectasis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and study aims: Post-lobectomy bronchopleural fistula is a rare complication of lung resection surgery, and proper management is crucial for the successful resolution. Most published papers deal with surgical treatment. We report our experience with a new interventional management, endobronchial naso-bronchial lavage (ENBL). The aim of this study was to evaluate the continuing efficacy and safety of this innovative procedure. Patients and methods: From 2002 to 2012, 17 patients who suffered from post-lobectomy bronchopleural fistula were recruited. An ENBL tube was inserted form nostril through the trachea, bronchus and the fistula into the pleural cavity with bronchoscope. Lavage of the pleural cavity was proceeded form the ENBL tube and drained form thoracostomy drainage tube. All patients were followed up for at least 6 months. Result: All patients received total recovery from the post-lobectomy bronchopleural fistula. The ENBL procedure could be finished in 10-15 min. No blooding without control, pneumonia or damage of trachea associated with this procedure occurred. With an at least 6 months' follow-up of the patients, no further intervention was performed. Conclusions: It suggested that the ENBL may be an alternative interventional treatment for bronchopleural fistula treating other than surgical procedure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: Thoracic sympathectomy is considered the most effective method to treat palmar hyperhidrosis. We presented a novel procedure for thoracic sympathectomy treating palmar hyperhidrosis which could be performed under monitored anesthesia care. The aim of this study was to evaluate the continuing efficacy and safety of this innovative surgery. Method: From May 2011 to May 2014, we performed the single-port endoscopic thoracic sympathectomy (ETS) with a flexible thoracoscopy in 32 patients under monitored anesthesia care. All patients were followed up until today. Results: Under monitored anesthesia, all patients were awake during the procedure. A proper sedation and local anesthesia make it possible for patients to communicate with surgeons. The symptoms disappeared immediately when the sympathectomy was done. No surgical complications occurred during the procedure. All patients were discharged from the hospital on the first morning of postoperative day. Compared with the traditional approach, the advantages of less operative costs, fewer hospital days, and better recovery were suggested. Conclusions: Single-port ETS with flexible thoracoscopy under monitored anesthesia is a promising procedure for palmar hyperhidrosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effects of Alcalase and Trypsin hydrolysis on the allergenic protein and its solubility of soybean meal (SBM) were investigated by SDS-PAGE and ELISA. After 10 min of hydrolysis with Alcalase, the solubility of the protein was 87.19%, theα′,αandβ-subunits ofβ-conglycinin disappeared and the acidic and basic subunits of glycinin decreased obviously by SDS-PAGE pattern. However, with Trypsin for 10 min, the solubility of the protein was 72.74%. The contents ofα′,αsubunits ofβ-conglycinin decreased slightly in SDS-PAGE, and the acidic and basic subunits of glycinin were almost not affected. For the insoluble hydrolysates prepared by Alcalase, theα′,αsubunits ofβ-conglycinin and acidic subunit of glycinin decreased significantly, that by trypsin did not. The content of immune-reactiveβ-conglycinin obtained by ELISA was consistent with them. These results confirmed that the allergenic proteins of SBM were more sensitive to Alcalase than to Trypsin. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

OBJECTIVES Palmar hyperhidrosis (PH) is a common dysfunctional disorder, with endoscopic thoracic sympathectomy (ETS) being the most popular treatment method. However, until now, there is little improvement to this technique. In this paper, we present a new alternative to the conventional surgical method. METHODS We performed ETS with flexible thoracoscopy under deep sedation without intubation in 13 patients. All patients were followed up until today. RESULTS During surgery, the vital signs of the patients remained stable and no intubation was necessary. The operative times ranged between 30 and 40 min. The symptom of PH disappeared postoperatively, and no complications occured. All patients were discharged from the hospital on the second postoperative day. CONCLUSIONS ETS with flexible thoracoscopy under deep sedation without intubation is a safe and effective method. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]