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The summer monsoon onset over the Bay of Bengal and South China Sea signals the beginning of the Asian summer monsoon, critical for local fisheries, agriculture and livelihoods, so communities are concerned about its potential changes under global warming. Previous projections have suggested a delay, but the extent of this delay remains uncertain, undermining the reliability of the projections. Here, we show a significant correlation between the projected shift in Bay of Bengal/South China Sea monsoon onset and present‐day sea surface temperature (SST) simulation over the western Pacific (WP). This emergent relationship arises from the spread of the precipitation response over the western‐central Pacific to WP SST, as more precipitation induces stronger tropical upper‐tropospheric warming, increasing westerly vertical shear near South Asia, and facilitating the onset delay. The rectified projections indicate that the delayed shift is almost halved compared to raw projections, and the intermodel uncertainty is reduced by 30%. Plain Language Summary: The summer monsoon onset over the Bay of Bengal and South China Sea is a crucial time for fishing, agriculture and livelihood, and is important for the further advance of the monsoon rains over tropical Asia. Previous studies have suggested that monsoon onset in these seas will be delayed in the future, but there is large uncertainty between models, undermining the reliability of the projection. This study finds that the projected shift in the onset is strongly related to a model's representation of sea surface temperatures over the western Pacific Ocean in the present day. Based on the relationship found in observations, we adjust or "constrain" the future projections of the monsoon onset. The delay to the monsoon onset using this adjustment is almost half of the original projection, and the uncertainty between models is also reduced. We suggest that a more accurate simulation of sea‐surface temperatures in the present‐day climate of the western Pacific Ocean is crucial for reliable future projections of the monsoon onset. Key Points: An observational constraint is identified for projected changes in summer monsoon onset date over the Bay of Bengal and South China SeaModels with a warmer sea surface temperature bias over the tropical western Pacific tend to project a more delayed monsoon onset in the futureThe emergent constraint indicates that the delay of monsoon onset over the Bay of Bengal and South China Sea is overestimated [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Methods Results Conclusion Currently, the conclusions of studies on subthalamic nucleus (STN) deep brain stimulation (DBS) for improving Parkinson's disease (PD) with depression are inconsistent, and the reasons for improvement or deterioration remain unclear.The aim was to investigate the prognosis of PD with depression after bilateral STN‐DBS and the factors related to the improvement in depression. The local and network effects of DBS on depression in PD (DPD) were further explored based on the volume of tissue activation (VTA). The study analyzed 80 primary PD patients who had undergone bilateral STN‐DBS, comprising 47 patients with improved depression and 33 patients without improvement. Two groups of clinical profiles and stimulation parameters were compared, and the network models for improving depression were constructed.The improvement in depression was closely associated with improvement in anxiety (odd rate [OR] = 1.067, P = 0.006) and the standardized space left y‐coordinate (OR = 0.253, P = 0.005). The VTA overlapping with the left motor STN subregion is most significantly associated with improvement in depression (RSpearman = 0.53, P < 0.001; RPearson = 0.43, P < 0.001). The y‐coordinates in the improvement group were closer to the optimal stimulation site for improving motor symptoms. Finally, both the structural and functional network models indicate a positive correlation between depression improvement and the connectivity of the sensorimotor cortex.The amelioration of DPD is primarily attributed to the stimulation of bilateral motor STN, particularly on the left. However, this stimulatory effect manifests as an indirect influence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: In advanced Parkinson's disease (PD), axial symptoms are common and can be debilitating. Although deep brain stimulation (DBS) significantly improves motor symptoms, conventional high-frequency stimulation (HFS) has limited effectiveness in improving axial symptoms. In this study, we investigated the effects on multiple axial symptoms after DBS surgery with three different frequency programming paradigms comprising HFS, low-frequency stimulation (LFS), and variable-frequency stimulation (VFS). Methods: This study involved PD patients who had significant preoperative axial symptoms and underwent bilateral subthalamic nucleus (STN) DBS. Axial symptoms, motor symptoms, medications, and quality of life were evaluated preoperatively (baseline). One month after surgery, HFS was applied. At 6 months post-surgery, HFS assessments were performed, and HFS was switched to LFS. A further month later, we conducted LFS assessments and switched LFS to VFS. At 8 months after surgery, VFS assessments were performed. Results: Of the 21 PD patients initially enrolled, 16 patients were ultimately included in this study. Regarding HFS, all axial symptoms except for the Berg Balance Scale (p < 0.0001) did not improve compared with the baseline (all p > 0.05). As for LFS and VFS, all axial symptoms improved significantly compared with both the baseline and HFS (all p < 0.05). Moreover, motor symptoms and medications were significantly better than the baseline (all p < 0.05) after using LFS and VFS. Additionally, the quality of life of the PD patients after receiving LFS and VFS was significantly better than at the baseline and with HFS (all p < 0.0001). Conclusion: Our findings indicate that HFS is ineffective at improving the majority of axial symptoms in advanced PD. However, both the LFS and VFS programming paradigms exhibit significant improvements in various axial symptoms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The onset of the summer monsoon associated with global warming is of great concern to the scientific community. While observational data diagnosis has shown the impact of intraseasonal oscillation (ISO) on the monsoon onset, how the ISO may affect the onset of monsoon under global warming remains unknown. Here, by analyzing the onset of the summer monsoon over the South Asian marginal seas projected by models in phase 6 of the Coupled Model Intercomparison Project (CMIP6) under the SSP5–8.5 scenario, we show evidence that the majority of models (>70%) project an earlier onset over the Arabian Sea (ArS) but a delayed onset over the Bay of Bengal (BoB) and the South China Sea (SCS). The temporal shifts of the monsoon onset are attributed to the changes in the premonsoon northward migration of equatorial ISO (NMISO), which is a trigger of monsoon onset and will be advanced (postponed) over the ArS (BoB and SCS). The subtropical upper-level westerly anomaly, inducing delayed occurrence of easterly shear, acts to delay the NMISO over the entire Indian Ocean. However, the intensified low-level southerly wind over the ArS, as well as its induced asymmetric pattern of boundary layer moisture work together to advance the premonsoon NMISO in the area, outweighing the delayed impact from vertical shear. These large-scale circulation changes are driven by tropical warming in the upper troposphere, land warming over the Arabian Peninsula, and ocean warming over the eastern Pacific. This analysis enriches monsoon onset projections by highlighting the role of ISO in influencing the future changes in monsoon onset. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: In advanced Parkinson’s disease (PD), axial symptoms are common and can be debilitating. Although deep brain stimulation (DBS) significantly improves motor symptoms, conventional high-frequency stimulation (HFS) has limited effectiveness in improving axial symptoms. In this study, we investigated the effects on multiple axial symptoms after DBS surgery with three different frequency programming paradigms comprising HFS, low-frequency stimulation (LFS), and variable-frequency stimulation (VFS). Methods: This study involved PD patients who had significant preoperative axial symptoms and underwent bilateral subthalamic nucleus (STN) DBS. Axial symptoms, motor symptoms, medications, and quality of life were evaluated preoperatively (baseline). One month after surgery, HFS was applied. At 6 months post-surgery, HFS assessments were performed, and HFS was switched to LFS. A further month later, we conducted LFS assessments and switched LFS to VFS. At 8 months after surgery, VFS assessments were performed. Results: Of the 21 PD patients initially enrolled, 16 patients were ultimately included in this study. Regarding HFS, all axial symptoms except for the Berg Balance Scale (p < 0.0001) did not improve compared with the baseline (all p > 0.05). As for LFS and VFS, all axial symptoms improved significantly compared with both the baseline and HFS (all p < 0.05). Moreover, motor symptoms and medications were significantly better than the baseline (all p < 0.05) after using LFS and VFS. Additionally, the quality of life of the PD patients after receiving LFS and VFS was significantly better than at the baseline and with HFS (all p < 0.0001). Conclusion: Our findings indicate that HFS is ineffective at improving the majority of axial symptoms in advanced PD. However, both the LFS and VFS programming paradigms exhibit significant improvements in various axial symptoms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The research findings on the effects of subthalamic nucleus (STN) deep brain stimulation (DBS) in Parkinson's disease (PD) with Rapid Eye Movement Sleep Behavior Disorder (RBD) are inconsistent, and there is a lack of research on DBS electrode sites and their network effects for the explanation of the differences. Our objective is to explore the optimal stimulation sites (that is the sweet spot) and the brain network effects of STN-DBS for RBD in PD. Methods: In this study, among the 50 PD patients who underwent STN-DBS treatment, 24 PD patients with RBD were screened. According to clinical scores and imaging data, the sweet spot of STN-DBS was analyzed in PD patients with RBD, and the optimal structure and functional network models of subthalamic stimulation were constructed. Results: Bilateral STN-DBS can effectively improve the symptoms of RBD and other non-motor symptoms in 24 PD patients with RBD. RBD Questionnaire-Hong Kong (RBDQ-HK) score was 41.33 ± 17.45 at baseline and 30.83 ± 15.83 at 1-year follow-up, with statistical significance between them (P < 0.01). However, the MoCA score was an exception with a baseline of 22.04 ± 4.28 and a 1-year follow-up of 21.58 ± 4.33, showing no statistical significance (P = 0.12). The sweet spot and optimal network connectivity models for RBD improvement have been validated as effective. Conclusions: Bilateral STN-DBS can improve the symptoms of RBD in PD. There exist the sweet spot and brain network effects of bilateral STN-DBS in the treatment of PD with RBD. Our study also demonstrates that RBD is a brain network disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A stable solid electrolyte interphase (SEI) layer is crucial for lithium metal anode (LMA) to survive in long‐term cycling. However, chaotic structures and chemical inhomogeneity of natural SEI make LMA suffering from exasperating dendrite growth and severe electrode pulverization, which hinder the practical application of LMAs. Here, we design a catalyst‐derived artificial SEI layer with an ordered polyamide‐lithium hydroxide (PA‐LiOH) bi‐phase structure to modulate ion transport and enable dendrite‐free Li deposition. The PA‐LiOH layer can substantially suppress the volume changes of LMA during Li plating/stripping cycles, as well as alleviate the parasitic reactions between LMA and electrolyte. The optimized LMAs demonstrate excellent stability in Li plating/stripping cycles for over 1000 hours at an ultra‐high current density of 20 mA cm−2 in Li||Li symmetric cells. A high coulombic efficiency up to 99.2 % in Li half cells in additive‐free electrolytes is achieved even after 500 cycles at a current density of 1 mA cm−2 with a capacity of 1 mAh cm−2. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A stable solid electrolyte interphase (SEI) layer is crucial for lithium metal anode (LMA) to survive in long‐term cycling. However, chaotic structures and chemical inhomogeneity of natural SEI make LMA suffering from exasperating dendrite growth and severe electrode pulverization, which hinder the practical application of LMAs. Here, we design a catalyst‐derived artificial SEI layer with an ordered polyamide‐lithium hydroxide (PA‐LiOH) bi‐phase structure to modulate ion transport and enable dendrite‐free Li deposition. The PA‐LiOH layer can substantially suppress the volume changes of LMA during Li plating/stripping cycles, as well as alleviate the parasitic reactions between LMA and electrolyte. The optimized LMAs demonstrate excellent stability in Li plating/stripping cycles for over 1000 hours at an ultra‐high current density of 20 mA cm−2 in Li||Li symmetric cells. A high coulombic efficiency up to 99.2 % in Li half cells in additive‐free electrolytes is achieved even after 500 cycles at a current density of 1 mA cm−2 with a capacity of 1 mAh cm−2. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Solid-state lithium metal batteries (SSLMBs) are a promising candidate for next-generation energy storage systems due to their intrinsic safety and high energy density. However, they still suffer from poor interfacial stability, which can incur high interfacial resistance and insufficient cycle lifespan. Herein, a novel poly(vinylidene fluoride-hexafuoropropylene)-based polymer electrolyte (PPE) with LiBF4 and propylene carbonate plasticizer is developed, which has a high room-temperature ionic conductivity up to 1.15 × 10-3 S cm-1 and excellent interfacial stability. Benefitting from the stable interphase, the PPE-based symmetric cell can operate for over 1000 h. By virtue of cryogenic transmission electron microscopy (Cryo-TEM) characterization, the high interfacial compatibility between Li metal anode and PPE is revealed. The solid electrolyte interphase is made up of an amorphous outer layer that can keep intimate contact with PPE and an inner Li2O-dominated layer that can protect Li from continuous side reactions during battery cycling. A LiF-rich transition layer is also discovered in the region of PPE close to Li metal anode. The feasibility of investigating interphases in polymer-based solid-state batteries via Cryo-TEM techniques is demonstrated, which can be widely employed in future to rationalize the correlation between solid-state electrolytes and battery performance from ultrafine interfacial structures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

WRKY transcription factors present unusual research value because of their critical roles in plant physiological processes and stress responses. Taraxacum kok-saghyz Rodin (TKS) is a perennial herb of dandelion in the Asteraceae family. However, the research on TKS WRKY TFs is limited. In this study, 72 TKS WRKY TFs were identified and named. Further comparison of the core motifs and the structure of the WRKY motif was analyzed. These TFs were divided into three groups through phylogenetic analysis. Genes in the same group of TkWRKY usually exhibit a similar exon-intron structure and motif composition. In addition, virtually all the TKS WRKY genes contained several cis-elements related to stress response. Expression profiling of the TkWRKY genes was assessed using transcriptome data sets and Real-Time RT-PCR data in tissues during physiological development, under abiotic stress and hormonal treatments. For instance, the TkWRKY18, TkWRKY23, and TkWRKY38 genes were significantly upregulated during cold stress, whereas the TkWRKY21 gene was upregulated under heat-stress conditions. These results could provide a basis for further studies on the function of the TKS WRKY gene family and genetic amelioration of TKS germplasm. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Large-scale circulation anomalies associated with 10–30-day-filtered persistent heavy rainfall events (PHREs) over the middle and lower reaches of the Yangtze River Valley (MLYV) in boreal summer for the period of 1961–2017 were investigated. Two distinct types of PHREs were identified based on configurations of anomalies in the western Pacific subtropical high (WPSH) and South Asian high (SAH) during the peak wet phase. One type, referred to as PSAH, is characterized by eastward extension of the SAH, and the other, referred to as NSAH, featured a westward retreat of the SAH; they both exhibit westward extension of the WPSH. Both types of PHREs are dominated by mei-yu frontal systems. The lower-level circulation anomalies play a crucial role in initiating rainfall but through different processes. Prior to rainfall occurrence, a strong anticyclonic circulation anomaly is over the western North Pacific Ocean (WNP) for the PSAH events and the related southwesterly wind anomaly prevails over southeastern China, which advects moisture into the MLYV, moistens the boundary layer, and induces atmospheric convective instability. For the NSAH events, the WNP anticyclonic circulation is weak while a strong northerly wind is observed north of the MLYV. It brings the cold air mass southward, favoring initiating frontal rainfall over the MLYV. The formation of upper-level circulation anomalies over the MLYV is primarily due to the shift of anomalous circulations from the mid-high latitudes. After the rainfall generation, the precipitation would influence the lower- and upper-level circulation anomalies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Vertical forests comprise of high-rise buildings with trees planted on their balconies. When trees are planted on a building, they change its exterior, and may influence local wind pressure and global aerodynamic forces. Wind-borne debris caused by local extreme wind pressures lead to negative effects on living environments, and large acceleration responses induced by global aerodynamic forces result in occupants' uneasiness. Therefore, it is important to investigate the local and global wind loads on vertical forests. In this study, wind tunnel tests of simultaneous multi-channel pressure measurement were conducted to investigate the effects of trees on local wind pressures (mean and fluctuating wind pressures on different positions of building facades). High-frequency-base-balance (HFBB) wind tunnel tests were performed to probe the impacts of trees on the global aerodynamic force of the building (base bending and torsional moments). Pressure measurements reveal that trees have minimal effects on mean and extreme values of wind pressure on windward and leeward facades; however, trees decrease the values of extreme wind pressure at the separation area. The results of HFBB show that vegetation slightly increases the intensity of mean global wind load at along-wind directions, decreases the peak value of power spectral density (PSD) of lift forces corresponding to vortex shedding. In general, trees on balconies reduce wind pressures at separation area as well as the across-wind fluctuating forces for the building with the side ratio of 1.67. However, there is no significant effects on the rest of wind pressures and loads. Therefore, to some extent, trees planted on balconies were found to improve wind-resistant performance of vertical forests compared with conventional high-rise buildings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights • There exists a contrasting trend in water content response between seasons. • Water content in vegetated soil is higher than in a bare soil during autumn. • Low soil temperature could inhibit root water uptake ability. • Root-water uptake is overestimated when soil temperature is ignored. Abstract Presence of vegetation in urban landscape influences soil temperature and soil moisture. Some studies in literature have focused on development of correlations between the above two parameters for agricultural fields and forest regions. These correlations could be dissimilar due to the differences in soil conditions (density and type), vegetation species and temperature between agricultural and urban landscape. This paper investigates the effects of vegetation on soil temperature and soil moisture by an integrated approach of field monitoring and numerical modelling. A simple hydrological model is developed to capture seasonal variations of surface soil temperature and its effect on root water uptake. Hypothesis of effects of soil temperature on root water uptake was investigated using field measurements of soil water content. Field site in urban landscape containing bare, grass and tree species were selected for investigation. There existed a contrasting trend in water content response between summer and autumn for both bare and vegetated soils. Due to higher evapotranspiration in summer, water content in vegetated soils were lower by up to 50%. However, water content in vegetated soil was found to be up to 70% higher than in a bare soil during autumn. It could be due to the lower soil temperature that inhibits root water uptake ability. This was verified using a series of numerical simulations that consider effects of soil temperature on root water uptake. Without considering soil temperature effects on root water uptake, there was an overestimation of reduction of soil water content by up to 50% in autumn period. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Several novel techniques were developed recently to explore neural circuit mechanisms of neuropsychiatric disorders. These techniques include the Designer Receptors Exclusively Activated by Designer Drugs (DREADD)-based chemogenetic tools, which represent valuable platforms for selective and non-invasive control of neural activity with a high degree of spatial resolution. Among all variants, Gq- and Gi-DREADDs are widely used by neuroscientists to dissect out the circuitry and cellular signals. This review is focused on strategies to access a specific neuronal population or circuit using the DREADD technique and summarizes the current knowledge of the DREADDs' application in alcohol use disorder research and therapeutics. Highlights • Several novel approaches, including chemogenetics, have been developed to manipulate neuronal and circuit activity. • DREADD-based chemogenetic tools are widely used in the research of neuropsychiatric disorders. • Gq- and Gi-DREADDs are two commonly used variants, which can activate or silence neuronal activity, respectively. • Several DREADD variants have been used in many brain regions to manipulate alcohol-seeking and alcohol-drinking behaviors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

LiNi 0.5 Mn 1.5 O 4 is a promising cathode material for high power lithium ion batteries (LIBs) for electric vehicles (EVs) and hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs). For the first time we design a tri-functional coating to improve the cycling performance of LiNi 0.5 Mn 1.5 O 4 . With the designed BiPO 4 coating, the capacity retentions of LiNi 0.5 Mn 1.5 O 4 are largely improved from 84.3% to 93.6% at 0.5 C after 50 cycles and from 80.6% to 96.2% at 10 C after 100 cycles. The tri-functional coating reduces the charge transfer resistance of LiNi 0.5 Mn 1.5 O 4 cathode and plays a critical role in enhancing the electrochemical performance and lifetime. This strategy provides a new way to modify electrode materials to elevate the performance of LIBs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Repeated exposure to addictive drugs or alcohol triggers glutamatergic and gamma-aminobutyric acidergic (GABAergic) plasticity in many neuronal populations. The dorsomedial striatum (DMS), a brain region critically involved in addiction, contains medium spiny neurons (MSNs) expressing dopamine D 1 or D 2 receptors, which form direct and indirect pathways, respectively. It is unclear how alcohol-evoked plasticity in the DMS contributes to alcohol consumption in a cell type–specific manner. Methods Mice were trained to consume alcohol using an intermittent-access two-bottle-choice drinking procedure. Slice electrophysiology was used to measure glutamatergic and GABAergic strength in DMS D 1 - and D 2 -MSNs of alcohol-drinking mice and control mice. In vivo chemogenetic and pharmacologic approaches were employed to manipulate MSN activity, and their consequences on alcohol consumption were measured. Results Repeated cycles of alcohol consumption and withdrawal in mice strengthened glutamatergic transmission in D 1 -MSNs and GABAergic transmission in D 2 -MSNs. In vivo chemogenetic excitation of D 1 -MSNs, mimicking glutamatergic strengthening, promoted alcohol consumption; the same effect was induced by D 2 -MSN inhibition, mimicking GABAergic strengthening. Importantly, suppression of GABAergic transmission via D 2 receptor–glycogen synthase kinase–3β signaling dramatically reduced excessive alcohol consumption, as did selective inhibition of D 1 -MSNs or excitation of D 2 -MSNs. Conclusions Our results suggest that repeated cycles of excessive alcohol intake and withdrawal potentiate glutamatergic strength exclusively in D 1 -MSNs and GABAergic strength specifically in D 2 -MSNs of the DMS, which concurrently contribute to alcohol consumption. These results provide insight into the synaptic and cell type–specific mechanisms underlying alcohol addiction and identify targets for the development of new therapeutic approaches to alcohol abuse. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Co-existence of meningioma and breast carcinoma metastasis in the type of collision tumor is uncommon in the brain. A 65-year-old female with a history of breast carcinoma suffered from a mass in posterior fossa of brain. After a craniotomy, the pathological specimen showed a collision tumor with breast cancer metastasis and meningioma. In the clinical setting of previously vague diagnosis in imaging, craniotomy for removal of the mass is more recommended if conditions permit. Only the rare tumor is identified in pathology for further follow-up and research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Two special manganese complexes [Mn(II)(acac−)2(4,4′-bipy)] n (bipy=4,4′-bipyridine) (complex 1) and [Mn(III)(acac−)3]·4CO(NH2)2 (acacH=acetylacetone) (complex 2) were synthesized in the same strategy by solvothermal method. Single crystal X-ray diffraction revealed the complex 1 consists of one-dimensional infinite coordination chain, with the manganese centers bridged by 4,4′-bipy. And free carbamides of complex 2 connect with each other through the hydrogen bonds to form a 14-membered carbamide ring and a zig-zag plane. Both enantiomers of Mn(III)(acac−)3 exist in the structure, forming a racemate. Furthermore, these enantiomers and those zig-zag planes are linked with hydrogen bonds to form an unique spatial network. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary The growth and development of maize (Zea mays L.) are significantly impeded by prolonged exposure to high temperatures. Heat stress transcription factors (HSFs) play crucial roles in enabling plants to detect and respond to elevated temperatures. However, the genetic mechanisms underlying the responses of HSFs to heat stress in maize remain unclear. Thus, we aimed to investigate the role of ZmHSFA2B in regulating heat tolerance in maize. Here, we report that ZmHSFA2B has two splicing variants, ZmHSFA2B‐I and ZmHSFA2B‐II. ZmHSFA2B‐I encodes full‐length ZmHSFA2B (ZmHSFA2B‐I), whereas ZmHSFA2B‐II encodes a truncated ZmHSFA2B (ZmHSFA2B‐II). Overexpression of ZmHSFA2B‐I improved heat tolerance in maize and Arabidopsis thaliana, but it also resulted in growth retardation as a side effect. RNA‐sequencing and CUT&Tag analyses identified ZmMBR1 as a putative target of ZmHSFA2B‐I. Overexpression of ZmMBR1 also enhanced heat tolerance in Arabidopsis. ZmHSFA2B‐II was primarily synthesized in response to heat stress and competitively interacted with ZmHSFA2B‐I. This interaction consequently reduced the DNA‐binding activities of ZmHSFA2B‐I homodimers to the promoter of ZmMBR1. Subsequent investigations indicate that ZmHSFA2B‐II limits the transactivation and tempers the function of ZmHSFA2B‐I, thereby reducing the adverse effects of excessive ZmHSFA2B‐I accumulation. Based on these observations, we propose that the alternative splicing of ZmHSFA2B generates a self‐regulatory loop that fine‐tunes heat stress response in maize. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights: "Zero-strain" NiNb2O6 fibers with nanosized primary particles are explored as an all-climate anode material with comprehensively good Li+-storage properties. The almost completely opposite volume changes of electrochemical inactive NiO6 octahedra and active NbO6 octahedra are achieved through reversible O movement, leading to the "zero-strain" behavior of NiNb2O6 with minor unit-cell-volume change and excellent cyclability in a broad temperature range. The gained insight can provide guide for the exploration of high-performance energy-storage materials working at harsh temperatures. Niobates are promising all-climate Li+-storage anode material due to their fast charge transport, large specific capacities, and resistance to electrolyte reaction. However, their moderate unit-cell-volume expansion (generally 5%–10%) during Li+ storage causes unsatisfactory long-term cyclability. Here, "zero-strain" NiNb2O6 fibers are explored as a new anode material with comprehensively good electrochemical properties. During Li+ storage, the expansion of electrochemical inactive NiO6 octahedra almost fully offsets the shrinkage of active NbO6 octahedra through reversible O movement. Such superior volume-accommodation capability of the NiO6 layers guarantees the "zero-strain" behavior of NiNb2O6 in a broad temperature range (0.53%//0.51%//0.74% at 25// − 10//60 °C), leading to the excellent cyclability of the NiNb2O6 fibers (92.8%//99.2% // 91.1% capacity retention after 1000//2000//1000 cycles at 10C and 25// − 10//60 °C). This NiNb2O6 material further exhibits a large reversible capacity (300//184//318 mAh g−1 at 0.1C and 25// − 10//60 °C) and outstanding rate performance (10 to 0.5C capacity percentage of 64.3%//50.0%//65.4% at 25// − 10//60 °C). Therefore, the NiNb2O6 fibers are especially suitable for large-capacity, fast-charging, long-life, and all-climate lithium-ion batteries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Uncontrolled drug-seeking and -taking behaviors are generally driven by maladaptive corticostriatal synaptic plasticity. The orbital frontal cortex (OFC) and its projections to the dorsomedial striatum (DMS) have been extensively implicated in drug-seeking and relapse behaviors. The influence of the synaptic plasticity of OFC projections to the DMS (OFC→DMS) on drug-seeking and -taking behaviors has not been fully characterized. To investigate this, we trained rats to self-administer 20% alcohol and then delivered an in vivo optogenetic protocol designed to induce long-term potentiation (LTP) selectively at OFC→DMS synapses. We selected LTP induction because we found that voluntary alcohol self-administration suppressed OFC→DMS transmission and LTP may normalize this transmission, consequently reducing alcohol-seeking behavior. Importantly, e x vivo slice electrophysiology studies confirmed that this in vivo optical stimulation protocol resulted in a significant increase in excitatory OFC→DMS transmission strength on day two after stimulation, suggesting that LTP was induced in vivo. Rat alcohol-seeking and -taking behaviors were significantly reduced on days 1–3, but not on days 7–11, after LTP induction. Striatal synaptic plasticity is modulated by several critical neurotransmitter receptors, including dopamine D1 receptors (D1Rs) and adenosine A2A receptors (A2ARs). We found that delivery of in vivo optical stimulation in the presence of a D1R antagonist abolished the LTP-associated decrease in alcohol-seeking behavior, whereas delivery in the presence of an A2AR antagonist may facilitate this LTP-induced behavioral change. These results demonstrate that alcohol-seeking behavior was negatively regulated by the potentiation of excitatory OFC→DMS neurotransmission. Our findings provide direct evidence that the OFC exerts "top-down" control of alcohol-seeking behavior via the DMS. • Chronic alcohol self-administration reduces OFC→DMS neurotransmission. • Pairing oHFS of OFC inputs and oPSD of DMS neurons causes orbitostriatal LTP and persistently reduces alcohol seeking. • Dopamine D1R inhibition during the in vivo LTP induction abolishes the LTP-elicited reduction of alcohol-seeking behaviors. • Adenosine A2AR inhibition during the in vivo LTP induction promotes the LTP-elicited reduction of alcohol-seeking behaviors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Reports on the reactions of pyridineselenolate ligands with tin(II), tin(IV) and lead(II) and lead(IV) to form stable, homleptic complexes. Structural characterization; Bond lengths; Structure refinements; Dissociation of compounds under chemical vapor deposition conditions.

Discusses the use of the pyridineselenolate ligand to prepare stable metal chalcogenolates. Preparation of Cd(II) and Hg(II) complexes; Characterization of compounds; Binding of the square planar mercury ions to a pair of chelating pyridieneselenolate ligands; Decomposition at high temperatures.

To analyze the factors related to the efficacy of consciousness-regaining therapy (CRT) for prolonged disorder of consciousness. A retrospective analysis was conducted on the case data of 114 patients with prolonged disorder of consciousness (pDOC) admitted to the Department of Functional Neurosurgery of Tianjin Huanhu Hospital from January 2019 to January 2022 to explore the relevant factors that affect the efficacy of CRT for pDOC. Next, basic information on the cases, data on pDOC disease assessment, CRT methods, and efficacy evaluation were collected. These 114 patients were grouped, and a comparative analysis was done based on the efficacy at the end of treatment. Of these, 61 cases were allotted to the ineffective group and 53 cases to the effective group. There was a lack of statistical difference (P > 0.05) between the 2 groups based on gender, age, etiology, acute cerebral herniation, emergency craniotomy surgery, emergency decompressive craniectomy, time from onset to start of CRT, and CRT duration (P > 0.05). However, secondary hydrocephalus, CRT methods, JFK Coma Recovery Scale-Revised grading before treatment, and extended Glasgow Outcome Scale score at six months after treatment were found to be statistically different. The results of binary logistic regression analysis showed that the type of therapy (OR = 0.169, 95% CI: 0.057–0.508) affected the efficacy of CRT (P < 0.05). Personalized awakening therapy using various invasive CRT methods could improve the efficacy of therapy for pDOC compared with noninvasive therapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sevoflurane (Sev) is a rapidly acting, potent inhalation anesthetic with rapid uptake and elimination. But many studies have shown that Sev could result in cognition dysfunction in adolescent or aging patients. Now, therapeutic targeting with IL-17A antibody has shown a promising effect on Sev-induced cognition impairment. In the study we report that P300 inhibition could act as an alternative approach to decrease IL-17A activity. SHSY5Y cells were treated with Sev and cell apoptosis was evaluated by Annexin V-FITC/PI staining. The expression of P300 and IL-17A were assessed by Western blotting. Water maze tests were conducted in order to assess the cognitive function. We found that P300 and IL-17A were activated in SHSY5Y cells treated with Sev. P300 inhibitor C646 could reduce the apoptosis induced by Sev through decreasing IL-17A avtivity. Furthermore, IL-17A expression was upregulated after neurons were transfected with P300 expression plasmid and IL-17A expression was downregulated after neurons were incubated with P300 inhibitor C646. P300 overexpression could upregulate the promoter activity of IL-17A. Finally, in a rat model treated with Sev, we also found C646 to significantly improve the cognition impairment through the IL-17A pathway. These data show that P300 will potentially be a new drug target for the therapy of cognition impairment caused by Sev. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The performance of lithium-ion batteries is greatly influenced by various factors within their operating environment, which can significantly impact their overall efficiency and effectiveness. In this paper, a multi-physics field electrochemical thermal model is established to measure the physical parameters of a battery module during the charge/discharge process. The effects of working temperature, current rate, and convective heat transfer coefficient are investigated by establishing an electrochemical and thermal model. The results are obtained by conducting numerous parameterized scans to analyze the system's state across various operating conditions, enabling the determination of its temperature and the selection of appropriate cooling measures accordingly. Based on the internal and external conditions of battery operation, parameter selection corresponding to the operating range is divided into several stages, with thermal management strategies provided for each stage. The existing framework facilitates the design of battery packs equipped with efficient thermal management strategies, thereby enhancing the battery systems' reliability and performance. Furthermore, it aids in establishing optimal operational and safety boundaries for batteries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] The ultrathin multi-nanolayered structure with ultrathin monolayer thickness (<10 nm) and certain interlayer spacing can significantly shorten Li+ paths and alleviate the volume effect for Li+-storage materials. However, unlike layered materials such as MXene and MoS 2 , shear ReO 3 -type niobates have difficulty forming ultrathin multi-nanolayered structures due to their crystal structures, which still remains a challenge. Herein, by a polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP)-assisted solvothermal method, we first synthesize ultrathin multi-nanolayered Cu 2 Nb 34 O 87−x with oxygen vacancies composed of ultrathin nanolayers (2–10 nm in thickness) and interlayer spacing (1–5 nm). Oxygen vacancies can radically enhance the inherent electronic/ionic conductivity and Li+ diffusion coefficient of this material. The PVP-induced formation mechanism of this material is expounded in detail. The well-preserved ultrathin multi-nanolayered structure and excellent multi-electron electrochemical reversibility (Nb5+ ↔ Nb4+ ↔N b3+ and Cu2+ ↔ Cu+) of this material during cycling are fully verified. Based on an ultrathin multi-nanolayered structure and oxygen vacancies, this material as the anode of lithium-ion batteries is highly competitive among reported shear ReO 3 -type Cu-Nb-O anodes, displaying a high reversible capacity (315.3 mAh g−1 after 300 cycles at 1 C), durable cycling stability (85.7 % capacity retention after 1000 cycles at 10 C), and outstanding rate performance. Moreover, the application of this material to lithium-ion capacitors generates a large energy density (97.9 Wh kg−1 at 87.5 W kg−1) and a high power density (17,500 W kg−1 at 12.6 Wh kg−1), thus further indicating its fast faradaic pseudocapacitive behavior for practical applications. The results of this work indicate a breakthrough in synthesizing ultrathin multi-nanolayered shear ReO 3 -type niobates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Several novel techniques were developed recently to explore neural circuit mechanisms of neuropsychiatric disorders. These techniques include the Designer Receptors Exclusively Activated by Designer Drugs (DREADD)-based chemogenetic tools, which represent valuable platforms for selective and non-invasive control of neural activity with a high degree of spatial resolution. Among all variants, Gq- and Gi-DREADDs are widely used by neuroscientists to dissect out the circuitry and cellular signals. This review is focused on strategies to access a specific neuronal population or circuit using the DREADD technique and summarizes the current knowledge of the DREADDs' application in alcohol use disorder research and therapeutics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Transition metal phosphides (TMPs) are a promising catalyst material for the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER). In this study, we introduced inexpensive red phosphorus (P 4) into a homogeneous solution as a phosphorus source. Using the electrostatic spinning technique combined with high temperature carbonization, we successfully prepared self-supported carbon nanofibers doped with nitrogen (N) and loaded with ruthenium (Ru)-modified cobalt phosphide (Co 2 P) nanoparticles catalysts (Ru@Co 2 P/CNFs). The Ru@Co 2 P phosphide nanoparticles were evenly distributed on the surface of the carbon fibers, forming a three-dimensional network structure. The synergistic effect between the Ru and Co 2 P systems resulted in excellent catalytic activity and stability for the hydrogen evolution reaction in alkaline solutions. The N-doped conducting carbon matrix and large specific surface area of the active sites contributed to this enhanced performance. The Ru@Co 2 P/CNFs catalysts only required an overpotential of 48 mV at a current density of 10 mA cm−2, outperforming the noble metal platinum/carbon (Pt/C) catalysts, which required an overpotential of 52 mV. Furthermore, the Ru@Co 2 P nanoparticles were protected by a carbon layer, preventing catalyst corrosion during long-term operation. The HER performance of the Ru@Co 2 P/CNFs catalysts remained stable even after 40 h of continuous operation, demonstrating their long-lasting stability. This research introduces a new approach to developing cost-effective and highly active self-supported network-structured phosphide catalysts. • Anchoring Ru@Co 2 P nanoparticles on carbon substrates by electrostatic spinning and high-temperature carbonization techniques. • Ru@Co 2 P/CNFs showed excellent HER activity in alkaline media (η10 = 48 mV, 63.3 mV dec-1). • Ru@Co 2 P/CNFs showed excellent HER activity in alkaline media (η10 = 48 mV, 63.3 mV dec-1). • Carbon layer encapsulation and protection for enhanced conductivity and long-lasting stability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Defect and interface engineering, which can facilitate exceptional electrochemical stability and activity, are some of the most important strategies in devising electrode materials. However, the complex nanoscale chemistry and structure characteristics make the origin of electrochemical mechanism extremely difficult to understand. To eliminate this issue, the delicately designed 1D tungsten bronze superstructure anode, guided by defect and interface engineering, is successfully prepared for sodium storage to gain insight into the endogenous structure‐property relationships. It can realize the intensely enhanced Na+‐storage performance with a safe operating potential of ≈0.5 V, a high specific capacity of 228 mAh g−1 at 0.1 C and superior rate performance, which is attributed to the rapid electron and ion transfer process induced by abundant heterointerfaces. More importantly, it can convey an ultra‐stable long‐term cycling performance, with the capacity retention close to 90% after 4500 cycles at 5 C and 10000 cycles at 10 C, which can be explained by the inherently zero‐strain characteristic of a novel vacancy‐ordered superstructure in tungsten bronze Ba3.4Nb10O28.4 (BNO). This study reveals the structural origins of defect and interface engineering responsible for electrochemical mechanism, providing critical insight into the design of superior electrode materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ultra‐long‐life (at least 10 000 cycles) lithium‐ion batteries are very effective for stationary energy‐storage applications. However, even "zero‐strain" materials with small unit‐cell‐volume changes of <1% cannot last for ultra‐long cycles due to gradually accumulated intracrystal strain/stress. Here, Li[Li0.2Cr0.4Ti1.4]O4 is explored as the first absolutely‐zero‐expansion material with unit‐cell‐volume variations of zero during Li+ storage. Its absolutely‐zero‐expansion mechanism is intensively studied, revealing that 16c‐octahedron shrinkage fully offsets 16d‐octahedron expansion through reversible O2− movement. It delivers better cycling stability than, as far as we know, all electrochemical energy‐storage materials previously reported. Its capacity retention at 10 C and 1.0 mg cm−2 after 17 000 cycles reaches 91.5%. When the active‐material loading significantly increases to 6.4 mg cm−2, its capacity retention at 5 C after 500 cycles reaches 95.7%. At an elevated temperature of 45 °C, it not only keeps excellent cycling stability but also exhibits significantly enhanced rate capability. Therefore, Li[Li0.2Cr0.4Ti1.4]O4 is especially suitable for stationary energy storage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The error of precise initiation time controlled at the microsecond level in the electronic detonator blasting is accurate enough to realize blasting vibration reduction; however, the realization of precise control of blasting vibration using the electronic detonators remains rudimentary, researches on the precise zoning protection of buildings and field experiments are lacked. Therefore, multi-delay time of double-hole and multi-hole blasting experiments were carried out to explore the influence of different delay time on blast-induced PPV (Peak Particle Velocity). Based on the measured blasting vibration waveforms with blasting center distance of 16–200 m the reasonable delay time reducing PPV was investigated when the protective buildings at different blasting center distances and the reasonable delay time suitable for zoning protection was put forward to verify the applicability of the electronic detonators. The results show that as the initiation delay time increases, the PPV of blasting vibration first decreases then increases and finally attenuates to the single-hole PPV, with the increase of the blasting center distance, the reasonable delay time for reducing PPV gradually increases. However, a greater vibration enhancement effect will be produced when the delay time reaches at a certain value in the near area, the generated maximum PPV is about 1.8 times the single-hole PPV and there will be multiple short delay time producing enhancement effect in multi-hole blasting, the short delay time cannot be blindly adopted to reduce vibration. Therefore, the delay time of electronic detonators should be reasonably set to achieve the effect of blasting vibration reduction based on the distance between the protected buildings and the blasting zone. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

West China experienced an extremely wet autumn in 2017, and the amount of September–October precipitation is the greatest during 1961–2018. This study explored the physical processes responsible for two primary intraseasonal precipitation events which contribute greatly to such an extremely wet season. The first event peaking in early September is induced by the southward movement of a frontal system from the northern China, which is attributed to the southward displacement of an intraseasonal anticyclonic anomaly. The northerly anomaly associated with the anticyclone advects cold air into West China and thus triggers frontal precipitation. The second event peaking in early October is related to the northward shift and intensification of an intraseasonal anticyclonic anomaly centred over the northwestern Pacific Ocean. The southerly anomaly along the western flank of the anticyclone transports moisture to West China and thus triggers precipitation. The different initiation processes for the two precipitation events may be due to the distinct dynamical and thermal‐dynamical conditions in September and October. West China has sufficient moisture but less dynamical disturbances in September, while it has adequate dynamical disturbances but less moisture in October. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dopamine signals mainly through D1 receptors (D1Rs) and D2 receptors (D2Rs); D1R-expressing or D2R-expressing neurons contribute to distinct reward and addictive behaviors. Traditionally, transgenic mice expressing green fluorescent protein (GFP) under D1R or D2R promoters are used for fluorescent verification in electrophysiology studies, whereas Cre mice are employed for behavioral research. However, it is unknown whether the same neuronal populations are targeted in GFP and Cre mice. Additionally, while D1Rs and D2Rs are known to be expressed in different striatal neurons, their expression patterns outside the striatum remain unclear. The present study addressed these two questions by using several transgenic mouse lines expressing fluorescent proteins (GFP or tdTomato) or Cre under the control of D1R or D2R promoters. We found a high degree of overlap between GFP-positive and Cre-positive neurons in the striatum and hippocampus. Additionally, we discovered that D1Rs and D2Rs were highly segregated in the orbitofrontal cortex, prefrontal cortex, dorsal and ventral hippocampus, and amygdala: ~4-34 percent of neurons co-expressed these receptors. Importantly, slice electrophysiological studies demonstrated that D1R-positive and D1R-negative hippocampal neurons were functionally distinct in a mouse line generated by crossing Drd1a-Cre mice with a Cre reporter Ai14 line. Lastly, we discovered that chronic alcohol intake differentially altered D1R-positive and D2R-positive neuron excitability in the ventral CA1. These data suggest that GFP and Cre mice target the same populations of striatal neurons, D1R-expressing or D2R-expressing neurons are highly segregated outside the striatum, and these neurons in the ventral hippocampal may exert distinct roles in alcohol addiction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Niobate Li+‐storage anode materials with shear ReO3 crystal structures have attracted intensive attention due to their inherent safety and large capacities. However, they generally suffer from limited rate performance, cyclic stability, and temperature adaptability, which are rooted in their insufficient interlayer spacings. Here, sodium niobate (NaNb13O33) micron‐sized particles are developed as a new anode material owning the largest interlayer spacing among the known shear ReO3‐type niobates. The large interlayer spacing of NaNb13O33 enables very fast Li+ diffusivity, remarkably contributing to its superior rate performance with a 2500 to 125 mA g−1 capacity percentage of 63.2%. Moreover, its large interlayer spacing increases the volume‐accommodation capability during lithiation, allowing small unit‐cell‐volume variations (maximum 6.02%), which leads to its outstanding cyclic stability with 87.9% capacity retention after as long as 5000 cycles at 2500 mA g−1. Its cyclic stability is the best in the research field of niobate micron‐sized particles, and comparable to that of "zero‐strain" Li4Ti5O12. At a low temperature of −10 °C, it also exhibits high rate performance with a 1250 to 125 mA g−1 capacity percentage of 65.6%, and even better cyclic stability with 105.4% capacity retention after 5000 cycles at 1250 mA g−1. These comprehensively good electrochemical results pave the way for the practical application of NaNb13O33 in high‐performance Li+ storage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simultaneously developing protective electronics film for multi‐spectra, including the radar, infrared (IR), and visible ranges, for both the military and civilian sectors is extremely challenging. The existing multi‐spectra‐compatible materials mainly concentrate on either the radar/IR or IR/visible bands, trailing the rapid evolution of advanced devices for monitoring electromagnetic signals. Here, it is designed and fabricated an ultra‐thin MXene‐based composite film (20 µm) containing black phosphorus (BP) and Ni chains (M‐B‐M(Ni)) with integrated highly efficient thermal IR stealth, visible light absorption, and electromagnetic wave shielding. M‐B‐M(Ni) exhibits an extremely low IR emissivity of 0.1, decreasing the radiation temperature difference between the surrounding environment and target device. BP offers a high solar absorptance of 80%, which guarantees energy conversion from visible light to heat. Moreover, the absorption proportion of the electromagnetic shielding effectiveness for M‐B‐M(Ni) is 16% higher than that of pure MXene films (68.7%), owing to the improved magnetic loss by decoration with magnetic Ni chains. Due to the combined merits of MXene, BP, and Ni chains, M‐B‐M(Ni) opens an avenue for the construction of advanced multi‐spectra compatible materials for versatile applications in thermal IR stealth, electromagnetic wave shielding, and energy transformation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background. Prolonged disorders of consciousness (pDOC) are common in neurology and place a heavy burden on families and society. This study is aimed at investigating the characteristics of brain connectivity in patients with pDOC based on quantitative EEG (qEEG) and extending a new direction for the evaluation of pDOC. Methods. Participants were divided into a control group (CG) and a DOC group by the presence or absence of pDOC. Participants underwent magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) T1 three-dimensional magnetization with a prepared rapid acquisition gradient echo (3D-T1-MPRAGE) sequence, and video EEG data were collected. After calculating the power spectrum by EEG data analysis tool, DTABR ( δ + θ / α + β ratio), Pearson's correlation coefficient (Pearson r), Granger's causality, and phase transfer entropy (PTE), we performed statistical analysis between two groups. Finally, receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves of connectivity metrics were made. Results. The proportion of power in frontal, central, parietal, and temporal regions in the DOC group was lower than that in the CG. The percentage of delta power in the DOC group was significantly higher than that in the CG, the DTABR in the DOC group was higher than that in the CG, and the value was inverted. The Pearson r of the DOC group was higher than that of CG. The Pearson r of the delta band (Z = − 6.71 , P < 0.01), theta band (Z = − 15.06 , P < 0.01), and alpha band (Z = − 28.45 , P < 0.01) were statistically significant. Granger causality showed that the intensity of directed connections between the two hemispheres in the DOC group at the same threshold was significantly reduced (Z = − 82.43 , P < 0.01). The PTE of each frequency band in the DOC group was lower than that in the CG. The PTE of the delta band (Z = − 42.68 , P < 0.01), theta band (Z = − 56.79 , P < 0.01), the alpha band (Z = − 35.11 , P < 0.01), and beta band (Z = − 63.74 , P < 0.01) had statistical significance. Conclusion. Brain connectivity analysis based on EEG has the advantages of being noninvasive, convenient, and bedside. The Pearson r of DTABR, delta, theta, and alpha bands, Granger's causality, and PTE of the delta, theta, alpha, and beta bands can be used as biological markers to distinguish between pDOC and healthy people, especially when behavior evaluation is difficult or ambiguous; it can supplement clinical diagnosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Actual chemical industrial park accidents usually involve multi-hazard accidents. Synergistic effect of accidents could lead to serious casualties. In order to reduce the individual risk of accidents, this work proposes a method for managing the dynamic individual risk when toxic substance leakage and fire accidents occur concurrently, in which spatial and temporal synergistic effect of above two accidents is considered. The synergistic effect may reduce individual escape ability, and is modeled by quantifying the relationship between escape ability and toxic substance dose. In addition, the method analyzes dynamic individual risk of a person receiving the thermal radiation dose and toxic substance dose when escaping along a certain route. The casualty degree is described by the injury degree based on dose thresholds and the total fatality probability based on Probit model. Combined with the accident scenario, the critical safety escape distance is obtained. The model is proposed to plan the individual escape route based on the risk assessment results. The critical values of toxic substance concentration and thermal radiation intensity are defined as the basis for planning alternative escape routes. Finally, the optimal escape route is obtained according to the total fatality probability of each route. The range of safe escape direction can be used when wind direction information is inaccurate. A case study demonstrates the effectiveness of the proposed method and risk management strategy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lithium-ion batteries are a promising technology for efficient energy conversion. Despite the significant advancements made in capacity and lifespan, a suitable battery thermal management system is necessary for more safety and reliability. The heat generation rate and core temperature are critical parameters for the design of the battery thermal management system and the monitoring signals for the battery management system, respectively. In consideration of said critical parameters, in the present paper, a novel algorithm for heat generation and core temperature is proposed based on single-temperature in-situ measurement of lithium-ion batteries. The in-situ measurement is ensured by introducing the calculation of the local equivalent convection heat transfer coefficient, and only obtaining the surface temperature. To verify the proposed method, cylindrical 5 Ah 26,700 lithium-ion batteries were used as test samples. The results of the experiment reveal that the error between the calculated core temperature and the measured core temperature was less than 4% during the entirety of the 2 C and 1.5C discharging processes. The efficacy and accuracy of the core temperature demonstrate that the proposed method could be a reliable tool in practice for battery thermal management and fault monitoring. • A novel in-situ estimation for heat generation and the core temperature is proposed. • Only the surface temperature is required in the algorithm. • The local equivalent convection heat transfer coefficient is derived. • The heat generation and the core temperature are obtained simultaneously. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Stress-associated proteins (SAPs), a class of A20/AN1 zinc finger proteins, play vital roles in plant stress response. However, investigation of SAPs in maize has been very limited. Herein, to better trace the evolutionary history of SAPs in maize and plants, 415 SAPs were identified in 33 plant species and four species of other kingdoms. Moreover, gene duplication mode exploration showed whole genome duplication contributed largely to SAP gene expansion in angiosperms. Phylogeny reconstruction was performed with all identified SAPs by the maximum likelihood (ML) method and the SAPs were divided into five clades. SAPs within the same clades showed conserved domain composition. Focusing on maize, nine ZmSAPs were identified. Further promoter cis-elements and stress-induced expression pattern analysis of ZmSAPs indicated that ZmSAP8 was a promising candidate in response to drought stress, which was the only AN1-AN1-C2H2-C2H2 type SAP in maize and belonged to clade I. Additionally, ZmSAP8 was located in the nucleus and had no transactivation activity in yeast. Overexpressing ZmSAP8 enhanced the tolerance to drought stress in Arabidopsis thaliana, with higher seed germination and longer root length. Our results should benefit the further functional characterization of ZmSAPs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The succinonitrile (SN) plastic crystal electrolyte with excellent comprehensive properties such as high room temperature (RT) ionic conductivity, wide electrochemical window and low cost, making it a promising candidate for RT solid-state lithium batteries (SSLBs). However, severe spontaneous chemical reactions between SN and active Li anode cause serious damage to the electrolyte/electrode interface, which still needs to be further improved. In this work, an in-situ polymerized SN-based composite solid-state electrolyte (CSE) is exploited to conquer the severe side-reactions between SN-based electrolyte and Li anode, the PALA0.5@-CSE (polyacrylonitrile (PAN): modified-Li l.3 Al 0.3 Ti l.7 (PO 4) 3 (LATP@) = 1:0.5, w/w) demonstrates an outstanding ionic conductivity (0.45 mS cm−1), high electrochemical stability (5.1 V) and improved Li+ transference number (0.67) at RT. The Li symmetric cells with PALA0.5@-CSE shows a high critical current density (CCD) of 1.2 mA cm−2, and the Li symmetric cells deliver excellent cycle stability over 500 h, demonstrating the superior ability of PALA0.5@-CSE to suppress the side-reactions between SN and Li anode and the rapid growth of Li dendrite. In Li||LiFePO 4 (LFP) full cell, the SSLBs provide excellent RT rate capability and stable cycling performance. Moreover, the PALA0.5@-CSE possesses high thermal stability and incombustibility, demonstrating its superior safety for the future utilization of SN-based SSLBs. The modification of LATP was effective at stabilizing the interface, the formed robust SEI film could alleviate the severe interfacial side reactions between SN and Li anode. [Display omitted] • High ionic conductivity (0.45 mS cm−1) and Li+ transference number (0.67) is achieved. • The robust SEI film effectively mitigates the uncontrollably parasitic side-reactions. • The PALA0.5@-CSE exhibits high thermal stability and nonflammable. • Solid-state SN-based lithium batteries show superior performances at room temperature. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Exposure to addictive substances impairs flexible decision making. Cognitive flexibility is mediated by striatal cholinergic interneurons (CINs). However, how chronic alcohol drinking alters cognitive flexibility through CINs remains unclear. Here, we report that chronic alcohol consumption and withdrawal impaired reversal of instrumental learning. Chronic alcohol consumption and withdrawal also caused a long-lasting (21 days) reduction of excitatory thalamic inputs onto CINs and reduced pause responses of CINs in the dorsomedial striatum (DMS). CINs are known to inhibit glutamatergic transmission in dopamine D1 receptor-expressing medium spiny neurons (D1-MSNs) but facilitate this transmission in D2-MSNs, which may contribute to flexible behavior. We discovered that chronic alcohol drinking impaired CIN-mediated inhibition in D1-MSNs and facilitation in D2-MSNs. Importantly, in vivo optogenetic induction of long-term potentiation of thalamostriatal transmission in DMS CINs rescued alcohol-induced reversal learning deficits. These results demonstrate that chronic alcohol drinking reduces thalamic excitation of DMS CINs, compromising their regulation of glutamatergic transmission in MSNs, which may contribute to alcohol-induced impairment of cognitive flexibility. These findings provide a neural mechanism underlying inflexible drinking in alcohol use disorder. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims: Bacillus subtilis, a typical plant growth‐promoting rhizobacteria, can benefit plant through promoting growth and reducing disease. The colonization intensity of B. subtilis in rhizosphere is a key factor for improving their effectiveness of field application. In this study, we developed a rapid and sensitive method for detecting B. subtilis in rhizosphere via TaqMan qPCR and droplet digital PCR (ddPCR) methods. Methods and Results: The primers/probe set targeting gyrB gene could successfully distinguish B. subtilis from its close‐related species. Both the TaqMan qPCR and ddPCR methods exhibited a good linear relationship in the sensitivity assay, suggesting the developed method was specific, effective and reliable. Finally, the two methods were used to detect the colonization dynamic of B. subtilis within Arabidopsis rhizosphere. Both of them showed a consistent trend compared with the traditional cultivation‐based and microscopy‐based methods. Conclusions: The TaqMan qPCR and droplet digital PCR (ddPCR) methods we developed could be used to rapidly detect B. subtilis in rhizosphere. Significance and Impact of the study: The TaqMan qPCR and ddPCR methods developed in this study can be applied to rapid quantitative detection of B. subtilis populations, and will be helpful to evaluate their effectiveness of field application. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The reinforcement of voluntary alcohol-seeking behavior requires dopamine-dependent long-term synaptic plasticity in the striatum. Specifically, the long-term potentiation (LTP) of direct-pathway medium spiny neurons (dMSNs) in the dorsomedial striatum (DMS) promotes alcohol drinking. However, it remains unclear whether alcohol induces input-specific plasticity onto dMSNs and whether this plasticity directly drives instrumental conditioning. In this study, we found that voluntary alcohol intake selectively strengthened glutamatergic transmission from the medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC) to DMS dMSNs in mice. Importantly, mimicking this alcohol-induced potentiation by optogenetically self-stimulating mPFC→dMSN synapse with an LTP protocol was sufficient to drive the reinforcement of lever pressing in operant chambers. Conversely, induction of a post-pre spike timing-dependent LTD at this synapse time-locked to alcohol delivery during operant conditioning persistently decreased alcohol-seeking behavior. Our results establish a causal relationship between input- and cell-type-specific corticostriatal plasticity and the reinforcement of alcohol-seeking behavior. This provides a potential therapeutic strategy to restore normal cortical control of dysregulated basal ganglia circuitries in alcohol use disorder. • Alcohol drinking selectively strengthens mPFC→dMSN transmission. • Self-stimulating this synapse with an LTP protocol reinforces lever pressing. • Using an LTD protocol, on the other hand, persistently reduces alcohol seeking. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The vital physical and chemical properties of the lithium conducting salt, solvent/co-solvent and functional additive determine the overall properties and performance of the resulting electrolyte formulation. Explorations on right combinations of the carefully selected electrolyte components are expected to further balance the electrochemical and safety performances of chosen electrolyte formulations in given cell chemistries. In this study, a new nonaqueous aprotic electrolyte is designed by using lithium difluoro(oxalato)borate (LiODFB) as conducting salt, diethyl ethylphosphonate (DEEP) as solvent, and fluoroethylene carbonate (FEC) as co-solvent to achieve a nonflammable electrolyte formulation with competent electrochemical performance. The LiODFB and FEC are believed to take part in complex interfacial interactions with a synergistic effect. LiNi 0.8 Co 0.1 Mn 0.1 O 2 (NCM811)‖Li cells using the optimized electrolyte formulation of 1.3 M LiODFB/DEEP 30% FEC exhibits a stable long-term cycling performance at 1.0 C with a reversible average specific discharge capacity of 169.5 mAh g−1 during 100 cycles, which is comparable to cells using commercial electrolytes. Furthermore, the 1.3 M LiODFB/DEEP 30% FEC electrolyte shows good thermal stability and effectively reduces the heat generation during thermal decomposition of NCM811 cathode. The results provide a good reference for the design of next generation of safe, nonflammable electrolytes for lithium-based battery application. • A nonflammable electrolyte with competent electrochemical performance is designed. • A stable and high-voltage cycling performance is realized for 100 cycles. • Heat generation of NCM811 decomposition is effectively reduced by DEEP electrolyte. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: One of the critical mechanisms of gastrointestinal cancer pathogenesis is the silencing of death associated protein kinase 1 (DAPK1), which could be caused by aberrant methylation of the promoter. However, the relationship between DAPK1 methylation and the risk of gastrointestinal cancer is still controversial. Hence, we conducted this study to determine the potential correlation. Methods: Eligible publications were searched in the Pubmed, Embase, and Cochrane Library through November 2016 according to the inclusion criteria and exclusion criteria. Revman 5.3 and Stata 12.0 software were used to analyze the relevant data regarding the association between the frequency of DAPK1 methylation and gastrointestinal cancer. Results: A total of 22 studies with 2406 patients were included in this meta analysis. Methylation of DAPK1 was positively related with the risk of gastrointestinal cancer (odds ratio [OR] = 5.35, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 2.76–10.38, P<0.00001, random effects model). The source of heterogeneity was analyzed by sensitivity analysis and subgroup analysis. After omitting one heterogeneous study, the I2 decreased and the OR increased in pooled analysis. Also, the heterogeneity decreased most significantly in the subgroup of studies that had a sample size of less than 60 cases. Then, the correlations between DAPK1 methylation and clinicopathological features of gastrointestinal cancer were assessed. DAPK1 methylation was positively correlated with the lymph node (N) stage (positive vs. negative, OR = 1.45, 95%CI: 1.01–2.06, P = 0.04, fixed effects model) and poor differentiation (OR = 1.55, 95%CI: 1.02–2.35, P = 0.04, fixed effects model) in gastric cancer, and the association was significant among Asian patients. However, among cases of gastrointestinal cancer, the association between DAPK1 methylation and tumor (T) stage, N stage, distant metastasis (M) stage, and cancer differentiation were not statistically significant. Conclusions: DAPK1 methylation is a potential biomarker for the early diagnosis of gastrointestinal cancer. Further analysis of the clinicopathological features indicated that aberrant methylation of DAPK1 is positively associated with the tumorigenesis of gastrointestinal cancer, and metastasis of gastric cancer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Increasing electrolyte concentration is a typical strategy to boost the stability of lithium (Li) metal anode, yet the fundamental mechanism remains a mystery. By virtue of comprehensive characterization of solid electrolyte interphase (SEI) via cryogenic electron microscopy (Cryo-EM), we revealed the effects of solvation structure in ether-based electrolytes on SEI formation as well as electrochemical performance. The SEI formed in the low-concentration electrolyte (LCE) adopts a Mosaic-type structure with randomly distributed Li 2 CO 3 , which leads to uneven Li deposition and poor cycle stability. The high-concentration electrolyte (HCE) with few free solvent molecules generates an amorphous monolayer SEI, contributing to significantly improved Coulombic efficiency and cycle stability. The addition of non-solvating diluent enables uniform Li deposition on Cu foils in the prepared local high-concentration electrolyte (LHCE), and brings about further enhancement in reversibility and stability. It is correlated with the dual-layer but thinner SEI consisting of an inner amorphous layer and an outer layer made up of mainly crystalline Li 2 S 2 O 7 with high Li+ conductivity. This work points out the necessity to optimize the SEI structure as well as the solvation structure by altering the salt-to-solvent ratio or adding diluent to modify the viscosity and conductivity of electrolyte system. [Display omitted] • Highly stable lithium metal anode is realized by using concentrated electrolytes. • Atomic-resolution characterization of the solid electrolyte interphase is conducted. • A unique dual-layer solid electrolyte interphase formed in LHCE. • The effects of solvation structure on solid electrolyte interphase are studied. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• The finite element models based on Hooke's and Hertz's Laws have been used to simulate quasi-static behavior of pineapple. • The applicable scope of the Hooke's and Hertz's Laws in FEM models were compared. • In a small compression displacement, the Hooke's three-layer finite element model was closer to real experimental results than Hertz's model. • Pulp tissue suffered mechanical damage before peel and core tissue. Fruits are susceptible to damage from external loads during harvesting, transport and storage. Fruit damage is determined by its tissue mechanical properties. The aim of this study was to evaluate two theories (Hooke's and Hertz's Laws) on the apparent elastic modulus of pineapple and predict the internal mechanical damage of pineapple under compression. Two multi-scale finite element models (FEMs) were developed to predict the pineapple internal damage. One model, based on Hooke's Law contained three layers, including peel, pulp, and core. Another model, based on Hertz's Law, was a two layers model, including peel and pulp (containing core). The difference of these two FEMs was evaluated in terms of different compression displacements. The results showed that, when the compression displacement ≤10 mm, the Hooke three-layer model was closer to reality. But when the compression displacement >10 mm, the Hertz two-layer model was better in reflecting real pineapple compression. Simulated data confirmed the experimental results and predicted the internal mechanical damage of pineapple. Finite element results indicated that, when a force was applied to the fruit, pulp tissue suffered mechanical damage before peel and core tissue. When the compression level was ≤5% (5.5 mm; 86 N), there was no damage to pulp, core, and peel. But, if compression level >5%, the fruit was damaged. These results indicated that pineapple placed horizontally with an allowable numbers of stackable pineapples must be less than eight. Otherwise, the maximum allowable force of stacked fruit on the lowest one will reach the pulp failure force. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rechargeable Li–O 2 batteries (LOBs) are considered as a promising battery technology due to their high energy density. The performance of the batteries, however, is limited by inevitable chemical/electrochemical corrosion and uncontrollable Li dendrite growth. Here, a uniform and dense LiF artificial solid electrolyte interphase (SEI) is introduced to address these issues. This LiF layer with rich and uniform crystal boundary can homogenize the Li-ion flux on Li metal anodes (LMAs) surface and thus accomplish planar Li deposition under the LiF layer, improving the interfacial stability of LMAs. In addition, the dense LiF layer enables high corrosion resistance against the electrolyte and air. As a result, the symmetric cells with LiF layer coated Li anodes (LiF@Li) show stable polarization voltage and long cycle life up to 1000 h. Moreover, the Li–O 2 battery with LiF@Li shows excellent cycle stability up to 150 cycles at an ultrahigh current density of 4.50 mA cm−2. This work illustrates a promising way for the unfettered development of advanced LOBs. [Display omitted] • The LiF layer enables high corrosion resistance against the electrolyte and air. • Rich LiF grain boundary in the LiF layer facilitates fast ion transport. • LiF@Li electrodes maintain the LiF morphology after cycling. • LiF@Li electrodes show excellent cycling and rate performance in Li–O 2 batteries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bioaccessibility and provenance of heavy metals (V, Cr, Co, Ni, Cu, Zn, As, Cd, Ba, Pb) in the park dusts were investigated. The enrichment factors (EFs) indicated that Cd, Cu, and Zn were substantially higher enriched than the other heavy metals. An in vitro test of Solubility Bioaccessibility Research Consortium method (SBRC) and a modified sequential extraction method recommended by the European Community Bureau of Reference (BCR) were used to determine heavy metals bioaccessibility. The average bioaccessibility index (K) of most heavy metals was above 0.2, excluding Ba and Cr. In particular, extremely high bioaccessibilities of Zn (K = 0.83), Cd (K = 0.74), Pb (K = 0.62), and Cu (K = 0.59) were observed in the park dusts. Based on the Pb isotope technique, coal dust, soil parent materials and fertilizers, and traffic sources were accounting for 58%, 35%, and 7% of Pb in the park dust, respectively. The principle component analysis and multiple linear regression (PCA-MLR) results of the additive log-ratio transformation (coal combustion: 56.6%; soil parent materials and fertilizers: 36.8%; traffic sources: 6.6%) were more in good agreement with the Pb isotope technique results. Compared with the original data and the direct logarithmic transformation, the contributions were all positive values in the results of the additive log-ratio transformation, suggesting an effective method to open geochemical component data. Thus, the additive log-ratio transformation has strong interpretability in source appointment as well as better dimension reduction. This study provides an example to explore bioaccessibility in view of binding state and identify sources of multiple heavy metals in the park dust using properly transformed data in conjunction with Pb isotopes technique. Image 1 • Cu, Zn, and Cd were enriched in all samples impacted by anthropogenic sources. • High bioaccessibilities of Zn, Cd, Pb, and Cu were observed in the park dusts. • Heavy metals sources were quantified by PCA-MLR coupled with Pb isotopes. • PCA-MLR with the alr transformation has strong interpretability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]