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Summary: Bamboo with its remarkable growth rate and economic significance, offers an ideal system to investigate the molecular basis of organogenesis in rapidly growing plants, particular in monocots, where gene regulatory networks governing the maintenance and differentiation of shoot apical and intercalary meristems remain a subject of controversy.We employed both spatial and single‐nucleus transcriptome sequencing on 10× platform to precisely dissect the gene functions in various tissues and early developmental stages of bamboo shoots. Our comprehensive analysis reveals distinct cell trajectories during shoot development, uncovering critical genes and pathways involved in procambium differentiation, intercalary meristem formation, and vascular tissue development.Spatial and temporal expression patterns of key regulatory genes, particularly those related to hormone signaling and lipid metabolism, strongly support the hypothesis that intercalary meristem origin from surrounded parenchyma cells. Specific gene expressions in intercalary meristem exhibit regular and dispersed distribution pattern, offering clues for understanding the intricate molecular mechanisms that drive the rapid growth of bamboo shoots.The single‐nucleus and spatial transcriptome analysis reveal a comprehensive landscape of gene activity, enhancing the understanding of the molecular architecture of organogenesis and providing valuable resources for future genomic and genetic studies relying on identities of specific cell types. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Total knee arthroplasty (TKA) is accompanied by severe postoperative pain, which is reported to be an important cause of chronic pain. Ultrasound-guided adductor canal block (ACB) combined with infiltration between the popliteal artery and posterior capsular of the knee (IPACK) has been proven to have a better effect on relieving acute pain after TKA. However, whether it has a significant effect on the incidence of chronic pain after TKA has not been reported. This trial was designed to investigate the effect of ultrasound-guided ACB combined with IPACK on the incidence and intensity of chronic pain after TKA. Methods: In this prospective, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study, 100 subjects scheduled for TKA were randomly (1:1) divided into two groups: the ropivacaine group and the placebo group. Patients in each group received ultrasound-guided ACB + IPACK procedures with 0.25% ropivacaine or equal volume normal saline. All patients received multimodal analgesia. Pain intensity was assessed using the Numerical Rating Scale (NRS). The primary outcome was the incidence of chronic pain at 3 months after TKA by telephone follow-up. In addition, pain intensity in early resting and mobilized states, chronic pain intensity, the time to first rescue analgesia; opioid consumption; CRP and IL-6 after the operation; length of postoperative hospital stay; and cost of hospitalization and postoperative complications; as well as the function of the knee in the early stage after the operation, were recorded. Results: Ninety-one participants were included in the final analysis. At 3 months, the incidence of chronic pain was 30.4% in the ropivacaine group, significantly lower than 51.1% in the placebo group. Compared with the placebo group, the ACB + IPACK with ropivacaine group had significantly lower pain scores at 4 hours, 8 hours, 16 hours, and 24 hours after the operation; increased the knee range of motion at 8 hours and 24 hours after the operation; and a significantly decreased incidence of chronic pain at 3 months after the operation. During the follow-up period, there were no nerve block-related complications in either group. Conclusion: In the context of multimodal analgesia protocols, ACB combined with IPACK before surgery decreases the incidence and intensity of chronic pain 3 months after TKA compared with placebo injection. In addition, it reduces the NRS scores, whether at rest or during mobilization, and improves knee function within 24 hours after TKA. Trial registration: This trial was registered in the China Clinical Trial Center (registration number ChiCTR2200065300) on November 1, 2022. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The combination of microbial CO 2 reduction process and photocatalysis can meet the economic goal of sustainable carbon neutrality. Solar-energy as driven force can be achieved, by mimicking natural photosynthesis through the interaction between photo-responsive semiconductor nano-materials and electroautotrophic bacteria (EAB). Therefore, we reviewed the engineering strategies developed in recent years for photocatalytic microbial fixation of CO 2 to improve extracellular electron transfer (EET) rate and enhance the conversion efficiency of solar-to-chemical energy, including (1) the application principles of semiconductor nanomaterials in microbial CO 2 reduction systems; (2) photocathode; (3) photoanode; (4) dual photoelectrodes and (5) inorganic-microbe hybrid system; (6) perspectives on future challenges and opportunities for photocatalytic microbial fixation of CO 2 for sustainable energy and chemical production. This review will provide a theoretical basis for the future development of photocatalytic microbial fixation of CO 2 in energy harvesting, CO 2 fixation, and chemical synthesis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The spatial delays of pulmonary tuberculosis (PTB) have been less explored. In this study, a total of 151,799 notified PTB cases were included, with median patient and diagnostic delays of 15 [interquartile range (IOR), 4–35] and 2 (IOR, 0–8) days, respectively. The spatial autocorrelation analysis and spatial–temporal scan statistics were used to determine the clusters, indicating that the regions in the southwestern and northeastern parts of Zhejiang Province exhibited high rates of long-term patient delay (LPD, delay ≥ 15 days) and long-term diagnostic delay (LDD, delay ≥ 2 days). Besides, the Mantel test indicated a moderately positive correlation between public awareness of suspicious symptoms and the LPD rate in 2018 (Mantel's r = 0.4, P < 0.05). These findings suggest that PTB delays can reveal deficiencies in public health education and the healthcare system. Also, it is essential to explore methods to shift PTB knowledge towards real changes in attitude and behavior to minimize patient delay. Addressing these issues will be crucial for improving public health outcomes related to PTB in Zhejiang Province. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Decreased plasma spermine levels are associated with kidney dysfunction. However, the role of spermine in kidney disease remains largely unknown. Herein, it is demonstrated that spermine oxidase (SMOX), a key enzyme governing polyamine metabolism, is predominantly induced in tubular epithelium of human and mouse fibrotic kidneys, alongside a reduction in renal spermine content in mice. Moreover, renal SMOX expression is positively correlated with kidney fibrosis and function decline in patients with chronic kidney disease. Importantly, supplementation with exogenous spermine or genetically deficient SMOX markedly improves autophagy, reduces senescence, and attenuates fibrosis in mouse kidneys. Further, downregulation of ATG5, a critical component of autophagy, in tubular epithelial cells enhances SMOX expression and reduces spermine in TGF‐β1‐induced fibrogenesis in vitro and kidney fibrosis in vivo. Mechanically, ATG5 readily interacts with SMOX under physiological conditions and in TGF‐β1‐induced fibrogenic responses to preserve cellular spermine levels. Collectively, the findings suggest SMOX/spermine axis is a potential novel therapy to antagonize renal fibrosis, possibly by coordinating autophagy and suppressing senescence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A novel biofuel cell (BFC)-based self-powered electrochemical immunosensing platform was developed by integrating the target-induced biofuel release and biogate immunoassay for ultrasensitive 17β-estradiol (E2) detection. The carbon nanocages/gold nanoparticle composite was employed in the BFCs device as the electrode material, through which bilirubin oxidase and glucose oxidase were wired to form the biocathode and bioanode, respectively. Positively charged mesoporous silica nanoparticles (PMSN) were encapsulated with glucose molecules as biofuel and subsequently coated by the negatively charged AuNPs-labelled anti-E2 antibody (AuNPs-Ab) serving as a biogate. The biogate could be opened efficiently and the trapped glucose released once the target E2 was recognized and captured by AuNPs-Ab due to the decreased adhesion between the antigen–antibody complex and PMSN. Then, glucose oxidase oxidized the glucose to produce a large number of electrons, resulting in significantly increased open-circuit voltage (EOCV). Promisingly, the proposed BFC-based self-powered immunosensor demonstrated exceptional sensitivity for the detection of E2 in the concentration range from 1.0 pg mL−1 to 10.0 ng mL −1, with a detection limit of 0.32 pg mL−1 (S/N = 3). Furthermore, the prepared BFC-based self-powered homogeneous immunosensor showed significant potential for implementation as a viable prototype for a mobile and an on-site bioassay system in food and environmental safety applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Single-layer blue phosphorus (SLBP) has displayed charming photoelectric performances, but its property in hydrogen storage is not outstanding due to the weak interactions. To expand the application of SLBP in hydrogen storage, we attempt to screen SLBP-based materials with stable structures and strong polarity using density functional theory by doping lightweight elements and grafting alkali metal atoms. The simulation results indicate that the lightweight elements (B, C, N, O and F) doped SLBP systems have more stable structures due to the strong orbital interaction than pure SLBP, and exhibit electron deficient characteristics. Compared to the pure SLBP, the H 2 adsorption energies of the doped systems improve and range from 0.05 to 0.09 eV, but it still cannot meet the requirements of ideal hydrogen storage. Therefore, the lightweight element doped SLBP systems are further grafted by Li atom. Under the synergistic effect of doping lightweight elements and grafting Li atoms, H 2 molecules are strongly polarized, and the corresponding adsorption energies of H 2 reach to 0.16, 0.26, 0.28, 0.30, and 0.10 eV, respectively. It is worth emphasizing in the C-doped SLBP system that the hydrogen storage capacity of reaches 5.53 wt% for each Li atom adsorbs one hydrogen molecule and the corresponding adsorption energy is 0.23 eV/H 2 when the ratio of C to P atoms increases to 6:26. For each Li atom adsorbs two hydrogen molecules in the same hydrogen storage system, the hydrogen storage capacity reaches 10.48 wt% with 0.18 eV/H 2 adsorption energy. We hope these results can provide theoretical basis and scientific guidance for searching for SLBP-based materials with excellent hydrogen storage performances at ambient temperature. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Presented herein is a series of chain compounds based on pre-designed heterometallic aluminum–lanthanide (Al–Ln) Al4Ln4 molecular rings. Their photoluminescence quantum yield (PLQY) with Eu3+ (30.41%) and Tb3+ (41.44%) is at a high level among the clusters containing four Ln ions. This study significantly extends the family of Al–Ln heterometallic clusters and demonstrates the synergistic effect of heterometallic ions in enhancing their properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The high prevalence and addictive features of nonsuicidal self-injury (NSSI) in adolescents have been documented, but the role of addictive features in the process from NSSI functions to behaviour remains unclear. The major aim of this study was to investigate the effect of addictive features on NSSI functions and the severity of repeated NSSI. A total of 10,781 students from primary and middle schools in Chengdu and Karamay were invited to participate in the online cross-sectional survey, and 10,501 completed the survey. Two self-report questionnaires, the Ottawa Self-Injury Inventory (OSI) and the Adolescent Self-Harm Scale (ASHS), were used to collect data from all participants. Among the students, 23.45% and 6.64% reported having engaged in NSSI at least once or at least five times in the past year. Being a girl, being an only child, and being in a single-parent family were significantly associated with more severe NSSI. Addictive features have high value for predicting repeated NSSI. In addition to their significant independent/direct additive effects, addictive features mediated and moderated the relationship between NSSI functions and increased severity of NSSI in adolescents. The findings suggest that addictive features play a critical role in the development of repeated NSSI in adolescents, which indicates that addiction models may partially explain the mechanism underlying increased severity of NSSI. This may enhance understanding of the reasons for repeated NSSI and inform interventions for repeated NSSI among adolescents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Phosphorus deficiency severely limits crop yields and hinders sustainable agricultural development. Phosphate-solubilizing bacteria (PSB) are beneficial for crop growth because they enhance the uptake and utilization of phosphorus. This study explored the phosphorus-solubilizing, IAA-producing, nitrogen-fixing, potassium-solubilizing, and siderophore-producing abilities of three bacterial strains (Pantoea sp. J-1, Burkholderia cepacia Z-7, and Acinetobacter baumannii B-6) screened from the maize rhizosphere. A pot experiment was also conducted to explore the role of screened PSB in the growth of maize. Finally, the effects of the PSB on the physicochemical properties, enzyme activities, and microbial community structure of maize rhizosphere soil were analyzed. The results showed that strain Z-7 had the strongest abilities phosphorus solubilization, nitrogen fixation, potassium solubilization, and siderophore production, while strain J-1 exhibited the highest yield of IAA. The application of PSB promoted the growth of maize plants to different extents. Among the different treatments, the mixed bacterial treatment (J-1 + Z-7 + B-6) had the most potent growth promotion effect, and the consortium treatment significantly enhanced the activity of soil phosphatase. Soil pH, total phosphorus (TP), total potassium (TK), available phosphorus (AP), NH4+-N, and NO3−-N are key factors for the growth of maize plants. In addition, PSB significantly altered the microbial community structure in the maize rhizosphere soil, and the relative abundance of Proteobacteria increased by 16.07–69.10% compared to the control. These PSB have obvious growth-promoting abilities, with the potential to enhance crop productivity as excellent candidate strains for the development of biological fertilizers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

17β-Estradiol (E2) is an important endogenous estrogen, which disturbs the endocrine system and poses a threat to human health because of its accumulation in the human body. Herein, a biofuel cell (BFC)-based self-powered electrochemical aptasensor was developed for E2 detection. Porous carbon nanocage/gold nanoparticle composite modified indium tin oxide (CNC/AuNP/ITO) and glucose oxidase modified CNC/AuNP/ITO were used as the biocathode and bioanode of BFCs, respectively. [Fe(CN)6]3− was selected as an electroactive probe, which was entrapped in the pores of positively charged magnetic Fe3O4 nanoparticles (PMNPs) and then capped with a negatively charged E2 aptamer to form a DNA bioconjugate. The presence of the target E2 triggered the entrapped [Fe(CN)6]3− probe release due to the removal of the aptamer via specific recognition, which resulted in the transfer of electrons produced by glucose oxidation at the bioanode to the biocathode and produced a high open-circuit voltage (EOCV). Consequently, a "signal-on" homogeneous self-powered aptasensor for E2 assay was realized. Promisingly, the BFC-based self-powered aptasensor has particularly high sensitivity for E2 detection in the concentration range of 0.5 pg mL−1 to 15 ng mL−1 with a detection limit of 0.16 pg mL−1 (S/N = 3). Therefore, the proposed BFC-based self-powered electrochemical aptasensor has great promise to be applied as a successful prototype of a portable and on-site bioassay in the field of environment monitoring and food safety. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Adolescents with type 1 diabetes mellitus suffer from diabetes distress and poor health-related quality of life (HRQOL) since living with the condition that differentiates them from their peers. The present study investigated the effects of peer support and stress on diabetes distress and HRQOL and whether positive coping mediated the effects. Methods: We used a prospective study design. A total of 201 adolescents with type 1 diabetes mellitus from 20 cities in 4 provinces were recruited.Participants complete two separate surveys at approximately 18-month intervals. The scales employed at both Time 1 and Time 2 included the Diabetes-Specific Peer Support Measure, Diabetes Stress Questionnaire for Youths, Simplified Coping Style Questionnaire, 5-item Problem Areas in Diabetes Scale, and the Diabetes Quality of Life for Youth scale. Results: Baseline peer stress directly predicted diabetes distress and HRQOL at 18 months, even controlling for age, gender, and peer support. However, the direct effect of baseline peer support on 18-month diabetes distress and HRQOL was insignificant. Baseline peer support indirectly affected diabetes distress and HRQOL at 18 months through positive coping, indicating that positive coping plays a mediating role. Conclusion: The findings suggest that peer social relationships, especially peer stress, and positive coping are promising intervention targets for adolescents facing challenges in psychosocial adaptation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In future space-borne gravitational wave (GW) detectors, time delay interferometry (TDI) will be utilized to reduce the overwhelming noise, including the laser frequency noise and the clock noise etc., by time shifting and recombining the data streams in post-processing. The successful operation of TDI relies on absolute inter-satellite ranging with meter-level precision. In this work, we numerically and experimentally demonstrate a strategy for inter-satellite distance measurement. The distances can be coarsely determined using the technique of arm-locking ranging with a large non-ambiguity range, and subsequently TDI can be used for precise distance measurement (TDI ranging) by finding the minimum value of the power of the residual noises. The measurement principle is introduced. We carry out the numerical simulations, and the results show millimeter-level precision. Further, we perform the experimental verifications based on the fiber link, and the distances can be measured with better than 0.05 m uncertainty, which can well satisfy the requirement of time delay interferometry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: To evaluate the diffusion kurtosis and susceptibility change in the U-fiber region of patients with relapsing–remitting multiple sclerosis (pwRRMS) and their correlations with cognitive status and degeneration. Materials and methods: Mean kurtosis (MK), axial kurtosis (AK), radial kurtosis (RK), kurtosis fractional anisotropy (KFA), and the mean relative quantitative susceptibility mapping (mrQSM) values in the U-fiber region were compared between 49 pwRRMS and 48 healthy controls (HCs). The U-fiber were divided into upper and deeper groups based on the location. The whole brain volume, gray and white matter volume, and cortical thickness were obtained. The correlations between the mrQSM values, DKI-derived metrics in the U-fiber region and clinical scale scores, brain morphologic parameters were further investigated. Results: The decreased MK, AK, RK, KFA, and increased mrQSM values in U-fiber lesions (p < 0.001, FDR corrected), decreased RK, KFA, and increased mrQSM values in U-fiber non-lesions (p = 0.034, p < 0.001, p < 0.001, FDR corrected) were found in pwRRMS. There were differences in DKI-derived metrics and susceptibility values between the upper U-fiber region and the deeper one for U-fiber non-lesion areas of pwRRMS and HCs (p < 0.05), but not for U-fiber lesions in DKI-derived metrics. The DKI-derived metrics and susceptibility values were widely related with cognitive tests and brain atrophy. Conclusion: RRMS patients show abnormal diffusion kurtosis and susceptibility characteristics in the U-fiber region, and these underlying tissue abnormalities are correlated with cognitive deficits and degeneration. Clinical relevance statement: The macroscopic and microscopic tissue damages of U-fiber help to identify cognitive impairment and brain atrophy in multiple sclerosis and provide underlying pathophysiological mechanism. Key Points: • Diffusion kurtosis and susceptibility changes are present in the U-fiber region of multiple sclerosis. • There are gradients in diffusion kurtosis and susceptibility characteristics in the U-fiber region. • Tissue damages in the U-fiber region are correlated with cognitive impairment and brain atrophy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

T4 polynucleotide kinase helps with DNA recombination and repair. In this study, an electrochemical biosensor was developed for a T4 polynucleotide kinase activity assay and inhibitor screening based on phosphate pillar[5]arene and multi-walled carbon nanotube nanocomposites. The water-soluble pillar[5]arene was employed as the host to complex thionine guest molecules. The substrate DNA with a 5′-hydroxyl group initially self-assembled on the gold electrode surface through chemical adsorption of the thiol group, which was phosphorylated in the presence of T4 polynucleotide kinase. Titanium dioxide nanoparticles served as a bridge to link phosphorylated DNA and phosphate pillar[5]arene and multi-walled carbon nanotube composite due to strong phosphate-Ti4+-phosphate chemistry. Through supramolecular host–guest recognition, thionine molecules were able to penetrate the pillar[5]arene cavity, resulting in an enhanced electrochemical response signal. The electrochemical signal is proportional to the T4 polynucleotide kinase concentration in the range of 10−5 to 15 U mL−1 with a detection limit of 5 × 10−6 U mL−1. It was also effective in measuring HeLa cell lysate-related T4 polynucleotide kinase activity and inhibitor screening. The proposed method offers a unique sensing platform for kinase activity measurement, holding great potential in nucleotide kinase-target drug development, clinical diagnostics, and inhibitor screening. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The Hani people, who reside in Yuanyang County, Honghe Hani and Yi Autonomous Prefecture, Yunnan Province, rely on rice terrace farming as their primary livelihood. They utilize plants in various traditional ritual practices. The Hani people have categorized the value of plants based on their natural attributes and have refined the ways of using different plants in specific rituals through practical observations and experiences derived from their agricultural culture. Although the plants used in these rituals hold significant cultural value, they have yet to be studied from the perspective of ethnobotany. This study aims to approach the ritual plants using ethnobotanical methods. Methods: Ethnobotanical fieldwork was conducted in 10 villages in Yuanyang County between 2021 and 2023. Data were collected from the local Hani people through semi-structured interviews and participatory observations and 41 informants were interviewed during the field investigations. The frequency of citation (FC) and relative frequency of citation (RFC) were utilized to evaluate the relative importance of ritual plants among the local communities. Results: A total of 36 plant species, belonging to 18 families and 34 genera, were recorded as being used in 11 ritual practices by the Hani people. Rosaceae, Poaceae, and Fabaceae were found to have the highest number of species. Most of the ritual plants used by the Hani people were collected from the wild. FC and RFC analysis showed that the preferred plants for Hani rituals were Rhus chinensis Mill, Oryza sativa L., Phyllostachys sulphurea (Carr.) A. et C. Riv. and Musa basjoo Siebold & Zucc. ex Iinuma. The 11 rituals are all centered around the performance of people, crops and livestock. The Hani people use plants in different rituals mainly based on their biological attributes. Conclusions: Many rituals of the Hani people are closely related to their production and livelihood, and the plants used in these rituals are deeply rooted in Hani's traditional ecological knowledge and beliefs. The Hani people's reverence for nature, respect for life, gratitude towards ancestors, and seeking blessings and disaster prevention for their families, crops, and livestock are all reflected in these rituals and their utilization of ritual plants. The Hani people showcase their agricultural culture in the Honghe Hani Rice Terraces through plant-based ritual performances. Studying ritual plants in the core area of the Hani Rice Terraces is of great significance for protecting the Hani Terrace farming culture. In the future, it is essential to pay more attention to the role of traditional knowledge in biodiversity conservation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background. Work engagement and patient-safety outcomes in nursing practice are critically significant. However, most previous studies evaluating antecedents of work engagement and patient-safety outcomes have used cross-sectional designs. Aims. To investigate the effects of job resources (organizational support and leader empowerment) and core self-evaluation on nurses' work engagement and patient-safety outcomes. Methods. This longitudinal study surveyed 2,618 registered nurses from 17 public hospitals in XuZhou, China. Participants completed self-report questionnaires on organizational support, leader empowerment, and core self-evaluation at baseline. Work engagement and patient-safety outcomes were collected 18 months after the baseline. The mixed linear regression and Johnson–Neyman statistical analysis were used to analyze data. Results. Organizational support was an outsize predictor of nurses' work engagement, followed by core self-evaluation and leader empowerment. Organizational support and core self-evaluation were equally crucial for predicting patient-safety outcomes. Moreover, the positive impact of leader empowerment on patient-safety outcomes became significant when the core self-evaluation score was below 51. Conclusions. This study demonstrated that organizational support, leader empowerment, and core self-evaluation are important determinants of nurses' work engagement and patient-safety outcomes. Implications for Nursing Management. Hospital managers and nurse leaders should consider providing multiple supports to motivate staff nurses to engage in work. When nurses' core self-evaluation is low, empowering training for nurse leaders should be essential to reduce adverse patient events. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A novel nitrogen-vacancy Ta 3 N 5− x electrocatalyst is designed by utilizing "ship in a bottle" strategy to controllably construct nitrogen defects inside nanopores, effectively regulating sulfur redox reactions and achieving superior room-temperature sodium-sulfur batteries. [Display omitted] Resolving low sulfur reaction activity and severe polysulfide dissolution remains challenging in metal-sulfur batteries. Motivated by a theoretical prediction, herein, we strategically propose nitrogen-vacancy tantalum nitride (Ta 3 N 5 − x) impregnated inside the interconnected nanopores of nitrogen-decorated carbon matrix as a new electrocatalyst for regulating sulfur redox reactions in room-temperature sodium-sulfur batteries. Through a pore-constriction mechanism, the nitrogen vacancies are controllably constructed during the nucleation of Ta 3 N 5 − x. The defect manipulation on the local environment enables well-regulated Ta 5d-orbital energy level, not only modulating band structure toward enhanced intrinsic conductivity of Ta-based materials, but also promoting polysulfide stabilization and achieving bifunctional catalytic capability toward completely reversible polysulfide conversion. Moreover, the interconnected continuous Ta 3 N 5 − x -in-pore structure facilitates electron and sodium-ion transport and accommodates volume expansion of sulfur species while suppressing their shuttle behavior. Due to these attributes, the as-developed Ta 3 N 5 − x -based electrode achieves superior rate capability of 730 mAh g−1 at 3.35 A g−1, long-term cycling stability over 2000 cycles, and high areal capacity over 6 mAh cm−2 under high sulfur loading of 6.2 mg cm−2. This work not only presents a new sulfur electrocatalyst candidate for metal-sulfur batteries, but also sheds light on the controllable material design of defect structure in hopes of inspiring new ideas and directions for future research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: In many areas of China, over 30% of tuberculosis cases occur among the elderly. We aimed to investigate the spatial distribution and environmental factors that predicted the occurence of tuberculosis in this group. Methods: Data were collected on notified pulmonary tuberculosis (PTB) cases aged ≥ 65 years in Zhejiang Province from 2010 to 2021. We performed spatial autocorrelation and spatial-temporal scan statistics to determine the clusters of epidemics. Spatial Durbin Model (SDM) analysis was used to identify significant environmental factors and their spatial spillover effects. Results: 77,405 cases of PTB among the elderly were notified, showing a decreasing trend in the notification rate. Spatial-temporal analysis showed clustering of epidemics in the western area of Zhejiang Province. The results of the SDM indicated that a one-unit increase in PM2.5 led to a 0.396% increase in the local notification rate. The annual mean temperature and precipitation had direct effects and spatial spillover effects on the rate, while complexity of the shape of the greenspace (SHAPE_AM) and SO2 had negative spatial spillover effects. Conclusion: Targeted interventions among the elderly in Western Zhejiang may be more efficient than broad, province-wide interventions. Low annual mean temperature and high annual mean precipitation in local and neighboring areas tend to have higher PTB onset among the elderly. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The motivation for making heterometallic compounds stemmed from their emergent synergistic properties and enhanced capabilities for applications. However, the atomically precisely controlled synthesis of heterometallic compounds remains a daunting challenge of the complications that arise when applying several metals and linkers. Herein, a stepwise and controlled method is reported for the accurate addition of second and third metals to homometallic aluminum macrocycles based on the synergistic coordination and hard‐soft acid‐base theory. These heterometallic compounds showed a good Lewis acid catalytic effect, and the addition of hetero‐metals significantly improved the catalytic effect and rate, among that the conversion rate of compound AlOC‐133 reached 99.9% within half an hour. This method combines both the independent controllability of stepwise assembly with the universality of one‐step methods. Based on the large family of clusters, the establishment of this method paves the way for the controllable and customized molecular‐level synthesis of heterometallic materials and creates materials customized for preferential application. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Despite holding the advantages of high theoretical capacity and low cost, the practical application of layered‐structured potassium vanadates in zinc ion batteries (ZIBs) has been staggered by the sluggish ion diffusion, low intrinsic electronic conductivity, and unstable crystal structure. Herein, for the first time, a phase stabilized crystal etching strategy is proposed to innovate an oxygen‐vacancy‐rich K0.486V2O5 nanorod composite (Ov‐KVO@rGO) as a high‐performance ZIB cathode. The in situ ascorbic acid assisted crystal etching process introduces abundant oxygen‐vacancies into the K0.486V2O5 lattices, not only elaborately expanding the lattice spacing for faster ion diffusion and more active sites due to the weakened interlayer electrostatic interaction, but also enhancing the electronic conductivity by accumulating electrons around the vacancies, which is also evidenced by density functional theory calculations. Meanwhile, the encapsulating rGO layer ably stabilizes the K0.486V2O5 crystal phase otherwise is hard to endure subject to such a harsh chemical etching. As a result, the optimized Ov‐KVO@rGO electrode delivers record‐high rate capabilities with 462 and 272.39 mAh g−1 at 0.2 and 10 A g−1, respectively, outperforming all previously reported potassium vanadate cathodes and most other vanadium‐based materials. This work highlights a significant advancement of layer‐structured vanadium based‐materials towards practical application in ZIBs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: To develop and validate an 18F-FDG PET/CT-based clinical-radiological-radiomics nomogram and evaluate its value in the diagnosis of MYCN amplification (MNA) in paediatric neuroblastoma (NB) patients. Methods: A total of 104 patients with NB were retrospectively included. We constructed a nomogram to predict MNA based on radiomics signatures, clinical and radiological features. The multivariable logistic regression and the least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) were used for feature selection. Radiomics models are constructed using decision trees (DT), logistic regression (LR) and support vector machine (SVM) classifiers. A clinical-radiological (C-R) model was developed using clinical and radiological features. A clinical-radiological-radiomics (C-R-R) model was developed using the C-R model of the best radiomics model. The prediction performance was verified by receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis, calibration curve analysis and decision curve analysis (DCA) in the training and validation cohorts. Results: The present study showed that four radiomics signatures were significantly correlated with MNA. The SVM classifier was the best model of radiomics signature. The C-R-R model has the best discriminant ability to predict MNA, with AUCs of 0.860 (95% CI, 0.757–0.963) and 0.824 (95% CI, 0.657–0.992) in the training and validation cohorts, respectively. The calibration curve indicated that the C-R-R model has the goodness of fit and DCA confirms its clinical utility. Conclusion: Our research provides a non-invasive C-R-R model, which combines the radiomics signatures and clinical and radiological features based on 18F-FDGPET/CT images, shows excellent diagnostic performance in predicting MNA, and can provide useful biological information with stratified therapy. Critical relevance statement: Radiomic signatures of 18F-FDG-based PET/CT can predict MYCN amplification in neuroblastoma. Key points: • Radiomic signatures of 18F-FDG-based PET/CT can predict MYCN amplification in neuroblastoma. • SF, LDH, necrosis and TLG are the independent risk factors of MYCN amplification. • Clinical-radiological-radiomics model improved the predictive performance of MYCN amplification. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Many studies have highlighted the importance of moderate exercise. While it can attenuate diabetic kidney disease, its mechanism has remained unclear. The level of myokine irisin in plasma increases during exercise. We found that irisin was decreased in diabetic patients and was closely related to renal function, proteinuria, and podocyte autophagy injury. Muscle‐specific overexpression of PGC‐1α (mPGC‐1α) in a mouse model is known to increase plasma irisin levels. The mPGC‐1α mice were crossed with db/m mice to obtain db/db mPGC‐1α+ mice in the present study. Compared to db/db mice without mPGC‐1α, plasma irisin was increased, and albuminuria and glomerular pathological damage were both alleviated in db/db mPGC‐1α+ mice. Impaired autophagy in podocytes was restored as well. Irisin inhibited the activation of the PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling pathway in cultured human podocytes and improved damaged autophagy induced by high glucose levels. Then, db/db mice were treated with recombinant irisin, which had similar beneficial effects on the kidney as those in db/db mPGC‐1α+ mice, with alleviated glomerular injury and albuminuria. Moreover, the autophagy in podocytes was also significantly restored. These results suggest that irisin secreted by skeletal muscles protects the kidney from diabetes mellitus damage. It also restores autophagy in podocytes by inhibiting the abnormal activation of the PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling pathway. Thus, irisin may become a new drug for the prevention and treatment of diabetic nephropathy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims and Objectives: This study aimed to investigate the role of the family in supporting diabetes self‐management and explore the possible mechanisms between family and diabetes self‐management among rural patients in China. Background: The prevalence of Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is growing rapidly in rural areas of China, where healthcare resources remain relatively poor and family members play an important role in chronic disease self‐management. Design: This was a multicentre cross‐sectional study. Methods: A total of 276 adults with T2DM were recruited from nine county hospitals in China. Diabetes self‐management, family support, family function, and family self‐efficacy were evaluated using the mature scales. A theoretical model was built based on the social learning family model and previous studies and then verified using a structural equation model. The STROBE statement was used to standardise the study procedure. Results: Family support and general family factors, including family function and self‐efficacy, were positively correlated with diabetes self‐management. Family support fully mediates the relationship between family function and diabetes self‐management and partially mediates the relationship between family self‐efficacy and diabetes self‐management. The model explained 41% of the variability in diabetes self‐management and had a good model fit. Conclusion: General family factors can explain nearly half of the change in diabetes self‐management in rural areas of China, while family support is a mediator between general family factors and diabetes self‐management. Family self‐efficacy, a potential intervention point of family based diabetes self‐management education, can be improved by building special lessons for family members. Relevance to Clinical Practice: This study emphasises the role of family in diabetes self‐management and proposes suggestions for diabetes self‐management intervention among patients with T2DM in rural areas of China. Patient or Public Contribution: Patients and their family members completed the questionnaire which was used for data collection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Avian reovirus (ARV) infections, characterized by severe arthritis, tenosynovitis, pericarditis, and poor weight gain, have become increasingly serious in recent years. The economic impact is significant as it causes growth inhibition and immunosuppression. Some commercial poultry in China have been widely vaccinated with available ARV vaccines; however, infections continue to occur even after vaccination. This study aimed to isolate a novel variant, ARV-SD19/11103, from the joint tissues of infected broiler chickens vaccinated with ARV vaccines in Shandong Province. Genetic evolution analysis of the major protective antigen σC gene in ARVs showed that ARV-SD19/11103 was located in the genotype cluster I but not in the same sub-cluster as the S1133 vaccine strain. The amino acid sequence similarity between SD19/11103 and vaccine strains S1133, 1733, and 2408 was <80%. After analyzing the amino acid sequences of the σC protein, 33 amino acid differences were found between the new variant isolate and the vaccine strains. This novel variant showed obvious pathogenicity in specific pathogen-free chicken embryos and chicks and could cause serious disease in chickens vaccinated with commercially available ARV vaccines. Cross-neutralization experiments further demonstrated a significant antigenic difference between the novel variant and genotype cluster I ARV strains. The novel variant strain isolated in this study provides an important theoretical basis for understanding the prevalence and genetic evolutionary characteristics of ARV variant strains in our country. This study identified the causes of ARVs circulating and emphasizes the needs for developing new vaccines against novel ARV variants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The hippocampal–entorhinal system supports cognitive function and is selectively vulnerable to Alzheimer's disease (AD). Little is known about global transcriptomic changes in the hippocampal–entorhinal subfields during AD. Herein, large‐scale transcriptomic analysis is performed in five hippocampal–entorhinal subfields of postmortem brain tissues (262 unique samples). Differentially expressed genes are assessed across subfields and disease states, and integrated genotype data from an AD genome‐wide association study. An integrative gene network analysis of bulk and single‐nucleus RNA sequencing (snRNA‐Seq) data identifies genes with causative roles in AD progression. Using a system‐biology approach, pathology‐specific expression patterns for cell types are demonstrated, notably upregulation of the A1‐reactive astrocyte signature in the entorhinal cortex (EC) during AD. SnRNA‐Seq data show that PSAP signaling is involved in alterations of cell– communications in the EC during AD. Further experiments validate the key role of PSAP in inducing astrogliosis and an A1‐like reactive astrocyte phenotype. In summary, this study reveals subfield‐, cell type‐, and AD pathology‐specific changes and demonstrates PSAP as a potential therapeutic target in AD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The synthesis, structural characterization, exfoliation, and photophysical studies of two-dimensional (2-D) lanthanide phosphonates, named Ln(m-pbc) ; [Ln(m-Hpbc)(m-H2pbc)(H2O)] (Ln = Eu, Tb; m-pbc = 3-phosphonobenzoic acid) based on the phosphonocarboxylate ligand, are reported. These compounds are neutral polymeric 2D layered structures with pendent uncoordinated carboxylic groups between layers. The nanosheets were obtained by a top-down strategy involving sonication-assisted solution exfoliation and characterized by atomic force microscopy and transmission electron microscropy, showing lateral dimensions from nano- to micro-meter scales, and thicknesses down to several layers. The photoluminescence studies demonstrate that the m-pbc ligand acts as an efficient antenna toward Eu and Tb(III) ions. The emission intensities of dimetallic compounds are clearly enhanced after incorporation of Y(III) ions due to the dilution effect. Ln(m-pbc)s were then applied for labelling latent fingerprints. It is worth noting that the reaction between active carboxylic groups and fingerprint residues benefits the labelling, showing efficient imaging for fingerprints on all kinds of material surfaces. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Porous organic polymers (POPs) with high porosity and tunable functionalities have been widely studied for use in gas separation, catalysis, energy conversion and energy storage. However, the high cost of organic monomers, and the use of toxic solvents and high temperatures during synthesis pose obstacles for large‐scale production. Herein, we report the synthesis of imine and aminal‐linked POPs using inexpensive diamine and dialdehyde monomers in green solvents. Theoretical calculations and control experiments show that using meta‐diamines is crucial for forming aminal linkages and branching porous networks from [2+2] polycondensation reactions. The method demonstrates good generality in that 6 POPs were successfully synthesized from different monomers. Additionally, we scaled up the synthesis in ethanol at room temperature, resulting in the production of POPs in sub‐kilogram quantities at a relatively low cost. Proof‐of‐concept studies demonstrate that the POPs can be used as high‐performance sorbents for CO2 separation and as porous substrates for efficient heterogeneous catalysis. This method provides an environmentally friendly and cost‐effective approach for large‐scale synthesis of various POPs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Porous organic polymers (POPs) with high porosity and tunable functionalities have been widely studied for use in gas separation, catalysis, energy conversion and energy storage. However, the high cost of organic monomers, and the use of toxic solvents and high temperatures during synthesis pose obstacles for large‐scale production. Herein, we report the synthesis of imine and aminal‐linked POPs using inexpensive diamine and dialdehyde monomers in green solvents. Theoretical calculations and control experiments show that using meta‐diamines is crucial for forming aminal linkages and branching porous networks from [2+2] polycondensation reactions. The method demonstrates good generality in that 6 POPs were successfully synthesized from different monomers. Additionally, we scaled up the synthesis in ethanol at room temperature, resulting in the production of POPs in sub‐kilogram quantities at a relatively low cost. Proof‐of‐concept studies demonstrate that the POPs can be used as high‐performance sorbents for CO2 separation and as porous substrates for efficient heterogeneous catalysis. This method provides an environmentally friendly and cost‐effective approach for large‐scale synthesis of various POPs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sensitive skin is defined as skin with low tolerance and high reactivity. Natural products, such as paeoniflorin and madecassoside, have unique skin care functionality. However, because they are hampered by the skin barrier, paeoniflorin and madecassoside have difficulty penetrating the stratum corneum, resulting in weakened skin barrier repair and anti-inflammatory effects. In addition, there is a lack of detailed studies on the efficacy of paeonol and madecassic in human skin, especially in 3D skin models and clinical trials. To overcome the low transdermal delivery issue, we developed nanoemulsions (PM-NEs) loaded with paeonol and madecassoside to improve their delivery efficiency and promote sensitive skin repair and anti-inflammation effects. Furthermore, systematic evaluations of the efficacy in cell line models, 3D skin models, and clinical trials were conducted. The PM-NEs effectively improved the efficacy of paeonol and madecassoside glucoside transdermal penetration and retention and enhanced cellular uptake. Cellular assays and 3D epidermal models showed that the PM-NEs significantly promoted the secretion of filamentous protein, aquaporin 3, Claudin-1, and hyaluronic acid, and considerably inhibited the secretion of interleukin 1α, interleukin 6, tumor necrosis factor-α, and prostaglandin E2 compared to free components. Notably, clinical trial data showed that the PM-NEs significantly reduced transepidermal water loss, a* values, erythropoietin, the amount of non-inflammatory acne, and the amount of inflammatory acne in the facial skin. Three levels of systematic studies suggest that co-delivery of paeoniflorin and madecassoside via nanoemulsions is a promising strategy to improve topical delivery efficiency and anti-inflammatory repair efficacy in sensitive skin. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: The effect of telomerase inhibitor BIBR1532 on endometriotic cells was investigated to explore the inhibitory effect of targeting telomerase on endometriosis. Design: In vitro primary cell culture study. Participants/Materials: Primary endometrial cells derived from eutopic and ectopic endometrium in patients with endometriosis. Setting: The study was conducted in the university hospital. Methods: Paired eutopic and ectopic endometrial cells were collected from 6 patients from January 2018 to July 2021. A TRAP assay was performed to detect the telomerase activity of the cells. MTT, cell cycle, apoptosis, migration, and invasion assays were performed to study the inhibitory effect of BIBR1532. Enrichment analysis was performed to identify the key pathways involved in endometriosis progression and telomerase action. Then, Western blotting was used to investigate the expression of related proteins. Results: BIBR1532 treatment significantly inhibited the growth of eutopic and ectopic endometrial cells, with apoptosis and cell cycle signaling involved. Migration and invasion, important characteristics for the establishment of ectopic lesions, were also inhibited by BIBR1532. The MAPK signaling cascade, related to telomerase and endometriosis, was decreased in eutopic and ectopic endometrial stromal cells with the treatment of BIBR1532. Limitations: The severe side effects of telomerase inhibitors might be the main obstacle to clinical application, so it is necessary to find better drug delivery methods in vivo. Conclusions: The telomerase inhibitor BIBR1532 affects endometrial cell proliferation, migration, and invasion in endometriosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

While research on policy diffusion has gained significant interest among scholars worldwide, little attention has been given to policy reinvention in diffusion. This study aims to investigate the influencing factors and combination paths of policy reinvention in the Municipal Solid Waste Classification Policy (MSWCP). To achieve this, a theoretical framework encompassing internal factors, intergovernmental relations, and external influence has been constructed. Empirical analysis has been conducted on the MSWCP of 31 large‐ and medium‐sized cities in China using Qualitative Comparative Analysis. Through this analysis, several combination paths that prompted local governments to reinvent policies have been identified. Furthermore, the study has clarified the various roles of six conditions—financial resources, government attention, policy experience, peer competition, organizational learning, and social demand—in achieving policy reinvention. These findings are expected to provide new theoretical and practical insights into the field of policy reinvention research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rapeseed (Brassica napus L.) is an important crop for edible oil, vegetables, and biofuel. Rapeseed growth and development require a minimum temperature of ~1–3 °C. Notably, frost damage occurs during overwintering, posing a serious threat to the productivity and yield of rapeseed. MYB proteins are important transcription factors (TFs) in plants, and have been proven to be involved in the regulation of stress responses. However, the roles of the MYB TFs in rapeseed under cold stress conditions are yet to be fully elucidated. To better understand the molecular mechanisms of one MYB-like 17 gene, BnaMYBL17, in response to low temperature, the present study found that the transcript level of BnaMYBL17 is induced by cold stress. To characterize the gene's function, the 591 bp coding sequence (CDS) from rapeseed was isolated and stably transformed into rapeseed. The further functional analysis revealed significant sensitivity in BnaMYBL17 overexpression lines (BnaMYBL17-OE) after freezing stress, suggesting its involvement in freezing response. A total of 14,298 differentially expressed genes relative to freezing response were found based on transcriptomic analysis of BnaMYBL17-OE. Overall, 1321 candidate target genes were identified based on differential expression, including Phospholipases C1 (PLC1), FCS-like zinc finger 8 (FLZ8), and Kinase on the inside (KOIN). The qPCR results confirmed that the expression levels of certain genes showed fold changes ranging from two to six when compared between BnaMYBL17-OE and WT lines after exposure to freezing stress. Furthermore, verification indicated that BnaMYBL17 affects the promoter of BnaPLC1, BnaFLZ8, and BnaKOIN genes. In summary, the results suggest that BnaMYBL17 acts as a transcriptional repressor in regulating certain genes related to growth and development during freezing stress. These findings provide valuable genetic and theoretical targets for molecular breeding to enhance freezing tolerance in rapeseed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Jasmonic acid (JA) plays an important role in regulating plant growth and defence responses. Here, we show that a transcription factor that belongs to the B‐box (BBX) family named SlBBX20 regulates resistance to Botrytis cinerea in tomato by modulating JA signalling. The response to JA was significantly suppressed when SlBBX20 was overexpressed in tomato. By contrast, the JA response was enhanced in SlBBX20 knockout lines. RNA sequencing analysis provided more evidence that SlBBX20 modulates the expression of genes that are involved in JA signalling. We found that SlBBX20 interacts with SlMED25, a subunit of the Mediator transcriptional co‐activator complex, and prevents the accumulation of the SlMED25 protein and transcription of JA‐responsive genes. JA contributes to the defence response against necrotrophic pathogens. Knocking out SlBBX20 or overexpressing SlMED25 enhanced tomato resistance to B. cinerea. The resistance was impaired when SlBBX20 was overexpressed in plants that also overexpressed SlMED25. These data show that SlBBX20 attenuates JA signalling by regulating SlMED25. Interestingly, in addition to developing enhanced resistance to B. cinerea, SlBBX20‐KO plants also produced higher fruit yields. SlBBX20 is a potential target gene for efforts that aim to develop elite crop varieties using gene editing technologies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: To investigate the correlation between choroid plexus volume and whole brain morphology in patients with multiple sclerosis (MS) and neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (NMOSD). Methods: Fifty-one patients with MS, 42 patients with NMOSD, and 56 healthy controls (HC) were recruited. The morphological changes in choroid plexus and whole brain tissue were compared between three groups and the correlations between choroid plexus volume and brain atrophy were further investigated. The longitudinal alterations of brain morphology in 25 MS and 20 NMOSD patients were compared. Results: Compared to the HC group, the choroid plexus volumes were increased in the MS group (p < 0.001) but not in the NMOSD group (p > 0.05). Compared to the HC group, the MS group showed reduced cortex thickness, deep gray matter volume, and increased ventricle system volume, and the NMOSD group showed increased third ventricle volume (all p < 0.05, false discovery rate corrected). In the MS group, there were widespread correlations between enlarged choroid plexus volume and reduced cerebral cortex thickness (p < 0.05, r = −0.292~−0.538, false discovery rate corrected). The interval time was not significantly different between the MS (median: 1.37 years) and NMOSD group (median: 1.25 years) (p > 0.05). In MS, compared with the baseline, the right hippocampus and nucleus accumbens volumes were decreased in long follow-up, and bilateral lateral ventricle volumes were increased both in short and long follow-up (all p < 0.05, false discovery rate corrected). Conclusions: The enlarged choroid plexus related to reduced cortical thickness and progressive local brain atrophy are shown in MS patients, but not obvious in NMOSD patients. Key Points: • MS and NMOSD have different altered patterns in choroid plexus volume and brain atrophy. • The enlarged choroid plexus related to brain atrophy is shown in MS patients, but not obvious in NMOSD patients. • Progressive local brain atrophy is shown in MS patients, but not obvious in NMOSD patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Schizophrenia is a chronic and severe mental disorder. People with schizophrenia have transferred from hospital-based care to community-based care with the support of mental health legal policies. Challenges faced in the community should be emphasized. Limited qualitative studies have explored the challenges of living with schizophrenia. Aims: To explore the challenges of people living with schizophrenia in the community. Methods: A narrative method was used, including semi-structured, face-to-face interviews. Thematic analysis approach was used to analyze data. Results: Ten clients and their family members participated in the study. Analysis revealed three main themes related to their challenges in the community: deficits in self-management of illness; insufficient community mental health care; and the influence of policy. These challenges prevent those with schizophrenia from effectively managing their illness, returning to a productive role in society, and improving their quality of life. Conclusions: There are challenges in mental health rehabilitation and social reintegration of individuals with schizophrenia. There is a need for continuous community mental rehabilitation services, appropriate policy support, and the need to educate the public to reduce social bias and discrimination which allows individuals with schizophrenia to assume a productive role in the community. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Universal stress proteins (USPs) exist across a wide range of species and are vital for survival under stressful conditions. Due to the increasingly harsh global environmental conditions, it is increasingly important to study the role of USPs in achieving stress tolerance. This review discusses the role of USPs in organisms from three aspects: (1) organisms generally have multiple USP genes that play specific roles at different developmental periods of the organism, and, due to their ubiquity, USPs can be used as an important indicator to study species evolution; (2) a comparison of the structures of USPs reveals that they generally bind ATP or its analogs at similar sequence positions, which may underlie the regulatory role of USPs; and (3) the functions of USPs in species are diverse, and are generally directly related to the stress tolerance. In microorganisms, USPs are associated with cell membrane formation, whereas in plants they may act as protein chaperones or RNA chaperones to help plants withstand stress at the molecular level and may also interact with other proteins to regulate normal plant activities. This review will provide directions for future research, focusing on USPs to provide clues for the development of stress-tolerant crop varieties and for the generation of novel green pesticide formulations in agriculture, and to better understand the evolution of drug resistance in pathogenic microorganisms in medicine. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As a result of market liberalisation, a large number of electricity retailers have emerged in the electricity market. Acting as the intermediaries between the electricity producers and the customers, the electricity retailers aim to balance the supply and demand and shoulder substantial risks generated from both sides. Due to the randomness of the electricity load, it is difficult for electricity retailers to make an accurate electricity purchasing plan in advance to meet customer demand. This deviation leads to a proportion of spot electricity purchases that require a higher purchase cost. As a result, one of the most serious concerns facing electricity retailers is how to improve their balancing abilities and reduce power purchase deviation. In contrast to previous research, which has generally recommended that electricity retailers invest in energy storage systems or develop optimised purchasing strategies, this paper proposes a new strategy for the electricity retailers, which is renting external flexible resources to solve the market uncertainty of the electricity retailers, thereby lowering purchase costs and increasing profits. The proposed business model makes use of the cloud energy storage to solve the supply-demand imbalance issue of electricity retailers. The cost calculation model and decision optimisation model have been established in the process of renting cloud energy storage. Charging and discharging cloud energy storage have been separately rented to deal with different positive and negative load deviations, which can simplify the optimisation model. As an experimental paper, the proposed model has been tested in the PJM power market in the United States and the New South Wales power market in Australia. The findings confirm that renting the cloud energy storage capacities can significantly reduce costs and maximise profits for the electricity retailers when compared to the situation without the cloud energy storage. The biggest saving can reach 24.5% in the PJM market. With the rapid fall of battery prices, the advantage of the proposed strategy will be more obvious. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Phosphorus is essential element for agricultural production, yet phosphorus ore resources are non-renewable and become depleted. Moreover, phosphate release from wastewater treatment plants and from inefficient crop fertilization induces pollution such as water eutrophication. Therefore, phosphorus recovery from wastewater is promising alternative source of agricultural phosphorus. Biochar can be used to adsorb phosphorus due to their porous structure, large surface area, abundant surface groups, and high mineral content of biochars. Biochar can be functionalized to improve their adsorption performance. Here, we review phosphorus recovery by functionalized biochar, with focus on biochar preparation and modification, factors influencing the efficiency of adsorption, adsorption mechanisms, and biochars as slow-release fertilizers. We discuss mechanisms for Mg-, Ca- and Fe-rich biochars. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A fluorescence aptasensor based on taking the advantage of the combination of magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs), terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase (TdT), and CRISPR/Cas12a was developed for the determination of nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC)-derived exosomes. The MNPs can eliminate background interference due to their magnetic separation capability. TdT can form an ultra-long polynucleotide tail which can bind with multiple crRNA, generating a signal amplification effect. The trans-cleavage activity of CRISPR/Cas12a can be specifically triggered via the crRNA binding with DNA, resulting in the bi-labeled DNA reporter with fluorophore and quencher being cleaved. The excitation wavelength of the fluorescence spectra was 490 nm. Fluorescence spectra with emission wavelengths ranging from 511 to 600 nm were collected. Under the optimization condition, the fabricated fluorescence aptasensor for NPC-derived exosome determination exhibited excellent sensitivity and specificity, with the linear range between 500 to 5 × 104 particles mL−1 and the limit of detection of 100 particles mL−1. It can be used for the determination of NPC-derived exosomes in clinical samples, which has a considerable clinical potential and prospect. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims: To examine and refine a conceptual model of resilience in adult cancer care based on the perspectives and experiences of resilience in adults with colorectal cancer. Design: A descriptive qualitative study was performed. Methods: Twelve participants diagnosed with colorectal cancer that had completed cancer treatment with curative intent were recruited from a tertiary hospital in Australia from July to December 2019. The meaning of individual resilience was explored using in‐depth individual interviews. Data were analysed using inductive thematic analysis. Following data analysis, the elements of the conceptual model of resilience were mapped against the themes and subthemes to refine the model. Results: Five themes were identified as key elements of individual resilience in adults with colorectal cancer: (1) seeking motivations to move forward; (2) striving for normality; (3) adapting and managing self; (4) drawing on external supports; (5) redefining self. A refined conceptual model of individual resilience in adults with colorectal cancer was developed based on the integration of the themes and the elements of the conceptual model of individual resilience. Conclusions: Our refined conceptual model of individual resilience in adults with colorectal cancer could facilitate nurses' and other health professionals' understanding of the process of how resilient individuals with colorectal cancer overcome their illness‐related adversity. This refined model may be used to further develop and test cancer‐specific resilience measures and develop interventions to facilitate resilience in people living with colorectal cancer. Impact This research identified five features of resilience in adults with colorectal cancer and refined a conceptual model of resilience in adults with colorectal cancer. The findings could help nurses and other health professionals with identifying individuals who are at risk of adaptation difficulties and contribute to an early referral to psychosocial support services. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Ecological restoration projects have promoted an increase in carbon storage in forests in karst regions. • Variability in carbon sequestration recovery and its drivers is observed across karst forest regions. • The karst valley regions contribute the most to the increment of forest carbon sinks. • DEM and Hails are the main factors influencing the changes in carbon storage in karst forests. Forest carbon pools within karst regions are pivotal in the global carbon cycle, and elucidating the dynamics and principal drivers of forest carbon stocks is crucial for enhancing carbon sequestration in these areas. With the amelioration of karst ecosystems through rocky desertification control projects, the factors influencing forest carbon storage have become increasingly intricate. In this study, the Integrated Valuation of Ecosystem Services and Trade-offs (InVEST) model was corrected for forest age to estimate forest carbon stocks, and the Multi-scale Geographically Weighted Regression (MGWR) model was used to investigate the mechanisms of natural and socio-economic factors affecting forest carbon stocks during different ecological engineering periods. The results show that: Ecological engineering has made a significant contribution to the enhancement of forest carbon sinks in karst regions, with an increase in forest carbon stock of 34.82 t/hm2 observed between 2001 and 2020. The ecological benefits exhibit a lagging effect, with the rate of carbon stock increase being markedly higher in the later stages of the project than in the initial and intermediate phases. There are substantial variations in the ecological benefits of ecological engineering across different karst landforms. The proportion of areas with significantly increased carbon stocks in the faulted basin (II) and karst valley (I) regions exceeding 70 %, while the karst trough valley (IV) has contributed the most to the increase in forest carbon sequestration. Moreover, the driving factors of carbon storage in forests in karst mountain areas exhibit spatiotemporal heterogeneity, with DEM and the human activity intensity of land surface (HAILS) significantly affecting the carbon sequestration function of regions IV and karst plateau (V) in the prior interim of ecological engineering; GDP has a significant positive effect on the karst peak cluster area (III) in the interim period; and in the late period, the inhibitory effect of HAILS on forest carbon sequestration weakens, while afforestation activities significantly enhance carbon sequestration in regions V and I. The research results have important reference value for improving the ecological benefits of ecological engineering in karst landforms, developing the potential of forest carbon sequestration, and addressing climate change. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Self-powered electrochemical biosensors (SPEB) based on enzymatic biofuel cells (EBFC) have garnered significant attention due to their distinctive characteristic of not necessitating the source of external power supply. This study developed a novel EBFC-based SPEB by incorporating dual-enzyme cascade amplification and bioconjugate for extremely precise detection of 17β-estradiol (E2). The carbon nanocages/gold nanoparticles composite was employed as substrate to immobilize bilirubin oxidase (BOD) and complementary ssDNA (csDNA) to form bioconjugate. The carbon nanotubes/gold nanoparticles composite was used in the EBFC device as the electrode material, through which glucose oxidase (GOD) and E2 aptamer were wired to form the bioanode and biocathode, respectively. The biocathode further linked with bioconjugate via a hybridization reaction between E2 aptamer and csDNA. The bioconjugate integrates the recognition and signal probes for homogeneous electrochemical assay of targets, which released from biocathode once the target E2 was recognized and hindered the transfer of electrons produced by GOD on bioanode. Thus, the open-circuit voltage (E OCV) of the EBFC-based SPEB dramatically decreased, exhibiting exceptional sensitivity for the detection of E2 over a concentration range from 10 pg mL−1 to 20 ng mL−1, with a detection limit of 3.3 pg mL−1 (S/N = 3). Furthermore, the prepared EBFC-based SPEB showed significant potential for implementation as a viable prototype for a mobile and an on-site bioassay system in food and environmental safety applications. [Display omitted] • An enzymatic biofuel cells-based self-powered electrochemical biosensor is developed for detection of 17β-estradiol. • A dual-enzyme mediated cascade amplification strategy is proposed based on bilirubin oxidase and glucose oxidase. • Carbon nanocages/gold nanoparticles were utilized to immobilize bilirubin oxidase and csDNA to form bioconjugate. • Carbon nanotubes/gold nanoparticles were used as the electrode material to construct bioanodes. • The open-circuit voltage (E OCV) of biosensor is proportional to concentration of target analyte. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hemicellulose, one of the most hygroscopic components, highly affected wood properties and wood-water interactions. To get more knowledge about the effects of hemicellulose on wood, this study changed hemicellulose content of wood through hydro-thermal removal of about 8 %, 20 % and 70 %. The dynamic cell water state and distribution during 384 h water absorption and air drying were characterized with low-field nuclear magnetic resonance technique (LFNMR). During water absorption, wood with less hemicellulose initially had higher and faster moisture increase, consisting of more free water in cell lumina and some large voids in cell walls than bound water in cell walls. The highest ratio of free water to bound water reached over 4.5, which was higher than that of untreated wood by over 15 %. This was because hemicellulose removal changed wood-water interaction environments suggested by SEM, FTIR and N 2 absorption analysis. Specifically, hemicellulose removal enriched porous structures, especially the mesopore in cell walls. Although sorption sites decreased after hemicellulose removal, increased water paths and water accommodations played a more important role during initial water absorption. Besides, hemicellulose removal facilitated wood air drying, and the decreased moisture included more free water than bound water. This was because the enriched water paths accelerated water exchange, and sorption site decrease after hemicellulose loss reduced wood attraction to water molecules. Therein, the bound water leaving was generally slower than free water for hydrogen bond interaction with wood. The T 2 s of bound water and free water were both shortened after hemicellulose removal, possibly because mesopore diameter reduction tightened wood-water bonding. This study provided new insights into understanding role of hemicellulose removal in dynamic wood-water interactions and facilitating development of wood processing technology. [Display omitted] • Partial hemicellulose removal changed wood-water interaction environments. • Hemicellulose removal initially facilitated water absorption and air drying of wood. • Absorbed water or air-dried water loss consisted of more free water than bound water. • The T2 of bound water and free water was shortened after hemicellulose removal. • Relation of water state change and hierarchical structures of wood was established. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Low pH enhances the interaction between pea starch (PS) and polyphenols. • Polyphenols with more hydroxyl groups and flexibility promote complex formation. • V-type crystalline is formed within PS-polyphenol via non-covalent interaction. • PS-gallic acid complexes prepared at pH 5 show the highest resistant starch content. • Newly ordered structure and polyphenol synergy slow the digestion of complexes. The formation of starch-polyphenol complexes through high-pressure homogenization (HPH) is a promising method to reduce starch digestibility and control postprandial glycemic responses. This study investigated the combined effect of pH (5, 7, 9) and polyphenol structures (gallic acid, ferulic acid, quercetin, and tannic acid) on the formation, muti-scale structure, physicochemical properties, and digestibility of pea starch (PS)-polyphenol complexes prepared by HPH. Results revealed that reducing pH from 9 to 5 significantly strengthened the non-covalent binding between polyphenols and PS, achieving a maximum complex index of 13.89 %. This led to the formation of complexes with higher crystallinity and denser structures, promoting a robust network post-gelatinization with superior viscoelastic and thermal properties. These complexes showed increased resistance to enzymatic digestion, with the content of resistant starch increasing from 28.66 % to 42.00 %, rapidly digestible starch decreasing from 42.82 % to 21.88 %, and slowly digestible starch reducing from 71.34 % to 58.00 %. Gallic acid formed the strongest hydrogen bonds with PS, especially at pH 5, leading to the highest enzymatic resistance in PS-gallic acid complexes, with the content of resistant starch of 42.00 %, rapidly digestible starch of 23.35 % and slowly digestible starch of 58.00 %, and starch digestion rates at two digestive stages of 1.82 × 10–2 min−1 and 0.34 × 10–2 min−1. These insights advance our understanding of starch-polyphenol interactions and support the development of functional food products to improve metabolic health by mitigating rapid glucose release. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Based on the 2-aminobenzamide derivative, a series of Vif PROTACs were synthesized. • L15 degrades Vif protein in a dose-dependent manner. • Mechanistic study confirmed L15 degrades Vif through ubiquitination pathway. • Molecular dynamics simulation confirmed the favorable binding of ternary complexes. Viral infectivity factor (Vif) has been recognized as a new therapeutic target for human immunodeficiency virus-1 (HIV-1) infected patients. In our previous work, we have synthesized a novel class of Vif inhibitors with 2-amino-N-(5-hydroxy-2-methoxyphenyl)-6-((4-nitrophenyl)thio)benzamide scaffold, which show obvious activity in HIV-1 infected cells and are also effective against drug-resistant strains. Proteolytic targeting chimera (PROTAC) utilizes the ubiquitin–proteasome system to degrade target proteins, which is well established in the field of cancer, but the antiviral PROTAC molecules are rarely reported. In order to explore the effectiveness of PROTAC in the antiviral area, we designed and synthesized a series of degrader of HIV-1 Vif based on 2-amino-N-(5-hydroxy-2-methoxyphenyl)-6-((4-nitrophenyl)thio)benzamide scaffold. Among them, L15 can degrade Vif protein obviously in a dose-dependent manner and shows certain antivirus activity. Meanwhile, molecular dynamics simulation indicated that the ternary complex formed by L15, Vif, and E3 ligase adopted a reasonable binding mode and maintained a stable interaction. This provided a molecular basis and prerequisite for the selective degradation of the Vif protein by L15. This study reports the HIV-1 Vif PROTAC for the first time and represents the proof-of-concept of PROTACs-based antiviral drug discovery in the field of HIV/ acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, a novel silicon hydroxyl groups decorated long carbon chain grafted carbon fiber was synthesized, and a facile fabrication method was developed to produce reactive carbon fiber-silica aerogel composite with chemical crosslinking structure. Scanning electron microscopy images showed that silica aerogel matrix is wrapped on the surface of reactive carbon fibers. The reactive carbon fibers facilitated obstacle in shrinkage, and aerogel composites exhibited microporous behavior with average diameter of about 1.8 nm. Fourier-transform infrared and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy confirmed the strong interfacial interaction between reactive carbon fibers and silica matrix. The modification mechanism of silicon hydroxyl groups decorated long carbon chain grafted carbon fiber, and the chemical crosslinking in aerogel composite were proposed. The reactive carbon fiber-silica aerogel composites synthesized in this work had been proved to have low density, excellent mechanical property, good tailoring performance, improved thermal stability, low thermal conductivity, high flame retardancy, high thermal insulation property, and superhydrophilicity. Hence, this work provided a theoretical basis for improving the performance and expanding the application of silica aerogel. [Display omitted] • Synthesized silicon hydroxyl group decorated long carbon chain grafted carbon fiber. • Chemical crosslinking structure between reactive carbon fibers and silica matrix. • Strong interfacial interaction between reactive carbon fibers and silica matrix. • High mechanical property, thermal insulation property, and superhydrophilicity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Due to the massive environmental pollution caused by synthetic plastic packaging accumulation and contemporary necessities of food packaging materials, the biodegradable and multifunctional bionanocomposite films based on potato starch (PS) incorporating tea polyphenol (TP) and MgO nanoparticles (MgO-NPs) were successfully fabricated by the solution casting method, and their physical and functional properties and application in fruits preservation were systematically investigated. Incorporation of TP and MgO-NPs improved the films' tensile strength, UV light-blocking, hydrophobicity and thermal stability, and decreased their moisture content (from 14.02 % to 11.21 %), water solubility (from 19.57 % to 16.56 %), and water vapor permeability (from 17.32 to 9.07 × 10−11 g∙m−1∙s−1∙Pa−1). Moreover, the PS/TP/MgO-NPs films exhibited strong antioxidant activity, and remarkable antibacterial activity against Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus with the diameter of inhibition zone of 25.60 mm and 27.50 mm, respectively. SEM, ATR-FTIR and XRD analyses indicated the TP and MgO-NPs were dispersed homogeneously in the PS matrix, and identified the molecular interactions of hydrogen bond, hydrophobic interaction and electrostatic attraction. Biodegradability assessment showed that all the films were rapidly decomposed within ~20 days under simulated environmental conditions. Compared to control, the PS/TP/MgO-NPs film-forming solution coatings were capable of maintaining fruit quality by reducing the change in weight loss, firmness and total soluble solids. Overall, these results suggested that the multifunctional bionanocomposite films could be a potential approach for developing sustainable active food packaging. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Efficient separation of photogenerated electrons and holes is of key importance in photocatalysis. Tuning the charge separation pathway is significant but still suffering from low efficiency for the charge extraction from semiconductors. Herein, taking 2D g‐C3N4 (CN) nanosheets as a model photocatalyst, it was found the decoration of homophase junction between brookite TiO2 rods and nanoparticles (BN‐BR) onto CN can effectively modulate photogenerated charge extraction and transfer in BN‐BR/CN composites. The BN‐BR/CN exhibits a remarkably enhanced photocatalytic H2 evolution under visible light irradiation (λ>420 nm) compared with the single component. A continuous electron transfer channel constructed by an interfacial chemical bond Ti−O−N between CN and brookite rods (BR) and BN‐BR homophase junction between brookite nanoparticles and rods was proposed to benefit the charge extraction and transfer. This work provides a strategy to tune the charge separation and transfer to facilitate the photocatalytic performance in heterogeneous photocatalysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective. This study systematically explored the mechanism of Rhizoma Coptidis-Eupatorium fortunei in treating type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) by using network pharmacology and molecular docking methods. Methods. The TCMSP database was used to screen out the active ingredients and related targets of Rhizoma Coptidis-Eupatorium fortunei (R-E) drug pair. GeneCards, OMIM, DrugBank, and other databases were used to screen the related targets of T2DM, and then, the UniProt database was used to standardize the relevant targets of T2DM. Then, the Venn analysis was performed on the active ingredient-related targets and disease-related targets of R-E drugs to find the intersection targets. Using the STRING database and Cytoscape software, the PPI network and "drug-active ingredient-target-disease" network are constructed by intersecting targets and corresponding active ingredients. Through the cluster profiler package in the R software, GO function enrichment analysis and KEGG pathway enrichment analysis were carried out on the intersection targets and the screened core targets, and the prediction results were verified by molecular docking. Results. Taking OB ≥ 30 % and DL ≥ 0.18 as the standard, a total of 25 effective active ingredients of R-E drug pairs were screened, including berberine, palmatine, coptisine, and so on. After corresponding, 19 effective chemical components and 284 targets of the R-E drug pair were obtained. After searching multiple disease databases, 1289 T2DM-related targets were screened. After the summary, 159 common targets were obtained in this study. Finally, in the bioinformatics analysis, this study concluded that quercetin, luteolin, berberine, palmatine, and coptisine are the main chemical components of the R-E drug pair. ESR1, MAPK1, AKT1, TP53, IL6, and JUN are the important core targets. GO and KEGG enrichment analyses showed that Rhizoma Coptidis-Eupatorium fortunei could improve T2DM by regulating multiple biological processes and pathways. Molecular docking results showed that berberine, palmatine, and coptisine had higher binding to the core target, and MAPK1, AKT1, and IL6 could stably bind to the active ingredients of Rhizoma Coptidis-Eupatorium fortunei. Conclusion. Rhizoma Coptidis-Eupatorium fortunei may have therapeutic effects on T2DM such as anti-inflammatory and regulating glucose and lipid metabolism through multiple components, multiple targets, and multiple signaling pathways, which provides a scientific basis for further research on the hypoglycemic effect of Rhizoma Coptidis-Eupatorium fortunei drug pair. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]