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Background: The underlying mechanism of human umbilical-derived mesenchymal stem cells (hUC-MSCs) therapy for renal senescence in post-acute kidney injury (post-AKI) remains unclear. Unopposed mitochondrial fusion-based mitochondrial elongation is required for cellular senescence. This study attempted to dissect the role of hUC-MSCs therapy in modulating mitochondrial elongation-related senescence by hUC-MSCs therapy in post-AKI. Methods: Initially, a unilateral renal ischemia–reperfusion (uIRI) model was established in C57 mice. Subsequently, lentivirus-transfected hUC-MSCs were given by subcapsular injection. Two weeks after transplantation, histochemical staining, and transmission electron microscopy were used to assess the efficacy of hUC-MSCs in treating renal senescence, fibrosis, and mitochondrial function. To further investigate the mitochondrial regulation of hUC-MSCs secretion, hypoxic HK-2 cells were built. Finally, antibodies of HGF and its receptor were used within the hUC-MSCs supernatant. Results: Unopposed mitochondrial fusion, renal senescence, and renal interstitial fibrosis were successively identified after uIRI in mice. Then, the efficacy of hUC-MSCs after uIRI was confirmed. Subsequently, inhibiting hUC-MSCs-derived HGF significantly compromises the efficacy of hUC-MSCs and leads to ineffectively curbing mitochondrial elongation, accompanying insufficient control of elevated PKA and inhibitory phosphorylation of drp1 (Drp1pSer637). As a result, the treatment efficacy of renal senescence and fibrosis alleviation was also weakened. Furthermore, similar results were obtained with antibodies blocking HGF or cMet in hypoxic HK-2 cells treated with hUC-MSCs-condition medium for further proving. Uncurbed mitochondrial elongation induced by PKA and Drp1pSer637 was inhibited by hUC-MSCs derived HGF but reversed in the activation or overexpression of PKA. Conclusions: The research concluded that hUC-MSCs-derived HGF can inhibit PKA-Drp1pSer637-mitochondrial elongation via its receptor cMet to alleviate renal senescence and fibrosis in post-AKI. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sm 0.5 Sr 0.5 CoO 3-δ (SSC) fiber-electrode materials were prepared via electrospinning in this work. The characteristics of SSC fibers are influenced by the parameters of electrospinning, specifically the nitrate concentration of the spinning solution, applied voltage, and the gap between the spinneret and collector. The as-prepared SSC fibers exhibited average diameters ranging from 240 nm to 6.49 μm, which contracted to 50 nm–2.53 μm after calcination at 800 °C. Symmetric cells with SSC fiber-electrodes demonstrated an area-specific resistance (ASR) ranging from 0.212 to 0.508 Ω cm2 at 700 °C in air. In addition to the morphology of SSC fibers, the average grain size of the SSC fibers also exhibited potential influence on their ASR performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Layered structures show low thermal conductivity in the out-of-plane direction. But layer-by-layer structures coatings are rarely reported for the thermal insulation applications due to the difficulty in preparation methods. It is feasible to prepare the layer-by-layer structures from 2D materials by nanotechnology. However, achieving high ordering of nanoceramic coatings and maintaining thermal stability of layered structures after solution processes remains a significant challenge. Herein, we first reported a strategy using electrospray deposition to prepare layer-by-layer nanosheet coatings. The obtained coatings exhibit a low out-of-plane thermal conductivity. After annealing at 800 ℃, they show an ultra-low thermal conductivity of 0.07 W·m-1·k-1 due to the nano-pore structure. Furthermore, by doping large-sized metal ions, we improved the thermal stability of the layered structures from 600 ℃ to 800 ℃. The Ca 2 Nb 3 O 10 - nanosheet coatings also exhibit superior anti-corrosion and antioxidant abilities on zinc-coated iron, implying broad prospects for their application. • Layer-by-layer stacked Ca 2 Nb 3 O 10 - nanosheet coatings is applied to thermal insulation coatings. • Electrospray deposition is used to prepared layer-by-layer stacked Ca 2 Nb 3 O 10 - nanosheet coatings. • Layer structure of the coatings survives after heating at 600 °C and can be maintained up to 800 ℃ after doping K+. • The coatings show a low thermal conductivity, excellent corrosion and oxidation resistance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Cu‐glutathione (GSH) redox system, essential in biology, is designed here as a supramacromolecular assembly in which the tetrahedral 18e Cu(I) center loses a thiol ligand upon adsorption onto ZIF‐8, as shown by EXAFS and DFT calculation, to generate a very robust 16e planar trigonal single‐atom Cu(I) catalyst. Synergy between Cu(I) and ZIF‐8, revealed by catalytic experiments and DFT calculation, affords CO2 conversion into high‐value‐added chemicals with a wide scope of substrates by reaction with terminal alkynes or propargyl amines in excellent yields under mild conditions and reuse at least 10 times without significant decrease in catalytic efficiency. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Cu‐glutathione (GSH) redox system, essential in biology, is designed here as a supramacromolecular assembly in which the tetrahedral 18e Cu(I) center loses a thiol ligand upon adsorption onto ZIF‐8, as shown by EXAFS and DFT calculation, to generate a very robust 16e planar trigonal single‐atom Cu(I) catalyst. Synergy between Cu(I) and ZIF‐8, revealed by catalytic experiments and DFT calculation, affords CO2 conversion into high‐value‐added chemicals with a wide scope of substrates by reaction with terminal alkynes or propargyl amines in excellent yields under mild conditions and reuse at least 10 times without significant decrease in catalytic efficiency. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To investigate the significance of endoscopic grading (Hill's classification) of gastroesophageal flap valve (GEFV) in the examination of patients with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Methods: One hundred and sixty-two patients undergoing gastroscopy in the Department of Gastroenterology, Xingyi People's Hospital between Apr. 2022 and Sept. 2022 were selected by convenient sampling, and data such as GEFV grade, and findings of esophageal high-resolution manometry (HRM) and esophageal 24-h pH/impedance reflux monitoring, and Los Angeles (LA) classification of reflux esophagitis (RE) were collected and compared. Results: Statistically significant differences in age (F = 9.711, P < 0.001) and hiatal hernia (χ = 35.729, P < 0.001) were observed in patients with different GEFV grades. The resting LES pressures were 12.12 ± 2.79, 10.73 ± 2.68, 9.70 ± 2.29, and 8.20 ± 2.77 mmHg (F = 4.571, P < 0.001) and LES lengths were 3.30 ± 0.70, 3.16 ± 0.68, 2.35 ± 0.83, and 2.45 ± 0.62 (F = 3.789, P = 0.011), respectively, in patients with GEFV grades I–IV. DeMeester score (Z = 5.452, P < 0.001), AET4 (Z = 5.614, P < 0.001), acid reflux score (upright) (Z = 7.452, P < 0.001), weak acid reflux score (upright) (Z = 3.121, P = 0.038), liquid reflux score (upright) (Z = 3.321, P = 0.031), acid reflux score (supine) (Z = 6.462, P < 0.001), mixed reflux score (supine) (Z = 3.324, P = 0.031), gas reflux score (supine) (Z = 3.521, P = 0.024) were different in patients with different GEFV grades, with statistically significant differences. Pearson correlation analysis revealed a positive correlation between RE grade and LA classification of GERD (r = 0.662, P < 0.001), and the severity of RE increased gradually with the increase of the Hill grades of GEFV. Conclusion: The Hill grade of GEFV is related to age, hiatal hernia, LES pressure, and the consequent development and severity of acid reflux and RE. Evaluation of esophageal motility and reflux based on the Hill grade of GEFV is of significance for the diagnosis and treatment of GERD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Previous studies have revealed associations between sleep quality and mental health, yet the comprehensive role of sleep quality, daytime dysfunction, social exclusion, and self-control in difficulties with emotion regulation remains unclear. This study aimed to elucidate how sleep quality affects emotion regulation difficulties among middle school students through pathways involving daytime dysfunction, social exclusion, and self-control, thereby providing a more comprehensive theoretical basis for mental health interventions. Methods: Utilizing the pittsburgh sleep quality index, the adolescent social exclusion scale, the brief self-control scale, and emotion regulation scale-short form, we assessed 1067 students randomly selected from four middle schools from October to November 2023. After the removal of extreme values (those exceeding 3 standard deviations), 806 students were retained for data analysis. Results: Our findings indicate that poor sleep quality significantly contributes to increased daytime dysfunction(β = 0.86, SE = 0.07, p <.001), which in turn affects social exclusion(β = 0.60, SE = 0.16, p < 0 0.001), self-control abilities(β = 1.27, SE = 0.16, p <.001) and emotion regulation difficulties(β = 1.56, SE = 0.30, p <.001). Social exclusion mediates the relationship between sleep quality and emotion regulation difficulties(Estimate = 0.11, SE = 0.04, 95% CI [0.04, 0.20]). Conclusion: The aim of this study is to provide new insights into the development of effective intervention measures to improve sleep and mental health in adolescents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Supported metal catalysts with appropriate metal‐support interactions (MSIs) hold a great promise for heterogeneous catalysis. However, ensuring tight immobilization of metal clusters/nanoparticles on the support while maximizing the exposure of surface active sites remains a huge challenge. Herein, we report an Ir/WO3 catalyst with a new enrooted‐type MSI in which Ir clusters are, unprecedentedly, atomically enrooted into the WO3 lattice. The enrooted Ir atoms decrease the electron density of the constructed interface compared to the adhered (root‐free) type, thereby achieving appropriate adsorption toward oxygen intermediates, ultimately leading to high activity and stability for oxygen evolution in acidic media. Importantly, this work provides a new enrooted‐type supported metal catalyst, which endows suitable MSI and maximizes the exposure of surface active sites in contrast to the conventional adhered, embedded, and encapsulated types. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Supported metal catalysts with appropriate metal‐support interactions (MSIs) hold a great promise for heterogeneous catalysis. However, ensuring tight immobilization of metal clusters/nanoparticles on the support while maximizing the exposure of surface active sites remains a huge challenge. Herein, we report an Ir/WO3 catalyst with a new enrooted‐type MSI in which Ir clusters are, unprecedentedly, atomically enrooted into the WO3 lattice. The enrooted Ir atoms decrease the electron density of the constructed interface compared to the adhered (root‐free) type, thereby achieving appropriate adsorption toward oxygen intermediates, ultimately leading to high activity and stability for oxygen evolution in acidic media. Importantly, this work provides a new enrooted‐type supported metal catalyst, which endows suitable MSI and maximizes the exposure of surface active sites in contrast to the conventional adhered, embedded, and encapsulated types. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: DNA methylation contributes to the epigenetic regulation of nuclear gene expression, and is associated with plant growth, development, and stress responses. Compelling evidence has emerged that long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) regulates DNA methylation. Previous genetic and physiological evidence indicates that lncRNA-CRIR1 plays a positive role in the responses of cassava plants to cold stress. However, it is unclear whether global DNA methylation changes with CRIR1-promoted cold tolerance. Results: In this study, a comprehensive comparative analysis of DNA methylation and transcriptome profiles was performed to reveal the gene expression and epigenetic dynamics after CRIR1 overexpression. Compared with the wild-type plants, CRIR1-overexpressing plants present gained DNA methylation in over 37,000 genomic regions and lost DNA methylation in about 16,000 genomic regions, indicating a global decrease in DNA methylation after CRIR1 overexpression. Declining DNA methylation is not correlated with decreased/increased expression of the DNA methylase/demethylase genes, but is associated with increased transcripts of a few transcription factors, chlorophyll metabolism and photosynthesis-related genes, which could contribute to the CRIR1-promoted cold tolerance. Conclusions: In summary, a first set of transcriptome and epigenome data was integrated in this study to reveal the gene expression and epigenetic dynamics after CRIR1 overexpression, with the identification of several TFs, chlorophyll metabolism and photosynthesis-related genes that may be involved in CRIR1-promoted cold tolerance. Therefore, our study has provided valuable data for the systematic study of molecular insights for plant cold stress response. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A micro-sprinkling hose is promising water-saving irrigation equipment due to its low cost and ease of installation and dismantlement during operation. The performance of the micro-sprinkling hose depends on the kinetic energy generated during field irrigation, which in turn is determined by the distribution of water droplets sprayed into the air. This paper aims to investigate the droplet diameter distribution provided by micro-sprinkling hoses by determining drop characteristics and assessing the impacts of the pressure and spraying angle on the droplet diameter distribution. Therefore, an indoor experiment was conducted to investigate the drop diameter distribution provided by micro-sprinkling hose under different pressures (20, 24, 28, and 32 kPa) and spraying angles (20°, 30°, 40°, 50°, 60°, 70°, and 80°). Droplet characteristic parameters were measured and collected using a laser precipitation monitor (LPM). The results show that (1) the diameter of water droplets sprayed from a micro-sprinkling hose with a single-hole diameter increases with increasing pressure, resulting in an expanded distribution range. Moreover, the diameter of these droplets initially increases and then decreases with increasing spraying angle. The maximum droplet is observed at a spraying angle of 40°. (2) The percentage of water droplets increases with increasing distance from the ground, with a diameter distribution range of 0–2.00 mm and an increase in the droplet diameter from 0.50 to 0.75–1.00 mm. The results reflect the characteristics of the droplet diameter distribution obtained with micro-sprinkling hoses under different pressures and spraying angles, providing guidance for the design of hose structures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

PRKN-dependent mitophagy plays a crucial role in maintaining mitochondrial health. Yet, PRKN-deficient mice do not exhibit mitochondrial and cardiac phenotypes at baseline, suggesting the existence of other mitochondrial ubiquitin (Ub) ligases. Here, we discuss our recent work identifying RNF7/RBX2 as a novel mitochondrial Ub ligase. Upon mitochondrial depolarization, RNF7 proteins are recruited to the mitochondria, where they directly ubiquitinate mitochondrial proteins and stabilize PINK1 expression, thereby promoting the clearance of damaged mitochondria and regulating mitochondrial turnover in the heart. The actions of RNF7 in mitochondria do not require PRKN. Ablation of Rnf7 in mouse hearts results in severe mitochondrial dysfunction and heart failure. Our findings demonstrate that RNF7 is indispensable for mitochondrial turnover and cardiac homeostasis. These results open new avenues for exploring new PRKN-independent pathways that regulate mitophagy, which could have significant implications for developing therapeutic interventions for cardiac diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The wind power generation system of a 5 MW horizontal axis wind turbine has a high wind energy conversion efficiency. The proportion of installed capacity in practical production applications is increasing year on year, so that the stability of its operation becomes a central factor in determining the productivity of the wind farm in question. This paper takes a 5 MW wind turbine as the research object and proposes a parameter‐adaptive robust model predictive control method to achieve self‐optimization of controller parameters through a Bayesian optimization approach. A robust model predictive control strategy, aiming to reduce the power fluctuation while maximizing the power output, is developed in this paper to enhance the dynamic economic performance under uncertain wind speed variation. A Bayesian algorithm is used in this paper to optimize the parameters of the controller. Moreover, wind speeds are simulated using TurbSim for different turbulence intensities of 5%, 10%, and 15% turbulence. Finally, the robust model predictive control toolbox in MATLAB is designed and simulated. The results show that the operational instability of the wind energy system is overcome. Meanwhile, the robustness of the wind energy system operation is improved compared to the traditional model predictive control approach. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This comprehensive study explores the nuanced relationship between financial development and its determinants within the G7 nations, spanning the years 1990 to 2020. Motivated by the need to understand long‐term financial trends, we meticulously analyze key variables including total natural resource rent, Environmental Policy Stringency Index, total energy consumption, green gross domestic product (GDP), and foreign direct investment inflow. Employing rigorous diagnostic tests to ensure the robustness of our findings, advanced methodologies such as “Method of Moment Quantile Regression,” along with simulations of “Bootstrap Quantile Regression," “Panel Corrected Standard Errors,” and “Feasible Generalized Least Squares” regressions uncover the statistical significance and practical implications of our results. Our pivotal findings carry substantial implications for both individual G7 member states and the collective group. Highlighting a positive correlation between stringent environmental policies, measured by the Environmental Policy Stringency Index, and financial development, our study emphasizes the imperative for these nations to align economic and environmental policies. Striking a harmonious balance between resource management and sustainable environmental regulations not only fosters financial growth but also addresses global environmental concerns. Furthermore, the adverse impact of total energy consumption on financial development underscores the urgent need for G7 nations to prioritize energy efficiency and transition to sustainable sources, aligning with the global trend towards eco‐friendly practices. In response to these critical findings, we propose actionable policy measures. To align with the growing climate crisis and standardize green finance practices, we advocate for the establishment of a jointly funded Climate Resilience and Adaptation Fund and a unified Green Bond Framework within the G7. These measures not only enhance climate resilience and streamline sustainable investments but also demonstrate the G7's collective commitment to a greener and more prosperous future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Atomically precise metal nanoclusters (NCs) emerge as fascinating synthons in self‐assembled materials. The self‐assembly of metal NCs are highly sensitive to the environment because they have an inorganic‐organic hybridized structure and a relatively complicated conformation. Here, it is shown that when confined in crowded colloids, a water‐soluble Ag9‐cored nanocluster (Ag9‐NC) can self‐ assemble into ultra‐long (up to millimeters) and photoluminescent ribbons with high flexibility. The ribbon contains rectangularly organized columns of Ag9‐NCs and can undergo secondary self‐assembly to form bundled and branched structures. Formation of ribbons is observed in all the tested colloids, including lyotropic liquid crystals and disordered, three‐dimensional network. The high viscosity/elasticity of the crowded colloids weakens gravity‐induced sedimentation of the ribbons, leading to the formation of an interesting class of inorganic‐organic composite materials where the hard Ag‐containing skeleton strengthens the soft matter. The simultaneously occurring symmetry breaking during the self‐assembly of Ag9‐NCs gives uncontrolled supramolecular chirality, which can be tuned through the majority rule and soldier‐and‐sergeant rule by the introduction of chiral seeds. The regulated chirality and the intrinsic photoluminescence of the Ag9‐NCs ribbons impart the composite material circularly polarized luminescence, opening the door for a variety of potential applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Current online transactions of aquatic products are often plagued by problems such as low efficiency, high platform supervision cost, insufficient trust and leakage of transaction data. Blockchain has been widely used in many different fields due to its decentralization, non-tampering and distributed data management. In order to resolve the existing problems, a blockchain-based aquatic product trading matching model integrated with credit mechanisms is proposed in this study to improve the efficiency, quality, security and satisfaction of online transactions for aquatic products. Then, based on this model, an online trading matching prototype system for aquatic products is developed, taking the Hyperledger Fabric as the underlying architecture. The performance testing of the prototype system has demonstrated that the introduction of the credit mechanism has a certain improvement effect on the trading matching results of aquatic products, and the system can complete more than 1000 transactions within half an hour, which can satisfy the normal business-to-business online transaction needs for aquatic products. To a certain extent, it can reduce the security risks and supervision cost, and improve the efficiency and satisfaction of online transaction. This study can also bring insights to blockchain-based online trading models in other industry fields. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Personal thermal management is attracting growing attention due to the aggravation of climate anomalies and the increasing emphasis on physical health. Passive radiative heating textiles offer a promising solution to improve thermal comfort without energy consumption; however, using woven cloth to achieve passive heating while still exhibiting an aesthetic appearance remains a problem. Here, a colored textile based on woven cloth that features superior passive radiative heating capability without sacrificing aesthetics is demonstrated. By coating infrared transparent inorganic nanoparticles on MXene‐decorated cotton, the textile achieves selectively visible reflectance for desired color, high near‐infrared absorptivity, and low mid‐infrared emissivity for passive heating management, as well as uniformly distributed nanopores for wearability. Thermal tests on simulated skin and real human bodies show considerable temperature increases compared to pure cottons. Owing to its easy manufacturing process and remarkable spectral engineering capability, this textile can be further applied to energy conservation and multi‐spectral camouflage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This work reported a strategy to improve the storage stability of W1/O/W2 double emulsions with the combination of the gelled internal aqueous phase, crystallized lipid phase, and gelled external aqueous phase. The composite of κ-carrageenan and locust bean gum (κ-C/LBG) was a suitable gelling agent of the internal aqueous phase. Crystallized oils were formed by the addition of solid lipid (glycerol monostearate, GMS) into the oil phase. The double emulsions fortified by gelled inner droplets were filled in Ca-alginate hydrogel beads. The results demonstrated that GMS formed crystalline layers at the oil-water interface, and its concentration significantly affected the morphology and droplet size of double emulsions. The total polymer concentration of κ-C/LBG had an effect on the droplet size and entrapment efficiency of double emulsions. Furthermore, thermal stability study (2–21 days) and long-term storage stability study (24 weeks) showed that the gelation of the internal aqueous phase with a low concentration of 0.5 wt% κ-C/LBG appreciable increased the retention efficiency of the encapsulated double emulsions compared with the system of the non-gelled internal aqueous phase, which might provide a useful method to promote the production of double emulsions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Layered materials exhibit competitively low thermal conductivity along the out-of-plane direction. The solution process is a promising method for preparing stacked structures. However, the thermal stability of the layered materials is poor after processing in solution, thus hindering their applications at high temperatures. One of the solutions to improve the thermal stability of layered structures is to expand the interlayer distance by inserting large-size metal ions. In this work, we studied the thermal properties of Cs+ intercalated layered niobate obtained by the ion-exchanged process. The layered structure of the Cs+ intercalated layered niobate survives after thermal treatment even at 1200 °C. The room temperature thermal conductivity of as prepared stacked Cs–HCa 2 Nb 3 O 10 is as low as 0.11 W m−1 k−1. Upon thermal annealing, the thermal conductivity increases. After annealing at 1200 °C, the value is 0.90 W m−1 k−1. The finding suggests Cs+ intercalated layered niobate is a promising material for high-temperature insulation applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the astaxanthin-loaded nanostructured lipid carriers (ASX-NLC) prepared using a high-pressure homogenization transport system for local application of astaxanthin. Dynamic light scattering (DLS) and X-ray diffraction (XRD) were used to study the effect of microencapsulation on the properties of ASX-NLC. The mean size of ASX-NLC was about 108.43 ± 0.26 nm and PdI was 0.176 ± 0.002. The ASX-NLC had high encapsulation efficiency which was 95.69 ± 0.13%. Good light stability and temperature stability were shown at the ASX-NLC, indicating that the preparation process was feasible. The 2,2-diphenyl-1-pyridylohydrazinyl (DPPH) scavenging test showed that ASX-NLC could still play an antioxidant role. In vitro release studies showed that compared with an astaxanthin ethanol solution, an ASX-NLC could maintain astaxanthin release more effectively. In vitro permeation studies showed that ASX-NLC could increase astaxanthin retention in the skin. In conclusion, ASX-NLC could significantly enhance astaxanthin accumulation during dermal applications. The research results have important reference significance for local skin applications and provide a basis for the development of nanostructured lipid carriers. ASX-NLC might be suitable carriers for the local application of astaxanthin. Graphical Abstract [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We consider the two-dimensional damped wave-type magnetohydrodynamic equations with fractional dissipation. We prove the global existence and uniqueness of solution for small initial data in Sobolev spaces. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper focuses on the 3D anisotropic MHD-Boussinesq equations with horizontal dissipation for perturbations near the hydrostatic equilibrium. The main purpose of this paper is to establish the global stability and the decay rates of the system emanating from a small data. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A growing of evidence has showed that patients with osteoarthritis (OA) had a higher coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) infection rate and a poorer prognosis after infected it. Additionally, scientists have also discovered that COVID-19 infection might cause pathological changes in the musculoskeletal system. However, its mechanism is still not fully elucidated. This study aims to further explore the sharing pathogenesis of patients with both OA and COVID-19 infection and find candidate drugs. Gene expression profiles of OA (GSE51588) and COVID-19 (GSE147507) were obtained from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database. The common differentially expressed genes (DEGs) for both OA and COVID-19 were identified and several hub genes were extracted from them. Then gene and pathway enrichment analysis of the DEGs were performed; protein–protein interaction (PPI) network, transcription factor (TF)-gene regulatory network, TF-miRNA regulatory network and gene-disease association network were constructed based on the DEGs and hub genes. Finally, we predicted several candidate molecular drugs related to hub genes using DSigDB database. The receiver operating characteristic curve (ROC) was applied to evaluate the accuracy of hub genes in the diagnosis of both OA and COVID-19. In total, 83 overlapping DEGs were identified and selected for subsequent analyses. CXCR4, EGR2, ENO1, FASN, GATA6, HIST1H3H, HIST1H4H, HIST1H4I, HIST1H4K, MTHFD2, PDK1, TUBA4A, TUBB1 and TUBB3 were screened out as hub genes, and some showed preferable values as diagnostic markers for both OA and COVID-19. Several candidate molecular drugs, which are related to the hug genes, were identified. These sharing pathways and hub genes may provide new ideas for further mechanistic studies and guide more individual-based effective treatments for OA patients with COVID-19 infection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Arms race co‐evolution of plant–pathogen interactions evolved sophisticated recognition mechanisms between host immune receptors and pathogen effectors. Different allelic haplotypes of an immune receptor in the host mount distinct recognition against sequence or non‐sequence related effectors in pathogens. We report the molecular characterization of the Piks allele of the rice immune receptor Pik against rice blast pathogen, which requires two head‐to‐head arrayed nucleotide‐binding sites and leucine‐rich repeat proteins. Like other Pik alleles, both Piks‐1 and Piks‐2 are necessary and sufficient for mediating resistance. However, unlike other Pik alleles, Piks does not recognize any known AvrPik variants of Magnaporthe oryzae. Sequence analysis of the genome of an avirulent isolate V86010 further revealed that its cognate avirulence (Avr) gene most likely has no significant sequence similarity to known AvrPik variants. Piks‐1 and Pikm‐1 have only two amino acid differences within the integrated heavy metal‐associated (HMA) domain. Pikm‐HMA interacts with AvrPik‐A, ‐D, and ‐E in vitro and in vivo, whereas Piks‐HMA does not bind any AvrPik variants. Characterization of two amino acid residues differing Piks‐1 from Pikm‐1 reveal that Piks‐E229Q derived from the exchange of Glu229 to Gln229 in Piks‐1 gains recognition specificity against AvrPik‐D but not AvrPik‐A or ‐E, indicating that Piks‐E229Q partially restores the Pikm spectrum. By contrast, Piks‐A261V derived from the exchange of Ala261 to Val261 in Piks‐1 retains Piks recognition specificity. We conclude that Glu229 in Piks‐1 is critical for Piks breaking the canonical Pik/AvrPik recognition pattern. Intriguingly, binding activity and ectopic cell death induction is maintained between Piks‐A261V and AvrPik‐D, implying that positive outcomes from ectopic assays might be insufficient to deduce its immune activity against the relevant effectors in rice and rice blast interaction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A pH/NIR responsive and injectable hydrogel was constructed by combining three biocompatible components—CaCO3, polydopamine and sodium alginate—for local calcium ions interference therapy and photothermal therapy against melanoma. [Display omitted] Melanoma is an aggressive tumor located in skin with high rates of recurrence and metastasis. Due to the limited traditional therapies, the development of novel strategies against melanoma is urgently quested. To reduce the side effects of traditional administration ways and amplify the killing effect, an injectable sodium alginate (SA)-based hydrogels were developed, in which CaCO 3 /polydopamine nanoparticles (CaCO 3 /PDA NPs) were embedded for the synergistic photothermal/calcium ions interference therapy of melanoma. In the study, the formation conditions and mechanical properties of CaCO 3 /PDA-SA hydrogels were characterized, and their antitumor efficiency and mechanism against mouse melanoma cells were investigated. When injected intratumorally, CaCO 3 /PDA-SA fluid was converted into hydrogel in situ through the interaction of pH-sensitive released Ca2+ and alginate chains, which increased the retention time of photothermal agents (CaCO 3 /PDA NPs) at tumor sites and thereby was more conducive to produce hyperthermia via photothermal conversion to combat melanoma. Moreover, in acidic tumor microenvironment, the residual CaCO 3 /PDA NPs in hydrogels continuously decomposed and released Ca2+ to destroy the Ca2+ buffering capacity and evoke the mitochondrial Ca2+-overloading, resulting in the inhibition of adenosine triphosphate production to accelerate cell death. Notably, besides the heat elevation, the near-infrared light (NIR) irradiation would further enhance the release of Ca2+ to promote the Ca2+-involved cell death. Therefore, a pH/NIR-responsive and injectable SA-based hydrogels were successfully established and showed enhanced treatment efficacy of melanoma through the synergism of photothermal therapy and calcium ions interference therapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Osteoarthritis (OA), the most common type of arthritis, is a complex biological response caused by cartilage wear and synovial inflammation that links biomechanics and inflammation. The progression of OA correlates with a rise in the number of senescent cells in multiple joint tissues. However, the mechanisms by which senescent cells and their involvement with immune infiltration promote OA progression are not fully understood. The gene expression profiles and clinical information of OA and healthy control synovial tissue samples were retrieved from the Gene Expression Omnibus database, and then differential analysis of senescence regulators between OA and normal samples was performed. The random forest (RF) was used to screen candidate senescence regulators to predict the occurrence of OA. The reverse transcription quantitative real-time PCR experiments at tissue's level was performed to confirm these biomarkers. Moreover, two distinct senescence patterns were identified and systematic correlation between these senescence patterns and immune cell infiltration was analyzed. The senescence score and senescence gene clusters were constructed to quantify senescence patterns together with immune infiltration of individual OA patient. 73 senescence differentially expressed genes were identified between OA patients and normal controls. The RF method was utilized to build an OA risk model based on two senescence related genes: BCL6 and VEGFA. Next, two distinct aging patterns were determined in OA synovial samples. Most patients from senescence cluster A were further classified into gene cluster B and high senescence score group correlated with a non-inflamed phenotype, whereas senescence cluster B were classified into gene cluster A and low senescence score group correlated with an inflamed phenotype. Our study revealed that senescence played an important role in in OA synovial inflammation. Evaluating the senescence patterns of individuals with OA will contribute to enhancing our cognition of immune infiltration characterization, providing novel diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers, and guiding more effective immunotherapy strategies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The goal of this paper is to establish a regularity criterion for the three-dimensional incompressible Hall-magnetohydrodynamic equations involving only the vorticity. Our result complements and improves some existing results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Osteoarthritis (OA) is the one of most common joint diseases worldwide. Cuproptosis, which had been discovered lately, is a novel form of cell death induced by copper. Our purpose is to study the relationship between cuproptosis-related genes (CRGs) and inflammatory microenvironments in patients with OA and identify characteristic cuproptosis-related biomarkers. First, the combinatory analysis of OA transcriptome data from five datasets identified differentially expressed CRGs associated with OA. Then, we applied single-sample gene set enrichment analysis (ssGSEA) to evaluate immune-cell infiltration and immune-function levels in OA patients and normal controls, respectively. Hub CRGs for OA were mined based on the random forest (RF) model, and a nomogram prediction model was constructed based on them. In total, four differentially expressed CRGs were identified through bioinformatics analysis and confirmed by RT-qPCR. FDX1 and LIPT1 were expressed at a high level in OA, while DBT and DLST were expressed higher in the normal group. In total, 10 CRGs were found to be significantly correlated with immune landscape. Four hub CRGs were subsequently obtained by the RF analysis as potential biomarkers for OA. We constructed an OA predictive model based on these four CRGs (DBT, DLST, FDX1, and LIPT1). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Muscarinic acetylcholine receptors (mAChRs) have been shown to play significant roles in the regulation of normal cognitive processes in the hippocampus, and α-amino-3-hydroxy-5-methyl-4-isoxazolepropionic acid receptors (AMPARs) are also involved in these processes. This study aims to explore the mAChR-mediated regulation of AMPARs GluA2 trafficking and to reveal the key proteins and the signaling cascade involved in this process. Primary hippocampal neurons, as cell models, were treated with agonist 77-LH-28-1 and antagonist VU0255035, Fsc231, and APV. C57BL/6J male mice were stereotactically injected with 77-LH-28-1 and Fsc231 to obtain hippocampal slices. The trafficking of GluA2 was detected by surface biotinylation and immunostaining. Activation of M1 mAChRs promoted endocytosis and decreased the postsynaptic localization of the AMPA receptor subunit GluA2 and that phosphorylation of GluA2 at Ser880 was increased by M1 mAChR activity. Fsc231 blocked the endocytosis and postsynaptic localization of GluA2 induced by 77-LH-28-1 without affecting the phosphorylation of Ser880. PICK1 was required for M1 mAChR-mediated GluA2 endocytosis and downstream of phosphorylation of GluA2-Ser880, and the PICK1-GluA2 interaction was essential for M1 mAChR-mediated postsynaptic expression of GluA2. Taken together, our results show a functional correlation of M1 mAChRs with GluA2 and the role of PICK1 in their interplay. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To improve the control of active power in wind power clusters, an active power hierarchical predictive control method with multiple temporal and spatial scales is proposed. First, the method from the spatial scale divides the wind power clusters into the cluster control layer, sub-cluster coordination layer and single wind farm power regulation layer. Simultaneously, from the temporal scale, the predicted data are divided layer by layer: the 15 min power prediction is deployed for the first layer; the 5 min power prediction is employed for the second layer; the 1 min power prediction is adopted for the third layer. Secondly, the prediction model was developed, and each hierarchical prediction was optimized using MPC. Thirdly, wind farms are dynamically clustered, and then the output power priority of wind farms is established. In addition, the active power of each wind farm is controlled according to the error between the dispatch value and the real-time power with feedback correction so that each wind farm achieves cooperative control with optimal power output. Finally, combined with the simulation of practical wind power clusters, the results show that the wind abandonment rate was reduced by 2.13%, and the dispatch of the blindness was overcome compared with the fixed proportional strategy. Therefore, this method can improve the efficiency of cooperative power generation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Permafrost collapse redistributed soil organic carbon (SOC), total nitrogen (TN), and metal elements (MEs). • Fe and Mn were crucial geochemical indicators in permafrost collapse areas. • Soil water content, bulk density, and pH were correlated with SOC and TN. • Soil inorganic carbon (SIC) and pH were associated with MEs. • Permafrost collapse indirectly strengthened the relationship of SOC and TN with MEs. Permafrost degradation can lead to the decomposition of organic matter and the remobilization of metal elements (MEs). However, the changes in MEs, as well as the relationships between soil organic carbon (SOC), total nitrogen (TN), and MEs in permafrost collapse areas remain unknown. Here, we investigated the changes in SOC, TN, and MEs and their driving factors in three stages (control, drape, and exposed) of four thermokarst sites on the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau (QTP). The results revealed that SOC and TN decreased by 20–30% and 11–17% from control to drape areas, respectively. The concentrations of Fe, Mn, Zn, Cr, Ni, Cu, Pb, and Cd declined by 3.11% to 45.07% from drape to exposed areas. Furthermore, soil water content, bulk density, and pH were correlated with SOC and TN. Soil inorganic carbon (SIC) and pH regulated the connection of SOC and TN with MEs. Our results suggest that permafrost collapse changes SOC, TN, and MEs, and also indirectly strengthens the relationship of SOC and TN with MEs via SIC and pH, which might be a critical mechanism for SOC and TN pools in thermokarst-affected terrains. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • This study is the first example to use metal nanocluster (NCs) to construct a self-sorting assembly system. • A self-sorting assembly system of water-soluble silver NCs (Ag 9 -NCs) and hydrophobic peptides (D, D) through solvent regulation strategy were successfully constructed. • The introduction of higher concentrations of (D, D) caused the Ag 9 -NCs assembly to aggregate more closely, resulting in different morphologies from single Ag 9 -NCs. • The presence of (D, D) gel matrix induces the AIE effect of Ag 9 -NCs, which changes the system from weak orange fluorescence to bright white fluorescence. Self-sorting plays a crucial role in living systems, such as in the specific folding of proteins and the selective assembly of DNA. Inspired by these natural processes, scientists have begun to construct artificial systems containing multiple components, allowing for better analysis of complex natural systems. In this work, the self-sorting assembly of a water-soluble silver nanocluster ((NH 4) 9 [Ag 9 (mba) 9 ], H 2 mba = 2-mercaptobenzoic acid, Ag 9 -NCs) and hydrophobic peptide (Palmitoyl-DiAsparitcacid, D, D) was achieved through a solvent regulation strategy to construct a complex supramolecular system. Under the synergistic effect of hydrophobic interactions and hydrogen bonding, Ag 9 -NCs and (D, D) can form gels with effective phase separation in a very short time, exhibiting interesting self-sorting properties. Additionally, the (D,D) gel matrix boosts the crystallinity of the Ag9-NCs assembly and improves the organization of Ag 9 -NCs aggregates. This triggers the aggregation-induced emission (AIE) effect in Ag 9 -NCs, resulting in increased luminescence of the system. This study is the first to use metal NCs to create a self-sorting assembly system. It enhances our understanding of assembly mechanism of metal NCs, offers various solutions for their assembly and performance regulation, and marks significant progress towards mimicking multi-component self-sorting systems found in nature. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Inonotus hispidus has been traditionally and widely used to treat several diseases in some parts of Asia, such as diarrhea, bleeding and dysentery. Many studies confirm the phenolic substances from I. hispidus with very high bioactive properties, which is a promising resource for producing functional foods. In this work, five kinds of macroporous adsorption resin (MAR) were evaluated by the purification efficiency of phenolic substances of I. hispidus. MAR HPD-600 exhibited the best adsorption effect on the phenolic substances and the adsorption process fitted the Pseudo-second-order kinetic equation well. Simultaneously, its adsorption isotherm fitted the Langmuir model better which meant the process was a spontaneous exothermic reaction. Subsequently, the dynamic adsorption and desorption conditions were optimized, the concentration of phenols extracted increased from 3.48% to 21% and the recovery ratio got to 81.72% finally. This study could provide a meaningful guide for the industrial extraction of phenolic substances of I. hispidus. [Display omitted] • This study is with the aim of industrial-scale extraction of I.hispidus polyphenols. • The extraction of I.hispidus polyphenols using macroporous resins has not been reported yet. • The purity of I.hispidus polyphenols increases from 3.48% to 21%, and the recycling rate is 81.72%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, we study the asymptotic and transient dynamics of a predator–prey model with square root functional responses and random perturbation. Firstly, the mean square stability matrix is obtained from the stability theory of stochastic systems, and three stability indexes (root-mean-square resilience, root-mean-square reactivity and root-mean-square amplification envelope) of the ecosystem response to stochastic disturbances are calculated. We find that: (1) no matter which population is disturbed, increasing the intensity of disturbance improves the ability of the system leaves steady state and thus decreases the stability. The root-mean-square amplification envelope rises with increasing disturbance intensity, (2) the system is more sensitive to the disturbance of the predator than disturbance to prey, (3) ρ m a x and t m a x are important indicators, which represent the intensity and time of maximum amplification by disturbance. These findings are helpful for managers to take corresponding management measures to reduce the disturbances, especially for predators, thereby avoiding the possible change of the structure and functions of the ecosystem. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Randomised controlled trials have shown that steroids reduce the risk of dying in patients with severe Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), whilst many real-world studies have failed to replicate this result. We aim to investigate real-world effectiveness of steroids in severe COVID-19.Methods: Clinical, demographic, and viral genome data extracted from electronic patient record (EPR) was analysed from all SARS-CoV-2 RNA positive patients admitted with severe COVID-19, defined by hypoxia at presentation, between March 13th 2020 and May 27th 2021. Steroid treatment was measured by the number of prescription-days with dexamethasone, hydrocortisone, prednisolone or methylprednisolone. The association between steroid > 3 days treatment and disease outcome was explored using multivariable cox proportional hazards models with adjustment for confounders (including age, gender, ethnicity, co-morbidities and SARS-CoV-2 variant). The outcome was in-hospital mortality.Results: 1100 severe COVID-19 cases were identified having crude hospital mortality of 15.3%. 793/1100 (72.1%) individuals were treated with steroids and 513/1100 (46.6%) received steroid ≤ 3 days. From the multivariate model, steroid > 3 days was associated with decreased hazard of in-hospital mortality (HR: 0.47 (95% CI: 0.31-0.72)).Conclusion: The protective effect of steroid treatment for severe COVID-19 reported in randomised clinical trials was replicated in this retrospective study of a large real-world cohort. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Our objective was to investigate if the internal aqueous phase gelation of Water‐in‐oil‐in‐water double emulsions encapsulated in alginate beads would affect their structural stability and lipid hydrolysis during in vitro digestion. Therefore, bioactive molecules such as (−)‐epigallocatechin gallate were encapsulated into different types of delivery systems: original double emulsions (as control) and incorporated double emulsions (filled in alginate hydrogel beads), both with non‐gelled or gelled internal aqueous phase by locust bean gum and κ‐carrageenan. After 2 h of gastric digestion, the gelled original emulsions showed smaller mean droplet diameters and less coalescence during the in vitro simulated gastrointestinal digestion compared to the non‐gelled original emulsions. For the incorporated emulsions, oil droplets released from beads aggregated under intestinal conditions, and the rate of lipolysis was delayed. Interestingly, the internal aqueous phase gelation also impacted the rate and cumulative amount of free fatty acids (FFA) released. Practical Application: The combination of incorporating (−)‐epigallocatechin gallate‐loaded double emulsions into the alginate hydrogel matrix and gelling the internal aqueous phase was a benefit to regulating the rate and extent of lipid digestion for specific applications in foods, such as to control blood lipid levels and appetite. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An In0.53Ga0.47As/indium phosphide (InP) avalanche photodiode (APD) with a separate absorption, grading, charge, and multiplication (SAGCM) structure is epitaxially grown by molecular beam epitaxy (MBE). The resulting material is studied using X-ray diffraction (XRD), photoluminescence (PL), and scanning transmission electron microscopy. The activation energy extracted from the dark current of the APD indicates that it is dominated by the generation–recombination (G–R) process. Deep low-temperature PL peaks reveal the existence of an ${E}_{v} + 0.42$ -eV deep energy level defect in the indium–gallium–arsenide (InGaAs) absorber layer, which is considered to be a result of point defects caused by Ga-poor or In-poor MBE growth conditions. The effect of the defect on the dark current is confirmed using numerical calculation methods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and purpose: Glycemic gap (GG), as a novel biomarker showing the acute glycemic change after the onset of acute illness, has been found to be associated with adverse outcomes in many diseases. This study aimed to explore the prognostic value of GG on long‐term outcomes of spontaneous intracerebral hemorrhage (sICH). Methods: The current study included 528 patients from a multicenter, prospective, consecutive, observational cohort study. Poor clinical outcome was defined as modified Rankin Scale ≥ 3. GG was calculated using admission blood glucose minus hemoglobin A1c‐derived average blood glucose. Logistic regression analyses were performed to determine the association between GG and poor clinical outcomes at 30 days, 90 days, and 1 year. Results: Glycemic gap was significantly associated with poor clinical outcomes at 30 days, 90 days, and 1 year (p < 0.05 for all models), where patients with higher GG were more likely to have poor clinical outcome. Restricted cubic splines revealed a positive association between GG and poor clinical outcome. In addition, patients with higher GG were more likely to have a higher 1‐year mortality rate. The addition of GG to the intracerebral hemorrhage score improved the discrimination and calibration properties for the prediction of poor clinical outcome. Conclusions: Glycemic gap was independently associated with poor outcomes and may be a valuable prognostic factor in patients with sICH. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Backgrounds: We aimed to develop and validate machine learning (ML) models for 30-day stroke mortality for mortality risk stratification and as benchmarking models for quality improvement in stroke care. Methods: Data from the UK Sentinel Stroke National Audit Program between 2013 to 2019 were used. Models were developed using XGBoost, Logistic Regression (LR), LR with elastic net with/without interaction terms using 80% randomly selected admissions from 2013 to 2018, validated on the 20% remaining admissions, and temporally validated on 2019 admissions. The models were developed with 30 variables. A reference model was developed using LR and 4 variables. Performances of all models was evaluated in terms of discrimination, calibration, reclassification, Brier scores and Decision-curves. Results: In total, 488,497 stroke patients with a 12.3% 30-day mortality rate were included in the analysis. In 2019 temporal validation set, XGBoost model obtained the lowest Brier score (0.069 (95% CI: 0.068–0.071)) and the highest area under the ROC curve (AUC) (0.895 (95% CI: 0.891–0.900)) which outperformed LR reference model by 0.04 AUC (p < 0.001) and LR with elastic net and interaction term model by 0.003 AUC (p < 0.001). All models were perfectly calibrated for low (< 5%) and moderate risk groups (5–15%) and ≈1% underestimation for high-risk groups (> 15%). The XGBoost model reclassified 1648 (8.1%) low-risk cases by the LR reference model as being moderate or high-risk and gained the most net benefit in decision curve analysis. Conclusions: All models with 30 variables are potentially useful as benchmarking models in stroke-care quality improvement with ML slightly outperforming others. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Melatonin (MLT), an evolutionarily conserved pleiotropic molecule, is implicated in numerous physiological processes in plants and animals. However, the effects of MLT on microbes have seldom been reported. In this study, we examined the influence of exogenous MLT on the growth and hypocrellin biosynthesis of bambusicolous fungus Shiraia sp. S9. Hypocrellin A (HA) is a photoactivated and photoinduced perylenequinone (PQ) toxin in Shiraia. Exogenous MLT at 100.00 μM not only decreased fungal conidiation and spore germination but inhibited HA contents significantly in fungal cultures under a light/dark (24 h:24 h) shift. MLT treatment was associated with higher activity of antioxidant enzymes (superoxide dismutase, catalase and peroxidase) and a marked decline in reactive oxygen species (ROS) production in the mycelia. Moreover, MLT induced endogenous nitric oxide (NO) production during the culture. The NO donor sodium nitroprusside (SNP) potentiated MLT-induced inhibition of O2− production, but NO scavenger 2-(4-carboxyphenyl)-4,4,5,5-tetramethylimidazoline-1-oxyl-3-oxide (cPTIO) enhanced O2− production, whereas MLT-induced NO level was increased by the ROS scavenger vitamin C (Vc). The changes in NO and H2O2 were proved to be involved in the MLT-induced downregulation of the expressions of HA biosynthetic genes, leading to the suppression of HA production. This study provides new insight into the regulatory roles of MLT on fungal secondary metabolism activities and a basis for understanding self-resistance in phototoxin-producing fungi. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Churn rate describes the rate at which customers abandon a product or service. Identifying churn-risk customers is essential for telecom sectors to retain old customers and maintain a higher competitive advantage. The purpose of this paper is to explore an effective method for detecting the risk of customer churn in telecom sectors through comparing the advanced machine learning methods and their optimization algorithms. Based on two different telecom datasets, Mutual Information classifier was firstly utilized to select the most critical features relevant to customer churn. Next, the controlled-ratio undersampling strategy was employed to balance both minority and majority classes. Key hyperparameter optimization algorithms of Grid Search, Random Search, and Genetic Algorithms were then combined to fit the three promising machine learning models-Random Forest, Support Vector Machines, and K-nearest neighbors into the customer churn prediction problem. Six evaluation metrics-Accuracy, Recall, Precision, AUC, F1-score and Mean Absolute Error, were last used to evaluate the performance of the proposed models. The experimental results have revealed that the RF algorithm optimized by Grid Search based on a low-ratio undersampling strategy (RF-GS-LR) outperformed other models in extracting hidden information and understanding future churning behaviors of customers on both datasets, with the maximum accuracy of 99% and 95% on the applied dataset 1-2 respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose. The purpose of this study is to survey the prevalence and morphology of the maxillary sinus septum, which might increase the rate of maxillary sinus membrane perforation during maxillary sinus floor elevation surgery, among northern Chinese, and to further analyze the relationship between gender, age, edentulous type, and prevalence of maxillary sinus septa. Methods. The cross-sectional retrospective study was based on an analysis of Cone Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT) images of maxillary sinus which had been obtained from patients who visited radiology department of Beijing Stomatology Hospital of Capital Medical University (Beijing, China) during the period from January 2019 to December 2019. The data of demographic characteristic, prevalence, position, direction, and morphology of maxillary sinus septum were collected and further analyzed by SPSS version 25.0.1 and R version 3.5.1 software program. Results. 595 patients were included in this study, and 1190 maxillary sinuses were analyzed and the incidence rate of the sinus septum was 46.9%. 399 (33.5%) sinuses had one or more septa in 279 (46.9%) patients. In addition, maxillary sinus septa incidence showed no significant differences among gender, age, and edentulous type. The segment second molar had the highest incidence rate of septa. Conclusion. In this study, a higher incidence of the maxillary sinus septum was found in the northern Chinese, and its distribution varied with its position, morphology, and direction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In recent years, due to the improvement of material properties and the optimization of electrode microstructure through processes such as electrospinning, the maximum power density (MPD) of solid oxide fuel cells (SOFCs) in the medium operating temperature range has been elevated to a level of 2–3 W cm−2 and has demonstrated stable performance during long-term tests lasting 300–500 h. Electrospinning facilitates the preparation of fiber electrodes for SOFCs, which exhibit high porosity, high triple phase boundary (TPB) density, and high electrochemical activity. When combined with the impregnation process, it can further create unique electrode structures, enhancing the output power and durability of the cells. However, the production of fiber electrodes via electrospinning is constrained by production efficiency, and subsequent electrode preparation processes such as calcination, grinding, and sintering. These processes can easily lead to the destruction of the continuous-fiber morphology, posing challenges for electrospinning. This paper provides a comprehensive discussion on the key process parameters of electrospinning, enhancing preparation efficiency, preserving the continuous morphology of fibers, and recent advancements in the performance of fiber electrodes for SOFCs. Research on maintaining the continuous-fiber morphology inside electrodes is a key focus. The porosity and the durability of fiber-electrodes are also explored. • Key parameters of electrospun fiber electrodes are reviewed. • Focus is on preparation efficiency and fiber morphology disruption. • Area specific resistance, power density, porosity, and durability are reviewed. • Latest designs and surface modifications of fiber electrodes are explored. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to prepare soy protein isolate-xanthan gum complexes (SPI-XG) at pH 7.0 and as emulsifiers to prepare Pickering emulsions for delivering quercetin (Que). The results showed that SPI-XG exhibited a gel network structure in which protein particles were embedded. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and molecular docking elucidated that SPI-XG formed through hydrogen bonding, hydrophobic, and electrostatic interactions. Three-phase contact angle (θo/w) of SPI-XG approached 90° with biphasic wettability. SPI-XG adsorbed at the oil-water interface to form an interfacial layer with a gel network structure, which prevented droplet aggregation. Following in vitro simulated digestion, Que displayed higher bioaccessibility in SPI-XG stabilized Pickering emulsions (SPI-XG PEs) than SPI stabilized Pickering emulsions. In conclusion, SPI-XG PEs were a promising system for Que delivery. [Display omitted] • SPI-XG was used to stabilize Pickering emulsions for quercetin delivery. • SPI-XG was formed by hydrogen bonding, hydrophobic, and electrostatic interactions. • Gel network structure maintained SPI-XG Pickering emulsions stability. • SPI-XG Pickering emulsions showed higher quercetin bioaccessibility. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Carbon dots assisted high speed countercurrent chromatography was designed. • The separation of REEs at low concentration was successfully achieved by CDs-HSCCC. • With the addition of CDs, the separation of heavy REEs was more effective. • The microscopic separation mechanism of REEs was calculated by DFT. • A feasibility of recovery method for REEs was verified by DFT calculation. Rare earth elements with unique magnetic properties and optical properties, known as the 'industrial vitamin', has a very high commercial value. As a secondary resource of rare earth elements, low-concentration solution includes mixed rare earth ions, which need to realize efficient separation and recovery urgently. High speed countercurrent chromatography is suitable for the separation and purification of rare earth element ions due to its advantages of large loading, good tolerance to samples, and simple pretreatment. In this study, a carbon dots assisted high speed countercurrent chromatography method was designed and established, the carbon dots were applied to the mobile phase of high speed countercurrent chromatography for the first time. The low concentration of REEs solution was enriched, and the effective separation of La (III), Ce (III), Gd (III) and Er (III) was successfully achieved. The complete separation of La (III), Ce (III), Gd (III) and Er (III) was achieved with a solvent system of 0.05 mol L −1 P507 (PE), 0.05 mol L −1 HNO 3 , and 0.1 mol L −1 CDs2 carbon dots (1:1:0.01, v/v/v), the upper phase as stationary phase, the lower phase as mobile phase. Density functional theory result showed that the binding energy of REEs (III)-CDs2 was larger than that of REEs (III)-P507, so the affinity of CDs2 to REEs (III) was stronger than that of P507. Therefore, with the addition of CDs2, the ability of mobile phase to elute REEs from the stationary phase was enhanced, and the separation effect was improved. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Heterogeneous Catalysis. Metal‐support interactions between embedded Ir clusters and their WO3 support boost the oxygen evolution reaction in acidic media, as reported by Xin Xiao, Lei Li, Meng Danny Gu, Qiang Xu in their Research Article (e202406947)...By Wenjuan Wang; Cheng Li; Chuan Zhou; Xin Xiao; Fayan Li; Ning‐Yu Huang; Lei Li; Meng Gu and Qiang XuReported by Author; Author; Author; Author; Author; Author; Author; Author; Author [Extracted from the article]

Heterogeneous Catalysis. Metal‐support interactions between embedded Ir clusters and their WO3 support boost the oxygen evolution reaction in acidic media, as reported by Xin Xiao, Lei Li, Meng Danny Gu, Qiang Xu in their Research Article (e202406947)...By Wenjuan Wang; Cheng Li; Chuan Zhou; Xin Xiao; Fayan Li; Ning‐Yu Huang; Lei Li; Meng Gu and Qiang XuReported by Author; Author; Author; Author; Author; Author; Author; Author; Author [Extracted from the article]

Recently, there has been a focus on using biopolymer-based particles to stabilize high internal phase Pickering emulsions (HIPPEs) due to the notable advances in biocompatibility and biodegradability. In this work, the complex particles of peanut protein isolate and carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) with various substitution degrees (DS; 0.7 and 0.9) and weight average molecular weights (Mw; 90, 250, and 700 kDa) were prepared and characterized as novel stabilizers. For the obtained four types of morphologically distinct particles, the complex particles formed by CMC (0.9 DS and 250 kDa) showed cluster structures with an average size of 1.271 μm, equally biphasic wettability with three-phase contact angles of 91.5°, and the highest diffusion rate at the oil-water interface. HIPPEs stabilized by these particles exhibited more elastic behavior due to the smaller tanδ and higher viscosity, as well as excellent thixotropic recovery properties and stability against heating, storage, and freeze-thawing. Furthermore, confocal laser scanning microscopy verified that these particles formed a dense interfacial layer around the oil droplets, which could resist flocculation and coalescence between oil droplets during in vitro digestion. The improved bioaccessibility of curcumin-loaded HIPPEs made these delivery systems potentially apply in functional foods. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Using photocatalysts for the degradation of antibiotics in aqueous environments is a highly promising strategy for achieving green and sustainable development. Although significant improvements have been made in photocatalyst reuse, the recycling rate is still unsatisfactory. Herein，we prepared a photocatalyst Cs 3 Bi 2 Br 9 /g-C 3 N 4 and incorporated it into PDMS using a three-dimensional fiber porous structure (PCC) prepared by electrospinning sacrificial templates. This structure served to protect the catalyst without limiting its degradation performance. The photocurrent measurements and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy results are consistent with those of the oxytetracycline hydrochloride (OTC-HCl) removal test. The electron spin resonance results confirmed the formation of •OH and •O 2 − under visible light irradiation. This way of using the film to protect the catalyst for photocatalytic degradation may open up new possibilities for the remediation of environmental pollution. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Backgrounds: We aimed to develop and validate machine learning (ML) models for 30-day stroke mortality for mortality risk stratification and as benchmarking models for quality improvement in stroke care.Methods: Data from the UK Sentinel Stroke National Audit Program between 2013 to 2019 were used. Models were developed using XGBoost, Logistic Regression (LR), LR with elastic net with/without interaction terms using 80% randomly selected admissions from 2013 to 2018, validated on the 20% remaining admissions, and temporally validated on 2019 admissions. The models were developed with 30 variables. A reference model was developed using LR and 4 variables. Performances of all models was evaluated in terms of discrimination, calibration, reclassification, Brier scores and Decision-curves.Results: In total, 488,497 stroke patients with a 12.3% 30-day mortality rate were included in the analysis. In 2019 temporal validation set, XGBoost model obtained the lowest Brier score (0.069 (95% CI: 0.068-0.071)) and the highest area under the ROC curve (AUC) (0.895 (95% CI: 0.891-0.900)) which outperformed LR reference model by 0.04 AUC (p < 0.001) and LR with elastic net and interaction term model by 0.003 AUC (p < 0.001). All models were perfectly calibrated for low (< 5%) and moderate risk groups (5-15%) and ≈1% underestimation for high-risk groups (> 15%). The XGBoost model reclassified 1648 (8.1%) low-risk cases by the LR reference model as being moderate or high-risk and gained the most net benefit in decision curve analysis.Conclusions: All models with 30 variables are potentially useful as benchmarking models in stroke-care quality improvement with ML slightly outperforming others. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]