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Background: The duration of response to treatment is a major prognostic factor, and early relapse (ER) strongly predicts inferior survival in multiple myeloma (MM). However, the definitions of ER in MM vary from study to study and how to dynamically integrate risk distribution is still unsolved. Methods: This study evaluated these ER definitions and further investigated the underlying relationship with static risk distribution in 629 newly diagnosed MM (NDMM) patients from the National Longitudinal Cohort of Hematological Diseases in China (NCT04645199). Results: These data indicated that early relapse within 18 months (ER18) after initial treatment was the best time point for identifying early progression and dynamic high‐risk in MM. The ER18 population (114 of 587, 19.4%) presented with more aggressive biologic features and the inferior response to treatment compared to a reference cohort (p <.001), with a significantly short median overall survival (OS) of 28.9 months. Multivariate analyses confirmed the most significant prognostic value of ER18 on OS in the context of International Staging System stage, elevated lactate dehydrogenase, thrombocytopenia, cytogenetic abnormalities, and treatment (hazard ratio, 4.467; p <.001). The authors also described the specific transitions from static risk profile to dynamic risk distribution and then constructed a mixed‐risk‐pattern to identify four novel populations with distinct survival (p <.001). Additionally, the authors proposed a second‐state model that predicts dynamic risk changes, enabling a complementary role to the Revised International Staging System model in facilitating individualized systematic treatment. Conclusions: Collectively, this study concludes that ER18 is a simple and dynamic prognostic predictor in MM. In addition to static risk assessment, dynamic risk plays an important role in survival prediction. The present study sheds light on the optimal time point for early relapse (ER), defined as relapse within 18 months after initial treatment, and highlights its significant dynamic predictive impact on the prognosis in multiple myeloma. Alongside the conventional static risk stratification at diagnosis, a second‐state model that incorporates ER reveals dynamic risk changes that facilitate individualized systematic treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Autologous stem cell transplantation (ASCT) is the standard therapy for patients with transplant-eligible multiple myeloma (TEMM). However, the ideal depth of response required before ASCT and the impact of residual tumor cells in the stem cell collection (SCC) on survival remains unclear. Here we collected data of 89 patients with TEMM undergoing ASCT and analyzed the minimal residual disease of SCC (cMRD) and bone marrow (BM) (mMRD) before transplantation. Before ASCT, 31.5% and 76.4% of patients achieved MRD negativity in BM and SCC, respectively. Tumor cells were less in SCC samples than that in BM samples. Neoplastic cells in SCC could be observed in patients with different responses after induction therapy, and there were no significant differences in the percentage and level of cMRD among these subgroups (P > 0.05). No correlation was found between the cMRD status and the response patients achieved after ASCT (P > 0.05). The median follow-up was 26.8 months. mMRD negativity before ASCT was associated with longer PFS (55.9 vs. 27.1 months; P = 0.009) but not OS (not reached vs. 58.9 months; P = 0.115). Patients with different cMRD statuses before ASCT experienced similar PFS (40.5 vs. 76.4 months for negativity vs. positivity; P = 0.685) and OS (not reached vs. 58.8 months for negativity vs. positivity; P = 0.889). These results suggested that detectable cMRD does not significantly predict the inferior post-ASCT response or shorter survival, and patients are eligible to undergo ASCT upon achieving partial response. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A novel binary solvent system consisting of alcohols (e.g., methanol, ethanol, isopropanol) and dichloromethane was developed as an efficient dissolution system for dissolving various types of lignin. It was found that in this dissolution system, adjusting the volume ratio of alcohol and dichloromethane will significantly affect the solubility of lignin. At the same time, this study proposed that the reason why the solvent can dissolve lignin was the hydrophobic skeleton and hydrophilic groups can be solvated by dichloromethane and alcohols respectively, which significantly promoted the dissolution of lignin. Furthermore, the solvent did not significantly alter the structure of the lignin. The proposed novel solvent is simple, efficient, versatile and flexible, can adapt to the high diversity of lignin, and has broad application prospects. [Display omitted] • A novel alcohol-dichoromethane binary mixture solvent was developed. • It can dissolve various lignins fast and efficiently. • It had good flowability and resistance to low temperature coagulation. • It can used be as a solvent for lignin NMR testing. • Especially that its dissolution mechanism was clearly elucidated [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

CO 2 is the main pollutant in biogas, reducing its calorific value. Among various technological methods to eliminate carbon dioxide from biogas, membrane separation technology stands out for large-scale industrial biogas purification due to its advantages. The selection of membrane material and preparation process are key factors in membrane separation technology. In this study, a premixing process was initially used to blend different masses of packed molecular sieves TS-1 (or ZSM-5) and cellulose derivatives (ethyl cellulose, cellulose acetate) separately. These mixtures were then coated onto porous PVDF substrates using a coating process to create various bilayer hybrid composite membranes. Among these, PVDF/EC-ZSM-5 (containing 15 % ZSM-5) bilayer hybrid composite membrane is the most fitting. For CO 2 /CH 4 gas mixtures, the gas selectivity of this membrane surpassed Robeson's 1991 standard line (the CO 2 permeability was 597.48 Barrer, and the CO 2 /CH 4 selectivity was 9.14). Overall, this composite membrane, made for the first time from PVDF, ZSM-5, and EC, is expected to be a promising CO 2 selective separation membrane material for biogas purification in large-scale industrial processes due to its simple production process. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We described 790 patients with newly diagnosed multiple myeloma, including 224 (28.4%) standard risk (SR) patients without t(11;14), 99 (12.5%) patients with t(11;14)alone, 58 (7.3%) with t(11;14) + HR, and 409 (51.8%) in the high-risk cytogenetic abnormality (HRCA) group including t(4;14), t(14;16), t(14;20), C1A1 and/or del(17p) but without t(11;14), to evaluate the impact of t(11;14) in NDMM patients on response rate, response kinetics and survival. Our study showed that NDMM patients in the t(11;14)alone group had similar PFS (49.3 vs. 50.7 months; P = 0.392) and OS (112.4 vs. NR months; P = 0.982) as those in the SR group. However, the t(11;14)alone group exhibited a significantly poorer depth of response compared to the SR group, particularly with a lower MRD negativity rate (60.0% vs. 76.0%, P = 0.009). In the t(11;14)alone group, MRD status did not significantly impact PFS or OS, which was in contrast to the other groups. Response kinetics analyses showed that the t(11;14)alone group had a slower response rate than the other subgroups (t(11;14)alone vs. SR vs. HRCA: median time to MRD negativity = 9.19 vs. 4.25 vs. 4.27 months; P < 0.001). Our study showed that t(11;14)alone was characterized by survival comparable to standard risk cytogenetics despite exhibiting the slowest timing of response onset and lowest plateau of remission, which suggested a relatively indolent clinical course. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A suspected outbreak of duck astrovirus (DAstV) disease occurred in a large Muscovy duck farm in Guangdong Province, China, in June 2022, which severely affected the production performance and health of Muscovy ducks. This study aimed to investigate the prevalence of DAstV disease in Southeast China. Herein, we employed semi-nested PCR ethodto screen 5203 swab and liver samples from 11 Muscovy duck farms in 5 provinces of China for the presence of DAstV. Among them, 1356 samples (26.06%, 1356/5203) tested positive for DAstV, out of which 11 DAstV strains were isolated after 10 generations of blind transmission through Leghorn male hepatoma (LMH) cells and performed their whole-genome sequencing. The alignment results showed that the 11 DAstV isolates exhibited relatively low homology (15.4%–75%) with the astrovirus isolates from other species published in GenBank, whereas their homology (nucleotide: 90.4%–99.99%; amino acid: 94%–99.8%) with the DAstV type 1 (DAstV-1) reference strain was higher, indicating considerable homology. The results indicated that DAstV-1 was the main pathogenic factor. Herein, we successfully recreated the clinical symptoms of natural infection in 28-day-old specific-pathogen-free (SPF) ducks using the DAstV-1-GDB-2022 strain. The primary clinical manifestations included liver enlargement, hemorrhaging, and disruptions in liver function. Additionally, we confirmed the cross-species transmission potential of DAstV-1, marking the first occurrence of clinical symptoms of DAstV in 28-day-old SPF chickens. Our findings provide new perspectives on the epidemiology and pathogenicity of DAstV-1 and may help in advancing the development of DAstV vaccines. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The search for renewable energy sources to replace fossil fuel has made lignin a promising carbon-containing resource. In this paper, LaNiO 3 perovskite catalyst supported by mesoporous carrier with specific pore structure was prepared by the pore filling of MCM-41 with citrate complex precursors of nickel and lanthanum. Then the catalysts applied to maize straw lignin depolymerization. The results of low-angle XRD, N 2 adsorption-desorption, IR spectroscopy and SEM confirmed that the catalyst has been successfully manufactured. Based on the yield of phenolic monomer, low molecular weight lignin derived bio-oil and high molecular weight lignin derived bio-oil as standard, the catalyst showed best catalytic effect when the reaction temperature was 250 °C, the reaction time was 6 h, the ratio of lignin to catalyst mass was 5: 1 and with ultrasonic assist. The yield of phenolic monomer was 11.46 wt% and that of bio-oil was 68.0 wt%. In general, this method is an excellent embodiment of the principle of Lignin-first as well as an excellent strategy for the production of value-added phenolics and high-quality bio-oils from lignin. It plays an important role in promoting the high value utilization of lignin in the future. [Display omitted] • The MCM-41-based Perovskite catalyst is prepared for lignin depolymerization. • Ultrasonic assistance can enhance the catalytic performance of this catalyst. • Acquired Low Mw lignin-derived bio-oil has a distinct lignin structure. • This bio-oil has smaller Mw and higher calorific value than native lignin. • This bio-oil has more complex structure than native lignin. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lignin is a renewable raw material with excellent adsorption, biodegradability, and non-toxicity. As a new, green nanomaterial, lignin nanoparticles (LNPs) have been explored as high-value renewable materials for applications in many fields. Herein, we provide a simple, rapid approach for the fabrication of size-controlled LNPs using a titrimetric nanoprecipitation method. The prepared LNPs were formed through a layer-by-layer self-assembly approach from inside to outside based on π-π interactions and had spherical shapes with porous surfaces and particle sizes from 272.0 to 915.4 nm. The average particle size of LNPs varied with stirring speed and decreased as the volume of deionized water increased. Compared with those of the original lignin, the chemical structural characteristics of LNPs did not change significantly. The proposed scheme for the preparation of LNPs is simple, inexpensive, and possesses the properties of both lignin and nanomaterials. The sizes of LNPs were controlled. Therefore, this is a good scheme for high-value applications of lignin. [Display omitted] • A rapid and direct preparation of lignin nanoparticles (LNPs) was carried out for the efficient utilization of lignin. • A novel alcohol-dichloromethane binary mixture solvent was used firstly in the preparation process. • Nanoparticles were porous spherical and size-controlled. • A possible formation mechanism of the LNPs was proposed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Reuse of biochar residues after lignin degradation will not only save costs but also reduce the pollution, protect and improve the environment. In this study, biochar residue (BR) after peanut shell lignin selective depolymerization on ZSM-5 were recycled, and characterized by Scanning Electron Microscopy, Surface area & pore size distribution analyzers, Thermogravimetric Analysis. Subsequently, a series of hybrid matrix membranes were prepared using ethyl cellulose as the matrix and biochar residue after depolymerization under different reaction conditions as the filler. The separation performance of BR/EC membranes for CO 2 /CH 4 mixed gas and CO 2 /N 2 mixed gas was measured. The results showed that the gas separation membranes prepared with biochar residue (3 h, 300 °C) as filler had good gas separation characteristics. The resulting mixed-matrix membrane exhibited a permeability of 66.00 Barrer for CO 2 and selectivities of 9.97 for CO 2 /CH 4. Meanwhile, the resulting mixed-matrix membrane exhibited a permeability of 79.53 Barrer for CO 2 and selectivities of 20.01 for CO 2 /N 2. Both exceed the upper limit of known pure EC membranes. Therefore, the use of biochar residue after ZSM-5 depolymerization as a filler for gas separation membranes is a feasible way. Furthermore, the membrane is well stabilized, proving its good potential for industrial applications. [Display omitted] • Reuse of biochar residues (BR) formed after depolymerization of lignin by ZSM-5. • A series of gas separation membranes were prepared using EC and BR (as fillers). • BR/EC (5 %, 3 h, 300 °C) achieves the best separation effect for both gas mixtures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fluorosilicone polymers with a high fluorinated group content are shielded from their interactions with crosslinking agents and solvents by their closely arranged fluorinated groups on their surface. Herein, a series of poly(dimethyl-methylphenyl-methyltrifluoropropyl)siloxanes (PDPFSs) were synthesized using the hydrolysis–polycondensation method to reduce the shielding effect of the fluorinated groups. Dimethyl dimethoxy silane, phenyl methyl dimethoxy silane, and 3,3,3-trifluoropropyl methyl dimethoxy silane (TFMDS) were the main raw materials. The chemical structure of PDPFS and the thermal stability, surface properties, mechanical properties, and antifouling properties of the PDPFS coating were characterized. When the TFMDS content increased from 0 to 40 wt%, the number average molecular weight of PDPFS decreased from 43,380 to 38,433 g/mol and the chemical crosslinking rate of the PDPFS coating decreased from 81.25 % to 68.09 %. An analysis of the surface properties of the PDPFS coating revealed a decrease in surface free energy from 24.22 to 13.19 mJ/m2 and an increase in roughness from 0.013 to 0.048 μm. The mechanical properties were examined, indicating that the Young's modulus of the PDPFS coating increased from 0.10 to 0.46 MPa and the average molecular weight between crosslinking points increased from 24,795 to 3285 g/mol. Experimental results revealed that the anti-adhesion efficiency and removal efficiency of the PDPFS coatings was mainly related to the TFMDS content. The anti-adhesion efficiency and removal efficiency were proportional to roughness, Young's modulus, and crosslinking density and inversely proportional to number average molecular weight and surface free energy. Further analysis of the comprehensive antifouling ability of the PDPFS coatings revealed that the antifouling efficiency of the PDPFS coating gradually increased from 16.83 % to 62.12 % with increasing TFMDS content. However, the 3,3,3-trifluoropropyl group exhibited an adverse effect on the hydrolysis–polycondensation and crosslinking reactions when the TFMDS content exceeded 35 wt%. Hence, PDPFS with a TFMDS content of 35 wt% was selected for further research. [Display omitted] • A novel PDPFS is synthesized by hydrolysis-polycondensation method. • The migration of fluorinated segments results in microphase separation. • The rough surface reduces the adhesion between fouling organisms and coatings. • Studied the relationship between antifouling efficiency and influencing factors • A higher TFMDS content can enhance the antifouling ability of PDPFS coating. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lignin, an abundant, sustainable, and cost-effective biomass material, is recognized for its high carbon content, making it an ideal candidate for supercapacitors electrode. However, the inhomogeneity of lignin and the amorphous structure of lignin-derived carbon limit its application in energy storage. To effectively address the aforementioned issues, this study initially fractionated alkali lignin (AL) using a green γ-valerolactone/water system to obtain two fractions (L1 and L2) with distinct molecular weights and phenolic hydroxyl contents. The aim of this initiative was to reduce the heterogeneity of the lignin. Subsequently, three groups of lignin microspheres (LMS-AL, LMS-L1 and LMS-L2) with different morphologies were prepared from AL, L1, and L2 using an industrially proven spray-drying technique. This initiative significantly increased the specific surface area of lignin. Ultimately, lignin microspheres were carbonized to prepare carbon microspheres (LMSC-AL, LMSC-L1 and LMSC-L2) that could be used as supercapacitor electrodes. Notably, LMSC-L1 demonstrated superior electrochemical performance, with a specific capacitance of 200 F g−1 at a current density of 1 A g−1, and retaining 93.34 % capacitance after 15,000 charge/discharge cycles. The excellent electrochemical performance of LMSC-L1 is attributed to its elevated specific surface area (388.1 m2 g−1) and substantial porosity (0.238 cm3 g−1). This study also explored practical application, with LMSC-L1 successfully powering LED lights and calculators. Through this research, we have developed a simple method is proposed to modulate the structure of lignin microspheres by leveraging the heterogeneity of lignin itself. Furthermore, we systematically investigated the structure-effect relationship of lignin microspheres and the electrochemical properties of their carbonized microspheres. This work lays a foundational framework for the efficient utilization of lignin in energy storge applications. [Display omitted] • A simple strategy combining spray drying and carbonization to get lignin carbon microspheres • The lignin carbon microspheres have different surface morphology structures, resulting different electrochemical properties • Using lignin heterogeneity to modulate the surface morphology of carbon microspheres [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Biomass is regarded as a carbonaceous solid renewable resource with significant potential. Extensive research has been conducted to explore its application as a sustainable raw material for the development of advanced carbon materials. Natural rape pollen is an abundant and renewable biomass material that possesses distinctive characteristics such as spherical porosity, large pore size, high specific surface area, and a hollow structure. These unique properties have garnered significant attention due to the material's high yield, low cost, and environmentally friendly nature. Rape pollen has gained significant attention as a biotemplate for the synthesis of functional materials with controllable micro/nanostructures, owing to its well-developed porosity and specific open hierarchical scaffolds. This paper presents a comprehensive review on the utilization of rape pollen for the synthesis of porous carbon materials, which have found significant applications in catalysts, supercapacitors, separation, and adsorbent materials. The study explores the recent advancements in the preparation of rape pollen-based porous carbon materials and provides an in-depth analysis of their facilitating roles and reaction mechanisms in various applications. Finally, the potential future applications of rape pollen in various industries are anticipated to enhance the utilization of these valuable biomass resources. [Display omitted] • Natural rape pollen is an abundant and renewable carbon material. • Rape pollen possesses distinctive characteristics. • The synthesis of porous carbon materials using rape pollen is reviewed. • It has applications in catalysts, supercapacitors, separation and adsorption. • Potential future applications of rape pollen will enhance the utilization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Regulation of single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNP) in micro-RNA (miRNA) on the host cells may be one of the most important factors influencing the occurrence of cervical cancer based on the prevalence of HPV infection and the development of cervical cancer. In order to explore the contribution of miRNA polymorphism to the occurrence and development of cervical cancer, we conducted an analytical study. Methods: We selected the polymorphisms of three widely studied miRNAs (miRNA-146a rs2910164, miRNA-499 rs3746444, and miRNA-196a2 rs11614913). Then, we conducted a meta-analysis (for the first time) to investigate their susceptibility to cervical cancer. Case control studies on the correlation between these three miRNAs and cervical cancer susceptibility were investigated by searching on from Pubmed, The Cochrane Library, Embase, CBM, CNKI, Wanfang database, and VIP database. Basic characteristics were recorded and meta-analysis of the case studies was performed using the STATA 15.1 software. Results: The miRNA-146a rs2910164 mutation significantly reduced the risk of cervical cancer in both recessive model (OR = 0.804, 95% CI = 0.652-0.992, P = 0.042; CC vs. CG+GG) and allelic model (OR = 0.845, 95% CI = 0.721-0.991, P = 0.038; C vs. G). There was no significant correlation between miRNA-499 rs3746444 and the risk of cervical cancer. The miRNA-196a2 rs11614913 mutation was significantly associated with a reduced risk of cervical cancer in homozygous model (OR = 0.641, 95% CI = 0.447-0.919, P = 0.016; TT vs. CC), dominant model (OR = 0.795, 95% CI = 0.636-0.994, P = 0.045; CT+TT vs. CC), recessive model (OR = 0.698, 95% CI = 0.532-0.917, P = 0.01; TT vs. CC+CT), and allelic models (OR = 0.783, 95% CI = 0.643-0.954, P = 0.015, T vs. C). Conclusion: In summary, this meta-analysis shows that the mutant genotypes of miRNA-146a rs2910164 and miRNA-196a2 rs11614913 are associated with a reduced risk of cervical cancer. Therefore, they may be two gene regulatory points for the prevention of cervical cancer. Systematic review registration: PROSPERO registration number CRD42021270079. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An outbreak of duck astrovirus (DAstV) has occurred in duck farming regions of China, causing substantial economic setbacks in the duck industry. This investigation aimed to examine the variations in DAstV pathogenicity among ducks at different age intervals. Infections were induced in ducks at distinct age groups (1, 7, 14, 21, and 28 d) utilizing the DAstv-1-GDB-2022 strain. The results indicate increased pathogenicity of the DAstv-1-GDB-2022 strain in ducklings aged 21 to 28 d, manifesting as liver and kidney enlargement, severe bleeding, and potential fatalities. Conversely, ducklings aged 1 and 14 d displayed milder symptoms postinfection. Notably, viral shedding continued in ducks of diverse age groups even 21 d postinfection (Dpi). Moreover, DAstV replicates in various tissues, predominantly affecting the liver. Immunohistochemical tests using rabbit anti-DAstV antibodies revealed robust positive signals in both the liver and kidneys, which correlated with the clinical symptom severity observed through macroscopic and microscopic examinations. Serum biochemical assays and indirect ELISA demonstrated a consistent response to DAstV infection across different age groups, with older ducklings exhibiting increased sensitivity. In conclusion, this study successfully replicated clinical symptoms similar to those of natural DAstV infection using the DAstv-1-GDB-2022 strain. Importantly, we systematically delineated the differences in susceptibility to DAstV among ducks at various ages, laying the foundation for further research into the pathogenic mechanisms of DAstV and potential vaccine development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In contrast to conventional particles characterized by isotropic surfaces, Janus particles possess anisotropic surfaces, resulting in unique physicochemical properties and functional attributes. In recent times, there has been a surge in interest regarding the synthesis of Janus particles using biological macromolecules. Various synthesis techniques have been developed for the fabrication of Janus materials derived from biomass. These methods include electrospinning, freeze-drying, secondary casting film formation, self-assembly technology, and other approaches. In the realm of Janus composite materials, those derived from biomass have found extensive applications in diverse domains including oil-water separation, sensors, photocatalysis, and medical materials. This article provides a systematic introduction to the classification of Janus materials, with a specific focus on various types of biomass-based Janus materials (mainly cellulose-based Janus materials, lignin-based Janus materials and protein-based Janus materials) and the methods used for their preparation. This work will not only deepen the understanding of biomass-based Janus materials, but also contribute to the development of new methods for designing biomass-based Janus structures to optimize biomass utilization. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, the effect of mandrel feeding speed was investigated numerically and experimentally for the inner ring of high-speed rail bearing made of GCr15. Firstly, the cold ring rolling process is simulated systematically using nonlinear finite element software package of ABAQUS. Nonlinear constitutive equation was employed to study rolling torque for material GCr15. Secondly, the effect of mandrel feeding speed modes on rolling torque was presented to find an optimized feeding speed mode. To verify the numerical results, cold ring rolling experiment was carried out. The agreement of the roundness of the inner ring and rolling torque between predicted and experimental is good. In addition, the metallographic experiment of the bearing ring before and after cold ring rolling was conducted to obtain microstructure of the part. The scanning electron microscope (SEM) technique was used to capture the sample before and after the process. It was observed that there were a small amount of spherical cementites and lamellar pearlites, and black carbide particles distributed uniformly in the inner ring, where the grains were significantly refined after cold ring rolling. Good agreement between experimental observation and numerical predictions indicated that the procedures were useful in capture the effect of the mandrel feeding speed for the high-speed rail bearing inner ring of cold ring rolling. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract In recent years, Chinese medicine has played an important role in the prognosis of gastric cancer. Precancerous lesions of gastric carcinoma (PLGC) is a class of gastric cancer which is closely related to the gastric mucosal pathology changes in the role of carcinogenic incentives, and plays key role in the progression of normal gastric mucosal cells into gastric cancerous cells. In current experiment, we explore the relationship between Chinese traditional medicine (Xiao Tan He Wei Decoction) and gastric cancer in the PLGC rat animal models and epithelial-mesenchymal transitioned GES-1 cells which were induced useing 1- Methyl-3-nitro-1-nitrosoguanidine (MNNG). PLGC rat model showed significant deterioration in the gastric mucosa with terrible growth rate in body weight and more atypical hyperplasia in gastric mucosa. MC cells, MNNG induced GES-1 cells which epithelial- mesenchymal-transition (EMT)-related proteins have a great change compare with normal GES-1 cells. The cells had characteristics of malignant cells including proliferation, invasion and metastasis ability. Our research founds that Xiao Tan He Wei Decoction could inhibit cell proliferation and increased apoptosis by increase the level of pro-apoptotic proteins like Bax and caspase-3 and decreased the level of anti-apoptotic protein Bcl-2, block the cells in G0/G1 phase simultaneously. Furthermore, Xiao Tan He Wei Decoction could inhibit nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer (NF-kB) activity and inhibit its transfer from the cytoplasm to the nucleus. However, when we incubated with NF-κB activator PMA, the effect of Xiao Tan He Wei Decoction was reversed. These results suggested that Xiao Tan He Wei Decoction could be used as a method for the treatment of gastric precancerous lesions, and possibly provide a theoretical basis for the clinical treatment of gastric cancer and gastric precancerous lesions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Personal multifunctional protective mask is becoming an effective and convenient device for maintaining human health. When used in a normal environment, it can prevent the spread of respiratory viruses and bacteria, and absorb UV rays. When used in extreme environments full of iodine vapor, it can effectively absorb iodine vapor. Herein, an eco-friendly multifunctional nanofiber membrane with rapid sterilization ability, ultraviolet absorption and iodine vapor trapping capacity was prepared using lignin and polyvinylpyrrolidone as raw materials through electrostatic spinning technology. The results showed that PVP-WSL and PVP-IL have bactericidal rates of 21.86% and 34.08% for E. coli , 30.27% and 52.64% for S. aureus , respectively. These mask barriers have good UV resistance performance (the UV transmittance was lower than 0.015%) and effective trapping capacity of iodine vapor (the iodine maximum trapping capacity of the PVP-WSL and PVP-IL nanofiber membranes were equally determined to be 294 mg/g and 225 mg/g, respectively). In addition, these membranes have strong thermal stability (initial thermal decomposition temperature was higher than 350 °C) and mechanical properties (tensile strength higher than 1.07 MPa). This work fully meets the requirements of public health protection for degradable and high-performance media and is ideal for multifunctional personal protective equipment. [Display omitted] • Multifunctional protective mask interlayer was prepared from lignin and PVP. • It can prevent the spread of viruses and bacteria and absorb UV rays. • It can effectively absorb iodine vapor with a capture rate close to 300 mg/g. • The process of iodine capture conforms to a pseudo-second-order kinetic model. • Trapping principleis mainly based on the chemisorption of iodine by ingredients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Prognostic significance of multiple immune antigens in multiple myeloma has been well established. However, a level of uncertainty remains regarding the intrinsic relationship between immunophenotypes and cytogenetic stability and precise risk stratification. To address these unresolved issues, we conducted a study involving 1389 patients enrolled in the National Longitudinal Cohort of Hematological Diseases in China (NCT04645199). Our results revealed that the correlation between antigen expression and cytogenetics is more prominent than cytopenia or organ dysfunction. Most immune antigens, apart from CD38, CD138, and CD81, exhibit significant associations with the incidence of at least one cytogenetic abnormality. In turn, we identified CD138-low/CD27-neg as specific adverse immunophenotypic profile, which remaining independent impact on progression-free survival (HR, 1.49; P = 0.007) and overall survival (HR, 1.77; P < 0.001) even in the context of cytogenetics. Importantly, CD138-low/CD27-neg profile was also associated with inferior survival after first relapse (P < 0.001). Moreover, the antigen expression profiles were not strictly similar when comparing diagnosis and relapse; in particular, the CD138-low/CD27-neg pattern was notably increased after disease progression (19.1 to 29.1%; P = 0.005). Overall, our study demonstrates that diverse immune profiles are strongly associated with cytogenetic stability, and a specific immunophenotype (CD138-low/CD27-neg) could effectively predict prognoses across different disease stages. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Wild soybean ( Glycine soja ) is an excellent germplasm resource and has strong resistance and wide adaptability to different environments. Hence, the physiology and metabolomics characteristics of wild soybean under different types of salt stress were determined to improve understanding of salt-tolerant mechanisms of wild soybean in the field. Two types of wild soybean seedlings were exposed to two different types of salt stress for 14 d. The photosynthesis of wild soybean seedling extracts were analyzed using metabolomics based on gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. The wild soybean root extracts used metabolomics to quantify the metabolic changes and ion contents. The assimilative function of photosynthesis in salt-tolerant wild soybean was less inhibited than in common wild soybean, and it regulated accumulation of toxic ions and maintained the accumulation of K + and Mg 2+ to alleviate salt stress. Moreover, in resisting salt stress the salt-tolerant wild soybean has showed improved amino acid and carbohydrate and polyol metabolisms under neutral-salt stress and organic acid, amino acid and tricarboxylic acid metabolisms under alkali-salt stress. Our results provide valuable insights into the response of salt-tolerant wild soybean to two types of salt stress by linking stress-related physiological responses to changes in metabolites. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, the effects of rolling parameters of forming angle, stretching angle, area of reduction, core diameter on the interface bonding status of cross wedge rolling (CWR) of composite 42CrMo/Q235 laminated shaft were studied experimentally. It is finding that the effect of the stretching angle on the interface bonding status is larger than that of the forming angle. The larger stretching angle is more likely to cause a larger ovalization of the cross-sectional shape of the cladding layer for CWR composite laminated shaft. The cross wedge rolling can be successfully carried out if the area of reduction is controlled at range of 50-60%. In addition, the fitting modes on the interface bonding status of composite 42CrMo/Q235 laminated shaft were also studied experimentally. The tests clearly demonstrated the beneficial effect of small interference fit on interface bonding of cross wedge rolling composite laminated shaft. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To achieve sustainable whole process of carbon-fiber production and high-value utilization of lignin, one-step ethanol fractionation followed by coaxial electrospinning was applied to produce lignin-based monocomponent carbon-fiber. To elucidate the mechanism, hydrothermal extracted poplar lignin (HPL) were obtained to be divide into two parts through ethanol fractionation, in which the ethanol-soluble lignin (ESL) was eletrcospun into fiber precursors. Then, to verify the universality of this method, four more lignin were extracted to produce fiber precursors, after which five kinds of carbon fibers were prepared by carbonization of the corresponding precursors. Structural analysis showed that ESL of HPL is a small and highly branched three-dimensional stereomolecules. Combined with the SEM results of fiber precursors, the mechanism which hydrogen bonding promotes fiber formation was elucidated. Among all five samples, carbon-fiber prepared from HPL possesses the minimum fiber diameter of 557 nm, the smallest interplanar spacing of 0.3909 nm, ID/IG value of 0.6345 and the largest specific surface area of 408.15 m2/g. This work proposes a universal method to prepare lignin-based monocomponent carbon-fiber, in which carbon-fibers prepared from HPL exhibits the best comprehensive performance and can be applied to capture radioactive iodine. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Peanut shell, as a widespread agricultural waste, is a biomass resource rich in lignin that has not been fully utilized. Herein, a novel and efficient hydrogenolysis process was provided for the selective decomposition of peanut shell lignin. Ru and Ni nanoparticles embedded within N-doped nanofibers were synthesized by a simple electrospinning technique and carbonized to obtain a bimetallic catalyst (Ru x Ni y -NCNFs). With the optimized catalyst of Ru 2 Ni 1 -NCNFs, 74.46 wt% of lignin oil was obtained with a char formation rate lower than 2.44 wt% at 300 °C for 3 h without an external hydrogen source. 2D-HSQC-NMR demonstrated that representative interunit linkages, such as β-O-4, β-5, and β-β, were considerably degraded during the depolymerization process. The obtained lignin oil has a narrow molecular weight distribution, low molecular weight and high burning value, indicating that it has great potential to become a high-quality aromatic fuel through subsequent upgrade processing. This study opens a novel avenue toward the exploration of highly efficient but low-cost bimetallic catalysts for lignin hydrogenolysis. [Display omitted] • Peanut shell lignin is mainly composed of Guaiacyl (G) structural unit. • Bmetallic catalysts were prepared with RuNi on carbon nanofibers by electrospinning. • Synergistic effect between Ru and Ni components in Ru 2 Ni 1 -NCNFs catalyst. • The Yield of the lignin bio-oil was the largest with Ru 2 Ni 1 -NCNFs. • The HHV of lignin bio-oil was increased from 24.53 MJ/kg to 31.46 MJ/kg. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Kinase is one of the most productive classes of established targets, but the majority of approved drugs against kinase were developed only for cancer. Intensive efforts were therefore exerted for releasing its therapeutic potential by discovering new therapeutic area. Kinases in clinical trial could provide great opportunities for treating various diseases. However, no systematic comparison between system profiles of established targets and those of clinical trial ones was conducted. The reveal of probable difference or shift of trend would help to identify key factors defining druggability of established targets. In this study, a comparative analysis of system profiles of both types of targets was conducted. Consequently, the systems profiles of the majority of clinical trial kinases were identified to be very similar to those of established ones, but percentages of established targets obeying the system profiles appeared to be slightly but consistently higher than those of clinical trial targets. Moreover, a shift of trend in the system profiles from the clinical trial to the established targets was identified, and popular kinase targets were discovered. In sum, this comparative study may help to facilitate the identification of the druggability of established drug targets by their system profiles and drug-target interaction networks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Adenopathy and extensive skin patch overlying a plasmacytoma (AESOP) syndrome is a rare plasma cell neoplasm with a paraneoplastic syndrome. This case report describes the 28th case of AESOP syndrome, which was associated with multiple myeloma. The patient presented with a dark red plaque on the right hypochondriac region and underwent various tests, including a PET-CT scan and biopsies, to confirm the diagnosis. The study also provides a summary of previously reported cases of AESOP syndrome, highlighting the clinical features and outcomes. AESOP syndrome is often associated with other plasma cell disorders, and the prognosis is generally favorable with appropriate treatment. [Extracted from the article]

Glycerolipids of the marine diatom Thalassiosira pseudonana are enriched particularly with eicosapentaenoic acid ( EPA), and also with an appreciable level of docosahexaenoic acid ( DHA). The present study describes the functional characterization of a type 2 diacylglycerol acyltransferase ( DGAT2, EC 2.3.1.20) from T. pseudonana, designated Tp DGAT2, which catalyzes the final step of triacylglycerol ( TAG) synthesis. Heterologous expression of this gene restored TAG formation in a yeast mutant devoid of TAG biosynthesis. Tp DGAT2 was also shown to exert a large impact on the fatty acid profile of TAG. Its expression caused a 10-12% increase of 18:1 and a concomitant decrease of 16:0 relative to that of At DGAT1( Arabidopsis thaliana). Furthermore, in the presence of the very-long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids ( VLCPUFA) EPA and DHA, TAG formed by Tp DGAT2 displayed three- to six-fold increases in the percentage of VLCPUFA relative to that of At DGAT1 even though Tp DGAT2 conferred much lower TAG-synthetic activities than Arabidopsis DGAT1. Strikingly, when fed DHA, the yeast mutant expressing Tp DGAT2 incorporated high levels of EPA and DHA isomers derived from DHA β-oxidation. In contrast, no such phenomenon occurred in the cells expressing At DGAT1. These results suggested that, in addition to the role in breaking down storage lipids, yeast peroxisomes also contribute to lipid synthesis by recycling acyl-CoAs when a fatty acyl assembly system is available to capture and utilize the fatty acyl pools generated via β-oxidation. Our study hence illustrated a case where the efficiency and substrate preference of an acyltransferase can elicit far reaching metabolic adjustments that affect TAG composition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tumor cells often exist in a hypoxic microenvironment, which produces acidic metabolites. To survive in this harsh environment, tumor cells must exhibit a dynamic cytosolic pH regulatory system. Vacuolar H+-adenosine triphosphatase (V-ATPase) is considered to play an important role in the regulation of the acidic microenvironment of some tumors. In this study, we made an investigation on the expression and functional role of V-ATPase in native human hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). The results showed that the messenger RNA and protein expression levels of V-ATPase subunit ATP6L in native human HCC tissues were markedly increased, compared with normal liver tissues. Immunohistochemical analysis further confirmed the enhanced expression of V-ATPase ATP6L in human HCC cells and revealed that V-ATPase ATP6L was distributed in the cytoplasm and plasma membrane of HCC cells. The results from immunofluorescence and biotinylation of cell surface protein showed that V-ATPase ATP6L was conspicuously located in the plasma membrane of human HCC cells. Bafilomycin A1, a specific V-ATPase inhibitor, markedly slowed the intracellular pH (pHi) recovery after acid load in human HCC cells and retarded the growth of human HCC in orthotopic xenograft model. These results demonstrated that V-ATPase is up-regulated in human HCC and involved in the regulation of pHi of human HCC cells. The inhibition of V-ATPase can effectively retard the growth of HCC, indicating that V-ATPase may play an important role in the development and progression of human HCC, and targeting V-ATPase may be a promising therapeutic strategy against human HCC. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Abstract: Nitrate nitrogen (NO3 −-N) from agricultural activities has become the main source of groundwater pollution. A spatial distribution pattern of groundwater NO3 −-N pollution is vital for agricultural ecological and environmental management. The objective of this paper is to investigate the potential of artificial neural network to explore the spatial distribution of groundwater NO3 −-N pollution in Shandong intensive farming regions of China. A detailed field campaign has been carried out to obtain the 216 sample site data focusing on the intensive farming regions in Shandong province. Considering the practical difficulty of the complex nonlinear relationship between multi-factors and groundwater nitrate, a Back Propagation Neural Network (BPNN) was developed for modeling groundwater NO3 −-N concentration. In order to perform the analysis, both natural and anthropogenic factors have been studied, such as soil characteristics, fertilizer usage and terrain factors and so on. Finally, soil organic matter content, total nitrogen content and nitrogen fertilizer data were chosen as input features of the BPNN for having the best correlation with groundwater NO3 −-N concentration. The results indicated that areas with higher NO3 −-N concentration in groundwater are mainly located in the region of excessive use of nitrogen fertilizer and low groundwater runoff modulus. The application results suggested that the BPNN provide a promising approach for analyzing the spatial variability of the groundwater NO3 −-N concentration. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

• Commercial carbon cloth serves as Na deposition/dissolution host. • Bi nanoparticles increase Na affinity of carbon cloth and promote Na homogeneous nucleation and growth. • Bi-MOF features self-assembly and homogeneous distribution properties. Sodium (Na) metal anode has been considered as the promising candidate for next generation high-energy-density rechargeable batteries such as Na-S, Na-O 2 and Na-CO 2 , owing to its high specific capacity, low electrode potential and low cost. Unfortunately, some intractable problems hinder the practical application, including volume change and dendrite formation induced by inhomogeneous Na nucleation. Herein, 3D carbon cloth (CC) supporting Bi-MOF derived carbon nanosheets containing Bi nanoparticles and carbon shells (CC@Bi@C) were prepared to serve as Na deposition/dissolution hosts, integrating high surface area and favorable sodiophilicity. Due to the existence of Bi sodiophilic sites, Na nucleation and deposition can be induced, rendering uniform and dendrite-free morphology. Moreover, the 3D carbon framework can effectively reduce the current density and uniform distribution of Na+ flux, solving the uncontrolled Na dendrite growth. As a result, the CC@Bi@C||Na half cell operating at 1 mA cm−2 for 1 mA h cm−2 exhibits 99.85% Coulombic efficiency for nearly 500 cycles. The symmetric cell maintains stable cycle for more than 300 h at 2 mA cm−2 for 2 mA h cm−2 with low overpotential. When paired a full cell with Na 3 V 2 (PO 4) 3 cathode, CC@Bi@C anode exhibits a stable capacity of 103.4 mA h g−1 at 1C (1 C = 117 mA h g−1) over 150 cycles for 95.5% capacity retention with high CE of 99.0%. This work provides a facile strategy to inhibit dendrite growth and uniform Na deposition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A full-length cDNA encoding a putative diacylglycerol acyltransferase 1 (DGAT1, EC 2.3.1.20) was obtained from Tropaeolum majus (garden nasturtium). The 1557-bp open reading frame of this cDNA, designated TmDGAT1, encodes a protein of 518 amino acids showing high homology to other plant DGAT1s. The TmDGAT1 gene was expressed exclusively in developing seeds. Expression of recombinant TmDGAT1 in the yeast H1246MATα quadruple mutant ( DGA1, LRO1, ARE1, ARE2) restored the capability of the mutant host to produce triacylglycerols (TAGs). The recombinant TmDGAT1 protein was capable of utilizing a range of 14C-labelled fatty acyl-CoA donors and diacylglycerol acceptors, and could synthesize 14C-trierucin. Collectively, these findings confirm that the TmDGAT1 gene encodes an acyl-CoA-dependent DGAT1. In plant transformation studies, seed-specific expression of TmDGAT1 was able to complement the low TAG/unusual fatty acid phenotype of the Arabidopsis AS11 ( DGAT1) mutant. Over-expression of TmDGAT1 in wild-type Arabidopsis and high-erucic-acid rapeseed (HEAR) and canola Brassica napus resulted in an increase in oil content (3.5%–10% on a dry weight basis, or a net increase of 11%–30%). Site-directed mutagenesis was conducted on six putative functional regions/motifs of the TmDGAT1 enzyme. Mutagenesis of a serine residue in a putative SnRK1 target site resulted in a 38%–80% increase in DGAT1 activity, and over-expression of the mutated TmDGAT1 in Arabidopsis resulted in a 20%–50% increase in oil content on a per seed basis. Thus, alteration of this putative serine/threonine protein kinase site can be exploited to enhance DGAT1 activity, and expression of mutated DGAT1 can be used to enhance oil content. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: With the exponential reduction in the scaling of feature size, inter-wire coupling capacitance becomes the dominant part of load capacitance. Two problems are introduced by couplings delay deterioration and crosstalk. This paper presents a timing-driven global routing algorithm along with consideration of coupling effects and crosstalk avoidance. Our work differs from the existing ones in that we design a global routing “framework” which performs well in terms of routablity, timing, and also facilitates the detailed routing in crosstalk avoidance. Experimental results on industrial circuits show that the algorithm leads to substantial delay reduction and effective crosstalk elimination. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

In this paper, we propose a hierarchical timing-driven Steiner tree algorithm for global routing which considers the minimization of timing delay during the tree construction as the goal. The algorithm uses heuristic approach to decompose the problem of minimum delay Steiner tree into hierarchy and construct the sub-trees, respectively, based on dynamic programming technique. Taking the net topology into consideration, we build the final routing tree by reconnecting the sub-trees at each level recursively and then improve the connection with the objective of minimizing the delay from source to sink pins on the critical path. Meanwhile, some efficient strategies have been proposed to speed up the solving process. Experimental results are given to demonstrate the efficiency of our algorithm. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Recently, the definition of primary plasma cell leukemia (pPCL) has been revised as the presence of circulating plasma cells (CPCs) ≥5% in peripheral blood smear. Consequently, the clinical features and prognosis of this aggressive disease can be truly identified by the larger patient cohort. Herein, we identified 158 new-defined pPCL patients among 2,266 MM patients (7.0%), and such prevalence doubled the previous estimate. Our study firstly provided solid support for the application of the new definition. We also found that cytopenias and adverse prognostic biomarkers were more common in new-defined pPCL compared with MM (p < 0.05). Besides, the patients receiving proteasome inhibitors based regimen in combination with stem cell transplantation could experience a considerable survival benefit. Strikingly, we showed that the presence of conventional high-risk cytogenetic abnormalities in pPCL didn't exert a great prognostic effect like MM, while elevated LDH reflecting tumor cells proliferation rate was the only independent predictor. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although absorption of di‐ and tripeptides into intestinal epithelial cells occurs via the peptide transporter 1 (PEPT1, also called solute carrier family 15 member 1 (SLC15A1)), the detailed regulatory mechanisms are not fully understood. We examined: (a) whether dipeptide absorption in villous enterocytes is associated with a rise in cytosolic Ca2+ ([Ca2+]cyt), (b) whether the calcium sensing receptor (CaSR) is involved in dipeptide‐elicited [Ca2+]cyt signaling, and (c) what potential consequences of [Ca2+]cyt signaling may enhance enterocyte dipeptide absorption. Dipeptide Gly‐Sar and CaSR agonist spermine markedly raised [Ca2+]cyt in villous enterocytes, which was abolished by NPS‐2143, a selective CaSR antagonist and U73122, an phospholipase C (PLC) inhibitor. Apical application of Gly‐Sar induced a jejunal short‐circuit current (Isc), which was reduced by NPS‐2143. CaSR expression was identified in the lamina propria and on the basal enterocyte membrane of mouse jejunal mucosa in both WT and Slc15a1−/− animals, but Gly‐Sar‐induced [Ca2+]cyt signaling was significantly decreased in Slc15a1−/− villi. Clotrimazole and TRM‐34, two selective blockers of the intermediate conductance Ca2+‐activated K+ channel (IKCa), but not iberiotoxin, a selective blocker of the large‐conductance K+ channel (BKCa) and apamin, a selective blocker of the small‐conductance K+ channel (SKCa), significantly inhibited Gly‐Sar‐induced Isc in native tissues. We reveal a novel CaSR‐PLC‐Ca2+‐IKCa pathway in the regulation of small intestinal dipeptide absorption, which may be exploited as a target for future drug development in human nutritional disorders. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With the development of renewable energy technologies, the demand for efficient energy storage systems is growing. Supercapacitors have attracted considerable attention as efficient electrical energy storage devices because of their excellent power density, fast charging and discharging capabilities, and long cycle life. Carbon nanofibers are widely used as electrode materials in supercapacitors because of their excellent mechanical properties, electrical conductivity, and light weight. Although environmental factors are increasingly driving the application of circular economy concepts in materials science, lignin is an underutilized but promising environmentally benign electrode material for supercapacitors. Lignin-based carbon nanofibers are ideal for preparing high-performance supercapacitor electrode materials owing to their unique chemical stability, abundance, and environmental friendliness. Electrospinning is a well-known technique for producing large quantities of uniform lignin-based nanofibers, and is the simplest method for the large-scale production of lignin-based carbon nanofibers with specific diameters. This paper reviews the latest research progress in the preparation of lignin-based carbon nanofibers using the electrospinning technology, discusses the prospects of their application in supercapacitors, and analyzes the current challenges and future development directions. This is expected to have an enlightening effect on subsequent research. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the process of oil production, wells containing gas can impact the efficiency of electric submersible pump (ESP), potentially causing gas lock. This issue can lead to the loss of lifting capacity in ESP, affecting the normal production of oil wells. To address this problem, the concept of gas separation before mixing transportation has been proposed, and a gas–liquid separation–mixing device has been designed. Experimental tests on the gas–liquid two-phase flow under various working conditions were conducted. A numerical model of the physical process was developed and validated with the experimental results. The results indicate that when the inlet flow rate exceeds 8.75 m3/h, the gas phase can be effectively accumulated in the center of the main pipeline after flowing through the guide vanes, thereby achieving efficient gas–liquid separation. Centrifugal number, which is defined as the ratio of axial flux of centrifugal force to axial flux of gravity, was proposed for evaluating the flow characteristics. When the centrifugal number exceeds 6.5, a high-quality gas core is formed in the pipe. At high inlet gas content, the volume fraction of gas in the main pipe initially decreases to 2% as the flow rate increases to 15 m3/h. However, at a flow rate of 30 m3/h, the volume fraction gradually rises to 30%, which results in a significant amount of gas being forced into the main pipe. The results are beneficial for expanding the use of ESP and improving the lifting efficiency in the development of oil field with high gas content. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In response to the prevalent issue of sand presence in liquid, particularly prominent in petroleum engineering, a novel cyclone separator has been meticulously engineered for fine-particle separation. Experiments and numerical simulation methods have provided a profound understanding of the flow-field characteristics and separation efficacy of this device. The internal architecture of the swirling flow inside the separator features a distinctive central vortex core, complemented by a turbulent secondary vortex formation in the lower section of the underflow. As the axial height increases, the secondary vortex gradually dissipates. An analysis of pressure and velocity distribution within the cyclone separator confirms the establishment of a stable cyclone field in the built-in cyclone and a tendency for the flow field within the tank to exhibit uniformity with increasing height. These flow-field characteristics show that the cyclone separator has a good separation effect on fine-rust particle impurities. Furthermore, the separation efficiency of the novel cyclone separator demonstrates a positive correlation with increasing particle size. Of the parameters studied, variation of the inlet velocity is the best method for obtaining optimum separation efficiency for a cyclone desander with a fixed particle size. Specifically, when the inlet velocity reaches 3 m/s, the desander attains an impressive separation efficiency of up to 70%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Synthetic hydrogels are unique tissue mimics but rarely reproduce the strain‐stiffening properties of native tissues. This mechanical mismatch impairs the performance of hydrogels in practical applications. Inspired by the crimped structure of collagenous tissues, a series of strain‐stiffening hydrogels composed of curved parallel fibers are developed. These fibers are constructed from a bundle of intertwisted nanofibrils composed of short alkyl side chain‐modified polymer chains. This hierarchical organization enables exquisitely cascaded deformation that facilitates soft‐to‐firm and resilience‐to‐viscoelasticity transitions, thus synergically mimicking the strain‐adaptive stiffening and damping behaviors of natural tissues. Together with structural evolution and a constitutive model, rationally tuning the tortuosity and flexibility of the curved fibers produces a diverse combination of strain‐stiffening properties and unprecedented penetration into the regions of several tissues. The crimped structure and the resultant stiffening properties constitute major improvements to nanofiber‐based scaffolds for use in collagenous tissue repair. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ethyl cellulose was grafted with ionic liquids in optimal yields (62.5–64.1%) and grafting degrees (5.93–7.90%) by the esterification of the hydroxyl groups in ethyl cellulose with the carboxyl groups in ionic liquids. In IR spectra of the ethyl cellulose derivatives exhibited C=O bond stretching vibration peaks at 1760 or 1740 cm−1, confirming the formation of the ester groups and furnishing the evidence of the successful grafting of ethyl cellulose with ionic liquids. The ethyl cellulose grafted with ionic liquids could be formed into membranes by using the casting solution method. The resulting membranes exhibited good membrane forming ability and mechanical properties. The EC grafted with ionic liquids-based membranes demonstrated PCO2/PCH4 separation factors of up to 18.8, whereas the PCO2/PCH4 separation factor of 9.0 was obtained for pure EC membrane (both for CO2/CH4 mixture gas). The membranes also demonstrated an excellent gas permeability coefficient PCO2, up to 199 Barrer, which was higher than pure EC (PCO2 = 46.8 Barrer). Therefore, it can be concluded that the ionic liquids with imidazole groups are immensely useful for improving the gas separation performances of EC membranes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, we firstly used 1-carboxyethyl-3-methylimidazolium ionic liquid as a capping agent to terminate a binary linear polyimide containing different groups such as ether bonds, carbonyl groups, and fluorine, and prepared six kinds of polyimides capped with ionic liquids (IL-PI). The mechanical properties of the polyimide membranes capped with ionic liquids were higher than those of the uncapped polyimide membranes. The elastic modulus of polyimide membrane from 1,3-bis (4-aminophenoxy) benzene (BPDA) and 3,3′4,4′-benzophenone tetracarboxydianhydride (BTDA) by using ionic liquid as the end capping agent (IL-BPDA-BTDA) was 2012 MPa, which is about 70 times higher than that without the end capping agent. In a TG test, all polyimides capped by ionic liquids showed good thermal properties. The residual amount of the polyimides was more than 40% at 1000 °C, which was higher than the other uncapped polyimides. In conclusion, polyimide membranes with high temperature resistance and high mechanical strength were prepared through an ionic liquid termination method. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hydrogen-rich gas production from reforming of naphthalene as a typical tar model compound was investigated under catalytic, plasma and plasma-catalytic systems. The effect of Gd promoter and solvent on naphthalene decomposition and gaseous products within the reforming reaction was studied. The catalysts were prepared by the thermal fusion method and characterized by XRD, XPS, SEM, BET, TEM, TG and H 2 -TPR. Compared to catalytic systems and plasma systems, the plasma-catalytic system shows the highest naphthalene conversion, as well as highest yield of hydrogen-rich gas on account of the synergetic effect of plasma and catalyst. Ni–Gd/SiO 2 @Al 2 O 3 catalyst exhibits superior catalytic activity than that on Ni/SiO 2 @Al 2 O 3 , due to higher dispersity of nickel species and reducibility of catalysts, as well as more Ni0 species and more surface oxygen species. No sintering and no coke formed on the fusion used catalyst owing to low content and high dispersion of nickel species. Maximum both naphthalene conversion and H 2 yield were observed on Ni-10Gd catalyst, about 89 % and 0.17 mol/mol-naphthalene, respectively. Furthermore, the presence of OH· radicals originating from methanol and the subsequent methanol reforming reaction play a pivotal role in augmenting naphthalene conversion and facilitating the formation of H 2 , CO, and CH 4. [Display omitted] • Ni-10Gd catalyst showed the highest conversion in plasma reforming of naphthalene owing to synergetic effect. • Gd enhances the dispersity and reducibility of catalyst, Ni0 species and surface oxygen species, as well as the naphthalene disintegrates. • Fusion catalysts exhibited high resistance to carbon deposition and sintering. • More OH· radicals in methanol contribute to the activity in plasma-catalytic system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new rhodium complex [Rh(cod)(TTT)2] was synthesized by [Rh(cod)Cl]2 as a precursor, and 4,4',4''-(1,3,5-triazine-2,4,6-triyl)trianiline (TTT) as a ligand. Its structure was verified by 1H and 13C NMR. The results indicate that the complex shows high activity in phenylacetylene polymerization. It was applied to the polymerization of phenylacetylene with a yield of 45.0% and Mw = 2.26×105 at ultra-low rhodium feed ratio ([Rh.]/[M.]=1/60000). A new rhodium complex [Rh(cod)(TTT)2] was synthesized by [Rh(cod)Cl]2 as a precursor, and 4,4',4''-(1,3,5-triazine-2,4,6-triyl)trianiline (TTT) as a ligand. It was applied to the polymerization of phenylacetylene with a yield of 45.0% and Mw = 2.26×105 at ultra-low rhodium feed ratio ([Rh.]/[M.]=1/60000 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

NAC (NAM, ATAF1/2, and CUC2) transcription factors play important roles in many biological processes, and mainly bind to the NACRS with core sequences "CACG" or "CATGTG" to regulate gene expression. However, whether NAC proteins can bind to other motifs without these core sequences remains unknown. In this study, we employed a Transcription Factor-Centered Yeast one Hybrid (TF-Centered Y1H) screen to study the motifs recognized by ANAC074. In addition to the NACRS core cis-element, we identified that ANAC074 could bind to MybSt1, NRS1, and NRS2. Y1H and GUS assays showed that ANAC074 could bind the promoters of ethylene responsive genes and stress responsive genes via the NRS1, NRS2, or MybSt1 element. ChIP study further confirmed that the bindings of ANAC074 to MybSt1, NRS1, and NRS2 actually occurred in Arabidopsis. Furthermore, ten NAC proteins from different NAC subfamilies in Arabidopsis thaliana were selected and confirmed to bind to the MybSt1, NRS1, and NRS2 motifs, indicating that they are recognized commonly by NACs. These findings will help us to further reveal the functions of NAC proteins. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Herein, we construct a new series of N-heterocyclic ligand bipyridine-based porous hybrid polymers (denoted Bpy-PHPs) from the Heck reaction of a rigid building unit octavinylsilsesquioxane (VPOSS) and 5,5′-dibromo-2,2′-bipyridine. Surprisingly, the typical sample Bpy-PHP-4 was found to be a metal-/halogen-free heterogeneous catalyst in the cycloaddition reaction of CO2 with a few epoxides under atmospheric pressure. After coordination with ZnBr2, the resultant ZnBr2@Bpy-PHP-4 afforded largely enhanced heterogeneous catalytic activities upon the conversion of carbon dioxide (CO2) and various epoxides into cyclic carbonates without using any co-catalysts under mild conditions. The moderate catalytic activities of Bpy-PHP-4 may be due to the presence of hydrogen bond donors (HBDs), i.e., polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxane (POSS)-derived Si–OH groups and N active sites from Bpy linkers. In comparison, the high catalytic efficiency of ZnBr2@Bpy-PHP-4 should be attributed to the synergistic catalysis of Si–OH groups, N active atoms, and Bpy-coordinated ZnBr2. Moreover, the catalyst ZnBr2@Bpy-PHP-4 can be easily recovered and reused ten times without any significant loss of catalytic activities. This work affords an efficient metal-based porous hybrid polymer heterogeneous catalyst for the cycloaddition reaction of CO2 and epoxides under mild and co-catalyst-free conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A system consisting of four cylinders positioned in the quadrilateral arrangement represents the prevalent and fundamental constituent within pipe bundles and tube banks in numerous engineering scenarios. This research presents a laboratorial study on flow-induced vibration (FIV) exhibited by four flexible cylinders positioned within a square geometric arrangement. The uniform flows were produced by a carriage on the top of a towing tank. Considering flow velocities and structural parameters, Reynolds number could reach 16000. The spacing between the cylindrical centres was selected as 6.0 D (D denotes the outer diameter of cylinders), and two typical incidence angles 0° and 45° were examined. For each flexible cylinder model, strain gages at seven distinct measuring positions were utilized to collect the oscillation data in cross-flow (CF) and in-line (IL) directions. Principal vibration modes, response frequencies, response amplitudes and motion trajectories were presented to understand the FIV features. For incidence angles 0°, considering the four flexible cylinders as two sets of tandem cylinders arranged in parallel is not appropriate due to the proximate effect. The behaviours of the two upstream cylinders resembles those of the pair of cylinders positioned in a side-by-side configuration, whereas behaviours for the downstream cylinders are influenced by wake interference generated from leading cylinders. IL response frequencies decrease to the values close to the CF response frequencies, resulting in the elliptical-shaped motion trajectories with large IL displacements. For incidence angles 45°, the upstream cylinder displays characteristics akin to those of a solitary cylinder experiencing vortex-induced vibration (VIV). Reactions for the central pair of cylinders result from the amalgamation of VIV and wake-induced flutter. While, reactions observed for downstream cylinder are characterized by low frequencies, significant IL displacements and more chaotic trajectories. • Flow-induced vibrations of four square-arranged long flexible cylinders are experimentally investigated. • The dynamic characteristics of four flexible cylinders are different depending on the incidence angle. • The downstream cylinders have low vibration frequencies and large vibration displacments in the flow direction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] Efficient immune responses rely on the proper differentiation of CD8+ T cells into effector and memory cells. Here, we show a critical requirement of N6-Methyladenosine (m6A) methyltransferase Mettl3 during CD8+ T cell responses upon acute viral infection. Conditional deletion of Mettl3 in CD8+ T cells impairs effector expansion and terminal differentiation in an m6A-dependent manner, subsequently affecting memory formation and the secondary response of CD8+ T cells. Our combined RNA-seq and m6A-miCLIP-seq analyses reveal that Mettl3 deficiency broadly impacts the expression of cell cycle and transcriptional regulators. Remarkably, Mettl3 binds to the Tbx21 transcript and stabilizes it, promoting effector differentiation of CD8+ T cells. Moreover, ectopic expression of T-bet partially restores the defects in CD8+ T cell differentiation in the absence of Mettl3. Thus, our study highlights the role of Mettl3 in regulating multiple target genes in an m6A-dependent manner and underscores the importance of m6A modification during CD8+ T cell response. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

For a long time, the physiological activity of TRP ion channels and the response to various stimuli have been the focus of attention, and the physiological functions mediated by ion channels have subtle links with the occurrence of various diseases. Our group has been engaged in the study of ion channels. In recent years, the report rate of TRPA1, the only member of the TRPA subfamily in the newly described TRP channel, has been very high. TRPA1 channels are not only abundantly expressed in peptidergic nociceptors but are also found in many nonneuronal cell types and tissues, and through the regulation of Ca2+ influx, various neuropeptides and signaling pathways are involved in the regulation of nerves, respiration, circulation, and various diseases and inflammation throughout the body. In this review, we mainly summarize the effects of TRPA1 on various systems in the body, which not only allows us to have a more systematic and comprehensive understanding of TRPA1 but also facilitates more in-depth research on it in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There may be a shift in risk stratification at progression compared to that at diagnosis in patients with multiple myeloma (MM). We aimed to evaluate whether re-staging and stage migration is of prognostic impact. Real-world data from the National Longitudinal Cohort of Hematologic Diseases-multiple myeloma were collected; 263 consecutive patients demonstrating disease progression were finally included. Staging at diagnosis and re-staging at progression were performed using the International Staging System (ISS) and Revised International Staging System (RISS). Based on ISS re-staging, the median post-progression survival (mPPS) of patients with stage I, II, and III was 44.2, 21.7, and 11.6 months, respectively (P < 0.0001). Based on RISS re-staging, the mPPS of patients with stage I, II, and III was 50.3, 22.2, and 11.4 months, respectively (P < 0.0001). The mPPS in patients with improved, maintained, and deteriorated ISS stage migration from diagnosis was 33.6, 20.9, and 16 months, respectively (P = 0.0051) and that with improved, maintained, and deteriorated RISS stage migration was 48.4, 23.1, and 13.9 months, respectively (P < 0.001). Compared to patients with maintained or improved disease stage, those with deteriorated ISS/RISS migration showed significantly higher incidence of Del(17P) at progression and worse PPS. Multivariate analyses indicated both re-staging and stage migration by ISS/RISS at progression were independent predictors for PPS. We demonstrated that ISS/RISS re-staging showed superior prognostic utility over ISS/RISS staging in predicting PPS. Patients with deteriorated stage migration or maintained advanced stage at progression may need more individualized treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cylindrical cyclones are a popular choice for oil-water separation and sewage treatment in the petroleum industry. Here, we investigate the cavitation and vibration phenomena in a cylindrical cyclone with a vortex finder by using various cyclone operating parameters and conducting multiphase flow numerical simulations. The lowest point of pressure on the cross section of the main cylinder is defined as the pressure center point and is used to understand the generation of the flow field oscillation, which is shown to exhibit an approximately circular motion. This circular oscillation of the flow field is an important characteristic that influences the overall performance and behavior of the cyclone system. Cavitation analysis results show that an increase in the inlet velocity leads to more intense cavitation and an expansion of the cavitation area. At lower split ratios, cavitation primarily occurs at the junction of the inlet pipe and the main cylinder, while at higher split ratios, the cavitation area gradually extends into the overflow pipe. Additionally, structural response analysis demonstrates that increasing the inlet velocity and overflow split ratio significantly enhances the vibrational degree of the structure, leading to greater stress levels. Adjusting the oil content at the inlet has a relatively minimal impact on the structural response compared with the influence of the inlet velocity and split ratio. Furthermore, dimensional analysis is used to analyze the change of wall pressure, and the wall pressure that induces structural vibration can be calculated using the inlet velocity and the split ratio. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]