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A four‐step metal‐free procedure is described for the transformation of 4‐hydroxy‐2‐methylcyclopent‐2‐enone derivatives into highly functionalized E‐alkylidenecyclobutanes featuring oxygenated tetrasubstituted centers. The key intermediate is a (cyclobutenyl)propane‐1,3‐diol diester, easily accessed via a tandem photochemical reaction, which undergoes an original Brønsted acid‐catalyzed allylic substitution reaction with alcohols to give the title products with ester‐protected primary alcohol side chains. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An abundance of empirical evidence indicates that spatial ability is significantly correlated with educational performance in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields. Previous studies have explored the relationship between spatial ability and science achievement in adults. However, the relationship between spatial ability and science achievement in children at different stages of learning remains unclear. This study examined how the relationship between spatial ability and science achievement differed by grade. A total of 29, 524 students, including 17, 378 fourth graders (boys = 9022, girls = 8365, mean age = 9.78) and 12, 137 eighth graders (boys =6294, girls = 5843, mean age =13.73), were selected from the Qingdao Basic Education Quality Assessment database using cluster random sampling. Participants were recruited to complete two basic cognitive processing tasks (three-dimensional mental rotation and nonverbal matrix reasoning), two self-report scales (multiple intelligence and learning persistence), and a curriculum-based science achievement assessment. The study demonstrated that spatial ability and science achievement are closely related in Chinese children. That this relationship was evident in every instance tested shows a certain stability. The relationship was stronger in eighth-grade students than in fourth-grade students, even after controlling for reasoning ability (measured via non-verbal matrix reasoning) and learning persistence. The relationship between spatial ability and science achievement over time depends on how spatial ability is assessed, either through self-reports or cognitive-based tests. This indicates that in children, as they advance in grade and science courses become more difficult, spatial abilities play an increasingly important role in science learning. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pituitary apoplexy (PA) is an emergency condition caused by sudden hemorrhage or infarction and characterized by sudden sella turcica compression, intracranial hypertension and meningeal stimulation. PA usually occurs secondary to pituitary adenomas and can serve as the initial manifestation of an undiagnosed pituitary adenoma in an individual. In the present study, a case of PA following surgery for cervical stump adenocarcinoma was reported. The patient experienced an abrupt onset of headache and drowsiness on postoperative day 1 (POD1), and developed blurred vision and blepharoptosis of the left eye on POD4. Pituitary MRI confirmed the diagnosis of PA, prompting the initial administration of hydrocortisone to supplement endogenous hormones, followed by trans-sphenoidal resection. At the six-week follow-up, the patient had fully recovered, with only mild residual blurring of vision. Diagnosing PA post-surgery can be a challenging task due to its symptomatic overlap with postoperative complications. The existing literature on PA after surgery was also reviewed, including the symptoms, time of onset, imageological examination, management, potential risk factors and outcome to improve on early detection and individualized treatment in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mathematical learning and ability are crucial for individual and national economic and technological development, but the neural mechanisms underlying advanced mathematical learning remain unclear. The current study used functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) to investigate how brain networks were involved in advanced mathematical learning and transfer. We recorded fMRI data from 24 undergraduate students as they learned the advanced mathematical concept of a commutative mathematical group. After learning, participants were required to complete learning and transfer behavioural tests. Results of single‐trial interindividual brain‐behaviour correlation analysis found that brain activity in the semantic and visuospatial networks, and the functional connectivity within the semantic network during advanced mathematical learning were positively correlated with learning and transfer effects. Additionally, the functional connectivity between the semantic and visuospatial networks was negatively correlated with the learning and transfer effects. These findings suggest that advanced mathematical learning relies on both semantic and visuospatial networks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Polyhedral Fe 3 O 4 nanoparticles (NPs) with exposed high-energy {110} facets were synthesized by hydro-thermal method using ferrous sulfate and sodium thiosulfate as precursor at 140 °C. The as-synthesized catalysts were characterized via X-ray powder diffraction (XRD), electro impedance spectra (EIS), scanning electron microscope (SEM), transmission electron microscope (TEM) and vibrating sample magnetometer (VSM) at room temperature. The well-defined Fe 3 O 4 NPs with exposed high-energy {110} facets distributed a wide size, and the percentage of {110} facets was approximately 38.5% for single Fe 3 O 4 NPs crystal. The synergistic effect of UV irradiation and the polyhedral Fe 3 O 4 NPs improved the photodegradation efficiency of tetracycline (TC). The degradation efficiency of polyhedral Fe 3 O 4 NPs catalyzing UV-Fenton system reached 96.7% after 60 min reaction, which was more substantial than polyhedral Fe 3 O 4 /H 2 O 2 system (40%) and spherical Fe 3 O 4 NPs catalyzing UV-Fenton system (28%) after 60 min reaction. The TOC degradation efficiency reached 56.5% for polyhedral Fe 3 O 4 NPs catalyzing UV-Fenton after 120 min reaction, while UV/H 2 O 2 system and spherical Fe 3 O 4 NPs catalyzing UV-Fenton was 36.0% and 22.1% respectively after 120 min reaction. Moreover, polyhedral Fe 3 O 4 NPs catalyzing UV-Fenton system exhibited an extremely wide pH range (from 3.0 to 9.0) for efficient degradation of TC. Simultaneously, the extraordinary high degradation efficiency was based on 10 mM H 2 O 2 concentration, which had low requirement for H 2 O 2. Further, the polyhedral Fe 3 O 4 NPs could be reused for five consecutive cycles while still achieving at 91.7% of its original degradation efficiency and recycled under a magnetic field along with excellent chemical stability. Ultraviolet light assisted heterogeneous Fenton in the polyhedral Fe 3 O 4 NPs system improved the OH and O 2 − production efficiency and Fe(III)/Fe(II) redox cycle, which consequently achieved an excellent degradation efficiency. Unlabelled Image • Polyhedral Fe 3 O 4 with exposed high-energy {110} facets was synthesized by hydrothermal method. • The percentage of {110} facets was approximately 38.5% for single Fe 3 O 4 NPs crystal. • Tetracycline was almost completely degraded within 90 min in polyhedral Fe 3 O 4 catalyzing UV-Fenton system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Novel maize-straw-templated TiO2/Fe3O4 hierarchical porous composites were synthesized by high-temperature calcination followed by a hydrothermal process. The composites were demonstrated to be efficient heterogeneous catalysts for the UV-Fenton-like degradation of TC. The results show that the as-prepared TiO2/Fe3O4 catalysts retain the original pore morphology of the maize-straw material, and a large amount of Fe3O4 particles are attached to the TiO2 surfaces. The as-prepared TiO2/Fe3O4 heterojunctions have abundant interfacial boundaries, which greatly improve the migration of photoexcited charges across different components. Consequently, in the UV-Fenton system, the TiO2/Fe3O4 catalysts exhibit significant activity towards the degradation of TC (50 mg/L) in a wide pH range. In particular, a maximum mineralization and TC removal of 98% is achieved within 60 min at pH 7.0, which is much higher than that of traditional Fe3O4-based UV-Fenton (81%) and TiO2 photocatalysis (23%). The enhanced degradation and mineralization of tetracycline is attributed to the efficient reduction of Fe3+ to Fe2+ by photo-generated electrons from the TiO2 skeleton of the TiO2/Fe3O4 heterojunction.Graphical Abstract: [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Graphical abstract Highlights • Novel maize straw template TiO 2 is prepared by a simple and cost-effective bio-template method. • UV/Fenton/maize straw template TiO 2 hybrid process is efficient for TC. • Synergetic effect between Fenton and TiO 2 photocatalytic oxidation is analyzed. Abstract Biomorphic TiO 2 was successfully fabricated using maize straw as a template. The morphology and structure analysis revealed that the as-prepared TiO 2 retained the original pore morphology of the maize straw material. The framework of the maize-straw-templated TiO 2 (T-TiO 2) consisted of a cubic grid structure derived from lamellar TiO 2 nanosheets. The results of UV–vis diffuse reflectance spectra and PL spectra revealed that the C-doping derived from maize straw template promoted the photoresponse properties of TiO 2. Efficient hybrid AOPs (advanced oxidation processes) combining T-TiO 2 photo-catalytic oxidation with a Fenton-like reaction for TC oxidation was first investigated, and then, the synergetic degradation effect was discussed in this article. As a result, the synergistic operation of the UV/Fenton/T-TiO 2 photocatalytic hybrid process exhibited significant activity towards the degradation of TC (50 mg/L) over a wide pH range of 3.0–9.0 with a remarkably low iron ion dosage (1 mM). Moreover, the degradation kinetics can be well fitted by the pseudo-first order model, where a kinetic constant of 0.09378 min−1 was achieved, substantially higher than those of the UV/Fenton/N-TiO 2 (0.04419 min−1), UV/Fenton (0.03343 min−1), Fenton (0.0172 min−1), UV/H 2 O 2 (0.01412 min−1), UV/T-TiO 2 (0.00209 min−1) and UV (0.00027 min−1) systems. The high synergistic effect probably occurred because of (1) the high surface activity of T-TiO 2 as photocatalyst, which yielded a remarkably enhanced optical absorption capacity for the lamellar structure, and (2) the efficient reduction of Fe3+ to Fe2+ by the photoinduced electrons from T-TiO 2. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRACT Increasing evidence supports the idea that bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs) regulate cartilage maintenance in the adult skeleton. The aim of this study is to obtain insight into the regulation of BMP activities in the adult skeletal system. We analyzed expression of Noggin and Gremlin1, BMP antagonists that are known to regulate embryonic skeletal development, in the adult skeletal system by Noggin-LacZ and Gremlin1-LacZ knockin reporter mouse lines. Both reporters are expressed in the adult skeleton in a largely overlapping manner with some distinct patterns. Both are detected in the articular cartilage, pubic symphysis, facet joint in the vertebrae, and intervertebral disk, suggesting that they regulate BMP activities in these tissues. In a surgically induced knee osteoarthritis model in mice, expression of Noggin mRNA was lost from the articular cartilage, which correlated with loss of BMP2/4 and pSMAD1/5/8, an indicator of active BMP signaling. Both reporters are also expressed in the sterna and rib cartilage, suggesting an extensive role of BMP antagonism in adult cartilage tissue. Moreover, Noggin-LacZ was detected in sutures in the skull and broadly in the nasal cartilage, while Gremlin1-LacZ exhibits a weaker and more restricted expression domain in the nasal cartilage. These results suggest broad regulation of BMP activities by Noggin and Gremlin1 in cartilage tissues in the adult skeleton, and that BMP signaling and its antagonism by NOGGIN play a role in osteoarthritis development. © 2016 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 35:1671-1682, 2017. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Based on the previous generation of yolk-shell nanostructured polyaniline@SiO 2 particles, a confined carbonization process followed by etching the SiO 2 layer is carried out to achieve carbon particles. The existence of the SiO 2 shell helps to preserve the original well-dispersed morphology of the polyaniline that retains amounts of active sites for oxygen reduction reaction. Furthermore, the CeO 2 oxidant and the SiO 2 shell lead to the increased amount of oxygen existing in the product and the oxygen reduction reaction results show the well-maintained nanostructure with mesopores and the effective O doping benefit for achieving enhanced catalytic activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to examine the potential association between low-level prenatal manganese (Mn) exposure and 1-year-old children's neurodevelopment quotient (DQ) by using the Gesell Developmental Inventory (GDI) (motor, adaptive, language, and social domains) and explored the role of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) in Mn-induced cognitive impairments. A total of 377 mothers were recruited from a prospective birth cohort in rural northern China. Cord serum concentrations of Mn and BDNF were measured and children's DQ was evaluated. The median serum Mn concentration was 3.4 μg/L. After adjusting for confounding factors, Mn level was significantly associated with gross motor scores (β = −6.0, 95% CI: −11.8 to −0.2, p < 0.05) and personal–social scores (β = −4.2, 95% CI: −8.4 to 0.1, p < 0.05). BDNF level was positively correlated with personal–social score (β = 0.7, 95% CI: 0–1.4, p < 0.05). A significant correlation was found between Mn and BDNF (r = −0.13, 95% CI: −0.23 to −0.03, p < 0.01). Furthermore, the interaction between cord serum Mn and BDNF was significant ( p < 0.001). In conclusion, elevated low-level prenatal Mn exposure impaired infant's neurodevelopment, and BDNF plays an important role in cognitive impairment, especially in the personal–social ability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Dietary methylmercury intake can occur not only through fish ingestion but also through rice ingestion; however, rice does not contain the same beneficial micronutrients as fish.Objectives: In rural China, where rice is a staple food, associations between prenatal methylmercury exposure (assessed using maternal hair mercury) and impacts on offspring neurodevelopment were investigated.Methods: A total of 398 mothers were recruited at parturition at which time a sample of scalp hair was collected. Offspring (n=270, 68%) were assessed at 12 months using the Bayley Scales of Infant Development-II, yielding age-adjusted scores for the Mental Developmental Index (MDI) and Psychomotor Developmental Index (PDI).Results: Among 270 mothers, 85% ingested rice daily, 41% never or rarely ingested fish/shellfish and 11% ingested fish/shellfish at least twice/weekly. Maternal hair mercury averaged 0.41μg/g (median: 0.39μg/g, range: 0.079-1.7μg/g). In unadjusted models, offspring neurodevelopment (both MDI and PDI) was inversely correlated with hair mercury. Associations were strengthened after adjustment for fish/shellfish ingestion, rice ingestion, total energy intake (kcal), and maternal/offspring characteristics for both the MDI [Beta: -4.9, 95% Confidence Interval (CI): -9.7, -0.12] and the PDI (Beta: -2.7, 95% CI: -8.3, 2.9), although confidence intervals remained wide for the latter.Conclusions: For 12-month old offspring living in rural China, prenatal methylmercury exposure was associated with statistically significant decrements in offspring cognition, but not psychomotor development. Results expose potential new vulnerabilities for communities depending on rice as a staple food. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Rice ingestion is an important dietary exposure pathway for methylmercury. There are few studies concerning prenatal methylmercury exposure through rice ingestion, yet the health risks are greatest to the developing fetus, and thus should be investigated. Objectives Our main objective was to quantify dietary methylmercury intake through rice and fish/shellfish ingestion among pregnant mothers living in southern China, where rice was a staple food and mercury contamination was considered minimal. Methods A total of 398 mothers were recruited at parturition, who donated scalp hair and blood samples. Total mercury and/or methylmercury concentrations were measured in biomarkers, in rice samples from each participant's home, and in fish tissue purchased from local markets. Additional fish/shellfish mercury concentrations were obtained from a literature search. Dietary methylmercury intake during the third trimester was equivalent to the ingestion rate for rice (or fish/shellfish)×the respective methylmercury concentration. Results Dietary methylmercury intake from both rice and fish/shellfish ingestion averaged 1.2±1.8 µg/day (median=0.79 µg/day, range=0–22 µg/day), including on average 71% from rice ingestion (median: 87%, range: 0–100%), and 29% from fish/shellfish consumption (median 13%, range: 0–100%). Median concentrations of hair total mercury, hair methylmercury, and blood total mercury were 0.40 µg/g (range: 0.08–1.7 µg/g), 0.28 µg/g (range: 0.01–1.4 µg/g), and 1.2 µg/L (range: 0.29–8.6 µg/L), respectively, and all three biomarkers were positively correlated with dietary methylmercury intake through rice ingestion (Spearman's rho=0.18–0.21, p≤0.0005), although the correlations were weak. In contrast, biomarkers were not correlated with fish/shellfish methylmercury intake (Spearman's rho=0.04–0.08, p=0.11–0.46). Conclusions Among pregnant mothers living in rural inland China, rice ingestion contributed to prenatal methylmercury exposure, more so than fish/shellfish ingestion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Protonic ceramic fuel cells (PCFCs) have generated significant interest due to their weak temperature dependence and efficient energy conversion. However, traditional cathode materials show poor electrocatalytic activity at a low operating temperature due to their intrinsically slow proton diffusion, which is a long-standing issue that limits the output performance of PCFCs. Herein, the strategy of fluorinating a perovskite cathode is proposed for promoting proton transfer within the bulk of the cathode. This strategy is demonstrated in a fluorinated BaCo 0.4 Fe 0.4 Zr 0.1 Y 0.1 O 3−δ (BCFZY) perovskite, which reveals a reduced polarization resistance and enhanced PCFC output performance, superior to those of newly reported PCFCs. Combing the experimental characterization and theoretical calculations, we found that the performance improvement was ascribed to the strong inductive effect of F−, which can increase the polarity the M−O bonding and decrease the O···H interaction, thus boosting the production of protonic defects and increasing the protonic diffusion coefficient. [Display omitted] • Fluorinated BaCo 0.4 Fe 0.4 Zr 0.1 Y 0.1 O 3−δ (BCFZY) perovskite is firstly synthesized as PCFC cathode. • Fluorination enhances the hydration properties and proton mobility of BCFZY perovskite. • Fluorination inductive effect has been proposed to reveal the origin of improved proton mobility. • Peak power density of 0.782 W cm−2 is obtained at 600 °C for a single PCFC using fluorinated BCFZY as cathode. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Studies have found that spatial-numerical associations could extend to arithmetic. Addition leads to rightward shift in spatial attention while subtraction leads to leftward shift (e.g., Knops et al. ; McCrink et al. ; Pinhas & Fischer ), which is consistent with the hypothesis of static mental number line (MNL) for arithmetic. The current investigation tested the hypothesis of dynamic mental number line which was shaped by the relative magnitudes of two operands in simple arithmetic. Horizontal and vertical electrooculograms (HEOG and VEOG) during simple arithmetic were recorded. Results showed that the direction of eye movements was dependent on the relative magnitudes of two operands. Subtraction was associated with larger rightward eye movements than addition (Experiment 1), and smaller-operand-first addition (e.g., 2+9) was associated with larger rightward eye movement than larger-operand-first addition (e.g., 9+2) only when the difference of two operands was large (Experiment 2). The results suggest that the direction of the mental number line could be dynamic during simple arithmetic, and that the eyes move along the dynamic mental number line to search for solutions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The premise of electric vehicles (EVs) participating in the frequency regulation (FR) of power systems is to satisfy the charging demands of users. In view of problems such as the uncertainty of EV users' departure time and the increase in power supply pressure due to disordered charging in the frequency regulation process of EV clusters, a secondary frequency regulation control strategy with EVs considering user travel uncertainty is proposed. Firstly, EV charging history was analyzed, a reliability parameter was introduced to describe the user travel uncertainty, and an individual EV controllable domain model based on reliability correction was constructed. Then, EV clusters were grouped according to charging urgency and state of charge (SOC), and the controllable capacity of EV clusters was determined. Finally, EV frequency regulation capability parameters and charging urgency parameters were defined to determine the EV frequency regulation priority list, combined with the EV state grouping and priority list, and the EV cluster frequency control strategy was proposed. The simulation results show that the proposed strategy can satisfy the charging demands of users under uncertain travel conditions, reduce the power supply pressure of the power system caused by EVs entering the forced charging state, and effectively suppress frequency deviation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Raspberry-like nanostructured aniline oligomers were synthesized by using copper acetate as an oxidant in the presence of p-phenylenediamine. The formation of raspberry-like nanostructures perhaps has originated from the assembly of smaller nanoparticles in order to decrease the total surface energy. The introduction of p-phenylenediamine accelerated the polymerization rate and was beneficial for the generation of nearly monodispersed aniline oligomers. A kinetic control process might exist in the preparation of raspberry-like aniline oligomers. Furthermore, versatile nanostructured aniline oligomers, including hollow and linked ones, could be achieved by further oxidation and by decreasing the pH. Compared with polyaniline spheres with smooth surface, the product showed superior adsorption–desorption properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: To examine the association between maternal prepregnancy weight and child neurodevelopment, and the effect of gestational weight gain.Methods: Using the U.S. Collaborative Perinatal Project data, 1959–76, a total of 30 212 women with a calculable prepregnancy body mass index (BMI) and gestational weight gain, and term singleton children followed up for more than 7 years were included in this study. Intelligence quotient (IQ) was measured at 7 years of age by Wechsler Intelligence Scales.Results: Maternal prepregnancy BMI displayed inverted U-shaped associations with child IQ after adjustment for maternal age, maternal education levels, maternal race, marital status, socioeconomic status, smoking during pregnancy, parity and study center. Women with BMI at around 20 kg/m2 appeared to have the highest offspring IQ scores. After controlling for familial factors in the siblings’ sample, maternal obesity (BMI ≥30.0 kg/m2) was associated with lower Full-scale IQ (adjusted ß = −2.0, 95% confidence interval −3.5 to −0.5), and Verbal scale IQ (adjusted ß = −2.5, 95% confidence interval −4.0 to −1.0), using BMI of 18.5–24.9 kg/m2 as the reference category. Compared with children born to normal-weight women who gained 21–25 lb. during pregnancy, those born to obese women who gained more than 40 lb. had 6.5 points deficit in IQ after adjustment for potential confounders.Conclusions: Maternal prepregnancy obesity was associated with lower child IQ, and excessive weight gain accelerated the association. With obesity rising steadily, these results appear to raise serious public health concerns. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

One type of bifurcation named oscillation emergence bifurcation (OEB) found in time-delayed linear time invariant (abbr. LTI) systems is fully studied. The definition of OEB is initially put forward according to the eigenvalue variation. It is revealed that a real eigenvalue splits into a pair of conjugated complex eigenvalues when an OEB occurs, which means the number of the system eigenvalues will increase by one and a new oscillationmode will emerge. Next, amethod to determine OEB bifurcation in the timedelayed LTI system with single lag is developed based on LambertWfunction. A one-dimensional (1-dim) time-delayed system is firstly employed to explain the mechanism of OEB bifurcation. Then, methods to determine the OEB bifurcation in 1-dim, 2-dim, and high-dimension time-delayed LTI systems are derived. Finally, simulation results validate the correctness and effectiveness of the presented method. Since OEB bifurcation occurs with a new oscillation mode emerging, work of this paper is useful to explore the complex phenomena and the stability of time-delayed dynamic systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights: [•] A nonlinear relationship was observed between cord serum Zn and NBNA. [•] An invert U-shape was observed between cord serum Se and NBNA. [•] A threshold Zn of 794.3μg/L, and Se of 100μg/L were observed. [•] Of the 927 infants, 50% had a high level Zn (≥794.3μg/L). [•] The supplementation of Zn during pregnancy should be considered with caution. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The relationship between serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D and quantitative ultrasound bone mineral density in young children remains unclear. In addition, consensus has not been reached with regard to the concentration of 25(OH)D to define vitamin D deficiency for infants and children. In the present study, 203 children 0–6years old were recruited in Shanghai, China. The concentrations of serum 25(OH)D, weight, length, and quantitative ultrasound bone mineral density (BMD) of left mid-tibia were determined. Low BMD was defined as <20th percentile of given age and sex. Low 25(OH)D was defined as 25(OH)D<20ng/ml. The results showed that median serum 25(OH)D level was 19.0ng/ml, and 58.6% had a serum 25(OH)D below 20ng/ml. After adjusting for potential confounders, a linear relationship between serum 25(OH)D and BMD was observed. Serum 25(OH)D was positively associated with BMD (ß=323.3, 95% CI=201.0–445.7, p<0.001), and low 25(OH)D (<20ng/ml) had a high risk for low BMD (OR=5.5, 95% CI=2.5–12). In addition, there is a nonlinear relationship between 25(OH)D and low BMD, and a threshold for 25(OH)D of 20ng/ml existed for low BMD. The prevalence of low BMD was 47.1% in the group of 25(OH)D<20ng/ml, much higher than 16.7% in the group of 25(OH)D≥20ng/ml (p<0.05). The results suggested that quantitative ultrasound BMD could be an indicator for vitamin D status in young children, and also provided further evidence to define vitamin D deficiency for infants and children. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Background: The effects of low-level prenatal manganese (Mn) exposure on neonatal growth remain unclear. The level of fetal Mn that may be considered “safe” has never been examined. Methods: A multicenter study including 1377 mother-infant pairs was conducted from 2008 through 2009 in Shanghai. Mn concentrations were determined for both the cord and maternal serum, as well as neonatal birth weight and birth length. The ponderal index (PI) was calculated as (birth weight g/birth length cm3)×100, and a ponderal index ≥3.17 was defined as a high ponderal index (HPI). Results: The median serum Mn concentration was 4.0μg/L in the cord blood, and was 2.8μg/L in maternal blood. Of 1377 infants, 135 (9.8%) had a HPI. After adjusting for potential confounders, cord serum Mn was not associated with birth weight. However, there was a linear relationship between the cord serum Mn and the birth length (adjusted ß=−0.5, 95% CI=−0.7 to −0.2, p<0.0001). Additionally, a nonlinear relationship was observed between the cord serum Mn and the ponderal index, and between the cord serum Mn and HPI. The ponderal index and the prevalence of HPI increased with Mn levels above 5.0μg/L (Log Mn ≥0.7). A high level of Mn in the cord (≥5.0μg/L) was associated with a higher ponderal index (adjusted ß=0.2, 95% CI=0.1 to 0.2, p<0.001) and a high risk of HPI (adjusted OR=3.3, 95% CI=1.8–6.0, p<0.001). Conclusions: Higher prenatal Mn exposure, even at a low level, is associated with a higher prevalence of HPI in a nonlinear pattern. Cord serum Mn levels less than 5.0μg/L may be considered safe with respect to neonatal ponderal index assessment. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Previous research has consistently shown that the left parietal cortex is critical for numerical processing, but the role of the right parietal lobe has been much less clear. This study used the intraoperative cortical electrical stimulation approach to investigate neural dissociation in the right parietal cortex for subtraction and multiplication. Results showed that multiplication (as well as picture naming) was not affected by the cortical electrical stimulation on all the targeted sites of the right parietal cortex as well as those of the right temporal cortex. In contrast, stimulation at three right parietal sites (two sites in the right inferior parietal lobule and one in the right angular gyrus) impaired performance on simple subtraction problems. This study provided the first evidence from an intraoperative cortical electrical stimulation study to show the dissociation of arithmetic operations in the right parietal cortex. This dissociation between subtraction and multiplication suggests that the right parietal cortex plays a more significant role in quantity processing (subtraction) than in verbal processing (multiplication) in numerical processing. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

• A P2P trading strategy is proposed for the energy balance service provider (EBSP). • The EBSP market power and market elasticity are considered in optimized pricing. • The EBSP could enhance the energy resource allocation ability of the P2P market. • The EBSP could obtain profit without harming the overall benefit of the microgrid. The peer-to-peer (P2P) energy trading technology can effectively promote the mutual exchange and complementation of energy among diversified prosumers in the community microgrid. To further improve the energy resource allocation performance of the P2P energy trading, an energy balance service provider (EBSP) can be involved in the market. EBSP is an independent commercial entity configured with high-capacity energy storage systems (ESS) or auxiliary power sources, participating in the P2P market for profit. The energy shifting ability of EBSP can further improve the overall benefit of the microgrid. However, the scale effect endows the EBSP with comparatively strong market power, which may impose influence on the equilibrium of the P2P market. From the perspective of EBSP, the P2P market can be regarded as a market with elasticity. In the existing researches on optimized pricing and trading strategies of the P2P market, such a characteristic was not fully considered, which may have negative impacts on the economic profit of the EBSP and the overall benefit of the microgrid. Therefore, a P2P energy trading strategy for EBSP considering market elasticity is proposed in this paper. A market equilibrium model for the community microgrid with EBSP is first established, which reflects the elasticity of the market. Then, an optimized pricing model and trading strategy are established and solved to maximize the EBSP's profit. Numerical results show that the proposed method can improve the profit of EBSP, meanwhile reducing the energy dispatching cost of prosumers, achieving peak load shifting and renewable energy self-consumption of the community microgrid. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: A series of insoluble cesium partly substituted Wells–Dawson type heteropolyacids, Cs x H6−x P2W18O62 (x =1.5–6.0), were synthesized and characterized using the techniques including UV–vis/DRS, FT-IR, XRD, XPS, and N2 porosimetry. As the unique and reusable solid acid catalysts, Cs x H6−x P2W18O62 salts were applied to produce diphenolic acid by the condensation reaction of phenol with bio-platform molecule, levulinic acid. For comparison, cesium partly substituted Keggin type heteropolyacids (Cs x H3−x PW12O40, x =1.0–3.0), HCl, HZSM-5, and MCM-49 were also tested. Influences on the catalytic activity and selectivity were considered for factors including solvent, molar ratio of phenol to levulinic acid, amount of catalyst, reaction temperature, stirring speed, and reaction time. The experimental results demonstrated that both Cs1.5H4.5P2W18O62 and Cs2.5H0.5PW12O40 exhibited excellent catalytic performance under solvent-free conditions. Furthermore, both selectivity and activity of Cs1.5H4.5P2W18O62 were higher than those of Cs2.5H0.5PW12O40. Reasons for the different catalytic behaviors between two types of cesium partly substituted heteropolyacids were investigated. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Periodic mesoporous composite catalysts, [(n-C4H9)4N]4[γ-SiW10O34(H2O)2]/SBA-15 (TBA-1*/SBA-15, where TBA-1*=[(n-C4H9)4N]4[γ-SiW10O34(H2O)2]), with TBA-1* loadings of 4.3–14.8% were prepared by simultaneous hydrolysis and co-condensation of the tetraethoxysilane (TEOS) in the presence of divacant Keggin-type polyoxometalate and triblock copolymer surfactant (P123) followed by hydrothermal treatment process. Structure integrity of the Keggin unit in as-prepared composites was studied by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), Raman scattering spectra, and 29Si magic-angle spinning (MAS) NMR. Periodic mesoporous structure of the composites was evaluated by low-angle X-ray powder diffraction (LXRD) patterns, nitrogen porosimetry, and transmission electron microscope (TEM) measurements. As-prepared TBA-1*/SBA-15 was used as an heterogeneous oxidation catalyst for the styrene epoxidation reaction to synthesize styrene oxide in the presence of dilute H2O2 (30%), and influences of solvent, molar ratio of styrene to H2O2, TBA-1* loading on the styrene conversion, styrene oxide yield and selectivity were considered. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Nanocomposite photocatalysts, cesium hydrogen salts of 12-tungstophosphoric acid coupled with anatase TiO2 (Cs x H3−x PW12O40/TiO2, x =0.5, 1.0, 1.5, 2.0, 2.5, and 3.0, respectively), were prepared via one-step sol–gel method followed by hydrothermal treatment at 200°C with a heating ramp of 2°C/min. Several characterization techniques, UV–vis diffuse reflectance spectroscopy (UV–vis/DRS), inductively coupled plasma atomic emission spectroscopy (ICP-AES), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), X-ray diffraction (XRD) patterns, Raman scattering spectroscopy, field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM), and N2 adsorption/desorption analysis, were combined to confirm the structure integrity of the Keggin units in the composites and investigate the phase structure and optical absorption properties, morphology, and surface textural properties of the composites. The photocatalytic activities of Cs x H3−x PW12O40/TiO2 were evaluated by the degradation of three model organic molecules including 4-nitrophenol (4-NP), methyl orange (MO), and rhodamine B (RB) under UV-light irradiation. For comparison, the photocatalytic activities of the parent Cs x H3−x PW12O40 and Degussa P25 were studied under the same conditions. The results showed that as-prepared nanocomposite photocatalysts were substantially more effective than the starting Cs x H3−x PW12O40 and Degussa P25. The high photoactivities of as-prepared nanocomposites could be attributed to the higher surface acidity, mesoporosity, and the synergistic effect existed between the Cs x H3−x PW12O40 and the TiO2 matrix. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: With the rapid development of phase measurement unit and wide area measurement system (PMU/WAMS), power system coordinated stability control has been paid more and more attention. Since there is obvious time delay in WAMS measurement, it is important to properly evaluate the impact of time delays on power system stability analysis and controller design. In this paper, influence of time delay on power system small signal stability region is deeply investigated. Small signal stability of differential algebraic equation with time delay is first reviewed as the necessary theoretical background. Then an optimal-based algorithm is given to trace boundaries of the small signal stability region with considering the time delay. Finally, two simple systems are employed to do some verification studies. It is found that time delay has significant influence to the boundary of the small signal stability region, especially when the time lag is large. This paper is helpful to properly consider the effect of time delay in power system controller design and small signal stability studies. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Math anxiety is a widespread problem for children and adolescents worldwide. However, the psychological trait of math anxiety is poorly understood. The present study aimed to examine the psychological construct of math anxiety among social‐emotional attitudes. A total of 28,726 students, including 17,378 fourth graders and 11,348 eighth graders, were selected from the Qingdao Basic Education Quality Assessment database using multi‐stage cluster random sampling. There were 10 questionnaires assessing social‐emotional attitudes in the database. Pearson's correlation analyses were performed to examine the intercorrelations between social‐emotional attitudes and mathematical performance. Exploratory factor analysis (EFA) was conducted to examine the psychological structure of these 10 social‐emotional attitudes. After controlling for other social‐emotional attitudes, math anxiety had a weak but significant correlation to mathematical performance in most subtests across grades. Among three‐factor, four‐factor, and five‐factor EFA models, math anxiety was an independent factor that was separate from other social‐emotional attitudes across six parallel subtests in grades four and eight. Math anxiety is a stable and independent psychological construct that is separate from other social‐emotional attitudes. It suggests that math anxiety should be considered as a distinct anxiety disorder specific to mathematical learning in subsequent versions of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• A transmission system resilience assessment approach is proposed for ice disasters. • Quantify resilience indices are defined from system and component perspectives. • A full-time scale resilience enhancement framework against ice disasters is proposed. A full-time scale resilience enhancement framework is proposed for power transmission system to improve its resistance against ice disasters. First, system resilience indices are developed to quantify the impacts of ice disasters on the transmission system. Next, the system resilience indices are broken down into each component, so as to locate the weak links of the system under ice disasters. On this basis, a full-time scale resilience enhancement framework is proposed involving pre-failure, during disaster and post-failure period of the ice disaster. In the pre-failure period, prevention strategies can be applied to avoid severe losses. In the during disaster period, deicing sequence can be optimal determined to delay the outage. In the post-failure period, maintenance measures of failed components can be optimized to recover the power supply as effective as possible. Case studies on the IEEE RTS-79 test system have been used to validate the effectiveness and practicality of the proposed approach. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Six new species, Leucoagaricus albosquamosus, Leucoagaricus atroviridis, Leucoagaricus aurantioruber, Leucoagaricus candidus, Leucoagaricus centricastaneus and Leucoagaricus virens, collected from northeastern China are described based on morphological characters and molecular evidence. Illustrations of fresh basidiomata and line drawings of key anatomical characters are provided. A phylogenetic tree inferred from internal transcribed spacer (ITS) region and large subunit ribosomal RNA gene (LSU) sequences shows that three of the new taxa are nested within the section Leucoagaricus and two of the new taxa are in the subgenus Sericeomyces, whereas the other new taxus is clustered with Leucoagaricus viriditinctus and Leucoagaricus irinellus, forming a clade that does not fit in any known section. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• A distributed Peer-to-Peer (P2P) energy transaction method is proposed. • A bi-level optimal transaction model is proposed for autonomous prosumers. • A real-time double auction market with continuous bidding is established. • The proposed method is effective and achieved privacy preservation and robustness. As massive integration of Distributed Energy Resources (DERs), the role of end-users in the Urban Community Microgrid System (UCMS) has transformed from traditional consumers into prosumers with capabilities of both energy production and consumption. The exchange of energy between autonomous microgrid prosumers can be achieved with the introduction of Peer-to-Peer (P2P) energy transaction, promoting the efficient allocation of energy in the UCMS. However, the existing centralized P2P energy transaction approaches require microgrid transaction brokers to obtain prosumers' private data, including energy resource configuration, operation status, and energy production/consumption schedule. With the enhancement of prosumers' awareness of privacy protection, it will be increasingly more difficult for the brokers to obtain such private data in practical application scenarios, resulting in obstacles on the implementation of such centralized approach. Thus, a novel distributed P2P energy transaction method based on the double auction market is proposed in this paper. Prosumers first generate the information of energy supply and demand autonomously utilizing distributed energy management model, then set the price targeting profit maximization, and finally initiate P2P energy transaction mutually in the double auction energy market. Compared with the existing centralized approaches, the method proposed in this paper can achieve the coordination and complementarity of energy in the UCMS, promoting economic benefit, energy self-sufficiency, and renewable energy self-consumption without sacrificing privacy preservation and robustness. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Circadian rhythm (24-hour period of physiological and behavioral changes) is the basis of the overall health, including mood and health. This study aimed to explore the influence of circadian rhythm and sleep schedules on depressive symptoms in Chinese adolescents. In this cross-sectional study, 841 middle school students were recruited and divided into two groups (depressive group, DG, n = 210, and control group, n = 631) depending on the total score of The Center for Epidemiological Studies Depression Scale for Children (CES-DC). The circadian rhythm and sleep quality among adolescents were evaluated by using the Biological Rhythms Interview of Assessment in Neuropsychiatry (BRIAN) and Self-rating scale of Sleep (SRSS) scales. Furthermore, correlation analysis and logistic regression analysis were used to determine the effects of demographic factors, sleeping arrangement, sleep quality, and circadian rhythm on depressive symptoms. The DG group’s CES-DC, BRIAN and SRSS scores were significantly higher than the control group’s. Higher scores of BRIAN and SRSS were risk factors for depressive symptoms in Chinese adolescents. Attending a day school and waking up later on weekends may be weak protective factors. Our results suggest that circadian rhythm disturbance, sleep quality, and sleeping arrangement have a significant influence on depressive symptoms among adolescents in China. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The energy storage system is an important part of the energy system. Lithium-ion batteries have been widely used in energy storage systems because of their high energy density and long life. However, the temperature is still the key factor hindering the further development of lithium-ion battery energy storage systems. Both low temperature and high temperature will reduce the life and safety of lithium-ion batteries. In actual operation, the core temperature and the surface temperature of the lithium-ion battery energy storage system may have a large temperature difference. However, only the surface temperature of the lithium-ion battery energy storage system can be easily measured. The estimation method of the core temperature, which can better reflect the operation condition of the lithium-ion battery energy storage system, has not been commercialized. To secure the thermal safety of the energy storage system, a multi-step ahead thermal warning network for the energy storage system based on the core temperature detection is developed in this paper. The thermal warning network utilizes the measurement difference and an integrated long and short-term memory network to process the input time series. This thermal early warning network takes the core temperature of the energy storage system as the judgment criterion of early warning and can provide a warning signal in multi-step in advance. This detection network can use real-time measurement to predict whether the core temperature of the lithium-ion battery energy storage system will reach a critical value in the following time window. And the output of the established warning network model directly determines whether or not an early emergency signal should be sent out. In the end, the accuracy and effectiveness of the model are verified by numerous testing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article Effective Removal of Tetracycline by Using Bio-Templated Synthesis of TiO2/Fe3O4 Heterojunctions as a UV-Fenton Catalyst, written by Xiaodan Yu, Xinchen Lin, Wei Feng, Weiguang Li, was originally published electronically on the publisher's internet portal (currently SpringerLink) on 11 September 2018 with open access. With the author(s)' decision to step back from Open Choice, the copyright of the article changed on 19 September 2018 to © Springer Science+Business Media, LLC, part of Springer Nature 2018 and the article is forthwith distributed under the terms of copyright. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Trust plays a central role in team collaboration, especially in multinational virtual teams. However, our understanding of how different types of trust interact to influence group work efficiency in this context is still limited. This study investigates the development of two types of trust and group efficiency over time in the multinational virtual team context. Three analysis phases were conducted in this research: phase 1 included a qualitative analysis of an online interview with 120 respondents in multinational virtual team collaborations over 5 weeks, phase 2 comprised a general analysis of the trust and group efficiency development with the same respondents, and phase 3 included a quantitative analysis of the interaction effects of trust on group efficiency. The results provide insights into the antecedents of group efficiency and reveal the trend of trust and group efficiency development over time. The authors also investigate trust and group efficiency from the deconstructed and decomposed perspectives. This study contributes to current research by providing evidence on the development of trust and group efficiency and by investigating the interaction effects of trust in the multinational virtual team collaboration context. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Deregulation of SOX9 in esophageal cancer has been reported. However, the regulatory mechanisms underlying SOX9 during esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) progression remain poorly understood. Here, we independently confirmed the increased SOX9 expression in two ESCC cohorts and its correlation with poor prognosis. We demonstrated that SOX9 was required for maintaining self-renewal, motility, and chemoresistance in vitro and that ectopic expression of SOX9 promoted tumorigenicity in vivo. Screening for potential SOX9-regulated miRNAs revealed that target genes of differentially expressed miRNAs were enriched in the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway and identified the downregulated miR-203a as a candidate. Mechanistically, SOX9 activation caused repression of miR-203a transcription by binding to miR-203a promoter, thus preventing the miR-203a-mediated inhibition of multiple PI3K/AKT/mTOR components, including PIK3CA, AKT2, and RPS6KB1. The association between SOX9 expression and PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling was further validated in clinical samples. Moreover, rapamycin treatment attenuated the SOX9-mediated malignant phenotypes and potentiated cisplatin-mediated inhibition of tumor growth. Together, these findings uncover a novel activation of the PI3K/AKT pathway by the SOX9/miR-203a axis and define a subgroup of patients who may benefit from targeted therapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • AMPs G 3 and C 8 G 2 at subinhibitory concentrations significant inhibit of quorum sensing (QS)-regulated virulence factors. • G 3 and C 8 G 2 have a remarkable ability to suppress biofilm formation and biofilm elimination. • G 3 and C 8 G 2 can suppress bacterial pathogenicity via binding to LasR and influencing the bacterial QS system. The broad-spectrum antimicrobial ability of de novo designed amphiphilic antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) G(IIKK) 3 I-NH 2 (G 3) and C 8 -G(IIKK) 2 I-NH 2 (C 8 G 2) have been demonstrated. Nonetheless, their potential as anti-quorum-sensing (anti-QS) agents, particularly against the opportunistic pathogen Pseudomonas aeruginosa at subinhibitory concentrations, has received limited attention. In this study, we proved that treating P. aeruginosa PAO1 with both AMPs at subinhibitory concentrations led to significant inhibition of QS-regulated virulence factors, including pyocyanin, elastase, proteases, and bacterial motility. Additionally, the AMPs exhibited remarkable capabilities in suppressing biofilm formation and their elimination rate of mature biofilm exceeded 95%. Moreover, both AMPs substantially downregulated the expression of QS-related genes. CD analysis revealed that both AMPs induced structural alterations in the important QS-related protein LasR in vitro. Molecular docking results indicated that both peptides bind to the hydrophobic groove of the LasR dimer. Notably, upon mutating key binding sites (D5, E11, and F87) to Ala, the binding efficiency of LasR to both peptides significantly decreased. We revealed the potential of antibacterial peptides G 3 and C 8 G 2 at their sub-MIC concentrations as QS inhibitors against P. aeruginosa and elucidated their action mechanism. These findings contribute to our understanding of the therapeutic potential of these peptides in combating P. aeruginosa infections by targeting the QS system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The accumulation of specific metabolic intermediates is known to promote cancer progression. Metabolic abnormalities are hallmarks of cancer cells and contribute to tumor progression. The resultant abnormal oncometabolites cause both metabolic and nonmetabolic dysregulation and have pleiotropic effects on cancer biology, suggesting potential for therapeutic intervention. Targeting oncometabolites could reverse dysfunctional cellular metabolism in tumors. Small molecule metabolite-based metabolomics, as a diagnostic technique, gains insight into therapeutic targets for metastatic disease, providing a methodological basis for better understanding the signaling role of oncometabolites in the modulation of the tumor microenvironment. Metabolic abnormalities are a hallmark of cancer cells and are essential to tumor progression. Oncometabolites have pleiotropic effects on cancer biology and affect a plethora of processes, from oncogenesis and metabolism to therapeutic resistance. Targeting oncometabolites, therefore, could offer promising therapeutic avenues against tumor growth and resistance to treatments. Recent advances in characterizing the metabolic profiles of cancer cells are shedding light on the underlying mechanisms and associated metabolic networks. This review summarizes the diverse detection methods, molecular mechanisms, and therapeutic targets of oncometabolites, which may lead to targeting oncometabolism for cancer therapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Perovskite-like metal oxides (PLMOs), featuring unique structural and optical properties, exhibit great potential in photocatalytic water splitting field. However, the wide bandgap and strong carrier recombination severely suppress their photocatalytic hydrogen production activity. Thus, design and development of novel PLMO photocatalyst with extended photo-response range and enhanced photo-generated charge separation/transport efficiency remains an ongoing challenge. Herein, a series of novel B-site substituted KCuTa 3-x Nb x O 9 solid solution photocatalysts were synthesized via a simple solid-state reaction method. With an increased content of Nb, a distinct red-shifted of the optical absorption edge of KCuTa 3-x Nb x O 9 solid solution was observed, leading to a decreased bandgap (from 2.69 to 1.91 eV), and a positive shift of the conduction band bottom (from −0.54 to −0.49 eV vs RHE). All of the Nb-substituted KCuTa 3 O 9 solid solutions exhibit enhanced separation efficiency of photoinduced charge carriers, which leads to increased hydrogen evolution activity, among which KCuTa 0.75 Nb 2.25 O 9 exhibits the highest hydrogen evolution rate of 2.16 μmol h−1 under the visible light irradiation (λ > 420 nm), which is approximately 7-fold higher than that of the pure KCuTa 3 O 9. This study demonstrates the potential of modulating band structure through constructing solid solutions for efficient perovskite-like metal oxides photocatalysis. [Display omitted] • Novel B-site substituted KCuTa 3-x Nb x O 9 solid solutions were synthesized successfully. • Nb atoms have been successfully incorporated into the lattice of KCuTa 3 O 9. • The extended visible light absorption range has been achieved in KCuTa 3-x Nb x O 9. • KCuTa 0.75 Nb 2.25 O 9 shows an excellent photocatalytic H 2 evolution activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The widespread use of bisphenol A (BPA) in industry has resulted in BPA contamination of water bodies and even endocrine-disrupting effects on organisms and humans through water transmission. Advanced oxidation processes based on sulfate radicals have received increasing attention due to their ability to efficiently degrade endocrine disruptors (including BPA) in water. In this study, powdered iron (Fe(0)) and ferrous sulfate (Fe(II)) were used as activators to activate persulfate (PS) for the degradation of BPA. The effects of the dosage of the activator, the concentration of PS, the concentration of BPA, the initial solution pH, and the reaction temperature on the degradation efficiency of BPA in Fe(II)/PS and Fe(0)/PS systems were investigated, and the kinetics of BPA degradation under different reaction conditions were analyzed. The results showed that the optimal conditions were [Fe(II)] = 0.1 g/L, [PS] = 0.4 mM, [BPA] = 1 mg/L, T = 70 °C and pH = 5.0 for the Fe(II)/PS system and [Fe(0)] = 0.5 g/L, [PS] = 0.5 mM, [BPA] = 1 mg/L, T = 70 °C and pH = 5.0 for the Fe(0)/PS system; both systems were able to achieve equally good degradation of BPA. The degradation of BPA in the Fe(II)/PS system satisfied the pseudo-secondary kinetic equation under varying PS concentration conditions, otherwise the degradation of BPA in both systems conformed to the pseudo-first-order kinetic equation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Maternal vitamin D status has been reported to be associated with childhood allergic diseases. However, this association remains to be fully elucidated. Methods A systematic review and meta-analysis was conducted using prospective cohort studies that examined the association between maternal vitamin D status and childhood allergic diseases including wheeze, eczema and asthma. We searched electronic databases of PubMed, EMBASE, the Cochrane library, the Wanfang (Chinese) database, the VIP (Chinese) database, and Chinese National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI) up to August 2014. Odds ratios and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) from individual studies were synthesized using a fixed effects model. Results Four studies on the association between maternal vitamin D status and childhood asthma (3666 mother-child pairs), four studies on the association between maternal vitamin D status and childhood wheeze (2225 mother-child pairs) and three papers on the association between maternal vitamin D status and childhood eczema (2172 mother-child pairs) met our inclusion criteria. Maternal vitamin D status during pregnancy was associated with childhood eczema (pooled OR=0.904, 95% CI=0.831-0.983). However, the meta-analysis showed no statistical association between maternal vitamin D status and childhood asthma (pooled OR=0.981, 95% CI=0.944-1.019) or childhood wheeze (pooled OR=0.995, 95% CI=0.982-1.009). Conclusions Our meta-analysis found that lower maternal vitamin D during pregnancy was associated with an increased risk of childhood eczema but was not associated with childhood asthma or wheeze. The role of maternal vitamin D as an important protective factor for the development of childhood eczema remains to be elucidated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Integrated community energy systems (ICESs) facilitate stakeholders to collaboratively create profit by planning and operating energy devices, including generation, conversion, and storage systems. However, the coupling and complementarity of multiple energy carriers, along with the comprehensive interaction among independent stakeholders, pose significant challenges in ICES planning and operating. These challenges necessitate balancing overall economic efficiency with individual stakeholder interests. This study investigates the economic interaction between the integrated energy service provider (IESP) and the photovoltaic energy prosumers (EPs) in ICES from a cooperative perspective, focusing on both planning and operating stage. A bilateral planning and operation method for the IESP and the EPs based on Nash bargaining theory is proposed in this paper. The proposed method establishes a cooperative and mutually beneficial relationship between the IESP and EPs, instead of a hierarchical paradigm. This study also presents an analysis of the relationship between the Nash bargaining problem and the social welfare maximization problem, demonstrating that solving the Nash bargaining problem can lead to a social welfare optimum. Additionally, an accelerated privacy-preserving distributed algorithm, in comparison to the central approach, is designed to solve the Nash bargaining problem. Numerical studies based on realistic data reveal that the Nash bargaining-based planning and operation method provides more benefits for both the IESP and EPs, as compared to the non-cooperation game method. • A planning and operation method based on Nash bargaining for ICES is proposed. • The social welfare maximum is achieved through the Nash bargaining solution. • An accelerated ADMM approach is proposed to ensure the stakeholders privacy. • The proposed method increases the profitability of IESP and EPs within the ICES. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Buildings are typically integrated with multiple distributed energy resources (DERs), enabling them to act as building prosumers engaged in both energy production and consumption. Peer-to-peer (P2P) energy trading among building prosumers is crucial to improve their benefits. However, further exploration is required to balance the benefits between building prosumers and the system operator (e.g., the integrated community energy system (ICES) operator) since they are different entities. In this context, this paper proposes a comprehensive network charge and energy sale pricing scheme for the ICES operator on heterogeneous building prosumers with P2P multi-energy trading. The interaction between the ICES operator and building prosumers is modelled as a bi-level optimization problem that belongs to the hierarchical structure, while considering the heterogeneity of thermal insulation performance of buildings. At the upper level, the ICES operator optimizes the electricity/heat network charge prices and electricity/heat sale prices to maximize its revenue. At the lower level, building prosumers with a parallel structure optimize the schedules including P2P multi-energy trading and buildings' heating loads to minimize their costs. Furthermore, to address the bi-level optimization problem with parallel and hierarchical coupling structures, an accelerated asynchronous distributed algorithm based on alternating direction method of multipliers (ADMM) is developed, integrating a warm start strategy and a dual update accelerated iteration strategy for further improving computational efficiency. Finally, case studies demonstrate that the proposed scheme can effectively benefit both the ICES operator and building prosumers in P2P multi-energy trading at the same time. Meanwhile, the feasibility and effectiveness of the proposed algorithm are validated. • An optimal pricing scheme for ICES operator on building prosumers is proposed. • A bi-level optimization is proposed for ICES operator and prosumers with P2P. • An accelerated asynchronous distributed algorithm based on ADMM is developed. • Benefits of ICES operator and prosumers through several scenarios are analyzed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Three species, Calocybe lilacea, C. longisterigma, and C. subochraceus, were newly discovered in Inner Mongolia, Hunan, and Liaoning provinces of China. Calocybe lilacea is mainly characterized by its small-sized basidiocarp, brownish-orange pileus, lilac gray to dull violet stipe, and noncellular epicutis. The main characteristics of C. longisterigma are its light brown to brownish-orange pileus, long sterigmata, and noncellular epicutis. The main morphological features of C. subochraceus are its small-sized basidiocarp, pale-orange pileus, adnexed lamellae, tortuous stipe, and noncellular epicutis. These morphological features confirmed that the three species of Calocybe all belonged to Sect. Carneoviolaceae. Phylogenetic analysis based on a combined dataset (ITS–nrLSU–RPB2) determined that the three species belong to the genus Calocybe and form a distinct lineage. The morphological differences between the three new species and other related species of Calocybe are also discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Constructing an efficient co-catalyst/photocatalyst system for charge separation boosting photocatalytic hydrogen generation is a vital challenge. Herein, highly-dispersed PdS nanoparticles (NPs) acting as an efficient hole co-catalyst has been decorated on the ultrathin In 2 S 3 nanosheets. The strong interactions between PdS and In 2 S 3 via Pd–S–In bonds enable an intimate interface junction. Due to the high capacity of PdS for the hole capture with the assistance of internal electric field, the photogenerated charge carriers are not only separated effectively, the semiconductor photocatalyst In 2 S 3 is also protected from the photo-oxidation. As expected, a remarkable H 2 production rate of 142.27 μmol/h has been achieved for 3PdS/In 2 S 3 nanocomposite, which is 149.8 times higher than that of the pristine In 2 S 3 nanosheets, and 13.3 times superior to the In 2 S 3 decorated with a reductive co-catalyst Pt. This work provides a new insight into the co-catalyst modification engineering for an efficient photocatalytic energy conversion. [Display omitted] • Efficient hole co-catalyst PdS NPs are anchored on the ultrathin In 2 S 3 nanosheets. • Internal electric field expedites holes from In 2 S 3 to PdS via the close interface. • Rapid charge recombination and photo-corrosion of In 2 S 3 are inhibited effectively. • 3PdS/In 2 S 3 composite shows a superior activity for photocatalytic H 2 production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article discusses a research concerning the key technology of micro area visualization applied in oil and gas exploration and development. It highlights the importance of micro area visualization technology for engineers in solving reservoir problems as well as cites some of the technical problems in micro area visualization technology. Key technologies addressed include high precision digital image matching technology and frozen core grinding slice oil-water rock technology.

Abstract: In this paper, we proposed a new Multiple-Instance Learning (MIL) method based on nonparallel classifier (called MI-NSVM). The method is mainly divided into two steps. The first step is to generate a spare hyperplane and estimate the score of each instance in positive bags. For the second step, MI-NSVM seeks the “most positive” instance of each positive bag by the information obtained in the first step, and then generates the second hyperplane. MI-NSVM is a useful extension of twin SVM and has the same advantages as it. All experiments show that our method is superior to the traditional MI-SVM and MI-TSVM in both computation time and classification accuracy. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Recently, a new kind of Lonicera japonica (FLJ) tea well known for its red color, flavor, and taste has become popular in the market. This tea comes from the buds of Lonicera japonica Thunb. var. chinensis (Wats.) Bak. (rFLJ), a wild mutant of the Lonicerae plant. The present study aimed to identify and quantify, for the first time and in detail, the anthocyanin compounds in the buds of rFLJ. Anthocyanins were extracted with methanol-water-formic acid-trifluoroacetic acid (70:27:2:1, v/v/v/v) and quantified as 108.06±4.32mg/100g of fresh weight (cyanidin-3-glucoside equivalent) by using the pH-differential method. Eight different anthocyanins were identified by HPLC-DAD-ESI-MS/MS analysis and were quantitated by HPLC-DAD analysis. The main anthocyanins in the buds of rFLJ were two non-acylated anthocyanins: cyanidin-3,5-diglucoside and cyanidin-3-glucoside. Moreover, orthologous genes in the biosynthesis of anthocyanins were cloned and their structure and transcript levels in the buds of FLJ and rFLJ were further compared. The results revealed a 12-residue insertion (IKPTIEGVLGII) in LjcDFR compared with LjDFR. Furthermore, transcript levels of DFR, LDOX, BZ1 and GT1 were decreased in the buds of FLJ compared with rFLJ, as constitute with the content of cyanidin-3-glucoside. Here, a rapid and effective method to identify and quantify all major anthocyanins in the buds of rFLJ is established. Furthermore, the results of this study may explain which anthocyanin produces the red color of rFJL, an important characteristic that distinguishes it from FLJ. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Galangin, a bioactive compound extracted from Alpinia officinarum Hance (Zingiberaceae), a plant with significant ethnopharmacological importance, has been used for thousands of years as a spice, condiment, and medicinal agent for various conditions, including gastrointestinal disorders. Although there is evidence suggesting its potential to improve gastric ulcers, the molecular mechanisms underlying its anti-ulcer properties are not fully understood. of the Study: This study aimed to investigate the effects of galangin on ethanol-induced acute gastric mucosal injury (AGMI) in mice and elucidate its molecular mechanisms. Sixty BALB/c mice were randomly assigned into two main groups: a normal control group (n = 10) and an ethanol-induced group (n = 50). After establishing the AGMI model in mice using a combination of 40% ethanol and anhydrous ethanol, the ethanol-induced group was further subdivided into five subgroups (n = 10): an omeprazole control group (20 mg/kg), an untreated ethanol group, and three treatment groups receiving high-dose (50 mg/kg) or low-dose (25 mg/kg) galangin or capsazepine (CPZ, 2 mg/kg). The protective effects of galangin were evaluated through mucosal injury indices, hematoxylin and eosin staining, and quantification of inflammatory markers (IL-1β, IL-6, IL-8, and TNF-α). Oxidative stress levels and matrix metalloproteinase activity were measured using specific assay kits. Molecular docking was conducted to assess the binding affinity of galangin to key proteins within the transient receptor potential vanilloid 1 (TRPV1) pathway. Real-time fluorescence quantitative PCR (qPCR) was used to determine mRNA expression levels of TRPV1, calmodulin (CaM), substance P (SP), and CGRP in gastric tissues. Protein expression levels of TRPV1, nerve growth factor (NGF), tropomyosin receptor kinase A (TRKA), transforming growth factor beta (TGF-β), cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2), and nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) were assessed through Western blot analysis. In cellular experiments, Culture of Human Gastric Epithelial Cells (GES-1) were treated with various concentrations of galangin after 7% ethanol induction. Cell proliferation, apoptosis, and migration were evaluated using Hoechst 33258 staining and transwell migration assays. TRPV1 protein expression was detected using immunofluorescence, and the expression levels of Bcl-2, BCL2-Associated X (BAX), and Caspase-3 were quantified by qPCR. Additionally, specific probe kits were used to measure intracellular calcium ions (Ca2+) and mitochondrial membrane potential. The findings indicate that galangin significantly improved mucosal pathology by reducing ulcer indices and inflammatory levels, while enhancing superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity and decreasing malondialdehyde (MDA) concentration. Galangin also reduced matrix metalloproteinase-2 (MMP-2), m metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9) levels, promoting mucosal repair. At the cellular level, galangin decreased intracellular calcium ion concentration and mitigated the decline in mitochondrial membrane potential, enhance the restoration of mucosal cells, increased migration and proliferation, and reduced apoptosis. Molecularly, galangin demonstrated favorable binding to TRPV1, NGF, TRKA, TGF-β, COX-2, and NF-κB, and reversed the elevated expression of these proteins. Additionally, galangin downregulated the mRNA expression of TRPV1, CaM, SP, CGRP, BAX, and Caspase-3 in gastric tissues/cells, while upregulating Bcl-2 mRNA expression. Galangin mitigates AGMI by inhibiting the overactivation of the TRPV1 pathway, thereby blocking aberrant signal transduction. This study suggests that galangin has therapeutic potential against ethanol-induced AGMI and may be a viable alternative for the treatment of alcohol-induced gastric mucosal injuries. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• A unit-level joint operation framework of wind farm and CHP plant is proposed, which is more applicable compared with the system-level method to the cooperation of CHP plant and wind farm. • CHP plant, heating network and heat exchanger is introduced in the modeling of heating system to incorporate the CHP plant into the joint system operation, and the energy flexibilities of heating networks are modeled based on a quasi-dynamic model of thermal energy transport. • A scenario-based optimal dispatch method of the joint system is established based on an ARMA sampling model, which improves the operational flexibility and the potential of balancing wind power uncertainty of CHP plant, thus improving the total revenue of joint system. A scenario-based optimal dispatch is proposed for joint operation of a wind farm and combined heat and power (CHP) plant considering energy flexibilities in heating networks. First, the heating network is modelled, and energy flexibility is used to improve the flexible adjustment ability of the CHP plant. Then, considering the uncertainty of wind power, a scenario-based optimal dispatch model for wind farms and CHP plants with heating networks is proposed to maximize the revenue expectation of the joint operation. The simulation results show that the joint operation revenue is improved compared with that of independent operation. Considering the energy flexibilities in heating networks, the CHP plant in the joint system can compensate for the fluctuations in wind power output, promote the integration and consumption of wind power, and reduce the penalty cost caused by the uncertainty of wind power. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]