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Severe mental illness (SMI) has long been a focus of public health attention. Due to stigma, people with SMI face strong social discrimination and are one of the most vulnerable groups in a society. Building a sound social welfare system is of paramount importance to address their vulnerabilities. China has accumulated a large body of policy practice, but there is still a lack of critical review in this area. Drawing on the framework developed by WHO, this article provides a comprehensive review of China's policy progress in addressing the health care, rehabilitation, life support and social participation needs of people with SMI, as well as the collaborative governance system and detailed policy arrangements. This review raises a number of policy‐related issues for further consideration, such as strengthening community mental health services, improving life support for people with SMI, and reconciling the values of public safety and patients' rights. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The heterogeneity of carbonate reservoirs, influenced by sedimentary environments and diagenetic processes, leads to the development of microfractures and vugs, posing significant challenges for reservoir evaluation. This study investigates the complex pore structures of Y-type carbonate reservoirs in the Middle East. We assess the performance of classical permeability prediction models and introduce a novel approach that incorporates a bimodal pore size distribution (PSD) derived from High-Pressure Mercury Injection (HPMI) measurements, accounting for gas slip flow effects. Our results, based on CT imaging, categorize carbonate rock core samples into matrix, fracture, and vuggy. Matrix-type carbonate rocks show a strong correlation between permeability and pore-throat radius, while fracture-type carbonate rock cores exhibit weaker correlations. Traditional model permeability predictions without core categorization yield suboptimal results, with the Winland model achieving the highest R2 of only 0.365. However, after categorization, classical model permeability predictions significantly improve in accuracy. Notably, the introduced bimodal Gaussian PSD model outperforms traditional permeability prediction models, with an R2 of 0.8138, providing a valuable tool for predicting the permeability of carbonate rocks characterized by complex pore structures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Antibiotic concentrations in wastewater generated by industries such as sewage treatment plants, medical pharmaceuticals and aquaculture has exceeded acceptable levels. It is particularly urgent to seek a method that can efficiently remove antibiotics. The removal potential of three quinolone antibiotics, pefloxacin (PF), levofloxacin (LF) and norfloxacin (NF), in simulated contaminated water was studied using a biochar-based nanomaterial prepared by a hydrothermal method. The data were fitted with adsorption kinetics, isotherms and thermodynamics. The results showed that ZnS–MoS2 activated biochar (ZMMBC) acheived maximum adsorption amounts of 199.42, 125.00 and 142.58 mg g–1 for PF, LF and NF, suggesting that ZMMBC has excellent adsorption performance. The adsorption mechanisms of PF, LF and NF molecules on ZMMBC include complexation, pore filling, π–π interactions, electrostatic interactions and hydrogen bond interactions. MoS2 and ZnS modified biochar (ZMMBC) was synthesised by hydrothermal method. The removal potential of pefloxacin (PF), levofloxacin (LF) and norfloxacin (NF) was studied. It only takes 90 min for ZMMBC to reach its maximum adsorption capacity. The adsorption behaviour mainly includes complexation, pore filling, π–π interactions, electrostatic interactions and hydrogen bonding interactions. (Image credit: Y.-J. Gan.) [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sulfonyl chlorides are a class of cheap and readily available basic chemicals, which have routinely served as electrophilic reagents in their chemical transformations. Herein, we disclose a novel PPh3‐mediated nucleophilic sulfonation method of sulfonyl chlorides with arynes. Different from the classical P(III)‐mediated reductive deoxygenation reaction of sulfonyl chlorides, the valence state of the sulfur atom has not been changed. This protocol exhibits broad functional group tolerance and provides a direct approach to a variety of aryl and alkyl sulfones. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: People with schizophrenia often delay treatment. This issue is not fully understood, particularly in low-and middle-income countries. This study aimed to elucidate the prevalence, risk factors and multiple outcomes of treatment delay in schizophrenia in a Chinese metropolis. Methods: A two-stage whole cluster sampling survey was conducted in Beijing, China in 2020. A total of 1,619 patients with schizophrenia were included. Heterogeneity between groups and the changing trend of treatment delay were presented. Regression modelling methods were used to examine both the risk factors for treatment delay and related outcomes at individual and family levels. Results: The median treatment delay for schizophrenia was 89 days (about 13 weeks). 49.35% surveyed patients delayed treatment for more than three months. Early age of onset, low level of education, living in well developed districts were important risk factors. Treatment delay in schizophrenia was significantly associated with patients’ poor medication adherence, comorbidity status and poor social functioning. It also increased the negative impact of the illness on families. Conclusions: This study accumulated evidence of treatment delay in schizophrenia in China. It occurs even in the metropolis where mental health resources are relatively adequate. Further targeted interventions to raise public awareness should be crucial to reduce treatment delay. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A metal-free method for the dual activation of aryl phosphinate has been developed; the P–H and P–O bonds are sequentially activated by the Tf2O/DMSO system. Without the requirement of metals and unstable P-reagents, this one-pot procedure provides a convenient and practical access to a variety of aryl phosphonates. A mechanism involving twice generation of electrophilic P-species and two SN-processes is proposed on the basis of the control experiments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents a generalized mathematical model that comprehensively characterizes the flow behavior of matrix nanopores and natural/hydraulic fractures in tight oil reservoirs during spontaneous imbibition. The model incorporates various influencing factors such as fracture distribution, displacement pressure gradient, gravity, and buoyancy. The complex pore structure of tight oil reservoirs, including nanopores and natural microfractures, presents a challenge in developing an accurate mathematical model for predicting flow behavior. The proposed model considers the fractal characteristics of pores and fractures and accounts for many factors to predict cumulative oil production, oil flow rate, and oil recovery factor during imbibition flow. Experimental data on fractured tight sandstones are used to validate the model, and sensitivity analyses are conducted to assess the influence of pore structure parameters, fracture distribution, and fluid properties on imbibition behavior. The findings reveal that gravity and buoyancy effects become more prominent under low interfacial tension. Fracture distribution significantly impacts imbibition behavior, with critical values for fractal dimensions, fracture numbers, and apertures determining the extent of their influence. Higher contact angles and increased oil phase viscosity result in reduced imbibition efficiency. In pressure-driven displacement processes, larger fractures preferentially produce crude oil, and the higher pressure gradients result in shorter imbibition processes. The proposed model offers insights into the imbibition oil recovery mechanism in tight oil reservoirs and can contribute to improved recovery factors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A novel colorimetric-fluorescent dual-mode sensing sensor JT5 was successfully synthesized, and exhibited red fluorescence enhancement effect and red colorimetric sensing, and excellent applicability through solid-state fluorescent strips and biological imaging experiments on zebrafish to highly sensitive monitoring Sn4+ ions. [Display omitted] • A novel and effective rhdamine B-based sensor JT5 successful development. • JT5 can serve as a fluorescent and colorimetric on-off sensor for Sn4+. • The sensor JT5 was successfully studied using fluorescence and colorimetric of the test strips. • Biomaging experiments for the sensor JT5 were conducted on zebrafish using a confocal microscope. A novel colorimetric-fluorescent dual-mode chemosensor (JT5) based on rhodamine B has been produced for monitoring Sn4+ in the DMSO/H 2 O (4:1, v/v) medium. It has high sensitivity, a low detection limit, a short response time (1 s) and high stability, and can still be maintained after two weeks with the red dual fluorescence/ colorimetric response. Enhancement of red fluorescence (591 nm) and red colorimetric (567 nm) response of JT5 by Sn4+ addition. The electrostatic potential of the sensor JT5 molecule was simulated to speculate on the sensing mechanism, and the IR, mass spectrometry and 1H NMR titration were utilized to further demonstrate that JT5 was coordinated to Sn4+ with a 1:1 type, the rhodamine spironolactam ring of JT5 opens up to form a penta-membered ring with Sn4+, meanwhile, its system may have chelation enhanced fluorescence (CHEF) effect. In addition, theoretical calculations were carried out to give the energy gaps of JT5 and [ JT5 + Sn4+] as well as to simulate the electronic properties of the maximal absorption peaks. Notably, the sensor JT5 was successfully applied to monitoring Sn4+ in zebrafish, and the JT5 -loaded filter paper provided a solid-state platform for detecting Sn4+ by both naked eye and fluorescent methods. In summary, this work contributes to monitoring Sn4+ in organisms and solid-state materials and promotes understanding of Sn4+ functions in biological systems, environments, and solid-state materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Epilepsy, action tremor, ataxia, hyperprolinemia Myoclonus-Ataxia Syndrome Associated with Hyperprolinemia Type I Keywords: epilepsy; action tremor; ataxia; hyperprolinemia EN epilepsy action tremor ataxia hyperprolinemia S38 S40 3 08/28/23 20230802 NES 230802 Hyperprolinemiatype I (HPIOMIM# 239500) is a rare autosomal recessive metabolic disorder of proline metabolism caused by deficiency in enzyme proline oxidase, also known as proline dehydrogenase (PRODH) encoded by I PRODH i gene located on the chromosome 22 (22q11.21). [Extracted from the article]

Sclerosing epithelioid fibrosarcoma (SEF) is a rare soft tissue tumour subtype, and those arising from the spine are even rarer. To the best of our knowledge, only 3 cases with the spine as the primary site of SEF have been previously reported. We report a 61-year-old female who presented with backache and bilateral leg numbness for 3 years, worsened over the last three months. Pathological fracture of the L1 vertebra was detected, and soft tissue density in the spinal canal and left vertebral body margin was also seen on contrast CT. She underwent tumour resection via a posterior approach, decompression, bone grafting, fusion, and internal fixation. Histology confirmed the diagnosis of SEF. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Integrating artificial enzymes onto nanostructures target‐ and site‐specifically is still a challenge. Here we show that target miRNAs trigger the formation of DNAzyme site‐specifically at the tip of filamentous phage for detecting miRNA biomarkers. Through an antibody‐modified oligonucleotide, the tip of the phage with magnetic nanoparticles on the sidewall captures a target miRNA, inducing the formation of DNAzyme that extends from the phage tip through a hybridization chain reaction. After magnetic separation, the resultant complex catalyzes a colorimetric reaction with the signal correlated to target concentrations, leading to the quantification of miRNAs with a detection limit of 5.0 fM, about 103 folds lower than the phage‐free approach. Our approach can differentiate miRNA mutants and quantify miRNA in human plasma, tumor cells, and tissues with high sensitivity, suggesting that the target‐triggered integration of enzymes and phages holds promise for searching for new catalysts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Integrating artificial enzymes onto nanostructures target‐ and site‐specifically is still a challenge. Here we show that target miRNAs trigger the formation of DNAzyme site‐specifically at the tip of filamentous phage for detecting miRNA biomarkers. Through an antibody‐modified oligonucleotide, the tip of the phage with magnetic nanoparticles on the sidewall captures a target miRNA, inducing the formation of DNAzyme that extends from the phage tip through a hybridization chain reaction. After magnetic separation, the resultant complex catalyzes a colorimetric reaction with the signal correlated to target concentrations, leading to the quantification of miRNAs with a detection limit of 5.0 fM, about 103 folds lower than the phage‐free approach. Our approach can differentiate miRNA mutants and quantify miRNA in human plasma, tumor cells, and tissues with high sensitivity, suggesting that the target‐triggered integration of enzymes and phages holds promise for searching for new catalysts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Although poverty associated with severe mental illness (SMI) has been documented in many studies, little long-term evidence of social drift exists. This study aimed to unravel the poverty transitions among persons with SMI in a fast change community in China. Methods: Two mental health surveys, using the International Classification of Disease (ICD-10), were conducted in the same six townships of Xinjin county, Chengdu, China in 1994 and 2015. A total of 308 persons with SMI identified in 1994 were followed up in 2015. The profiles of poverty transitions were identified and regression modelling methods were applied to determine the predictive factors of poverty transitions. Results: The poverty rate of persons with SMI increased from 39.9% to 49.4% in 1994 and 2015. A larger proportion of them had fallen into poverty (27.3%) rather than moved out of it (17.8%). Those persons with SMI who had lost work ability, had physical illness and more severe mental disabilities in 1994, as well as those who had experienced negative changes on these factors were more likely to live in persistent poverty or fall into poverty. Higher education level and medical treatment were major protective factors of falling into poverty. Conclusions: This study shows long-term evidence on the social drift of persons with SMI during the period of rapid social development in China. Further targeted poverty alleviation interventions should be crucial for improving treatment and mental recovery and alleviating poverty related to SMI. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The southwest mountainous region of China has been characterized as one of the worldwide biodiversity hotspots, but mechanisms underlying diversification of organisms in this region are still not clear. We assessed whether fragmented mountainous habitats and Pleistocene climate changes impacted the genetic diversity and diversification patterns of the hoary bamboo rat (Rhizomys pruinosus Blyth), a widely distributed species of rodent in SW China. Genetic diversity analyses were undertaken based on four mitochondrial DNA regions and 12 nuclear microsatellite loci (simple sequence repeats), representing 153 individuals from 24 populations across SW China. Moreover, we investigated correlations between genotype and geographical components, and predicted species distribution models for R. pruinosus under the historical and present climate conditions. Both mitochondrial DNA and simple sequence repeat markers revealed substantial genetic diversity and strong differentiation between populations. Phylogeographical analyses revealed two phylogenetic clades that were consistent with their geographical distributions (eastern and western clades). We inferred that the divergence of R. pruinosus was largely driven by Quaternary climatic oscillations and regionally fragmented mountainous habitats with environmental and geographical heterogeneity. Overall, our study revealed diversification patterns of R. pruinosus—patterns that may be shared by small alpine vertebrates in SW China. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chinese cordyceps is a well-known fungus-larva complex with medicinal and economic importance. At present the occurrence of Chinese cordyceps has not been fully illuminated. In this study, the microbial diversities of fertilized Thitarodes eggs from sites A (high occurrence rates of Chinese cordyceps), B (low occurrence rates), and C (no Chinese cordyceps) were analyzed using 16S rRNA and ITS gene-sequencing technique. The previous sequencing data of soil from the same sites were conjointly analyzed. The results showed that bacterial communities among the eggs were significantly different. The bacterial diversity and evenness were much higher on site A. Wolbachia was overwhelmingly predominant in the eggs of sites B and C, while Spiroplasma showed preference on site A. The fungal between-group differences in the eggs were not as significant as that of bacteria. Purpureocillium in Cordyceps-related families showed preference on site A. Wolbachia, Spiroplasma, and Purpureocillium were inferred to be closely related to Chinese cordyceps occurrence. Intra-kingdom and inter-kingdom network analyses suggest that closer correlations of microbial communities (especially closer fungal positive correlations) in fertilized eggs might promote Chinese cordyceps occurrence. Besides, metabolic pathway analysis showed that in fertilized eggs or soil the number of bacterial metabolic pathways with significant differences in every comparison between two sites was greater than that of fungi. Collectively, this study provides novel information about the occurrence of Chinese cordyceps, contributing to the large-scale artificial cultivation of Chinese cordyceps. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Lack of participation of black and minority ethnic communities (BAME) in registered clinical trials is a concern as data emerging from these studies are used to licence new drugs or other interventions, even though findings made in such selected study populations have limited external validity in the aforesaid ethnic groups. Objective: We used Parkinson's disease (PD), the fastest rising neurodegenerative disorder in the world, as an exemplar condition to test our hypothesis that participants from BAME communities are underrepresented in clinical trials. Methods: A systematic search of clinical trials registered on a Clinicaltrials.gov database which queried for PD with racial distribution data from 2017 to 2021. Results: Out of 266 trials considered, 54 trials were published in peer reviewed journals. Among these, only 23 (42.65%) publications reported data regarding the racial distribution of the participants. Out of these, five studies involved mixed racial participation and two trials included black subjects. Conclusion: We found that inclusion of under-represented BAME groups in recently published clinical trials is low, at only 21.57%, and is not even considered in most studies. Out of the reviewed trials, only 5 (21.75%) studies reported detailed demographic categories with black minorities enrolment. This constitutes a severe under-representation when compared to the proportion of Black or African American in the UK population (3%). Results of this study identified the need for better reporting of racial composition in clinical trials. We strongly recommend that future studies should consider ethnicity and other issues around diversity when designing and implementing the clinical trials, not only in the PD field but also beyond. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Twenty-four-hour treatment options could provide a continuous drug delivery strategy in advanced Parkinson's disease and can ameliorate motor and non-motor complications. Use of levodopa infusion is often limited to 12–16 h/day due to its cost. Adjunctive overnight rotigotine transdermal patch is a continuous drug delivery option successfully used in clinical practice coupled with apomorphine infusion. However, real-life data addressing the tolerability of transdermal dopamine agonist therapy with concomitant use of intrajejunal levodopa infusion in advanced Parkinson's disease are not available. Objective: To evaluate the tolerability and beneficial effects of combined therapy with overnight rotigotine transdermal patch and intrajejunal levodopa infusion over a follow-up period of 12 months in advanced Parkinson's disease. Method: In this retrospective data analysis, data before and after the initiation of the continuous drug delivery combined therapy using overnight rotigotine transdermal patch and intrajejunal levodopa infusion were collected from the ongoing non-motor-international-longitudinal study (NILS) and local clinical practice at King's College Hospital (London, United Kingdom). 12 advanced Parkinson's disease patients on intrajejunal levodopa therapy who were additionally treated with overnight rotigotine transdermal patch (mean dose 5.67 ± 4.19 mg) are included. Tolerability over a 12-month period was assessed. In addition, changes in motor symptoms (SCales for Outcomes in Parkinson's disease, SCOPA-Motor), non-motor symptoms (Non-Motor Symptoms Scale, NMSS) and quality of life (Parkinson's disease Questionnaire-8, PDQ-8) before and 12-month after continuous drug delivery combined therapy initiation are evaluated. Results: Tolerability was 100% irrespective of age, disease duration, stages of disease. (Treatment with overnight rotigotine transdermal patch that was maintained for a minimum of 6 months was considered "tolerated", primary tolerability). In addition, we noted a significant reduction of the NMSS total score (p = 0.009) and the NMSS domain 3 score (mood and apathy domain) (p = 0.028), although the latter did not remain statistically significant after correction for multiple testing (p2 = 0.252) at 12 months. Conclusion: Combination of intrajejunal levodopa infusion with overnight rotigotine transdermal patch is well tolerated and extend the beneficial effects of infusion with excellent tolerability; and also improved aspects of mood and apathy sustained at 12 months in advanced Parkinson's disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The variations in the lake area, water level, and water volume change of the Aral Sea from 1987 to 2018 were analyzed in this study, which is based on the multi-temporal Landsat images and remote sensing water body index (Normalized Difference Water Index, NDWI). Lake shorelines were automatically digitized and visualized using Net Shoreline Movement (NSM) and Linear Regression Rate (LRR) by Digital Shoreline Analysis System (DSAS). The surface area, water level, and water volume change of the North Aral Sea were not changed significantly in 1987-2018. The maximum lake area appeared in March 2015 with 3550.15 km2, the minimum lake area appeared in October 2001with 2830.56 km2. However, since 2010 the South Aral Sea split into the East Aral Sea and the West Aral Sea, the area change has shrunk dramatically. The area of the East Aral Sea decreased by 17852.65 km2 (89.99 %) from March 2011 to September 2018. The area of the West Aral Sea decreased by 2203.62 km2 (35.96 %) from August 2014 to March 2017. The distance of lake shoreline changes and rates of net movement along transects were determined by DSAS. The two largest positive values of NSM were 18715.93 and 12268.67 m, which showed lake shoreline retreat, occurred in the periods of 2010-2018 in the East Aral Sea and 1987-1999 in the South Aral Sea, respectively. The two periods in which the largest negative value of NSM appeared was (1987-1993) and (2001-2010) in the North Aral Sea, and the lake shoreline expanding distance was 145.43 and 545.84 m, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Interface phonon modes that are generated by several atomic layers at the heterointerface play a major role in the interface thermal conductance for nanoscale high-power devices such as nitride-based high-electron-mobility transistors and light-emitting diodes. Here we measure the local phonon spectra across AlN/Si and AlN/Al interfaces using atomically resolved vibrational electron energy-loss spectroscopy in a scanning transmission electron microscope. At the AlN/Si interface, we observe various interface phonon modes, of which the extended and localized modes act as bridges to connect the bulk AlN modes and bulk Si modes and are expected to boost the phonon transport, thus substantially contributing to interface thermal conductance. In comparison, no such phonon bridge is observed at the AlN/Al interface, for which partially extended modes dominate the interface thermal conductivity. This work provides valuable insights into understanding the interfacial thermal transport in nitride semiconductors and useful guidance for thermal management via interface engineering. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bacteriophages, also known as phages, are specific antagonists against bacteria. T7 phage has drawn massive attention in precision medicine owing to its distinctive advantages, such as short replication cycle, ease in displaying peptides and proteins, high stability and cloning efficiency, facile manipulation, and convenient storage. By introducing foreign gene into phage DNA, T7 phage can present foreign peptides or proteins site‐specifically on its capsid, enabling it to become a nanoparticle that can be genetically engineered to screen and display a peptide or protein capable of recognizing a specific target with high affinity. This review critically introduces the biomedical use of T7 phage, ranging from the detection of serological biomarkers and bacterial pathogens, recognition of cells or tissues with high affinity, design of gene vectors or vaccines, to targeted therapy of different challenging diseases (e.g., bacterial infection, cancer, neurodegenerative disease, inflammatory disease, and foot–mouth disease). It also discusses perspectives and challenges in exploring T7 phage, including the understanding of its interactions with human body, assembly into scaffolds for tissue regeneration, integration with genome editing, and theranostic use in clinics. As a genetically modifiable biological nanoparticle, T7 phage holds promise as biomedical imaging probes, therapeutic agents, drug and gene carriers, and detection tools. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bacteriophages, also known as phages, are specific antagonists against bacteria. T7 phage has drawn massive attention in precision medicine owing to its distinctive advantages, such as short replication cycle, ease in displaying peptides and proteins, high stability and cloning efficiency, facile manipulation, and convenient storage. By introducing foreign gene into phage DNA, T7 phage can present foreign peptides or proteins site‐specifically on its capsid, enabling it to become a nanoparticle that can be genetically engineered to screen and display a peptide or protein capable of recognizing a specific target with high affinity. This review critically introduces the biomedical use of T7 phage, ranging from the detection of serological biomarkers and bacterial pathogens, recognition of cells or tissues with high affinity, design of gene vectors or vaccines, to targeted therapy of different challenging diseases (e.g., bacterial infection, cancer, neurodegenerative disease, inflammatory disease, and foot–mouth disease). It also discusses perspectives and challenges in exploring T7 phage, including the understanding of its interactions with human body, assembly into scaffolds for tissue regeneration, integration with genome editing, and theranostic use in clinics. As a genetically modifiable biological nanoparticle, T7 phage holds promise as biomedical imaging probes, therapeutic agents, drug and gene carriers, and detection tools. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bacteriophages, also known as phages, are specific antagonists against bacteria. T7 phage has drawn massive attention in precision medicine owing to its distinctive advantages, such as short replication cycle, ease in displaying peptides and proteins, high stability and cloning efficiency, facile manipulation, and convenient storage. By introducing foreign gene into phage DNA, T7 phage can present foreign peptides or proteins site‐specifically on its capsid, enabling it to become a nanoparticle that can be genetically engineered to screen and display a peptide or protein capable of recognizing a specific target with high affinity. This review critically introduces the biomedical use of T7 phage, ranging from the detection of serological biomarkers and bacterial pathogens, recognition of cells or tissues with high affinity, design of gene vectors or vaccines, to targeted therapy of different challenging diseases (e.g., bacterial infection, cancer, neurodegenerative disease, inflammatory disease, and foot–mouth disease). It also discusses perspectives and challenges in exploring T7 phage, including the understanding of its interactions with human body, assembly into scaffolds for tissue regeneration, integration with genome editing, and theranostic use in clinics. As a genetically modifiable biological nanoparticle, T7 phage holds promise as biomedical imaging probes, therapeutic agents, drug and gene carriers, and detection tools. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Industry is the largest electricity consuming sector in the world. China consumes about 25% of global electricity demand, and 69% of this is used in industries. The high electricity demand in industry is responsible for 45% of CO2, 25% of SO2, 34% of NOx and 14% of PM emissions in China. This study aims to fill the knowledge gap on the potential for electricity savings in China’s industries, thereby providing important implications for the potential of reducing emissions in electricity-intensive industrial subsectors in general. Available studies are reviewed and compared to identify electricity-saving potentials. The findings show that China’s industrial energy system is shifting to higher electricity and relatively lower fossil fuel use due to accelerated end-use electrification. China’s industry can reduce electricity use by 7–24% in 2040, compared to baseline levels, and generate emission reductions of 192–1118 Mt-CO2, 385–2241 kt-SO2, 406–2362 kt-NOx and 92–534 kt-PM2.5. The iron & steel subsector has the largest contribution to the industrial electricity savings, followed by non-ferrous metals, chemicals, cement and pulp & paper. Policies that combine environmental targets, demand-side efficiency and supply-side retrofits in the power sector should be adopted. Given the different performance of policies in terms of energy savings and emission reduction, sector- and region-specific policies would be preferred. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: It is unknown whether and how poverty influences the long-term outcome of persons with severe mental illness (SMI). Aims: To explore the change of poverty status in persons with SMI from 1994 to 2015 and examine the impact of poverty status on patients' outcome in rural China. Method: Two mental health surveys using identical methods and International Classification of Disease (ICD-10) were conducted in 1994 and 2015 in the same six townships of Xinjin County, Chengdu, China. Results: The annual net income per person was 19.8% and 100.2% higher for the general population than for persons with SMI in 1994 and 2015 respectively. Compared with 1994 (48.2%), persons with SMI in 2015 had significantly higher rates of poor family economic status (

There is an immense effort in search for various types of Weyl semimetals, of which the most fundamental phase consists of the minimal number of i.e. two Weyl points, but is hard to engineer in solids. Here we demonstrate how such fundamental Weyl semimetal can be realized in a maneuverable optical Raman lattice, with which the three-dimensional (3D) spin-orbit (SO) coupling is synthesised for ultracold atoms. In addition, a new novel Weyl phase with coexisting Weyl nodal points and nodal ring is also predicted here, and is shown to be protected by nontrivial linking numbers. We further propose feasible techniques to precisely resolve 3D Weyl band topology through 2D equilibrium and dynamical measurements. This work leads to the first realization of the most fundamental Weyl semimetal band and the 3D SO coupling for ultracold quantum gases, which are respectively the significant issues in the condensed matter and ultracold atom physics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: Although dental caries has been widely reported in individuals with sickle cell disease (SCD), there is still controversial in the literature regarding the association between SCD and dental caries. The aim of this systematic review was to investigate whether individuals with SCD have more dental caries than individuals with non-SCD. Methods: PubMed and Embase databases were searched for eligible studies. The parameters of the permanent decayed, missing and filled teeth (DMFT) index and the permanent decayed, missing and filled surface (DMFS) index were considered as outcome measures. The overall meta-analyses of the DMFT and DMFS index and various subgroup analyses (caries components, age, and genotypes) of DMFT index were performed to calculate the weighted mean differences (WMD) between patients with SCD and non-SCD individuals. Results: A total of 9 studies covering 1478 individuals were included in this meta-analysis. The results of overall meta-analyses indicated that the scores of the DMFT and DMFS index were not significantly different between patients with SCD and non-SCD participants. The results of subgroup analyses by caries components, age, and genotypes showed no significant difference in most items. The result of the missing teeth was significantly lower in patients with SCD than in non-SCD individuals (WMD, −0.14; 95% confidence interval [CI], −0.25 to −0.03; P = 0.01). Discussion and Conclusions: The results revealed that compared with non-SCD individuals, patients with SCD did not suffer from worse dental caries. Considering the limitations, further well-designed studies are necessary to reveal the association between SCD and dental caries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Household poverty associated with schizophrenia has been long described. However, the mechanisms by which schizophrenia may have influenced the economic status of a household in rural communities are still unclear. This study aimed to test an integrated model of schizophrenia, social support and caregiving burden on household poverty in a rural community in China. Methods: A mental health survey using identical methods and ICD-10 was conducted in six townships of Xinjin County (population ≥ 15 years old, n = 152,776), Chengdu, China in 2015. Identified persons with schizophrenia (n = 661) and their caregivers completed a joint questionnaire of sociodemographic information, illness conditions, social support and caregiving burden. Descriptive analysis was applied first to give an overview of the dataset. Then, multivariable regression analyses were conducted to examine the associative factors of social support, caregiving burden and household income. Then, structural equation modeling (SEM) was used to estimate the integrated model of schizophrenia, social support, caregiving burden and household income. Results: Households with patient being female, married, able to work and having better social function were better off. Larger household size, higher social support and lower caregiving burden also had salient association with higher household income. The relationship between schizophrenia and household poverty appeared to be mediated by the impacts of schizophrenia on social support and caregiving burden. Conclusion: There was a strong association between schizophrenia and household poverty, in which social support and caregiving burden may had played significant roles on mediating it. More precise poverty alleviation policies and interventions should focus on supporting recovery for persons with schizophrenia, as well as on increasing social support and on reducing family caregiving burden. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper employs the Normalized Difference Water Index (NDWI), Automated Water Extraction Index (AWEI), Modified Normalized Difference Water Index (MNDWI) and Near-Infrared (NIR) threshold methods to extract the boundaries of Hongjiannao Lake, Zasak reservoir and Changjiagou reservoir. The real boundary of the water bodies was obtained by visual interpretation from high-resolution imagery. The Digital Shoreline Analysis System (DSAS) is further used to calculate the net shoreline movement (NSM) between the real lake boundary and the lake boundary extracted by the NDWI, AWEI, MNDWI and NIR threshold methods. We quantitatively evaluated the accuracy of each water body extraction method by NSM, which was competed with kappa coefficient (κ) and edge detection. The results showed that the average of the |NSM| of the NDWI, MNDWI, AWEI and NIR threshold methods are 12.77 m, 16.76 m, 28.65 m and 31.43 m, respectively. The κ is 0.9869, 0.9855, 0.9747 and 0.9736, respectively and the correct extracted (T) ratios for the edge detection are 84.06%, 82.68%, 56.8% and 53.52%, respectively. The mean value of |NSM| for NDWI is the smallest, while κ and T are the highest. It indicates that the accuracy of NDWI is the highest in Hongjiannao lake. The smaller the |NSM| is, the larger κ and the higher T are. This shows that the |NSM| is consistent with the commonly used accuracy verification method such as κ and edge detection. The results of water extraction from the other two reservoirs also support this conclusion. Therefore, the accuracy verification of NSM can reflect the spatial position information and has reliability. It provides a new approach in verifying the accuracy of water body extraction methods. The optimum water extraction index for different study areas is different. The NIR band threshold method and AWEI can accurately extract water boundaries with a small amount of aquatic vegetation. However, NDWI and MNDWI are more suitable for extracting water bodies located in complex terrains. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The quantum thermalization of the Jaynes–Cummings (JC) model in both equilibrium and non‐equilibrium open‐system cases is studied, in which the two subsystems, a two‐level system and a single‐mode bosonic field, are in contact with either two individual heat baths or a common heat bath. It is found that in the individual heat‐bath case, the JC model can only be thermalized when either the two heat baths have the same temperature or the coupling of the JC system to one of the two baths is turned off. In the common heat‐bath case, the JC system can be thermalized irrespective of the bath temperature and the system–bath coupling strengths. The thermal entanglement in this system is also studied. A counterintuitive phenomenon of vanishing thermal entanglement in the JC system is found and proved. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We study the effect of quantum entanglement maintained by virtual excitations in an ultrastrongly-coupled harmonic-oscillator system. Here, the quantum entanglement is caused by the counterrotating interaction terms and hence it is maintained by the virtual excitations. We obtain the analytical expression for the ground state of the system and analyze the relationship between the average excitation numbers and the ground-state entanglement. We also study the entanglement dynamics between the two oscillators in both the closed- and open-system cases. In the latter case, the quantum master equation is microscopically derived in the normal-mode representation of the coupled-oscillator system. This work will open a route to the study of quantum information processing and quantum physics based on virtual excitations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• rGO/NiCo 2 S 4 shows a maximum specific capacitance of 1059 F/g with good cycle life. • 3D of rGO/MnO is prepared and exhibits a maximun specific capacitance of 469 F/g. • The rGO/MnO//rGO/NiCo 2 S 4 ASC shows a high energy density of 38.8 Wh kg−1. The nanostructures of reduced graphene oxide (rGO)/NiCo 2 S 4 are prepared using the simple hydrothermal method and the thermal treatment process, which could provide good conductivity and ideal specific surface area. The rGO/NiCo 2 S 4 electrode shows a maximum specific capacitance of 1059 F g−1, excellent rate capability, and good cycle life. Furthermore, the three dimensional structures of rGO/MnO (3D rGO/MnO) are also synthesized by the hydrothermal method and the thermal treatment process, which have the high specific surface area and good conductivity. The rGO/MnO electrode exhibits a maximum specific capacitance of 469 F g−1. A rGO/MnO//rGO/NiCo 2 S 4 asymmetric supercapacitors (ASC) is assembled using 2 M KOH solution as electrolyte, rGO/NiCo 2 S 4 as positive electrode and rGO/MnO as negative electrode. The rGO/MnO//rGO/NiCo 2 S 4 ASC shows an energy density of 38.8 Wh kg−1 at a power density of 0.4 kW kg−1 and a good cycle life, which provides a possibility toward actual application in energy-storage systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Study Design. A retrospective clinical study. Objective. The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy and safety of fluoroscopy-guided atlantoaxial pedicle screw fixation in patients younger than 12 years. Summary of Background Data. C1-C2 pedicle screw fixation is a widely accepted treatment method for atlantoaxial dislocation (AAD). However, data regarding its use for atlantoaxial fusion (AAF) in children are limited. Methods. Thirty-six consecutive patients younger than 12 years underwent C1-C2 pedicle screw fixation for AAD between 2007 and 2017. Anatomical parameters of the C1 pedicle were measured on preoperative computed tomography (CT). Accuracy of pedicle screw fixation was assessed on postoperative CT using the following definitions: Type I, screw threads completely within the bone; Type II, less than half the diameter of the screw violating the surrounding cortex; and Type III, clear violation of the transverse foramen or spinal canal. Demographic, surgical, radiation dose, and clinical data were recorded. Results. Patients underwent 144 screw fixations (67 C1 pedicle screws, 68 C2 pedicle screws, 5 C1 lateral mass screws, and 4 C-2 laminar screws) for a variety of pediatric AADs, with 36.5 +/- 8.5 months of follow-up. Among the 135 pedicle screws, 96.3% were deemed "safe" (Type I or II) and 80.7% (109/135) of the screws were rated as being ideal (Type I); five screws (3.7%) were identified as unacceptable (Type III). Average estimated blood loss (EBL) was 92 mL, and the average total radiation exposure during the operation was 6.2 mGy (in the final 26 cases). There were no neurovascular injuries. All patients showed radiographic stability and symptom resolution. Conclusion. C1-C2 pedicle screw fixation under fluoroscopy is safe and effective for the treatment of AAD in children younger than 12 years. However, it may be technically challenging owing to the special anatomical features of children and should be performed by experienced surgeons. Level of Evidence: 3 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

MicroRNA-212 (miR-212) is dysregulated in numerous tissues and cancer types and serves a role in the progression of human cancer. However, the function and mechanism of miR-212 in the development of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) remain unknown, particularly in a hypoxic microenvironment. In the present study, miR-212 expression was observed to be significantly upregulated in PDAC tissues compared with normal tissues. Clinical data analysis indicated that miR-212 was positively associated with a large tumor size, Tumor-Node-Metastasis stage, lymph node metastasis and vessel invasion, and influenced the overall survival time. Notably, there was a positive association between the expression of hypoxia-inducible factor-1α (HIF-1α) and miR-212 in vivo and in vitro in hypoxic conditions. Mechanistically, HIF-1α bound directly to a hypoxia response element in the miR-212 promoter region and activated miR-212 expression in PDAC cells. Collectively, these results demonstrated that HIF-1α positively regulated miR-212 expression and resulted in PDAC progression. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Early-morning off periods, causing early-morning akinesia, can lead to significant motor and nonmotor morbidity in levodopa-treated fluctuating Parkinson's disease (PD) cases. Despite validated bedside scales in clinical practice, such early-morning off periods may remain undetected unless specific wearable technologies, such as the Parkinson's KinetiGraph™ (PKG) watch, are used. We report five PD cases for whom the PKG detected early-morning off periods that were initially clinically undetected and as such, untreated. These five cases serve as exemplars of this clinical gap in care. Post-PKG assessment, clinicians were alerted and targeted therapies helped abolish the early-morning off periods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The association of dengue infection (DI) with atypical neurological manifestations was first reported in 1976. DENV-2 and DENV-3 serotypes are mostly related to neurological problems. DI has shown an overall risk of 21 autoimmune diseases, and 4% may develop neuromuscular complications. The pathogenetic mechanisms behind myasthenia gravis (MG) occurring during DI is thought to be linked to the neurotrophic effect of the infection. We report a unique case of DENV-1 infection presenting with bilateral ptosis and dysphagia in a previously healthy adult. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ATP1A3-related dystonia is a disorder with high heterogeneous spectrum of clinical manifestations caused by mutations in ATP1A3 gene. Here, 2 atypical cases carring 2 de-novo ATP1A3 variants with RDP-CAPOS overlapping phenotype or continuous hemi-dystonia are described. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights • Parameters of 60 electricity-saving measures and 16 abatement measures are compiled. • Synergies of electricity use in China's chemical sector at grid level are assessed. • Efficient use of power can cut 154 Mt CO 2eq , 295 kt SO 2 , 322 kt NO x and 64 kt PM 2.5. • North and Northwest grids have the largest economic benefits on emissions reduction. • Grid with high electricity price is more sensitive to price change than other grids. Abstract Industry is a large electricity user. China's chemical industry (globally the largest based on sales) contributes 7% to China's GDP, while it consumes 11% of the total electricity consumption in industry and is responsible for 40% of total CO 2eq , 40% of SO 2 , 59% of NO x and 18% of PM-emissions of the chemical industry emissions. The heterogeneity of GHG and air pollutant emissions across electricity grids (within a country) is rarely included in analyses. In this paper, electricity conservation supply curves are developed (distinguishing the grids) to estimate the cost-effective and technical potentials of electricity conservation in China's chemical industry. The emission factors per grid for GHG (i.e. CO 2 , CH 4 and N 2 O) and air pollutants (i.e. SO 2 , NO x and PM 2.5) are calculated and used to quantify the emissions mitigation achieved by electricity saving technologies in the chemical industry for the period 2012–2035. Results show that significant multiple benefits can be obtained by implementing electricity efficiency measures. There are large differences among the six grids in terms electricity savings and emissions abatement of GHG and air pollutants. 83% of the total electricity saving potential is contributed by the North, Northwest and Central grids, equal to 32% of baseline electricity consumption in 2035. In 2035, 129 Mt of CO 2 , 33 kt CO 2eq of CH 4 , 571 kt CO 2eq of N 2 O, 235 kt of SO 2 , 275 kt of NO x and 52 kt of PM 2.5 in these three grids can be avoided as a result of electricity savings (a reduction of 31–33% compared to baseline emissions). When decision-makers set targets for energy saving and emission reduction, the multiple benefits and grid heterogeneity should not be ignored. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fast pyrolysis of biomass in a dual fluidized bed and bio-oil hydrodeoxygenation are simulated by Aspen plus. The process includes the following unit operations: drying, pyrolysis, char combustion, bio-oil vapor condensation, mild hydrodeoxygenation, and depth hydrodeoxygenation. Based on the simulative results, exergetic analysis of the whole process is performed to optimize the overall exergetic efficiency. The overall exergetic efficiency of the process is 57%. The exergetic efficiencies of the fast pyrolysis process and the bio-oil hydrodeoxygenation process are 68% and 78%, respectively. The results indicate that the exergetic efficiency is improved slightly with a decrement in the system pressure drop. Moreover, the exergetic efficiency of pyrolysis is improved from 69% to 76% when the percentage of the pyrolysis char combusted is reduced from 100% to 65%. Compared to other conversion technologies, biomass to liquid fuel conversion via fast pyrolysis and subsequent hydrodeoxygenation has higher exergetic efficiency. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Persistent exposure to solar ultraviolet radiation (UVR) causes continuous damages to skin, including progressive impairment of epidermal stem cells (ESCs) capacities. Ghrelin is the only known endogenous orexigenic hormone, which has displayed its various pharmacological functions. In the current study, we found that the specific receptor of ghrelin, growth hormone secretagogue receptor (GHS-R), is expressed in ESCs. Interestingly, GHS-R expression is significantly upregulated in response to ultraviolet B (UVB) radiation. We also found that ghrelin treatment prevented UVB radiation-induced reduction in cell viability and the release of lactate dehydrogenase (LDH). Additionally, ghrelin reduced UVB radiation-induced generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and restored the intracellular level of reduced glutathione (GSH). UVB radiation significantly suppressed the expressions of integrin β1 and Krt19, the two major ESC markers, which were restored by ghrelin. Notably, knockdown of GHS-R abolished the effects of ghrelin on the expressions of integrin β1 and Krt19, suggesting the involvement of GHS-R. Also, we found that ghrelin treatment inhibited UVB radiation- induced reduction of Wnt1, Wnt3a, Myc, and cyclin D1 at both the mRNA levels and the protein levels. Taken together, our findings identify a novel function of ghrelin on maintaining the capacities of ESCs against UVB radiation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In recent years, remote sensing technology has been widely used to distinguish and extract water body information on the surface of land, investigate and analyze surface water resources, monitor and study ecological environment, monitor and assess floods. Remote sensing data provided by MODIS sensor carried on satellites in the United States Earth Observation System (EOS) have high spatial and temporal resolution and spectral resolution, and images have a wide coverage range and are available for free. Moreover, they can be used for dynamic monitoring of changes in water body area on the earth quickly and efficiently. In this study, based on the analysis of spectral characteristics of water body, the characteristics of MODIS data and the methods of surface water extraction were introduced, and the advantages and disadvantages of various methods of water body extraction were analyzed by the comparison between the practical application effects of these methods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective C1-C2 pedicle screw fixation has become popular for providing excellent bony purchase and avoiding neurovascular complications. However, it may be technically challenging in children. The objective of this study is to investigate the safety and efficacy of C1-C2 pedicle screw fixation for atlantoaxial dislocation (AAD) in pediatric patients younger than 5 years and to evaluate the preliminary clinical and radiographic results. Methods During a 7-year period, 15 patients with a mean age of 3.4 years (range, 2–5 years) underwent C1-C2 pedicle screw fixation for AAD; at least 1 C1 pedicle screw was incorporated as part of the posterior atlantoaxial fusion construct. The cause, surgical technique, instrumentation, and clinical and radiographic results were analyzed. Results Five patients had preoperative neurologic deficits and no neurovascular injury occurred during surgery. Anterior release using a retropharyngeal approach was performed in 4 cases. Fixation of 55 C1 and C2 pedicle screws was performed successfully without neurovascular complications. Anatomic and partial reductions occurred in 12 and 3 cases, respectively. Solid fusion was achieved in 14 patients (96.9%) during a mean follow-up of 37.6 months (range, 12–111 months). Two patients (13%) experienced complications: one had prolonged immobilization for a loose C1 pedicle screw, and one had unintended fusion caused by allograft absorption. All patients showed radiographic stability and symptom resolution. Conclusions C1-C2 pedicle screw fixation for AAD is safe and effective even in children younger than 5 years. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• A fluorescent chemosensor JT was designed and synthesised. • JT showed good selectivity and high sensitivity for Al3+ without Fe3+. • JT was successfully used for the relay detection of Fe3+. • JT and [JT + Al3+] showed fairly low detection limit. • JT was successfully utilized to detect Al3+ and Fe3+ in test strip and zebrafish experiments. A simple, fast responsive fluorescent chemical sensor for 3-aldehyde-4-hydroxyphenylpropylpyran-2-keto-4-hydroxybenzoyl (JT) was designed and synthesized, which was characterized by 1H NMR and MS. The fluorescent chemical sensor JT showed outstanding selectivity and high sensitivity for identifying Al3+ and the limit of detection (LOD) was 9.76 × 10−8 M in EtOH/H 2 O (9:1, v/v) system. Furthermore, the in situ generated [JT + Al3+] system was used for the relay detection of Fe3+ without separation and purification, and the experimental results showed a new fluorescence quenching signal under the same conditions and the LOD to Fe3+ was 5.21 × 10−7 M. In addition, density functional theory (DFT) calculations were carried out to obtain optimized structures and orbital energy for the chemical sensor JT, [JT + Al3+] and [JT + Fe3+] complexes. Moreover, the test strips experiments were given for rapid detection of Al3+ and continuous monitoring of Fe3+. Ultimately, it is worth mentioning that we have successfully achieved the recognition of Al3+ and relay identification Fe3+ by the sensor using zebrafish as a biological carrier, which indicate the sensor own excellent practical application prospect. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: This study aimed to compare and analyze the expression and significance of the GRP78 protein in cochlear cell injury induced by a high glucose and high-fat diet in obese and diabetic rats. Methods: Male SD rats were randomly divided into two groups: normal (NC) and high-fat (HF) groups. The NC group was fed a standard diet for eight weeks, while the HF group received a high-glucose, high-fat diet. The HF group was further categorized into the obesity group (OB group) and the type II diabetes mellitus group (T2DM group). To induce a type II diabetes mellitus (T2DM) model, the T2DM group received an intraperitoneal injection of a small dose of STZ (45 mg/kg). After four weeks on the original diet, body weight, blood glucose, blood lipid levels, and auditory brainstem response (ABR) thresholds were measured. The cochlea was dissected, and its morphology was observed using HE staining. Immunohistochemistry and western blotting were utilized to examine the expression level of the GRP78 protein in the cochlea. Results: (1) The ABR threshold demonstrated a statistically significant difference between the T2DM group and the OB group (P < 0.05), as well as between the OB group and the NC group (P < 0.05). (2) Based on morphological comparisons from HE-stained sections, the T2DM group exhibited the most significant alterations in the number of cells in the spiral ganglion, the organ of Corti, and the stria vascularis of the cochlea. (3) The expression level of the GRP78 protein in the cochlea was higher in the T2DM group compared to the OB group (P < 0.05) and higher in the OB group compared to the NC group (P < 0.05). Conclusion: The findings indicate that the GRP78 protein plays a role in hearing loss caused by T2DM and hyperlipidemia. Moreover, T2DM is more likely than hyperlipidemia to be associated with hearing impairment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Timely and accurate monitoring of soil respiration (Rs) in desertified mining areas is helpful to understand its spatial and temporal distribution and changes, which is crucial for assessing the carbon cycle of ecologically fragile open-pit mining ecosystems. In this study, we acquired multispectral and thermal infrared images of five experimental sites in Hongshaquan mining area including Dump reclamation area, Plantation forest, Tamarisk forest, Southern line, and Hongsha spring by unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) and collected ground soil respiration data by gas chamber method. The spectral indices were constructed based on the UAV spectral information, and the relevant combinations of independent variables affecting soil respiration were identified by Pearson correlation analysis and Random Forest (RF) importance assessment. Multiple Linear Regression (MLR), Random Forest Regression (RFR), Support Vector Regression (SVR), Back Propagation Neural Network (BPNN), and Particle Swarm Optimization Support Vector Regression (PSO-SVR) were used to construct soil respiration remote sensing inversion model, and through determination coefficient (R2), root mean square error (RMSE) and Akaike's information criterion (AIC) to evaluate the accuracy. The results indicated that the accuracy of MLR was weaker than machine learning methods, and the highest accuracy model was the PSO-SVR soil respiration inversion model based on the combination of vegetation indices (VIS): Green band chlorophyll vegetation index (CIgreen), Red-edge band chlorophyll vegetation index (CIrededge) and Green wave atmospheric resistivity index (GARI), surface temperature (ST), and salinity index (SI) variables (R2 = 0.959, RMSE = 0.497, AIC = -0.561). High-resolution UAV multispectral and thermal infrared systems combined with machine learning methods can better estimate soil respiration in desertification mines and provide reference information and basic data for soil respiration and ecosystem carbon cycle monitoring in mining areas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

While biomineralization in apoferritin has effectively synthesized highly monodispersed nanoparticles of various metal oxides and hydroxides, the detailed kinetics and mechanisms of Mn(III) (hydr)oxide formation inside apoferritin cavities have not been reported. To address this knowledge gap, we first identified the phase of solid Mn(III) formed inside apoferritin cavities as α-MnOOH. To analyze the oxidation and nucleation mechanism of α-MnOOH inside apoferritin by quantifying oxidized Mn, we used a colorimetric method with leucoberbelin blue (LBB) solution. In this method, LBB disassembled apoferritin by inducing an acidic pH environment, and reduced α-MnOOH nanoparticles. The LBB-enabled kinetic analyses of α-MnOOH nanoparticle formation suggested that the orders of reaction with respect to Mn2+ and OH- are 2 and 4, respectively, and α-MnOOH formation follows two-step pathways: First, soluble Mn2+ undergoes apoferritin-catalyzed oxidation at the ferroxidase dinuclear center, forming a Mn(III)-protein complex, P-[Mn2O2(OH)2]. Second, the oxidized Mn(III) dissociates from the protein binding sites and is subsequently nucleated to form α-MnOOH nanoparticles in the apoferritin cavities. This study reveals key kinetics and mechanistic information on the Mn-apoferritin systems, and the results facilitate applications of apoferritin as a means of nanomaterial synthesis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The IL-1β gene is currently topic of interest for its important role in the pathogenesis of intervertebral disk degeneration. The new sequencing technology makes it crucial to study the effects of variants in IL-1β. Thus, 714 IL-1β variants with evidence supporting were collected from the EMBL database. Among them, 62 were non-synonymous single nucleotide variants (ns SNVs). Furthermore, six common ns SNVs were predicted to have damaging effects by SIFT, PolyPhen, PROVEAN and SNPs& GO. Based on the constructed three-dimensional structure of pro- IL-1β, rs375479974 with a mutation of Phe to Ser was proposed to reduce the stability of the pro- IL-1β protein. The rs375479974 variant was found to cause least common stabilizing amino acid residues, decrease hydrophilic and increase hydrophobic surface areas in the greatest degree, and have the lowest free energy alterations in I-Mutant 2.0 sequence analysis. When analyzing the interaction between the experimental 3D structure of mature IL-1β and its neutralizing McAb canakinumab complex, the rs775174784 substitution of Leu with Phe was found to attenuate this interaction by reducing binding energy, while rs375479974 not. Molecular dynamics simulation results in intervertebral disk environment supported rs775174784's effects. These results suggest that both rs375479974 and rs775174784 may have potential clinical and drug target implications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Allograft with wire techniques showed a low fusion rate in pediatric atlantoaxial fusions (AAFs) in early studies. Using allograft in pediatric AAFs with screw/rod constructs has not been reported. Thus we compared the fusion rate and clinical outcomes in pediatric patients who underwent AAFs with screw/rod constructs using either a structural autograft or allograft. Methods Pediatric patients (aged ≤12 years) who underwent AAFs between 2007 and 2015 were retrospectively evaluated. Patients were divided into 2 groups (allograft or autograft). Clinical and radiographic results were collected from hospital records and compared. Results A total of 32 patients were included (18 allograft, 14 autograft). There were no significant group differences in age, sex, weight, diagnosis, or duration of follow-up. A similar fusion rate was achieved (allograft: 94%, 17/18; autograft: 100%, 14/14); however, the average fusion time was 3 months longer in the allograft group. Blood loss was significantly lower in the allograft group (68 ± 8.5 mL) than the autograft group (116 ± 12.5 mL). Operating time and length of hospitalization were slightly (nonsignificantly) shorter for the allograft group. A significantly higher overall incidence of surgery-related complications was seen in the autograft group, including a 16.7% (2/14) rate of donor-site−related complications. Conclusions The use of allograft for AAF was safe and efficacious when combined with rigid screw/rod constructs in pediatric patients, with a similar fusion rate to autografts and an acceptable complication rate. Furthermore, blood loss was less when using allograft and donor-site morbidity was eliminated; however, the fusion time was increased. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cathepsin L (CatL) has been widely known for its involvement in the innate immunity. However, it still remains poorly understand how CatL modulates the immune system of teleosts. Moreover, the CatL of Nile tilapia (NtCatL) has not been cloned or characterized. In this study, the gene encoding NtCatL was cloned, and was characterized by bioinformatics analysis, heterologous expression and protease activity assay. The coding sequence of NtCatL is 1017 bp in length and encodes 338 amino acid residues with a predicted molecular weight of 38.487 kDa and a theoretical isoelectric point of 5.79. NtCatL possesses the features of a typical cathepsin L, including one signal peptide, one propeptide region, and one papain family cysteine protease domain containing four active site residues (Gln 135 , Cys 141 , His 281 , and Asn 305 ). The prediction of protein-protein interaction shows that NtCatL may interact with some functional proteins for realizing an immune function. Real-time quantitative PCR revealed the widespread transcriptional expression of NtCatL in six tissues of healthy Nile tilapia, and the NtCatL mRNA is significantly up-regulated after Streptococcus agalactiae challenge. These results suggest that NtCatL is likely to be involved in the immune reaction of Nile tilapia. Recombinant proteins from the mature domain (residues 117–337) of NtCatL were obtained by heterologous expression using pET28a and Rosetta (DE3) competent cells. A protein product with the high purity was obtained by using TALON Superflow purification rather than adopting HisTrap HP columns. The protease activity of the recombinant protein was verified by using a substrate hydrolyzing assay. This work has cloned and characterized the CatL from Nile tilapia for the first time, and contributes to elucidating the immunological functions of CatL. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dolomitization of fine-grained volcaniclastic rocks is common in the Lower Cretaceous of the A'nan Sag in the Er'lian Basin of China. Analysis of core samples shows that the organic-rich volcaniclastic rocks are mainly composed of reworked felsic volcanic materials and terrigenous clay minerals. The fine-grained volcaniclastic rocks can be divided into four types: volcaniclastic rocks without carbonatization, volcaniclastic rocks with ferroan dolomites, dolomitized and calcified volcaniclastic rocks, and calcified volcaniclastic rocks. The parent rocks of the volcaniclastic rocks have high silicon and potassium contents and low iron and magnesium contents, and are probably felsic magma of the calc-alkaline series. The average values of δ 13 C PDB of the carbonate minerals are about 3.13‰; the average values of δ 18 O PDB are about − 16.74‰. The compositions of C and O isotopes are probably influenced by bacterial methanogenesis. Iron, magnesium, and calcium are probably derived from illitization of terrigenous smectite. A model for dolomitization of felsic volcaniclastic rock is proposed, including three stages: 1) mixed sedimentation and bacterial methanogenesis (< 75 °C); 2) transformation of clay minerals (> 70 °C) and dolomitization (75 to 97 °C); and 3) dissolution. Late dissolution of authigenic carbonate minerals, creating abundant secondary pores, is significant for hydrocarbon accumulation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]