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The vertical tube indirect evaporative cooler (VTIEC) could be preferred one to air-conditioning buildings if its water film quality could be improved. This paper proposed a new VTIEC with inner grooved tubes to improve the water film quality and obtained its performance by experimental method. The results indicated that inner grooved tubes have positive effects on the water film and performance of the new VTIEC. A low working air enthalpy at inlet can significantly improve the total cooling capacity from evaporation, and then VTIEC performance. In this paper conditions, the velocity ratio of 1.52 of the produced air to the working air is better one condition compared to 1.01 and 2.28. The produced air velocity is positive effect on the cooling capacity per unit area until the produced air velocity of about 4.05 m/s and is negative effect on COP. The maximum unit cooling capacity, wet-bulb efficiency and COP are 307.74W/m2, 81.7% and 44.97.The results will promote the application of the new VTIEC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Selenium (Se) plays a vital role in various physiological processes in plants and is regarded as an essential micronutrient for human health as well. Methods: In this study, sodium selenite solution at 10, 40, 70, and 100 mg·L-1 concentrations was foliar sprayed, and the strawberry plant growth, antioxidant system, and fruit quality with an emphasis on sugar and acid content were assessed. Results: The results showed that 10 mg·L-1 of sodium selenite treatment promoted plant growth, while all the treated concentrations could enhance photosynthesis, the antioxidant system in leaves, the content of Se, and ascorbic acid in fruits. More importantly, 40 mg·L-1 sodium selenite treatment significantly increased fruit weight, total soluble solid, total phenolic content, and anthocyanins, as well as improved the shape index. Furthermore, it decreased the total flavonoid and proanthocyanidin content. Particularly, sodium selenite treatment at 40 and 70 mg·L-1 largely increased the ratio of soluble sugars to titratable acid. The changes of predominant sugars and organic acids during fruit development were further investigated. The sucrose, fructose, and glucose content was upregulated by sodium selenite treatment through upregulating the activities of sucrose phosphate synthase (SPS) and acid invertase, as well as the FaSPS expression. In addition, sodium selenite treatment inhibited the activity of citrate synthase and phosphoenolpyruvate carboxylase, rather than modulating their transcript levels to reduce the citric acid content. Conclusions: This work presented a potentially efficient approach to enhance plant growth and fruit quality and supplement Se in strawberry, providing insights into the mechanism of regulating sugar and acid metabolism by Se. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As a sensitive and non‐invasive method for assessing changes in renal cortical blood perfusion in the elderly, contrast‐enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) can indirectly reflect changes in kidney filtration and reabsorption function, thus providing feasibility for early evaluation of renal function changes. However, significant differences exist among researchers in terms of operational methods, contrast agent selection, post‐data analysis, and many other aspects, leading to substantial heterogeneity in results. This hinders horizontal comparisons and greatly limits the clinical application of contrast‐enhanced ultrasound for evaluating renal cortical blood flow perfusion. Based on the latest domestic and overseas literature and discussions with clinical experts, this consensus provides recommended guidelines for the evaluation of renal cortical blood flow perfusion using contrast‐enhanced ultrasound. It is hoped that this consensus will promote a better understanding of CEUS among medical practitioners at all levels and standardize the examination of renal cortical blood flow perfusion with CEUS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The pathogenesis of diabetic cardiomyopathy is closely linked to abnormal glycosylation modifications. N-acetylglucosaminyltransferase V (GnT-V), which catalyzes the production of N-linked -1–6 branching of oligosaccharides, is involved in several pathophysiological mechanisms of many disorders, including cardiac hypertrophy and heart failure. However, the mechanism by which GnT-V regulates cardiac hypertrophy in diabetic cardiomyopathy is currently poorly understood. In this study, we investigated the role of GnT-V on myocardial hypertrophy in diabetic cardiomyopathy and elucidated the underlying mechanisms. Material and methods: Streptozotocin (STZ) was intraperitoneally injected into mice to induce diabetic cardiomyopathy. An adeno-associated virus (AAV) carrying negative control small hairpin RNA (shNC) or GnT-V-specifc small hairpin RNA (shGnT-V) was used to manipulate GnT-V expression. In our study, forty male C57BL/6J mice were randomly divided into four groups (10 mice per group): control mice with AAV-shNC, diabetic cardiomyopathy mice with AAV-shNC, control mice with AAV-shGnT-V, and diabetic cardiomyopathy mice with AAV-shGnT-V. In addition, H9C2 cells and primary neonatal cardiac fibroblasts treated with high glucose were used as a cell model of diabetes. Analysis of cardiac hypertrophy and fibrosis, as well as functional studies, were used to investigate the underlying molecular pathways. Results: AAV-mediated GnT-V silencing dramatically improved cardiac function and alleviated myocardial hypertrophy and fibrosis in diabetic mice. In vitro experiments demonstrated that GnT-V was elevated in cardiomyocytes and induced cardiomyocyte hypertrophy in response to high glucose stimulation. GnT-V knockdown significantly reduced the expression of the integrinβ1 signaling pathway, as evidenced by decreased downstream ERK1/2 activity, which inhibited cardiomyocyte hypertrophy accompanied by reduced ANP, BNP, and β-MHC expression. Furthermore, knocking down GnT-V expression lowered the TGF-β1-Smads signaling pathway, which reduced the expression of α-SMA, collagen I, and collagen III. Conclusions: Overall, our research indicated that GnT-V may be a useful therapeutic target to treat diabetic cardiomyopathy, primarily in the inhibition of myocardial hypertrophy and fibrosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Brain lymphatic drainage impairment is a prevalent characteristic in both aging and neurodegeneration. Surgery is more likely to induce excessive neuroinflammation and postoperative neurocognitive disorder (PND) among patients with aging and neurodegeneration. We hypothesized that surgical trauma may aggravate PND through preexisting cerebral lymphatic drainage impairment. However, there remains limited understanding about the role of surgery in changes of neurocognitive function in the populations with preoperative brain lymphatic drainage impairment. This study aims to expand our insight into surgery-induced glymphatic dysfunction, neuroinflammation and PND in middle-aged mice with preoperative brain lymphatic drainage impairment. Materials and methods: Deep cervical lymph nodes ligation (LdcLNs) was performed on middle-aged mice to establish preoperative brain lymphatic drainage impairment. A month later, laparotomy was performed on these mice with or without LdcLNs followed by analysis of brain neuroinflammation, glymphatic function, neuronal damage, and behavioral test. Results: LdcLNs disrupted meningeal lymphatic drainage. In middle-aged mice with LdcLNs, surgery exacerbated more serious glymphatic dysfunction accompanied by aggravation of A1 astrocytes activation and AQP4 depolarization. Furthermore, surgery caused neuronal damage via reducing expression of neuronal nuclei (NeuN), post-synaptic density protein 95 (PSD95) and synaptophysin (SYP), as well as impairment in exploratory behavior and spatial working memory in middle-aged mice with LdcLNs. Additionally, surgery induced neuroinflammation with elevated microglia activation and increased the levels of tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-a, interleukin (IL)-1b and IL-6, as well as activated more expression of HMGB1/TLR-4/NF-kB pathway in middle-aged mice with LdcLNs. Conclusion: Surgery exacerbates neuroinflammation and glymphatic dysfunction, ultimately resulting in neuronal damage and neurocognitive disorder in middle-aged mice with preoperative brain lymphatic drainage impairment. These results suggest that brain lymphatic drainage impairment may be a deteriorating factor in the progression of PND, and restoring its function may serve as a potential strategy against PND. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Based on the panel data of Guangxi from 2005 to 2017, the spatiotemporal characteristics and determinants of urban carbon emissions in Guangxi were analyzed using the extended STIRPAT model and the Geographically and Temporally Weighted Regression (GTWR) model. The main findings of our research can be summarized as follows. While the total carbon emissions of cities in Guangxi consistently increased from 2005 to 2014, the growth trend slowed after 2014, leading to a stabilization in the total emissions. In addition, there are significant differences in the total carbon emissions among the cities. The central and northeastern regions have higher emissions, while the southwestern region has lower emissions. Finally, there are variations in the degrees and directions of the impacts that factors have on carbon emissions among the different time periods and cities. Urban land use is a key factor driving carbon emissions, and it has a negative impact on most cities in Guangxi. Meanwhile, factors such as industrial structure, population urbanization, population concentration, and economic growth have significant positive effects on carbon emissions in Guangxi. The influence of urban roads on carbon emissions is generally positive, while the degree of openness to the outside world and environmental regulations has relatively weaker impacts on emissions. In summary, in order to promote the low-carbon transition of Guangxi and achieve high-quality development, the cities in Guangxi should implement differentiated urban carbon reduction strategies that are focused on optimizing urban land use and industrial structure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) as a traditional Chinese medical practice, has gradually evolved into a coherent and systematic medical science based on natural principles and applied to human beings over time. The publication of the "Huangdi Neijing" (The Yellow Emperor's Classic of Internal Medicine, Written between the Warring States period and the Qin and Han Dynasties, and finally compiled in the Western Han Dynasty, from 475 B.C.E.-8 C.E.) signified the establishment of a comprehensive theoretical framework for Chinese medicine. Due to the perspective of the 'correspondence between heaven and man' in TCM, the purpose of this paper is to explore the origin and development of the basic theories of TCM under the ancient astronomical view and the connection between the two. Methods: This paper emphases on the universe uninty with the humanities, philosophy, and medicine, starting with the forms of stargazing in ancient Chinese astronomy and the natural laws derived by the ancients from their observations of natural celestial phenomena. Results: Astronomy, arts and crafts, divination and medical correlations are based on the sequential changes of natural seasons. Conclusion: The operation of natural celestial phenomena and the characteristics of physical phenomena correspond to human physiology, and the development of the basic theories of Chinese medicine is inextricably linked to ancient astronomy, ancient philosophy, and ancient primeval science. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This practice guideline focuses on the cognitive assessment for mild cognitive impairment in the Guangdong‐Hong Kong‐Macao Greater Bay Area. To achieve the standardization and normalization of its clinical practice and generate individualized intervention, the National Core Cognitive Center of the Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, the Cognitive Disorders Branch of Chinese Geriatic Society, the Dementia Group of Neurology Branch of Guangdong Medical Association and specialists from Hong Kong and Macao developed guidelines based on China's actual conditions and efficiency, economic cost and accuracy. The article addresses the significance, background, and the process of the assessment and follow‐up to realize the promotion and dissemination of cognitive assessment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective To investigate the risk factors for bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD) in twin preterm infants with a gestational age of <34 weeks, and to provide a basis for early identification of BPD in twin preterm infants in clinical practice. Methods A retrospective analysis was performed for the twin preterm infants with a gestational age of <34 weeks who were admitted to 22 hospitals nationwide from January 2018 to December 2020. According to their conditions, they were divided into group A (both twins had BPD), group B (only one twin had BPD), and group C (neither twin had BPD). The risk factors for BPD in twin preterm infants were analyzed. Further analysis was conducted on group B to investigate the postnatal risk factors for BPD within twins. Results A total of 904 pairs of twins with a gestational age of <34 weeks were included in this study. The multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that compared with group C, birth weight discordance of >25% between the twins was an independent risk factor for BPD in one of the twins (OR=3.370, 95%CI: 1.500-7.568, P<0.05), and high gestational age at birth was a protective factor against BPD (P<0.05). The conditional logistic regression analysis of group B showed that small-for-gestational-age (SGA) birth was an independent risk factor for BPD in individual twins (OR=5.017, 95%CI: 1.040-24.190, P<0.05). Conclusions The development of BPD in twin preterm infants is associated with gestational age, birth weight discordance between the twins, and SGA birth. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The AA5052 aluminum alloy is widely used in automobile and aerospace manufacturing, and with the development of light-weight alloys, it is required that these materials exhibit better mechanical properties. Previous studies have demonstrated that the addition of Sc to aluminum alloys can improve both the microstructure and properties of the alloys. In this study, the effect of Sc on the Fe-rich phase and properties of the AA5052 aluminum alloy was studied by adding 0%, 0.05%, 0.2%, and 0.3% Sc. The results show that with the increase of Sc, the coarse needle-like Fe-rich phase gradually transforms into Chinese-script and then nearly spherical particles, reduce the size of Fe-rich phase, and refine the grain with increase of high angle grain boundaries (HAGBs). These microstructure changes enhance the strength of the AA5052 alloy through Sc addition. The ductility of the alloy is obviously improved because the addition of a lower amount of Sc changes the morphology of Fe-rich phase from needle-like into a Chinese-script, and it is subsequently reduced as a result of significant increase in HAGBs with increasing Sc content. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Toxoplasma gondii and Neospora caninum are closely related protozoan parasites that are considered important causes of abortion in livestock, causing huge economic losses. Hunan Province ranks 12th in the production of beef and mutton in China. However, limited data are available on the seroprevalence, risk factors and molecular characterization of T. gondii and N. caninum in beef cattle and goats in Hunan province, China. Methods: Sera of 985 beef cattle and 1147 goats were examined for the presence of specific antibodies against T. gondii using indirect hemagglutination test (IHAT) and anti-N. caninum IgG using competitive-inhibition enzyme-linked immunoassay assay (cELISA). Statistical analysis of possible risk factors was performed using PASW Statistics. Muscle samples of 160 beef cattle and 160 goats were examined for the presence of T. gondii DNA (B1 gene) and N. caninum DNA (Nc-5 gene) by nested PCR. The B1 gene-positive samples were genotyped at 10 genetic markers using the multilocus nested PCR-RFLP (Mn-PCR-RFLP). Results: Specific IgG against T. gondii were detected in 8.3% (82/985) and 13.3% (153/1147) and against N. caninum in 2.1% (21/985) and 2.0% (23/1147) of the beef cattle and goats, respectively. Based on statistical analysis, the presence of cats, semi-intensive management mode and gender were identified as significant risk factors for T. gondii infection in beef cattle. Age was a significant risk factor for T. gondii infection in goats (P < 0.05), and age > 3 years was a significant risk factor for N. caninum infection in beef cattle (P < 0.05). PCR positivity for T. gondii was observed in three beef samples (1.9%; 3/160) and seven chevon samples (4.4%; 7/160). Genotyping of PCR positive samples identified one to be ToxoDB#10. The N. caninum DNA was observed in one beef sample (0.6%; 1/160) but was negative in all chevon samples. Conclusions: To our knowledge, this is the first large-scale serological and molecular investigation of T. gondii and N. caninum and assessment of related risk factors in beef cattle and goats in Hunan Province, China. The findings provide baseline data for executing prevention and control of these two important parasites in beef cattle and goats in China. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Left bundle branch block (LBBB) and atrial fibrillation (AF) are commonly coexisting conditions. The impact of LBBB on catheter ablation of AF has not been well determined. This study aims to explore the long‐term outcomes of patients with AF and LBBB after catheter ablation. Methods: Forty‐two patients with LBBB of 11,752 patients who underwent catheter ablation of AF from 2011 to 2020 were enrolled as LBBB group. After propensity score matching in a 1:4 ratio, 168 AF patients without LBBB were enrolled as non‐LBBB group. Late recurrence and a composite endpoint of stroke, all‐cause mortality, and cardiovascular hospitalization were compared between the two groups. Results: Late recurrence rate was significantly higher in the LBBB group than that in the non‐LBBB group (54.8% vs. 31.5%, p =.034). Multivariate analysis showed that LBBB was an independent risk factor for late recurrence after catheter ablation of AF (hazard ratio [HR] 2.19, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.09–4.40, p =.031). LBBB group was also associated with a significantly higher incidence of the composite endpoint (21.4% vs. 6.5%, HR 3.98, 95% CI 1.64–9.64, p =.002). Conclusions: LBBB was associated with a higher risk for late recurrence and a higher incidence of composite endpoint in the patients underwent catheter ablation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights: What are the main findings? Doping can improve TCO's electrical conductivity whilst minimizing any significant loss in their optical transmission. Further modification techniques increase the surface energy of TCO, reduce particles and defects, and improve electrical conductivity. What is the implication of the main finding? TCO materials show promise for enhancing the efficiency and effectiveness of photoelectrochemical devices. Advancements for TCO materials lead to the development of photoelectrochemical conversion technology. Photoelectrochemical cells (PECs) are an important technology for converting solar energy, which has experienced rapid development in recent decades. Transparent conductive oxides (TCOs) are also gaining increasing attention due to their crucial role in PEC reactions. This review comprehensively delves into the significance of TCO materials in PEC devices. Starting from an in-depth analysis of various TCO materials, this review discusses the properties, fabrication techniques, and challenges associated with these TCO materials. Next, we highlight several cost-effective, simple, and environmentally friendly methods, such as element doping, plasma treatment, hot isostatic pressing, and carbon nanotube modification, to enhance the transparency and conductivity of TCO materials. Despite significant progress in the development of TCO materials for PEC applications, we at last point out that the future research should focus on enhancing transparency and conductivity, formulating advanced theories to understand structure–property relationships, and integrating multiple modification strategies to further improve the performance of TCO materials in PEC devices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The design and synthesis of a Gd(III) metal–organic framework with the formula [Gd4(BTDI)3(DMF)4]n (JXUST-40, H4BTDI = 5,5′-(benzo[c][1,2,5]thiadiazole-4,7-diyl)diisophthalic acid) are reported hererin. Interestingly, a reversible single-crystal-to-single-crystal transition between JXUST-40 and {[Gd4(BTDI)3(H2O)4]·6H2O}n (JXUST-40a) was achieved under the stimulation of heat and solvents. Both JXUST-40 and JXUST-40a exhibited good stability when soaked in common solvents and aqueous solutions with pH values of 1–12. Magnetic studies showed that JXUST-40a has a larger magnetocaloric effect with –ΔS maxm = 26.65 J kg−1 K−1 at 2 K and 7 T than JXUST-40 due to its larger magnetic density. Structural analyses indicated that the coordinated solvent molecules play a crucial role in the coordination environment around the Gd(III) ions and the change in the framework, ultimately leading to the changes in the pore size and magnetism between JXUST-40 and JXUST-40a. In addition, both isomorphic [Dy4(BTDI)3(DMF)4]n (JXUST-41) and {[Dy4(BTDI)3(H2O)4]·6H2O}n (JXUST-41a) displayed slow magnetic relaxation behaviour. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Due to their hazard to biological systems, it is urgent to develop materials that can rapidly and sensitively detect the concentration of H2PO4− and OCN− ions. In this work, a new CdII-based luminescent metal–organic framework with the formula [Cd(BTDB)(2,6-BBIP)]n (JXUST-47, H2BTDB = (benzo[c][1,2,5]thiadiazole-4,7-diyl)dibenzoic acid, 2,6-BBIP = 2,6-bis(benzimidazol-1-yl)pyridine) and sql topology was successfully synthesized using a mixed-ligand strategy. JXUST-47 shows good chemical and thermal stability. It also exhibits weak quenching and fluorescence blue shift for H2PO4− and red shift for OCN−, with the detection limits of 0.106 and 0.128 mM, respectively. In addition, considering the demand for H2PO4− and OCN− ion detection, by combining this with the functions of a smartphone, the chroma of photographs have been used to realize the consecutive visual detection of the concentration of these ions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The autotetraploid Carassius auratus (4nRR, 4n=200, RRRR) is derived from whole-genome duplication of Carassius auratus red var. (RCC, 2n=100, RR). In the current study, we demonstrated that chromatophores and pigment changes directly caused the coloration and variation of 4nRR skin (red in RCC, brownish-yellow in 4nRR). To further explore the molecular mechanisms underlying coloration formation and variation in 4nRR, we performed transcriptome profiling and molecular functional verification in RCC and 4nRR. Results revealed that scarb1, associated with carotenoid metabolism, underwent significant down-regulation in 4nRR. Efficient editing of this candidate pigment gene provided clear evidence of its significant role in RCC coloration. Subsequently, we identified four divergent scarb1 homeologs in 4nRR: two original scarb1 homeologs from RCC and two duplicated ones. Notably, three of these homeologs possessed two highly conserved alleles, exhibiting biased and allele specific expression in the skin. Remarkably, after precise editing of both the original and duplicated scarb1 homeologs and/or alleles, 4nRR individuals, whether singly or multiply mutated, displayed a transition from brownish-yellow skin to a cyan-gray phenotype. Concurrently, the proportional areas of the cyan-gray regions displayed a gene-dose correlation. These findings illustrate the sub functionalization of duplicated scarb1, with all scarb1 genes synergistically and equally contributing to the pigmentation of 4nRR. This is the first report concerning the functional differentiation of duplicated homeologs in an autopolyploid fish, substantially enriching our understanding of coloration formation and change within this group of organisms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The elimination of cancer cells critically depends on the immune system. However, cancers have evolved a variety of defense mechanisms to evade immune monitoring, leading to tumor progression. Complement factor H (CFH), predominately known for its function in inhibiting the alternative pathway of the complement system, has recently been identified as an important innate immunological checkpoint in cancer. CFH-mediated immunosuppression enhances tumor cells' ability to avoid immune recognition and produce an immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment. This review explores the molecular underpinnings, interactions with immune cells, clinical consequences, and therapeutic possibilities of CFH as an innate immune checkpoint in cancer control. The difficulties and opportunities of using CFH as a target in cancer immunotherapy are also explored. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We discuss the implementation challenges of gas sensing systems based on low-frequency noise measurements on chemoresistive sensors. Resistance fluctuations in various gas sensing materials, in a frequency range typically up to a few kHz, can enhance gas sensing by considering its intensity and the slope of power spectral density. The issues of low-frequency noise measurements in resistive gas sensors, specifically in two-dimensional materials exhibiting gas-sensing properties, are considered. We present measurement setups and noise-processing methods for gas detection. The chemoresistive sensors show various DC resistances requiring different flicker noise measurement approaches. Separate noise measurement setups are used for resistances up to a few hundred kΩ and for resistances with much higher values. Noise measurements in highly resistive materials (e.g., MoS2, WS2, and ZrS3) are prone to external interferences but can be modulated using temperature or light irradiation for enhanced sensing. Therefore, such materials are of considerable interest for gas sensing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Accurate knowledge of oscillation parameters (i.e., frequency, amplitude, phase, and damping factor) is crucial for control strategies of power systems under power swing. This paper presents a method for the parameter estimation of power system oscillation signals under power swing based on Clarke–DFT. The proposed method provides accurate parameter estimation of damped sinusoidal signals for both balanced and unbalanced systems, which performs well even in the presence of harmonics. In the meantime, the negative frequency components in the spectra of the damped sinusoidal signals, which are caused by system imbalance, are calculated accurately using complex-valued interpolated DFT. To verify the performance of the proposed method, simulations are performed under balanced and unbalanced conditions. The results of the simulations confirm the effectiveness of the proposed method either in unbalanced or harmonic conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) are a novel class of hybrid porous multi-functional materials consisting of metal ions/clusters and organic ligands. MOFs have exclusive benefits due to their tunable structure and diverse properties. Luminescent MOFs (LMOFs) exhibit both porosity and light emission. They display abundant host and guest responses, making them conducive to sensing. Currently, LMOF sensing research is gaining more depth, with attention given to their device and practical applications. This work reviews recent advancements and device applications of LMOFs as chemical sensors toward ions, volatile organic compounds, biomolecules, and environmental toxins. Furthermore, the detection mechanism and the correlation between material properties and structure are elaborated. This analysis serves as a valuable reference for the preparation and efficient application of targeted LMOFs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

At present, many researchers are focusing on trivalent lanthanide (Ln3+)-doped thermally enhanced upconversion luminescent (UCL) materials with negative thermal expansion (NTE) properties. However, selective anti-thermal quenching downshifting emissions of the activator and thermal quenching of the sensitizer in a phosphor with NTE properties are not implemented. Herein, Tb3+/Eu3+ co-doped Sc2(WO4)3 phosphors synthesized by the solid-state method are explored in selectively enhanced red emission (Eu3+:5D0 → 7F2) due to the energy-transfer efficiency from Tb3+ to Eu3+ and the promoted radiative transition probability. The selective thermally quenched green emission (Tb3+:5D4 → 7F5) is owing to the change of energy transfer from Tb3+ to Eu3+ as the temperature increased. Moreover, under ultraviolet 365 nm excitation, the thermally stimulated color emission tuned from yellow to red with the increase in temperature. Based on the radically different thermal response downshifting the luminescence of the activator and sensitizer, the luminescence intensity ratio (LIR) of non-thermally coupled levels (NTCLs) for 5D0 (Eu3+) and 5D4 (Tb3+) is adopted for optical temperature sensing. The optimal relative sensitivity of temperature sensing in the Sc2(WO4)3:25%Tb3+/3%Eu3+ sample could reach 2.94% K−1 at 347 K. All these indicate that this Sc2(WO4)3:Tb3+/Eu3+ material is a promising candidate for high-sensitivity optical temperature sensing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Revealing the stimuli-responsive mechanism is the key to the accurate design of stimuli-responsive luminescent materials. We report herein the multistimuli-responsive multicolor solid-state luminescence of a new dicopper(I) complex [{Cu(bpmtzH)}2(μ-dppa)2](ClO4)2 (1), and the multistimuli-responsive mechanism is clarified by investigating its four different solvated compounds 1·2CH3COCH3·2H2O, 1·2DMSO·2H2O, 1·4CH3OH, and 1·4CH2Cl2. It is shown that luminescence mechanochromism is associated with the breakage of the hydrogen bonds of bmptzH-NH with counter-ions such as ClO4− induced by grinding, while luminescence vapochromism is attributable to the breaking and forming of hydrogen bonds of dppa-NH with solvents, such as acetone, dimethylsulfoxide, and methanol, caused by heating and vapor fuming. In addition, those results might provide new insights into the design and synthesis of multistimuli-responsive multicolor luminescent materials by using various structure-sensitive functional groups, such as distinct N–H ones, to construct switchable hydrogen bonds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Psoriasis is a complex inflammatory skin disease with uncertain pathogenesis. eIF4E (eukaryotic translation initiation factor 4E) and its phosphorylation state p‐eIF4E are highly expressed in psoriatic tissues. However, the role eIF4E played in psoriasis is still unclear. To investigate the function of eIF4E and p‐eIF4E in psoriasis and to figure out whether eFT‐508 (Tomivosertib, eIF4E phosphorylation inhibitor) can relieve the disease severity and become a promising candidate for the psoriasis treatment. We first verified the expression of eIF4E and p‐eIF4E in psoriasis patients' lesional skin. Then, we demonstrated the effect of eIF4E and p‐eIF4E on the abnormal proliferation and inflammatory state of keratinocytes by using eIF4E‐specific small interfering RNA (si‐eIF4E) and eFT‐508. In this study, all cell experiments were performed under the psoriasis‐model condition. Moreover, the external application of eFT‐508 on imiquimod (IMQ)‐induced psoriasis mice was performed to explore its potential clinical value. Results showed that eIF4E and p‐eIF4E were significantly overexpressed in skin lesions of psoriasis patients. Knocking down eIF4E or adding eFT‐508 can relieve the abnormal proliferation and the excessive inflammatory state of keratinocytes by reducing the expression of cyclin D1, IL‐1β, CXCL10, IL23, Wnt 5a, NBS1 and p‐AKT from mRNA or protein levels. Furthermore, these results were consistent with those obtained from the in vitro experiments. Then, we conclude that eIF4E plays the role of the pathogenic gene in psoriasis, and eFT‐508 may be a promising candidate for anti‐prosoriasis drugs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Poly(vinylidene fluoride-trifluoroethylene) [P(VDF-TrFE)] stands out as an organic polymer with remarkable piezoelectric properties, coupled with high chemically stability and biocompatibility, rendering it the most promising organic piezoelectric nanomaterial. Therefore, we aim to explore its developmental history, find current research hotspots, and identify emerging trends. Methods: To comprehensively review the pertinent literature on poly(vinylidene fluoride-trifluoroethylene) or P(VDF-TrFE) in English from 1992 to 2022, we utilized the Web of Science Core Collection. Additionally, bibliometric tools such as CiteSpace, VOSviewer, Bibliometrics online analysis platforms (https:// bibliometric.com), along with SCImage graphics, were employed to delineate historical features, track the evolution of active topics, and identify emerging trends on the P(VDF-TrFE) field. Results: The annual publication and citation counts for articles on P(VDF-TrFE) have exhibited consistent growth since 1992, with Asia, notably China, contributing the highest number of publications on P(VDF-TrFE) materials. Interestingly, researchers in the United States demonstrated the most robust international collaborations across various countries. Keywords were categorized into nine clusters: 0# vinylidene fluoride, 1# thin-film transient, 2# energy harvesting, 3# dielectric property, 4# thin film, 5# film, 6# mobile modeling, 7# growth, and 8# pyroelectric sensor. The performance of constituent materials in electronic energy-storage applications and current and future research in nanofields, including nanofilms, nanofibers, and nanogenerator, are considered hotspots and developmental trends, respectively. Among the most cited articles, these articles are commonly related to PVDF and P(VDF-TrFE) ferroelectricity. Conclusion: Therefore, we believe that the electromechanical coupling performance of P(VDF-TrFE) and the research in nano fields is research hotspot that will trend into the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Context: The melanocortin 3 receptor (MC3R) has recently emerged as a critical regulator of pubertal timing, linear growth, and the acquisition of lean mass in humans and mice. In population-based studies, heterozygous carriers of deleterious variants in MC3R report a later onset of puberty than noncarriers. However, the frequency of such variants in patients who present with clinical disorders of pubertal development is currently unknown. Objective: This work aimed to determine whether deleterious MC3R variants are more frequently found in patients clinically presenting with constitutional delay of growth and puberty (CDGP) or normosmic idiopathic hypogonadotropic hypogonadism (nIHH). Methods: We examined the sequence of MC3R in 362 adolescents with a clinical diagnosis of CDGP and 657 patients with nIHH, experimentally characterized the signaling properties of all nonsynonymous variants found and compared their frequency to that in 5774 controls from a population-based cohort. Additionally, we established the relative frequency of predicted deleterious variants in individuals with self-reported delayed vs normally timed menarche/voice-breaking in the UK Biobank cohort. Results: MC3R loss-of-function variants were infrequent but overrepresented in patients with CDGP (8/362 [2.2%]; OR = 4.17; P = .001). There was no strong evidence of overrepresentation in patients with nIHH (4/657 [0.6%]; OR = 1.15; P = .779). In 246 328 women from the UK Biobank, predicted deleterious variants were more frequently found in those self-reporting delayed (aged ≥16 years) vs normal age at menarche (OR = 1.66; P = 3.90E-07). Conclusion: We have found evidence that functionally damaging variants in MC3R are overrepresented in individuals with CDGP but are not a common cause of this phenotype. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Biocontrol strain Pseudomonas PA1201 produces pyoluteorin (Plt), which is an antimicrobial secondary metabolite. Plt represents a promising candidate pesticide due to its broad-spectrum antifungal and antibacterial activity. Although PA1201 contains a complete genetic cluster for Plt biosynthesis, it fails to produce detectable level of Plt when grown in media typically used for Pseudomonas strains. In this study, minimum medium (MM) was found to favor Plt biosynthesis. Using the medium M, which contains all the salts of MM medium except for mannitol, as a basal medium, we compared 10 carbon sources for their ability to promote Plt biosynthesis. Fructose, mannitol, and glycerol promoted Plt biosynthesis, with fructose being the most effective carbon source. Glucose or succinic acid had no significant effect on Plt biosynthesis, but effectively antagonized fructosedependent synthesis of Plt. Promoter-lacZ fusion reporter strains demonstrated that fructose acted through activation of the pltLABCDEFG (pltL) operon but had no effect on other genes of plt gene cluster; glucose or succinic acid antagonized fructose-dependent pltL induction. Mechanistically, fructose-mediated Plt synthesis involved carbon catabolism repression. The two-component system CbrA/CbrB and small RNA catabolite repression control Z (crcZ) were essential for fructose-induced Plt synthesis. The small RNA binding protein Hfq and Crc negatively regulated fructose-induced Plt. Taken together, this study provides a new model of fructosedependent Plt production in PA1201 that can help improve Plt yield by biosynthetic approaches. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Multifunctional materials with a coexistence of proton conduction properties, single–molecule magnet (SMM) behaviors and magneto–optical Faraday effects have rarely been reported. Herein, a new pair of Cu(II)–Dy(III) enantiomers, [DyCu2(RR/SS–H2L)2(H2O)4(NO3)2]·(NO3)·(H2O) (R–1 and S–1) (H4L = [RR/SS] –N,N′–bis [3–hydroxysalicylidene] –1,2–cyclohexanediamine), has been designed and prepared using homochiral Schiff–base ligands. R–1 and S–1 contain linear Cu(II)–Dy(III)–Cu(II) trinuclear units and possess 1D stacking channels within their supramolecular networks. R–1 and S–1 display chiral optical activity and strong magneto–optical Faraday effects. Moreover, R–1 shows a zero–field SMM behavior. In addition, R–1 demonstrates humidity– and temperature–dependent proton conductivity with optimal values of 1.34 × 10−4 S·cm−1 under 50 °C and 98% relative humidity (RH), which is related to a 1D extended H–bonded chain constructed by water molecules, nitrate and phenol groups of the RR–H2L ligand. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

By segmenting the sand sample image into single particles and identifying its components, the accuracy and efficiency of sand sample lithology analysis can be significantly improved. The existing methods for sand sample image segmentation mainly rely on traditional watershed algorithms and convolutional neural networks, but due to insufficient extraction of details from single particle rock debris contours, the mis-segmentation rate is high. There-fore, this paper proposes a single particle image segmentation and extraction method that combines convolutional neural networks and watershed algorithms, using image fusion algorithms as a bridge. Firstly, an improved Mask R-CNN network is used to quickly segment the original sand sample image and obtain its initial segmented image; Then, the initial segmented image is fused with the original sand sample image, and an improved watershed algorithm is used to segment the fusion results; Finally, using the coordinate point matching method of the original sand sample image, the resulting image obtained from watershed segmentation is corrected to complete the extraction of single particle rock debris images. The experimental results show that the accuracy of the single particle automatic segmentation and extraction method proposed in this paper is as high as 96. 77%, and the model is lightweight and precise, providing a feasible and effective method for rock debris image segmentation, which can meet the needs of effectively calculating structural changes in oil reservoirs, searching for potential sediment sources, and dynamic changes of reservoirs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

During the transient process of gas drilling conditions, the monitoring data often has obvious nonlinear fluctuation features, which leads to large classification errors and time delays in the commonly used intelligent classification models. Combined with the structural features of data samples obtained from monitoring while drilling, this paper uses convolution algorithm to extract the correlation features of multiple monitoring while drilling parameters changing with time, and applies RBF network with nonlinear classification ability to classify the features. In the training process, the loss function component based on distance mean square error is used to effectively adjust the best clustering center in RBF. Many field applications show that, the recognition accuracy of the above nonlinear classification network model for gas production, water production and drill sticking is 97.32%, 95.25% and 93.78%. Compared with the traditional convolutional neural network (CNN) model, the network structure not only improves the classification accuracy of conditions in the transition stage of conditions, but also greatly advances the time points of risk identification, especially for the three common risk identification points of gas production, water production and drill sticking, which are advanced by 56, 16 and 8 s. It has won valuable time for the site to take correct risk disposal measures in time, and fully demonstrated the applicability of nonlinear classification neural network in oil and gas field exploration and development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To develop a deep learning (DL) model for predicting axillary lymph node (ALN) metastasis using dynamic ultrasound (US) videos in breast cancer patients. Methods: A total of 271 US videos from 271 early breast cancer patients collected from Xiang'an Hospital of Xiamen University andShantou Central Hospitabetween September 2019 and June 2021 were used as the training, validation, and internal testing set (testing set A). Additionally, an independent dataset of 49 US videos from 49 patients with breast cancer, collected from Shanghai 10th Hospital of Tongji University from July 2021 to May 2022, was used as an external testing set (testing set B). All ALN metastases were confirmed using pathological examination. Three different convolutional neural networks (CNNs) with R2 + 1D, TIN, and ResNet-3D architectures were used to build the models. The performance of the US video DL models was compared with that of US static image DL models and axillary US examination performed by ultrasonographers. The performances of the DL models and ultra-sonographers were evaluated based on accuracy, sensitivity, specificity, and area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC). Additionally, gradient class activation mapping (Grad-CAM) technology was also used to enhance the interpretability of the models. Results: Among the three US video DL models, TIN showed the best performance, achieving an AUC of 0.914 (95% CI: 0.843-0.985) in predicting ALN metastasis in testing set A. The model achieved an accuracy of 85.25% (52/61), with a sensitivity of 76.19% (16/21) and a specificity of 90.00% (36/40). The AUC of the US video DL model was superior to that of the US static image DL model (0.856, 95% CI: 0.753-0.959, P<0.05). The Grad-CAM technology confirmed the heatmap of the model, which highlighted important subregions of the keyframe for ultra-sonographers' review. Conclusion: A feasible and improved DL model to predict ALN metastasis from breast cancer US video images was developed. The DL model in this study with reliable interpretability would provide an early diagnostic strategy for the appropriate management of axillary in the early breast cancer patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Four Co(II) complexes [CoII2(H2L1)Cl2]·2MeCN (1), [CoII2(H2L2)Cl2] (2), [CoII2(H2L1)(acac)2]·2MeCN (3), and [CoII2(H2L2)(acac)2]2 (4) (acac = acetylacetone, H2L1 = N,N′-bis[(2-hydroxybenzylideneamino)propyl]piperazine, H2L2 = N,N′-bis(2-hydroxy-5-bromobenzyl)-1,4-bis(3-iminopropyl)piperazine) based on symmetric Schiff base ligands were synthesized and charactered. They are all symmetric Co(II) dimers, in which Co(II) ions in complexes 1 and 2 are four-coordinate tetrahedral, and Co(II) ions in complexes 3 and 4 are five-coordinate trigonal bipyramidal. The coordination geometries of the Co(II) ions change from tetrahedral to trigonal bipyramidal by regulating the coordination anions. Furthermore, remote substituents of the aromatic benzene rings in the ligands were fine-tuned. Magnetic studies indicate that remote substituents of the ligands, as well as the coordination geometries, have no significant effect on the magnetic properties of these four Co(II) dimer complexes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Given the high degree of fragmentation and poor resistance to disturbance in karst landscapes, it is important to clarify the spatial and temporal dynamics of landscape patterns in karst areas when designing karst ecological protection strategies. Using the Li River Basin as the study area, the spatial distribution and dynamic evolution of landscape patterns in the basin were analyzed at the levels of landscape utilization, landscape type dynamics and landscape pattern indices based on the Landsat series images for 2000 to 2020 obtained from the GEE platform as the data source. The results show three important aspects of this typical karst watershed. (1) There are large differences in landscape structure and landscape type trends between the karst and non-karst areas in the Li River Basin. (2) The comprehensive landscape type dynamic attitude of the Li River Basin is 0.22%, and the composite index of landscape type use varies from 239.49 to 244.88. The degree of landscape use is higher in karst areas than in non-karst areas, and the rate of landscape change in karst areas is more intense. The integrated index of landscape use in karst areas ranges from 262.32 to 270.50, and in non-karst areas it spans 225.28 to 227.01. The integrated landscape type motility in the karst areas is 0.31%, which is about twice as high as that in non-karst areas. (3) The overall landscape evolution of the Li River Basin shows trends of increasing fragmentation, decreasing connectivity, decreasing dominance and increasing heterogeneity, and these trends are particularly prominent in the karst areas. The results of this study can provide a scientific basis for realizing the construction goals of the National Sustainable Development Innovation Demonstration Zone in Guilin, and a technical reference for the ecological environmental management of the karst watershed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The development of a rapid and selective method for the identification of dipicolinic acid (DPA), a specific biomarker in Bacillus anthracis spores, is of great importance for the avoidance of anthrax infection. Herein, a chain-based EuIII metal–organic framework with the formula {[Eu3(BTDB)3(μ3-OH)3(H2O)]·solvents}n (JXUST-38, H2BTDB = (benzo[c][1,2,5]thiadiazole-4,7-diyl)dibenzoic acid) was obtained using 2-fluorobenzoic acid as the pH regulator. JXUST-38 exhibits good chemical and thermal stability and can specifically recognize DPA in N,N-dimethylformamide solution through luminescence enhancement and blue-shift effects with a detection limit of 0.05 μM. Furthermore, the significant luminescence enhancement and blue shift under UV lamps are obviously observable by the naked eye. The luminescence sensing mechanism is attributed to absorbance-induced enhancement between JXUST-38 and DPA. Test paper and mixed-matrix membrane based on JXUST-38 are designed for DPA detection. In addition, the feasibility of using JXUST-38 in biosensing is discussed in detail. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The all-red A. arguta (Actinidia arguta) is an anthocyanin-rich and excellent hardy fruit. Many studies have focused on the green-fleshed A. arguta, and fewer studies have been conducted on the all-red A. arguta. Here we reported a regeneration and Agrobacterium-mediated transformation protocol by using leaves of all-red A. arguta as explants. Aseptic seedling leaves of A. arguta were used as callusinducing materials. MS medium supplemented with 0.3 mg·L-1 2,4-D and 1.0 mg·L-1 BA was the optimal medium for callus induction of leaves, and medium supplemented with 3 mg·L-1 tZ and 0.5 mg·L-1 IAA was optimal for adventitious shoot regeneration. The best proliferation medium for adventitious buds was MS + 1.0 mg·L-1 BA + 0.3 mg·L-1 NAA. The best rooting medium was 1/2MS + 0.7 mg·L-1 IBA with a 100% rooting rate. For the red flesh hardy kiwi variety 'Purpurna Saduwa' (A. arguta var. purpurea), leaves are receptors for Agrobacterium (EHA105)-mediated transformation. The orthogonal experiment was used for the optimization of each genetic transformation parameter and the genetic transformation of the leaves was 21% under optimal conditions. Our study provides technical parameters for applying genetic resources and molecular breeding of kiwifruit with red flesh. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The growing concern about the environmental consequences of anthropogenic CO2 emissions significantly stimulated the research of low-cost, efficient, and recyclable solid adsorbents of CO2 capture. Metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) are a promising porous material for CO2 adsorption. Hybrid materials consisting in copper benzene-1,3,5-tricarboxylate (Cu-BTC) and Cu doped graphitic-carbon nitride (Cu-g-C3N4) were prepared through solvothermal method as CO2 adsorbent. The size range of Cu-BTC@1.8%Cu-g-C3N4 was 9.0 ~ 19.4 μm, which was lower than the size range of Cu-BTC (14.6 ~ 29.6 μm). The hybrid adsorbents had lower Brunauer–Emmett–Teller (BET) surface areas and pole volume due to the combination with Cu-g-C3N4. The CO2 adsorption capacity of Cu-BTC@1.8%Cu-g-C3N4 increased by 49.5% compared with that of pure Cu-BTC because of more adsorption sites including unsaturated metal centers and N atoms. Moreover, the Cu-BTC@1.8%Cu-g-C3N4 had good stability in CO2 adsorption capacity after multiple adsorption cycles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Papuloerythroderma of Ofuji (PEO) is an uncommon disease characterised by widespread erythroderma composed of intensely pruritic solid papules coalescing into plaques sparing the skin folds (deck‐chair sign). The pathogenesis of PEO remains unclear, although T helper (Th) 2 and Th22 cells may play an important role. Dupilumab is an interleukin (IL)‐4 receptor α‐antagonist that effectively reduces Th2 responses, which has drawn increasing attention in the treatment of PEO patients. Here, we reported a successful case of dupilumab treatment in combination with ultraviolet B (UVB) radiation therapy, which is well known and effective for chronic itch. The patient had a significant decrease in visual analogue scale (VAS) score and eosinophil after only 1 week of treatment, which may be due to the combination effect. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With the renewal of urban construction, disasters caused by heavy rainfall caused by urban waterlogging risk is more and more high, seriously affecting the safety of people's lives and property, causing the "city to see the sea" spectacle. Most of the hilly areas in southern China belong to the subtropical monsoon climate, and heavy rains are usually concentrated from May to August. During this period, there is a significant positive correlation between external river level and heavy rainfall. This study comprehensively evaluates the influence of external river level change on the overflow capacity of urban drainage system by superimposing different external river level and different rainfall intensity. It provides the basis for the operation, construction and reconstruction of urban drainage system. The results showed that the total water volume of the region increased by 54.47%-111.17% as the outer river level increased from 25.50 to 38.34 m. When the outer river level was higher than 36.15 m, the maximum variation range of urban waterlogging water was 26.13%. As the rainfall return period changed from one in 100 y to one in 10 y, the regional total water volume decreased by 77.78%-152.09%. Therefore, the main reason of urban waterlogging risk lies in heavy rainfall rather than external river level, but the design of urban drainage pipe network should consider the influence of external river level in combination with actual development and surrounding environment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fruit softening is a complex, genetically programmed and environmentally regulated process, which undergoes biochemical and physiological changes during fruit development. The molecular mechanisms that determine these changes in Chinese cherry [Cerasus peseudocerasus (Lindl.) G.Don] fruits are still unknown. In the present study, fruits of hard-fleshed 'Hongfei' and softfleshed 'Pengzhoubai' varieties of Chinese cherry were selected to illustrate the fruit softening at different developmental stages. We analyzed physiological characteristics and transcriptome profiles to identify key cell wall components and candidate genes related to fruit softening and construct the co-expression networks. The dynamic changes of cell wall components (cellulose, hemicellulose, pectin, and lignin), the degrading enzyme activities, and the microstructure were closely related to the fruit firmness during fruit softening. A total of 6,757 and 3,998 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were screened between stages and varieties, respectively. Comprehensive functional enrichment analysis supported that cell wall metabolism and plant hormone signal transduction pathways were involved in fruit softening. The majority of structural genes were significantly increased with fruit ripening in both varieties, but mainly down-regulated in Hongfei fruits compared with Pengzhoubai, especially DEGs related to cellulose and hemicellulose metabolism. The expression levels of genes involving lignin biosynthesis were decreased with fruit ripening, while mainly up-regulated in Hongfei fruits at red stage. These obvious differences might delay the cell all degrading and loosening, and enhance the cell wall stiffing in Hongfei fruits, which maintained a higher level of fruit firmness than Pengzhoubai. Co-expressed network analysis showed that the key structural genes were correlated with plant hormone signal genes (such as abscisic acid, auxin, and jasmonic acid) and transcription factors (MADS, bHLH, MYB, ERF, NAC, and WRKY). The RNA-seq results were supported using RT-qPCR by 25 selected DEGs that involved in cell wall metabolism, hormone signal pathways and TF genes. These results provide important basis for the molecular mechanism of fruit softening in Chinese cherry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work, we prepared a new orange-red phosphor Li2La1−xTiTaO7:xSm3+ (abbreviated as LLTT:Sm3+) for white light-emitting diodes (w-LEDs). Its crystal structure, microstructure, photoluminescence characteristics, luminescence lifetime and thermal quenching properties were studied in depth. The LLTT:Sm3+ phosphor shows four intense emission peaks at 563, 597, 643, and 706 nm when excited at 407 nm. Thermal quenching is caused by the dipole–quadrupole (d–q) interaction of Sm3+ ions, and the optimum doping concentration of Sm3+ is x = 0.05. Meanwhile, the LLTT:0.05Sm3+ phosphor has a high overall quantum yield (QY = 59.65%) and almost no thermal quenching. The emission intensity at 423 K is 101.5% of the initial value at 298 K, while the CIE chromaticity coordinates barely change as the temperature rises. The fabricated white LED device exhibits excellent CRI and CCT values of 90.4 and 5043 K, respectively. These findings demonstrate that the LLTT:Sm3+ phosphor has promise in w-LED applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Transition metal phosphides have emerged as leading candidates for the anode applications of direct hydrazine fuel cells (DHzFCs). But most recent studies have focused on single-phase crystalline phosphides, leaving multi-phase and amorphous materials largely unexplored. Herein, we report the fabrication of a Ni foam-supported heterojunction catalyst composed of amorphous NixP and crystalline Ni nanoparticles by a one-step electrodeposition method. The a-NixP/Ni/NF catalyst has a favorable combination of high electrochemically active surface area, good electrical conductivity and, in particular, improved intrinsic activity towards the hydrazine oxidation reaction (HzOR) compared to the amorphous and nanocrystalline components. Benefiting from these attributes, a-NixP/Ni/NF exhibits exceptionally high activity towards alkaline HzOR, excellent stability and a nearly 100% selectivity for four-electron hydrazine electrooxidation, surpassing most existing HzOR electrocatalysts. Encouraged by its outstanding catalytic performance, we further assembled a DHzFC using a-NixP/Ni as the anode catalyst and tested its performance at room temperature. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The lack of viable means to simultaneously address intrinsic activity, density of active sites and electronic conductivity issues remains a grand challenge restricting the development of earth-abundant electrocatalysts for the alkaline hydrogen evolution reaction (HER). Herein, we report a boride-mediated synthesis method to address these issues. Our study found that a cobalt boride catalyst prepared by the chemical reduction method is actually an amorphous mixture of CoBx, CoO and B-containing impurities. Annealing treatment of this composite initiates a solid reaction between CoBx and CoO, leading to the formation of tiny Co nanoparticles on the surface of amorphous CoO/B2O3 nanosheets. Besides the creation of abundant accessible Co/CoO active sites for the alkaline HER, the annealing treatment can also help increase the specific surface area and improve the electrical conductivity. Benefiting from these favorable attributes, the post-annealed Co/CoO/B2O3/CF catalyst exhibited outstanding HER performance in an alkaline electrolyte. It required overpotentials of 16 and 100 mV to afford 10 and 100 mA cm−2, respectively, and showed good stability in the long-term operation, outperforming the benchmark Pt/C. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Multifunctional materials with working temperatures near room temperature are crucial for practical applications. Until now, it is still a great challenge to obtain such materials. In this paper, a complex of (C5NH13Cl)2MnBr4 (1) with a structural phase transition near room temperature is reported. The phase transition induces switchable magnetic properties, dielectric anomalies and luminescent response over the same range of temperatures. It is the first time the synergetic effect of magnetism, dielectricity and luminescence near room temperature have been observed in the same molecular complex. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Only 3% of thyroid cancers are medullary thyroid carcinomas (MTCs), the rest are follicular epithelial cell derived non-MTCs (NMTCs). A dysfunctional INK4-CDK4-RB pathway is detected in most of NMTCs. DNA repair defects and genome instability are associated with NMTC dedifferentiation and aggressiveness. Whether inactivation of the INK4-CDK4-RB pathway induces NMTCs and how differentiation of NMTC cells is controlled remain elusive. In this study, we generated p18Ink4c and Brca1 singly and doubly deficient mice as well as p16Ink4a and Brca1 singly and doubly deficient mice. By using these mice and human thyroid carcinoma cell lines, we discovered that loss of p18Ink4c, not p16Ink4a, in mice stimulated follicular cell proliferation and induced NMTCs. Depletion of Brca1 alone or both p16Ink4a and Brca1 did not induce thyroid tumor. Depletion of Brca1 in p18Ink4c null mice results in poorly differentiated and aggressive NMTCs with epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) features and enhanced DNA damage. Knockdown of BRCA1 in thyroid carcinoma cells activated EMT and promoted tumorigenesis whereas overexpression of BRCA1 inhibited EMT. BRCA1 and EMT marker expression were inversely related in human thyroid cancers. Our finding, for the first time, demonstrates that inactivation of INK4-CDK4-RB pathway induces NMTCs and that Brca1 deficiency promotes dedifferentiation of NMTC cells. These results suggest that BRCA1 and p18INK4C collaboratively suppress thyroid tumorigenesis and progression and CDK4 inhibitors will be effective for treatment of INK4-inactivated or cyclin D-overexpressed thyroid carcinomas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: The moth Loxostege sticticalis (Lepidoptera: Pyralidae) is a typical migrant insect pest found in North America, Eastern Europe, and Asia. The natural pheromone compounds of adult moths are involved in courtship and mating behavior. In this article, we examine the peripheral mechanisms of sex communication, demonstrating that the pheromone receptor (PR) LstiPR2 responds specifically to the major sex pheromone compound E11-14:OAc, which results in the activation of the "a" neuron in sensilla trichodea. The other four LstiPRs showed no response to any sex pheromone compounds. This study will contribute to a new, environmentally friendly strategy for integrated pest management of L. sticticalis. Lepidopteran insects mainly rely on sex pheromones to complete sexual communications. Pheromone receptors (PRs) are expressed on the olfactory receptor neurons (ORNs) of the sensilla trichodea and play an essential role in sexual communication. Despite extensive investigations into the mechanisms of peripheral recognition of sex pheromones in Lepidoptera, knowledge about these mechanisms in L. sticticalis remains limited. In this study, five candidate LstiPRs were analyzed in a phylogenetic tree with those of other Lepidopteran insects. Electroantennography (EAG) assays showed that the major sex pheromone component E11-14:OAc elicited a stronger antennal response than other compounds in male moths. Moreover, two types of neurons in sensilla trichodea were classified by single sensillum recordings, of which the "a" neuron specifically responded to E11-14:OAc. Five candidate PRs were functionally assayed by the heterologous expression system of Xenopus oocytes, and LstiPR2 responded to the major sex pheromone E11-14:OAc. Our findings suggest that LstiPR2 is a PR sensitive to L. sticticalis's major sex pheromone compound, E11-14:OAc. Furthermore, this study offers valuable insights into the sexual communication behavior of L. sticticalis, forming a foundation for further analysis of the species' central nervous system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article highlights a study on continuous intercostal nerve block (CINB) for postoperative pain control, noting several methodological flaws such as unclear sample size determination and the lack of clinically significant findings. Topics include issues with study design, the need for a multimodal analgesia approach, and the omission of broader recovery outcome measures.

The letter to the editor was written in response to "The effect of ultrasound-guided intercostal nerve block on postoperative analgesia in thoracoscopic surgery: a randomized, double-blinded, clinical trial", which was recently published by Li et al. (J Cardiothorac Surg 18(1):128, 2023). In this article, Li et al. showed that addition of a preoperative intercostal nerve block to the multimodal analgesic strategy significantly reduced the pain scores within 48 h after surgery. However, we noted several issues in this study that were not well addressed. They were no use of a standard opioid-sparing multimodal analgesic strategy recommended in the current Enhanced Recovery After Surgery protocols for thoracic surgery, the lack of clear description for reasonable selection of rescue analgesics, the interpretion of between-group differences in the postoperative pain scores based on only statistical differences rather than clinically meaningful differences, inclusion of patients who were not blinded to study intervention, not reporting cumulative opioid consumption and complications of intercostal nerve block. We believe that clarification of these issues is not only useful for improving design quality of randomized clinical trials which assess postoperative analgesic efficacy of nerve blocks, but also is helpful for the readers who want to use an opioid-sparing multimodal protocol including a nerve block in patients undergoing thoracoscopic surgery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Anthocyanins have important physiological functions and are beneficial to the improvement of fruit quality in strawberry. Light is important for anthocyanin biosynthesis, and specific light quality was identified to promote anthocyanin accumulation in many fruits. However, research on the molecular mechanisms of anthocyanin accumulation regulated by light quality in strawberry remains limited. Here we described the effects of red- and blue-light irradiation on anthocyanin accumulation in strawberry. The results showed that blue light, rather than red light, could lead to the rapid accumulation of anthocyanins after exposure to light for 48 hours. The transcriptional levels of anthocyanin structural and regulatory genes displayed similar trend to the anthocyanin content. To investigate the mechanism of blue light-induced anthocyanin accumulation, the homologs of Arabidopsis blue light signal transduction components, including the blue light photoreceptor FaCRY1, an E3 ubiquitin ligase FaCOP1 and light-responsive factor FaHY5, were cloned from the strawberry cultivar 'Benihoppe'. The protein-protein interaction of FaCRY1-FaCOP1-FaHY5 was revealed by yeast two-hybrid and fluorescence signal assays. Functional complementation analysis showed that overexpression of either FaCOP1 or FaHY5 restored the anthocyanin content and hypocotyl length in corresponding Arabidopsis mutants under blue light. Moreover, dual-luciferase assays showed that FaHY5 could increase the activity of FaRAP (anthocyanin transport gene) promoter and that this function relied on other, likely B-box protein FaBBX22, factors. The overexpression of FaHY5-VP16 (chimeric activator form of FaHY5) and FaBBX22 promoted the accumulation of anthocyanins in transgenic strawberry plants. Further, transcriptomic profiling indicated that the genes involved in the phenylpropanoid biosynthesis pathway were enriched in both FaHY5-VP16-OX and FaBBX22-OX strawberry plants. In summary, our findings provide insights into a mechanism involving the regulation of blue light-induced anthocyanin accumulation via a FaCRY1-FaCOP1-FaHY5 signal transduction module in strawberry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]