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In this study, we employed a chemical solution method to grow zinc oxide (ZnO) nanorods on SnO2:F (FTO) substrates as photoelectrodes for dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs). The influence of varying ZnO nanorod dimensions on cell performance was investigated. Specifically, we explored the effects of nanorod length and diameter on dye adsorption capacity and photovoltaic conversion efficiency. Characterization techniques such as electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and field-emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM) were utilized to analyze the ZnO nanorods. Our results demonstrate that the sequential growth technique allows for control over the length and diameter of ZnO nanorods, thereby modulating their optoelectronic properties. XRD and FE-SEM analyses revealed that the surface morphology of the ZnO nanorods impacts dye adsorption capacity and photovoltaic conversion efficiency. EIS measurements further indicated a significant influence of dye adsorption on the electron lifetime of ZnO nanorods. Overall, this study highlights the potential of multi-step growth of ZnO nanorods to optimize the performance of dye-sensitized solar cells by tuning their morphology and surface properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In Cu2ZnSnS4 (CZTS) solar cells, it is crucial to suppress the generation of and remove the SnS2 secondary phase to improve the solar cell characteristics, as the SnS2 secondary phase affects the barrier for carrier collection and diode characteristics of the device. In this study, the nano-metallic precursor was modified to effectively suppress the generation of the SnS2 secondary phase on the surface and simultaneously improve the uniformity and quality of the thin film. The CZTS bifacial solar cells prepared via the proposed method exhibited significantly improved junction-rectifying characteristics, as the efficiency was improved to 1.59%. The proposed method to figurremove SnS2 is effective, simple, and environmentally friendly. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: At present, even the first-line medication epinephrine still shows no evidence of a favourable neurological outcome in patients with sudden cardiac arrest (SCA). The high mortality of patients with postcardiac arrest syndrome (PCAS) can be attributed to brain injury, myocardial dysfunction, systemic ischaemia/reperfusion response, and persistent precipitating pathology. Targeted temperature management, the only clinically proven method in the treatment of PCAS, is still associated with a series of problems that have not been completely resolved. Acupuncture is a crucial therapy in traditional Chinese medicine. On the basis of the results of previous studies, we hypothesize that electroacupuncture (EA) might provide therapeutic benefits in the treatment of PCAS. This study will explore the feasibility of EA on SCA patients. Methods: This is a prospective pilot, randomized controlled clinical trial. Eligible patients with PCAS after in-hospital cardiac arrest (IHCA) admitted to our department will be randomly allocated to the control group or the EA group. Both groups will receive standard therapy according to American Heart Association guidelines for cardiopulmonary resuscitation. However, the EA group will also receive acupuncture at the Baihui acupoint (GV20) and Zusanli acupoint (ST36) with EA stimulation for 30 min using a dense-dispersed wave at frequencies of 20 and 100 Hz, a current intensity of less than 10 mA, and a pulse width of 0.5 ms. EA treatment will be administered for up to 14 days (until either discharge or death). The primary endpoint is survival with a favourable neurological outcome. The secondary endpoints are neurological scores, cardiac function parameters, and other clinical parameters, including Sequential Organ Failure Assessment (SOFA) scores and Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation (APACHE) II scores, on days 0 to 28. Discussion: This study will provide crucial clinical evidence on the efficacy of EA in PCAS when used as an adjunctive treatment with AHA standard therapy. Trial registration: chictr.org.cn: ChiCTR2000040040. Registered on 19 November 2020. Retrospectively registered. http://www.chictr.org.cn/. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: The sex of a bird is important for aviculture, scientific research, and conservation. Sex identification is usually not easy, even if the bird's appearances and sex organs are examined more closely. In monomorphic birds—or most birds during young, molecular sexing—there is a requirement for a fast and accurate identification method. We have designed a pair of DNA primers that is unique to the W chromosome of pigeon, which was unique to the female; further, RPA and LFD are combined for the purposes of a portable field detection for a sex identification method for birds (i.e., pigeons). The minimal-equipped on-farm approach was tested on pigeon sexing and the results have been 100% correct, so far. The concept of this study could spread to any kind of bird to meet the needs and achieve the goals of bird studies and businesses. According to pigeon racing rules in Taiwan, the pigeon raiser must decide which juveniles will be chosen as soon as possible. Differentiating the sex of young pigeons based on appearances, and other traditional methods, can be time-consuming and require several pieces of equipment. Recombinase polymerase amplification (RPA) combined with a lateral-flow dipstick (LFD) could further simplify the presentation of amplification results. A designed reverse primer and probe were labeled with biotin and FAM (fluorescein), respectively, to serve as ligands in the LFD. With the addition of a designed forward primer, the RPA-LFD can be used to perform sex identification of pigeon DNA. The optimal conditions were determined to require at least 6.3 pg of the DNA template, a temperature of 37 °C, and a reaction time of at least 20 min. Under these conditions, the test band area on the strip appeared as a dark color if the sample contained female template DNA, whereas the male DNA samples did not produce any test signal in any of the conditions. The results of random samples using RPA-LFD under the optimal conditions agreed with the results of the same samples determined by PCR-agarose gel electrophoresis. The approach in this study represents a rapid and accurate method for pigeon sexing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Correlate light scattering with morphology of embedded ZnO nanoflowers. • Enhancement of omnidirectional antireflection performance of DSSCs by a facile technique. • Demonstrate the benefits of 2D ZnO nanrflowers in dye-sensitized solar cells. • FDTD simulation results are consistent with light-scattering measurements. In this study, two-dimensional ZnO nanoflower photoelectrodes were prepared using a chemical solution method and applied to dye-sensitised solar cells. By growing ZnO nanoflowers with different lengths on the photoelectrodes, the effects of the ZnO nanoflowers on the omnidirectional light-harvesting and broadband of dye-sensitised solar cells were investigated. According to the field emission scanning electron microscope and UV–Vis-NIR measurements of the prepared ZnO nanoflowers at different lengths, it can be determined that the amount of dye adsorption and degree of light scattering are affected by the lengths of the nanoflowers. A finite difference time-domain simulation was used to verify whether the degree of light scattering was affected by the lengths of the ZnO nanoflowers. In addition, the prepared ZnO nanoflower photoelectrodes of different lengths were applied to dye-sensitised solar cells. The photoelectric element efficiency, carrier life cycle, and element characteristics under wide-angle measurements were investigated through electrochemical impedance spectroscopy, the monochromic incident photon-to-electronic conversion efficiency, and a solar simulator. At high angles, the difference in efficiency of multi-directional incident light was reduced from 46% to 12%, which effectively improved the capturing characteristics of the multi-directional incident light during light scattering. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background. Sepsis is a global major health problem with high mortality rates. More effective therapy is needed for treating sepsis. Acupuncture has been used for various diseases, including severe infection, in China for more than 2,000 years. Previous studies reported that acupuncture at Zusanli (ST36) might be effective in treating sepsis, but the efficacy and the quality of evidence remain unclear since there is no systematic review on acupuncture at ST36 for sepsis. Methods. Seven databases were searched from the inception of each database up to May 2019. Ultimately, 54 studies using acupuncture at ST36 for the treatment of experimental sepsis were identified in both English and Chinese literature with systematic review procedures. Results. Acupuncture might be useful in reducing injuries induced by sepsis in cardiac, lung, kidney, liver, gastrointestinal tract, and immune system. Its potential mechanisms for antisepsis might include reducing oxidative stress and inflammation, improving microcirculatory disturbance, and maintaining the immune balance mediated by dopamine. However, the positive findings should be interpreted with caution due to poor methodological quality and publication bias. Conclusion. Acupuncture at ST36 might be a promising complementary strategy for controlling sepsis inflammation, yet further studies are needed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background. Sini Decoction (SND) is composed of Aconitum carmichaelii Debeaux, Zingiber officinale Roscoe, and Glycyrrhiza uralensis Fisch, having been used in China for centuries for collapsing phrase of disease. Studies reported that SND could alleviate inflammatory response, ameliorate microcirculatory disturbances, and improve shock reversal and adrenal gland glucocorticoid stress response during sepsis shock, yet the underlying mechanism is still elusive. Toll-like receptor (TLR) 4 is demonstrated to be crucially correlated with the corticosterone secretion and the impaired adrenal glucocorticoid responses in sepsis. Materials and Methods. SND at dose of 10 g/kg (in low-dose SND group, LD-SND) and 20 g/kg (in high-dose SND group, HD-SND) was administered to CLP rats. Four days later, overall survival rates of rats were calculated; rat serum and adrenal glands were collected. Basic serum corticosterone levels were determined, and the increase of corticosterone after 0.8 ug/kg ACTH injection was checked to detect the adrenocortical sensitivity to ACTH. The protein and mRNA expression of TLR4 in adrenal glands were measured to study the impact of SND on TLR4 expression. mRNA levels of IL-10 and TNF-a in adrenal glands and IL-10 and TNF-a levels in serum were also determined to study the cytokines profile. Results. SND improved the cumulative survival rate of CLP rats up to 4 days (P < 0.05 with HD-SND) and adrenocortical sensitivity to 0.8 ug/kg ACTH stimulation (P < 0.05 at 60 mins, 31.02 ± 19.23 ng/ml in LD-SND group and 32.18 ± 14.88 ng/ml in HD-SND group versus 5.03 ± 13.34 ng/ml in CLP group), with a significant decrease of protein (P < 0.05, 29.6% in LD-SND group and 27.8% in HD-SND group), mRNA expression of TLR4 (P < 0.05, 32.9% in LD-SND group and 36.1% in HD-SND group), mRNA expression of IL-10 (P < 0.05, 32.0% in LD-SND group and 29.6% in HD-SND group), TNF-a in adrenal glands (P < 0.05, 26.0% in LD-SND group and 25.3% in HD-SND group), and TNF-a level in serum (P < 0.05, 100.20 ± 19.41 pg/ml in LD-SND group and 92.40 ± 11.66 pg/ml in HD-SND group versus 134.40 ± 27.87 pg/ml in CLP group). Conclusion. SND increased overall survival rate within 4 days and attenuated adrenal insufficiency in septic rats by downregulating TLR4 mRNA and protein expression in adrenal tissue, inhibiting adrenal production of TNF-α and IL-10, and improving adrenal responsiveness. Our results suggest that SND is able to ameliorate adrenal stress responses in a local immune-adrenal crosstalk way involving downregulated expression of TLR4 in adrenal tissue. SND might be a promising treatment for adrenal insufficiency prevention in prolonged sepsis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Genome flanking regions surrounding transcription start sites (TSSs) are critical for the regulation of gene expression, containing many translational regulatory elements. To investigate whether critical single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) exist around TSSs in the dairy goat genome, we performed high throughput DNA sequencing to compare two dairy goat groups with discrepant litter sizes. After genome mapping, SNP calling, and annotation, we screened the SNPs within 2 kb scales surrounding annotated TSSs in high fecundity (HF) and low fecundity (LF) groups, respectively. We attempted to identify distinct SNPs and motifs near the TSSs in both groups. The SNPs near the TSSs most were consistent; 318 new SNPs were uncovered in the HF group, of which 305 were heterozygote SNPs, 13 were homozygote SNPs, and majority of which were distributed on chromosome 2 and 29. After validation by Sanger sequencing we found that a SNP in CHI16: 27612330 C > A in the PSEN2 gene presented an A/A genotype in the HF group and an A/A or A/C genotype in the LF group. In conclusion, our study provides insightful information into the dairy goat genomic variations surrounding TSSs, which may contribute to enhanced litter size. Based on comparison studies of SNPs exist around transcription start sites between high fecundity group and low fecundity group. Our finding provides insights concerning the goat litter size phenotypic and will promote future goat breeding. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The lethal-7 (let-7) miRNA, known as one of the first founding miRNAs, is present in multiple copies in a genome and has diverse functions in animals. In this study, comparative genomic analysis of let-7 miRNAs members in fish species indicated that let-7 miRNA is a sequence conserved family in fish, while different species have the variable gene copy numbers. Among the ten members including let-7a/b/c/d/e/f/g/h/i/j, the let-7a precursor sequence was more similar to ancestral sequences, whereas other let-7 miRNA members were separate from the late differentiation of let-7a. The mostly predicted target genes of let-7 miRNAs are involved in biological process, especially developmental process and growth through Gene Ontology (GO) enrichment analysis. In order to identify the possible different functions of these ten miRNAs in fish growth development, their expression levels were quantified in adult males and females of Megalobrama amblycephala, as well as in 3-, 6-, and 12-months-old individuals with relatively slow- and fast-growth rates. These ten miRNAs had similar tissue expression patterns between males and females, with higher expression levels in the brain and pituitary than that in other tissues (p < 0.05). Among these miRNAs, the relative expression level of let-7a was the highest among almost all the tested tissues, followed by let-7b, let-7d and let-7c/e/f/g/h/i/j. As to the groups with different growth rates, the expression levels of let-7 miRNAs in pituitary and brain from the slow-growth group were always significantly higher than that in the fast-growth group (p < 0.05). These results suggest that let-7 miRNA members could play an important role in the regulation of growth development in M. amblycephala through negatively regulating expression of their target genes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sepsis is a global major health problem in great need for more effective therapy. For thousands of years, Rhubarb had been used for various diseases including severe infection. Pharmacological studies and trials reported that Rhubarb may be effective in treating sepsis, but the efficacy and the quality of evidence remain unclear since there is no systematic review on Rhubarb for sepsis. The present study is the first systematic review of Rhubarb used for the treatment of experimental sepsis in both English and Chinese literatures by identifying 27 studies from 7 databases. It showed that Rhubarb might be effective in reducing injuries in gastrointestinal tract, lung, and liver induced by sepsis, and its potential mechanisms might include reducing oxidative stress and inflammation, ameliorating microcirculatory disturbance, and maintaining immune balance. Yet the positive findings should be interpreted with caution due to poor methodological quality. In a word, Rhubarb might be a promising candidate that is worth further clinical and experimental trials for sepsis therapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The education of the disadvantaged population has been a long-standing challenge to education systems in both developed and developing countries. Although computer-assisted learning (CAL) has been considered one alternative to improve learning outcomes in a cost-effective way, the empirical evidence of its impacts on improving learning outcomes is mixed. This paper uses a randomized field experiment to explore the effects of CAL on student academic and non-academic outcomes for students in migrant schools in Beijing. Our results show that a remedial CAL program held out of regular school hours improved the student standardized math scores by 0.15 standard deviations and most of the program effect took place within 2 months after the start of the program. Students with less-educated parents benefited more from the program. Moreover, CAL also significantly increased the students’ interest in learning. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, a radio-frequency magnetron sputter system was used to deposit Al2O3 doped ZnO (AZO) thin films at room temperature, and the soda lime glass (SLG) substrates were placed at different zones relative to the center of the sample holder under the target. The samples were then analyzed using an X-ray diffractometer, Hall-effect measurement system, UV-visible spectrophotometer, and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. It was found that the electrical, structural, and optical properties of AZO films strongly depend on the target racetrack. The AZO thin film grown at a location outside the racetrack not only has the most suitable figure of merit for transparent conductive films, but also retains the least residual stress, which makes it the most suitable candidate for use as a CZTSe transparent conductive layer. When applied to CZTSe solar cells, the photoelectric efficiency is 3.56%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copper(II)-containing aluminum phosphate material (CuAPO-5) was synthesized hydrothermally and used as a multiphase catalyst for the oxidation of α-pinene to verbenone. The catalysts were analyzed using X-ray diffraction (XRD), Brunauer–Emmett–Teller (BET) surface area techniques, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), and ammonia temperature programmed reduction (NH3-TPD). Scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray energy spectrometry (EDS), inductively coupled plasma emission spectroscopy (ICP-OES), Fourier infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), and ultraviolet-visible spectroscopy (UV-vis) were performed to characterize the material. The effects of reaction temperature, reaction time, n(α-pinene)/n(TBHP), and solvent on the catalytic performance of CuAPO-5 were investigated. The results show that all the prepared catalysts have AFI topology and a large specific surface area. Copper is evenly distributed in the skeleton in a bivalent form. The introduction of copper increases the acid content of the catalyst. Under the optimized reaction conditions, 96.8% conversion of α-pinene and 46.4% selectivity to verbenone were achieved by CuAPO-5(0.06) molecular sieve within a reaction time of 12 h. CuAPO-5(0.06) can be recycled for five cycles without losing the conversion of α-pinene and the selectivity to verbenone. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Taking No. 3 coal in Qinshui Basin as research object, factors such as solid phase of drilling fluid, water sensitivity, stress sensitivity, scaling, capillarity and polymer plugging which maybe damage coal reservoir were researched during coalbed methane drilling. Sample results analyzed show that No. 3 coal reservoir has low porosity and low permeability, high content of clay mineral. Lab evaluation results show water sensitivity, scaling, solid phase invasion of drilling fluid and polymer plugging are factors which induce the coal reservoir damage. Drilling fluid which has suitable salinity, suitable density, anti-scaling, and removable drilling fluid agents can protect coal reservoir from damage during drilling for pinnate horizontal wells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, the d-serine ammonia lyase ( dsdA) gene from Escherichia coli was evaluated as a selectable marker for maize transformation. Plants are incapable of utilizing the D-form of most amino acids, and d-serine has recently been demonstrated to be phytoinhibitory to plant growth. d-Serine ammonia lyase detoxifies d-serine via a substrate-specific reaction to pyruvate, ammonia, and water. d-Serine inhibits germination of isolated maize immature embryos and growth of embryogenic callus from wild-type plants at concentrations about approx. 2-15 mM. Transgenic plants were recovered in the presence of d-serine in tissue culture media with dsdA as the selection marker at efficiencies comparable to using a mutated acetohydroxy acid synthase selection marker gene and selection in the presence of imidazolinone herbicides. Immature embryos infected with an Agrobacterium strain containing an acetohydroxy acid synthase gene construct without dsdA did not yield any transgenic events on the selection medium with 10 mM d-serine, indicating that d-serine provided selection tight enough to prevent escapes. Molecular analysis confirmed the integration of the dsdA gene into the genome of the transgenic plants. No adverse phenotypes were observed in the greenhouse, and expression of the dsdA marker had no affect on agronomic characteristics or grain yield in multi-location field trials. Seed compositional analysis demonstrated no significant differences in the contents of seed protein, starch, fatty acids, fiber, phytic acid, and free amino acids between transgenic and non-transgenic control plants. These data indicate that the dsdA gene is properly expressed in maize and the d-serine ammonia lyase (DSDA) enzyme functions appropriately to metabolize d-serine during in vitro selection. Preliminary safety assessments indicated that no adverse affects would be expected if humans were exposed to the DSDA protein in the diet from an allergenicity or toxicity perspective. The dsdA gene in combination with phytoinhibitory levels of d-serine represents a new and effective selectable marker system for maize transformation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: In this paper, we report the studies on the hetero-epitaxial growth of wurtzite indium nitride (InN) thin films on oxide buffer layer by RF metal-organic molecular beam epitaxy (RF-MOMBE) system. Oxide buffer layer was pre-sputtered using RF sputtering technique. The structural properties and surface morphology were investigated by X-ray diffraction (XRD) and field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM). We also investigated the optical properties by temperature-dependence photoluminescence (PL). Near-infrared emission peak centered at 0.75eV was observed from PL measurement. The irregular and asymmetric PL line shape was caused by absorbed moisture and surface electron accumulation in InN films. According to the fitting results of PL spectra measured at 20K, we could estimate the bandgap and Fermi level is 0.65eV and 113meV, which confirm to previous reports. Our results reveal that the oxide thin film could be a suitable buffer layer for engineering the growth of InN on sapphire wafer, and it might be also applicable for other lattice-mismatched III-V hetero-epitaxial systems. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: GaN-based light-emitting diodes (LEDs) with naturally textured surfaces were grown by metal-organic chemical vapor deposition (MOCVD). A naturally textured p-GaN surface layer was fabricated by controlling the growth temperature. The output power of light from the naturally textured surface GaN-based LED, whose p-GaN layer was grown at 850°C, was 48.6% higher than that from a commercial GaN-based LED. The GaN-based LED with a naturally textured surface and a thick p-GaN layer with a thickness of 300nm, which was grown at a high growth temperature, exhibited improved electrostatic discharge (ESD) resistance and could resist a reverse bias voltage of as high as 3500V. The experimental results demonstrate that the naturally textured growth method combined with a p-GaN layer grown at high temperature is suitable for manufacturing high-efficient low-cost GaN-based LEDs. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Using one cohort of 7235 middle school students in Beijing, China, we examined the evolution of the gender achievement gap in middle school. Our study found a more significant female dominance than in U.S. studies: even though boys gradually caught up during middle school, especially in Math and Science, and the gender achievement gap decreased over the distribution of test scores, girls outperformed boys throughout primary and middle school and in each quartile of the performance distribution. As well, girls had a more positive school experience than boys, and boys had a higher dropout rate by the end of middle school. Despite significant gender differences in various important characteristics that have explained the gender achievement gap in the U.S., in our study, primary school test scores seemed to be the only significant source of the gender achievement gap at the end of middle school, indicating the importance of early intervention. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: One major concern with public school open enrollment programs is the potential for parents’ school selection errors to adversely affect their children''s academic achievement. In this study of the Beijing middle school open enrollment program, we estimate the degree to which children''s school outcomes were negatively affected by the poor choices their parents made during the school selection process. We do this by examining parents’ responses to a survey on school choices combined with actual school applications, school admission records, and High School Entrance Examination test scores for 4717 students entering middle schools in Beijing via randomized lotteries. We find that the children of parents who made judgment errors in school selection were admitted to lower quality schools and achieved lower test scores on the High School Entrance Examination. Parents who had less education, whose children performed at lower levels in primary school, and who were less attentive to teachers’ opinions about schools were more prone to make these errors. Providing assistance to parents, especially those less prepared to make informed choices about school selection, is consequently important for supporting more efficient and equitable open enrollment programs. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

In this study, we report the catalyst-free growth of n-type wurtzite InN, along with its optical properties and carrier dynamics of different surface dimensionalities. The self-catalyzed epitaxial growth of InN nanorods grown by metal–organic molecular-beam epitaxy on GaN/Al2O3(0001) substrates has been demonstrated. The substrate temperature is dominant in controlling the growth of nanorods. A dramatic morphological change from 2D-like to 1D nanorods occurs with decreasing growth temperature. The InN nanorods have a low dislocation density and good crystalline quality, compared with InN films. In terms of optical properties, the nanorod structure exhibits strong recombination of Mahan excitons in luminescence, and an obvious spatial correlation effect in phonon dispersion. The downward band structure at the nanorod surface leads to the photon energy-dependent lifetime being upshifted to the high-energy side. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A solid-state coordination reaction was adopted to prepare negative temperature coefficient ceramics. A mixed oxalate NiMn2(C2O4)3·6H2O, a coordination compound, was synthesized by milling a mixture of nickel acetate, manganese acetate, and oxalic acid for 5 h at room temperature. An ultrafine NiMn2O4 powder was obtained by calcining the mixed oxalate in air at 850°C for 2 h. Ceramics with a relative density of more than 97% were achieved by sintering powder compacts at a temperature as low as 1050°C for 5 h. The specific electrical resistivity ρ25°C and the thermal constant B25°/85°C were 2174 Ω·cm and 3884 K, respectively. The drift of the resistivity after aging at 150°C for 1000 h was 3.0%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The thermochromic properties of vanadium dioxide (VO 2) hold great promise for applications in smart glass windows. VO 2 films exhibit a high phase transition temperature (T c), low visible transmission (T lum), and low solar modulating ability (ΔT sol), making them inadequate for the requirements of smart glass windows. While some improvement in VO 2 film performance can be achieved through single-element doping, these limited enhancements still fall short of ideal results. Therefore, there is a pressing need for the improvement of VO 2 films. In this study, we utilized the sol-gel method to prepare VO 2 samples simultaneously doped with three elements: W, Sn, and Zr. Microscopic characterization confirmed the successful incorporation of these elements. Optical measurements, including ultraviolet–visible–near-infrared spectroscopy, were conducted to assess the optical properties of the films. Ultimately, outstanding T lum (69%) and ΔT sol (14%) were achieved, along with an appropriate T c (27.6 °C). Energy consumption simulations were performed using the EnergyPlus model with experimental data, revealing that compared to conventional glass, VO 2 glass reduces total cooling energy consumption by 9.8%. In comparison to previous work, the multi-element-doped films push the performance limits of VO 2 films, offering a viable approach for fabricating superior VO 2 smart glass windows. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, we report the optical properties and carrier dynamics of different surface dimensionality n-type wurtzite InN with various carrier concentrations using photoluminescence (PL) and an energy-dependent, time-resolved photoluminescence (ED-TRPL) analysis. Experimental results indicated that the InN morphology can be controlled by the growth temperature, from one-dimensional (1D) nanorods to two-dimensional (2D) films. Moreover, donor-like nitrogen vacancy (VN) is responsible for the increase in carrier concentration due to the lowest formation energies in the n-type InN samples. The PL results also reveal that the energies of emission peaks are higher in the InN samples with 2D features than that with 1D features. These anomalous transitions are explained as the recombination of Mahan excitons and localized holes, and further proved by a theoretical model, activation energy and photon energy-dependent lifetime analysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

2,6-Di-tert-butyl-4-methylphenol (BHT) is an excellent antioxidant that is easily oxidized to 2,6-di-tert-butyl-4-hydroperoxyl-4-methyl-2,5-cyclohexadienone (BHTOOH). For the safety of BHT production and usage, it is meaningful to study the thermal stability and decomposition properties of BHT and BHTOOH. In this paper, the thermal decomposition properties of BHT and BHTOOH were compared by the mini closed pressure vessel test (MCPVT) and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). Their kinetics of thermal decomposition were studied using thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). The thermal decomposition products of BHT and BHTOOH were analyzed by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC–MS). The results show that there was no significant change in temperature pressure when BHT was warmed up under a nitrogen atmosphere, indicating that BHT was stable within 400 K. The thermal decomposition reaction of BHTOOH was rapid with an initial reaction temperature of 375.2 K. The initial exothermic temperature (Ti) and heat release (QDSC) of DSC were 384.9 K and 865.0 J g−1, respectively. The apparent activation energies (Ea) for the thermal decomposition reactions of BHT and BHTOOH calculated by the Kissinger method were 151.8 kJ mol−1 and 66.07 kJ mol−1, respectively. The main decomposition products of BHT were isobutene and 2-tert-butyl-4-methylphenol. The thermal decomposition products of BHTOOH included BHT, 2,6-di-tert-butyl-4-ethylphenol, 3,5-di-tert-butyl-4-hydroxybenzaldehyde, 4,4′-(1,2-ethanediyl) bis [2,6-bis (1,1-dimethylethyl) phenol, etc. Based on the thermal decomposition behavior and products, the reaction pathway has been described. These results indicate that BHT is a potential thermal hazard during production, storage and application. For the safety of the chemical industry, the oxidation of BHT should be avoided. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, the chemical solution method was used to separately fabricate one-dimensional (1D) zinc oxide (ZnO) nanorods (NRs) and two-dimensional (2D) ZnO nanoflowers (NFs) on photoelectrodes for use in dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs). ZnO nanostructures (NSs) with different dimensions were grown on the photoelectrodes, and the effects of the NSs on the omnidirectional light-harvesting characteristics of the DSSCs and their bandgap were evaluated. The crystal structures and morphologies of the ZnO NSs were analysed using X-ray diffraction analysis and field-emission scanning electron microscopy, while their dye-adsorption characteristics were determined using an ultraviolet–visible–near infrared spectrometer. In addition, the finite-difference time-domain method was used to simulate the effects of the dimensions of the NSs on their light-scattering properties. The photoelectrodes with the ZnO NSs with different dimensions were then used to construct DSSCs, which were tested using electrochemical impedance spectroscopy as well as with a monochromatic incident photon-to-electron conversion efficiency measurement system and a solar simulator. Furthermore, with an increase in the incidence angle, the light-conversion efficiency of the 1D ZnO NRs reduced by 63.6% while that of the 2D ZnO NFs reduced only by 12%. Thus, DSSCs based on the 2D ZnO NFs are capable of capturing multidirectional incident light and hence ideal for use under scattered-light conditions. • The ZnO nanoflowers exhibited better dye adsorption properties and a higher haze value than the ZnO nanorods. • FDTD simulations results were found to be consistent with those of actual light-scattering easurements. • DSSC with ZnO nanoflowers was only decreasing 12 % at the high incident-angle and is suitable for wide-angle applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, the oxidation characteristics of isoprene were investigated using a custom-designed mini closed pressure vessel test (MCPVT). The results show that isoprene is unstable and polymerization occurs under a nitrogen atmosphere. Under an oxygen atmosphere, the oxidation process of isoprene was divided into three stages: (1) isoprene reacts with oxygen to produce peroxide; (2) Peroxides produce free radicals through thermal decomposition; (3) Free radicals cause complex oxidation and thermal runaway reactions. The oxidation of isoprene conforms to the second-order reaction kinetics, and the activation energy was 86.88 kJ·mol−1. The thermal decomposition characteristics of the total oxidation product and purified peroxide mixture were determined by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). The initial exothermic temperatures Ton were 371.17 K and 365.84 K, respectively. And the decomposition heat QDSC were 816.66 J·g−1 and 991.08 J·g−1, respectively. It indicates that high concentration of isoprene peroxide has a high risk of thermal runaway. The results of thermal runaway experiment showed that the temperature and pressure of isoprene oxidation were prone to rise rapidly, which indicates that the oxidation reaction was dangerous. The reaction products of isoprene were analyzed by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC–MS). The main oxidation products were methyl vinyl ketone, methacrolein, 3-methylfuran, etc. The main thermal runaway products were dimethoxymethane, 2,3-pentanedione, naphthalene, etc. Based on the reaction products, the possible reaction pathway of isoprene was proposed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dairy goats are one of the most utilized domesticated animals in China. Here, we selected extreme populations based on differential fecundity in two Laoshan dairy goat populations. Utilizing deep sequencing we have generated 68.7 and 57.8 giga base of sequencing data, and identified 12,458,711 and 12,423,128 SNPs in the low fecundity and high fecundity groups, respectively. Following selective sweep analyses, a number of loci and candidate genes in the two populations were scanned independently. The reproduction related genes CCNB2, AR, ADCY1, DNMT3B, SMAD2, AMHR2, ERBB2, FGFR1, MAP3K12 and THEM4 were specifically selected in the high fecundity group whereas KDM6A, TENM1, SWI5 and CYM were specifically selected in the low fecundity group. A sub-set of genes including SYCP2, SOX5 and POU3F4 were localized both in the high and low fecundity selection windows, suggesting that these particular genes experienced strong selection with lower genetic diversity. From the genome data, the rare nonsense mutations may not contribute to fecundity, whereas nonsynonymous SNPs likely play a predominant role. The nonsynonymous exonic SNPs in SETDB2 and CDH26 which were co-localized in the selected region may take part in fecundity traits. These observations bring us a new insights into the genetic variation influencing fecundity traits within dairy goats. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Di (2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP) is a widely used plastic additive. As an environmental endocrine disruptor, it has been shown to be harmful to the mammalian reproductive system. Previous studies indicated that DEHP inhibited the development of mouse ovarian follicles. However, the mechanisms by which DEHP affects ovarian antral follicle development during the pre-puberty stage are poorly understand. Thus, we investigated the effects of direct DEHP exposure on antral follicle growth in pre-pubescent mice by use of intraperitoneal injection. Our results demonstrated that the percentage of large antral follicles was significantly reduced when mice were exposed to 20 or 40 μg/kg DEHP every 5 days from postnatal day 0 (0 dpp) to 15 dpp. In 20 dpp, we performed microarray of these ovaries. The microarray results indicated that mRNA levels of apoptosis related genes were increased. The mRNA levels of the apoptosis and cell proliferation (negative) related genes Apoe, Agt, Glo1 and Grina were increased after DEHP exposure. DEHP induced the differential gene expression of Hsp90ab1, Rhoa, Grina and Xdh which may play an important role in this process. In addition, TUNEL staining and immunofluorescence showed that DEHP exposure significantly increased the number of TUNEL, Caspase3 and γH2AX positive ovarian somatic cells within the mouse ovaries. Flow cytometer analyses of redox-sensitive probes showed that DEHP caused the accumulation of reactive oxygen species. Moreover, the mRNA expression of ovarian somatic cell antioxidative enzymes was down-regulated both in vivo and in vitro. In conclusion, our data here demonstrated that DEHP exposure induced oxidative stress and ovarian somatic cell apoptosis, and thus may impact antral follicle enlargement during the pre-pubertal stage in mice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The reaction process of gaseous 1,3-butadiene following ultraviolet irradiation at the temperature range from 298 to 323 K under nitrogen atmosphere was monitored by UV–vis spectrophotometry. A gaseous mini-reactor was used as a reaction vessel and could be directly monitored in a UV–vis spectrophotometer. We investigated the reactivity and kinetics of 1,3-butadiene under non-UV and UV irradiation to evaluate its photochemical stability. A second-order kinetic model with 50.48 kJ·mol–1 activation energy fitted the reaction data for non-UV irradiation, whereas a first-order kinetic model was appropriate in the case of UV irradiation with activation energies of 19.92–43.65 kJ mol–1. This indicates that ultraviolet light could accelerate the photolysis reaction rate of 1,3-butadiene. In addition, the reaction products were determined using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC–MS), and the reaction pathways were identified. The photolysis of 1,3-butadiene gave rise to various volatile products by cleavage and rearrangement of single C–C bonds. The differences between dimerization and dissociation of 1,3-butadiene under ultraviolet irradiation were elucidated by combining experimental and theoretical methods. The present findings provide fundamental insight into the photochemistry of 1,3-butadiene compounds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The utilization of spent cathode carbon blocks (SCCB) from aluminum electrolysis has become challenging due to their content of highly toxic cyanides and environmentally harmful fluorides. To achieve reliable recovery and utilization of hazardous waste, targeted research has been conducted on the treatment of waste cathode carbon blocks and their potential application in asphalt pavement. Hydrogen peroxide (H 2 O 2) is employed to remove cyanides from the waste cathode carbon blocks, meeting the construction requirements for transportation areas. Anhydrous calcium chloride is used as a calcium source to precipitate soluble fluorides in the solution. Finally, the waste cathode carbon blocks are gel-crosslinked using polyvinyl alcohol-polyvinyl pyrrolidone, addressing the release of fluorides beyond environmental tolerance. This results in the synthesis of a composite material consisting of calcium fluoride deposits and gel-encapsulated waste cathode carbon blocks (PSB), which exhibits good thermal stability in the temperature range of 0–217 °C. Through DSR and MSCR testing, it has been demonstrated that the gel-crosslinked waste cathode carbon block composite material improves the asphalt's sensitivity to temperature and enhances its resistance to rutting at high temperatures. The 1% PSB/SBS modified asphalt shows the best performance, compared to SBS, the complex modulus (G*) of the modified asphalt increased by 117.4% at 46 °C, and the recovery indices for creep at 64 °C improved by 39.28% (at 0.1 kPa) and 55.65% (at 3.2 kPa), and thermal gravimetric analysis of the asphalt confirms that the addition of PSB improves the asphalt's thermal stability. Fluorescence microscopy analysis reveals that the inclusion of PSB does not affect the morphological development of SBS swelling and plays a stabilizing and supporting role in the asphalt mixture. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background. Acupuncture at Zusanli (ST36), Quchi (LI11), and Tianshu (ST25) is commonly used in septic patients by traditional Chinese physicians. The protective effect of acupuncture at ST36 on the intestinal barrier is associated with Cholinergic Anti-Inflammatory Pathway (CAIP). However, its detailed mechanism and whether acupuncture at LI11 and ST25 have similar effects to ST36 remain unclear. Aim. To explore the effects of electroacupuncture (EA) at ST36, LI11, and ST25 on septic rats and investigate the role of the spleen in the treatment of EA at ST36. Methods. A septic rat model caused by cecal ligation and puncture (CLP) and a postsplenectomy (SPX) CLP rat model were established. Rats were divided into nine groups depending on different treatments. Serum levels of TNF-α, IL-10, D-lactic acidosis (D-LA), double amine oxidase (DAO), and T-lymphocyte subgroup level in intestinal lymph nodes were compared. Results. EA could not improve the 2-day survival of CLP rats. For CLP rats, EA at ST36 and LI11 significantly decreased the levels of TNF-α, IL-10, DAO, and D-LA in serum and normalized intestinal T-cell immunity. For SPX CLP rats, EA at ST36 failed to reduce serum concentrations of TNF-α, IL-10, and D-LA but increased the values of CD3+CD4+/CD3+CD8+ cells and Treg/Th17 cells. Conclusions. EA at ST36 and LI11, respectively, could alleviate inflammation reaction, protect the intestinal barrier, and maintain intestinal T-cell function in septic rats. Spleen participated in the protective effect of EA at ST36 in sepsis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background/Aims: Fish is a protein-rich food and is increasingly favored by consumers. It has been well recognized that the flesh composition of fish is closely related to its maturation and growth stage, but few studies have explored these differences. Additionally, hormone residues in fish after artificial induction of reproduction also attract consumer concern. In this study, we attempt to address these concerns by using a combination of transcriptomics and metabolomics analyses to identify key regulated pathways, genes, and metabolites that may affect the flesh nutrition of one typical aquaculture species in China, blunt snout bream (Megalobrama amblycephala). Methods: The four groups of fish were used for transcriptomics and metabolomics analyses, including one-year-old immature (group I), two-year-old immature (group II), two-year-old mature (group III) and successfully spawned (group IV) female M. amblycephala after artificial induction of reproduction. Results: We identified a total of 1460 differential compounds and 1107 differentially expressed unigenes in muscle among the different groups. Differential metabolites related to fish age (group II vs group I, group III vs group I) were largely enriched in “Glycerophospholipid metabolism”, “Linoleic acid metabolism”, “α-Linolenic acid metabolism”, and “Biosynthesis of unsaturated fatty acids”. Between these two pairwise comparisons, metabolites that are beneficial to human health, such as docosapentaenoic acid, α-Linolenic acid, eicosapentaenoic acid, and docosahexaenoic acid were found to be significantly decreased in two-year-old (group II, group III) compared with one-year-old (group I) M. amblycephala. Only one differential metabolite related to fish maturation, a triglyceride, was detected between groups III and II. Transcriptomics data showed that differently expressed genes (between group III vs group II, group III vs group I) related to maturation were highly enriched in “Cell adhesion molecules (CAMs)”, “Sphingolipid metabolism” and “Phagosome”. DEGs (between group II vs group I, group III vs group I) relating to fish age were enriched in the “cGMP-PKG signaling pathway”, “FoxO signaling pathway”, and “AMPK signaling pathway”. The gene-metabolite interaction network showed pivotal genes, including fumarate hydratase and GNPAT, which played a major role in the regulation of glycerphospholipid metabolism. The nutritional components were also measured, which verified the metabolomics results. Moreover, the metabolomics results showed that after 24 hours of artificial hormone injection, the drug was completely metabolized. Conclusion: Integrated analysis demonstrated that the nutrition value of fish fillet was much more related to fish age compared with maturation status in M. amblycephala females. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Urbanization has not only promoted economic development, but also significantly changed land use and development strategy. The environmental problems brought by urbanization threaten ecological security directly. Therefore, it is necessary to introduce changes in land use when constructing an ecological security pattern. This study takes the Yangtze River Delta urban agglomeration, one of the most economically developed regions in China, as the research area. Based on its land use status, the Cellular Automata–Markov model was used to predict the quantitative change and transfer of land-use types in 2025, and three types of land-use patterns were simulated under different scenarios. Combined with the pressure–state–response model, the Entropy TOPSIS comprehensive evaluation model is used to evaluate the three phases in the years of 2005, 2010, and 2015, and the results indicated that the safety level dropped from 85.45% to 82.94%. Five spatial associations were obtained from the spatial autocorrelation analysis using GeoDA, and the clustering distribution of the three phases was roughly the same. Based on the requirements of "Natural Growth" scenario, "Urban Sprawl" scenario, and "Ecological Protection" scenario, the transfer matrix of the various land-use types were modified rationally. The results of scenario simulations illustrated that the level of urbanization was inversely proportional to the level of ecological security. The surrounding cities in the northern part of Taihu Lake were developing rapidly, with low levels of ecological security. The hilly cities in the southern part, in contrast, developed slowly and had a high level of ecological security. Based on the temporal and spatial changes in the ecosystem, an ecosystem optimization model was proposed to determine the ecological functional areas. The nature of each functional area provided the basis to formulate urban construction and management plans and achieve sustainable urban development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Immunologic derangement may be the critical pathophysiologic mechanism in sepsis, and immunotherapy might be a potential new treatment. Si-ni-tang (SNT), an ancient Chinese herbal formula documented in Shanghan Lun, has been used for treating severe sepsis for thousands of years. Research shows that it may have a therapeutic benefit for sepsis. This study will evaluate the feasibility of testing the effects of SNT on immune function in sepsis patients.Methods/design: This is a pilot randomized controlled study. Eligible sepsis patients admitted to our medical intensive care unit will be randomly allocated to the control group or the SNT group. Both groups will receive standard therapy according to the recommendations of the Surviving Sepsis Campaign. In addition, the SNT group will receive SNT (150 mL per day for 3 days) orally or by gastric tube, while the control group will receive 150 mL of normal saline. The primary outcome is to assess the feasibility of this treatment. The secondary outcomes include: (1) immune function measured by monocyte human leukocyte antigen-DR (mHLA-DR) expression, procalcitonin, and the ratio of CD4+ to CD8+ T lymphocytes and (2) other clinical data, such as the 28-day all-cause mortality, Sequential Organ Failure Assessment (SOFA) scores, Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation (APACHE) II scores, both of the latter on days 0 and 3.Discussion: This study aims to evaluate the feasibility of testing the efficacy of SNT for treating sepsis when used as an adjunctive treatment with the standard therapy recommended by the Surviving Sepsis Campaign.Trial Registration: ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT02777606 . Registered on 22 June 2016. Retrospectively registered. https://clinicaltrials.gov/. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A self-designed reaction device was used as a promising equipment to investigate the oxidation characteristics and kinetics of rosin pentaerythritol ester (RPE) under UV irradiation. Photo-oxidation kinetics and the initial quantum yield (Φ) of RPE were calculated. The initial oxidation product of the photo-oxidation reaction—peroxide was analyzed by iodimetry. The peroxide concentration is related to the light intensity (I) and the temperature (T), and the increasing T and I would destabilize the RPE by accelerating peroxide forming. Photo-oxidation of RPE follows the pseudo first-order reaction kinetics. The relationship between activation energy and logarithm of light intensity (ln I) is linear, and it is expressed as Ea = −4.937ln I + 45.565. Φ was calculated by the photo-oxidation kinetics, and the average value of Φ was 7.19% in the light intensity range of 200–800 μW cm−2. This research can provide fundamental information for application of RPE, and help obtain a better understanding of the stability of rosin esters. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]