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A pineal region tumor is a rare intracranial tumor, and its specific location leads to its own characteristics. This study aimed to provide some insight for medical practice in the care of pineal region tumors. We investigated the key epidemiological characteristics and survival prognosis of pineal tumors based on the epidemiological data from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results database. Data of pineal region tumor patients from 1975 to 2019 were extracted from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results database. The data were divided into 3 pathologic groups: germ cell tumors, pineal parenchymal tumors, and other. The patients' overall survival (OS) was analyzed using the Kaplan-Meier method. The prognostic effects of the patient characteristics on OS were explored using the Cox proportional hazard model. The analysis results are presented as tabular data, Kaplan-Meier plots, forest plots, and nomograms. A calibration curve was used to verify the nomograms. All analyses were performed for all patients overall and stratified by pathological group using SPSS and R language. Based on the predefined inclusion and exclusion criteria, 628 patients were included in this study, of whom 440 (70.1%) were male and 188 (29.9%) were female. Most patients were aged 0–19 years. The pathological type was germinoma for 225 patients (35.8%). Age, surgery, behavioral code, and pathology were significant factors for OS. A calibration curve was used to verify that the nomograms had a good prediction effect. An intuitive nomogram was developed and verified and can predict the prognosis of patients with pineal tumors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Reversible and repeatable control of rare earth ions doped down-shift luminescence materials induced by the external field stimulation can be applied more widely. However, there is still a challenge on reversible luminescence regulation of photochromism-induced rare earth ions doped down-shift luminescence materials by light fields stimulation. The MoO 3 : Eu3+ phosphors changed color from light green to blue due to the formation of color centers caused by the trapping of electrons by oxygen vacancy defects under near infrared irradiation at 808 nm, and recovered from blue to initial light green after heating at 500 °C, showing a reversible change in color. The down-shift luminescence intensity of MoO 3 : Eu3+ phosphors reaches the maximum quenching degree, about 87%, after 20 s irradiation by 808 nm laser, which has the characteristics of fast response and great regulation rate. Moreover, the down-shift luminescence intensity can recover to the initial intensity after heating at 500 °C for 90 s, indicating reversible regulation of photochromism-induced down-shift luminescence. The application of MoO 3 : Eu3+ phosphors as the anti-counterfeiting labels and information storage of binary encoding was designed, these results suggest that it have certain potential applications in anti-counterfeiting and optical storage field. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • NaOH and KOH pre-treatment enhanced solubilisation of paunch solid waste. • Cattle and sheep paunch was compared at lignocellulosic composition level. • Paunch digestion hydrolysis rate was significantly enhanced by up to 4.4 times. • Paunch digestion methane yield was improved by 60% using alkaline pre-treatment. • First-time addressing alkaline pre-treatment using [OH−] molar concentration. Paunch is comprised of the partially digested feed contained in cattle or sheep and contributes 20–50% of organic waste produced at red meat processing facilities. Anaerobic digestion has been identified as a promising technology for paunch treatment, however treatment times can be long and when combined with the moderate degradability of paunch this results in high treatment costs that need to be improved. Pre-treatment was investigated as a strategy to improve AD of paunch, alkaline treatment (NaOH or KOH) was selected due to the high lignin content. A range of alkaline loadings (1–20 g 100gTS−1) were tested with an equivalent hydroxide molar concentration of 9–250 mM [OH−]. Alkaline pre-treatment improved both the hydrolysis rate and the overall degradability of paunch solid by up to 4.4 times and 60%, respectively. The enhanced hydrolysis rate and methane yield was correlated to changes in material composition during pre-treatment. While alkaline concentration was an important factor, there were no significant improvements at alkaline concentrations above 12 g 100gTS−1 (150 mM [OH−]). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents the methodologies to design the transfer trajectories from Earth nearby to heliocentric orbits. For multiple spacecraft with the same initial condition but aiming to different phases in the heliocentric orbit, several lunar gravity assists are used to divert them into different interplanetary orbits. Firstly, based on the patched-conic approximation, a complete design process for deep-space transfer orbits was proposed for multiple spacecraft performing lunar gravity assist maneuvers. In this design process, it was assumed that each spacecraft had the same initial conditions. The periodic matching method was introduced to design the interplanetary transfer orbit, satisfying the initial and terminal constraints. An iterative method was proposed to search lunar gravity assist parameters that satisfied the hyperbolic excess velocity condition for the escape trajectories. Furthermore, a semi-analytical correction method was proposed to further approximate the precise transfer trajectory. This correction method was found to have a reduced time cost and a better error convergence compared with conventional correction methods. • Design of deep-space transfer trajectories for multiple spacecraft with identical initial conditions. • Periodic matching analysis of heliocentric orbit design. • Iterative method for searching lunar gravity assist parameters for spacecraft. • High performance recorded for the proposed semi-analytical correction method. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We designed and screened bifunctional catalysts with good oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) and oxygen evolution reaction (OER) performance on bilayer MN 4 -O-MN 4 structures with bridge-bonded oxygen ligands. The ORR and OER catalytic activities of 225 bilayer MN 4 -O-MN 4 structures were explored in an accelerated manner by combining machine learning (ML) and density functional theory (DFT) calculations (DFT-ML). Based on the gradient boosted regression (GBR) algorithm, a series of efficient monofunctional and bifunctional electrocatalysts were successfully predicted with an average prediction error of only 0.04 V and 0.06 V for ORR and OER overpotential (η). ML successfully predicted that the overpotential of the monofunctional catalysts CoN 4 –O–RhN 4 (ORR) and RhN 4 –O–AgN 4 (OER) reached 0.34 V and 0.29 V, respectively; CoN 4 –O–AgN 4 was considered the best bifunctional catalyst due to its overpotential of η ORR = 0.35 V and η OER = 0.33 V on the bifunctional catalysts. Compared with DFT calculations, the DFT-ML accelerated calculation method resulted in a 9.4-fold improvement in catalyst screening speed. The performance prediction of 225 bilayer MN 4 -O-MN 4 structures was used to screen out the potential bifunctional catalysts, thus providing guidance for the experimental synthesis of better performing bridge-bonded oxygen ligand catalysts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cancer chemotherapy drugs are widely criticized for their serious side effects and low cure rate. Therefore, adjuvant therapy as a combination with chemotherapy administration is being accepted by many patients. However, unclear drug targets and mechanisms limit the application of adjuvant treatment. In this study, we confirmed TMEM16A is a key drug target for lung adenocarcinoma, and narirutin is an effective anti-lung adenocarcinoma natural product. Virtual screening and fluorescence experiments confirmed that narirutin inhibits the molecular target TMEM16A, which is specific high-expression in lung adenocarcinoma. Molecular dynamics simulations and electrophysiological experiments revealed the precise molecular mechanism of narirutin regulating TMEM16A. The anticancer effect of narirutin and its synergistic effect on cisplatin were explored by cell proliferation, migration, and apoptosis assays. The signaling pathways regulated by narirutin were analyzed by western blot. Tumor xenograft mice experiments demonstrated the synergistic anticancer effect of narirutin and cisplatin, and the side effects of high concentrations of cisplatin were almost eliminated. Pharmacokinetic experiments showed the biological safety of narirutin is satisfactory in vivo. Based on the significant anticancer effect and high biosafety, naringin has great potential as a functional food in the adjuvant treatment of lung cancer. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

NaMg 0.12 Nb 0.88 O 3 - x BiYbO 3 (abbreviated as NMN- x BY) (x = 0, 0.005, 0.01, 0.015, 0.02, 0.04 and 0.08) ceramics were fabricated by using a traditional solid-state reaction method. The crystal structure, morphology, relaxation behavior and energy storage properties of NMN- x BY) ceramics were systematically investigated. X-ray diffraction patterns (XRD) demonstrates that all samples present a single pseudo-cubic phase. It is also found that the grain sizes vary irregular with the BY content, and it can be reduced by the appropriate addition of BY content as indicated by scanning electron morphology. From the measured dielectric properties, it can be seen that all samples are transformed from normal ferroelectric (FEs) to relaxor ferroelectric (RFEs). The maximum relaxor diffuseness coefficient γ (∼1.78) is obtained for 0.98NMN-0.02BY ceramic. As x increases, the polarization-electric (P - E) hysteresis loops gradually become slimmer. The largest discharged energy density (∼0.998 J/cm3) and the maximum energy efficiency (∼70%) are obtained at 170 kV/cm for x = 0.04. Meanwhile, the discharge energy densities present relatively excellent temperature stability for x = 0.02 in the temperature range from 20 to 140 °C. This work demonstrates a wide potential application in enhancing the storage properties of lead-free ferroelectric materials by co-doping MgO and bismuth-based perovskites. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• The coupling relationship between trajectory and battery is considered. • Trajectory-battery integrated design is proposed for spacecraft. • Electric Pump-Fed Engines are applied to low-Earth orbital maneuvers. • Advantages of the electric pump system in the structural mass are revealed. This paper proposes a trajectory-battery integrated design of the electric pump-fed (EPF) engine and demonstrates its application feasibility to orbital maneuvers in low-Earth orbit (LEO). Based on the mass model that comprises the main components of the engine, the advantages of the electric pump system in terms of the structural mass, addition of total impulse and change in velocity that the engine can provide are demonstrated compared with those of the traditional pressure-gas system. The performances of four typical battery cells are assessed to select the suitable cell for the application cases. Besides, the applications of the trajectory-battery integrated design to the specific orbital maneuvers are investigated. Impulsive and continuous control strategies are considered based on the EPF engine limited by the light/umbra condition and charge time. The optimal transfer trajectories considering the charging processes of the battery involved in orbital maneuvers are demonstrated. For the impulsive thrust, the limitation of the battery performance with regard to the effectiveness of the Hohmann transfer is given. For the continuous thrust, the orbital control problem has been turned into an optimization problem and the optimal fuel consumption is obtained using the combinatorial numerical optimization. The simulations confirm the superiority of the EPF engine based on its significant reduction of the structural mass and validate the application feasibility to orbital maneuvers in LEO. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• We study the dependence of the size and stability, for an ideal magnetic skyrmion bags in a cylindrical ultrathin nanodot, on the varying applied magnetic field. • By adjusting the magnetic parameters of the materials, the stability of skyrmion bags can be significantly enhanced. • Our results will provide valuable insights for the experimental development of magnetic multilayers tailored for devices based on skyrmion bags. Size and stability of magnetic skyrmion bags in a cylindrical ultrathin nanodot under the influence of an applied magnetic field are investigated. Micromagnetic calculations reveal unique characteristics in the behavior of skyrmion bags across various materials. By adjusting the magnetic parameters of the materials, the stability of skyrmion bags can be significantly enhanced. We believe that our results will provide valuable insights for the experimental development of magnetic multilayers tailored for devices based on skyrmion bags. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cropland soil erosion is primarily caused by agricultural production and indirectly altered by consumption patterns. A well-developed grain trade system transfers grain products to distant locations, away from their place of origin where soil erosion may have occurred. Evidence-based policies to control soil erosion can be developed by holding consumers responsible for the soil erosion caused by their consumption. However, there have been few systematic studies on cropland soil erosion that is embodied in grain trade. In this study, we estimated the soil erosion intensity (SEI) of grain production in each province of China from 1990 to 2020 by combining the Revised Universal Soil Loss Equation and socio-economic statistics. We also constructed an interprovincial grain trade network using linear programming techniques and analyzed the cropland soil erosion associated with the interprovincial grain trade. The results showed a rise in national cropland soil erosion attributed to grain production from 5.36×108 t in 1990 to 7.56×108 t in 2020. In particular, those embodied in interprovincial grain trade increased from 0.94×108 t in 1990 to 3.52×108 t in 2020. Nationally, about 10.72% of soil erosion exports in 2020 was from provinces with lower-than-average SEI, compared to 18.42% in 1990, indicating that current patterns of grain production and consumption are unfavorable for erosion control. Accordingly, measures have been proposed to build a soil erosion control system that includes consumers, such as changing farming practices, optimizing agricultural layout, promoting technology export and establishing a provincial compensation mechanism. [Display omitted] • Trade was prominent and insufficiently explored driver for cropland soil erosion. • RUSLE and grain trade network were utilized to estimate embodied soil erosion. • Mismatch between production and consumption increased embodied soil erosion. • Soil erosion burden mainly shifted from south with high SEI to north with low SEI. • Current provincial grain trade patterns were not conducive to soil erosion control. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • A spongy MT-Ag 2 S/cellulose acetate photothermal membrane is synthesized. • The photothermal membrane possesses anti-pollution and self-cleaning performance. • The efficient seawater desalination and water purification process is analyzed. • A device for sustainable desalination, water purification and clean water collection is designed and applied in practice. Solar-driven interfacial evaporation (SIE) technology stands out as a promising approach for seawater desalination, leveraging solar energy efficiently in an environmentally friendly manner. However, the enrichment of organic pollutants on the interfacial evaporator has posed significant obstacles to the sustained implementation of SIE. Herein, a spongy, anti-pollution cellulose acetate membrane consisting of Ag 2 S-doping MXene nanosheets (MT-Ag 2 S/CAM) is proposed for sustainable desalination. The MT-Ag 2 S/CAM exhibited ultralow water vaporization enthalpy of 1.50 kJ g−1. Meanwhile, the MT-Ag 2 S/CAM, featured by high porosity (75.25 %), excellent light absorption and salt resistance, demonstrated a notable solar-driven evaporation rate of 1.8 kg m−2h−1 and a remarkable photothermal conversation efficiency of 91.6 % under one sun irradiation. Meanwhile, MT-Ag 2 S/CAM can realize a removal efficiency of 93.3 % for methylene blue, exhibiting outstanding anti-pollution and self-cleaning capabilities as well as long-term stability due to its strong mechanical properties. Finally, a device for sustainable desalination, water purification and clean water collection is designed and implemented in a practical SIE process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The construction of heterojunction structures is pivotal in enhancing carrier separation and photocatalytic activity. Hence, AgI/PCN-224 (APN-x composites) Z-scheme heterojunctions were successfully synthesised using an in-situ precipitation method. The direction of electron migration and the band structures of APN-x were comprehensively investigated using a combination of experimental approaches and density functional theory (DFT) calculations. Owing to the extensive visible-light absorption capabilities of PCN-224 and the high efficiency of photogenerated carrier separation in the Z-scheme heterojunction, the optimally developed APN-3 photocatalyst demonstrated exceptional photodegradation efficiency for tetracycline hydrochloride (TCH). The removal rate of TCH by APN-3 within 120 min reached 91.56%, approximately 4.64 times higher than that achieved by pure AgI. The photocatalytic degradation mechanism was explored using free radical trapping experiments, electron spin resonance (ESR) technology and band structure analysis. Degradation pathways and intermediate products were investigated using liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry (LC–MS). [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In contemporary studies, the predominant utilization of C 60 derivatives pertains to their role as photosensitizers or agents that scavenge free radicals. The intriguing coexistence of these divergent functionalities has prompted extensive investigation into water-soluble fullerenes. The photodynamic properties of these compounds find practical applications in DNA cleavage, antitumor interventions, and antibacterial endeavors. Consequently, photodynamic therapy is progressively emerging as a pivotal therapeutic modality within the biomedical domain, owing to its notable levels of safety and efficacy. The essential components of photodynamic therapy encompass light of the suitable wavelength, oxygen, and a photosensitizer, wherein the reactive oxygen species generated by the photosensitizer play a pivotal role in the therapeutic mechanism. The remarkable ability of fullerenes to generate singlet oxygen has garnered significant attention from scholars worldwide. Nevertheless, the limited permeability of fullerenes across cell membranes owing to their low water solubility necessitates their modification to enhance their efficacy and utilization. This paper reviews the applications of fullerene derivatives as photosensitizers in antitumor and antibacterial fields for the recent years. [Display omitted] • We introduce the physical and chemical properties of C 60 and common chemical modification methods. • We have conducted a detailed comparison between traditional photosensitizers and new fullerene photosensitizers. • The classification and application of fullerene PDT derivatives are introduced in detail. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aging of microplastics (MPs) is extremely influenced by photochemically-produced reactive intermediates (PPRIs), which are mediated by natural photosensitive substances. Algal extracellular polymeric substances (EPS) can produce PPRIs when exposed to sunlight. Nonetheless, the specific role of EPS in the aging process of MPs remains unclear. This work systematically explored the aging process of polystyrene (PS) MPs in the EPS secreted by Chlorella vulgaris under simulated sunlight irradiation. The results revealed that the existence of EPS accelerated the degradation of PS MPs into particles with sizes less than 1 µm, while also facilitating the formation of hydroxy groups on the surface. The release rate of dissolved organic matter (DOM) from PS MPs was elevated from 0.120 mg·L-1·day-1 to 0.577 mg·L-1·day-1. The primary factor contributing to the elevated levels of DOM was humic acid-like compounds generated through the breakdown of PS. EPS accelerated the aging process of PS MPs by primarily mediating the formation of triplet excited states (3EPS*), singlet oxygen (1O 2), and superoxide radicals (O 2 ∙-), resulting in indirect degradation. 3EPS* was found to have the most substantial impact. This study makes a significant contribution to advance understanding of the environmental fate of MPs in aquatic environments impacted by algal blooms. [Display omitted] • Algae EPS greatly enhanced the microplastic (MP) aging under simulated sunlight. • Photoaging of MP induced by EPS led to changes in MP physicochemical properties. • 3EPS*, 1O 2 , and O 2 ∙- mediated by EPS contributed to the MP aging. • 3EPS* was the dominant specie for accelerating the aging process of MPs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Developing high-performance noble-metal-free electrocatalysts for the oxygen evolution reaction (OER) is of great significance for the large-scale implement of electrochemical water splitting. Here, we demonstrate that cobalt-iron oxyhydroxide (CoFe 0.8 (OH) x) with appropriate crystallization exhibits excellent OER activity with a low overpotential of only 246 mV, which is much lower than that achieved on amorphous one. Kinetic experiments indicate that the OER active sites should be di-μ-oxo bridged Fe–Co, on which lower energy barrier is attained than that on Fe–O and Co–O sites. Partial crystallization is beneficial to the lattice contraction, the formation of Co–O–Fe sites, and the decrease of charge transfer resistance, thus accelerating OER process. Compared with amorphous Co-Fe oxyhydroxides, partially crystallized ones show higher OER activity due to faster charge transfer and lower reaction barrier. [Display omitted] • Partially crystallized CoFe 0.8 (OH) x shows higher OER activity than amorphous one. • CoFe 0.8 (OH) x exhibits an overpotential of only 246 mV at 10 mA cm−2. • Bimetallic CoFe 0.8 (OH) x shows lower OER barrier than monometallic counterpart. • The charge transfer ability can be enhanced by partial crystallization. • The OER active sites should be di-μ-oxo bridged Fe–Co. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To deal with energy and environmental issues, it is necessary to exploit efficient and stable electrocatalysts for the generation of clean hydrogen. Herein, we describe the synthesis of bimetallic Fe/Ni alloy encapsulated by amorphous carbon shells via a facile annealing strategy for electrocatalytic oxygen evolution reaction (OER). The ferric nickel tartrate annealed at 800 °C (Ni 3 Fe 1 O x @C-800) exhibits a low OER overpotential of 264 mV at 10 mA cm−2 and good stability in alkaline media. Compared with monometallic counterpart, bimetallic Ni 3 Fe-based nanocomposites show lower OER barrier (ca. 324 kJ mol−1) due to a cooperation mechanism between Ni and Fe sites in promoting electrocatalytic water oxidation. Compared with those annealed at other temperatures, the enhanced OER performance of Ni 3 Fe 1 O x @C-800 can be ascribed to the large electrochemical surface area for exposing more active sites, smaller charge transfer, and better intrinsic activity of Ni 3 Fe-based sites. [Display omitted] • Core-shell Ni 3 Fe 1 O x @C catalysts are fabricated by an annealing method. • Ni 3 Fe 1 O x @C-800 exhibits an overpotential of only 264 mV at 10 mA cm−2. • Bimetallic Ni 3 Fe 1 O x @C-800 show lower OER barrier than monometallic counterpart. • The charge transfer ability can be enhanced by the core-shell structure. • The large ECSA of Ni 3 Fe 1 O x @C-800 favors exposing more active sites. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Information regarding protein expression and phosphorylation modifications in the bovine milk fat globule membrane is scarce, particularly throughout various lactation periods. This study employed a complete proteome and phosphoproteome between bovine colostrum and mature milk. A total of 11 proteins were seen in both protein expression and phosphorylation levels. There were 400 proteins identified in only protein expression, and 104 phosphoproteins identified in only phosphorylation levels. A total of 232 significant protein characteristics were identified within the proteome and significant phosphorylation sites within 86 phosphoproteins of the phosphoproteome. Biological activities and pathways primarily exhibited associations with the immune system. Simultaneously, a comprehensive analysis of proteins and phosphorylation sites using a multi-omics approach. Hence, the data we have obtained has the potential to expand our understanding of how the bovine milk fat globule membrane might be utilized as a beneficial component in dairy products. • A total of 411 MFGM proteins and 197 phosphorylation sites on 115 phosphoproteins were identified from bovine milk. • There were 11 shared MFGM proteins between proteome and phosphoproteome. • 232 MFGM proteins and 122 phosphorylation sites on 86 phosphoproteins were significantly different features. • Proteins and phosphoproteins were mainly involved in immune-related functions and pathways. • Comprehensive characterization and relationships of proteins and phosphorylation sites revealed by multi-omics analysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Deep eutectic system of ZrCl 4 /urea is devised to uniformly incorporate Zr with C 3 N 4. • Fluoride adsorption capacity of CN-Zr reaches 145.34 mg/g in hydrochloric acid. • Various Zr sources are considered on the performance and metal leaching rate. • Structural features and fluoride existence form in acid are considered in mechanism. • The adsorption cost of 0.3157 CNY/g indicates substantial industrial applicability. The fluorine chemical industry's rapid growth demands efficient strategies for treating and utilizing the costly and inefficient byproduct, fluoride-containing hydrochloric acid, posing a significant challenge. In this study, a cost-effective method was developed for preparing an acid-resistant and efficient defluorination material. Carbon nitride (C 3 N 4) was chosen for its exceptional acid resistance and was modified via template-free doping with different zirconium source. Characterization results through XRD, FTIR, BET, XPS, SEM, and TEM confirm the successful synthesis of CN-Zr using zirconium chloride (ZrCl 4) with a specific surface area of 87.77 m2/g. Furthermore, the adsorption results indicate outstanding fluoride adsorption performance of CN-Zr in hydrochloric acid, with a maximum adsorption capacity of 145.34 mg/g and minimal zirconium leaching. Moreover, the adsorption mechanism was systematically studied using Zeta potential, FTIR and XPS characterization. The findings indicate that Zr was integrated with C 3 N 4 uniformly by forming a deep eutectic system (DES), utilizing exposed terminal amino groups for effective hydrogen bonding with HF which predominates as the primary fluorine existence in hydrochloric acid. Meanwhile, the enhanced ion exchange, complexation of Zr-F and strong electrostatic attraction all contribute to improving adsorption. Finally, the assessment of recyclability performance and operation cost demonstrate that the material can maintain 80% of its initial adsorption capacity after five cycles. The cost analysis results indicate that the adsorption cost is only 0.3157 CNY/g, making it considerable competitive in the industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Zhilong Huoxue Tongyu Capsule (ZL) is clinically prescribed for acute ischemic stroke (AIS). However, only a few studies have addressed the mechanisms of ZL in treating AIS. To explore the underlying mechanism of macrophage polarization and inflammation mediated by ZL, and to provide a reference for AIS treatment. Sixteen SD rats were fed with different dose of ZL (0, 0.4, 0.8, and 1.6 g/kg/d) for 4 days to prepare ZL serum. After 500 ng/mL lipopolysaccharide (LPS) stimulation, RAW264.7 cells were administrated with ZL serum. Then, experiments including ELISA, flow cytometry, real-time quantitative PCR and Western blot were performed to verify the effects of ZL on macrophage polarization and inflammation. Next, let-7i inhibitor was transfected in RAW264.7 cells when treated with LPS and ZL serum to verify the regulation of ZL on the let-7i/TLR9/MyD88 signaling pathway. Moreover, the interaction between let-7i and TLR9 was confirmed by the dual-luciferase assay. ZL serum significantly decreased the expression of interleukin (IL)-6 and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), and increased the expression of IL-10 and transforming growth factor β1 (TGF-β1) of LPS stimulated-macrophages. Furthermore, ZL serum polarized macrophages toward M2, decreased the expressions of TLR9, MyD88, and iNOS, as well as increased the expressions of let-7i, CHIL3, and Arginase-1. It is worth mentioning that the effect of ZL serum is dose-dependent. However, let-7i inhibitor restored all the above effects in LPS stimulated-macrophages. In addition, TLR9 was the target of let-7i. ZL targeted let-7i to inhibit TLR9 expression, thereby inhibiting the activation of the TLR9/MyD88 pathway, promoting the M2 polarization, and inhibiting the development of inflammation in AIS. [Display omitted] • ZL is clinically prescribed for AIS. • ZL promotes M2 polarization and inhibited inflammation. • ZL targetes let-7i to inhibit the TLR9/MyD88 pathway. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Alloying the platinum with the nickel and cobalt is an efficient approach to lessen the usage of Pt without compromising the catalytic performance. Few studies have focused on coupling the Pt with the NiCo/oxide composite for hydrogen evolution reaction (HER). Herein, we synthesize three types of hierarchical Pt 15 -NiCo/oxide composites by impregnation, followed by calcination and hydrogenation treatment. The three electrocatalysts have similar intrinsic activity towards HER in 1.0 M KOH, while the Pt 15 -NiCo/CeO 2−x displays the highest catalytic performance because of its large electrochemically active surface area, showing an extremely small overpotential of 12 mV at 100 mA cm−2, making it the best low-Pt-content electrocatalyst for HER. When used as a bifunctional electrocatalyst for urea-assisted hydrogen production, the Pt 15 -NiCo/CeO 2−x demonstrates excellent catalytic performance with a very small cell voltage of 1.36 V to reach 10 mA cm−2 and robust long-term working stability. The outstanding catalytic performance of the Pt 15 -NiCo/CeO 2−x is assigned to the unique-structure-induced abundant active sites, the optimized NiCo/CeO 2−x , the suitable Pt loading, the synergy between the Pt and the NiCo, and the synergy between the PtNiCo and the CeO 2−x. • Three types of hierarchical Pt-NiCo/oxide composites were prepared. • The three Pt 15 -NiCo/oxide composites presented similar intrinsic activity. • The number of active sites is the key factor determining the catalytic performance. • The Pt 15 -NiCo/Ce 2−x has the largest electrochemically active surface area. • The Pt 15 -NiCo/CeO 2−x has a small overpotential of 12 mV at 100 mA cm−2 for HER. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Postoperative fatigue syndrome (POFS) is an important factor in postoperative recovery. However, the effect of anesthetic drugs on postoperative fatigue in female patients has been rarely studied. This study compared the effects of maintaining general anesthesia with propofol or sevoflurane on the incidence of POFS in patients undergoing laparoscopic hysterectomy. This prospective, single-blind, randomized controlled trial enrolled patients scheduled for laparoscopic hysterectomy. Eligible patients were randomized into the propofol and sevoflurane groups. The primary outcome was the incidence of POFS within 30 Days, defined by a simplified identity consequence fatigue scale (ICFS-10) scores≥24 or Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) scores of fatigues>6. Secondary outcomes were perioperative grip strength, early ambulation and anal exhaust after surgery, and inpatient days. 32 participants were assigned to the propofol group (P) and 33 to the sevoflurane group (S). Incidence of POFS on postoperative D1 was P (8/32) vs. S (10/33) (p = 0.66, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 16.4–27.00); D3 P (2/32) vs. S (5/33) (p = 0.45,95% CI:5.96–23.76). POFS were not found on postoperative D5 and D30. There were no differences in perioperative grip strength, early ambulation and anal exhaust after surgery, and inpatient days between the two groups. POFS after scheduled laparoscopic hysterectomy was unaffected by anesthesia with propofol vs. sevoflurane. The incidence of POFS was highest on the first postoperative day, at 27.7%, and declined progressively over the postoperative 30 days. Trial registration Chinese Clinical Trial Registry (No. ChiCTR 2,000,033,861), registered on 14/06/2020). • The incidence of fatigue after gynecological operation has decreased significantly. • Propofol or sevoflurane during surgery has no effect on postoperative fatigue • Postoperative fatigue scale scores were highest on the first postoperative day. • Fatigue after ovariectomy needs to be studied in a large sample multicenter study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Angong Niuhuang Wan (AGNHW) is a prescription from traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) that has been used for centuries to treat ischemic stroke (IS) and hemorrhagic stroke (HS). According to a recent study, targeting ferroptosis might be effective in the management of IS and HS. However, the ferroptosis-related effects and mechanisms of AGNHW have not yet been reported. This research examines the anti-ferroptosis mechanisms of AGNHW in the treatment of IS and HS. A system pharmacological approach including in vivo experiment, UHPLC-Q-Orbitrap HRMS, network pharmacology, molecular docking, microscale thermophoresis, and in vitro experiment was utilized to study the anti-ferroptosis mechanisms of AGNHW against IS and HS. In vivo experiments indicated that AGNHW enhanced nerve function, decreased cerebral infarct volume, ameliorated histological brain injuries, improved the structural integrity of the blood-brain barrier, ameliorated the mitochondrial dysfunction and morphology disruption, and inhibits ROS, LPO and Fe2+ accumulations in IS and HS rats. Using UHPLC-Q-Orbitrap HRMS, the key ingredients of AGNHW-containing serum were identified as bilirubin, berberine, baicalin, and wogonoside. According to the network pharmacology analyses, AGNHW could inhibit ferroptosis by modulating the PPAR and PI3K/AKT signaling pathways. The core targets are PPARγ, AKT, and GPX4. Molecular docking and microscale thermophoresis experiments further revealed that the key ingredients have strong interactions with ferroptosis-regulating core proteins. Moreover, in vitro experiment results showed that AGNHW alleviated ferroptosis injury induced by erastin in PC12 cells, increased cell viability, reduced the LPO and Fe2+ levels, and up-regulated mRNA expressions of PPARγ, AKT, and GPX4. AGNHW also up-regulated protein expressions of PPARγ, p-AKT/AKT, and GPX4 in IS and HS rats. AGNHW attenuated ferroptosis in treating IS and HS by targeting the PPARγ/AKT/GPX4 pathway. This work reveals AGNHW's anti-ferroptosis mechanism against IS and HS, but it also develops an integrated approach to demonstrate the common characteristics of drugs in treating different diseases. [Display omitted] • Angong Niuhuang Wan (AGNHW) is used for treating ischemic stroke (IS) and hemorrhagic stroke (HS) by eliminating phlegm and clearing heat. • Mechanism of AGNHW against IS and HS was related to inhibiting oxidative stress-induced ferroptosis in neurons. • Regulation of oxidative stress-induced ferroptosis in neurons was mediated by PPARγ/AKT/GPX4 pathway. • Bilirubin, berberine, baicalin, and wogonoside were the key active ingredients of AGNHW against IS and HS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Leaf-like Fe 3 O 4 nanosheet arrays with rich Fe2+ and oxygen defects are formed. • Ir-Fe 3 O 4 /IF-T-x is formed via galvanic replacement between IrCl 6 2− ions and Fe2+. • Ir-Fe 3 O 4 /IF-400-2 delivers a low overpotential of 316 mV at 500 mA cm−2 for OER. • The catalyst shows a good long-term stability after 36 h V-t test at 100 mA cm−2. The sluggish kinetics for oxygen evolution reaction (OER) significantly impede the practical applications of electrocatalytic water splitting technology for renewable energy source. The facile design of self-supporting electrocatalysts with high activity and stability for OER catalysis at industrial-grade current density is of paramount significance to mitigate the above bottlenecks. We report herein the construction of iron foam (IF) self-supported Ir-magnetite (Ir-Fe 3 O 4 /IF-T-x) electrode via galvanic replacement between IrCl 6 2− ions and Fe2+ in Fe 3 O 4 nanosheet arrays, which is simply synthesized by annealing IF in air and subsequent thermal treatment in reducing atmosphere. Such pre-treatment enables the growth of leaf-like Fe 3 O 4 nanosheet arrays with rich Fe2+ species and oxygen defects, which facilitate the depositing of Ir on the surface of nanosheet arrays and thereby promote the electrochemical OER performance in basic electrolyte. Impressively, the optimized Ir-Fe 3 O 4 /IF-400-2 delivers the highest electrocatalytic activity with a low overpotential of 316 mV to obtain industrial-grade current density of 500 mA cm−2 for alkaline OER. Meanwhile, the catalyst still shows good long-term stability after 36 h V-t test at 100 mA cm−2. This study offers a simple and efficient pathway to prepare self-supporting electrode for alkaline OER at industrial-grade current density. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Membrane-based separation technology for carbon capture has received increasing attention in the world due to low energy consumption, investment and operating cost. However, the simultaneous improvement in selectivity and permeance has faced large challenge for mixed matrix membranes owing to limited affinity sites and transport channels. Herein, the nano-scale MIP-202 (SM-202) was first prepared by inhibited Ostwald ripening strategy during crystal growth, and then nano-scale amorphous MIP-202 (ASM-202) was prepared by thermal chemical reaction. Subsequently, mixed matrix composite membranes (MMCMs) were developed by using ASM-202 as a filler and polyether-block-amide (Pebax) as a polymer matrix, and the hydrophilicity-modified polysulfone ultrafiltration membrane (mPSf) was utilized as a porous support. It is observed that ASM-202 possessed good miscibility with Pebax polymer chains as a result of hydrogen bonds between two phases. Thus, the as-obtained MMCMs showed outstanding CO 2 separation performance (CO 2 permeance: 936 GPU; CO 2 /N 2 selectivity: 52), which were enhanced by 138 % and 108 % over that of the pristine Pebax membrane, as well as 15.3 % and 13.0 % over that of MMCMs incorporating with SM-202, respectively. The improvement in gas separation performance can be explained by the reason that the nano-scale ASM-202 with large specific surface area afforded more unsaturated metal sites and nitrogen-doped structure, thus improving the CO 2 affinity in membranes. Moreover, the loose amorphous structure of ASM-202 provides more transport passageways, which enhanced the diffusion rate of gas molecules through the membranes. Besides, resultant MMCMs maintained great stability for over 360 h using the CO 2 /N 2 mixed gas as feed gas, whose average CO 2 permeance and CO 2 /N 2 selectivity fluctuated at 880 GPU and 47. [Display omitted] • Nano-amorphous MIP-202 was prepared by combining inhibited Ostwald ripening strategy with thermal chemical reaction. • The nano-amorphous MIP-202 enhanced CO 2 permeance and CO 2 /N 2 selectivity of MMCMs concurrently. • The nano-scale amorphous MIP-202 had good compatibility with Pebax matrix. • MMCMs revealed a CO 2 permeance of 936 GPU with a CO 2 /N 2 selectivity of 52 which was superior to that loaded with MIP-202. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effect of 1.0 % (w / v) sodium alginate (SA) glazing on surface frost formation and the quality of frozen fish balls in repeated freeze-thaw (F-T) cycles was studied. The optimal glazing property of 1.0 % SA solution was manifested by high transmittance, excellent water resistance, and high ice glazing rate. After seven F-T cycles, compared with the control, the ice production, thawing loss, and total volatile base nitrogen (TVB-N) value of samples with 1.0 % ice glazing decreased by 28.30 %, 21.02 %, and 27.35 %, while the chewiness and whiteness were increased by 15.02 % and 10.40 %, respectively. Moreover, compared to the control, the microstructure of fish balls glazed with 1.0 % SA was smoother and more uniform, and the ice crystal diameter was smaller. Therefore, 1.0 % SA glazing effectively inhibits the formation of ice crystals, reducing water migration and loss while minimizing damage to the meat structure, thus enhancing the quality of meat products. • 1.0 % sodium alginate (SA) was selected as the ice glazing solution for fish balls. • SA ice glazing reduced surface frosting during freeze-thaw (F-T) cycles. • The quality deterioration in the F-T cycle was inhibited by SA ice glazing. • SA ice glazing has the potential to extend the shelf life of meat products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Propose two-phase partitioning boundaries at the medium surface for drying. • Model drying over time from saturated to unsaturated conditions. • Distinguish the mechanisms of liquid water evaporation and water vapor transport. • Consider the nonequilibrium and interface-dependent phase change of water. To accurately predict the drying of a porous medium from saturated to unsaturated conditions over time, this paper proposes two-phase partitioning boundaries for liquid water evaporation and water vapor transport at the medium surface. A non-isothermal two-phase (liquid water and gas mixtures), two-component (dry air and water vapor) transport model with nonequilibrium and interface-dependent phase change is then developed. The governing equations are then numerical solved using COMSOL Multiphysics software and applied to describe a series of laboratory soil drying tests as examples. The performance of the proposed boundaries at the surface is illustrated by comparison with other three common used boundaries. The results show that a specific flux of vapor at the surface with a zero flux of liquid water cannot be adopted to describe the drying process of initially saturated media due to the lack of interconnected gas-filled pores. The merged liquid-vapor boundary applied in the Darcy–Richards model significantly prolongs the constant rate stage when the liquid water evaporation is dominant. Then, the effects of air/gas–water interfacial area and water retention parameters on the drying process are investigated. A faster reduction in the air–water relative interfacial area at the medium surface will shorten the drying process with earlier dominance of the vapor transport. An increased entry capillary pressure and a decreased pore size distribution index for the water retention curve will result in slower drying, more loss by vapor transport and a more homogeneous distribution of pore water respect to depth. The current study can promote the understanding of the evolution of drying mechanisms of a porous medium from saturated to unsaturated conditions. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• We describe the role of circRNA-miRNA-mRN in breast cancer (BC). • The circRNA-miRNA-mRNA has potential value in the treatment of BC. • We introduced the mechanism of the circRNA-miRNA-mRNA in the development of BC. Among cancers, breast cancer has the highest incidence rate among women and poses a tremendous threat to women's health. Messenger RNA (mRNA), microRNA (miRNA) and circular RNA (circRNA) play vital roles in the progression of breast cancer through a variety of biological effects and mechanisms. Recently, the regulatory network formed by circRNAs, miRNAs and mRNAs has piqued attention and garnered interest. CircRNAs bind to miRNAs through a regulatory mechanism in which endogenous RNAs compete to indirectly regulate the expression of mRNA corresponding to downstream target genes of miRNAs, contributing to the progression of breast cancer. The circRNA-miRNA-mRNA axis may be a marker for the early diagnosis and prognosis of breast cancer and a potential breast cancer treatment target, providing unlimited possibilities for the development of breast cancer biomarkers and therapeutic strategies. This article reviews recent research progress on the circRNA-miRNA-mRNA axis as a regulatory network of competing endogenous RNAs in breast cancer. Herein, we focus on the mechanism and function of the circRNA-miRNA-mRNA axis in the occurrence and metastasis of breast cancer, and resistance to chemotherapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• We described a novel sequencing technology that can explore complex intracellular processes at the single cell level. • The single-cell sequencing technology has been successfully applied in the field of cancer research. We described the latest development of this technique in the study of cancer pathogenesis and clinical application. • We have made a detailed classification and summary of the existing single-cell sequencing technologies. Tumor heterogeneity is a key characteristic of malignant tumors and a significant obstacle in cancer treatment and research. Although bulk tissue sequencing has wide coverage and high accuracy, it can only represent the dominant cell signal information of each sample, while masking the unique gene expression of rare cells; therefore it cannot represent genes that are unstable within a subgroup, but unchanged in a majority of cells. With the progress of genomic technology, the emergence of single-cell sequencing (SCS) has effectively solved the above problem. Genetic, transcriptomic and epigenetic sequencing at the single-cell level provides an important basis for us to correctly classify the cell subsets of heterogeneous tumor populations and to reveal the process of complex changes in tumor cells at the molecular level. Single-cell sequencing technology has been applied to the field of cancer, revealing exciting discoveries in the potential mechanisms of tumor driver gene mutation, clonal evolution, invasion and metastasis. It also provides favorable conditions for developing new tumor biomarkers and providing more accurate and individualized targeted tumor therapy. Herein, we review the steps and methods of single-cell sequencing and highlight the application of SCS in tumor diagnosis and clinical treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this study was to investigate students' awareness, usage and attitude towards e-books at the Zhejiang University in China. The research design was quantitative using a convenience sampling method and chi-square analyses were employed. Library staff responsible for digital resources collection had been interviewed. Results indicated that there was a significant difference of students' awareness and usage of general e-books and academic e-books. There was a higher awareness but lower adoption of general e-books. The awareness and level of usage of library provided e-books were both very low. A search engine was generally used to access e-books. Senior undergraduates and postgraduate students mainly accessed e-books from the library website and library catalog. Students, particularly undergraduate students, used e-books mainly for the purpose of leisure. In contrast, postgraduate students tended to use e-books more for academic purposes. The use of mobile devices and computers was preferred when reading e-books; but for academic e-books students preferred print part of them for reading. University students showed strong preference for printing books. Academic libraries should put more efforts on promotion, stimulating demands, and cooperation with teachers to improve e-books usage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Through defect modulation, ZrB 2 powder was controllably synthesized using the carbon thermal reduction (CTR) method, with boron powder serving as a novel additive. Thermodynamic data for the ZrO 2 -B 2 O 3 -C system in the presence of boron were calculated using HSC thermodynamic software. Additionally, TG-DSC thermal analysis combined with XRD was used to investigate the reaction process. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) were used to analyze the defect structure and grain surface characteristics of the reaction products. The results indicate that the reaction of B with ZrO 2 and C exothermically alters the nucleation environment of ZrB 2 grains. The helical dislocations generated act as a source of crystal growth steps, promoting the growth of smooth interfaces and leading to a transformation of the ZrB 2 grain growth mechanism. Quantitative calculations of the dislocation density of ZrB 2 powders, using the convolutional multiple whole profile fitting (CMWP-fit), suggest that the inclusion of boron as an additive can modulate the defect concentration of the products. ZrB 2 powders with varied dislocation densities were achieved through meticulously controlled synthesis methods, followed by subsequent densification via hot pressing sintering. The results indicated that the relative density of ZrB 2 ceramics increased from 83.9 % to 96.7 % as the dislocation density of the powder increased from 2.7 × 1013 m−2 to 7.6 × 1014 m−2 with the rise in boron content from 0 wt% to 3 wt%. In addition, the defects create extra sintering-driving forces that induce a shift in the densification mechanism from grain boundary diffusion to dislocation slip during hot-pressing sintering. This shift results in an increase in the apparent activation energy from 105 kJ/mol to 210 kJ/mol. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Skyrmion bags can be driven by propagating SWs and its velocity depends on both the frequency and amplitude of the spin wave. • Skyrmion bags exhibit obvious motion within a specific frequency range of SWs. • The parameters of the nanostrip have impact on the motion of skyrmion bags as well. • The exchange of momentum between spin waves and skyrmion bags causes the skyrmion bags to move. Skyrmion bags are spin textures with arbitrary integer topological charge numbers, holding promise for utilization in high-density racetrack memory devices. In this study, we investigate the dynamics of skyrmion bags driven by propagating spin waves in a magnetic nanostrip, employing micromagnetic simulations. Our findings reveal that propagating spin waves can induce a stable movement of skyrmion bags, irrespective of their topological charge numbers. The amplitude and frequency of the spin wave, alongside material parameters such as damping constant and saturation magnetization, exhibit discernible effects on the behavior of skyrmion bags. These outcomes have the potential to advance the development of racetrack memory based on skyrmion bags. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Single-atom manganese catalysts possess high stability in the oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) due to their lower Fenton reaction activity. Here, we employ N- and S-co-coordination strategy to modulate the microstructural Mn sites towards high-efficiency ORR. The fabricated Mn-N/S-C catalyst with isolated Mn-N 2 S 2 sites demonstrates a positive half-wave potential of 0.91 V for the ORR. The fabricated zinc–air battery with Mn-N/S-C as the cathode affords a maximal power density of 193 mW cm−2 and superior output stability. Moreover, the maximal power density is increased by 1.53 times compared with S-free Mn-N-C catalyst in anion exchange membrane fuel cells (AEMFCs). Both experimental characterizations and theoretical simulations unveil that the main active sites in the Mn-N/S-C should be Mn-N 2 S 2 moiety embedded into the graphene framework (Mn-N 2 S 2 G). Further computational results demonstrate that the S atom doping and asymmetry of structure lead to higher ORR activities of ortho-Mn-N 2 S 2 G than Mn-N 4 G, Mn-N 3 SG, para-Mn-N 2 S 2 G and Mn-NS 3 G. [Display omitted] • N- and S-co-coordination to isolated Mn sites improves the catalytic activity. • The Mn-N/S-C exhibits a positive half-wave potential of 0.91 V for the ORR. • The Mn-N/S-C-based zinc–air battery affords a peak power density of 193 mW cm−2. • The Mn-N/S-C-based AEMFC affords a peak power density of 247 mW cm−2. • Ortho-Mn-N 2 S 2 G shows higher activity than Mn-N 4 G, para-Mn-N 2 S 2 G and Mn-NS 3 G. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fish gelatin nanoparticles (FGNPs) of different sizes (∼155–410 nm) were successfully obtained by adjusting the ratio of gelatin and glutaraldehyde (Gel/Glu ratio), and their possible generation mechanisms were revealed by Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) analysis and transmission electron microscopy images. The FGNPs were then used to fabricate collagen composite films. Compared to a pure collagen film, the tensile strength, elongation at break, and Young's modulus of composite films increased by 37.1%, 34.4%, and 79.2%, respectively, while the water vapor permeability decreased by 51.5%. Meanwhile, scanning electron microscopy images, FTIR, and X-ray diffraction analysis suggested that small-sized and uniformly distributed FGNPs maintained the original crystal structure and well-arranged super helical structure of collagen, while large-sized and cross-linked FGNPs destabilized the collagen structure. A Gel/Glu ratio of 12:4 afforded FGNPs with a size of ∼155 nm, which was the best collagen composite film-forming size. Moreover, the FGNPs could bind to collagen through weak but countless non-covalent bonds (hydrogen bonds and ionic bonds), thereby improving the mechanical properties of the films. Overall, the FGNPs improved the performances characteristic of collagen films by influencing their structure, including hydrogen bonding interaction, crystalline structure, and superhelix structure, which would advance the understanding of collagen-based films. [Display omitted] • Fish gelatin nanoparticles (FGNPs) with different sizes were successfully prepared. • The addition of FGNPs enhanced the properties of the collagen fiber films. • The hierarchical structure was improved after adding the FGNPs into collagen films. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tetracycline (TC) as a common antibiotic has adverse effects on human healthy and biological survival. In this study, a novel MXene/TiO 2 /Fe hybrid was designed and successfully synthesized by combination method of calcination and hydrothermal reduction. The photocatalysts were characterized by PXRD, SEM, TEM, VSM and XPS, etc. It was found that MXene/TiO 2 /Fe exhibited 2D multilayer structure like MXene. The in-situ synthesized TiO 2 through calcinating MXene exhibited an octahedral biconical structure with exposed (001) and (101) facets. Surface heterojunction of (001) and (101) facets was formed within TiO 2 , which enhanced the separation of photogenerated electrons and holes. The residual MXene could play a role in co-catalyst to capture the photo-generated electrons from TiO 2. Moreover, Fe nanoparticles not only optimize the band gap structure and increase the specific surface area, but also store the electrons as a good electrons acceptor, which further promote the separation of electrons and holes. The TC removal efficiency of optimal MXene/TiO 2 /Fe could reach 92% within 120 min. Moreover, the influence of external environment factors such as pH, catalyst dosages and common anions were investigated in detail. Mechanism analysis show that h+, •OH and •O 2 − are the main active substances. Finally, the degradation pathways were proposed according to LC-MS. [Display omitted] • A novel MXene/TiO 2 /Fe photocatalyst is designed and synthesized. • TiO 2 with surface heterojunction is obtained by calcining Ti 3 C 2 T x. • Doped Fe nanoparticles improve photocatalytic degradation performance. • A possible degradation mechanism for tetracycline is proposed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sulfate Radical-Advanced Oxidation Processes are considered an efficient way for purifying dyeing wastewater, which commonly resists conventional treatment processes owing to the complex components, low biodegradability and high toxicity. However, this emerging technique is associated with issues of secondary pollution and great energy consumption during peroxymonosulfate (PMS) or persulfate (PS) activation processes. Herein, a dye pollutant/PS/visible light self-catalytic system was constructed, based on the photosensitive property of organic dyes for PS activation without catalyst and energy input. In this system, the degradation ratio of 100 mL 10 mg L−1 basic fuchsin, rhodamine B and eosin Y significantly increased by 60%, 76% and 50%, compared with the process without light irradiation. Such improvements were attributable to an efficient photo-induced electron transfer from photo-excited dyes to PS, which has the precondition that the lowest unoccupied molecular orbital (LUMO) energy level of the dye is higher than that of PS, thereby generating oxidizing species like ·SO 4 −, ·OH and 1O 2 for pollutants degradation. Due to the high performance of pollutants simultaneous removal, wide pH adaptability and anti-interference, the complex self-catalytic system consisted of nine dyes and bis -phenol A exhibited the possibility for practical application. Expectedly, the actual dyeing wastewater self-purification system featured a decolorization efficiency of 54% accompanied by the removal of co-existing aromatic proteins and tryptophan-like substances; moreover, the acute bio-toxicity of the raw wastewater greatly decreased by 61.6%. Owing to its high efficiency, eco-friendliness and low consumption, the constructed "using waste to treat waste" system provides a promising way for wastewater treatment. [Display omitted] • A novel PS activation system without catalyst and energy input was constructed. • Well-matched energy level between photosensitive dye and PS leads to activation. • Dye and co-existing pollutants were simultaneously removed with high efficiency. • Actual dyeing wastewater was purified in a novel way of using waste to treat waste. • The eco-friendly and low-cost method has great potential in wastewater treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• The ND6 level of patients was higher than normal people. • The ND6 levels of patients who needed hemodialysis were higher than controls. • ND6 positively correlated with BVAS in active disease, and returned to normal in remission. • High level of serum ND6 predicts poor prognosis of AAV. Increased serum and urinary mitochondrial DNA have been demonstrated in antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibody-associated vasculitis (AAV). Here we investigated the significance of serum nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide-ubiquinone oxidoreductase chain 6 (ND6), which is encoded by mtDNA and can attract neutrophils, in AAV. Thirty-seven AAV patients (32 patients with positive myeloperoxidase-ANCA and 5 patients with proteinase 3-ANCA) were enrolled. Relationship between serum ND6 and clinico-laboratory characteristics were analyzed. The ND6 level of patients was higher than normal people (46.56 ± 23.67 pg/mL vs. 4.95 ± 2.45 pg/mL, P < 0.001) The ND6 levels of patients who needed hemodialysis at disease onset and who had pulmonary hemorrhage (PH) were higher than that of the corresponding controls (P = 0.004 and 0.044 respectively). The ND6 level negatively correlated with the percentages of normal glomeruli in kidney biopsy. The AUC of ROC curve to diagnose hemodialysis and PH was 0.804 and 0.750 respectively. ND6 level positively correlated with Birmingham Vasculitis Activity Score in active disease, and returned to normal after remission. Patients with higher serum ND6 had higher mortality (P = 0.023). Serum ND6 increases in active AAV, and its level correlates with the severity of disease. High ND6 level is associated with severe organ injury and predicts poor prognosis of AAV. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• A combination of point mutation, mating, adaptation, and haploidization was used. • Sugar uptake and ethanol production were enhanced by adaptive evolution. • Evolved strains had strong tolerance to inhibitors in the pretreated straw slurry. Saccharomyces cerevisiae strain with excellent xylose-fermenting capacity and inhibitor tolerance is crucial for lignocellulosic ethanol production. In this study, a combined strategy including site-directed mutagenesis, mating, evolutionary engineering, and haploidization was applied to obtain strains with ideal xylose fermentabilities. Haploid industrial strain KFG4-6B was engineered to overexpress endogenous xylulokinase (XK) and heterologous native or mutated xylose reductase (XR) and xylitol dehydrogenase (XDH) from Scheffersomyces stipitis. The XR-mutated strain HX57D showed over 12% increase in both xylose consumption rate and ethanol yield compared with the XR-native strain. To improve the xylose uptake, the HX57D-derived diploids were subjected to evolutionary engineering. In comparison with HX57D, evolved diploid Z4X-21-18 achieved 4.5-fold increases in rates of xylose consumption and ethanol production when fermenting xylose. When fermenting mixed sugars, the glucose and xylose uptake rates were 1.4-fold and 8.3-fold, respectively, higher. H18s28, a haploid of Z4X-21-18, enabled a further 10% increase in xylose consumption rate when fermenting xylose only. However, it was inferior to its diploid parent when fermenting mixed sugars. In the presaccharification-simultaneous saccharification and fermentation (P-SSF) of the whole pretreated wheat straw slurry with high contents of multiple inhibitors, Z4X-21-18 produced approximately 42 g/L ethanol with a yield of 0.38 g/g total sugars. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cobalt manganese hydroxides with well-defined nanowire morphology (CoMn-HW) is scalable fabricated by adjusting solution contents, Mn/Co ratio and alkaline species. To further improve the conductivity of CoMn-HW, GO is introduced during fabrication process and reduced to rGO according to the high temperature and alkali atmosphere. By optimizing the adding mass of rGO, CoMn-HW/rGO with sandwiched like structure is successfully synthesized for supercapacitor electrode. The composite delivers a high specific capacitance of 784 F g−1 at current density of 0.5 A g−1, good rate capability (84.2% capacitance retention after current density increase 10 times). Moreover, an asymmetric supercapacitor with CoMn-HW/rGO10 as the positive electrode and active carbon as the negative electrode, is assembled and delivers a maximum energy density of 38.3 Wh kg−1 and power density of 8000 W kg−1, representing its potential in energy storage and conversion systems. • Co, Mn-hydroxides with nanowire morphology is scalable fabricated. • CoMn-HW/rGO with sandwiched like structure is synthesized under optimal synthesis condition. • An asymmetric supercapacitor based on CoMn-HW/rGO and AC is assembled with high energy and power densities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• S. cerevisiae strain capable of producing xylitol and ethanol was constructed. • Xylose-specificity and cofactor preference of XR affected xylitol production. • SSF was much more effective than SHF for xylitol and ethanol co-production. The co-production of xylitol and ethanol from agricultural straw has more economic advantages than the production of ethanol only. Saccharomyces cerevisiae , the most widely used ethanol-producing yeast, can be genetically engineered to ferment xylose to xylitol. In the present study, the effects of xylose-specificity, cofactor preference, and the gene copy number of xylose reductase (XR; encoding by XYL1 gene) on xylitol production of S. cerevisiae were investigated. The results showed that overexpression of XYL1 gene with a lower xylose-specificity and a higher NADPH preference favored the xylitol production. The copy number of XYL1 had a positive correlation with the XR activity but did not show a good correlation with the xylitol productivity. The overexpression of XYL1 from Candida tropicalis (Ct XYL1) achieved a xylitol productivity of 0.83 g/L/h and a yield of 0.99 g/g-consumed xylose during batch fermentation with 43.5 g/L xylose and 17.0 g/L glucose. During simultaneous saccharification and fermentation (SSF) of pretreated corn stover, the strain overexpressing Ct XYL1 produced 45.41 g/L xylitol and 50.19 g/L ethanol, suggesting its application potential for xylitol and ethanol co-production from straw feedstocks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chenopodium quinoa , a halophytic crop belonging to the Amaranthaceae, has remarkable resistance to harsh growth conditions and produces seed with excellent nutritional value. This makes it a suitable crop for marginal soils. However, to date most of the commercial cultivars are susceptible to preharvest sprouting (PHS). Meanwhile, understanding of the PHS regulatory mechanisms is still limited. Abscisic acid (ABA) has been demonstrated to be tightly associated with seed dormancy and germination regulation in many crops. Whether ABA metabolism pathway could be manipulated to prevent PHS in quinoa is worth investigating. In the present study, we tested the inhibitory effects of exogenous ABA on quinoa seed germination. By RNA-seq analysis we investigated the global gene expression changes during seed germination, and obtained 1066 ABA-repressed and 392 ABA-induced genes. Cis -elements enrichment analysis indicated that the promoters of these genes were highly enriched in motifs "AAAAAAAA" and "ACGTGKC (K = G/T)", the specific binding motifs of ABI3/VP1 and ABI5. Transcription factor annotation showed that 13 genes in bHLH, MADS-box, G2-like and NF-YB, and five genes in B3, bZIP, GATA and LBD families were specifically ABA-repressed and -induced, respectively. Furthermore, expression levels of 53 key homologs involved in seed dormancy and germination regulation were markedly changed. Hence, we speculated that the 18 transcription factors and the homologs were potential candidates involved in ABA-mediated seed dormancy and germination regulation, which could be manipulated for molecular breeding of quinoa elites with PHS tolerance in future. • Chenopodium quinoa is a highly nutritious grain but is susceptible to preharvest sprouting. • Application of exogenous ABA inhibits quinoa seed germination. • RNA-seq analysis was used to explore the global transcriptional changes in control and ABA-treated quinoa seeds. • 18 transcription factors and 53 key homologs were identified to be highly associated with quinoa seed dormancy and germination regulation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Both numerical simulations and experiments were conducted in a heavy-duty DICI engine, with PRF81 as a gasoline surrogate, to investigate how the fuel stratification, auto-ignition and combustion are affected by the start of injection (SOI). The intake air temperature was adjusted to keep the combustion phasing constant when the SOI was swept from − 100 to − 20 o CA ATDC, covering different regimes of combustion, from HCCI to PPC. It is found that in the HCCI regime the combustion process is less sensitive to the variation of SOI since the fuel/air mixture is fairly homogeneous. The fuel/air mixture is under fuel-lean condition and the required intake temperature for a constant CA50 is the highest. In the PPC regime there is an optimal SOI window, within which the required intake temperature is the lowest to maintain a constant CA50 and the engine thermal efficiency is the highest. The optimal operation window starts at the SOI when all fuel is injected into the piston bowl and ends when the fuel injection is towards the bottom wall of the piston bowl, which results in a high heat transfer losses. The SOI window for optimal engine operation is expected to be fuel injector and piston bowl geometry dependent. During the transition regime, the fuel is injected towards the piston head in the squish region. The combustion process is highly sensitive to SOI due to the high sensitivity of fuel distribution in the cylinder to SOI. The engine thermal efficiency is the lowest due to the incomplete oxidation of fuel in the squish region. • Fuel stratification and combustion characteristics affected by the SOI and engine geometry were systematically studied. • The transition regime from HCCI to PPC and fuel stratification level during the SOI swept were defined. • The mechanisms behind the non-monotonic dependence of intake temperature on SOI were investigated. • The sensitivity of the in-cylinder wall temperature for the different combustion regime was evaluated. • For a given constant combustion phasing, an optimal SOI window was found. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A facile strategy of electrophoretic deposition has been employed to fabricate a thin film photoelectrochemical (PEC) sensor of functionalized N–doped graphene quantum dots (F–NGQDs) embedded in BiOBr nanosheets, which were prepared by a two–step hydrothermal method, loaded onto indium–tin–oxide coated glass substrate (F–NGQDs/BiOBr/ITO). Electrophoretic deposition provides a mild and environmentally friendly method for PEC film formation. Multiple techniques were applied to investigate the electronic, optical properties and structure of F–NGQDs/BiOBr thin films photoelectrodes. It was found that F–NGQDs/BiOBr thin films with NGQDs/BiOBr heterojunction possess an enhanced charge transfer and absorption wavelengths under visible light, particularly when compared to pristine F–BiOBr films, thus producing an increase in the observed photocurrent. Sensing performance measurements showed the F–NGQDs/BiOBr/ITO photoelectrode has a higher photoelectric response current to paracetamol, it was used to detect trace paracetamol under visible light irradiation. The sensor exhibited a wide linear range, low detection limit and good sensitivity, given the photoactivity of NGQDs/BiOBr heterojunction. The developed PEC sensor displayed an acute response to paracetamol in a linear range of 0.01 μM–20.0 μM with a detection limit of 3.33 nM, under optimal conditions. Here we present evidence that F–NGQDs/BiOBr/ITO photoelectrode is a promising candidate for PEC analysis. • NGQDs embedded in BiOBr nanosheets were prepared by a two-step hydrothermal method. • F–NGQDs/BiOBr nanocomposites were deposited onto ITO coated glass substrate by electrophoretic deposition. • This platform is simple in preparation and has the potential to achieve simple and specific detection of paracetamol. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this article, ZnCo 2 O 4 nanowires deposited with two kinds of typical layered double hydroxides (Ni–Al,Co–Al LDH) are developed via scalable method. Two materials all display core–shell hierarchical structure. High specific capacitance of 2041 F g−1 and 1586 F g−1 are obtained for ZnCo 2 O 4 @Co–Al LDH and ZnCo 2 O 4 @Ni–Al LDH,respectively. Combining with active surface and synergistic effect, the role of hierarchical structure in enhancing performance is revealed. Moreover, two all solid state supercapacitors based on fabricated materials as positive electrodes, activated carbon as negative electrodes and PVA–KOH as polymer electrolyte are assembled. The maximum power and energy densities of ZnCo 2 O 4 @Co–Al LDH//AC are 6200 W kg−1 and 50.1 Wh kg−1, respectively. While the power and energy densities of ZnCo 2 O 4 @Ni–Al LDH//AC are 3400 W kg−1 and 27.8 Wh kg−1. At last, an energy storage–conversion system, based on solar cell as input device and assembled asymmetric supercapacitor ZnCo 2 O 4 @Co–Al LDH//AC as output device, is integrated as a self–sustaining power device, indicating its potential in practical applications. In this article, ZnCo 2 O 4 nanowires deposited with two kinds of typical layered double hydroxides (LDHs) are developed via scalable method. Combining with active surface and synergistic effect, the role of hierarchical structure of each material in enhancing performance is revealed. Moreover, an energy storage–conversion system, based on solar cell as input device and assembled asymmetric supercapacitor as output device, is integrated as a self–sustaining power device, further indicating its potential in practical applications. Image 1 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Autophagy is an important intracellular process to maintain homeostasis and studies have shown the key role of autophagy in modulating the functions of reproductive system. Alongside with it, the activation of autophagy has also been found to regulate a number of important processes involved in in vitro fertilization including degeneration of granulosa cells and oocyte defects in obese and aging women; apoptosis of oocytes during vitrification-warming; quality and viability of embryo; developmental competence and pre-implantation development of in vitro produced blastocysts; placental vascularization and fetal growth. The different mechanisms that may contribute in autophagy-mediated increase in developmental competence and pre-implantation development include decrease in endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress, activation of poly(ADP-ribosyl)ation (PARP) and reduction in free radical production. The present review discusses the role of autophagy activation in increasing the efficiency of in vitro fertilization by modulating different aspects related to fertilization. Unlabelled Image [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Two new polyoxometalate-based metal–organic complexes with rigid pyridyl-triazole-tetrazole ligand and two different polyoxometalates have been prepared and characterized. The electrochemical behaviors and the adsorption activities have been described. Two new polyoxometalate-based metal–organic complexes, namely, [Ni 3 (Htyptz) 2 (γ-Mo 8 O 26)(H 2 O) 8 ]·4H 2 O (1) and [Ni 3 (H 2 typtz) 2 (TeMo 6 O 24)(H 2 O) 8 ]·6H 2 O (2) [H 2 typtz = 3-(tetrazol-5-yl)-5-(pyrid-3-yl)-1,2,4-triazole] have been successfully synthesized under hydrothermal conditions. Their structures have been identified by single crystal X-ray diffraction, and further characterized by elemental analysis, infrared spectra (IR), and powder X-ray diffraction (PXRD). In complex 1 , the [Ni(Htyptz) 2 ] mononuclear unit link the adjacent 1D Ni-γ-Mo 8 O 26 inorganic chains conducing to the formation of the 2D layer, then the adjacent 2D layers are connected through hydrogen bonds to construct a 3D supramolecular network. Complex 2 is a 2D coordination network, which is constructed from 1D [Ni 3 (H 2 typtz) 2 ] chains and TeMo 6 anions. The different polyoxometalates play important roles in tuning the structures of the title complexes. In addition, the adsorption activities of complexes 1 and 2 for methylene blue (MB), neutral red (NR), rhodamine 6G (R6G), Orange II (OrII) have been investigated. Moreover, their electrochemical behaviors and electrocatalytic properties have also been studied. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Ir/Ir 3 Ti is the most stable interface among the six Ir/Ir 3 X interfaces. • IVB elements form more stable interfacial structures with the Ir than VB elements. • Lattice misfit and charge redistribution jointly affect interfacial stability. Interfacial stability is critical for dual-phase Ir/Ir 3 X materials used in ultra-high temperature applications. Despite this, this property remains poorly recognized and understood. In the present work, the interfacial energies and the generalized stacking fault energies (GSFE) curves are calculated to investigate the thermodynamic and kinetic stability of the six Ir/Ir 3 X interfaces by DFT and AIMD methods. It is found that Ir/Ir 3 Ti possesses the lowest interfacial energy at 0 K and 2000 K, as well as the highest unstable stacking fault energy, indicating it is the most stable interface. The comparison shows that the considered interfaces containing IVB elements (Ti, Hf and Zr) are more stable than those containing VB elements (V, Nb and Ta). Furthermore, the analysis reveals that interfacial energy differences in Ir/Ir 3 X may contribute to interfacial lattice misfit and charge redistribution at the interface. We aim to provide essential theoretical guidance for the design of novel high-temperature dual-phase Ir-based alloys. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Moldy kernels of in-shell hickory nuts could be detected by Lib-SVM models. • Combination of time-domain and frequency-domain features was more effective. • Most acoustic features were related with weight and bulk density of hickory nuts. • Structure of shells for healthy and moldy kernels of hickory nuts were different. The feasibility of acoustic vibration signals acquired by a self-made device was assessed as a non-destructive technology for identifying moldy kernels of in-shell hickory nuts (MK-IHNs). Twenty-two acoustic features extracted from time-domain and frequency-domain signals were used to establish a precious model for classifying MK-IHNs and healthy kernels of in-shell hickory nuts (HK-IHNs). Based on a combination of time-domain and frequency-domain features, an optimized LIB support vector machine (Lib-SVM) model was obtained with accuracy of 91.67% for identifying MK-IHNs. Some physical parameters of hickory nuts such as weight and bulk density were significantly correlated with most of the acoustic features (P < 0.05). Moreover, the microstructures of HK-IHN and MK-IHN shells, whatever outside surfaces or cross-sections, were obviously different. It follows then that the physical forms and structures of hickory nuts would play important roles in building a reliable model for identifying MK-IHNs based on acoustic vibration technology. Results of satisfactory proved that the acoustic vibration technology combined with Lib-SVM method could serve as a feasible approach for non-destructive damage identification of MK-IHNs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fabrication of polymer films with superb mechanical properties is far from mature compared to that of fibers, hampering the further engineering applications of lightweight polymer materials. Herein, high density polyethylene (HDPE) films reinforced with re-dispersed or refined reduced graphene oxide (rGO) are prepared via a facile melt-stretching strategy. The incorporation of only 0.2 wt% rGO is demonstrated to endow the melt-stretched film (80× stretch ratio) with ultrahigh Young's modulus of 2.9 GPa and tensile strength of 162.2 MPa, which are comparable to many engineering plastics and also significantly superior to the existing HDPE/graphene composites. More importantly, these modulus and strength values are increased by 71 and 65% compared to the neat PE (80×), respectively, far more than the theoretical prediction with the mixing rule. Experimental characterizations indicate that the high-efficient mechanical enhancement is attributed to the strong synergy of melt stretching-driven crystallization and rGO re-dispersion or refinement in constructing the compact and robust shish-kebabs crystal network. Such microstructural characteristics greatly promote the load transfer along the covalently bonded molecular chains, and also from polymer to rigid fillers under loading. Furthermore, the excellent puncture resistance and thermo-mechanical properties of PE/rGO films have been demonstrated. This work provides a feasible way towards scalable manufacturing of high-performance polymer nanocomposite films from general plastics and carbonaceous nanomaterials. [Display omitted] • HDPE/rGO nanocomposite films are fabricated by a facile melt stretching process. • Superb mechanical performance of films is achieved at very low filler content. • Melt stretching-driven rGO re-dispersion or refinement is demonstrated. • rGO re-dispersion enhances the formation of robust shish-kebabs crystal network. • Good puncture resistance and thermo-mechanical properties of films are revealed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]