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Ferroelectricity, band topology, and superconductivity are respectively local, global, and macroscopic properties of quantum materials, and understanding their mutual couplings offers unique opportunities for exploring rich physics and enhanced functionalities. In this mini‐review, the attempt is to highlight some of the latest advances in this vibrant area, focusing in particular on ferroelectricity‐tuned superconductivity and band topology in 2D materials and related heterostructures. First, results from predictive studies of the delicate couplings between ferroelectricity and topology or superconductivity based on first‐principles calculations and phenomenological modeling are presented, with ferroelectricity‐enabled topological superconductivity as an appealing objective. Next, the latest advances on experimental studies of ferroelectricity‐tuned superconductivity based on different 2D materials or van der Waals heterostructures are covered. Finally, as perspectives, schemes are outlined that may allow to materialize new types of 2D systems that simultaneously harbor ferroelectricity and superconductivity, or that may lead to enhanced ferroelectric superconductivity, ferroelectric topological superconductivity, and new types of superconducting devices such as superconducting diodes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Layered group IV–VI compounds (i.e., SnSe, SnS, GeSe, and GeS) in the puckered structure resembling black‐phosphorene (BlackP) have attracted increasing interest because of their intriguing ferroic orders and outstanding thermoelectric properties. By invoking the guiding principles of isovalency and isomorphism for promoting van der Waals epitaxy, and based on comprehensive first‐principles calculations, here it is shown that the typically metastable BlackP‐like GeTe can be readily stabilized on the (001) surface of isostructural SnSe. Importantly, the ferroelectricity of such a BlackP‐like GeTe monolayer can be substantially enhanced compared to the freestanding state, due to the substrate enlarged in‐plane polar displacements. The GeTe/SnSe heterobilayer exhibits multiple ferroelectric/ferrielectric polarization states, which can be exploited for high‐density memory devices. These mutually switchable polarization states are also shown to be internally locked with the spin polarization of the valence/conduction bands with pronounced Rashba spin‐orbit splitting and Berry curvature dipole. These findings highlight the intuitive yet enabling power of van der Waals imprinting in growing novel 2D materials for enriched functionalities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: This study aims to explore the frequency and influencing factors of asymptomatic spinal lesions (ASLs) and their impact on subsequent relapses in patients with AQP4‐IgG‐positive NMOSD (AQP4‐NMOSD) in a real‐world setting. Methods: We retrospectively reviewed clinical information and spinal MRI data from AQP4‐NMOSD patients who had at least one spinal cord MRI during their follow‐ups. Kaplan–Meier curves and Cox proportional hazards models were employed to ascertain potential predictors of remission ASLs and to investigate factors associated with subsequent relapses. Results: In this study, we included 129 patients with AQP4‐NMOSD and reviewed 173 spinal MRIs during attacks and 89 spinal MRIs during remission. Among these, 6 ASLs (3.5%) were identified during acute attacks, while 8 ASLs (9%) were found during remission. Remission ASLs were linked to the use of immunosuppressive agents, particularly conventional ones, whereas no patients using rituximab developed ASLs (p = 0.005). Kaplan–Meier curve analysis indicated that patients with ASLs had a significantly higher relapse risk (HR = 4.658, 95% CI: 1.519–14.285, p = 0.007) compared to those without. Additionally, the use of mycophenolate mofetil (HR = 0.027, 95% CI: 0.003–0.260, p = 0.002) and rituximab (HR = 0.035, 95% CI: 0.006–0.203, p < 0.001) significantly reduced the relapse risk. However, after accounting for other factors, the presence of ASLs did not exhibit a significant impact on subsequent relapses (HR = 2.297, 95% CI: 0.652–8.085, p = 0.195). Interpretation: ASLs may be observed in patients with AQP4‐NMOSD. The presence of ASLs may signify an underlying inflammatory activity due to insufficient immunotherapy. The administration of immunosuppressive agents plays a key role in the presence of remission ASLs and the likelihood of subsequent relapses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recent studies have shown that a rich variety of exotic physical phenomena can emerge from the presence of electronic flat bands. Using first‐principles calculations, here a monolayered Ca2C possesses a relatively flat band near the Fermi level, and across the whole Brillouin zone is predicted. Next, the weak d0 ferromagnetism in Ca2C is substantially enhanced by a proximity‐coupled electride monolayer of Ca2N is shown. The enhanced magnetism can be attributed to the straightening of the flat band caused by the charge transfer to the electride, while the flattening is tied to the magic ratio of three between the σ and π channels of the effective C─C coupling strength. More surprisingly, even though each of the constituent systems is topologically trivial, the Ca2C/Ca2N heterobilayer is empowered with nontrivial band topology, characterized by a high Chern number tunable by the magnetization orientation or lateral strain. These findings provide a new platform for realizing intriguing magnetic topological metals in 2D materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The habenula has been implicated in the pathogenesis of pain and analgesia, while evidence concerning its function in chronic low back pain (cLBP) is sparse. This study aims to investigate the resting‐state functional connectivity (rsFC) and effective connectivity of the habenula in 52 patients with cLBP and 52 healthy controls (HCs) and assess the feasibility of distinguishing cLBP from HCs based on connectivity by machine learning methods. Our results indicated significantly enhanced rsFC of the habenula‐left superior frontal cortex (SFC), habenula‐right thalamus, and habenula‐bilateral insular pathways as well as decreased rsFC of the habenula‐pons pathway in cLBP patients compared to HCs. Dynamic causal modelling revealed significantly enhanced effective connectivity from the right thalamus to right habenula in cLBP patients compared with HCs. RsFC of the habenula‐SFC was positively correlated with pain intensities and Hamilton Depression scores in the cLBP group. RsFC of the habenula‐right insula was negatively correlated with pain duration in the cLBP group. Additionally, the combination of the rsFC of the habenula‐SFC, habenula‐thalamus, and habenula‐pons pathways could reliably distinguish cLBP patients from HCs with an accuracy of 75.9% by support vector machine, which was validated in an independent cohort (N = 68, accuracy = 68.8%, p =.001). Linear regression and random forest could also distinguish cLBP and HCs in the independent cohort (accuracy = 73.9 and 55.9%, respectively). Overall, these findings provide evidence that cLBP may be associated with abnormal rsFC and effective connectivity of the habenula, and highlight the promise of machine learning in chronic pain discrimination. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To assess the clinical efficacy of fucoidan‐assisted standard quadruple therapy (SQT) in Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) eradication and the improvement of gut microbiota. Methods: An open‐label randomized controlled trial was conducted at the Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University in Shandong Province, China. Ninety patients who tested positive for H. pylori were randomized to the standard quadruple therapy (SQT) group (SQ), SQT + fucoidan combination group (SF), and fucoidan + sequential SQT group (FS), respectively. Stool samples were collected for gut microbiota composition at baseline and after treatment. Results: After H. pylori eradication, the relative abundances of most conditional pathogens in the SQ decreased, while those of several beneficial bacteria increased or decreased (P < 0.05). In FS, the abundances of most beneficial bacteria increased gradually from baseline to week 12, while those of the conditional pathogens decreased (P < 0.05). The abundance of Bifidobacterium had a decreasing trend in SQ, but remained unchanged in SF and increased in FS (P < 0.05). The abundances of most beneficial bacteria were significantly higher in FS than in SQ and SF (P < 0.05). Addition of fucoidan enhanced symptom improvement during H. pylori eradication compared with SQT alone. Conclusions: Fucoidan considerably improved gut dysbiosis during SQT for H. pylori eradication. Gut microbiota can be maintained by the addition of fucoidan before eradication therapy with SQT rather than by concomitant addition with therapy. Fucoidan‐assisted SQT could relieve gastrointestinal symptoms during H. pylori eradication. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ferroptosis is a novel form of regulated cell death typically characterized by non‐apoptotic, iron‐dependent, and reactive accumulation of oxygen species. Recent studies have found that ferroptosis plays an important role in the pathophysiology of pre‐eclampsia (PE). In order to find potential therapeutic targets for ferroptosis intervention and better prevent the occurrence and progression of PE, the signalling pathways that regulate ferroptosis need to be identified. In this article, we review the role of vitamin D in PE and the role of ferroptosis in PE. Based on recent literature, we propose the scientific hypothesis that vitamin D can alleviate preeclampsia by modulating the ferroptosis signalling pathway. The aim of this review is to understand the regulatory pathways of ferroptosis in PE and to identify potential therapeutic targets. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Obesity is widely recognized as a major global health problem caused by a chronic energy imbalance resulting from a combination of excess caloric intake and insufficient energy expenditure. Excessive energy intake and physical inactivity are traditional risk factors for obesity. Obesity is a risk factor for many diseases, including hypertension, diabetes and tumours. Recent studies have found a strong link between ferroptosis and obesity. Ferroptosis is an iron‐dependent regulated cell death caused by iron overload and reactive oxygen species‐dependent excessive accumulation of lipid peroxidation. Ferroptosis is involved in many biological processes, such as amino acid metabolism, iron metabolism and lipid metabolism. Some potential strategies to reduce the adverse effects of ferroptosis on obesity are suggested and future research priorities are highlighted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We have previously reported that Gypenoside LXXV (GP‐75), a novel natural PPARγ agonist isolated from Gynostemma pentaphyllum, ameliorated cognitive deficits in db/db mice. In this study, we further investigated the beneficial effects on cognitive impairment in APP/PS1 mice and a mouse model of diabetic AD (APP/PS1xdb/db mice). Interestingly, intragastric administration of GP‐75 (40 mg/kg/day) for 3 months significantly attenuated cognitive deficits in APP/PS1 and APP/PS1xdb/db mice. GP‐75 treatment markedly reduced the levels of glucose, HbA1c and insulin in serum and improved glucose tolerance and insulin sensitivity in APP/PS1xdb/db mice. Notably, GP‐75 treatment decreased the β‐amyloid (Aβ) burden, as measured by 11C‐PIB PET imaging. Importantly, GP‐75 treatment increased brain glucose uptake as measured by 18F‐FDG PET imaging. Moreover, GP‐75 treatment upregulated PPARγ and increased phosphorylation of Akt (Ser473) and GLUT4 expression levels but decreased phosphorylation of IRS‐1 (Ser616) in the hippocampi of both APP/PS1 and APP/PS1xdb/db mice. Furthermore, GP‐75‐induced increases in GLUT4 membrane translocation in primary hippocampal neurons from APP/PS1xdb/db mice was abolished by cotreatment with the selective PPARγ antagonist GW9662 or the PI3K inhibitor LY294002. In summary, GP‐75 ameliorated cognitive deficits in APP/PS1 and APP/PS1xdb/db mice by enhancing glucose uptake via activation of the PPARγ/Akt/GLUT4 signaling pathways. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Aim: To explore whether sense of mastery can mediate the relationship between social support and illness perception in patients with atrial fibrillation (AF) who were at the "Blanking Period." Design: A cross‐sectional design. Methods: 405 patients with AF who were at the "Blanking Period" in the Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University were recruited; they completed a set of questionnaires, including the Perceived Social Support Scale, the Personal Mastery Scale and the Brief Illness Perception Questionnaire. Results: Social support and sense of mastery were both adversely connected to illness perception. The indirect effect of social support on illness perception through sense of mastery was negative, accounting for 86.04% of the total effect. Conclusion: During the "Blanking Period," better social support and sense of mastery contribute to a positive illness perception of AF patients. Social support also can influence patients' illness perception indirectly via the mediator of sense of mastery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The bacterial pathogens Xanthomonas oryzae pathovars oryzae (Xoo) and oryzicola (Xoc) cause leaf blight and leaf streak diseases on rice, respectively. Pathogenesis is largely defined by the virulence genes harboured in the pathogen genome. Recently, we demonstrated that the protein HpaP of the crucifer pathogen Xanthomonas campestris pv. campestris is an enzyme with both ATPase and phosphatase activities, and is involved in regulating the synthesis of virulence factors and the induction of the hypersensitive response (HR). In this study, we investigated the role of HpaP homologues in Xoo and Xoc. We showed that HpaP is required for full virulence of Xoo and Xoc. Deletion of hpaP in Xoo and Xoc led to a reduction in virulence and alteration in the production of virulence factors, including extracellular polysaccharide and cell motility. Comparative transcriptomics and reverse transcription‐quantitative PCR assays revealed that in XVM2 medium, a mimic medium of the plant environment, the expression levels of hrp genes (for HR and pathogenicity) were enhanced in the Xoo hpaP deletion mutant compared to the wild type. By contrast, in the same growth conditions, hrp gene expression was decreased in the Xoc hpaP deletion mutant compared to the wild type. However, an opposite expression pattern was observed when the pathogens grew in planta, where the expression of hrp genes was reduced in the Xoo hpaP mutant but increased in the Xoc hpaP mutant. These findings indicate that HpaP plays a divergent role in Xoo and Xoc, which may lead to the different infection strategies employed by these two pathogens. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The complexation of dibromo‐fluorenylborane (FluH‐BBr2) with bulky bis(2,6‐diisopropylphenyl)imidazol‐2‐ylidene (IPr) afforded N‐heterocyclic carbene (NHC) borane adduct 1, which could be subsequently dehydrobrominated by smaller 1,3‐diisopropyl‐4,5‐dimethylimidazol‐2‐ylidene (IPr2Me2) to give the alkylideneborane‐NHC complex 2. Species 2 readily binds with potassium ion to form a potassium alkylideneborane complex 3 through exclusive cation‐π interactions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Under investigation in this article is a generalized (3+1)‐dimensional Kadomtsev–Petviashvili (KP) equation, which is usually used to describe nonlinear phenomena in fluid dynamics. First, multiple waves solutions of this considered equation by means of the linear superposition principle are constructed. Second, the parameters of this considered model control multiple waves solutions are being investigated. We find that the parameters mainly affect the wave shapes, amplitude, and bright/dark nature. Third, we apply a polynomial function to construct rational solutions and rogue wave solutions when the parameters contain in the polynomial function are equal to zero and nonzero, respectively. Finally, the obtained results are demonstrated graphically to illustrate the nonlinear dynamics behaviors of multiple, rational, and rogue wave solutions in fluid mechanics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the search for a highly efficient heterogeneous catalyst for the epoxidation of styrene, it is still a challenge to develop a system that simultaneously possesses superior catalytic activity and selectivity under aerobic conditions. Herein, we report the use of perovskite LaSrCoFeO6 (LSCF) as a heterogeneous and visible‐light catalyst, and determine that LSCF acts as a highly efficient catalyst for the epoxidation of styrene under aerobic conditions. The formation of 1O2 species transformed from O2⋅− species were proposed as reactive oxygen species for the epoxidation of styrene over the LSCF catalyst, where the directional generation of O2⋅− species on the LSCF catalyst is the key step to yield highly selective epoxidation of styrene. The experimental results of styrene epoxidation show that when the molar ratio of styrene and LSCF catalyst is 150 : 1 and the reaction is under the conditions of visible light (440 nm) and 100 °C for 6 h, the conversion of styrene and selectivity of styrene oxide reached 99.9 % and 80.3 %, respectively. The reaction rate over LSCF catalyst is as high as 50 mmol ⋅ gcat−1 ⋅ h−1. In addition, the reaction kinetics of the epoxidation of styrene over LSCF catalyst was systematically studied. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and objectives: The traditional heat processing methods, steaming and cooking treatment, can affect the nutrients in rice, such as phenolics, flavonoids, and dietary fiber. However, there is no systematic assessment that by which heat treatment method and conditions more nutrients in rice can be retained, especially in brown rice, two‐times milling rice, four‐times milling rice, polished rice, and color selection rice (from different milling processes with practical processing at rice milling factory). The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of steaming and cooking treatment on the changes in nutrients in rice with different milling processes, including dietary fiber and phenolic acids, flavonoids, anthocyanins, individual phenolic compounds, antioxidant activities (DPPH, ABTS, and T‐AOC) in the free, and bound extracts. Findings: Compared with unsteamed and uncooked rice, the total phenolic content (TPC), the total flavonoid content (TFC), and individual phenolic compounds in the free and bound fractions, total anthocyanin content (TAC), and antioxidant activity in the free fractions in brown rice, two‐times milling rice, four‐times milling rice, polished rice, and color selection rice were significantly reduced by steaming and cooking treatment (p <.05). The TAC and antioxidant activity in the bound fractions, soluble dietary fiber (SDF), insoluble dietary fiber (IDF), and total dietary fiber (TDF) in the five rice samples were increased after steaming and cooking. However, it was very interesting that steaming treatment resulted in a less reduction in phenolics and antioxidant activities than cooking. Conclusions: From the view of retaining more nutrients, steaming treatment is more suitable for the white rice of the milling process with high milling degree, while cooking treatment is more suitable for the brown rice or rice of milling process with low milling degree. Generally, steaming treatment retains more phenolics, dietary fiber, and antioxidant activities than cooking rice with different milling processes. Significance and novelty: This study may provide useful reference and offer a simple and practical method to retain more nutrients for preparation and consumption of rice. These results suggest that steaming treatment is an efficient method of daily processing to reduce the loss of nutrients in rice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND In monsoonal climates, grape anthocyanin and proanthocyanidin (PA) accumulations are unsatisfactory for producing optimal wine. Agronomical practices are often considered to be effective means for regulating fruit components. However, there is a lack of quantitative information on the effects of deficit irrigation (DI), basal leaf removal (LR) or their combination of deficit irrigation and leaf removal (DILR) on the characteristics of anthocyanin and PA compositions and their implications on the resulting wine quality. In this study, the dynamics of grape anthocyanin and PA accumulation were investigated in DI, LR and DILR during grape ripening, and the resulting wine profile was assessed. RESULTS: The contents of reducing sugar and total anthocyanins in Cabernet Sauvignon berries were significantly increased by DI, LR and DILR, while titratable acidity, total flavan‐3‐ols and tannins levels were generally decreased. Notably, the levels of 3′5′‐substituted anthocyanins, such as malvidin and its derivatives significantly increased, and 3′‐substituted anthocyanins decreased in both grape and wine under DI and DILR strategies. Skin PAs were sensitive to water deficits, whereas they were insensitive to LR. In resulting wine, PAs content and the proportion of 3′‐hydroxylated PAs, such as (+)‐catechin, (−)‐epicatechin and (−)‐epicatechin‐3‐O‐gallate units were significantly decreased under DI and DILR, while molecular mass and the proportion of 3′5′‐hydroxylated units of PAs were increased in response to DILR. CONCLUSION: The DILR was the most favorable for the repartitioning of anthocyanin and PA metabolites, and promoted the accumulation of tri‐substituted forms contributing a higher color intensity, mouthfeel persistence, structure, and astringency of wine. This information provides an important strategy for modulating the anthocyanin and PA compositions by agricultural practices and achieving the desired quality of grapes and wines in monsoonal climates. © 2021 Society of Chemical Industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Targeting the PPARγ might be a potential therapeutic strategy for diabetes‐associated cognitive decline (DACD). In this study, Gypenoside LXXV (GP‐75), a dammarane‐type triterpene compound isolated from Gynostemma pentaphyllum, was found to be a novel PPARγ agonist using a dual‐luciferase reporter assay system. However, whether GP‐75 has protective effects against DACD remains unknown. Interestingly, intragastric administration of GP‐75 (40 mg/kg/day) for 12 weeks significantly attenuated the cognitive deficit in db/db mice. GP‐75 treatment significantly improved the glucose tolerance and lipid metabolism, and suppressed neuroinflammation. Notably, GP‐75 treatment dramatically increased the uptake of glucose by the brain, as detected by 18F‐FDG PET. Incubation of primary cortical neurons with GP‐75 significantly increased 2‐deoxyglucose uptake. In addition, GP‐75 treatment markedly increased the p‐Akt (Ser 473)/total Akt levels and the expression levels of PPARγ and GLUT4, while decreasing the levels of p‐IRS‐1 (Ser 616)/total IRS‐1. Importantly, all of these protective effects mediated by GP‐75 were abolished by cotreatment with the PPARγ antagonist, GW9662. However, GP‐75‐mediated PPARγ upregulation was not affected by coincubation with the phosphatidylinositol 3‐kinase inhibitor, LY294002. Collectively, GP‐75 might be a novel PPARγ agonist that ameliorates cognitive deficit by enhancing brain glucose uptake via the activation of Akt/GLUT4 signaling in db/db mice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A novel nonparametric method based on manifold learning is proposed for industrial process monitoring. In conventional algorithms, to preserve the global and local structure information of data, heat kernels containing two auxiliary parameters are introduced to define the global and local weight matrices, respectively. However, it is difficult to identify and choose these two parameters empirically. The inadequate selection of parameters can lead to one‐sided and inappropriate global and local feature extractions, resulting in an inadequate fault detection performance. To resolve the above problems, a nonparametric strategy is used in this study to generate two nonparametric weight matrices to replace the heat kernel‐based weight matrices. Consequently, the proposed method requires no auxiliary parameters in defining the weight matrices, making it more practical. Moreover, it automatically determines a good trade‐off between global and local feature extractions. A process monitoring model based on the proposed method was developed. The feasibility and effectiveness of the new nonparametric method are evaluated using a synthetic example and the Tennessee Eastman chemical process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Zn2TiO4 spheres are fabricated via a simple hydrothermal strategy combined with subsequent heating treatment of 600, 700, and 800 °C, respectively. All the as‐synthesized Zn2TiO4 spheres are assembled by many small nanospheres with a particle size of 20–100 nm. The compactness of Zn2TiO4 spheres is continuously enhanced as the temperature rises from 600 to 800 °C. Additionally, compared with the Zn2TiO4 calcined at 700 and 800 °C samples, the Zn2TiO4 sintered at 600 °C sample exhibits the best electrochemical performance, and it can deliver the high discharge specific capacities of 405, 269, 223, 193, 173, and 166 mAh g–1 at current densities of 50, 100, 200, 300, 400, and 500 mA g–1, respectively. Simultaneously, it also displays the excellent cyclic performance with a high reversible charge (discharge) capacity of 245.8 (247.7) mAh g–1 after 300 cycles at the current density of 200 mA g–1. The results demonstrate that the as‐prepared ZnTiO4 spheres sintered at 600 °C will be expected to be a new anode material of lithium ion batteries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Main observation and conclusion: Transition metal‐rare earth oxide catalysts had the ability to catalyze ammonia decomposition according to recent years' scientific reports. However, most of those catalysts had their own limitations: the catalytic activity was poor, and/or the active species could not clearly be identified. Here we report the CoaSmbOx catalysts with good dispersion, controllable content, and excellent catalytic performance for ammonia decomposition. The various content catalysts were synthesized by aerosol‐assisted self‐assembly approach. These catalysts had high dispersion and great morphology according to the images of the transmission electron microscope (TEM) and the scanning electron microscope (SEM). The temperature‐programmed reduction by hydrogen (H2‐TPR) and in‐situ X‐ray diffraction (XRD) results indicated that the interaction between cobalt oxide and samarium oxide influenced the redox properties of cobalt oxide. Combined with in‐situ Raman, we found that Co0 was an active species of the CoaSmbOx catalysts in ammonia decomposition. Moreover, the temperature‐programmed desorption of NH3 (NH3‐TPD) data illustrated that the addition of Sm was beneficial to the adsorption of NH3. In general, we successfully obtained the CoaSmbOx catalyst with high activity and good stability. More importantly, we have identified the structure‐function relationship of catalysts by exploring the active species in the reaction process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The optical texture of coke is undoubtedly one of the important factors that determined many properties of coke, but it still mostly depends on the skills and experience of manual analysis. In this paper, a novel automatic measurement method is proposed for coke optical texture. this method through two analyzer angle images(10° and 170°) under polarizing microscope to recognize isochromatic regions which occurs color changed between blue and red by image processing, then characterize the dimensional sizes of isochromatic regions and classify them into different anisotropic texture type. Two fitted ellipse methods are used to characterize the regions' dimensional sizes by the range of shape factor S, followed by classifying different types of anisotropic texture according to the long and short axes of fitted ellipse. An automatic image acquisition and analysis system is established based on the above method. Finally, eight coke samples derived from different ranks of coking coal were selected to test the proposed method. The result shows that it can effectively recognize different types of anisotropic texture and provide composition of different anisotropic texture type for each coke. Moreover, the anisotropic degree of coke shows a significant positive correlation with parent coal rank and a negative correlation with coke reactivity index (CRI). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: The aim of this study was to examine the survival rate of patients with different bone sarcomas and to investigate homogenous and heterogenous prognostic factors for different types of bone sarcomas. Methods: This is a retrospective analysis of records from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Result (SEER) database. Clear information on the distant metastasis of cancer is provided in the SEER database for patients diagnosed between January 2010 and December 2016. Data for the four types of malignant bone sarcomas were extracted, including osteosarcoma, chondrosarcoma, Ewing sarcoma, and chordoma. Patients with bone sarcomas originated from other sites, diagnosed at autopsy, or indicated in death certification were excluded. The overall survival was calculated for the entire cohort and across different bone sarcomas using the Kaplan–Meier method. A subgroup analysis of the different survival rates of four types of bone sarcomas in various levels of each variable was conducted and the differences were tested with the log‐rank test. Cox proportional hazard regression analysis was performed to determine the prognostic factors. Variables with P < 0.05 in the univariate Cox regression analysis were further analyzed using a multivariate Cox regression analysis. The prognostic factors in four groups of bone sarcomas were compared to determine the homogenous and heterogenous factors. Results: A total of 4732 patients were included with a follow up of 25 (0–83) months. The mean age of patients was 39.7 ± 24.1 years. The 1‐year, 3‐year, and 5‐year overall survival rate for the entire cohort was 86.2% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 85.2%–87.2%), 70.5% (95% CI: 68.9%–72.1%), and 63.0% (95% CI: 61.2%–64.8%), respectively. Factors including age older than 40 years, higher grade, regional and distant stage, tumor in the extremities, T2 stage, bone and lung metastases, and non‐surgery were significantly associated with the poor survival of the entire cohort. The mean overall survival duration of patients with chordoma, chondrosarcoma, Ewing sarcoma, and osteosarcoma was 66.86 (95% CI: 64.06–69.66), 63.53 (95% CI: 61.81–65.25), 58.06 (95% CI: 55.49–60.62) and 54.91 (95% CI: 53.14–56.69) months, respectively. Compared with chordoma, the hazard ratio (HR) and 95% CI for patients with chondrosarcoma, Ewing sarcoma, and osteosarcoma were 1.30 (95% CI: 1.04–1.62; P = 0.023), 1.69 (95% CI: 1.33–2.14; P < 0.001), and 2.00 (95% CI: 1.61–2.48; P <0.001), respectively. Different bone sarcomas showed homogenous and heterogenous prognostic factors. Conclusion: Different clinicopathological characteristics and prognoses were revealed in patients with osteosarcoma, chondrosarcoma, Ewing sarcoma, and chordoma. The risk factors can potentially guide prognostic prediction and sarcoma‐specific treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A Ni/Co co‐catalyzed reductive hydrocyanation of various alkynes was developed for the production of saturated nitriles. Hydrocyanic acid is generated in situ from safe and readily available formamide. Formamide played multiple roles as a cyano source, dehydrant, and reductant for the NiII pre‐catalyst and vinyl nitriles, along with acting as the co‐solvent in this reaction. Detailed mechanistic investigation supported a pathway via hydrocyanation of C≡C bond and the subsequent reduction of C=C bond. Wide substrate scope, the employment of a cheap and stable nickel salt as pre‐catalyst, a safe cyano source and convenient experimental operation render this hydrocyanation practical for the laboratory synthesis of saturated nitriles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aurantio‐obtusin (AUR) is the main bioactive compound among the anthraquinones, from Cassia seed extract. This study was conducted to identify whether AUR could improve obesity and insulin resistance, induced by a high‐fat diet in obese mice. Mice were fed a high‐fat diet for 6 weeks and were then assigned to the high‐fat diet (HFD) control group, the AUR 5 mg/kg group, or the AUR 10 mg/kg group. AUR improves glucose by activating the expression of PI3K, Akt and GLUT4, GLUT2. AUR altered the expression levels of several lipid metabolism‐related and adipokine genes. AUR decreased the mRNA expression of PPAR‐γ, FAS and increased the mRNA expression of PPAR‐α in liver. AUR lowered SREBP‐1c, FAS, SCD‐1, inflammatory cytokines, and increased the expression of PPAR‐γ, PPAR‐α, CPT‐1, and adiponectin in white adipose tissue (WAT). AUR docking with the insulin receptor showed that the residues of the insulin receptor, ectodomain, were the same as those around the emodin. The effect of AUR may be elicited by regulating the activity of the insulin signaling pathway, expression of lipid metabolism‐related genes, and expression of inflammatory cytokine markers to improve adiposity, insulin resistance, and dyslipidemia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and objectives: Milling, polishing, and color selection are the basic unit operation steps during rice processing, which may remove much amounts of nutritional components, such as phenolics and dietary fiber. And for a long time, rice is often overprocessed which results in a serious loss of nutrients. However, the reduction of the nutritional components during rice milling process has not been evaluated. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of different milling processes during industrial rice processing on the free and bound phenolic content, composition, dietary fiber, and antioxidant activity (DPPH, ABTS, T‐AOC) of two kinds of rice (Dao Huaxiang and Jiangxi Indica). Findings: As the milling degree increased, the loss percentages of total phenolics, flavonoids, and anthocyanins of Dao Huaxiang rice were 52.8%–76.4%, 43.3%–72.9%, and 100.0%, respectively; it was similar for the reduction percentages of total phenolics, flavonoids, and anthocyanins for Jiangxi Indica rice, which were 56.5%–77.4%, 58.7%–87.7%, and 87.5%–100%, respectively; the amounts of total dietary fiber were also decreased from 5.87 to 2.03 g/100 g DW for the Dao Huaxiang rice and from 5.14 to 2.84 g/100 g DW for Jiangxi Indica rice, respectively. Correspondingly, the content of individual phenolic, flavonoid, and anthocyanin compositions in both rice varieties decreased with the increase in milling degree during the rice processing. Antioxidant activities of T‐AOC, DPPH, and ABTS showed a same trend with phenolic profiles for the two rice varieties. Conclusions: The phenolic profiles, dietary fiber, and antioxidant activities for Dao Huaxiang and Jiangxi Indica rice decreased significantly with milling degree increase during rice processing. Therefore, it is recommended that the milling and polishing degree should be reduced during rice grain processing, in order to achieve the purpose of not only satisfying the edible quality of rice but also retaining the nutritional characteristics as much as possible. Significance and novelty: The rice samples in this study were from the actual industrial production industry, and the Dao Huaxiang rice and Jiangxi Indica rice were from northeast China and south China, respectively, which were representative and could provide specific and practical data for reducing milling degree in rice industry and reducing the removal of bran layer. These findings indicate that the milling degree should be reduced or controlled for retention of nutrients and acceptable sensory quality in rice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Unprecedented double S2− templated Ag27 clusters have been stabilized by 5,10,15,20‐tetra(4‐pyridyl)porphyrin (TPyP‐H2) ligands to afford a robust 2D metal–organic framework (Ag27‐MOF). This silver cluster‐assembled material serves as a highly efficient heterogeneous catalyst for the cyclization of both terminal and internal propargylamines with CO2 under atmospheric pressure. Density functional theory (DFT) calculations illustrate that the high catalytic activity and broad substrate scope are attributable to the saddle‐shaped metallic node in Ag27‐MOF, which features an accessible platform with high‐density silver atoms as π‐Lewis acid sites for activating C≡C triple bonds. As a result, different sterically hindered alkyne substrates can be effectively activated through π‐interactions with these cationic silver centers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, we generalize the (N+1)‐dimensional local fractional reduced differential transform method (LFRDTM) within the local fractional derivative sense. First, we show some new properties, lemmas, theorems and corollariesfor the (N+1)‐dimensional LFRDTM. Second, these new properties, lemmas and theorems can be proved immediately after. Thirdly, we used two examples to state that this approach is efficient and simple to find numerical solutions to higher dimensional local fractional partial differential equations. Finally, we can be seen that this work can be looked as an extension of the prior work. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As the first experimentally established topological crystalline insulator (TCI), SnTe also exhibits superior thermoelectricity upon proper doping; yet to date, whether such doping will preserve or destroy the salient topological properties in achieving outstanding thermoelectric (TE) performance remains elusive. Using first‐principles calculations combined with Boltzmann transport theory, here the elegant role of antisite defect in optimally enhancing the thermopower of SnTe while simultaneously preserving its topological nature is uncovered. It is first shown that SnTe antisite defect effectively induces pronounced variations in the low‐energy density of states rather than rigidly shifting the chemical potential, resulting in a higher Seebeck coefficient and power factor. Next, it is demonstrated that in a wide temperature range, the Seebeck coefficient of antisite‐doped SnTe distinctly outperforms previously identified systems invoking extrinsic dopants. It is further confirmed that such intrinsic antisite doping preserves the nontrivial topology, which in turn favors high electrical conductivity and thermoelectricity. These central findings not only identify an effective and powerful knob in future studies of TE materials, but also help to resolve standing controversies between theory and experiment surrounding the TE performances of both TCIs and topological insulators. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Electrochemical reduction of molecular O2 to hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) offers a promising solution for water purification and environmental remediation. Here, we design a hierarchical free‐standing single‐Co‐atom (with Co–N4 coordination) electrode for oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) via a two‐electron pathway to make H2O2 in acidic media. The current density of the single‐Co‐atom electrode reached 51 mA/cm2 at 0.1 V vs reversible hydrogen electrode, lasting for more than 10 hours of continuous operation with H2O2 selectivity greater than 80%. Toward practical application, the single‐Co‐atom electrode was directly used to assemble an electrochemical cell to produce H2O2 at a rate of 676 mol/kgcat/h with a cell voltage of about 1.6 V. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims: To investigate the prevalence of overactive bladder (OAB) and assess its risk factors in 5‐ to 14‐year‐old Chinese children. Methods: A cross‐sectional study of OAB prevalence was performed by distributing 11 800 anonymous self‐administered questionnaires to parents in five provinces of mainland China from July to October 2018. The questionnaires included questions on sociodemographics, history of urinary tract infection (UTI), lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS), family history of LUTS, bowel symptoms, and details about the elimination communication (EC) start time. OAB was defined as urgency and increased the daytime frequency with or without urinary incontinence. Results: A total of 10 133 questionnaires qualified for statistical analysis. The overall prevalence of OAB was 9.01% and decreased with age, from 12.40% at 5 years to 4.55% at 14 years (χ2trend = 88.899; P <.001). The proportion of dry OAB increased with age, whereas the proportion of wet OAB decreased. A late‐onset of EC was associated with a high OAB prevalence (χ2 trend = 39.802; P <.001). Children with obesity, a history of UTI, nocturnal enuresis (NE), a family history of LUTS, constipation, and fecal incontinence had a higher prevalence of OAB than did normal children (P <.05). Conclusion: Obesity, a history of UTI, NE, a family history of LUTS, and bowel symptoms are risk factors associated with OAB. Starting EC before 12 months of age might help reduce the prevalence of OAB in children. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: The HprK serine kinase is a component of the phosphoenolpyruvate phosphotransferase system (PTS) of bacteria that generally regulates catabolite repression through phosphorylation/dephosphorylation of the PTS protein PtsH at a conserved serine residue. However, many bacteria do not encode a complete PTS or even have an HprK homologue. Xanthomonas campestris pv. campestris (Xcc) is a pathogen that cause black rot disease in crucifer plants and one of the few Gram‐negative bacteria that encodes a homologue of HprK protein (herein HprKXcc). To gain insight into the role of HprKXcc and other PTS‐related components in Xcc we individually mutated and phenotypically assessed the resulting strains. Deletion of hprKXcc demonstrated its requirement for virulence and other diverse cellular processes associated including extracellular enzyme activity, extracellular‐polysaccharide production and cell motility. Global transcriptome analyses revealed the HprKXcc had a broad regulatory role in Xcc. Additionally, through overexpression, double gene deletion and transcriptome analysis we demonstrated that hprKXcc shares an epistatic relationship with ptsH. Furthermore, we demonstrate that HprKXcc is a functional serine kinase, which has the ability to phosphorylate PtsH. Taken together, the data illustrates the previously unappreciated global regulatory role of HprKXcc and previously uncharacterized PTS components that control virulence in this pathogen. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The phylogeography of the European wild boar was mainly determined by postglacial recolonization patterns from Mediterranean refugia after the last ice age. Here we present the first analysis of SNP polymorphism within the complete mtDNA genome of West Russian (n = 8), European (n = 64), and North African (n = 5) wild boar. Our analyses provided evidence of unique lineages in the East‐Caucasian (Dagestan) region and in Central Italy. A phylogenetic analysis revealed that these lineages are basal to the other European mtDNA sequences. We also show close connection between the Western Siberian and Eastern European populations. Also, the North African samples were clustered with the Iberian population. Phylogenetic trees and migration modeling revealed a high proximity of Dagestan sequences to those of Central Italy and suggested possible gene flow between Western Asia and Southern Europe which was not directly related to Northern and Central European lineages. Our results support the presence of old maternal lineages in two Southern glacial refugia (i.e., Caucasus and the Italian peninsula), as a legacy of an ancient wave of colonization of Southern Europe from an Eastern origin. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims: A pilot survey shows that primary nocturnal enuresis (PNE) prevalence has increased significantly during the past decade in Mainland China. Whether it is related to the delay of elimination communication (EC) is unclear. This study retrospectively investigated the influence of delayed EC on the PNE prevalence in children and adolescents in mainland China. Methods: A cross‐sectional study of PNE prevalence was performed by distributing 19 500 anonymous self‐administered questionnaires to parents in five provinces of mainland China from July 2017 to October 2017. The questionnaires included sociodemographic data, family caregivers' information, and details about the disposable diapers (DD) usage, EC commencement date, psychological disorders, lower urinary tract symptoms, and family history of PNE in children and adolescents. The 2017 PNE prevalence was compared with that of 2006 in Mainland China. Results: The total response rate was 97.04% (18 631 of 19 500) and 92.39% (18 016 of 19 500) qualified for statistical analysis. The PNE prevalence in 2017 has increased significantly compared to that of 2006 (7.30% vs 4.07%, P < 0.001). The PNE prevalence in children with EC starting before 6 months of age was significantly lower than those who start after 12 months of age. The longer DD were used and the later the beginning of EC, the higher the PNE prevalence was found. Conclusions: The PNE prevalence in Mainland China has increased significantly during the past 10 years. A longer use of DD and later onset of EC may be risk factors for PNE. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To screen suitable solvents for anthracene crystallization, the solubilities of anthracene and metastable zone width were determined in four different solvents, N,N‐dimethyl formamide (DMF), xylene, tetrachloroethylene, and diethylene glycol dimethyl ether from 30 to 80 °C at atmospheric pressure using a self‐made crystallizer. The cooling modes, solvents, and the effects of carbazole on the solvent crystallization process of anthracene were also investigated. The composition of mother liquors and solid products were measured by gas chromatography; the solids were analyzed by scanning electron microscope, X‐ray diffractometer, differential scanning calorimetry, granulometer, and fluorescence spectrometer. The results showed that a uniform anthracene crystal was obtained when using DMF under the forced circulation cooling mode. Solid solution of anthracene and carbazole was initially detected in solvent crystallization. The existence of carbazole in solution has an obvious effect on the crystal morphology of anthracene, to some extent, is beneficial to the crystal growth of anthracene. © 2018 American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J, 64: 2160–2167, 2018 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: The ability of the bacterial phytopathogen Xanthomonas campestris pv. campestris (Xcc) to cause disease is dependent on the type III secretion system (T3SS). Proteins of the Xcc T3SS are encoded by hrp (hypersensitive response and pathogenicity) genes and whose expression is mainly controlled by the regulators HrpG and HrpX. Here, we describe the identification and characterization of a previously unknown regulatory protein (named HpaP), which plays important role in hrp gene expression and virulence in Xcc. Clean deletion of hpaP demonstrated reduced virulence and HR (hypersensitive response) induction of Xcc and alterations in cell motility and stress tolerance. Global transcriptome analyses revealed that most hrp genes were down regulated in the hpaP mutant, suggesting HpaP positively regulates hrp genes. GUS activity assays implied that HpaP regulates the expression of hrp genes via controlling the expression of hrpX. Biochemical analyses revealed that HpaP protein had both ATPase and phosphatase activity. While further site‐directed mutagenesis of conserved residues in the PTP loop (a protein tyrosine phosphatase signature) of HpaP resulted in the loss of both phosphatase activity and regulatory activity in virulence and HR. Taken together, the findings identify a new regulatory protein that controls hrp gene expression and virulence in Xcc. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Two unique ZnI‐containing MOFs {[ZnI8ZnII3(H2O)x(HL)12](OH)2⋅13 H2O}n (x=6, 1; x=2, 2) (HL=tetrazole monoanion) with high‐nuclearity Zn‐cages were prepared successfully. These Zn‐cages are constructed from [ZnI8] clusters with multi‐centered ZnI−ZnI bonds and ZnII ions. [ZnI8] clusters in 1 and 2 display Oh and D4h symmetry, respectively. Importantly, eight [ZnI8] clusters and six ZnII ions form a large [Zn70] nanocage in 1. To our knowledge, this is the first MOF based on polynuclear Zn‐cages consisting of ZnI and ZnII ions. Compared with reported ZnI‐species, 1 and 2 display high thermal and solvent stabilities. Theoretical investigations based on DFT calculations uncover that effective 4s‐4s orbital overlap and electron delocalization through these a1g+t1u molecular orbitals on [ZnI8] clusters lead to considerable aromatic stabilization, which can explain well the intrinsic stability of 1 and 2. Interestingly, 1 can behave as a luminescent probe to detect the toxic CrVI ions in aqueous. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Microwave-assisted three-component reactions of arylglyoxals with cyclic 1,3-dicarbonyl compounds and naphthalen-2-amine have been established, by which a series of new functionalized benzo[ e]indoles with good yields were synthesized. The reaction was easily conducted in HOAc, enabling domino cyclization to construct three new σ-bonds in a one-pot operation. Flexible structural modification and broad functional group compatibility as well as mild reaction conditions make this strategy a useful and attractive process of library generation for drug discovery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Previous studies have demonstrated that tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) in the red nucleus (RN) plays a facilitated role in the development of neuropathic pain, and its effect is transmitted through TNF-α receptor (TNFR) subtypes 1 and 2. Here, the dynamic distributions of TNF-α and TNFRs in the RN of rats with spared nerve injury (SNI) were investigated. Western blot analysis and immunofluorescence staining indicated that TNF-α was hardly expressed in the RN of normal rats but significantly increased at 1 week and peaked at 2 weeks after SNI. Neurons and oligodendrocytes showed TNF-α expression at both 1 week and 2 weeks after SNI, while astrocytes and microglia produced TNF-α later than neurons and oligodendrocytes starting at 2 weeks after SNI. TNFR1 was constitutively expressed in the RN of normal rats and significantly enhanced at 2 weeks but not 1 week after SNI; it was mainly localized in neurons, oligodendrocytes and microglia. Astrocytes were not immunopositive for TNFR1 under normal conditions and at 1 week after injury, but small amounts of astrocytes showed TNFR1 expression at 2 weeks after SNI. A low level of TNFR2 was expressed in the RN of normal rats, but it was significantly increased at 1 week and 2 weeks after SNI and localized in neurons and all three types of glia. These findings suggest that neurons and three types of glia in the RN all contribute to TNF-α production and participate in the initiation and/or maintenance of neuropathic pain induced by SNI. TNF-α exerts its effects in different types of cells maybe through different receptors, TNFR1 and/or TNFR2, in the different stages of neuropathic pain. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A sensitive, specific and rapid ultra-high-pressure liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (UHPLC-MS/MS) method has been developed to investigate pharmacokinetic properties of psoralen and isopsoralen, two compounds isolated from raw/salt-processed fruit of Psoralea corylifolia L. UHPLC-MS/MS was used with positive ion electrospray. The mobile phase was composed of acetonitrile and 0.1% formic acid aqueous solution and a gradient elution program at flow rate of 0.3 mL/min was applied. Multiple reaction monitoring mode was used for the quantification of psoralen, isopsoralen ([M + H]+ m/z 187.0 → m/z 131.0) and scoparone ( m/z 207.0 → m/z 151.1). Scoparone served as an internal standard. The method was fully validated for its sensitivity, selectivity, stability, matrix effect and extraction recovery. The obtained results showed that salt-processed Buguzhi significantly promoted the absorption of psoralen and isopsoralen, and increased the bioavailability of these compounds. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

MOFs with both multicentered metal-metal bonds and low-oxidation-state (LOS) metal ions have been underexplored hitherto. Here we report the first cubic [MnI8] cluster-based MOF ( 1) with multicentered MnIMnI bonds and +1 oxidation state of manganese (MnI or Mn(I)), as is supported by single-crystal structure determination, XPS analyses, and quantum chemical studies. Compound 1 possesses the shortest MnIMnI bond of 2.372 Å. Theoretical studies with density functional theory (DFT) reveal extensive electron delocalization over the [MnI8] cube. The 48 electrons in the [MnI8] cube fully occupy half of the 3d-based and the lowest 4s-based bonding orbitals, with six electrons lying at the nonbonding 3d-orbitals. This bonding feature renders so-called cubic aromaticity. Magnetic properties measurements show that 1 is an antiferromagnet. This work is expected to inspire further investigation of cubic metal-metal bonding, MOF materials with LOS metals, and metalloaromatic theory. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]