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Tian, F. and Liu, L. 2019. The impact of intellectual capital spillover on total factor productivity: An empirical study in coastal regions of China. In: Gong, D.; Zhu, H., and Liu, R. (eds.), Selected Topics in Coastal Research: Engineering, Industry, Economy, and Sustainable Development. Journal of Coastal Research, Special Issue No. 94, pp. 576–583. Coconut Creek (Florida), ISSN 0749-0208. Journal of Coastal Research, Special Issue No. 94, pp. 920–925. Coconut Creek (Florida), ISSN 0749-0208. This article incorporates foreign intellectual capital in trade channels and in foreign direct investment channels into the unified analysis framework, using 1990–2015 transnational panel data to calculate the effects of domestic, especially in coastal regions and foreign intellectual capital spillover on total factor productivity of host countries. It is found that domestic intellectual capital investment is the main source of technological progress in host countries, and from the whole sample, foreign direct investment is the main channel for cross-border overflow of intellectual capital, while import trade has no significant impact on total factor productivity. According to the grouping, only developing countries will experience intellectual capital overflow through import trade with developed countries, while foreign direct investment between various types of countries will promote growth of total factor productivity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pseudo-Z-scheme Interfacial Charge Transfer between Semiconductor and Nanocluster for Heterogeneous Photocatalysis. Ni 6 (SCH 2 Ph) 12 nanocluster as active sites of TiO 2 for heterogeneous photocatalytic hydrogen evolution via a dynamic excitation and electron-hole recombination process without strong interaction between them. [Display omitted] • Ni 6 (SCH 2 Ph) 12 is developed as cocatalyst of TiO 2 for photocatalytic H 2 evolution. • Strikingly enhanced H 2 evolution is achieved upon the Ni 6 /TiO 2 nanocomposite. • Efficient charge transfer between TiO 2 and Ni 6 is realized via non-bond interaction. • A pseudo-Z-scheme charge transfer route is proposed to illustrate the photocatalysis. Solar energy driven photocatalytic hydrogen (H 2) evolution over nanocluster modified semiconductor-based photocatalysts and understanding the charge transfer between the interface of nanocluster and semiconductor is of great importance. In this work, a benzyl thiol protected nickel nanocluster (Ni 6 (SCH 2 Ph) 12) is developed as co-catalyst for the photocatalytic hydrogen evolution over TiO 2 catalyst. By mildly depositing the nanocluster onto the TiO 2 surface, a thirty times enhancement of hydrogen evolution efficiency and an evolution rate of 5600 μmol g−1 cat h−1 is achieved under simulated sunlight irradiation. It is found that the presence of visible light could not simulate catalytic activity solely, however, it could be a promoter to improve the hydrogen evolution efficiency of Ni 6 /TiO 2 upon ultraviolet irradiation. The boosting photocatalytic hydrogen evolution is ascribed to the efficient electron transfer from TiO 2 to the nanocluster via a dynamic excitation and electron-hole recombination process assisted by the benzyl group of the ligands, which is evidenced by experimental characterizations and DFT calculations. A pseudo-Z-scheme charge transfer route under simulated solar light irradiation is proposed to illustrate the enhancement of heterogeneous photocatalysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] In this work, gold/bismuth oxychloride (Au/BiOCl) nanocomposites with different morphologies were successfully prepared by simple solvothermal method and sodium borohydride reduction method, which exhibited significantly efficient visible-light-driven photocatalytic disinfection for Staphylococcus aureus (S.aureus). Particularly, the flower-like Au/BiOCl nanocomposite showed the highest photocatalytic bactericidal performance among the prepared Au/BiOCl samples. The radical trapping experiments revealed that the hole was the main reactive species responsible for the inactivation of S.aureus over Au/BiOCl composite. The enhanced photocatalytic bactericidal effect could be attributed to the enhanced adsorption intensity of visible light that originated from the surface plasmon resonance (SPR) effect of Au, rapid transfer and space transport of hot electrons caused by the hierarchical structure of BiOCl layered compound. Furthermore, the Au/BiOCl coating prepared on stainless steel wire mesh via in-situ synthesis method exhibited excellent superhydrophilic/underwater superoleophobic performance, which endowed the coating with anti-oil-fouling in water. More importantly, compared with Au/BiOCl powder catalyst, the prepared Au/BiOCl coating with anti-oil-fouling also possessed high photocatalytic bactericidal activity and stable recycling performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The Interleukin-6 (IL-6)-signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) pathway, along with the cyclic GMP-AMP synthase (cGAS)-stimulator of interferon genes (STING) pathway, are critical contributors to neuroinflammation in Alzheimer's disease (AD). Although previous research outside the context of AD has indicated that the IL-6-STAT3 pathway may regulate the cGAS-STING pathway, the exact molecular mechanisms through which IL-6-STAT3 influences cGAS-STING in AD are still not well understood. Methods: The activation of the IL-6-STAT3 and cGAS-STING pathways in the hippocampus of 5×FAD and WT mice was analyzed using WB and qRT-PCR. To explore the effects of IL-6 deficiency, Il6+/− mice were crossed with 5×FAD mice, and the subsequent impact on hippocampal STAT3 pathway activity, cGAS-STING pathway activation, amyloid pathology, neuroinflammation, and cognitive function was evaluated through WB, qRT-PCR, immunohistochemistry, ThS staining, ELISA, and behavioral tests. The regulatory role of STAT3 in the transcription of the Cgas and Sting genes was further validated using ChIP-seq and ChIP-qPCR on hippocampal tissue from 5×FAD and Il6−/−: 5×FAD mice. Additionally, in the BV2 microglial cell line, the impact of STAT3 activation on the transcriptional regulation of Cgas and Sting genes, as well as the production of inflammatory mediators, was examined through WB and qRT-PCR. Results: We observed marked activation of the IL-6-STAT3 and cGAS-STING pathways in the hippocampus of AD mice, which was attenuated in the absence of IL-6. IL-6 deficiency reduced beta-amyloid deposition and neuroinflammation in the hippocampus of AD mice, contributing to cognitive improvements. Further analysis revealed that STAT3 directly regulates the transcription of both the Cgas and Sting genes. These findings suggest a potential mechanism involving the STAT3-cGAS-STING pathway, wherein IL-6 deficiency mitigates neuroinflammation in AD mice by modulating this pathway. Conclusion: These findings indicate that the STAT3-cGAS-STING pathway is critical in mediating neuroinflammation associated with AD and may represent a potential therapeutic target for modulating this inflammatory process in AD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Wavelet transformation is a widely used method in high-frequency sequence stratigraphic analysis. However, the application is problematic since different wavelets always return the same sequence analysis results. To address this issue, we applied five commonly used wavelets to theoretical sequence models to document some application criteria. Five gradual scale-change sequence models were simplified from the glutenite succession deposition by gravity flows to form the fining-upwards cycle sequences (FUCS) and coarsening-upwards cycle sequences (CUCS). After conducting theoretical sequence model tests, the optimal wavelet (sym4) was selected and successfully used with actual data to identify the sequence boundaries. We also proposed a new method to optimize the scale of continuous wavelet transformation (CWT) for sequence boundary determination. We found that the balloon-like marks in scalograms of db4, sym4, and coif4 wavelet determine, respectively, the fourth-order sequence boundary, the thick succession sequence boundaries in FUCS, and the thick succession sequence in FUCS and CUCS. Comparing the sequence identification results shows that the asymmetric wavelets had an advantage in high-frequency sequence boundary determination and sedimentary cycle discrimination through the amplitude trend of the coefficient, in which the sym4 wavelet is the most effective. In conclusion, the asymmetry of wavelets is the first selection principle, of which asymmetric wavelets are more sensitive to sediment deposition by flood flows. The match of the wavelet between the sequence is the second selection principle, in which the correlation of time-frequency impacts the accuracy of sequence surface localization. However, the waveform of the wavelet is a visual and abstract parameter for sequence boundary detection. The appropriate wavelet for lacustrine sequence analysis is the asymmetric wavelet with a weak number of side lobes. The depositional flows, depositional process, and autogenic are three sedimentary factors that influence the sequence analysis results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work, a new treatment method combining ultrasonic vibration with FeCoNiCrCu high entropy alloy (HEA) coating was used to prepared Al/Mg bimetal through the lost foam compound casting. The effects of composite treatment involving ultrasonic vibration and HEA coating on interfacial microstructure and mechanical properties of Al/Mg bimetal were studied. Results demonstrate that the interface thickness of the Al/Mg bimetal with composite treatment significantly decreases to only 26.99% of the thickness observed in the untreated Al/Mg bimetal. The HEA coating hinders the diffusion between Al and Mg, resulting the significant reduction in Al/Mg intermetallic compounds in the interface. The Al/Mg bimetal interface with composite treatment is composed of Al3Mg2 and Mg2Si/AlxFeCoNiCrCu+FeCoNiCrCu/δ-Mg+Al12Mg17 eutectic structures. The interface resulting from the composite treatment has a lower hardness than that without treatment. The acoustic cavitation and acoustic streaming effects generated by ultrasonic vibration promote the diffusion of Al elements within the HEA coating, resulting in a significant improvement in the metallurgical bonding quality on the Mg side. The fracture position shifts from the Mg side of the Al/Mg bimetal only with HEA coating to the Al side with composite treatment. The shear strength of the Al/Mg bimetal increases from 32.16 MPa without treatment to 63.44 MPa with ultrasonic vibration and HEA coating, increasing by 97.26%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recently, defect complex coupling in nonmagnetic acceptor-donor co-doped binary metal oxides is found to partially localize the donor electrons with a characteristic defect-dipolar freezing temperature (T f) above which stable colossal permittivity (>103) persists. However, apart from a lot of co-doping cases, a clear idea of how to tailor the partial localisation behaviour is remain elusive. Here, based on phenomenological theories, we propose a spin-defect mediated partial localisation of donor electrons where the localisation behaviour can be tailored by the strength of exchange correlation between charge carrier spin and local spin. We found an ultrastable high-performance colossal permittivity behaviour over a broad frequency/temperature range in Co+Ta co-doped SnO 2 with an unprecedentedly low T f (< 2 K) compared with that reported in doped SnO 2 (> 150 K) and other doped binary metal oxides (> 7 K), pointing to a superstable large electronic moment of defect-dipole. The magnetic interactions between magnetic acceptor Co and donor ion significantly change the dielectric behaviour and magnetic order state, which modify the configurations of defect-dipolar clusters and change the partial localisation behaviour of donor electrons due to the exchange correlation between local spin from Co and charge carrier spin from donor. Despite the promising application potential of the novel dielectrics in cryogenic and aerospace microelectronics, the work advances the dielectric physics and benefit the exploration of novel electronic state in metal oxides and semiconductors via defect-engineering. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: There is growing evidence that tripartite motif-containing protein 44 (TRIM44) plays crucial role in tumor development. However, the underlying mechanism of this deubiquitinating enzyme remains unclear. Methods: Large clinical samples were used to detect TRIM44 expression and its associations with clinicopathological features and prognosis. Gain- and loss-of-function experiments in cell lines and mouse xenograft models were performed to elucidate the function and underlying mechanisms of TRIM44 induced tumor progression. Co-immunoprecipitation (Co-IP) assays and mass spectrometric analyses were applied to verify the interacting proteins of TRIM44. Results: We found that TRIM44 was commonly amplified in melanoma tissues compared with paratumoral tissues. TRIM44 expression also positively correlated with more aggressive clinicopathological features, such as Breslow depth (p = 0.025), distant metastasis (p = 0.012), and TNM stage (p = 0.002). Importantly, we found that TRIM44 was an independent indicator of prognosis for melanoma patients. Functionally, overexpression of TRIM44 facilitated cell invasion, migration, apoptosis resistance and proliferation in vitro, and promoted lung metastasis and tumorigenic ability in vivo. Importantly, high level of TRIM44 induced melanoma cell epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), which is one of the most important mechanisms for the promotion of tumor metastasis. Mechanistically, high levels of TRIM44 increased the levels of p-AKT (T308) and p-mTOR (S2448), and a specific AKT inhibitor inhibited TRIM44-induced tumor progression. Co-IP assays and mass spectrometric analyses indicated that TRIM44 overexpression induces cell EMT through activating AKT/mTOR pathway via directly binding and stabilizing TOLL-like receptor 4 (TLR4), and TLR4 interference impeded TRIM44 induced tumor progression. Moreover, we demonstrated that TRIM44 is the target of miR-26b-5p, which is significantly downregulated in melanoma tissues and may be responsible for the overexpression of TRIM44. Conclusions: TRIM44, regulated by miR-26b-5p, promotes melanoma progression by stabilizing TLR4, which then activates the AKT/mTOR pathway. TRIM44 shows promise as a prognostic predictor and a therapeutic target for melanoma patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Graphical abstract The photocatalytic activity of g-C 3 N 4 /Bi 2 O 2 CO 3 for antibiotics degradation was greatly enhanced, which was attributed to the relatively faster charge transfer rate and the deeply suppressed recombination of photo-generated electron-hole pairs through g-C 3 N 4 surface-decoration. Highlights • The charge transfer in g-C 3 N 4 /Bi 2 O 2 CO 3 was clarified by first principle simulation. • g-C 3 N 4 surface-decorated Bi 2 O 2 CO 3 was fabricated via a facile hydrothermal method. • g-C 3 N 4 surface-decorated Bi 2 O 2 CO 3 displayed enhanced photocatalytic activity. • g-C 3 N 4 surface-decoration facilitated charge transfer and separation at the interface. • The photocatalytic activity for TC degradation in actual water was also evaluated. Abstract To overcome the issue of UV-light response character of Bi 2 O 2 CO 3 due to its wide band gap, we primarily attempted to understand the possibility of improving the photocatalytic activity of Bi 2 O 2 CO 3 via g-C 3 N 4 surface-decoration by the theoretical calculation. Subsequently, g-C 3 N 4 surface-decorated Bi 2 O 2 CO 3 was successfully prepared via a facile hydrothermal method. It was found that the g-C 3 N 4 surface-decorated Bi 2 O 2 CO 3 samples exhibited enhanced activities for the photodegradation of tetracycline compared with pure Bi 2 O 2 CO 3 upon simulated solar light irradiation. Among them, the 10 wt% g-C 3 N 4 surface-decorated Bi 2 O 2 CO 3 sample showed the highest photocatalytic efficiency. First principle calculation and experimental data confirmed that the charge transfer at the interface between g-C 3 N 4 and Bi 2 O 2 CO 3 could significantly suppress the recombination of photo-generated electron-holes pairs, thus improving the photocatalytic performance. The proposed mechanism for the enhanced photocatalytic activity was also discussed. Moreover, the photodegradation of antibiotics over g-C 3 N 4 surface-decorated Bi 2 O 2 CO 3 was also performed in actual water matrix. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Al/Mg bimetal was prepared by lost foam solid-liquid compound casting, and the effects of mechanical vibration on the filling and solidification behavior, microstructure and performance of the bimetal were investigated. Results show that the mechanical vibration has a remarkable influence on the filling and solidification processes. It is found that after mechanical vibration, the filling rate increases and the filling rate at different times is more uniform than that without vibration. In addition, the mechanical vibration also increases the wettability between liquid AZ91D and A356 inlays. The mechanical vibration reduces the horizontal and vertical temperature gradient of the casting and makes the temperature distribution of the whole casting more uniform. Compared to the Al/Mg bimetal without vibration, the shear strength is improved by 39.76% after the mechanical vibration is applied, due to the decrease of the inclusions and Al12Mg17 dendrites, and the refinement and uniform distribution of the Mg2Si particles in the interface of the Al/Mg bimetal. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Microstructure, mechanical properties and phase transformation of a heat-resistant rare-earth (RE) Mg-16.1Gd-3.5Nd-0.38Zn-0.26Zr-0.15Y (wt.%) alloy were investigated. The as-cast alloy is composed of equiaxed α-Mg matrix, net-shaped Mg5RE and Zr-rich phases. According to aging hardening curves and tensile properties variation, the optimized condition of solution treatment at 520 °C for 8 h and subsequent aging at 204 °C for 12 h was selected. The continuous secondary Mg5RE phase predominantly formed at grain boundaries during solidification transforms to residual discontinuous β-Mg5RE phase and fine cuboid REH2 particles after heat treatment. The annealed alloy exhibits good comprehensive tensile property at 350 °C, with ultimate tensile strength of 153 MPa and elongation to fracture of 6.9%. Segregation of RE elements and eventually RE-rich precipitation at grain boundaries are responsible for the high strength at elevated temperature. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To overcome the disadvantages of inhomogeneous microstructures and poor mechanical properties of additively manufactured Ti-6Al-4V alloys, a novel technique of hybrid deposition and synchronous micro-rolling is proposed. The micro-rolling leads to equiaxed prior β grains, thin discontinuous intergranular a, and equiaxed primary α, in contrast to the coarse columnar prior β grains without the application of micro-rolling. The recrystallization by micro-rolling results in discontinuous intergranular α via the mechanism of strain and interface-induced grain boundary migration. The evolution of α globularization, driven by a solute concentration gradient, starts from the sub-boundary until the formation of equiaxed primary α. Simultaneous strengthening and toughening are achieved, which means an increase in yield strength, ultimate tensile strength, fracture elongation, and work hardening rate. The formation of α recrystallization leads to more fine grain boundaries to strengthen the yield strength, and the improvement of ductility is due to the better-coordinated deformation ability of discontinuous intergranular α and equiaxed primary α. As a result, the fracture mode in micro-rolling changes from intergranular type to transgranular type. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dependable and sensitive glucose (Glu) testing in foodstuff and blood serum is highly desirable to prevent and treat diabetes. Electrochemical quantification of Glu has attracted great interests due to the advantages, including simple operation, higher sensitivity, easy miniaturization, ease of on-site and wearable detection as well as fast response. High costs and environmental dependence of enzymes pose a challenge to the electrochemical enzymatic biosensors. Nonenzymatic electrochemical Glu sensors are urgently needed to aid the Glu detection in human serum and food samples. To fabricate flexible Glu electrochemical sensors, designing suitable electrode substrate and efficient electrocatalyst is of paramount significance. Herein, the porous patterned laser-induced graphene (LIG) was fabricated on polyimide substrates through an efficient laser-inducing technology, and then used directly as the electrode substrate. Electrochemical deposition of NiCo layered double hydroxide (LDH) nanoflakes on the LIG surface was then conducted to achieve NiCo-LDH/LIG electrode as a Glu sensor. Under optimal conditions, this sensor displays a low detection limit of 0.05 μM. Two sets of broad detection linear ranges were found to be from 0.5 to 270 μM and from 0.27 to 3.6 mM, with high sensitivities of 9.750 μA μM−1 cm−2 and 3.760 μA μM−1 cm−2, respectively. The enhanced performance was ascribed to the cooperative action of NiCo-LDH and LIG, in which porous LIG provides extraordinary electroconductibility and a high surface area, while NiCo-LDH offers numerous exposed active sites and outstanding electrocatalytic performance. Practical application was further verified during the Glu detection in human serum and food samples. This research confirms that the NiCo-LDH/LIG composite is a prospective electrode for high-performance Glu sensor and provides a way of developing nonenzymatic electrochemical sensors to analyze the Glu in human serum and food samples, opening new avenues in electrochemical sensing. NiCo-LDH-modified 3D porous laser-induced graphene (NiCo-LDH/LIG), synthesized by combining a laser-engraving technique with an electrochemical deposition process, features high performance towards electrochemical oxidation and determination of glucose. [Display omitted] • A NiCo-LDH/LIG-based enzyme-free electrochemical sensor for glucose was developed. • NiCo-LDH nanoflakes were uniformly electrodeposited on 3D porous graphene. • This sensor showed great electrocatalytic activity and high sensitivity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Resveratrol (RSV) is a natural extract that has been extensively studied for its significant anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, which are closely associated with a variety of injurious diseases and even cosmetic medicine. In this review, we have researched and summarized the role of resveratrol and its different forms of action in wound healing, exploring its role and mechanisms in promoting wound healing through different modes of action such as hydrogels, fibrous scaffolds and parallel ratio medical devices with their anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antibacterial and anti-ageing properties and functions in various cells that may play a role in wound healing. This will provide a direction for further understanding of the mechanism of action of resveratrol in wound healing for future research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] Iron oxides (e.g. Fe 3 O 4) are ideal support materials for catalytic organic transformations owing to their sufficient natural abundance, excellent thermal stability and magnetic recycling property. Herein, we report the synthesis of active heterometal (M = Pd, Cu) modified Fe 3 O 4 (M-Fe 3 O 4) hollow nanospheres via a two-step solvothermal/annealing method. Due to the uniformly dispersed active heterometal species in the spherical shell of Fe 3 O 4 hollow nanospheres, the as-prepared Pd-Fe 3 O 4 catalyst exhibits remarkable catalytic activity toward 4-nitrophenol reduction with a turnover frequency of 145 min−1, and shows excellent stability and magnetic recyclability. The catalytic efficiency surpasses most of the similar Fe 3 O 4 supported metal catalysts reported in literatures. Particularly, Cu-Fe 3 O 4 exhibited 5 times higher activity for benzyl alcohol oxidation compared to that of bare Fe 3 O 4 synthesized by the same procedure. An impressive conversion of 49.66% and an outstanding selectivity of 100% can be achieved. Moreover, the positive effects of Pd or Cu elements on the 4-NP molecule adsorption were further confirmed via both experimental results and theoretical studies. Our work demonstrate that the activity boost of iron oxides by heterometal modification is a promising strategy for performance improvement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: I-125 seeds brachytherapy (ISB) has been used to improve the clinical effectiveness of transarterial chemoembolization (TACE) for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). We aim to appraise the safety and clinical efficacy of combined ISB and TACE for the treatment of subcapsular HCC.Materials and Methods: A retrospective investigative study extending from January 2017 to December 2020, involved individuals suffering from subcapsular HCC, who were subjected to TACE treatment with or without ISB in our center. The clinical effectiveness was compared between 2 groups.Results: Sixty-four patients, in total, with subcapsular HCC had to undergo TACE with (n = 32) or without (n = 32) ISB in our center. After CT-guided ISB, only 2 (6.3%) patients experienced a self-limited pneumothorax. Combined treatment resulted in a significantly higher complete response (56.3% vs. 18.8%, P = 0.002) and total response (90.7% vs. 59.4%, P = 0.004) rates than that of TACE alone. In comparison to the TACE alone group, the median progression-free survival was substantially longer in the combined treatment group (11 months vs. 5 months, P = 0.016). Further, 15 and 28 patients in combined and TACE alone groups respectively died within the follow-up. The median OS was comparable between combined and TACE alone groups (22 months vs. 18 months, P = 0.529).Conclusions: Combined TACE and ISB therapy is a safe treatment method for individuals suffering from subcapsular HCC. When compared, combined treatment had significantly enhanced clinical efficacy as a subcapsular HCC therapy, in comparison to TACE alone. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • The larger the pore size, the effect of replacing O 2 has a more directional movement to N 2. • The diffusion coefficient of N 2 does not increase with the increase of the proportion of N 2. • There exists an optimal gas injection ratio when N 2 plays a better diffusion role. • Evaluating the replacement effect with the average binding energy of O 2 to coal. • Distribution of O 2 in the pores of coal and investigation on the mechanism of CO 2 and N 2 synergistic replacement of O 2. Injecting inert gases into the goaf is a crucial method for inhibiting coal spontaneous combustion. Research has verified that the co-injection of CO 2 and N 2 provides a more effective control measure compared to a single gas, but the microscopic mechanism underlying the synergistic displacement of O 2 by CO 2 and N 2 remains unclear. Injecting inert gases into the goaf is a crucial method for inhibiting coal spontaneous combustion. Research has verified that the co-injection of CO 2 and N 2 provides a more effective control measure compared to a single gas, but the microscopic mechanism underlying the synergistic displacement of O 2 by CO 2 and N 2 remains unclear. Here, for the constructed multi-scale aperture slit model, the Grand Canonical Monte Carlo simulation (GCMC) and Molecular Dynamics (MD) simulation are used to investigate the mechanism of displacing adsorbed O 2 molecules under different CO 2 /N 2 inert gas conditions. The results indicate that CO 2 and N 2 aggregated on opposing sides of the coal molecules and dispersed within the slit layer, respectively. At 1 nm pore size, the relative concentration of O 2 for optimal displacement was 1.054. The absolute value of the average binding energy is small when the CO 2 :N 2 gas ratio is 80:20 and 40:60 at 2 nm and 4 nm apertures, respectively. This suggests that as the aperture size increases, the displacement effect on O 2 shifts towards a higher proportion of N 2 , with a more conspicuous replacement effect as the aperture widens. The smaller pores ranging from 1-2 nm predominantly feature CO 2 displacing adsorbed state O 2 , while larger pores exceeding 2 nm primarily N 2 facilitate the transportation of free state O 2. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Enzyme-free electrochemical glucose (Glu) sensors, adopting electrochemically active catalysts, are of vital significance to effectively monitoring and analyzing the blood Glu level in diabetes diagnosis. Meanwhile, developing novel electrode substrates have been the hot research pot to meet the demand for constructing flexible sensors. In this work, porous laser-induced graphene (LIG) was prepared through a facile one-step laser-engraving technique on a polyimide thin film, and then used directly as the electrode. Furthermore, NiPt alloyed nanoparticles (NPs) were electrodeposited on the LIG electrode surface to gain the NiPt/LIG composite electrode, which was applied to construct the nonenzymatic electrochemical Glu sensor. The morphology, element and electrochemical performance of NiPt/LIG composite was characterized through various techniques. NiPt alloyed NPs were homogeneously distributed on the LIG scaffolds, which possess plenty of porous structure, high surface area and many active sites. The cooperative effect between the outstanding electrocatalytic capacity of NiPt alloyed NPs, the extraordinary electroconductibility of LIG and the numerous exposed active sites endow the NiPt/LIG sensor outstanding electrocatalytic performance for electrochemical oxidation of Glu. Under the most appropriate conditions, the obtained NiPt/LIG sensor was adopted to detect Glu, showing a broad detection concentration range of 0.5 μM to 2.1 mM and 2.1 mM to 5.6 mM, good sensitivities of 1.824 and 0.467 μA μM−1 cm−2, a low detection limit of 0.03 μM. The as-fabricated nonenzymatic Glu sensor also displays high selectivity, stability considering ageing effects under different environment conditions and prominent reproducibility. Additionally, this novel NiPt/LIG nonenzymatic Glu sensor was applied to quantify Glu successfully in blood serum and food samples and the results were in good agreement with that by UV–vis spectrophotometer, demonstrating high precision and accuracy as well as excellent recovery, showing good application prospects in Glu monitoring. This research confirmed the potential of exploiting NiPt/LIG as a highly sensitive Glu nonenzymatic electrochemical sensor and provided a practicable and suitable approach for construction of novel electrochemical sensors. [Display omitted] • A NiPt/LIG-based non-enzymatic electrochemical sensor for glucose was constructed. • NiPt alloy nanoparticles were uniformly electrodeposited on 3D porous graphene. • The sensor displayed perfect electrocatalytic property and high sensitivity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To compare the MRI characteristics of patients with wake-up ischemic stroke (WUS) and with ischemic stroke with known onset time (clear-onset-time stroke, COS) to clarify the role of diffusion-weighted imaging–fluid-attenuated inversion recovery (DWI-FLAIR) mismatch in estimating the onset time of WUS patients. Patients and Methods: Two hundred patients with acute ischemic stroke were selected for complete brain MRI within six hours of symptom onset, including DWI and FLAIR sequences. The patients were divided into WUS (n = 78) and COS (n = 122) groups, based on whether the time of onset was known. The general conditions and imaging characteristics were collected to compare the DWI-FLAIR mismatch features between the two groups at different time intervals. Results: There was no significant difference in the DWI-FLAIR mismatch on MRI within 2 hour after the first found abnormality between the two groups (50.0% vs 71.8%, p = 0.180). With increasing time, the DWI-FLAIR mismatch decreased substantially in the WUS group, while a higher DWI-FLAIR mismatch presence persisted in the COS group within a four-hour interval from the onset of symptoms to the MRI. The DWI-FLAIR mismatch was significantly lower in the WUS group than in the COS group from symptom identification to MRI at 2– 3 h, 3– 4 h, and 4– 5 h intervals (15% vs 60%, 10.5% vs 48%, 6.7% vs 45.4%; p < 0.01). Conclusion: Our results suggest that the presence of DWI-FLAIR mismatch within 2 h of the first found abnormality was not significantly different between WUS and COS. Therefore, Patients with WUS within 2 hours after the first detected abnormality may be suitable for intravenous thrombolysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The dual-basis theory of metamemory suggests that people evaluate their memory performance based on both processing experience during the memory process and their prior beliefs about overall memory ability. However, few studies have proposed a formal computational model to quantitatively characterize how processing experience and prior beliefs are integrated during metamemory monitoring. Here, we introduce a Bayesian inference model for metamemory (BIM) which provides a theoretical and computational framework for the metamemory monitoring process. BIM assumes that when people evaluate their memory performance, they integrate processing experience and prior beliefs via Bayesian inference. We show that BIM can be fitted to recall or recognition tasks with confidence ratings on either a continuous or discrete scale. Results from data simulation indicate that BIM can successfully recover a majority of generative parameter values, and demonstrate a systematic relationship between parameters in BIM and previous computational models of metacognition such as the stochastic detection and retrieval model (SDRM) and the meta-d' model. We also show examples of fitting BIM to empirical data sets from several experiments, which suggest that the predictions of BIM are consistent with previous studies on metamemory. In addition, when compared with SDRM, BIM could more parsimoniously account for the data of judgments of learning (JOLs) and memory performance from recall tasks. Finally, we discuss an extension of BIM which accounts for belief updating, and conclude with a discussion of how BIM may benefit metamemory research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Accelerated urbanization in China has increased electricity demand. Recently, environmentally-friendly renewable energy resources have become more popular for generating power. Energy consumption and environmental impacts vary depending on the types of renewable energy, while the impacts of such variations are rarely studied in the existing literature. This study used a life-cycle perspective to analyze energy consumption and environmental impacts of wind farms and compared the results to a biomass power plant. The environmental impacts of wind power plants were further analyzed on a site by site basis, using locations in desert (G), steppe (S), and woodland (W) landscapes. The results showed that the G site had the lowest global warming potential of wind power plants at 51.547 gCO 2 -eq/kWh, about 60% that of the S site and 80% that of W. The global warming potential of the G site was also about 25% of the biomass power plant. Additionally, the G site had a solid waste potential of 25.248 g-eq/kWh, which is only 10% compared to the biomass plant. The results also indicated energy payback times for the G, S, and W wind farms to be 0.67, 2.40, and 1.42 years, respectively. The G site also had an acidification potential of 6.836 gSO 2 -eq/kWh, which was equivalent to 45% of the S site and 30% that of W. Consequently, wind farms located in the desert have the least environmental impact, followed by those located in the steppe and woodland. Accounting for energy payback time and environmental impacts, this study suggests that wind power plants should be built in desert areas when possible. Highlights • A comparative environmental impact analysis is done for different types of new energy power generation using LCA. • The energy recovery period and enviromental impacts of wind farm in different locations are compared. • The area of wind farm is taken into account in the process of environmental impact analysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Phase-selective Fe-doped Ni-Te is synthesized for effective OER. • Heterostructure and anion regulation optimize the adhesion of oxygenated species. • OER performance is discussed and mechanism is revealed. Highly active and low-cost electrocatalysts composed of non-noble metal elements are essential for acquiring the green hydrogen energy through a large water electrolysis device. In this work, to accelerate the oxygen evolution reaction (OER), the Fe-doped NiTe/NiTe 2 heterostructures (termed as Fe-NiTe/NiTe 2) were synthesized via a facial one-step process, and further characterized by X-ray diffraction, nitrogen adsorption–desorption test, scanning and transmission electron microscopy, and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. The optimized Fe-NiTe/NiTe 2 exhibits a low overpotential of 284 mV at J = 10 mA cm−2 with a small Tafel slope of 49 mV dec−1 and a remarkable durability within a decline of 4.93% after a long-term chronoamperometry test in alkaline electrolyte. The splendid electrocatalytic performance of Fe-NiTe/NiTe 2 is ascribed to bimetallic synergy effect and heterostructure of two tellurides after compared with the corresponding catalysts (i.e., NiTe, Fe-NiTe and Fe-NiTe 2). In addition, the mechanism reveals that tellurium ions can obviously increases the covalence of Ni-Te bonds and adsorption energy of OH− at the Ni sites, which will significantly promote the efficiency of water oxidation via electrocatalysis. Therefore, this study offers a feasible method for manufacturing the highly active telluride-based electrocatalysts for OER through a one-step solvothermal method. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Few studies have examined the causal relationship between chronic exposure to air pollutants during pregnancy and depression in adolescent offspring. In addition, it has not been investigated whether exposure is most harmful to adolescents in certain populations and at certain stages of pregnancy. A total of 1975 adolescents from 1632 families from the China Family Panel Study, a representative national longitudinal cohort, were included in this study. We used high-resolution satellite retrieval data to assess the PM 2.5 exposure of mothers during pregnancy. Specifically, we employed a two-stage instrumental variable model (IV-2SLS) within the counterfactual causal inference framework, and selected and validated appropriate instruments, thereby mitigating potentially biased results arising from bi-direction between dependent and independent variables. This approach allowed us to explore the causal relationship between maternal PM 2.5 exposure during pregnancy and adolescent depression symptoms. The endogeneity of air pollution during pregnancy and the need for a causal model were suggested by the results of the model comparisons. Using the IV-2SLS model, we found that maternal exposure to PM 2.5 during pregnancy exacerbates depressive symptoms in the offspring during adolescence (β = 0.2, 95% CI: 0.05–0.34). We also found that exposure during the first trimester may cause greater harm. Adolescents with low household income, being male, irregular exercise habits, living in rural areas, and having mothers with poorer mental status may be more vulnerable. The findings suggest that maternal exposure to PM 2.5 during pregnancy may have a negative impact on the depression symptoms of offspring in adolescence and that more attention should be paid to vulnerable populations and the window of vulnerability. • PM 2.5 exposure during pregnancy affects depressive symptoms in adolescents. • The first trimester is a susceptible window for PM 2.5 exposure during pregnancy. • Sensitive populations identified for PM 2.5 exposure during pregnancy. • The causal model was used to avoid endogeneity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • - A defect-induction strategy is proposed for the anchoring of atomic Pd on nitrogen-doped holey carbon nanotube (Pd/NHCNT). • - The resultant Pd/NHCNT catalyst exhibits remarkable activity for nitroarenes hydrogenation. • - The mechanism of nitroarene hydrogenation reaction and catalytic efficiency are probed. • - The interaction between active site and substrate are investigated by theoretical calculations. High-density dispersion and efficient exposure of active metal sites are crucial for enhancing the catalytic activity of metal-based heterogeneous catalysts and improving the utilization of precious metal atoms. Increasing the surface to volume ratio by decreasing the size of metal nanoparticles is considered an ideal and straightforward strategy to increase catalytic activity. However, the generation of stable metal clusters or even single-atom metal species on supports is challenging since metal atoms are prone to agglomerate. In this work, we report a facile and practical method to anchor atomically dispersed Pd on an N -doped holey carbon nanotube (Pd/NHCNT) by efficiently strengthening metal-support interaction. Due to the unique characteristics of defected NHCNT support, highly dispersed Pd clusters and single atoms can be facilely introduced and anchored onto NHCNT. The resultant Pd/NHCNT catalyst exhibits a remarkable activity for nitroarenes hydrogenation with a turnover frequency as high as 1091.49 min−1, which surpasses the reported noble metal-based catalysts. Furthermore, theoretical simulations are applied for the understanding of the defect anchoring of atomically Pd and the interaction between active sites and substrate. The defect-induced anchoring approach provides a new avenue for designing and preparing other highly active atomic metal catalysts with high metal dispersion and can be applied to diverse organic reactions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With increasing age, bone tissue undergoes significant alterations in composition, architecture, and metabolic functions, probably causing senile osteoporosis. Osteoporosis possess the vast majority of bone disease and associates with a reduction in bone mass and increased fracture risk. Bone loss is on account of the disorder in osteoblast-induced bone formation and osteoclast-induced bone resorption. As a unique bone resorptive cell type, mature bone-resorbing osteoclasts exhibit dynamic actin-based cytoskeletal structures called podosomes that participate in cell-matrix adhesions specialized in the degradation of mineralized bone matrix. Podosomes share many of the same molecular constitutions as focal adhesions, but they have a unique structural organization, with a central core abundant in F-actin and encircled by scaffolding proteins, kinases and integrins. Here, we conclude recent advancements in our knowledge of the architecture and the functions of podosomes. We also discuss the regulatory pathways in osteoclast podosomes, providing a reference for future research on the podosomes of osteoclasts and considering podosomes as a therapeutic target for inhibiting bone resorption. • Osteoporosis is a common disease of aging. • Bone resorption by osteoclasts is an important cause of age-related osteoporosis. • Podosomes are important structures for osteoclasts to perform their bone resorption function. • Podosomes can be an important therapeutic target for bone loss. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ag-decorated ZnO nanorods with different Ag contents were prepared by deposition-precipitation method, which demonstrated enhanced inhibition ability for the common pathogen, especially exhibited excellent antibacterial effects on clinical drug resistant bacteria. Moreover, Ag-decorated ZnO nanorods presented much lower cytotoxicity to HEK293 cell than that of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs). The electron spin resonance (ESR) spectra revealed that oxygen vacancies (V O) were formed in ZnO after the decoration of AgNPs. To understand the improved antibacterial activity of Ag-decorated ZnO nanorods, reactive oxygen species (ROS) were determined. It was found that more H 2 O 2 were generated over Ag-decorated ZnO compared to pure ZnO, which was closely related to the oxygen vacancy (V O) concentration. The production of large amount of H 2 O 2 resulted in more serious membrane leakage of cytosol and dehydrogenation inactivation of respiratory chain for bacterial, thus leading to the enhanced antibacterial activities of Ag-decorated ZnO nanorods. Ag-decorated ZnO nanorods with oxygen vacancies produce a large amount of ROS (H 2 O 2), which could cause severe cytoplasmic leakage and dehydrogenase inactivation in bacteria, thus inhibiting the growth of cells and resulting in cell decomposition and death. [Display omitted] • Ag-decorated ZnO nanorods with oxygen vacancies were successfully prepared. • Ag-decorated ZnO nanorods exhibited highly enhanced antibacterial activities. • Oxygen vacancies of Ag-decorated ZnO nanorods promoted the production of H 2 O 2. • H 2 O 2 cause severe cytoplasmic leakage and dehydrogenase inactivation in bacteria. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effect of nanometal powders (nano-grain-size aluminum powders and nanograin size nickel powders) on the ignition delay time of ammonium perchlorate composite propellants has been examined in detail within a carbon dioxide laser ignition system. A comparison of different experimental techniques for combustion-related properties evaluation, including burning rates, deflagration heat, and ignition temperatures of the ammonium perchlorate propellants containing nanometal powders is presented. A thermogravimetric analyzer is employed to investigate the thermal behavior of nano-grain-size and general-grain-size aluminum powders heated in air. The content of active aluminum in the combustion residue was measured by means of the titration. The results show that, with the cooperating effect of nanonickel powders, the addition of nanoaluminum powders in propellants can greatly increase the burning rate, shorten the ignition delay time, and improve the combustion efficiency of aluminum in the combustion of propellant. The individual application of nanometal powders (nanoaluminum or -nickel powders) displayed an intermediate effect, whereas the general-grain-size nickel powders had the least effect. The effect of nano-grain-size Al is determined to be on the solid-phase ignition of the propellant. The effect of nano-grain-size Ni is determined to be on the gas-phase ignition of propellant initially and the solid-phase ignition subsequently. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Urinary incontinence (UI) significantly impairs women's quality of life. Identifying its risk factors is essential for developing effective interventions. Sarcopenia, characterized by the accelerated loss of muscle mass and function, is an emerging concern often linked to obesity and abnormal metabolic status, exacerbating various adverse health outcomes. This population-based study aimed to explore the independent and joint associations of sarcopenia, obesity, and metabolic health with UI risk, as well as to evaluate the mediating role of metabolic indicators in these associations., Methods: A total of 3,557 women aged ≥20 years from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey were included. Sarcopenia was assessed using the appendicular lean mass index (ALMI), and obesity was defined by body mass index and waist circumference. Metabolic health was evaluated using revised criteria from the National Cholesterol Education Program-Adult Treatment Panel III. UI was identified through responses to the "Kidney Conditions-Urology" questionnaire and classified into stress UI (SUI), urgency UI (UUI), and mixed UI (MUI). Multivariable logistic regression and restricted cubic spline models were used to evaluate the associations and visualize the relationship between ALMI and UI. Mediation models were constructed to assess the mediating role of metabolic indicators., Results: We found that sarcopenia was significantly associated with an increased risk of MUI in the general population. Age-specific analysis revealed that sarcopenia is an independent risk factor for SUI in women aged ≥60, and for MUI in women aged 40-59 years. Sarcopenic obesity, particularly under central obesity criteria, further elevated the risk of UI. Notably, women with the metabolically unhealthy obese phenotype with sarcopenia were at the highest risk for both SUI and MUI. Metabolically unhealthy status, glycohemoglobin, vitamin D, and serum albumin levels were partial mediators of these associations., Conclusion: Our findings elucidated the complex interactions between sarcopenia, obesity, and metabolic health, underscoring the critical need for integrated therapeutic strategies that address both metabolic health and targeted nutritional interventions, aiming to enhance muscular health and effectively manage and prevent UI., Competing Interests: The authors declare that the research was conducted in the absence of any commercial or financial relationships that could be construed as a potential conflict of interest., (Copyright © 2024 Shao, Luo, Lou, Wan, Zhao, Zhou, Zhou, Yang, Wu and Hua.)

Elucidating the correlations between the core structure of atomically precise nanoclusters and their catalytic activities is fundamentalfor exploring highly efficient nanocatalysts. Herein, a series of Ag-based nanoclusters protected by 2,4-dimethylphenylthiophenol (specifically Ag 4 Pd 2 (SPhMe 2 ) 8 and Ag 24 M(SPhMe 2 ) 18 where M = Ag, Pd, and Pt) were synthesized and deposited on TiO 2 supports as heterogeneous catalysts for the selective hydrogenation of nitroarenes with NaBH 4 as the reductant. It was found that Ag 4 Pd 2 (SPhMe 2 ) 8 could spontaneously lose its ligands during catalysis, leading to the formation of polydispersed AgPd nanoparticles. This transformation endows the system with extraordinary activity for driving the hydrogenation of nitroarenes. However, the Ag 24 M (M = Ag, Pd, and Pt) systems, maintain their core structures during catalysis. They follow the generally reported ligand-mediated hydride-involved process, with catalytic activities depending on the central atom (Pt > Pd > Ag), which affects the hydride transferred from the nanoclusters to the reactant to regulate the catalysis.

Atomically precise Ag 4 Ni 2 nanoclusters with 2,4-dimethylbenzenethiol as the ligands were synthesized and characterized as a cocatalyst of SiC for the selective hydrogenation of nitroarenes to arylamine in the presence of NaBH 4 . The obtained Ag 4 Ni 2 /SiC samples exhibited extraordinary catalytic activity, and a self-accelerated catalytic process was observed with the reduction of nitrophenol to aminophenol as the model reaction. Experimental comparison between the Ag 4 Ni 2 /SiC samples before and after the catalysis showed that the transformation of Ag 4 Ni 2 clusters to polydisperse Ag particles as well as amorphous NiO x on the surface of SiC in the catalysis was the key to their high activity. AIMD calculations revealed that the transformation of Ag 4 Ni 2 was driven by the presence of multiple hydrides on the cluster, which induced the detachment of the thiol ligand of the nanoclusters.

Introduction: Paphiopedilum barbigerum is currently the rarest and most endangered species of orchids in China and has significant ornamental value. The mature seeds of P. barbigerum are difficult to germinate owing to the absence of an endosperm and are highly dependent on mycorrhizal fungi for germination and subsequent development. However, little is known about the regulation mechanisms of symbiosis and symbiotic germination of P. barbigerum seeds., Methods: Herein, transcriptomics and proteomics were used to explore the changes in the P. barbigerum seeds after inoculation with (FQXY019 treatment group) or without (control group) Epulorhiza sp. FQXY019 at 90 days after germination., Results: Transcriptome sequencing revealed that a total of 10,961 differentially expressed genes (DEGs; 2,599 upregulated and 8,402 downregulated) were identified in the control and FQXY019 treatment groups. These DEGs were mainly involved in carbohydrate, fatty acid, and amino acid metabolism. Furthermore, the expression levels of candidate DEGs related to nodulin, Ca 2+ signaling, and plant lectins were significantly affected in P. barbigerum in the FQXY019 treatment groups. Subsequently, tandem mass tag-based quantitative proteomics was performed to recognize the differentially expressed proteins (DEPs), and a total of 537 DEPs (220 upregulated and 317 downregulated) were identified that were enriched in processes including photosynthesis, photosynthesis-antenna proteins, and fatty acid biosynthesis and metabolism., Discussion: This study provides novel insight on the mechanisms underlying the in vitro seed germination and protocorm development of P. barbigerum by using a compatible fungal symbiont and will benefit the reintroduction and mycorrhizal symbiotic germination of endangered orchids., Competing Interests: The authors declare that the research was conducted in the absence of any commercial or financial relationships that could be construed as a potential conflict of interest., (Copyright © 2024 Tian, Wang, Ding, Wang, Yang, Bai, Tan and Liao.)

Background: Ensuring universal health coverage and equitable access to health services requires a comprehensive understanding of spatiotemporal heterogeneity in healthcare resources, especially in small areas. The absence of a structured spatiotemporal evaluation framework in existing studies inspired us to propose a conceptual framework encompassing three perspectives: spatiotemporal inequalities, hotspots, and determinants., Methods: To demonstrate our three-perspective conceptual framework, we employed three state-of-the-art methods and analyzed 10 years' worth of Chinese county-level hospital bed data. First, we depicted spatial inequalities of hospital beds within provinces and their temporal inequalities through the spatial Gini coefficient. Next, we identified different types of spatiotemporal hotspots and coldspots at the county level using the emerging hot spot analysis (Getis-Ord Gi* statistics). Finally, we explored the spatiotemporally heterogeneous impacts of socioeconomic and environmental factors on hospital beds using the Bayesian spatiotemporally varying coefficients (STVC) model and quantified factors' spatiotemporal explainable percentages with the spatiotemporal variance partitioning index (STVPI)., Results: Spatial inequalities map revealed significant disparities in hospital beds, with gradual improvements observed in 21 provinces over time. Seven types of hot and cold spots among 24.78% counties highlighted the persistent presence of the regional Matthew effect in both high- and low-level hospital bed counties. Socioeconomic factors contributed 36.85% (95% credible intervals [CIs]: 31.84-42.50%) of county-level hospital beds, while environmental factors accounted for 59.12% (53.80-63.83%). Factors' space-scale variation explained 75.71% (68.94-81.55%), whereas time-scale variation contributed 20.25% (14.14-27.36%). Additionally, six factors (GDP, first industrial output, local general budget revenue, road, river, and slope) were identified as the spatiotemporal determinants, collectively explaining over 84% of the variations., Conclusions: Three-perspective framework enables global policymakers and stakeholders to identify health services disparities at the micro-level, pinpoint regions needing targeted interventions, and create differentiated strategies aligned with their unique spatiotemporal determinants, significantly aiding in achieving sustainable healthcare development., (© 2024. The Author(s).)

Using ligand-protected metallic nanoclusters with atomic precision as catalysts and elucidating its ligand effect in the catalysis are the prerequisites to deepen the structure-catalysis relationship of nanoclusters at the molecular level. Herein, a series of Ag 33 nanoclusters protected with different thiolate ligands (2-phenylethanethiol, 4-chlorobenzyl mercaptan, and 4-methoxybenzyl mercaptan as precursors) were synthesized and used as heterogeneous catalysts for the conversion of nitroarenes to arylamine with NaBH 4 as reductant. The obtained nanoclusters exhibited ligand-dependent catalytic activity, with benzyl thiolate ligands distinctly superior to the phenethyl thiolate ligands. DFT calculations revealed that the ligand regulated catalytic activity of the nanoclusters was ascribed to the H-π and π-π interactions between the ligands and the substrates, owing to the presence of phenyl rings in these structures. This work highlighted the importance of the ligands on the metallic nanoclusters in catalysis and provides a strategy to regulate the catalytic activity by utilizing weak interactions between the catalysts and the substrates.

Thyroid hormones are essential during developmental myelination and may play a direct role in remyelination and repair in the adult central nervous system by promoting the differentiation of oligodendrocyte precursor cells into mature oligodendrocytes. Since tri-iodothyronine (T3) is believed to mediate the majority of important thyroid hormone actions, liothyronine (synthetic T3) has the potential to induce reparative mechanisms and limit neurodegeneration in multiple sclerosis (MS). We completed a phase 1b clinical trial to determine the safety and tolerability of ascending doses of liothyronine in individuals with relapsing and progressive MS. A total of 20 people with MS were enrolled in this single-center trial of oral liothyronine. Eighteen participants completed the 24-week study. Our study cohort included mostly women (11/20), majority relapsing MS (12/20), mean age of 46, and baseline median EDSS of 3.5. Liothyronine was tolerated well without treatment-related severe/serious adverse events or evidence of disease activation/clinical deterioration. The most common adverse events included gastrointestinal distress and abnormal thyroid function tests. No clinical thyrotoxicosis occurred. Importantly, we did not observe a negative impact on secondary clinical outcome measures. The CSF proteomic changes suggest a biological effect of T3 treatment within the CNS. We noted changes primarily in proteins associated with immune cell function and angiogenesis. Liothyronine appeared safe and was well tolerated in people with MS. A larger clinical trial will help assess whether liothyronine can promote oligodendrogenesis and enhance remyelination in vivo, limit axonal degeneration, or improve function., (© 2023. The Author(s).)

Background: Takotsubo syndrome (TTS) is a multifactorial disease contributed to by several pathological factors. It is characterized by transient left ventricular dysfunction, and patients with TTS can spontaneously recover within days or weeks. This study's objective was to investigate the ultrasonic characteristics of TTS during different periods and assess the clinical application value of real-time 3-dimensional echocardiography (RT-3DE) and speckle tracking imaging (STI) in TTS., Methods: In this prospective cohort study, the patients with apical TTS were evaluated by echocardiography on admission (within 1-3 days) and after 4 and 8 weeks. RT-3DE was performed to observe the structure and function of the left ventricle (LV). LV end-diastolic volume (LVEDV), end-systolic volume (LVESV), stroke volume (LVSV), and ejection fraction (LVEF) were calculated. The longitudinal peak systolic strain (LPSS) of all LV myocardial segments was acquired by 2D STI. For comparison, 20 healthy individuals were included as normal controls., Results: A total of 16 patients with TTS were included. Their LV was characterized as an "octopus pot" in morphology with obvious hypokinesis on admission. The LVEDV, LVESV, LVSV, and LVEF were 84.23±10.67, 55.94±8.51, 28.31±8.06 mL, and 33.59%±4.12%, respectively, in patients with TTS on admission with a significant difference from those of the controls (P=0.005, P<0.001, P<0.001, and P<0.001, respectively). A definite improvement was found upon follow-up, with these parameters even returning to normal morphology after 8 weeks. The LVEDV, LVESV, LVSV, and LVEF were 75.79±6.86, 28.05±4.33, 47.81±3.57 mL, and 63.02%±3.92%, respectively, in TTS patients after 8 weeks with no significant difference from those of the controls (P=0.907, P=0.235, P=0.162, and P=0.052, respectively). A significant decrease in LPSS was also found in patients with TTS on admission. In the eighth week of follow-up, the LPSS of the apical and middle segments in TTS patients remained significantly decreased compared with that of the normal controls (-18.54%±4.69% vs. -24.29%±3.46%, P<0.001; -19.38%±2.88% vs. -22.36%±3.23%, P<0.001), but that of the basal segments in TTS patients returned to normal and there was no significant differences from the normal controls (-20.75%±2.91% vs. -21.51%±2.85%; P=0.055)., Conclusions: RT-3DE and STI played an indispensable role in visually and quantitatively inspecting the abnormalities of patients with TTS, including in diagnosis and follow-up., Competing Interests: Conflicts of Interest: All authors have completed the ICMJE uniform disclosure form (available at https://qims.amegroups.com/article/view/10.21037/qims-21-1108/coif). The authors have no conflicts of interest to declare., (2023 Quantitative Imaging in Medicine and Surgery. All rights reserved.)

Background: Keloid scarring is one of the most common types of pathological scarring. Keloid scars that fail to heal can affect a person's physical and psychological function by causing pain, pruritus, contractures, and cosmetic disfigurement. Silicone gel sheeting (SGS) is made from medical-grade silicone reinforced with a silicone membrane backing and is one of the most commonly used treatments for keloid scars. However, there is no up-to-date systematic review assessing the effectiveness of SGS for keloid scars. A clear and rigorous review of current evidence is required to guide clinicians, healthcare managers and people with keloid scarring., Objectives: To assess the effectiveness of silicone gel sheeting for the treatment of keloid scars compared with standard care or other therapies., Search Methods: We used standard, extensive Cochrane search methods. The latest search date was December 2021., Selection Criteria: We included randomised controlled trials (RCTs) that recruited people with any keloid scars and assessed the effectiveness of SGS., Data Collection and Analysis: Two review authors independently performed study selection, risk of bias assessment, data extraction and GRADE assessment of the certainty of evidence. We resolved initial disagreements by discussion, or by consulting a third review author when necessary., Main Results: Two studies met the inclusion criteria. Study sample sizes were 16 and 20 participants. The trials were clinically heterogeneous with differences in causes for scarring (e.g. surgery, infected wounds, and trauma), site (e.g. chest and back), and ages of scars. The duration of follow-up was three and four and a half months. The included studies reported three comparisons; SGS compared with no treatment, SGS compared with non-silicone gel sheeting (a dressing similar to SGS but which does not contain silicone), and SGS compared with intralesional injections of triamcinolone acetonide. One trial had a split-body design and one trial had an unclear design (resulting in a mix of paired and clustered data). The included studies reported limited outcome data for the primary review outcome of scar severity measured by health professionals and no data were reported for severity of scar measured by patients or adverse events. For secondary outcomes some data on pain were reported, but health-related quality of life and cost-effectiveness were not reported. Both trials had suboptimal outcome reporting, thus many domains in the risk of bias were assessed as unclear. All evidence was rated as being very low-certainty, mainly due to risk of bias, indirectness, and imprecision.  SGS compared with no treatment Two studies with 33 participants (76 scars) reported the severity of scar assessed by health professionals, and we are uncertain about the effect of SGS on scar severity compared with no treatment (very low-certainty evidence, downgraded once for risk of bias, once for inconsistency, once for indirectness, and once for imprecision). We are uncertain about the effect of SGS on pain compared with no treatment (21 participants with 40 scars; very low-certainty evidence, downgraded once for risk of bias, once for inconsistency, once for indirectness, and once for imprecision). No data were reported for other outcomes including scar severity assessed by patients, adverse events, adherence to treatment, health-related quality of life and cost-effectiveness. SGS compared with non-SGS One study with 16 participants (25 scars) was included in this comparison. We are uncertain about the effect of SGS on scar severity assessed by health professionals compared with non-SGS (very low-certainty evidence, downgraded once for risk of bias, once for indirectness, and once for imprecision). We are also uncertain about the effect of SGS on pain compared with non-SGS (very low-certainty evidence, downgraded once for risk of bias, once for indirectness, and once for imprecision). No data were reported for other outcomes including scar severity assessed by patients, adverse events, adherence to treatment, health-related quality of life and cost-effectiveness. SGS compared with intralesional injections of triamcinolone acetonide One study with 17 participants (51 scars) reported scar severity assessed by health professionals, and we are uncertain about the effect of SGS on scar severity compared with intralesional injections of triamcinolone acetonide (very low-certainty evidence, downgraded once for risk of bias, once for indirectness, and once for imprecision). This study also reported pain assessed by health professionals among 5 participants (15 scars) and we are uncertain about the effect of SGS on pain compared with intralesional injections of triamcinolone acetonide (very low-certainty evidence, downgraded once for risk of bias, once for indirectness, and twice for imprecision). No data were reported for other outcomes including scar severity assessed by patients, adverse events, adherence to treatment, health-related quality of life and cost-effectiveness., Authors' Conclusions: There is currently a lack of RCT evidence about the clinical effectiveness of SGS in the treatment of keloid scars. From the two studies identified, there is insufficient evidence to demonstrate whether the use of SGS compared with no treatment, non-SGS, or intralesional injections of triamcinolone acetonide makes any difference in the treatment of keloid scars. Evidence from the included studies is of very low certainty, mainly driven by the risk of bias, indirectness, and imprecision due to small sample size. Further well-designed studies that have good reporting methodologies and address important clinical, quality of life and economic outcomes are required to reduce uncertainty around decision-making in the use of SGS to treat keloid scars., (Copyright © 2023 The Cochrane Collaboration. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.)

The morphological characteristic of Dendrobium moschatum (Buch.-Ham.) Sw. 1805 is very distinctive among Dendrobium Sw. 1799, and it has high medicinal and ornamental values. Here, we reported the first complete chloroplast genome of D. moschatum . The complete genome of D. moschatum was 159,701 bp in length with 130 genes, including 38 tRNA, 8 rRNA, and 84 protein-coding genes. Phylogenetic analysis showed that D. moschatum was strongly allied with D. denneanum Kerr. 1933., Competing Interests: No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s)., (© 2022 The Author(s). Published by Informa UK Limited, trading as Taylor & Francis Group.)

Prior research has suggested a potential role of psychological stress on cancer development while the role of familial factors on this association is underexplored. We conducted a nationwide cohort study including 167,836 individuals with a first-onset stress-related disorder (including post-traumatic stress disorder, acute stress reaction, adjustment disorder and other stress reactions) diagnosed between 1981 and 2016 in Sweden (i.e., exposed patients), 1,631,801 birth year- and sex-matched unexposed individuals, and 179,209 unaffected full siblings of the exposed patients. Cox models were used to estimate the hazard ratios (HRs) of newly diagnosed cancer and cancer-related death, beyond 1 year after diagnosis of stress-related disorders. We further examined the potential mediation roles of behavior-related morbidities in the associations of stress-related disorders with smoking or alcohol-related cancer incidence and mortality. We found modestly elevated risks of cancer incidence and mortality among exposed patients compared with matched unexposed individuals (incidence: HR = 1.03, 95% CI 1.01-1.06; mortality: HR = 1.13, 95% CI 1.07-1.18), while not when comparing with full siblings (incidence: HR = 1.03, 95% CI 0.99-1.08; mortality: HR = 1.09, 95% CI 1.00-1.19). Similarly, the suggested elevations in incidence and mortality of individual cancer sites (or groups) in the population-based comparison attenuated towards null in the between-sibling comparison. The risk elevations for smoking or alcohol-related cancers in the population-based comparison (incidence: HR = 1.18, 95% CI 1.11-1.24; mortality: HR = 1.20, 95% CI 1.12-1.29) were partially mediated by alcohol-related morbidities during follow-up. Collectively, our findings suggest that the association between stress-related disorders and cancer risk and mortality is largely explained by familial factors, including shared behavioral hazards., (© 2022. The Author(s).)

Background: Changes in thyroid hormone levels are commonly recognized characters among the elderly, which were reported to potentially influence incident frailty. Therefore, we examined the cross-sectional associations of thyroid hormones (THs) with frailty as well as the five components characterizing frailty (fatigue, resistance, ambulation, number of illnesses, and loss of weight) among the oldest-old., Methods: Four hundred and eighty-seven community-dwelling oldest-old from a local community in Haidian District, Beijing, participated in our recruitment campaign between April 2019 and May 2020. The primary outcomes were a definitive diagnosis of frailty according to the FRAIL scale (Fatigue, Resistance, Ambulation, Illnesses, Loss of weight) and a positive score for each frailty subdomain. Demographic information (age, sex, marital status, and educational status), comorbidities, and details on the participants' lifestyles were recorded. Serum THs including free triiodothyronin (fT3), triiodothyronine (T3), free thyroxine (fT4), and thyroxine (T4) and thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) levels were also measured at the beginning of our study. Logistic regressions were conducted to screen for potential risk factors for frailty and its subdomains., Results: Among the total 487 subjects at enrollment, 60 (12.23%) of them were diagnosed with subclinical hypothyroidism and 110 (22.59%) of the total population scored positive for frailty. Logistic regression analyses adjusted for all potential confounders, showed that frailty was significantly associated with the serum TSH concentration (odds ratio [OR]: 1.06), fT3 concentration (OR: 0.54), and subclinical hypothyroidism score (OR: 2.18). The association between fT4 and frailty was absent in our observational study. The fT3/fT4 ratio characterizing peripheral hormone conversion was also tested to be correlated with frailty., Conclusion: Subclinical hypothyroidism, higher TSH level, lower fT3 level, and decreased fT3/fT4 ratio were all associated with frailty assessed by the FRAIL scale among the community-dwelling oldest-old, suggesting a relevant role of thyroid function in aging. Future longitudinal studies are warranted to determine the casual relationship between thyroid dysfunction and frailty in the oldest-old., (Copyright © 2022 The Chinese Medical Association, produced by Wolters Kluwer, Inc. under the CC-BY-NC-ND license.)

Background: Prior research has suggested that functional disability was associated with increased risk of incident depressive symptoms in the elderly. However, little is known about the potential role of functional disability on the long-term trajectories of depressive symptoms among middle-aged and older Chinese adults., Methods: Data were drawn from the China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study. A total of 8415 participants with up to four measurements of depressive symptoms assessed by the Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale (CESD) were included. Functional disability was evaluated by activities of daily living (ADLs) and instrumental ADLs (IADLs) at baseline. We identified the trajectories of depressive symptoms over 7-year follow-up using group-based trajectory modelling, and examined the association between functional disability and depressive symptom trajectories using multinomial logistic regression., Results: We identified four trajectories of depressive symptoms throughout the follow-up, characterized by maintaining a low CES-D score (low symptoms); maintaining a moderate CES-D score (moderate symptoms); increasing progressively and reaching a high CES-D score at the end of follow-up (increasing symptom); and increasing quickly and maintaining a high CES-D score (high symptoms). We found that participants with severe functional disability were at increased likelihood of being in the moderate (odds ratio [OR] = 2.27, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.68-3.07), increasing (OR = 2.31, 95% CI 1.49-3.59), and high (OR = 4.74, 95% CI 3.07-7.31) depressive symptom trajectories., Limitations: Depressive symptoms and functional disability were evaluated based on self-reported scales., Conclusions: Our findings suggest that functional disability was associated with unfavorable depressive symptom trajectories among middle-aged and older Chinese adults., (Copyright © 2022 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.)

Background: Prior research provides suggestive evidence on an association between stress-related disorders and mortality. No previous study has however addressed the role of familial confounding on such association., Methods: We conducted a nationwide cohort study of 189,757 individuals with a first-onset stress-related disorder between January 1, 1981 and December 31, 2016 in Sweden (i.e., exposed patients), 1,896,352 matched unexposed individuals, and 207,479 unaffected full siblings of the exposed patients. Cox proportional hazards models were used to estimate the hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) of all-cause and cause-specific mortality., Findings: During a mean follow-up of 9.42 years, an elevated risk of all-cause mortality was observed during the entire follow-up among patients with stress-related disorders, compared with either unexposed individuals or their unaffected full siblings. Such excess risk was most pronounced within the first year after diagnosis of stress-related disorders (HR, 3.19 [95% CI, 2.87-3.54] in population-based comparison; HR, 3.21 [95% CI, 2.56-4.02] in sibling-based comparison). The excess risk decreased but remained statistically significant thereafter (HR, 1.64 [95% CI, 1.60-1.67] in population-based comparison; HR, 1.61 [95% CI, 1.54-1.68] in sibling-based comparison). An increased risk was observed for almost all cause-specific mortality, with greater risk increase for deaths from unnatural causes, especially suicide, and potentially avoidable causes., Interpretation: Stress-related disorders were associated with an increased risk of all-cause mortality and multiple cause-specific mortality, and the risk elevation was independent of familial confounding. The excess mortality attributable to unnatural causes and potentially avoidable causes highlights the importance of clinical surveillance of major health hazards among patients with stress-related disorders., Funding: EU Horizon 2020 Research and Innovation Action Grant, 1.3.5 Project for Disciplines of Excellence at West China Hospital of Sichuan University, National Natural Science Foundation of China, Icelandic Research Fund (Grant of Excellence), ERC Consolidator Grant, and Swedish Research Council., Competing Interests: The authors declare no competing interests., (© 2022 The Author(s).)

China's huge regional differences are taken into consideration to study the influencing factors and their differences in CO 2 emissions of the power industry from different regions. This study aimed to improve the efficiency of CO 2 emission reduction policies. From the production and consumption perspectives, this study analyzes the influencing factors of CO 2 emissions and utilizes the Logarithmic Mean Divisia Index (LMDI) to decompose CO 2 emissions with consideration of the cross-regional power dispatching in the power industry. The results indicate that the trend of CO 2 emissions in the eastern, central, and western China seems similar during years 2005 to 2017 no matter from which perspective. From the production perspective, power consumption is the main factor in CO 2 emission increase and its affect extent may vary from different regions over a period of time. Energy efficiency inhibits CO 2 emission increase in all regions. The power structure and power distribution across regions affect CO 2 emissions significantly different in amount and direction from region to region. From the consumption perspective, economic activity plays a major role in CO 2 emission increase and plays a similar role in the trend of CO 2 emissions in three regions, but its affect extent on CO 2 emissions varies in different regions. Targeted policy recommendations are provided to reduce CO 2 emissions more effectively from China's power industry., Competing Interests: The authors declare that they have no known conflicts of interests or personal relationships that could have appeared to influence the work reported in this study., (Copyright © 2022 Qiang Liu et al.)

Human papillomavirus (HPV) is the most common sexually transmitted infection in the United States (US). It is often discussed within the context of women's sexual health due to its association with cervical cancer. However, HPV is also associated with other cancers and conditions which affect men. Gay and bisexual males (GBM) in the US have higher risks of HPV infection and a higher incidence of HPV-associated anal cancer than heterosexual males. In addition, GBM in the US have a higher prevalence of some high-risk strains of HPV than in other regions. HPV vaccination is highly effective at preventing HPV-associated cancers and genital warts. Several resources have been directed towards improving HPV awareness in the US over the past couple of years to improve vaccination rates. Given the low rates of HPV vaccination among GBM in the US, this study aimed to assess the trends in HPV and HPV vaccine awareness using a nationally representative sample of GBM. We found an overall increase in HPV and HPV vaccine awareness between 2017 and 2020. However, the sociodemographic differences in awareness levels highlight the need for more interventions to improve vaccination rates, especially in this high-risk population.

Psychological distress is more common in cancer survivors than the general population, and is associated with adverse outcomes. This cross-sectional study aimed to assess the relationship between socioeconomic status (SES), race and psychological distress, using data from a nationally representative sample of cancer survivors in the United States. Outcomes of interest were mild, moderate, and severe psychological distress as assessed by the Patient Health Questionnaire-4 (PHQ-4). In our univariate model, there was no statistically significant difference in the PHQ-4 scores of Caucasian and African American respondents. On the other hand, a lower SES correlated with a higher likelihood of psychological distress, and this persisted in our multivariate model. This study brings additional awareness to the negative impact of a lower socioeconomic status on mental health outcomes in cancer survivors, and further highlights the importance of the timely identification and screening of individuals at a high risk of psychological distress, in order to limit missed opportunities for relevant mental health interventions in this population.