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Background: Opa-interacting protein 5 antisense transcript 1 (OIP5-AS1) has been demonstrated to play vital roles in development and progression of tumors such as gastric cancer (GC). However, the detailed molecular mechanism of OIP5-AS1 has not been completely elucidated. Our study aimed to investigate the role and the epigenetic regulation mechanism of OIP5-AS1 in GC. Methods: OIP5-AS1 expression in GC tissues was detected by RT-qPCR. Loss- and gain-of-function experiments were conducted to assess the biological function of OIP5-AS1 in vitro and in vivo. The interaction of OIP5-AS1 with insulin-like growth factor 2 mRNA-binding protein 3 (IGF2BP3) or heterogeneous nuclear nucleoprotein A1 (hnRNPA1) was verified by bioinformatics analysis, RNA pull-down assays, and RNA immunoprecipitation assays. Results: In this study, we identified that OIP5-AS1 is specifically overexpressed in GC tumor tissues and cell lines and correlated with a poor prognosis. The loss of OIP5-AS1 suppressed the proliferation, migration, invasion, epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT), and glycolysis of GC cells, but the ectopic expression of OIP5-AS1 had the opposite impact. Meanwhile, knockdown of OIP5-AS1 inhibited tumor growth in patient-derived xenograft models, as well as repressed tumor metastasis. Mechanistically, IGF2BP3 could bind to OIP5-AS1 by N6-methyladenosine (m6A) modification sites on OIP5-AS1, thereby stabilizing OIP5-AS1. Moreover, OIP5-AS1 prevented Trim21-mediated ubiquitination and degradation of hnRNPA1, stabilizing hnRNPA1 protein and promoting the malignant progression of GC by regulating PKM2 signaling pathway. Conclusions: In conclusion, this study highlighted that OIP5-AS1 is an oncogenic m6A-modified long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) in GC and that IGF2BP3/OIP5-AS1/hnRNPA1 axis may provide a potential diagnostic or prognostic target for GC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Two nonfullerene acceptors (NFAs) TT-2FIC and DTP-2FIC were developed by using naphthalene substituted thieno[3,2-b]thiophene as the core, alkylthiophene, alkylthieno[3,2-b]thiophene or 4-alkyl-4H-dithieno[3,2-b:2′,3′-d]pyrrole as the π-bridges. This core could endow NFAs with coplanar backbone and twisted conjugated sidechains. In this way, over-aggregation of NFAs was suppressed, and TT-2FIC and DTP-2FIC exhibited good solubility and optimal π-π stacking. Eventually, PBDB-T:TT-2FIC and PBDB-T:DTP-2FIC cells achieved decent PCE of 4.25% and 4.96%, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Major histocompatibility complex, class II, DQ beta 1 antisense RNA 1 (HLA-DQB1-AS1) conferred the susceptibility to hepatocellular carcinoma. Sustaining cell growth and resisting apoptosis are two hallmarks of hepatocellular carcinoma. The present study explored the role of HLA-DQB1-AS1 in the proliferation and apoptosis of hepatocellular carcinoma cells and investigated its downstream pathway. Colony formation assay was performed to assess cell proliferation. Cell apoptosis was assessed with the TdT-mediated dUTP nick end labeling method. HLA-DQB1-AS1 deficiency exerts antiproliferative and proapoptotic effects on hepatocellular carcinoma cells. Moreover, based on bioinformatic analysis combined with the results of RNA immunoprecipitation assay, HLA-DQB1-AS1 was revealed to bind with zinc finger RANBP2-type containing 2 (ZRANB2) protein. ZRANB2 was upregulated in hepatocellular carcinoma at a clinical and cellular level. HLA-DQB1-AS1 caused no significant effects on ZRANB2 mRNA and protein expression. ZRANB2 knockdown suppressed cell proliferation and enhanced cell apoptosis of hepatocellular carcinoma. Moreover, ZRANB2 overexpression rescued the anticancer effect of silenced HLA-DQB1-AS1 in hepatocellular carcinoma cells. In conclusion, HLA-DQB1-AS1 promotes cell proliferation and inhibits apoptosis in hepatocellular carcinoma by the interaction with ZRANB2 protein. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rat Thy‐1 nephritis (Thy‐1N) is an animal model of human mesangioproliferative glomerulonephritis (MsPGN), accompanied by glomerular mesangial cell (GMC) proliferation and extracellular matrix (ECM) deposition. Although sublytic C5b‐9 formed on GMC membrane could induce cell proliferation, the mechanism is still unclear. In this study, we first demonstrated that the level of SRY related HMG‐BOX gene 9 (SOX9), general control nonderepressible 5 (GCN5), fibroblast growth factor 1 (FGF1) and platelet‐derived growth factor α (PDGFα) was all elevated both in the renal tissues of Thy‐1N rats (in vivo) and in the GMCs (in vitro) with sublytic C5b‐9 stimulation. Then, we not only discovered that sublytic C5b‐9 caused GMC proliferation through increasing SOX9, GCN5, FGF1 and PDGFα expression, but also proved that SOX9 and GCN5 formed a complex and combined with FGF1 and PDGFα promoters, leading to FGF1 and PDGFα gene transcription. More importantly, GCN5 could mediate SOX9 acetylation at lysine 62 (K62) to enhance SOX9 binding to FGF1 or PDGFα promoter and promote FGF1 or PDGFα synthesis and GMC proliferation. Besides, the experiments in vivo also showed that FGF1 and PDGFα expression, GMC proliferation and urinary protein secretion in Thy‐1N rats were greatly reduced by silencing renal SOX9, GCN5, FGF1 or PDGFα gene. Furthermore, the renal tissues of MsPGN patients also exhibited positive expression of these genes mentioned above. Collectively, our findings indicate that GCN5, SOX9 and FGF1/PDGFα can form an axis and play an essential role in sublytic C5b‐9‐triggered GMC proliferation, which might provide a novel insight into the pathogenesis of Thy‐1N and MsPGN. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticle-coated pyrite microelectrodes were synthesized and applied for the arsenic removal from the binary system in a three-dimensional fluidized reactor. Arsenate adsorption was highly dependent on the environmental pH values. The maximum monolayer adsorption capacities were 12.83 mg/g and 9.28 mg/g for As(V) and As(III), respectively. The direct contact between nucleus and target contaminants evidently affected As(III) equilibrium adsorption. Voltage gradient had a more remarkable influence on the arsenic removal compared with the other parameters in the optimization. A continuous flow was recommended in the industrial application based on the regeneration and reuse of adsorbent. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• KLF5, TRAF6 and TIMP3 were up-regulated in the renal tissue of Thy-1N rats and in sublytic C5b-9-stimulated GMC. • Sublytic C5b-9-elevated KLF5 and TRAF6 could enhance TIMP3 gene transcription. • KLF5 and TRAF6 as a complex bound to −1801nt to −1554nt and −228nt to −46nt of TIMP3 promoter. • TRAF6 promoted KLF5 nuclear localization and TIMP3 transcription via K63-linked ubiquitination at KLF5-K99 and -K100. • Renal KLF5, TRAF6 or TIMP3 gene knockdown could lessen TIMP3 expression, ECM accumulation and other lesions of Thy-1N rats. Rat Thy-1 nephritis (Thy-1N) is an experimental model for studying human mesangioproliferative glomerulonephritis (MsPGN), and its pathological features are glomerular mesangial cell (GMC) proliferation and extracellular matrix (ECM) accumulation. Although we have confirmed that renal lesions of Thy-1N rats are sublytic C5b-9-dependent, and ECM accumulation is related to tissue inhibitor of matrix metalloproteinase (TIMP) inhibiting matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) activity, whether sublytic C5b-9 can induce TIMP production by GMC in Thy-1N rat and the underlying mechanism remains unclear. In the study, we proved that the expressions of TIMP3, krϋppel-like transcription factor 5 (KLF5) and tumor necrosis factor receptor-associated factor 6 (TRAF6) were simultaneously up-regulated both in the renal tissues of Thy-1N rats (in vivo) and in the GMC exposed to sublytic C5b-9 (in vitro). Further mechanism exploration discovered that KLF5 and TRAF6 as two upstream molecules could induce TIMP3 gene transcription through binding to the same region i.e., −1801nt to −1554nt (GGGGAGGGGC) and −228nt to −46nt (GCCCCGCCCC) of TIMP3 promoter. In the process, TRAF6 mediated KLF5 K63-linked ubiquitination at K99 and K100 enhancing KLF5 nuclear localization and binding to TIMP3 promoter, augmenting its gene activation. Furthermore, the experiments in vivo exhibited that silencing KLF5, TRAF6 or TIMP3 gene could markedly lessen renal KLF5 K63-linked ubiquitination or TIMP3 induction, ECM accumulation and other pathological changes of Thy-1N rats. Besides, the positive expressions of above-mentioned these proteins and ECM accumulation and their correlation in the renal tissues of MsPGN patients were also demonstrated. Overall, our findings implicate that KLF5 and TRAF6 play a promoting role in sublytic C5b-9-triggered TIMP3 gene transcription and expression, which might provide a novel mechanistic insight into rat Thy-1N and human MsPGN. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) are commonly used in many consumer and industrial products. However, their resulting widespread release into aqueous environments and their potential toxicities to organisms have raised significant environmental concern. Among the various approaches to the removal of PFAS contaminants, adsorption has proven to be highly effective, especially when carbonaceous nanomaterials (CNMs) are used as the adsorbent. Nonetheless, the interfacial adsorption of PFASs on CNMs is affected by many factors. In this work, the adsorption behaviors of perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) and perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS), two highly representative PFASs, on different CNMs are reviewed. We also examine the mechanisms of PFOA and PFOS adsorption on CNMs, including electrostatic and hydrophobic interactions, ligand exchange and hydrogen bonding. Due to the significant influence of hydrophobic interactions on adsorption, CNMs rich in oxygen-containing functional groups will result in weaker PFAS adsorption than achieved using pristine materials. The important contribution of nanobubbles to hydrophobic interactions is considered herein. Overall, this work contributes to a better understanding of the adsorption affinity of PFASs on CNMs in water environments. Moreover, it provides the systematic theoretical support that is needed for the more effective use of CNMs in the removal of PFASs from aqueous systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Organic molybdenum (e.g., molybdenum dialkyldithiocarbamate, Mo-DTC) is a typical additive for liquid lubricants which can produce a significant anti-wear role with only a minor addition. In this article Mo-DTC additives were used to enhance the wear resistance of a phenolic resin. Phenolic/Mo-DTC composites with various Mo-DTC filler ratios were prepared by hot-press molding. The hardness and wear performance of the composites were measured by a Shore durometer and by an M-2000 friction and wear tester, respectively. The results showed that after adding the Mo-DTC filler, both the hardness and the anti-wear properties of the composites materials were improved. Under the condition of high-speed with a smooth ring, the wear scar length for the sample with 1% Mo-DTC content decreased by 45.6% compared with that of the neat phenolic resin whereas for a wire rope ring a decrease of 16% was observed for 0.5% Mo-DTC. Based on the wear morphology of the composites, the wear mechanisms of the designed phenolic/Mo-DTC composites were determined. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Serious inter-symbol interference (ISI) exists in non-line-of-sight (NLOS) wireless ultraviolet communication (UVC) system, which brings some difficulties to signal detection. Channel state information is of importance for the signal processing process to suppress ISI. In this paper, a joint channel state information (JCSI) estimation algorithm using Bayesian principle is presented, so that channel response coefficient and communication signal can be obtained simultaneously. Based on the channel model of UVC, the framework of Bayesian estimation to JCSI is constructed, and realized by using differential evolution particle filter (DE-PF) algorithm. Numerical simulations show that the estimation signal-to-noise ratio (ESNR) is increased by (5 ∼ 10)dB of proposed algorithm compared with the least mean square (LMS) and recursive least squares (RLS) algorithms. The bit error rate (BER) is reduced by about one order of magnitude compared with LMS and RLS, which is also smaller than MLSD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pheochromocytoma and paraganglioma (PCC/PGL) are rare tumors that originate from adrenal or extra-adrenal chromaffin cells. A significant clinical manifestation of PCC/PGL is that the tumors release a large number of catecholamines continuously or intermittently, causing persistent or paroxysmal hypertension and multiple organ functions and metabolic disorders. Though majority of the tumors are non-metastatic, about 10% are metastatic tumors. Others even have estimated that the rate of metastasis may be as high as 26%. The disease is most common in individuals ranging from 20 to 50 years old and the age of onset strongly depends on the genetic background: patients with germline mutations in susceptible genes have an earlier presentation. Besides, there are no significant differences in the incidence between men and women. At present, traditional treatments, such as surgical treatment, radionuclide therapy, and chemotherapy are still prior choices. However, they all have several deficiencies so that the effects are not extremely significant. Contemporary studies have shown that hypoxia-associated signal pathway, associated with the cluster 1 genes of PCC/PGL, and increased kinase signal pathways, associated with the cluster 2 genes of PCC/PGL, are the two major pathways involving the molecular pathogenesis of PCC/PGL, indicating that PCC/PGL can be treated with targeted therapies in emerging trends. This article reviews the progress of molecular-targeted therapies for PCC/PGL. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This work focuses on constructing a bio-electro-hydrometallurgical platform to efficiently recover cobalt (Co), lithium (Li), and manganese (Mn) from the cathode active materials (CAMs) of spent lithium batteries. A bioleaching process and selective adsorption by PC-88A/TOA-modified granular activated carbon were both incorporated into an electrokinetics approach to achieve excellent recycling performance. The technical feasibility was comprehensively investigated in terms of four aspects, including the domestication of microorganisms, the evaluation of the bioleaching process, the equilibrium adsorption of the adsorbent, and the electrokinetic recovery. Potential sulfur-oxidizing bacteria were screened and domesticated to a high concentration of pyrite pulp. The voltage gradient and the remediation time both had obvious influences on the recovery of the target elements in the electrokinetic process. Maximum recoveries of 91.45%, 93.64% and 87.92% for Co, Li, and Mn, respectively, were achieved from the CAMs of spent lithium-ion batteries via the electrokinetics process. The indirect oxidation of pyrite provided the necessary reductants for the platform. The transformation of sulfur (S) to H 2 SO 4 as a result of bio-oxidation by bacteria strains supplied additional H+ ions to facilitate the reduction reaction, and acid dissolution mitigated the drawbacks caused by the uneven distribution of pH in the electrokinetics process. • A bio-electro-hydrometallurgical process was designed to recycle the spent LIBs. • EK coupling with biomining and adsorption was adopted to recover Co, Li, and Mn. • Potential sulfur-oxidizing bacterium was domesticated to adapt EK environment. • Bioleaching pre-tests were conducted in orthogonal design to explore bio-impacts. • Specific adsorption characteristics of PC-88A/TOA-modified GAC had been studied. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Graphical abstract Highlights • Effects of EK coupled with NZVI-loaded PRB on Se(IV) removal have been studied. • Electro-induced migration of Se(IV) affected by PRB media has been investigated. • The electrochemical system was optimized to maximize Se(IV) removal and reduction. • The mechanisms of Se EK recycling in the electrolyzer were comprehensively studied. • The results provide guidance for the multichannel recovery of Se from solid wastes. Abstract The range between dietary deficient and toxic levels for selenium is quite narrow. In this study, the synergistic effects of electrokinetics (EK) and a permeable reactive barrier (PRB) on the reductive sequestration of Se(IV) oxyanions from spiked soils were investigated in detail. Activated charcoal (AC)-supported Fe(II) and nanoscale zero-valent iron (nZVI) were prepared as the PRB media for use in an electrolyzer. In aqueous equilibrium adsorption tests, the AC-supported nZVI medium had a higher adsorption capacity than that of the other adsorbents. The Se(IV) removal isotherms were well-fitted using the Langmuir model. The Se(IV) removal rates were accurately predicted by both pseudo-first- and pseudo-second-order kinetic models. For the coupled systems, a moderate increase in the number of PRBs and decrease in the PRB thickness in the electrolyzer enhanced the removal and catalytic recovery of Se(IV) from the spiked soil samples. A Se(VI) removal efficiency of approximately 95% and Se(VI) reduction efficiency of 90% were achieved in the optimized electrochemical system. The Se(IV) species were reduced to Se° and FeSe by the AC-supported nZVI regardless of the pH distribution. The experimental results provide guidance for the multichannel recovery of Se from abandoned ore tailings or solid wastes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract During an examination of the Mo ss (Mo solid solution) + Mo 5 SiB 2 + Mo 2 B three phase alloys a lattice constant expansion was observed for the Mo ss. To identify the origin of the expansion, high precision analysis of scanning transmission electron microscopy images was carried out to determine the solid solution type of B atoms. A quantitative analysis of the non-rigid registration image demonstrates that the B is located at the octahedral sites of the Mo lattice. This conclusion is consistent with the expansion of lattice constant and the small solid solubility limit of B in Mo ss. Graphical abstract A quantitative analysis of the non-rigid registration image demonstrates that the B is located at the octahedral site (O) of the BCC Mo lattice and not on the tetrahedral site (T). Unlabelled Image [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chromite ore processing residue (COPR) contaminates farmland and groundwater around storage fields through the release of chromium leachate. Graphite particle-supported nanoscale zero-valent iron (GP-nZVI) synthesized by an impregnation-reduction pathway was used as a microelectrode in a three-dimensional electrochemical system to enhance the electrokinetic removal of Cr from COPR samples. The environmental activities of the electrokinetics-treated samples were measured by analysing the chemical speciation and conducting toxicological tests on Vibrio fischeri . The first-order and Elovich kinetic models are suitable for predicting the reaction process under different aqueous conditions. A strong acid environment and a high proportion of GP-nZVI in the electrolyser were conducive to achieving high removal efficiencies of Cr during the electrokinetic process. The improved reduction of Cr(VI) anions, the strengthened electromigration of Cr(III) cations, and the co-precipitation of Cr(III) and Fe(III) near the cathode were concluded to be the main advantages of a 3D electrode compared with a 2D system in increasing Cr electrokinetic removal from COPR. The detoxification of the COPR sample was found to be gradually reduced from the anode to cathode in the electrolyser. Electrokinetic treatment with GP-nZVI as the three-dimensional electrode can effectively decrease the toxicological effect of chromite ore-processing residue at an experimental scale. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The three-dimensional (3D) electrode has been widely studied and curiously pushed forward for the treatment of various wastewater. However, the reports on the electro-remediation of municipal solid waste incineration fly ashes using 3D electrochemical platform are scarce. In this research, the removal of heavy metals from the municipal solid waste incineration fly ashes was comprehensively investigated using a 3D electrokinetic system. Central composite design method was used based on the 31 trials and desirability functions in the 3D electrochemical process to evaluate the main effect and their interacted effect of parameter-variables on the remedial efficiencies. The maximum removal efficiencies of zinc (Zn), lead (Pb), copper (Cu), and cadmium (Cd) were 79.54%, 67.34%, 81.34%, and 59.11%, respectively. The 3D electrode system was demonstrated to be more effective in removing heavy metals from samples compared with the 2D electrokinetic process. The intensification of hydrolysis reaction and the enhancement of electromotive force were concluded based on the mechanism analysis as two main reasons in improving heavy-metal removals with a 3D electrode in the electrokinetic remediation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

For high temperature applications Mo base alloy requirements include both superior structural performance and environmental resistance. To address these requirements alloys in the Mo-Si-B system and refractory multi-principal element alloys (RMPEA) are being developed that exhibit a promising potential, but also have some remaining challenges to improve ductility, lower density and enhance environmental resistance. In the Mo-Si-B system microstructures with a Mo solid solution (Moss) Mo 3 Si and Mo 5 SiB 2 (T 2) phases have been the focus of attention. However, the Si solubility in the Moss phase diminishes the ductility and toughness. In order to address this issue a new design based upon Moss, Mo 2 B and T 2 phases lowers the Si solubility in the Moss to improve ductility while the T 2 phase maintains the oxidation performance. Selected additions of Al and Ti enable a density reduction to below 8 g/cm3. The RMPEA designs for Mo-rich alloys provide for excellent structural performance, but the complex oxidation products provide no protection. In this case a new coating design has been introduced that provides the required environmental resistance. • A new alloy design based upon the Mo-6Si-12B-4Al-20Ti composition was developed with a density below 8 g/cm3. • Oxidation exposure at 1000 °C and 1100 °C demonstrated little weight change over 50 h due to the formation of an Al doped TiO 2 oxide scale. • At 1300 °C the Mo-6Si-12B-4Al-20Ti alloy exhibited a continuous weight loss due to the high vapor pressure of the oxide scale. • To improve the oxidation resistance of (Mo 95 W 5) 85 Ta 10 (TiZr) 5 , a two-step coating of Mo-precoat plus Si-B pack cementation was applied. • The coating shows excellent self-healing capability and can protect the RMPEA both in air and water vapor environments at 1300 °C. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Forest fires are characterized by a rapid and devastating nature, underscoring the practical significance of forest fire risk monitoring. Currently, forest fire risk assessments inadequately account for non-meteorological hazard factors, lack the hazard-formative environment and contextual disaster knowledge for fire occurrence mechanisms. In response, based on MODIS products, we augmented the FFDI (forest fire danger index) with the RDST (regional disaster system theory) and selected various fire risk indicators, including lightning. MOD14 was used for the correlation analysis of fire and its indicators. Through the amalgamation of the analytic hierarchy process (AHP), the entropy method, and the minimal relative entropy theory, we formulated the CFFRI (composite forest fire risk index) and assessed forest fire risks spanning from 2010 to 2019 in Southwest China, which were validated with historical disaster data and MCD64. The findings revealed that the CFFRI yields consistently higher overall fire risk values, with 89% falling within the high-risk category and 11% within the moderate-risk category. In contrast, the FFDI designated 56% of cases as fourth-tier fire risks and 44% as third-tier fire risks. Notably, the CFFRI achieved an accuracy of 85% in its calculated results, while the FFDI attained 76%. These outcomes robustly demonstrate a superior applicability of the CFFRI compared with the traditional FFDI. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Due to considerable application of perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) and its refractory degradation, the widespread distribution of PFOA has already resulted in its’ risks to environment and organisms. However, the intrinsic characteristic of pristine multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) limited their application for removing PFOA from aqueous medium. Therefore, three nano-metals (nano-crystalline iron, copper and zinc) grafted MWCNTs were synthesized and characterized by BET-N 2 , TEM, FTIR, XPS and XRD as well as MWCNTs (as the control treatment) in this study. The results showed that nano metals were well grafted on the surface of MWCNTs. Adsorption were investigated by using radioactive labeled PFOA ( 14 C-PFOA) to quantify the trace PFOA. Adsorption kinetics showed the adsorption of PFOA on the metal doped MWCNTs (MDCNTs) was controlled by intra-particle diffusion. Adsorption isotherms showed the sorption amounts on the MDCNTs were higher than the control. This attributed much to the hydrophobic interaction, electrostatic interaction and the formation of the inner sphere complexes. Ionic strength (0-100 mM) and ionic species (Ca 2+ ) had little effects on the sorption of MDCNTs. PFOA adsorption on MDCNTs strongly depended on pH value in the medium. These results provide an innovative approach for removing trace PFOA from liquid medium. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A novel multicyclo-tetrazoles energetic material, 1,3,3,5-tetra(1H-tetrazol-5-yl)-pentane (TTZP), was prepared by 1,3,3,5-tetra(cyano)-pentane and sodium azide. The crystal structure is characterized by X-ray diffraction. The thermal stabilities and the kinetic parameters of TTZP were studied by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and adiabatic calorimetry (Phi-TEC). Starink method was employed to calculate the activation energy based on the DSC data. Due to the complex reaction mechanism, the traditional method for the adiabatic data which using an nth-order reaction was modified based on the Kinetics Committee recommendations of the International Confederation for Thermal Analysis and Calorimetry. Avrami-Erofeev equation which was selected for the adiabatic simulation has good performance on the calculation of activation energy and pre-exponential factor. Finally, the important safety parameters (self-accelerating decomposition temperature) was calculated and discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Periodic sequences over finite fields, constructed by classical cyclotomic classes and generalized cyclotomic classes, have good pseudo-random properties. The linear complexity of a period sequence plays a fundamental role in the randomness of sequences. In this paper, we construct a new family of quaternary generalized cyclotomic sequences with order and length , which generalize the sequences constructed by Ke et al. in 2012. In addition, we determine its linear complexity using cyclotomic theory. The conclusions reveal that these sequences have high linear complexity, which means they can resist linear attacks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A novel nanocomposite with ZnO nanorod arrays vertically growing on the three-dimensional (3D) Ni foam has been synthesized under hydrothermal conditions, which displays both the piezoelectric and photocatalytic functions. When the solution is stirred by magnetic rotation, fluid eddies are produced within the unique macroporous structure in 3D network, causing deformation of ZnO nanorod to generate piezoelectric field. Meanwhile, UV light irradiation on ZnO semiconductor generates photoelectrons and holes, followed by starting photocatalytic degradation of organic dye pollutants in wastewater. The piezo-induced bias voltage promotes the separation of photoelectrons and holes and thus can inhibit their recombination, leading to the enhanced quantum efficiency (more than 5 times). The photocatalytic activity increased by increasing the stirring rate owing to the enhanced piezoelectric field. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: T1 ventral renal hilar tumors (VRHTs) represent a very special type of tumor, for which laparoscopic partial nephrectomy (LPN) by the retroperitoneal approach is challenging. In this study, we report our surgical technique and Trifecta results.Methods: Renal rotation technique has been established for retroperitoneal laparoscopic partial nephrectomy (RLPN) for VRHTs in our institution. Trifecta was used as a composite outcome measure for assessing quality of PLPN using this technique. A retrospective analysis of RLPN cases in 12 patients with VRHTs was performed.Results: Mean tumor size was 3.4 cm and median R.E.N.A.L. score was 8 (range 7-9). Mean warm ischemia time was 23.1 minutes, suture time 28.1 minutes, estimated blood loss 139.2 mL, operation time 122.8 minutes, and median hospital stay was 4 days. Three patients (25.0%) had Clavien-Dindo grade I-II complications. Seven patients (58.3%) achieved Trifecta. Postoperative pathological examination showed renal cell carcinoma in all cases with negative surgical margin. A median follow-up of 7 months revealed no local recurrence or distant metastases.Conclusions: Our Trifecta outcomes demonstrate that RLPN with renal rotation technique is feasible, safe, and effective for moderately complex VRHTs. The short-term functional and oncologic outcomes are promising; however, long-term follow-up is needed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Additives play a crucial role in finely controlling morphology of the active layer in polymer solar cells (PSCs). At present, most of the additives used in the active layer are halogen-containing additives, such as 1,8-diiodooctane, 1-chloronaphthalene, which is detrimental to large-scale industrial production due to their toxicity. Herein, two low-cost, non-halogen additives, 1,2,3,4-tetrahydronaphthalene (THN) and 1,2,3,4-tetrahydronaphthalen-1-one (1-THNO), were introduced into the traditional PTB7-Th:PC 71 BM PSCs. The results showed that the THN- or 1-THNO-processed PTB7-Th:PC 71 BM blend films owned more efficient exciton dissociation, charge transport and collection as well as good morphological properties, resulting in high short-circuit current density and fill factor than the blend films without additive in chlorobenzene (CB) solution. Therefore, the CB + THN- and CB+1-THNO-processed PSCs reached power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 9.30% and 10.03%, respectively, which displayed a considerably higher PCE than without additive-processed (only 4.97%). Meanwhile, the PSCs were further fabricated with the non-halogen solvent o -xylene (o -XY) to avoid the possible environmental and health problems. As a result, the o -XY+1-THNO-processed PSC obtained an excellent PCE of 9.51% (vs. 2.17% for additive-free PSCs), which was a relatively high PCE for the PTB7-Th:PC 71 BM-based PSCs processed by non-halogen solvent. Additionally, the THN- or 1-THNO-processed devices owned good generality in other systems (e.g. PCE over 18% for 1-THNO-treated PM6:L8-BO-based PSCs) and excellent stability compared to the additive-free device. In sum, our work effectively improved the performance of the PSCs by using two non-halogen additives, providing the possibility of large-scale production in the future. [Display omitted] • Two low-cost, non-halogen additives, THN and 1-THNO were introduced into the traditional PTB7-Th:PC 71 BM-based PSCs. • PSCs with 1-THNO additive can achieve a higher PCE over 10%. • The THN- or 1-THNO-processed BHJ films can get a better morphology and fewer charge recombination. • These two non-halogen additives can also obtain good efficiency in non-halogen solvent. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

TiO 2 mesocrystals significantly enhanced the charge separation owing to the oriented superstructures (less internal defects) and porous properties (more active sites), which was useful for applications from photocatalysis to optoelectronics. In this work, ultrasound assisted aerosol-spray method followed by topotactic transformations was adopted to fabricate TiO 2 hierarchical hollow microspheres. The unique structure was assembled by TiO 2 mesocrystal nanosheets. The TiO 2 mesocrystal hollow microspheres can greatly improve the photocatalytic performance. Furthermore, with the addition of Au 3+ species in the precursor solution, ultrafine Au nanoparticles (3–4 nm) were uniformly deposited on the surface of TiO 2 hollow microspheres. It shows great significance for the development and application of the TiO 2 mesocrystals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The isothermal and cyclic oxidation behavior of Mo-6Si-12B-(1, 2, 4, 8)Al samples was investigated from 800 to 1300 ℃. With increasing Al content, the isothermal oxidation resistance is enhanced and the pesting behavior is suppressed at 800 ℃. The Mo-6Si-12B–4Al alloy with an oxide layer of both an alumino-borosilicate glasses and mullite has the best overall oxidation performance. An oxidation kinetics model was developed based upon the contributions of the individual phase oxidation rates weighted by their relative amounts and sizes that provides a good account of the oxidation behavior. • With increasing Al content, isothermal oxidation resistance is enhanced but the cyclic oxidation resistance is degraded. • A model was developed to analyze the transient oxidation stage of Mo-Si-B-Al alloys. • The mullite/Al-doped borosilicate glass interface is characterized by atomic resolution transmission electron microscopy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• An interesting outside-in disintegration of medium-range order structures during torsion deformation was detected. • Most linked icosahedral clusters were transformed into other types of clusters, and the connectivity between the remaining linked clusters was also changed. • The heterogeneous distribution of local shear stress was responsible for the disintegration of medium-range orders, and the stress threshold is about 1.9 GPa. Medium-range order (MRO) is a substantial structure unit in understanding the structural characteristics, properties, and yield mechanism of amorphous solids. In this work, the evolution of MRO structures in nano metallic glasses under torsion deformation was studied by using molecular dynamics simulations. Upon torsion deformation, an interesting outside-in disintegration of MROs was detected, with most of the reduced icosahedral clusters in MRO structures transforming into other types of clusters while few of them become disconnected and turn into isolated icosahedral clusters. In addition, the proportion of face or volume-sharing icosahedra decreases, while the proportion of vertex or edge-sharing icosahedra increases. Specially, the average number of nearest neighboring icosahedra of <0,0,12,0> clusters also decreases. It was revealed that the significantly heterogeneous distribution of local shear stress was responsible for the outside-in disintegration of MROs, with a stress threshold for degradation of about 1.9 GPa. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effects of Mn content on the oxidation behaviour of a Co-base superalloy with compositions of Co–29Cr–21Ni–23Fe–2.2Nb–1.6Si– x Mn ( x = 0, 0.5, 1, 2) (Co22 alloy for short, wt.%) have been studied. Isothermal oxidation behaviour was investigated, and it showed kinetics of the Mn-containing samples followed a two-stage parabolic law. In the absence of Mn, scales on Co22 alloys consisted mainly of Cr 2 O 3 and SiO 2 , and small amounts of Fe–Cr, Ni–Cr spinel nodules formed on the surface. When Mn was added, a triple oxide layer could be observed, consisting of Mn–Cr spinel as outer layer, Cr 2 O 3 as middle layer and SiO 2 in the innermost layer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Bromodomain PHD-finger transcription factor (BPTF) is a chromatin-mediated regulation of transcription factor, playing an important role in embryogenesis and differentiation. Epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) has a pivotal role in colorectal cancer (CRC) progression, sharing the similar characteristic with BPTF. Therefore, the aim of this study was to examine the expression and clinical value of BPTF and the correlation with EMT markers in patients with CRC. Methods: Real-time PCR and Western blot were performed to evaluate the mRNA and protein expression levels of BPTF in 20 pairs of fresh-frozen CRC and non-tumor adjacent tissues (NATs). The expressions of BPTF, vimentin and E-cadherin were examined by immunohistochemical staining in 105 cases of paraffin-embedded primary CRC specimens. In addition, the clinicopathological significance and the prognostic value of BPTF, vimentin and E-cadherin expression were further determined. Then, the correlation of BPTF with vimentin and E-cadherin was also explored. Results: BPTF mRNA and protein expression were significantly overexpressed in CRC tissues when compared with paired NATs ( P < 0.01). The expression levels of BPTF and vimentin in CRC paraffin-embedded specimens were significantly higher than the expression in NATs ( P < 0.01), while the expressions of E-cadherin in tumors were obviously lower than in NATs ( P < 0.01). Tumors with high expression of BPTF and vimentin, as well as low expression of E-cadherin, were significantly correlated with various adverse clinicopathological factors ( P < 0.05). The CRC patients with a high BPTF or vimentin expression had shorter overall survival than those with lower expression ( P < 0.05). Furthermore, univariate analysis and multivariate analysis showed that high BPTF expression was an independent prognostic factor for patients with CRC. The last and more interesting Spearman rank correlation analysis and microscopic observation found that the expression of BPTF obviously correlated with the expression of EMT markers vimentin and E-cadherin. Conclusion: Our results strongly suggested that the high BPTF expression was significantly correlated with tumor progression and may be a potent prognostic marker of CRC. Moreover, BPTF expression was significantly associated with EMT markers vimentin and E-cadherin. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction 2015–2030 (SFDRR) proposed seven targets comprising 38 quantified indicators and various sub-indicators to monitor the progress of disaster risk and loss reduction efforts. However, challenges persist regarding the availability of disaster-related data and the required resources to address data gaps. A promising way to address this issue is the utilization of Earth observation (EO). In this study, we proposed an EO-based disaster evaluation framework in service of the SFDRR and applied it to the context of tropical cyclones (TCs). We first investigated the potential of EO in supporting the SFDRR indicators, and we then decoupled those EO-supported indicators into essential variables (EVs) based on regional disaster system theory (RDST) and the TC disaster chain. We established a mapping relationship between the measurement requirements of EVs and the capabilities of EO on Google Earth Engine (GEE). An end-to-end framework that utilizes EO to evaluate the SFDRR indicators was finally established. The results showed that the SFDRR contains 75 indicators, among which 18.7% and 20.0% of those indicators can be directly and indirectly supported by EO, respectively, indicating the significant role of EO for the SFDRR. We provided four EV classes with nine EVs derived from the EO-supported indicators in the proposed framework, along with available EO data and methods. Our proposed framework demonstrates that EO has an important contribution to supporting the implementation of the SFDRR, and that it provides effective evaluation solutions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background/Aims: Epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) plays an important role in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) dissemination. Bromodomain PHD-finger transcription factor (BPTF) could regulate embrogenesis and stem cell differentiation, and it may be involved in tumor progression and EMT. In this study, we aimed to determine BPTF, E-cadherin and vimentin expression in tumor tissues and the clinical significance in relation to HCC. Methods: The BPTF, vimentin and E-cadherin expression of 106 HCC tissue samples was examined by immunohistochemical staining. Results: BPTF and vimentin showed high expression and E-cadherin showed low expression in HCC. BPTF is associated with the tumor number, vascular invasion, Edmondson-Steiner grade, TNM stage and recurrence ( P < 0.05). Vimentin is positively correlated with tumor size, tumor number, vascular invasion, Edmondson-Steiner grade, TNM stage and recurrence ( P < 0.05). E-cadherin is negatively correlated with tumor number, Edmondson-Steiner grade, TNM stage and recurrence ( P < 0.05). Survival analysis has shown that high expression of BPTF and vimentin indicates poorer overall and disease-free survival ( P < 0.05). Multivariate analysis shows that BPTF is an independent marker for survival prediction ( P = 0.015). Additionally, high BPTF expression is correlated with high vimentin expression and low E-cadherin expression ( P < 0.05). Conclusion: High BPTF expression may be an independent marker for survival prediction in HCC patients and is probably involved in EMT. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: We seek to summarize the clinicopathologic characteristics and prognostic factors of sarcomatoid renal cell carcinoma (SRCC), an uncommon type of renal cell carcinoma. Methods and materials: Between 2004 and 2012, 23 patients with SRCC were treated at a large urology center in south central China. We collect patient's clinicopathologic features from medical records to assess diagnosis, prognostic factors and efficacy of systemic therapy. Clinical data were absent in 3 cases, and 20 patients were enrolled in the final study. Results: Immunohistochemically, almost all SRCC expressed cytokeratin (91 %), epithelial membrane antigen (87 %) and vimentin (100 %). Sarcomatoid differentiation occurs in various kinds of subtypes of RCC with almost the same probability. The median tumor size was 10.5 cm. The CT findings of these tumors revealed low-density ( n = 5; 25 %) or mixed ( n = 15; 75 %) masses with necrotic areas and often showed an infiltrative morphology ( n = 15; 75 %). All 20 cases demonstrated heterogeneous enhancement, and eleven (55 %) cases demonstrated >50 % necrosis. Six cases complicated with calculus and hydronephrosis. Sixteen (80 %) patients demonstrated invasions of tissues localized in Gerota's fascia, and 8 (40 %) tumors invaded beyond Gerota's fascia. Fifteen (75 %) patients demonstrated lymph node metastasis, and sixteen (80 %) patients had distant metastasis. Five patients received systemic therapy, and one patient given high-dose interferon-α had a completely response, and one patient received chemotherapy based on gemcitabine had partial response. The median overall survival of all patients was 5.8 months. Patients without distant metastasis had a median overall survival of 35 months compared with 3 months of those with distant metastasis ( P < 0.002). The percentage of the sarcomatoid components did not have an obvious influence to the prognosis ( P = 0.197). Conclusions: Heterogeneity, hugeness, infiltration and necrosis are typical image features of SRCC. The prognosis of SRCC is poor and clinic stage especially the existence of distant disease is the important factor influencing prognosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Molybdenum disilicide (MoSi) coatings were deposited on carbon steel by air plasma spraying technology with different feedstock powder sizes (i.e., powder A: −15 + 2.5 μm, powder B: −30 + 15 μm, powder C: −54 + 30 μm, powder D: −74 + 54 μm and powder E: −106 + 74 μm). Phase composition and microstructure of coatings were characterized by x-ray diffraction (XRD) and scanning electron microscope. The bonding strength and microhardness of coatings were also evaluated. The XRD results show that there exists mutual transformation between T-MoSi and H-MoSi phase and part of Mo-rich phases are formed because of oxidization during the spraying process. With the increase of spraying powders size, the content of Mo-rich phases (Mo or MoSi) and molybdenum oxide (MoO) in coatings decreases, and that of disilicide-rich phase (MoSi) in coatings increases. The oxidation degree of MoSi particle gradually decreases during the spraying process with the increase of spraying powders size. The MoSi is the main phase of the as-sprayed coatings when the spraying powders size is beyond 30 μm. With the increase of spraying powders size, the porosity of the as-sprayed coating increases, and the bonding strength of the coating gradually decreases. The hardness of coatings first increases and then decreases with the increase of spraying powders size. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• The surface of metallic glass has a propensity to transform into liquid-like phase upon deformation. • Low degree of medium-range order exists in the surface. • The atomic mobility of medium-range ordered super clusters is negatively correlated with the number of adjacent icosahedra clusters. • The surface of metallic glass consists of three consecutive sublayers. The surface microstructure and its atomic dynamic property of a metallic glass nano pillar were investigated by using molecular dynamics simulations. The short-range order motifs in the surface contain a large number of unstable bonded pairs and clusters, leading surface to approach the structural property of liquid phase. A proportion of <0, 0, 12, 0> clusters in the surface constitute chain-like super clusters, but its overall degree of medium-range order is lower than that in the core region. The atomic mobility in the surface at different scales are enhanced significantly. Generally, the lower the degree of order for the cluster, the stronger its migration ability. The surface region could be divided into three consecutive sublayers, which are solid-like layer, semi-solid layer and liquid-like layer. The content of liquid-like clusters increases sequentially in these three sublayers. A schematic illustration of the relationship between the hierarchical structure and the possible relaxation modes was proposed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights: [•] Isothermal oxidation at 1050–1250̊C on a Co–Cr–Fe–Ni superalloy in air. [•] A trace mount of rare earth leads to improved oxidation resistance a little. [•] Oxidation leads to formation of three protective oxide layers as the diffusion barriers. [•] Sub-micron MnCr2O4 spinel is formed as outmost oxide layer. [•] A model is used to explain mechanism of oxidation process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Solid-state Li-ion batteries are emerging as promising next-generation energy storage devices, but new solid-state Li-ion conductors or electrolytes, a critical component of such devices, are highly demanded to meet the conductivity and stability requirements. In this study, one of the cost-effective and stable silicate-based solid Li-ion conductors, β-eucryptite LiAlSiO4, was studied via ab initio molecular dynamics simulations. The Si/Al ratio from 0 to 7 corresponding to x in Li1+xAl1+xSi1-xO4 from 1 (Li-rich) to −0.75 (Li-poor) was adjusted to investigate its impact on Li-ion diffusion. The results show that the Li-ion diffusion barrier can be greatly decreased from 0.61 eV in β-eucryptite LiAlSiO4 (x = 0) to 0.20 eV in Li0.5Al0.5Si1.5O4 (x = −0.5; Si/Al = 3) and 0.24 eV in Li1.25Al1.25Si0.75O4 (x = 0.25; Si/Al = 0.6). The predicted Li-ion conductivity is 6.976 mS/cm in Li0.5Al0.5Si1.5O4 and 3.773 mS/cm in Li1.25Al1.25Si0.75O4 at 25 °C, both allowing room-temperature operation of solid-state batteries. The modulation of Li–Li correlation at these two distinctive Si/Al ratios results in significantly lower diffusion barrier and higher Li-ion conductivity than those of the parent composition. Our work facilitates the design of low-cost silicate-based Li-ion conductors with high Li conductivity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: To establish diagnostic and treatment practices for chronic prostatitis (CP) by surveying Chinese urologists. Methods: A sample of 656 Chinese urologists from 29 provinces was surveyed using a questionnaire that explored attitudes and diagnostic and treatment patterns in the management of CP. Results: A total of 627 (95.6%) urologists responded with valid questionnaires. More than one-third of the urologists were still not familiar with the National Institutes of Health''s diagnostic categories. Only a minority of urologists perform specific lower urinary tract cultures. Although many Chinese urologists (64.6%) considered CP to be nonbacterial in nature, many (74.0%) still chose antibiotics as the first choice of therapy. Most urologists said they would prescribe antibiotics when bacterial culture was positive (64.4%), or when excessive leukocytes and/or pyocytes were present in expressed prostate secretions (65.9%). The second most commonly used pharmaceutical therapy was alpha-blockers (60.3%), which were prescribed by most urologists (70.3%) to relieve the obstructive voiding symptoms. The most commonly used nonpharmacologic therapies were psychotherapy (60.7%) and prostatic massage (54.2%). The beliefs regarding the cause affect the diagnostic and treatment strategies; meanwhile, the diagnostic practice has an influence on the selection of treatment methods. Conclusions: As seen in other countries, there is much confusion and frustration experienced by the Chinese urologists in the management of CP. This reflects the inability to identify the cause of voiding symptoms in many of the patients with CP and has likely led to the varied therapies that are used. It is necessary to improve their cognitive level about CP and standardize their practice pattern constantly. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) is widely concerned because its serious toxicity to the environment and ecosystems. In order to effectively and conveniently remove PFOA from aqueous solutions, reduced graphene oxide aerogel modified by Cu nanoparticles and fluorine (Cu/F-rGA) was prepared by the microbubble template method as an electrode in electrosorption. The removal capacity of Cu/F-rGA electrode to PFOA was 489% and 45.9% higher at + 0.8 V than that of open circuit and unmodified electrode, respectively. These significant improvements can be attributed to the advantages of Cu/F-rGA in ligand exchange reaction and electrostatic attraction under voltage assistance. The regeneration of Cu/F-rGA electrode maintained 75.51% capacity after 10 times electrosorption-desorption by applying reverse voltage. These properties provided potential for the reuse and application of Cu/F-rGA electrode. The electrosorption isotherm and model results showed that PFOA tended to be parallel to the adsorption site at low temperature and perpendicular at high temperature. The number of PFOA molecules connected to each adsorption site was 0.72–1.76, and the number of adsorption layers of PFOA on the electrode was between 1.46 and 2.87. Findings from this study provide a green and effective strategy to remove PFOA from aqueous solutions with low energy consumption. [Display omitted] • The Cu/F-rGA electrode was prepared by microbubble template method. • The anchor density and number of adsorption layers of PFOA were analyzed. • The electrosorption mainly involved electrostatic interaction and complexation. • The Cu/F-rGA electrode can be easily regenerated and reused. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Natural microalgae (NA, cyanobacteria) collected from Taihu Lake (Jiangsu, China) were used for biofuel production through pyrolysis. The microalgae were de-ashed via pretreatment with deionized water and hydrochloric acid, and the samples obtained were noted as 0 M, 0.1 M, 1 M, 2 M, 4 M, 6 M, 8 M, respectively, according to the concentration of hydrochloric acid used in the pretreatment. Pyrolysis experiments were carried out at 500 °C for 2 h. The products were examined by various techniques to identify the influence of the ash on the pyrolysis behavior. The results showed that the ash inhibited the thermal transformation of microalgae. The 2 mol/L hydrochloric acid performed the best in removing ash and the liquid yield increased from 34.4% (NA) to 40.5% (2 M). Metal-oxides (mainly CaO, MgO, Al2O3) in ash promoted the reaction of hexadecanoic acid and NH3 to produce more hexadecanamide, which was further dehydrated to hexadecanenitrile. After acid pretreatment, significant improvement in the selectivity of hexadecanoic acid was observed, ranging from 22.4% (NA) to 58.8% (4 M). The hydrocarbon compounds in the liquid product increased from 12.90% (NA) to 26.67% (2 M). Furthermore, the acid pretreatment enhanced the content of C9–C16 compounds and the HHV values of bio-oil. For natural microalgae, the de-ashing pretreatment before pyrolysis was essential for improving the biocrude yield and quality, as well as the biomass conversion efficiency. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Microplastics as the emerging persistent pollutants have attracted more attention in the terrestrial environments. In this study, the transport behavior of polystyrene microplastics (PSMPs) in manganese oxides coated sand (MOCS) was examined under different pH, ionic strength (IS), cationic type and humic acid (HA) conditions. Compared with the transport behavior of PSMPs in the bare sand, the mobility of PSMPs in MOCS was significantly lower and less affected by pH, IS and cation type, which can be attributed to the existence of attractive electrostatic force and rougher collector surfaces of MOCS. Specifically, the transport of PSMPs was inhibited when cotransport with Cd2+. Furthermore, the HA significantly increased the transport of PSMPs in the MOCS, and the mobility increased with the increase of HA concentration ranged from 0 to 10 mg L−1. The results can contribute to the further understanding of the migration mechanism and fate of microplastics in the soil system. [Display omitted] • PSMPs transport decreased with increasing of IS or decreasing of pH in bare sand. • PSMPs transport in MOCS was lower and less affected by IS, pH and cation type. • Ca2+ was more pronounced in inhibiting PSMPs transport than K+ in bare sand. • Distinct effects of HA on PSMPs transport in bare sand and MOCS were observed. • The mobility of PSMPs in MOCS increased with the increase of HA concentration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

While diosgenin has been demonstrated effective in various cardiovascular diseases, its specific impact on treating heart attacks remains unclear. Our research revealed that diosgenin significantly improved cardiac function in a myocardial infarction (MI) mouse model, reducing cardiac fibrosis and cell apoptosis while promoting angiogenesis. Mechanistically, diosgenin upregulated the Hand2 expression, promoting the proliferation and migration of endothelial cells under hypoxic conditions. Acting as a transcription factor, HAND2 activated the angiogenesis-related gene Aggf1. Conversely, silencing Hand2 inhibited the diosgenin-induced migration of hypoxic endothelial cells and angiogenesis. In summary, these findings provide new insights into the protective role of diosgenin in MI, validating its effect on angiogenic activity and providing a theoretical basis for clinical treatment strategies. [Display omitted] • This research provides new insights into the cardioprotective effects of diosgenin in a mouse model of myocardial infarction. • Molecular docking predicts potential binding regions of diosgenin to HAND2. • Diosgenin enhances the comprehension of the angiogenic process by targeting HAND2. • The HAND2- Aggf1 signaling pathway is critical for endothelial cell proliferation and migration under hypoxic conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Due to a shortage of resources, exploring new biomass fillers has become critical for paper making. In this study, we reported an eco-friendly strategy for fabricating low-cost and efficient recycled paper with high mechanical properties using corrugated cardboard waste paper and harmless municipal sludge (HMS). First, the characteristics of HMS, including the particle size, pH, specific surface area, organic functional groups and organic component content, were analyzed. Then, the influence of the amount of HMS on the properties of the recycled paper was studied. Finally, the strengthening mechanism of biomass filling recycled paper was discussed. The results showed that HMS, a biomass filler for recycled paper preparation, exhibited excellent physical and chemical properties, with a median particle size of 6.395 μm, a surface area of 39.974 m2 g−1 and organic functional groups. The tensile index of the recycled paper with 30 % HMS was 13.10 Nm/g, which was 16.4 % greater than that of the unfilled paper and showed better thermal stability. This excellent performance could be attributed to the uniform distribution of HMS on the fiber surface, which improved the accessibility of hydrogen bond formation between fibers. Thus, this study proved that HMS was an excellent biomass filler for producing recycled paper. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although much research on device engineering have brought about significant improvements in PM6:Y6‐based polymer solar cell (PSCs) performance, there is still a lack of relevant research to solve the problems caused by the over‐aggregation of Y6 and the long‐term stability of the device morphology. Herein, a newly designed and synthesized low‐bandgap asymmetric small molecule acceptor TIT‐2Cl based on thieno[3,2‐b]indole core is elaborately introduced into PM6:Y6‐based PSCs to suppress the over‐aggregation of Y6 molecules with significantly increased efficiency from 15.78% to 17.00%. Moreover, the addition of TIT‐2Cl contributes to improved light harvesting, the lowest unoccupied molecular orbital level of Y6:TIT‐2Cl, charge separation, transport, and extraction. Simultaneously, the PSCs are further prepared by using the progressive spin‐coating method of layer‐by‐layer (LBL). Due to the formation of vertical phase distribution and the improvement of carrier transport performance, the champion efficiency of LBL‐type ternary PSCs reaches 18.18%, which is the highest efficiency reported for PM6:Y6‐based PSCs, along with superior stability and compositional insensitivity. Therefore, the results show that the combination of ternary strategy by incorporating appropriate asymmetric molecules and the LBL method is an effective means to fabricate highly efficient stable PSCs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bifunctional fluorescent probe is developed for simultaneous monitoring of HClO and H 2 S levels in living cells and zebrafishs. [Display omitted] • A ratiometric dual-emission fluorescent sensor (Probe CP) is used to detect HClO and H2S. • Probe CP has high specificity and sensitivity, with the low detection limit (0.0506 μM for HClO and 1.7292 μM for H2S). • Probe CP is used in cellular and zebrafish models, as well as imaging applications for related to liver injury in mice. The ubiquity of diverse material entities in environmental matrices renders the deployment of unifunctional fluorescent indicators inadequate. Consequently, this study introduces a ratiometric dual-emission fluorescent sensor (Probe CP), synthesized by conjugating phenothiazine coumarin to hydroxycoumarin through a piperazine linker for concurrent detection of HClO and H 2 S. Upon interaction with HClO, the phenothiazine unit's sulfur atom undergoes oxidation to sulfoxide, facilitating a shift from red to green fluorescence in a ratiometric manner. Concurrently, at the opposite terminus of Probe CP , 2,4-dinitroanisole serves as the reactive moiety for H 2 S recognition; it restores the blue emission characteristic of 7-hydroxycoumarin while maintaining the red fluorescence emanating from phenothiazine coumarin as an internal standard for ratio-based assessment. Exhibiting elevated specificity and sensitivity coupled with minimal detection thresholds (0.0506 μM for HClO and 1.7292 μM for H 2 S) alongside rapid equilibration periods (3 min for HClO and half an hour for H 2 S), this sensor was efficaciously employed in cellular environments and within zebrafish models as well as imaging applications pertaining to alcohol-induced hepatic injury in murine subjects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Crossed-fused renal ectopia is a rare congenital anomaly and nearly always associated with a normally placed ureteral orifice located within the contralateral trigone. We report a case of inverted L-shaped crossed-fused renal ectopia associated with inverted-Y ureteral duplication, ectopic ureter, and bicornuate uteruses, which occurred in a 15-year-old girl with urinary incontinence. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Ti 2 AlC film can be used as a protective coating for fuel cladding materials and structural materials in nuclear reactors. However, the related radiation damage and the helium (He) effects have not been well understood. In this work, the He radiation effects on Ti 2 AlC thin films, deposited by reactive magnetron sputtering, were studied. In addition to the detailed characterization of the radiation-induced defects and He bubbles, phase transformation was identified and investigated during film deposition, ion irradiation, and subsequent annealing. Results suggested that the hexagonal close-packed (hcp) Ti 2 AlC was formed from a solid-solution face-centered cubic (fcc) (Ti 2 Al)C phase during the film deposition process. A phase transformation from hcp-Ti 2 AlC to fcc-(Ti 2 Al)C happened during the He ion irradiation, while a reversible phase transformation from fcc-(Ti 2 Al)C to hcp-Ti 2 AlC occurred during the post annealings at temperatures above 600 °C. The reversible phase transformation indicates dynamic restoration of this material and provides insights into the design of new irradiation-damage-tolerant ceramic materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this study is to analyze the reliability of predictive models for higher heating values related to organic materials. A theoretical model was developed, which utilizes bond dissociation energies (BDEs) to establish correlations between elemental composition and calorific values. Our analysis indicates that the energy contribution of one mole of hydrogen atoms is approximately equal to −144.4 kJ mol−1. Further investigation reveals significant variations in the bond dissociation energies of carbon atoms within organic compounds, resulting in a range of energy outputs from −414.30 to −275.34 kJ mol−1 per mole of carbon atoms. The presence of oxygen atoms in organic compounds has a negative impact on the magnitude of combustion heat, with values ranging from 131.1 to 207.17 kJ mol−1. The combustion mechanism imposes certain constraints, leading to the equation HHVg = −31.34·[C] − 144.44·[H] + 10.57·[O] for organic compounds. Based on the parameter sensitivity analysis, the coefficient associated with carbon mass fraction exhibits a significantly greater impact on result prediction accuracy, demonstrating a sensitivity value of 92.65%. The results of further analysis indicate that empirical correlations involving the mass fractions of the elements N and S in lignocellulosic materials may be prone to over-fitting, with sensitivity indices of 1.59% and 0.016%, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article presents a case study of a 35-year-old woman with complication of intrauterine devices (IUD). She has been treated with antibiotic therapy many times for urinary tract infection. With the help of abdominal plain X-ray displaced IUD is determined with hyperdense mass. Pelvic Computed tomography (CT) and Cystoscopy showed stone formation and penetration of posterior bladder wall. Uneventful recovery with use of catheter for two weeks.

A Mo-Si-B based coating has been applied on a refractory multi-principal element alloy (RMPEA) using a two-step coating strategy and has endured more than 750 h of thermal cycling oxidation exposure between room temperature to 1300 °C with a minimal weight change. The formation of the Mo 5 SiB 2 diffusion barrier in the coating prevents the inward diffusion of the coating components. Then, boron is captured by the RMPEA, resulting in the formation of a solid solution X 5 SiB 2 (X = W, Mo, Ta, Nb, V) layer and an RMPEA-B boride layer underneath it that acts as the second diffusion barrier. • A Mo-Si-B based coating was deverloped for a WMoTaNbV alloy by using a two-step coating strategy. • The diffusion pathway was modified by Mo and Si-B surface enrichment, resulting in a sequenced multilayered structure. • Boron is captured by the RMPEA substrate at the interface, enabling the formation of the second diffusion barrier. • The coating protects the WMoTaNbV from thermal cyclic oxidation for 750 × 1 h exposures at a 1300 °C. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Glaciers are sensitive indicators of climate change, and investigation of their dynamics is crucial for ensuring regional ecological security as well as disaster prevention and mitigation measures. Based on Landsat Thematic Mapper (TM)/Enhanced Thematic Mapper Plus (ETM+)/Operational Land Imager (OLI) imagery, the outlines and length of glaciers in the West Kunlun Main Peak Area (WKMPA) during 2000–2020 were obtained by combining a band ratio method with manual interpretation and an automatic extraction method for the glacier centerline, respectively. There were 440 glaciers in the WKMPA in 2020, covering an area of 2964.59 ± 54.87 km2, with an average length of 2916 ± 60 m. The glacier count increased due to division, while the area and length all exhibited a declining trend from 2000 to 2020, at rates of −0.04%·a−1 (24.83 km2) and −0.11%·a−1 (66 m), respectively. Glacier retreat was primarily observed during the early period (2000–2005). Except for glaciers located above an elevation of 6250 m, the glacier area decreased with each altitude interval from 2000 to 2020, and the rate of relative change in glacier area generally decreased with increasing altitude. Moreover, except for a slight increase in north-facing glaciers, the area of glaciers facing other orientations decreased during 2000–2020. The accuracy of the empirical formula fit for glacier length was highly dependent on glacier class, with greater precision observed for smaller glaciers and lower precision for larger valley-basin glaciers due to their complex morphological structures being neglected and only a single quantitative relationship being considered. There was a time lag of 12 years between temperature changes and glacier area response in this region. The mechanism by which glacier division affects glacier change is complex, requiring dissection of multiple factors such as area, length, and terminal elevation before and after division. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]