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A new Sn−Ge co‐alloy perovskite that does not contain toxic Pb is attracting attention due to its excellent predicted optoelectronic properties. However, most current research only focuses on compositions with Ge content up to 50 %, resulting in a limited overall understanding on this material system. In this study, CsSn1–xGexI3 (0≤x≤1) perovskite thin films were fabricated using spin coating method and characterized in terms of crystallographic, morphological and optical characteristics systematically. The results show that the Ge incorporation causes lattice shrinkage and a change in the crystallographic phase from orthorhombic to trigonal. Additionally, the coverage varies much as Ge increases. The Ge incorporation also results in a blueshift of the photoluminescence peak and a decrease in luminescence intensity as compared to the composition with lower Ge content. Moreover, the carrier dynamics measurement shows that the Ge incorporation increases the carrier nonradiative recombination. This work provides important hints for the development of the Sn−Ge alloy‐based perovskite solar cell. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] Anode-free sodium batteries (AFSBs) with high energy density and cost-efficiency are practically promising for the transition to clean-energy society. However, application is limited because of low coulombic efficiency (CE) and limited cycle-life, together with a lack of understanding in device energy density and cost. Here we report a critical assessment of selected AFSBs with lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) and sodium-ion batteries (SIBs) from energy density and cost perspectives, based on commercial 4680 cylindrical construction. We establish reasons for low cycle-life of AFSBs and summarize current research in AFSBs. We confirm energy density range, materials cost, and potential demand for AFSBs via computation based on 4680 battery devices. We show the impact of active sodium ions and cathode active sites on cycle life. We compare the improvements in cycle-life achieved though electrolyte innovation, artificial solid electrolyte interphase (SEI) engineering, current collector modification, and pre-sodiation, along with the resulting energy density. We provide perspectives on likely future research to boost practical application of AFSBs. We conclude that findings will be of benefit in design for anode-free sodium batteries for clean energy storage and of interest therefore to a range of researchers in electrochemistry, materials and device engineering. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: This study explores the possible pathogenesis of recurrent spontaneous abortion (RSA) caused by vitamin D (VD), provides evidence‐based bases for prevention and treatment of RSA, improves female reproductive health. Methods: This study randomly selected 305 patients without spontaneous abortion (SA0), 216 patients with a spontaneous abortion (SA1) and 200 patients with RSA from 1421 women of childbearing age who visited the RSA specialty clinic of Hangzhou First People's Hospital from January 2021 to June 2023 to conduct a prospective clinical study. Then, we collected the data of clinical diagnosis and treatment, conducted intervention and follow‐up, and finally executed statistical analysis. Results: (1) RSA patients were significantly older than the other two groups. (2) The rates of VD deficiency in SA1 and RSA patients were significantly higher than those in SA0. (3) When BMI < 20 or > 24 kg/m2, there were abnormal increase in VD and increased number of spontaneous abortions. (4) The bilateral S/D of the VD‐sufficient, VD‐insufficient and VD‐deficient groups gradually increased with statistical significance (p ≤.018). (5) Among the 65 cases undergoing embryo chromosome examinations, chromosomal abnormalities accounted for 55.38% and 69.05% in RSA patients. (6) Among 186 patients with abnormal ACA, there was a certain negative correlation between ACA and VD, which was stronger among RSA patients. Moreover, ACA significantly decreased (p <.001) after effectively supplementing VD, and the miscarriage rate of re‐pregnancy also decreased. Conclusion: The rate of VD deficiency is higher in RSA patients. VD deficiency may be related to the age of women of childbearing age and too low or high BMI, and may cause abnormal plasma antiphospholipid antibodies, increased uterine artery resistance and abnormal chromosomal division during fertilization, leading to spontaneous abortion and even RSA. The improvement of VD deficiency may reduce the risk of RSA occurrence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To clarify whether the combination of age and high-risk factors (HRFs) was preferable for adjuvant chemotherapy (AC) decision-making in patients with stage II colon adenocarcinoma. Methods: We conducted a retrospective study analyzing eligible colon cancer patients from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) database between 2010 and 2017. A nomogram was used to predict patient prognosis. Decision curve analysis (DCA) predicted model clinical benefit. Restricted cubic spline calculated the optimal cut-off value. Results: A total of 8570 patients with stage II colon adenocarcinoma were included in this study; 25.2% received AC. A nomogram predicting the prognosis of patients with stage II colon adenocarcinoma was constructed with age and HRFs, and scores were assigned to the relevant variables. DCA showed that age combined with HRFs was superior to treatment decision-making based on HRFs alone. Patients were grouped according to their total score with the cut-off value of 100. AC did not significantly improve overall survival (OS) in low-score group (hazard ratios (HRs) 1.01, 95% confidence intervals (CIs) 0.86–1.18, p = 0.918). In high-score group, AC improved 5-year OS by about 7.6% (HR 0.73, 95% CI 0.61–0.88, p = 0.001). And high-score group mainly included patients aged < 50 years with two or more HRFs and patients aged ≥ 50 years with at least one HRF. Conclusion: Age and HRFs could be preferable for determining the group of stage II colon adenocarcinoma patients who would benefit from AC. Patients aged < 50 years with two or more HRFs might be a potential benefit population for AC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Regulating site‐to‐site interactions between active sites can effectively tailor the electrocatalytic behavior of single‐atom catalysts (SACs). The conventional SACs suffer from low density of single atoms and lack of site‐to‐site interactions between them. Herein, a series of interactive Pt SACs with controllable Pt–Pt spatial correlation degree and local coordination environment is developed by integrating densely populated Pt single atoms in the sub‐lattice of a Co3O4 matrix. The obtained interactive Pt‐Co3O4 catalysts demonstrate remarkable electrocatalytic performance toward hydrogen production, outperforming those of isolated single atom‐ and nanoparticle‐based catalysts. The intrinsic catalytic activity of interactive Pt‐Co3O4 catalysts is closely dependent on the spatial structure of Pt sites with the adjusted d‐band center by regulating contents and atomic configuration of Pt sites. This work provides fundamental insights for the structure‐property relationship on interactive single active sites, which is expected to direct the rational design of highly efficient SACs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Systemic RNA interference deficient‐1‐like (SIL1) is considered a core component in dsRNA uptake in some insect species. Investigation related to the potential function of SIL1 in dsRNA uptake can contribute to a further understanding of RNA interference (RNAi) mechanisms in insects and agricultural pest control. However, the role of SIL1 in dsRNA uptake in insects such as aphids remains controversial. We have thoroughly analyzed the role of SIL1 from the model aphid Acyrthosiphon pisum (ApSIL1) in cellular dsRNA to clarify its function. First, the induced expression of ApSIL1 upon dsRNA oral exposure provided a vital clue for the possible involvement of ApSIL1 in cellular dsRNA uptake. Subsequent in vivo experiments using the RNAi‐of‐RNAi approach for ApSIL1 supported our hypothesis that the silencing efficiencies of reporter genes were reduced after inhibition of ApSIL1 expression. The impaired biological phenotypes of aphids, including cumulative average offspring, deformities of the nymph, and mortality upon pathogen infection, were then observed in the treatment group. Thereafter, in vitro dual‐luciferase reporter assay showed compelling evidence that the luciferin signal was significantly attenuated when dsluciferase or dsGFP was transferred into ApSIL1‐transfected Drosophila S2 cells. These observations further confirmed that the signal of Cy3‐labeled dsRNA was rapidly attenuated with time in ApSIL1‐transfected Drosophila S2 cells. Overall, these findings conclusively establish that ApSIL1 is involved in dsRNA uptake in A. pisum. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ionotronic artificial motion and tactile receptor (i‐AMTR) is essential to realize an interactive human‐machine interface. However, an i‐AMTR that effectively mimics the composition, structure, mechanics, and multi‐functionality of human skin, called humanoid i‐AMTR, is yet to be developed. To bridge this technological gap, this study proposes a strategy that combines molecular structure design and function integration to construct a humanoid i‐AMTR. Herein, a silk fibroin ionoelastomer (SFIE) with double cross‐linked molecular structure is designed to mimic the composition and structure of human skin, thereby resolving the conflict of stretchability, softness, and resilience, suffered by many previously reported ionotronics. Functionally, electromechanical sensing and triboelectricity‐based tactile perception are integrated into SFIE, to enable simultaneous perception of both motion and tactile inputs. By further leveraging the machine learning and Internet of Things (IoT) techniques, the proposed SFIE‐based humanoid i‐AMTR precisely senses the movement of human body and accurately sortball objects made of different materials. Notably, the success rate for 610 sorting tests reaches as high as 92.3%. These promising results essentially demonstrate a massive potential of humanoid i‐AMTR in the fields of sorting robots, rehabilitation medicine, and augmented reality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Improving kinetics of solid‐state sulfide conversion in sulfur cathodes can enhance sulfur utilization of metal‐sulfur batteries. However, fundamental understanding of the solid‐state conversion remains to be achieved. Here, taking potassium‐sulfur batteries as a model system, we for the first time report the reducing overpotential of solid‐state sulfide conversion via the meta‐stable S32− intermediates on transition metal single‐atom sulfur hosts. The catalytic sulfur host containing Cu single atoms demonstrates high capacities of 1595 and 1226 mAh g−1 at current densities of 335 and 1675 mA g−1, respectively, with stable Coulombic efficiency of ≈100 %. Combined spectroscopic characterizations and theoretical computations reveal that the relatively weak Cu‐S bonding results in low overpotential of solid‐state sulfide conversion and high sulfur utilization. The elucidation of solid‐state sulfide conversion mechanism can direct the exploration of highly efficient metal‐sulfur batteries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Improving kinetics of solid‐state sulfide conversion in sulfur cathodes can enhance sulfur utilization of metal‐sulfur batteries. However, fundamental understanding of the solid‐state conversion remains to be achieved. Here, taking potassium‐sulfur batteries as a model system, we for the first time report the reducing overpotential of solid‐state sulfide conversion via the meta‐stable S32− intermediates on transition metal single‐atom sulfur hosts. The catalytic sulfur host containing Cu single atoms demonstrates high capacities of 1595 and 1226 mAh g−1 at current densities of 335 and 1675 mA g−1, respectively, with stable Coulombic efficiency of ≈100 %. Combined spectroscopic characterizations and theoretical computations reveal that the relatively weak Cu‐S bonding results in low overpotential of solid‐state sulfide conversion and high sulfur utilization. The elucidation of solid‐state sulfide conversion mechanism can direct the exploration of highly efficient metal‐sulfur batteries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In addition to being an important intermediate in the TCA cycle, L‐malate is also widely used in the chemical and beverage industries. Due to the resulting high demand, numerous studies investigated chemical methods to synthesize L‐malate from petrochemical resources, but such approaches are hampered by complex downstream processing and environmental pollution. Accordingly, there is an urgent need to develop microbial methods for environmentally‐friendly and economical L‐malate biosynthesis. The rapid progress and understanding of DNA manipulation, cell physiology, and cell metabolism can improve industrial L‐malate biosynthesis by applying intelligent biochemical strategies and advanced synthetic biology tools. In this paper, we mainly focused on biotechnological approaches for enhancing L‐malate synthesis, encompassing the microbial chassis, substrate utilization, synthesis pathway, fermentation regulation, and industrial application. This review emphasizes the application of novel metabolic engineering strategies and synthetic biology tools combined with a deep understanding of microbial physiology to improve industrial L‐malate biosynthesis in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Emotion is important in teaching and research but are rarely the focus of geographic scholarship. This article aims to bridge the gap between teaching geographic thought and teaching that considers emotion based on the case of a university class in China. Class sessions, supported with an English language textbook, were connected with different emotions and feelings in the unfolding stages of course and class delivery. We document and analyze the process of teaching with emotion through consideration of numerous approaches to the integration of emotion in teaching and observing student responses within individual class sessions and across an entire semester. At the beginning of the course, students' feelings are most often detachment and apathy. During the semester students' feelings change from confusion to knowledge, confidence and a sense of peace. We find it is important to let students and the professor speak their feelings. By teaching with emotion, most students gain the ability to confidently express their feelings and at the end of the course some students even said they love geographic thought. Affect including feelings, emotion, and even love are suitable for teaching geographic thought and may be applied to other aspects of teaching in the discipline. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Poor electronic and ionic conductivity of electrode materials at low temperatures of −20 °C and below has significantly impeded development of batteries for cold conditions. However, for the first time, layer‐structured metallic vanadium diselenide (1T‐VSe2) is reported as a cathode material for low‐temperature Mg2+/Li+ hybrid batteries. A high electronic conductivity and fast ion diffusion kinetics for 1T‐VSe2 are demonstrated at selected temperatures, and a very safe 1T‐VSe2/Mg battery for operation at temperatures to −40 °C. The battery exhibits 97% capacity retention over 500 cycles, which is better performance than reported Mg‐based batteries. The Jahn–Teller effect in compressed configuration is initiated in 1T‐VSe2 with the change of electronic state occurring on electrochemical intercalation of alkali metal ions. Using combined experiment and theory via operando synchrotron X‐ray diffraction, ex situ X‐ray absorption spectroscopy and DFT computation, it is confirmed that the weak Jahn–Teller distortion contributes significantly to fast‐overall kinetics, structural stability, and high electronic conductivity of the electrode. Understanding at an atomic level of the mechanism is demonstrated, that provides valuable guidance in designing high‐performance electrode materials for low‐temperature batteries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• An independent VUV oxidation device was developed to set up the SEC-OND system. • The dissolved O 2 in mobile phase limited the capacity of VUV oxidation device. • SEC-OND can accurately quantify DON in water sample with DIN/TDN ratio up to 0.98. • SEC-OND can determine TDN, DON, NH+ 4-N, NO- 2-N, and NO- 3-N with one injection. Accurate quantification of dissolved organic nitrogen (DON) has been a challenge due to the cumulative analytical errors in the conventional method via subtracting dissolved inorganic nitrogen species (DIN) from total dissolved nitrogen (TDN). Size exclusion chromatography coupled with an organic nitrogen detector (SEC-OND) has been developed as a direct method for quantification and characterization of DON. However, the applications of SEC-OND method still subject to poor separations between DON and DIN species and unsatisfied N recoveries of macromolecules. In this study, we packed a series of SEC columns with different lengths and resin materials for separation of different N species and designed an independent vacuum ultraviolet (VUV) oxidation device for complete oxidation converting N species to nitrate. To guarantee sufficient N recoveries, the operation conditions were optimized as oxidation time ≥ 30 min, injection mass (sample concentration × injection volume) < 1000 µL × mg-N/L for macromolecular proteins, and neutral pH mobile eluent. The dissolved O 2 concentration in SEC mobile phase determined the upper limit of VUV oxidation at a specific oxidation time. Compared to conventional HW50S column (20 × 250 mm), HW40S column (20 × 350 mm) with mobile phase comprising of 1.5 g/L Na 2 HPO 4 ·2H 2 O + 2.5 g/L KH 2 PO 4 (pH = 6.85) could achieve a better separation of DON, nitrite, nitrate, and ammonia. When applied to river water, lake water, wastewater effluent, groundwater, and landfill leachate, the SEC-OND method could quantify DON as well as DIN species accurately and conveniently even the DIN/TDN ratio reached 0.98. [Display omitted]. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aphids are a major group of crop pests, which directly feed on phloem and indirectly transmit plant virus. The entomopathogenic fungi are essential members of green pest control strategies, and insecticidal RNAi is considered as a new generation of biopesticides. However, the effects of combining entomopathogenic fungus and RNAi-based biopesticides for aphid control are unknown. Here, the responsive genes of Acyrthosiphon pisum were screened from the transcriptomes upon spraying of Beauveria bassiana Bb07 strain (hereafter referred to Bb07). Subsequently, six candidate genes, Ap4714, Ap15782, Ap20844, Ap14741, Ap15105 and Ap16968, were targeted by spray-based RNAi, which produced a range of 20.0, 58.0, 44.0, 27.0, 52.0 and 24.0% gene silencing, respectively. Silencing of single-target (Ap4714, Ap15782, and Ap20844) resulted in increased virulence of Bb07 to Ac. pisum. Importantly, the mortality was increased to 82.1, 76.7, and 60.7% within 7 days to Ac. pisum when double-targets (Ap4714 + Ap15782, Ap4714 + Ap20844 and Ap15782 + Ap20844) were silenced in together with application of Bb07, respectively. This high mortality was also observed in Myzus persicae and Aphis citricidus by co-spray of the combination of dsAp4714 + dsAp15782 together with Bb07. In together, this study demonstrates the potential of a combination of RNAi- and entomopathogenic fungus-based technologies to control aphids, thereby reducing application of chemical pesticides. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To understand the distribution of biodiversity and its determinants, particularly that of ecologically sensitive ones, has long been intriguing to the science community and will help formulate conservation strategies under future climate changes. To this end, we conducted extensive field surveys on the distribution of orchid flora in the Beipan River Basin in Guizhou Province, which is one of the biodiversity conservation priorities in China. The data we acquired, together with those published previously, were converted into orchid species richness for each of the 3 km × 3 km grid cells covering the study region. Redundancy analysis (RDA) and geographically weighted regression (GWR) were then applied to determine which of the 30 environmental factors are potentially critical for the spatial distribution of orchid flora we have observed. Despite a moderate spatial extent, we found that the Beipan River Basin harbors about 249 native orchid species belonging to 74 genera, equivalent to 14.5% of orchid flora of China. Orchid species richness in this area follows a descending gradient from the southeast to the northwest, 70.41% of its variation among grid cells can be explained by environmental factors and spatial variables, and spatial variables accounted for 63.90% of the spatial variation of orchid distribution, indicating that spatial variables played a dominant role in the distribution of wild Orchidaceae species richness. In addition, the main environmental driver is the mean temperature of the wettest quarter. Our study provides a good example for revealing the main drivers of orchid distribution characteristics and has a certain reference value for the development of orchid conservation strategies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ti3SiC2 samples were irradiated by a 6‐MeV Si+ ion to a fluence of 2 ×$ \times $ 1016 Si+ ions/cm2 at 300°C followed by annealing at 900°C for 5 h. A transmission electron microscope was used to characterize microstructural evolution. The phase of Ti3SiC2 transformed from the hexagonal close‐packed (HCP) to a face‐centered cubic structure after irradiation. Hexagonal screw dislocation networks were identified at the deepest position of the irradiated area, which are the products of dislocations reactions. After annealing, the irradiated region has reverted to the original HCP structure. High‐density cavities and stacking faults were formed along the basal planes. In addition, ripplocations have been observed in the irradiated region in the Ti3SiC2 sample after annealing. Our insights into the formation processes and corresponding mechanisms of these defect structures might be helpful in the material design of advanced irradiation tolerance materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Over the last two decades, thousands of genome-scale metabolic network models (GSMMs) have been constructed. These GSMMs have been widely applied in various fields, ranging from network interaction analysis, to cell phenotype prediction. However, due to the lack of constraints, the prediction accuracy of first-generation GSMMs was limited. To overcome these limitations, the next-generation GSMMs were developed by integrating omics data, adding constrain condition, integrating different biological models, and constructing whole-cell models. Here, we review recent advances of GSMMs from the first generation to the next generation. Then, we discuss the major application of GSMMs in industrial biotechnology, such as predicting phenotypes and guiding metabolic engineering. In addition, human health applications, including understanding biological mechanisms, discovering biomarkers and drug targets, are also summarized. Finally, we address the challenges and propose new trend of GSMMs. Key points: •This mini-review updates the literature on almost all published GSMMs since 1999. •Detailed insights into the development of the first- and next-generation GSMMs. •The application of GSMMs is summarized, and the prospects of integrating machine learning are emphasized. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Collabieae were subdivided into nine clades with high support based on plastid genomes and nrITS. • The diversification of nine clades of Collabieae during the Late Oligocene/Early Miocene might be associated with the uplift of the Himalayas. • The increase size of terrestrial pseudobulbs may be one of drivers of the diversification of Collabieae. The tribe Collabieae (Epidendroideae, Orchidaceae) comprises approximately 500 species. Generic delimitation within Collabieae are confusing and phylogenetic interrelationships within the Collabieae have not been well resolved. Plastid genomes and nuclear internal transcribed spacer (ITS) sequences were used to estimate the phylogenetic relationships, ancestral ranges, and diversification rates of Collabieae. The results showed that Collabieae was subdivided into nine clades with high support. We proposed to combine Ancistrochilus and Pachystoma into Spathoglottis, merge Collabium and Chrysoglossum into Diglyphosa , and separate Pilophyllum and Hancockia as distinctive genera. The diversification of the nine clades of Collabieae might be associated with the uplift of the Himalayas during the Late Oligocene/Early Miocene. The enhanced East Asian summer monsoon in the Late Miocene may have promoted the rapid diversification of Collabieae at a sustained high diversification rate. The increased size of terrestrial pseudobulbs may be one of the drivers of Collabieae diversification. Our results suggest that the establishment and development of evergreen broadleaved forests facilitated the diversification of Collabieae. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In autonomous vehicle technology, environmental perception is a very important part of the whole system. The robustness and accuracy of the perception determine the performance of the whole system. Compared with the camera, lidar can generate point cloud data which can provide accurate 3D information better. At present, more researches focus on environmental perception through point cloud. However, the point cloud has the characteristics of sparsity, unordered and non-uniform distribution, its processing method is also different from the general image-based method. In this paper, we proposed a method of semantic segmentation of point cloud which is realized by convolutional neural network. Through spherical mapping, the scattered point cloud is transformed into 2D spherical map with dense and uniform distribution, which is convenient for the processing of the network. To reduce the loss of point information, the spatial position, reflection intensity information and angle value of point are preserved during spherical mapping. Our work includes a lightweight convolutional neural network that fuses point cloud and image information. In addition, a spatial module is added to supplement the loss of spatial information and improve the performance of segmentation. Finally, a series of comparative experiments and performance evaluation are carried out, which show that the proposed method is not only much better than the original structure, but also better than another image and lidar fusion network in the segmentation of each category. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

From an operational point of view, several new entanglement detection criteria are proposed using quantum designs. These criteria are constructed by considering the correlations defined with quantum designs. Counter‐intuitively, the criteria with more settings are exactly equivalent to the corresponding ones with the minimal number of settings, namely the symmetric informationally complete positive operator‐valued measures (SIC POVMs). Fundamentally, this observation highlights the potentially unique role played by SIC POVMs in quantum information processing. Experimentally, this provides the minimal number of settings that one should choose for detecting entanglement. Furthermore, it is found that nonlinear criteria are not always better than linear ones for the task of entanglement detection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Phlegm-dampness retention (PDR) syndrome is one of the main syndromes of dyslipidemia. This study investigated the effects of Erchen decoction (ECD) on concentrations of two oxidative stress-related cytochrome P450 (CYP450) metabolites of arachidonic acid—14,15-dihydroxyeicosatrienoic acid (14,15-DHET) and 20-hydroxyeicosatetraenoic acid (20-HETE)—in mice with dyslipidemia and phlegm-dampness retention (PDR) syndrome (n = 5 C57BL/6J mice and n = 30 apolipoprotein E knockout mice). Murine models of the disease and syndrome were established using multifactor stimulation. Then, all mice were assigned to normal, model, low- (L-), medium- (M-), or high- (H-) dose ECD groups or to a control or an unmatched prescription-syndrome (unmatched P-S) group; five mice were included in each group. Dose formulations were administered by oral gavage for 30 days to animals in the corresponding groups. We detected and analyzed hematoxylin and eosin (HE) staining characteristics of the mouse aorta and serum total cholesterol (TC), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), peroxynitrite (ONOO-), 14,15-DHET, and 20-HETE concentrations in each group. TC and LDL-C concentrations significantly decreased in the M-ECD versus control group (P < 0.05); however, the TC and LDL-C concentrations were not significantly different in the unmatched P-S versus model group (P > 0.05). After treatment in the P-S correspondence groups (L-ECD, M-ECD, and H-ECD groups), the concentration of ONOO- decreased to different degrees in each group. Among these groups, the concentration of ONOO- significantly decreased in the L-ECD, M-ECD, and H-ECD groups versus the model group (P < 0.05). However, the concentration of ONOO- was not significantly different in the unmatched P-S versus the model group (P > 0.05). From the perspective of aortic HE staining, the P-S group experienced an improved endothelium structure after treatment. 14,15-DHET concentrations significantly increased in the normal, M-ECD, and H-ECD groups versus the model group; in the H-ECD versus the L-ECD group; and in the H-ECD versus the control group (all P < 0.05) to various extents after different doses of the prescription. 20-HETE concentrations pronouncedly decreased in the M-ECD versus normal group; in the M- and H-ECD groups versus the model group; in the M-ECD versus the L-ECD group; in the M-ECD versus the control group; and in the M-ECD versus the unmatched P-S (P < 0.05). However, the concentrations of 14,15-DHET and 20-HETE in the model group were not significantly different from those of the unmatched P-S (P > 0.05). In this study, ECD reversed blood lipid indexes and ameliorated oxidative stress-related metabolites, elevating serum 14,15-DHET and lowering serum 20-HETE in mice with dyslipidemia and PDR syndrome via CYP450 pathways of arachidonic acid metabolism. The efficacy of ECD relies on correspondence between the prescription and the syndrome. These findings scientifically validate the treatment according to traditional Chinese medicine syndrome differentiation. ECD can strengthen the protective effect on the vascular endothelium by driving out pathogenic factors and strengthening healthy resistance. Its efficacy may be related to the adjustment of the polarization state of macrophages. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Developing a fast, sensitive and stable sensor for online monitoring nitrate concentration is an urgent need for the optimization of denitrification processes in wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs). In this study, the miniaturized spectrophotometric nitrate sensor was developed using UVC light-emitting diodes (LEDs) coupled with AlGaN or SiC-based photodiodes. The use of novel SiC photodiodes could effectively eliminate UVB and UVA light in the 230 nm LED emission spectra. Replacing 235 nm UVC-LED with 230 nm UVC-LED could effectively increase the detection sensitivity but not the linear range that follows the Lambert-Beer's law. The influences of dissolved organic matter (DOM) on nitrate analysis could be corrected by a unified coefficient α across the NO 3 --N concentration ranging in 0–50 mg/L. Across the investigated WWTP samples, the correction coefficient α was mainly determined by the fractions of humic substances with apparent molecular weight (MW) of 1.5–9.0 kDa, while the degradation of the large MW proteinaceous biopolymer resulted in dramatic variations of correction coefficient α along the WWTP A/A/O process. Microfiltration membranes with pore sizes ≤ 30 µm could sufficiently eliminate the influences of particles in effluents on photometric nitrate analysis. The ultrafiltration and enhanced coagulation treatment could effectively remove the biopolymer fractions of DOM in wastewater, and thus alleviate its influences on sensitivity and accuracy of nitrate analysis. The spectrophotometric nitrate sensors were successfully applied for on-line monitoring NO 3 --N concentrations in the influent and effluent of denitrifying biofilter in a municipal WWTP, providing high-frequency feedback signals to precise control of feeding external carbon source. [Display omitted] • The spectroscopic nitrate sensor was developed with UVC LEDs and photodiodes. • The use of 230 nm LED can increase the sensitivity but not the linear range. • Biopolymer fraction resulted in variations of coefficient α across WWTP samples. • Ultrafiltration and coagulation can increase the robustness of nitrate analysis. • The UVC LED nitrate sensor can be used to precisely control denitrification process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Gram-negative binding proteins (GNBPs) are important in the innate immune system of insects in recognition of fungi pathogen, such as Beauveria bassiana. However, this information in aphids is not clear, which might be exploited to develop a novel aphid control strategy based on integrating RNAi and B. bassiana. Here, we firstly identified two GNBPs, ApGNBP1 and ApGNBP2, using the model aphid Acyrthosiphon pisum, and observed that two ApGNBPs were highly expressed in hemolymph and fat body as well as upon the injection of β-1,3-glucan and heat-killed B. bassiana. Intriguingly, RNAi-based silencing of ApGNBP1 but not ApGNBP2 decreased the activity of immune-related phenoloxidase. This led to the increased virulence of B. bassiana in A. pisum upon silencing of ApGNBP1, and the synergetic effects were also observed in other two aphids: Myzus persicae and Aphis citricidus. Importantly, no negative effects were detected in aphid predator Propylaea japonica under the co-application of the RNAi in targeting ApGNBP1 and B. bassiana. Taking together, we conclude that GNBP1 could be an optimal target in aphid control by combining RNAi, entomopathogenic fungi and ladybeetle predator. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aims to perform free vibration and buckling analyses of circular cylindrical shells made of three-dimensional (3D) graphene foam. Three kinds of porosity distribution are considered including two kinds of symmetrical distribution and uniform distribution. The Kirchhoff-Love shell theory is utilized to establish the mathematical model of 3D graphene foam (3D-GF) shells. Natural frequencies and buckling loads of the shells under various boundary conditions are obtained via the Rayleigh-Ritz method in conjunction with Chebyshev polynomials. Results show that the mechanical characteristics of the 3D-GF shells are significantly affected by the porosity coefficient and porosity distribution. Moreover, the effect of porosity coefficient is closely related to boundary conditions of the shells. It is also shown that as the porosity coefficient increases, the porosity distribution effect on the mechanical characteristics of 3D-GF shells becomes increasingly significant. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: The findings of randomized controlled trials (RCTs), observational studies, and meta-analyses vary regarding the effectiveness and safety of combination therapy for patients with Staphylococcus aureus bacteraemia (SAB). We aimed to identify the effectiveness and safety of combination therapy in patients with SAB compared with those of monotherapy. Methods: We performed a systematic review and meta-analysis to compare combination therapy versus monotherapy in patients with SAB. Two authors independently searched PubMed, Embase, and the Cochrane Library of clinical trials until 17 February 2021. Any RCT comparing mortality or adverse events (AEs) of combination therapy versus monotherapy for patients with SAB was eligible. Summary risk ratios (RRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were evaluated using a random-effects model. The primary outcome was all-cause mortality at any time point. This meta-analysis is registered with the PROSPERO database (CRD42020188176) and reported according to PRISMA guidelines. Results: In total, 1906 articles were identified and screened, and 14 studies (2367 patients) were included in the meta-analysis. There was no significant difference in the risk of all-cause mortality between the two groups (RR = 1.00; 95% CI 0.83–1.20; P = 0.99; I2 = 0%). Similar results were obtained by subgroup analysis of mortality recording time, endocarditis, pathogen resistance, article publication time, number of patients, and adjuvant antibiotics. Notably, combination treatment might significantly increase the risk of drug-related AEs (RR = 1.68; 95% CI 1.06–2.66; P = 0.03; I2 = 67%) and nephrotoxicity (RR = 2.30; 95% CI 1.68–3.16; P < 0.00001; I2 = 0%), although the occurrences of AEs leading to treatment discontinuation and serious AEs were not significantly different between the two groups. Conclusions: The meta-analysis suggested that combination therapy could not reduce mortality but might increase the risk of drug-related AEs and nephrotoxicity and should be applied very cautiously. Future studies on combined drug therapy for SAB need careful and rigorous design for specific antibiotic combinations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To reduce the labor effort in hazardous environments like spray painting, an automatic car part spray painting machine has been set up. This article presents an intelligent location procedure for this machine. The location procedure assumes that the car part is placed with a tiny arbitrary pose, furthermore some kinds of parts under inspection undergoes through the deformation and thus it contains a nonrigid model. To tackle this problem, a workpiece positioning system works though multicamera is established first. Subsequently, a novel modified iterative closest point (ICP) algorithm is proposed which registers the nonrigid shape to the undeformed source shape in the training library. The modified ICP combines the ideas from traditional ICP and deformation estimation from bounded biharmonic weights. It solves a nonlinear cost function by using Levenberg–Marquardt algorithm. As a result, it estimates the transformation of the target point cloud with regards to the source point cloud. Additionally, it improves the accuracy of traditional ICP and increases its scope to nonrigid shapes. By employing these results in our location procedure, it can estimate the 6-DOF pose of the car part to be painted in addition to that it also estimates the deformation compared to the source cloud in the training library. This information is subsequently used to modify the guidance trajectory of the spray gun. In this article, a test case of front bumper is given, as it is commonly made of soft plastic materials and undergoes deformation under the influence of the external force. All the stated results support the efficacy of our algorithm. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Using games to teach is an interesting and worthwhile practice; however, the couplet game has not been described before. In this study, first-year students played a couplet game with their teacher at the end of the course. Each student was asked to summarize and write individual opinions on human geography in one keyword; then, the teacher wrote the corresponding or matching keywords. Analyzing the correspondences and the contrasts between couples of words, the students showed an improved understanding of human geography. The results suggested that the couplet game elicited students' creative and independent thinking. This method can also be applied to other fields. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hyperelastic functionally graded materials have a wide range of application prospects in soft robotics and biomedical fields. This paper investigates the nonlinear free and forced vibrations of a hyperelastic functionally graded beam (HFGB) based on higher-order shear deformation beam theory. The geometrical nonlinearity is considered by using the von-Kármán’s nonlinear theory. The three-material-parameter free energy function named as Ishihara model is employed to characterize the hyperelastic material. The power-law gradient form along the thickness direction is adopted. The HFGB is resting on the elastic foundation. The Winkler, Pasternak and nonlinear stiffness coefficients are considered. The time-harmonic external force is applied to the HFGB. The nonlinear governing equations for the vibration of the HFGB are derived by using Hamilton’s principle, and are subsequently transformed into ordinary differential equations via Galerkin’s method. The nonlinear free vibration and primary resonance of the HFGB are investigated analytically by employing the extended Hamiltonian method and multiple scales method, respectively. The results indicate that the power-law index, slenderness ratio, material properties, and elastic foundation parameters have significant influences on the nonlinear frequency of free vibration as well as the frequency–response and force–response curves of forced vibration. The phase plane method is employed to analyze the system’s stability states under various excitation amplitudes. The relative error between the results of the current computational model and the published literature is less than 0.1 percent. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The cutting subsurface plastic deformation layer of titanium alloys has a serious influence on fatigue performance. Hence, it is necessary to establish a predicting model of the depth of subsurface plastic deformation. However, empirical models are difficult to be applied for different cutting methods and are controlled by various cutting parameters. This paper establishes an analytical model for predicting the depth of subsurface plastic deformation based on cutting force. In this case, as long as the cutting force is known, the analytical model can be used to predict the depth of subsurface plastic deformation layer for various cutting conditions. In experiments, the depth of subsurface plastic deformation was measured by using a scanning electron microscope (SEM) and electron back-scatter diffraction (EBSD). The measured and predicted values are closed, and the average prediction error is only 16.01%. Therefore, the analytical model is reliable and useful to predict the depth of subsurface plastic deformation during cutting titanium alloys. This study will have an important application value to control the depth of subsurface plastic deformation to improve fatigue performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

10.1007/s10600-019-02932-z 13 Kuchkarova NN, Toshmatov ZO, Zhou S, Han C, Shao H. Chem. Nat. As GFE also has good biological activity, we isolated the ethyl acetate part of the ethanol extract with strong antioxidant activity (data not shown), and the chemical components of the ethyl acetate extract of I G. frondosa i (GEA) were purified using the octadecyl-silica column combined with HPLC, and identified by NMR. The polysaccharide I G. frondosa i has been widely studied because of its good biological activity. Although the antioxidant activity of GEA was lower than that of VC, the extract also had certain antioxidant activity. [Extracted from the article]

A new ursane-type triterpenoid, 20-taraxastene-22α-methoxy-3β-ol (1) together with nine known triterpenoids (2–10), was isolated from the leaves of Rhododendron dauricum L. Their structures were established from spectroscopic data (1D, 2D NMR, and HR-ESI-MS) and comparison with reported values. Among the isolates, compounds 1 and 8 were found in the family Ericaceae for the first time, and compounds 5, 6, and 10 from this species for the first time. All the isolated compounds were evaluated for their cytotoxic activities against three human cancer cells; compound 1 exhibited better cytotoxic activity against A549, HeLa, and SK-Hep1 cells than the other compounds with IC50 values of 34.04 ± 1.01, 64.04 ± 1.75, and 44.04 ± 0.05 μM, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • DOM in ROCLL includes BP (>18 kDa), HS (0.45–18 kDa) and LMWS (<0.45 kDa) fractions. • RSM experiments showed that pH was the most critical parameter for EO treatment. • Removal of DOC fractions was controlled by charge transfer process. • Elimination of chromophores and fluorophores was limited by mass transport process. • BP-C1, HS-C2 and LMWS-C1 subfractions required further treatment after EO process. Electrochemical oxidation (EO) is a viable option for the advanced treatment of reverse osmosis concentrated landfill leachate (ROCLL). This work characterized dissolved organic matter (DOM) in ROCLL with size exclusion chromatography (SEC) and then investigated the impact of operating parameters on the removal of DOM fractions with response surface methodology (RSM). The SEC chromatograms revealed that the DOM fractions in ROCLL comprised of biopolymers (BP, > 18 kDa), humic substances (HS, 0.45–18 kDa) and low molecular weight substances (LMWS, < 0.45 kDa). For the EO configuration with different anodes, the BDD film anode showed the highest removal efficiency for DOM in terms of COD, DOC, UVA254 and fluorescence indices, followed by Ti, graphite, Ti/RuO 2 -IrO 2 and Ti/SnO 2 -Sb 2 O 5 anodes. The RSM experiments suggested that pH was the most critical factor to enhance the removal of all DOM fractions, and acidification pretreatment could remove approximately 50% BP and 30% HS fractions due to the pH-induced precipitation. The DOC removal kinetics of DOM fractions could be described by pseudo-zero kinetic model with rates in the order of HS > LMWS > BP, which were controlled by charge transfer process. Differently, the elimination of chromophores and fluorophores followed pseudo-first kinetics, which was limited by mass transport process. Via nonnegativity matrix factorization (NMF) deconvolution of the SEC-OCD chromatograms, BP-C1, HS-C2 and LMWS-C1 subfractions required to be removed through further treatment after EO process. This work demonstrates the potential for SEC analysis coupled with mathematical approaches to give informative insights into the evolution of DOM and provide optimization strategies for the EO treatment of complex ROCLL. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chemical stimulation of kidney causes sympathetic activation and pressor responses in rats. The excitatory renal reflex (ERR) is mediated by angiotensin type 1 receptor (AT1R) and superoxide anions in hypothalamic paraventricular nucleus (PVN). The aim of this study is to determine whether interleukin-1β (IL-1β) in the PVN mediates the ERR, and whether the IL-1β production in the PVN is dependent on the AT1R-superoxide anion signaling. Experiments were performed in adult rats under anesthesia. The ERR was induced by renal infusion of capsaicin, and evaluated by the responses of the contralateral renal sympathetic nerve activity (RSNA) and mean arterial pressure (MAP). Inhibition of IL-1β production with MCC950 in the PVN dose-dependently inhibited the capsaicin-induced ERR and sympathetic activation. The PVN microinjection of IL-1 receptor antagonist IL-1Ra or specific IL-1β antibody abolished the capsaicin-induced ERR, while IL-1β enhanced the ERR. Renal infusion of capsaicin promoted p65-NFκB phosphorylation and IL-1β production in the PVN, which were prevented by PVN microinjection of NADPH oxidase inhibitor apocynin or the superoxide anion scavenger tempol. The PVN microinjection of NFκB inhibitor BMS-345541 abolished the capsaicin induced-ERR and IL-1β production, but not the NADPH oxidase activation and superoxide anion production. Furthermore, capsaicin-induced p65-NFκB phosphorylation and IL-1β production in the PVN were prevented by AT1R antagonist losartan, or angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitor captopril. These results indicate that capsaicin-induced ERR and sympathetic activation are mediated by IL-1β in the PVN. The IL-1β production in the PVN is dependent on the AT1R-mediated superoxide anion generation and NFκB activation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Organic electrode materials are promising for next‐generation energy storage materials due to their environmental friendliness and sustainable renewability. However, problems such as their high solubility in electrolytes and low intrinsic conductivity have always plagued their further application. Polymerization to form conjugated organic polymers can not only inhibit the dissolution of organic electrodes in the electrolyte, but also enhance the intrinsic conductivity of organic molecules. Herein, we synthesized a new conjugated organic polymer (COPs) COP500‐CuT2TP (poly [5,10,15,20‐tetra(2,2′‐bithiophen‐5‐yl) porphyrinato] copper (II)) by electrochemical polymerization method. Due to the self‐exfoliation behavior, the porphyrin cathode exhibited a reversible discharge capacity of 420 mAh g−1, and a high specific energy of 900 Wh Kg−1 with a first coulombic efficiency of 96 % at 100 mA g−1. Excellent cycling stability up to 8000 cycles without capacity loss was achieved even at a high current density of 5 A g−1. This highly conjugated structure promotes COP500‐CuT2TP combined high energy density, high power density, and good cycling stability, which would open new opportunity for the designable and versatile organic electrodes for electrochemical energy storage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Organic electrode materials are promising for next‐generation energy storage materials due to their environmental friendliness and sustainable renewability. However, problems such as their high solubility in electrolytes and low intrinsic conductivity have always plagued their further application. Polymerization to form conjugated organic polymers can not only inhibit the dissolution of organic electrodes in the electrolyte, but also enhance the intrinsic conductivity of organic molecules. Herein, we synthesized a new conjugated organic polymer (COPs) COP500‐CuT2TP (poly [5,10,15,20‐tetra(2,2′‐bithiophen‐5‐yl) porphyrinato] copper (II)) by electrochemical polymerization method. Due to the self‐exfoliation behavior, the porphyrin cathode exhibited a reversible discharge capacity of 420 mAh g−1, and a high specific energy of 900 Wh Kg−1 with a first coulombic efficiency of 96 % at 100 mA g−1. Excellent cycling stability up to 8000 cycles without capacity loss was achieved even at a high current density of 5 A g−1. This highly conjugated structure promotes COP500‐CuT2TP combined high energy density, high power density, and good cycling stability, which would open new opportunity for the designable and versatile organic electrodes for electrochemical energy storage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simultaneous H, He and Fe ion beam irradiations were conducted on a pyrolytic carbon (PyC) - SiC f /SiC composite at 475 °C with the peak displacement damage level up to 47 dpa and concentrations of He and H up to 38 and 3400 appm, What respectively. Cross-sectional transmission electron microscopy was used to study the evolution of microstructure after the triple beam irradiation. Results show that the interface between SiC fiber and PyC interphase cracked after the triple ion beam irradiation. The PyC interphase could infiltrate into the multilayer SiC coating to cause deformation of the multilayer due to volume expansion. After irradiation, no obvious cavities were observed in multilayer SiC coating and SiC matrix, while He bubbles as large as 15 nm in diameters were observed at the peak displacement damage region in the SiC fiber and SiC coating/PyC interface. Hydrogen promotes nucleation and growth of He bubbles by reducing their surface energy. The formation process of cavities at the interface between PyC interphase and multilayer SiC coating is discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, we present vibration analysis of a metal foam core sandwich cylindrical thin shell via the Chebyshev collocation method. Three types of metal foam core are taken into account. The governing equations are derived using Hamilton's principle and the Kirchhoff‐Love shell theory. Then, the Chebyshev collocation method is developed to evaluate natural frequencies of the metal foam core sandwich cylindrical shell under various boundary conditions. Results show that the Chebyshev collocation method possesses high accuracy. Moreover, the Sym‐1 metal foam core leads to the largest stiffness of the shell while the Sym‐2 metal foam core leads to the smallest stiffness. The effects of porosity coefficient and core thickness are also highlighted on the vibration characteristics of the metal foam core sandwich cylindrical shell. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Evolution of microstructure and nanohardness of a new type of SiC f /SiC composite under a 6 MeV Au ion irradiation up to 90 displacements per atom at 400 °C was studied. Scanning transmission electron microscopy reveals that the irradiation has induced enrichment of carbon at the grain boundaries in the fibers. This is attributed to the accumulation of C interstitials generated by the irradiation. The disappearance of {200} diffraction ring of 3C–SiC indicates that a phase transition from 3C–SiC to Si has occurred during irradiation. In addition, the hardness of SiC fiber increased after irradiation, which is due to the pinning effect caused by irradiation-induced defects. The pyrolytic-carbon interphase that contains Si-rich nano-grains in the composite has the highest irradiation tolerance as it maintained its basic morphology and graphitic nature after a radiation damage dose up to 90 dpa. Twins are the main internal defects in the SiC matrix of the SiC f /SiC composite, which grew up and resulted in the decrease of the number of twinning boundaries under irradiation. No significant microstructure change has been observed in the SiC matrix except a limited number of dislocation loops at the peak irradiation damage region. The entire matrix still maintained its hardness after irradiation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Worldwide, hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a common solid tumor with a poor prognosis. HCC is often due to hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection. As yet, efficacious HCC treatment regimens for late-stage HCC patients are lacking. Therefore, the identification of more specific and sensitive biomarkers for its early diagnosis and treatment remains an urgent need. Methods: Total RNAs from paired HBV-derived HCC tumors and adjacent peritumor tissues (APTs) were subjected to RNA sequencing (RNA-seq), and differentially expressed genes (DEGs) between HCC tumors and APTs were selected and verified. Results: We identified 166 DEGs and found that eight top-ranked and verified DEGs (TK1, CTTN, CEP72, TRIP13, FTH1, FLAD1, CHRM2, AMBP) all contained putative OCT4 binding motifs in their promoter regions. TK1, TRIP13 and OCT4 were found to exhibit concurrent higher expression levels in HCC tumors than in APTs. The mRNA levels of TK1, TRIP13 and OCT4 in a cohort of 384 HCC samples from the TCGA database were all found to be negatively correlated with patient overall survival, relapse-free survival and progression-free survival, underscoring the HCC biomarker status of TK1 and TRIP13 on one hand, and implicating their association with OCT4 on the other hand. Furthermore, OCT4 proteins were found to bind to the promoters of both genes in vitro and in vivo. Knocking out OCT4 in HCC-derived cell lines reduced the expression of TK1 and TRIP13 and significantly decreased their tumorigenicity. Conclusions: Using RNA-seq, we identified several novel HCC signature genes that may serve as biomarkers for its diagnosis and prognosis. Their common transcriptional regulation by OCT4 suggests key roles in the development of HCC, and indicates that OCT4 may serve as a potential therapeutic target. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The impedance characteristics of radio frequency (RF) (13.56 and 27.12 MHz) and very high-frequency (60 MHz) magnetron discharges were investigated by the voltage–current probe technology. The discharge impedances $Z$ were found to decrease with the increase of discharge current at the frequency of 13.56 MHz, then change from a decreasing trend to an increasing trend at the frequency of 27.12 MHz, and further increase at the frequency of 60 MHz. This evolution was mainly related to the transition of the imaginary part $X$ from the capacitance to the reactance. Because of the low-electron density at the frequencies of 27.12 and 60 MHz and the enhanced electron Lorentz gyration at high voltages in the magnetron discharge, the electron inertia effect was enhanced. As a result, the plasma body reactance increased. The compensation of the plasma reactance to the sheath capacitance led to the transition of impedance $Z$. Therefore, for the 27.12- and 60-MHz magnetron discharges, the electron inertia had a significant influence on the discharge impedance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the original publication, there is line dislocation in Fig. 8d. The correct Fig. 8 is provided in this correction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Article Highlights: An energy harvesting textile with an elegant trade-off of mechanical and triboelectric performance was constructed by hierarchical structural design. Modified rotor co-spinning technique was developed to produce triboelectric yarns in large scale. Mass-producible energy harvesting textiles show ultrahigh stability withstands millions of multi-type cyclic deformations and various applications.Energy harvesting textiles (EHTs) have attracted much attention in wearable electronics and the internet-of-things for real-time mechanical energy harvesting associated with human activities. However, to satisfy practical application requirements, especially the demand for long-term use, it is challenging to construct an energy harvesting textile with elegant trade-off between mechanical and triboelectric performance. In this study, an energy harvesting textile was constructed using natural silk inspired hierarchical structural designs combined with rational material screening; this design strategy provides multiscale opportunities to optimize the mechanical and triboelectric performance of the final textile system. The resulting EHTs with traditional advantages of textiles showed good mechanical properties (tensile strength of 237 ± 13 MPa and toughness of 4.5 ± 0.4 MJ m−3 for single yarns), high power output (3.5 mW m−2), and excellent structural stability (99% conductivity maintained after 2.3 million multi-type cyclic deformations without severe change in appearance), exhibiting broad application prospects in integrated intelligent clothing, energy harvesting, and human-interactive interfaces. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The methanol and electricity poly-generation system based on coal partial gasification is proposed. Techno-economic analysis of the system is conducted by using Aspen Plus and the effects of methanol synthesis temperature and cyclic gas reflux ratio on the system performance are studied. The detailed economic data are obtained. The IGCC system is established simultaneously and compared with the poly-generation system. The results show that both methanol production and system efficiency decrease with the increase of methanol synthesis temperature. Methanol production increases while system efficiency decreases with increase of the recycle gas ratio. System efficiency would reach as high as 56.8%, while the system efficiency of IGCC is 53.11%. By the calculation of the economic data, the IRR and the payback period of the poly-generation system are 24.1% and 4.14 years, respectively. While IRR and payback period of IGCC system are 3.4% and 18.06 years, respectively. The results show that methanol and electricity poly-generation system based on coal partial gasification has a promising prospect. • The proposed system is based on coal partial gasification and CFB technology. • The power generation efficiency of the PGCC is more than 3% higher than that of IGCC. • The IRR and payback period of PGCC is ∼21% higher and 14 years shorter than that of IGCC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Novel cubic gel particles (ssCGP) with Glutathione (GSH) triggered drug release features were prepared by crosslinking the cyclodextrin based metal-organic frameworks (CD-MOFs) templets with a newly synthesized biodegradable disulfide bond-bearing linker and removing of the potassium ion in sequence. The morphology and size of ssCGP were investigated by field emission scanning electron microscope (FESEM) and dynamic light scattering. Energy dispersive x-ray spectroscopy (EDX), fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), powder x-ray diffraction (PXRD) and Brunauer-Emmett-Teller (BET) were employed to characterize the structure of ssCGP. ssCGP have regular hexahedron shape with edge length about 200–400 nm. Excellent ability of drug adsorption was achieved by using doxorubicin (DOX) as a model drug. The GSH triggered drug release of ssCGP was observed both in GSH contained solutions and intracellular environments. ssCGP have been demonstrated as a biocompatible porous nanocarrier, particular for intracellular drug delivery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article describes a new teaching method for a university geography course based on the core idea that everyone should be "makers" rather than passive learners. After enough teaching and learning preparation, freshman students in a Chinese university were asked to select keywords on the topic "What is human geography?" Nearly half of the selected keywords were different from what they had learned previously. They were linked to the frontier of human geography, to some extent, demonstrating that students were "makers." The result shows the method of keyword selection and the idea that "we are all makers" can help the teacher and students reconstruct the process of teaching and learning, even for newcomers to the field. Thus, students could learn more autonomously and efficiently. At the same time, they would try to make new progress. Key Words: China, human geography, keyword selection, learner, maker. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The characteristics of decamethylcyclopentasiloxane (DMCPS) and trifluoromethane (CHF3) electron cyclotron resonance plasmas for depositing F–SiCOH low dielectric constant films were investigated by quadrupole mass spectrometry and optical emission spectroscopy. The radicals in the plasma come from the dissociation of DMCPS and CHF3 molecules and the recombination of active radicals. The DMCPS dissociation produced the Si-related and CH-related radicals, including the SiOC2H5, SiOCH3, SiCH3, SiO, Si, O, CH3, CH2, CH, C, and H radicals, by breaking the Si–O fivefold ring and Si–O chain and by removing hydrocarbon groups from Si atoms. The CHF3 dissociation produced the F-related radicals, including the CHF2, CF3, and F radicals. The recombination of active radicals produced the HF, C2H2, C2H3, C2H4, C2H5, C2, H2, SiH2, SiF3, SiF2, and SiF radicals. The Si-related and CH-related radicals led to the deposition of SiCOH films; however, the F-related radicals led not only to the deposition of F–SiCOH films but also to the etching of SiCOH films by the reactions between F and Si atoms in the plasma and at the surface of as-deposited films simultaneously. The competition between film deposition and etching led to an n-type dependence of the deposition rate on CHF3/DMCPS flow rate ratio, the drastic composition change, and the structural evolution from SiCOH to Si-doping COF and further to COF films. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Enhanced proliferation and migration of vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) contributes to vascular remodeling in hypertension. Adventitial fibroblasts (AFs)-derived extracellular vesicles (EVs) modulate vascular remodeling in spontaneously hypertensive rat (SHR). This study shows the important roles of EVs-mediated miR-21-3p transfer in VSMC proliferation and migration and underlying mechanisms in SHR. AFs and VSMCs were obtained from aorta of Wistar-Kyoto rat (WKY) and SHR. EVs were separated from AFs culture with ultracentrifugation method. MiR-21-3p content in the EVs of SHR was increased compared with those of WKY. MiR-21-3p mimic promoted VSMC proliferation and migration of WKY and SHR, while miR-21-3p inhibitor attenuated proliferation and migration only in the VSMCs of SHR. EVs of SHR stimulated VSMC proliferation and migration, which were attenuated by miR-21-3p inhibitor. Sorbin and SH3 domain containing 2 (SORBS2) mRNA and protein levels were reduced in the VSMCs of SHR. MiR-21-3p mimic inhibited, while miR-21-3p inhibitor promoted SORBS2 expressions in the VSMCs of both WKY and SHR. EVs of SHR reduced SORBS2 expression, which was prevented by miR-21-3p inhibitor. EVs of WKY had no significant effect on SORBS2 expressions. SORBS2 overexpression attenuated the roles of miR-21-3p mimic and EVs of SHR in promoting VSMC proliferation and migration of SHR. Overexpression of miR-21-3p in vivo promotes vascular remodeling and hypertension. These results indicate that miR-21-3p in the EVs of SHR promotes VSMC proliferation and migration via negatively regulating SORBS2 expression. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Shikimate, a precursor to the antiviral drug oseltamivir (Tamiflu®), can influence aromatic metabolites and finds extensive use in antimicrobial, antitumor, and cardiovascular applications. Consequently, various strategies have been developed for chemical synthesis and plant extraction to enhance shikimate biosynthesis, potentially impacting environmental conditions, economic sustainability, and separation and purification processes. Microbial engineering has been developed as an environmentally friendly approach for shikimate biosynthesis. In this review, we provide a comprehensive summary of microbial strategies for shikimate biosynthesis. These strategies primarily include chassis construction, biochemical optimization, pathway remodelling, and global regulation. Furthermore, we discuss future perspectives on shikimate biosynthesis and emphasize the importance of utilizing advanced metabolic engineering tools to regulate microbial networks for constructing robust microbial cell factories. • Summary of advances in shikimate biosynthesis. • Highlights of strategies with chassis construction, biochemical strategy, pathway remold, and global regulation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]