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Background Active case finding (ACF) is a potentially promising approach for the early identification and treatment of tuberculosis patients. However, evidence on its cost-effectiveness, particularly in low- and middle-income countries, remains limited. This study evaluates the cost-effectiveness of a community-based ACF practice in Shenzhen, China. Methods We employed a Markov model-based decision analytic method to assess the costs and effectiveness of 3 tuberculosis detection strategies: passive case finding (PCF), basic ACF, and advanced ACF. The analysis was conducted from a societal perspective on a dynamic cohort over a 20-year horizon, focusing on active tuberculosis (ATB) prevalence and the incremental cost-effectiveness ratio (ICER). Results Compared to the PCF strategy, the basic and advanced ACF strategies effectively reduced ATB cases by 6.8 and 10.2 per 100 000 population, respectively, by the final year of this 20-year period. The ICER for the basic and advanced ACF strategies were ¥14 757 and ¥8217 per quality-adjusted life-year, respectively. Both values fell below the cost-effectiveness threshold. Conclusions Our findings indicate that the community-based ACF screening strategy, which targets individuals exhibiting tuberculosis symptoms, is cost-effective. This underscores the potential benefits of adopting similar community-based ACF strategies for symptomatic populations in tuberculosis-endemic areas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hu sheep (HS), a breed of sheep carrying the FecB mutation gene, is known for its "year-round estrus and multiple births" and is an ideal model for studying the high fecundity mechanisms of livestock. Through analyzing and comparing the genomic selection features of Hu sheep and other sheep breeds, we identified a series of candidate genes that may play a role in Hu sheep's high fecundity mechanisms. In this study, we conducted whole-genome resequencing on six breeds and screened key mutations significantly correlated with high reproductive traits in sheep. Notably, the CC2D1B gene was selected by the fixation index (FST) and the cross-population composite likelihood ratio (XP-CLR) methods in HS and other five breeds. It was worth noting that the CC2D1B gene in HS was different from that in other sheep breeds, and seven missense mutations have been identified. Furthermore, the linkage disequilibrium (LD) analysis revealed a strong linkage disequilibrium in this specific gene region. Subsequently, by performing different grouping based on FecB genotypes in Hu sheep, genome-wide selective signal analysis screened several genes related to reproduction, such as BMPR1B and PPM1K. Besides, FST analysis identified functional genes related to reproductive traits, including RHEB, HSPA2, PPP1CC, HVCN1, and CCDC63. Additionally, a missense mutation was found in the CCDC63 gene and the haplotype was different between the high reproduction (HR) group and low reproduction (LR) group in HS. In summary, we discovered genetic differentiation among six distinct breeding sheep breeds at the whole genome level. Additionally, we identified a set of genes which were associated with reproductive performance in Hu sheep and visualized how these genes differed in different breeds. These findings laid a theoretical foundation for understanding genetic mechanisms behind high prolific traits in sheep. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Eucommia ulmoides has been used as a food and medicine homologue for a long time in China. We hypothesize that Eucommia ulmoides achieves its health‐promoting effects via altering gut microbiota. Here, we investigated the effects of water extract of Eucommia ulmoides bark on caecal microbiota and growth performance, antioxidant activity, and immunity in white‐feathered broilers treated for 42 days. A total of 108 one‐day‐old Cobb white‐feathered broilers were randomly assigned to three treatment groups: control diet, 0.75% Eucommia ulmoides diet (EU Ⅰ) and 1.5% Eucommia ulmoides diet (EU Ⅱ). The results showed that EU Ⅱ treatment improved average body weight (ABW), thigh muscle quality and total length of intestines, and decreased the serum total triglycerides and total cholesterol (TC) (p < 0.05). Eucommia ulmoides supplementation increased serum superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GSH‐Px), total antioxidant activities and content of immunoglobulins, and reduced levels of malondialdehyde and tumour necrosis factor‐α (TNF‐α) (p < 0.05). Moreover, the supplementation increased the diversity of caecal microbiota and reduced the pathogenic genera Escherichia Shigella and Helicobacter. The genera Ochrobactrum, Odoribater, Klebsiella, Enterobacter, Georgenia and Bifidobacterium were positively associated with the ABW, total intestinal length, serum levels of GSH‐Px, SOD and immunoglobulins (p < 0.001) and negatively associated with the TC and TNF‐α (p < 0.01), suggesting an association of the changes of gut microbiota and improvement of broiler health. Meanwhile, Eucommia ulmoides supplementation enriched the Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes pathway of exocrine secretion from the pancreas, circadian entrainment and inhibited lipopolysaccharide biosynthesis. In conclusion, Eucommia ulmoides water extract can be used as a feed additive to improve poultry industry production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Small-ring chemistry is a fascinating field in organic chemistry. gem-Difluorinated cyclopropanes, a unique class of cyclopropanes, have garnered significant interest due to their intrinsic high reactivity. In this context, gem-difluorinated cyclopropanes have been extensively investigated as fluoroallylic synthons in Pd-catalyzed ring-opening/cross-coupling reactions for the synthesis of monofluoroalkenes with linear or branched selectivity. In contrast, Rh-catalysis has revealed diverse selectivity in the reaction of gem-difluorinated cyclopropanes, such as regioselectivity, enantioselectivity, and chemoselectivity. This feature article aims to summarize our efforts towards developing Rh-catalyzed reactions of gem-difluorinated cyclopropanes, briefly discussing the design, selectivity, reaction mechanisms and future research prospects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Here we present a modular, chemo‐, regio‐, and stereoselective synthesis of fully‐substituted and configuration‐defined alkyl vinyl ethers (AVEs) using simple chemical feedstocks. The distinctive approach involves the chemo‐ and regioselective functionalization of the CF2 unit in gem‐difluorinated cyclopropanes with O−H and C−H nucleophiles in a specific order. The resulting highly functionalized cyclopropanyl ethers then undergo a stereoselective ring‐opening process to produce fully‐substituted and configuration‐defined AVEs. These AVEs are rarely accessible through conventional methods and are easily transformable. Mechanistic experiments indicate that the success of this method relies on the use of dual‐functional copper catalysis, which is involved in both the functionalization of the CF2 unit and the subsequent ring‐opening process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Here we present a modular, chemo‐, regio‐, and stereoselective synthesis of fully‐substituted and configuration‐defined alkyl vinyl ethers (AVEs) using simple chemical feedstocks. The distinctive approach involves the chemo‐ and regioselective functionalization of the CF2 unit in gem‐difluorinated cyclopropanes with O−H and C−H nucleophiles in a specific order. The resulting highly functionalized cyclopropanyl ethers then undergo a stereoselective ring‐opening process to produce fully‐substituted and configuration‐defined AVEs. These AVEs are rarely accessible through conventional methods and are easily transformable. Mechanistic experiments indicate that the success of this method relies on the use of dual‐functional copper catalysis, which is involved in both the functionalization of the CF2 unit and the subsequent ring‐opening process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Identifying the key factors that underlie complex traits during domestication is a great challenge for evolutionary and biological studies. In addition to the protein-coding region differences caused by variants, a large number of variants are located in the noncoding regions containing multiple types of regulatory elements. However, the roles of accumulated variants in gene regulatory elements during duck domestication and economic trait improvement are poorly understood. Results: We constructed a genomics, transcriptomics, and epigenomics map of the duck genome and assessed the evolutionary forces that have been in play across the whole genome during domestication. In total, 304 (42.94%) gene promoters have been specifically selected in Pekin duck among all selected genes. Joint multi-omics analysis reveals that 218 genes (72.01%) with selected promoters are located in open and active chromatin, and 267 genes (87.83%) with selected promoters were highly and differentially expressed in domestic trait-related tissues. One important candidate gene ELOVL3, with a strong signature of differentiation on the core promoter region, is known to regulate fatty acid elongation. Functional experiments showed that the nearly fixed variants in the top selected ELOVL3 promoter in Pekin duck decreased binding ability with HLF and increased gene expression, with the overexpression of ELOVL3 able to increase lipid deposition and unsaturated fatty acid enrichment. Conclusions: This study presents genome resequencing, RNA-Seq, Hi-C, and ATAC-Seq data of mallard and Pekin duck, showing that selection of the gene promoter region plays an important role in gene expression and phenotypic changes during domestication and highlights that the variants of the ELOVL3 promoter may have multiple effects on fat and long-chain fatty acid content in ducks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A set of high-quality pan-genomes would help identify important genes that are still hidden/incomplete in bird reference genomes. In an attempt to address these issues, we have assembled a de novo chromosome-level reference genome of the Silkie (Gallus gallus domesticus), which is an important avian model for unique traits, like fibromelanosis, with unclear genetic foundation. This Silkie genome includes the complete genomic sequences of well-known, but unresolved, evolutionarily, endocrinologically, and immunologically important genes, including leptin, ovocleidin-17, and tumor-necrosis factor-α. The gap-less and manually annotated MHC (major histocompatibility complex) region possesses 38 recently identified genes, with differentially regulated genes recovered in response to pathogen challenges. We also provide whole-genome methylation and genetic variation maps, and resolve a complex genetic region that may contribute to fibromelanosis in these animals. Finally, we experimentally show leptin binding to the identified leptin receptor in chicken, confirming an active leptin ligand-receptor system. The Silkie genome assembly not only provides a rich data resource for avian genome studies, but also lays a foundation for further functional validation of resolved genes. A chromosome-level genome for the Silkie chicken (Gallus gallus domesticus) provides insight into both the basis of fibromelanosis in these animals and, more broadly, unresolved genes in genome assemblies for related chicken subspecies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] The key elements that influence the properties and capabilities of particulate photocatalysts are their crystallinity, size, and surface active sites. However, simultaneously controlling these three variables remains a challenge. In this study, we present the first exploration into the use of a simple ethylenediaminetetraacetate (EDTA) etching technique to decrease the particle size and increase the surface active sites of photocatalysts while preserving their high crystallinity. By employing SrTiO 3 as a model photocatalyst, we were able to create an ordered step nanostructure on the surface of sintered SrTiO 3. As a result of the EDTA treatment, the particle size was reduced while the crystallinity was maintained. The separation of photogenerated electrons and holes is enhanced by the combination of reduced particle size and high crystallinity. To enhance chemical reaction activities, the organized surface nano-step structures serve as high-activity sites. As a result, when subjected to simulated light irradiation, the EDTA-treated SrTiO 3 samples demonstrate improved photocatalytic performance for water splitting into H 2 and O 2 in a stoichiometric amount that is 3.8 times greater than that of untreated SrTiO 3. Since EDTA interacts with most metals, this simple EDTA etching technique has the potential to be further developed to modify additional photocatalysts with exceptional performance for a variety of applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The involvement of manganese radical for halogen atom transfer (XAT) reactions has been esteemed as one reliable method but encountered with limited catalytic models. In this paper, a novel bimetallic relay catalysis of Mn2(CO)10 and cobaloxime has been developed for divergent dehydrogenative difluoroalkylation of alkenes using commercially available difluoroalkyl bromides. A wide range of structurally diverse terminal, cyclic and internal alkenes as well as tetrasubstituted alkenes are found to be good coupling partners to deliver difluoroalkylated allylic products and difluoromethylated cyclic products, accompanied with the production of H2 as the by‐product. This bimetallic relay strategy features broad substrate scope, mild reaction conditions and excellent functional group compatibility. Its success represents an important step‐forward to expedite the construction of a rich library of difluoroalkylated products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The involvement of manganese radical for halogen atom transfer (XAT) reactions has been esteemed as one reliable method but encountered with limited catalytic models. In this paper, a novel bimetallic relay catalysis of Mn2(CO)10 and cobaloxime has been developed for divergent dehydrogenative difluoroalkylation of alkenes using commercially available difluoroalkyl bromides. A wide range of structurally diverse terminal, cyclic and internal alkenes as well as tetrasubstituted alkenes are found to be good coupling partners to deliver difluoroalkylated allylic products and difluoromethylated cyclic products, accompanied with the production of H2 as the by‐product. This bimetallic relay strategy features broad substrate scope, mild reaction conditions and excellent functional group compatibility. Its success represents an important step‐forward to expedite the construction of a rich library of difluoroalkylated products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The evolution of a glacial lake is a true reflection of glacial and climatic change. Currently, the study of glacial lakes in the Altai Mountains is mainly concerned with the application of high-resolution remote sensing images to monitor and evaluate the potential hazards of glacial lakes. At present, there is no rapid and large-scale method to monitor the dynamical variation in glacial lakes in the Altai Mountains, and there is little research on predicting its future tendency. Based on the supervised classification results obtained by Google Earth Engine (GEE), combined with an analysis of meteorological data, we analyzed the spatial and temporal variations in glacial lakes in the Altai Mountains between 2000 and 2020, and used the MCE-CA-Markov model to predict their changes in the future. According to the results, as of 2020, there are 3824 glacial lakes in the Altai Mountains, with an area of 682.38 km2. Over the entire period, the glacial lake quantity growth rates and area were 47.82% and 17.07%, respectively. The distribution of glacial lakes in this region showed a larger concentration in the north than in the south. Most glacial lakes had areas smaller than 0.1 km2, and there was minimal change observed in glacial lakes larger than 0.2 km2. Analyzing the regional elevation in 100 m intervals, the study found that glacial lakes were predominantly distributed at elevations from 2000 m to 3000 m. Interannual rainfall and temperature fluctuations in the Altai Mountains have slowed since 2014, and the trends for the area and number of glacial lakes have stabilized. The growth of glacial lakes in both number and surface area is expected to continue through 2025 and 2030, although the pace of change will slow. In the context of small increases in precipitation and large increases in temperature, in the future, glacial lakes with faster surface area growth rates will be located primarily in the southern Altai Mountains. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Based on the scenario that the K 0 ∗ (1430) is viewed as the ground state of s q ¯ or q s ¯ , we study the K 0 ∗ (1430) leading-twist distribution amplitude (DA) ϕ 2 ; K 0 ∗ (x , μ) with the QCD sum rules in the framework of background field theory. A more reasonable sum rule formula for ξ -moments ⟨ ξ n ⟩ 2 ; K 0 ∗ is suggested, which eliminates the influence brought by the fact that the sum rule of ⟨ ξ p 0 ⟩ 3 ; K 0 ∗ cannot be normalized in whole Borel region. More accurate values of the first ten ξ -moments, ⟨ ξ n ⟩ 2 ; K 0 ∗ (n = 1 , 2 , ... , 10) , are evaluated. A new light-cone harmonic oscillator (LCHO) model for K 0 ∗ (1430) leading-twist DA is established for the first times. By fitting the resulted values of ⟨ ξ n ⟩ 2 ; K 0 ∗ (n = 1 , 2 , ... , 10) via the least squares method, the behavior of K 0 ∗ (1430) leading-twist DA described with LCHO model is determined. Further, by adopting the light-cone QCD sum rules, we calculate the B s , D s → K 0 ∗ (1430) transition form factors and branching fractions of the semileptonic decays B s , D s → K 0 ∗ (1430) ℓ ν ℓ . The corresponding numerical results can be used to extract the Cabibbo-Kobayashi-Maskawa matrix elements by combining the relative experimental data in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper is concerned with the following Kirchhoff-type problem: - a + b ∫ R 3 | ∇ u | 2 d x ▵ u + λ V (x) u = g (x , u) + f (x , u) in R 3 , u ∈ H 1 (R 3) , where a, b and λ are real positive parameters. The nonlinearity g (x , u) + f (x , u) may involve a combination of concave and convex terms. By assuming that V represents a potential well with the bottom V - 1 (0) , under some suitable assumptions on f , g ∈ C (R 3 × R , R) , we obtain a positive energy solution u b , λ + via combining the truncation technique and get the asymptotic behavior of u b , λ + as b → 0 and λ → + ∞ . Moreover, we also give the existence of a negative energy solution u b , λ - via Ekeland variational principle. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Accurate processing and analysis of non-human primate (NHP) brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) serves an indispensable role in understanding brain evolution, development, aging, and diseases. Despite the accumulation of diverse NHP brain MRI datasets at various developmental stages and from various imaging sites/scanners, existing computational tools designed for human MRI typically perform poor on NHP data, due to huge differences in brain sizes, morphologies, and imaging appearances across species, sites, and ages, highlighting the imperative for NHP-specialized MRI processing tools. To address this issue, in this paper, we present a robust, generic, and fully automated computational pipeline, called non-human primates Brain Extraction and Segmentation Toolbox (nBEST), whose main functionality includes brain extraction, non-cerebrum removal, and tissue segmentation. Building on cutting-edge deep learning techniques by employing lifelong learning to flexibly integrate data from diverse NHP populations and innovatively constructing 3D U-NeXt architecture, nBEST can well handle structural NHP brain MR images from multi-species, multi-site, and multi-developmental-stage (from neonates to the elderly). We extensively validated nBEST based on, to our knowledge, the largest assemblage dataset in NHP brain studies, encompassing 1,469 scans with 11 species (e.g., rhesus macaques, cynomolgus macaques, chimpanzees, marmosets, squirrel monkeys, etc.) from 23 independent datasets. Compared to alternative tools, nBEST outperforms in precision, applicability, robustness, comprehensiveness, and generalizability, greatly benefiting downstream longitudinal, cross-sectional, and cross-species quantitative analyses. We have made nBEST an open-source toolbox (https://github.com/TaoZhong11/nBEST) and we are committed to its continual refinement through lifelong learning with incoming data to greatly contribute to the research field. • We proposed nBEST, a deep-learning toolbox for processing MR images of non-human primate brains. • nBEST leverages lifelong learning and 3D U-NeXt models, performing brain extraction, non-cerebrum removal, and tissue segmentation. • Validated with 1,400+ scans from 11 species, nBEST shows extensive applicabilit. • nBEST is available online with a user manual. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In catalytic technology, the capability of nanocatalysts to generate reactive species (ROS) and the rapid contact between ROS and target pollutants are critical for the catalytic reaction. Herein, we proposed an effective strategy to construct multi-functional MoS 2 /rGO piezocatalysts based on bacteria-catalyst topological interactions and electron pump effects, which possessed high carrier separation ability and adhesion to bacteria, ensuring the effective utilization of ROS. Attributed to the unique 3D heterogeneous structure and interface electronic structure, MoS 2 /rGO could completely inactivate 6.21 log 10 cfu mL−1 of E. coli K-12 within 30 min under ultrasonic conditions, significantly faster than pure MoS 2. It was demonstrated experimentally and theoretically that the introduction of rGO led to the generation of a large amount of ROS by enhancing the piezoelectric properties and conductivity of MoS 2 /rGO, while the topological interactions between MoS 2 /rGO and bacteria facilitated effective bacteria capture, improving the utilization of ROS. Additionally, Kelvin Probe Force Microscopy texting confirmed that rGO acts as an electron pump, effectively attracting electrons from bacterial cells, which disrupted bacterial metabolic processes, increased oxidative stress, and further enhanced the bactericidal effect. The mechanisms of topological interactions and electron pump effects elucidated in this work offer new insights into the design and understanding of efficient bactericidal materials in water purification applications. [Display omitted] • MoS 2 /rGO was successfully synthesized for efficient piezocatalytic water disinfection. • Complete inactivation of 6.21 log 10 cfu mL−1 E. coli K-12 was achieved within 30 min. • The heterostructure achieved rough surface and enhanced adhesion toward bacteria. • MoS 2 /rGO extracted electrons from E.coli K-12 to further promote cell inactivation. • A comprehensive inactivation pathway was proposed and verified. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• R-MnO2 electrodes were used in capacitive system to inactivate microbes successfully. • Bacterial membrane permeability and intracellular ROS levels increase significantly after 5 min capacitance treatment. • Capacitive system was applied as pretreatment for ozonation to reduce O3 dosage and DBPs. • The performance of capacitance-O3 process is proved better than the sum of two individual process efficiencies. • A clean and efficient sequential process was rationally designed for water disinfection. The application of ozone (O 3) disinfection has been hindered by its low solubility in water and the formation of disinfection by-products (DBPs). In this study, capacitive disinfection is applied as a pre-treatment for O 3 oxidation, in which manganese dioxide with a rambutan-like hollow spherical structure is used as the electrode to increase the charge density on the electrode surface. When a voltage is applied, the negative-charged microbes are attracted to the electrodes and killed by electrical interactions. The contact between microbes and capacitive electrodes leads to changes in cell permeability and burst of reactive oxygen species, thereby promoting the diffusion of O 3 into the cells. After O 3 penetrates the cell membrane, it can directly attack the cytoplasmic constituents, accelerating fatal and irreversible damage to pathogens. As a result, the performance of the capacitance-O 3 process is proved better than the direct sum of the two individual process efficiencies. The design of capacitance-O 3 system is beneficial to reduce the ozone dosage and DBPs with a broader inactivation spectrum, which is conducive to the application of ozone in primary water disinfection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Circulating histones negatively correlate with monocyte levels in septic patients. • Histones induce apoptosis and defective bacterial phagocytosis in macrophages. • Low Mg2+ levels are linked to low monocyte levels in septic patients. • Mg2+ attenuates histone-induced macrophage damage by regulating the calcium signal. • Mg2+ may be a promising treatment for septic patients with raised circulating histones. Extracellular histones have been determined as important mediators of sepsis, which induce excessive inflammatory responses in macrophages and impair innate immunity. Magnesium (Mg2+), one of the essential nutrients of the human body, contributes to the proper regulation of immune function. However, no reports indicate whether extracellular histones affect survival and bacterial phagocytosis in macrophages and whether Mg2+ is protective against histone-induced macrophage damage. Our clinical data revealed a negative correlation between circulating histone and monocyte levels in septic patients, and in vitro experiments confirmed that histones induced mitochondria-associated apoptosis and defective bacterial phagocytosis in macrophages. Interestingly, our clinical data also indicated an association between lower serum Mg2+ levels and reduced monocyte levels in septic patients. Moreover, in vitro experiments demonstrated that Mg2+ attenuated histone-induced apoptosis and defective bacterial phagocytosis in macrophages through the PLC/IP3R/STIM-mediated calcium signaling pathway. Importantly, further animal experiments proved that Mg2+ significantly improved survival and attenuated histone-mediated lung injury and macrophage damage in histone-stimulated mice. Additionally, in a cecal ligation and puncture (CLP) + histone-induced injury mouse model, Mg2+ inhibited histone-mediated apoptosis and defective phagocytosis in macrophages and further reduced bacterial load. Overall, these results suggest that Mg2+ supplementation may be a promising treatment for extracellular histone-mediated macrophage damage in sepsis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Prostaglandin (PG) signaling regulates a wide variety of physiological and pathological processes, including body temperature, cardiovascular homeostasis, reproduction, and inflammation. Recent studies have revealed that PGs play pivotal roles in embryo development, ciliogenesis, and organ formation. Prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) and its receptor EP4 modulate ciliogenesis by increasing the anterograde intraflagellar transport. Many G‐protein‐coupled receptors (GPCRs) including EP4 are localized in cilia for modulating cAMP signaling under various conditions. During development, PGE2 signaling regulates embryogenesis, hepatocyte differentiation, hematopoiesis, and kidney formation. Prostaglandins are also essential for skeletal muscle repair. This review outlines recent advances in understanding the functions and mechanisms of prostaglandin signaling in ciliogenesis, embryo development, and organ formation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Intraneuronal neurofibrillary tangles composed of Tau aggregates have been widely accepted as an important pathological hallmark of Alzheimer's disease. Liquid-liquid phase separation (LLPS) of Tau can lead to its aggregation, and Tau aggregation can then be enhanced by zinc. However, it is unclear whether zinc modulates the formation of Tau stress granules in cells. We herein report that zinc promotes the formation of stress granules containing a pathological mutant ΔK280 of full-length human Tau. Furthermore, zinc promotes LLPS of ΔK280 of full-length Tau, shifting the equilibrium phase boundary to a lower protein concentration, and modulates the liquid nature of droplets formed by this pathological mutation. Zinc also promotes pathological phosphorylation of ΔK280 in neuronal cells, and aggravates mitochondrial damage and elevates reactive oxygen species production induced by Tau aggregation. Importantly, we show that treatment of cells with zinc increases the interaction between full-length Tau and G3BP1 inside stress granules to promote the formation of Tau filaments and increase Tau toxicity in neuronal cells. Collectively, these results demonstrate how Tau condensation and mitochondrial damages induced by Tau aggregation are enhanced by zinc to deteriorate the pathogenesis of Alzheimer's disease, bridging the gap between Tau LLPS and aggregation in neuronal cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ba 0.5 Sr 0.5 Co 0.8 Fe 0.2 O 3-δ (BSCF) is an excellent mixed ion/electron conducting cathode among solid oxide fuel cells; however, its electrochemical activity is limited by the sluggish oxygen surface exchange. The application range of the BSCF cathode can be widened by preparing BSCF in the form of an ultrafine powder; however, retaining the microstructure of the powder in the cathode is challenging owing to the sintering of cathodes at high temperatures. In this study, we report a combined modification and direct assembly approach for the fabrication of an ultrafine, multi-phase BSCF-based cathode. This novel BSCF cathode powder is first modified by immersing the pre-synthesised micron-sized BSCF perovskite powder in a weakly acidic chelating solution. The modification treatment changes the composition of the powder and results in the formation of an ultrafine microstructure. The ultrafine microstructure of the powder is further retained in the cathode by direct assembly without high-temperature sintering. The peak power density of the ultrafine, multi-phase BSCF cell is 1.25 W cm−2 at 750 °C, much higher than the 0.83 W cm−2 of the pristine BSCF cell. This study provides insights into the facile fabrication and application of ultrafine cathodes for efficient solid oxide fuel cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rational catalyst structure design is expected to solve the low O 3 utilization and poor molecular mass transfer efficiency in heterogeneous catalytic ozonation (HCO). Herein, Pt/CMK-3 catalyst with confined space to enhance mass transfer was synthesized and employed for CH 3 SH removal. Unlike fully free diffusion in 0–2.0 wt% Pt/CMK-3 and bulk phase diffusion in 10.0 wt% Pt/CMK-3, removal efficiency of 5.0 wt% Pt/CMK-3 was significantly improved to 97.0%, which was attributed to the effective interfacial diffusion of O 3 and CH 3 SH through local microenvironment modulation of Pt0/Pt2+ nanoclusters (NCs) inducing synchronous mass transfer. Experimental and DFT calculations confirmed the strong electronic interactions between O 3 and Pt0 facilitated charge redistribution and preferential O 3 activation. AIMD simulation demonstrated that the synchronous difference in mean-square displacements (MSD) and diffusion coefficient (Dc) of CH 3 SH (Dc=0.022) and O 3 (Dc=0.0046) in the confined Pt/CMK-3 system could facilitate CH 3 SH migrate to Pt2+ through interfacial diffusion. Especially, the d-orbital electrons of Pt NCs interact sequentially with p-orbital electrons of CH 3 SH and O 3 to maintain redox of Pt0/Pt2+. This study provides novel insights on effective mass transfer and kinetic properties of gaseous reaction between oxidant and pollutant by constructing unique interfacial diffusion behaviors. [Display omitted] • Local microenvironment modulation of Pt/CMK-3 promotes diffusion of molecules. • Synchronous mass transfer occurs at the interface of Pt NCs and CMK-3 nanotubes. • The regulation of Pt0/Pt2+ active sites enhanced O 3 activation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recently, the ternary direct current triboelectric nanogenerators (T-DC-TENGs), especially those working in rotation mode, have received much attentions due to their high DC output and superior durability. However, the frequency dependence of T-DC-TENG was largely ignored, which greatly hinders the miniaturization of the device. Because the electron-donating capacity of positive tribo-layer is unequal to the electron-gaining capacity of negative tribo-layer, the number of residual charges on the intermediate triboelectric layer due to not instant dissipation depends on the rotation frequency of T-DC-TENGs. At higher frequency, the more undissipated residual charges will exemplify their effect on the triboelectrification process and limit the output of T-DC-TENGs. Herein, we disclose these residual charges first and then their frequency dependent effect on triboelectrification in T-DC-TENGs. In this study, a charge collecting electrode (CCE) is introduced to construct an electrostatic breakdown T-DC-TENG (EBT-DC-TENG) with greatly reduced frequency dependence. By efficiently reducing the residual charges, the charge density output of EBT-DC-TENG is increased by 51.75% at 90 rpm (from 145.7 to 221.1 μC m−2 r−1) compared with T-DC-TENG without CCE. Furthermore, with the help of its soft property, the less residual charges accumulated polyester fur enables EBT-DC-TENG to maintain 100% output without wear after 10,000 cycles. This EBT-DC-TENG with a better crest factor of 1.028 can continuously power 1200 LEDs in series connection, showing unique advantages in harvesting environmental energy steadily and efficiently. This work also provides a theoretical and practical path for the miniaturization of the rotating mode T-DC-TENG. Charge collection electrode (CCE) converts residual charges that are harmful to the output into useful outputs, significantly alleviating the frequency dependence in T-DC-TENG. [Display omitted] • Residual charges cause frequency dependent output in ternary direct current TENGs. • The charge collecting electrode converts the residual charges into useful outputs. • The developed device maintains a high and stable output with long durability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The efficient separation and utilization of intrinsic carriers in photocatalyst, as well as the adsorption and elimination of target pollutants, are two critical challenges in the development of photocatalytic oxidation technology. Herein, the different crystal facet of Cu (111), Cu (100), Cu (111 +100) were engineered and coupled with Poly (heptazine imide) (PHI) as an emerging photocatalyst for CH 3 SH elimination under simulated solar light (SSL). Cu (111)/PHI exhibited 87.8% elimination efficiency after 30 min of illumination, significantly higher than that of pure PHI (60.4%), Cu (100)/PHI (71.5%), and Cu (111 +100)/PHI (70.4%). Besides, the photocatalytic performance was maintained at 83.3% after a prolonged reaction time of up to 450 min, indicating that Cu (111)/PHI has good stability and reusability. A comprehensive characterizations study confirmed that Cu (111) exhibited the enhanced surface electron pump effect compared to Cu (100) and Cu (111 +100), facilitating the accelerated extraction and transfer of photogenerated charge carriers. Density functional theory (DFT) calculations revealed that Cu (111) surface active sites can effectively adsorb H 2 O, O 2 , and CH 3 SH due to unsaturated pairing of d-orbital electrons, thus prompting the activation of H 2 O, O 2 into reactive oxygen species (•OH/•O 2 −/1O 2) for the eliminating of adjacent CH 3 SH. This study presents a new facet engineering approach for the rational design of highly efficient photocatalysts for the elimination of S-VOCs. [Display omitted] • Novel Cu (111)/PHI catalysts has efficiently photocatalytic elimination of CH 3 SH. • Cu (111) NCs with enhanced electron pump effect accelerates the transfer of photogenerated electrons. • Cu (111)/PHI has good adsorption and activation capacity for H 2 O and O 2. • Unsaturated electron filling of the antibonding energy levels enhances the catalytic activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To explore lightweight degradable materials that are more suitable for fracturing ball, Mg-8Li-4Gd- x Ni (x = 0, 0.5, 1, 1.5 wt%) alloys for fracturing ball in petroleum extraction were prepared by vacuum induction melting. The features and formation of long-period stacking ordered (LPSO) doped with gadolinium (Gd) and nickel (Ni) were characterized. And the relationship between the degradation rate of alloys and the structure of LPSO in duplex Mg-Li alloys is investigated. The results show that network 24 R LPSO phase and punctate GdNi 3 phase are formed with the addition of Gd and Ni. With the increase of Ni content, the shape of LPSO changes from intermittent network to continuous network and turns into an intermittent network again. The Mg-8Li-4Gd-1.5Ni alloy shows a significant increment in weight loss rate compared with the Mg-8Li-4Gd alloy by 75 times. Atomic force microscope (AFM) results show that the addition of Ni increases the potential difference between the second phase and the β-Li phase from 220 mV to 504 mV. It is difficult for forming LPSO due to higher fault energy when the atomic ratio of Gd to Ni is lower than 4:3, which promotes the LPSO to intermittent network. LPSO and GdNi 3 provide higher potentials as cathodes in corrosion, forming a loose and porous corrosion product layer in the alloy. With the increase of Ni content, micro-galvanic corrosion effect is increased which results in a significantly higher corrosion rate of the alloy. [Display omitted] • Analyze the feasibility of Mg-Li alloys as fracturing ball materials. • Duplex Mg-Li alloys and LPSO/GdNi 3 form a large potential difference. • Ni content adjust the potential difference and the shape of LPSO. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Gem -difluorinated cyclopropanes have become an important type of allyl surrogate in transition-metal-catalyzed ring-opening processes, as demonstrated recently through various important advances, especially with palladium catalysis. The versatile fluorinated allyl species generated in this way from gem -difluorinated cyclopropanes exhibit unique advantages compared with conventional allyl sources. By using gem -difluorinated cyclopropanes as allyl surrogates, we achieved a direct allylation of simple arenes through rhodium catalysis under mild conditions. This transformation permits directing-group-free allylation of simple arenes, including electron-neutral, electron-rich, and electron-deficient ones. Here, we give a brief introduction to this area and we discuss our thoughts regarding our recent work and its design. 1 Introduction 2 Our Design 3 Condition Optimization and Substrate Scope 4 Applications in Synthesis 5 Mechanistic Discussions 6 Conclusion and Outlook [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Herein, we report a rhodium catalyzed directing‐group free regioselective C−H allylation of simple arenes. Readily available gem‐difluorinated cyclopropanes can be employed as highly reactive allyl surrogates via a sequence of C−C and C−F bond activation, providing allyl arene derivatives in good yields with high regioselectivity under mild conditions. The robust methodology enables facile late‐stage functionalization of complex bioactive molecules. The high efficiency of this reaction is also demonstrated by the high turnover number (TON, up to 1700) of the rhodium catalyst on gram‐scale experiments. Preliminary success on kinetic resolution of this transformation is achieved, providing a promising access to enantio‐enriched gem‐difluorinated cyclopropanes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Herein, we report a rhodium catalyzed directing‐group free regioselective C−H allylation of simple arenes. Readily available gem‐difluorinated cyclopropanes can be employed as highly reactive allyl surrogates via a sequence of C−C and C−F bond activation, providing allyl arene derivatives in good yields with high regioselectivity under mild conditions. The robust methodology enables facile late‐stage functionalization of complex bioactive molecules. The high efficiency of this reaction is also demonstrated by the high turnover number (TON, up to 1700) of the rhodium catalyst on gram‐scale experiments. Preliminary success on kinetic resolution of this transformation is achieved, providing a promising access to enantio‐enriched gem‐difluorinated cyclopropanes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Herein, we report a rhodium catalyzed directing‐group free regioselective C−H allylation of simple arenes. Readily available gem‐difluorinated cyclopropanes can be employed as highly reactive allyl surrogates via a sequence of C−C and C−F bond activation, providing allyl arene derivatives in good yields with high regioselectivity under mild conditions. The robust methodology enables facile late‐stage functionalization of complex bioactive molecules. The high efficiency of this reaction is also demonstrated by the high turnover number (TON, up to 1700) of the rhodium catalyst on gram‐scale experiments. Preliminary success on kinetic resolution of this transformation is achieved, providing a promising access to enantio‐enriched gem‐difluorinated cyclopropanes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• FD can greatly keep the physical coloration and phytochemical profiles of BOPs. • MD-BOPs featured the highest levels of bioavailability and volatile compounds. • HPD and especially MD are more suitable to produce dried BOPs in industrial scale. This study evaluated the effects of freeze drying (FD), heat pump drying (HPD), microwave drying (MD), and far-infrared drying (FID) on the quality of brocade orange peels (BOPs). Although the most attractive appearance, maximum levels of ascorbic acid (0.46 mg/g dry weight (DW)), carotenoids (total 16.34 μg/g DW), synephrine (15.58 mg/g DW), limonoids (total 4.60 mg/g DW), phenols (total 9142.80 μg/g DW), and antioxidant activity were observed in FD-BOPs, many aroma components in FD-BOPs were in the minimum levels. HPD-, and MD-BOPs depicted similar trends to FD-BOPs, but they contained the highest concentrations of limonene and β-myrcene. Phenols and ascorbic acid in MD-BOPs generally featured the highest levels of bioavailability, being to 15.99% and 63.94%, respectively. In comparison, FID was not beneficial for the preservation of bioactive compounds and volatile. Therefore, considering time and energy costs, HPD and particularly MD are more appropriate for the commercial production of dried BOPs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To obtain high strength and excellent deformability for ferrite/bainite dual-phase (F/B DP) pipeline steel for gas pipelines based on strain-based design, the volume fractions of ferrite and bainite should be considered first. In this work, abstract representative volume elements (RVE) of finite element models (FEMs) of mesostructure for F/B DP pipeline steel with volume fractions of bainite between 30% and 58% were established, and the effects of volume fraction of bainite on the tensile properties and deformation compatibility were studied. Results show that the stress and strain in the mesostructure were primarily distributed in the bainite and ferrite, respectively, and strain concentration occurs at the ferrite/bainite interface. With increasing volume fractions of bainite, the strain localization factor (SLF) and strain ratio of ferrite with bainite ( ε F / ε B ) decrease, which can improve the deformation compatibility of the F/B DP pipeline steel. However, the stress ratio of bainite with ferrite ( σ B / σ F ) and the contributions of bainite to stress and strain sequentially increase, and, as a result, the strength increases and the ductility decreases. Therefore, a balance of strength and deformability can be obtained when the optimal volume fraction of bainite is in the range of 40% to 48%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Continuous scanning leaky‐wave antenna (LWA) based on second‐mode spoof surface plasmon polaritons (SSPPs) excitation has been proposed and validated in this article. Different from the existing modulation methods, connecting axisymmetric rectangular modulation is adopted to excite the −first harmonic. In this way, the slow‐wave bound on the surface of the transmission line is converted into a radiation wave in space. To the authors' knowledge, this is the first presentation of LWA design utilizing second‐mode SSPPs excitation. In the range from 5.0 to 9.0 GHz, the proposed LWA realizes continuous scanning from −54° ~ 11° with a quasi‐omnidirectional beam in the vertical plane. A prototype of the proposed antenna is fabricated and measured, and the measured results show good agreement with the simulated. The proposed LWA has potential applications in communication systems and radars. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The rapid separation and transport of photogenerated carriers are pivotal toward enhancing the photocatalytic performance. Herein, CdS nanoparticles are grown in situ on oxygen deficiency-rich WO3−x nanosheets, successfully providing a direct Z-scheme CdS/WO3−x heterojunction to enhance photocatalytic hydrogen production. We demonstrate an effective electron collection in the Z-scheme CdS/WO3−x heterojunction by regulating the relative content of WO3−x. The optimized CdS/20 wt% WO3−x (CW20) affords a high photocatalytic hydrogen production rate of 6545.3 μmol g−1 h−1 in lactic acid aqueous solution under visible light (400–800 nm), which is about 54.1 times that of pure CdS (121.0 μmol g−1 h−1). In addition, CW20 also provides a considerable external quantum efficiency (EQE) of 10.03% at λ = 420 nm. The best-performing CW20 sample is explored by cyclic stability experiment and XRD characterization after hydrogen production, which reveals the robust stability of CW20. The excellent photocatalytic activity can be attributed to the formation of a Z-scheme CdS/WO3−x heterojunction, resulting in an efficient spatial separation of photogenerated carriers. Electron and hole catalytic centers are maintained in two separate components to minimize the adverse products of photocatalytic hydrogen production. This study uncovers the role of oxygen deficiency based on the Z-scheme heterojunction in affecting electron transfer and reaction sites, opening new opportunities for achieving efficient hydrogen production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The preparation and the structural characterization of two La(III)-based coordination polymers was described in this study, in which {[La(H2O)(BTCTB)]·2H2O}n (1, H3BTCTB = 3,3′,3′′-[1,3,5‐benzenetriyltris(carbonyl amino)] three benzoic acid) and [(La2(TATAB)2)·4DMF·4H2O]n (2, H3TATAB = 4,4,4″s-triazine-1,3,5-triethyl-m-aminobenzoic acid) were prepared by means of two flexible tricarboxylic acid ligands with different joints and functional backbones. Moreover, a sonochemical synthesis way has been carried out to produce the nanostructures of complexes 1 and 2. In addition, their anticancer activity was evaluated on nasopharyngeal carcinoma cells. Firstly, Cell Counting Kit-8 test kit was used to test the cancer cells proliferation after treated with nano 1 or 2. Then, the Annexin V-FITC/PI test was performed and the percentage of the apoptotic cancer cells was determined after nano 1 and 2 treatment. Next, the ROS accumulation after nano 1 and 2 treatment was detected by DCFH-DA detection kit. Finally, the expression level of FHIT in nasopharyngeal carcinoma cells treated with nano 1 and 2 was evaluated via western blot. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Duck egg quality improvement is an essential target for Asian poultry breeding. In total, 15 RNA-Seq libraries (magnum, isthmus, and uterus at two different physiological states) were sequenced from 48 weeks old Pekin ducks. De novo assembly and annotation methods were utilized to generate new reference transcripts. Our results revealed that 1264 and 2517 genes were differentially expressed in magnum and uterus in the presence versus absence of an egg, respectively. We identified 1089 genes that were differentially expressed in isthmus compared to uterus (in both presence and absence of a calcifying egg). We observed that 11 common DEGs were detected in the egg white proteomes of 6 different bird species including domestic Chicken, Duck, Goose, Turkey, Quail, and Pigeon. On the other hand, only one of the top five most highly expressed genes in duck isthmus was in this category for the chicken isthmus (SPINK7). Among the large number of DEGs during eggshell formation in ducks, only 41 genes showed a similar differential expression pattern in both duck and chicken. By combining chicken QTL database, chicken oviduct transcriptome and egg proteome data for five bird species, we have obtained high-quality gene lists for egg formation. This is the first study to elucidate the transcriptomic changes in different duck oviduct segments during egg formation, and to integrate QTL, proteome and transcriptome data to probe the functional genes associated with albumen secretion and eggshell mineralization. • De novo assembly yielded 97,264 unigenes • We observed species-specific/common egg white related genes of 6 bird species • SPINK7 is potentially a new gene that is involved in some initial phase of biomineralization in avian eggshell formation • There are significant differences in eggshell phenotypes between chicken and duck eggs [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A novel leaky-wave antenna (LWA) utilizing spoof surface plasmon polaritons (SSPPs) excitation is proposed with continuous scanning range from endfire to forward. The designed transmission line unit supports two SSPPS modes, of which the 2nd order mode is applied in the design. A novel strategy has been devised to excite the spatial radiation of the –1st order harmonics by arranging periodic counter changed sinusoidal structures on both sides of the SSPPs transmission line. Both full-wave simulation and measurement results show that the proposed LWA presents wide scanning angle from endfire to forward. In the frequency range from 4 GHz to 10 GHz, LWAs achieve scanning from 90° to +20°, covering the entire backward quadrant continuously. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The D-meson leading-twist distribution amplitude (DA) is an universal physical quantity for applying QCD light-cone sum rules or perturbative QCD method to exclusive processes involving D-meson. Although several models have been used in the literature, we do not have enough knowledge to determine it. Inversely, one expects that the D-meson DA can be constrained in principle by the processes containing D-meson. In this paper, we try to extract the information of D-meson DA's behavior from the experimental data of B → D semi-leptonic decay. A revised light-cone harmonic oscillator model has been suggested. It can mimic most of the suggested D-meson DA behaviors, whose parameters can be fixed by the constraints from the processes involving D-meson. By combining the D-meson decay channel D → μ ν ̄ , the semi-leptonic decay B → D l ν ̄ l and the constrain that the probability of finding the leading Fock-state | c ̄ q > in the D-meson Fock state expansion, we restrict the parameter BD in our DA model as BD ∈ [0.00, 0.23]. In order to improve the complexity of the evolution of the oscillator model, we give the fitting formulas for the evolution of the model parameters. Then we calculate the branching ratios B ( B ¯ 0 → D + l ν l) and B (B − → D 0 l ν ̄ l) , which agree with the experimental data. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The excessive use of antibiotics has resulted in the contamination of the environment with antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs), posing a significant threat to public health. Wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) are known to be reservoirs of ARGs and considered to be hotspots for horizontal gene transfer (HGT) between bacterial communities. However, most studies focused on the distribution and dissemination of ARGs in hospital and urban WWTPs, and little is known about their fate in industrial WWTPs. In this study, collected the 15 wastewater samples containing N,N-dimethylformamide (DMF) from five stages of the anaerobic anoxic aerobic (AAO) process in an industrial WWTPs. The findings revealed a stepwise decrease in DMF and chemical oxygen demand (COD) content with the progression of treatment. However, the number and abundances of ARGs increase in the effluents of biological treatments. Furthermore, the residues of DMF and the treatment process altered the structure of the bacterial community. The correlation analysis indicated that the shift in bacterial community structures might be the main driver for the dynamics change of ARGs. Interestingly, observed that the AAO process may acted as a microbial source and increased the total abundance of ARGs instead of attenuating it. Additionally, found that non-pathogenic bacteria had higher ARGs abundance than pathogenic bacteria in effluents. The study provides insights into the microbial community structure and the mechanisms that drive the variation in ARGs abundance in industrial WWTPs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: There are 1.8 million lung cancer deaths worldwide, accounting for 18% of global cancer deaths, including 710,000 in China, accounting for 23.8% of all cancer deaths in China. OBJECTIVE: To explore the out-of-set association rules of lung cancer symptoms and drugs through text mining of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) treatment of lung cancer, and form medical case analysis to analyze the experience of TCM syndrome differentiation in its treatment. METHODS: The medical records of all patients diagnosed with lung cancer in Nanjing Chest Hospital from January to December 2018 were collected, and the out-of-set association analysis was performed using the MedCase v5.2 TCM clinical scientific research auxiliary platform based on the frequent pattern growth enhanced association analysis algorithm. RESULTS: In terms of TCM treatment of lung cancer, the clinical symptoms with high correlation included cough, expectoration, chest distress, and white phlegm; and the drugs with high correlation included Pinellia ternata, licorice root, white Atractylodes rhizome, and Radix Ophiopogonis; with the prescriptions based on Erchen and Maimendong decoctions. CONCLUSION: This analytical study of the medical cases of TCM treatment for lung cancer was performed using data mining techniques, and the out-of-set association rules between clinical symptoms and drugs were analyzed, including the understanding of lung cancer in TCM. Moreover, the essence of experience in drug use was gathered, providing significant scientific guidance for the clinical treatment of lung cancer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Phosphatase and the tensin homologue deleted on chromosome ten (PTEN) has pleiotropic effects on cell growth, organ development, glucose metabolism and insulin resistance in mammals. In the present study, we investigated the molecular characteristics, phylogeny and expression profile of the PTEN gene in different tissues of Jianzhou Daer goats. In this study, eight different tissues from E90, E135 and D90 female goats were collected to quantify the expression pattern of the PTEN gene using quantitative real-time PCR (qPCR), western blotting and FISH. In addition, the dynamic expression of PTEN was also determined during the differentiation of goat precursor adipose cells. A 1212-bp fragment (accession number MG923848), encoding a 403-amino acid protein with a putative molecular weight of 47.14 kDa, was identified in Jianzhou Daer goats by reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). The phylogenetic tree showed that caprine PTEN had a relatively close relationship with ovine PTEN and bovine PTEN. qPCR revealed that PTEN was highly expressed in the liver, lung and spleen, while the lowest expression levels were observed in muscle tissues (P < 0.05). Moreover, the expression of the PTEN gene showed a decreasing trend during the differentiation of goat precursor adipose cells. RNA in situ hybridization yielded a consistent result with the qPCR data. Indeed, low protein expression was found in psoas major muscle and longissimus dorsi muscle, as well as in kidney and liver. However, PTEN protein was expressed at the highest level in the brain. The expression levels of PTEN mRNA and protein were inconsistent with each other, possibly because of post-transcriptional regulation. The findings obtained in our study lay a foundation for further investigations examining the caprine PTEN gene in embryo and organ development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Accurately segmenting organs‐at‐risk (OARs) is a key step in the effective planning of radiation therapy for nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) treatment. In OAR segmentation of the head and neck computed tomography (CT), the low‐contrast and surrounding adhesion tissues of the parotids, thyroids, and optic nerves result in the difficulty in segmentation and lower accuracy of automatic segmentation for these organs than the other organs. In this paper, we propose a cascaded network structure to delineate these three OARs for NPC radiotherapy by combining deep learning and Boosting algorithm. Materials and methods: The CT images of 140 NPC patients treated with radiotherapy were collected, and each of the three OAR annotations was respectively delineated by an experienced rater and reviewed by a professional radiologist (with 10 yr of experience). The datasets (140 patients) were divided into a training set (100 patients), a validation set (20 patients), and a test set (20 patients). From the Boosting method for combining multiple classifiers, three cascaded CNNs for segmentation were combined. The first network was trained with the traditional approach. The second one was trained on patterns (pixels) filtered by the first net. That is, the second machine recognized a mix of patterns (pixels), 50% of which was accurately identified by the first net. Finally, the third net was trained on the new patterns (pixels) screened jointly by the first and second networks. During the test, the outputs of the three nets were considered to obtain the final output. Dice similarity coefficient (DSC), 95th percentile of the Hausdorff distance (95% HD), and volume overlap error (VOE) were used to assess the method performance. Results: The mean DSC (%) values were above 92.26 for the parotids, above 92.29 for the thyroids, and above 89.37 for the optic nerves. The mean 95% HDs (mm) were approximately 3.08 for the parotids, 2.64 for the thyroids, and 2.03 for the optic nerves. The mean VOE (%) values were approximately 14.16 for the parotids, 14.94 for the thyroids, and 19.07 for the optic nerves. Conclusions: The proposed cascaded deep learning structure could achieve high performance compared with existing single‐network or other segmentation algorithms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Inorg Nano-Metal Chem. 2021; 51: 1477-1483 3 Zheng XY, Yang P. Crystal structures and anti-gastric cancer activities of two Cd(II)-based coordination polymers constructed from different donor ligands. Two Yb(III)-containing coordination polymers: structural insights and synergy effect with seventy-flavor pearl pills on cerebral ischemia by regulating monoamine neurotransmitters. [Extracted from the article]

Geopolymer concrete (GPC) is attracting increasing attention due to its potential to replace ordinary Portland cement (OPC) concrete to reduce the carbon dioxide emissions from cement production. Although extensive research has been conducted in this area since the 1970s, its applications in engineering practice are still very limited. This paper briefly reviews the recent developments of GPC and its properties at ambient and elevated temperatures. It was found that GPC generally exhibits comparative properties to OPC concrete at ambient temperature. In contrast, GPC often has better fire performance and superior durability. Therefore, GPC could be advantageously used to improve the fire performance and durability of buildings and infrastructure. While a lot of aluminosilicate raw materials (such as fly ash) are low cost, the prohibitive costs of laboratory grade activators (such as sodium hydroxide and sodium silicate) greatly limit the widespread application of GPC. Therefore, there is a need to develop low-cost geopolymer concrete. Meanwhile, a few other challenges should also be overcome, such as difficulties to achieve consistent properties and to control efflorescence of GPC. Further research is required at both material and structural levels to address these issues. Particularly, there is a need to develop relevant building codes to promote the use of GPC in practice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A fuzzy neural network model based on the shortest path parallel algorithm (FNNMSPPA) is proposed. With this model, the shortest path parallel programming on the basis of 0–1 coding can be realized. Moreover, in the method proposed in this paper, the individual passive fuzzy neural network is transformed into a model construction. At this time, the interaction between the system and the surrounding environment is carried out by using the fuzzy neural network. Therefore, it has better adaptability to the neural network environment. It can detect the changes in the environment in time, and can effectively track the shortest path using pole values in the space. And in this paper, the performance of this algorithm is verified by dynamic simulation experiment. The results of the study show that the algorithm designed in this paper can still guarantee the realization of stable model construction for the environment with more severe environmental changes, that is, the robustness of the algorithm is strong. And compared with the same method, this method has stronger dynamic search ability, and the extreme point tracking ability is also superior. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract To optimize fitness, plants must efficiently allocate their resources between growth and defense. Although phytohormone crosstalk has emerged as a major player in balancing growth and defense, the genetic basis by which plants manage this balance remains elusive. We previously identified a quantitative disease-resistance locus, qRfg2 , in maize (Zea mays) that protects against the fungal disease Gibberella stalk rot. Here, through map-based cloning, we demonstrate that the causal gene at qRfg 2 is ZmAuxRP1 , which encodes a plastid stroma-localized auxin-regulated protein. ZmAuxRP1 responded quickly to pathogen challenge with a rapid yet transient reduction in expression that led to arrested root growth but enhanced resistance to Gibberella stalk rot and Fusarium ear rot. ZmAuxRP1 was shown to promote the biosynthesis of indole-3-acetic acid (IAA), while suppressing the formation of benzoxazinoid defense compounds. ZmAuxRP1 presumably acts as a resource regulator modulating indole-3-glycerol phosphate and/or indole flux at the branch point between the IAA and benzoxazinoid biosynthetic pathways. The concerted interplay between IAA and benzoxazinoids can regulate the growth–defense balance in a timely and efficient manner to optimize plant fitness. Expression of the maize auxin-regulated gene ZmAuxRP1 rapidly and transiently decreases in response to pathogen challenge, leading to retarded root growth and enhanced disease resistance. ZmAuxRP1 promotes the biosynthesis of indole-3-acetic acid (IAA) while it suppresses the formation of benzoxazinoid defense compounds. The concerted interplay between IAA and benzoxazinoids can regulate the growth–defense balance to optimize plant fitness. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary of main observation and conclusion: The catalytic asymmetric [3+2] cycloaddition of α‐ketoesters with 2‐nitrovinylindoles and 2‐nitrovinyl‐ pyrroles has been established. This strategy allowed the construction of structurally diverse pyrrolo[1,2‐a]indoles bearing three contiguous stereocenters in generally high yields and good to excellent stereoselectivities (up to 98% yield, > 98 : 2 dr, 99% ee). The efficient synthesis of tetracyclic psychotropic compound analogue via the derivatization of cycloadduct showed the great synthetic potential of this strategy. Nickel(II)‐catalyzed asymmetric [3+2] cycloaddition of α‐ketoesters with 2‐nitrovinylindoles was established, affording pyrrolo[1,2‐a]indoles bearing three stereocenters in high yields and stereoselectivities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Argument remains as to whether birds have lost genes compared with mammals and non-avian vertebrates during speciation. High quality-reference gene sets are necessary for precisely evaluating gene gain and loss. It is essential to explore new reference transcripts from large-scale de novo assembled transcriptomes to recover the potential hidden genes in avian genomes. Results: We explored 196 high quality transcriptomic datasets from five bird species to reconstruct transcripts for the purpose of discovering potential hidden genes in the avian genomes. We constructed a relatively complete and high-quality bird transcript database (1,623,045 transcripts after quality control in five birds) from a large amount of avian transcriptomic data, and found most of the presumed missing genes (83.2%) could be recovered in at least one bird species. Most of these genes have been identified for the first time in birds. Our results demonstrate that 67.94% genes have GC content over 50%, while 2.91% genes are AT-rich (AT% > 60%). In our results, 239 (53.59%) genes had a tissue-specific expression index of more than 0.9 in chicken. The missing genes also have lower Ka/Ks values than average (genome-wide: Ka/Ks = 0.99; missing gene: Ka/Ks = 0.90; t-test = 1.25E-14). Among all presumed missing genes, there were 135 for which we did not find any meaningful orthologues in any of the 5 species studied. Conclusion: Insufficient reference genome quality is the major reason for wrongly inferring missing genes in birds. Those presumably missing genes often have a very strong tissue-specific expression pattern. We show multi-tissue transcriptomic data from various species are necessary for inferring gene family evolution for species with only draft reference genomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Graphical abstract Highlights • Triple-layered HAp/Al 2 O 3 /TiO 2 coatings were synthesized via RF magnetron sputtering method. • Biocompatibility and corrosion resistance features of HAp coatings were studied. • XRD, SEM, XPS, and EIS methods were employed for the characterizations of HAp coatings. • Biocompatibility and corrosion performances before and after immersion in simulated body fluid (SBF) solution were analysed. • Deconvolution of XPS spectra provide us with surface chemical bonding states of triple-layered HAp/Al 2 O 3 /TiO 2 coatings. Abstract Triple-layered RF magnetron sputtered HAp/Al 2 O 3 /TiO 2 coatings synthesized onto Ti-6Al-4V alloys were studied to improve the surface biocompatibility and corrosion resistance features. It was seen that the HAp layers played a substantial role in the biocompatibility, while the intermediate Al 2 O 3 /TiO 2 layers were used to enhance the corrosion behavior of the substrate. XRD results showed an enhanced crystallinity along with the (2 1 1) HAp phase after the simulated body fluid (SBF) immersion experiment. Local electronic and chemical bonding states of atomic phosphorus and calcium phosphate groups in the coatings, before and after immersion process, were confirmed via XPS studies. The electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) evaluated the corrosion, which indicated a reduction in capacitance values and a significant improvement of the corrosion resistance of such coatings; with improved bio-medical properties of Ti alloys. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The influence of the reaction gas composition during the DC magnetron sputtering process on the structural, chemical and optical properties of Ce-oxide thin films was investigated. X-ray diffraction (XRD) studies confirmed that all thin films exhibited a polycrystalline character with cubic fluorite structure for cerium dioxide. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) analyses revealed that cerium is present in two oxidation states, namely as CeO 2 and Ce 2 O 3 , at the surface of the films prepared at oxygen/argon flow ratios between 0% and 7%, whereas the films are completely oxidized into CeO 2 as the aforementioned ratio increases beyond 14%. Various optical parameters for the thin films (including an optical band gap in the range of 2.25–3.1 eV) were derived from the UV–Vis reflectance. A significant change in the band gap was observed as oxygen/argon flow ratio was raised from 7% to 14% and this finding is consistent with the high-resolution XPS analysis of Ce 3d that reports a mixture of Ce 2 O 3 and CeO 2 in the films. Density functional theory (DFT+U) implemented in the Cambridge Serial Total Energy Package (CASTEP) was carried out to simulate the optical constants of CeO 2 clusters at ground state. The computed electronic density of states (DOSs) of the optimized unit cell of CeO 2 yields a band gap that agrees well with the experimentally measured optical band gap. The simulated and measured absorption coefficient ( α ) exhibited a similar trend and, to some extent, have similar values in the wavelength range from 100 to 2500 nm. The combined results of this study demonstrate good correlation between the theoretical and experimental findings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]