Search

As the non-imaging light of optical instruments, stray light has an important impact on normal imaging and data quantification applications. The FY-3D Medium Resolution Spectral Imager (MERSI) operates in a sun-synchronous orbit, with a scanning field of view of 110° and a surface imaging width of more than 2300 km, which can complete two coverage observations of global targets per day with high detection efficiency. According to the characteristics of the operating orbit and large-angle scanning imaging of MERSI, a stray light radiation model of the polar-orbiting spectrometer is constructed, and the design requirements of stray light suppression are proposed. Using the point source transmittance (PST) as the merit function of the stray light analysis method, the instrument was simulated with all stray light suppression optical paths, and the effectiveness of stray light elimination measures was verified using the stray light test. In this paper, the full-link method of "orbital stray light radiation model-system, internal and external simulation design-system analysis and actual test comparison verification" is proposed, and there is a maximum decrease in the system's PST by about 10 times after applying the stray light suppression's optimization design, which can provide a general method for stray light suppression designs for polar-orbit spectral imagers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ultrahigh-dimensional grouped data are frequently encountered by biostatisticians working on multi-class categorical problems. To rapidly screen out the null predictors, this paper proposes a quantile-composited feature screening procedure. The new method first transforms the continuous predictor to a Bernoulli variable, by thresholding the predictor at a certain quantile. Consequently, the independence between the response and each predictor is easy to judge, by employing the Pearson chi-square statistic. The newly proposed method has the following salient features: (1) it is robust against high-dimensional heterogeneous data; (2) it is model-free, without specifying any regression structure between the covariate and outcome variable; (3) it enjoys a low computational cost, with the computational complexity controlled at the sample size level. Under some mild conditions, the new method was shown to achieve the sure screening property without imposing any moment condition on the predictors. Numerical studies and real data analyses further confirmed the effectiveness of the new screening procedure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Owing to the complexity of chemical ingredients in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), it is difficult to maintain quality and efficacy by relying only on chemical markers. Lianhua Qingwen capsule (LHQW) was selected as an example to discuss the feasibility of a bioassay for quality control. Network pharmacology was used to screen potential targets in LHQW with respect to its anti-inflammatory effects. An in vitro cell model was used to validate the prediction. An anti-inflammatory bioassay was established for the quality evaluation of LHQW in 40 batches of marketed products and three batches of destructed samples. The tumor necrosis factor/interleukin-6 (TNF/IL-6) pathway via macrophage was selected as the potential target of LHQW. The IC50 value of LHQW on RAW 264.7 was 799.8 μg/mL. LHQW had significant inhibitory effects on the expression of IL-6 in a dose-dependent manner (p < 0.05). The anti-inflammatory biopotency of LHQW was calculated based on the inhibitory bioactivity on IL-6. The biopotency of 40 marketed samples ranged from 404 U/μg to 2171 U/μg, with a coefficient of variation (CV) of 37.91%. By contrast, the contents of forsythin indicated lower CV (28.05%) than the value of biopotency. Moreover, the biopotencies of destructed samples declined approximate 50%, while the contents of forsythin did not change. This newly established bioassay revealed a better ability to discriminate the quality variations of LHQW as compared to the routine chemical determination. A well-established bioassay may have promising ability to reveal the variance in quality of TCM. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Oligocellulose (OC) with low polydispersity indices has been produced in large quantities using an improved method of acid-assisted hydrolysis, in which long cellulose chains disintegrate in concentrated phosphoric acid at moderately elevated temperatures. The hydrolysis time has been reduced by three orders of magnitude without compromising the overall yield of the process or the quality of OC products. The efficient production of high-quality OCs in large quantities allows for developing OC-derived elastomeric materials. A series of OC- graft -poly(isobornyl methacrylate- random - n -butyl acrylate) [OC- g -P(IBOMA- r -BA)] elastomers have been synthesized via activators regenerated by electron transfer for atom transfer radical polymerization (ARGET ATRP). OC- g -P(IBOMA- r -BA) elastomers have tunable molecular architectures and phase morphologies toward desirable mechanical properties and thermal stability suitable for various applications. The methodologies of the OC production and the graft -polymers synthesis in this study would help advance technologies for broader applications of bio-based elastomers. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Psoralen and isopsoralen are the major components responsible for Psoraleae Fructus-induced hepatotoxicity. This study explored the role of metabolic activation by cytochrome P450 (CYP) enzymes in psoralen- and isopsoralen-induced cytotoxicity and its potential mechanisms. Inhibitors of CYP1A2, 2C9, 2C19, 2D6, 2E1, and 3A4 were used to screen specific CYP enzymes responsible for the metabolic activation of psoralen and isopsoralen in mouse primary hepatocytes, which was verified using the corresponding transfected cell lines. Network toxicology and transcriptome analyses were performed to explore the mechanisms underlying toxicity. Psoralen and isopsoralen decreased the viability of mouse primary hepatocytes, whereas the inhibition of CYP2C9, 2C19, 2D6, and 2E1 significantly increased their viability. Psoralen-induced cytotoxicity was significantly enhanced by the overexpression of CYP2C19 in Chinese hamster ovary cells, whereas the overexpression of the above CYP enzymes did not affect the cytotoxicity of isopsoralen. Psoralen- and isopsoralen-induced cytotoxic effects were associated with putative core targets (i.e., Fn1, Thbs1, and Tlr2) and multiple signaling pathways (e.g., PI3K-Akt, MAPK, and TNF pathways). Our results demonstrate that the metabolic activation of psoralen and isopsoralen is mediated by CYP enzymes, thereby regulating multiple core targets and signaling pathways and resulting in cytotoxicity. [Display omitted] • Psoralen and isopsoralen metabolized by CYPs exhibit clear cytotoxicity. • CYP2C19 is the primary CYP enzyme involved in the metabolic activation of psoralen. • Specific CYPs that mediated cytotoxicity of isopsoralen further need more studies. • Psoralen and isopsoralen metabolized by CYPs may act on targets (Fn1, Thbs1, etc.). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hot deformation behavior of Al-0.2Sc-0.04Zr (wt.%) aluminum alloy was investigated via conducting hot compression tests at temperatures of 440-600 °C and at strain rates, ranging from 0.001 to 5 s−1, at an interval of an order of magnitude. The characteristics of the true stress-strains acquired in the hot compression tests were investigated, and the influence of processing parameters on the microstructure of the deformed samples was observed by using optical microscope and electron back-scattered diffraction (EBSD). Two types of processing maps for Al-0.2Sc-0.04Zr alloy were developed using the Kumar-Prasad (K-P) and Murty-Rao (M-R) instability/stability criteria, respectively. The prediction results of two types of processing maps were examined. Based on the analysis of the M-R processing map and EBSD, a deformation mechanism map covering a wide range of temperature and strain rate was developed. The result shows that the flow stress had a rapid increase to the maximum stress, and subsequently, the flow stress decreases continually to be of steady-state type when the deformation continues on. The M-R criterion can more accurately predict the unstable region than the K-P criterion. The optimum temperature T and strain rate ε˙ combination conditions for Al-0.2Sc-0.04Zr alloy are T = 520-560 °C, ε˙ = 10−3 s−1 or ε˙ = 0.1-5 s−1. The microstructure evolution dominated by the predominant or complete dynamic recrystallization can be acquired by deformation at the combination conditions. However, it is dominated mainly by dynamic recovery at lower temperatures (T < 520 °C) and by dynamic recrystallization at higher temperatures (T > 520 °C). In addition, the microstructure of specimen deformed at 600 °C shows a growing and coarse trend. Moreover, the nano-dimension precipitate particles of Al3(Sc,Zr) are uniformly distributed throughout Al matrix. The efficiency parameter η value of Al-0.2Sc-0.04Zr alloy in processing maps is smaller in comparison with that in pure aluminum, and it could be attributed to these nano-dimension particles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The microstructure, deformation mechanisms, dynamic recrystallization (DRX) behavior, and texture evolution of AZ80 magnesium alloy were investigated by three-pass cyclic expansion-extrusion (CEE) tests. Optical microscopy (OM), electron back-scattered diffraction (EBSD), and X-ray diffraction (XRD) were employed to study microstructure, grain orientation, DRX mechanism, and texture evolution. The results show that the grain sizes decrease continuously with the increase of CEE pass. The grain refinement effect of the first pass is the most remarkable, and there appear a large number of twins. After three-pass CEE, a well-distributed structure with fine equiaxed grains is obtained. With the increase of CEE pass, the deformation mechanism changes from twinning to slipping and the DRX mechanism changes mainly from twinning-induced dynamic recrystallization (TDRX) to rotation dynamic recrystallization (RDRX) and then to continuous dynamic recrystallization (CDRX). The grain misorientation between the new grains and matrix grains deceases gradually, and a relatively small angle misorientation is obtained after three-pass CEE. Grain misorientations of the first two passes are attributed to TDRX and RDRX behaviors, respectively. The grain refinement changes the deformation and DRX mechanisms of CEE process, which leads the (0002) basal texture intensity first decrease and then increase suddenly. Eventually, the extremely strong basal texture is formed after three-pass CEE. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Nutrition and coagulation play important roles in cancer progression. This study was aimed to investigate the value of the albumin/fibrinogen ratio (AFR) in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients, through a propensity score matching (PSM) method. Methods We retrospectively analyzed 529 NSCLC patients underwent surgical resection from 2010 to 2015. PSM was used to eliminate possible biases. A Cox proportional hazards regression model was performed to evaluate the prognostic value of AFR in NSCLC. Results The optimal value was 9.67 for the AFR by ROC (receiver operating characteristic) curve. The AFR was statistically significantly associated with age, sex, smoking history, histological subtype, tumor size, pathological stage and adjuvant therapy ( p  < 0.05). Multivariate analysis indicated that the pathological stage and pre-resection AFR were independent prognostic factors for patients with NSCLC. Additionally, elevated AFR indicated a better outcome, and patients with higher AFR had lower risk for overall death (OS) (HR 0.512, 95% CI 0.316–0.829, p  = 0.006) as well as disease-free death (DFS) (HR 0.561, 95% CI 0.399–0.787, p =  0.001). The propensity score model identified 120 patients from each group that were balanced for age, sex, smoking history, histological subtype, tumor size, stage distribution and adjuvant therapy. In multivariable regression analysis of PSM groups, the result indicated that the AFR was predictive for OS (HR 0.392, 95% CI 0.225–0.683, p  < 0.001) and DFS (HR 0.526, 95% CI 0.344–0.805, p  = 0.003). Conclusions Pre-resection AFR can be considered as an independent prognostic factor in NSCLC patients, and higher AFR may enhance OS and DFS of NSCLC patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The lymphocyte-monocyte ratio (LMR) is a systemic inflammatory marker for prediction of disease development, progress, and survival. Recently, a genome-wide association study identified genetic variations in ITGA4 and HLA-DRB1 that affect the LMR levels and were widely believed to be susceptibility genes for autoimmune diseases, including rheumatoid arthritis (RA). However, the role of LMR in RA patients remains unclear. The LMR level and other laboratory data of 66 RA patients, 163 osteoarthritis (OA) patients, and 131 healthy controls (HC) were compared using binary logistic regression. The correlations between LMR and disease activity and other inflammatory markers were measured using the Spearman rank test. ROC curve analyses assessed the diagnostic accuracy of LMR in RA. The LMR and lymphocyte count were significantly lower in RA patients, whereas the monocyte count was significantly higher relative to the HC group/OA patients ( p < 0.01). A decreased LMR has been associated with increased disease activity ( p = 0.012). In addition, the DAS28 and traditional inflammatory markers, including ESR, CRP, RDW, PLR, and NLR, and immune-related factors, such as C4, IgA, and IgM, were inversely correlated with LMR, while hemoglobin and albumin were positively correlated with LMR. The ROC curve showed that the area under the curve of LMR was 0.705 (95%CI = 0.630-0.781). The corresponding specificity and sensitivity were 82.82 and 45.45%, respectively. The present study shows that the LMR is an important inflammatory marker which could be used to identify disease activity in RA patients and to distinguish RA from OA patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, the shape memory effect of novel iron-alloyed Cu–Al-Ga shape memory single crystals were reported for the first time. The microstructure, crystal structure, martensitic transformation and shape memory effect of Cu–10Al-6Ga (master alloy), Cu–10Al-6Ga-3Fe, Cu–12Al-4Ga-3Fe and Cu–14Al-4Ga-3Fe (wt.%) were investigated. All studied alloys consist of dominant martensite and fine bcc nanoparticles with richer Fe content and poorer Cu content except master alloy. The martensitic transformation start temperatures are 241.3 °C, 251.3 °C and 71.9 °C for Cu–10Al-6Ga-3Fe, Cu–12Al-4Ga-3Fe and for Cu–14Al-4Ga-3Fe alloys, respectively. For master alloy, the martensitic transformation disappears resulted from the precipitation of a large amount of α-Cu during heating. In addition, the shape memory effects clearly increase as a result of increase of the pre-strains. The Cu–14Al-4Ga-3Fe single crystal obtains a maximum shape memory effect of 6.8% with 100% strain recovery when 10% pre-strain is applied. • Iron-alloyed Cu–Al-Ga shape memory alloys were reported for the first time. • Bulk single crystals over cm-scale were prepared through only one-step annealing cast alloys. • The Cu–14Al-4Ga-3Fe single crystal possesses maximum shape memory effect of 6.8% with a 100% strain recovery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, a novel Ni-alloyed Cu-Al-Ga-Fe single crystal alloys were reported for the first time. The microstructure, martensitic transformation, shape memory effect, and superelasticity of Cu-12.5Al-4Ga-3Fe- x Ni (x = 2, 3, 5) and Cu-13.5Al-4Ga-3Fe- x Ni (x = 3, 4, 5) were investigated. The results show that Cu-12.5Al-4Ga-3Fe- x Ni (x = 2, 3, 5) single crystals consist of the parent phase, 18 R martensite, and β(FeAl) nano-precipitates. As the increase in Al content, Cu-13.5Al-4Ga-3Fe- x Ni (x = 3, 4, 5) single crystals consist of the parent phase, γ 1 (Cu 9 Al 4) phase, and β(FeAl) nano-precipitates. The martensitic transition finishing temperatures (M f) of 12.5Al alloys are all higher than room temperature, while the reversible martensitic transition finishing temperatures (A f) of 13.5Al alloys are all lower than room temperature. Cu-12.5Al-4Ga-3Fe-3Ni single crystal shows the highest SME of 7.6 % with 100% strain recovery. Similarly, the Cu-13.5Al-4Ga-3Fe-3Ni single crystal demonstrated the highest superelasticity of 11 %. Additionally, the Cu-13.5Al-4Ga-3Fe-3Ni single crystal maintained 100 % strain recovery even after 4500 cycles of compression deformation at 6 %, although the critical stress of stress-induced martensite decreased with each cycle. These findings suggest that the Cu-Al-Ga-based shape memory single crystal alloys obtained in this study have promising applications in driving response devices. • Centimeter-scale novel Ni-alloyed Cu-Al-Ga-Fe bamboo structure alloys with excellent combination properties of shape memory effect and superelasticity were reported for the first time. • The Cu-12.5Al-4Ga-3Fe-3Ni single crystal shows the highest shape memory effect of 7.6 % with 100 % strain recovery when the deformation is below 11 %. • The Cu-13.5Al-4Ga-3Fe-3Ni single crystal demonstrates the highest superelasticity of 11 %, and maintains 100 % strain recovery even after 4500 cycles of compression deformation at 6 %. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Enteric fungi diversity was markedly altered in IIR injury. • Fungal colonization or mannan could alleviate IIR injury by decreasing GSDMD-mediated pyroptosis of IECs. • The protective role of fungi in IIR injury depends on macrophage involvement. • Single-fungal strains and mannan both alleviate GSDMD cleavage induced by reducing SAA1 expression of macrophages. Prophylactic antifungal therapy has been widely used for critical patients, but it has failed to improve patient prognosis and has become a hot topic. This may be related to disruption of fungal homeostasis, but the mechanism of fungi action is not clear. As a common pathway in critical patients, intestinal ischemia–reperfusion (IIR) injury is fatal and regulated by gut microbiota. However, the exact role of enteric fungi in IIR injury remains unclear. This is a clinical study that aims to provide new perspectives in clarifying the underlying mechanism of IIR injury and propose potential strategies that could be relevant for the prevention and treatment of IIR injury in the near future. ITS sequencing was performed to detect the changes in fungi before and after IIR injury. The composition of enteric fungi was altered by pretreatment with single-fungal strains, fluconazole and mannan, respectively. Intestinal morphology and function impairment were evaluated in the IIR injury mouse model. Intestinal epithelial MODE-K cells and macrophage RAW264.7 cells were cultured for in vitro tests. Fecal fungi diversity revealed the obvious alteration in IIR patients and mice, accompanied by intestinal epithelial barrier dysfunction. Fungal colonization and mannan supplementation could reverse intestinal morphology and function impairment that were exacerbated by fluconazole via inhibiting the expression of SAA1 from macrophages and decreasing pyroptosis of intestinal epithelial cells. Clodronate liposomes were used to deplete the number of macrophages, and it was demonstrated that the protective effect of mannan was dependent on macrophage involvement. This finding firstly validates that enteric fungi play a crucial role in IIR injury. Preventive antifungal treatment should consider damaging fungal balance. This study provides a novel clue to clarify the role of enteric fungi in maintaining intestinal homeostasis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Strategies to prolong operational life are highly pursued to strengthen the advantage of cost-effectiveness on sodium-ion batteries (SIBs). We demonstrate the crucial influence of particles – internal mechanical strains on durability of cathode, which does not attract enough attentions from the community. Among the investigated samples, 2% Ti-modified-Na0.67Ni0.1Co0.1Mn0.8O2 suppresses the c-axis lattice variation by 38%, attains the reversible capacity 86% higher after 200 cycles, and still keeps intact morphology. This approach indicates that the mechanical properties could tailor cyclic stability of cathode, which is particular important to further improve competitiveness for SIBs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Overgrinding of Portland cement brings excessive shrinkage and poor self-healing ability to concrete. In this paper, through the ultrasonic test and optical micrograph observation, the self-healing properties of concrete prepared by cement with different particle size distributions were studied. Besides, the effect of carbonation and continued hydration on self-healing of concrete was analyzed. Results show that, for the Portland cement containing more particles with the size 30~60 μm, the concrete could achieve a better self-healing ability of concrete at 28 days. For the two methods to characterize the self-healing properties of concrete, the ultrasonic test is more accurate in characterizing the self-healing of internal crack than optical micrograph observation. The autogenous self-healing of concrete is jointly affected by the continued hydration and carbonation. At 7 days and 30 days, the autogenous self-healing of concrete is mainly controlled by the continued hydration and carbonation, respectively. The cement particle size could affect the continued hydration by affecting un-hydrated cement content and the carbonation by affecting the Ca(OH)2 content. Therefore, a proper distribution of cement particle size, which brings a suitable amount of Ca(OH)2 and un-hydrated cement, could improve the self-healing ability of concrete. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Dual-beam laser is used to solve Ti/Cu interface layer structure is difficult to be controlled by a single continuous laser. • Pulse laser is added to solve raised heat input by single continuous laser increases the thickness of Ti/Cu interface layer. • Precise control of the heat input of dual-beam laser and the use of Cu-Si wire together avoid the formation of Ti-Fe IMCs. Continuous-pulse coaxial dual-beam laser technology was used to join titanium alloy TC4 and steel Q235 successfully. The formation of Ti-Fe IMCs was inhibited by adding Cu-Si wire and using dual-beam laser heat sources to precisely control the heat input. A Ti / Cu interface layer composed of Ti 2 Cu, TiCu and AlCu 2 Ti was formed between the weld and TC4 substrate. All joints fractured at the Ti / Cu interface layer. The mechanical properties of the joints were optimized by controlling laser offset (D O) and dual-beam laser power. The effects of different power combinations of continuous and pulse laser on the properties of the joints were studied. Compared to the combination of high continuous laser power (P C) and low pulse laser power (P P), the joint strength was found to be higher with the combination of low P C and high P P. The continuous laser mainly acts on the melting of the base metal and increasing the penetration depth. The pulse laser mainly acts on the stirring molten pool and promoting the flow of the molten pool. By using the combination of high P P and low P C , it is possible to prevent the combination of Ti and Fe due to less melting of the base metal, resulting in a joint with a lower thickness and a higher width of the Ti / Cu interface layer. The joint exhibits excellent mechanical properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • CC-P25/BC@PP exhibited strong adsorption-photocatalysis synergy. • CC-P25/BC@PP showed remarkable stability against acid/alkali soak and ultrasound. • CC-P25/BC possessed large effective loading limit on PP ball surface. • All the advantages benefited from strong chemical bond via click chemistry reaction. Floating photocatalytic materials provide an effective way for the practical application of photocatalytic technology. In this study, a highly efficient and stable polypropylene photocatalytic floating ball (CC-P25/BC@PP) was designed and synthesized via firstly coupling Degussa P25 with biochar (BC) through click chemical reaction, followed by loading the composites on PP hollow ball with help of titanate coupling agent. Statistical analysis found that, compared to the PP ball decorated with simple P25/BC mixture (denoted as Mix-P25/BC@PP), click chemistry connection not only significantly increased the effective loading limit of P25/BC composites on PP ball, but also enhanced the adsorption-photocatalysis synergy between TiO 2 and biochar. As a result, the degradation rate constant of ciprofloxacin (CIP) was nearly doubled. Moreover, due to the strengthened connection between P25/BC composite with PP ball, stability of CC-P25/BC@PP was improved significantly, and the shedding rate of active ingredients from PP ball during cycling experiment, acid/alkali soak and ultrasonic oscillation were suppressed 3.80–6.71 times compared to Mix-P25/BC@PP. Therefore, the highly efficient and stable PP photocatalytic floating ball based on click chemistry reaction showed strong practical application potentials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With the dramatically increased environmental problems, the rational design of sustainable polymers from renewable feedstocks opens new avenues to reduce the huge pollution impact. The major challenge for sustainable polymers is the decreased mechanical performance compared to that of petroleum-based materials. In this work, fully biobased sustainable elastomers were developed by integrating renewable chitin, lignin, and plant oil into one macromolecule, in which chitin was chosen as the rigid backbone, while a lignin-derived monomer vanillin acrylate (VA) and a plant oil-based monomer lauryl acrylate (LA) were selected as the hard and soft segments for the grafted side chains. A series of Chitin- graft -poly(vanillin acrylate- co -lauryl acrylate) (Chitin- g -P(VA- co -LA)) copolymers with varied feed ratios and chitin contents were synthesized by using reversible addition-fragmentation chain transfer (RAFT) polymerization as an effective grafting strategy. In addition, a dynamic cross-linked network was incorporated via Schiff-base reaction to improve the macroscopic behavior of such kind of chitin graft elastomers. These sustainable elastomers are mechanically strong and show excellent reprocessablity, as well as outstanding UV-blocking property. This strategy is versatile and can inspire the further development of fully biobased sustainable materials from natural resources. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work, sustainable cellulose- g -poly(lauryl acrylate- co -acrylamide) [Cell- g -P(LA- co -AM)] bottlebrush copolymer elastomers derived from cellulose and plant oil were synthesized by reversible addition-fragmentation chain transfer (RAFT) polymerization. Differential scanning calorimeter (DSC) results indicate that these thermally stable Cell- g -P(LA- co -AM) bottlebrush copolymer elastomers show adjustable melting temperatures. Monotonic and cyclic tensile tests suggest that the mechanical properties, including tensile strength, extensibility, Young's modulus, and elasticity, can be conveniently controlled by changing the LA/AM feed ratio and cellulose content. In such kind of bottlebrush copolymer elastomers, the rigid cellulose backbones act as cross-linking points to provide tensile strength. The incorporated PAM segments can form additional network structure via hydrogen bonding, resulting in enhanced tensile strength but decreased extensibility when more PAM segments are introduced. This versatile strategy can promote the development of sustainable cellulose-based bottlebrush copolymer elastomers from renewable resources. • Sustainable cellulose-based bottlebrush copolymer elastomers were synthesized through RAFT polymerization. • These thermally stable bottlebrush copolymer elastomers show tunable mechanical properties. • The macroscopic mechanical performance depends on the LA/AM feed ratio and cellulose content. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Epidermal growth factor receptor variant III (EGFRvIII) is prominently expressed in various epithelial tumors. PD0721, a single-chain antibody (scFv), has been developed to specifically target EGFRvIII. Although doxorubicin (DOX) is an essential treatment approach for glioblastoma (GBM), its toxic effects and limited targeting capabilities are a challenge. To overcome the above limitations, antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs) have been developed to exploit the specificity of monoclonal antibodies in directing potent cytotoxic drugs to tumor cells expressing the target antigens. The present study aimed to conjugate DOX with PD0721 scFv to construct a PD0721-DOX ADC targeting EGFRvIII and examine its targeting effect and in vitro anti-GBM activity. PD0721-DOX ADC was generated by combining PD0721 scFv with DOX, using dextran T-10 as a linker. The drug-to-antibody ratio (DAR) was measured by ultraviolet and visible spectrophotometry (UV-Vis). A series of techniques, including cytotoxicity assays, immunofluorescence, cell internalization and flow cytometry assays were employed to evaluate the targeting efficacy and anti-GBM activity of the PD0721-DOX ADC. Following the conjugation of PD0721 scFv with DOX, the UV-Vis results showed a noticeable red shift in the maximum absorbance. The DAR of PD0721 scFv and DOX was 9.23:1. Cytotoxicity assays demonstrated that DK-MG cells treatment with PD0721-DOX ADC at 10 and 20 µg/ml significantly increased cytotoxicity compared with U-87MG ATCC cells (all P<0.01). Confocal microscopy revealed distinct green and red fluorescence in EGFRvIII-expressing DK-MG cells, while no fluorescence was observed in EGFRvIII negative U-87MG ATCC cells. Furthermore, compared with U-87MG ATCC cells, DK-MG cells showed effective internalization of the PD0721-DOX ADC (P<0.001). Finally, flow cytometric analyses indicated that the PD0721-DOX ADC significantly promoted the apoptosis of DK-MG cells compared with U-87MG ATCC cells (P<0.01). In summary, the current study suggested that the PD0721-DOX ADC could exhibit a notable targeting efficacy and potent anti-GBM activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Wuji Wan (WJW) is a traditional Chinese medicine formula that can be found in the "Prescriptions of Taiping Benevolent Dispensary" that has been employed in treating gastric discomfort, burning epigastric pain, and gastric reflux for hundreds of years and has shown promise for treating gastric ulcers (GUs). However, the active components and mechanism of action against GUs remain unclear. The aim of this study was to explore the active components of WJW and elucidate the underlying mechanism involved in treating GUs. Initially, cell viability was measured by a cell counting kit 8 (CCK-8) assay to evaluate the efficacy of WJW-containing serum in vitro. The gastric ulcer index, ulcer inhibition rate, hematoxylin and staining (H&E), and periodic acid-Schiff (PAS) staining were used to evaluate the therapeutic effect of WJW in vivo. Subsequently, the levels of inflammatory factors and oxidative stress factors were determined using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISA) on in vitro and in vivo samples. Additionally, UPLC-Q Exactive Plus Orbitrap HRMS was used to analyze the components that were absorbed into the blood of WJW and its metabolites. Network pharmacology and metabolomics were subsequently used to identify the targets and pathways. Real-time quantitative PCR (RT‒qPCR) and Western blotting were used to verify the mRNA and protein levels of the key targets and pathways. Finally, the active components were identified by molecular docking to verify the binding stability of the components and key targets. WJW-containing serum ameliorated ethanol-induced damage in GES-1 cells and promoted cell healing. WJW-containing serum reduced IL-6, TNF-α, MDA, and LDH levels while increasing IL-10, SOD, and T-AOC levels in the cells. Moreover, WJW treatment resulted in decreased IL-6, TNF-α, and MDA levels and increased IL-10, SOD, PGE 2, and NO levels in GUs rats. In addition, eight components of WJW were absorbed into the blood. The network pharmacology results revealed 192 common targets for blood entry components and GUs, and KEGG analysis revealed that apoptosis signaling pathways were the main pathways involved in WJW activity against GUs. Metabolomic screening was used to identify 13 differential metabolites. There were 23 common targets for blood entry components, GUs, and differential metabolites, with the key targets TNF (TNF-α), AKT1, PTGS2 (COX2) and MAPK1. WJW significantly inhibited the expression of Bax, Caspase-9, Caspase-3, cleaved Caspase-9, cleaved Caspase-3, TNF-α, COX2, and p-p44/42 MAPK while promoting the expression of Bcl-2 and p-AKT1. Molecular docking revealed that the active components of WJW for the treatment of GUs are berberine, palmatine, coptisine, evodiamine, rutaecarpine, evocarpine, and paeoniflorin. WJW treatment reduces inflammation and oxidative stress injury and inhibits apoptosis signaling pathways. The main active components are berberine, palmatine, coptisine, evodiamine, rutaecarpine, evocarpine, and paeoniflorin. In this paper, we provide a new strategy for exploring the active components of traditional Chinese medicine formulas for the treatment of diseases based on target mechanisms. [Display omitted] • WJW treatment GUs potential mechanism is by inhibiting inflammation, oxidative stress injury and apoptosis signaling pathways. • Integrated network pharmacology and metabolomics identified the key targets of WJW in the treatment of GUs, namely TNF, AKT1, PTGS2 and MAPK1. • The active components in WJW for the treatment of GUs are berberine, palmatine, coptisine, evodiamine, rutaecarpine, evocarpine, and paeoniflorin. • This paper provides a new strategy for exploring the active components of traditional Chinese medicine formulas for the treatment of diseases based on target mechanisms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The irregular anatomical shape and complex structures of irregular bones make it more difficult to repair and reconstruct bone defects in irregular bones than in the long bones of the extremities. Three-dimensional (3D) printing technology can help to overcome the technical limitations of irregular bone repair by generating simulations that enable structural integration of the lesion area and bone structure of the donor site in all directions and at multiple angles. Thus, personalized and accurate treatment plans for restoring anatomical structure, muscle attachment points, and maximal function can be made. The present study aimed to investigate the ability of 3D printing technology to assist in the repair and reconstruction of scapular aneurysmal ABC defects.Methods: The study included seven patients with ABCs of the scapula. Based on computed tomography (CT) data for the patient, the scapula (including the defect) and pelvis were reconstructed using Mimics Medical software. The reconstructed scapula model was printed using a 3D printer. Before the operation, the model was used to design the surgical approach and simulate the operation process, to determine the length and radius of the plate and the number and direction of screws, and to determine the bone mass of the ilium and develop reasonable strategies for segmentation and distribution. The operation time, amount of bleeding, length and radius of the plate, and direction and number of screws were recorded.Results: The average duration of follow-up was 25.6 months, and none of the seven patients experienced recurrence during the follow-up period. The surgical approach, the length and radius of internal fixation, and the number and direction of screws were consistent with the designed operation plan. Patients gradually recovered the anatomical structure of the scapula and function of the shoulder joint.Conclusions: In the treatment of bone defects caused by irregular bone tumors, 3D printing technology combined with surgery has the advantages of less trauma, short operation time, less bleeding and reducing the difficulty of operation, which can reduce the waste of bone graft, and more complete reconstruction of the anatomical structure of the defective bone. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The dynamic recrystallization behavior of as-cast 4Cr5MoSiV1 steel was studied by hot compression tests conducted at various temperatures (900–1150 °C) and strain rates (0.01–10 s−1). Flow stress curves and microstructural observation were employed to experimentally identify the various flow mechanisms during deformation. A revised Sellars' constitutive equation was adopted to construct the thermal activation energy map, which considered the effects of deformation temperature and strain rate on the material variables. The Johnson–Mehl–Avrami-Kolmogorov (JMAK) type equation X D = 1 - exp [ - k (ε - ε c ε p) m ] , (ε ≥ ε c) was applied to characterize the evolution of dynamic recrystallization (DRX) volume fraction. The nucleation of DRX was performed by the bulging, sub-grain swallowing. The presence of dendrite segregation would affect the DRX to a large extent that the segregated alloying elements and carbide precipitates inhibited the migration of boundaries. The thermal activation energy varied from 4310 to 470 kJ/mol and the thermal activation energy increased sharply at temperature below 1000 °C due to the dendrite segregation. By further analysis of the true stress–strain curves, the material constant m in JMAK type equation was determined to be 1.29366, indicating the DRX was difficult. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The hot compression experiments are accomplished to investigate the microstructural evolution of as‐cast H13 steel during homogenization treatment and hot deformation. At a certain homogenization temperature, the dynamic recrystallization (DRX) volume fraction increases with increasing strain and deformation temperature and decreasing strain rate. However, the DRX is also easy to proceed at a high strain rate of 5 s−1 due to the high shear stress. The recrystallization is inhibited in a dendrite segregation region. The residual dendrite segregation left after homogenization treatment will improve the recrystallization nucleation rate during the subsequent deformation. The recrystallization grains preferentially nucleate in the dendrite region, and the grain growth is inhibited by the dendrite segregation. The partial homogenization before deformation is beneficial to achieve the fine microstructure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective Reactive oxygen species are believed to be involved in the onset of RA, and the association between nuclear-encoded mitochondrial respiratory chain-related variants and RA has recently been revealed. However, little is known about the landscape of mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) variants in RA. Methods Next-generation sequencing was conducted to profile mtDNA germline and somatic variants in 124 RA patients and 123 age- and sex-matched healthy controls in the Taizhou area, China. Fisher's exact test, SKAT and SKAT-O were used for gene-burden tests to investigate RA-related variants of mitochondrial genes. Predictive tools were applied to evaluate the pathogenicity of mtDNA variants, and mtDNA haplogroups were assigned according to mtDNA mutations recorded in PhyloTree database. The frequency distribution of mtDNA haplogroups between the groups was compared using χ2 analysis. Results We identified 467 RA-unique and 341 healthy control-unique mtDNA variants, with 443 common variants. Only MT-ATP6 with a significant burden of variants was identified by Fisher's exact test, SKAT and SKAT-O, even after Bonferroni adjustment, and the enrichment variants in MT-ATP6 was mainly driven by m.8830C>A, m.8833G>C and m.8843T>A variants. Besides, four frequently low-heteroplasmic variants including the three variants above and m.14135T>G of MT-ND5 were detected in RA only; except for m.8830C>A, they are considered potential pathogenicity based on functional predictions. χ2 analysis before Bonferroni adjustment revealed haplogroup F1/F1a to be negatively associated with RA (P  < 0.05). Conclusion These results profiled the landscape of germline and somatic mtDNA variants in RA and supported the effects of mitochondrial genes on RA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A method for determining Zn content in zincian malachite from a relative location of reflections in an x-ray diffraction (XRD) pattern is reported. Based on the standard samples prepared by a micro-reactor, the (220) reflection of zincian malachite is selected as the reference peak to calculate the relative location of other reflections within the 2θ-range from 10° to 35°. After establishing the relationship between the Zn content and the relative location, the shifts of these reflections are considered comprehensively to determine the Zn content by multi-peak fitting. The new method takes full advantage of the XRD pattern, avoiding the interference of adjacent reflections in single-peak fitting, eliminating the systematic deviation among different instruments that causes the overall shift of the pattern. Comparing with the Rietveld refinement, the method is more convenient for ordinary user. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The components of the transforming growth factor β (TGF-β) signaling pathway in parasitic nematodes remain unknown. In this research, a type I receptor for TGF-β was isolated from the hookworm Ancylostoma caninum. The new gene was designated as Acdaf-1, a Caenorhabditis elegans daf-1 homolog. The full-length cDNA of Acdaf-1 encodes a 595-amino-acid protein with an NH2-terminal signal peptide. This protein has a cytoplasm tail (209-595aa region) which corresponds to the type 1a membrane topology. Between amino acid position 295-500, the protein contains the ATP binding site, substrate binding sites, and PKC-kinase-like domain. Real-time RT-PCR showed that the transcript was expressed in three main stages of A. caninum. It reached the maximal level in the female adult worm stage with lower transcript level in the first and second larvae (L1/L2) and intermediate level in L3 stages as well as in the male worms. After serum activation, the activity of Acdaf-1 was decreased in L3 larvae. These data implied that Acdaf-1 might relate to the infection ability of the larvae. Immunolocalization revealed that AcDAF-1 was present in eggs, intestine, and epidermis cells of larvae (L1, L2, and L3 stages) with strong signal in primordium of the gonads in L3 and was abundant in epidermis, intestine, and ovary of adult worm. These results suggested that Acdaf-1 might be involved in the interaction of the parasite and host relationship and provide a potential target for parasite control. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Graphical abstract The water layer brings about more uniform Cu-Zn distribution in co-precipitates, resulting in high catalytic performance. Highlights • Co-precipitation carried out in a three-channel microreactor brought about high activity Cu-ZnO catalyst. • Complementary features of Cu2+ and Zn2+ in reaction and diffusion made the precipitate uniform. • The uniform Cu-Zn distribution in precipitates persistently acts on the evolution of catalyst microstructures. • The intensified Cu-Zn interaction resulted in high catalytic performance. Abstract A tri-inlet micro-channel reactor was used to obtain initial precipitates with uniform Cu-Zn distribution by introducing the water layer to regulate the co-precipitation process based on the inverse relation between intrinsic reaction rates and diffusion rates of Cu2+ and Zn2+, and the catalysts with high activities were obtained. High-resolution transmission electron microscope and energy dispersive spectrometer, X-ray diffraction, thermal gravimetric analysis, hydrogen temperature-programmed reduction, and N 2 O reactive frontal chromatography method were employed to analyze the evolving microstructures of the catalysts. The synthesis of methanol from syngas was utilized to measure the performance of the obtained catalysts. The results showed, as the ratio of water layer increased, better uniformity of Cu-Zn distribution in co-precipitates was achieved, thus incorporating more Zn into precursors and diminishing the ratio of aurichalcite, resulting in more intimate contact, better dispersion and stronger interaction between CuO and ZnO. All results denote clearly that the effect from the original co-precipitation impacts eventually on the Cu-Zn interfaces of catalysts and changes the catalytic performance significantly. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Toll-like receptor (TLR) 10, mainly expressed on B cells, has emerged as a modulatory receptor in inflammation. Nonetheless, the clinical significance of TLR10 in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) remains unclear. In this study, we explored the expression of TLR10 in B cells and B cell subsets in RA subjects and healthy controls (HCs) and determined its relevance to disease activity and inflammatory biomarkers. TLR10 levels in B cells and B cell subsets (CD19+CD27+, CD19+CD27−, CD27+IgD−, CD27+IgD+, CD27−IgD+, D27−IgD−, CD19+CD5+, and CD19+CD5−) and inflammatory biomarker concentrations in peripheral blood (PB) obtained from RA subjects and HCs were detected by flow cytometry and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), respectively. The correlations of TLR10 expression with disease activity and inflammatory biomarkers were then analysed. Similar levels of TLR10 in all CD19+ B cells were observed in the RA subjects and HCs. Compared to that in the HCs, TLR10 was elevated significantly in the CD19+CD27−IgD− and CD19+CD5+ subsets in the RA subjects. In addition, almost all subsets expressing TLR10 were increased with disease activity. The present study reveals that enhanced TLR10 in B cell subsets is positively correlated with disease activity in RA subjects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Nucleotide binding domain and leucine‐rich repeat pyrin 3 domain (NLRP3) inflammasome is known for activating pro‐inflammatory cytokines in knee osteoarthritis (OA). This study was performed to identify whether NLRP3 inflammasome can be triggered by lipopolysaccharides (LPS) and adenosine triphos adenine (ATP), which are positively related with knee OA severity in joint‐spaces, in human fibroblast‐like synoviocytes (FLS), and to identify whether estrogen would inhibit the activation of NLRP3 inflammasome. Methods: In the present study, human FLS were isolated from the knee OA in patients during arthroplasty, and were treated with LPS and ATP in the presence or absence of estradiol (E2). The messenger RNA (mRNA) and protein levels of NLRP3 components were analyzed by real‐time polymerase chain reaction and western blotting, respectively. Enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) was used to examine interleukin (IL)‐1β and IL‐18 content in the supernatant. Estrogen receptor α inhibitor MPP and β inhibitor PHTPP were used to explore how E2 works. Results: Our results demonstrated that treatment with LPS and ATP increased significantly both in mRNA and protein levels of all the NLRP3 inflammasome components, and triggered the NLRP3 inflammasome, followed by upregulated IL‐1β and IL‐18 in the cell supernatant. E2 appeared to inhibit the activation of NLRP3 inflammasome by diminishing mRNA and protein levels of NLRP3 through estrogen receptor β, and decreased the expression of IL‐1β and IL‐18 as well. Conclusion: These results suggested the increased LPS and ATP in joint‐space may promote knee OA by NLRP3 inflammasome and E2 may exert a protective effect by inhibiting the activation of NLRP3 inflammasome in FLS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Investigations on non-fused-ring acceptors with progressive evolutions. • Counterbalance between high photo-response and low energy loss. • J52:O-PC-EH-based device achieved a best efficiency of 14.43% (certified: 14.1%). Resolving competitive counterbalance between high external quantum efficiency (EQE) response and low energy loss is critical for achieving efficient organic solar cells (OSCs), including those based on low-cost non-fused-ring electron acceptor (NFREA). In this work, we performed a comparable study by utilizing four NFREAs with progressive evolutions in molecular structures, energetic levels, spectral coverages, crystallinity, etc, to pair with polymer donor J52. By regulating the terminal and side chains of NFREAs, the enhanced intramolecular charge transfer (ICT) effect allows O-PC-EH possessing the broader spectral coverage for higher photocurrent, the reduced energetic offset enables O-PC-EH-based device owning higher luminescence property for lower energy loss, the strengthened crystallinity endows O-PC-EH-based blend better charge transport property for less charge recombination. With those comprehensive managements from molecule to blend properties, the J52:O-PC-EH-based OSCs achieved the best efficiency of 14.4% (certified: 14.1%) with benefits in all the three device parameters. This work reveals the importance of fine-tuning molecular structures of NFREAs according to paired polymer donor for maximizing the device performances. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The advanced MEdium Resolution Spectral Imager (MERSI II) is a major instrument onboard the Chinese FengYun 3D satellite, which was launched in November 2017. Extensive measurements were performed during MERSI II prelaunch testing to ensure effective characterization for on-orbit calibration. This paper gives a brief overview of the prelaunch performance testing conducted for MERSI II, as well as its improvements in terms of instrument design compared to MERSI I. The prelaunch calibration methodology and radiometric performance are detailed, including dynamic range, signal-to-noise ratio, noise equivalent differential temperature, linearity, and response uniformity. The assessment results indicate that most bands perform effectively with mirror specification noncompliances in a few reflective solar bands (RSBs). In addition, investigation of the stability and uniformity of the spherical integrating source indicates that they have a critical impact on the performance assessment and prelaunch calibration of RSBs. The temperature-dependence features of thermal emissive bands’ performances are also discussed in terms of their sensitivity to the operating temperature of the focal plane assembly and instrument circumstance. This paper also shows that the self-stability of the calibration source and the representation of the assessment methods are important as they affect the results of instrument performance evaluation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Embryonic stem cell pathways such as hedgehog and Wnt pathways are central to the tumorigenic properties of cancer stem cells (CSC). Since CSCs are characterized by their ability to self-renew, form differentiated progeny, and develop resistance to anticancer therapies, targeting the Wnt and hedgehog signaling pathways has been an important strategy for cancer treatment. Although molecules targeting either Wnt or hedgehog are common, to the best of our knowledge, those targeting both pathways have not been documented. Here we report a small molecule (compound 1 ) that inhibits both Wnt (IC 50  = 0.5 nM) and hedgehog (IC 50  = 71 nM) pathways based on reporter gene assays. We further identified that the molecular target of 1 for Wnt pathway inhibition was porcupine (a member of the membrane-bound O-acyltransferase family of proteins), a post-translational modification node in Wnt signaling; while the target of 1 mitigating hedgehog pathway was Smoothened, a key G protein coupled receptor (GPCR) mediating hedgehog signal transduction. Preliminary analysis of structure-activity-relationship identified key functional elements for hedgehog/Wnt inhibition. In in vivo studies, compound 1 demonstrated good oral exposure and bioavailability while eliciting no overt toxicity in mice. An important consideration in cancer treatment is the potential therapeutic escape through compensatory activation of an interconnected pathway when only one signaling pathway is inhibited. Toward this end, compound 1 may not only lead to the development of new therapeutics for Wnt and hedgehog related cancers, but may also help to develop potential cancer treatment which needs to target Wnt and hedgehog signaling simultaneously. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sustainable diblock copolymers of poly (isobornyl acrylate)- block -poly (methyl acrylate) (PIBOA- b -PMA) were rationally designed and synthesized with terpenoid-derived monomer IBOA as the rigid segment. These PIBOA- b -PMA diblock copolymers show excellent mechanical performance comparable to traditional triblock copolymer elastomers. They can be successfully utilized as strong sustainable adhesives with good adhesion performance and high adhesive strength. Moreover, stretchable liquid-free ionic conductive materials can be successfully fabricated by incorporating lithium bis(trifluoromethane sulfonyl) imide (LiTFSI) into PIBOA- b -PMA diblock copolymers without leakage or evaporation risks. Intriguingly, these ionic conductive materials show decreased tensile strength compared to that of pristine PIBOA- b -PMA diblock copolymer due to the plasticizing effect while still maintaining excellent extensibility. The resultant stretchable ionic conductive materials show accurate and dramatic resistance change in response to intermittent stretching-retraction deformations, finger joint bending/straightening curvatures, and elbow joint bending/straightening movements, demonstrating exceptional performance. This convenient and facile strategy can offer new opportunities for the development of novel bio-based diblock copolymers toward strong adhesives and stretchable ionic conductive materials. [Display omitted] • Sustainable diblock copolymer with excellent mechanical properties were designed via RAFT polymerization. • The diblock copolymer adhesive shows strong adhesive behavior. • Ionic conductive elastomer can be successfully fabricated by incorporating lithium salt into the diblock copolymer. • These self-healable ionic conductive materials exhibit extraordinary sensing performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Wnt signaling pathway is an essential signal transduction pathway which leads to the regulation of cellular processes such as proliferation, differentiation and migration. Aberrant Wnt signaling is known to have an association with multiple cancers. Porcupine is an enzyme that catalyses the addition of palmitoleate to a serine residue in Wnt proteins, a process which is required for the secretion of Wnt proteins. Here we report the synthesis and structure–activity-relationship of the novel porcupine inhibitors based on a ‘reversed’ amide scaffold. The leading compound 53 was as potent as the clinical compound LGK974 in a cell based STF reporter gene assay. Compound 53 potently inhibited the secretion of Wnt3A, therefore was confirmed to be a porcupine inhibitor. Furthermore, compound 53 showed excellent chemical and plasma stabilities. However, the clearance of compound 53 in liver microsomal tests was moderate to high, and the solubility of compound 53 was suboptimal. Collective efforts toward further optimization of this novel tricyclic template to develop better porcupine inhibitors will be subsequently undertaken and reported in due course. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work, a chitin-based macromolecular chain transfer agent (Chitin-CTA) was designed to graft polymers from chitin at the molecular level. Homogeneous reversible addition-fragmentation chain transfer (RAFT) polymerization was performed to prepare branched MA elastomers, chitin- graft -poly(methyl acrylate) (Chitin- g -PMA) copolymers, which were thermally stable and showed tunable glass transition temperatures. These ultra-stretchable branched MA elastomers exhibit unique strain-hardening behavior and significantly enhanced mechanical properties. Mechanical tests indicate that the chitin backbones in branched MA elastomers can act as cross-linking points to improve the tensile strength, toughness, and elasticity simultaneously. The macroscopic performance of branched MA elastomers c be further promoted by introducing hydrogen bonding as non-covalent interaction to form an additional reversible physical network. This robust and versatile grafting strategy can provide new opportunities to prepare chitin-based branched MA elastomers with extraordinary mechanical properties. [Display omitted] • Chitin-based macromolecular chain transfer agent was designed. • Chitin branched elastomers were prepared via RAFT polymerization. • These branched elastomers show significantly enhanced mechanical properties. • Chitin backbones promote the strain-hardening behavior. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • 3D Janus face graphene (JFG) substrate is prepared in large scale by facile process. • Distinct Janus face comes from different aperture size and N-doping on both sides. • Dendrite growth is suppressed when lithiophilic layer is as Li deposition interface. • Li@JFG composite anode achieves efficient Li electro-plating/stripping. • Li@JFG anode has high coulomb efficiency, small polarization and stable cycle. The dendrite growth and irreversibility of lithium (Li) metal anode seriously hinders the wide-scale application of high-energy–density rechargeable batteries. Here, we report a thin Janus-faced graphene substrate, consisting of lithiophilic-lithiophobic faces separately, for Li plating/stripping. The visualized analysis demonstrates that the unique Janus-faced graphene structure provides different lithiophilic sites and pore channels to steer the Li electrodeposition and suppress the dendrite growth. As expected, the Janus-faced graphene anode achieves long-term Li plating/stripping with high Coulombic efficiency, small polarization and stable cycling throughout the symmetry, asymmetry and LiFePO 4 full cells. Such an encouraging strategy for reversible Li plating/stripping provides a promising way to design long-life carbon-base anode materials for Li metal batteries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Keguan-1, a new traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) prescription contained seven Chinese herbs, is developed to treat coronavirus disease 19 (COVID-19). The first internationally registered COVID-19 randomised clinical trial on integrated therapy demonstrated that Keguan-1 significantly reduced the incidence of ARDS and inhibited the severe progression of COVID-19. To investigate the protective mechanism of Keguan-1 on ARDS, a lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced acute lung injury (ALI) model was used to simulate the pathological state of ARDS in patients with COVID-19, focusing on its effect and mechanism on ALI. Mice were challenged with LPS (2 mg/kg) by intratracheal instillation (i.t.) and were orally administered Keguan-1 (low dose, 1.25 g/kg; medium dose, 2.5 g/kg; high dose, 5 g/kg) after 2 h. Bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) and lung tissue were collected 6 h and 24 h after i.t. administration of LPS. The levels of inflammatory factors tumour necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α), interleukin (IL)-6, IL-1β, keratinocyte-derived chemokine (KC or mCXCL1), macrophage inflammatory protein 2 (MIP2 or mCXCL2), angiotensin II (Ang II), and endothelial cell junction-associated proteins were analysed using ELISA or western blotting. Keguan-1 improved the survival rate, respiratory condition, and pathological lung injury; decreased the production of proinflammatory factors (TNF-α, IL-6, IL-1β, KC, and MIP2) in BALF and the number of neutrophils in the lung tissues; and ameliorated inflammatory injury in the lung tissues of the mice with LPS-induced ALI. Keguan-1 also reduced the expression of Ang II and the adhesion molecule ICAM-1; increased tight junction proteins (JAM-1 and claudin-5) and VE-cadherin expression; and alleviated pulmonary vascular endothelial injury in LPS-induced ALI. These results demonstrate that Keguan-1 can improve LPS-induced ALI by reducing inflammation and pulmonary vascular endothelial injury, providing scientific support for the clinical treatment of patients with COVID-19. Moreover, it also provides a theoretical basis and technical support for the scientific use of TCMs in emerging infectious diseases. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Biocompatible stimuli-responsive unimolecular polymeric micelles have attracted much interest due to their unique structures and potential applications in biomedical fields such as drug delivery and tissue engineering. Here, we report the preparation of dendritic unimolecular polymeric micelles with temperature sensitive shells via reversible addition–fragmentation transfer (RAFT) technique. A multi-arm star amphiphilic copolymer (H40-PDEA) with a hydrophobic hyperbranched polyester (Boltorn H40) as the core and the grafted poly(N,N-diethylacrylamide) (PDEA) as the shell was prepared using H40 based macroRAFT agent. And a dendritic unimolecular polymer (H40-PDEA–PDMA) with a double hydrophilic block copolymer (DHBC) [PDEA-b-poly(2-(dimethylamino)ethyl methacrylate) (PDEA-b-PDMA)] as the dual thermoresponsive shells was synthesized by H40-PDEA based macroRAFT agent. Both H40-PDEA and H40-PDEA–PDMA have a reversible phase transition behavior in aqueous solution. In particular, the unimolecular polymeric micelles H40-PDEA–PDMA with double thermoresponsive shells exhibit a two-stage phase transition behavior. Laser light scattering (LLS), UV–vis transmittance, excimer fluorescence measurements, and micro-differential scanning calorimetry (micro-DSC) were used in combination to probe the conformational changes of chains located at the inner layer and outer corona during the phase transition process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]