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Photocatalytic hydrogen evolution reaction is one of the remarkable methods to produce clean and renewable fuel. However, the application of photocatalysts is still restricted because of the high recombination rate of photo-excited carriers and low photocatalytic activity. Herein, one-dimensional shell-core Schottky junction NiO@Cd 0·75 Zn 0·25 S composite nanorods have been synthesized successfully by self-assembly growing on the surface of Cd 0·75 Zn 0·25 S (CZS) nanorods with rich sulfur vacancies. The improved photocatalyst NiO@Cd 0·75 Zn 0·25 S sample (CN-0.15) exhibits a highly efficient photocatalytic hydrogen evolution rate of 745.41 μmol h−1 with 5 mg photocatalyst (corresponding to 149.1 mmol g−1 h−1) and apparent quantum efficiency (AQE) 12.5% at 420 nm, which is 5 times higher than that of pure CZS. Series results of characterizations and density functional theory (DFT) calculation provide a novel strategy for constructing Schottky junction by multi-step interfacial and defect engineering for H 2 evolution. [Display omitted] • A shell-core NiO@Cd 0·75 Zn 0·25 S with rich sulfur vacancies was synthesized. • NiO@Cd 0·75 Zn 0·25 S nanorods boosted hydrogen evolution rate and high AQE. • DFT calculation showed sulfur vacancy promotes photogenerated carrier separation. • Propose construction of schottky junction with metal and n-type semiconductor. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this research, sodium alginate (ALG) microgels were prepared with different ALG concentrations, and physicochemical and emulsifying profiles of these hydrophilic microgels were comparatively analyzed. Results showed that these microgels possessed different size, hardness, and surface charge. All these microgels could stabilize an oil-in-water emulsion through the Mickering mechanisms, and smaller microgels had better emulsifying capacity. The surface hydrophobicity and interfacial tension of the microgels had no exact effects on their emulsifying behaviors. Compared with the harder microgels (prepared with high ALG concentration, e. g. 4 mg/mL), the emulsifying capacities of the softer ones (prepared with low ALG concentration, e.g. 1 mg/mL) were more sensitive to the high salt concentration (200 mM NaCl) but stable under acidic environment (pH 2.0). Our research would afford a new strategy for the manufacture and application of the novel polysaccharide-based emulsifiers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A pressure swing hydrate-membrane coupled separation (PSHMS) process was designed, and process simulation was conducted using a combination of Aspen Plus and Excel. PSHMS achieves continuous, highly efficient, and stable production of qualified gaseous products without thermodynamic promoters of hydrate or circulating working fluids. In hydrogen separation from diesel hydrogenation tail gas, PSHMS exhibits lower energy consumption and higher efficiency compared to hydrate-based separation technologies. Sensitivity analyses of various design parameters within PSHMS were performed through simulation, the results indicate that low temperature, high initial pressure, and high water content are all advantageous for improving separation efficiency. The selection of feed rates needs to be determined comprehensively based on the design parameters. The optimized unit energy consumption of PSHMS is merely 46.41 kJ/mol, significantly lower than the 117.94 kJ/mol of hydrate-based separation technology. • Study of self-designed pressure swing hydrate-membrane coupled method (PSHMS). • The energy consumption of PSHMS is only 40% of that in hydrate-based separation method. • The operational approach of pressure swing separation mitigates hydrate blockage issues in pipelines. • Sensitivity analysis of design parameters in PSHMS was conducted. • Lower temperatures, higher pressures, and increased water content are conducive to effective performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract The antimicrobial nisin peptide was grafted to the 2,3-dialdehyde cellulose through Schiff's base reaction. The obtained peptidopolysaccharide films had the denser microstructure, lower water holding capacity, and increased mechanical properties than the pristine cellulose film. The peptidopolysaccharide films exhibited promising antibacterial activity toward Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, and the ability to induce bacteriostasis of the N-3 peptidopolysaccharide film was four orders of magnitude higher than that of pure cellulose film. In an extended application, the peptidopolysaccharide antibacterial films were used as packaging materials for fresh pork, the results indicated that the peptidopolysaccharide films readily killed the adhered bacteria upon contact, and the N-3 peptidopolysaccharide film extended the shelf-life of the fresh pork at least for six days as compared with polyethylene wrap. Therefore, these peptidopolysaccharides films represent good potential as a green food packaging material. Graphical abstract Unlabelled Image [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Semiconductor photocatalysts with suitable band gap for fair response to visible light and efficient separation of electron-hole pairs, are the key to practical application of photocatalytic technology. Magnetically separable hierarchical ZnFe2O4/g-C3N4 composite photocatalysts were prepared by a facile solvothermal method combined with a subsequent annealing process. The composite microspheres were composed of ZnFe2O4 nanoparticles, whose diameter was restricted due to the confined space effect from g-C3N4 nanosheets. ZnFe2O4/g-C3N4 heterojunction structures led to the improvement of the efficiency for photodegrading methylene blue and rhodamine B under visible light, where the kinetic constant over ZnFe2O4/CN-150 photocatalyst was more than ten times larger than that over pure ZnFe2O4. The photogenerated electrons from g-C3N4 surfaces could easily migrate to ZnFe2O4, leading to efficient separation of electron-hole pairs. Also, the composite photocatalyst possessed a chemical stability against photocorrosion and a magnetic property, which made it magnetically separable and reusable conveniently.Graphical Abstract: [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Bi 2 O 2 S@TpPa-2-COF heterojunctions are successfully fabricated by two-step method. • Photocatalytic CO 2 reduction activity of Bi 2 O 2 S@TpPa-2-COF is significantly improved. • Bi 2 O 2 S@TpPa-2-COF exhibited excellent stability in photocatalytic CO 2 reduction. • Mechanism of photocatalytic CO 2 reduction for Bi 2 O 2 S@TpPa-2-COF is also proposed. The objective of current photocatalysis research is to increase the separation efficiency of photogenerated carriers and convert CO 2 into useful resources for human beings. In the present study, TpPa-2-COF was successfully grown in situ on Bi 2 O 2 S nanosheets by hydrothermal and thermal solvent two-step experimental method, and a typical p-n heterojunction was constructed by covalent-bond between TpPa-2-COF and Bi 2 O 2 S, which significantly improved the photocatalytic activity of CO 2. When Bi 2 O 2 S@TpPa-2-COF-15 heterojunction was illuminated with 300 W xenon lamp for 3 h, the CO yield reached 19.5 μmol·g−1·h−1, while the CH 4 yield reached 6.2 μmol·g−1·h−1. Compared with pure TpPa-2-COF and Bi 2 O 2 S, the photocatalytic activity of the Bi 2 O 2 S@TpPa-2-COF-15 increased 66.8 and 3.96 times, respectively. Meanwhile, the Bi 2 O 2 S@TpPa-2-COF-15 composite showed good stability under multiple cycles. Furthermore, the mechanism of Bi 2 O 2 S@TpPa-2-COF heterojunction enhanced photocatalytic reduction of CO 2 was also proposed. The experimental and characterization findings have shown that the transit of photo-generated electron-hole pairs via TpPa-2-COF to Bi 2 O 2 S may be greatly promoted to achieve the effect of electron hole separation under visible-light irradiation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Reticulocalbin 1 (RCN1), a calcium-binding protein located in the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) lumen, contains six conserved regions. Its main functions include maintaining intracellular homeostasis and regulating cell proliferation and apoptosis, and it plays an important role in the development of various tumours. However, the exact function of RCN1 in oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) is not fully understood. Therefore, the aim of this study was to investigate the effects of RCN1 on the biological behaviour of OSCC and the regulation of tumour-associated macrophage (TAM) polarization. The expression of RCN1 in OSCC and normal oral mucosa was evaluated through bioinformatics analysis and immunohistochemical staining. The growth, migration, and invasion of OSCC cells were observed after knockdown of RCN1 using CCK-8 and Transwell assays. Apoptosis was detected by flow cytometry. The effect of tumour cell-derived RCN1 on the polarization of THP-1 macrophages was investigated by establishing a coculture model of THP-1 macrophages and OSCC cells. Additionally, changes in the expression levels of relevant proteins were detected using Western blotting. The upregulation of RCN1 in tumour tissues compared to normal oral mucosal tissues is associated with a poor prognosis and can be utilized as a prognostic indicator for OSCC. Knockdown of RCN1 inhibited the proliferation, migration, and invasion of OSCC cells. Additionally, knockdown of RCN1 in Cal-27 and SCC-25 cells resulted in inhibition of the M2 polarization of THP-1 macrophages. RCN1 knockdown inhibits OSCC progression and M2 macrophage polarization. Targeting RCN1 may be a promising approach for OSCC treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We report an environmentally friendly hydrothermal method assisted by inorganic salt for controlling the shape of CdS nanostructure. First, we make aqueous solution of NaCl to fabricate CdS via a hydrothermal reaction at 160 °C, 12 h. Afterward, the outcomes of CdS change from nanosphere to hierarchically flower-like structure, with a higher concentration of NaCl solution. Further investigation reveals improved stability of flower-like CdS photocatalyst for water treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To determine whether the discharge control of heavy metals in the Yangtze River basin can significantly change the pollution level in the estuary, this study analyzed the sources (upper river, the estuarine region, and the adjacent sea) of ten heavy metals (As, Cd, Co, Cr, Cu, Hg, Ni, Pb, Sb, and Zn) in dissolved and particulate phases in the surface water of the estuary during wet, normal, and dry seasons. Metal sources inferred from section fluxes agree with those in statistical analysis methods. Heavy metal pollution in the surface water of Yangtze Estuary primarily depends on the sediment suspension and the wastewater discharge from estuary cities. Upper river only constitutes the main source of dissolved heavy metals during the wet season, while the estuarine region and the adjacent sea (especially the former) dominate the dissolved metal pollution in the normal and dry seasons. Particulate metals are mainly derived from sediment suspension in the estuary and the adjacent sea, and the contribution of the upper river can be neglected. Compared with the hydrologic seasons, flood-ebb tides exert a more obvious effect on the water flow directions in the estuary. Sediment suspension, not the upper river, significantly affects the suspended particulate matter concentration in the estuary. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In order to obtain a safe and biodegradable material with antimicrobial properties from cellulose for food packaging, we presented a facile way to graft chitosan onto the oxidized cellulose films. The obtained films had a high transparent property of above 80% transmittance, excellent barrier properties against oxygen and antimicrobial properties against Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus. The antimicrobial properties, mechanical properties, and water vapor permeability of composites are essential characteristics in determining their applicability as food-packaging materials. Moreover, using a sausage model, it was shown that the composites exhibited better performance than traditional polyethylene packaging material and demonstrated good potential as food packaging materials. The results presented a new insight into the development of green materials for food packaging. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Replication fork stalling and collapse is a major source of genome instability leading to neoplastic transformation or cell death. Such stressed replication forks can be conservatively repaired and restarted using homologous recombination (HR) or non-conservatively repaired using micro-homology mediated end joining (MMEJ). HR repair of stressed forks is initiated by 5’ end resection near the fork junction, which permits 3’ single strand invasion of a homologous template for fork restart. This 5’ end resection also prevents classical non-homologous end-joining (cNHEJ), a competing pathway for DNA double-strand break (DSB) repair. Unopposed NHEJ can cause genome instability during replication stress by abnormally fusing free double strand ends that occur as unstable replication fork repair intermediates. We show here that the previously uncharacterized Exonuclease/Endonuclease/Phosphatase Domain-1 (EEPD1) protein is required for initiating repair and restart of stalled forks. EEPD1 is recruited to stalled forks, enhances 5’ DNA end resection, and promotes restart of stalled forks. Interestingly, EEPD1 directs DSB repair away from cNHEJ, and also away from MMEJ, which requires limited end resection for initiation. EEPD1 is also required for proper ATR and CHK1 phosphorylation, and formation of gamma-H2AX, RAD51 and phospho-RPA32 foci. Consistent with a direct role in stalled replication fork cleavage, EEPD1 is a 5’ overhang nuclease in an obligate complex with the end resection nuclease Exo1 and BLM. EEPD1 depletion causes nuclear and cytogenetic defects, which are made worse by replication stress. Depleting 53BP1, which slows cNHEJ, fully rescues the nuclear and cytogenetic abnormalities seen with EEPD1 depletion. These data demonstrate that genome stability during replication stress is maintained by EEPD1, which initiates HR and inhibits cNHEJ and MMEJ. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Croconaine dye based chemosensors ONKT and PNKT for Cu2+ detection were synthesized. • ONKT and PNKT are highly sensitive and selective colorimetric probe toward Cu2+. • The effect of ethoxy group of croconaine dye on Cu2+ ion recognition was discussed. • Possible recognition mechanism of ONKT and PNKT for Cu2+ was also proposed. Two highly sensitive and selective colorimetric ethoxyaniline croconaine dye probes, (E)-2-((2-ethoxyphenyl)amino)-5-((2-ethoxyphenyl)iminio)-3,4-dioxocyclopent-1-en-1-olate (ONKT) and (E)-2-((4-ethoxyphenyl)amino)-5-((4-ethoxyphenyl)iminio)-3,4-dioxocyclopent-1-en-1-olate) (PNKT) for sensing of Cu2+ ion have been synthesized and characterized. Compared with other metal cations tested, the colorimetric behavior of the probes is significantly different in the presence of Cu2+ ions. When Cu2+ ions were added, the colors of ONKT and PNKT changed from orange to colorless, and the absorbance at the maximum absorption wavelength decreased obviously. The probes have been proved to be sensitive, selective, linear and low in detection limit for Cu2+ ions. In addition, with Cu2+ and EDTA as input signals and the absorption intensity of ONKT at 500 nm as output signal, ONKT is designed as a molecular logic gate with storage and deletion functions. Therefore, these probes provide a new colorimetric method for qualitative and quantitative selective detection of copper ions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Graphene oxide, flat carbon nanosheets, has generated extensive interests in many areas of science and engineering due to its unprecedented physical and chemical properties. With the development of wide-scale applicability including facile synthesis and high yield, this exciting material is ready for practical applications. In this work, fully exfoliated graphene oxide nanosheets were introduced into cellulose matrix through a facial pathway. A significant increase in the elongation at break of the composites was observed; that was, a 120% improvement in the tensile strength and a nearly 3 times increase in elongation at break were achieved for the composite films with GO content of 0.27 vol%. The microstructures of the regenerated cellulose films before and after loading of GO nanosheets were characterized by using SEM and TEM. Furthermore, the theoretical simulation from Young’s modulus of the composite films indicated that the GO nanosheets had unidirectional arrangement tendency rather than random dispersion in cellulose matrix, which contributed to the improvement in the elongation of the composites, which was supported by the SEM results of the cross-section of the broken composite. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study evaluated the inhibitory effect and mitigation strategy of dodecyl dimethyl benzyl ammonium chloride (DDBAC) suppression on anaerobic digestion. With the 12 h-suppression, only 16.64% of anaerobes were alive, and acetotrophic methanogens were significantly inhibited. As for batch test, DDBAC suppression significantly prolonged the start-up of systems and decreased the biogas production. In cellulose semi-continuous digestion process, the DDBAC suppression induced volatile fatty acids accumulation and pH decrease. However, the biochar amended reactor effectively mitigated the DDBAC suppression and achieved 370.5 mL/d·g-chemical-oxygen-demand biogas production. Moreover, 17.8% more protein in extracellular polymeric substances was secreted as the bio-barrier to defense the DDBAC suppression. Furthermore, microbial analysis showed that biochar addition selectively enriched directed interspecies electron transfer (DIET) participant bacteria (Anaerolineaceae and Syntrophomonas) and methanogens (Methanosaeta and Methanobacterium). Meanwhile, the potential metabolic pathway analysis showed that the abundance of amino acids and energy metabolism were increased 28% and 8%, respectively. The abundance of encoding enzyme related to hydrogenotrophic and acetotrophic methanogenesis enriched 1.88 times and 1.48 times, respectively. These results showed the performance and mechanisms involved in DIET establishment with ethanol stimulation biochar addition. [Display omitted] • The DDBAC suppressed acetotrophic methanogenesis and inhibited Methanosaeta. • Average biogas production of 370.5 mL/d·gCOD was achieved with biochar amended. • Anaerobes secreted 17.8% more protein in EPS to defense the DDBAC suppression. • Biochar promoted the growth of Anaerolineaceae , Syntrophomonas and Methanosaeta. • The genes related to energy metabolism were potentially activated by biochar. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Physical instability and oxidation were two of the most evident problems existing in food emulsions. In this research, a facile approach of solidifying the oil phase by stearic acid was adopted to overcome the above problems simultaneously, emphasising the effect of the oleogelation extent. Polarizing microscope, rheological analysis, and X-ray diffraction (XRD) were used to characterize the oleogelation of the oil phase, and droplet size, microscopic observation and peroxide value analysis were applied to evaluate the emulsion stability. Results showed that with moderate solidification of the oil phase (0.8%–1.0% w/v stearic acid in oil phase), the emulsions exhibited excellent physical stability under the stress of centrifugal force, high salt, and long-term storage. Moreover, the oxidative stability of the emulsions was improved simultaneously, that the increasing of peroxide value was slowed significantly. Excessive solidification (e. g. 3% w/v stearic acid) of the oil phase would weaken these advantages or even bring about opposite results, due to the destruction of the emulsion droplets by the excessive crystallization. Our results suggested that moderate solidification of oil phase would be a feasible and effective approach to improve the stability of o/w emulsions, which would be significant for the industrial-scaled production. • Stearic acid could be used to prepare the starch stabilized oleogel emulsions. • Oleogelation of the oil phase could improve the physical stability of the emulsions. • Lipid oxidation could be inhibited in the oleogel based emulsions. • The emulsion stability was related to the solidification extent of the oil phase. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A novel colorimetric and fluorescent probe, 2,5-bis[3-ethyl-2-methylbenzothiazole]-croconine (BBC) has been synthesized and characterized. The BBC dye can effectively recognize Ag+ in the presence of potentially competitive metal ions (Co2+, Na+, Cd2+, K+, Mg2+, Zn2+, Ca2+, Ba2+, Ni2+, Cr3+, Al3+), which exhibited visible color change and fluorescence spectra behaviors. The Benesi-Hildebrand plot accurately showed the binding constant of BBC- Ag+. Correspondingly, the 1:1 stoichiometric structure of BBC and Ag+ was evaluated by using Job's plot. Moreover, the complex mechanism of BBC toward Ag+ were also investigated by Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) and 1H nuclear magnetic resonance (1H NMR). The results indicated that BBC could be used as a high effective colorimetric and fluorescent sensor to identify Ag+. A croconium dye, 2,5-bis[3-ethyl-2-methylbenzothiazole]-croconine (BBC) was synthesized and used as a dual colorimetric and fluorescent probe for the detection of Ag+. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Medium/high internal phase Pickering emulsions were obtained by the sole use of BCNFs. • The obtained Pickering emulsions revealed low coalescence rate and excellent stability. • Medium/high internal phase Pickering emulsions exhibited typical shear-thinning behaviors and solid-like properties. • This one-step method was eco-friendly without using any surfactants and organic solvent. O/W Pickering emulsions containing oil phase with different volume fractions (50–75 v%) were facilely prepared by using bacterial cellulose nanofibrils (BCNFs) alone. The effect of oil phase volume, storage time on the surface coverage, and coalescence rate of the Pickering-MIPEs and HIPEs (medium internal phase emulsions/high internal phase emulsions) were investigated. The Pickering-MIPEs/HIPEs exhibited excellent physical stability and low coalescence rate with droplet size varying from 32 to 91 μm. The increasing of particle contents could obviously decrease the droplet size and enhance the stability of the emulsions by strengthening the network structure and increasing the steric hindrance. The result of rheology analysis confirmed the formation of a three-dimensional network, endowing the exceptional stability of the emulsions. The emulsions revealed superb stability against a wide temperature (4–50 °C) range and salt condition (0–100 mM). This novel eco-friendly Pickering-MIPEs and HIPEs would provide great opportunities for their effective utilization in green-labelled food industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• A novel hydrate-based gas separation model, namely the gas–water-hydrate three-phase flash model, was proposed. • The proposed model further considers the structural transitions of hydrates. • Four typical hydrate structure transformations are discussed through experiments. • The key parameters for calculating the degree of hydrate structural transitions were optimized. • The calculation results of the proposed model have an absolute average relative deviation of 8.00%. The study introduces a pioneering model for hydrate-based gas separation technology, which enhances the prediction method for the coexistence of multiple structure hydrates. The calculated results demonstrate strong agreement with 96 sets of experimental data, exhibiting a lower average relative deviation of 8.00 % compared to the traditional model's average relative deviation of 60.00 %. Furthermore, it offers a comprehensive discussion on the composition of hydrate structures in (H 2 + CH 4 + C 2 H 6 + C 3 H 8) during gas–water-hydrate equilibrium, providing a more precise depiction of hydrate structure evolution. Additional gas-hydrate equilibrium experiments were conducted for the (H 2 + CH 4 + C 2 H 6 + C 3 H 8) system to optimize the model parameters. The fitting goodness of the hydrate structure transformation formula (n i I - S i formula) is enhanced from 0.9162 to 0.9816. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Using non-amphiphilic polysaccharide to stabilize oil-in-water emulsions is still a challenge in food industry. Polysaccharide microgels showed emulsifying capacity, however, the stability of the formed emulsions is far from the requirements of the food industry. In this work, agarose microgel/Tween-20 suspensions were prepared and further employed in oil-in-water emulsion stabilization. Focuses were taken on the impact of Tween-20 on the emulsifying properties of agarose microgels. Results suggested that Tween-20 could complex with agarose microgels, and microamounts of Tween-20 (0.02 wt%) could apparently improve the emulsifying performance of microgels. Dynamic interfacial pressure and interfacial adsorption of microgels indicated that appropriate amount of Tween-20 (≤0.04 wt%) could benefit the interfacial adsorption of agarose microgels, while excessive Tween-20 (≥0.08 wt%) could compete with agarose microgels for adsorption sites on oil/water interface. Results of this work supporting that surfactant complexing could be a promising solution to prepare polysaccharides based Mickering emulsions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To obtain rapeseed protein with low phytic acid (PA), soy protein isolate (SPI) was used to investigate the interactions between SPI and PA. The influence of pretreatment (soaking using salt solution and dialysis) of the defatted rapeseed meal on the PA and protein content in the final rapeseed proteins was also studied. The results showed that electrostatic interactions dominated the protein–PA interaction, which was affected by pH and ionic strength. Accordingly, the pH and ionic strength in the soaking medium also influenced the PA remained in the rapeseed proteins. The PA content decreased with the ionic strength (400–800 mM) and relatively low PA was obtained at pH 6.0 (soaking environment). Finally, 52.8 % of the PA have been removed and PA content remained in rapeseed protein isolate (RPI) reached about 0.84 mg/g, at the same time, the protein content was maintained around 86.70 %. Overall, soaking using salt solution and dialysis could be an effective method to achieve high quality rapeseed protein with low PA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract In this work, high pressure homogenization (HPH) was applied to alter the physical size of bacterial cellulose, and the obtained bacterial cellulose nanofibrils (BCNFs) with different size were used as stabilizers for O/W Pickering emulsions. The average width of the BCNFs was decreased from 127 to 97 nm with the increasing the homogenized times from 10 to 80 times at 750 Bar, and the obtained BCNFs suspensions was pseudoplastic fluid and exhibited a typical shear thinning behavior. The physical size of the BCNFs had an obvious influence on their emulsifying capacity, and the surface coverage ratio of the emulsion droplets was increased from 0.63 to 9.77 with the changing the volume of oil and solid content of BCNFs. Moreover, the temperature, ionic strength and pH had insignificant influence on the stability of the emulsion. It suggested that the flexible BCNFs played an important role in the stabilization of the emulsions, and the higher content of BCNFs increased the intermolecular noncovalent "physical" cross-links. Moreover, stable medium-internal-phase-emulsions (MIPEs) could also be fabricated by using BCNFs as stabilizers. Graphical abstract Image Highlights • HPH process was used to change the physical sizes of bacterial nanocellulose. • The effect of the physical sizes of bacterial nanocellulose on the performance of the emulsions had been clarified. • Stable medium-internal-phase-emulsionscould could be prepared by using bacterial nanocellulose. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fabricating adsorptive materials for fast and high efficient adsorption of enzymes is critical to match the great demands for separation and recovery of enzymes used as biocatalysts. However, it has proven extremely challenging. Here, we report a cost-effective strategy to construct the sulfated group surface-functionalized silk fibroin nanofibrous membranes (SS-SFNM) under mild conditions for positively charged Candida rugosa lipase adsorption. The naturally abundant silk is thus reconstructed into nanofibrous membranes with tunable surface functions. Thereby, the resultant SS-SFNM exhibited excellent adsorption performance towards lipase, including a superior adsorption capacity of 148 mg g −1 , fast adsorption equilibrium within 3 h and good reversibility. The fabrication of such fascinating silk-based materials may provide new chance into the design and development of multi-functional membranes for various separated applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The time of a paclitaxel (PTX) concentration remains above 0.05 μM (Tc > 0.05) has been associated with PTX-induced adverse effects in Caucasians, while limited studies were reported in Asians. This study was aimed to explore the characteristics of Tc > 0.05 and the relationship between PTX exposure and toxicity in East-Asian patients.Methods: This study was based on two prospective phase II clinical trials and patients with advanced nasopharyngeal cancer (NPC) and non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) who were naïve to PTX were included independently. Eligible patients receive PTX (175 mg/m2) and carboplatin (AUC = 5) treatment every 3 weeks. PTX pharmacokinetic analysis was accessed. The relationship between PTX exposure and toxicities after first cycle as well as clinical efficacy was evaluated.Results: A total of 93 NPC and 40 NSCLC patients were enrolled. PTX exposure was consistent in two trials with average Tc > 0.05 duration of 38.8 h and 38.4 h, respectively. Average Tc > 0.05 in patients with grade 3/4 neutropenia was significantly higher than those without severe neutropenia in NPC patients (P = 0.003) and NSCLC patients (P = 0.007). Cut-off value of Tc > 0.05 were identified from the NPC cohort and then verified in the NSCLC cohort, dividing patients into high exposure Tc > 0.05 group (> 39 h) and low exposure group (≤ 39 h). Incidence of grade 3/4 neutropenia were significantly higher in the high exposure group in NPC cohort (43.3% vs 10.0%, P < 0.001) and NSCLC cohort (42.1% vs 9.5%, P = 0.028). No significant relationship between Tc > 0.05 and efficacy were observed.Conclusion: Patients with PTX Tc > 0.05 duration above 39 h experience more severe neutropenia than those under 39 h. Prospective studies are needed to verify this threshold. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although polysaccharide microgels exhibit potential as clean-label emulsifiers, the stability of emulsions in commercial application is still a challenge. The current work points out that specific complexation between polysaccharide molecules and polysaccharide microgels can benefit the interfacial adsorption of polysaccharide microgels and emulsion stability. The complexation of κ-carrageenan microgels (KCMs) and locust bean gum (LBG) was investigated for the first time, which was evaluated by visual appearance, rheological behavior, thermal stability, and microscopic morphology. Results indicate the low concentration of LBG promotes the clustering of KCMs, whereas high concentration of LBG can envelop and segregate KCMs. Subsequent blending with LBG could enhance the interfacial adsorption of KCMs, and multi-layers are observed when LBG concentration exceeds 0.3 wt%. LBG can obviously decrease the emulsion droplets size and improve the storage stability of emulsions, KCMs + LBG (0.2–0.5 wt%) stabilized emulsions could keep stable after three consecutive freeze-thaw cycles. Based on the specific complexation between KCMs and LBG, the layer-by-layer emulsification could be achieved. This strategy can inspire other polysaccharide microgel emulsifiers, which could be a feasible solution for improving the stability of polysaccharides microgels stabilized emulsions. [Display omitted] • Locust bean gum (LBG) could complex with κ-carrageenan Microgels (KCMs). • Complexation pattern of LBG and KCMs at aqueous phase was identified. • Interfacial complexation of LBG and KCMs improves emulsion stability. • Interfacial complexation endows emulsions with improved freeze-thaw stability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, beeswax (BW)/soybean oil (SO) mixed lipid phase and bacterial cellulose nanofibrils (BCNF)/gelatin (GLT) hybrid stabilizers were utilized to prepare O/W emulsions, which were applied as templates to fabricate solid lipid particle (SLP) dispersion for further preparing oleofilms. As the BW content (based on lipid phase) increased from 10 to 40 wt%, the SLP size became smaller, and the obtained oleofilms showed significant variations in the structure that more lipid crystals distributed on the film surface and film exhibited increased crystallinity. The film prepared with SLP with 40 wt% BW (based on lipid phase) had the best light barrier property, largest contact angle (96 ± 1o) and lowest water vapor permeability (WVP, 4.4 ± 0.1 × 10−8 g m−1·h−1·Pa−1), but the lowest tensile strength (1.53 ± 0.11 MPa) and elongation at break (2.32 ± 0.16%). The SLP dispersion was further ultrasonically treated (SLP-U) for improving the physical property of oleofilms. Compared to SLP oleofilms, SLP-U oleofilms possessed more uniform micro-structure, better transparency, and higher mechanical strength, revealing that SLP-U had higher adhesion with biopolymer matrix. The increase of BCNF ratio contributed to the significant decrease in the SLP-U size, improved the oleofilm contact angle, but reduced the film mechanical strength. This study provided the regulation method of acceptable barrier and mechanical properties for oleofilm by properly tailoring the lipid particle property. [Display omitted] • Solid lipid particle (SLP) dispersion was prepared based on emulsion template. • SLP size was impacted by emulsion composition and further ultrasonic treatment. • Oleofilms were fabricated by one-step drying the SLP dispersion. • Oleofilms showed excellent barrier performance and controllable mechanical strength. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In present study, we explored the effect of mucin-gum arabic (GA) interactions on the structural changes of mucin network, as well as on the diffusion behaviors of sodium ions. Diffusion behaviors of sodium ions through the mucin/GA layer with various physicochemical properties were determined. Our results suggested that the introduction of GA induced the phase separation of mucin-GA binary system, which is largely driven by electrostatic interactions (electrostatic repulsion) and followed by the structural changes in the mucin layer. The mucin/GA mixed interconnected network with larger pores was formed, as revealed by transmission electron microscopy and atomic force microscopy observations, which contributed to the diffusion of sodium ions. Our findings might provide a deep understanding of GA for enhancing the salty taste perception. [Display omitted] • Mucin-Gum Arabic interactions was investigated as function of pH and NaCl concentration. • Repulsive interactions can lead to phase separation of mucin and GA. • Phase separation might affect the mesh size or permeability of the mucin network. • Diffusion behavior of sodium ions could be modulated by phase separation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Cyclins are regulatory subunits that bind to and activate catalytic Cdks. Cyclin E associates with Cdk2 to mediate the G1/S transition of the cell cycle. Cyclin E is overexpressed in breast, lung, skin, gastrointestinal, cervical, and ovarian cancers. Its overexpression correlates with poor patient prognosis and is involved in the etiology of breast cancer. We have been studying how cyclin E is normally downregulated during development in order to determine if disruption of similar mechanisms could either contribute to its overexpression in cancer, or be exploited to decrease its expression. In Xenopus laevis embryos, cyclin E protein level is high and constant until its abrupt destabilization by an undefined mechanism after the 12th cell cycle, which corresponds to the midblastula transition (MBT) and remodeling of the embryonic to the adult cell cycle. Since degradation of mammalian cyclin E is regulated by the ubiquitin proteasome system and is phosphorylation dependent, we examined the role of phosphorylation in Xenopus cyclin E turnover. We show that similarly to human cyclin E, phosphorylation of serine 398 and threonine 394 plays a role in cyclin E turnover at the MBT. Immunofluorescence analysis shows that cyclin E relocalizes from the cytoplasm to the nucleus preceding its degradation. When nuclear import is inhibited, cyclin E stability is markedly increased after the MBT. To investigate whether degradation of Xenopus cyclin E is mediated by the proteasomal pathway, we used proteasome inhibitors and observed a progressive accumulation of cyclin E in the cytoplasm after the MBT. Ubiquitination of cyclin E precedes its proteasomal degradation at the MBT. These results show that cyclin E destruction at the MBT requires both phosphorylation and nuclear import, as well as proteasomal activity. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

[Display omitted] • Three protein aggregates were comparatively analyzed on their digestion behavior. • Effect of surface hydrophobicity and disulfide bond on the digestion were analyzed. • Digestion degree of the protein aggregates could be modulated by polysaccharides. • Surface hydrophobicity had much stronger effects than disulfide bond content. Three heat-induced protein aggregates, beta-lactoglobulin fibrils (BLGF), nanoparticles (BLGN), and worm-like aggregates (BLGW) were chosen to probe the effect of disulfide bond and surface hydrophobicity on their gastric digestion behavior. Furthermore, the effect of polysaccharide (dextran sulfate sodium, DSS) on the digestion behavior of the protein aggregates was investigated. Results showed that disulfide bond had a mild restraint on the digestion extent (maximum up to 4.65%), especially when its content was below 1 mol/mol, while the surface hydrophobicity had a stronger influence (up to 8.96%), and there is definitive positive linear relationship between the surface hydrophobicity and the digestion extent. When incorporated with DSS, both the disulfide bond content and surface hydrophobicity of the aggregates decreased, consequently, and the digestion was impeded, confirming the stronger effect from the surface hydrophobicity. The digestion extent of the heat-induced protein aggregates could be modulated linearly by incorporation of polysaccharide. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• The food-grade W/O emulsions based on oleogels had no surfactant. • Beeswax played a decisive role in stabilizing the W/O emulsions. • The W/O emulsions exhibited high stability during 60 d storage. • The W/O emulsions performed excellent thermo-reversible and thixotropic properties. • The W/O emulsions would have promising potential as fat mimetics. Fabrication of food-grade water-in-oil (W/O) emulsions without surfactant, as the primary substitutes of trans -fat and saturated fat, was still a significant challenge in food science. A facial method has been adopted to fabricate W/O emulsions at 20 °C. The obtained emulsion had long-time stability, and there was no apparent phase separation or oiling-out after 60 days of storage. In this system, beeswax served as a stabilizer for both oleogels and oleogel-based emulsions. The sol–gel melting temperature of the oleogel was 37 ± 0.5 °C by regulating beeswax content to 4% w/w, and then the oleogel was used to fabricate W/O emulsion with the droplet diameter of around 9 μm. Thermo-reversible and thixotropic properties of oleogels were both retained for emulsions. Furthermore, both oleogels and oleogel-based emulsions had compact gel-like structures. The self-emulsifying W/O emulsions without surfactant would have great potential applications in food industry, pharmaceutical industry and feed industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Fluorescence was used to track the accumulation of nanoplastics in C. fluminea. • Like microplastics, nanoplastics were observed to aggregate in bivalves. • The uptake and excretion of nanoplastics were impacted by the neurotoxicity. • Nanoplastic-induced damage to the liver and gut of C. fluminea is firstly reported. The outcomes of this research offer novel insights into the toxic effects of nanoparticles (i.e., nanoplastics or other nanomaterials) on the benthos. Herein, this study aimed to evaluate the accumulation pathway, distribution characteristics and potential biotoxicity of polystyrene nanoplastics in C. fluminea. The results revealed that nanoplastics could accumulate in the mantle through adherence, in the visceral mass through ingestion and in the gill through respiration. The gill, intestine and stomach were the main accumulation organs for nanoplastics. The aggregation of nanoplastics was observed in C. fluminea , which may exacerbate their biotoxicity. Moreover, oxidative stress was observed in the visceral mass, gill and mantle. Liver damage, neurotoxicity and intestinal inflammation were caused by imbalance in the antioxidation system. Analysis of IBR values showed that the visceral mass had a more effective response to oxidative stress than the gill and mantle after exposure to nanoplastics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hexadecyltrimethylammonium bromide complexed alginate-Ca2+ microgels (C/AMGs) were developed as emulsifiers, which shown remarkably improved emulsifying performance than non-complexed alginate-Ca2+ microgels (AMGs) in previous study. This work focus on the impact of deformability on the emulsifying performance of C/AMGs. By regulating alginate concentration (1.0–4.0 wt%), microgels with different deformability were prepared. Deformability was proved to have great influence on the emulsifying performance of C/AMGs, which was evaluated by Langmuir trough measurements, emulsion appearance, centrifugation stability, digestive behavior, and oxidative stability. Particle size and SEM images indicated microgels prepared with lower alginate concentration are more deformable. C/AMGs (2.0 wt%) exhibits the best emulsifying performance, which could be ascribed to the appreciated deformability and mechanical strength. Digestive behavior and oxidative stability of alginate-Ca2+ microgel (2.0 wt%) stabilized emulsions were further investigated. Compared with alginate-Ca2+ microgel (2.0 wt%) stabilized emulsions, C/AMGs (2.0 wt%) stabilized emulsions shown delayed lipid digestion and lower POV. Results of this work supporting that Mickering mechanism have potential in fabricating functional emulsions based on natural polysaccharides. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The fermentation of sodium alginate at different colon regions are expected to be regulated using cross-linking strategy to release SCFAs at different colon regions. [Display omitted] • The Ca2+ cross-linked sodium alginates were still producing more SCFAs in the later fermentation stages in comparison to sodium alginate. • The Ca2+ cross-linking exerted a more restricting effect than a delaying effect on the in vitro fermentation of sodium alginate. • Bacteroides_xylanisolvens were highly correlated to the Ca2+ cross-linking density but not Ca2+ concentration. Slow fermentable dietary fibers can be utilized by human gut microbiota in the distal region of the colon and thus exert a sufficient short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) supplement in the distal region of the human colon. Alginate (Alg) based microgels are widely fabricated and used to control their digestion by digestive enzymes releasing active substances site-specifically. Herein, sodium alginate microgels with gradient calcium-ion (Ca2+) cross-linking densities were developed, restricting their degradation by gut microbiota. Alg microgels were prepared using high-speed shearing after Alg was cross-linked with 10, 40, and 60 mmol/L Ca2+, respectively (named 10-Alg, 40-Alg, and 60-Alg). The fluorescence and atomic force microscopic results showed that the 40-Alg particle has the densest structure among the three cross-linked Alg. In vitro human fecal fermentation results revealed that the Ca2+ cross-linking exerted more restricting effects than delaying effects on the fermentation of Alg, and the 40-Alg exhibited the slowest fermentation rate and the least fermentation extent, by characterizing the residual total carbohydrate content, residual monosaccharide content, pH, and total short-chain fatty acids. The 16S rRNA gene sequencing results indicated that cross-linking structures shaped a high specifical Bacteroides -type microbial community and that OTU205 (Bacteroides_xylanisolvens) highly correlated to the cross-linking density (R = 0.65, p = 0.047). In sum, Ca2+ cross-linking generated a dense and compact structure of sodium alginate that facilitated a more restricted fermentation property and specificity-targeting microbial community structure in comparison to the original sodium alginate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Anionic ionizable toxic organic contaminants, such as pesticides, herbicides, pharmaceuticals and dyestuffs, are widely detected in aqueous and can exert specific toxicity in organisms. They are hard removed by traditional adsorbents with negative surface charges and hydrophilic property. To solve that bottleneck problem, this study synthesized a carbon-based electropositive absorbent via surface activation and radical impregnation. The monolayer adsorption capacity and favorability of the novel adsorbent increased 4.2 and 16 times compared with activated carbon, evaluated by Congo Red. The adsorption kinetics could be described by pseudo-second-order equation, dominated by chemisorption and shortened 75% equilibrium time. The excellent adsorption behavior of synthesized material was attributed to created and bridged electropositive quaternary ammonium structure onto activated carbon, identified with XPS and FT-IR. Additionally, the abundant mesoporous structures of modified carbon provide more tunnels and facilitate adsorption of Congo Red, identified by AutoSorb-iQ. With the batch experiments of pH and ion strength influence, the absorbent behaved well in acidic low ion strength conditions and attenuated by coexisting cations. The study provides a high efficiency, large capacity and low cost materials to remove anionic ionizable organic contaminants in aqueous. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • A simple method to observe the oxygen diffusion in the emulsion system was developed. • The oxygen diffusion was strongly related to the lipid oxidation in emulsion. • The emulsion droplet surface could affect the oxygen diffusion and lipid oxidation. • The oil phase and water phase could affect the oxygen diffusion and lipid oxidation. Oxygen diffusion played an important role in the lipid oxidation of food emulsions. In this study, a simple method was developed to quantitatively observe the oxygen diffusion in the oil–water biphasic system, and it was further applied to investigate the relationship between the oxygen diffusion and lipid oxidation in O/W emulsions. Various factors that related to the emulsion oxidation were considered, from their influence on the oxygen diffusion and lipid oxidation in the emulsions. Results showed that there was obvious correlation between the oxygen diffusion and lipid oxidation in O/W emulsions, which reveals the inhibition of oxygen diffusion could apparently slow down the lipid oxidation. Moreover, the changes of oil phase, water phase and interfacial layer of the emulsions, which were related to the oxygen diffusion, could improve the oxidative stability of the emulsions effectively. Our findings are helpful for deep understanding the mechanisms of the lipid oxidation in food emulsions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the current study, complexes (CAMs) of alginate microgels (AMs) and hexadecyltrimethylammonium bromide (CTAB) were prepared, and further used to stabilize O/W emulsions. Physical properties and emulsifying capacity of CAMs with different CTAB concentration were investigated, which indicated emulsifying capacity of AMs could be extensively improved by CTAB. Improved stability against centrifugation (3000 rpm), pH value (2.0–8.0), and NaCl concentration (0–200 mM) was also reported in CAMs stabilized emulsions. Interfacial adsorption and morphology observation suggested that the interfacial activities of CAMs were benefited from CTAB complexing, and an interfacial layer could be observed on the surface of the CAMs stabilized oil droplets. In this work, even a slight amount of surfactant (0.4 mM, or 0.01456 wt% CTAB) could make remarkable improvement on the emulsifying performance of alginate microgels. However, excessive CTAB would result in over aggregation of AMs, which was not conducive to the emulsifying performance of CAMs. This study proposed that the surfactant complexing was a feasible strategy to improve the emulsifying performance of polysaccharide microgels. [Display omitted] • Emulsions based on Ca2+-alginate microgels (AMs) were manufactured. • Slight CTAB was complexed with AMs (CAMs) to improve its emulsifying properties. • Excessive CTAB leads to deteriorated emulsifying properties of CAMs. • CAMs stabilized emulsions exhibit remarkable stability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In recent years, materials with extraordinary hollow structures have been widely studied because of their enormous potential in many research fields such as in advanced energy conversion and storage. The design and synthesis of an innovative hollow structure via a facile method is the key to enhance the performance of advanced energy materials in various applications. In this study, we report novel hollow passion fruit-like Bi@BiFe-glycolate microspheres (3.5 μm), which are constructed using BiFe-glycolate nanosheets and Bi nanospheres. They are designed and synthesized via a facile one-pot solvothermal method, and a mechanism of “spit and swallow” process is presented to describe the reaction. Moreover, the Bi2O3/BiFeO3 photocatalyst obtained by annealing the Bi@BiFe-glycolate precursors under an air atmosphere exhibits enhanced photocatalytic activity and cycling stability under visible light irradiation due to its special morphology and band structure. The photocatalyst can also be recycled conveniently owing to its magnetic properties. In general, this study focuses on both nanomaterial synthetic methods and photocatalytic performance improvement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Agarose microgels were prepared with bottom-up approach, and emulsifying properties of agarose microgels were investigated. Physical properties of microgels are varied with agarose concentration, and further affect the emulsifying performance of microgels. Enhanced surface hydrophobicity index and decreased particle size of microgels were recorded with the increasing of agarose concentration, which were conducive to emulsifying properties of microgels. Improved interfacial adsorption of microgels was evidenced by Dynamic surface tension and SEM. However, microscopic morphology of microgel at O/W interface indicated that increasing agarose concentration could weaken the deformability of microgels. The influence of external conditions (pH and NaCl) on the physical properties of microgels were investigated, and their effects on emulsion stability were evaluated. Compared with acidification, NaCl was appeared to be more destructive to emulsion stability. Results indicated acidification and NaCl could decrease surface hydrophobicity index of microgels, but there was differentiation in the variation of particle size. It was inferred that deformability of microgels could make contribution to the stability of emulsion. This study verified that microgelation was a feasible scheme to improve the interfacial properties of agarose, and the influence of agarose concentration, pH, and NaCl on the emulsifying performance of microgels was investigated. The emulsifying performance of agarose microgels, which could be affected by agarose concentration, pH value, and NaCl. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, the effect of bacterial cellulose nanofibrils (BCNF) surface charge density on the emulsification capacity of gelatin (GLT)/BCNF mixtures was investigated. Emulsions with 50 v% oil phase were co-stabilized by GLT and BCNFs (surface charge densities varied from 0.34 to 1.16 mmol/g) at pH 7.0 (GLT and BCNFs were negatively charged) and pH 4.7 (electrostatic equilibrium point for all GLT/BCNF mixtures). At pH 7.0, as BCNF surface charge density increased, the oil-water interfacial tension was decreased. Thus, the emulsion droplet size was reduced from 14.24 to 13.51 μm when the BCNF surface charge density was improved from 0.34 to 1.16 mmol/g. Additionally, the emulsion stability was significantly improved by the addition of highly-charged BCNF due to the increased electrostatic repulsion between dispersed droplets. At pH 4.7, the highest level of attractive electrostatic interaction was observed for GLT and BCNF with a surface charge density of 1.16 mmol/g (BCNF 1.16). Thus, the GLT/BCNF 1.16 suspension exhibited the highest viscoelastic modulus. At pH 4.7, the stability of GLT/BCNFs co-stabilized emulsions was improved by increasing BCNF surface charge density due to the enhanced viscosity. The emulsions prepared with GLT and BCNFs with surface charge density higher than 0.66 mmol/g at pH 4.7 could keep stable without creaming for 30 d. Furthermore, the GLT/BCNF 1.16, with the most remarkable emulsion stabilizing capacity, was successfully applied to prepare high internal phase emulsions with a more stable and higher viscoelastic behavior. This study was meaningful for the regulation of emulsion stability and rheological property. [Display omitted] • BCNFs with different surface charge densities were prepared by TEMPO oxidation. • Emulsions were prepared with GLT/BCNF mixtures at pH 7.0 and 4.7. • The interfacial adsorption of GLT/BCNF was influenced by BCNF surface charge density. • Emulsion stability was improved by the enhancement of BCNF surface charge density. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

It has been a great challenge of using natural polysaccharides to stabilize food emulsions, due to their poor amphiphilicity. In this study, a novel strategy of using polysaccharide to stabilize O/W emulsions was developed, through in situ crosslinking of sodium alginate on oil-water interface. During the emulsifying process, the acetic acid migrated across the interface, and induced the released of calcium ions, which immediately crosslinked the sodium alginate on interface. Results showed that the oil droplets were encapsulated in the integral polysaccharide shells. The droplet size of the emulsions located in the range from 20 to 200 μm. The concentration of sodium alginate and HAc, as well as the mixing rates were showed to be positively related with the thickness of the shell. However, excess calcium ions would disintegrate the shell structure. Additionally, the interfacial crosslinked sodium alginate stabilized emulsions exhibited excellent physical stability under centrifugating and freeze-thawing. [Display omitted] • Emulsions based on in situ crosslinking of alginate were manufactured. • Oil droplets were encapsulated in the integral polysaccharide shells. • Influence of different factors on shell thickness of oil droplets was evaluated. • In situ crosslinking of alginate endow emulsions with excellent physical stability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Edible oleogels was fabricated using soy fiber particles (SFP) with water as the second fluid. • SFP oleogels with modulated properties can be obtained by particle size, particle content and the second fluid content. • Similar properties of bread made with edible oleogels was observed in comparison with using commercial butter. Oleogels containing less saturated and trans -fats were considered as an ideal option to replace the solid fats in foods. In this research, oleogel was fabricated by dispersing soy fiber particles (SFP) in soy oil, and further it was used in bread preparation. Effect of the particle size, particle content and the second fluid content on the formation of oleogels were evaluated, based on the appearance and rheological properties. Results showed that the suspension of SFP in soy oil (24%, w/w) could be transformed into gel-like state, upon the addition of the second fluid. The SFP based networks were dominated by the capillary force which was originated from the second fluid. The rheological properties and yield stress of the oleogels could be modulated by particle size and particle content of SFP in oil phase, as well as the second fluid content in the system. When the oleogels were applicated in bread preparation, a layered structure could be formed in the bread, indicating the possibility of replacing the solid fats in bakery products by our oleogels. Our results offered a feasibility approach for oil structuring with natural raw materials, and developed a new approach to replace the solid fats in foods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new strategy to fabricate edible oleogels had been developed in this work, using natural cellulose particles as gelator and water as secondary fluid. Effect of the content of cellulose particles and second fluid on the formation of oleogels were investigated, and a qualitative phase diagram was constructed. Consideration has also focused on the influence of second fluid (ionic strength, pH and sucrose). Results showed that the cellulose particles could form a network in oil phase through the capillary force originated from the secondary fluid. A denser and more uniform network provided the oleogels higher centrifugal stability against oil loss. The viscoelastic properties of oleogels could be enhanced by increasing the ionic strength (10–100 mM), sucrose concentration (10–20 wt%) and pH value (2.0–5.0) of the second fluid. These results suggested that the capillary force of the gel network could be modulated by the composition and pH of secondary fluid. The considerable gel strength and economical manufacturing process give the oleogels great application potential. [Display omitted] • Edible oleogels were prepared using a simple and economical process. • Using natural cellulose particles as gelator and water as the second fluid. • Cellulose particles could form a network in oil phase through the capillary force. • Strength of the oleogels could be modulated by the water phase. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A dynamic spectroscopic characterization scheme for fast spectral variations based on dual asynchronous undersampling with triple optical frequency combs is proposed and demonstrated here. The tri-comb scheme leverages two of the combs to simultaneously sample the fast spectral variations applied to the third comb. The repetition rate differences for both pairs of combs are relatively small, in order to maintain sufficiently large spectral measurement ranges. The corresponding sampling rates could be much slower than a fast time-varying spectral modulation to be measured. Nevertheless, despite of the frequency ambiguity in the undersampled dual-comb results, it is shown that it is possible to identify the original frequency of spectral variations based on the difference in the undersampled frequency domain information. Experimental results show that our scheme can increase the frequency demodulation range by at least two orders of magnitude while retaining the accuracy and spectral measurement range of similar DCS schemes. Demonstration based on a tri-comb mode-locked fiber laser is carried out to measure the dynamic spectral response from a fiber Bragg grating (FBG), to which up to 110 kHz of vibration is applied. This scheme could further extend the capability of dual-comb spectroscopic techniques, and it also illustrates the potential of the low-complexity multi-comb laser source for novel yet practical applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chromosome translocations are caused by inappropriate religation of two DNA double-strand breaks (DSBs) in heterologous chromosomes. These DSBs can be generated by endogenous or exogenous sources. Endogenous sources of DSBs leading to translocations include inappropriate recombination activating gene (RAG) or activation-induced deaminase (AID) activity during immune receptor maturation. Endogenous DSBs can also occur at noncanonical DNA structures or at collapsed replication forks. Exogenous sources of DSBs leading to translocations include ionizing radiation (IR) and cancer chemotherapy. Spatial proximity of the heterologous chromosomes is also important for translocations. While three distinct pathways for DNA DSB repair exist, mounting evidence supports alternative nonhomologous end joining (aNHEJ) as the predominant pathway through which the majority of translocations occur. Initiated by poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase 1 (PARP1), aNHEJ is utilized less frequently in DNA DSB repair than other forms of DSB repair. We recently found that PARP1 is essential for chromosomal translocations to occur and that small molecule PARP1 inhibitors, already in clinical use, can inhibit translocations generated by IR or topoisomerase II inhibition. These data confirm the central role of PARP1 in aNHEJ-mediated chromosomal translocations and raise the possibility of using clinically available PARP1 inhibitors in patients who are at high risk for secondary oncogenic chromosomal translocations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Correction for ‘Novel formation of Bi@BiFe-glycolate hollow spheres and their conversion into Bi2O3/BiFeO3 composite hollow spheres with enhanced activity and durability in visible photocatalysis’ by Xu Yang et al., New J. Chem., 2018, 42, 10697–10703. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]