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Background: Cervical spondylotic myelopathy (CSM) is the most severe type of cervical spondylosis and the most common cause of spinal cord dysfunction among adults over 55 years old. MRI plays an important role in the diagnosis and evaluation of CSM, which can directly demonstrate the correlation between disc, spinal cord, posterior structures and abnormal signal in spinal cord. Static MRI can only show the static and neutral position of spinal cord, which is not enough to understand the pathogenesis of CSM. Dynamic MRI demonstrating the extension and flexion position of spinal cord can be a better tool for the treatment of CSM, especially the surgical decision making.Method: A total of 180 CSM patients who have indications for surgery will be recruited in outpatient of Peking University Third Hospital and assigned to three groups (Group A, B and C) based on their static MRI after consent. Group A (incomplete dura compression) means the signal of cerebral spinal fluid (CSF) is still visible. Group B (complete dura compression) means no CSF signal and no shape change of spinal cord. Group C (spinal cord compression) means shape change of spinal cord. Two surgical plans will be made for each participant by one professional surgeon according to the static MRI and dynamic MRI respectively and we will randomly choose one to perform via a random number system. Follow-up will be maintained at 3, 6, and 12 months after surgery through outpatient or telephone interview, including mJOA score, 10-s G&R (grip and release) and 10-s step test, SF-36 score, radiographic examination and complications. Finally, data collection and statistical analysis will be finished by researchers who are blinded to recruitment and treatment.Discussion: This study will help us to explore the indication of dynamic MRI and the value of dynamic MRI in the treatment of CSM, especially the surgical decision making. Dynamic MRI can be a useful tool in the treatment of CSM patients.Trial Registration: ChiCTR1900023014. Registered on May 7th, 2019. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Looking for a safe and effective cancer therapy for patients is becoming an important and promising research direction. Nanosecond pulsed electric field (nsPEF) has been found to be a potential non-thermal therapeutic technique with few side effects in pre-clinical studies. On the other hand, paclitaxel (PTX), as a common chemotherapeutic agent, shows full anti-tumor activities and is used to treat a wide variety of cancers. However, the delivery of PTX is challenging due to its poor aqueous solubility. Hence, high dosages of PTX have been used to achieve effective treatment, which creates some side effects. In this study, nsPEF was combined with low-level PTX, in order to validate if this combined treatment could bring about enhanced efficacy and allow reduced doses of PTX in clinical application. Cell proliferation, apoptosis, and cell cycle distribution were examined using MTT and flow cytometry assay, respectively. Results showed that combination treatments of nsPEF and PTX exhibited significant synergistic effects in vitro. The underlying mechanism might be that these two agents acted at different targets and coordinately enhanced MDA-MB-231 cell death. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Pseudomonas plecoglossicida , a temperature dependent bacterial pathogen in fish, expresses rpoE gene that is sensitive to temperature and probably critical for pathogen virulence and disease development. In this study, the rpoE silence strain rpoE -RNAi-1 was constructed by gene knock-down. The rpoE -RNAi-1 displayed significant changes in biofilm formation, swarming motility, adhesion and virulence. Meanwhile, vaccination of grouper with rpoE -RNAi-1 led to a relative percent survival (RPS) value of 85% after challenged with the wild-type P. plecoglossicida. qRT-PCR assays showed that vaccination with rpoE -RNAi-1 enhanced the expression of immune-related genes, including MHC-I , MHC-II , IgM , and IL-1β , indicating that it was able to induce humoral and cell-mediated immune response in grouper. These results validated the possibility of rpoE as a potential target for constructing P. plecoglossicida live attenuated vaccine. Highlights • Pseudomonas plecoglossicida is a temperature dependent bacterial pathogen in fish. • rpoE is sensitive to temperature and critical for P. plecoglossicida virulence. • rpoE is a target for constructing P. plecoglossicida live attenuated vaccine. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Dynamics model of droplet deformation in oil under CPWM electric field was developed. • The effects of duty cycle and electric field intensity has been investigated. • Droplet has the largest amplitude of droplet deformation when duty cycle is 0.5. • Droplet chaotic deformation decreases when electric field intensity exceeds a certain value. The pulsed electric field with constant frequency has difficulty exerting the maximum demulsification potentiality, because dynamic changes in droplet size during the electric demulsification process lead to the uncertainty of the optimal demulsification frequency. Thus, a chaotic-pulse-width-modulation (CPWM) electric field with a chaotic change of the pulse width and constant duty cycle is proposed for oil demulsification. The deformation and vibration of droplets in oil subjected to the CPWM electric field affects the efficiency of droplet coalescence and demulsification. Therefore, a model of droplet deformation and vibration in oil is established, and the effects of the duty cycle and electric field intensity on droplet vibration deformation are analyzed. The results show that the CPWM electric field has a wide frequency range and can cover the parametric resonance frequency of the droplet. The droplet has three different frequencies (ω e > ω r , ω e ≈ ω r , ω e < ω r) under the action of CPWM electric field, and the droplet deformation has chaotic characteristics. Considering the droplet deformation vibration and chaotic characteristics, the optimal duty cycle is 0.5 when using CPWM electric field demulsification. With increasing electric field intensity, the vibration amplitude of the droplet increases, and when the electric field intensity exceeds a certain value, the chaotic degree of the droplet deformation will decrease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Musk xylene (MX) is a widely used synthetic nitro musk. Although the persistence and bioaccumulation of the synthetic musks are of concern since the nineteenth century, knowledge concerning the toxicity and environmental risks, especially the carcinogenicity is still limited. In the present study, the normal human hepatic cell line L02 was used to investigate the long-term carcinogenicity of MX. L02 cells were exposed to MX with different concentrations (10, 100, and 1000 μg/L) for 24 h, then with conventional culture. After MX exposure for 24 h, some irregular fusiform, protuberances and multinucleated cells were observed. Indefinite cell proliferation, ability of anchorage-independent proliferation and increase of migration and invision were also observed in subsequent experiments, which suggested the positive effects of MX on cell malignant transformation in vitro. Moreover, the up-regulated protein expression of some oncogenes (C-myc and PCNA) in each time points furthermore supported this conclusion. Meanwhile, decreased protein expression level of TGF-β and the downstream proteins, SMAD4 coupled with P15 were observed in MX-treated cells. In addition, after culturing for 20 passages, the proportion of cells in the G0/G1 phase was decreased. These results demonstrated that the TGF-β signaling pathway regulated indefinite cell proliferation might be responsible for the oncogenesis of MX. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work, a novel sulfur-containing compound with aldehyde groups was synthesized, which was used to immobilize antibodies through the covalent bonding of the aldehyde groups with amino groups, in which no additional chemical cross-linker is required. Human IgG was used as a model analyte to fabricate the electrochemical immunosensor. Using the proposed immunosensor, IgG was detected within the range from 0.01 to 25 ng mL −1 with a detection limit of 0.003 ng mL −1 obtained by 3 S/N. The simple electrochemical immunosensor had a good specificity, stability and reproducibility. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights: [•] Exposure to Phe caused arrhythmia in Zebrafish embryos. [•] Phe disordered sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR) Ca2+ uptaking in rat embryonic cardiac myoblasts (H9C2). [•] The expression of SERCA2a in zebrafish hearts or H9C2 cells was significantly decreased by Phe exposure. [•] Phe exposure depressed the expression of TBX5 in zebrafish hearts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights: [•] Mechanism of Phe-induced cardiac developmental toxicity is still unclear. [•] Exposure to environmentally relevant concentrations of Phe caused cardiac defects. [•] Phe exposure produces cardiac defects of zebrafish through activation of MMP-9. [•] The transforming growth factor β was also involved in Phe caused cardiac defects. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

A label-free fluorescent sensor for the detection of Cu2+ was constructed based on internal DNA cleavage and DNA intercalator SYBR Green I. The DNAzyme complex formed by the hybridization of the enzyme strand and substrate strand has two base-pairing regions including a DNA duplex and a DNA triplex. The copper ion-induced catalytic reaction makes the substrate strand irreversibly break at the cleavage site, which disturbs the formation of DNA strands. The weakly fluorescent dye SYBR Green I served as a fluorescence indicator that intercalated into the base-pairing regions of DNAzyme, resulting in a strong fluorescence emission. In the presence of Cu2+ in the test system, the complementary regions were reduced due to the fracture of the DNA strand. The fluorescence intensity was decreased because SYBR Green I was released from the cleaved regions. Other metal ions had no notable “on-off” phenomenon even at 50 times Cu2+ concentration. Under the optimal conditions, a linear response with Cu2+ concentration ranging from 4 × 10−8 to 120 × 10−8 M was obtained. The detection limit reached as low as 10 nM. Moreover, the cost-effective sensor was successfully applied to the determination of Cu2+ in drinking water. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: It is widely accepted that the most abundant polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in weathered crude oils is cardiotoxic. Although PAHs toxic endpoints show strong correlation with the aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR), a ligand activated transcription factor, and is thought to be a potent inducer of cytochrome P4501A, the action mechanism of PAHs on vertebrate cardiovascular development and disease is unclear. Herein, we address the cardiac developmental effects of exposure to the weak AhR agonist pyrene on the early life-stages of zebrafish. Embryos were exposed to 0, 0.05, 0.5, 5, and 50nmol/L pyrene up to 72h post-fertilization (hpf). Pyrene-treated embryos showed dose-dependent heart abnormalities, such as pericardial edema and cardiac looping defects. Changes in AhR1a, AhR1b, AhR2, and Cyp1A expression were assessed by real-time RT-PCR. The results showed that low-level pyrene failed to alter these genes expression. However, the homeodomain transcription factor Nkx2.5, which plays an essential role in the development of the cardiovascular system, was down-regulated in a dose-dependent manner by pyrene exposure. The bone morphogenetic protein 2b (Bmp2b), which has been identified as the upstream gene of Nkx2.5, also was inhibited in a dose-dependent manner after treatment with pyrene. Taken together, these data indicated that embryonic exposure of zebrafish to low-level environmental pyrene disrupt normal cardiac development and alter expression of defective cardiac differentiation related genes. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Successful development of an ultrasensitive and highly specific electrochemical aptasensor for thrombin based on amplification of aptamer–gold nanoparticles–horseradish peroxidase (aptamer–AuNPs–HRP) conjugates was reported. In this electrochemical protocol, aptamer1 (Apt1) was immobilized on core/shell Fe3O4/Au magnetic nanoparticles (AuMNPs) and served as capture probe. Aptamer2 (Apt2) was dual labeled with AuNPs and HRP and used as detection probe. In the presence of thrombin, the sandwich format of AuMNPs–Apt1/thrombin/Apt2–AuNPs–HRP was fabricated. Remarkable signal amplification was realized by taking the advantage of AuNPs and catalytic reactions of HRP. Other proteins, such as human serum albumin, lysozyme, fibrinogen, and IgG did not show significant interference with the assay for thrombin. Linear response to thrombin concentration in the range of 0.1–60pM and lower detection limit down to 30fM (S/N =3) was obtained with the proposed method. This electrochemical aptasensor is simple, rapid (the whole detection period for a thrombin sample is less than 35min), sensitive and highly specific, it shows promising potential in protein detection and disease diagnosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The electrochemical synthesis and characterization of a copolymer, poly(o-toluidine-co-o-aminophenol), were conducted using in situ piezoelectric FTIR spectroelectrochemisty. The monomer feed ratio strongly affects the copolymerization rate and the properties of the copolymer during the electrosynthesis in 0.5M H2SO4 aqueous solution. The effects of scan rate and pH value on the electrochemical activity of the obtained copolymer were also studied. The copolymer synthesized in higher molar ratio of o-toluidine/o-aminophenol exhibited good electrical activity and stability in a broad pH range. The copolymerization mechanisms of o-toluidine and o-aminophenol were deduced. The copolymer formed through the head-to-tail coupling of the two monomers via –NH– groups was a new polymer rather than a mixture of poly(o-toluidine) and poly(o-aminophenol). [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: A novel method for DNA point mutation detection using single-base-coded CdS nanoparticle probes is proposed. Target DNA was immobilized on core/shell Fe3O4/Au magnetic nanoparticles. Single-base-coded CdS nanoparticles, such as guanosine coded CdS (G-CdS), cytidine coded CdS (C-CdS), thymidine coded CdS (T-CdS) and adenosine coded CdS (A-CdS) were used as the probes to identify the mutation sites in DNA strand. The hybridization process of single-base-coded CdS nanoparticle probes with the mutation sites in DNA was monitored using piezoelectric quartz crystal microbalance (QCM). The hybridization of the mutation base in DNA with its complementary base-coded CdS nanoprobes specifically caused significant changes in the resonance frequency of the QCM. Thus the base types of the mutation sites in DNA strand could be identified. The results were further confirmed by fluorescence measurement of CdS. Owing to its operation convenience and cost-effective, this DNA point mutation detection method is expected to hold a great promise in the detection of DNA point mutation and genetic assays. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: In situ piezoelectric FTIR (Fourier transform infrared) spectroelectrochemistry, a combination technique of in situ FTIR and electrochemical quartz crystal microbalance (EQCM), was used to study the electrochemical oxidation of 3,3′,5,5′-tetramethylbenzidine (TMB) and the effect of some large-sized anions on the oxidation process. A V-shaped frequency response curve was observed during the electrochemical oxidation of TMB. The formation of TMB cation free radical and charge transfer complex (CTC) were experimentally found in the process of TMB electro-oxidation. In cyclic voltammetric test, the deposition of CTC onto the electrode surface from TMB solution was observed after several scanning cycles, even though the CTC is dissolvable in the solution. Further investigations suggested that the CTC was formed by TMB and TMB2+. Some representative large-sized anions, such as heparin, alizarin red and DNA, can affect the electro-oxidation of TMB. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The electrochemical piezoelectric quartz crystal impedance (EQCI), a combined technique of piezoelectric quartz crystal impedance (PQCI), electrochemical impedance (EI), and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy–attenuated total internal reflectance spectroscopy (FTIR–ATR) were used to in situ study the adsorption process of fibrinogen onto the surface of biomaterials—TiO2 and hydroxyapatite (Ca5(PO4)3OH, HAP). The equivalent circuit parameters, the resonance frequencies and the half peak width of the conductance spectrum of the two biomaterial-modified piezoelectric quartz crystal (PQC) resonances as well as the FTIR–ATR spectra of fibrinogen during fibrinogen adsorption on TiO2 and HAP particles modified electrode surface were obtained. The adsorption kinetics and mechanism of fibrinogen were investigated and discussed as well. The results suggested that two consecutive steps occurred during the adsorption of fibrinogen onto TiO2 and hydroxyapatite (HAP) surface. The fibrinogen molecules were firstly adsorbed onto the surface, and then the rearrangement of adsorbed fibrinogen or multi-layered adsorption occurred. The FTIR–ATR spectroscopy investigations showed that the secondary structure of fibrinogen molecules was altered during the adsorption and the adsorption kinetics of fibrinogen related with the variety of biomaterials. These experimental results suggest a way for enriching biological analytical science and developing new applications of analytical techniques, such as PQCI, EI, and FTIR–ATR. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The processes of nickel electrochemical deposition and stripping on a gold electrode surface in a solution of low Ni2+ concentration with or without magnetic field were monitored in situ using an electrochemical quartz crystal impedance system (EQCIS). The effects of magnetic field on the piezoelectric quartz crystal (PQC) responses were investigated in air and in electrolytic solution. The PQC responses were monitored in four steps, namely, Ni electrodeposition and Ni magnetic activation; magnetically assisted Ni electrodeposition; Ni dissolution under open-circuit potential; Ni electro-stripping, respectively. From the electrochemical quartz crystal responses, it was observed that static magnetic field significantly affected the processes of nickel electrochemical deposition and stripping after multilayer Ni deposited on gold electrode surface. But the effects of magnetic field on the Ni electrodeposition on diamagnetic Au electrode were insensible at the initial stage. The experimental results also suggested that ferromagnetic metal–Ni could be magnetized, Ni electrodeposition rate was accelerated after multilayer Ni deposition on Au electrode, and the stripping rate of the deposited Ni was slowed down in the presence of magnetic field. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: A flow-through PQC/DNA biosensor system is developed by combining sequential flow polymerase chain reaction (PCR) products denaturing prior to piezoelectric quartz crystal (PQC) detection via hybridization of ssDNA. The PQC/DNA biosensor is fabricated based on complex formation of neutravidin/biotinylated probe in 0.2M NaCl in TE buffer (10mM Tris, 1mM EDTA, pH 7.5). Results show that the coating fabricated provides a desirable quality with satisfactory performance. Its application for Escherichia coli detection under controlled flow at 0.02mL/min for denaturing PCR products and 10mL/min for transferring solution between reactors and delivering samples to detector to reduce rehybridization leads to significant improvement in repeatability (R.S.D.<6%, n =5) and sensitivity (ΔF =34Hz/1000 E. coli cells) as compared to existing manual method (R.S.D.=19%, n =5 and ΔF =26Hz/1000 E. coli cells, respectively). Down to 23 E. coli cells are detected, satisfying the HKEPD requirements for E. coli count in beach water. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Combined measurements of piezoelectric quartz crystal impedance (PQCI) and electrochemical impedance (EI) were utilized to monitor in situ adsorption of two proteins (bovine serum albumin and fibrinogen) onto the hydrophilicity-controllable surfaces of polypyrrole (PPY) doped with dodecyl benzene sulfonate (DBS). Three of these polymer films, PPY/DBS-I, PPY/DBS-II and PPY/DBS-III, were obtained by galvanostatic electropolymerization of pyrrole in aqueous solutions containing 0.6, 1.2 and 2.0mmolL−1 sodium dodecyl benzene sulfonate (SDBS), respectively. The PPY/DBS-II obtained from electropolymerization of pyrrole in the presence of 1.2mmolL−1 SDBS (the critical micelle concentration of SDBS in aqueous solution, CMC) exhibited the greatest hydrophobicity, as suggested by contact angle measurement. And the saturation-adsorption amounts for both proteins were found to be greatest on the surface. The kinetics and adsorption mechanisms of both proteins adsorbed on these three surfaces were discussed. Langmuir and Freundlich models were used for explaining the adsorption behavior of proteins, giving that Langmuir model is better for bovine serum albumin (BSA) and both model are not so available for fibrinogen. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Understanding protein adsorption at electrode surface is important for biosensor development, in particular for piezoelectric quartz crystal (PQC) microbalance (QCM) sensor. Two proteins, bovine serum albumin (BSA) and fibrinogen were monitored in situ for their electrode-surface processes using both QCM and electrochemical impedance method. Conductive polymer films, which are based on de-doping polyaniline (PAN), ions-doped PAN (PAN+ClO4 −) or sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS) doped PAN (PAN+SDS) were prepared by electrochemical methods. The effect of the polymer film thickness and doping agents of PAN on protein adsorption were investigated. The maximum adsorptions of proteins onto PAN, PAN+ClO4 − and PAN+SDS films were measured, with results showing 0.71, 0.65 and 0.99μg/cm2 for BSA and 2.73, 1.85 and 4.07μg/cm2 for fibrinogen, respectively. The results suggest an end-on type adsorption of BSA to produce a mono-layered structure onto all three PAN films. As for fibrinogen, only the ClO4 −-doped PAN film was adsorbed in an end-on type mono-layered structure. For the adsorption of fibrinogen on the other two PAN films, the adsorbed protein molecules formed multi-layered structure. The adsorption of proteins onto the PAN films was found to follow the Langmuir isotherm. Results from adsorption kinetics studies showed two consecutive steps in the adsorption of BSA and fibrinogen on PAN films. BSA and fibrinogen molecules were firstly adsorbed onto the films before undergone rearrangement. The adsorption equilibrium constants were 1.64×106, 9.51×105 and 2.42×106 for BSA adsorption and 2.74×108, 2. 43×108 and 2.52×108 for fibrinogen adsorption onto ClO4 −-doped PAN, de-doping PAN and SDS-doped PAN films, respectively. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The interaction process of tannin with bovine serum albumin (BSA) was studied by the electrochemical quartz-crystal impedance system (EQCIS) and fluorescence spectrophotometry. The equivalent circuit parameters and resonant frequencies of the piezoelectric quartz-crystal (PQC) resonance, the value of half-peak width of the electroacoustic conductance spectrum (ΔfG1/2) as well as the electrical double-layer capacitance were obtained and analyzed. The results showed that the frequency curve and the double-layer capacitance curve due to BSA adsorption exhibited a character of a sum of exponential functions. Both piezoelectric impedance and fluorescence measurements revealed that the molar ratio of tannin to BSA in the tannin-BSA binding was 2:1. The combining constant (3.6 × 1011L2mol-2) was calculated out from the concentration and relative fluorescence intensity based on the Stern–Volmer equation. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

[Display omitted] The integration of reactive oxygen species (ROS) related photodynamic therapy (PDT) with the strategy of reshaping the tumor microenvironment (TME) has emerged as a potential approach for nanodiagnostic and therapeutic interventions. However, the therapeutic efficacy based on ROS treatments may be hindered by intracellular antioxidants such as glutathione (GSH) and tumor hypoxia. To address these challenges, a nanoplatform based on GSH-responsive multifunctional porphyrinic metal–organic framework (PCN-224@Au@MnO 2 @HA, PAMH) was proposed. It was developed through a layer-by-layer in-situ growth method. This method avoids the need for high-temperature calcination and complex modification processes while improving the stability of PCN-224 in a phosphate-rich environment. GSH depletion leads to oxidation–reduction imbalance in TME. With the inactivation of GSH peroxidase 4 (GPX4), the content of hydrogen peroxide (H 2 O 2) increases, ultimately triggering lipid peroxidation (LPO) and promoting ferroptosis. The catalase-like activity of Au nanozymes facilitates the generation of oxygen (O 2), thereby mitigating tumor hypoxia and downregulating hypoxia-inducing factors (HIF-1α). Due to the presence of porphyrin ligands in PCN-224, the generated O 2 can be further converted to toxic singlet oxygen (1O 2) under laser irradiation. Additionally, the platform allows near-infrared (NIR) fluorescence imaging, providing real-time information on intracellular GSH changes during PDT and ferroptosis. The PAMH nanoplatform has shown effective inhibition of tumor growth in subcutaneous models via both intravenous and intratumoral injection, indicating its potential in modulating reactive oxygen/sulfur species and reshaping TME, thereby facilitating imaging-guided cascaded nanocatalytic therapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Transition metal carbides/carbonitrides (MXenes), as one of the emerging two-dimensional (2D) materials, have attracted tremendous attention in recent years. Developing MXenes based biosensing platforms is fantastic for the applications of diagnostic and biological research. In this regard, it is pressing need for the synthesis, exfoliation, intercalation, and tuning the surface of MXenes. Compared with the electrochemical implements of MXenes, the optical biosensing applications are in the earlier stage. In this review, the research significance and types of MXenes are introduced followed by the recent progress of synthesis and functionalization of two kinds of titanium carbide (Ti 3 C 2) MXenes including nanosheets (NSs) and quantum dots (QDs). In addition, the special properties and applications in optical biosensing platforms including photoluminescence, electrogenerated chemiluminescence (ECL), surface plasmon resonance (SPR), surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS), photoelectrochemical (PEC), colorimetric and photothermal sensors are highlighted. Finally, the possible remaining challenges and future trends of Ti 3 C 2 MXenes in optical biosensing platforms are outlined. • MXenes based biosensing platforms is fantastic for diagnostic and biological filed. • Recently developed optical sensing platforms based on Ti 3 C 2 MXenes were reviewed. • It covers the prominent roles of Ti 3 C 2 MXenes in various optical sensing platforms. • PL, ECL, SPR, SERS, PEC, colorimetric and photothermal sensors were included. • Future perspectives and challenges of Ti 3 C 2 MXenes optical sensors are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Given that the common constant frequency pulse electric field cannot meet the requirements of the optimal demulsification frequency change in the demulsification process, a chaotic pulse group (CPG) electric field with chaotic group frequency, constant field intensity and group pulse number is proposed to excite all droplets in oil to resonate and improve the demulsification efficiency. However, the vibration and deformation characteristics of droplet in emulsion oil under the CPG electric field is unclear. Therefore, the droplet deformation dynamic model under the CPG electric field is established by applying the finite element method. The influences of duty cycle and group pulse number on droplet deformation are analyzed, and the mechanism of droplet relaxation in CPG electric field is investigated. Results show that the optimal duty cycle is 0.5 and the optimal group pulse number is 3. The droplet tends to be resonant when the frequency of the electric field group is close to its resonant frequency, and its steady vibration mainly depends on the consistency of the state of the droplet after the end of the latter pulse with that of the former pulse. [Display omitted] • A CPG electric field is proposed to improve the demulsification efficiency. • The optimal group pulse number and duty cycle are been numerically studied. • The chaotic group frequency can make droplet reach resonance and steady vibration. • The mechanism of droplet relaxation in CPG electric field is studied. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Exosomes are critical tumor biomarkers, which can be detected by label‐free sensing of plasmonic metasurfaces with expensive antibody functionalization. Due to their low cost and small size, aptamers should be promising to replace antibodies in plasmonic metasensing of exosomes. However, research on aptamer‐based plasmonic metasensing of exosomes is still unexplored. Here, the optical near‐field sensing mechanism of aptamer‐based plasmonic metasurface (APM) is investigated. Based on the study of the evanescent field of APM, using thiol‐modified aptamer boosts the utilization rate of resonance wavelength shift from 27.5% to 83.3% compared to biotinylated aptamers, attributed to a significant reduction in the near‐field occupation of the biofunction layer. Moreover, APM biosensors effectively detect clinical serum exosomes for breast cancer (BC) diagnosis and classification. The receiver operating characteristic analysis shows an area under the curve of 99.3% for APM diagnosis, surpassing the 79.1% for hematological tests of the conventional BC biomarker CA153. The results also indicate that APM biosensors can be a noninvasive tool for molecular classification of BC with great distinguishment of P < 0.0001. The research demonstrates that APM biosensors are enabling a reliable and convenient platform to facilitate clinical hematological tests of exosomes for auxiliary diagnosis of cancer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To evaluate the efficacy and safety of patient-tailored 3D printed brace in the treatment of adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS), and to compare the health-related quality of life (HRQoL) of patients treated with 2 different types of brace. From September 2017 to August 2020, 103 AIS patients requiring non-operative management were prospectively recruited in this study. All patients were followed up every 6 months, clinical and radiologic examination were assessed at each follow-up time. Full-length anteroposterior radiographs of the spine in the standing position were obtained. At the last follow-up, each patient completed a standardized HRQoL questionnaire. Compliance is defined as that the patient insists on wearing the brace for ≥23 hours every day (full-time wearing) and follow-up every 6 months until bone maturity. The rate of major curve Cobb progression was defined that maximum Cobb angle of major curve greater than 6° compared with that at the initial diagnosis, or aggravated to more than 45° so that orthopedic surgery was recommended during treatment, which was defined as the rate of conversion to surgery. The effects of these 2 types of braces on the rate of major curve Cobb progression and HRQoL were analyzed by independent sample t test and χ2 test. The thickness was 4 mm for thoracolumbosacral orthosis (TLSO) and 3 mm for 3D-printed brace (3DPB). In addition, compared with the material used in TLSO, the weight (600–800 g) of the 3DPB materials with the same area is reduced by about 25% to 30%. In our sample, 55 patients (49.1%) and 48 patients (33.1%) were respectively included in the 3DPB cohort and the TLSO cohort. The maximum Cobb angle of major curve in the 3DPB cohort was significantly lower than those in the TLSO cohort at 6 months, 12 months, and the last follow-up (P < 0.01). The thoracic kyphosis (TK) and lumbar lordosis (LL) of the 2 cohorts at the last follow-up were lower than those before brace treatment, in addition, there was a significant difference in TK (P = 0.001) and LL (P = 0.004) between the 2 cohorts at the follow-up. The scores of physical function, pain, self-image, mental health, and treatment satisfaction in the Chinese version of the 22-item questionnaire of the Scoliosis Research Society in the 3DPB cohort were higher than those in the TLSO cohort (P < 0.01 and P < 0.05, respectively). The scores of the 3DPB cohort were significantly higher than those of the TLSO group in the 4 dimensions (P = 0.008, 0.013, 0.015, and 0.002, respectively) of the EuroQol-5D health description system except for mobility, and the overall health status of EuroQol-5D was higher for the 3DPB cohort (P < 0.001). At the last follow-up, 1 patient in the 3DPB cohort and 10 patients in the TLSO cohort had major curve Cobb progression of greater than 6°, and the rate of major curve Cobb progression in the 3DPB cohort was significantly lower than that in the TLSO cohort (OR 14.2, 95% CI 1.7∼115.8, P < 0.01). One patient in the 3DPB and 7 patients in the TLSO cohorts received subsequent surgery or were recommended for surgery, and the rate of conversion to surgery was significantly lower than in the 3DPB cohort (OR 9.2, 95% CI 1.1∼77.9, P < 0.05). A patient-tailored 3D-printed brace is lighter, thinner, and more comfortable than conventional braces in the treatment of AIS. It can substantially improve the HRQoL of patients and can significantly reduce the progression of major curve Cobb progression and rate of conversion of surgery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] Cu doped CeO 2 (Cu-CeO 2) nanoparticles were synthesized via the hydrothermal method, exhibiting multiple nanozyme activities such as good oxidase-like (OXD), peroxidase-like (POD) and catalase-like (CAT) activities. These Cu-CeO 2 nanoparticles were successfully utilized to modulate the levels of oxygen and hydrogen peroxide in cells. The OXD and POD mimics showed optimal at pH of 3.5 and 4.0, but their activities significantly decreased under neutral or slightly acidic conditions. On the other hand, the CAT activity was excellent at pH 6.5, while the OXD and POD mimics were less effective. These findings demonstrated that nanozyme activity of Cu-CeO 2 nanoparticles is pH-dependent. Consequently, within the microenvironment of tumor cells, the CAT can efficiently catalyze the conversion of H 2 O 2 into O 2 , unaffected by H 2 O 2 /O 2 consuming mimics. Both oxygen indicator and oxygen tester measurements confirmed a significant increase in O 2 levels in phosphate-buffered saline (PBS). Furthermore, confocal microscopic imagings using fluorescence probes for H 2 O 2 and O 2 validated the variations of H 2 O 2 /O 2 in cells. This study highlights the ability of Cu-CeO 2 to regulate intracellular reactive oxygen levels and its tremendous potential in nanotherapy and alleviating tumor hypoxia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An electrochemical sensor capable of detecting glutathione (GSH) with high sensitivity and selectivity was developed based on the unique novel electroactive silver-based metal organic framework (Ag-MOF). The Ag-MOF obtained by silver nitrate and 1,3,5-benzoic acid (H3BTC) was thoroughly characterized and was modified onto the electrode via facile drop-casting method. The electrochemical response of GSH on the Ag-MOF modified electrode showed a significant reduction in the current signal because the Ag-GSH complex had stronger specific affinity than Ag-H3BTC and resulted in the collapse of the Ag-MOF. This sensor demonstrated an extensive linear dynamic range of 0.1 nM-1 µM, along with the low detection limit of 0.018 nM. Additionally, it exhibited good reproducibility, stability, and resistance to interfering compounds. The Ag-MOF modified electrode demonstrated superior performance attributed to its rapid electron transfer rate, outstanding electrochemical redox activity, and specific recognition/competitive reaction. These factors improved both sensitivity and selectivity. The high anti-interference ability allowed for the selective detection of GSH in intricate surroundings. In the real sample testing, the RSD was lower than 3.1% and the recovery was between 98.1 and 103%. This research highlights the potential of Ag-MOFs in developing electrochemical sensors and their promising applications in determining GSH for food screening and early disease diagnosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Schematic representation for the study of DMSN@Cu-CeO 2 @GOx in regulating the level of H 2 O 2 , glucose and oxygen. [Display omitted] Imbalances in the intracellular environment caused by high levels of glucose, H 2 O 2 , and hypoxia can greatly impact cancer development and treatment. However, there is limited research on regulating the levels of these species simultaneously in tumor cells. Here, a pH-responsive nanozyme-enzyme hybrid system was developed to regulate intracellular glucose, H 2 O 2 and O 2. The system, named DMSN@Cu-CeO 2 @GOx, consists of Cu-CeO 2 nanoparticles and glucose oxidase (GOx) immobilized in dendritic mesoporous silica (DMSN) spheres. GOx efficiently consumes glucose in tumor cells, causing a drop in pH and producing a significant amount of H 2 O 2. Cu-CeO 2 then catalyzes the conversion of H 2 O 2 to O 2 due to its high catalase-like (CAT) activity in weakly acidic conditions. The process was monitored by fluorescence probes, and the mechanism was investigated through fluorescence spectroscopy and confocal laser scanning microscopy. The cascade catalytic system with excellent biocompatibility continuously consumes glucose and elevates the level of O 2 in cells. This hybrid nanomaterial offers a means to regulate the glucose/H 2 O 2 /O 2 levels in cells and may provide insights into starvation therapy by modulating reactive species within cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A simple structured reaction-based probe for peroxynitrite (ONOO − ) was developed by using benzothiazole hydrazone base of the excited-state intramolecular proton transfer (ESIPT) dye. It was constructed from 2-hydrazinylpyridine and 3-(benzo[d]thiazol-2-yl)-2-hydroxy-5-methylbenzaldehyde which possesses itself weak fluorescence and displayed prominent fluorescence response towards ONOO − by oxidizes the C=N bond to an aldehyde in aqueous solution. The probe exhibited excellent selectivity and high sensivity towards ONOO − with a low dectection limit of 5.8 × 10 −8  M in physiological condition. Moreover, the probe could realize fast recognition to ONOO − in as short as 60 s. In addition, the probe was also successfully used for living cell imaging. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A novel colorimetric and ratiometric fluorescent fluoride ion detecting system was been constructed base on ICT-modulated characteristic of the latent fluorophore, 7-(diethylamino)-3-(2-(pyridin-4-yl)vinyl)-coumarin and triisopropylsilane ether. The probe exhibited high selectivity and sensitivity detection of fluoride ion over other anion with a large emission wavelength shift (100 nm), and it also showed a low detection limit of 12 nM ( S / N = 3). The sensing mechanism was investigated by NMR spectra, HRMS spectrometry and theoretical calculations. The results indicated the colorimetric and ratiometric response of the probe to fluoride ion was ascribed to the cleavage reaction of Si-O bond between triisopropylsilyl group and phenyl group by fluoride ion and induced the intermolecular charger transfer (ICT) process. By using the strategy, the probe has been successfully applied to detect mitochondrial fluoride ion in live cells by ratiometric fluorescence imaging, which demonstrated that the colorimetric and ratiometric fluorescence probe has promising applications for investigation of fluoride ion in biological samples. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work, the coalescence motion characteristics of two droplets under the chaotic pulse position modulation (CPPM) electric field and the influence of electric field parameters on the coalescence motion of the droplets were studied. The numerical results show that the coalescence motion of the droplets under the action of CPPM electric field is related to the deformation relaxation time. The pulse width mainly affects the droplet movement process, and has little effect on the droplet coalescing time. The electric field strength affects the droplet coalescence efficiency, and the greater the electric field strength, the shorter the droplet coalescing time. This study provides a theoretical basis for the application of CPPM electric field in practice. • The droplet coalescence motion characteristics are been numerically studied. • The effects of pulse width and electric field intensity has been investigated. • The flow field will promote coalescence when the droplets are close enough. • The pulse width mainly affects the coalescence motion of droplets. • The droplets coalescence time decreases with the increase of electric field intensity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chaotic pulse group (CPG) electric field has already been proposed to achieve demulsification of water-in-oil (W/O) emulsions; however, the electric field parameters of the CPG electric field for efficient demulsification of emulsions are unknown. Therefore, in this study, the numerical model of droplet deformation under the action of electric field was established by coupling the flow field and electric field, and the effectiveness of the model was verified by comparing with the experimental results. In the numerical model, the electric field parameters are optimized by droplet deformation; moreover, the influence of surface tension and oil viscosity on the optimal electric field parameters is discussed; the deformation of droplets under the optimized CPG electric field was analyzed. The results show that when the droplet radius is 1 mm, the optimal electric field strength is 612 kV/m, the optimal pulse width is 0.023 s, and the optimal pulse rest width is 0.017 s. The increase in interfacial tension leads to the increase in optimal electric field strength, and the decrease in optimal pulse width and pulse rest width. The increase in oil viscosity leads to an increase in the optimal electric field parameters. With the increase in interfacial tension and oil viscosity, their influence on the deformation of droplets gradually decreases. Droplets of different sizes could find their own optimal electric field parameters in the CPG electric field, so as to achieve the maximum deformation. The results provide valuable guidance for the selection of electric field parameters in CPG electric field industrial applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The excessive formation of peroxynitrite (ONOO−) in mitochondria has been implicated in various pathophysiological processes and diseases. However, owing to short emission wavelengths and small Stokes shifts, previously reported fluorescent probes pose significant challenges for mitochondrial ONOO− imaging in biological systems. In this study, a near-infrared (NIR) fluorescent probe, denoted as DCO-POT, is designed for the visual monitoring of mitochondrial ONOO−, displaying a remarkable Stokes shift of 170 nm. The NIR fluorophore of DCO-CHO is released by DCO-POT upon the addition of ONOO−, resulting in off–on NIR fluorescence at 670 nm. This phenomenon facilitates the high-resolution confocal laser scanning imaging of ONOO− generated in biological systems. The practical applications of DCO-POT as an efficient fluorescence imaging tool are verified in this study. DCO-POT enables the fluorometric visualization of ONOO− in organelles, cells, and organisms. In particular, ONOO− generation is analyzed during cellular and organism-level (zebrafish) inflammation during ferroptosis and in an Alzheimer's disease mouse model. The excellent visual monitoring performance of DCO-POT in vivo makes it a promising tool for exploring the pathophysiological effects of ONOO−. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A novel mitochondria-targeted fluorescent probe compound 1 for H 2 O 2 has constructed based on a coumarin as the fluorophore and a boronate moiety as the reaction site, which showed colorimetric and ratiometric fluorescence dual response to H 2 O 2 . This probe displayed a large blue-shifted in emission wavelength (105 nm) with two well-resolved emission bands toward hydrogen peroxide. The compound 1 can be quantitative, good selective and sensitive recognition to H 2 O 2 with low detection limit (10 nM). The sensing mechanism was confirmed by H NMR and HRMS spectroscopy. The mechanism regarding the optical responses of the compound 1 toward H 2 O 2 was also determined by density function theory (DFT) calculations. Moreover, the probe could be used for determining H 2 O 2 in living cells by ratiometric fluorescence imaging with excellent mitochondrial targeting. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, aldehyde-terminated ionic liquid was synthesized and used to fabricate a novel label-free electrochemical immunosensor for the determination of hepatitis B surface antigen. This sensor was formed from a gold electrode which was modified with a composite film containing the aldehyde-functionalized ionic liquid incorporated into nafion and anti-hepatitis B surface antigen antibody probes. Aldehyde-functionalized ionic liquid was used not only as a substrate for antibody immobilization, but also as a good material with high electrical conductivity, which greatly simplified the process of sensor fabrication. The proposed sensor exhibited a good performance in a linear range from 0.05 to 15 ng mL −1 with a detection limit of 20 pg mL −1 ( S / N =3) and provided a novel strategy for clinical detection due to satisfying stability, selectivity and reproducibility. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Silver triangular nanoplates (STNPs) as a high efficient fluorescence quenching reagent of upconversion nanoparticles (UCNPs) was used to constract a novel label-free fluorescence nanosensor for ultrasensitive detection of protamine and trypsin based on fluorescence resonance energy transfer (FRET) between STNPs and UCNPs. In this assay, the negatively charged STNPs can bind with positively charged UCNPs through electrostatic interaction, and then quenched the fluorescence of UCNPs. When protamine was added to the mixture of UCNPs-STNPs, the STNPs interacted with protamine and then detached from the surface of UCNPs and aggregated, which result in the recovery of the fluorescence of UCNPs. Trypsin could catalyze the hydrolysis of protamine and effectively quench the fluorescence recovered by protamine. By measuring the changes of the fluorescence of UCNPs, the concentrations of protamine and trypsin were determined. Under the optimized conditions, the linear response range was obtained from 10 to 500 ng/mL, 5–80 ng/mL and with the low detection limit of 3.1 ng/mL and 1.8 ng/mL for protamine and trypsin, respectively. Meanwhile, the nanosensor shows good selectivity, sensitivity and can be successfully applied to detection of protamine and trypsin in serum samples. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new turn-on phthalimide fluorescent probe has designed and synthesized for sensing cysteine (Cys) based on excited state intramolecular proton transfer (ESIPT) process. It is consisted of a 3-hydroxyphthalimide derivative moiety as the fluorophore and an acrylic ester group as a recognition receptor. The acrylic ester acts as an ESIPT blocking agent. Upon addition of cystein, intermolecular nucleophilic attack of cysteine on acrylic ester releases the fluorescent 3-hydroxyphthalimide derivative, thereby enabling the ESIPT process and leading to enhancement of fluorescence. The probe displays high sensitivity, excellent selectivity and with large Stokes shift toward cysteine. The linear interval range of the fluorescence titration ranged from 0 to 1.0 × 10 − 5 M and detection limit is low (6 × 10 − 8 M). In addition, the probe could be used for bio-imaging in living cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work, a novel and convenient strategy for synthesis of a well-defined polymer containing both aldehyde and ferrocene functional groups by grafting 4-hydroxybenzaldehyde and ferrocenecarboxylhydrazide onto linear poly (vinylbenzyl chloride) was developed. The designed polymer film (polymer CAF) could be used as a new support matrix for fabrication of a label-free electrochemical immunosensor with high sensitivity, good stability and repeatability. With human IgG as an analyte model, the proposed electrochemical immunosensor showed a linear concentration range from 0.1 to 20 ng mL −1 with a detection limit of 0.07 ng mL −1 (S/N=3). Moreover, interfering proteins including HSA, IgM, and IgE were added into the analyte, the developed immnnosensor can detect human IgG with high specificity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • A high selectivity fluorescent probe DNO-HC for glutathione (GSH) was developed. • The probe exhibited fast response speed (1 min) and low detection limits (45 nM) toward GSH. • DNO-HC can readily evaluate GSH levels in different gut-derived bacteria and assess the antimicrobial sensitivity of different antibiotics. The human gut microbiota plays an integral role in the management of human health. Effective detection of gut-derived bacteria and their metabolites, as well as assessing antibiotic susceptibility, are crucial for the treatment of intestinal bacteria-related diseases. Herein, we designed and developed a dual-site (nitrophenyl sulfide group and aldehyde group) fluorescent probe DNO-HC , which could rapidly (∼1 min) respond to glutathione (GSH) with low background fluorescence, high selectivity, and low detection limits (45 nM). Moreover, the probe can be used to evaluate the metabolic levels (GSH) in different gut-derived bacteria and discriminate their Gram status. Remarkably, the assessment of antimicrobial susceptibility to a variety of antibiotics has been successfully accomplished utilizing this probe. It offers a promising strategy for the treatment of diseases associated with bacterial infections. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) poses a significant global health concern, necessitating precise diagnostic tools and effective treatment strategies. Peroxynitrite (ONOO−), a reactive oxygen species, plays a pivotal role in NAFLD pathogenesis, highlighting its potential as a biomarker for disease diagnosis and therapeutic evaluation. This study reports on the development of a near-infrared (NIR) fluorescent probe, designated DRP-O, for the selective detection of ONOO− with high sensitivity and photostability. DRP-O exhibits rapid response kinetics (within 2 min) and an impressive detection limit of 2.3 nM, enabling real-time monitoring of ONOO− dynamics in living cells. Notably, DRP-O demonstrates excellent photostability under continuous laser irradiation, ensuring reliable long-term monitoring in complex biological systems. We apply DRP-O to visualize endogenous ONOO− in living cells, demonstrating its potential for diagnosing and monitoring NAFLD-related oxidative stress. Furthermore, DRP-O effectively evaluates the efficacy of therapeutic drugs in NAFLD cell models, underscoring its potential utility in drug screening studies. Moreover, we confirm DRP-O to enable selective identification of fatty liver tissues in a mouse model of NAFLD, indicating its potential for the early diagnosis of NAFLD. Collectively, DRP-O represents a valuable tool for studying ONOO− dynamics, evaluating drug efficacy, and diagnosing NAFLD, offering insights into novel therapeutic strategies for this prevalent liver disorder. [Display omitted] • Development of a near-infrared fluorescent probe peroxynitrite detection. • The probe has high selectivity, good photostability, and rapid response kinetics. • The probe can diagnose and monitor NAFLD-related oxidative stress. • The probe can evaluate the efficacy of therapeutic drugs for treating NAFLD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Human immunoglobulin (HIgG) has gained recognition as a crucial biomarker diagnosing and treating various diseases, particularly in identifying elevated serum levels in conditions like measles and pneumococcal disease. Traditional detection methods, however, are often hindered by inefficiencies, high costs, and potential inaccuracies, underscoring the urgent need for more sensitive, efficient, accurate, and self-calibration methods for HIgG. Here, a novel ZnIn 2 S 4 /SnO 2 composites was synthesized, featuring uniformly dispersed SnO 2 nanoparticles on the flower-like ZnIn 2 S 4 structure, resulting in a type II heterojunction that promotes the separation and transfer of photogenerated carriers. Under optimized conditions, this composite demonstrated remarkable photocurrent enhancements 52 and 195 times greater than that of the individual ZnIn 2 S 4 or SnO 2 , respectively. A novel dual-mode biosensing platform was subsequently developed, employing the ZnIn 2 S 4 /SnO 2 composites as both as the photoelectrochemical (PEC) signal generator and antibody carrier. This system utilizes multifunctional CuO NPs with ascorbic acid oxidase-like properties, serving as a secondary antibody label. Upon specific binding to HIgG, a notable decrease in the PEC response occurs due to the catalytic activity of CuO NPs and the antigen-antibody interactions. The introduction of o -phenylenediamine (OPD) further enhances detection by facilitating the formation of a fluorescent substance DHAA. This dual-signal approach yielded excellent linear correlations between both PEC and fluorescence signals and HIgG concentration, achieving low detection limits of 22.5 pg/mL or 8.6 pg/mL. These two signals originated from the same PEC electrode with continuous detection in the absence and presence of OPD, simplifying experimental procedures and enhancing the reliability of detection. The non-toxic, chemically stable ZnIn 2 S 4 /SnO 2 composites ensures reliable and sensitive detection through photocurrent output after incubation with biomolecules. The integration of nanozyme catalysis, biospecific reactions, and in situ fluorescent products generation promise high selectivity across diverse immunosensing applications. [Display omitted] • A novel dual-channel biosensing platform has been developed for HIgG. • ZnIn 2 S 4 /SnO 2 composites offer superior and stable photoelectrochemical signals. • Multifunctional CuO NPs serves as a nanozyme and nanocarrier for antibody. • The dual-channel signals derived from the same PEC for continuous detection. • The PEC and FL was triggered by specific immune and nanozyme-catalyzed reaction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Exosomes, as next-generation biomarkers, has great potential in tracking cancer progression. They face many detection limitations in cancer diagnosis. Plasmonic biosensors have attracted considerable attention at the forefront of exosome detection, due to their label-free, real-time, and high-sensitivity features. Their advantages in multiplex immunoassays of minimal liquid samples establish the leading position in various diagnostic studies. This review delineates the application principles of plasmonic sensing technologies, highlighting the importance of exosomes-based spectrum and image signals in disease diagnostics. It also introduces advancements in miniaturizing plasmonic biosensing platforms of exosomes, which can facilitate point-of-care testing for future healthcare. Nowadays, inspired by the surge of artificial intelligence (AI) for science and technology, more and more AI algorithms are being adopted to process the exosome spectrum and image data from plasmonic detection. Using representative algorithms of machine learning has become a mainstream trend in plasmonic biosensing research for exosome liquid biopsy. Typically, these algorithms process complex exosome datasets efficiently and establish powerful predictive models for precise diagnosis. This review further discusses critical strategies of AI algorithm selection in exosome-based diagnosis. Particularly, we categorize the AI algorithms into the interpretable and uninterpretable groups for exosome plasmonic detection applications. The interpretable AI enhances the transparency and reliability of diagnosis by elucidating the decision-making process, while the uninterpretable AI provides high diagnostic accuracy with robust data processing by a "black-box" working mode. We believe that AI will continue to promote significant progress of exosome plasmonic detection and mobile healthcare in the near future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Three-color emitting carbon dots (CDs)-metal ion pairs were prepared as a fluorescent sensor array. • Effective discrimination of five physiological phosphates can be realized in a single "well". • The multichannel sensor array can be used to identify physiological phosphates in serum media. The detection of physiological phosphates is crucial for elucidating metabolic processes and related diagnoses of diseases. Herein, a carbon dots (CDs) modulated multichannel fluorescent sensor array was proposed for detecting and distinguishing physiological phosphates. In this sensor, three metal ions (Nd3+, Ag+, and Fe3+) with significantly different binding forces with phosphate ions were selected to trigger fluorescence quenching of three CDs (BCDs, GCDs, and RCDs). Upon adding physiological phosphates, the fluorescence intensity of CDs changed. Depending on the discrepancy in the content of phosphate units in different physiological phosphates, the sensor array realized the detection and differentiation of five physiological phosphates related to adenosine triphosphate (ATP) hydrolysis, and has good anti-interference ability, which can realize the differentiation of physiological phosphates in complex serum samples. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Developing rapid and user-friendly visual techniques for distinguishing and identifying heavy metal ions is a critical pursuit in food and environmental analysis. In this work, a zirconium-based metal organic framework (MOF) known as PCN-222 has been synthesized, serving as a colorimetric nanoplatform for the differentiation and detection of Cd2+ and Pb2+ in the presence of PO 4 3-. The remarkable characteristic of PCN-222 stems from its reaction with PO 4 3-, where the robust bonding between PO 4 3- and Zr nodes triggers the collapses of PCN-222, leading to the release of ligands (TCPP) with visible alteration in solution color to light red. When exposure to Cd2+ and Pb2+, shifts to green and yellow, respectively, are discernible. These changes can be ascribed to differences in the size, atomic configuration, and electronegativity of the two metal ions, which impact their interaction with TCPP. The innovative concept of a nanomaterial traffic light is introduced based on these color transitions. Accurate quantification of Cd2+ and Pb2+ can be efficiently accomplished both individually and concurrently using UV spectroscopy and a mobile phone APP, providing adaptability in method selection depending on on-site conditions. Moreover, the platform effectively tackles selectivity challenges associated with ligand-based detection methods, showcasing high sensitivity, distinct visual indications, and simplicity in instrumentation requirements. [Display omitted] • Traffic lights inspired colorimetric sensing platform for cadmium/lead ions was developed. • The mechanism for PO 4 3--induced structural changes of porphyrin metal organic framework was studied. • The concept of simulation traffic light visual nanoplatform was proposed for the first time. • The sensing platform can achieve individual and simultaneous detection of Cd2+ and Pb2+ ions. • The sensing platform shows high selectivity and sensitivity with obvious phenomena. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Posttranslational modification of tubulin increases the dynamic complexity and functional diversity of microtubules. Acetylation of α-tubulin at Lys-40 is a highly conserved posttranslational modification that has been shown to improve the flexibility and resilience of microtubules. Here we studied the in vivo functions of α-tubulin acetylation by knocking-out Atat, the Drosophila α-tubulin acetyltransferase, and by mutating Lys-40 to Arg in α1-tubulin. We found a reduction in the dendritic arborization of larval class I dendritic arborization (da) neurons in both mutants. The dendritic developmental defects in atat mutants could be reversed by enhancing the stability of microtubules either through knocking down the microtubule severing protein Katanin 60 or through overexpressing tubulin-specific chaperone E, suggesting that α-tubulin deacetylation impairsed dendritic morphology by decreasing the stability of microtubules. Using time-lapse recordings, we found that atat and α1-tubulinK40R mutations dramatically increased the number of dendritic protrusions that were likely to be immature dendritic precursors. Finally, we showed that both Atat and α-tubulin acetylation were required in class I da neurons to control larval locomotion. These findings add novel insight into the current knowledge of the role of α-tubulin acetylation in regulating neuronal development and functions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Cuproptosis is a new type of copper-induced cell death that is characterized by the aggregation of lipoylated tricarboxylic acid (TCA) cycle proteins. However, its role in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) remains unclear. The goal of this research is to develop a cuproptosis-related signature predicting the prognosis of HCC. Methods: The cuproptosis-related genes were defined using Pearson correlation coefficients. LASSO-Cox regression analysis was used to evaluate the prognostic values of cuproptosis-related genes to construct a cuproptosis-related prognostic model. The immune microenvironment analysis was performed by "ssGSEA" to reveal the associated immune cell infiltration patterns with the cuproptosis-related genes signature. The expression levels of one of the prognostic genes PDXK were then verified in HCC samples by Western Blot and immunohistochemistry. The potential roles of target genes in cuproptosis were further explored during in-vitro experiments. Results: A total of 136 cuproptosis-related genes were discovered using Pearson correlation analysis in HCC. A cuproptosis-related signature that included 5 cuproptosis-related genes (PDXK, HPN, SLC25A28, RNFT1, CLEC3B) was established in the TCGA-LIHC training cohort. TCGA validation cohort and another two external validation cohorts confirmed the robustness of the signature's predictive value. Moreover, a nomogram using the risk score was created to best predict the survival of HCC patients. The immune microenvironment analysis revealed distinct immune infiltrations patterns between different risk groups based on the signature model. Furthermore, the upregulation of PDXK was confirmed in HCC tumor tissues in 30 clinical HCC specimens. The knockdown of PDXK reduced the proliferation, migration and invasion of HCC cells. Besides, the expression of PDXK was upregulated after the induction of cuproptosis by elesclomol–CuCL2, which could be suppressed when pretreated with a copper ion chelator. And PDXK deficiency increased the sensitivity of HCC cells to cuproptosis inducer. Conclusion: Our study identified a new cuproptosis-related gene signature that could predict the prognosis of HCC patient. Besides, the upregulated PDXK could promote the proliferation and metastasis of HCC. And PDXK deficiency facilities cuproptosis in HCC. Therefore, these fundings highlighted that PDXK might serve as a potential diagnostic and therapeutic target for HCC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rod-like graphite carbon nitride@MnO2 (R-g-C3N5@MnO2) heterostructure was prepared by in situ self-anchored growth of MnO2 nanosheet on the surface of R-g-C3N5. The synthesized R-g-C3N5@MnO2 heterostructure as photoactive material exhibited excellent photoelectrochemical (PEC) performance, and the prepared heterostructure-aptamer probe displayed sensitive PEC response to cTnI. Therefore, the PEC method was developed to detect cTnI based on the R-g-C3N5@MnO2 heterostructure. It was found that the linear response to cTnI was in the range 0.001–30 ng/mL under optimized conditions, and the detection limit of the proposed sensor was 0.3 pg/mL. The PEC method displays stable photocurrent response up to 8 cycles and exhibited outstanding selectivity and sensitivity. The PEC method was successfully applied to detect cTnI in serum samples. The recoveries of cTnI detection in serums reach 95.5–104%, and the relative standard deviations range from 3.20 to 4.45%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Schematic representation for the synthesis of Fc-Cu-MOF and the detection of GSH. [Display omitted] Chemical biosensing techniques are essential for food analysis and disease diagnosis. Nanomaterials with redox activity show great potential in electrochemical analysis, acting as signal labels or signal amplification unit, which can reflect the targets concentration in foods and biological samples. Here, an ultra-sensitive dual-signal intrinsic self-calibration electrochemical platform for GSH was firstly fabricated based on the novel electroactive nanomaterial of ferrocene-functionalized copper metal–organic framework (Fc-Cu-MOF). Due to the solid-state electrochemical property of cuprous chloride (CuCl), a sharp characteristic peak with an increased signal appears with the coexistence of chloride ions in solution. The stronger specific affinity between Cu+ and GSH than that of Cu+ and Cl- triggers a "crowding effect" that causes the current signal of CuCl decrease greatly. Meanwhile, the peak current of ferrocene keeps unchanged as an internal reference. Based on the ratio of the peak current variation (Δ I Cu /Δ I Fc) as the signal output, Fc-Cu-MOF modified electrode showed wider linear range in 0.1 nM −1 μM for GSH with the detection limit as low as 0.025 nM. And the sensor was successfully applied in the determination of GSH with excellent recoveries in various real samples such as food and serum samples, providing good prospect in application of bioanalysis and food screening. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Schematic representation for the synthesis of Fc-Cu-MOF and the detection of GSH. [Display omitted] Chemical biosensing techniques are essential for food analysis and disease diagnosis. Nanomaterials with redox activity show great potential in electrochemical analysis, acting as signal labels or signal amplification unit, which can reflect the targets concentration in foods and biological samples. Here, an ultra-sensitive dual-signal intrinsic self-calibration electrochemical platform for GSH was firstly fabricated based on the novel electroactive nanomaterial of ferrocene-functionalized copper metal–organic framework (Fc-Cu-MOF). Due to the solid-state electrochemical property of cuprous chloride (CuCl), a sharp characteristic peak with an increased signal appears with the coexistence of chloride ions in solution. The stronger specific affinity between Cu+ and GSH than that of Cu+ and Cl- triggers a "crowding effect" that causes the current signal of CuCl decrease greatly. Meanwhile, the peak current of ferrocene keeps unchanged as an internal reference. Based on the ratio of the peak current variation (Δ I Cu /Δ I Fc) as the signal output, Fc-Cu-MOF modified electrode showed wider linear range in 0.1 nM −1 μM for GSH with the detection limit as low as 0.025 nM. And the sensor was successfully applied in the determination of GSH with excellent recoveries in various real samples such as food and serum samples, providing good prospect in application of bioanalysis and food screening. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]