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Background: Chimeric antigen receptor-modified T cells (CAR T-cells) have shown exhilarative clinical efficacy for hematological malignancies. However, a shared antigen pool between healthy and malignant T-cells remains a concept to be technically and clinically explored for CAR T-cell therapy in T-cell cancers. No guidelines for engineering CAR T-cells targeting self-expressed antigens are currently available. Method: Based on anti-CD70 CAR (CAR-70) T-cells, we constructed CD70 knock-out and wild-type CAR (CAR-70KO and CAR-70WT) T-cells and evaluated their manufacturing and anti-tumor capability. Single-cell RNA sequencing and TCR sequencing were performed to further reveal the underlying differences between the two groups of CAR T-cells. Results: Our data showed that the disruption of target genes in T-cells before CAR transduction advantaged the expansion and cell viability of CAR T-cells during manufacturing periods, as well as the degranulation, anti-tumor efficacy, and proliferation potency in response to tumor cells. Meanwhile, more naïve and central memory phenotype CAR+ T-cells, with higher TCR clonal diversity, remained in the final products in KO samples. Gene expression profiles revealed a higher activation and exhaustion level of CAR-70WT T-cells, while signaling transduction pathway analysis identified a higher level of the phosphorylation-related pathway in CAR-70KO T-cells. Conclusion: This study evidenced that CD70 stimulation during manufacturing process induced early exhaustion of CAR-70 T-cells. Knocking-out CD70 in T-cells prevented the exhaustion and led to a better-quality CAR-70 T-cell product. Our research will contribute to good engineering CAR T-cells targeting self-expressed antigens. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Currently, as shown by large-scale research on two-dimensional materials in the field of nanoelectronics and catalysis, the construction of large-area two-dimensional materials is crucial for the development of devices and their application in photovoltaics, sensing, optoelectronics, and energy generation/storage. Here, using atmospheric-pressure chemical vapor deposition, we developed a method to regulate growth conditions according to the growth mechanism for WSe2 and MoSe2 materials. By accurately controlling the hydrogen flux within the range of 1 sccm and the distance between the precursor and the substrate, we obtained large-size films of single atomic layers with thicknesses of only about 1 nm. When growing the samples, we could not only obtain a 100 percent proportion of samples with the same shape, but the samples could also be glued into pieces of 700 μm and above in size, changing the shape and making it possible to reach the millimeter/submillimeter level visible to the naked eye. Our method is an effective method for the growth of large-area films with universal applicability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To fundamentally explore the correlation between crop nutritional quality and mineral elements, specific tests and accurate analysis were carried out on all organs and root soil of watermelon (Citrullus lanatus). The results showed that the distribution patterns of nitrogen and phosphorus at watermelon maturity were similar, and the average nitrogen and phosphorus contents were in the orders of leaf and seed > stem, peel, root > pulp > root soil, and peel > seed > root, stem, leaf > root soil > pulp, respectively. From the perspective of element geochemistry, biophile and lithophile elements had the strongest correlation with nitrogen and phosphorus, and watermelon did not antagonize soil nitrogen and phosphorus uptake. The prediction model of nitrogen translocation factor in watermelon organs to total acid was established by partial least squares with R2 = 0.81. Significantly, when the isometric log-ratio of nitrogen to phosphorus in watermelon leaves was 1.97 to 2.19, the watermelon pulp showed better quality with total acid > 0.5%, total sugar > 5% and soluble solids > 10%. Therefore, the characterization of nitrogen and phosphorus in watermelon leaves can serve as a non-destructive analysis to predict watermelon fruit quality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Soil mercury (Hg) contamination has long been a problem that threatens the environment and organisms. Thus, exploring the migration and transformation of Hg from soil to vegetable is vital. In this study, different Hg solutions were employed in greenhouse experiments. The Hg contents in soil and vegetable samples were determined by inductively coupled plasma – mass spectrometry. The results showed that the Hg accumulation depended on its concentration and form. A greater accumulation of inorganic Hg was observed in the roots (2.2–27.4 mg/kg) than in the aerial parts (0.6–6.0 mg/kg). A similar trend was also found in the methyl mercury (MeHg) and ethyl mercury (EtHg) irrigated groups. The MeHg contents were 0.7–8.0 μg/kg in roots and 0.1–3.7 μg/kg in aerial parts. The EtHg concentrations were 0.5–3.3 μg/kg in roots and 0.3–1.1 μg/kg in aerial parts. The translocation factors of inorganic Hg and organic Hg for both vegetables in most treatments were less than 0.5, which suggested that Hg primarily accumulated in the roots. The biological concentration factors of inorganic Hg were less than 0.4, and those for MeHg and EtHg were between 0.4 and 0.95, which indicated that the vegetables were more likely to absorb organic Hg from the soil. The methylation of inorganic Hg occurred in the roots. The potential hazards of Hg on food safety and human health must be considered in regions with serious Hg pollution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hollow nanomaterials provide abundant reaction sites and facilitate tolerance for volume changes during the charging–discharging process, and are potential candidates for alkaline ion storage. In this work, hollow CuO nanocubes are synthesized via solvothermal reaction and subsequent annealing, which serve as alkali-ion battery anode materials. Based on Ostwald ripening, the precursor Cu2O nanocubes with vacancies are initially fabricated during the solvothermal process. Subsequently, after thermal annealing, the Cu2O nanocubes are converted into hollow CuO nanocubes, which could enhance lithium/sodium storage performances. As anodes for lithium-ion batteries, hollow CuO nanocubes exhibit a high capacity of 865 mAh g−1 at 0.1 A g−1 after 100 cycles. Meanwhile, SIBs with the CuO nanocube anode also exhibit excellent electrochemical performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To provide technical support and theoretical guarantee for the prevention and control of soil heavy metal pollution, the main types of topsoil and parent material in Jilin Province were systematically collected, accurately tested by atomic fluorescence spectrometry and inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry, and comprehensively evaluated through five indexes. By principal component analysis, it was initially judged that there were 2 or 3 major heavy metal sources in topsoil, which could be attributed to the parent material, soil-forming process, and/or anthropogenic factor. The pH of surface soil mainly depended on its parent material, and changed to a certain extent during its formation. The contents of heavy metals As, Hg, Cd, Cr, Cu, Ni, Pb, and Zn in surface soils were both significantly influenced by parent materials and soil-forming processes. Here the geo-accumulation index calculated by corresponding background value of parent material was more suitable for pollution assessment than the other four indexes, and the heavy metal contamination degree in each type of soil basically followed the order: Hg > Cd > Cu, Pb, Zn, As > Cr, Ni. Furthermore, the heavy metal contamination level in the types of soils was ranked as follows: cambisol, phaeozem > podzol, planosol > chernozem. The health risk assessment indicated that the soil in the study area had no significant carcinogenic or non-carcinogenic risks. Excluding the influence of parent material and soil-formation process, the comprehensive evaluation of soil heavy metal pollution will be more reasonable. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

High energy consumption in data center has serious impacts on environment. Energy-efficient scheduling under Customer Satisfaction Level (CSL) constraint has become a key problem of cloud computing in data centers. In this paper, a CSL-driven and energy-efficient resource scheduling (CDEERS) framework has been designed to optimize energy efficiency and CSL in cloud data centers. To achieve different goals in different CSL states, three scheduling strategies (aiming to minimize energy saving, maximize CSL and maximize CSL per energy, respectively) are auto-adaptively applied to consolidate resources according to CSL states. To identify CSL states, a metric based on Service Level Agreement (SLA) violation rate (MSVR) is designed and applied in the proposed method. Additionally, the Weighted Moving Average (WMA) model is applied to predict the future state of CSL and optimize the resource allocation. Simulation result shows that the MSVR improves energy efficiency (CSL per energy) by 51.1% and 30.4% compared with traditional metric based on workload (MW) and metric based on response time (MRT), respectively, during the whole test period. It reduces the SLA violation rate by 7.9% and the number of host overloads by 9.6%, respectively, while prediction mechanism is applied. It shows that CDEERS has better energy efficiency than these static scheduling methods with single objection in the condition of dynamic state of CSL. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Interfacial materials exhibiting superwettability have emerged as important tools for solving the real-world issues, such as oil-spill cleanup, fog harvesting, etc. The Janus superwettability of lotus leaf inspires the design of asymmetric interface materials using the superhydrophobic/superhydrophilic binary cooperative strategy. Here, the presented Janus copper sheet, composed of a superhydrophobic upper surface and a superhydrophilic lower surface, is able to be steadily fixed at the air/water interfaces, showing improved interfacial floatability. Compared with the floatable superhydrophobic substrate, the Janus sheet not only floats on but also attaches to the air-water interface. Similar results on Janus sheet are discovered at other multiphase interfaces such as hexane/water and water/CCl4 interfaces. In accordance with the improved stability and antirotation property, the microboat constructed by a Janus sheet shows the reliable navigating ability even under turbulent water flow. This contribution should unlock more functions of Janus interface materials, and extend the application scope of the binary cooperative materials system with superwettability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Orexins are hypothalamic neuropeptides that regulate food intake, energy homeostasis, reward system and sleep/wakefulness states. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of orexin A on glucose metabolism in human hepatocellular carcinoma cell line, Hep3B, and determine the possible mechanisms. Hep3B cells were incubated with different concentrations of orexin A (10 −9 –10 −7 M) in vitro in the presence or absence of the orexin receptor 1 (OX1R) inhibitor (SB334867), Akt inhibitor (PF-04691502) and mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) inhibitor (temsirolimus). Subsequently, OX1R protein expression, glucose transporter 1 (GLUT1) expression, glucose uptake, the mRNA expression of lactate dehydrogenase (LDHA), pyruvate dehydrogenase kinase 1 (PDK1) and pyruvate dehydrogenase B (PDHB), lactate generation and mitochondrial pyruvate dehydrogenase (PDH) enzyme activity were measured. The activity of phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K)/Akt/mTOR signaling was also determined. OX1R was expressed in hepatoma tissues and Hep3B cells. Stimulation of the Hep3B cells with orexin A resulted in a dose-dependent increase of GLUT1 expression and glucose uptake, which was associated with the activation of PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathway. Further, orexin A increased PDHB expression and PDH enzyme activity, decreased LDHA, PDK1 mRNA levels and lactate generation independent of PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathway. Our results demonstrated that orexin A directed the cellular metabolism towards mitochondrial glucose oxidation rather than glycolysis. These findings provide functional evidence of the metabolic actions of orexin A in hepatocellular carcinoma cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Orexin-A is a neuropeptide that orchestrates diverse central and peripheral processes. It is now clear that orexin system plays a central role in the regulation of endocrine, paracrine, and neurocrine. It is involved in the regulation of growth hormone, adrenocorticotropic hormone, thyroid, mineralocorticoid, and cortisol secretion. These hormones may also serve as a kind of signal linking energy balance regulation, reproduction, stress response, and cardiovascular regulation. Many studies have demonstrated the ability of orexin-A to regulate adrenocortical cells through the MAPK (mitogen-activated protein kinases) pathway. The aim of our study is to investigate the effect of orexin-A on cortisol secretion via the protein 70 ribosomal protein S6 kinase-1 (p70S6K) and eukaryotic translation initiation factor 4E binding proteins (4EBP1) signaling pathway in adrenocortical cells. We reported the first evidence that orexin-A stimulated p70S6K and 4EBP1 in human H295R adrenocortical cells in a concentration and time-dependent manner. 10−6 M orexin-A treatment for 1 hour was the most potent. Our results also indicated that p70S6K and 4EBP1 kinases participated in controlling cortisol secretion via OX1 receptor in H295R cells, which implied important role of p70S6K and 4EBP1 kinases in regulating adrenal function induced by orexin-A. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • •Free-standing V 2 O 3 /VN/C interlayers are constructed to suppress shuttle effect. • •The V 2 O 3 /VN catalysts with adsorption and catalysis enhance redox kinetics. • •The cells with V 2 O 3 /VN/C interlayers exhibit high capacity and long cycle stability. The shuttle effect caused by soluble lithium polysulfides (LiPSs) hinders the practical application of lithium–sulfur batteries. The sluggish reaction kinetics of LiPSs results in rapid capacity decay. In this work, we constructed a free-standing multifunctional interlayer decorated with V 2 O 3 /VN catalysts to suppress the shuttle effect and boost the redox reaction kinetics. The introduction of VN with strong chemical adsorption improves the conductivity of V 2 O 3 , which is beneficial for the kinetics of conversion reaction. In addition, the micro/mesopores inside the structure not only facilitate ion diffusion but also buffer the volume change of the sulfur cathode during the cycling process. Benefiting from the synergistic effects, the fabricated cells exhibit a high specific capacity of 1419.5 mAh g−1 at 0.1C. The cell with V 2 O 3 /VN/C exhibits a promising cycling performance over 1000 cycles with a decay rate of 0.037% per cycle at 1C. The synergistic effects of electrocatalysts and conductive carbon material provide inspiration on the development of high-performance Li–S batteries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Secreted protein acidic and rich in cysteine (SPARC) is a secretory multifunctional matricellular glycoprotein. High circulating levels of SPARC have been reported to be associated with obesity and insulin resistance. The aim of the present study was to investigate whether SPARC induces insulin resistance and mitochondrial dysfunction in adipocytes. Our results showed that feeding high fat diet to rats for 12 weeks significantly increased SPARC expression in adipose tissues at both mRNA and protein levels. Moreover, SPARC overexpression in stably transfected 3T3-L1 cells induced insulin resistance and mitochondrial dysfunction, as evidenced by inhibition of insulin-stimulated glucose transport, lower ATP synthesis and mitochondrial membrane potential, reduced expression of glucose transporter 4 (GLUT4), and increased levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in mature adipocytes. Finally, overexpression of SPARC also modulated the expression levels of several inflammatory cytokines, which play important roles in insulin resistance, glucose and lipid metabolism during adipogenesis. In conclusion, our data suggest that SPARC is involved in obesity-induced adipose insulin resistance and may serve as a potential target in the treatment of obesity and obesity-related insulin resistance. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Orexin A regulates food intake, energy metabolism and gastrointestinal function; it also increases glucose uptake and inhibits lipolysis, suggesting a role for orexin A in glucose and lipid metabolism. In this study, the effects of orexin A on glucose transporter 4 (GLUT4) mRNA level and lipid content were explored in 3T3-L1 preadipocytes and adipocytes. Orexin receptor 1 (OX1R) protein expression was determined in the adipose tissue of normal and obese rats. In addition, 3T3-L1 preadipocytes and differentiated 3T3-L1 adipocytes were incubated with different concentrations of orexin A (10−9 to 10−7 M), without or with OX1R specific antagonist, then the peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-γ2 (PPARγ2) mRNA expression was analyzed. Differentiated 3T3-L1 adipocytes were exposed to orexin A, without or with MAPK and OX1R antagonist, after which the GLUT4 and ERK1/2, JNK, and p38 MAPK activation, and triglyceride (TG) content were measured. We observed that OX1R protein expression was decreased in obese rats, and OX1R protein level was negatively correlated with body fat, Lee's index, TG, total cholesterol, and fasting insulin levels. Orexin A enhanced PPARγ2 mRNA expression in a dose-dependent manner in 3T3-L1 preadipocytes through OX1R. In differentiated 3T3-L1 adipocytes, orexin A significantly increased GLUT4 mRNA levels, which was blocked by the ERK1/2, JNK, and p38 MAPK inhibitors as well as OX1R antagonist. Furthermore, orexin A increased cellular TG content via ERK1/2, JNK, and p38 MAPK as well as OX1R. Thus, orexin A increases GLUT4 mRNA expression and lipid accumulation in differentiated 3T3-L1 adipocytes via ERK1/2, JNK, and p38 MAPK signaling. In addition, orexin A increases PPARγ2 mRNA expression in 3T3-L1 preadipocytes. Further studies are necessary to elucidate the impact of orexin A in metabolic disorders and adipocyte differentiation. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Oligoribonucleotide (RNA)–carbohydrate conjugates bearing mono- and divalent mannosides were readily obtained using 3,4-diethoxy-3-cyclobutene-1,2-dione as the linking agent in the presence of trace amount of triethylamine. The glycoconjugates were purified by HPLC and characterized by electrospray mass spectroscopy. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

To evaluate the effects of high-fructose diet on expression of orexin and its receptors, orexin 1 receptor (OX[sub1]R) and orexin 2 receptor (OX[sub2]R) in rat hypothalamus tissue, and to analysis the interaction of related factors involved in regulating orexin and its receptors. Insulin resistance rat model induced by high fructose confirmed by the gold standard euglycaemic clamping was employed and mRNA expression of orexin and its receptors OX[sub1]R and OX[sub2]R in hypothalamus, mRNA expression of leptin in adipose tissue were measured by reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction. Serum insulin and triglyceride levels were measured by chemiluminescence immunoassay and biochemical enzyme techniques. Expression of orexin mRNA decreased about 40% in high fructose diet rats compared to control group (P<0.01), whereas expression of orexin 1 receptor and orexin 2 receptor mRNA increased up to 4.4 and 5.1 fold (P<0.01). Leptin mRNA expression in adipose tissue increased about 30% in comparison with control group (P<0.01). Blood glucose, serum insulin and triglyceride have shown sigfinicant higher levels than those in control group (P<0.01). Glucose infusion rate (GIR[sub60-120]) was much lower in comparison with control group. High- fructose diet induces insulin resistance in rats with impact on orexin and leptin regulations. Blood glucose, serum insulin, lipid metabolism and leptin play an interactive role on orexin and its receptors regulations in rats. Keywords: orexin, dietary fructose, insulin resistance [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Optically pure sulfoxides are noteworthy compounds applied in a wide range of industrial fields; however, the biocatalytic deracemization of racemic sulfoxides is challenging. Herein, a high‐enantioselective methionine sulfoxide reductase A (MsrA) was combined with a low‐enantioselective styrene monooxygenase (SMO) for the cyclic deracemization of sulfoxides. Enantiopure sulfoxides were obtained in >90 % yield and with >90 % enantiomeric excess (ee) through dynamic "selective reduction and non‐selective oxidation" cycles. The cofactors of MsrA and SMO were subsequently regenerated by the cascade catalysis of three auxiliary enzymes through the consumption of low‐cost D‐glucose. Moreover, this "one‐pot, one‐step" cyclic deracemization strategy exhibited a wide substrate scope toward various aromatic, heteroaromatic, alkyl and thio‐alkyl sulfoxides. This system proposed an efficient strategy for the green synthesis of chiral sulfoxide. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Optically pure sulfoxides are noteworthy compounds applied in a wide range of industrial fields; however, the biocatalytic deracemization of racemic sulfoxides is challenging. Herein, a high‐enantioselective methionine sulfoxide reductase A (MsrA) was combined with a low‐enantioselective styrene monooxygenase (SMO) for the cyclic deracemization of sulfoxides. Enantiopure sulfoxides were obtained in >90 % yield and with >90 % enantiomeric excess (ee) through dynamic "selective reduction and non‐selective oxidation" cycles. The cofactors of MsrA and SMO were subsequently regenerated by the cascade catalysis of three auxiliary enzymes through the consumption of low‐cost D‐glucose. Moreover, this "one‐pot, one‐step" cyclic deracemization strategy exhibited a wide substrate scope toward various aromatic, heteroaromatic, alkyl and thio‐alkyl sulfoxides. This system proposed an efficient strategy for the green synthesis of chiral sulfoxide. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Single‐crystalline micro‐/nanostructures based on organic stimulus‐responsive materials have attracted wide interests for their unique functional roles in various photonic applications including optical wave guiding, optical vapor sensing, and miniaturized lasing. Yet one imminent challenge is to pattern micro‐/nanostructured organic 1D arrays with controlled geometry, precise alignment, and pure crystallographic orientation owing to the uncontrollable dewetting dynamics in the solution processes. Herein, a smart assembly method is employed to regulate a confined crystallization of organic molecules. Sensitive, stable, and reproducible optical 1D‐array vapor sensors can detect the alkaline and acidic vapors based on the proton transfer process. As‐fabricated vapor sensors based on organic 1D arrays also selectively identify four similar amine vapors. Meanwhile, based on these 1D microstructure arrays, high‐performing Fabry–Pérot resonators with deep‐red laser emission, a low lasing threshold of 0.31 µJ, and high quality factor Q (≈2243) are realized. Owing to these multiple functions, organic microwire arrays not only provide intrinsic insight into optical vapor sensing but also offer guidance for the development of miniaturized lasers with specific functionalities, which show considerable potential in multifunctional photonic integrated circuits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

High‐manganese materials would provide valuable information about the history of a water‐rich and oxidizing environment on early Mars. However, the detailed texture and components of these high‐manganese materials are unknown. In martian breccia meteorite NWA 11220, one unique lithic clast enriched in high‐manganese material (~5 vol%) has been recognized. Here, we report the morphological, micro‐textural, mineralogical, and geochemical features of the martian high‐manganese material at the microscale for the first time. Our results show that (a) high‐manganese materials are characterized by micron‐sized grain (<50 μm), complex associated‐phase (i.e., apatite, enstatite, magnetite, ilmenite, and amorphous matrix), and chemical heterogeneity; (b) nano‐sized (<500 nm) amorphous manganese‐oxide veins or grains are the only manganese‐bearing phases in the high‐manganese materials. These new observations provide new evidence for revealing the geological processes related to the high‐manganese materials on Mars and provide important information for future in‐situ exploration and data interpretation of high‐manganese materials on Mars. Plain Language Summary: On Earth, the presence of high‐manganese concentrations is commonly thought to be an indicator of water‐rich and highly oxidizing conditions. Similarly, high‐manganese materials have also been detected on Mars at the Curiosity/Opportunity landing sites and within a martian breccia meteorite. Knowledge of the components of these high‐manganese materials would provide important information about the environments in which they formed on Mars. However, the detailed texture and components of these high‐manganese materials from Mars are still unclear. Based on a unique lithic clast enriched in high‐manganese material (~5 vol%) from martian breccia meteorite NWA 11220, the morphology, texture, mineralogy, and geochemistry of the martian high‐manganese material were revealed at the microscale for the first time. These supplementary data provide a series of new insights into the high‐manganese material on Mars, including (a) the new occurrence of manganese concentration in martian igneous rocks, (b) micro‐textural evidence of fluid precipitation of high‐manganese material, and (3) geological history recorded by high‐manganese materials on Mars. Key Points: One unique lithic clast enriched in high‐Mn material (~5 vol%) was identified in martian breccia meteorite NWA 11220The texture, geochemistry, and mineralogy of the high‐Mn material on Mars are reported at the microscaleNano‐sized (<500 nm) amorphous Mn‐bearing material veins or grains are the only Mn‐bearing phase in the high‐Mn material [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fabrication of high‐quality organic single‐crystalline semiconductors and their deterministic patterning are core opportunities as well as challenges for large‐scale integration of functional devices with high efficiency and boosted performance. Previous approaches on solution patterning of organic semiconductors have achieved efficient and versatile control of the position, alignment, and size of organic structures. However, the poorly controllable dewetting dynamics of organic solution gives rise to low crystallinity and disordered crystallographic orientation of generated organic architectures that limit their device performance. Here, 1D organic single‐crystal arrays with high crystallinity, strict crystallographic alignment, precise position, tunable, and homogeneous size are fabricated by exploiting an asymmetric‐wettability topographical template. Periodically arranged micropillars with lyophobic sidewalls and lyophilic tops permit the generation of capillary bridges, which enable unidirectional dewetting of organic solution and ordered packing of molecules. The 1D arrays present pure (100) crystallographic orientation with π–π stacking of molecules in the optimal direction of carrier transport, leading to high carrier mobility of 8.7 cm2 V−1 s−1 in the field‐effect transistor measurements. A facile pressure sensor based on the patterned belt arrays is fabricated, exhibiting high sensitivity and long‐term stability. Organic single crystals with high alignment and pure crystallographic orientation are patterned by exploiting an asymmetric‐wettability topographical template. The high carrier mobility reaches 8.7 cm2 V−1 s−1 in field‐effect transistor measurements. Pressure sensors based on it exhibit high sensitivity and durability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Optically pure sulfoxides are valuable organosulfur compounds extensively employed in medicinal and organic synthesis. In this study, we present a biocatalytic oxidation‐reduction cascade system designed for the preparation of enantiopure sulfoxides. The system involves the cooperation of a low‐enantioselective chimeric oxidase SMO (styrene monooxygenase) with a high‐enantioselective reductase MsrA (methionine sulfoxide reductase A), facilitating "non‐selective oxidation and selective reduction" cycles for prochiral sulfide oxidation. The regeneration of requisite cofactors for MsrA and SMO was achieved via a cascade catalysis process involving three auxiliary enzymes, sustained by cost‐effective D‐glucose. Under the optimal reaction conditions, a series of heteroaryl alkyl, aryl alkyl and dialkyl sulfoxides in R configuration were synthesized through this "one‐pot, one step" cascade reaction. The obtained compounds exhibited high yields of >90 % and demonstrated enantiomeric excess (ee) values exceeding 90 %. This study represents an unconventional and efficient biocatalytic way in utilizing the low‐enantioselective oxidase for the synthesis of enantiopure sulfoxides. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Orexins are hypothalamic neuropeptides that regulate feeding, reward, wakefulness and energy homeostasis. The present study sought to characterize the involvement of orexin A in glucose metabolism in HepG2 human hepatocellular carcinoma cells, and investigated the role of hypoxia-inducible factor-1α (HIF-1α) in the response. HepG2 cells were exposed to different concentrations of orexin A (10−9 to 10−7 M) in vitro, without or with the orexin receptor 1 (OX1R) inhibitor (SB334867), HIF-1α inhibitor (YC-1) or a combination of both inhibitors. Subsequently, OX1R, HIF-1α expression and localization, glucose uptake, glucose transporter 1 (GLUT1) expression and ATP content were measured. We further investigated the intracellular fate of glucose by measuring the gene expression of pyruvate dehydrogenase kinase 1 (PDK1), lactate dehydrogenase (LDHA) and pyruvate dehydrogenase B (PDHB), as well as metabolite levels including lactate generation and mitochondrial pyruvate dehydrogenase (PDH) activity. The activity of phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K)/Akt/mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) pathway was also assessed. Our results showed that the expression of OX1R was predominantly located in the nucleus in HepG2 cells. Orexin A oxygen-independently promoted the mRNA and protein expression of HIF-1α as well as its nuclear accumulation in HepG2 cells and the elevated HIF-1α protein was associated, at least partly, with the activation of the PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathway. Orexin A stimulated GLUT1 expression, glucose uptake as well as ATP generation in HepG2 cells via OX1R acting through the HIF-1α pathway. Moreover, orexin A inhibited LDHA, PDK1 expression and lactate production, stimulated PDHB expression and PDH enzyme activity independent of HIF-1α. Our results indicated that orexin signaling facilitated the glucose flux into mitochondrial oxidative metabolism rather than glycolysis in HepG2 cells. These findings provide new insight into the regulation of glucose metabolism by orexin A in hepatocellular carcinoma cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

High energy consumption in data center has become a key problem, and the Carbon (CO $$_2$$ ) emissions from data center have serious impacts on environment. To improve traditional performance-energy model and minimize energy consumption in cloud data center, an energy-efficient and QoS-aware (EEQoS) model is developed for virtual resources consolidation. The EEQoS model is designed to investigate the trade-off between energy and QoS. The user's satisfaction degree and Euclidean distance of resources are also respectively applied to the QoS model and power model. In addition, this EEQoS model is combined with the particle swarm optimization algorithm by setting the power consumption per QoS value as the objective function to consolidate virtual resources in data center. Compared with traditional power model, the proposed model reduces response time by 27.2%, cost by 31.4%, SLA violations by 40.5% and improves throughput by 13.5% on average while increasing less than 3.8% energy consumption during the whole test period. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The industrial robot bonnet polishing platform can not only meet the requirements of high efficiency and precision of optical polishing, but also reduce the system cost. It is a promising polishing equipment solution. The most practical method to improve BP material removal efficiency is to increase the contact depth. It is generally believed that the profile of the tool influence function (TIF) of BP is Gaussian-like distribution traditionally, but it is found that it actually changes into M-shape obviously with large contact depth. However, the existing reports on the TIF of bonnet polishing are mostly based on the Gaussian like TIF model which cannot accurately describe the M-shaped TIF. Therefore, according to the material characteristics of inflatable rubber bonnet, this paper establishes a new model to explain the changes of pressure distribution caused by large contact depth. Furthermore, a bonnet polishing approach based on dual-mode contact depth TIF is proposed in order to improve the removal efficiency in rough polishing stage and increase the convergence accuracy in fine polishing stage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Determination of types and amounts for clay minerals in soil are important in environmental, agricultural, and geological investigations. Many reliable methods have been established to identify clay mineral types. However, no reliable method for quantitative analysis of clay minerals has been established so far. In this study, an attempt was made to propose an optimization method for the quantitative determination of clay minerals in soil based on bulk chemical composition data. The fundamental principles and processes of the calculation are elucidated. Some samples were used for reliability verification of the method and the results prove the simplicity and efficacy of the approach. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Colon cancer, ranked third in cancer related mortality, is the most common malignant cancer of digestive tract. Though immune checkpoint inhibitors show promising efficacy in colon cancer, a rather high unresponsive rate and recurrence rate requires further elucidation of the underlying regulatory mechanism of cancer-related immunity. Aims: To study the regulatory function of Orexin A in the expression of exosomal PD-L1 and T cell activity. Methods: Orthotopic colon cancer transplantation mice model were established to study the cancer growth and immune infiltration between Orexin A treated group and untreated group. In vitro studies using mouse CT-26 and human HCT-116 colon cancer cell model studied the effect of Orexin A on cellular and exosomal PD-L1 expression. Co-culturing Jurkat cells with exosomes delivered by cancer cells treated with Orexin A, PD-L1 knockdown and PBS studied different effects on T cell. Comparing Orexin A with WP1066, a JAK2/STAT3 inhibitor verified the mechanism of these changes. Results: The growth rate of orthotopic transplanted colon cancer was slower in Orexin A treated group, with lower PD-L1 expression and higher immune infiltration. Orexin A could inhibit cellular and exosomal PD-L1 expression. The decreased expression of PD-L1 in exosomes could promote the activity of Jurkat cells secreting higher level of IFN-γ and IL-2. Orexin A showed a similar effect like WP1066 which proved JAK2/STAT3 signaling pathway was its downstream signaling pathway. Conclusions: Orexin A could suppress the expression of exosomal PD-L1 in colon cancer cells and promote T cells activity by inhibiting JAK2/STAT3 signaling pathway. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Studies that delineate the geochemical background and anomalies are essential for exploration geochemistry. Lithology has a significant impact on the background values of many elements in both stream sediments and soil samples. However, uniform threshold values are not available for delineation of all anomalies in areas with complex geologic conditions. Here, the influence of lithology on background concentrations of metals is described based on the relationships between metal element concentrations and oxide concentrations (in particular SiO2) in geochemical samples. The anomaly thresholds of metal elements, influenced by lithology, can be determined from the residual error confidence band based on a linear regression model. This method can help eliminate the influence of lithology on background concentrations of metals and allows more effective detection of anomalies than a simple constant threshold method. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Due to the complex characteristics of geological structures, identifying geochemical anomalies in valuable deposits using regional geochemical datasets of stream sediments is challenging. In this study, an effective combined method was proposed to solve the problem of anomaly identification in multibackground areas. First, samples were classified into different clusters through the k-means clustering method using major elements/minerals (such as SiO 2 and Na 2 O) that can reflect the lithology and were chosen as classification indicators. Considering the double restriction of the contour coefficient and lithological background, each sample within the same cluster was considered to have the same background. Then, the residual value between each sample and the mean data of adjacent samples within the same cluster was calculated, and the original data of each sample were replaced with the ratio (a new parameter defined as the residual contrast value) of the residual value and the anomaly threshold obtained for the corresponding cluster. Finally, geochemical maps and anomaly maps were generated using the residual contrast values. A practical example involving a regional geochemical dataset of stream sediments in Hunan, China, was examined in detail to clarify the procedure. Moreover, a comparative analysis through success rate curves of the percentage of deposits correctly determined was performed between the traditional method, singularity method and new combined method. The results showed that the anomalies identified by the proposed method were closely associated with known deposits, and the residual contrast value, which considers the effects of the lithological background, random error, and structural anomalies, could eliminate the influence of lithology and enhance weak anomalies. Moreover, the geological significance of this method is clear, and the calculation procedure is simple. Thus, this method could be applied for identifying regional geochemical anomalies in multibackground areas and could be used as a guide for new exploration targets. • Proposed an effective combined method for geochemical anomaly identification in multibackground areas. • Proposed a new parameter: residual contrast value • Lithological, random error, and structural anomaly are considered in the method. • Anomalies identified by this method has stronger association with the known deposits. • A comparative analysis was made through success rate curves of the percentage of deposits correctly determined among different methods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Attachment of carbohydrates to oligonucleotides has proven to induce receptor-mediated endocytosis. A facile method for the formation of covalent linkages between glycans and oligonucleotides is herein described. Thus, use of 3,4-diethoxy-3-cyclobutene-1,2-dione as a linking reagent provides easy conjugation between carbohydrates bearing an amino group at the reducing end and oligonucleotides bearing an aminoalkyl modification. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The electro‐oxidation of formamidine disulfide, an important sulfur‐containing compound, was simultaneously investigated with on‐line high‐performance liquid chromatography and cyclic voltammetry. Using a home‐made microporous sampler located at the electrode interface, the solution on the electrode surface was in situ sampled and analyzed. The electrochemical scanning was synchronously performed, which allowed the electro‐oxidation products to be detected at a given potential. The main products on the surface of platinum electrode were found to be thiourea, formamidine sulfinic acid, cyanamide, and elemental sulfur. Forced convection arising from the sampling played an important role in the electrochemical oxidation. The extraction of electrode surface solution promoted the renewal of reactant and its intermediates, which induced the change of cyclic voltammetry curve. The forced convection also contributed to the redox peak current of the species on the cyclic voltammetry curves through the change of concentration of reactant and its intermediates. This technique can help to explore the reaction mechanism of complex electrochemical reactions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The deterministic manufacturing and patterning of high‐quality organic single crystal semiconductors are core opportunities and challenges for large‐scale integrated functional devices with high efficiency and high performance. As for the solution patterning for the fabrication of the organic semiconductors, various methods are reported to efficiently control the position, alignment, and size of organic structures. Nevertheless, the poor control of the dewetting dynamics of organic solution leads to the low crystallinity and disordered crystallographic orientation of as‐fabricated organic architectures, which can limit their device performance. Herein, by use of the micropillar‐structured template with asymmetric wettability, the patterned organic 1D single crystals with precise position and geometry, flat morphology, and high alignment can be constructed. Moreover, the nanowire arrays are demonstrated with active optical waveguiding. In addition, the other patterned architectures of circle, triangle, square, pentagon, and hexagon shapes can also be constituted by regulating the surface geometry of substrates. This work not only facilitates the fundamental understanding on the patterning and crystallization of organic architectures, but also contributes greatly to the development of large‐scale assembly technology for patterning micro/nanostructures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hypercortisolism has emerged as a prominent clinical condition worldwide caused by biochemical cortisol excess in patients, and optimization treatment is needed urgently in the clinic. Previously, we observed that orexin-A/orexin type 1 receptor (OX1R) promoted cell proliferation, inhibited apoptosis, and increased cortisol release in adrenocortical cells. However, the functions of orexin-A/OX1R on autophagy and its molecular mechanism are not known. Transmission electron microscopy and confocal microscope were performed to detect autophagosomes. Western blot were performed to detect autophagy proteins. The cortisol concentration was assessed with an ELISA. Our data demonstrated that orexin-A/OX1R activated the mammalian target of rapamycin/p70 ribosomal protein S6 kinase-1 pathway, thereby inhibiting autophagy in H295R cells and Y-1 cells. Furthermore, the orexin-A/OX1R-mediated suppression of autophagy played a crucial role in cortisol secretion. Mechanistically, the expression of 3β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase/isomerase, the rate-limiting enzyme in cortisol synthesis, was increased with autophagy inhibition mediated by orexin-A/OX1R. This study provided the evidence that orexin-A/OX1R participated in modulating mTOR/p70S6K1/autophagy signaling pathway to promote cortisol secretion in adrenocortical cell. The findings suggest the mechanistic basis for disorders of cortisol secretion, providing the potential therapeutic targets for hypercortisolism treatment. This work was supported by National Natural Science Foundation of China (32170603, 31871286), the Doctoral Start-up Foundation of Liaoning Province (20180540008, 2019-BS-298), the Natural Science Foundation of Liaoning Province (2019-ZD-0779), and Shenyang Science and Technology Plan Fund Projects (21-173-9-28). • Orexin-A binds to OX1R to inhibit autophagy in adrenocortical cells. • Orexin-A/OX1R activates mTOR/p70S6K1 signal pathway to suppress autophagy. • Orexin-A inhibited autophagy increases 3β-HSD level, inducing cortisol secretion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sample pretreatment is important for chemical phase analysis of elements. In this study, the geological samples of the Laozuoshan gold mine are chosen to pretreat by ultrasonic centrifugation and cyclotron oscillation, and the content of gold in eight chemical phases (water-soluble, ion exchange and clay adsorption, organic matter bound, iron-manganese oxide bound, naked or seminaked, carbonate bound, sulfide bound, and insoluble silicate states) is determined by atomic absorption spectrometry. The results show that the gold content of water-soluble, ion exchange and clay adsorption, iron-manganese oxide, and naked or seminaked states in the rock and ore samples is low, and some samples have high gold content of insoluble silicate states in the two methods. However, the gold content of organic matter bound, carbonate bound, and sulfide bound states obtained by ultrasonic centrifugation and cyclotron oscillation methods is significantly different. According to the X-ray fluorescence spectrometry data and the actual geological condition, the result given by the cyclotron oscillation method is more reasonable. The gold content of sulfide bound state in sediment samples is the highest and consistent with the mineral information, which could be applied to preliminarily predict the rock and ore conditions in the corresponding mining areas. In contrast with ultrasonic centrifugation, the cyclotron oscillation method has the advantages of simplicity, high efficiency, practicality, and environmental protection, and it can be better used for the determination of gold chemical phase state in geological samples by atomic absorption spectrometry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The backgrounds of stream sediment geochemical samples are associated with the underlying geological bodies. Moreover, a stream sediment geochemical data set is a closed number system because it contains compositional variables that are parts of a whole. Consequently, the empirical frequency distributions of stream sediment geochemical data are often skewed or with multiple peaks. While it is clear that data should approach a symmetric distribution before any threshold estimation methods are applied, so the corresponding method for transforming data is required. In this study, a new method for transformation of stream sediment geochemical data is provided. Firstly, the samples are classified by k-means method into different clusters, samples in each of which are thought to be of the same background. Then samples in each cluster are centered logratio transformed. Finally, the data after processed are tested and they all satisfy normal distributions. Furthermore, a stream sediment geochemical data set of a district in Hunan, China is taken as an example. Maps of anomalies of raw and transformed metallogenic Pb, Zn, Cu and W are portrayed respectively for comparison. The results show that anomalies of raw data correspond worse with the known deposits. By contrast, the method of mapping anomalies with transformed data performs better. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There are many Late Triassic mafic–ultramafic intrusions in the Hongqiling magmatic Ni–Cu sulfide deposit, Northeast China. Research on magma evolution leading to formation of these mafic–ultramafic intrusions is of great significance for understanding the mantle beneath Northeast China and associated Ni–Cu mineralization. A trace element study of the No. 1, 3, and 7 intrusions in the Hongqiling deposit reveals that these mafic–ultramafic intrusions are characterized by enrichment of incompatible elements, which however cannot be interpreted by subduction modification. Furthermore, model of batch partial melting of depleted mantle accompanied by upper crustal contamination can simulate the trace element patterns of these mafic–ultramafic intrusions, but partial melting of depleted mantle accompanied by lower crustal contamination model cannot work. In addition, Sr–Nd isotopic compositions of the Hongqiling No. 1, 3, and 7 intrusions also indicate that crustal contamination could have occurred mainly during the magma ascent. Consequently, a possible scenario for the magma evolution is that the primary mafic–ultramafic magma was derived from batch partial melting of a depleted mantle, and then contaminated by Cambrian–Ordovician metamorphic rocks of the Hulan Group during ascent. We conclude that the mantle source contained no significant crustal component in the Late Triassic and was also independent of substantial contribution from subducted material, and therefore the Mesozoic large-scale lithospheric delamination beneath eastern China may happen after a period of time of the Late Triassic. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Data should approach a normal distribution before application of a variety of methods for separating geochemical anomalies from background. In fact, regional geochemical data from stream sediments generally follow a skewed distribution. It is demonstrated that the skewed frequency distributions are mainly derived from mixed populations, which originate mainly from several geological sources or processes. Two kinds of regional stream sediment samples can be defined, one is a mixture of stream sediments from several lithology backgrounds, and the other is stream sediment from a single lithology background. The combination of these sample data tends to cause skewed frequency distribution. If these mixed data are processed as a whole, in other words, the multiple populations are not recognized and separated in frequency distribution, then serious errors may be made in statistical interpretation. In this study, a method for separating multiple populations is proposed from the point of view of geology, geochemistry and mathematics in an attempt to solve the problem of skewed frequency distribution. Based on the understanding that multiple populations originates mainly from differences in regional lithology background, elements that can reflect lithologies were chosen as classification indicators, then the EM algorithm was employed to separate samples from different populations, and the optimal number of populations can be reasonably determined according to geological map and mathematical indicator. This method can effectively separate multiple populations and eliminate their influence. A practical example using regional geochemical data set of stream sediments is discussed in detail to clarify the procedure. Graphical abstract Regional geochemical data generally follow a skewed frequency distribution, which are mainly derived from mixing of multiple populations. The influence of multiple populations dominantly originates from the difference in regional lithology background. In areas with variable lithologies, if the multiple populations are not separated in frequency distribution, serious errors will be made in later statistical interpretation. In this paper, a method is proposed to separate multiple populations in frequency distribution. Unlabelled Image Highlights • Mixed populations cause skewed frequency distributions of regional geochemical data. • Essence of multiple populations is the difference in regional lithology background. • A method is proposed to separate multiple populations in frequency distribution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Magnesium alloys have shown potential as biodegradable metallic materials for orthopaedic applications due to their degradability, and their resemblance to cortical bone and biocompatible degradation/corrosion products. However, the fast corrosion rate and the potential toxicity of their alloying element has limited the clinical application of Mg alloys. In the present study, a novel Mg‑2Zn‑0.5Nd alloy was prepared, and then the effects on the cell biological behaviour of the Mg‑2Zn‑0.5Nd alloy was compared with 317L stainless steel and titanium (Ti‑6Al‑4V) alloys as controls. The L6 cells were cultured in various leaching solutions. The proliferative effect of the Mg‑2Zn‑0.5Nd alloy was determined using the Cell Counting Kit‑8 assay method on the L6 cells. Also, the regulation of key intracellular signalling proteins was investigated in the L6 cells by the western blot analysis. The Mg‑2Zn‑0.5Nd alloy showed no cytotoxicity and induced higher levels of proliferation in the myoblast cell line L6 than the other alloys. Molecular analysis demonstrated that Mg‑2Zn‑0.5Nd had stimulatory effects on bone morphogenetic protein‑2 phosphorylation and on the activity of phosphorylated‑mammalian target of the rapamycin (mTOR), protein kinase B and forkhead box protein O1. Mg‑2Zn‑0.5Nd also had no effect on P38 activity. These results suggested that Mg‑2Zn‑0.5Nd is likely to promote myoblast cell proliferation by activating the mTOR signalling pathway. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Renewable the sensor by physical polishing. • Renewable the sensor by electrochemical cathode reduction. • Investigation of the Sb 2 O 3 layer for the degradation of the sensor. • Remote online renewal of the sensor. Metal-based pH sensor has wide applications in industrial monitoring, soil environment, marine safety, and other fields. In this study, we proposed to renew the antimony-based sensor by physical polishing and electrochemical cathode reduction. Compared with before polishing, the pH response sensitivity after polishing increased from 0.034 V/pH to 0.042 V/pH, electrochemical cathode reduction renewed the pH response sensitivity improved from 0.018 V/pH to 0.032 V/pH (10 min) and 0.043 V/pH (30 min). The reasons for the deterioration of the pH response performance of the antimony-based sensor were analyzed by SEM, EDS, and XRD, and the renewable mechanisms of the sensor were proposed. The renewable effect of electrochemical cathode reduction on the degradation of sensor accuracy was evaluated for long-term monitoring. It is expected to realize remote online renewal of sensors under on-site unattended conditions, to reduce operation and maintenance costs of the sensor. These results provide solutions for the repeated regeneration of metal-based pH sensors which were degraded in performance and have significance for promoting the development and wide applications of renewable pH sensors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Trace elements As, Cd, Cu, Hg, and Pb in soils originate from both natural and anthropogenic sources, and intense anthropogenic activity can lead to excessive trace element levels, which are harmful to the environment. We investigated the trace elements in the topsoil of Changchun, China, using stochastic models and the indicator kriging method. The influence of anthropogenic and natural variables on the distribution of trace elements was evaluated, with the proportions of background and anthropogenic sources identified using stochastic models. High-risk maps were constructed using indicator kriging. The results showed that the anthropogenic variables significantly influenced the spatial variations of trace elements. The relative influence of natural variables differed for the different elements. The median values of background As, Cd, Cu, Hg, and Pb were 10.55 mg kg − 1 , 0.114 mg kg − 1 , 21.80 mg kg − 1 , 0.036 mg kg − 1 , and 25.88 mg kg − 1 , respectively; while the threshold values were 12.90 mg kg − 1 , 0.200 mg kg − 1 , 29.40 mg kg − 1 , 0.046 mg kg − 1 , and 29.49 mg kg − 1 , respectively. The relative contributions of background values to total values of As, Cd, and Cu were greater than 95%, while those for Pb were 91%. In contrast, Hg showed serious pollution, with less than 75% of the total Hg derived from background sources. The geographically extensive Hg pollution is likely influenced by emissions from coal-fired plants and boilers, while other trace elemental pollutants primarily originate from factory emissions. Furthermore, the atmospheric diffusion of Pb and Hg is significant, resulting in their migration to agricultural areas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The preparation of high-performance electrocatalysts is a breakthrough to solve the increasingly prominent problems of environmental degradation and energy depletion. Urea oxidation reaction (UOR) plays a vital role in treating urea-rich wastewater and assisting hydrogen production with low energy consumption. To alleviate the sluggish intrinsic reaction kinetic barrier of six-electron transfer involved in UOR, we develop a NiFe ultra-thin two-dimensional nanosheet array supported on nickel foam as UOR electrocatalyst by one-step hydrothermal method. Benefiting from the in-situ synthesis strategy, abundant mesoporous structure, and the electronic structure change of Ni after the introduction of Fe, NiFe nanosheets (NiFe NSs) exhibit remarkable UOR catalytic activity and excellent long-term stability. Moreover, we assemble a two-electrode electrolytic cell with NiFe NSs/NF as the anode. The results show that the cell voltage of urea assisted water electrolysis for hydrogen production decreased by 15.2% rather than the regular water splitting, as well as that the urea concentration in electrolyte is degraded 55.6% after electrolysis for 36 h at 1.70 V. This work indicates a feasibility verification for the electrocatalytic removal of urea in wastewater treatment, and an efficient and energy-saving method for urea-assisted electrolytic hydrogen production based on NiFe nanosheets. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The effectiveness of cryotherapy on joint arthroplasty recovery remains controversial. This systematic review was conducted to assess the effectiveness of cryotherapy in patients after joint arthroplasty.Methods: Comprehensive literature searches of several databases including Cochrane Library (2013), MEDLINE (1950-2013), and Embase (1980-2013) were performed. We sought randomised controlled trials that compared the experimental group received any form of cryotherapy with any control group after joint arthroplasty. The main outcomes were postoperative blood loss, adverse events, and pain. Analyses were performed with Revman 5.0. Results were shown as mean differences (MD) and standard deviations or as risk difference and 95 % confidence intervals (CIs).Results: Ten trials comprised 660 total knee arthroplastys and three trials comprised 122 total hip arthroplastys (THAs) met the inclusion criteria. Blood loss was significantly decreased by cryotherapy (MD = -109.68; 95 % CI -210.92 to -8.44; P = 0.03). Cryotherapy did not increase the risk of adverse effect (n.s.). Cryotherapy decreased pain at the second day of postoperative (MD = -1.32; 95 % CI -2.37 to -0.27; P = 0.0003), but did not decreased pain at the first and third day of postoperative (n.s.).Conclusions: Cryotherapy appears effective in these selected patients after joint arthroplasty. The benefits of cryotherapy on blood loss after joint arthroplasty were obvious. However, the subgroup analysis indicated that cryotherapy did not decreased blood loss after THA. Cryotherapy did not increase the risk of adverse effect. Cryotherapy decreased pain at the second day of postoperative, but did not decreased pain at the first and third day of postoperative.Level Of Evidence: II. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A simple low-molecular-mass organic gelator based on salicylaldehyde acylhydrazone had been synthesized and carefully studied. This gelator could form a thermo-reversible supramolecular organogel in many solvents by self-assembling them into nanofibers. Notably, it could even solidify crude oil floating on seawater. Moreover, the gelator was triggered to form a yellow metallogel with blue-green fluorescence by adding Y3+. In addition, it could act as an efficient fluorescent probe for the selective sensing of Y3+ in the solution containing water. The detection limit of Y3+ was 1.039 μM. Furthermore, test strips containing this compound were prepared, successfully used for on-site monitoring of Y3+ in water. [Display omitted] • A simple gelator based on salicylaldehyde acylhydrazone has been developed. • The compound exhibits excellent gel properties, including solidifying crude oil. • The compound can act as a highly selective fluorescent probe for Y3+. • The test strip containing the compound can detect Y3+ in water. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

At present, the direct gold determination in geological samples by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) is still an arduous challenge due to both spectral and background interferences. It is very important and necessary to study the pretreatment processes; therefore, the polyurethane foam treatment and sample digestion methods are explored and compared here. The experimental results showed that the gold adsorption rate of treated foam was significantly improved as the impurities in the foam were cleaned up, and the potential difference of the liquid membrane was increased. Meanwhile, the combination of the foam enrichment and thiourea desorption achieved the selective adsorption and desorption of gold ions, eliminated the interference of coexisting ions, and perfected the detection limits. Compared with the traditional electric heating plate digestion method, microwave digestion, a closed digestion method, had the advantages of less sample and reagent dosage, short time consumption, high degree of automation, thorough digestion, good security, and environmental friendliness and met the requirements of green chemistry development. The proposed microwave digestion-foam enrichment-thiourea desorption-ICP-MS determination method was applied to the gold test in soil samples of the actual gold mining area. It has the great potential as a routine laboratory procedure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An efficient fluorescent probe, bis(2-hydroxy-1-naphthaldehyde) oxaloyldihydrazone (1), has been prepared for the selective sensing of Al3+ over other common metal ions in water-containing media. The 1:1 stoichiometry of 1 and Al3+ was determined from Job's plot and Benesti–Hildebrand plot. The binding constant was observed as 1.6 × 105 M−1, and the limit of detection was found to be 0.36 μM, which was far below the drinking water restriction of Al3+ by EPA (the maximum allowable value is 7.4 μM). In addition, the inherent AIEE features of 1 were observed upon addition of water to DMSO solution due to the restriction of the intramolecular motion, which makes the molecular conformations rigid and planar. Moreover, 1 could act as a novel gelator to form thermo-reversible supramolecular organogel with significant green emission in DMSO-H 2 O (v /v, 9:1) solution. Unlabelled Image • A new simple probe for Al3+ by spectrofluorometric method has been explored. • The detection limit of the probe is lower than the WHO guidelines in drinking water. • The probe exhibits aggregation-induced emission enhancement (AIEE) properties. • A nonconventional low molecular weight gelator has been developed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]