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[Display omitted] Highly efficient electrocatalyst for carbon dioxide reduction (CO 2 RR) is desirable for converting CO 2 into carbon-based chemicals and reducing anthropogenic carbon emission. Regulating catalyst surface to improve the affinity for CO 2 and the capability of CO 2 activation is the key to high-efficiency CO 2 RR. In this work, we develop an iron carbide catalyst encapsulated in nitrogenated carbon (SeN-Fe 3 C) with an aerophilic and electron-rich surface by inducing preferential formation of pyridinic-N species and engineering more negatively charged Fe sites. The SeN-Fe 3 C exhibits an excellent CO selectivity with a CO Faradaic efficiency (FE) of 92 % at −0.5 V (vs. RHE) and remarkably enhanced CO partial current density as compared to the N-Fe 3 C catalyst. Our results demonstrate that Se doping reduces the Fe 3 C particle size and improves the dispersion of Fe 3 C on nitrogenated carbon. More importantly, the preferential formation of pyridinic-N species induced by Se doping endows the SeN-Fe 3 C with an aerophilic surface and improves the affinity of the SeN-Fe 3 C for CO 2. Density functional theory (DFT) calculations reveal that the electron-rich surface, which is caused by pyridinic N species and much more negatively charged Fe sites, leads to a high degree of polarization and activation of CO 2 molecule, thus conferring a remarkably improved CO 2 RR activity on the SeN-Fe 3 C catalyst. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] Functional two-dimensional (2D) graphene-like carbon has the potential to be a good electromagnetic wave absorbing material due to its good electronic properties, but the preparation of 2D carbon via metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) derivation method is still a bottleneck. Herein, we fabricated ultrathin nitrogen-doped graphene-like carbon nanomesh (N -GN) via thermal exfoliation of 2D MOF (Zn-ZIF-L) directly. The species of the chloride salt that exfoliated Zn-ZIF-L have an effect on the nitrogen content, graphitization degree, pore size and specific surface area of N -GN. The Zn-ZIF-L derived N -GN exfoliated by KCl and LiCl simultaneously has the optimum reflection loss of −54 dB only with the thickness of 2.1 mm and the filler loading of 3 wt%. The excellent electromagnetic wave absorbing property is attributed to its favorable structure, micro-meso-macropores, N heteroatoms, abundant heterogeneous graphene-like carbon nanomesh interfaces and defects. Our simple and low-cost preparation process facilitates the large-scale production and application for electromagnetic wave absorbing material of functionalized graphene-like carbon. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Drosophila ovary has been one of the most mature and excellent systems for studying the in vivo regulatory mechanisms of stem cell fate determination. It has been well-known that the bone morphogenetic protein (BMP) signaling released by the niche cells promotes the maintenance of germline stem cells (GSCs) through inhibiting the transcription of the bag-of-marbles (bam) gene, which encodes a key factor for GSC differentiation. However, whether Bam is regulated at the post-translational level remains largely unknown. Here we show that the E3 ligase Cullin-2 (Cul2) is involved in modulating Bam ubiquitination, which occurs probably at multiple lysine residues of Bam's C-terminal region. Genetic evidence further supports the notion that Cul2-mediated Bam ubiquitination and turnover are essential for GSC maintenance and proper germline development. Collectively, our data not only uncovers a novel regulatory mechanism by which Bam is controlled at the post-translational level, but also provides new insights into how Cullin family protein determines the differentiation fate of early germ cells. [Display omitted] • Bam is ubiquitinated at multiple lysine residues of the C-terminal region. • E3 ligase Cul2 associates with Bam for its ubiquitination and degradation. • Silence of Cul2 leads to severe germ cell loss in Drosophila ovary. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Antibiotic mycelial dreg (AMD) has been categorized as hazardous waste due to the high residual hazardous contaminants. Inappropriate management and disposal of AMD can cause potential environmental and ecological risks. In this study, the potential of pleuromutilin mycelial dreg (PMD) as a novel feedstock for preparing tetracycline hydrochloride (TC) adsorbent was explored to achieve safe management of PMD. The results suggested that residual hazardous contaminants were completely eliminated after pyrolysis. With the increase of pyrolysis temperature, the yields, H/C, O/C, (O + N)/C, and pore size in PMD-derived biochars (PMD-BCs) decreased, while BET surface area and pore volume increased, resulting in the higher stability of the PMD-BCs prepared from higher temperatures. The TC adsorption of the PMD-BCs increased from 27.3 to 46.9 mg/g with the increase of the pyrolysis temperature. Surprisingly, pH value had a strong impact on the TC adsorption, the adsorption capacity of BC-450 increased from 6.5 to 71.1 mg/g when the solution pH value increased from 2 to 10. Lewis acid-base interaction, pore filling, π-π interaction, hydrophobic interaction, and charge-assisted hydrogen bond (CAHB) are considered to drive the adsorption. This work provides a novel pathway for the concurrent detoxification and reutilization of AMD. [Display omitted] • PMD was pyrolyzed into biochar for efficient antibiotic adsorption. • Hazardous contaminants were completely eliminated by pyrolysis at above 350 °C. • Pyrolysis temperature greatly influenced the physicochemical properties of PMD-BCs. • Higher pyrolysis temperature benefited the TC adsorption onto PMD-BCs. • A low temperature (450 °C) is recommended for the pyrolysis treatment of PMD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Leucine-rich repeat kinase2 (LRRK2) influences the host immune responses and correlates with the pathogenesis of inflammation, cancer as well as Parkinson' Disease. Herein, we explored the oncogenic role of LRRK2 at pan-cancer level and validated the analysis by single cell RNA-sequencing and in-vitro experiments. As a result, LRRK2 significantly correlated with the survival events. Specifically, LRRK2 increased the risk of Low-Grade Glioma whereas improved the survival probability of patients with Skin Cutaneous Melanoma. Gene set enrichment analysis demonstrated the involvement of LRRK2 in the host immune responses. Within the tumor microenvironment, LRRK2 was positively associated with the recruitment of macrophages. Furthermore, scRNA-seq and co-culture experiments demonstrated that LRRK2 deficiency impaired macrophage functions, and influenced the neoplastic progression in a cancer type-specific manner. Therefore, the present study provided a therapeutic strategy for LGG based on the interference with LRRK2 expression and activity to prevent macrophage recruitment and promote tumor eradication. • LRRK2 correlated with the recruitment of tumor-associated macrophages. • LRRK2 influenced the cross-talking within the tumor microenvironment in a cancer type-dependent manner. • LRRK2 deficiency facilitated M2 transition of macrophages and promoted the neoplastic virtues of cancer cells at the early stage of tumor progression. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • The prepared CN-ABF exhibits excellent absorbing properties, its RL min at a thickness of only 2.66 mm reaches -75.19 dB, and the corresponding EAB is 4.56 GHz. • Using bamboo as the carbon source not only achieves the excellent absorbing performance, but also promotes the sustainable development strategy. • Comparing the CN-ABF, BF, ABF and A-CBF, it not only increases the porosity of the material, but also increases large magnetic loss mechanism. In order to commit to the core concept of energy saving and emission reduction, the preparation of absorbing materials with sustainable development, light weight, strong absorption and wide absorption bandwidth has become an urgent problem that should be solved. As a natural product from nature, ubiquitous bamboo is combined with metal-organic framework on its surface through a simple chemical activation method is demostrated to be an effective method to prepare a composite absorbing material with amazing electromagnetic wave absorption. The prepared bamboo fiber/CoNi alloy (CN-ABF) reaches a minimum reflection loss of −75.19 dB at 11.12 GHz when the thickness is 2.66 mm, and the corresponding bandwidth is 4.56 GHz. The prepared CN-ABF greatly enhances the multi-polarity, dielectric loss, magnetic loss and impedance matching. Sustainable absorbing materials prepared by using biomass as a dielectric carbon-based recombined magnetic metal provide a good research strategy for improving the absorbing performance of materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Field rapid determination of soil accessible Cr(Ⅵ) is of great significance for on-site assessment and decision-making about the health risks of contaminated sites. When the thickness of solutions with various concentrations of Cr(Ⅵ) is constant, there would be a quantitative relationship between the chromogenic difference of Cr(Ⅵ) solutions and the concentration of Cr(Ⅵ). The chromogenic difference could be described by Red (R), Green (G), Blue (B) values. Based on the chromogenic reaction between 1,5-diphenylcarbazide and Cr(Ⅵ), this study first established the calibration curve between the chromogenic difference and the concentration of Cr(Ⅵ) in standard solution with or without 0.01 M CaCl 2 , using an RGB color sensor. This is the subsequent determination basis of the method for rapidly assessing accessible Cr(Ⅵ) in the field (M-RGB). Then, the concentration of accessible Cr(Ⅵ) of contaminated soil with "hand-shaking + standing" field extraction method was compared with "end-over-end shaking" laboratory extraction method. Finally, the accessible Cr(Ⅵ) of contaminated soil extractants was determined via M-RGB integrating the field extraction method. Results indicated there was a highly significant linear relationship between colorimetric difference value (∆E) and Cr(Ⅵ) concentration in the range of 0.1–3 mg/L (R2 > 0.99, P < 0.01), based on the Euclidean formula for calculating ∆E. The "hand-shaking + standing" field extraction method was effective in obtaining accessible Cr(Ⅵ) extractants with or without 0.01 M CaCl 2 , with the high extraction efficiency within 100±1%. The concentrations of accessible Cr(Ⅵ) in various polluted soils determined by M-RGB were consistent with that determined by the ultraviolet-visible spectrophotometry, with the relative error within ±5%, and the relative standard deviation ≤ 20%. The spiked recovery experiments showed that the recovery of M-RGB was between 95% and 105%, which means M-RGB could realize the trace analysis for accessible Cr(Ⅵ) in the field. [Display omitted] • Color difference of Cr(Ⅵ) solutions was linearly correlated with its concentration logarithmic value. • 1,5-diphenylcarbazide was used as colorimetric reactant for Cr(Ⅵ). • Hand shaking + standing method can be used to extract accessible Cr(Ⅵ) in the field. • RGB color sensor can be used for rapidly assessing soil accessible Cr(Ⅵ) in the field. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] Moist-electric generators (MEGs), which are capable of spontaneously generating energy from ubiquitous moisture, are considered as a potential power supply candidate for wearable electronics. However, the application of the MEGs in the wearable field is still challenging due to the low electric output and the lack of wearable attributes such as breathability and flame retardancy. Herein, we demonstrated a wearable MEG with high power-output, breathability and flame retardancy, which was fabricated by designing an asymmetrical nanofiber assembly using hydrophilic polyvinyl alcohol/phytic acid (PVA/PA) and hydrophobic polyvinylidene difluoride (PVDF) nanofiber membranes. Owing to the synergistic effects of strong water absorption, enhanced ion release and numerous micro-nano transport channels, a single MEG of 1 cm2 could constantly generate high direct-current (DC) power, i.e., a voltage of 1.0 V, a current of 15.5 μA, and a power density of 3.0 μW cm−2, outperforming other reported nanofiber-based MEGs. More importantly, the asymmetric nanofiber structure ensured the moisture circulation inside MEG and thus produced a sustained voltage output for 7 days without any deterioration. The MEG also showed good flexibility, air/moisture permeability and flame retardancy, which give it necessary wearable attributes. Furthermore, large-scale integration of MEG units could be readily realized to fabricate a power source device for driving different portable electronics, while the moisture sensitivity made the MEG well used for sensing applications (e.g., respiration monitoring, fire warning). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K)/Akt plays a pivotal role in the vascular response. The present study is to determine whether PI3K/Akt pathway in vascular smooth muscle cells is involved in nitroglycerin (NTG) tolerance and the underlying mechanism. Nitrate tolerance of porcine coronary arteries in vitro was induced by incubation of NTG (10−5 M) for 24 h. Nitrate tolerance in vivo was obtained by subcutaneous injection of mice with NTG (20 mg kg−1, tid, 3 days) and the aortas were used. Protein levels of total and phosphorylated Akt, forkhead box protein O1 (FoxO1), and cGMP-dependent protein kinase (PKG) were determined by western blot analysis. Isometric vessel tension was recorded by organ chamber technique. PKG mRNA was determined by real-time PCR. The cellular translocation of FoxO1 was observed by immunofluorescence. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) level was measured by DHE staining. The vascular relaxation to NTG was significantly inhibited in in vivo and in vitro NTG tolerant arteries. Meanwhile, the protein level of phosphorylated Akt at Ser473 was increased in the tolerant arteries. The attenuated relaxation and the augmented Akt-p were ameliorated by LY294002, a specific inhibitor of PI3K. The protein and mRNA expression of PKG were significantly down-regulated in NTG tolerant arteries, which were reversed by LY294002. The level of phosphorylated FoxO1 at Ser256 and its translocation from the nucleus to the cytosol were both increased in NTG tolerance and were also inhibited by LY294002. ROS production was significantly increased in NTG tolerant arteries, which was not be affected by LY294002 but inhibited by N-acetyl-L-cysteine. In conclusion, the present study suggests that PI3K/Akt in vascular smooth muscle is involved in the development of NTG tolerance via inhibiting PKG transcription and the effect is mediated by FoxO1. Highlights • Both in vitro and in vivo conditions, the activation of PI3K/Akt contributes to the development of NTG tolerance. • PI3K/Akt is involved in the NTG tolerance mainly by inhibiting PKG transcription via suppressing FoxO1 transcriptional activity. • The role of PI3K/Akt in the NTG tolerance is unlikely related to ROS production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Limited studies investigated the effects of long-term ozone exposure on cardiometabolic health. We aimed to examine the association of long-term ozone exposure with a range of cardiometabolic diseases, as well as the subclinical indicators in Eastern China. The study included 202,042 adults living in 11 prefecture-level areas in Zhejiang Province between 2014 and 2021. Using a satellite-based model with a 1 × 1 km spatial resolution, we estimated residential 5-year average ozone exposures for each subject. Mixed-effects logistic and linear regression models were applied to explore the associations of ozone exposure with cardiometabolic diseases and subclinical indicators, respectively. We found that a 9% [95% confidence interval (95% CI): 7–12%] higher in odds of cardiometabolic disease per 10 μg/m3 increase in ozone exposure. Specifically, we also found higher prevalence of cardiovascular diseases (15%), stroke (19%), hypertension (7%), dyslipidemia (15%), and hypertriglyceridemia (9%) associated with ozone exposure. However, we did not find significant associations between ozone exposure and coronary heart disease, myocardial infarction, or diabetes mellitus. Long-term ozone exposures were also significantly associated with adverse changes in systolic blood pressure, diastolic blood pressure, total serum cholesterol, triglyceride, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, glucose concentration, and body mass index. Our results showed that people with lower education levels, those over 50 years old, and those who were overweight or obese were more susceptible to the effects of ozone on cardiometabolic diseases. Our findings demonstrated the detrimental effects of long-term ozone exposure on cardiometabolic health, emphasizing the need for ozone control strategies to reduce the burden of cardiometabolic diseases. [Display omitted] • Increase risk of some cardiometabolic diseases associated with O 3 exposure. • Ozone exposures were associated with adverse changes in some subclinical indicators. • More prominent odds of cardiometabolic diseases under higher ozone concentration. • People with characteristics such as aged 50 years and older were more susceptible. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Store operated calcium entry(SOCE) is known to play a pivotal role in DCs functions including migration, maturation and antigen-presenting ability. Orai1, the major component of SOCE which mainly pairs with Stim1, is surely involved in the regulation of DCs functions. Leptin is recently found to mature DCs, we aim to evaluate the role of Orai1 in leptin-induced dendritic cells(DCs) maturation process and elucidate the mechanism. To this end, Flow cytometry and ELISA were utilized to detect the costimulatory molecule CD86 expression and IL-12 secretion, respectively. Transwell assay was used to examine DCs migration capacity. To evaluate the activity of SOCE, calcium(Ca 2+ ) imaging was performed. Firstly, we confirmed the positive effects of leptin upon SOCE and Orai1 expression in DCs isolated from mouse bone marrow. Secondly, we showed that the effects of leptin on DCs migration and maturation are Orai1 dependent. Moreover, Janus kinase 2(Jak2) silencing inhibited leptin-induced Orai1 expression and influenced DCs functions including migration and maturation as well as IL-12 secretion. In conclusion, our results imply that leptin regulates Orai1 by activating Jak2 signaling pathway, hence facilitating DCs migration and maturation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the fields of drug discovery and protein science, small quantities of proteins are always needed to investigate or validate protein–protein (or protein–small molecule) interactions. Traditional transient or stable expression method to obtain recombinant proteins in eukaryotic systems can be laborious and time-consuming, especially when multiple protein variants are required. Here, we present a fast and convenient method for obtaining small quantities of recombinant human epidermal growth factor receptor (rhEGFR) ectodomain protein, which could be efficiently extended to the expression of other eukaryotic proteins. Human EGFR ectodomain gene was inserted into the plasmid pBMN-GFP and recombinant plasmid was transfected into HEK 293 T cells. In the presence of hygromycin, cells with the integrated human EGFR ectodomain gene were selected and proliferated. rhEGFR ectodomain in cell culture supernatant was purified using serial connected diethylaminoethyl Sepharose column and Ni-NTA Sepharose column. Purity of the final purified rhEGFR ectodomain was over 95% according to SDS-PAGE analysis. Moreover, the purified target protein was biological active via measuring the affinity between the rhEGFR ectodomain and rhEGF. Our method could greatly facilitate research in the areas of protein science, protein structural biology, and drug discovery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Studies of language production in bilinguals have seldom considered the fact that language selection likely involves proactive control. Here, we show that Chinese-English bilinguals actively inhibit the language not-to-be used before the onset of a picture to be named. Depending on the nature of a directive cue, participants named a subsequent picture in their native language, in their second language, or remained silent. The cue elicited a contingent negative variation of event-related brain potentials, greater in amplitude when the cue announced a naming trial as compared to when it announced a silent trial. In addition, the negativity was greater in amplitude when the picture was to be named in English than in Chinese, suggesting that preparation for speech in the second language requires more inhibition than preparation for speech in the native language. This result is the first direct neurophysiological evidence consistent with proactive inhibitory control in bilingual production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Transforming Growth Factor β1 (TGF-β1), a well-known neuroprotective and neurotrophic factor in the central nervous system, is also involved in the repair process responses after ischemia-reperfusion injury. Herein, we found that TGF-β1 enhanced Cdk5 expression while decreased Tunel-positive cells compared with the ischemia group, and roscovitine(Cdk5 inhibitor) treatment could blunt these effects. In vitro study, TGF-β1 facilitated Cdk5/p35 complex, the proliferation, neurite growth and differentiation of PC12 cells, effects of which could be blunted by roscovitine and Cdk5 silencing. Moreover, ERK1/2 inhibitor SCH772984 abrogated the effects of TGF- β1 on Cdk5 and Bax levels. Taken together, we conclude that Cdk5 contributes to the neuroprotective function of TGF- β1 via ERK1/2 signaling. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work two new coordination polymers (CPs) with formulas [Zn 2 (Cl)(BTC)(bmb) 2 ] (1) and [Cd 2 (H 2 O) 2 (BTC) 2 ·H 2 bmb·6H 2 O] (2) (bmb=1,4-bis(2-methylimidazol-1-yl)butane and H 3 BTC ​= ​1,3,5-benzenetricarboxylic acid), have been prepared and characterized by various spectroscopic data. The single crystal X-ray data suggests that 1 comprises a 2D layered network and 2 has a 3D porous framework with pcu -type topology. The photocatalytic properties revealed that 2 could successfully degrade organic dyes such as Rhodamine B (Rh B), methylene orange (MO), and methylene blue (MB). Further, the trapping experiment established the active species in the photodegradation process. [Display omitted] • Two new MOFs were synthesized using mixed strategy. • The two MOFs were modulated by synthesized temperature. • Photocatalytic capability was demonstrated for the MOFs. • The photodegradation process was estimated by trapping experiment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Leucine rich-repeat kinase 2 (LRRK2) has been considered a susceptibility gene for ulcerative colitis (UC), and its protein abundance was enhanced in the peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) from UC cohorts as compared to healthy volunteers. In preclinical models of colitis, Lrrk2 deficiency ameliorated dextran sodium sulfate (DSS)-induced colitis progression, whereas the processes were aggravated by R1441C mutation. While intestinal macrophages (MФs) from Lrrk2 knock-out (Lrrk2 −/− ) mice exhibited a tendency to transit to alternatively activated MФs, R1441C MФs mutation facilitated the pro-inflammatory phenotype polarization, determined by RNA sequencing and qPCR. Moreover, we characterized their microbiota profiles and found that loss of Lrrk2 increased the bacterial richness and altered bacterial community structure, and this shift contributed to the alleviation of colitis development and progression. We proposed that Lrrk2 deficiency promotes M2 MФ transition and facilitates probiotics colonization, providing a protective role during colitis. [Display omitted] • We summarized the attenuated colitis progression in LRRK2 knock out mice. • Lrrk2 deficiency promoted the alternative activation of macrophages. • Lrrk2 deficiency facilitates the gut bacterial homeotasis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Green roof stormwater retention performance is fundamentally related to design configurations and climates. Efficient tools for assessing stormwater retention performance of green roofs with various configurations in different climates are highly desirable for practical applications. In this study, a hydrological model which can be used to simulate dynamic changes in moisture content and evapotranspiration of green roofs is developed and tested (with average Nash-Sutcliffe Efficiency of 0.8197 for calibration and 0.8252 for verification) using monitoring data (2018–2019) of four green roofs with various configurations. The model is applied to simulate long-term (1970–2018) moisture content, actual evapotranspiration, and retention performance of green roofs in eight cities across different climates of China. Green roofs built with engineered soil and Portulaca grandiflora show the largest evapotranspiration and thus provide the largest stormwater retention rates (R r), while green roofs with light growing medium and Sedum lineare show the lowest evapotranspiration and R r. R r of green roofs increases as climate changes from humid to arid. Green roofs at Guangzhou (humid climate) provide the lowest R r (28% ± 3%) caused by plenty of rainfall (1827 mm), while green roofs at Urumqi (desert climate) show the lowest mean annual actual evapotranspiration (167–269 mm) but provide the largest R r (84% ± 5%) as a result of the lowest annual rainfall (282 mm). The results highlight that stormwater retention performance of green roofs could be enhanced through configuration optimization. However, a limiting factor in improving green roofs water retention rates may be the peculiarity of local climatic conditions. [Display omitted] • A green roof (GR) hydrological model is developed and tested with observed data. • Long-term stormwater retention rates (R r) of GRs is assessed using the model. • R r Increases as climate changes from humid to arid. • Optimizing configurations can improve R r to the limitations determined by climates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The colloid of graphitic carbon nitride (g-C 3 N 4 ) was of great importance for practical application. Herein we introduced an alkali treatment route to efficiently colloidize g-C 3 N 4 under mild conditions by destroying the hydrogen bonds between linearly polymeric melon chains and hydrolyzing partial C NH C bonds linked two tri-s-triazine units. The obtained colloidal suspension was extremely stable due to its negative charges on surface, and the particle size of several hundred nanometers and the nanobelt-like morphology were revealed by electron microscopy and dynamic light scattering technologies. The structural, optical and functional group analysis demonstrated that the structure of CN heterocycles was preserved after the alkali treatment, and the produced colloidal g-C 3 N 4 can be re-assembled by an electrostatic interaction. Moreover, contributing to the reduced electron–hole recombination, the photocatalytic performance of restacked carbon nitride colloids had more enhanced photocatalytic performance than bulk g-C 3 N 4 . [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Orai2 is a component of store-operated Calcium channels (SOCCs) and exerts a pivotal role in immunity. In intestinal macrophages (Mφs), Orai2 deficiency influenced linoleic acid (LA)-arachidonic acid (ARA) derivatives by regulating Pla2g6 and Alox5. 16S rRNA sequencing showed that deleting Orai2 facilitated the prevalence of Akkermansia muciniphila , and untargeted metabolomics confirmed the suppressed level of leukotriene A. Moreover, Orai2 deficiency ameliorated the progression of experimental murine colitis, as shown by attenuated structural collapse of colon and pro-inflammatory cytokine concentrations, and rescued dysbiosis. The administration of a Pla2g6 inhibitor (Bromoenol lactone) not only inhibited the relative abundance of A. muciniphila in the feces of Orai2 knockout (Orai2 −/− ) mice, but also abolished the increased activity of Calcium-released activated Calcium channel (CRAC) in Orai2 −/− intestinal Mφs, corroborating the involvement of Pla2g6 in Orai2 signaling. In conclusion, Orai2 deficiency increases Pla2g6 and hence facilitating A. muciniphila colonization, which might be a potential strategy to combat colitis. • We summarized the attenuated colitis progression in Orai2 knock out mice. • Orai2 deficiency enhanced store-operated Calcium entry in intestinal macrophages. • Orai2 deficiency facilitated the prevalence of Akkermansia muciniphila in the murine gut. • Pla2g6 plays a central role in Orai2 signaling. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The contribution of rhizobia in the mitigation of non-enzymatic antioxidants against nitrogen deficiency and heavy metal toxicity for legume plant is not clear. Therefore, it is hypothesized that the inoculation of rhizobia could mitigate nitrogen deficiency and nickel (Ni) stresses in P. pinnata tissues by enhancing the formation of certain non-enzymatic antioxidants. The effect of symbiotic nitrogen-fixing rhizobia on the mitigation of nitrogen-deficiency and Ni stresses in P. pinnata was evaluated by inoculating two different rhizobia, i.e., Rhizobium pisi PZHK2 and Ochrobacterium pseudogrignonense PZHK4, around the rhizosphere of P. pinnata grown in soil containing 40 mg kg−1 Ni2+ and without nitrogen addition. The inoculation with both rhizobial strains promoted the growth of P. pinnata under nickel stress or nitrogen-deficiency condition, increased nitrogen content in all plant tissues and nickel content in shoots and leaves, but reduced nickel accumulation in roots. The four non-enzymatic antioxidants including glutathione (GSH), proanthocyanidin (OPC), ascorbic acid (ASA) and flavonoids (FLA) distributed in roots, shoots and leaves were followed in descending order: GSH > OPC > ASA > FLA. The four non-enzymatic antioxidants showed different levels of change under the nitrogen-deficiency and nickel stresses and in the non-stress control. The inoculation of PZHK2 and PZHK4 significantly (p < 0.05) increased the four non-enzymatic antioxidants in P. pinnata tissues, especially in roots. Some non-enzymatic antioxidants showed correlations with nickel or nitrogen in P. pinnata tissues, and the four non-enzymatic antioxidants also had correlations among each other. Therefore, this research revealed an excellent role of rhizobia in promoting non-enzymatic antioxidants to mitigate nitrogen-deficiency or nickel stress for P. pinnata. [Display omitted] • Rhizobia promote Pongamia pinnata growth in nitrogen-deficiency or nickel stress. • Rhizobia stimulate non-enzymatic antioxidants in P. pinnata tissue. • Distribution of non-enzymatic antioxidants in P. pinnata tissue is GSH > OPC > ASA > FLA. • Non-enzymatic antioxidants mitigate nitrogen-deficiency or nickel stress for plant. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

TGFβ is a powerful regulator of megakaryocyte maturation and platelet formation. As previously shown for other cell types, TGFβ may up-regulate the expression of the serum & glucocorticoid inducible kinase SGK1, an effect requiring p38 kinase. SGK1 has in turn recently been shown to participate in the regulation of cytosolic Ca 2+ activity ([Ca 2+ ] i ) in megakaryocytes and platelets. SGK1 phosphorylates the IκB kinase (IKKα/β), which in turn phosphorylates the inhibitor protein IκBα resulting in nuclear translocation of nuclear factor NFκB. Genes up-regulated by NFκB include Orai1, the pore forming ion channel subunit accomplishing store operated Ca 2+ entry (SOCE). The present study explored whether TGFβ influences Ca 2+ signaling in megakaryocytes. [Ca 2+ ] i was determined by Fura-2 fluorescence and SOCE from the increase of [Ca 2+ ] i following re-addition of extracellular Ca 2+ after store depletion by removal of extracellular Ca 2+ and inhibition of the sarcoendoplasmatic Ca 2+ ATPase (SERCA) with thapsigargin (1 μM). As a result, TGFβ (60 ng, 24 h) increased SOCE, an effect significantly blunted by p38 kinase inhibitor Skepinone-L (1 μM), SGK1 inhibitor EMD638683 (50 μM) and NFκB inhibitor wogonin (100 μM). In conclusion, TGFβ is a powerful regulator of store operated Ca 2+ entry into megakaryocytes, an effect mediated by a signaling cascade involving p38 kinase, SGK1 and NFκB. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The active form of vitamin D, 1,25(OH) 2 D 3 , is a powerful regulator of cytosolic Ca 2+ -concentration ([Ca 2+ ] i ) in a variety of cell types. The formation of 1,25(OH) 2 D 3 is inhibited by FGF23, an effect requiring presence of klotho. 1,25(OH) 2 D 3 plasma levels are excessive in klotho-deficient mice ( kl/kl ). A previous study revealed that klotho-deficiency is followed by decreased activation of platelets, an effect at least in part due to blunted store operated Ca 2+ entry (SOCE). In other cell types 1,25(OH) 2 D 3 has been shown to up-regulate the Na + /Ca 2+ -exchanger, which could, depending on cell membrane potential and cytosolic Na + concentration, either decrease or increase [Ca 2+ ] i . The present study explored whether Na + /Ca 2+ -exchanger activity is different in megakaryocytes isolated from kl/kl mice than in megakaryocytes isolated from wild type mice. Na + /Ca 2+ -exchanger induced currents were determined by whole cell patch clamp and the Na + /Ca 2+ -exchanger induced alterations of [Ca 2+ ] i by Fura-2 fluorescence. As a result, the inward current and the increase of [Ca 2+ ] i following replacement of extracellular Na + by NMDG were higher in kl/kl megakaryocytes than in wild type megakaryocytes, a difference abrogated by treatment of the mice with low Vitamin D diet. Pretreatment of wild type megakaryocytes with 1,25(OH) 2 D 3 (100 nM, 48 h) was followed by enhancement of both, inward current and increase of [Ca 2+ ] i following replacement of extracellular Na + by NMDG. In conclusion, the present observations reveal a powerful stimulating effect of 1,25(OH) 2 D 3 on Na + /Ca 2+ -exchanger activity in megakaryocytes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a chronic functional gastrointestinal disorder. Its symptoms include chronic abdominal pain, bloating gas, diarrhea and constipation. Many IBS patients also have psychological symptoms like depression or anxiety. These unpleasant symptoms significantly lower patients׳ quality of life. The prevalence of IBS in Europe and North America is about 10–15% of the population, which makes IBS a disorder with a high social cost. The pathophysiology of IBS is considered to be multifactorial and the exact cause of the disease remains poorly understood. Recently, a genome-wide expression microarray technique has been applied to investigate the possible mechanisms of IBS. However, a user-friendly database that allows scientists without bioinformatics background to query gene expression levels in these data sets and compare gene expression patterns across different tissues has not yet been established. Therefore, we have integrated four public expression microarray data (320 samples) from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) and ArrayExpress databases into an online database called Transcriptome of Irritable Bowel Syndrome (TIBS). The gene expression change in IBS patients compared to healthy volunteers or UC patients in jejunum, sigmoid colon, rectum, and descending colon can be queried by gene symbols. Users can compare gene expression levels of IBS patients across these tissues. Sex difference of gene expression in IBS patients was also shown in the database. The current version of TIBS database contains 42,400 annotated gene probe sets represented on the Affymetrix Human Genome U133 plus 2.0 platform. TIBS will be an invaluable resource for a better understanding of the pathogenesis of IBS at the molecular level and for drug development. The TIBS database is available online at http://www.chengfeng.info/tibs_database.html. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: This paper studies the problem of the pursuit-evasion game under the wireless sensor and actor networks (WSANs). In order to plan paths for pursuers to capture an evader in the pursuit-evasion game, a novel multi-step cooperative strategy is presented. Under this strategy, the pursuit-evasion game is studied in two stages. In the first stage we assume that the evader is always static in the workplace, and in the second stage the evader will move once it senses the existence of pursuers. A Daisy-Chain Formation algorithm and a sliding mode-based method are presented to control the pursuit. Based on Lyapunov stability theory, the proposed algorithm is proved to be convergent. At last, simulation results are provided to demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed method. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Novel rare earth complex-functionalized mesoporous SBA-16-type hybrid materials are synthesized by the co-condensation of modified 2-methyl-9-hydroxyphenalenone (MHPOSi), from modified 3-(triethoxysilyl)-propyl isocyanate (TEPIC), and tetraethoxysilane (TEOS) in the presence of Pluronic F127 as a template. These inorganic–organic mesoporous hybrids are characterized by FT-IR spectra, small-angle X-ray diffraction (SAXRD), N2 adsorption–desorption measurements, thermal analysis and spectroscopy. Their photophysical properties, which show novel light conversion properties, are discussed in detail. The Eu3+ hybrid system shows ultraviolet excitation and visible emission, and the Nd+ and Yb3+ hybrids exhibit visible excitation and NIR emission. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: A series of new visible and near-infrared (NIR) luminescent lanthanide-hydroxybenz[de]anthracen derivatives (Ln(HBAN)3(H2O)2(NO3)3, Ln(HBAN)3phen(NO3)3) were synthesized (HBAN-6-hydroxybenz[de]anthracen-7-one, Ln=Eu, Yb, Nd). Further, chemically bonded lanthanide hybrids of functionalized mesoporous silica (SBA-15) are prepared using HBAN-functionalized alkoxysilane (HBAN-Si) as linker, which is named as Ln(HBAN-SBA-15)3(NO3)3, Ln(HBAN-SBA-15)3phen(NO3)3 (Ln=Eu, Yb, Nd), respectively. The physical characterization and especially the photoluminescence properties for these hybrids are performed. SAXRD and BET of them revealed that all of these hybrid materials have uniformity in the mesostructure. Worth noting here is that the excitation spectra of these hybrid materials are extended to visible light region (439–535nm). Upon ligand-mediated excitation with the ultraviolet and visible light, the visible luminescence for europium hybrids and NIR luminescence for Yb3+ and Nd3+ hybrids are obtained. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Research on the effects of urban sprawl on carbon stocks within urban forests can help support policy for sustainable urban design. This is particularly important given climate change and environmental deterioration as a result of rapid urbanization. The purpose of this study was to quantify the effects of urban sprawl on dynamics of forest carbon stock and density in Xiamen, a typical city experiencing rapid urbanization in China. Forest resource inventory data collected from 32,898 patches in 4 years (1972, 1988, 1996 and 2006), together with remotely sensed data (from 1988, 1996 and 2006), were used to investigate vegetation carbon densities and stocks in Xiamen, China. We classified the forests into four groups: (1) forest patches connected to construction land; (2) forest patches connected to farmland; (3) forest patches connected to both construction land and farmland and (4) close forest patches. Carbon stocks and densities of four different types of forest patches during different urbanization periods in three zones (urban core, suburb and exurb) were compared to assess the impact of human disturbance on forest carbon. In the urban core, the carbon stock and carbon density in all four forest patch types declined over the study period. In the suburbs, different urbanization processes influenced forest carbon density and carbon stock in all four forest patch types. Urban sprawl negatively affected the surrounding forests. In the exurbs, the carbon stock and carbon density in all four forest patch types tended to increase over the study period. The results revealed that human disturbance played the dominant role in influencing the carbon stock and density of forest patches close to the locations of human activities. In forest patches far away from the locations of human activities, natural forest regrowth was the dominant factor affecting carbon stock and density. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Novel organic–inorganic mesoporous luminescent polymeric hybrid materials containing europium(III) complexes incorporated to mesoporous silica SBA-15/SBA-16 have been prepared by simple physical doping (impregnation) methods, followed by the addition polymerization reaction of the monomer 4-vinylpyridine (vpd) extending along the mesoporous channels. The precursor europium(III) complexes are synthesized by β-diketonate (β-diketonate=2-thenoyltrifluoroacetonate (tta), hexafluoroacetylacetonate (hfac), trifluoroacetylacetonate (taa)) and monomer 4-vinylpyridine (vpd) coordinated to Eu3+, and SBA-15/SBA-16 are obtained via a sol–gel process. After the physical doping and the polymerization reaction, the final ternary materials Eu(β-diketonate)3pvpd-SBA-15/Eu(β-diketonate)3pvpd-SBA-16 (β-diketonate=tta, hfac, taa) are received. The physical properties and espeically the photoluminescence of these hybrids are characterized, and the XRD and BET results reveal that all of these hybrid materials have uniformity in the mesostructure. The detailed luminescence investigation on all the materials show that Eu(tta)3pvpd-SBA-16 have the highest luminescence intensity and the materials with taa ligands have longer lifetimes. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: It is generally accepted that word processing in bilinguals is language nonselective. However, this has mostly been shown in contexts involving deliberate processing focusing on a particular aspect of linguistic information (e.g., lexicality, semantic category, relatedness). It is therefore unknown to what extent non-target language access is only apparent in overt language processing contexts. Here, we examined the effect of involuntary word processing in bilingual individuals performing a nonverbal judgment task on shapes. Chinese–English bilinguals had to differentiate between circles and squares by pressing buttons while ignoring intervening English words. In the critical trials, the to-be-ignored words concealed a sound repetition with the words “circle” or “square” when translated into Chinese. In these trials, we found increased N200 event-related potential amplitudes, reflecting inhibition in this condition as compared to the control condition, in which the intervening words were totally unrelated to the shapes. Since no lateralised readiness potential effect was found in this comparison, access to Chinese translations must have been quickly inhibited, consistent with the fact that we observed no behavioural effects of the hidden manipulation. These results suggest fast and unconscious language nonselective access even when no language task is being performed. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The reverse micelle method was used for the reduction of a tin (Sn) salt solution to produce metallic Sn nanoparticles ranging from 85nm to 140nm in diameter. The reverse micellar system used in this process was hexane-butanol-cetyl trimethylammonium bromide (CTAB). The diameters of the Sn nanoparticles were proportional to the concentration of the aqueous Sn salt solution. Thus, the size of the Sn nanoparticles can easily be controlled, enabling a simple, reproducible mechanism for the growth of silicon nanowires (SiNWs) using plasma-enhanced chemical vapour deposition (PECVD). Both the Sn nanoparticles and silicon nanowires were characterised using field-emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM). Further characterisations of the SiNW’s were made using transmission electron microscopy (TEM), atomic force microscopy (AFM) and Raman spectroscopy. In addition, dynamic light scattering (DLS) was used to investigate particle size distributions. This procedure demonstrates an economical route for manufacturing reproducible silicon nanowires using fine-tuned Sn nanoparticles for possible solar cell applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To explore the effects of exogenous sulfate on the efficiency of chromium(VI) metabolism of three chromium(VI)-resistant Escherichia coli strains (eChrA / eChrB / eChrAB) by adding chromium(VI)-resistance genes chrA and/or chrB , for better understanding and further application of these Cr(VI)-resistant strains in environmental and industrial chromium removal. Based on three engineered Cr(VI)-resistant strains exposed to different concentrations of sulfate: i) Evaluation of Cr(VI) metabolism characteristics, including the growth rate, the Cr(VI) tolerance, the removal, absorption and efflux capacity of Cr(VI); ii) Detection the expressions of Cr(VI) resistance-related genes (chrA and chrB), and sulfate channel protein-related genes (sbp, cysA, cysU and cysW genes) by RT-qPCR. Exogenous sulfate enhanced the Cr(VI) tolerance and the removal rate of these three engineered Cr(VI)-resistant strains, and promoted their growth rate under Cr(VI) stress, while suppressed their absorption and efflux capacity. Under a certain sulfate concentration, the Cr(VI) tolerance, removal ability and efflux capacity of these three strains were ranked as follow: eChrAB > eChrA > eChrB, while ranked as eChrB > eChrA > eChrAB for the Cr(VI) absorption rate, respectively. Opposite to the Cr(VI) treatment, exogenous sulfate suppressed the transcription levels of the Cr(VI) resistance-related genes (chrA and chrB) with gradually increased concentrations, and reduced those of sulfate channel protein related genes (sbp,cysA, cysU and cysW) under the medium and high concentrations. Sulfate can enhance the Cr(VI) tolerance and growth of Cr(VI)-resistant strains, via inhibiting the Cr(VI) absorption and efflux in a concentration-dependent manner. The underlying mode of action might be the competition of transport channels between sulfate and Cr(VI), and the suppression of sulfate channel protein related genes expressions by exogenous sulfate. Our results demonstrated an appropriate supplication of exogenous sulfate could contribute to the Cr(VI) pollution management by genes chrA/chrB related Cr(VI)-resistant strains. Additionally, the engineered E. coli strain eChrAB showed more potential for the actual Cr(VI) pollution application than strain eChrA and eChrB. • Sulfate as a predominant coexisted substance in Cr pollution environment, affects the removal and tolerance of Cr of strains. • The enhanced the Cr(VI) tolerance of sulfate was via inhibiting the Cr(VI) absorption and efflux in a concentration-dependent manner. • Sulfate transport channel related genes chrA/chrB anticipated this progress. • Strains co-expressed of ChrAB exhibited stronger abilities of chromium resistance and chromium reduction than solo-expressed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effects of sweep frequency ultrasound thawing (SFUT) and fixed frequency ultrasound thawing (FFUT) on the water holding capacity (WHC), strength, color, rheological properties as well as moisture migration and distribution of myofibrillar protein (MP) gel from small yellow croaker (Larimichthys polyactis) were evaluated. The results showed that the MP gel from the SFUT sample had a smaller chromatic aberration (ΔE) (12.39), higher WHC (65.05%) and strength (101.03 g) than the MP gel from FFUT and flow water thawing (FWT) samples. Compared with FFUT and FWT groups, the MP gel from the SFUT sample had higher elasticity and smaller apparent viscosity. Meanwhile, the MP gel from the SFUT sample had higher immobilized water content and lowered free water content close to the fresh sample (FS). Overall, the MP gel from the SFUT sample had better gelling properties than the MP gel from the FFUT and FWT groups. • The effect of sweep frequency ultrasound thawing (SFUT) on gel was studied. • The myofibrillar protein (MP) gel from the SFUT sample had larger strength. • The MP gel from the SFUT sample had better rheological properties. • The MP gel from the SFUT sample can retain more immobilized water content. • The moisture migration and distribution affect the quality of the gel sample. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Cytoplasm–nucleus shuttling of phosphoinositol 3-kinase enhancer (PIKE) is known to correlate directly with its cellular functions. However, the molecular mechanism governing this shuttling is not known. In this work, we demonstrate that PIKE is a new member of split pleckstrin homology (PH) domain-containing proteins. The structure solved in this work reveals that the PIKE PH domain is split into halves by a positively charged nuclear localization sequence. The PIKE PH domain binds to the head groups of di- and triphosphoinositides with similar affinities. Lipid membrane binding of the PIKE PH domain is further enhanced by the positively charged nuclear localization sequence, which is juxtaposed to the phosphoinositide head group-binding pocket of the domain. We demonstrate that the cytoplasmic–nuclear shuttling of PIKE is dynamically regulated by the balancing actions of the lipid-binding property of both the split PH domain and the nuclear targeting function of its nuclear localization sequence. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

C-dispersed Cu/Cu 2 O/C nanocomposites were prepared using a simple one-step calcination of Cu-MOF. The morphology and the structure of the Cu/Cu 2 O/C nanocomposites were characterized using X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. The thermal decomposition catalytic effect of the obtained nanocomposites on ammonium perchlorate (AP) was investigated using the differential thermal analysis (DTA), and the catalytic mechanism was analyzed. The results showed that Cu-MOF increased the pyrolysis peak temperature of AP to 382.51 ​°C. Cu/Cu 2 O/C calcined at different temperatures had better catalytic effect on AP than Cu-MOF, and Cu/Cu 2 O/C-350 had the best catalytic effect on AP, decreasing the decomposition peak temperature and activation energy of AP by 87.55 ​°C and 86.51 ​kJ ​mol−1, respectively. Results showed that the prepared Cu/Cu 2 O/C-350 nanocomposites were a promising catalyst for AP. C-dispersed Cu/Cu 2 O/C nanocomposites with excellent catalytic performance on thermal decomposition of ammonium perchlorate were prepared using a simple one-step calcination of Cu-MOF. When a small amount of Cu/Cu 2 O/C-350 was added, the high-temperature decomposition peak of AP was advanced by 87.55 ​°C. [Display omitted] • Cu/Cu 2 O/C nanocomposites were prepared using a simple one-step calcination of Cu-MOF. • Cu/Cu 2 O/C-350 exhibited excellent catalytic performance on thermal decomposition of ammonium perchlorate. • Cu nanoparticles together with C skeleton were the intrinsic factor for the superior catalytic performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Cyclic stretch regulates proliferation of vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) during hypertension-induced vascular remodeling, but the underlying mechanisms remain to be studied. Connective tissue growth factor (CTGF) has been reported associated with several cellular function such as proliferation，migration and adhesion. Herein, the role of CTGF in VSMCs was investigated in response to mechanical cyclic stretch. Here we show that CTGF is up-regulated both in vivo and in vitro during hypertension. Overexpression of CTGF markedly promoted VSMC proliferation, whereas CTGF knockdown attenuated cyclic stretch-induced proliferation. Furthermore, 3′UTR reporter assays revealed that microRNA-19b-3p (miR-19b-3p) directly regulates CTGF expression. Under pathological condition (e.g. 15% cyclic stretch), miR-19b-3p expression was significantly down-regulated; conversely miR-19b-3p overexpression blocked VSMC proliferation. Taken together, these findings indicate that pathological cyclic stretch induces vascular remodeling by promoting VSMC proliferation via miR-19b-3p/CTGF pathway, and point to CTGF as a potential therapeutic target for hypertension. Graphical abstract fx1 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Herein, we employed the exfoliated two-dimensional (2D) graphitic carbon nitride nanosheets (CNNS) and titania nanosheets (TNS) as building blocks, and these negatively charged nanosheets were flocculated by Cd 2+ ions with a followed sulfidation treatment to produce a ternary heterostructure photocatalyst of CNNS/CdS/TNS. This novel nanocomposite exhibited outstanding absorption in visible spectral region, and meanwhile its gradient band structure and the closed interface promoted the separation of photo-generated charge. The relative content of CNNS and TNS in the ternary nanocomposite was optimized, and the optimal photocatalyst with a CNNS/TNS mass ratio of 98:2 could rapidly remove 10 mg L −1 rhodamine B (RhB) in 20 min under visible light irradiation. The calculated rate constant of CNNS/CdS/TNS was 56.87, 12.18, and 6.67 times higher than those of the restacked CNNS and TNS and the individual CdS, as well as 8.31, 6.22 and 2.57 times higher than those of binary CNNS/TNS, CdS/TNS and CdS/CNNS photocatalysts, respectively. Moreover, this nanocomposite possessed a superior durability and universality for degradation of RhB in different concentration and other organic pollutants, including dyes and colorless compounds. Finally, the possible photocatalytic mechanism was proposed based on the theoretical calculation and the active species quenching experiment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

YF 3 doped carbon nanofibers modified separator for high-performance lithium-metal battery. [Display omitted] • YF 3 doped PAN based carbon nanofibers with three-dimensional network structures are designed and prepared. • Long-range ordered and interconnected structure can be acted as fast transport channels for ions and electrons. • Lithiophilic and polar YF 3 nanoparticles can suppress the growth of lithium dendrites and "shuttle effect" of LiPS. • LI||LiFePO 4 and Li-S cells assembled with the modified separator both present stable long cycling performance. In this study, the yttrium trifluoride-doped polyacrylonitrile(PAN) based carbon nanofibers (YF 3 -PAN-CNFs) are successfully designed and prepared through the electro-blow spinning and carbonization strategies. And the YF 3 -PAN-CNFs acted as main materials of functional layer for modifying separator of lithium metal batteries are systematically studied and analyzed. The prepared CNFs have long-range ordered structures and high conductivity, which can extremely improve the transport of lithium ions and electrons during charge–discharge processes. The lithiophilic YF 3 nanoparticles formed in the carbonization process can endow enough active sites to produce alloying reaction with Li, which makes the plating/stripping of Li more uniform. For the assembled Li||lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO 4) battery, it still maintains a high specific discharge capacity of 137.1 mAh g−1 after 500 cycles at 0.5 C, which there is almost no specific discharge capacity degradation after long cycle. The modified separator for the Li||Li symmetric battery can effectively suppress the growth of lithium dendrites and improve cycle stability. Meanwhile, based on the strong chemical bonding between YF 3 and lithium polysulfide combining the effectively physical confinement of the YF 3 -PAN-CNFs coating layer, the "shuttle effect" of lithium polysulfide also can be greatly suppressed. Thus the assembled Li||S battery using the separator has excellent electrochemical performance. Therefore, the YF 3 -PAN-CNFs modified separator will have a promising application prospect in lithium metal batteries even other high performance secondary batteries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rhabdomyosarcoma (RMS), the most common pediatric soft tissue sarcoma, has an intrinsic or early-acquisition of resistance to chemo- and radiation therapy. Molecular determinants pivotal for RMS migration, metastatic invasion, cell proliferation, and survival are incompletely identified. Migration and cell proliferation were shown to correlate with cytosolic Ca 2+ activity ([Ca 2+ ] i ). Store-operated Ca 2+ -entry (SOCE) that increases intracellular [Ca 2+ ] is accomplished by Orai1, a pore-forming ion channel unit, the expression of which is stimulated by the transcription factor NFκB. The present study explored the expression of Orai1 and its regulators STIM1 and NFκB in human rhabdomyosarcoma cell lines and analyzed their impact on cell proliferation and migration. For the study human rhabdomyosarcoma cell lines RD (embryonal) and RH30 (alveolar) were analyzed for Orai1, STIM1, and NFκB transcription by RT-PCR and their corresponding proteins in Western blot. [Ca 2+ ] i was detected via Fura-2 fluorescence and SOCE – resulting from [Ca 2+ ] i increase following store depletion with extracellular Ca 2+ removal and inhibition of the sarcoendoplasmatic reticular Ca 2+ ATPase – detected with thapsigargin. Cell migration was analyzed in transwell and mitotic cell death with the clonogenic assay. In summary, Orai1, STIM1, and NFκB are expressed in embryonal (RD) and alveolar (RH30) rhabdomyosarcoma. SOCE inhibitor BTP2, Orai1 inhibitor 2-APB, or NFκB inhibitor wogonin virtually abrogated (BTP2, 2-APB) or significantly reduced (wogonin) SOCE. Moreover, SOCE inhibitors 2-APB and BTP2 and wogonin significantly inhibited migration and proliferation of both, RD and RH30 cells. These results suggest that Orai1 signaling is involved in SOCE into rhabdomyosarcoma cells thus contributing to migration, invasion and proliferation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A comprehensive analytical protocol was undertaken to elucidate the yellow colorants employed in wall paintings from the Kizil Grottoes, the Taojia Tomb, the Baiyangzhai Tomb, and polychrome figurines from the Astana Tombs, all positioned along the historical Silk Road and dating to the 6th-10th centuries AD. To unequivocally identify these colorants, multi-analytical techniques were deployed, encompassing digital microscopy, scanning electron microscopy coupled with energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (SEM-EDS), X-ray fluorescence spectroscopy (XRF), micro-Raman spectroscopy, and ultra-performance liquid chromatography triple quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry (UPLC-Triple TOF-MS/MS). This comprehensive approach facilitated the unambiguous identification of both inorganic pigments, specifically vanadinite, and plant-derived colorants, including gamboge (Garcinia sp.) and Chinese cork tree (Phellodendron chinense), within these archaeological artifacts. These findings not only significantly enhance our scientific understanding of the materials and techniques utilized in the creation of these wall paintings and polychrome figurines, but also shed light on the vibrant exchange of materials and technological advancements that flourished along the ancient Silk Road. • Vanadinite, a rare inorganic pigment, was found on the wall paintings in the tombs located near Xi'an. • Gamboge (Garcinia sp.) and Chinese cork tree (Phellodendron chinense), the two plant-derived colorants, were also identified on the wall paintings and polychrome figurines. • The organic colorants may play a significant role in the artistic expression and trade along the Silk Road. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • An integrated platform to dissect proteome aggregation in peripheral neuropathy cells. • Anticancer drugs induced protein aggregation visualized by fluorescent methods. • Composition of paclitaxel-induced aggregation in neurol cell was identified. As a consequence of somatosensory nervous system injury or disease, neuropathic pain is commonly associated with chemotherapies, known as chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy (CIPN). However, the mechanisms underlying CIPN-induced proteome aggregation in neuronal cells remain elusive due to limited detection tools. Herein, we present series sensors for fluorescence imaging (AggStain) and proteomics analysis (AggLink) to visualize and capture aggregated proteome in CIPN neuronal cell model. The environment-sensitive AggStain imaging sensor selectively binds and detects protein aggregation with 12.3 fold fluorescence enhancement. Further, the covalent AggLink proteomic sensor captures cellular aggregated proteins and profiles their composition via LC-MS/MS analysis. This integrative sensor platform reveals the presence of proteome aggregation in CIPN cell model and highlights its potential for broader applications in assessing proteome stability under various cellular stress conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

C-type lectin (CTL) is an important pattern recognition receptor that play vital functions in the innate immunity. Many soluble CTLs in crustacean participate in the inhibition or promotion of white spot syndrome virus (WSSV) infection. However, whether transmembrane CTLs participate in WSSV infection in crustacean remains unknown. In the present study, four spliced isoforms of a transmembrane CTL (designated as PcTlec) from Procambarus clarkii were identified for the first time. The genome structure of PcTlec contains eight exons, six known introns, and one unknown intron. PcTlec-isoform1 is produced by intron retention, whereas PcTlec-isoform3 and PcTlec-isoform4 are produced by exon skipping. All of them contain the transmembrane domain and characteristic carbohydrate recognition domain (CRD). Four PcTlec isoforms were mainly expressed in the hepatopancreas, stomach, and intestine. After WSSV challenge, the expression levels of PcTlec-isoform1-4 in the intestine were upregulated. The knockdown of the region shared by four PcTlec isoforms evidently decreased the expression of WSSV envelope protein VP28 and the copies of viral particles. A recombinant protein (rPcTlec-CRD) containing the CRD that was shared by four PcTlec isoforms was acquired by procaryotic expression system. The injection of purified rPcTlec-CRD protein evidently increased the VP28 expression and WSSV copies during viral infection. Moreover, rPcTlec-CRD could directly bind to WSSV and interact with VP28 protein. These findings indicate that new-found transmembrane CTL isoforms in P. clarkii may act as viral receptors that facilitate WSSV infection. This study contributes to the recognition and understanding of the functions of transmembrane CTLs in crustacean in the infection of host by WSSV. • Four spliced isoforms of a transmembrane CTL were identified in P. clarkii. • The expressions of four PcTlec isoforms were increased after WSSV challenge. • Knockdown of PcTlec remarkably decreased the VP28 expression and virus copies. • Injection of rPcTlec-CRD evidently increased the VP28 expression and virus copies. • rPcTlec-CRD could directly bind to WSSV and interact with VP28. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Endocytosis of tropomyosin related kinase B (TrkB) receptors has critical roles in brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) mediated signal transduction and biological function, however the mechanism that is governing TrkB endocytosis is still not completely understood. In this study, we showed that GSK3β, a key kinase in neuronal development and survival, could regulate TrkB endocytosis through phosphorylating dynamin1 (Dyn1) but not dynamin2 (Dyn2). Moreover, we found that beta-amyloid (Aβ) oligomer exposure could impair BDNF-dependent TrkB endocytosis and Akt activation through enhancing GSK3β activity in cultured hippocampal neurons, which suggested that BDNF-induced TrkB endocytosis and the subsequent signaling were impaired in neuronal model of Alzheimer's disease (AD). Notably, we found that inhibiting GSK3β phosphorylating Dyn1 by using TAT-Dyn1SpS could rescue the impaired TrkB endocytosis and Akt activation upon BDNF stimuli under Aβ exposure. Finally, TAT-Dyn1SpS could facilitate BDNF-mediated neuronal survival and cognitive enhancement in mouse models of AD. These results clarified a role of GSK3β in BDNF-dependent TrkB endocytosis and the subsequent signaling, and provided a potential new strategy by inhibiting GSK3β-induced Dyn1 phosphorylation for AD treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] Flexible N -doped carbon fibers decorated with Cu/Cu 2 O particles (NCF-Cu/Cu 2 O) are synthesized through electrospinning, preoxidation and carbonization processes in this work. The characterization results indicate that HKUST-1 is embedded in polyacrylonitrile (PAN) fibers, and a special structure in which Cu/Cu 2 O particles are strung together by carbon fibers is formed after preoxidation and carbonization. NCF-Cu/Cu 2 O is mixed with paraffin in different mass ratios (5%, 10%, 15%, 20% and 25%) to study electromagnetic (EM) wave absorption performance at frequencies from 2.0 GHz to 18.0 GHz. When the filling ratio is 10%, the maximum reflection loss (RL) value is −50.54 dB at 14.16 GHz with a thickness of 2.4 mm, and the maximum effective absorption bandwidth (EAB) value reaches 7.2 GHz (10.8 ∼ 18.0 GHz) with a thickness of 2.6 mm. The NCF-Cu/Cu 2 O composite fibers exhibit strong absorption, broad bandwidth, low filling ratio and thin thickness, and the corresponding absorption mechanism is analyzed in detail. The excellent EM wave absorption performance is attributed to a suitable attenuation ability, good impedance matching, conductive loss, interfacial polarization, dipole polarization, multiple reflections and scattering. This work provides a research reference for the application of flexible carbon-based composite fibers in the field of EM wave absorption. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

One of the main underlying etiologies of type 2 diabetes (T2DM) is insulin resistance, which is most frequently caused by obesity. Notably, the deregulation of adipokine secretion from visceral adiposity has been identified as a crucial characteristic of type 2 diabetes and obesity. Spexin is an adipokine that is released by many different tissues, including white adipocytes and the glandular stomach, and is negatively connected with the state of energy storage. This peptide acts through GALR2/3 receptors to control a wide range of metabolic processes, including inflammation, browning, lipolysis, energy expenditure, and eating behavior. Specifically, spexin can enter the hypothalamus and regulate the hypothalamic melanocortin system, which in turn balances energy expenditure and food intake. This review examines recent advances and the underlying mechanisms of spexin in obesity and T2DM. In particular, we address a range of topics from basic research to clinical findings, such as an analysis of the possible function of spexin in the hypothalamic melanocortin response, which involves reducing energy intake and increasing energy expenditure while also enhancing insulin sensitivity and glucose tolerance. Gaining more insight into the mechanisms that underlie the spexin system's control over energy metabolism and homeostasis may facilitate the development of innovative treatment approaches that focus on combating obesity and diabetes. [Display omitted] • Spexin ameliorates systemic insulin resistance in obesity and type 2 diabetes. • The hypothalamic melanocortin system is a critical component of the spexin/GALR2/3 downstream signaling network. • Spexin reduces energy intake and increases energy expenditure by the GALR2/3-melanocortin signaling axis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Heterocyclic-containing approach was employed to design novel EGFR/HER-2 dual-target inhibitors. • Compound 12k was identified as the most effective and rather selective compound both at the enzyme and cellular level. • Compound 12k could bind to EGFR and HER-2 stably and multiple interactions were applied between the compound and the enzymes. • Compound 12k could inhibit the migration of SK-BR-3 cells, arrest cell cycle in the G0/G1 phase and induce SK-BR-3 cells apoptosis. • Compound 12k could effectively inhibit breast cancer growth with little toxicity in the SK-BR-3 cell xenograft model. A series of novel quinazoline-derived EGFR/HER-2 dual-target inhibitors were designed and synthesized by heterocyclic-containing tail approach. The inhibitory activities against four human epidermal growth factor receptor (HER) isozymes (EGFR, HER-2, HER-3 and HER-4) of all new compounds so designed were investigated in vitro. Compound 12k was found to be the most effective and rather selective dual-target inhibitor of EGFR and HER-2 with inhibitory constant (IC 50) values of 6.15 and 9.78 nM, respectively, which was more potent than the clinical used agent Lapatinib (IC 50 = 8.41 and 9.41 nM). Meanwhile, almost all compounds showed excellent antiproliferative activities against four cancer cell models (A549, NCI-H1975, SK-BR-3 and MCF-7) and low damage to healthy cells. Among them, compound 12k also exhibited the most prominent antitumor activity. Moreover, the hit compound 12k could bind to EGFR and HER-2 stably in molecular docking and dynamics studies. The following wound healing assay revealed that compound 12k could inhibit the migration of SK-BR-3 cells. Further studies found that compound 12k could arrest cell cycle in the G0/G1 phase and induce SK-BR-3 cells apoptosis. Notably, compound 12k could effectively inhibit breast cancer growth with little toxicity in the SK-BR-3 cell xenograft model. Taken together, in vitro and in vivo results disclosed that compound 12k had high drug potential as a dual-target inhibitor of EGFR/HER-2 to inhibit breast cancer growth. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] Strong absorption and large bandwidth are two contributors to materials' absorbing performance. In this work, a series of multi-element core-shell magnetic nano-particle composite layered graphene absorbing materials CoFe 2 O 4 @C/rGO (CCr) were prepared by adjusting carbon shell thickness. The CCr at a low thickness achieved strong microwave absorption and a wide effective absorption bandwidth. Not only the core-shell structure of the magnetic nanoparticle CoFe 2 O 4 @C (CFO@C) increases the interface loss, but both the coating carbon shell and the core CoFe 2 O 4 (CFO) are beneficial to improve impedance matching. Due to the synergistic effect of the dielectric and magnetic properties of graphene and ferrite, CCr possessed high absorption performance, and its minimum reflection loss reached (R Lmin) −52.5 dB when the thickness was only 2 mm. At the same time, the effective absorption bandwidth (EAB) was 5.68 GHz when the thickness was only 1.7 mm. The chemically stable core-shell dielectric nanocomposite provided a new solution for preparing materials with excellent chemical structure and high absorbing properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

PDA-induced molecularly imprinted nanocomposite membranes with three-dimensional MOFs-based imprinting structure, in which propranolol was template molecule, was constructed based on our newly-developed synergetic synthesis strategy of the sol-gel imprinting-initiated system. [Display omitted] Molecularly imprinted nanocomposite membranes with three-dimensional metal–organic frameworks (MOFs)-based structure (MINMs-TM) were successfully prepared by using propranolol as template molecule. Importantly, for the first time, polycarbonate track etch membranes had been used as the supporting surfaces to construct the polydopamine (PDA)-induced MOFs composite structure, in which the as-prepared PDA-modified surface would promote the crystallization and nucleation of ZIF-8-based composite layer. Based on the entire preparation processes of our design, the as-prepared PDA-induced ZIF-8-modified surfaces could be regarded as the imprinted-initiated units of sol–gel imprinting polymerization. Abundant recognition sits of propranolol were achieved in MINMs-TM, which showed characteristic properties of permeability and selectivity. Therefore, high adsorption capacity (41.31 mg/g) and fast adsorption equilibrium rate (within 30 min) had been successfully achieved. Meanwhile, excellent permselectivity rates (β) of MINMs-TM toward propranolol were also obtained as 5.04, 4.79 and 5.14, which MINMs-TM the successful synthesis of high-affinity and high-density propranolol-imprinted sites. Overall, for the practical selective separation and scalability, we had successfully MINMs-TM the preparation of MINMs-TM-based to selective rebinding and separation of propranolol from complex solution system and mimetic water sample, which had further confirmed the desired and potential applications of many environmental pollutants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dual-imprinted GO/TiO 2 -loaded nanocomposite membranes based on polydopamine-based and sol–gel imprinting methods were prepared for selective separation of tetracycline. [Display omitted] Molecularly imprinted membranes (MIMs) with sufficient and even-distributed recognition sites that can break the permeability-selectivity trade-off phenomenon are desirable in chemical field of selective separation. Herein graphene oxide (GO)/TiO 2 -loaded nanocomposite fibrous membranes were prepared by developing two kinds of tetracycline (TC)-imprinted systems in the same MIMs-based material. Thereinto, polydopamine-based and sol–gel-based imprinting processes were applied to the synthesis of GO/TiO 2 -loaded dual-imprinted mixed matrix membranes (GT-DIMs). The as-prepared GT-DIMs encompassed innovative GO/TiO 2 -based nanocomposite fibrous channels and two kinds of TC-imprinted systems, and critical comparisons regarding the fluxes, rebinding capacities and permselectivity were provided and studied. Importantly, dual-imprinted system of GT-DIMs could not only allow for largely enhanced rebinding result (70.63 mg/g) and fast adsorption equilibrium rate within 30 min, but also facilitate the high permselectivity of TC in complex separation systems and lab-simulated wastewater samples. The permselectivity factors were all around 5.0, which strongly demonstrated the efficiently selective recognition and separation performance of GT-DIMs. Overall, based on testing results of practical separation and scalability, excellent structural stability and separation continuity had been successfully obtained for selective separation applications of pollutants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Streptomyces phage ϕC31 integrase was found to mediate site-specific integration of foreign genes at pseudo attP sites of genomes in human, mouse, rat, and Drosophila. This paper reports that ϕC31 integrase can also mediate homologous recombination between attB and pseudo attP sites in bovine cells and foreign gene integration was increased at least 2-fold in bovine fibroblasts or Madin–Darby bovine kidney (MDBK) cells. Two intrinsic pseudo attP sites named BpsF1 and BpsM1 located in the inter-gene regions on chromosome 28 and 19, respectively, were identified in bovine genome. These pseudo attP sites shared similar characteristics with those from other species as previously described. Our study demonstrated that the ϕC31 integrase system provides a new potential for genetic engineering of the bovine genome and might be beneficial for the research on ruminant. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]