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• hNSC-Exo presented therapeutic roles in brain ischemic stroke model of rats. • IFN-γ preconditioning significantly altered the abilities and contents of hNSC-Exo. • IFN-γ-hNSC-Exo shown more therapeutic benefits than hNSC-Exo in vitro and in vivo. • Exosomal miRNAs in IFN-γ-hNSC-Exo mediated the potential effects on cell survival. Transplanted neural stem cells promote neural tissue regeneration and functional recovery primarily by releasing paracrine factors. Exosomes act as important secreted paracrine molecules to deliver therapeutic agents involved in cellular functions. Here, we focused on the role of exosomes (hNSC-Exo) derived from human neural stem cells (hNSCs). We utilized the pro-inflammatory factor interferon gamma (IFN-γ) to induce the generation of altered exosomes (IFN-γ-hNSC-Exo), and compared their roles with those of hNSC-Exo and explored the potential mechanism. Importantly, IFN-γ preconditioning did not affect the secretion, but significantly altered the ability of exosomes derived from hNSCs. Moreover, IFN-γ-hNSC-Exo was functionally superior to hNSC-Exo; showed increased cell proliferation and cell survival and decreased cell apoptosis in vitro. Furthermore, IFN-γ-hNSC-Exo further exerted therapeutic effects (showed better behavioral and structural outcomes) compared to those of hNSCs-Exo in an ischemic stroke rat model. Next-generation sequencing (NGS) revealed specific exosomal miRNAs (hsa-miR-206, hsa-miR-133a-3p and hsa-miR-3656) in IFN-γ-hNSC-Exo with important roles in cell survival. Thus, our findings demonstrate that the inflammatory factor IFN-γ can regulate the functions of exosomes and highlight its role in regulating the application of neural stem cell-derived exosomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Guaranteeing a robust supply of vegetables is a significant public welfare endeavor. However, the implementation of irrational water and fertilizer regimes in greenhouse vegetable fields (GVF) has resulted in adverse environmental impacts. Therefore, it is crucial to develop water and fertilizer regimes to maintain the productivity of greenhouse vegetables with less carbon (C) and reactive nitrogen (Nr) footprint. A four growing seasons experiment involving the cultivation of cucumbers and tomatoes was conducted in the suburbs of Beijing. The experiment comprised three treatments: flood irrigation with a conventional urea-N application (FN), drip fertigation with a conventional urea-N application (DN), and drip fertigation with a 50% reduction of urea-N application (DRN). The results showed that about 70% of annual N inputs in GVF were surplus, posing a high risk of loss. For the FN treatment, the N budget, Nr loss, Nr footprint per unit of vegetable yield (NrF Y), Nr footprint per unit of net return (NrF R), greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, C footprint per unit of vegetable yield (CF Y), C footprint per unit of net return (CF R) were respectively quantified as follows: 1653 kg N ha−1 yr−1, 776 kg N ha−1 yr−1, 4.39 kg N t−1 yr−1, 24.48 kg N ¥10000−1 yr−1, 46548 kg CO 2 -eq ha−1 yr−1, 262.98 kg CO 2 -eq t−1 yr−1 and 1467.58 kg CO 2 -eq ¥10000−1 yr−1. Compared with FN, DN significantly reduced Nr loss (25%), NrF Y (24%), NrF R (22%), GHG emissions (6%), CF Y (4%), while it increased N surplus (9.7%) and produced lower farmers' net return (¥ 13486 ha−1 yr−1). Concurrently, DRN significantly reduced the N surplus, Nr loss, NrF Y and NrF R by ∼35%, decreased the GHG emissions, CF Y and CF R by ∼20%, and improved farmers' net return by ¥ 674 ha−1 yr−1 compared to FN treatment. Therefore, this study highlighted that an integrated water and fertilizer regulation strategy (drip irrigation replacing flood irrigation coupled with a 50% reduction in chemical N application) can simultaneously achieve environmental and economic benefits in the context of high N inputs. This contributes to the sustainable development of intensive vegetable cultivation systems. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Graphical abstract Highlights • High performance dual-mode contrast agent (GdIONC) was developed. • The nested porous structure dramatically enhanced water-interaction around GdIONC. • High specific surface area increased the number of water molecules around GdIONC. • Hydrogen bonds effectively prolonged the rotational correlation time of proton. • Oxide vacancies sharply enhanced the water residence time and exchange efficiency. Abstract Rational structure design benefits the development of new classes of contrast agents (CAs) with excellent magnetic resonance imaging performance. In this work, hydrogenated silica with a net nanostructure (HSiO 2) was fabricated and used to modify gadolinium-doped iron oxide nanoclusters (GdIONCs) to form a core-shell nanoplatform (HSiO 2 @GdIONC) with enhanced T 1 and T 2 contrast ability. In this nanoplatform, the HSiO 2 shell showed a strong binding capacity for water molecules because of the presence of hydrogen bonds, oxygen vacancies, and high specific surface areas, and the strong binding capacity significantly improved the spin-spin (T 2) and spin-lattice (T 1) imaging of the GdIONC core. In addition, the T 1 relaxation rate of the GdIONC core dramatically increased from 30.8 mM−1 s−1 to 38.2 mM−1 s−1 after being coated with the HSiO 2 shell, and the r 2 to r 1 ratio decreased from 10.9 to 8.3, which is an appropriate ratio (r 2 /r 1 : 5–10) for dual-mode contrast. Cell and animal experiments suggested that HSiO 2 @GdIONC exhibited a better T 1 - and T 2 -weighted MR imaging effect than the bare GdIONC core, confirming that this strategy for modifying GdIONCs is a beneficial and promising approach for obtaining highly efficient dual-mode CAs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract In this work, a tumor microenvironment (TME)-responsive biodegradable MnSiO 3 @Fe 3 O 4 nanoplatform for dual-mode magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)-guided combinatorial cancer therapy was constructed. Fe 3 O 4 nanoparticles decorated on the surface of MnSiO 3 could effectively obstruct the pores of MnSiO 3 and reduce the leakage of anticancer drugs under physiological conditions. The structure of the nanoplatform was broken under the weakly acidic and high-concentration glutathione conditions in the TME, resulting in the separation of the Fe 3 O 4 nanoparticles from the nanoplatform and rapid drug release. In addition, the exfoliated Fe 3 O 4 and released Mn2+ can help reduce the interference between their T 1 and T 2 contrast abilities, resulting in dual-mode MRI contrast enhancement. Furthermore, during the exfoliation process of the Fe 3 O 4 nanocrystals, the catalytic activity of the Fe 3 O 4 nanocrystals toward a Fenton-like reaction within cancer cells could be improved because of the increase in specific surface area, which led to the generation of highly toxic hydroxyl radicals and induced HeLa cell apoptosis. The nanoplatform also displayed excellent T 1 -T 2 dual-mode MRI contrast enhancement and anticancer activity in vivo with reduced systemic toxicity. Thus, this multifunctional nanoplatform could be a potential nanotheranostic for dual-mode MRI-guided combinatorial cancer therapy. Graphical abstract A multifunctional MnSiO 3 @Fe 3 O 4 nanoplatform is constructed by decorating Fe 3 O 4 nanoparticles on the surface of MnSiO 3 , followed by amination and grafting PEG on the surface and subsequently loading cisplatin into the nanoplatform. This well-engineered nanoplatform with tumor microenvironment-responsive biodegradable ability displays outstanding dual-mode MRI-guided combinatorial catalytic nanotherapeutics (the generation of ·OH) and chemotherapy for cancer treatment. Image 1 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work, a light-responsively controlled-release herbicide particle (LCHP) with core–shell structure was developed using a nanocomposite composed of biochar, attapulgite (ATP), glyphosate (Gly), azobenzene (AZO), and amino silicon oil (ASO). Therein, nanonetwork-structured ATP distributed evenly in the pores of biochar to form porous biochar-ATP compound which acts as a carrier to efficiently load plenty of Gly and AZO molecules, obtaining porous biochar-ATP-Gly-AZO granule. Subsequently, the resulting biochar-ATP-Gly-AZO granule was incompletely coated by ASO, forming LCHP with abundant micro pores in the ASO coating. Under UV–Vis light radiation, trans-cis and cis-trans isomer transformation of AZO molecules will occur, acting as light-motivated “stirrers” to promote the release of Gly from LCHP through those nano pores. Thus LCHP displayed an excellent light-responsively controlled release performance, which could be also demonstrated by pot experiments. Importantly, LCHP possessed a good adhesion performance on surface of weeds leaves, which was greatly favorable for improving the control efficacy on weeds. Besides, coexisting ions (CO 3 2− , SO 4 2− , and Cl − ) and pH posed little impact on LCHP release in water, proving the high stability of this technology. Therefore, this work provides a promising approach to control the release and enhance utilization efficiency of herbicide, which has a potential application prospect. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A magnetic ceramsite (MC) coated by nano carbon spheres (MCCS) was fabricated, and then the MCCS was stabilized and functionalized by polyethylenimine (PEI) to obtain a nanocomposite named as MCCSP. The nano carbon spheres (NCS) possessed plenty of amino and oxygen-containing groups ( OH, COOH) and distributed homogeneously on the surface of MC, meanwhile the size and dispersion of these NCS could be conveniently adjusted. MCCSP demonstrated a high adsorption capacity for Cr(VI) which could be then reduced to low toxic trivalent chromium (Cr(III)), and the obtained Cr(III) could be chelated on the surface of MCCSP by protonated amine groups. Importantly, the resulting MCCSP-Cr could be conveniently collected from water and soil by a magnetic separation system (MSS). Therefore, this work provides a promising approach to remediate Cr(VI)-contaminated water and soil and may have a high application value. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This work reported a facile approach to remove anthracenemethanol (AC), a typical polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon (PAH), from soil using magnetic ceramsite coated with nanoflower-structured carbon (MCCNC), whose optimal form was named as OMCCNC, fabricated by a one-step hydrothermal process. Therein, the carbon coating self-assembled to form a flower-like fractal structure based on the template of micro-nano flakes on the surface of ceramsite. The nanoflower-structured carbon possessed a high porosity and plenty of oxygen-containing groups and thus could efficiently adsorb AC molecules. After adsorption, the high magnetism of OMCCNC facilitated the continuous separation and collection of OMCCNC-AC from soil using a magnetic separation system (MSS) designed by us. Importantly, the OMCCNC could be reused at least for four times. This work provides a promising approach for removing AC from soil and may have a huge engineering application prospect. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work, we constructed a multifunctional nanopesticide system, a pH-responsively controlled-release pesticide (PRCRP) with magnetic collectability performance, to effectively improve the pesticide utilization efficiency (UE). Herein, herbicide (glyphosate) and pesticide (cypermethrin) were respectively loaded in the micro-nano pores of diatomite/Fe 3 O 4 , a magnetic nanocarrier, which was fabricated through in-situ deposition method. Afterwards, the resulting pesticide/diatomite/Fe 3 O 4 was coated by chitosan which can be dissolved in acid condition so as to control the release of pesticide. The magnetism resulted from Fe 3 O 4 endowed PRCRP a feasible magnetic collection performance. After the release of pesticide, PRCRP could be separated conveniently from water and soil with a high collection ratio. PRCRP displayed a high adhesion capacity on the weed surface and pest epidermis, a significantly controlled-release performance, a high UE, an outstanding control efficacy on weed and pest, and potential collectability in practice. Therefore, this technology may have a promising application potential in reducing pesticide residue and risk to the environment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This work provides an immediate fabrication approach for a manganese dioxide/graphite (MnO 2 /C) composite, as a photocatalyst for the degradation of glyphosate, via high energy electron beam irradiation. Such irradiation can effectively and facilely reduce MnO 4 − to MnO 2 nanospheres through the reduction effects of e − , e aq − , and H, as well as make graphite possess rough surface through thermal and sputtering effects of electron beam. In addition, the fabrication process introduces numerous hydroxyl groups on the surface of MnO 2 nanospheres, which can promote the adhesion of MnO 2 nanospheres onto the rough surface of graphite via hydrogen bonds. The resulting MnO 2 /C composite exhibits a large specific surface area, high dispersion, and thus an excellent adsorption and catalytic degradation performance on glyphosate. Importantly, the MnO 2 /C composite is rather sensitive to sunlight, and can effectively degrade glyphosate under sunlight. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective. Systematic review and meta-analysis to observe the efficacy and safety of stem cell transplantation therapy in patients with brain ischemia. Methods. We searched Cochrane Library, PubMed, Ovid, CBM, CNKI, WanFang, and VIP Data from its inception to December 2015, to collect randomized controlled trials (RCT) of stem cell transplantation for the ischemic stroke. Two authors independently screened the literature according to the inclusion and exclusion criteria, extracted data, and assessed the risk of bias. Thereafter, meta-analysis was performed. Results. Sixteen studies and eighteen independent treatments were included in the current meta-analysis. The results based upon the pooled mean difference from baseline to follow-up points showed that the stem cell transplantation group was superior to the control group with statistical significance in the neurologic deficits score (NIHSS, MD = 1.57; 95% CI, 0.64–2.51; I2=57%; p=0.001), motor function (FMA, MD = 4.23; 95% CI, 3.08–5.38; I2=0%; p<0.00001), daily life ability (Barthel, MD = 8.37; 95% CI, 4.83–11.91; I2=63%; p<0.00001), and functional independence (FIM, MD = 8.89; 95% CI, 4.70–13.08; I2=79%; p<0.0001). Conclusions. It is suggested that the stem cell transplantation therapy for patients with brain ischemic stroke can significantly improve the neurological deficits and daily life quality, with no serious adverse events. However, higher quality and larger data studies are required for further investigation to support clinical application of stem cell transplantation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Marangoni condensation is formed due to the surface tension gradient caused by the local temperature or concentration gradient on the condensate surface; thus, the investigation of the surface temperature distribution characteristics is crucial to reveal the condensation mechanism and heat transfer characteristics. Few studies have been conducted on the temperature distribution of the condensate surface. In this study, thermal infrared images were used to measure the temperature distributions of the condensate surface during Marangoni condensation for ethanol–water mixture vapor. The results showed that the surface temperature distribution of the single droplet was uneven, and a large temperature gradient, approximately 15.6 °C/mm, existed at the edge of the condensate droplets. The maximum temperature difference on the droplet surface reached up to 8 °C. During the condensation process, the average surface temperature of a single droplet firstly increased rapidly and then slowly until it approached a certain temperature, whereas that of the condensate surface increased rapidly at the beginning and then changed periodically in a cosine-like curve. The present results will be used to obtain local heat flux and heat transfer coefficients on the condensing surface, and to further establish the relationship between heat transfer and temperature distribution characteristics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Marangoni condensation is formed due to the surface tension gradient caused by the local temperature or concentration gradient on the condensate surface; thus, the investigation of the surface temperature distribution characteristics is crucial to reveal the condensation mechanism and heat transfer characteristics. Few studies have been conducted on the temperature distribution of the condensate surface. In this study, thermal infrared images were used to measure the temperature distributions of the condensate surface during Marangoni condensation for ethanol–water mixture vapor. The results showed that the surface temperature distribution of the single droplet was uneven, and a large temperature gradient, approximately 15.6 °C/mm, existed at the edge of the condensate droplets. The maximum temperature difference on the droplet surface reached up to 8 °C. During the condensation process, the average surface temperature of a single droplet firstly increased rapidly and then slowly until it approached a certain temperature, whereas that of the condensate surface increased rapidly at the beginning and then changed periodically in a cosine-like curve. The present results will be used to obtain local heat flux and heat transfer coefficients on the condensing surface, and to further establish the relationship between heat transfer and temperature distribution characteristics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Oxygen-enriched Fe 2 O 3 /Gd 2 O 3 nanopeanut theranostic system (Tf-PGINP-Pt) was developed. • Tf-PGINP-Pt deliver oxygen molecules to cancer cells, enhancing oxygen levels. • Nanopeanut enhanced ROS and inactivated GPX4 in cancer cells, leading to ferroptosis. • Pt(IV) in Tf-PGINP-Pt was reduced to Pt(II) by depleting GSH, accelerating apoptosis. • Contrast superimposed effect of Tf-PGINP-Pt endowed highly efficient MRI capability. In this study, we designed a novel peanut probe that could load oxygen molecules and platinum(IV) prodrug (GINP-Pt) to elicit ferroptosis and apoptosis in cancer cells. In addition, transferrin-labeled amino polyethylene glycol (Tf-PEG-NH 2) was equipped to GINP-Pt to obtain targeting and pH-responsive ability. When the system enters cancer cells, platinum(IV) can be released and reduced to platinum(II) by depleting glutathione (GSH), resulting in a ROS increase. Meanwhile, Tf-PGINP-Pt deliver abundant oxgen molecules into cancer cells, significantly elevating oxygen levels. Moreover, generated platinum(II) can activate nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate oxidases (NOXs), accelerating the conversion of oxygen to superoxide anions and enhancing downstream H 2 O 2 levels. Next, Fe2+/Fe3+ ions released from Tf-PGINP-Pt rapidly converted H 2 O 2 into highly toxic OH, causing DNA and mitochondrial membrane damage, resulting in cell ferroptosis. Notably, platinum(II) can coordinate with DNA bases and form Pt-DNA adducts, inhibiting DNA replication and inducing cell apoptosis. In addition, the contrast superimposed effect originated from Gd 2 O 3 and Fe 3 O 4 in Tf-PGINP-Pt endows accurate diagnostic capability for tumor identification, achieving MRI-guided dual-modal cancer therapy. Therefore, this work provides an unique and clinically promising strategy for accurate diagnosis and effective therapy of cancer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chemodynamic therapy (CDT) was widely exploited for cancer therapy and expected to replace traditional anticancer drug therapies. Generally, CDT needs to combine with extra therapeutic methods for obtaining the optimal therapeutic efficacy of cancer. Herein, a multifunctional theranostic platform combing CDT with limotherapy was developed via nanoselenium (nano-Se)-coated manganese carbonate-deposited iron oxide nanoparticle (MCDION-Se). MCDION-Se could release abundant of Mn2+ ions that catalyzed H 2 O 2 into hydroxyl radicals (· OH) via a Fenton-like reaction, effectively inducing the apoptosis of cancer cells. Besides, nano-Se coated onto MCDION-Se also dramatically activated superoxide dismutase (SOD) and promoted the generation of superoxide anion radicals (SOARs) in tumor tissue. Subsequently, a high content of H 2 O 2 was produced via SOD catalysis of SOARs, further enhancing CDT efficiency. Meanwhile, the nano-Se and Mn2+ ions inhibited the generation of adenosine triphosphate (ATP), thus starving cancer cells. In addition, in vitro and in vivo experiments showed that MCDION-Se could effectively enhance the contrast of tumor tissue and improve the quality of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Overall, this work provided a nanoplatform that combined CDT with limotherapy for cancer therapy and simultaneously utilized MRI for monitoring the treatment of tumors. A pH-responsive free-drug theranostic platform (MCDION-Se) combined chemodynamic therapy with limotherapy was developed for MRI-guided tumor therapy. Image 1 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The formation of blood vessel system under a relatively higher Cu2+ ion level is an indispensable precondition for tumor proliferation and migration, which was assisted in forming the tumor immune microenvironment. Herein, a copper ions nano-reaper (LMDFP) is rationally designed not only for chelating copper ions in tumors, but also for combination with photothermal therapy (PTT) to improve antitumor efficiency. Under 808 nm laser irradiation, the fabricated nano-reaper converts light energy into thermal energy to kill tumor cells and promotes the release of D-penicillamine (DPA) in LMDFP. Photothermal properties of LMDFP can cause tumor ablation in situ, which further induces immunogenic cell death (ICD) to promote systematic antitumor immunity. The released DPA exerts an anti-angiogenesis effect on the tumor through chelating copper ions, and inhibits the expression of programmed death ligand 1 (PD-L1), which synergizes with PTT to enhance antitumor immunity and inhibit tumor metastasis. Meanwhile, the nanoplatform can emit near-infrared-IIb (NIR-IIb) fluorescence under 980 nm excitation, which can be used to track the nano-reaper and determine the optimal time point for PTT. Thus, the fabricated nano-reaper shows powerful potential in inhibiting tumor growth and metastasis, and holds great promise for the application of copper nanochelator in precise tumor treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chemotherapy is widely used to treat colorectal cancer (CRC). Despite its substantial benefits, the development of drug resistance and adverse effects remain challenging. This study aimed to elucidate a novel role of glucagon in anti‐cancer therapy. In a series of in vitro experiments, glucagon inhibited cell migration and tube formation in both endothelial and tumor cells. In vivo studies demonstrated decreased tumor blood vessels and fewer pseudo‐vessels in mice treated with glucagon. The combination of glucagon and chemotherapy exhibited enhanced tumor inhibition. Mechanistic studies demonstrated that glucagon increased the permeability of blood vessels, leading to a pronounced disruption of vessel morphology. Signaling pathway analysis identified a VEGF/VEGFR‐dependent mechanism whereby glucagon attenuated angiogenesis through its receptor. Clinical data analysis revealed a positive correlation between elevated glucagon expression and chemotherapy response. This is the first study to reveal a role for glucagon in inhibiting angiogenesis and vascular mimicry. Additionally, the delivery of glucagon‐encapsulated PEGylated liposomes to tumor‐bearing mice amplified the inhibition of angiogenesis and vascular mimicry, consequently reinforcing chemotherapy efficacy. Collectively, the findings demonstrate the role of glucagon in inhibiting tumor vessel network and suggest the potential utility of glucagon as a promising predictive marker for patients with CRC receiving chemotherapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although the process of microbial degradation of coal to produce biomethane has got much attention from many research works, the products profiles of coal at the initial stage of methanogenic bioconversion are not clear yet. In this study, five coal‐degrading bacterial strains (CD1, CD10, CD20, CD24, and CD25) from a methanogenic community were isolated and identified. Among them, CD1 and CD24 belong to Paenibacillus sp., CD10 and CD20 belong to Bacillus sp., and CD25 belongs to Stenotrophomonas sp. After biotreatment of lignite and bituminous coal, the kinds of newly produced compounds were 33 and 45, respectively. Metabolomics analysis showed that a large number of alkane compounds and heterocyclic aromatic compounds were produced after degradation of bituminous coal and lignite by isolated bacteria, and most of the compounds had been produced in a hydroxylated or acylated manner, indicating that the initial microbial treatment enhanced the bioavailability of coal. Some alkaloids and biosurfactants were also detected in the aforementioned products, such as glycerophosphocholine, proveratrol A, proveratrol B, surfactin, etc. These microbial metabolites may play an important role in solubilization during the degradation of coal. This study added to the understanding of the complicated metabolic process of methanogenic coal bioconversion and enabled effective production of biomethane with appropriate metabolic strategies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An environment co-contaminated with metals and antibiotics ultimately exposes bacteria to these metals and antibiotics simultaneously. This study aims to explore the efficacy of sublethal concentrations of copper ions contaminated with tetracycline regarding antibiotic resistance in a sensitive strain of E. coli K12. The study proved that a copper ions and tetracycline co-contaminated environment could considerably enhance the mutation frequencies of chloramphenicol and polymyxin B resistance in antibiotic susceptible E. coli; however, the equivalent copper ions and tetracycline alone showed weaker effects. Results also demonstrated that an environment co-contaminated with relatively high sublethal concentrations of copper ion and tetracycline co-contaminated environment could induce much higher antibiotic resistance than the low sublethal and control groups. Whole-genome characterization results indicated that variability existed within the genotype and phenotype involved in antibiotic resistance. Additionally, the evolved resistant strains displayed hereditary resistance after 5 round culture cycles in LB broth over 5 days. Results implied that co-contamination with metals and antibiotics environment could strengthen resistance and contribute to the induction and dissemination of antibiotic resistance in metal and antibiotic co-contaminated environment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Different biochars have diverse properties, with ambiguous effects on soil nematodes. This study investigated how aspen sawdust (ABC), bamboo powder (BBC), maize straw (MBC) and peanut-shell biochars (PBC) affected Caenorhabditis elegans via culture assays and RNA-seq analysis. The results showed that biochars derived from different agricultural materials varied significantly in physicochemical properties, and PBC produced more volatile organic compounds (VOCs) to attract C. elegans than ABC, BBC and MBC. Moreover, worms in ABC experienced the worst outcomes, while worms in PBC experienced milder impacts. Nematode body length decreased to 724.6 μm, 784.0 μm and 799.7 μm on average in ABC, BBC and MBC, respectively, compared to the control (1052 μm) and PBC treatments (960 μm). The brood size in ABC, MBC, BBC and PBC decreased 41.1%, 39.4%, 39.2% and 19.1% compared to the control, respectively. Furthermore, the molecular mechanisms of biochar-induced developmental effects on C. elegans were explored. Although several differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were different among the four biochars, worm phenotypic changes were mainly related to col genes (col-129; col-140; col-40; col-184), bli-6, sqt-3, perm-2/4, cdk-8, daf-16 and sod-1/2/5, which are associated with cuticle collagen synthesis, eggshell formation in postembryonic growth and rhythmic processes. Our study suggests that different properties of biochars could be crucial to soil nematodes, as well as the worms' biochemical changes are important for the health in agriculture soil. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A novel nanocomposite, named as ARWZ, was fabricated using zero-valent iron (ZVI) nanoparticles supported by acid-modified waste rock wool (ARW). ARW displayed a porous rod-like structure and could load plenty of ZVI nanoparticles. Meanwhile, ARW could effectively inhibit the aggregation and oxidation of ZVI nanoparticles because of steric-hindrance effect. ARWZ exhibited a large specific surface area and high removal capacity (197.69 mg/g) in 30 min for hexavalent chromium (Cr(VI)) from water and soil through adsorption and reduction, and the resulting ARWZ-Cr could be easily collected under a magnetic field because of the superior magnetic property. Importantly, when ARWZ was loaded in filter cotton with a micro/nano networks structure, the resulting system could be conveniently used as an excellent filter layer to control the migration of Cr(VI). This work provides a low cost and promising approach to remove Cr(VI), which also promotes the reuse of waste rock wool. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chemodynamic therapy of cancer is limited by insufficient endogenous H2O2 generation and acidity in the tumor microenvironment (TME). Herein, we developed a biodegradable theranostic platform (pLMOFePt-TGO) involving composite of dendritic organosilica and FePt alloy, loaded with tamoxifen (TAM) and glucose oxidase (GOx), and encapsulated by platelet-derived growth factor-B (PDGFB)-labeled liposomes, that effectively uses the synergy among chemotherapy, enhanced chemodynamic therapy (CDT), and anti-angiogenesis. The increased concentration of glutathione (GSH) present in the cancer cells induces the disintegration of pLMOFePt-TGO, releasing FePt, GOx, and TAM. The synergistic action of GOx and TAM significantly enhanced the acidity and H2O2 level in the TME by aerobiotic glucose consumption and hypoxic glycolysis pathways, respectively. The combined effect of GSH depletion, acidity enhancement, and H2O2 supplementation dramatically promotes the Fenton-catalytic behavior of FePt alloys, which, in combination with tumor starvation caused by GOx and TAM-mediated chemotherapy, significantly increases the anticancer efficacy of this treatment. In addition, T2-shortening caused by FePt alloys released in TME significantly enhances contrast in the MRI signal of tumor, enabling a more accurate diagnosis. Results of in vitro and in vivo experiments suggest that pLMOFePt-TGO can effectively suppress tumor growth and angiogenesis, thus providing an exciting potential strategy for developing satisfactory tumor theranostics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As one of the most significant imaging modalities currently available, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) has been extensively utilized for clinically accurate cancer diagnosis. However, low signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) and low specificity for tumors continue to pose significant challenges. Inspired by the distance-dependent magnetic resonance tuning (MRET) phenomenon, the tumor microenvironment (TME)-activated off–on T1–T2 dual-mode MRI nanoswitch is presented in the current study to realize the sensitive early diagnosis of tumors. The tumor-specific nanoswitch is designed and manufactured on the basis of PDGFB-conjugating ferroferric oxide coated by Mn-doped silica (PDGFB-FMS), which can be degraded under the high-concentration GSH and low pH in TME to activate the T1–T2 dual-mode MRI signals. The tumor-specific off–on dual-mode MRI nanoswitch can significantly improve the SNR and is used successfully for the accurate diagnosis of early-stage tumors, particularly for orthotopic prostate cancer. In addition, the systemic delivery of the nanoswitch did not cause blood or tissue damage, and it can be excreted out of the body in a timely manner, demonstrating excellent biosafety. Overall, the strategy is a significant step in the direction of designing off–on dual-mode MRI nanoprobes to improve imaging accuracy, which opens up new avenues for the development of new MRI probes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bone homeostasis is maintained with the balance between bone formation and bone resorption, which is involved in the functional performance of osteoblast and osteoclast. Disruption of this equilibrium usually causes bone disorders including osteoporosis, osteoarthritis, and osteosclerosis. In addition, aberrant activity of bone also contributes to the bone metastasis that frequently occurs in the late stage of aggressive cancers. Orphan nuclear receptor estrogen-related receptor (ERRα) has been demonstrated to control the bone cell fate and the progression of tumor cells in bone through crosstalk with various molecules and signaling pathways. However, the defined function of this receptor in bone is inconsistent and controversial. Therefore, we summarized the latest research and conducted an overview to reveal the regulatory effect of ERRα on bone homeostasis and bone metastasis, this review may broaden the present understanding of the cellular and molecular model of ERRα and highlight its potential implication in clinical therapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The application of chemodynamic therapy (CDT) for cancer is a serious challenge owing to the low efficiency of the Fenton catalyst and insufficient H2O2 expression in cells. Herein, we fabricated a PDGFB targeting, biodegradable FePt alloy assembly for magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)-guided chemotherapy and starving-enhanced chemodynamic therapy for cancer using PDGFB targeting, pH-sensitive liposome-coated FePt alloys, and GOx (pLFePt-GOx). We found that the Fenton-catalytic activity of FePt alloys was far stronger than that of traditional ultrasmall iron oxide nanoparticle (UION). Upon entry into cancer cells, pLFePt-GOx nanoliposomes degraded into many tiny FePt alloys and released GOx owing to the weakly acidic nature of the tumor microenvironment (TME). The released GOx-mediated glucose consumption not only caused a starvation status but also increased the level of cellular H2O2 and acidity, promoting Fenton reaction by FePt alloys and resulting in an increase in reactive oxygen species (ROS) accumulation in cells, which ultimately realized starving-enhanced chemodynamic process for killing tumor cells. The anticancer mechanism of pLFePt-GOx involved ROS-mediated apoptosis and ferroptosis, and glucose depletion-mediated starvation death. In the in vivo assay, the systemic delivery of pLFePt-GOx showed excellent antitumor activity with low biological toxicity and significantly enhanced T2-weighted magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) signal of the tumor, indicating that pLFePt-GOx can serve as a highly efficient theranostic tool for cancer. This work thus describes an effective, novel multi-modal cancer theranostic system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The application of chemodynamic therapy (CDT) for cancer is a serious challenge owing to the low efficiency of the Fenton catalyst and insufficient H2O2 expression in cells. Herein, we fabricated a PDGFB targeting, biodegradable FePt alloy assembly for magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)-guided chemotherapy and starving-enhanced chemodynamic therapy for cancer using PDGFB targeting, pH-sensitive liposome-coated FePt alloys, and GOx (pLFePt-GOx). We found that the Fenton-catalytic activity of FePt alloys was far stronger than that of traditional ultrasmall iron oxide nanoparticle (UION). Upon entry into cancer cells, pLFePt-GOx nanoliposomes degraded into many tiny FePt alloys and released GOx owing to the weakly acidic nature of the tumor microenvironment (TME). The released GOx-mediated glucose consumption not only caused a starvation status but also increased the level of cellular H2O2 and acidity, promoting Fenton reaction by FePt alloys and resulting in an increase in reactive oxygen species (ROS) accumulation in cells, which ultimately realized starving-enhanced chemodynamic process for killing tumor cells. The anticancer mechanism of pLFePt-GOx involved ROS-mediated apoptosis and ferroptosis, and glucose depletion-mediated starvation death. In the in vivo assay, the systemic delivery of pLFePt-GOx showed excellent antitumor activity with low biological toxicity and significantly enhanced T2-weighted magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) signal of the tumor, indicating that pLFePt-GOx can serve as a highly efficient theranostic tool for cancer. This work thus describes an effective, novel multi-modal cancer theranostic system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ball-milled biochar (BMBC) is a typical engineering material that has promising application prospects in remediating contaminated soil and water. It is fundamental to rate the transport behaviors of BMBC in the underground environment before extensive use. In this study, the effects of the ubiquitous cations (Na+, Mg2+, and Al3+) and model organic matter (humic acid) on the transport of BMBC were investigated using laboratory column experiments. The results demonstrated the facilitated effect of HA on the transport of BMBC due to the negatively charged surface and steric effect under neutral conditions. HA and ionic strength manifested an antagonistic effect on the transport of BMBC, where the presence of one could weaken the effect from the other. We also found the charge reversal of the BMBC surface in the presence of Mg2+, thus enhancing the deposition of BMBC onto the medium surface. On the other hand, the charge reversal from Al3+-coupled acid conditions led to the restabilization and transport of BMBC in porous media. Therefore, the rational usage of BMBC is indispensable and more attention should be paid to the composition and change in underground water that might facilitate the transport of BMBC and thus lead to negative environmental implications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Iron oxide nanoparticles (IONPs)-based contrast agents are widely used for T2-weighted magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in clinical diagnosis, highlighting the necessity and importance to evaluate their potential systematic toxicities. Although a few previous studies have documented the toxicity concerns of IONPs to major organs, limited data are available on the potential reproductive toxicity caused by IONPs, especially when administrated via intravenous injection to mimic clinical use of MRI contrast agents. Our study aimed to determine whether exposure to IONPs would affect male reproductive system and cause other related health concerns in ICR mice. The mice were intravenously injected with different concentrations IONPs once followed by routine toxicity tests of major organs and a series of reproductive function-related analyses at different timepoints. As a result, most of the contrast agents were captured by reticuloendothelial system (RES) organs such as liver and spleen, while IONPs have not presented adverse effects on the normal function of these major organs. In contrast, although IONPs were not able to enter testis through the blood testicular barrier (BTB), and they have not obviously impaired the overall testicular function or altered the serum sex hormones levels, IONPs exposure could damage Sertoli cells in BTB especially at a relative high concentration. Moreover, IONPs administration led to a short-term reduction in the quantity and quality of sperms in a dose-dependent manner, which might be attributed to the increase of oxidative stress and apoptotic activity in epididymis. However, the semen parameters have gradually returned to the normal range within 14 days after the initial injection of IONPs. Collectively, these results demonstrated that IONPs could cause reversible damage to the reproductive system of male mice without affecting the main organs, providing new guidance for the clinical application of IONPs as T2-MRI contrast agents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study addresses the challenge of the antioxidant defense system during tumor cell metabolism, which hampers the ferroptosis-mediated anticancer effect, particularly the GSH/GPX4 pathway. This pathway is considered the classic means of scavenging excessive lipid peroxidation production. A highly selective and effective ferroptosis liposomal nanodrug for synergistic antitumor therapy has been designed and constructed. The nanodrug can lead to the accumulation of intracellular ROS and effectively inhibit the activity of glutathione peroxidase 4 (GPX4) to block the antioxidant pathway of ferroptosis, synergizing and thereby enhancing ferroptosis therapy. [Display omitted] • Ferroptosis liposomal nanodrug (ipFFR) for enhanced synergistic antitumor therapy was designed. • The ipFFR nanodrug for ferroptosis is capable of both Fenton catalysis and blockading the GSH/GPX4 pathway. • The ipFFR nanodrug leads to the accumulation of intracellular ROS, which further induces the LPO of the cell membrane. • Ferroptosis inducer RSL3 can further enhance the effectiveness of antitumor therapy. Ferroptosis is a recently discovered emerging regulated cell death pattern characterized by iron-dependent lipid peroxidation and has enormous potential in tumor therapy. However, the antioxidant defense system during tumor cell metabolism hampers the ferroptosis-mediated anticancer effect, especially the GSH/GPX4 pathway, which is regarded as the classic means of scavenging excessive lipid peroxidation production. Here, we developed an iron-based nanodrug (ipFFR) with efficient Fenton catalytic activity and encapsulated the ferroptosis inducer RSL3. This formulation consists of Fe@Fe 3 O 4 nanoparticles and RSL3, encapsulated in nanoliposomes containing DSPE-PEG-iRGD for precise tumor-targeted delivery of ipFFR. The ultrasmall Fe@Fe 3 O 4 metal nanoparticles were enabled to catalyze endogenous H 2 O 2 and produce toxic •OH under weakly acidic condition and were then quickly excreted from the body. Furthermore, the released ferroptosis inducer RSL3 specifically inhibited the activity of glutathione peroxidase 4 (GPX4) to block the antioxidant pathway of ferroptosis, synergizing and thereby enhancing ferroptosis therapy. This study may open up new avenues in designing nanomedicines with synergistic effects to enhance ferroptosis therapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC), is characteristic by a heterogeneous tumor microenvironment and gene mutations, conveys a dismal prognosis and low response to chemotherapy and immunotherapy. Here, we found that checkpoint suppressor 1 (CHES1) served as a tumor repressor in PDAC and was associated with patient prognosis. Functional experiments indicated that CHES1 suppressed the proliferation and invasion of PDAC by modulating cellular senescence. To further identify the downstream factor of CHES1 in PDAC, label-free quantitative proteomics analysis was conducted, which showed that the oncogenic Aldo-keto reductase 1B10 (AKR1B10) was transcriptionally repressed by CHES1 in PDAC. And AKR1B10 facilitated the malignant activity and repressed senescent phenotype of PDAC cells. Moreover, pharmaceutical inhibition of AKR1B10 with Oleanolic acid (OA) significantly induced tumor regression and sensitized PDAC cells to gemcitabine, and this combined therapy did not cause obvious side effects. Rescued experiments revealed that CHES1 regulated the tumorigenesis and gemcitabine sensitivity through AKR1B10-mediated senescence in PDAC. In summary, this study revealed that the CHES1/AKR1B10 axis modulated the progression and cellular senescence in PDAC, which might provide revenues for drug-targeting and senescence-inducing therapies for PDAC. • CHES1 was down-regulated and served as a candidate tumor-repressor in PDAC. • CHES1 induced tumor repression through inducing cellular senescence in PDAC. • AKR1B10 was a novel downstream genes of CHES1 in PDAC. • AKR1B10 inhibition induced senescence and gemcitabine sensitivity in PDAC. • The CHES1/AKR1B10 axis regulated cell senescence and tumorigenesis in PDAC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights: [•] High-energy electron beam (HEEB) irradiation was used to modify diatomite. [•] HEEB irradiation could effectively improve the pore size distribution of diatomite. [•] Catalytic efficiency of the catalyst based on the treated diatomite increased. [•] Etching, Coulomb explosion and thermal effects were the main modification mechanism. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work, a type of magnetic-responsive controlled-release herbicide (MCRH) was developed using a nanocomposite including palygorskite (Pal), ferroferric oxide (Fe 3 O 4), glyphosate (Gly), and amino silicon oil (ASO). In this system, Pal with the structure of micro/nanonetworks can bind a large quantity of Gly and Fe 3 O 4. The movement of Fe 3 O 4 particles can be driven by a magnetic field to ensure the controlled release of pesticides. Gly, which is a type of nonselective herbicide, is widely used for weed control. In addition, ASO was selected as the coating agent to prevent Gly from rapidly releasing. In this work, the effects of the magnetic field, temperature, and coexisting ions on the release ratio of pesticides were investigated, and the results suggest that MCRH could effectively improve the utilization efficiency (UE) of Gly. In addition, zebrafish experiments indicate that MCRH has better biosafety than Gly. [Display omitted] • A magnetic-responsive controlled-release herbicide (MCRH) is developed. • MCRH displays a porous nano-networks structure and thus a high adsorption ability. • Release of MCRH can be controlled by magnetic field. • MCRH can efficiently improve the utilization efficiency of herbicide. • MCRH has the advantages of simple process and low cost. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • A tumor microenvironment-activated hollow vanadium-based nanoplatform (pLi-HVMSN-Pt) was developed. • pLi-HVMSN-Pt promoted DNA damage via the formation of Pt-DNA adduct and ERCC1 inhibition. • pLi-HVMSN-Pt decreased cellular GSH level via depleting GSH and inhibiting GCL expression. • pLi-HVMSN-Pt enhanced cellular ROS production and then induced cells oxdative death. • pLi-HVMSN-Pt achieved the precise therapy of lung cancer via reversing CDDP resistance. The resistance and side effect of cisplatin (CDDP) were still great challenges for highly efficient therapy of lung cancer in clinic. The studies indicated that the CDDP resistance mainly involved GSH-mediated inactivation and the damaged DNA repair. Herein, a novel vanadium-based nanoplatform was designed via platelet-derived growth factor receptor-β (PDGFR-β)-recognizing cyclic peptide (PDGFB)-labeled liposomes coating onto the hollow vanadium-doped mesoporous silica nanoparticle (HVMSN) loaded Pt (IV) prodrugs (pLi-HVMSN-Pt). This nanoplatform actively targeted tumor tissue, and then effectively responded to weakly acidic and high GSH of tumor microenvironment, making Pt (IV) prodrugs and vanadium ions be precisely delivered and intelligently released. Moreover, the vanadium ions significantly downregulated the expression of glutamyl cysteine ligase (GCL) and excision repair cross-complementing 1 (ERCC1), which inhibited the synthesis of GSH in cells and the damaged DNA repair. These synergistic actions dramatically increased the sensitivity of tumor cells to Pt-based drug, and then reversed CDDP resistance. Furthermore, in vivo experiment results demonstrated highly efficient suppression of tumor growth induced by the pLi-HVMSN-Pt. Therefore, this work provided a novel strategy for reversing CDDP-resistance and the precise therapy of lung cancer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The cell membrane is widely considered as a promising delivery nanocarrier due to its excellent properties. In this study, self-assembled Pseudomonas geniculate cell membranes were prepared with high yield as drug nanocarriers, and named BMMPs. BMMPs showed excellent biosafety, and could be more efficiently internalized by cancer cells than traditional red cell membrane nanocarriers, indicating that BMMPs could deliver more drug into cancer cells. Subsequently, the BMMPs were coated with nanoselenium (Se), and subsequently loaded with Mn2+ ions and doxorubicin (DOX) to fabricate a functional nanoplatform (BMMP-Mn2+/Se/DOX). Notably, in this nanoplatform, Se nanoparticles activated superoxide dismutase-1 (SOD-1) expression and subsequently up-regulated downstream H2O2 levels. Next, the released Mn2+ ions catalyzed H2O2 to highly toxic hydroxyl radicals (·OH), inducing mitochondrial damage. In addition, the BMMP-Mn2+/Se nanoplatform inhibited glutathione peroxidase 4 (GPX4) expression and further accelerated intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation. Notably, the BMMP-Mn2+/Se/DOX nanoplatform exhibited increased effectiveness in inducing cancer cell death through mitochondrial and nuclear targeting dual-mode therapeutic pathways and showed negligible toxicity to normal organs. Therefore, this nanoplatform may represent a promising drug delivery system for achieving a safe, effective, and accurate cancer therapeutic plan. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

According to its characteristics, biochar originating originating from biomass is accepted as a multifunctional carbon material that supports a wide range of applications. With the successfully used in reducing nitrate and adsorbing ammonium, the mechanism of biochar for nitrogen fixation in long-term brought increasing attention. However, there is a lack of analysis of the NH4+-N adsorption capacity of biochar after aging treatments. In this study, four kinds of acid and oxidation treatments were used to simulate biochar aging conditions to determine the adsorption of NH4+-N by biochar under acidic aging conditions. According to the results, acid-aged biochar demonstrated an enhanced maximum NH4+-N adsorption capacity of peanut shell biochar (PBC) from 24.58 to 123.28 mg·g−1 after a H2O2 modification. After the characteristic analysis, the acid aging treatments, unlike normal chemical modification methods, did not significantly change the chemical properties of the biochar, and the functional groups and chemical bonds on the biochar surface were quite similar before and after the acid aging process. The increased NH4+-N sorption ability was mainly related to physical property changes, such as increasing surface area and porosity. During the NH4+ sorption process, the N-containing functional groups on the biochar surface changed from pyrrolic nitrogen to pyridinic nitrogen, which showed that the adsorption on the surface of the aged biochar was mainly chemical adsorption due to the combination of π-π bonds in the sp2 hybrid orbital and a hydrogen bonding effect. Therefore, this research establishes a theoretical basis for the agricultural use of aged biochar. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Graphical abstract Highlights • The palygorskite with nano-network was used to modify the g-C 3 N 4. • This nano network can improve the dispersion of the composites. • The nano network affects the migration of the electrons and holes. • Adsorption and photocatalysis play roles in the reduction process of Cr(VI). • Electrons dominate the role of photocatalytic reduction of the Cr(VI). Abstract In this paper, we firstly used the inorganic nano-network of palygorskite (IPAL) with multiporous structure fabricated from rigid nano-rods by ion beam bombardment to enhance the photoactivity of the graphitic carbon nitride (CN). Results of spectroscopy techniques show that the as-prepared sample (IPAL/CN) displays broader light absorption in the visible light region and low recombination of charge carriers. Photocatalytic illustrations of Cr (VI) (and methylene blue (MB)) in aqueous solution by IPAL/CN samples were investigated respectively. Results show that the IPAL/CN-1:6 composites exhibit a superior catalytic activity with 99.5% of Cr (VI) and 99.2% of MB removal efficiency in 100 min, which were almost 7.0 times and 9.5 times higher than that of pure CN, respectively. After four cycles, the IPAL/CN-1:6 exhibits great photoactivity. Moreover, the reaction can be conducted better under the low pH value of the solution, and the initial concentration can influence the reaction property. The theory of DLVO and zeta potential were used to analyze the dispersion effect on the samples. The higher photoactivity of the IPAL/CN samples could be attributed not only to the high adsorption capacity but also to the improved dispersion affected by the nano-network of IPAL. This study provides a new opportunity for the modification of photocatalyst by the inorganic nanomaterials formed easily by physical irradiation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Multimode bioimaging probes with complementary advantages of imaging sensitivity and spatial resolution in a single drug delivery system have significant potential applications for clinical cancer diagnosis and chemotherapy. In this work, a polyethyleneimine-driven self-assembled lanthanide-doped CaF 2 nanocluster was synthesized and used for fluorescence/MR imaging guided cancer chemotherapy. This nanocluster has an ordered pore structure and good cisplatin loading capacity. The release of cisplatin from this nanoplatform was triggered by acidic pH. In addition, this nanoplatform showed a high relaxation rate (4.91 mM −1  s −1 ) and fluorescence signal. The cell assay results indicated that the nanoplatform was effectively internalized by HeLa cells and showed a good fluorescence/MR imaging ability and cell inhibition effect. In vivo experiment, the nanoplatform displayed excellent fluorescence/MR imaging and anticancer activity. In addition, the side effects of cisplatin on vital organs were significantly mitigated. Thus, this multifunctional nanoplatform is an excellent candidate for fluorescence/MR imaging guided cancer chemotherapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• The higher cumulative carbon mineralization was obtained in the microaggregates. • No-tillage decreased carbon mineralization of macroaggregates via physical protection. • Subsoiling decreased carbon mineralization of microaggregates via autotrophic microbes. Calvin-Benson-Bassham cycle (cbbL)-carrying bacteria in soil are essential to renew and circulate organic matter. However, the relation between cbbL -carrying bacteria and soil carbon dynamics under tillage managements, especially across the aggregate size remains unclear. Thus, in our study, soil organic carbon (SOC) storages, mineralization, and the cbbL -carrying bacterial community across five soil aggregate sizes were thoroughly investigated under four tillage treatments: conventional rotary tillage (CT), deep plowing (DP), subsoiling (SS), no-tillage (NT). We found macroaggregates (>2 mm) contributed most with regard to SOC stocks, whereas microaggregates (<0.25 mm) contributed the least among all the tillage managements (NT, DP, SS and CT). Macroaggregates (>1 mm) with the highest cumulative SOC mineralization were found in subsoiling, whereas microaggregates had the lowest cumulative mineralization under no-tillage. By physically protecting, no-tillage specifically inhibited carbon dioxide (CO 2) emissions in macroaggregates (>1 mm), whereas increased SOC levels and encouraged CO 2 releases across microaggregates. Shifts in the co-occurrence network demonstrated that subsoiling promoted the joint symbiotic function between cbbL -carrying bacteria, the efficiency of matter and energy, and information transfer. And the keystone species, the enhanced cooperation and stochastic processes of autotrophic microorganisms under subsoiling lead to increased carbon fixation and reduced CO 2 emissions in microaggregates with limited oxygen and nutrients. Overall, our work verified physical protection of large aggregates under no-tillage and improvement of microbial interaction efficiency under subsoiling. This may offer a theoretical foundation for the choice of tillage practices in fluvo-aquic soil regions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Marangoni condensation is a phenomenon that occurs during the condensation of a positive system with binary vapor mixtures. Applying infrared thermography to the investigation of Marangoni condensation could not only help to obtain quantitative data on droplet movement but also establish the relationship between the droplet velocity and surface temperature of condensate droplets. In this study, the droplet movement in Marangoni condensation of ethanol-water mixtures was experimentally investigated by infrared thermography. The effects of vapor concentration, impinging cooling water temperature, and vapor velocity on droplet velocity were investigated, and the relationships between droplet velocity, temperature gradient, and surface tension gradient were studied. The results indicated that the droplet velocity first increased and then decreased with the increase in the droplet radius. The maximum droplet velocity decreased with the increase in vapor concentration and vapor velocity. As impinging cooling water temperature increased, the droplet velocity decreased, and the decline was more obvious at the high impinging cooling water temperature. In addition, the droplet velocity increased and then decreased with the increase in the surface temperature gradient and surface tension gradient. • Extensive data obtained for ethanol-water condensation on a horizontal plate. • Obtained temperature gradient and surface tension gradient on condensing surface. • Droplet movement dominated by Marangoni convection when droplet radius <2.6 mm. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mild hypothermia has been proven to inhibit microglia activation after TBI. Exosomal microRNA derived from microglia played a critical role in promoting neurite outgrowth and synapse recovery. Here, we aimed to investigate the role of microRNAs in microglial exosomes after hypothermia treatment on neuronal regeneration after TBI. For in vitro study, stretch-injured neurons were co-cultured with microglial exosomes. For in vivo study, C57BL/6 mice were under controlled cortical impact and injected with microglial exosomes. The results showed that MG-LPS-EXOHT increased the number of dendrite branches and total length of dendrites both in vitro and in vivo, elevated the expression levels of PSD-95 and GluR1 in stretch-injured neurons, and increased spine density in the pericontusion region. Moreover, MG-LPS-EXOHT improved motor function and motor coordination. A high-throughput sequencing showed that miR-20b-5p was upregulated in MG-LPS-EXOHT. Elevating miR-20b-5p promoted neurite outgrowth and synapse recovery of injured neurons both in vitro and in vivo. Following mechanistic study demonstrated that miR-20b-5p might promote neurite outgrowth and synapse recovery by directly targeting PTEN and activating PI3K-AKT pathway. In conclusion, mild hypothermia could modify the microRNA prolife of exosomes derived from LPS activated BV2 cells. Furthermore, high level of microglial exosomal miR-20b-5p induced by mild hypothermia could transfer into injured neurons and promote neurite outgrowth and synapse recovery after TBI via activating the PI3K-AKT pathway by suppressing PTEN expression. [Display omitted] • Hypothermia modified the microRNA prolife of exosomes derived from LPS activated microglia. • Elevated exosomal miR-20b-5p promoted neurite outgrowth and synapse recovery after TBI. • miR-20b-5p suppressed the expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines in LPS activated microglia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• A novel PDGFB-conjugated copper-gadolinium oxide nanocluster (PDGFB-CGO) was fabricated. • PDGFB-CGO could positively recognize tumor tissue and was effectively internalized within the cancer cells. • PDGFB-CGO showed effective synergistic action of CDT and PTT. • PDGFB-CGO suppressed EMT and tumor angiogenesis, thereby restricting tumor cell migration and invasion. • PDGFB-CGO disrupted the intracellular copper balance, thereby inducing tumor cell apoptosis and anti-angiogenesis. The major hurdles for cancer therapy include controlling tumor growth and metastasis. Herein, we developed a novel platelet-derived growth factor receptor - β (PDGFR - β)-recognizing cyclic peptide (PDGFB)-conjugated copper-gadolinium oxide (CGO) nanocluster (PDGFB-CGO) to suppress tumor growth and metastasis via copper overload-mediated apoptosis and anti-angiogenesis. The developed PDGFB-CGO showed not only ultra-strong Fenton-catalytic activity and PT performance but also excellent T 1 contrast ability. It effectively recognized the tumor tissue, thereby significantly improving its tumor-specific delivery and upon laser irradiation, quickly ablated tumor cells contributing to PTT. In addition, PDGFB-CGO quickly produced abundance of highly active Cu(I) which catalyzed endogenous hydrogen peroxide (H 2 O 2) into hydroxyl radical (·OH), achieving ultra-high cancer CDT efficiency. In addition, the influx of Cu(I) broke copper homeostasis, thereby suppressing epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and tumor angiogenesis. This process restricted cell migration and invasion, which dramatically blocked cancer metastasis. In addition, the systemic delivery of PDGFB-CGO significantly enhanced the MRI signal in the tumor, which would be beneficial for the accurate diagnosis of cancer. Thus, this work provides a promising strategy to develop advanced biomaterials for efficient theranostic applications in cancer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Quercetin (Qn) rapidly bioconverted the selenium to nanoselenium within 72 h in algae. • The ideal biological method for remediating the selenium through modulating ETR was demonstrated. • Qn enhanced the reduction potential of algal cells and selective absorption of Se. • Transcriptomic analysis revealed the critical molecular mechanism underpin the transformation. Microalgae are emerging as smart green cell factories for biochemical production and pollutant removal. However, few reports are available on potentiating the algal systems to synthesize selenium nanoparticles (SeNPs), particularly, molecular mechanisms underpinning this biotransformation are yet to be dissected. The Chlorella vulgaris is potentiated by fortifying quercetin (Qn) to facilitate the biotransformation of SeNPs. Quercetin rapidly enhanced the SeNPs formation within 72 hrs from 50 μg/L Na 2 SeO 3 by facilitating the intracellular electron transfer flow, with almost 97 % conversion of inorganic selenite to SeNPs. Electron microscopic analysis of the SeNPs with diameters ranging from 100 nm to 200 nm corroborated the biogenic ability of algal systems. Quercetin fortification obviated the physiological impairments in C. vulgaris induced by selenite in a dose-dependent manner; importantly, Qn-provision significantly enhanced the algal growth rate than the Se-treated cells. Moreover, Qn-treatment altered the fatty acid profile of the total lipids accumulated in C. vulgaris. Transcriptomic analysis showed that quercetin regulated the expression of critical metabolic candidates involved in the Se-assimilation pathway and ROS signal transduction. The data collectively demonstrate the potential green and eco-friendly strategy to reducing the toxic Se into SeNPs and elucidate the mechanistic role underpinning the quercetin-mediated green SeNP biogenesis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study reported an immediate approach for the degradation of three antibiotic (amoxicillin, ofloxacin, and cefradine) residues in medical intravenous infusion bottles (MIIBs) using high energy electron beam (HEEB) irradiation. The effects of irradiation doses, initial concentrations, initial pH, and scavengers of active radicals on the degradation of three antibiotic residues (ARs) were investigated, and the results displayed that 97.02%, 97.61% and 96.87% of amoxicillin, ofloxacin, and cefradine residues could be degraded in situ through HEEB irradiation respectively. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and high performance liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (HPLC-MS) analysis demonstrated that ARs were mainly decomposed into inorganic ions and alkanes. Typically, the detailed degradation mechanism of ARs was also investigated, and the dominant active particle inducing the degradation of antibiotics during the HEEB irradiation process was demonstrated to be hydroxyl radical. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

N-doping is one of the most promising strategies to improve the adsorption capacity and selectivity of carbon adsorbents. Herein, synthesis, characterization and dye adsorption of a novel N-doped microporous biochar derived from direct annealing of crop straws under NH 3 is presented. The resultant products exhibit high microporosity (71.5%), atomic percentage of nitrogen (8.81%), and adsorption capacity to dyes, which is about 15–20 times higher than that of original biochar. Specifically, for the sample NBC800-3 pyrolyzed at 800 °C in NH 3 for 3 h, its adsorption for acid orange 7 (AO7, anionic) and methyl blue (MB, cationic) is up to 292 mg g −1 and 436 mg g −1 , respectively, which is among the highest ever reported for carbonaceous adsorbents. The influences of N-doping and porous structure on dye adsorption of the synthesized carbons are also discussed, where electrostatic attraction, π–π electron donor-accepter interaction, and Lewis acid-base interaction mainly contribute to AO7 adsorption, and surface area (especially pore-filling) dominates MB adsorption. The N-doped biochar can be effectively regenerated and reused through direct combustion and desorption approaches. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • A series of atomically precise Gd-doped MMIONs (Gd x Fe 3−x O 4 nanoclusters) was fabricated. • Gd doping could effectively regulate the magnetic properties, size and morphology of Gd x Fe 3−x O 4. • The Gd content of Gd x Fe 3−x O 4 was optimized, then the optimal T 2 contrast performance was achieved. • The Gd x Fe 3−x O 4 nanocluster showed favorable bio-safety in vitro and in vivo. The use of multi-domain magnetic iron oxide nanoclusters (MMIONs) as Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) contrast agent is facing problems of strong ferromagnetism and thus weak T 2 contrast ability. The doping of Gd ions holds potential to solve these problems by reducing ferromagnetism and enhancing transverse relaxivity (r 2), but the exact role of doping in modulating the contrast properties remain unknown. Herein, we prepared a series of atomically precise Gd x Fe 3−x O 4 nanoclusters and systematically explored the effect of Gd doping on tuning their morphology, magnetic property, and r 2 value. After the doping of Gd ions, the specific surface area of Gd x Fe 3−x O 4 nanoclusters significantly increased, and meanwhile, the magnetic property of Gd x Fe 3-x O 4 nanoclusters transformed from ferromagnetism to superparamagnetism, which led to stronger T 2 contrast. Specifically, the highest r 2 value was obtained at 488 mM−1s−1 (7.0 T) for Gd 0.072 Fe 2.928 O 4 nanocluster, four times higher than that for pristine Fe 3 O 4 (110 mM−1s−1). For potential applications, we validated the outstanding contrast of Gd 0.018 Fe 2.982 O 4 nanocluster (r 2 = 481 mM−1s−1 at 7.0 T) to diagnose early orthotopic cancer in mice. This work opens up a new avenue for the development of atomically precise Gd-doped MMIONs as efficient T 2 -weighted MRI contrast agents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Understanding transport behavior of graphitic carbon nitride (g-C 3 N 4) in porous media plays an important role in preventing its possible causing the underground environmental problems. The transport behavior of g-C 3 N 4 in porous media were investigated by packed column experiments at different flow rates, ionic strengths (ISs), pHs and multivalent cations. The experimental results showed that the transport ability of g-C 3 N 4 decreased with the IS increasing, and most of the g-C 3 N 4 was retained in the sand column for the IS greater than 0.0001 M. The flow rate had little effect on the transport behavior of g-C 3 N 4 , and the recovery of g-C 3 N 4 increased slightly with increasing flow rate. In addition, the migration ability of g-C 3 N 4 under acidic conditions was drastically reduced compared with neutral alkaline conditions. Moreover, it was found that 1.51%, 30.33%, 34.91%, and 60.54% of g-C 3 N 4 was retained in the column when g-C 3 N 4 was leached through the quartz sand column at Al3+, Ca2+, Mg2+, and K+, which was consistent with the Schulze-Hardy rule. Finally, FTIR spectrum showed that the infrared absorption peak of the g-C 3 N 4 mixed quartz sand were shifted to certain degrees under different conditions, which confirmed that hydrogen bond was formed in the transport of carbon nitride with the quartz sand surface. This study provides a new perspective on the role of hydrogen bond in the transport and fate of nanomaterials. Image 1 • Mobility of g-C 3 N 4 affected by hydrogen bond was sharply increased at 0.0001 M. • The transport ability of g-C 3 N 4 under acidic conditions was drastically reduced. • The flow rate had a weak effect on the transport behavior of g-C 3 N 4. • The effect of multivalent cations on the retention of g-C 3 N 4 was Al3+>Ca2+ >Mg2+>K+. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]