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The general objective of the review is to explain the interaction between HIF-1 and mitochondria. On the one hand, this review describes the effects of HIF-1 on mitochondrial structure, including quantity, distribution, and morphology, as well as on mitochondrial metabolism and respiratory function. On the other hand, various factors, including mitochondrial activation of enzymes, the respiratory chain, complex and decoupling proteins, affect the stability and activity of HIF-1. It is possible to develop future molecular therapeutic interventions by understanding the interrelationships between HIF-1 and mitochondria. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The fault diagnosis of variable displacement axial piston pumps has attracted huge attention since they are the power source of the hydraulic system. A notable superiority of the variable displacement pump is the capability of changing the swashplate angle to meet the requirements of different system loads. In most current research on the fault diagnosis of the variable displacement pump, however, the fixed displacement is usually postulated in a single test. Actually, time-variant displacement arouses the complex dynamic response, as well as unanticipated system state variations, which may confuse the classifier. In this paper, the fault detection of a variable displacement pump under random time-variant working conditions is investigated for the first time. The unscented Kalman filter with unknown input is utilized to estimate the system state and calculate the residual. The residual dynamic is then modelled by the sparse variational Gaussian process regression model. The extreme function theory gives a suitable threshold for determining whether the sample is faulty or not. The experimental investigation examines five fault types while tracking the random time-variant signal. Results with different fault sizes and noise levels validate the effectiveness of the proposed method. The comparative study demonstrates the proposed method achieves superior classification performance by an optimal trade-off between fault sensitivity and false alarm rate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Heavy metals (HMs) profoundly impact soil carbon storage potential primarily through soil carbon structure. The association between HM content and soil carbon structure in mangrove sediments remains unclear, likely due to the involvement of microorganisms. In this study, surface sediments in the Futian National Mangrove Nature Reserve were sampled to investigate the chemical structure of soil organic carbon (SOC), the molecular composition of dissolved organic matter (DOM), and potential interactions with microorganisms. HMs, except for Ni, were positively correlated with soil carbon. HMs significantly reduced the alkyl C/O-alkyl C ratio, aromaticity index, and aromatic C values, but increased the labile carboxy/amide C and carbonyl C ratio in SOC. HMs also increased DOM stability, as reflected by the reduced abundance of labile DOM (lipids and proteins) and increased proportion of stable DOM (tannins and condensed aromatics). Bacteria increased the decomposition of labile DOM components (unsaturated hydrocarbons) and the accumulation of stable DOM components (lignins) under HM enrichment. In addition, the association between the bacterial groups and DOM molecules was more robust than that with fungal groups, indicating bacteria had a more significant impact on DOM molecular composition. These findings help in understanding the molecular mechanisms of soil carbon storage in HM-rich mangroves. [Display omitted] • Heavy metals (HMs) significantly increased soil carbon content in mangroves • Soil carbon sequestration potential was strongly related to carbon structure • HMs elevated the stability of molecular structure of dissolved organic matter (DOM) • The bacterial community, not fungi, responded robustly to DOM molecules [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • A significant increase in SOC content was observed in HM-enriched soil. • The initial SOC content was the most important factor for forecasting the response of SOC to HMs. • The response of SOC to HMs was related to the change in microbial activity and function. Heavy metal (HM) enrichment is closely related to soil organic carbon (SOC) pools in terrestrial ecosystems, which are deeply intertwined with soil microbial processes. However, the influence of HMs on SOC remains contentious in terms of magnitude and direction. A global analysis of 155 publications was conducted to integrate the synergistic responses of SOC and microorganisms to HM enrichment. A significant increase of 13.6 % in SOC content was observed in soils exposed to HMs. The response of SOC to HMs primarily depends on soil properties and habitat conditions, particularly the initial SOC content, mean annual precipitation (MAP), initial soil pH, and mean annual temperature (MAT). The presence of HMs resulted in significant decreases in the activities of key soil enzymes, including 31.9 % for soil dehydrogenase, 24.8 % for β-glucosidase, 35.8 % for invertase, and 24.3 % for cellulose. HMs also exerted inhibitory effects on microbial biomass carbon (MBC) (26.6 %), microbial respiration (MR) (19.7 %), and the bacterial Shannon index (3.13 %) but elevated the microbial metabolic quotient (q CO 2) (20.6 %). The HM enrichment-induced changes in SOC exhibited positive correlations with the response of MBC (r = 0.70, p < 0.01) and q CO 2 (r = 0.50, p < 0.01), while it was negatively associated with β-glucosidase activity (r = 0.72, p < 0.01) and MR (r = 0.39, p < 0.01). These findings suggest that the increase in SOC storage is mainly attributable to the inhibition of soil enzymes and microorganisms under HM enrichment. Overall, this meta-analysis highlights the habitat-dependent responses of SOC to HM enrichment and provides a comprehensive evaluation of soil carbon dynamics in an HM-rich environment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Microalgae have attracted increasing attention as a potential feedstock for biofuel production. However, direct high-density ethanol production from microalgae is not commercially feasible due to the requirement for complex pre-treatments and insufficient enzymatic hydrolysis. In this study, we successfully developed a consolidated bioprocessing (CBP) system using recombinant Saccharomyces cerevisiae displaying synergistic cellulases/amylases on cell surfaces to overcome energy-conversion limitations. As Chlamydomonas sp. JSC4 can accumulate considerable amounts of carbohydrates and pigments (i.e., lutein), performing four rounds of pigment extraction from wet microalgal biomass using acetone was found to significantly eliminate the need for biomass pre-treatment and increase commercial viability. The pigment-extracted JSC4 residues increased ethanol production by 10.7% and 31.6% compared to raw starch and whole JSC4 cells, respectively. The theoretical ethanol production mass and yield from 300 g L−1 of JSC4 material were 73 g L−1 and 64%, respectively, after fermentation for 72 h in the presence of amylase- and cellulase-displaying yeasts, which are dramatically higher than those reported previously. Life cycle assessment (LCA) further revealed that this CBP system has 2.7- to 10.7-fold lower total environmental impact compared to alternative ethanol production methods using microalgal biomass. 2.43 kg ethanol and additional products of 5 g lutein from 1 kg microalgal biomass significantly increased the total economic output to $60.875. Overall, this study successfully demonstrates a feasible cell-surface display fermentation system for use in direct high-density ethanol production from pigment-extracted microalgal material. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The arc ablation properties of Ti 3 SiC 2 material are systematically studied. The breakdown current increases with increasing load voltage from 3 kV to 10 kV. The results from an energy dispersive spectroscope, the Raman spectra, and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy show that Ti 3 SiC 2 is decomposed and oxidized to TiO 2 and SiO 2 by electric arcs. The breakdown strength first decreases, and then increases with breakdown times, arising from more and more oxides formed on the Ti 3 SiC 2 surface. By means of field-emission scanning electron microscopy and a three-dimensional laser scanning confocal microscope, cracks, pores and pits are observed on the ablated Ti 3 SiC 2 surface. The characteristics of element distributions are attributed to gravity, plasma forces and to the electromagnetic force, which is affected by the value of breakdown current. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The cell barrier is built to delineate tissue compartments and regulate the substance exchange between different compartments. In this work, we developed a microfluidic tool for real-time impedance monitoring of in vitro renal tubular epithelial cell barrier (RTECB) to follow its formation dynamics and its drug responses. Madin-Darby canine kidney (MDCK) cells were cultured on an artificial basement membrane (ABM) and monitored inside a microfluidic device for up to 10 days. The recorded impedance spectra of the cell layer were analyzed based on an equivalent circuit, giving rise to a set of fitting parameters varying in time. This allowed us to assess the electrophysiological properties of the system and correlate them to the tightness of the epithelial barrier. A calcium switch assay was performed to illustrate the high sensibility of the barrier to biochemical stimuli. Finally, the formation characteristics of the barrier on ABM and conventional transwell membrane were compared, showing significant differences in terms of cell growth dynamics and cell layer stability. • Development of in vitro renal tubular epithelial cell barrier using an artificial basement membrane. • Microfluidic culture and real-time impedance monitoring of the renal barrier up to 10 days. • Assessment of the barrier quality and its responses to biochemical stimuli. • Correlation between the tightness and the electrophysiological properties of an epithelial barrier. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recent advances have shown the high sensibility of electrochemical impedance spectroscopy in real-time monitoring of cell barriers on a chip. Here, we applied this method to the investigation of human induced pluripotent stem cell (hiPSC) derived and artificial basement membrane (ABM) supported endothelial barrier. The ABM was obtained by self-assembling type IV collagen and laminin with a monolayer of crosslinked gelatin nanofibers. The hiPSCs were differentiated into brain microvascular endothelial cells (BMECs) and then plated on the ABM. After incubation for two days, the ABM-BMEC assembly was placed as a tissue insert into a microfluidic device for culture and real-time impedance monitoring over days. We found a significantly enhanced stability of the BMEC barrier in a serum-free and bromodeoxyuridine (BrdU) containing culture medium compared to the conventional culture due to the restricted cell proliferation. We also found that the BMEC barrier was sensitive to stimuli such as thrombin and that the change of the barrier impedance was mainly due to the change of the cell layer resistance. We can thus advocate this method to investigate the integrity of the cell barrier and the barrier-based assays. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The superiority of the nanoscale zero valent iron (nZVI) assisted biochar (BC) composites compared to traditional nZVI and its application feasibility are still unclear. This study aimed to provide valuable information for practical application. Firstly, the Fe/BC mass ratio of 2:1 during the preparation of nZVI-BC was proved obtaining the complete Cr 6+ removal. Then, results revealed that the initial pH value tuned Cr 6+ removal performance via varying existing Cr 6+ species, surface charge, and chemical states of iron nanoparticles (NPs). Improvement of colloidal stabilization and positive surface charge attributed to enhancement of Cr 6+ removal of nZVI-BC. The Cr 6+ removal process was well described using pseudo-second-order kinetic. By Langmuir isotherm model, the maximum removal capacity (58.82 mg g −1 ) was determined. Moreover, the multiple evidences (XRD, XPS, FTIR, and TEM results) explained the mechanisms of Cr 6+ removal ( i.e. electrostatic force, complexes, metal reduction, and precipitates on the edges). Little inhibitory effect of coexisting anions (SO 4 2− , PO 4 3− , and NO 3 − ) and well regeneration ability (82.2% removal efficiency after five cycles using acid washing), along with well Cr 6+ removal efficiencies of real contaminated water (electroplating wastewater, tannery wastewater and groundwater) treatment, suggested nZVI-BC was considered as a superior and cost-effective choice for Cr 6+ included polluted water treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We report herein on the arc erosion behavior of Ti 3 AlC 2 cathode under atmosphere at 7 kV d.c. voltage. The arc life and the breakdown strength for Ti 3 AlC 2 are 28.468 ms and 1.239 × 10 6 V/m, respectively. The process of arc discharging can be divided into three stages: arc formation, steady burning and attenuation, which was observed by a high-speed camera. During steady burning, the arc column is the brightest and the largest. The eroded material was detected by X-ray diffraction, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, field emission scanning electron microscope and energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy. Under the action of arc discharging, the arc erosion morphology characterized with cracks, pores, protrusions with holes displays on the surface of Ti 3 AlC 2 . Meanwhile, the material is dissociated and oxidized to TiO, TiO 2 , Al 2 O 3 , arising from the high temperature and energy intensity of electric arc. The different composition and Marangoni effect are responsible for the multiple morphologies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The positive effects of arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) fungi on host plants under heavy metal (HM) stress conditions have been widely recognized. HMs are known to induce phytotoxicity through 1) the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS), 2) the direct interaction with thiol groups or 3) the competition with essential elements. However, how AM fungus inoculation can affect defense mechanisms against cadmium (Cd) stress, which can regulate and alleviate the phytotoxicity via different pathways, is still unclear. We hypothesized that one or some factors in each pathway of phytotoxicity were involved in detoxifying Cd by inoculating with AM fungus. In this study, the involvements of enzymes, thiolic compounds, and divalent essential elements in the roots of Phragmites australis (Cav.) Trin. ex Steud. were assessed. In addition, we also worked to elucidate the significant factors among three possible pathways involved in biosynthesis with AM fungus inoculation, using principal component analysis (PCA). The results presented here indicate that AM symbiosis can result in a marked tolerance to Cd via accumulating Cd with a shorter exposure treatment time, and obvious fluorescence in the roots was also observed. The decrease in phytotoxicity was mainly accomplished by changes in superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), non-protein thiols (NPT), calcium (Ca), manganese (Mn), and copper (Cu). These results provide comprehensive insights for elucidating the defense mechanisms by which inoculation with AM fungus has beneficial roles in helping P. australis cope with the deleterious effects of Cd. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The influence of breakdown voltage on arc erosion of Ti 3 AlC 2 has been investigated. After 3–10 kV arc erosion in air, the cathode surface appeared uneven with pits, cracks and ejected particles. The arc columns were recorded by a high speed camera. By increasing the breakdown voltage, the breakdown current and erosion area increase, meanwhile breakdown strength decreases. Experimental results demonstrated that after high-energy arc erosion in air, Ti 3 AlC 2 was oxidized to TiO 2 and Al 2 O 3 . Remarkably, crystal transformation from anatase to TiO 2 rutile occurred for breakdown voltage higher than 3 kV, the transformation process being completed for breakdown voltage 9 and 10 kV. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) fungi have been reported to play a central role in improving plant tolerance to cadmium (Cd)-contaminated sites. This is achieved by enhancing both the growth of host plants and the nutritive elements in plants. This study assessed potential regulatory effects of AM symbiosis with regard to nutrient uptake and transport, and revealed different response strategies to various Cd concentrations. Phragmites australis was inoculated with Rhizophagus irregularis in the greenhouse cultivation system, where it was treated with 0–20 mg L −1 of Cd for 21days to investigate growth parameters, as well as Cd and nutritive element distribution in response to AM fungus inoculation. Mycorrhizal plants showed a higher tolerance, particularly under high Cd-level stress in the substrate. Moreover, our results determined the roots as dominant Cd reservoirs in plants. The AM fungus improved Cd accumulation and saturated concentration in the roots, thus inhibiting Cd uptake to shoots. The observed distributions of nutritive elements and the interactions among these indicated the highest microelement contribution to roots, Ca contributed maximally in leaves, and K and P contributed similarly under Cd stress. In addition, AM fungus inoculation effectively impacted Mn and P uptake and accumulation while coping with Cd toxicity. This study also demonstrated translocation factor from metal concentration (TF) could be a good parameter to evaluate different transportation strategies induced by various Cd stresses in contrast to the bioconcentration factor (BCF) and translocation factor from metal accumulation (TF′). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, hydroponic experiments were conducted to investigate the role of Fe-Mn plaque and Arthrobacter echigonensis MN1405 under different solution Cd levels (0, 2 and 50 mg L −1 ) on Cd uptake and translocation by Phytolacca acinosa Roxb. ( P. acinosa ). Results showed Cd accumulated by P.acinosa without plaque were mostly distributed in root surface, indicating that an exclusion strategy for Cd tolerance. The formation of Fe-Mn plaque could contribute to the increase in the Cd tolerance of P.acinosa , promotion of the growth, increase in the enhancement of Cd translocation. Among all the treatments, Fe-Mn plaque treatments inoculated with MN1405 accumulated the maximum DCB-Cd (46.61 ± 6.36 g kg −1 ) and had the highest value of TF aeria (2.14 ± 0.01) at 50 mg L −1 and 2 mg L −1 solution for Cd, respectively, demonstrating the greatest capacity to accumulate and translocate Cd. The uptake of Cd by P. acinosa in plaque treatments may result in the increase of soluble sugar and decrease of soluble protein synthesized from roots which involved in Cd detoxification and thus diminished the negative effects of Cd to some extent. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study focused on the effects of plant compositions on removal rates of pollutants in microcosms through investigating rhizosphere microbial populations, photosynthetic efficiency and growth characteristics. Mixed-culture groups improved the removal efficiency of TN and TP significantly but exhibited lower COD removal rates. Total plant biomasses were improved as the species richness increased, but the N/P content in the plants was mainly affected by the type of species. The mixed-culture groups showed lower photosynthesis rates and oxygen supply generated from roots under high irradiation. Microbial communities of the cultured groups in the rhizosphere exhibited significant differences. According to principal component analysis (PCA), the fungi were the typical microbes of SPA, SPAB, and SPABC, resulted in improvement in nutrient accumulation. These results demonstrated that a mixed culture strategy can represent the overyielding of biomass, promote the photo-protection mechanism, and will further increase the removal rates of pollutants in a constructed wetland. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ti 3 AlC 2 is irradiated by electron-beams at the energy of 200 keV for different times. For the first time, the electron irradiation resistance of Ti 3 AlC 2 of two crystal planes ((0001) and (11 2 ¯ 0)) is studied. It is found that the sputtering of atoms occurs in both morphologies of the two selected planes by performing high-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM). There’s no amorphous ring observed on their selected area electron diffraction (SAED) patterns. Some weakened diffraction spots on their SAED patterns are observed. Structure transformation from α to β phase is attributed to the weakened diffraction spots on (11 2 ¯ 0) plane by simulated electron diffraction patterns (EDPs), indicating the high irradiation resistance of Ti 3 AlC 2 . [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ethnopharmacological relevance Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) is used under the guidance of the theory of traditional Chinese medical sciences in clinical application. The Chinese herbal formula, Shaofu Zhuyu decoction (SFZYD), is considered as an effective prescription for treating Cold - Stagnation and Blood – Stasis (CSBS) primary dysmenorrhea. The previous studies showed the SFZYD exhibited significant anti-inflammation and analgesic effect. In this present study the metabolomics of CSBS primary dysmenorrhea diseased rats and the cytokine transcription in PHA stimulated-PBMC were investigated to explore the effects and mechanisms. Aim of the study Explore a valuable insight into the effects and mechanisms of SFZYD on Cold - Stagnation and Blood – Stasis primary dysmenorrhea rats. Materials and methods We established CSBS primary dysmenorrhea diseased rats according the clinical symptoms. A targeted tandem mass spectrometry (MS/MS)-based metabolomic platform was used to evaluate the metabolic profiling changes and the intervention effects by SFZYD. The PBMC cell was adopted to explore the mechanisms by analyzing the signaling pathway evaluated by expression of inflammatory cytokines, c-jun and c-fos and corresponding phosphorylation levels. Results Estradiol, oxytocin, progesterone, endothelin, β -endorphin and PGF 2 α were restored back to the normal level after the treatment of SFZYD. Total twenty-five metabolites (10 in plasma and 15 in urine), up-regulated or down-regulated, were identified. These identified biomarkers underpinning the metabolic pathway including pentose and glucuronate interconversions, steroid hormone biosynthesis, and glycerophospholipid metabolism are disturbed in model rats. Among these metabolites, twenty one potential biomarkers were regulated after SFZYD treated. The compound of paeoniflorin, a major bioactive compound in SFZYD, was proved to regulate the MAPK signaling pathway by inhibiting the expression of IL-1 β , IL-2, IL-10, IL-12, TNF α , INF γ , c-jun and c-fos in PHA stimulated-PBMC. Conclusion These findings indicated that SFZYD improved the metabolic profiling and biochemical indicators on CSBS primary dysmenorrhea rats. And the mechanisms were closely related with the regulation of the MAPK pathway by reduction in phosphorylated forms of the three MAPK (ERK1/2, p38 and JNK) and down regulation of c-jun and c-fos by paeoniflorin. The data could be provided the guidance for further research and new drug discovery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mechanical properties of metals are intrinsically determined by their electron behavior, which is largely reflected by the electron work function ( EWF or φ ). Since the work function varies with temperature, the dependence of material properties on temperature could be predicted via variations in work function with temperature. Combining a hardness – φ relationship and the dependence of work function on temperature, a temperature-dependent model for predicting solid-particle erosion is proposed. Erosive wear losses of copper, nickel, and carbon steel as sample materials were measured at different temperatures. Results of the tests are consistent with the theoretical prediction. This study demonstrates a promising parameter, electron work function, for looking into fundamental aspects of wear phenomena, which would also help develop alternative methodologies for material design. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Effect of irradiation on Ti 3 AlC 2 samples by using electron-beams is discussed here. After 100 keV electron irradiation, there's no change in morphology and selected area electron diffraction (SAED) patterns. After 200 keV electron irradiation, the high-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM) shows that sputtering of atoms occurs, forming ‘holes’ and ‘wave pattern’. During irradiation, aluminum atoms are mainly sputtered away at the beginning. While the SAED patterns demonstrate that no amorphization occurrs, interplanar spacings decrease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We investigated the behavior of tetracycline degradation and its degradation products upon treatment of isolated yeast that we termed “XPY-10.” XPY-10 was isolated from wastewater and identified asTrichosporon mycotoxinivoransby morphological and physiological tests and 5.8S rRNA ITS sequencing. In our experiments, 78.28 ± 0.8% of tetracycline was removed within 7 days with XPY-10. The degradation of tetracycline fitted well with the first-order kinetic model. We also speculated upon the biodegradation products formed during biodegradation. The possible structures of five products were determined using liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry. During practical application, XPY-10 was shown to have an obvious influence on biodegradation, and 89.61% of tetracycline was removed in feedlot sewage after 7 days of reaction. The chemical oxygen demand removal reached 73.47%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights: [•] UPLC–MS/MS method was firstly developed. [•] The total run time was 10min by UPLC–MS/MS. [•] The pharmacokinetic study of Shaofu Zhuyu Decoction in Beagle dogs was firstly reported. [•] Simple and rapid one-step protein precipitation by methanol was used. [•] The method provided lower LLOQs and accomplished high-resolution separation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights: [•] A combined recycling purification system for preserving eutrophic landscape pond water was reported. [•] The purification system is consisted of four filter units and an in situ algal control facility. [•] We conducted a pilot-scale experiment to verify such combinations, and evaluated its performance, as well as the removal mechanisms. [•] The results indicated that the system can both preserve pond water quality and control algal biomass without refreshing water. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Comprehensive understanding of how the release of biochar-derived dissolved organic matter (BDOM) affects the immobilization of heavy metals when biochar (BC) is applied for long-term soil remediation is extremely important. In this study, BCs prepared under different pyrolysis temperatures were fractionated into residual BC (RBC), nano-sized BC (NBC), and BDOM, in order to clarify the contribution of BDOM for lead (Pb(II)) adsorption on BC and to explore the interfacial mechanisms. Results demonstrated that the adsorption capacity (Q e) of Pb(II) on BC improved from 166.1 to 423.9 mg g−1 with the increase in the pyrolysis temperature from 350 to 800 °C. The sum of Q e of Pb(II) on NBC and RBC was lower than that on BC, due to the complexation between BDOM and Pb(II) rather than pH variance and cation exchange. Ultraviolet–visible and fluorescence spectroscopy revealed that fulvic-like substances as well as small molecules with low aromaticity in BDOM underwent favorable association with Pb(II) and got re-adsorbed on RBC. With the increase in the Pb(II) concentration, the contribution of van der Waals interaction for adsorption of BDOM350-Pb complexes was improved, whereas adsorption mechanism in BDOM800-Pb complexes was more dependent on ligand exchange. This study provides mechanistic insights into the impact of BDOM on Pb(II) immobilization, which can provide valuable information for the long-term remediation of Pb-contaminated soils using BC. [Display omitted] • The Q e of Pb(Ⅱ) on BC improved with the increase in pyrolysis temperature. • The inequality Q e of Pb(Ⅱ) between BC and the sum of NBC+RBC was observed. • Complexation between BDOM and Pb(II) was responsible for the difference. • Low aromatic fulvic-like substances in BDOM preferred to bind with Pb(II). • Specific interfacial forces induced re-adsorption of BDOM-Pb complexes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Studying the hydro-liquefaction kinetics of lignite contributes to optimizing the mild liquefaction process for lignite. In this paper, the direct liquefaction performance of Shengli lignite (SL) was investigated using a H2/THN system with 4 MPa of initial pressure, and reaction kinetic models were established for the heating-up stage and the isothermal stage. The result showed that the liquefaction performance of the SL was excellent, with a conversion of 62.18% and an oil and gas (O + G) yield of 29.88% at 698.15 K. After one hour of reaction, the conversion and O + G yield were 94.61% and 76.78%, respectively. During the heating-up stage, the easily reactive part of the SL was 50.07%, and it was converted directly into oil, gas, asphaltene (AS), and preasphaltene (PA) simultaneously. There was no significant secondary hydrogenation conversion of the AS and PA products. During the isothermal stage, the hard-to-react part was predominantly converted into AS and PA, while the remaining easily reactive part continue to react completely. The conversion of AS and PA into oil and gas was a rate-controlling step during this stage. The amount of unreacted coal estimated using the model calculated in the isothermal stage was 2.98%, which was significantly consistent with the experimental value of 2.81%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Producing large amounts of soluble proteins from bacteria remains a challenge, despite the help of current various solubilizing fusion tags. Thus, developing novel tags is necessary. Antifreeze protein (AFP) has excellent solubility and hydrophilicity, but there are no current reports on its use as a solubilizing fusion tag. Additionally, there is no precedent for using retro-proteins (reverse sequence) as solubilizing fusion tags. Therefore, we selected the antifreeze protein AXX and obtained its retro-protein XXA by synthesizing the XXA gene for the development of a new solubilizing fusion tag. Results: XXA exhibits better stability and ease of expression than AXX; hence, we focused the development of the solubilizing fusion tag on XXA. XXA fused with the tested inclusion bodies, significantly increasing the soluble expression compared with commonly used solubilizing fusion tags such as GST, Trx, Sumo, MBP, and NusA. The tested proteins became soluble after fusion with the XXA tag, and they could be purified. They maintained a soluble form after XXA tag removal. Finally, we used enzymatic digestion reaction and western blot experiments to verify that bdNEDP1 and NbALFA, which were soluble expressed by fusion with XXA, were active. Conclusion: We developed the novel solubilizing fusion tag XXA, which could more effectively facilitate the soluble expression of inclusion bodies compared with current commonly used tags. XXA could function at both low and high temperatures, and its moderate molecular weight has a limited impact on the output. These properties make XXA an ideal fusion tag for future research and industrial production. Moreover, for the first time, we highlighted the broad potential of antifreeze protein as a solubilizing fusion tag, bringing retro-protein into practical application. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The arc erosion behavior of Ag-Ti 3 SiC 2 material under various load voltages is reported here. At the load voltages of 3, 4, and 5 kV, the eroded area is circular. In contrast, the eroded area exhibits a dendritic morphology from 6 kV to 10 kV, which is due to the arc movement. Due to the thermal characteristics of the electric arc, Ag-Ti 3 SiC 2 melts, spatters, resolidifies, decomposes and oxidizes. Cross-sectional images of the eroded morphology show that Ag, Ti, and Si elements distribute uniformly on the surface without concentration. Due to the satisfactory wettability of the molten material, which is due to the formed oxides TiO 2 and SiO 2 , minor particle spattering occurred on the eroded surface. The breakdown strength is enhanced by the disappearance and reappearance of protrusions after 100 arc erosions; this outcome complies with a linear law. • Erosion behavior of Ag-Ti 3 SiC 2 cathode at different voltages is first studied. • Arc movement forms the dendritic morphology with higher energy at 6 kV–10 kV. • No elements concentrate on the cross-sectional image. • TiO 2 and SiO 2 improve the wettability of molten material, suppress spattering. • Breakdown strength is enhanced after 100 times of arc erosion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Ti 3 AlC 2 is irradiated by electron in situ with various time. • Ti 3 AlC 2 transforms to TiC. • Amorphous was observed at 600 s. • Vacancies, stacking faults, twin crystals generate. Ti 3 AlC 2 was irradiated by electron beam in situ. The morphology and structure changes were observed in situ by a transmission electron microscope. Part of atoms were sputtered away. The rest of the atoms were rearranged. Stacking faults, vacancy defects and twin crystals were formed. Ti 3 AlC 2 transformed to TiC first. With the prolongation of irradiation time, amorphous haloes were discovered. The research results have a guiding significance for the application of Ti 3 AlC 2 materials under irradiation environment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A Cu-Ti3AlC2 cathode was eroded by arc discharging at 10 kV. The cross-sectional and horizontal morphologies of the eroded surface were recorded by a field emission scanning electron microscope (FE-SEM). The energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS) and Raman spectrometry were carried out to analyze the compositions. The color-eroded surface was obtained by a three-dimensional laser scanning confocal microscope (3D LSCM). After 100 times of arc erosion, the Cu-Ti3AlC2 melted and resolidified. An eroded layer about 10 μm thick was formed, covered with pits, protrusions, and pores. The breakdown current was kept between 37 to 43 A. Under the action of a high temperature arc, Cu-Ti3AlC2 was oxidized to CuO and TiO2, accompanying the evaporation of the Al element. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Magnetite-functionalized biochar (MBC) is a promising engineered material for remediation of antibiotic-contaminated fields. However, sorption mechanisms of ionizable organic compounds such as sulfonamide antibiotics (SAs) on MBC are still unclear. This study employed four representative SAs including sulfamethazine (SMT), sulfamerazine (SMR), sulfadiazine (SDZ), and sulfamethoxazole (SMX), to compare the difference in sorption on MBC. Results showed that the sorption capacities and affinities of the four SAs varied with their substituents, hydrophobic properties, and dissociation constants (pKa). Synergistic effect during co-pyrolysis with Fe3+ enhanced the sorption performance of MBC towards SAs compared to original BC. Spectral methods confirmed structural changes of MBC such as the variance in oxygen-containing groups and defective/graphitized phases. Results of modeling pH-dependent sorption revealed that H-bonding or π-bond assisted H-bonding determined the sorption affinities and capacities of SAs. In particular, the SAs with lower pKa were thermodynamically favorable to form H-bonding with MBC via proton exchange with water molecules. Quantum calculation results quantified the contributions of H-bonding strengths and found that the energies of H-bonding were correlated with affinities of SAs. Moreover, contributions of oxygen-containing groups instead of minerals dominated the H-bonding energies. Mechanistic insights from this study can be valuable in exploring engineered BC composites for practical application in field remediation. Highlights: Sorption capacity and affinity of four SAs varied with substituents, Kow, and pKa Copyrolyzed carbon matrix and Fe3+ synergistically enhanced SA sorption performance H-bonding or π-bond assisted H-bonding determined SA sorption affinity and capacity Contributions of O-containing groups instead of minerals dominated H-bonding energy [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An efficient, rapid, and fast kinetics of the metal-organic framework MOF235 was successfully prepared by microwave-assisted thermolysis strategy. Fourier transform infrared spectra (FTIR), X-ray diffraction (XRD), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), N2 adsorption-desorption isotherm, and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) were used to characterize the samples. Experimental results revealed the suitability of MOF235 for use as an adsorbent for acid chrome blue K. The maximum adsorption capacity of acid chrome blue K onto MOF235 can reach to 591.79 mg g-1 at 293 K. The sorption behavior fitted to the pseudo-second-order kinetic model and the Langmuir isotherm. Adsorption of acid chrome blue K is a spontaneous and endothermic process. Therefore, the as-prepared MOF235 displays a great potential for environmental purification. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Solid solution hardening is one of common methods to increase hardness of metals by adding solute atoms. The mechanism for solution hardening is ascribed to the differences in atomic size and elastic modulus between the host and the solute. However, the theory is somehow ambiguous without clear clues for optimizing the balance between the two effects towards maximized hardening effectiveness. Current selection of alloying elements for solution hardening is largely based on experience. In this study, we re-examine the conventional mechanism and propose a single-parameter model using electron work function (EWF) as an indicator to evaluate the capability of solute atoms in solid solution hardening. With relevant experiments, we demonstrate the correlation between electron work function and solution hardening effectiveness. The prediction from the proposed EWF model is consistent with the experimental observations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This present study was aimed to investigate the molecular mechanisms involved in sevoflurane protection of hepatic ischemia-reperfusion (I/R) injury. Firstly, we investigated the protective effects of sevoflurane against hepatic I/R injury. Biochemical analysis results showed that sevoflurane preconditioning significantly protected against hepatic I/R injury by reducing liver enzymes and improving antioxidant defense markers. We also found that sevoflurane attenuates I/R-induced hepatic cell death, by TUNEL staining, DNA fragmentation ELISA and PARP activity determination. Next, In order to find the molecular mechanism of sevoflurane preconditioning in hepatic I/R injury, we poured our attention to microRNAs regulation. We focused on miR-200c, one of microRNAs which screened from the gene expression omnibus (GEO). Furthermore, a hydrogen peroxide (H 2 O 2 )-induced oxidative stress apoptosis model was also established to mimic hepatic I/R injury, the effects of MiR-200c was investigated. We observed that MiR-200c inhibition decreased the H 2 O 2 -induced apoptosis of hepatic AML-12 cells. And also, ZEB1 is found as a target gene of miR-200c and is involved in H 2 O 2 -induced apoptosis. On the other hand, the in vivo model was established to examine whether sevoflurane protect against hepatic IR injury by downregulating MiR-200c. Together with the biochemical tests and apoptosis detection, results showed that over-expression of miR-200c significantly inhibited the protect effect of sevoflurane in Hepatic IR injury. Summarizing, sevoflurane preconditioning seems to ameliorate hepatic I/R injury in mice, mediated by mechanisms that include microRNA 200c down regulation. However, further more studies need to be carried out to verify this point. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Primordial germ cells (PGCs) are the undifferentiated progenitors of the gametes. Unlike the poor maintenance of cultured mammalian PGCs, the avian PGCs can be expanded in vitro indefinitely while preserving pluripotency and germline competence. In mammals, the Oct4 is the master transcription factor that ensures the stemness of pluripotent cells such as PGCs, but the specific function of Oct4 in chicken PGCs remains unclear. As expected, the loss of Oct4 in chicken PGCs reduced the expression of key pluripotency factors and promoted the genes involved in endoderm and ectoderm differentiation. Furthermore, the global active chromatin was reduced as shown by the depletion of the H3K27ac upon Oct4 suppression. Interestingly, the de-activated chromatin caused the down-regulation of adjacent genes which are mostly known regulators of cell junction, chemotaxis and cell migration. Consequently, the Oct4-deficient PGCs show impaired cell migration and could not colonize the gonads when re-introduced into the bloodstream of the embryo. We propose that, in addition to maintaining pluripotency, the Oct4 mediated chromatin activation is dictating chicken PGC migration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The evolution of microbial flora was characterized during the soy whey fermentation process by Tibetan kefir grains by analyzing changes in bacterial and fungal community structures using amplicon sequencing. Moreover, changes in physicochemical indexes and active components were monitored. Acidity, pH, and oligosaccharides got a dramatic decline after 30 h of fermentation, while the aglycones isoflavones significantly increased which resulted in a noticeable increase of DPPH· scavenging ability from 53.0% to 70.2%, and many new aromatic volatile compounds were produced. Yeasts, lactic acid bacteria, and acetic acid bacteria grew to more than 7 log CFU/ml after fermentation. The relative abundance of Lactobacillus and Acetobacter changed dramatically in fermented soy whey, which can be ascribed to the increase in aglycone isoflavones levels, especially genistein. This research may deepen the understanding of the mechanism in the fermentation of soy whey by Tibetan kefir grains, and provide a scientific basis for the utilization of soy whey. Novelty impact statement: The fermentation process of soy whey by Tibetan kefir grains was studied. Yeasts, lactic acid bacteria, and acetic acid bacteria grew to more than 7 log CFU/ml after fermentation, and Acetobacter became the dominant genus. Aglycone isoflavones and amino acid nitrogen significantly increased, and DPPH· scavenging ability increased to 70.2%. In addition, new aromatic volatile compounds were produced. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) is an advanced endoscopic procedure and requires deep sedation. Deep sedation with dexmedetomidine for the respiratory drive preserved has become popular in recent years. However, the use of dexmedetomidine in elderly patients is controversial because its adverse events are more common. The objective of this study was to investigate the effectiveness of a single loading dose of dexmedetomidine combined with propofol for deep sedation of ERCP in elderly patients. Methods: In this prospective randomized trial, 49 elderly patients undergoing ERCP were randomly allocated to the dexmedetomidine (DEX) or propofol (PRO) groups. The single loading dose of dexmedetomidine was set at 0.5 μg/kg at the start of anesthesia induction and loading for 10 min. The primary outcome was the cumulative dose of propofol. Secondary outcomes included time to awake, the frequency of airway interventions, and hemodynamics. Results: The intraoperative cumulative dose of propofol was lower in the DEX group (111.0 ± 12.6 μg/kg/min) than the PRO group (143.7 ± 23.4 μg/kg/min) (P < 0.001). There was no statistically significant difference in the time to awake between the two groups. The incidence of artificial airway interventions and hypotension in the PRO group (36%, 60%) were significantly higher than those in the DEX group (4.2%, 16.7%) (P = 0.011, P = 0.003, respectively). In addition, the occurrence of bradycardia increased significantly in the DEX group (58.3%) compared with the PRO group (12%) (P < 0.001). Conclusions: The single loading dose of dexmedetomidine combined with propofol can reduce propofol consumption and artificial airway intervention and provide better hemodynamic stability than propofol for deep sedation in elderly patients during ERCP. Trial registration: www.chictr.org.cn (Registration number ChiCTR1900028069, Registration date 10/12/2019). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Birds exhibit a unique asymmetry in terms of gonad development. The female left gonad generates a functional ovary, whereas the right gonad regresses. In males, both left and right gonads would develop into testes. How is this left/right asymmetry established only in females but not in males remains unknown. The epigenetic regulation of gonadal developmental genes may contribute to this sex disparity. The modification of histone tails such as H3K27ac is tightly coupled to chromatin activation and gene expression. To explore whether H3K27ac marked chromatin activation is involved in the asymmetric development of avian gonads, we probed genome-wide H3K27ac occupancy in left and right gonads from both sexes and related chromatin activity profile to the expression of gonadal genes. Furthermore, we validated the effect of chromatin activity on asymmetric gonadal development by manipulating the chromatin histone acetylation levels. Methods: The undifferentiated gonads from both sides of each sex were collected and subjected to RNA-Seq and H3K27ac ChIP-Seq experiments. Integrated analysis of gene expression and active chromatin regions were performed to identify the sex- and situs-specific regulation and expression of gonadal genes. The histone deacetylase inhibitor trichostatin A (TSA) was applied to the undifferentiated female right gonads to assess the effect of chromatin activation on gonadal gene expression and cell proliferation. Results: Even before sex differentiation, the gonads already show divergent gene expression between different sexes and between left/right sides in females. The sex-specific H3K27ac chromatin distributions coincide with the higher expression of male/female specification genes in each sex. Unexpectedly, the H3K27ac marked chromatin activation show a dramatic difference between left and right gonads in both sexes, although the left/right asymmetric gonadal development was observed only in females but not in males. In females, the side-specific H3K27ac occupancy instructs the differential expression of developmental genes between the pair of gonads and contributes to the development of left but not right gonad. However, in males, the left/right discrepancy of H3K27ac chromatin distribution does not drive the side-biased gene expression or gonad development. The TSA-induced retention of chromatin acetylation causes up-regulation of ovarian developmental genes and increases cell proliferation in the female right gonad. Conclusions: We revealed that left/right asymmetry in H3K27ac marked chromatin activation exists in both sexes, but this discrepancy gives rise to asymmetric gonadal development only in females. Other mechanisms overriding the chromatin activation would control the symmetric development of male gonads in chicken. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nanoplastics (NPs), especially those with different charges, as one of emerging contaminants pose a threat to aquatic ecosystems. Although differentially charged NPs could induce distinct biological effects, mechanistic understanding of the critical physiological processes of aquatic organisms from an integrated multilevel perspective on aquatic organisms is still uncertain. Herein, multi-effects of differentially charged nanosized polystyrene (nPS) including neutral nPS, nPS-COOH, and nPS-NH 2 on the photosynthesis-related physiological processes of algae were explored at the population, individual, subcellular, protein, and transcriptional levels. Results demonstrated that both nPS and nPS-COOH exhibited hormesis to algal photosynthesis but nPS-NH 2 triggered severe inhibition. As for nPS-NH 2 , the integrity of algal subcellular structure, chlorophyll biosynthesis, and expression of photosynthesis-related proteins and genes were interfered. Intracellular NPs' content in nPS treatment was 25.64 % higher than in nPS-COOH treatment, and the content of chloroplasts in PS and nPS-COOH treatment were 3.09 % and 4.56 % higher than control, respectively. Furthermore, at the molecular levels, more photosynthesis-related proteins and genes were regulated under nPS-COOH exposure than those exposed to nPS. Light-harvesting complex II could be recognized as an underlying explanation for different effects between nPS and nPS-COOH. This study first provides a novel approach to assess the ecological risks of NPs at an integrated multilevel. [Display omitted] • Flow cytometry detected NPs-induced change of algal chloroplast for the first time. • Individual chloroplast contents were elevated by both nPS (3.09 %) and nPS-COOH (4.56 %). • Photosystem II P680 reaction center D2 protein was the most crucial target protein. • Photosynthesis was the only significantly altered pathway in all NPs groups. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lipid metabolic disorder occurs when ApoE gene is deficient. However, the role of Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) in relieving hepatic lipid metabolic disorder in apolipoprotein E-deficient (ApoE -/-) mice remains unknown. We fed 3-month-old C57BL/6J wild-type (C57 wt) and ApoE -/- mice respectively with normal or DHA fortified diet for 5 months. We found ApoE gene deficiency caused hepatic lipid deposition and increased lipid levels in plasma and liver. Hepatic gene expression of SRB1, CD36 and FABP5 in ApoE -/- mice, protein expression of HMGCR, LRP1 in C57 wt mice and protein expression of LRP1 in ApoE -/- mice increased after DHA intervention. In DHA-fed ApoE -/- mice, LXRα/β and PPARα protein expression down-regulated in cytoplasm, but LXRα/β protein expression up-regulated in nucleus. DHA treatment decreased RXRα and RXRβ expression in C57 wt and ApoE -/- female mice. Deletion of ApoE gene caused lipid metabolism disorder in liver of mice. DHA treatment efficiently meliorated lipid metabolism caused by ApoE deficient through the regulation of gene and protein expressions of molecules involved in liver fatty acids transport and lipid metabolism. [Display omitted] ● ApoE defect cause abnormal circulating and hepatic lipid metabolism. ● DHA treatment efficiently meliorated lipid metabolism caused by ApoE deficiency. ● Gene and protein expressions of molecules involved in hepatic fatty acids transport and lipid metabolism were regulated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: The aim of this study was to investigate the modified proteins in methylene blue/light-treated frozen plasma (MB-FP) compared with fresh frozen plasma (FFP) in order to gain a better application of MB/light-treated plasma in clinic transfusion. Methods: MB-FP and FFP were collected from Changchun central blood station, and a trichloroacetic acid/acetone precipitation method was used to remove albumin for the enrichment of lower abundance proteins. The plasma protein in MB-FP and FFP were separated using two-dimensional gel electrophoresis (2-DE) and the differentially expressed protein spots were analyzed using mass spectrometry. Finally, the differentially expressed proteins were tested using Western blot and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Results: Approximately 14 differentially expressed protein spots were detected in the MB-FP, and FFP was chosen as the control. After 2-DE comparison analysis and mass spectrometry, 8 significantly differentially expressed protein spots were identified, corresponding to 6 different proteins, including complement C1r subcomponent (C1R), inter-alpha-trypsin inhibitor heavy chain H4 (ITI-H4), keratin, type II cytoskeletal 1 (KRT1), hemopexin (HPX), fibrinogen gamma chain (FGG), and transthyretin (TTR). Western blot showed no significant difference in the expression level of KRT1 between MB-FP and FFP (p > 0.05). Both Western blot and ELISA indicated that the level of HPX was significantly higher in FFP than in MB-FP (p < 0.05). Conclusion: This comparative proteomics study revealed that some significantly modified proteins occur in MB-FP, such as C1R, ITI-H4, KRT1, HPX, FGG, and TTR. Our findings provide more theoretical data for using MB-FP in transfusion medicine. However, the relevance of the data for the transfusion of methylene blue/light-treated plasma remains unclear. The exact modification of these proteins and the effects of these modified proteins on their functions and their effects in clinical plasma infusion need to be further studied. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: The aim of this study was to investigate the modified proteins in methylene blue/light-treated frozen plasma (MB-FP) compared with fresh frozen plasma (FFP) in order to gain a better application of MB/light-treated plasma in clinic transfusion. Methods: MB-FP and FFP were collected from Changchun central blood station, and a trichloroacetic acid/acetone precipitation method was used to remove albumin for the enrichment of lower abundance proteins. The plasma protein in MB-FP and FFP were separated using two-dimensional gel electrophoresis (2-DE) and the differentially expressed protein spots were analyzed using mass spectrometry. Finally, the differentially expressed proteins were tested using Western blot and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Results: Approximately 14 differentially expressed protein spots were detected in the MB-FP, and FFP was chosen as the control. After 2-DE comparison analysis and mass spectrometry, 8 significantly differentially expressed protein spots were identified, corresponding to 6 different proteins, including complement C1r subcomponent (C1R), inter-alpha-trypsin inhibitor heavy chain H4 (ITI-H4), keratin, type II cytoskeletal 1 (KRT1), hemopexin (HPX), fibrinogen gamma chain (FGG), and transthyretin (TTR). Western blot showed no significant difference in the expression level of KRT1 between MB-FP and FFP (p > 0.05). Both Western blot and ELISA indicated that the level of HPX was significantly higher in FFP than in MB-FP (p < 0.05). Conclusion: This comparative proteomics study revealed that some significantly modified proteins occur in MB-FP, such as C1R, ITI-H4, KRT1, HPX, FGG, and TTR. Our findings provide more theoretical data for using MB-FP in transfusion medicine. However, the relevance of the data for the transfusion of methylene blue/light-treated plasma remains unclear. The exact modification of these proteins and the effects of these modified proteins on their functions and their effects in clinical plasma infusion need to be further studied. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sludge-derived biochar (SDBC) has been regarded as persulfate (PS) activator during the remediation of organic contamination. However, the complexity of sludge composition makes it difficult to predict the activity of SDBC and the efficacy of PS. To improve the understanding of how the composition of sludge regulated activity of its parent SDBC towards PS activation, we used two SDBCs derived from different sludges with significantly different organic compositions and metals. Results indicated the higher content of organic and nitrogen content in sludge led to higher polymerization and condensation of carbon layer and more moieties in SDBC1, whereas more Fe species (e.g. Fe-O, Fe2+ and Fe3+) formed in SDBC2. According to the results of phenol (PN) degradation in SDBC/PS, the apparent rate constants (k obs) of SDBC2-700 (0.0037 min−1) was 2 folds higher than that of SDBC1-700 (0.0016 min−1), whereas the SDBC1-500 (6.0 × 10−4 min−1) exhibited higher k obs than that of SDBC2-500 (4.9 × 10−4 min−1). The difference of PS activation by different SDBCs mainly relied on generated reactive oxygen species (ROS). The persistent free radicals (PFRs) and Fe species acted as redox sites for generated ROS, which were depended on the organic compositions and involved metals in used sludges. ga1 • Organic structures and metals in the SDBCs impacted their PS activation ability. • PS activation by SDBCs was regulated by free radical and nonradical pathways. • Surface nonradical oxidation contributed the same proportions in different SDBCs. • Inherent Fe oxides in SDBC promoted the oxidative efficiency in PS activation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To explore the prevalence of contraceptive use, unintended pregnancy, and induced abortions within 24 months postpartum in eastern, central, and western regions of China and in China overall.Study Design: We conducted a retrospective cohort study and selected women who delivered a live birth between 12 and 24 months before the survey at 60 hospitals in eastern, central, and western regions of China. We used structured questionnaires for data collection and applied life-table analyses to estimate the prevalence of contraception, unintended pregnancy, and abortions. We used clustered log-rank tests to compare trends and rate differences at each time interval between/among regions.Results: A total of 19,939 postpartum women were contacted, and 18,045 (90.5%) of them agreed to be interviewed. The 6-, 12-, and 24-month rates for modern contraceptive methods were 62.7% (95% confidence interval [CI] 58.9-66.4), 72.4% (95% CI 68.8-75.7), and 73.2% (95% CI 69.6-76.6), respectively. Condoms accounted for 79% of contraceptive initiators. The 6-, 12-, and 24-month rates were 1.4% (95% CI 1.2-1.7), 5.3% (95% CI 4.5--6.1), and 13.1% (95% CI 11.3-14.8) for unintended pregnancy; and 1.1% (95% CI 0.8-1.3), 4.0% (95% CI 3.4-4.6), and 10.4% (95% CI 8.9-11.8) for induced abortion, respectively. By 24 months postpartum, 3-quarters of unintended pregnancies ended in abortion. The 24-month rates of modern contraceptive methods (75.2% vs73.4%, 71.1%), unintended pregnancy (15.3% vs 11.1%, 12.6%), and induced abortion (11.8% vs 9.9%, 9.4%) were higher in the western region relative to the eastern or central regions.Conclusion: Postpartum contraception use was relatively high in China but dominated by less-effective methods, and these may contribute to higher risks of unintended pregnancy and induced abortion during the postpartum period. Use of long-acting reversible contraceptives and effective and reliable short-acting methods should thus be fostered in postpartum family planning services in China.Implications: A national postpartum family planning program is needed in China. Service providers should work on counselling postpartum women and their partners with respect to long-acting reversible contraceptive methods, and to effectively and reliably use short-acting methods during the postpartum period. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Defined the status of Lymphovascular infiltration (LVI) in TCGA-LUAD patients according to full-field digital sections (WSI). • The molecular characteristics associated with LVI in LUAD were developed. • Constructed the LVRS related to LVI, which can predict the prognosis and the efficacy of immunotherapy in LUAD. • Validated the prognostic ability of LVRS in our own cohort. Since TNM staging has limitations for predicting post-operative outcomes and relapse, more effective prediction tools need to be researched and developed. Lymphovascular invasion, LVI, as a histopathological feature, has been widely shown to have a correlation with poor prognosis and early recurrence of lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD). However, LVI assessment is limited by subjective bias, and therefore its efficacy in practical clinical application needs further clarification. The aim of this study was to formulate a new signature based on LVI-related genes to predict prognosis and recurrence in patients with lung adenocarcinoma. Clinicopathological information, gene sequencing data and whole slide images (WSIs) of LUAD patients were downloaded from the Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) databases. LVI statue were evaluated by professional pathologists, and then the differentially expressed genes (LVI DEGs) associated with LVI were screened. The least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) and Step Cox regression models were used to construct LVI-associated risk scores (LVRS), including PAQR4, ARGHEF6, CKS1B, CFTR and SEC14L4. The validity of the LVRS score was evaluated on multiple external datasets and our JSSZL cohort dataset. Using LVRS scores and clinical information, nomogram were constructed for use by clinicians. In addition, we further explored the relationship between LVRS score and clinicopathological features, immune infiltration, tumor mutational load, and immunotherapy response, and confirmed the expression of key genes in LVRS score in lung adenocarcinoma tissues using qRT-PCR and immunohistochemistry (IHC) techniques. Based on the LVRS, patients could be classified into high-LVRS and low-LVRS groups. It was found that OS and PFS were significantly worse in the high-LVRS group than in the low-LVRS group (p < 0.001). By ROC curve analysis, it could be found that the nomogram combining LVRS and clinical information could accurately predict the prognosis of LUAD patients with the area under the curve of 1,3,5-year survival rate could reach 0.754, 0.741 and 0.735. The results of univariate and multivariate analysis showed that LVRS was an independent prognostic factor. At the same time, there were significant differences in the mutation profiles and immune microenvironment between the high-LVRS and low-LVRS groups, with the high-LVRS group having a significantly higher mutation rate than the low-LVRS group and exhibiting immunological "cold" features. By the experimental results, higher expression levels of PAQR4 and CKS1B were found in LUAD tissues, while lower expression levels of ARGHEF6, CFTR and SEC14L4 were observed. The LVRS established in this study serves as a valid tool to predict the prognosis and recurrence status of lung adenocarcinoma patients and has a predictive effect on the response to postoperative treatment. The establishment of LVRS may offer some theoretical support to clinical treatment strategies for patients with lung adenocarcinoma following surgical intervention. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

High efficiency capture of rare cells such as circulating tumor cells (CTCs) in the blood of cancer-patient is challenging for size-based separation methods, because of the heterogeneity of the cells, the presence of a huge number of background cells (red and white blood cells), and the overlap in size of the rare cells and some of the background cells. In this work, we developed a systematic study to evaluate the parametric dependence of rare cell capture efficiency by using model cells. High-porosity and thin membranes with supporting honeycomb microframe are fabricated by using a two-level lithography technique. They are then integrated into a microfluidic device for real-time monitoring of flow-induced transmembrane pressure with a solution with or without cells. Our results show both experimentally and theoretically a great importance of the pore number of the membrane and the flow rate. When more than 80% of pores are clogged by large background cells, the rare cell capture efficiency decreases significantly. Otherwise, a lossless capture is theoretically achievable with a high-porosity and large-area membrane under optimal flow conditions. [Display omitted] • Fabrication of high-porosity thin membrane by using one-step vacuum assisted UV molding. • Investigation of flow dynamics and rare cell capture by real-time monitoring of transmembrane pressure. • Analysis of clogging effect induced by excessive capture of the background cells which simulate the large white blood cells. • Demonstration of a high efficiency capture of rare cells by using an optimized membrane and flow conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The establishment of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) symbiosis is generally considered an important pathway that assists ferns in their adaption to a variable environment in the forest ecosystem. However, how both fern species and seasonal variation affect the symbiotic characteristics and AMF community structure remains largely unknown. In this study, the AMF colonization status of 19 fern species in the Heishiding Nature Reserve located in south China was assessed. The effects of seasons on AMF colonization and community structure were also determined. The results showed that both seasons and species significantly affected AMF colonization rate (1.88–56.03 %) and spore density (94–546/25 g dry soil). In addition, according to principal component analysis, in spring, AMF colonization and spore density differed considerably from other seasons. The total AMF sequences detected in spring were significantly higher than in winter (p < 0.05). Glomus was the dominant genus, accounting for >75 % of all sequences. The AMF Chao1 and Faith PD indexes of Blechnum orientale Linn as well as the Shannon and Simpson indexes of Selaginella doederleinii Hieron were significantly higher in spring than in winter (p < 0.05). According to partial least squares path modeling, season had a significant influence on AMF colonization by varying the AMF alpha diversity rather than their community composition. Notably, network analysis showed that seasonal variation induced differences in AMF network structure, keystone taxa, and the number of links between species. This study highlights the symbiotic relationship between ferns and AMF in different seasons. The results provide novel insights on terrestrial ecosystem management and fern conservation from the perspective of plant-AM symbiosis. [Display omitted] • Three typical AM structures could be observed in all 19 ferns. • Species and season affected AMF colonization by altering AMF alpha diversity. • Distinct differences in AMF co-occurrence patterns were observed among seasons. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• TB limits APLP2 expression that decreases the Il-1β and iNOS production to reduce killing activity. • AICD2, a cleaved product of APLP2 by γ-secretase, translocates to nucleus, interactes with p65 and promotes NF-κB transcriptional activity, and thereby induced the Il-1β and iNOS production. Mycobacterium tuberculosis (M.tb), the most successful pathogen responsible for approximately 1.6 million deaths in 2021, employs various strategies to evade host antibacterial defenses, including mechanisms to counteract nitric oxide (NO) and certain cytokines. While Amyloid β (A4) precursor-like protein 2 (Aplp2) has been implicated in various physiological and pathological processes, its role in tuberculosis (TB) pathogenesis remains largely uncharted. This study unveils a significant reduction in Aplp2 levels in TB patients, M.tb -infected macrophages, and mice. Intriguingly, Aplp2 mutation or knockdown results in diminished macrophage-mediated killing of M.tb , accompanied by decreased inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) expression and reduced cytokine production, notably interleukin-1β (Il-1β). Notably, Aplp2 mutant mice exhibit heightened susceptibility to mycobacterial infection, evident through aggravated histopathological damage and increased lung bacterial loads, in contrast to Mycobacterium bovis BCG-infected wild-type (WT) mice. Mechanistically, the cleaved product of APLP2, AICD2, generated by γ-secretase, translocates to the nucleus, where it interacts with p65, culminating in enhanced the nuclear factor κB (NF-κB) transcriptional activity. This interaction triggers the upregulation of Il-1β and iNOS expression. Collectively, our findings illuminate Aplp2 ′s pivotal role in safeguarding against mycobacterial infections by promoting M.tb clearance through NO– or IL-1β -mediated bactericidal effects. Therefore, we unveil a novel immune evasion strategy employed by M.tb , which could potentially serve as a target for innovative TB interventions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Novel Ag matrix electrical contacts, which are environment-friendly, are required to operate under complex service conditions and harsh environments. Therefore, it becomes necessary to urgently study their arc erosion properties in different atmospheres. Herein, Ag/Ti 3 SiC 2 composite samples were fabricated by hot-pressing sintering, and the material's relative density, electrical resistivity, thermal conductivity, Brinell hardness, and flexural strength were measured. Moreover, the arc erosion behaviors of Ag/Ti 3 SiC 2 cathodes in sulfur hexafluoride, nitrogen, and oxygen environments were investigated at 3 kV and 6 kV, and the mass loss, arc current, and discharge duration of the Ag/Ti 3 SiC 2 cathodes in the 3 atm were recorded. The surface morphology and composition of the Ag/Ti 3 SiC 2 cathodes were examined after arc erosion. In this study, the arc energy and mass loss had the highest values in oxygen, followed by nitrogen and sulfur hexafluoride. Following the same trend of operating atmospheres, the erosion-region shape gradually changed from circular to irregular. By means of the Raman spectra, there was no composition change can be detected on the cathode in sulfur hexafluoride, TiNx was detected on the cathode in nitrogen, Ag 2 O, TiO 2 and SiO 2 were found on the cathode in oxygen. The resistance of the cathode material to arc erosion deteriorated gradually in the sulfur hexafluoride, nitrogen, and oxygen environments. Importantly, the arc erosion mechanism of the Ag/Ti 3 SiC 2 cathodes in different atmospheres is also proposed in this study. This research can provide a reference for the applications of environmentally friendly Ag matrix electrical contact materials in different atmospheres. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: In previous research, we have found that LMP1-specific chimeric antigen (HELA/CAR) T cells can specifically recognize and kill LMP1-positive NPC cells. However, the tumor-inhibitory effectiveness of HELA/CART cells needs to be enhanced. Methods: We created two CARs that contain the T cell receptor-ζ (TCR-ζ) signal transduction domain with the CD28 and CD137 (4-1BB) or CD134 (OX-40) intracellular domains in tandem (HELA/137CAR or HELA/134CAR). Then, the tumor-inhibitory functions of two new CAR-T cells were investigated, both in vitro and in vivo. Results: The results showed that, after short-term expansion, primary human T cells were subjected to lentiviral gene transfer, resulting in large numbers of cells with >80% CAR expression. All CART cells were effective in killing SUNE1-LMP1 and C1R-neo cells, while HELA/137CART cells produced greater quantities of IFN-γ and IL-2 than HELA/CART cells. However, the level of IL-2 not INF-γ secreted by HELA/134CART cells was increased under the stimulation of LMP1 antigen. In an LMP1-positive NPC mouse xenograft model, HELA/137CART cells exhibited better antitumor activity and longer survival time in vivo compared with HELA/CAR T cells. Conclusion: The findings suggest that CD137 and CD28 is a better costimulatory signaling domain than CD28 only for optimizing tumor-inhibitory roles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mycobacterium tuberculosis (MTB) infections rely on continued growth and division. Despite the substantial global burden of tuberculosis, the underlying mechanism governing growth is incompletely understood. Bifunctional penicillin-binding protein (PBP1), encoded by Rv0050 (ponA1) of MTB, is a key peptidoglycan synthase and plays a central role in mycobacterial growth and division by its interaction with Rpf-interacting protein A (RipA, peptidoglycan endopeptidase). Our previous work suggested that the hyper-variable proline repeats are located at the N end of PBP1. In this study, we prove that altered secondary structure resulting from polymorphic proline repeats modulates the interaction between PBP1 and RipA. Without proper coordination of peptidoglycan synthase and hydrolase, cell elongation and division is also altered resulting in phenotypic changes in the population as indicated by altered dispersion, slowed growth, or shortened cell length. Together, our data reveal that polymorphisms in Rv0050 induce mycobacterial growth and morphologic changes, and hence are responsible for giving bacteria their shape. • Rv0050 is required for normal growth and cell division in mycobacteria. • Rv0050 polymorphisms modulate the interaction between Rv0050 and RipA. • Variation in Rv0050 induces mycobacterial shape. • Variation in Rv0050 regulates mycobacterial growth rate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study elucidates the potential role of Trop2 in tumor invasion and the promotion of epithelial‐mesenchymal transition (EMT) when binding β‐catenin in GC. The role of Trop2 in promoting EMT in GC cells was examined by a variety of experimental assays. Moreover, the underlying molecular mechanism of Trop2 in promoting EMT was studied by in vivo and in vitro assays. The Trop2 expression in relation to tumor metastasis status was detected by IHC in 248 cases of GC tissues and 86 cases of matched adjacent tissues. Trop2 promoted the metastasis and induces EMT in GC. Meanwhile, the elevated protein levels of Trop2 and mesenchymal markers were also found in the TGF‐β1‐induced EMT model in GC cells. Importantly, Trop2 physically bound and activated β‐catenin to promote EMT; moreover, Trop2 increased the accumulation of β‐catenin in the nucleus to accelerate metastasis in GC cells. Inhibition of Trop2 expression in GC cells prevented the migration and invasion of GC cells in vivo. Trop2+/vimentin+ expression was higher in GC tissues than that in matched adjacent tissues, and Trop2+/vimentin+ expression in GC was associated with the differentiation, TNM stage, and distant metastases. These sets of data reveal a novel regulatory network of Trop2 in EMT and GC metastasis, suggesting Trop2 as a useful marker for inducing EMT and metastasis of GC, which may help to lead a better understanding of the pathogenesis of the GC. Trop2 as a useful marker for inducing EMT and metastasis of GC, which may help to lead a better understanding of the pathogenesis of the GC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]