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Detection methods based on aptamer probes have great potential and progress in the field of rapid detection of heavy metal ions. However, the unstable conformation of aptamers often results in poor sensitivity due to the dissociation of aptamer-target complex in real environments. In this study, we developed a locking aptamer probe and combined it with AgInZnS quantum dots for the first time to detect cadmium ions. When cadmium ions are combined with the probe, the cadmium ions are fixed in the core-locking position, forming a stable cavity structure. The limit of detection (LOD) was achieved at a concentration of 6.9 nmol L−1, with a broad detection range from 10 nmol L−1 to 1000 μmol L−1, and good recovery rates (92.93%–102.8 %) were achieved in aquatic product testing. The locking aptamer probe with stable conformation effectively enhances the stability of the aptamer-target complex and remains good stability in four buffer environments as well as a 600 mmol L−1 salt solution; it also exhibits good stability at pH 6.5–7.5 and temperatures ranging from 25 °C to 35 °C. Overall, our study presented a general, simple, and cost-effective strategy for stabilizing aptamer conformations, and used for highly sensitive detection of cadmium ions. A lock-type aptasensor detection of cadmium to enhances the stability of the aptamer-target complex and remains good stability in four buffer environments. [Display omitted] • Truncated and optimized to obtain a locking aptamer probe with good affinity and spatial constraint ability. • For the first time, a detection probe for the specific recognition of cadmium ions was developed and designes. • The lock-type aptasensor has outstanding specificity and the sensitivity for detecting cadmium ions can reach the nmol/L level. • The lock-type aptasensor greatly improves the stability of aptamers in different buffer environments and high-salt environments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• The reduced TiO 2 coatings were fabricated by MAO and further H-PIII. • After H-PIII, the coatings had more Ti-OH bonds and O V. • The formation of Ti-OH bonds promoted cell osteogenic differentiation. • The O V endowed the coatings with enhanced bacteriostatic effects. Titanium implants fabricated by micro-arc oxidation (MAO) are widely used in orthopedic therapies. However, TiO 2 is a bio-inert material and lacks antibacterial properties. Therefore, it is crucial to enhance the biological activity and antibacterial properties of MAO implants. In this work, TiO 2 coatings were fabricated by MAO and further hydrogen plasma immersion ion implantation (H-PIII). The formation of Ti-OH bonds promoted cell proliferation and osteogenic differentiation. The presence of Ti3+ and oxygen vacancies narrowed the forbidden band of TiO 2 and showed bacteriostatic effect to E. coli and S. aureus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights • Seasonal variation in core lipid (CL) GDGTs found in lake surface sediments. • Significant amount of GDGTs produced in situ in the lake sediments. • CL GDGT-0/Crenarchaeol in the surface sediments correlated with dissolved oxygen. • MBT′ 6ME in the surface sediments correlated with seasonal temperature. • Seasonal variation of isoGDGTs and brGDGTs in SPM was affected by precipitation. Abstract Bacterial branched and archaeal isoprenoid glycerol dialkyl glycerol tetraethers (brGDGTs and isoGDGTs, respectively) have become important tools for the paleoclimate reconstruction of lacustrine systems. However, it is still unclear how geochemical proxies based on GDGTs, particularly in lake surface sediments, respond to seasonal environmental changes in shallow water lakes, whose sediment cores are increasingly being used for paleoenvironmental reconstruction. In this study, we collected samples from the top 0–2 cm of sediments and water column suspended particulate matter (SPM) at a monthly interval from June 2015 to May 2016 in Lake Donghu, a shallow lake in central China. An updated liquid chromatography method was used to separate the 5- and 6-methyl brGDGTs. A remarkable difference between the lake sediments, SPM, and catchment soils suggested that microorganisms inhabiting the surface sediments contributed a significant proportion of isoGDGTs and brGDGTs to the GDGT pool in the lake sediments. We found a clear seasonality in the concentration and distribution of core lipid (CL) isoGDGTs and brGDGTs in the lake surface sediments, in contrast to the absence of seasonality in brGDGTs in mid-latitude soils reported by previous studies. The intact polar lipid/CL ratios for both isoGDGTs and brGDGTs in the lake surface sediments were significantly higher than those in SPM and catchment soils and were higher in the warm seasons than in winter. This collectively suggested that the turnover of brGDGTs in the lake sediments was faster than that in soils. Furthermore, the GDGT-0/Cren ratio for the lake sediments exhibited a negative correlation with dissolved oxygen in the water column. The cyclisation degree of C5-methylated brGDGTs (CBT 5ME) was strongly related to water pH. Seasonal temperature variation clearly impacted the methylation degree of C6-methylated brGDGTs (MBT′ 6ME) but had no influence on C5-methylated brGDGTs (MBT′ 5ME), as opposed to the dependence of MBT′ 5ME on temperature in global soils, peatlands and African lakes. Due to the fast turnover rate and the sensitive response to seasonality, we suggest that the seasonal variation of fossil GDGTs in lake sediments should be considered when developing a calibration using fossil GDGTs in shallow-water lake surface sediments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Graphical abstract Highlights • Silicon-coated TNT coatings were successfully fabricated by anodization and EBE. • The combination of titania nanotubes and silicon enhances osteogenic activity. • Higher silicon amounts on coated TNTs resulted in the greatest osteogenic activity. Abstract In this study, titania nanotubes (TNTs) incorporating silicon (Si) were formed on Ti disks using anodization and electron beam evaporation (EBE) technology to improve the osteogenic activity. The amount of Si was exquisitely adjusted by controlling the duration of EBE to optimize the biofunctionality. As the Si was incorporated, the samples exhibited hydrophilic surfaces. Long lasting and controllable Si release was observed from the EBE-modified samples without cytotoxicity. Moreover, initial cell adhesion, spreading, proliferation and osteogenic differentiation of MC3T3-E1 cells were evaluated. The results showed a notable enhancement of spreading, osteogenesis and differentiation of cells on silicon-coated TNTs (Si-TNTs). In particular, samples with highest amount of silicon (∼5.93% Si) displayed greatest augmentation of ALP activity, osteogenic-related gene expression and mineralization compared to the others in the present study. It was indicated that the modification with TNTs and appropriated Si content resulted in enhanced osteoblastic spreading, proliferation and differentiation, and therefore has the potential for future applications in the field of orthopedics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

TiO 2 nanotubes prepared by electrochemical anodization have received considerable attention in the biomedical field. In this work, different amounts of gold nanoparticles were immobilized onto TiO 2 nanotubes using 3-aminopropyltrimethoxysilane as coupling agent. Field emission scanning electron microscopy and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy were used to investigate the surface morphology and composition. Photoluminescence spectra and surface zeta potential were also measured. The obtained results indicate that the surface modified gold nanoparticles can significantly enhance the electron storage capability and reduce the surface zeta potential compared to pristine TiO 2 nanotubes. Moreover, the surface modified gold nanoparticles can stimulate initial adhesion and spreading of rat bone mesenchymal stem cells as well as proliferation, while the osteogenous performance of TiO 2 nanotubes will not be reduced. The gold-modified surface presents moderate antibacterial effect on both Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli . It should be noted that the surface modified fewer gold nanoparticles has better antibacterial effect compared to the surface of substantial modification of gold nanoparticles. Our study illustrates a composite surface with favorable cytocompatibility and antibacterial effect and provides a promising candidate for orthopedic and dental implant. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Alternatively activated macrophages (AAMs) play essential roles in the promotion of tissue remodeling, vasculogenesis, and tumor progression; however, the detailed mechanisms underlying the activation of AAMs remain largely unknown. Here, by using quantitative proteomic analysis, we identified 62 proteins that were up-regulated in IL-4-induced macrophages. Among these, Caspase-6 was increased significantly. Caspase-6 is important in the apoptotic signaling pathway; however, its role in non-apoptosis is also reported. Here, we first examined the non-apoptotic role of Caspase-6 in the alternative activation of macrophages after administration of IL-4, 4T1 tumor conditional medium, or co-culture with 4T1 cells. Both treatments promoted alternative activation of RAW264.7 cells and primary macrophages, whereas disruption of caspase-6 expression and activity could markedly suppress the biomarker levels of AAMs. Overexpression of Caspase-6 could significantly promote the activation of AAMs. Importantly, we further present evidence that caspase-6 could regulate breast cancer cell invasion by modulating MMP-2 and MMP-9 expression in 4T1 tumor-associated macrophages, as ablation of protein levels or activity of caspase-6 suppressed tumor cell invasion in vitro. In conclusion, the observed results markedly expanded our views of the dynamic changes in protein composition during alternative activation of macrophages, and they revealed a critical new role of caspase-6 in regulating this cellular biological process, which suggested that caspase-6 might be a key nod molecule to regulate immunological steady-state and be a therapeutic candidate for tumor immunotherapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As a promising implantable material, poly ether ether ketone (PEEK) possesses similar elastic modulus to that of cortical bones yet suffers from bio-inertness and poor osteogenic properties, which limits its application as orthopedic implants. In this work, calcium is introduced onto PEEK surface using calcium plasma immersion ion implantation (Ca-PIII). The results obtained from scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) confirm the modified layer with varying contents of calcium are formed on PEEK surfaces. Water contact angle measurements reveal the increasing hydrophobicity of both Ca-PIII treated surfaces. In vitro cell adhesion, viability assay, alkaline phosphatase activity and collagen secretion analyses disclose improved the adhesion, proliferation, and osteo-differentiation of rat bone mesenchymal stem cells (bMSCs) on Ca-PIII treated surfaces. The obtained results indicate that PEEK surface with enhanced osteogenic activity can be produced by calcium incorporation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Si-incorporated TiO 2 nanopores films were prepared by anodization and silicon plasma immersion ion implantation. The microstructure and phase composition of the films were investigated by scanning electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. The hydrophilicity of the films was evaluated using water contact angle measurement and MG63 cells were cultured on the films to investigate the cytocompatibility. The results showed that the concentration and depth of silicon on the Si-incorporated TiO 2 nanopores films increased with the duration time of implantation. Both the as-annealed and Si-incorporated nanopores films exhibited good hydrophilicity and cytocompatibility, while the TiO 2 nanopores films implanted silicon for 1.0 h showed higher proliferation rate and vitality of MG63 cells than others, indicating a great potential application for titanium implants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Silicon incorporated titania (Si–TiO2) films were prepared on titanium substrates by plasma immersion ion implantation and deposition (PIII&D) using filtered Ti and Si cathodic arc sources in oxygen atmosphere. The as-deposited films were further annealed at 400°C, 600°C and 800°C for 2h in air. The microstructure and phase composition of the films were investigated by field emission scanning electron microscopy, atomic force microscopy, X-ray diffraction, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy and Raman spectroscopy. The hydrophilicity of the film was illustrated using water contact angle measurement and the in vitro bioactivity was evaluated by simulated body fluid immersion test. Pure titania (TiO2) film was also parallelly studied for comparison. The results show that the grain size of TiO2 and Si–TiO2 films increases and their hydrophilicity is enhanced with the increase of annealing temperature, while the Si–TiO2 film exhibits smaller grain and better hydrophilicity than TiO2 film. The bioactivity of the Si–TiO2 film is also better than that of TiO2 film. Moreover, the 600°C-annealed Si–TiO2 film possesses best bioactivity, which is thought to result from the existence of anatase phase and nanoscale grains. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Members of system N/A amino acid transporter (SNAT) family mediate transport of neutral amino acids, including L-alanine, L-glutamine, and l-histidine, across the plasma membrane and are involved in a variety of cellular functions. By using chemical labeling, glycosylation, immunofluorescence combined with molecular modeling approaches, we resolved the membrane topological structure of SNAT4, a transporter expressed predominantly in liver. To analyze the orientation using the chemical labeling and biotinylation approach, the "Cys-null" mutant of SNAT4 was first generated by mutating all five endogenous cysteine residues. Based on predicted topological structures, a single cysteine residue was introduced individually into all possible nontransmembrane domains of the Cys-null mutant. The cells expressing these mutants were labeled with N-biotinylaminoethyl methanethiosulfonate, a membrane-impermeable cysteine-directed reagent. We mapped the orientations of N- and C-terminal domains. There are three extracellular loop domains, and among them, the second loop domain is the largest that spans from amino acid residue ~242 to ~335. The orientation of this domain was further confirmed by the identification of two N-glycosylated residues, Asn-260 and Asn-264. Together, we showed that SNAT4 contains 10 transmembrane domains with extracellular N and C termini and a large N-glycosylated, extracellular loop domain. This is the first report concerning membrane topological structure of mammalian SNAT transporters, which will provide important implications for our understanding of structure-function of the members in this amino acid transporter family. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We have previously shown that connexin (Cx) 50, unlike the other two lens connexins, Cx43 and Cx46, promotes chicken lens epithelial-fiber differentiation in a channel-independent manner. Here, we show that deletion of the PEST motif at the C terminus (CT) domain of Cx50 attenuates the stimulatory effect of Cx50 on lens fiber differentiation. Valine 362, a residue located within the PEST domain, is functionally involved. The structure of the Cx50 CT predicted by molecular modeling revealed four α-helices and Val362 was found to be located in the middle of the 3rd helix. Replacement of Val362 with amino acid residues that disrupt the α-helical structure predicted by molecular modeling, such as arginine, glutamate, or phenylalanine, attenuated the stimulatory effects of Cx50 on lens differentiation, whereas replacement with threonine, isoleucine, leucine, or proline, which maintain the structure preserved the function of Cx50. Circular dichroism (CD) studies supported the structural predictions and showed that the substitution with Glu, but not Thr or Pro, disrupted the α-helix, which appears to be the structural feature important for lens epithelial-fiber differentiation. Together, our results suggest that Val362 is important for maintaining the helical structure and is crucial for the role of Cx50 in promoting lens epithelial-fiber differentiation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Continuous measurements of aerosol size distributions (3nm–2μm) were carried out over a 26 month period (1 April 2001–31 May 2003; 650 days with valid data) in urban East St. Louis, IL, as a part of the US Environmental Protection Agency''s Supersite program. This paper analyzes data for the 155 days on which “regional nucleation events” were observed during this study. Such events were observed during every month of the study except January 2003. We observed some differences, however, between events in the summer (defined here as April–September) and winter (December–February). Regional nucleation events were observed more frequently in summer months (36±13% of days) than in winter (8±7%), and nucleated particles grew faster in the summer (6.7±4.8nmh−1) than in winter (1.8±1.9nmh−1). The daily maximum in the number concentration of nanoparticles formed by nucleation (4.8±3.5×104 cm−3) was highly variable and showed no clear seasonal dependence. Particle formation increased particle concentrations by an average factor of 3.1±2.8. Maximum daily rates of 3nm particle production (17±20cm−3 s−1) were also highly variable and without a clear seasonal dependence. During these events, particle formation rates were typically near their maxima at 08:00–09:00 a.m., but particle production sometimes persisted at diminishing rates until late in the afternoon (15:00–16:00 p.m.). [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Schematic diagram of a multi-channel paper-based aptasensor for the electrochemical detection of four target metal ions. [Display omitted] • An electrochemical chip was developed for real-time detection of multi-target. • The chip was prepared on environmental paper. • The chip was able to detect four metal ions, including both anions and cations. • The chip was ultrasensitive and exhibited superior detection limits at pM level. • This work was successfully applied for the detection of crabs. A paper-based electrochemical chip with multiple channels was developed for rapid and ultrasensitive detection of multiple heavy metals by using an aptamer competition strategy. Automatic screen printing was used to create microfluidic patterns on the chip, where liquid is self-driven by capillary force without pump assistance from central to the detection areas. When target ions are present in samples, the methylene blue-modified aptamers dissociate from their complementary sequences immobilized on the chip, resulting in a change in the electrochemical signal. Under optimized experimental conditions, the multi-channel paper-based platform demonstrates a wide linear relationship ranging from 10 pmol/L to 1000 nmol/L. The detection limits for Pb2+, Cd2+, AsO 2 −, and Hg2+ were as low as 1.55 pmol/L, 0.84 pmol/L, 1.18 pmol/L and 1.63 pmol/L (3σ), respectively, indicating excellent selectivity. The sensor was successfully utilized to detect four distinct heavy metal ions in crab meat with a recovery rate between 84.79 % and 101.55 %. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective Currently, there are a lack of reviews assessing the complete range of prognostic factors in skull base chordoma (SBC). This study aimed to systematically review the published literature on prognostic factors in SBC and establish pooled hazard ratios (HRs) of such factors. Methods MEDLINE and Embase searches (inception to April 4, 2017) were conducted. Two reviewers independently selected papers involving SBC prognostic factors, and studied them for methodologic quality and valuable factors. Pooled HRs and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated. The main end points determined were progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS). Results Twenty-two studies with 1754 subjects were included in this systematic review. However, only 18 of the studies provided sufficient data for quantitative synthesis. Preoperative visual deficit (pooled HR, 2.77; 95% CI, 1.57–4.89 for PFS), older patient age (pooled HR, 1.03; 95% CI, 1.1–1.05 for PFS; pooled HR, 1.03; 95% CI, 1.2–1.04 for OS), and nontotal or intralesional tumor resection (pooled HR, 2.01; 95% CI, 1.54–2.62 for PFS; pooled HR, 5.16; 95% CI, 2.27–11.70 for OS) were negative predictors of survival outcomes. However, adjunctive radiotherapy (pooled HR, 0.30; 95% CI, 0.16–0.56) and chondroid chordoma type (pooled HR, 0.5; 95% CI, 0.36–0.69) portended a favorable PFS. In addition, several prognostic biomarkers were promising. Conclusions This study demonstrated that several clinicopathologic or molecular parameters are associated with survival up to tumor progression or mortality in SBC patients. However, further methodologically high-quality reports are still required to clarify the effects of these factors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Polyetheretherketone (PEEK) possesses a similar elastic modulus as bones but yet suffers from bio-inertness and poor osteogenesis. In this work, tantalum ions are implanted energetically into PEEK by plasma immersion ion implantation (PIII) to form Ta 2 O 5 nanoparticles in the near surface. Nanoindentation reveals that the surface elastic modulus of the Ta ion implanted PEEK is closer to that of human cortical bones. In vitro cell adhesion, alkaline phosphatase activity, collagen secretion, extracellular matrix mineralization, and real-time PCR analyses disclose enhanced adhesion, proliferation, and osteogenic differentiation of rat bone mesenchymal stem cells (bMSCs) on the Ta-PIII modified PEEK. In vivo evaluation of the cortico-cancellous rat femur model by means of micro-CT, sequential fluorescent labeling, and histological analysis after 8 weeks confirms significantly improved osteointegration. The bone-like elastic modulus and modified surface topography of the Ta-PIII modified PEEK synergistically induce osteogenic differentiation of bMSCs and the surface-modified materials have large potential in dental and orthopedic implants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Zn2+-GO-LDH hybrid coating is fabricated by an electrostatically assembled method. • The integration of GO nano-sheets enhances the coating density and anti-corrosion. • The incorporation of Zn2+ endows the coating with antibacterial characteristics. Herein, a graphene oxide (GO)-hybridized Mg–Fe–layered double hydroxide (LDH) coating loaded with zinc ion (Zn2+) was grown vertically on Mg alloys via electrostatic assembly. These LDH nanosheets could effectively attract and anchor GO nanosheets, considerably improving the anticorrosion, cell adhesion, and cell proliferation properties of the Mg substrate. Meanwhile, Zn2+ was loaded onto the coating via the negatively charged GO surface to enhance their antibacterial activity against Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus. Thus, the designed multilayer coating provides a new platform to address the current shortcomings, including rapid corrosion and insufficient antibacterial activities, using Mg-based alloys as bone implants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: As an implantable material, carbon-fiber-reinforced polyetheretherketone (CFRPEEK) possesses an adjustable elastic modulus similar to that of cortical bone and is a prime candidate to replace metallic surgical implants. However, the bioinertness and poor osteogenic properties of CFRPEEK limit its clinical application as orthopedic implants. In this work, titanium ions are introduced energetically into CFRPEEK by plasma immersion ion implantation (PIII). Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) reveal the formation of nanopores with the side wall and bottom embedded with ∼20 nm TiO2 nanoparticles on the CFRPEEK surface. Nanoindentation measurements confirm the stability and improved elastic resistance of the structured surfaces. In vitro cell adhesion, viability assay, and real-time PCR analyses disclose enhanced adhesion, proliferation, and osteo-differentiation of rat bone mesenchymal stem cells (bMSCs). The multilevel structures on CFRPEEK also exhibit partial antibacterial activity to Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli. Our results indicate that a surface with multifunctional biological properties can be produced by multilevel surface engineering and application of CFRPEEK to orthopedic and dental implants can be broadened and expedited based on this scheme. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

This study aims to investigate the effect of emodin on growth and intestinal microbiota of largemouth bass (Micropterus salmoides) larvae. Five diets, including Con, E25, E50, E100 and E200 diet in which 0, 25, 50, 100 and 200 mg·Kg−1 emodin was supplemented. After a 30-day feeding trail, the results showed the specific growth rate (SGR) of larvae in E50, E100 and E200 group was significantly higher than that of control (p < 0.05). Furthermore, dietary emodin inclusion did not affect the SOD, CAT and GPx activity, while significantly decreased the MDA level (p < 0.05). Moreover, dietary emodin (50 mg·Kg−1) notably enhanced the expression of immune related genes including nrf2 , il-1β , tgf-β , ifn-γ , ifn-i and irf3. Additionally, a higher relative abundance of Idiomarina and Halomonas , as well as a lower content of Mycoplasma was observed in E50 group, whereas Enterobacter content remarkably decreased in E200 group at genus level (p < 0.05). Finally, the M. salmoides larvae in E50 group exhibited a relative higher survival rate (p < 0.05), while larvae in E200 group showed a slightly higher mortality than that of control. Collectively, these results demonstrated that proper dosage of supplementing emodin (50 mg·Kg−1) in diet could lead to a promotion of growth performance, immunity, and a protective effect on M. salmoides larvae against MSRV infection. • Dietary emodin (0, 25, 50, 100 and 200 mg·Kg−1) promoted the specific growth rate of M. salmoides larvae. • Dietary emodin (50 mg·Kg−1) notably enhanced the expression of immune related genes including il-1β , tgf-β , ifn-γ , ifn-i and irf3 in M. salmoides larvae. • Dietary emodin (50 mg·Kg−1) remarkably reduced the Mycoplasma content, while multiplied the Halomonas and Idiomarina abundance in intestine of M. salmoides larvae. • Dietary emodin (50 mg·Kg−1) dramatically increased the survival rate of M. salmoides larvae challenged with MSRV. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cerebral palsy (CP) is a condition resulting from perinatal brain injury and can lead to physical disabilities. Exosomes derived from human amniotic mesenchymal stromal cells (hAMSC-Exos) hold promise as potential therapeutic options. This study aimed to investigate the impact of hAMSC-Exos on neuronal cells and their role in regulating apoptosis both in vitro and in vivo. hAMSC-Exos were isolated via ultracentrifugation and characterized via transmission electron microscopy, particle size analysis, and flow cytometry. In vitro, neuronal damage was induced by lipopolysaccharide (LPS). CP rat models were established via left common carotid artery ligation. Apoptosis levels in cells and CP rats were assessed using flow cytometry, quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT–qPCR), Western blotting, and TUNEL analysis. The results demonstrated successful isolation of hAMSC-Exos via ultracentrifugation, as the isolated cells were positive for CD9 (79.7%) and CD63 (80.2%). Treatment with hAMSC-Exos significantly mitigated the reduction in cell viability induced by LPS. Flow cytometry revealed that LPS-induced damage promoted apoptosis, but this effect was attenuated by treatment with hAMSC-Exos. Additionally, the expression of caspase-3 and caspase-9 and the Bcl-2/Bax ratio indicated that excessive apoptosis could be attenuated by treatment with hAMSC-Exos. Furthermore, tail vein injection of hAMSC-Exos improved the neurobehavioral function of CP rats. Histological analysis via HE and TUNEL staining showed that apoptosis-related damage was attenuated following hAMSC-Exo treatment. In conclusion, hAMSC-Exos effectively promote neuronal cell survival by regulating apoptosis, indicating their potential as a promising therapeutic option for CP that merits further investigation. [Display omitted] • hAMSC-Exos enhance neurobehavioral outcomes in cerebral palsy model rats. • hAMSC-Exos counteract LPS-induced damage, preserving neuronal viability in vitro. • Caspase-3 expression, Caspase-9 expression, the Bcl-2/Bax ratio suggest that hAMSC-Exos suppress apoptosis. • hAMSC-Exos have potential clinical value in cerebral palsy treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: This study aimed at the proliferation and differentiation of osteoblastic cells on silicon-doped TiO2 and pure TiO2 films prepared by cathodic arc deposition. The films were examined by X-ray photo-electron spectroscopy, which showed that silicon was successfully doped into the Si-TiO2 film. Meanwhile, no significant difference was found between the surface morphology of silicon-doped TiO2 and pure TiO2 films. When osteoblastic cells were cultured on silicon-doped TiO2 film, accelerated cell proliferation was observed. Furthermore, cell differentiation was evaluated using alkaline phosphatase (ALP), type I collagen (COL I) and osteocalcin (OC) as differentiation markers. It was found that ALP activity, the expression levels of OC gene, COL I gene and protein were up-regulated on silicon-doped TiO2 film at 3 and 5 days of culture. Moreover, no significant difference was found in apoptosis between the cells cultured on silicon-doped TiO2 and pure TiO2 films. Therefore, findings from this study indicate that silicon-doped film favors osteoblastic proliferation and differentiation, and has the potential for surface modification of implants in the future. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Macrophages and neutrophils are the pivotal immune phagocytes that enter the wound after tissue injury to remove the cell debris and invaded microorganisms, which presumably facilitate the regrowth of injured tissues. Taking advantage of the regeneration abilities of zebrafish and the newly generated leukocyte-specific zebrafish lines with labeling of both leukocyte lineages, we assessed the behaviors and functions of neutrophils and macrophages during tail fin regeneration. Live imaging showed that within 6 hours post amputation, the inflammatory stage, neutrophils were the primary cells scavenging apoptotic bodies and small cell debris, although they had limited phagocytic capacity and quickly underwent apoptosis. From 6 hours post amputation on, the resolution and regeneration stage, macrophages became the dominant scavengers, efficiently resolving inflammation and facilitating tissue remodeling and regrowth. Ablation of macrophages but not neutrophils severely impaired the inflammatory resolution and tissue regeneration, resulting in the formation of large vacuoles in the regenerated fins. In contrast, removal of neutrophils slightly accelerates the regrowth of injured fin. Our study documents the differing behaviors and functions of macrophages and neutrophils during tissue regeneration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

OBJECTIVE: To identify and describe clinicopathologic prognostic factors in patients with esophageal adenocarcinoma who underwent surgical resection with curative intent. PATIENTS AND METHODS: The study cohort consisted of 796 patients with adenocarcinoma of the esophagus, gastroesophageal Junction, or gastric cardia who underwent complete tumor resection at Mayo Clinic from January 1, 1980, to December 31, 1997. We reviewed individual patient medical records and abstracted demographic, pathologic, perioperative, and cancer outcome data. Median follow-up for vital status and disease recurrence was 12.8 and 5.8 years, respectively. RESULTS: Univarlate analysis revealed the following factors to be statistically associated with worse 5-year disease-specific survival: higher N and T status, higher tumor grade, age older than 76 years, and the presence of extracapsular lymph node extension and signet ring cells. The following factors remained significantly linked with worse 5-year disease-specific survival on multivariate analysis: higher N and T status, grade, and age and the absence of preoperative chemotherapy or radiotherapy. Anatomic location of tumor was not associated with differential prognosis. Lymph node metastases were found in 25 (27%) of 93 T1b tumors, 397 (85%) of 468 T3 tumors, and 22 (67%) of 33 T4a tumors. Disease-specific survival was better in T3-4N0 than in T1bN1-3 carcinomas (hazard ratio, 0.50; 95% confidence interval, 0.28-0.89, adjusted for grade and age; P=.02). CONCLUSION: Our results confirm the importance of T and N status and tumor grade and suggest that age may affect prognosis. in addition, we show that a significant proportion of superficial esophageal adenocarcinomas exhibit regional metastases and have worse prognosis than more invasive nonmetastatic tumors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To understand the interface effects between human gingival fibroblasts (HGFs) and the titanium substrate for soft tissue sealing, zinc (Zn) was incorporated into titanium by plasma immersion ion implantation (PIII) in the work, and the durations of 30, 60 and 90 min were adopted for serials of Zn content on titanium to identify the possible dose-effect relationship. Results showed that the implanted Zn formed metallic Zn and zinc oxide on the surface, and the Zn content increased with the extension of implantation time. The release of Zn ions occurred in the saline solution, but the amounts of released ions were inconsistent with the Zn content of implanted samples and their corrosion behaviors, indicating the different reaction activities among the sample surfaces. Moreover, in vitro studies disclosed that the incorporated samples were beneficial to the adhesion, proliferation, and migration of HGFs with appropriate dose of released Zn ions as well as the surface activities, as the fact it was not a directly proportional dose-effect relationship between released Zn ions and the behaviors of cells. It was suggested that Zn-PIII provided an approach to improve the soft tissue sealing of titanium through interfacial activities of implanted samples to regulate the behaviors of HGFs and the usage of Zn ions followed a synergistic manner. The interface effects of Zn-PIII titanium on the behaviors of human gingival fibroblasts relied on the implanted time. Unlabelled Image • Zn implanted titanium regulated the behaviors of HGFs through interface effects. • The surface activities of Zn-PIII samples were affected by the implantation time. • HGFs behaviors were not in a proportional dose-effect relation with released ions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The patterns and mechanisms of Holocene temperature variability in China remain highly controversial, possibly due to the lack of sufficient high-resolution records and few systematic compilations and reviews of published records. Here, we used branched glycerol dialkyl glycerol tetraethers (brGDGTs) to generate a Holocene mean annual air temperature (MAAT) record from Lake Yangzonghai (YZH) in southwest (SW) China. Our record, largely ruling out the effect of seasonal bias, displays a long-term cooling of ∼1.5 °C since 10 cal ka BP, indicating that the discrepancy of Holocene temperature records (such as long-term cooling vs warming trends) in China cannot be attributed to the seasonal bias in temperature proxies. We compiled 67 published Holocene temperature records from China. These temperature records exhibit a mathematically consistent pattern with a relatively warmer mid-Holocene and colder late Holocene in the Asian summer monsoon (ASM) domain, whilst records show a relatively colder mid-Holocene and warmer late Holocene in the westerlies domain. This spatial heterogeneity of Holocene temperature variability is attributed to the modulation of monsoon systems, including the warming effect of ASM and the cooling effect of the East Asian winter monsoon (EAWM). In the ASM domain, the dominant pattern with the relatively warmer mid-Holocene and colder late Holocene is primarily controlled by the persistent weakening of the warming effect of the ASM and the concurrent strengthening of the cooling effect of the EAWM during the mid-to-late Holocene. In the westerlies domain, the warming effect of the ASM disappears, the cooling effect of the EAWM is confined to the north of the Tibetan Plateau due to the blocking effect of the Tibetan Plateau. This dominant pattern with the relatively colder mid-Holocene and warmer late Holocene is driven by the increases in atmospheric greenhouse gases (GHG) radiative forcing and Northern Hemisphere Annual Insolation (NHAI) forcing during the mid-to-late Holocene. • Long-term cooling of ∼1.5 °C since 10 cal ka BP recorded by brGDGT-based MAAT reconstruction. • Systematic compilation and review of 67 published Holocene temperature records from China. • Spatial heterogeneity of Holocene temperature variability between ASM and westerlies domains. • Monsoon systems control the trend of Holocene temperature variability in China. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is the most aggressive primary brain tumor due to the lack of effective therapeutic drugs. Cancer therapy targeting programmed cell death protein 1 (PD-1) or programmed death ligand-1 (PD-L1) is of revolutionary. However, the role of intrinsic PD-L1, which determines immune-therapy outcomes, remains largely unclear. Here we demonstrated an oncogenic role of PD-L1 via binding and activating Ras in GBM cells. RNA-sequencing transcriptome data revealed that PD-L1 significantly altered gene expression enriched in cell growth/migration/invasion pathways in human GBM cells. PD-L1 overexpression and knockout or knockdown demonstrated that PD-L1 promoted GBM cell proliferation and migration in vitro and in vivo. Mechanistically, PD-L1 prominently activated epithelial mesenchymal transition (EMT) process in a MEK/Erk- but not PI3K/Akt-dependent manner. Further, we identified intracellular interactions of PD-L1 and H-Ras, which led to Ras/Erk/EMT activation. Finally, we demonstrated that PD-L1 overexpression promoted while knockdown abolished GBM development and invasion in orthotopic GBM models of rodents. Taken together, we found that intracellular PD-L1 confers GBM cell malignancy and aggressiveness via binding Ras and activating the downstream Erk-EMT signaling. Thus, these results shed important insights in improving efficacy of immune therapy for GBM as well as other malignant tumors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recent evidence demonstrates that vessel involvement is crucial in various bone remodeling situations, indicating that blood vessel formation within or surrounding the implant is essential for establishment of rigid implant fixation. In this work, the ability of the silicon-doped porous TiO 2 coatings fabricated via plasma electrolyte oxidation method (PEO) to enhance the angiogenic potential of human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) were investigated. The cellular responses of HUVECs on the silicon-doped porous TiO 2 coatings were studied through cell proliferation, vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) secretion, and angiogenic-associated gene (VEGF, HIF-1α and HGF) expression analysis. The results show that small amount of silicon significantly enhanced angiogenic activity of HUVECs, while larger amount of silicon appears excessive. Hence, the silicon-doped TiO 2 coating offers a potential solution to improve bone vascularization to achieve efficient osseointegration and restoration of function after implantation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An experimental platform was built to investigate how aqueous foam extinguishes fire in the upper area of a goaf. A temperature-programmed oxidation testing method was used to illustrate the inhibitory effect of foam. The results showed that foam has good accumulation characteristics, cooling performance, blocking effect, and inhibition. Foam extinguishes the fire in the upper area of a goaf and cools the entire goaf from bottom to top; it even diffuses into the interior of the high-temperature zone and extinguishes any hidden fire in the porous medium. In addition, foam blocks all the cracks in the goaf, thus blocking the air supply and maintaining a constant negative pressure in the goaf. By restricting chemical reactions between coal and oxygen, foam increases the crossing point temperature and reduces CO generation and thus prevents the further oxidation of coal. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Temperature measurement is the core technique for investigating heat transfer in microfluidics. In this paper, the resistance thermometry of Titanium–Platinum (Ti–Pt) films is manufactured by microelectronic manufacturing technology and used for the micro-scaled temperature measurement. In order to obtain the accurate temperature on the bottom wall of microchannel, the Ti–Pt films are embedded on the bottom wall. With standardized calibration and error analysis, the experimental system is proven to be reliable and stable for flow and temperature measurement. The experiments of viscoelastic fluid with heat transfer at very-low- Re flow in the curved microchannel are conducted. Both viscoelastic fluid (polymeric solution) and Newtonian fluid (sucrose solution) are used as working fluids, and the corresponding heat transfer performances are obtained. Comparing with Newtonian fluid flow, higher heat transfer rate of viscoelastic fluid flow is achieved due to the irregular motion induced by the fluid viscoelasticity in the curved microchannel. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Sixteen compounds, including five triterpenoids (1–5), five C 21 -steroids (6–10), two other steroids (11–12), two phenols (13–14) and others (15–16), were isolated from the root bark of Cynanchum auriculatum Royle ex Wight. Their chemical structures were determined by spectral data analyses. In the present research, compound 11 is reported for the first time in the species C. auriculatum. Compounds 2 ∼ 5 , 12 , 15 and 16 have not been reported from any species in Asclepiadaceae family. Moreover, the chemotaxonomic significance of the isolated compounds is discussed. Highlights • Sixteen compounds isolated from C. auriculatum were assigned as triterpenoids, C 21 -steroids, steroids, substituted benzenes and others. • Compound 11 has not been reported in the species of C. auriculatum and compounds 2 – 5 , 12 , 15 , 16 were new for the family of Asclepiadaceae. • Compounds 1 , 8 , 11 may be useful chemotaxonomic markers to differentiate C. auriculatum from other species of Cynanchum. • Further work needs to be done on the distribution of these compounds in the genus of Cynanchum to evaluate whether they have systematic value. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Magnesium hydroxide (Mg(OH) 2), Mg-Fe layered double hydroxide (Mg-Fe LDH), and ferric hydroxide (FeOOH) coatings were prepared on plasma electrolytic oxidation (PEO)-treated magnesium (Mg) alloy by immersion and hydrothermal treatment. These three kinds of hydroxides coatings exhibited nanosheet like surface structures, which completely sealed the micro-pores formed during PEO treatment. The anti-corrosion and biocompatibility of these three kinds of hydroxides coatings on Mg were systematically investigated. The results of electrochemical test, Mg2+ release behavior, and corrosion morphology indicated that FeOOH coating showed the best corrosion resistance. And, the results of cell adhesion, live/dead staining, and proliferation indicated FeOOH coating showed better biocompatibility than other hydroxides coatings. The study provides a detailed understanding and deep insight for metal hydroxides-based coatings on Mg alloy and indicated that FeOOH coating could as a novel potential coating for modification of Mg-based implants. • Mg(OH) 2 ,Mg-Fe LDH, and FeOOH coatings were fabricated on PEO-treated Mg alloy. • All of the constructed hydroxide coatings exhibited similar nanosheet structure. • The constructed hydroxides coatings could seal the micro-pores on PEO coating. • FeOOH coating showed better anti-corrosion and biocompatibility performances. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Bio-functional FeOOH nanosheet-engineered Mg-based bone implants were developed. • FeOOH film was safe and improved Mg implant corrosion resistance/biocompatibility. • FeOOH film showed superior photocatalytic/photothermal effects. • The Mg-based implants had bactericidal and bone defect regenerating properties. Bone implants with excellent antibacterial and osteogenic activity are beneficial in decreasing the risk of infection and accelerating the healing of injured bone tissue. Biodegradable Mg alloys are considered promising new platforms for treating bone-related diseases. However, the shortcomings of these alloys, including rapid corrosion and insufficient bio-functions (antibacteria and osteogenesis) severely limit their widespread applications. In the present work, ferric oxyhydroxide (FeOOH) nanosheets were grown in situ on plasma electrolytic oxidation (PEO)-coated Mg alloy through a simple and green immersion treatment. The highly-oriented FeOOH nanosheets completely sealed the porous structure of the PEO coating, and thereby significantly improved the corrosion resistance and biocompatibility of the Mg alloy. The prepared FeOOH films provided antibacterial activity through two modes. (i) the first is a photocatalytic effect, which prevents infections or contamination during storage and transportation and can be used to quickly sterilize the implants under sunlight before implantation into the human body. (ii) The second is a photothermal antibacterial effect, which has been shown to effectively kill Staphylococcus aureus that adhered to implants placed under the skin of mice using near infrared (NIR) light. Moreover, the enhanced corrosion resistance and synergistic biofunctions of the Mg and Fe ions of the FeOOH nanosheet-reinforced Mg alloy implants significantly facilitated cell adhesion, spreading, and proliferation and accelerated osteogenesis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bacterial infections in wounds often delay the healing process which threaten human health and life. The development of biocompatible hydrogels with antibacterial activity and self-healing to achieve excellent wound closure effectiveness is highly desirable in clinical applications. Herein, a new class of highly stretchable, biocompatible, and antibacterial hydrogel dressings called BPP hydrogel is designed and prepared by chemically cross-linking β-CD with PEI and then physically cross-linking with PVA. The BPP hydrogel exhibits superior properties including excellent antibacterial properties against Gram-positive Staphylococcus aureus and Gram-negative Escherichia coli , good biocompatibility for mouse fibroblasts, mouse embryonic fibroblasts and human umbilical vein endothelial cells, outstanding deformability and self-healing performance to protect the wound completely even in special scenes such as pulling and bending. Besides, after damage, the broken BPP hydrogel could heal together, and the healed BPP hydrogel could be stretched to 150% breaking deformation. Furthermore, in vivo experiments further verify that BPP hydrogel has excellent sterilization and healing effect on infectious wounds. This work proves that BPP hydrogel would be a promising material for wound healing and has good prospect for clinical translation. [Display omitted] • A composite hydrogel containing β-CD, PEI, and PVA was fabricated via chemical and physical cross-linking. • The incorporation of PEI endows this composite hydrogel with superior antibacterial activity. • This composite hydrogel exhibited good self-healing property due to the presence of intermolecular forces. • Mechanisms of this hydrogel for wound healing in the presence of S. aureus were revealed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In recent years, related research has mainly examined lipophilic marine toxins (LMTs) in contaminated bivalves or toxic algae, whereas the levels of LMTs in seawater remain largely unexplored. Okadaic acid (OA), yessotoxin (YTX), and pectenotoxin-2 (PTX2) are three typical LMTs produced by certain marine algae that are closely linked to diarrhetic shellfish poisoning. In this study, a new method of solid phase extraction combined with liquid chromatography - electrospray ionization ion trap tandem mass spectrometry was developed to determine the presence of OA, YTX, and PTX2 in seawater simultaneously. Satisfactory sensitivity, repeatability (RSD < 25.00%) and recovery (56.25-70.18%) of the method were achieved. Then, the method was applied to determine the amounts of the three toxins in the coastal seawater. OA and PTX2 were detected in all the seawater samples collected from eight locations along the coastline of Qingdao City, China on October 23, 2012, with concentration ranges of OA 4.24-9.64 ng L-1 and PTX2 0.42-0.74 ng L-1. Monthly concentrations of OA and PTX2 in the seawater of four locations were determined over the course of a year, with concentration ranges of OA 1.41-89.52 ng L-1 and PTX2 below detectable limit to 1.70 ng L-1. The peak values of OA and PTX2 in coastal seawater were observed in August and July, respectively. Our results suggest that follow-up research on the fate modeling and risk assessment of LMTs in coastal seawater should be implemented. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Zinc (Zn) and silver (Ag) are co-implanted into titanium by plasma immersion ion implantation. A Zn containing film with Ag nanoparticles (Ag NPs) possessing a wide size distribution is formed on the surface and the corrosion resistance is improved due to the micro-galvanic couples formed by the implanted Zn and Ag. Not only are the initial adhesion, spreading, proliferation and osteogenic differentiation of rBMSCs observed from the Zn/Ag implanted Ti in vitro, but also bacteria killing is achieved both in vitro and in vivo. Electrochemical polarization and ion release measurements suggest that the excellent osteogenic activity and antibacterial ability of the Zn/Ag co-implanted titanium are related to the synergistic effect resulting from the long-range interactions of the released Zn ions and short-range interactions of the embedded Ag NPs. The Zn/Ag co-implanted titanium offers both excellent osteogenic activity and antibacterial ability and has large potential in orthopedic and dental implants. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Small-molecule, ligand-activated G protein-coupled receptors are generally thought to be rapidly desensitized within a period of minutes through receptor phosphorylation and internalization after repeated or prolonged stimulation. This transient G protein-coupled receptor activation remains at odds with many observed long-lasting cellular and physiological responses. Here, using live cell imaging of cAMP with a FRET-based biosensor and myocyte contraction assay, we show that the catecholamine-activated β1 adrenergic receptor (β1AR) continuously stimulates second messenger cAMP synthesis in primary cardiac myocytes and neurons, which lasts for more than 8 h (a decay Uh of 3.9 h) in cardiac myocytes. However, the β1AR-induced cAMP signal is counterbalanced and masked by the receptor-bound phosphodiesterase (PDE) 4D8-dependent cAMP hydrolysis. Inhibition of PDE4 activity recovers the receptor-induced cAMP signal and promotes contractile response in mouse hearts during extended periods of agonist stimulation. β1AR associates with PDE4D8 through the receptor C-terminal PDZ motif-dependent binding to synaptic-asso-ciated protein 97 (SAP97). Knockdown of SAP97 or mutation of the β1AR PDZ motif disrupts the complex and promotes sustained agonist-induced cAMP activity, PKA phosphorylation, and cardiac myocyte contraction response. Together, these findings unveil a long lasting adrenergic signal in neurons and myocytes under prolonged stimulation and an underappreciated role of PDE that is essential in classic receptor signaling desensitization and in maintaining a long lasting cAMP equilibrium for ligand-induced physiological response. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Herein, a novel smart chemical strategy for regulating the corrosion reaction to reinforce the plasma electrolytic oxidation (PEO) coating on magnesium by amorphous MnOOH is proposed. The MnOOH film could provide PEO coating with both physical shielding and chemical active healing abilities. During corrosion process, MnOOH spontaneously reacts with the corrosion-produced Mg2+ and OH– to form layered double hydroxides, resulting in high improvement of the long-term anti-corrosion of PEO coating. Moreover, the PEO/MnOOH coating presented a certain self-healing ability for scratches, and could be used for repairing corrosion defects on further coated films. [Display omitted] • An amorphous MnOOH film was prepared on PEO coating via a facile immersion treatment. • MnOOH film could react with corrosion produced Mg2+ and OH- to form protective LDH. • MnOOH film could cut-off the vicious cycle in corrosion reactions of PEO coating. • PEO/MnOOH coating had a certain self-healing ability for scratch and coated films. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Alzheimer disease (AD) is characterized by neurodegeneration marked by loss of synapses and spines associated with hyperphosphorylation of tau protein. Accumulating amyloid β peptide (Aβ) in brain is linked to neurofibrillary tangles composed of hyperphosphorylated tau in AD. Here, we identify β2-adrenergic receptor β2AR) that mediates Aβ-induced tau pathology. In the prefrontal cortex (PFC) of 1-year-old transgenic mice with human familial mutant genes of presenilin 1 and amyloid precursor protein (PS1/APP), the phosphorylation of tau at Ser-214 Ser-262 and Thr-181, and the protein kinases including JNK, GSK3α/β, and Ca2+/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase II is increased significantly. Deletion of theβ2AR gene in PS1/APP mice greatly decreases the phosphorylation of these proteins. Further analysis reveals that in primaryPFCneurons, Aβ signals through a β2AR-PKA-JNK pathway, which is responsible for most of the phosphorylation of tau at Ser-214 and Ser-262 and a significant portion of phosphorylation at Thr- 181. Aβ also induces a β2AR-dependent arrestin-ERK1/2 activity that does not participate in phosphorylation of tau. However, inhibition of the activity of MEK, an upstream enzyme of ERK1/2, partially blocks Aβ-induced tau phosphorylation at Thr-181. The density of dendritic spines and synapses is decreased in the deep layer of the PFC of 1-year-old PS1/APP mice, and the mice exhibit impairment of learning and memory in a novel object recognition paradigm. Deletion of the β2AR gene ameliorates pathological effects in these senile PS1/APP mice. The study indicates that β2AR may represent a potential therapeutic target for preventing the development of AD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: A white-rot fungus, strain SQ01, was isolated from decayed wood in a temperate forest. The strain was identified as a member of genus Trametes, based on the morphological characteristics and a complete sequence analysis of its 18S rRNA gene and ITS region. Strain SQ01 was capable of decolorizing a variety of synthetic dyes, including azo, triphenylmethane, and anthraquinone dyes, with an optimal efficiency of decolorization obtained when dyes added after 5 days of culture, with the exception of Cresol Red, showing that the point of dye addition was an important influencing factor for decolorization by this fungus. All of the tested dyes were decolorized by the purified laccase in the absence of any redox mediators, but only a few were completely removed, while others were not completely degraded even with increased decolorization time. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Copper nanoparticles embedded in soda-lime glass were fabricated by ion exchange followed by thermal treatment in hydrogen. The ultrafast dynamics of the embedded Cu nanoparticles formed under different fabrication conditions were investigated by applying femtosecond pump-probe technique. Non-Fermi electrons were suggested to be dominant in the transient behavior of the nanocomposites far from surface plasmon resonance of Cu. The long ion-exchange processing time was found to benefit and improve the ultrafast response of the fabricated nanocomposites. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Effects of thermal treatment on the third-order optical nonlinearity and ultrafast dynamics of Ag nanoparticles embedded in glasses were investigated by femtosecond time-resolved OKE and femtosecond pump–probe techniques. The results indicate that the third-order susceptibility increases from 1.1×10−11 esu to 1.48×10−9 esu with increasing the annealing temperature. The fast decay process is accelerated and its amplitude ratio increases with the thermal treatment, which could be attributed to an increase of the electron–phonon coupling through the process of treelike Ag nanoparticle aggregation. The slow relaxation time ranges from 25ps to 140ps, depending on the thermal conductivity of the matrix material. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Glycerol dialkyl glycerol tetraethers (GDGTs) are widespread but unique membrane-spanning lipids of many Archaea and some Bacteria. However, their specific biological sources and the associated environmental controls on their distribution remain unclear, especially in lacustrine settings, hindering our understanding of these compounds and their application as environmental proxies. Here we investigated the GDGT distributions across a large bottom water dissolved oxygen (DO) gradient (0.10–7.20 mg/L) using surface sediments of Lake Yangzonghai, a warm monomictic lake in southwestern China. We show that the distributions of both branched (br) and isoprenoidal (iso) GDGTs co-vary significantly with bottom water DO concentration. The relative abundances of tetramethylated brGDGTs, 5-methyl penta- and hexamethylated brGDGTs and isoGDGT-0 show a stepwise increase as bottom water DO concentration decreases. On the other hand, the relative abundances of 6-methyl penta- and hexamethylated brGDGTs and crenarchaeol exhibit a stepwise decline with a decrease in bottom water DO concentration. Genetic data indicate these DO-induced changes in GDGT parameters are related to changes in the bacterial and archaeal communities across the oxycline in the lake. For example, the high abundance of isoGDGT-0 in low DO samples coincides with a high abundance of methanogenic archaea and Bathyarchaeota. We propose that brGDGT-producing bacteria might include a diversity of other phyla in addition to the proposed source organism acidobacteria; different groups of anaerobic and aerobic bacteria are likely to contribute to the increased abundance of 5-methyl brGDGTs and 6-methyl brGDGTs in low and high DO zones, respectively. Consequently, the MBT′ and MBT′ 6ME brGDGT indices display strong correlations with DO concentration. Importantly, the MBT′ 5ME index is not significantly influenced by changes in DO concentration, suggesting that this index might be more resilient to these impacts and more suitable to reconstruct temperature in lake systems. • One of the most systematic investigation on DO impact on all the GDGT compounds and the related paleoclimate proxies • A new ternary diagram was used to identity the sources of lacustrine brGDGTs • Anaerobic and aerobic bacteria contribute to the increased abundance of 5-methyl and 6-methyl brGDGTs, respectively • MBT′ 5ME might be more suitable to reconstruct temperature in lake systems than MBT′ and MBT′ 6ME [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The largemouth bass (Micropterus salmoides) is an economically important fish species, but disease caused by Aeromonas hydrophila has led to the high mortality of this fish in farming environments. However, few studies have focused on the differences in the responses of largemouth bass to infection and immunization with A. hydrophila. In the present study, we found high fish mortality after A. hydrophila infection but not after immunization. Then, the immune response difference of largemouth bass in early infection and immunization with A. hydrophila was analyzed using transcriptome profiling and 16S rRNA sequencing. The results from the transcriptome analysis revealed that many upregulated genes were enriched in metabolic pathways after infection and immunization, but the number of upregulated genes associated with metabolic pathways and the magnitude of their upregulated expression in the infection group were much greater than they were in the immunization group, suggesting that A. hydrophila infection might cause metabolic disorders in largemouth bass. Increases in pro-inflammatory cytokine levels and reduced expression of genes associated with adaptive immunity were also observed in the infection group. Moreover, the results of the 16S rRNA analysis revealed that the intestinal microbiota homeostasis of the largemouth bass was severely disrupted by A. hydrophila infection but not by immunization. These results collectively demonstrated that metabolic disorders, higher inflammation, a reduced adaptive immune response and disrupted microbiota homeostasis in early infection might be important factors for the high mortality of largemouth bass caused by A. hydrophila infection. • High mortality of largemouth bass after A. hydrophila infection, but not after immunization. • Metabolic disorders in largemouth bass were found in early stages of infection. • Higher inflammation and lower adaptive immune response in largemouth bass were found in early stages of infection. • Disrupted microbiota homeostasis in largemouth bass were found in early stages of infection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Multiwalled carbon nanotube (MWCNT)/polystyrene (PS) or poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) composites were successfully prepared by in situ emulsion polymerization under microwave irradiation using potassium persulfate as initiator. Then the composites were treated with tetrahydrofuran (THF) to remove the free polymers. The resultant PS or PMMA-wrapped MWCNT samples, which were soluble in common organic solvents such as 1,2-dichlorobenzene, THF, chloroform and others, have been well-characterized by TEM, thermal gravimetric analyses, FT-IR, UV–vis and Raman spectra. The optical limiting properties of the polymer-wrapped MWCNT samples were investigated by open-aperture z-scan method. All of the polymer modified MWCNT samples in chloroform showed much better optical limiting behavior than pristine MWCNT in chloroform. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: In order to improve the laccase activity, mutant libraries are constructed through ethyl methane sulfonate-based (EMS) random mutagenesis. Mutagenesis improved expression 3.7-fold to 144mgl−1 laccase in yeast, together with a 1.4-fold increase in K cat. Thus, the total activity is enhanced 5-fold for 2,2′-azino-bis 3-ethylbenzothiaoline-6-sulfonic acid (ABTS). In the presence of 0.6mM copper, the highest activity value reached 30Uml−1 after a 3-day cultivation at a temperature of 30°C. In comparison with the wild type, the best mutant enzymatic properties (K m for ABTS and guaiacol, thermo- and pH stability, optimal pH) are not changed. Moreover, amino acid sequence analysis indicates that there are four substitutions in the best mutant laccase (Gly160Asp, Ala167Thr, Gly174Asp, and Glu234Gly). The best mutant laccase model showed that the Gly160 and Ala167 are to be found near the water channel; especially the distance of Ala167 to the Cu3a is 14.46Å. This implies that it is likely involved in the formation of water channel and that it helps facilitate the easy incoming and outgoing of water. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: We studied the photoluminescence (PL) properties of self-organized para-sexiphenyl (PSP) nano-needles with linear and nonlinear optical excitation. Excited by femtosecond pulses, two-photon absorption (TPA) induced PL emission peaks corresponding to the vibronic transitions in PSP molecules were observed. Polarization-dependent photoluminescence measurements reveal that the TPA induced PL in the highly-ordered structures, similar with the linear excitation case, is strongly dependent on the excitation polarization. The mechanism that the nonlinear transition dipole moment is oriented parallel to the long axis of the molecular for the π–π∗ absorption in PSP is suggested to explain these strong polarization effects. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Keratinous wastes could be degraded by some microorganisms in nature. Native human foot skin (NHFS) was used as sole nitrogen source to screen microorganisms with keratin-degrading capability. From approximately 200 strains, a strain of Streptomyces sp. strain No.16 was found to possess the strongest keratinolytic activity, and the total activity in the culture was 110 KU/ml with specific activity of 2870 KU/mg protein (KU: keratinase unit). Substrate specificity test indicated that the crude keratinase could degrade keratin azure, human hair, cock feathers and collagen. The optimal pH of the crude keratinase ranged from 7.5 to 10 and the temperature ranged from 40°C to 55°C. Metal chelating agent ethylenediamine tetraacetic acid obviously stimulated the keratinolytic activity but suppressed the proteolytic activity. To our knowledge, this is the first report on specific induction of keratinases by NHFS from an actinomycete. Moreover, excellent characteristics of its crude keratinase may lead to the potential application in waste treatment and recovery, poultry and leather industry, medicine, and cosmetic development. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: In this work, samples of poly(N-vinyl carbazole) (PVK)-grafted multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) were synthesized via free radical reaction. The ready-made PVK was allowed to react directly with MWCNTs at 70°C in the presence of azo-bis-isobutyronitrile (AIBN). The purified deep grey products, which can dissolve in common organic solvents such as chloroform and 1,2-dichlorobenzene (DCB), were then characterized by FTIR spectra, TEM, TGA, elemental analysis, XPS, UV–vis spectra and Raman spectra. It was confirmed that PVK chains were grafted onto the surface of the carbon nanotubes (CNTs). The optical limiting properties of these PVK-grafted MWCNTs samples were investigated by open-aperture z-scan method. All of the samples of PVK-modified carbon nanotubes in chloroform showed optical limiting behavior better than that of C60 in toluene. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The energy relaxation dynamics in Ag:Bi2O3 nanocomposite films with high density of Ag nanoparticles were investigated by femtosecond pump–probe technique. For the films with relatively low Ag concentration (13.2–35.7at.%), the energy relaxation is nearly completed within 1picosecond (ps) at moderate excitation regime. For the film with 52.0at.% Ag concentration, the relaxation process consists of a fast power-dependent component (1–2ps) and a long-lived one. The different relaxation characteristics are suggested to be resulted from the differences in the structural and thermal properties of the surrounding Bi2O3 matrix coupling with Ag nanoparticles. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Femtosecond degenerate pump–probe spectroscopy was carried out on thin films of a series of axially substituted phthalocyanines including tBu4PcInCl(tBu4=tetra-(tert-butyl)), tBu4PcTiO, tBu4PcIn(p-TMP) [p-TMP=p-trifluoromethylphenyl], tBu4PcGa(p-CPO) [p-CPO=p-chlorophenoxy], and μ-oxo-bridged phthalocyanine dimers, e.g., [tBu4PcIn]2O, tBu4PcIn–O–GaPctBu4 and [tBu4PcGa]2O. We demonstrate that the long lived state of the dynamics is the triplet state and the behavior of the degenerate pump–probe was determined by exciton–exciton annihilation (E-EA), nonradiative recombination (NR) and intersystem crossing (ISC) processes. The E-EA process is via the long-range dipole–dipole interaction between excitons or motion-limited diffuse other than exciton hopping migrations. The dimers shows much efficient E-EA and the indium-contained samples have larger ISC rate than the others. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]