Search

[Display omitted] • A folic acid-modified liposome-thermosensitive hydrogel composites (FA-GEN-Lip@Gel) was developed for in situ periodontal delivery. • FA-GEN-Lip@Gel simultaneously boost inflammation resolution and osteogenic differentiation via modulating the crosstalk between macrophages and PDLSCs. • FA-GEN-Lip@Gel suppressed inflammatory response by regulating TLR4/MyD88/NF-κB axis in macrophages. • FA-GEN-Lip@Gel enhanced alveolar bone regeneration by remodeling RANKL/OPG balance of PDLSCs. Currently, the antibiotics-loaded hydrogels have not shown an over standard of clinical effects on periodontitis treatment. Abnormal crosstalk between macrophages and periodontal ligament stem cells (PDLSCs) is a key factor for unexpected clinical efficacy. Here, we reported a therapeutic strategy for the programmed intervention of macrophages and PDLSCs based on folic acid-modified liposome hydrogel composites loaded with genistein (FA-GEN-Lip@Gel). FA-GEN-Lip@Gel exhibited excellent thermos-sensitivity and injectability, could sustained-release genistein for more than 120 h. Flow cytometry showed that FA-GEN-Lip@Gel shifted macrophages from the M1 to M2 phenotype. We further confirmed the anti-inflammatory mechanisms that FA-GEN-Lip@Gel regulate TLR4/MyD88/NF-κB axis in macrophages. In addition, FA-GEN-Lip@Gel could promote osteogenic differentiation of PDLSCs via remodeling of cytokine secretion of IL-6, IL-17, TNF-α and IL-10 in macrophages, as verified by conditioned culture system. Therefore, FA-GEN-Lip@Gel significantly reduced periodontal inflammation in vivo according to ELISA, H&E and immunofluorescence staining. Meanwhile, FA-GEN-Lip@Gel promoted alveolar bone regeneration by remodeling RANKL/OPG balance and increasing osteogenic markers of ALP, BMP2 and RUNX2. Altogether, this study develops a novel liposome-hydrogel composites that can be efficiently simultaneously boost inflammation resolution and osteogenic differentiation in periodontitis via modulating the crosstalk between macrophages and PDLSCs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Annual PM 2.5 constituent exposure was associated with abnormal ECG outcomes. • Per IQR increase of sulfate related to a 26% increased risk of ECG abnormalities. • Differential toxicity of PM 2.5 constituents on ECG may inform policy making. Electrocardiogram (ECG) abnormalities are known to have prognostic value for heart conditions, while evidence on the relationship between long-term exposure to PM 2.5 constituents and electrocardiographic (ECG) abnormalities is limited. This study aimed to quantify the association between long-term exposure to PM 2.5 constituents and changes in ECG diagnoses. We designed a longitudinal study among participants with repeated records of ECG examination based on the China National Stroke Screening Survey 2013–2018. Logistic regressions with multiple adjustment, estimated by the generalized estimating equation to incorporate repeated measurements, were used to assess the associations between the occurrence of any physician-diagnosed ECG abnormalities and long-term exposure to PM 2.5 constituents. We included 61,094 participants with 132,249 visits. All five constituents (sulfate, nitrate, ammonium, organic matter, and black carbon) were significantly associated with an increased risk of ECG abnormalities. The excess risk of ECG abnormalities per interquartile-range increase in exposure was the highest for sulfate (26%, 95% confidence interval [CI] 23–29%), followed by ammonium (22%, 19–26%), nitrate (21%, 17–24%), black carbon (16%, 13–10%) and organic matter (9%,6%-11%). We also found that atrial fibrillation patients might be susceptible to the adverse effects of PM 2.5 constituents on ECG. Differential associations between various constituents of PM 2.5 and ECG abnormalities were found. The unequal toxicities for different chemical constituents of ambient particles on cardiovascular electrophysiological endpoints should be taken into consideration when considering the biological pathways linking PM 2.5 and cardiovascular conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Stabilization of high-spin high-volume ferromagnetic γ-Fe nanocrystals inside carbon nano-onions (CNOs) has recently attracted an important attention for possible applications in magnetic hyperthermia cancer therapy. Here we report an advanced investigation of the chemical vapour synthesis (CVS) fabrication methodology of the filled CNOs, with focus on 1) the stabilization of the γ-Fe nanocrystals in presence of larger concentration of Cl radicals and 2) the structural functionalization, through simultaneous encapsulation of both ferromagnetic γ-Fe and paramagnetic GdCl 3 phases. By employing HRTEM we demonstrate an anomalous structural configuration of the CNOs, involving the coexistence of defect-rich concentrical-like and radially-oriented graphitic layers. XPS and Raman spectroscopy evidence the presence of C S bond-formation and defect nucleation as key parameters for the growth of the radially-oriented graphitic layers. This unusual structural arrangement of the CNO is found to stabilize the γ-Fe phase at room temperature. We highlight the absence of FCC to BCC structural relaxation within timescales of 8 months from sample-fabrication. XRD, Rietveld refinements, together with magnetometry confirm the presence of a ferromagnetic transition arising below T ∼ 70 K within γ-Fe. This interpretation is further corroborated through extended characterization with ESR spectroscopy. Structural manipulation and functionalization of the CNOs is demonstrated by including tris(tetramethyl-cyclopentadienyl)gadolinium(III) as a precursor in the pyrolysis experiments. The functionalized CNO (filled with ferromagnetic γ-Fe/Fe 3 C and paramagnetic Gd/GdCl 3) can be visualized as a multifunctional-container and a candidate for magnetic-hyperthermia-cancer-therapy and MRI contrast applications. [Display omitted] • We present an advanced synthesis-method for stabilization and functionalization of γ-Fe filled CNOs • Stabilization of γ-Fe was investigated in experiments involving controlled amounts of Cl radicals and sulfur. • CNO-manipulation and functionalization is demonstrated through simultaneous encapsulation of γ-Fe and Gd/GdCl 3. • Tris(tetramethyl-cyclopentadienyl)gadolinium(III) was employed as a precursor for functionalization. • The functionalized γ-Fe/GdCl 3 @CNO can be visualized as a multifunctional-container for application in magnetic-hyperthermia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Periodontitis is a chronic inflammatory disease initiated by pathogenic biofilms and host immunity that damages tooth-supporting tissues, including the gingiva, periodontal ligament and alveolar bone. The physiological functions of the oral cavity, such as saliva secretion and chewing, greatly reduce the residence of therapeutic drugs in the area of a periodontal lesion. In addition, complex and diverse pathogenic mechanisms make effectively treating periodontitis difficult. Therefore, designing advanced local drug delivery systems and rational therapeutic strategies are the basis for successful periodontitis treatment. Hydrogels have attracted considerable interest in the field of periodontitis treatment due to their biocompatibility, biodegradability and convenient administration to the periodontal pocket. In recent years, the focus of hydrogel research has shifted to smart stimuli-responsive hydrogels, which can undergo flexible sol-gel transitions in situ and control drug release in response to stimulation by temperature, light, pH, ROS, glucose, or enzymes. In this review, we systematically introduce the development and rational design of emerging smart stimuli-responsive hydrogels for periodontitis treatment. We also discuss the state-of-the-art therapeutic strategies of smart hydrogels based on the pathogenesis of periodontitis. Additionally, the challenges and future research directions of smart hydrogels for periodontitis treatment are discussed from the perspective of developing efficient hydrogel delivery systems and potential clinical applications. [Display omitted] • Smart stimuli-responsive hydrogels can respond to external stimuli to periodontitis treatment. • Smart stimuli-responsive hydrogels allow triggered transitions between solution and solid in the periodontal pocket. • Smart stimuli-responsive hydrogels with switchable and controlled drug release properties can be tailored. • Review the development and rational design of emerging smart stimuli-responsive hydrogels for periodontitis treatment. • Discuss the latest therapeutic strategies of smart hydrogels based on the pathogenesis of periodontitis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The stabilization of γ-Fe inside carbon nanotubes (CNTs) and its magnetic-coupling with α-Fe or Fe 3 C has attracted a great interest for the possible control of the hysteresis-loss processes in magnetic hyperthermia. Being interested in exploring further the stabilization-dynamics of this phase (γ-Fe), we have performed novel investigations on the fabrication and manipulation of filled CNTs films (buckypapers) with major focus on the effects of vapour-flow- and cooling-rate synthesis-parameters. X-ray diffractograms (XRD) and Rietveld refinements evidence an unusual stabilization of γ-Fe upon cooling, with a maximum relative abundance of 26 % after a slow-cooling step of 30 min. In-situ post-growth manipulation of the CNT-structure, in presence of tris(tetramethylcyclopentadienyl)‑gadolinium (III), allows for a particularly efficient functionalization of the CNT-walls, with in-situ surface-deposition of an amorphous Gd-phase. The rapid-cooling approach employed in the post-growth Gd-functionalization-step is found to have beneficial effects on the γ-Fe stabilization, with an enhanced relative abundance of 30 %, as extracted from Rietveld refinements. Extended characterization through magnetometry, evidence a dependence of the coercive-field value on both cooling and flow-rate parameters. The reported dataset confirms the existence of a magnetic-coupling within the encapsulated nanocrystals, with the unit-cell-volume being in the order of 45.9 Å3. [Display omitted] • We report a novel investigation on the fabrication and manipulation of filled CNTs. • New insights on the effects of flow- and cooling-rate CVD-parameters are presented. • We show an unusual stabilization of γ-Fe upon-cooling. • Tris(tetramethylcyclopentadienyl)Gd(III) was employed for the CNT-functionalization. • A dependence of the coercive-field value on both cooling and flow-rate is shown. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Atrazine (ATR) is a commercially available herbicide that is used worldwide. The intensive use of ATR poses potential risks to animals' and humans' health. Lycopene (LYC) is an anti-oxidative phytochemical that normalizes health hazards triggered by environmental factors. In this study, we aimed to investigate the toxic effects of ATR on the hippocampus and its amelioration by LYC. Male mice were exposed to ATR (50 mg/kg/day or 200 mg/kg/d) and/or LYC (5 mg/kg/d) for 21 days. The results showed that ATR exposure induced hippocampus-dependent learning and memory impairments. ATR-induced ferroptosis in hippocampal cells affects the homeostasis of lipid metabolism, whereas LYC ameliorates the neurotoxic effects of ATR in the hippocampus. LYC inhibited ATR-induced ferroptosis by increasing the expression of HO-1, Nrf2 and SLC7A11. Therefore, this study established that LYC ameliorates ATR-induced spatial learning and memory impairments by inhibiting ferroptosis in the hippocampus and also provides a novel approach for the treatment in contradiction of environmental pollutants. ATR is a kind of herbicide that spreads throughout the environment. Because of its biological activity, particularly antioxidant properties, LYC has attracted a lot of interest. According to our findings, LYC ameliorates ATR-induced spatial learning and memory impairments by inhibiting ferroptosis in the hippocampus of mice. This research may lead to a plausible molecular mechanism for LYC therapy of ATR-induced neurological damage. [Display omitted] • ATR caused spatial learning and memory impairments. • ATR induced ferroptosis in the hippocampus. • LYC can prevent ferroptosis and promote nerve cell repair. • LYC mitigated ATR-induced spatial learning and memory impairments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Photoelectrochemical conversion of solar energy into fuels (or chemicals) is in urgent need of efficient photoanodes to drive its practical applications. Nevertheless, the development of high performance photoanode usually suffers from slow charge transfer and sluggish surface catalytic kinetics. Here, we report a surface active oxygen engineering strategy through the modification and activation of NiCo layered double hydroxide (NiCo-LDH), where the activated NiCo-LDH (NiCo-LDH-Act) captures the photogenerated holes and acts as cocatalyst for surface oxidation reactions. The as-developed BiVO 4 /NiCo-LDH-Act achieves more than 3-fold higher photocurrent density than that of pristine BiVO 4. Experimental integrated with theoretical studies further testify the bifunctional of NiCo-LDH-Act for hole transport and catalytic reactions. Moreover, the adsorbed ·OH originated from active oxygen enables efficient oxidation of glycerol to attain 1,3-dihydroxyacetone (DHA) with a productivity of 20.5 μmol cm–2 h–1 at 1.4 V vs. RHE with simultaneously producing hydrogen at the cathode. [Display omitted] ● Various cobalt-based LDHs were modified and activated on metal oxide photoanodes. ● Activated NiCo-LDH enables a 3.13-fold improvement in the performance of BiVO 4. ● Surface active oxygen originates from dehydrogenation of hydroxyl groups on LDHs. ● Photoelectrochemical oxidation of glycerol to DHA coupled with hydrogen production. ● Identification and mechanism reveal of adsorbed·OH radical intermediates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pseudospin symmetry (PSS) plays critical roles in the formation of many physical phenomena, and has been studied extensively from spherical nuclei to deformed nuclei. However, there remains an open question about the PSS in resonant states in deformed systems. For the first time, we investigate the PSS in resonant states in deformed nuclei by solving the Dirac equation in the complex-momentum representation for a potential with quadrupole deformation at the first order obtained from relativistic mean-field (RMF) calculations. Taking 170Yb as an example, we explore the PSS in the single-particle resonant states by examining the energies, widths and the density distribution. Compared with the bound states, the pseudospin splittings between the resonant pseudospin doublets are found to be small, and the radial density distributions of pseudospin doublets look very similar, which indicates that the PSS of resonant states is well reserved in deformed nuclei. Moreover, we have comprehensively studied the dependencies of the PSS on nuclear deformations and the shape of potential, which are helpful to recognize the evolution of resonant pseudospin doublets in weakly-bound deformed nuclei and understand their exotic properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• These excellent titanium alloys are widely used in aerospace and aerospace field. • Fatigue failure is mostly initiated on surface, threatening service reliability. • Residual stress strengthening methods are developed, driven by aircraft lightweight. • Strengthened stress transfers the fatigue crack and increases the fatigue lifetime. • Various methods induce different residual stress, microstructures and roughness. Titanium alloys are high-quality materials for aerospace parts with good thermal mechanical properties. Fatigue failure has been the most prominent problem, so surface strengthening technology is widely applied to improve fatigue life. In this paper, the recent progress of four typical strengthening methods is analyzed in detail, including MSP, USP, LSP and BSM. In the strengthening process, the RS induced by PD is the most significant variation, so the basic theory and measurement methods of RS are comprehensively summarized. Besides, grain refinement and dislocation density increase occur simultaneously, as well as the unfriendly phenomenon in the increase of surface roughness. Therefore, the progress in reaction mechanisms, influencing factors, strengthening effects and fatigue improvement of these four typical titanium alloy PD strengthening methods are explained, and various research methods and optimization strategies are summarized. In addition, the differences of strengthening methods are also compared. The latest advances of these methods are described, which will support the progress of strengthening technology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Soil and ground water pollution by heavy metal is an identified global environment concern. Montmorillonite is widely adopted as an adsorbent used in retardation of heavy metals due to its excellent adsorption capacity, conveniency, and stability. However, the adsorption mechanism of heavy metal ions in the interlayer and nanopore of montmorillonite needs to be further studied. The classical grand canonical monte carlo (GCMC) and molecular dynamics (MD) simulations were performed to quantify the structural and dynamic properties of heavy metal ions in the interlayer and nanopore of montmorillonite (MMT). Two layer charge densities of MMT, two cation concentrations, and three typical heavy metal ions (Pb2+, Ba2+, and Cs+) were considered. With the increase of layer charge density, outer-sphere adsorption (OSA) was transformed into inner-sphere adsorption (ISA) for three heavy metal ions. The adsorption quantity increased with the increase of layer charge density and cation concentration. The calculated diffusion coefficients of three heavy metal caions in montmorillonite was bulk solution > nanopore > interlayer. The results and adsorption mechanism are helpful for understanding the natural processes of heavy metal ions in environment and developing more efficient remediation materials. [Display omitted] • Outer-sphere adsorption occurred for Pb2 + and Ba2 + on low-charge montmorillonite surface. • The adsorption capacity of high-charge montmorillonite was stronger than low-charge montmorillonite. • Higher cation concentration increases adsorption quantity but doesn't change adsorption pattern. • The mobility of cations in montmorillonite follow the order of interlayer < nanopore < solution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Atrazine (ATR) is a widely used herbicide with biologically toxic effects that can lead to neurotoxicity. Lycopene (LYC) is an antioxidant with chemoprotective properties. However, little know about the mechanisms of preventative interventions about LYC alleviated ATR-induced neurotoxicity. Male mice were treated with distilled water (C), 5 mg/kg BW/day LYC (L), 50 and 200 mg/kg BW/day ATR (A1, A2), respectively and LYC + ATR (A1+L, A2+L). ATR promoted oxidative stress and inflammatory damage, as showed by the effects on MDA, H 2 O 2 , IL-6 and TNF-α accumulation, and IL-10, SOD, CAT and GSH depletion, which caused neuronal swelling and mitochondrial vacuolar degeneration. ATR disrupted the CYP450s balance via increasing contents of CYP450 and cytochrome B5, enhancing activities of NCR and ERND and activating NXRs and NXRs-related transcription factors. However, all these effects were reversed by LYC pretreatment. Collectively, these data indicated that LYC inhibited ATR-induced oxidative damage through modulating xenobiotic-sensing nuclear receptors and CYP450s. [Display omitted] • LYC inhibits ATR exposure-induces neurotoxicity. • LYC alleviates ATR exposure-induces AHR/PXR/CAR pathway responses. • LYC alleviates ATR-induces the CYP450 homeostasis disorders and CYPs transcription. • LYC alleviates ATR exposure triggers oxidative stress and inflammatory response. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Traversing the Qinghai–Tibetan Plateau, the Sichuan–Tibet Railway is by far the most difficult railway project in the world. The Qinghai–Tibetan Plateau features the most active crustal dynamics on earth, the strongest coupling effects of endogenic and exogenic dynamics, and the environment most sensitive to global climate change. The project area is characterized by extremely cold climate, high elevation and relief, high seismic intensity, high geothermal activity, and high tectonic stress. Consequently, the threat of various disaster risks is ever-present at different stages of the entire life cycle of the Sichuan–Tibet Railway. There is urgent need to systematically study these problems at various levels from the fundamental science to the development of key technologies. This article investigates the different disaster risks recognized during the various stages of construction of the Sichuan–Tibet Railway project, and summarizes the scientific challenges and technical problems faced in relation to disaster risk prevention and control. This work also introduces the scientific deployment and relevant research progress of the Sichuan–Tibet Fund special project initiated by the National Natural Science Foundation of China. Here, we also aim to solve the major fundamental scientific challenges in terms of long-term risk prevention and control during the construction of the Sichuan–Tibet Railway, and lay a theoretical foundation to promote breakthroughs in the bottleneck of key technologies. The scientific challenges addressed in the study of disaster risk associated with the Sichuan–Tibet Railway include the following: The quantitative assessment of the activity of deep-large faults and strong earthquake prediction, the evolution of physical fields in areas of strong tectonic activity, the development mechanisms of tunnel hazards, the slope evolution processes under coupled endogenic and exogenic dynamics in alpine gorges, the impact of climate change on the formation and evolution of surface hazards, and the evolution of extreme wind fields in deep-cut canyons. The technical problems faced in disaster risk prevention and mitigation in relation to the Sichuan–Tibet Railway are as follows: Advanced identification, monitoring, and early warning of geological disasters in mountainous areas with steep and complex terrain; risk analysis, prevention, and control of railway engineering disasters based on their dynamic processes; tunnel engineering hazard monitoring, early warning, risk analysis, prevention, and control technologies; key technologies for emergency response; and the green and resilient railway system and lifecycle risk management. The Sichuan–Tibet Fund special project will include five key research topics: (1) the interior geological structure and dynamic evolution of the eastern plateau; (2) the hazard-inducing mechanisms of coupled internal and external forces in canyons and gullies within plateaus; (3) the cataclysm mechanics of deeply buried long-distance tunnel engineering; (4) risk identification and projection of major disasters affecting the railway; and (5) the integrated management of scientific innovations and super large-scale railway construction. Systematic research is expected to reveal the evolution of earth surface movements and coupled engineering-disturbance related disasters. It will also enable the formation of a comprehensive risk analysis method for major engineering disasters, and promote the development of green, safe, efficient, and resilient engineering disaster risk reduction technologies that will support the disaster risk management during the entire lifecycle of the Sichuan–Tibet Railway. • Investigated the natural and anthropic disaster risks in different construction stages of the Sichuan–Tibet Railway. • Identified the scientific challenges and technical gaps faced in disaster risk reduction of the Sichuan–Tibet Railway. • Proposed fundamental research and technologies development directions for a safe and resilient Sichuan–Tibet Railway. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Urban spatial structure has important impact on environmental pollutant emissions, but few studies have investigated the possibility of a bidirectional influence mechanism between the two. This study used panel data of 108 prefecture-level cities in the Yangtze River Economic Belt (China) from 2009 to 2018. The objective was to test empirically the dynamic emission reduction effect of polycentric spatial structure on environmental pollution using the STIRPAT model as a framework to decipher the bidirectional causality effect. System generalized method of moments and the Sobel Test were applied to construct a panel intermediary effect model to verify the mechanism of urban polycentric development mode on urban haze pollution in China. Results showed that the urban polycentric structure in the Yangtze River Economic Belt has produced substantial pollution reduction effects, and that there are heterogenous regional, size, and functional differences in the impact of urban spatial structure of the Yangtze River Economic Belt on the environment. Moreover, the results of the intermediary effect test showed that market integration and industrial structure optimization are important ways via which to improve environmental pollutant emissions using the polycentric spatial development model. On this basis, suggestions were proposed for optimizing urban spatial structure to promote high-quality development of the Yangtze River Economic Belt. [Display omitted] • Urban polycentric spatial structure has a dynamic abatement effect on environmental pollution. • There are heterogeneous regional, size, and functional differences in the influence mechanism. • Market integration and industrial structure optimization play an intermediary role. • Two intermediary variables can more effectively release the positive externality of polycentric spatial structure. • Cities should strengthen polycentric spatial structure to reduce PM 2.5 pollution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In a rotenone-induced Parkinson's disease (PD) rat model, behavioral investigation, pathological examination, inflammatory factor analysis, and mitochondrial structure and function investigation verified the anti-PD efficacy of nardosinone. A combined transcriptome and proteome analysis proposed that the anti-PD target of nardosinone is the slc38a2 gene and may involve the GABAergic synaptic pathway and cAMP-signaling pathway. Analysis of targeted slc38a2 knockout cells and expression of key enzyme-encoding genes in both pathways verified the target and pathways proposed by the 'omics analysis. This further confirms that nardosinone can regulate the slc38a2 gene, a potential new target for the treatment of Parkinson's disease, and plays an anti-PD role through the GABAergic synaptic and cAMP pathways. [Display omitted] • Nardosinone improves rotenone-induced motor and cognitive impairment in rats. • Nardosinone can alleviate rotenone-induced pathological manifestations in rats. • Nardosinone anti-PD by regulating the GABAergic synaptic and cAMP pathways. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In order to enhance the role of Al in the materials, Al-substituted MnAlO catalysts were synthesized via the hydrothermal-redox method at different calcination temperatures for acetone oxidation. There were Al-substituted α-MnO 2 and amorphous aluminum oxide existed with homogeneous dispersion of elements in the catalysts. The surface property, reaction rate, CO 2 yield and water resistance of MnAlO catalysts were greatly affected by calcination temperatures. MnAlO-450 catalyst exhibited the best catalytic performance (acetone conversion of 90% at 165 °C) with CO 2 yield higher than 99.7%, which was mainly related to the weaker Mn–O bond strength, lower temperature reducibility and abundant Lewis acid sites. The acetone conversion of MnAlO-450 increased by as much as 16% in the presence of 1 vol% H 2 O compared to that in the absence of H 2 O at T 50 (the temperature for 50% conversion of acetone). The acceleration consumption of ethanol as the main by-product by H 2 O improved the catalytic performance. This work would shed light on the Al substitution based catalysts for OVOC oxidation with highly efficient and water resistance. [Display omitted] • MnAlO catalysts are facilely prepared by a one-step hydrothermal-redox method. • The surface property and catalytic activity are affected by calcination temperatures. • MnAlO-450 exhibits excellent catalytic performance and water resistance. • The accelerated consumption of ethanol by H 2 O promotes the acetone oxidation. • PTR-MS and GC-MS results reveal the reaction route of acetone oxidation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pulmonary hypertension (PH) is a chronic and fatal disease, for which new therapeutic drugs and approaches are needed urgently. Baicalein and baicalin, the active compounds of the traditional Chinese medicine, Scutellaria baicalensis Georgi , exhibit a wide range of pharmacological activities. Numerous studies involving in vitro and in vivo models of PH have revealed that the treatment with baicalin and baicalein may be effective. This review summarizes the potential mechanisms driving the beneficial effects of baicalin and baicalein treatment on PH, including anti-inflammatory response, inhibition of pulmonary smooth muscle cell proliferation and endothelial-to-mesenchymal transformation, stabilization of the extracellular matrix, and mitigation of oxidative stress. The pharmacokinetics of these compounds have also been reviewed. The therapeutic potential of baicalin and baicalein warrants their continued study as natural treatments for PH. [Display omitted] • The pathogenesis of PH is briefly reviewed from a therapeutic perspective. • The paper summed up the protective effects of baicalein and baicalin on PH in vivo and vitro. • This paper clarified the underlying mechanism of baicalein and baicalin against PH. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The recent observations of unusual ferromagnetic and superconductive phenomena in sulfur-doped amorphous carbon and highly oriented pyrolytic graphite (HOPG) have attracted significant attention. In this work we present a novel in-depth investigation on the relationship between magnetic-ordering and sulfur-doping-induced structural modifications in pyrolytic graphite. We demonstrate the nucleation of an unusual amorphous carbon film with sp3-rich characteristics as a result of chemical interactions between sulfur and HOPG. Investigations were performed at the controlled temperatures (T) of ~300, 350, 500 °C, with the residence time parameter varying from 1 min to 15 h. Magnetic characterization revealed a re-entrant spin-glass behavior, possibly originating from vacancy-defects created by sulfur migration. Noticeably, long-time air-exposure of the samples (3 weeks) was found to significantly enhance the diamagnetic component. Density functional theory (DFT) calculations applied to a sp3-rich amorphous‑carbon-system in presence of sulfur-bonding revealed a significant variation of the system-metallicity. We report the presence of insulating states up to sulfur concentrations of ~6.25% (atom %), which then vanish at ~7.5% (atom %) of sulfur-doping. Interestingly, inclusion of the sulfur-migration effect within the DFT calculations revealed significant contributions arising from magnetic-moments generated by electron localization at the vacancy sites. Total spin isosurface analyses (spin up - spin down) highlighted the presence of ferromagnetic contributions arising from carbon-atoms, due to dangling bonds generated by point defects (with the largest magnetic moment values being 0.42 μ Β and 0.379 μ Β respectively). [Display omitted] • We present a novel investigation on sulfur-doping-induced structural modifications in pyrolytic graphite. • The nucleation of a sulfur-doped amorphous carbon film is demonstrated. • Magnetic characterization reveals a re-entrant spin-glass behavior. • DFT reveal presence of insulating states up to sulfur concentrations of ~ 6.25% (atom %) • Simulations of sulfur-migration highlighted electron-correlation in proximity of vacancies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • An innovative nitrogen self-doped alveolate biochar was successfully prepared. • Samples possessed outstanding characteristics, such as OH, C O and CONH. • AKB-600 represented with the specific surface area up to 1738 m2/g. • Up to 94.61 % removal efficiency of dye was achieved during reaction system. • Nitrogen-containing and conjugated structures facilitated the actual adsorption. Novel N-doped biochar (AKB) nanomaterials derived from raw kelp root were successfully developed at different temperatures (600–1000 °C) and were used to explore the adsorption performance of cationic dye from water. Various characterization technologies including scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscope (TEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD) patterns, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy and Raman spectroscopy were used to analyze the physical and chemical properties of the samples. The porosity analysis demonstrated that AKB carbonized at 600 °C (AKB-600) possessed a higher specific surface area (1738 m2/g) with a honeycomb-like microstructure. Meanwhile, AKB exhibited abundant functional groups on its surface, such as OH, C O and CONH from FT-IR and XPS analysis, resulting to the high removal efficiency of dye, up to 94.61 % at 60 min. The adsorption isotherm and kinetics data were more suitable for the Langmuir model and the Pseudo-second-order model. Electrostatic interactions and physical adsorption played dominant roles in the adsorption process, particularly, the nitrogen-containing and conjugated structures also facilitated the actual adsorption. Hence, AKB has enormous practical application potential acting as a high-effective adsorbent in the field of dye wastewater treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• ZnO nanorod arrays were prepared using hydrothermal assisted with PEI. • The photodetectors based on PEI-ZnO show a quick response time (~4 s) and high responsivity (~56 A/W). • The flexible devices display reliable stability and robustness under bending tests. • Raman and XPS spectra reveal the defect mechanisms on improved performance. [Display omitted] Investigations on the high-performance flexible ultraviolet photodetectors have been becoming one of the interesting research focuses in recent years. ZnO is considered as suitable material for ultraviolet photodetection due to its wide bandgap (~3.37 eV). In this work, ZnO nanorod arrays were prepared using the hydrothermal method at the temperature of 70 ℃ on flexible substrates. Polyethyleneimine (PEI) was added into hydrothermal solution as the growth additive to achieve the performance improvement of the ZnO nanorod arrays ultraviolet photodetector. SEM, XRD, absorption spectroscopy, Raman spectroscopy and XPS were employed to characterize the morphology, crystallinity, optical properties and chemical composition. The introduction of PEI adjusts the growth process of ZnO nanorod arrays and affects the distribution of defect states, which brings out the improvement of the optoelectronic performance of ZnO nanorod arrays ultraviolet photodetectors. Compared with pure ZnO, the higher photo to dark current ratio and responsivity, and quicker time response speed are demonstrated in the PEI-assisted ZnO nanorod arrays photodetectors. And more photoresponse parameters are also discussed and compared. Furthermore, the photodetectors also display outstanding mechanical flexibility and robustness under multiple bending cycle tests. Our work presents a potential approach for improving the optoelectronic performance of simple-operated flexible ultraviolet photodetectors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

IFNLR1 has been recently identified to be related to autosomal dominant nonsyndromic sensorineural hearing loss (ADNSHL). It is reported to be expressed in the inner ear of mice and the lateral line of zebrafish. However, it remains unclear how defects in this gene lead to hearing loss. To elucidate the global gene expression changes in zebrafish when the expression of ifnlr1 is downregulated. Transcriptome analysis was performed on ifnlr1 morpholino knockdown zebrafish and the control zebrafish using RNA-seq technology. The results show that 262 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were up-regulated while 146 DEGs were down-regulated in the E4I4–Mo zebrafish larvae compared to the control-Mo. Six pathways were significantly enriched, including steroid biosynthesis pathway, adipocytokine signaling pathway, cytokine-cytokine receptor interaction pathway, p53 signaling pathway, AGE-RAGE signaling pathway in diabetic complications, and terpenoid backbone biosynthesis pathway. Among them, three pathways (steroid biosynthesis pathway, cytokine-cytokine receptor interaction pathway and p53 signaling pathway) are immune-associated. The transcriptome analysis results contribute to the groundwork for future research on the pathogenesis of IFNLR1 -associated hearing loss. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The appearance of coexisting ferromagnetic and superconductive phenomena in graphite‑sulfur and amorphous carbon‑sulfur composites has recently attracted an important attention. In this work we propose a novel re-investigation of the carbon‑sulfur doping mechanism performed by employing carbon nanotube networks (cm-scale buckypapers) and graphene-oxide films as host-materials. In the buckypaper-case, the presence of multiple sulfidation processes involving formation of 1) carbon‑sulfur and 2) metal-sulfide phases was demonstrated. Presence of carbon‑sulfur bonding was identified by employing both Raman spectroscopy and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. The conductive and magnetic properties of the sulfur-rich areas within the buckypaper were also investigated. An enhanced carbon‑sulfur bonding was then identified in sulfur-doped graphene-oxide films. In this latter case we demonstrate an almost complete annihilation of ferromagnetic-signals. ESR-spectroscopy of this second-type of system revealed the appearance of a paramagnetic transition for g ~ 2.08 at T ~ 77 K, possibly originating from the carbon‑sulfur bonding. A weak enhancement in the diamagnetic component could be interestingly detected below T ~ 60 K as a consequence of sulfur doping, after subtraction of the percolative ferromagnetic signals. [Display omitted] • We investigate carbon-sulfur doping by employing CNT- networks and graphene-oxide as host-materials. • In the buckypaper-case, formation of carbon-sulfur and metal-sulfide phases was demonstrated. • The conductive and magnetic properties of the sulfur-rich areas were investigated. • Carbon-sulfur bonding was identified also in sulfur-doped graphene-oxide films • Annihilation of ferromagnetic-signals is demonstrated, with appearance of a paramagnetic transition for g~2.08 (T~77K) • A weak enhancement in the diamagnetic component could be interestingly detected below T ~ 60K [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Single-atomic-Co cocatalyst on (040) facet of BiVO 4 photoanode were prepared, presenting enhanced charge separation efficiency and nearly 100 % charge injection efficiency. [Display omitted] • BiVO 4 (040) photoanodes with various exposure degree of (040) facets were fabricated. • Single-atomic-cobalt cocatalyst was in-situ grown on BiVO 4 (040) photoanode. • BiVO 4 (040)/Co SAs-NC presented nearly 100% charge injection efficiency. Monoclinic bismuth vanadate (BiVO 4) shows promising application prospect in photoelectrochemical (PEC) water splitting on account of its relatively ideal band gap to harvest sunlight. However, the poor charge migrate property and sluggish water oxidation kinetics severely limit the PEC performance of BiVO 4 photoelectrodes. In this work, BiVO 4 photoanode with highly exposed (040) facets for superior charge transfer was prepared by a seed assisted hydrothermal method. Moreover, cobalt single atoms stabilized in N-doped carbon nanosheet (Co SAs-NC) was well modified on BiVO 4 (040) (denoted as BiVO 4 (040)/Co SAs-NC) with much improved water oxidation efficiency. The as-prepared BiVO 4 (040)/Co SAs-NC photoanode generated 2.2 times higher photocurrent density than that of pristine BiVO 4 (040) at 1.23 V vs. RHE, and presented nearly 100% charge injection efficiency. The detail kinetic measurements reveal that the modified Co SAs-NC cocatalyst effectively suppresses the carrier recombination and promotes the surface reaction kinetics. This work provides a promising strategy to fabricate composite photoanodes for solar energy conversion based on facet engineering matched with single-atomic-catalyst. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We report a novel investigation of the electronic and magnetic properties of exfoliated lamellae of highly-oriented-pyrolytic-graphite (HOPG) doped with great excess of sulfur. The sulfur-doping process was achieved through annealing at T ~ 250 °C, ~500 °C and ~990 °C. The obtained lamellae were investigated by employing transmission electron microscopy (TEM), Raman point/map spectroscopy and temperature dependent electron paramagnetic resonance (T-EPR). HRTEM analyses of samples doped at T ~ 990 °C revealed an unusual amorphization-effect arising within hexagonal moiré superlattices as a consequence of the sulfur-doping. Complete amorphization was found at T ~ 500 °C. Raman-spectroscopy point/mapping analyses highlighted a dominant carbon-sulfur-band, appearing at Raman-Shifts of 1450 cm−1. T-EPR of heavily doped samples revealed presence of shifts in the position of the π-electron differential absorption feature together with an anomalous signal broadening at T doping ~ 500 °C (from g ~ 1.99 to g ~ 2.10), while zero field cooled (ZFC) and field cooled FC superconducting quantum interference device (SQUID) magnetometry from 2 K to 300 K revealed a critical percolative ferromagnetic temperature at T ~ 25 K and the absence of superconductive transitions. Density functional theory (DFT) calculations applied to a Bernal (AB stacked) bilayer-graphene-system in presence of sulfur-bonding revealed a significant variation of the system-metallicity. We highlight the appearance of insulating states (E -gap of 0.325 eV) at sulfur concentrations of ~1%, which then vanish at ~5.5% of sulfur-doping, due to an enhanced degree of system-metallicity and a modification of the π-bonding- and antibonding-signals. [Display omitted] • We report a novel investigation of sulfur-doped HOPG at T~ 250 ºC, ~ 500 ºC and ~ 990 ºC. • Characterization was achieved through HRTEM, Raman spectroscopy, T-EPR, and T-SQUID. • Magnetometry from 2K to 300K revealed a critical percolative ferromagnetic temperature at T~25K. • DFT calculations applied to a bilayer-graphene-system in presence of sulfur revealed a variation of the system-metallicity. • We highlight the appearance of insulating states (E-gap of 0.325 eV) at sulfur concentrations of ~ 1%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• PEMFC of zigzagged flow field configuration with contrary arrangement is simulated. • Detailed characteristics of the flow field configuration are investigated. • The PEMFC performance is significantly improved in high current density regions. • Quantitative analysis reveals the flow field configuration improves oxygen transport. • Uniformity index analyses find the flow field makes key quantities more uniform. Flow field configuration of a proton exchange membrane fuel cell (PEMFC) is crucial to its performance enhancement because it determines the distribution of reactants and reaction products. This paper numerically investigates a zigzag flow field with a contrary anode/cathode arrangement (ZFFCA). First, a three-dimensional numerical model is developed and validated against the published experimental data of a PEMFC that operates under low-humidity conditions. Then, the behavior of the contrary arrangement design is analyzed and compared with the zigzag parallel flow field (ZPFF) and straight parallel flow field (SPFF) designs. The model predictions show that the ZFFCA and ZPFF flow field designs provide more uniform distributions of oxygen, water content, temperature, and current density compared to the SPFF design, while the ZFFCA configuration is found to exhibit the most uniform distributions. More importantly, besides the enhanced transport along the flow direction in-between the underneath-land and underneath-channel regions in zigzag-shaped channels, the ZFFCA configuration is found to further reduce the mass transport resistance of reactants and boost up the heat/mass transfer rates. Additionally, the findings show that the positive effects of the ZFFCA configuration can further increase under higher relative humidity and larger operating pressure conditions, indicating that the ZFFCA design might be a more advanced option for the PEMFC stacks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Neurogenesis in the adult brain is well recognized and plays a critical role in the maintenance of brain function and homeostasis. However, whether neurogenesis also occurs in the adult peripheral nervous system remains unknown. Here, using sensory ganglia (dorsal root ganglia, DRGs) as a model, we show that neurogenesis also occurs in the peripheral nervous system, but in a manner different from that in the central nervous system. Satellite glial cells (SGCs) express the neuronal precursor markers Nestin, POU domain, class 4, transcription factor 1, and p75 pan-neurotrophin receptor. Following sciatic nerve injury, the suppression of endogenous proBDNF by proBDNF antibodies resulted in the transformation of proliferating SGCs into doublecortin-positive cells in the DRGs. Using purified SGCs migrating out from the DRGs, the inhibition of endogenous proBDNF promoted the conversion of SGCs into neuronal phenotypes in vitro. Our findings suggest that SGCs are neuronal precursors, and that proBDNF maintains the SGC phenotype. Furthermore, the suppression of proBDNF signaling is necessary for neuronal phenotype acquisition by SGCs. Thus, we propose that peripheral neurogenesis may occur via the direct conversion of SGCs into neurons, and that this process is negatively regulated by proBDNF. [Display omitted] • The SGC phenotype is maintained by endogenous proBDNF. • DRG-SGCs may be multipotent neuronal precursors. • DRG-SGCs differentiate into sensory neuron-like phenotypes by inhibition of proBDNF. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• The association of multi-metals exposure on children's IQ was assessed. • Ti and Sn had a synergistic relationship, with a decline in IQ score. • The multi-metal mixtures were negatively associated with children's IQ by BKMR. Associations between most single metals and children's intelligence quotient (IQ) scores have been evaluated in previous studies. However, associations between multi-metal exposures and children's IQ scores have not been analyzed. To assess the joint effects of lead (Pb), manganese (Mn), antimony (Sb), tin (Sn) and titanium (Ti) co-exposure on children's IQ scores. A prospective cohort study was conducted in Shimen and Huayuan, Hunan Province, China. Urine metals levels were measured by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) at baseline. Children's IQ scores were repeatedly measured at baseline and follow-up following the method of Raven's Standard Progressive Matrices (SPM) and standardized as z scores. We fitted linear regression models and Bayesian kernel machine regression (BKMR) models to investigate the associations of metal levels with children's IQ scores after adjusting for covariates. A total of 633 participants aged 7–10 years completed the survey. Urinary Pb (β = -0.028, P = 0.022) and urinary Ti (β = -0.0003, P = 0.001) were inversely associated with children's IQ scores. The BKMR analyses revealed significant negative overall effects of the five metals on children's IQ scores when all the metals were above their median levels, while significant positive associations were shown when all the metal concentrations were below their median levels. The model also showed negative trends of Sn and Ti on children's IQ. Furthermore, Ti and Sn had a synergistic relationship, with a decline in IQ score when Sn exposure was relatively high. The urinary Sn concentration was significantly higher but the urinary Ti concentration was significantly lower in participants from the Shimen area than in those from the Huayuan area. Decreasing trends of the overall effects were observed in both the Shimen and Huayuan areas. Our findings revealed that multi-metal exposures caused a decline in children's IQ scores according to traditional linear regression models and the BKMR model. Our results provide some evidence of the association between multi-metal exposure and children's IQ. Meanwhile, interactions between multi-metal exposures on children's IQ should be given more attention. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hebei is one of the most air-polluted provinces located in China. In this study, NOx, volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and ozone (O 3) observational data obtained at 7 monitoring sites in Hebei Province in the warm season (May to September) in 2019 were analyzed to investigate the spatiotemporal distribution, composition characteristics, and chemical reactivity of VOCs. Results indicated that VOCs concentrations were the highest in Shijiazhuang and Langfang (47.8 and 39.2 ppb, respectively) and the lowest in Zhangjiakou and Chengde (16.6 and 12.0 ppb, respectively). In the warm season in 2019, the monthly average concentrations of VOCs increased initially and decreased subsequently, and the highest concentration found in July and August. The diurnal variation patterns of VOCs exhibited a double-peak curve, with the first peak occurring between 07:00–09:00, influenced by the production and life activities of residents. The second peak occurred between 23:00–0:00 due to the poor atmospheric diffusion conditions at nighttime and the possible transportation from residual layer. Alkanes, haloalkanes, and alkenes were responsible for the largest components to VOCs in Hebei Province, with the average proportions at the 7 monitoring sites of 43.25%, 30.39% and 15.00%, respectively. The ratios of toluene to benzene (T/B) of the monitored sites indicated that the VOCs concentrations at the Shijiazhuang and Xingtai sites were mainly influenced by emissions from coal combustion. In comparison, the VOCs concentrations at the Baoding and Langfang sites were mainly influenced by motor vehicle emissions, while the sites at Zhangjiakou and Chengde were mainly influenced by solvent-based coating and industrial process emissions. Alkenes had the highest chemical reactivity of the VOCs in Hebei Province, ethylene, propene, toluene, and 1-butene were also the high chemical reactivity species. Lastly, tailored schemes for the reduction of O 3 precursor were proposed based on the NOx, VOCs, and O 3 data obtained from the various monitoring sites. • VOCs concentrations were highest in Shijiazhuang and Langfang in Hebei, China. • Ethylene, propene and toluene provided the greatest contributions to O 3 formation. • Tailored schemes for the reduction of O 3 precursor were proposed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]