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Given a positive integer M and a real number x ∈ (0 , 1 ] , we call q ∈ (1 , M + 1 ] a univoque simply normal base of x if there exists a unique simply normal sequence (d i) ∈ { 0 , 1 , ... , M } N such that x = ∑ i = 1 ∞ d i q − i. Similarly, a base q ∈ (1 , M + 1 ] is called a univoque irregular base of x if there exists a unique sequence (d i) ∈ { 0 , 1 , ... , M } N such that x = ∑ i = 1 ∞ d i q − i and the sequence (d i) has no digit frequency. Let U S N (x) and U I r (x) be the sets of univoque simply normal bases and univoque irregular bases of x , respectively. In this paper we show that for any x ∈ (0 , 1 ] both U S N (x) and U I r (x) have full Hausdorff dimension. Furthermore, given finitely many rationals x 1 , x 2 , ... , x ℓ ∈ (0 , 1 ] so that each x i has a finite expansion in base M + 1 , we show that there exists a full Hausdorff dimensional set of q ∈ (1 , M + 1 ] such that each x i has a unique expansion in base q. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Phenanthrene (Phe), a typical low-molecular-weight polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon (PAH) of three benzene rings, is one of the most abundant PAHs detected in daily diets. Pregnant women and infants are at great risk of Phe exposure. In the present study, Phe was administered to pregnant mice at a dose of 0, 60, or 600 μg/kg body weight six times, and the F1 male mice showed significant reproductive disorders: the testicular weight and testis somatic index were significantly reduced; the levels of serum testosterone, GnRH and SHBG were increased, while the FSH levels were reduced; histological analysis showed that the amount of Sertoli cells and primary spermatocytes in seminiferous tubules was increased, while the amount of secondary spermatocytes and spermatids were decreased in Phe groups. The protein levels of PCNA and androgen receptor were reduced. Differently expressed genes in the testis screened by RNA sequence were enriched in antioxidant capacity, reproduction et al.. Further biochemical tests confirmed that the antioxidant capacity in the F1 testis was significantly inhibited by treatment with Phe during pregnancy. Those results suggested that gestational Phe exposure disordered hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) hormones on the one hand, and on the other hand reduced testicular antioxidant capacity and further arrested cell cycle in F1 adult male mice, which co-caused the inhibition of spermatogenesis. • Testis weight and index were reduced and HPG hormones were disordered in F1 male. • Spermatogenesis was decreased, and PCNA and AR protein was downregulated in testis. • Transcription of genes related to antioxidation, reproduction, et al. were changed. • Reduced antioxidation induced cellular toxicities might account for testis toxicities. • Meiosis and energy supply processes might be the direct targets for Phe in testis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract PM2.5 particles in air pollution have been widely considered associated with respiratory and cardiovascular diseases. Recent studies have shown that PM2.5 can also cause central nervous system (CNS) diseases, including a variety of neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer's disease (AD). Activation of microglia in the central nervous system can lead to inflammatory and neurological damage. PM2.5 will reduce the methylation level of DNA and affect epigenetics. PM2.5 enters the human body through a variety of pathways to have pathological effects on CNS. For example, PM2.5 can destroy the integrity of the blood-brain barrier (BBB), so peripheral systemic inflammation easily crosses BBB and reaches CNS. The olfactory nerve is another way for PM2.5 particles to enter the brain. Surprisingly, PM2.5 can also enter the gastrointestinal tract, causing imbalances in the intestinal microecology to affect central nervous system diseases. The current work collected and discuss the mechanisms of PM2.5-induced CNS damage and PM2.5-induced neurodegenerative diseases. Highlights • PM2.5 can increase the risk of many neurodegenerative diseases, like AD, • PM2.5 can damage CNS functions in a variety of pathways. • PM2.5 will reduce the methylation level of DNA and affect epigenetics. • PM2.5 enters the human body through a variety of pathways to have pathological effects on CNS. • PM2.5 can also reach the intestines, affecting intestinal microecology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Compared to traditional anaerobic digestion (AD), high solid anaerobic digestion (HSAD) had the advantages of small digester, low heating energy and less digestate. However, the methane production was poor. In our previous study, thermal treatment (70 ± 1 °C, 3 days) without any dilution could satisfactorily enhance the methane production rate of HSAD by up to 39.5%. However, effects of solid content on HSAD after thermal treatment were not yet studied. In this study, HSAD was conducted at 11.7–17.6% solid content, and the control experiment was conducted at low solid content (4.4% solid content). Results showed that HSAD's methane production rate was the highest at 11.7% solid content (158 mL CH 4 /g VS), and could reach up to 89.2% of that at 4.4% solid content. The utilization of organics was revealed by kinetics analysis that the readily biodegradable organics could be utilized at increasing solid content with decreasing hydrolysis rate. Furthermore, it was notable that methylotrophic methanogens predominated in HSAD with the abundance of 82.6%. This was quite unique from the general belief that AD system was usually dominated by acetoclastic or hydrogenotrophic methanogenic pathways. In this study, the microbial community structure of HSAD after thermal treatment was firstly studied, its unique specific methanogenic pathways was firstly revealed. Graphical abstract Image 1 Highlights • HSAD of thermally treated swine manure was promising but relative study was limited. • Readily-biodegradable organics could be utilized even at 17.6% solid content. • Hydrolysis constant of readily-biodegradable organics decreased with solid content. • Methylotrophic methanogens predominated with the abundance of 82.6%. • Predominant methanogenic pathway observed here was different from the classical one. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Atmospheric polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) emitted from coal combustion has become the major contributor of atmospheric PAHs in China and caused worldwide concern due to their adverse effects on human health and ecosystem. In this work, the abundance, distribution, source and health risk assessment of ambient PM 10 -bounded PAHs were studied in all seasons from a typical coal resource city in China. The spatial distribution characteristics of PM 10 -bounded PAHs were also investigated, which cover 6 functional zones including industrial area, mining area, commercial district, education area, residential area and control area, respectively. The average concentrations (in ng/m3) of 16 EPA priority PAHs in PM 10 in spring, summer, autumn and winter were 194 ± 11.1, 161 ± 14.0, 183 ± 14.1 and 213 ± 19.2, respectively, and with an annual average of 188 ± 21.8. The composition distribution of PM 10 -bounded PAHs in each functional zone showed that 4-rings PAHs were dominated in all seasons, followed by 3-rings and 5-rings. Principal component analysis (PCA) and diagnostic ratio indicated that the main PAH sources were coal combustion, traffic and biomass combustion. Health risk assessment analysis (BEQ) suggested that the residential exposure to PAHs in the mining and commercial areas, particularly in winter season, may pose a greater cancer risk than people living in other parts of Huainan city. The maximum BEQ values were found at mining and commercial areas, which were mainly influenced by the emissions from gasoline or diesel vehicles, coal and biomass combustion. Both inhalation and skin contact have great influence on the cancer risk of residents in Huainan city. Highlights • We assessed seasonal and spatial variations of PM 10 -bound PAHs in coal-mining city. • Annual average levels of PM 10 -bounded PAHs in Huainan city was 188 ± 21.8 ng/m3. • 4-rings PAHs were dominated in PM 10 -bounded PAHs. • Both inhalation and skin contact show great cancer risk. • The main PAH sources were coal combustion, traffic and biomass combustion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights • An in-depth introduction and analysis of a data structure called 3D focus image stacks (3DFIS). • Improved disparity estimation using texture-based view selection and patch size variation. • SVD-based denoising using robust similarity metrics and depth-guided adaptive window selection. Abstract In this paper, we introduce a novel multi-view image denoising algorithm using 3D focus image stacks (3DFIS) to exploit image redundancy within and across views. Robust disparity map is first estimated using the 3DFIS with texture-based view selection and patch-size variation scheme. Leveraging both 3DFIS and the estimated disparity map, the proposed algorithm effectively denoises the target view from multiple views through a low rank minimization approach that incorporates robust similarity metrics and occlusion handling techniques. The paper combs through a number of existing image denoising methods, including the preliminary results in our earlier research efforts, and then details the ways, means and merits of our proposed algorithm. With extensive experiments, we conclude that this novel algorithm is superior over various existing state-of-the-art approaches in terms of both visual and quantitative performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigated the treatment performance of three types of modified activated sludge processes, i.e., anoxic/oxic (A/O), anaerobic/anoxic/oxic (A2/O) and oxidation ditch process, in treating municipal wastewater by measuring physicochemical and spectroscopic parameters, and the toxicity of the influents and effluents collected from 8 full-scale municipal wastewater treatment plants (MWTPs). The relationships between spectroscopic and physicochemical parameters of the wastewater samples and the applicability of the nematode Caenorhabditis elegans ( C. elegans ) bioassays for the assessment of the toxic properties of municipal wastewater were also evaluated. The results indicated that the investigated MWTPs employing any of A/O, A2/O and oxidation ditch processes could effectively control the discharge of major wastewater pollutants including biochemical oxygen demand (BOD), chemical oxygen demand, nitrogen and phosphorus. The oxidation ditch process appeared to have the advantage of removing tyrosine-like substances and presented slightly better removal efficiency of tryptophan-like fluorescent (peak T) substances than the A/O and A2/O processes. Both ultraviolet absorbance at 254 nm and peak T may be used to characterize the organic load of municipal wastewater, and peak T can be adopted as a gauge of the BOD removal efficacy of municipal wastewater treatment. Using C. elegans -based oxygen consumption rate assay for monitoring municipal wastewater toxicity deserves further investigations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • First time to consider the interval attribute of shaft misalignment in the dynamic response analysis. • A new dynamic model considering the coupling effects of multi-DOFs of shaft misalignment. • Chebyshev interval method applied to gear assembly tolerance dynamics analysis. • Effects of uncertain interval shaft misalignment on the amplitude-frequency response of the gear system. Shaft misalignment is regarded as a deterministic parameter in traditional dynamics analysis of gear system, but due to design tolerance and assembly accuracy, shaft misalignment is unavoidably uncertain and this kind of uncertainty exhibits interval attribute. To evaluate the dynamic characteristics of gear system more reasonably, a new nonlinear dynamic model of spur gears considering the uncertainty of shaft misalignment with multiple degrees of freedom (DOFs) is proposed and studied in this paper. First, the meshing analysis of spur gears under shaft misalignment is completed based on tooth contact theory. Then a nonlinear interval dynamic model of gear system is established and an interval analysis approach based on Chebyshev inclusion function and optimization method is used to obtain the upper and lower bounds of the dynamic response. Afterwards, the effectiveness of proposed dynamic model and interval algorithm is validated by comparison with the existing experiments and simulations respectively. Finally, parameter studies are carried out in detail and the result shows that the uncertainty of shaft misalignment will significantly change the internal excitation of gear system and thus enormously enhancing the system vibration, this will bring valuable guidance for the tolerance allocation in gearbox design. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To mitigate aviation's carbon emissions of the aviation industry, the following steps are vital: accurately quantifying the carbon emission path by considering uncertainty factors, including transportation demand in the post-COVID-19 pandemic period; identifying gaps between this path and emission reduction targets; and providing mitigation measures. Some mitigation measures that can be employed by China's civil aviation industry include the gradual realization of large-scale production of sustainable aviation fuels and transition to 100% sustainable and low-carbon sources of energy. This study identified the key driving factors of carbon emissions by using the Delphi Method and set scenarios that consider uncertainty, such as aviation development and emission reduction policies. A backpropagation neural network and Monte Carlo simulation were used to quantify the carbon emission path. The study results show that China's civil aviation industry can effectively help the country achieve its carbon peak and carbon neutrality goals. However, to achieve the net-zero carbon emissions goal of global aviation, China needs to reduce its emissions by approximately 82%–91% based on the optimal emission scenario. Thus, under the international net-zero target, China's civil aviation industry will face significant pressure to reduce its emissions. The use of sustainable aviation fuels is the best way to reduce aviation emissions by 2050. Moreover, in addition to the application of sustainable aviation fuel, it will be necessary to develop a new generation of aircraft introducing new materials and upgrading technology, implement additional carbon absorption measures, and make use of carbon trading markets to facilitate China's civil aviation industry's contribution to reduce climate change. • Quantify aviation's carbon emission path considering uncertainty. • Identify the key driving factors of carbon emissions by the Delphi Method. • Set scenarios based on emission-reduction policies and aviation's development. • Back Propagation Neural Network and Monte Carlo simulation are used. • Sustainable aviation fuels may be the best way to reduce emissions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Temperature has significant effects on thermal modal characteristics of a structure; especially, its distribution uncertainty makes thermal modal characteristics to be more complicated. Such uncertainty also makes definitely predicted results greatly deviate from thermal modal experimental results at high temperature, and even their change trends with temperature would be different. In this work, stochastic thermal modal characteristics of a plate with free boundary conditions induced by a random heating position are studied based on a thermally coupled model. Temperature field distributions of the plate under two-parameter Gaussian heating sources are first obtained. A thermally coupled dynamic model of the plate is then established based on a thermally coupled constitutive relation theory, and its modal parameters are obtained by a differential quadrature method. A statistical analysis method with a small sample based on an improved Bootstrap method and folded normal distribution is proposed to study stochastic thermal modal characteristics of the plate induced by a random heating position, which includes probability density functions of natural frequencies and their confidence intervals. Relevant research will be of great significance to reliability evaluation of thermodynamic experimental results, and error analysis between experimental and theoretical results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The death of Sertoli cells (SCs) under condition of heat stress (HS) affects spermatogenesis and is associated with impaired function of the blood-testis barrier (BTB). The fatty acid arachidonic acid (AA) is essential for the maintenance of cellular function. However, excessive release of AA during HS may adversely affect the reproductive function. The molecular mechanisms through which AA modulates the BTB in SCs are unclear. In this study, we found that 100 µM AA damaged testicular morphology and accelerated SC apoptosis during HS, reducing the stability of tight junction proteins (TJPs), shown by measurement of the levels of Claudin 11, 5, Occludin, and trans-epithelial electrical resistance (TEER). It was also found that AA adversely affected TJPs by increasing the accumulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and malondialdehyde (MDA), activating p38 mitogen-activated protein kinases (P38 MAPK) and reducing mitochondria DNA (mtDNA) and the expression of mitochondrial complexes I and III. In contrast, pretreatment with SB203508 (a P38 MAPK inhibitor), Rotenone (an inhibitor of complex I) and Antimycin A1 (an inhibitor of complex III) reversed TJPs degradation induced by AA. Interestingly, pretreatment of cells with 10 µM Baicalein, a 12/15 lipoxygenase (12/15-LOX) -dependent inhibitor of AA production, protected against AA-induced TJPs degradation, restored mitochondrial function, and reduced apoptosis. These results suggested an intriguing link between the induction of TJPs degradation induced by AA overload and mitochondrial antioxidant function during HS, which was found to be regulated by the mitochondrial complex-ROS-P38 MAPK axis. • Arachidonic acid affected testis morphology and SC proliferation under hyperthermic conditions. • Arachidonic acid damaged the tight junction integrity under hyperthermic conditions. • Arachidonic acid induced ROS accumulation damaged tight junction structure under hyperthermic conditions. • Complex-ROS-P38 MAPK was involved in arachidonic acid-induced tight junction degradation under hyperthermic conditions. • Baicalein reversed the tight junction protein degradation induced by arachidonic acid under hyperthermic conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We synthesized 9 kinds of FeCl 3 /[C 4 mim][Cl] (iron (III) chloride with 1-butyl-3-methylimidazolium chloride) ionic liquids from a mole composition ratio of 1/1.7 to 1.5/1. The conductivities and densities of these FeCl 3 /[C 4 mim][Cl] ionic liquids are measured in the T = (293.15 to 343.15) K range respectively. An extreme increase in the ionic conductivity of tested FeCl 3 /[C 4 mim][Cl] ionic liquid is found when the mole composition ratio of FeCl 3 to [C 4 mim][Cl] ( x ) is less than 1/1, while the conductivity smoothly decreases with the mole composition ratio of FeCl 3 to [C 4 mim][Cl] greater than 1/1. Interestingly, the viscosity of FeCl 3 /[C 4 mim][Cl] ionic liquids decreases as increasing the mole ratio of FeCl 3 in the whole mole composition range. As 1/1.7 ⩽ x ⩽ 1/1, the viscosities decrease extremely, while the trend turns smoothly as x ⩾ 1. As increasing the mole composition ratio of FeCl 3 to [C 4 mim][Cl], the thermal coefficient of expansion of FeCl 3 /[C 4 mim][Cl] ionic liquid gets larger, but the opposite trend is observed for crystal energy at T = 298.15 K according to Glasser’s theory. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Human exposure to endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs) is a health concern due to their wide use and interference with the human endocrine system. Parabens, bisphenols, benzophenones, triclosan (TCC), triclocarban (TCS), and tetrabromobisphenol-A (TBBPA) and its derivatives tetrachlorobisphenol-A (TCBPA) and tetrabromobisphenol-S (TBBPS), are typical EDCs that are frequently detected in environmental and human samples. However, only a few studies have assessed the co-exposure of these chemicals in humans. In this study, urine samples were collected from the general population in the city of Wuxi (n = 121) and a county, Taishun (n = 120), eastern China, and analyzed for these EDCs. Parabens, bisphenols, TCS, and benzophenones were frequently detected in urine, whereas TBBPA and its derivatives were not detected. The geometric mean concentrations of parabens, bisphenols, and benzophenones in urine from the Wuxi population were 25.7, 2.45, and 2.34 ng/mL, respectively, which were substantially higher than those from the Taishun population (17.2, 1.70, and 2.65 ng/mL). These results suggest an urban-rural difference in urinary EDCs. The exposure risks to these EDCs were estimated based on the measured urinary concentrations and acceptable daily intakes (ADIs). Hazard quotient values for EDCs in humans from both locations were generally less than 1, indicating a low exposure risk of EDCs in these regions. Nonetheless, the health risks caused by co-exposure to such EDCs cannot be ignored. [Display omitted] • Several classes of typical EDCs analyzed in human urines from two regions in China. •Parabens frequently found in urine at concentrations of up to hundreds of ng/mL. •The exposure doses of EDCs were higher in the population from city than county. •Despite low health risk for individual EDCs, co-exposure to EDCs is non-negligible. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: This study was aimed to evaluate the clinical value of plasma methylation analysis of a panel of four genes (APC, GSTP1, RASSF1A, and SFRP1), which was identified by our previous work, for the noninvasive diagnosis of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). The methylation status of these four genes in 150 plasma samples from 72 patients with HCC, 37 benign live diseases and 41 normal controls was detected with methylation-sensitive restriction enzymes-based quantitative PCR (MSRE-qPCR) method. The plasma methylation levels of APC, GSTP1, RASSF1A, and SFRP1 were significantly higher in HCCs than those in normal or benign controls (P <0.05). Although the area under the receiver-operation characteristic curve (AUC-ROC) for individual gene was moderate (range, from 0.800 to 0.881), the combination analysis of these four genes resulted in an increased AUC of 0.933 with 92.7% sensitivity, 81.9% specificity, 90.5% positive predictive value (PPV), and 87.2% negative predictive value (NPV) in discriminating HCC from normal control. The combination analysis also indicated an increased AUC of 0.877 when compared with individual gene (from 0.666 to 0.850) in discriminating HCC from benign control, and the consultant sensitivity, specificity, PPV, and NPV was 84.7%, 81.1%, 89.7%, and 73.2%, respectively. Patients with elevated plasma methylation levels of APC or RASSF1A showed poorer overall survival than those with low levels (P <0.05). Cox multivariate analysis demonstrated methylated RASSF1A in plasma to be an independent prognostic factor for overall survival (hazard ratio=3.262, 95% CI: 1.476–7.209, P =0.003). These data showed that quantitative analysis of multiple methylated genes in plasma may be a promising tool for noninvasive diagnosis of HCC; and methylated plasma RASSF1A appears to be a prognostic marker of HCC. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The solubilities of ionic liquids in the ternary systems (ionic liquid+H2O+inorganic salt) were reported at 298.15K and atmospheric pressure. The examined ionic liquids are [C4mim][PF6] (1-n-butyl-3-methylimidazolium hexafluorophosphate), [C8mim][PF6] (1-n-octyl-3-methylimidazolium hexafluorophosphate), and [C8mim][BF4] (1-n-octyl-3-methylimidazolium tetrafluoroborate). The examined inorganic salts are the chloride-based salts (sodium chloride, lithium chloride, potassium chloride, and magnesium chloride) and the sodium-based salts (sodium thiocyanate, sodium nitrate, sodium trifluoroacetate, sodium bromide, sodium iodide, sodium perchlorate, sodium acetate, sodium hydroxide, sodium dihydrogen phosphate, sodium phosphate, sodium tetrafluoroborate, sodium sulfate, and sodium carbonate). The effects of the cations and the anions of the ionic liquids and of the inorganic salts on the solubility of the ionic liquids in the ternary solutions were systematically compared and discussed. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: DNA methylation is a promising biomarker for cancer. This study was aimed at investigating the methylation levels of multiple genes in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and to identify a combination of methylation markers that would be useful for the diagnosis of HCC. The methylation status of a panel of nine tumor-associated genes (APC, GSTP1, RASSF1A, CDKN2A, SFRP1, RUNX3, SOCS1, Hint1, and HIC-1) in 8 normal liver tissues and 47 paired HCCs and non-tumorous tissues (NTs) was determined using a modified methylation-sensitive, restriction enzyme-based quantitative PCR (MSRE-qPCR) method. The methylation levels of six genes (APC, CDKN2A, GSTP1, RASSF1A, SFRP1 and RUNX3) were significantly higher in HCCs than in adjacent NTs (P<0.05). Although the AUC (area under the curve) for each individual gene was low to moderate (range: 0.576 to 0.835) according to receiver operator characteristic (ROC) curve analysis, the combination analysis of these six genes resulted in an increase of AUC of 0.954 with 85.1% sensitivity, 89.4% specificity, 88.9% positive predictive value, and 85.7% negative predictive value in discriminating HCC tissues from NT tissues. These results indicate that the analysis of a combination of these six methylated genes may be a promising method for the risk assessment and diagnosis of HCC. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: This paper proposes an image authentication scheme which detects illegal modifications for image vector quantization (VQ). In the proposed scheme, the index table is divided into non-overlapping index blocks. The authentication data is generated by using the pseudo random sequence. Our scheme can adaptively determine both the size of the authentication data and the number of the indices in each index block. Then, the selected indices are used to embed the secret data to generate the embedded image. To authenticate the given VQ compressed image, two sets of the authentication data are needed to perform the tamper detection process. One set is generated by using the pseudo random number sequence. The other set is extracted from the compressed image. The experimental results demonstrate that the proposed scheme achieves acceptable image quality of the embedded image while keeping good detecting accuracy. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Densities and viscosities were measured for pure ionic liquid [C6mim][Br] (1-hexyl-3-methylimidazolium bromide) and the binary system (water+[C6mim][Br]) at 0.1MPa and in the (293.15 to 333.15)K range. The excess molar volume and viscosity deviation were calculated and correlated by Redlich–Kister polynomial expansions. The fitting parameters and the standard deviations were determined. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Chronic exposure to arsenic has been associated with a variety of cancers with the mechanisms undefined. Arsenic exposure causes alterations in metabolites in bio-samples. Recent research progress on cancer biology suggests that metabolic reprogramming contributes to tumorigenesis. Therefore, metabolic reprogramming provides a new clue for the mechanisms of arsenic carcinogenesis. In the present manuscript, we review the latest findings in reprogramming of glucose, lipids, and amino acids in response to arsenic exposure. Most studies focused on glucose reprogramming and found that arsenic exposure enhanced glycolysis. However, in vivo studies observed "reverse Warburg effect" in some cases due to the complexity of the disease evolution and microenvironment. Arsenic exposure has been reported to disturb lipid deposition by inhibiting lipolysis, and induce serine-glycine one-carbon pathway. As a dominant mechanism for arsenic toxicity, oxidative stress is considered to link with metabolism reprogramming. Few studies analyzed the causal relationship between metabolic reprogramming and arsenic-induced cancers. Metabolic alterations may vary with exposure doses and periods. Identifying metabolic alterations common among humans and experiment models with human-relevant exposure characteristics may guide future investigations. • Arsenic exposure induces metabolic reprogramming. • Metabolic reprogramming contributes to carcinogenesis. • Roles of metabolic reprogramming in arsenic carcinogenesis remain to be clarified. • Link between ROS and metabolic reprogramming in response to arsenic exposure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Arsenic is a significant food safety and environmental concern due to its mutagenic and carcinogenic effect on living organism. Soybean (Glycine max [L.] Merrill) is a global staple crop grown intensively in arsenic-contaminated regions of the world (e.g., Southern Province of China). Therefore, the objective of this study was to investigate whether Se-NPs and/or ZnO-NPs could be used as an eco-friendly and efficient amendment to reduce arsenic uptake and toxicity in soybean. Ten-days-old seedling, grown in vermiculite, were transferred to hydroponic media and further grown till V2 growth stage appeared. AsV (25 μM Na 2 HAsO 4) stressed plants were treated with ZnONP (25 μM ZnO) and SeNP (25 μM Se) separately and in combination, which were grown for another 10 d. The result demonstrated that arsenic-treated soybean plants displayed a reduction in photosynthetic efficiency, increased proline and glycine betaine accumulation in tissues, and altered antioxidant activity compared to an untreated control. The application of zinc oxide and selenium nanoparticles, both independently and in tandem, reduced arsenic stress in root and shoot tissues and rescued plant health. This was reflected through increased levels of reduced glutathione content, ascorbic acid, and various photosynthesis- and antioxidant-relevant enzymes. In addition, nanoparticle-treated soybean plants displayed higher expression of defense- and detoxification-related genes compared to controls. Cellular toxicants (i.e., oxidized glutathione, reactive oxygen species, and malondialdehyde) were reduced upon nanoparticle treatment. These data collectively suggest that selenium and zinc oxide nanoparticles may be a solution to ameliorate arsenic toxicity in agricultural soils and crop plants. [Display omitted] • The effect of NPs on AsV stress alleviation was assessed. • ZnO-NPs and Se-NPs have positive effect on AsV stress alleviation. • ZnO-NPs more efficiently scavenge the ROS than Se-NPs. • Elevated antioxidants biomarker were reported under the NPs treatments. • Concurrent application of both NPs slightly mitigated the AsV stress than the alone application of NPs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

PM 2.5 exposure is considered harmful to central nerve system, while the specific biochemical mechanism underlying is still unrevealed. Neuronal apoptosis is believed the crucial event in pathogenesis of neurodegenerative diseases, but evidence supporting neuronal apoptosis as the mechanism for PM 2.5 exposure induced neuronal injury is insufficient. S-adenosylmethionine decarboxylase 1 (AMD1) and its related spermidine synthesis have been shown to associate with cellular apoptosis, but its role in PM 2.5 exposure induced neuronal apoptosis was rarely reported. The current study was aimed to better understand contribution of AMD1 activity and spermidine in PM 2.5 exposure induced neuronal apoptosis. Sixteen C57BL/6 male mice were randomly divided and kept into ambient PM 2.5 chamber or filtered air chamber for 6 months to establish the mouse model of whole-body ambient PM 2.5 chronic exposure. In parallel, PC12 cells and primary hippocampal neurons were applied for various concentrations of PM 2.5 treatment (0, 25, 50, 100, 200, and 400 μg/mL) to explore the possible cellular and molecular mechanism which may be critically involved in the process. Results showed that PM 2.5 exposure triggered neuronal apoptosis with increased expression of Bax/Bcl-2 and cleaved caspase-3. PM 2.5 exposure reduced AMD1 expression and spermidine synthesis. AMD1 inhibition could mimic PM 2.5 exposure induced neuronal apoptosis. Spermidine supplementation rescued against neurotoxicity and inhibited PM 2.5 induced apoptosis via impaired depolarization of mitochondrial membrane potential and reduced mitochondrial apoptosis related proteins. In summary, our work demonstrated that exposure to PM 2.5 led to neuronal apoptosis, which may be the key event in the process of air pollution induced neurodegenerative diseases. AMD1 and spermidine associated with neuronal apoptosis induced by PM 2.5 exposure, which was at least partially dependent on mitochondria mediated pathway. [Display omitted] • PM 2.5 exposure triggered neuronal apoptosis both in vitro and in vivo. • PM 2.5 exposure reduced AMD1 expression and spermidine synthesis. • Spermidine treatment rescued against PM 2.5 induced neurotoxicity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Mutations in mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) are associated with diverse pathological states in humans, notably sensorineural deafness. In humans, mtDNA4977 deletion, known as common deletion, is thought to play a critical role in presbyacusis. A similar mtDNA deletion occurs in the naturally aging rats is mtDNA4834 deletion. Today, it is still obscure about the effect of common mtDNA deletion on the presbyacusis and hearing loss. We establish a model of rat associated with mtDNA4834 deletion in inner ear by d-galactose. It was found that the malondialdehyde (MDA) increased with superoxide dismutase (SOD) decreasing in the inner ear of the rat treated with d-galactose than of the control. However, there was no significant difference in elevation of ABR threshold between the rat with mtDNA4834 deletion induced by d-galactose and control. After aminoglycoside antibiotic injected, the hearing threshold of the rats carrying mtDNA4834 deletion increased significantly compared with the rats without mtDNA4834 deletion. The results show that resembled accelerated aging in the inner ear of the rat could be induced by injecting d-galactose. Moreover, those suggest that mtDNA4834 deletion can not directly induce the hearing loss, but acting as a predisposing factor which can greatly enhance the sensitivity of the inner ear to the aminoglycoside antibiotic. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Hepatitis C virus (HCV) establishes persistent infection in the majority of infected individuals. The currently accepted hypothesis of immune evasion by antigenic variation in hypervariable region 1 (HVR1) of glycoprotein E2 does not however, explain the lack of subsequent immune recognition. Here, we show that the N-terminal region of E2 is antigenically and structurally similar to human immunoglobulin (Ig) variable domains. E2 is recognized by anti-human IgG antibodies and also possesses common amino acid (aa) sequence features of the conserved v-gene framework regions of human Ig light chains in particular but also heavy chains and T cell receptors. Using a position specific scoring system, the degree of similarity of HVR1 to Ig types correlated with immune escape and persistence in humans and experimentally infected chimpanzees. We propose a unique role for threshold levels of Ig molecular mimicry in HCV biology that not only advances our concept of viral immune escape and persistent infection but also provides insight into host-dependent disease patterns. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: A novel progressive image transmission scheme based on the quadtree segmentation technique is introduced in this paper. A 3-level quadtree is used in the quadtree segmentation technique to partition the original image into blocks of different sizes. Image blocks of different sizes are encoded by their block mean values. The relatively addressing technique is employed to cut down the storage cost of block mean values. In the proposed scheme, the number of image hierarchies can be adaptively selected according to the specific applications. By exploiting inter-pixel correlation and differently sized blocks for segmentation, the proposed scheme provides good image qualities at low bit rates and consumes very little computational cost in both image encoding and decoding procedures. It is quite suitable for real-time progressive image transmission. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The task of classifying the types of moving vehicles in a distributed, wireless sensor network is investigated. Specifically, based on an extensive real world experiment, we have compiled a data set that consists of 820 MByte raw time series data, 70 MByte of pre-processed, extracted spectral feature vectors, and baseline classification results using the maximum likelihood classifier. The purpose of this paper is to detail the data collection procedure, the feature extraction and pre-processing steps, and baseline classifier development. The database is available for download at starting on July 2003. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The predictive equation of Patwardhan and Kumar for the water activity of mixed electrolyte solutions has been used together with the fundamental Butler equations to establish a new simple predictive equation for the surface tension of mixed electrolyte solutions. This newly proposed equation can provide the surface tensions of multicomponent solutions using only the data of the corresponding binary subsystems of equal ionic strength. No binary interaction parameters are required. The predictive capability of the equation has been tested with the experimental data for 26 concentrated multicomponent electrolyte solutions at different temperatures and compared with the model of Li et al. Both equations agree well with the experimental results of systems examined over entire experimental composition ranges, but the new equation generally gives better predictions for most 1:1 electrolyte systems examined, and considerable improvement in predictions has been achieved for all the mixtures containing 1:2 and 2:2 electrolytes and for 1:1 electrolyte systems at higher temperatures. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The dispersion of thoria on the surface of γ-Al2O3 and the surface properties of ThO2/γ-Al2O3 samples, as well as the influence of the loading amount of thoria on the reduction behavior of copper oxide species, have been studied using XRD, XPS, FTIR, and TPR. The results indicate that the dispersion capacity of thoria, like that of ceria, is much lower than for two other tetravalent metal oxides, zirconia and titania, and the surface adsorption amount of the carbonyl compound and H2O slightly increases with increasing thoria loading. The different thoria loadings can influence the reduction behavior of the dispersed copper oxide by comparing the TPR results of CuO/ThO2/γ-Al2O3 samples. In addition, the lower dispersion capacities of thoria and ceria on γ-Al2O3 are tentatively discussed by considering the structural stability of the two oxides. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Indigo is widely used in textile industries for denim garments dyeing and is mainly produced by chemical synthesis which, however, raises environmental sustainability issues. Bio-indigo may be produced by fermentation of metabolically engineering bacteria, but current methods are economically incompetent due to low titer and the need for an inducer. To address these problems, we first characterized several synthetic promoters in E. coli and demonstrated the feasibility of inducer-free indigo production from tryptophan using the inducer-free promoter. We next coupled the tryptophan-to-indigo and glucose-to-tryptophan pathways to generate a de novo glucose-to-indigo pathway. By rational design and combinatorial screening, we identified the optimal promoter-gene combinations, which underscored the importance of promoter choice and expression levels of pathway genes. We thus created a new E. coli strain that exploited an indole pathway to enhance the indigo titer to 123 mg/L. We further assessed a panel of heterologous tryptophan synthase homologs and identified a plant indole lyase (Ta IGL), which along with modified pathway design, improved the indigo titer to 235 mg/L while reducing the tryptophan byproduct accumulation. The optimal E. coli strain expressed 8 genes essential for rewiring carbon flux from glucose to indole and then to indigo: mFMO , ppsA , tktA , trpD, trpC , TaIGL and feedback-resistant aroG and trpE. Fed-batch fermentation in a 3-L bioreactor with glucose feeding further increased the indigo titer (≈965 mg/L) and total quantity (≈2183 mg) at 72 h. This new synthetic glucose-to-indigo pathway enables high-titer indigo production without the need of inducer and holds promise for bio-indigo production. • Developed a sustainable method for indigo production, a common dye used in textile industry. • Characterized and used auto-inducible promoters to create de novo indigo production pathway from glucose in E. coli. • Enhanced indigo titer to 123 mg/L by identifying optimal promoter-gene combinations via combinatorial screening. • Identified TaIGL for creating a new synthetic indole pathway. • Improved indigo titer to 235 mg/L in shakers and to 965 mg/L in a 3-L fed-batch reactor. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Two glycosylated naphthacemycins (naphthacemycins D 1 and D 2) were identified in Streptomyces sp. N12W1565. These two compounds not only showed antimicrobial potential against bacteria but also exhibited more aqueous solubility than naphthacemycins. Furthermore, the whole genome of Streptomyces sp. N12W1565 has been sequenced, the natY gene, located outside the biosynthetic gene cluster encoding a D-glucose glycosyltransferase, was identified to mediate glycosylation in the phenolic hydroxyl of the naphthacemycin core scaffold. Glycosyltransferase was elucidated in vitro by using a homologous enzyme, which showed potential as a biocatalyst. • Isolation of two new glycosylated naphthacemycins from Streptomyces sp. N12W1565. • The genome of Streptomyces sp. N12W1565 was sequenced and the BGC gene cluster (nat) was revealed. • GtfE catalyzed O -glycosylation at C-9 of naphthacemycins in vitro using napthacemycins. • Glycosylation of naphthacemycins improved biological activities and aqueous solubilities. • Glycosylation of naphthacemycins indicated their potential for druggability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Two motion models are proposed to enhance the performance of video object tracking (VOT) algorithms. The first one is a random walk model that captures the randomness of motion patterns. The second one is a data-adaptive vector auto-regressive (VAR) model that exploits more regular motion patterns. The performance of these models is evaluated empirically using real-world datasets. Three real-time publicly available visual object trackers: the normalized cross-correlation (NCC) tracker, the New Scale Adaptive with Multiple Features (NSAMF) tracker, and the correlation filter neural network (CFNet) are modified using each of these two models. The tracking performances are then compared against the original formulation. It is observed that both models of the prior information lead to performance enhancement of all three trackers. This validates the hypothesis that when training videos are available, prior information embodied in the motion models can improve the tracking performance. • Investigate the prior distribution of tracking. • The random walk model captures the randomness of motion patterns. • The vector auto-regressive model predicts from past trajectories. • Experimental results show that refined models yield better tracking results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Several bisphenol analogues (BPs) are gradually replacing bisphenol A (BPA) in many fields, following strict restrictions on the production and use of BPA. The presence of micropollutants in wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) may pose risks to the aquatic ecosystem and human health. In this review, we outlined the occurrence and fate of BPs in WWTPs, and estimated their potential risks to the aquatic ecosystem. BPA is still the most predominant bisphenol analogue in WWTPs with high detection rate and concentration, followed by bisphenol S (BPS) and F (BPF). Biodegradation and adsorption are the main removal pathways for removal of BPs in WWTPs. The secondary (activated sludge process, biological aerated filter, and membrane bioreactor) and advanced (membrane technique, ultraviolet disinfection, adsorption process, and ozonation) treatment processes show high removal efficiency for BPs, which are influenced by many factors such as sludge retention time and redox conditions. BPs other than BPA (assessed in this review) in effluent of WWTPs have low risks to Daphnia magna and early life stages on medaka, while BPA shows a medium or high risk under certain conditions. Knowledge gaps have been identified and future line of research on this class of chemicals in WWTPs is recommended. More data are needed to illustrate the occurrence and fate of BPs in WWTPs. Environmental risks of BPs other than BPA initiating from wastewater discharge to aquatic organisms remain largely unknown. Image 1 • The occurrence, fate and potential risks to aquatic ecosystem of BPs in WWTPs were summarized. •BPA, BPF and BPS are the dominant BPs detected in WWTPs. •The secondary and advanced treatment processes show high removal efficiency for BPs. •BPA has higher potential risk to Daphnia magna and medaka, as compared to other BPs assessed in this review. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We aimed to examine the effect of Honokiol (HKL) on endothelial dysfunction in type 2 diabetic rats and its possible mechanism. A high-fat diet and streptozotocin (STZ) were used to establish the type 2 diabetic model in rats. Part of these rats were intraperitoneally injected with HKL 10 mg/kg daily. Then the expression of Ser1177 phosphorylation of endothelial nitric oxide synthase (p-eNOS), eNOS, and CD31, vasodilation function, insulin signaling, indicators of oxidative stress and relative signaling pathway were measured. Human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) were used to explore the underlying mechanism of the effect of HKL on high glucose-related endothelial injury in vitro. The data showed that HKL could reverse the decline of the expression of p-eNOS and CD31, endothelium-related vasodilation dysfunction, insulin resistance and activation of oxidative stress induced by type 2 diabetes in vivo. The similar results were obtained in vitro. In summary, our study demonstrates that HKL improves endothelial function and diminishes insulin resistance and oxidative stress, suggesting that HKL could be used as a treatment option for diabetes in the future. • HKL was found to improve endothelial function and reduce insulin resistance and oxidative stress in arteries of T2DM rats by activating SIRT3. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] Valence modulation of transition metal oxides represents a highly effective approach in designing high-performance catalysts, particularly for pivotal applications such as the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) in solar/electric water splitting and the hydrogen economy. Recently, there has been a growing interest in high-valence transition metal-based electrocatalysts (HVTMs) due to their demonstrated superiority in HER performance, attributed to the fundamental dynamics of charge transfer and the evolution of intermediates. Nevertheless, the synthesis of HVTMs encounters considerable thermodynamic barriers, which presents challenges in their preparation. Moreover, the underlying mechanism responsible for the enhancement in HVTMs still needs to be discovered. Hence, the universal synthesis strategies of the HVTMs are discussed, and direct Raman spectroscopic evidence for intermediates regulation is revealed to guide the further design of the HVTM electrocatalysts. This work offers new insights for facile designing of HVTMs electrocatalysts for energy conversion and storage through adjusting the reaction pathway. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Osteoarthritis (OA) is characterized with articular cartilage degradation, and monosodium iodoacetate (MIA)-treated chondrocyte is the most commonly used model for mimicking OA progression. Zinc protects chondrocytes from MIA-induced damage. Here, we explored the protective effects of 25 μM zinc on 5 μM MIA-treated SW1353 cells (human chondrosarcoma cell line) through the analysis of energy metabolism- and autophagy-related parameters. We found that the exposure of SW1353 cells to MIA decreased ATP levels, expression of glycolysis-related proteins, including glucose transporter 1, hexokinase 2, and pyruvate dehydrogenase E1 component subunit alpha, and the levels of mitochondrial complex I, II, IV, and V subunits of the oxidative phosphorylation pathway. MIA treatment also decreased the expression of autophagy-related proteins, including autophagic elongation protein 5 (ATG5), ATG7, and microtubule-associated protein 1A/1B light chain 3B (LC3-II) and mitophagy-related proteins, including phosphatase and tensin homolog (PTEN)-induced putative kinase 1 (PINK1), ubiquitin, and p62. These results indicate that MIA interferes with energy metabolism and the autophagic clearance of dysfunctional mitochondria (so called mitophagy). Interestingly, zinc exposure could almost completely reverse the effects of MIA, suggesting its potential protective role against OA progression. Image 1 • Zinc increases ATP production. • Zinc enhances autophagy and mitophagy. • Zinc triggers a significant energy metabolism. • Zinc prevents damaged chondrocyte from energy deprived. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Candida viswanathii is a promising cell factory for producing dodecanedioic acid (DDA) and other long chain dicarboxylic acids. However, metabolic engineering of C. viswanathii is difficult partly due to the lack of synthetic biology toolkits. Here we developed CRISPR-based approaches for rational genome and metabolic engineering of C. viswanathii. We first optimized the CRISPR system and protocol to promote the homozygous gene integration efficiency to >60%. We also designed a split CRISPR system for one-step integration of multiple genes into C. viswanathii. We uncovered that co-expression of CYP52A19, CPRb and FAO2 that catalyze different steps in the biotransformation enhances DDA production and abolishes accumulation of intermediates. We also unveiled that co-expression of additional enzyme POS5 further promotes DDA production and augments cell growth. We harnessed the split CRISPR system to co-integrate these 4 genes (13.6 kb) into C. viswanathii and generated a stable strain that doubles the DDA titer (224 g/L), molar conversion (83%) and productivity (1.87 g/L/h) when compared with the parent strain. This study altogether identifies appropriate enzymes/promoters to augment dodecane conversion to DDA and implicates the potential of split CRISPR system for metabolic engineering of C. viswanathii. • We designed a split CRISPR system to integrate multiple genes (13.6 kb) into C. viswanathii. • We systematically screened and identified optimal enzymes/promoters combinations to convert dodecane to DDA. • Co-integrating CYP52A19 , CPRb , FAO2 and POS5 lifts bottlenecks in different rate-limiting steps. • We developed a C. viswanathii strain that produces hundred grams of DDA (224 g/L) with high molar conversion (83%). • The engineered strain produces 2-fold DDA at a faster rate than the parental strain. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is an infectious disease caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). Emerging evidence indicates that the NOD-, LRR- and pyrin domain-containing protein 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome is activated, which results in a cytokine storm at the late stage of COVID-19. Autophagy regulation is involved in the infection and replication of SARS-CoV-2 at the early stage and the inhibition of NLRP3 inflammasome-mediated lung inflammation at the late stage of COVID-19. Here, we discuss the autophagy regulation at different stages of COVID-19. Specifically, we highlight the therapeutic potential of autophagy activators in COVID-19 by inhibiting the NLRP3 inflammasome, thereby avoiding the cytokine storm. We hope this review provides enlightenment for the use of autophagy activators targeting the inhibition of the NLRP3 inflammasome, specifically the combinational therapy of autophagy modulators with the inhibitors of the NLRP3 inflammasome, antiviral drugs, or anti-inflammatory drugs in the fight against COVID-19. [Display omitted] • Targeting the NLRP3 inflammasome and its inhibitors for the treatment of COVID-19. • Autophagy regulation and the use of its modulators at different stages of COVID-19 • Targeting the inhibition of NLRP3 inflammasome using autophagy inducers in COVID-19 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

From April 2011 to April 2012, we conducted a cross-sectional study in Shanghai, China. A total of 13,335 modified ISAAC questionnaires (response rate: 85.3%) were returned by parents or guardians for 4–6 year-old children. Six dampness-related indicators (visible mold spots, visible damp stains, damp bed clothing, water damage, window pane condensation, and moldy odor) were used to evaluate home dampness-related exposures. In the present study, we applied logistic regression model to reveal associations, dose–response relationships, and statistical interaction effects of these dampness-related exposures, with childhood eczema, during lifetime since birth (ever) and in the last 12 months before the questionnaire. The dampness-related indicators were frequently reported in the perinatal and current residences. Prevalences of eczema ever and in the last 12 months were 22.9% and 13.2%, respectively. The dampness-related indicators were robustly associated and dose–response related with increased risk of eczema ever and in the last 12 months in the logistic regression analyses, with adjusted for potential confounders. Specifically, in the perinatal residence, visible mold spots or damp stains could increase 46% (OR, 95% CI: 1.46, 1.29–1.66) odds of childhood eczema (ever); in the current residence, visible mold spots and visible damp stains could increase 34% (1.34, 1.14–1.58) and 38% (1.38, 1.22–1.56) odds of childhood eczema (ever), respectively. Associations were not appreciably different between boys and girls, nor were they different between children with and without parental history of atopy. In conclusion, perinatal and current dampness-related exposures in the residence perhaps are risk factors for childhood eczema. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cancer is a significant global health concern, and finding effective methods to treat it has been a focus of scientific research. It has been discovered that the growth, invasion, and metastasis of tumors are closely related to the environment in which they exist, known as the tumor microenvironment (TME). The immune response interacting with the tumor occurring within the TME constitutes the tumor immune microenvironment, and the immune response can lead to anti-tumor and pro-tumor outcomes and has shown tremendous potential in immunotherapy. A channel called the P2X7 receptor (P2X7R) has been identified within the TME. It is an ion channel present in various immune cells and tumor cells, and its activation can lead to inflammation, immune responses, angiogenesis, immunogenic cell death, and promotion of tumor development. This article provides an overview of the structure, function, and pharmacological characteristics of P2X7R. We described the concept and components of tumor immune microenvironment and the influence immune components has on tumors. We also outlined the impact of P2X7R regulation and how it affects the development of tumors and summarized the effects of drugs targeting P2X7R on tumor progression, both past and current, assisting researchers in treating tumors using P2X7R as a target. • Comprehensive synthesis of the structure and characteristics of P2X7 receptor. • The pharmacological properties of P2X7 receptor were discussed comprehensively. • The role of P2X7 receptor in tumor immunity was discussed. • It is discussed that P2X7 receptor is a molecular target for tumor therapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The electrochemical nonreactive Co atom protection layers were anchored on/in the surface/interlayer of Ti 3 C 2 via in-situ thermal anchoring, which not only prevents the self-stacking and increases the interlayer spacing of Ti 3 C 2 but also promotes the construction of thin SEI film and reduces the consumption of Li+ and electrolyte during the charge/discharge process. [Display omitted] MXenes are the typical ions insertion-type two-dimensional (2D) nanomaterials, have attracted extensive attention in the Li+ storage field. However, the self-stacking of layered structure and the consumption of electrolyte during the process of charge/discharge will limit the Li+ diffusion dynamics, rate capability and capacity of MXenes. Herein, a Co atom protection layers with electrochemical nonreactivity were anchored on/in the surface/interlayer of titanium carbide (Ti 3 C 2) by in-situ thermal anchoring (x-Co/m-Ti 3 C 2 , x = 45, 65 and 85), which can not only avoid the self-stacking and expand the interlayer spacing of Ti 3 C 2 but also reduce the consumption of Li+ and electrolyte by forming the thin solid electrolyte interphase (SEI) film. The interlayer spacing of Ti 3 C 2 can be expanded from 0.98 to 1.21, 1.36 and 1.33 nm when the anchoring temperatures are 45, 65 and 85 °C due to the pillaring effects of Co atom layers, in where the 65-Co/m-Ti 3 C 2 can achieve the best specific capacity and rate capability attributed to its superior diffusion coefficient of 8.8 × 10-7 cm2 s−1 in Li+ storage process. Furthermore, the 45, 65 and 85-Co/m-Ti 3 C 2 exhibit lower SEI resistances (R SEI) as 1.45 ± 0.01, 1.26 ± 0.01 and 1.83 ± 0.01 Ω compared with the R SEI of Ti 3 C 2 (5.18 ± 0.01 Ω), suggesting the x-Co/m-Ti 3 C 2 demonstrates a thin SEI film due to the protection of Co atom layers. The findings propose a Co atom protection layers with electrochemical nonreactivity, not only giving an approach to expand the interlayer spacing, but also providing a protection strategy for 2D nanomaterials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Current on-chip network and inter-chip interconnection are designed separately. However, this traditional design methodology faces a great challenge: in a multi-chip system, each many-core chip contains hundreds or thousands of processors. The increasing number of on-chip processors must share one input/output unit to interface with the inter-chip interconnection. The increased network usage at the chip interface may create an uneven traffic load in the on-chip network. That is, traffic jams could occur in the chip area around the input/output unit. New technologies, such as through silicon via and silicon interposer, can directly connect networks on chips. These technologies can improve communication performance and reduce power consumption by omitting the input/output unit. This paper proposes a novel routing scheme to deal with the network scalability issues related to the many-core and multi-chip system-in-package paradigm. The proposed scheme can also enhance the fault-tolerance of nano-scale communication in deep-submicron designs. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: This paper proposes a reversible data embedding scheme based on a VQ image compression technique which emphasizes that the original VQ compressed codes can be recovered after data extraction. In this proposed scheme, a VQ codebook, which had already been clustered into three groups, was adopted to achieve secret concealment and data recovery. In order to embed more secret data, the concepts of frequency clustering and trio extension were also introduced. Experimental results showed that the proposed scheme with the lossless recovery facility could work well. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

An adaptive two-stage edge detection scheme for digital color images is proposed in this paper. In the first stage of this scheme, each three-dimensional color image is reduced to a one-dimensional gray-level image using the moment-preserving thresholding technique. Then, a new edge detection technique based on the block truncation coding scheme is introduced to detect the edge boundary in the second stage. The edge detection process makes use of the bit plane information of each BTC-encoded block to detect the edge boundary. The experimental results show that the performance of the detected edge image of the proposed scheme is as good as in Yang''s scheme and in the Sobel operator. However, the computational cost consumed by the proposed scheme is less than that of Yang''s scheme. In addition, the proposed scheme provides an adaptive edge quality decision mechanism. This mechanism can provide different edge images to meet various applications and the subjective evaluation. Moreover, this scheme locates the edge boundaries to the sub-pixel accuracy, which is an advantage to applications such as data hiding and image watermarking. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Breast cancer is the most frequently diagnosed and the leading cause of cancer-related deaths in women worldwide. However, the role of circSLC8A1 in breast cancer remains elusive. Herein, a cohort of 77 breast tumors and paired adjacent normal mammary tissues were collected. We demonstrated that circSLC8A1 was significantly down-regulated in breast cancer tissues and cell lines, of which expression was negatively correlated with clinical severity and dismal prognosis. Overexpression of circSLC8A1 suppressed cell proliferation, migration and invasion in vitro, and inhibited tumor growth in vivo. CircSLC8A1 directly targeted miR-671 to execute tumor suppressive activities via regulating PI3k/Akt signaling. Krüppel-like factor 16 (KLF16), a transcriptional activator of PTEN, was identified as a target of miR-671. Furthermore, circSLC8A1 could sponge miR-671 to suppress breast tumor growth via PTEN/PI3k/Akt signaling in vivo. In summary, circSLC8A1/miR-671 regulates breast cancer progression through PTEN/PI3k/Akt signaling, which may provide efficient therapeutic target for this devastating cancer. • circSLC8A1 is significantly down-regulated in breast cancer tissues and cell lines. • Overexpression of circSLC8A1 inhibited breast cancer tumorigenesis both in vitro and in vivo. • circSLC8A1 serves as a sponge of miR-671-3p. • miR-671 directly targets KLF6 to regulate the transcription of PTEN. • circSLC8A1 sponges miR-671 to inhibit breast tumor growth via PTEN/PI3k/Akt signaling. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Phosphate removal plays a key role in alleviating the eutrophication of water bodies. Herein, a new bimetallic nanocomposite (La-Zr-D201) was prepared for enhanced phosphate removal by confining binary metal oxide (La-Zr) nanoparticles into the pores of a polymeric anion exchanger (D201). The encapsulated La-Zr oxides retain the specific sorption toward phosphate through ligand exchange. The host D201 provides satisfactory hydraulic properties and mechanical strength, and its macropores covalently bound positively charged ammonium groups could enhance nanoparticles dispersion and phosphate diffusion kinetics. Compared with the monometallic samples (La-D201, Zr-D201) and La-Zr loaded active carbon (La-Zr-AC), La-Zr-D201 possesses a higher adsorption capacity for its special structure and a stronger adsorption affinity toward phosphate. Phosphate removal on La-Zr-D201 was examined as a function of solution pH, reaction time, temperature, and competing anions, and the experiment results showed that the nanocomposite possessed superior phosphate adsorption capacity and selectivity. The underlying mechanism for the specific sorption and the stronger affinity of bimetallic adsorbents toward phosphate than monometallic ones were proved by XPS. Besides, column adsorption demonstrated 1350 BV of synthetic water (2 mg P-PO 4 3−/L) could be treated efficiently by La-Zr-D201, while only 160 BV for the host D201. The binary NaOH-NaCl solution could effectively regenerate the spent adsorbents for repeated use. As a result, La-Zr-D201 possesses great potential in the application of enhanced phosphate removal from wastewater. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Human papillomavirus (HPV) E7 protein as an important viral factor was involved in the progression of cervical cancer by mediating the cellular signaling pathways. Daxx (Death domain-associated protein) can interact with a variety of proteins to affect the viral infection process. However, the interaction and its related function between HPV16 E7 and Daxx have not been adequately investigated. Here, it was found that HPV16 E7 can interact with Daxx in HeLa or C33A cells by co-immunoprecipitation. HPV16 E7 protein treatment can up-regulate Daxx protein expression, while the interference in Daxx expression and the agonists for JNK can both reduce the antagonistic effects of HPV16 E7 on TNF-α-induced apoptosis, suggesting that Daxx/JNK pathway may be involved in the anti-apoptotic activity of HPV16 E7. • Interaction between HPV16 E7 and Daxx in HeLa and C33A cells. • HPV16 E7 protein up-regulated Daxx expression and antagonized cells apoptosis. • Daxx/JNK pathway can be involved in HPV16 E7 antagonizing cell apoptosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Benzo[ d ][1,2]selenazol-3(2 H)-one and [1,2]selenazolo[5,4-c]pyridin-3(2H)-one are promising scaffolds for further development of PLpro/Mpro dual-target antiviral drugs. [Display omitted] • The enzyme inhibitory activities of 32 compounds were tested, and compounds 6c , 6d, 7c , 7d and 7e were identified as potent PLpro and Mpro inhibitors with nM potency. • Compound 6c was identified as a PLpro covalent inhibitor, while compound 7e was found to be a non-covalent inhibitor. • The compounds 6c and 7e effectively inhibited SARS-CoV-2 replication in Vero E6 cells. • The rat liver homogenate half-life of compounds 6c and 7e exceeded 24 h. Global coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic still threatens human health and public safety, and the development of effective antiviral agent is urgently needed. The SARS-CoV-2 main protease (Mpro) and papain-like protease (PLpro) are vital proteins in viral replication and promising therapeutic targets. Additionally, PLpro also modulates host immune response by cleaving ubiquitin and interferon-stimulated gene product 15 (ISG15) from ISGylated host proteins. In this report, we identified [1,2]selenazolo[5,4- c ]pyridin-3(2H)-one and benzo[ d ]isothiazol-3(2H)-one as attractive scaffolds of PLpro and Mpro inhibitors. The representative compounds 6c and 7e exhibited excellent PLpro inhibition with percent inhibition of 42.9% and 44.9% at 50 nM, respectively. The preliminary enzyme kinetics experiment and fluorescent labelling experiment results determined that 6c was identified as a covalent PLpro inhibitor, while 7e was a non-covalent inhibitor. Molecular docking and dynamics simulations revealed that 6c and 7e bound to Zn-finger domain of PLpro. Compounds 6c and 7e were also identified to potent Mpro inhibitors, and they exhibited potent antiviral activities in SARS-CoV-2 infected Vero E6 cells, with EC 50 value of 3.9 μM and 7.4 μM, respectively. In addition, the rat liver homogenate half-life of 6c and 7e exceeded 24 h. These findings suggest that 6c and 7e are promising led compounds for further development of PLpro/Mpro dual-target antiviral drugs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a significant risk factor for mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and the acceleration of MCI to dementia. The high glucose level induce disturbance of neurovascular (NV) coupling is suggested to be one potential mechanism, however, the neuroimaging evidence is still lacking. To assess the NV decoupling pattern in early diabetic status, 33 T2DM without MCI patients and 33 healthy control subjects were prospectively enrolled. Then, they underwent resting state functional MRI and arterial spin labeling imaging to explore the hub-based networks and to estimate the coupling of voxel-wise cerebral blood flow (CBF)-degree centrality (DC), CBF-mean amplitude of low-frequency fluctuation (mALFF) and CBF- mean regional homogeneity (mReHo). We further evaluated the relationship between NV coupling pattern and cognitive performance (false discovery rate corrected). T2DM without MCI patients displayed significant decrease in the absolute CBF-mALFF, CBF-mReHo coupling of CBFnetwork and in the CBF-DC coupling of DCnetwork. Besides, networks which involved CBF and DC hubs mainly located in the default mode network (DMN). Furthermore, less severe disease and better cognitive performance in T2DM patients were significantly correlated with higher coupling of CBF-DC, CBF-mALFF or CBF-mReHo, especially for the cognitive dimensions of general function and executive function. Thus, coupling of CBF-DC, CBF-mALFF and CBF-mReHo may serve as promising indicators to reflect NV coupling state and to explain the T2DM related early cognitive impairment. Image 1 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]