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The Janus biomass aerogel was constructed by HLS (hydrothermal-treated loofah sponges) with rGO aerogel partial modification. The hydrophobic HLS@rGO serves as solar absorber for photothermal conversion, and the hydrophilic HLS ensure efficient water transportation. The Janus evaporator can achieve highly efficient solar-driven steam generation, seawater desalination, organic pollutant degradation, and water disinfection simultaneously. [Display omitted] Solar-driven water purification has been deemed as a cheap, green and renewable technology to mitigate water shortage and pollution. Herein, a biomass aerogel with hydrophilic-hydrophobic Janus structure has been prepared as solar water evaporator, which is achieved by partially modifying hydrothermal-treated loofah sponge (HLS) with reduced graphene oxide (rGO). It's a rare design philosophy that HLS serves as a substrate with large pores and hydrophilic properties to ensure continuous and effective water transport, and the hydrophobic layer with rGO modification guarantees good salt resistance in seawater desalination with high photothermal conversion efficiency. As a result, the obtained Janus aerogel, p-HLS@rGO-12, exhibits impressive solar-driven evaporation rates of 1.75 kg m-2h−1 and 1.54 kg m-2h−1 for pure water and seawater respectively, with good cycling stability in the evaporation process. Furthermore, p-HLS@rGO-12 also demonstrates outstanding photothermal degradation of rhodamine B (greater than98.8 % in 2 h) and sterilization of E. coli (nearly 100 % in 2 h). This work offers an unusual approach to achieve highly efficient solar-driven steam generation, seawater desalination, organic pollutant degradation, and water disinfection simultaneously. The prepared Janus biomass aerogel holds great potential application in the field of seawater desalination and wastewater purification. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Braden Scale is widely used to assess the risk of pressure injury. However, the vague literal description of the items creates difficulties for bedside nurses and limits its sensitivity. To solve this problem, we developed a cartoon version of the Braden scale (CVBS) to improve the pressure injury risk assessment ability of bedside nurses. The CVBS was constructed by two nurses, and the final version was determined through a two-round Delphi consultation. The scale's content validity was calculated based on expert ratings. A total of 265 patients were evaluated simultaneously with the CVBS by 119 bedside nurses and 46 wound care specialists; and 114 bedside nurses and the same 46 wound care specialists evaluated 239 patients with the original Braden scale (OBS). The interrater reliability between the two groups was calculated as Kappa value, and then the Kappa values of the two versions were compared. The content validity for the draft scale was not good enough. After modification, the indices of all the items in the final CVBS reached 1.00. The Kappa value of the OBS was 0.69 (95% CI 0.61-0.76); for each item, it ranged from 0.60 to 0.80. The interrater reliabilities of the CVBS were higher than those of the OBS, with an overall kappa value of 0.87 (95% CI 0.81-0.92) and a range of 0.77 to 0.93 for each item. The differences between the Kappa values of the CVBS and those of the OBS were all statistically significant. The CVBS had good validity and showed higher interrater reliability than the OBS, indicating that it may improve bedside nurses' ability to assess pressure injury risk. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Graphical abstract Abstract We present a facile two-step procedure for synthesizing spiky nanohybrids of titanium dioxide/gold (TiO 2 /Au) nanoparticles. In this process, spiky TiO 2 is obtained using a hydrothermal method, followed by the introduction of plasmonic Au nanoparticles (AuNPs) via a photoreduction approach in which titanium fluoride and chloroauric acid tetrahydrate are used as raw materials. The photodegradation property of the resulting sample was evaluated according to the removal of Rhodamine B (RhB) and ciprofloxacin (CIP) via excitation with visible light. Additionally, the antimicrobial property of the spiky TiO 2 /Au nanoparticles was examined with respect to the suppression of the growth of Escherichia coli (E. coli). Compared with commercial TiO 2 , the spiky TiO 2 /Au nanoparticles exhibited a significantly enhanced photocatalytic efficiency in persistent organic pollutant degradation and bacteria inactivation under simulated environmental conditions. The photocatalysis mechanism primarily entails the combination of AuNPs with spiky TiO 2 nanoparticles, which increases the optical path owing to the unique spiky structures of the latter. This results in an improved light-harvesting efficiency based on the localized surface plasmon resonance (LSPR) of AuNPs and the promotion of the charge-separation efficiency through electron-trap processes. These nanoparticles realize the objective of effectively addressing the inherent weaknesses of bare TiO 2 and potentially facilitate new fitting approaches for applications in sewage treatment and marine antifouling paint. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Natural biological systems often use hollow structures to decrease reflection and achieve high solar light utilization. Herein, bio-inspired Au@TiO 2 yolk-shell nanoparticles (NPs) have been designed to combine the advantages of noble metal coupling and hollow structures, and subsequently synthesized via a facile one-pot hydrothermal approach. The Au@TiO 2 yolk-shell NPs not only exhibit reduced reflectance by multiple reflections and scattering within the hollow NPs, but also show enhanced photocatalytic activity in Rhodamine B (RhB) degradation by simultaneously improving light harvesting, charge separation and reaction site accessibility. Specifically, compared to the commercial TiO 2 (P25), Au/TiO 2 hybrid and Au@TiO 2 core-shell NPs, the Au@TiO 2 yolk-shell NPs demonstrate lower reflectance over a broader range and superior photocatalytic activity with more than 98.1% of RhB decomposed within 4 h under visible light. The bio-inspired nanostructure, as well as the facile and scalable fabrication approach, will open a new avenue to the rational design and preparation of efficient photocatalysts for pollutant removal. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The level, distribution, compositional pattern and possible sources of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in Lanzhou urban soil of Northwest China were investigated in this study. The total level of 22 PAHs ranged from 115 to 12,100 µg kg −1 and that of 16 priority PAHs from 82.4 to 10,900 µg kg −1 . Seven carcinogenic PAHs generally accounted for 6.18–57.4% of total 22 PAHs. Compared with data from those reported about urban areas, PAH contamination in Lanzhou urban soils was moderate. Among different functional areas, higher level of PAHs was found along roadsides and in the industrial district ( p <0.01), while lower levels were detected in the commercial, park and residential districts. The composition of PAHs was characterized by high molecular weight PAHs (≥4 rings), among which fluoranthene, benz[a]anthracene and phenanthrene were the most dominant components. Correlation analysis suggested that low molecular weight PAHs and high molecular weight PAHs originated from different sources and further corroborated that TOC was an important factor in the accumulation of PAHs in soil. Isomer ratios and principal component analysis indicated that PAHs in urban soil derived primarily from emissions resulting from the combustion of biomass, coal and petroleum products. Toxic equivalent concentrations (BaP eq ) of soil PAHs ranged from 6.12 to 1302 µg BaP eq kg −1 , with a mean of 138 µg BaP eq kg −1 . The results suggested that human exposure to those soils which polluted by high concentrations of PAHs through direct ingestion or inhalation of suspended soil particles probably poses a significant risk to human health from the carcinogenic effects of PAHs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Interferon regulatory factor 7 (IRF7) plays an important role in regulating the response of type I interferon (IFN) to viral infection. To understand the mechanisms underlying immune reactions in the Pacific cod, Gadus macrocephalus , the gene encoding G . macrocephalus IRF7 was cloned and characterized. The cDNA of G . macrocephalus IRF7 was also cloned and sequenced. A cDNA sequence of 2032 bp was assembled using polymerase chain reaction (PCR) products. It contains an open reading frame of 1323 bp in length, which encoded a 440-amino acid polypeptide that comprised a DNA-binding domain (DBD), an IRF association domain (IAD), and a serine-rich domain (SRD). In the DBD, the tryptophan cluster consisted of only four tryptophans, which is a unique characteristic in fish IRF7. The mRNA of IRF7 was detected in various tissues, including in the spleen, thymus, kidney, intestine, and gills, using relative quantification PCR (R-qPCR). Dynamic expression of IRF7 was observed in larvae throughout post-hatching (ph) development, with the highest level detected at day of ph (dph) 25. Response to immune stimulation was examined by challenging larvae with polyriboinosinic polyribocytidylic acid (pIC) to mimic viral infection and elicit an immune reaction. R-qPCR revealed that the expression of IRF7 significantly increased in pIC-treated groups relative to that in the control groups, in a time-dependent manner, with peak responses at 48 and 72 h after pIC-treatment. These results show that IRF7 is expressed in various tissues of adult fish and larvae and is sensitive to viral infection, suggesting that it plays a role in antiviral immune defense in G . macrocephalus . [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: High mobility group protein B1 (HMGB1) is an important late inflammatory mediator in sepsis. Understanding the mechanisms that regulate HMGB1 release from cells and their downstream signal transduction pathways may lead to the ability to develop anti-HMGB1 therapies to treat inflammation. Materials and Methods: We stimulated murine macrophage-like RAW 264.7 cells with lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and LPS+ ethylpyruvate (EP) and examined the resulting HMGB1 expression and release. We also studied the expression of related signal transduction factors (NF-κB, p38 MAPK, and CBP). Results and Conclusion: Gene expression of HMGB1 mRNA in RAW264.7 cell showed no significant change at 0–18 h after stimulation with LPS, but increased significantly at 24, 36, and 48 h. HMGB1 mRNA expression in the LPS+EP group was significantly lower than in LPS alone. HMGB1 was distributed mainly in the nucleus; the cytoplasmic level was low before LPS stimulation. After stimulation with LPS, cytoplasmic HMGB1 increased gradually and plateaued at a high level at 12–48 h. Nuclear HMGB1 decreased gradually at 12–24 h, then increased, maintaining a comparatively high level at 36–48 h. EP prevented this pattern significantly. LPS induced p38 MAPK activation and NF-κB signal pathways first, followed by CBP activation. Activated CBP acetylated HMGB1 was stored in a crino-lysosome and secreted activated NF-κB resulted in increased transcription and synthesis of HMGB1, but the expression of up-regulated HMGB1 mRNA was delayed. Extracellular HMGB1 originated from early synthetic reserves present in the nucleus. New HMGB1 protein was synthesized in the nucleus and transferred into the cytoplasm, causing an increase in HMGB1 in the nucleus and cytoplasm. EP inhibits HMGB1 mRNA up-regulation and release from LPS- stimulated macrophages. The molecular function of EP is to attenuate the activation p38 MAPK, NF-κB, and CBP signaling pathways. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The controlled self-assembly of multi-components in one system represents the capability integrating intermolecular interactions and functions of components and is believed the key procedure leading to multifunctional materials finally. In pursuing this goal, we used a double-chain cationic surfactant with a benzoic acid group at the end of one tail to encapsulate Keggin-type polyanion clusters via electrostatic interaction, obtaining uniform supramolecular hybrid reverse micelles, which served as hydrogen-bonding donors. Five pyridine derivatives containing conjugated and non-conjugated groups were chosen as hydrogen-bonding acceptors to bind with reverse micelles. Through mixing with these components according to chemical stoichiometry, the hybrid reverse micelle changed to a new self-assembly precursor through intermolecular hydrogen bonding. The as-prepared reverse micelles bearing conjugated pyridine groups exhibit supramolecular liquid crystal properties, which were characterized by differential scanning calorimetry, polarizing optical microscopy, and X-ray diffraction. The length and number of the alky chain in the pyridine derivatives, as well as the charges of polyoxometalates were also studied with regard to the liquid crystal structure. The synergistic effect of among three components was analyzed, and the liquid crystal properties could be conveniently adjusted through the modification of the hydrogen-bonding acceptor components. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Symplocarpus, Lysichiton, and Orontium (Orontioideae) are three of the few north temperate genera of the primarily tropical Araceae. Symplocarpus is disjunctly distributed in eastern Asia (3 spp.) and eastern North America (1 sp.); Lysichiton has an intercontinental discontinuous distribution in eastern Asia (1 sp.) and northwestern North America (1 sp.); and the monotypic Orontium is restricted to eastern North America. Phylogenetic analysis of the trnL–F and ndhF sequences supports (1) the monophyly of both Symplocarpus and Lysichiton, (2) the sister-group relationship of Symplocarpus and Lysichiton, and (3) the clade of Orontium, Symplocarpus, and Lysichiton. Although Symplocarpus shows a much wider disjunction than Lysichiton, the estimated divergence time of the former [4.49±1.69 or 6.88±4.18 million years ago (mya)] was similar to that of the latter (4.02±1.60 or 7.18±4.33mya) based on the penalized likelihood and the Bayesian dating methods, respectively. Eastern Asia was suggested to be the ancestral area of the Symplocarpus–Lysichiton clade based on the dispersal–vicariance analysis. Our biogeographic results support independent migrations of Symplocarpus and Lysichiton across the Bering land bridge in the late Tertiary (Pliocene/late Miocene). Fossil evidence suggests Orontioideae dated back to the late Cretaceous in the temperate Northern Hemisphere (72mya). The relative rate test shows similar substitution rates of the trnL–F sequences between the proto and the true aroids, although the latter has substantially higher species diversity. The proto Araceae perhaps suffered from a higher rate of extinction in the temperate zone associated with periods of climatic cooling in the Tertiary. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

[Display omitted] Intelligent shape memory polymer can be potentially used in manufacturing implantable devices that enables a benign variation of implant dimensions with the external stimuli, thus effectively lowering insertion forces and evading associated risks. However, in surgical implantation, biomaterials-associated infection has imposed a huge burden to healthcare system that urgently requires an efficacious replacement of antibiotic usages. Preventing the initial attachment and harvesting a biocidal function upon native surfaces may be deemed as a preferable strategy to tackle the issues of bacterial infection. Herein, a functionalized polylactic acid (PLA) composite membrane assembled with graphene (GE, a widely used photothermal agent) was fabricated through a blending process and then polydimethylsiloxane utilized as binders to pack hydrophobic SiO 2 tightly onto polymer surface (denoted as PLA-GE/SiO 2). Such an active platform exhibited a moderate shape-memory performance upon near-infrared (NIR) light stimulation, which was feasible for programmed deformation and shape recovery. Particularly stirring was that PLA-GE/SiO 2 exerted a pronounced bacteria-killing effect under NIR illumination, 99.9 % of E. coli and 99.8 % of S. aureus were effectively eradicated in a lean period of 5 min. Furthermore, the obtained composite membrane manifested excellent antiadhesive properties, resulting in a bacteria-repelling efficacy of up to 99 % for both E. coli and S. aureus species. These findings demonstrated the potential value of PLA-GE/SiO 2 as a shape-restorable platform in "kill&repel" integration strategy, further expanding its applications for clinical anti-infective treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cyclophilin D (CypD) can stimulate the opening of the membrane permeability transition pore (mPTP) and regulate mitochondrial function. Whole-body knockout of CypD improved high fat diet-induced hepatic steatosis by reducing the excess opening of the mPTP and lipid deposition. However, whether CypD significantly ameliorates nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) has not been studied. Therefore, we established liver-specific CypD knockout (CypD LKO) mice and fed a HFHC diet to induce NASH. Compared with the wild-type mice, the CypD LKO not only showed improved lipid deposition and insulin resistance by increasing fatty acid oxidation but also displayed ameliorated hepatic inflammation, although the symptoms of fibrosis in the NASH model were not significantly improved. In addition, we used bile duct ligation (BDL) or a 0.1% 3,5-diethoxycarbonyl-1,4-dihydrocollidine (DDC) diet to induce cholestatic disease and found that CypD LKO had also no significant effect on acute fibrosis. Thus, CypD LKO can inhibit the progression of early NASH by ameliorating steatosis and inflammatory symptoms. These results suggest a new strategy for the treatment of early NASH. • Liver cyclophilin D knockout can significantly improve liver lipid accumulation induced by long-term HFHC diet, which is consistent with whole-body knockout of cyclophilin D. • Liver cyclophilin D knockout can improve the symptoms of inflammation induced by long-term HFHC diet. • Liver cyclophilin D deficiency did not significantly improve the symptoms of fibrosis. • Liver cyclophilin D deficiency inhibits the progression of early NASH by ameliorating steatosis and inflammation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As a high-efficiency electrocatalyst for NH 3 production via NO 2 − reduction, Mo-doped Co 3 O 4 nanoarray exhibits an extremely high Faradaic efficiency of 96.9 % and a corresponding NH 3 yield of up to 651.5 μmol/h cm−2 at −0.5 V. [Display omitted] • Mo-doped Co 3 O 4 nanoarray on titanium mesh is synthesized as an effective catalyst for NO 2 −-to-NH 3 conversion. • Mo-Co 3 O 4 /TM exhibits a high NH 3 Faradaic efficiency of 96.9 % and a related yield of 651.5 μmol h−1 cm−2 with strong stability. • DFT calculations reveal the catalytic mechanism of NO 2 −RR on Mo-Co 3 O 4. • The fabricated Zn-NO 2 − battery achieves a peak power density of 3.6 mW cm−2 and a satisfactory NH 3 yield of 108.4 μmol h−1 cm−2. Electrochemical conversion of nitrite (NO 2 −) contaminant to green ammonia (NH 3) is a promising approach to achieve the nitrogen cycle. The slow kinetics of the complex multi-reaction process remains a serious issue, and there is still a need to design highly effective and selective catalysts. Herein, we report that molybdenum doped cobalt oxide nanoarray on titanium mesh (Mo-Co 3 O 4 /TM) acts as a catalyst to facilitate electroreduction of NO 2 − to NH 3. Such a catalyst delivers an extremely high Faradaic efficiency of 96.9 % and a corresponding NH 3 yield of 651.5 μmol h−1 cm−2 at −0.5 V with strong stability. Density functional theory calculations reveal that the introduction of Mo can induce the redistribution of electrons around Co atoms and further strengthen the adsorption of NO 2 −, which is the key to facilitating the catalytic performance. Furthermore, the assembled battery based on Mo-Co 3 O 4 /TM suggests its practical application value. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Oxalate anions (C 2 O 4 2–) intercalation in NiFe layered double hydroxide on nickel foam (NiFe-C 2 O 4 2– LDH/NF) serves as a highly efficient electrocatalyst for oxygen evolution reaction, capable of achieving a large current density of 1000 mA cm−2 with an overpotential of 337 mV and maintaining 500-h electrolytic tolerance in alkaline seawater. [Display omitted] • An anti-corrosion strategy of oxalate anions (C 2 O 4 2–) intercalation in NiFe layered double hydroxide (NiFe LDH) is proposed, where the presence of highly negatively charged C 2 O 4 2– within the interlayers impedes the proximity of Cl– through electrostatic repulsion. • NiFe-C 2 O 4 2– LDH/NF presents excellent oxygen evolution reaction performance, achieving the current density of 1000 mA cm−2 at overpotential of 337 mV in 1 M KOH + seawater. • Long-term stable seawater oxidation for NiFe-C 2 O 4 2– LDH/NF at an industrial-grade current density of 1000 mA cm−2 can be maintained for 500 h. Seawater electrolysis is gaining recognition as a promising method for hydrogen production. However, severe anode corrosion caused by the high concentration of chloride ions (Cl–) poses a challenge for the long-term oxygen evolution reaction. Herein, an anti-corrosion strategy of oxalate anions intercalation in NiFe layered double hydroxide on nickel foam (NiFe-C 2 O 4 2– LDH/NF) is proposed. The intercalation of these highly negatively charged C 2 O 4 2– serves to establish electrostatic repulsion and impede Cl– adsorption. In alkaline seawater, NiFe-C 2 O 4 2– LDH/NF requires an overpotential of 337 mV to gain the large current density of 1000 mA cm−2 and operates continuously for 500 h. The intercalation of C 2 O 4 2– is demonstrated to significantly boost the activity and stability of NiFe LDH-based materials during alkaline seawater oxidation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Explanation of anti-bacterial adhesion and photocatalytic sterilization and degradation of superhydrophobic photothermal film. [Display omitted] Interfacial solar steam generation (ISSG) has been regarded as a simple and highly-efficient method for wastewater purification. Herein, we prepared a superhydrophobic composite membrane, in which polydimethylsiloxane employed as binders to pack graphite flakes and titanium dioxide tightly onto cotton cloth (defined as cotton cloth@PDMS-C-P25). Benefiting from its powerful photothermal effects, cotton cloth@PDMS-C-P25 exhibited high evaporation flux of 1.86 kg m−2 h−1 and 1.73 kg m−2 h−1 for pure water and seawater, respectively. Meanwhile, the prepared composite membrane fulfilled the targets of sewage purification set by its photocatalytic properties, which demonstrated a degradation rate of 66.1 % for Rhodamine B (RhB), and antibacterial efficiency of over 99.99 % for Escherichia coli (E. coli). Furthermore, cotton cloth@PDMS-C-P25 surface was endowed with superhydrophobic and low-adhesion characteristics mainly owing to the synergy of multiscale structure and low surface energy matter, which contribute to the anti-adhesion effect of 97.9 % for E. coli at a high concentration of 107 colony forming units (CFUs). In this work, the cost-effective, environmentally friendly, long-term stable, and superhydrophobic solar-absorber holds a potential prospect for wastewater treatment and desalination in a typical pollution-induced water shortage area. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the present study, we used genetic data and ecological niche modelling to explore possible historical introgressions among the species of Rodgersia (Saxifragaceae) in central-southwest China. Markedly differentiated chloroplast haplotypes were found in R. aesculifolia , R. sambucifolia and the Lijiang (LJ) population of R. pinnata , respectively, and differentiated chloroplast haplotypes within each of them showed the closest relationships with haplotypes from different species. ITS cloning did not reveal any shared ribotype between R. aesculifolia and the remaining species. Historical introgression between R. aesculifolia and R. sambucifolia (or R. pinnata ) seems to be the most plausible explanation according to the geographical pattern and derivative status of putative introgressed chloroplast haplotypes, and also from morphological evidence. Introgressions were also found among R. sambucifolia , R. pinnata , and R. henricii from Yunnan. Frequent gene exchanges may have promoted the diversity of leaf shapes in this genus. Ecological niche modelling indicated that past secondary contact following range shifts during Pleistocene cold periods may have provided opportunities for ancient introgression between R. aesculifolia and adjacent species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights: [•] Quick preparation of patterned film is developed by reverse microemulsion method. [•] Additives can selectively anchor into patterned cavities while pattern formation. [•] The inorganic cluster-modified polymer film exhibits selective protein adsorption. [•] The protein-modified polymer film is applicable for further patterned immunoassay. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] Semiconductor photocatalysis, as a means of utilizing stranded renewable solar resources, is now emerging as a viable and promising approach for increasingly severe water pollution. In this work, a high-performance photocatalytic system has been fabricated by immobilizing spiky TiO 2 /Au nanohybrids on one side of hydrophobic nanoPE substrate (PE-TiO 2 /Au) that forces the enabling of air–liquid–solid triphase photocatalytic interface. Such a triphase system allows efficient oxygen access to the photocatalyst surface, which is feasible for charge separation and reactive oxygen species (ROS) production. Two modes of triphase systems with different gas flow paths were constructed, in which PE-TiO 2 /Au was floating on the aqueous solution surface (exposed mode) or immersing in aqueous phase (immersed mode). It is worth mentioning that the exposed PE-TiO 2 /Au enables a more efficient oxygen supply, thus leading to a 5.5-fold and 1.8-fold higher reaction kinetics as compared to normal liquid–solid diphase system and immersed PE-TiO 2 /Au. Meanwhile, PE-TiO 2 /Au also exerts bactericidal effect under visible light irradiation, which effectively inactivates S.aureus (>99.9%) in a lean period of 30 min. The qualities of high lethality rate and short reaction time are endowed to PE-TiO 2 /Au due to the co-effect of unique triphase interface microenvironment and elaborate heterojunction of spiky TiO 2 /Au nanohybrids. In this paper, we have revealed for the first time that the antibacterial efficiency can be effectively improved by increasing the oxygen supply with the construction of three-phase interface, which represents a promising option in designing highly efficient photocatalytic systems for sewage purification applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The reorganization of major river drainages in the Sino-Himalayan region of Southwest China was caused primarily by river separation and capture events following the most recent uplift of the Tibetan Plateau (⩽3.4Ma). Terminalia franchetii is a shrub or small tree species endemic to the river valleys of this region. Based on a range-wide sampling comprising 28 populations and 258 individuals, we investigated the relationship between the modern phylogeographic structure of T. franchetii and geological changes in drainage patterns, using chloroplast DNA sequences (trnL–F, petL–psbE). T. franchetii was found to harbor high haplotype diversity (h T =0.784) but low average within-population diversity (h S =0.124). Mismatch distribution and neutrality tests provided no evidence of recent demographic population growth. Two (out of five) population groups identified exhibited a disjunctive distribution of dominant haplotypes between northern and southern valleys, corresponding to the geography of past drainage systems. We conclude that the modern disjunctive distribution of T. franchetii, and associated patterns of cpDNA haplotype variation, result from vicariance caused by several historical river separation and capture events. Overall, our inferred timings of these events (mostly mid-to-late Pleistocene) agree with previous time estimates of drainage re-arrangements in the Sino-Himalayan region. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Historic events such as the uplift of Qinghai-Tibet Plateau (Q-T Plateau) and climatic oscillations in the Quaternary period greatly affected the evolution and modern distribution of Sino-Tibetan flora. Stellera chamaejasme, a perennial herb with flower color polymorphism that is distributed from the mountainous southeastern Q-T Plateau (Hengduan Mountains, H-D Mountains) to the vast platform of the Q-T Plateau and the adjacent plain of northern China, provides an excellent model to explore the effects of historic events on the origination and variation of species. In this study, we conducted a phylogenetic and phylogeographical study using three chloroplast sequences (trnT-L, trnL-F and rpL16) in 26 populations of S. chamaejasme and 12 outgroups from the Thymeleaceae. Phylogenetic analysis and molecular clock estimation revealed that the monophyletic origin of S. chamaejasme occurred ca. 6.5892Ma, which is consistent with the radical environment changes caused by the rapid uplift of the Q-T Plateau ca. 7Ma. Intra-specific differentiation of S. chamaejasme is estimated to have occurred after ca. 2.1Ma. Twelve haplotypes were revealed from combined trnL-F and rpL16 sequences. High genetic diversity (h T =0.834) and population differentiation (N ST =0.997 and G ST =0.982) imply restricted gene flow among populations and significant geographical or environmental isolation. All populations from the vast plain of northern China were dominated by one haplotype (H1), and the same haplotype was fixed in most populations from the high elevation platform of the western and northern Q-T Plateau. In contrast, the majority of the haplotypes were found in the relatively narrow area of the H-D Mountains, in the southeastern distribution of S. chamaejasme. The contrasting haplotype distribution patterns suggested that the H-D Mountains were either a refugium for S. chamaejasme during the Quaternary climatic oscillations or a diversification center of this species. The present wide distribution of this species on the Q-T Plateau platform and in northern China is likely to have resulted from a rapid post-glacial population expansion from the southeastern refugium involving founder effects, facilitated by the adjacent geographic range with a similar grassland habitat. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The phylogeny of Nolana (Solanaceae), a genus primarily distributed in the coastal Atacama and Peruvian deserts with a few species in the Andes and one species endemic to the Galápagos Islands, was reconstructed using sequences of four plastid regions (ndhF, psbA-trnH, rps16-trnK and trnC-psbM) and the nuclear LEAFY second intron. The monophyly of Nolana was strongly supported by all molecular data. The LEAFY data suggested that the Chilean species, including Nolana sessiliflora, the N. acuminata group and at least some members of the Alona group, are basally diverged, supporting the Chilean origin of the genus. Three well-supported clades in the LEAFY tree were corroborated by the SINE (short interspersed elements) or SINE-like insertions. Taxa from Peru are grouped roughly into two clades. Nolana galapagensis from the Galápagos Island is most likely to have derived from a Peruvian ancestor. The monophyly of the morphologically well-diagnosed Nolana acuminata group (N. acuminata, N. baccata, N. paradoxa, N. parviflora, N. pterocarpa, N. rupicola and N. elegans) was supported by both plastid and LEAFY data. Incongruence between the plastid and the LEAFY data was detected concerning primarily the positions of N. sessiliflora, N. galapagensis, taxa of the Alona group and the two Peruvian clades. Such incongruence may be due to reticulate evolution or in some cases lineage sorting of plastid DNA. Incongruence between our previous GBSSI trees and the plastid–LEAFY trees was also detected concerning two well-supported major clades in the GBSSI tree. Duplication of the GBSSI gene may have contributed to this incongruence. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The CaTiO 3 /Cu/TiO 2 all-solid-state Z-scheme heterojunction was successfully designed by a facile two-step hydrothermal method firstly, and high efficiency of hydrogen production (23.550 mmol g-1h−1) can be obtained with appropriate proportion of non-noble metal electron mediator (Cu nanoparticles) loading. [Display omitted] • CaTiO 3 /Cu/TiO 2 Z-scheme heterojunction was designed by a new synthesis route. • The electron mediator (Cu nanoparticles) played the important transport role. • Vector Z-scheme system can promote the separation of photoexcited carriers. • CaTiO 3 /Cu/TiO 2 exhibited high hydrogen production rate of 23.550 mmol g-1h−1. Herein, the CaTiO 3 /Cu/TiO 2 all-solid-state Z-scheme heterojunction is successfully designed via Cu nanoparticles situating at the interface between CaTiO 3 and TiO 2 with a new synthesis route. Interestingly, TiO 2 nanosheets are generated in-situ on the surface of CaTiO 3 in the second step hydrothermal reaction. The lifetimes of photoexcited carriers, photoluminescence emission spectra and transient photocurrent response tests have confirmed that the efficient Z-scheme charge transmission path of the CaTiO 3 /Cu/TiO 2 is beneficial to facilitate the separation of photogenerated carriers and reduce their recombination efficiency. As expected, the hydrogen generation rate of CaTiO 3 /Cu/TiO 2 is increased to 23.550 mmol g-1h−1 with the appropriate amount of copper loading, which is about 981 times and 93 times higher than that of pristine CaTiO 3 (0.024 mmol g-1h−1) and CaTiO 3 /TiO 2 (0.253 mmol g-1h−1), respectively. Furthermore, the CaTiO 3 /Cu/TiO 2 sample shows good stability in cycle experiments. Particularly, experimental results show that the non-noble metal Cu nanoparticles can be an effective electron mediator. And these merits strongly demonstrate that the CaTiO 3 /Cu/TiO 2 composites have potential application in photocatalytic field. This study can provide fundamental guidance for designing rationally efficient non-noble metal vector Z-scheme system photocatalysts with outstanding photocatalytic H 2 generation performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• A photoelectrochemical electrode was fabricated based on a graphene honeycomb film. • A fluorescent probe (AFP-PFBT-GOD) was synthesized for the detection current promotion. • This photoelectrochemical biosensor can sensitively detect alpha-fetoprotein by competitive immunoassay. • The photoelectrochemical biosensor has high detection sensitivity and good reliability. • The detection limit of alpha-fetoprotein is lower than 0.05 ng/mL. Alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) in adult serum often appears in early liver cancer. Therefore, early detection of an abnormal elevation of AFP concentration is important for the early diagnosis and treatment of primary liver cancer. In this work, a photoelectrochemical (PEC) electrode was fabricated for AFP-sensitive detection based on a reduced graphene oxide (rGO) honeycomb structure. After layer-by-layer bioconjugation, the immunoassay graphene electrode was modified with anti-AFP antibodies (Ab). Meanwhile, polymer nanoparticles (PFBT dots) were prepared via a nanoprecipitation method. In addition, the AFP was modified by using the PFBT dots and glucose oxidase (GOD), which formed a fluorescent probe (AFP-PFBT-GOD). By the competitive linkage of AFP and AFP-PFBT-GOD onto the anti-AFP modified honeycomb structure electrode, an immunosensor for AFP detection was obtained. During the PEC test, the electrons produced by the catalytic reaction of glucose and GOD can scavenge the photogenerated holes on the PFBT dots, which can reduce the recombination of photogenerated holes and electrons on the PFBT dots. The PEC immunosensor based on a rGO honeycomb structure exhibited a linear detection range of 0.05–100 ng/mL with a detection limit of 0.05 ng/mL. The excellent detection performance of the graphene PEC biosensor provides an opportunity for the early diagnosis of primary liver cancer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sexual reproduction plays a crucial role in the transmission and life cycle of toxoplasmosis. The merozoites are the only developmental stage capable of differentiation into male and female gametes, thereby initiating sexual reproduction to form oocysts that are excreted into the environment. Hence, our study aimed to perform proteomic analyses of T. gondii Pru strain merozoites, a pre-sexual developmental stage in cat IECs, and tachyzoites, an asexual developmental stage, using the tandem mass tag (TMT) method in order to identify the differentially expressed proteins (DEPs) of merozoites. Proteins functions were subjected to cluster analysis, and DEPs were validated through the qPCR method. The results showed that a total of 106 proteins were identified, out of which 85 proteins had quantitative data. Among these, 15 proteins were differentially expressed within merozoites, with four exhibiting up-regulation and being closely associated with the material and energy metabolism as well as the cell division of T. gondii. Two novel DEPs, namely S8GHL5 and A0A125YP41, were identified, and their homologous family members have been demonstrated to play regulatory roles in oocyte maturation and spermatogenesis in other species. Therefore, they may potentially exhibit regulatory functions during the differentiation of micro- and macro-gametophytes at the initiation stage of sexual reproduction in T. gondii. In conclusion, our results showed that the metabolic and divisional activities in the merozoites surpass those in the tachyzoites, thereby providing structural, material, and energetic support for gametophytes development. The discovery of two novel DEPs associated with sexual reproduction represents a significant advancement in understanding Toxoplasma sexual reproduction initiation and oocyst formation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• We present the most comprehensive phylogeny of Urticaceae tribe Urticeae to date, in terms of both taxon and character sampling. • Our results suggest that pre-Miocene boreotropical dispersal/vicariance explains the biogeographic distributions of several major clades of Urticeae. • In contrast, more recent long-distance dispersals were most likely responsible for other biogeographical disjunctions in Urticeae. • The fleshy fruits and winged diaspores of several taxa in the tribe would enable such long-distance events. The tribe Urticeae (Urticaceae), popularly known as Nettles, include 12 genera and ca. 200 species, constituting a diverse and cosmopolitan plant clade centered in tropical Asia, Africa, and South America. The global distribution of this clade makes it an excellent group to test hypotheses regarding the processes underlying tropical intercontinental disjunctions. More specifically, it allows us to test whether current distribution patterns resulted from recent transoceanic long-distance dispersal or ancient vicariance after boreotropical migration. We reconstructed the phylogeny of Nettles with the nuclear ITS and four plastid DNA regions (rbcL , trnL-F , matK and rpl14-rpl36) using Bayesian inference and maximum parsimony approaches. We inferred divergence times using a Bayesian uncorrelated lognormal relaxed molecular clock model and ancestral areas using the divergence-extinction-cladogenesis (DEC) model. Our results indicate a tropical Asian origin for the tribe during the late Paleocene. Migration events to Eurasia, South America and Africa occurred mainly during the Oligocene and Miocene. However, several long-distance dispersal events, including dispersals from Asia to Hawaii or Australasia, were inferred to have occurred from the Miocene onwards. The fleshy fruits and winged diaspores of several taxa are suited for long-distance dispersal. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Graphical abstract Highlights • A large sampling (105 accessions vs. 2–16 accessions in earlier studies) has been achieved. • The species number of the genus is likely to double the most recent estimate following our study. • Leptochilu s is monophyletic and resolved as nested within the microsoroid ferns. • Major evolutionary lineages have been identified. • Leptochilus might have evolved at lower latitudes and progressively dispersed to and colonized higher latitudes. Abstract The newly defined fern genus Leptochilus contains about 50 species occurring in subtropical to tropical Asia and adjacent Pacific islands. The circumscription and phylogeny of the genus have been ambiguous and its species had been included in various genera such as Colysis , Dendroglossa , Kontumia , Microsorum , and Paraleptochilus. Previous molecular studies sampled only 2–4 molecular markers and 2–16 accessions of Leptochilus. In the present study, DNA sequences of six plastid markers of 105 accessions representing ca. 40 species of Leptochilus , including types of Colysis, Kontumia, Leptochilus, and Paraleptochilus , 39 species of six non- Leptochilus genera of Microsoroideae, and one species of Pyrrosia , are used to infer a phylogeny. Our major results include: (1) Leptochilu s is monophyletic and resolved as nested within the microsoroid ferns, but its relationships with other members of Microsoroideae are not well resolved; (2) Six well-supported major clades in Leptochilus are recognized, differing from one another in molecular, morphological, and geographical features; (3) Species related to L. macrophyllus representing earliest split in Leptochilus are identified; (4) The inclusion of Microsorum pteropus in Leptochilus is confirmed, whereas M. insigne is closely related to Leptochilus but not resolved as a member of the genus; (5) The species number of the genus is likely to double the most recent estimate following our study, and quite a few cryptic species should be recognized; and (6) A basal grade formed by three major clades is recovered and they are composed of species almost exclusively distributed at lower latitudes (the Malay Archipelago), whereas the shallow-level clades contain species distributed at mainly higher latitudes, suggesting that Leptochilus might have evolved at lower latitudes and progressively dispersed to and colonized higher latitudes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Graphical abstract Highlights • Phylogeny and evolutionary history of Mandragora have been reconstructed. • Mandragora originated in the Eocene. • The Mediterranean-Turanian clade diverged from the Tibetan Plateau clade about 20.5 Ma. • Second split occurred 11.1 Ma and resulted in Western Mediterranean and Near East-Turanian clades. • M. turcomanica resulted from human assisted migration from Israel to Persia in historic times. Abstract Mandragora L. (Solanaceae) is the only genus of the tribe Mandragoreae, one of the two tribes of the cosmopolitan nightshade family, which occur exclusively in Eurasia and northern Africa. The genus occurs discontinuously in the Mediterranean region, Turanian region, and on the Tibetan Plateau, representing a classical disjunction pattern in the biogeography of the Old World flora. In this study, we reconstructed the genus phylogeny using AFLP, eight plastid DNA regions and one nuclear (ITS) gene, and evaluated the taxonomic value of quantitative traits time to flowering, fruit and seed size. We also analyzed the evolutionary history of the genus based on a phylogenetic framework and dating inferred from a combined data set of seven plastid regions with one fossil calibration point. Our data suggest that Mandragora originated in the Eocene, apparently along the Tethyan coast in broadleaf deciduous mesophytic forests that covered most of the Mediterranean region at that time. The Mediterranean-Turanian clade diverged from the Tibetan Plateau clade about 20.5 million years ago (Ma) as a result of the plateau uplift which probably was enhanced by aridification in the interior of Eurasia. A second split within the genus occurred about 11.1 Ma and resulted in Western Mediterranean and Near East-Turanian clades. Mandragora turcomanica was found to have very closely related evolutionary history with plants from the Near East indicating a possible ancient human assisted migration from Israel to Persia in historic times. In the Tibetan Plateau area, the morphologically distinctive M. chinghaiensis is nested within the M. caulescens clade indicating a very recent diversification within this lineage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The relationships among the genera of the early-diverging eudicot family Berberidaceae have long been controversial. To resolve these relationships and to better understand plastome evolution within the family, we sequenced the complete plastome sequences of ten Berberidaceae genera, combined these with six existing plastomes for the family, and conducted a series of phylogenomic analyses on the resulting data set. Five of the newly sequenced plastomes were found to possess the typical angiosperm plastome complement of 79 protein-coding genes, 4 rRNA genes, and 30 tRNA genes. The infA gene was found to be pseudogenized in Bongardia , Diphylleia , Dysosma and Vancouveria ; rps7 was found to be severely truncated in Diphylleia , Dysosma and Podophyllum ; clpP was found to be highly divergent in Vancouveria ; and a ∼19 kb inversion was detected in Bongardia. Maximum likelihood phylogenetic analyses of a 79-gene, 24-taxon data set including nearly all genera of Berberidaceae recovered four chromosome groups ( x  = 6, 7, 8, 10), resolved the x  = 8 group as the sister to the x  = 10 group, and supported the monophyly of the clade comprising x  = 7, 8, 10. The generic relationships within each group were all resolved with high support. Based on gene presence within the Inverted Repeat (IR), a total of seven plastome IR types were identified within Berberidaceae. Biogeographical analysis indicated the origin and diversification of Berberidaceae has likely been strongly influenced by the distribution of its favored habitat: temperate forests. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Galium L. is the largest genus in the tribe Rubieae, with about 667 species distributed worldwide. Previous researches mainly focused on species from the Americas and Europe. In the present paper, we greatly increased the number of samples examined from eastern Asia (especially China), representing the most comprehensive sampling of Galium to date. A total of 194 species and variations (subspecies) of Galium were sampled to determine phylogenetic relationships, using two nuclear and five chloroplast markers. Our data are largely consistent with all previous phylogenetic results and confirmed that Galium is non-monophyletic, as are most of its sections. Most members of Galium , including the Chinese taxa, fall into three large clades mixed with other genera from the Galium s.l. group; the exception being the distinct Galium paradoxum Maxim., the first diverged lineage in the Galium s.l. group, which was treated as a new genus ( Pseudogalium L.-E. Yang, Z.-L. Nie & H. Sun, gen. nov.). The Galium s.s is a well-supported clade comprised entirely of Galium species, usually with six or more leaves per whorl, mostly from the Old World. Samples from G. maximowiczii (Kom.) Pobed, G. sect. Depauperata and sect. Aparinoides , together with a few from Asperula sect. Glabella and Microphysa (Schrenk ex Fisch. & C.A. Mey.) Pobed., form the second clade. The third clade comprises taxa purely from Galium that usually have four leaves per whorl, from both the New and Old World. Our results also indicated that the monotypic genus Microphysa should be retained and clarified phylogenetic relationships of some specific confused taxa from China. Unlike prior inferences, the combination of opposite leaves associated with two stipules is proposed as the ancestral characteristic of the Galium s.l. group and even the tribe. In addition, the shapes of different corolla and inflorescence types are important for distinguishing some taxa within Rubieae. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Relationships among the genera of the small, woody family Styracaceae and among families of the large, diverse order Ericales have resisted complete resolution with sequences from one or a few genes. We used plastome sequencing to attempt to resolve the backbone relationships of Styracaceae and Ericales and to explore plastome structural evolution. Complete plastomes for 23 species are newly reported here, including 18 taxa of Styracaceae and five of Ericales (including species of Sapotaceae, Clethraceae, Symplocaceae, and Diapensiaceae). Combined with publicly available complete plastome data, this resulted in a data set of 60 plastomes, including 11 of the 12 genera of Styracaceae and 12 of 22 families of Ericales. Styracaceae plastomes were found to possess the quadripartite structure typical of angiosperms, with sizes ranging from 155 to 159 kb. Most of the plastomes were found to possess the full complement of typical angiosperm plastome genes. Unusual structural features were detected in plastomes of Alniphyllum and Bruinsmia , including the presence of a large 20-kb inversion (14 genes) in the Large Single-Copy region, the loss or pseudogenization of the clpP and accD genes in Bruinsmia , and the loss of the first exon of rps16 in B. styracoides . Likewise, the second intron from clpP was found to be lost in Alniphyllum and Huodendron . Phylogenomic analyses including all 79 plastid protein-coding genes provided improved resolution for relationships among the genera of Styracaceae and families of Ericales. Styracaceae was strongly supported as monophyletic, with Styrax , Huodendron , and a clade of Alniphyllum  +  Bruinsmia successively sister to the remainder of the family, all with strong support. All genera of Styracaceae were recovered as monophyletic, except for Halesia and Pterostyrax , which were each recovered as polyphyletic with strong support. Within Ericales, all families were recovered as monophyletic with strong support, with Balsaminaceae sister to remaining Ericales. Most relationships recovered in plastome analyses are congruent with previous analyses based on smaller data sets. Our results demonstrate the power of plastid phylogenomics to improve phylogenetic hypotheses among genera and families, and provide new insight into plastome evolution across Ericales. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A self-standing macroporous noble metal-zinc oxide (ZnO) sponge of robust 3D network has been fabricated through in-situ growth method. The key to the construction of the bioinspired sponge lies in the choice of commercial polyurethane sponge (CPS) with interconnected and junction-free macroporous structure as the skeleton to support Au/ZnO nanorods (Au/ZnONRs). The resultant Au/ZnO/CPS not only exhibits hierarchical structures representing physical features of CPS, but also demonstrates durable superior photocatalytic activity and hydrogen generation capability. In addition, we have adopted various irradiations to investigate the effect of UV light and visible light on the photocatalytic performance of Au/ZnO/CPS individually. In detail, the photocatalytic properties of Au/ZnO/CPS and ZnO/CPS have been monitored and compared under irradiations of different wavelengths (200–1100, 350–780, 200–420 and 420–780 nm) for 90 min to reveal the effect of irradiation wavelength on the activity of photocatalysts. A possible mechanism between irradiation wavelength and photocatalytic degradation efficiency is proposed. The facile in-situ growth approach presented herein can be easily scaled up, affording a convenient method for the preparation of self-standing 3D macroporous materials, which holds great potential for the application in both environmental purification and solar-to-hydrogen energy conversion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Organic semiconducting materials have attracted significant attention for use in optoelectronic devices, as they can significantly improve device performance. Herein, a donor–acceptor conjugated polymer (poly(isoindigo-thiopheneylbenzothiadiazole, PID-TBT) was synthesized, which has strong and broad absorption in the visible region (400–800 nm). The band gap of PID-TBT is 1.65 eV. The PID-TBT honeycomb film with a porous structure was easily fabricated by the breath figure method. Compared with the smooth PID-TBT film, the honeycomb film shows significant enhancement in light capture capability and the efficiency of photoelectric conversion. The reflectance of the honeycomb film is reduced by 7% and the photocurrent is tenfold higher than that of the smooth film. Apart from designing new molecules by complex reactions, this work demonstrated that photoelectric conversion can be easily improved by introducing micro or nanostructures into devices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • The "ampliative" Spiraea japonica complex was put forward. • Phylogeographical pattern is related to the regionalization of East Asian flora. • Genetic and diterpenoid alkaloids data support a transition belt in central China. • Diversification and demographic dynamics were shaped by the geological events. • Polyploidization contributed to the population expansion in east China. Each subkingdom of East Asian flora (EAF) has a unique evolutionary history, but which has rarely been described based on phylogeographic studies of EAF species. The Spiraea japonica L. complex, which is widespread in East Asia (EA), has received considerable attention because of the presence of diterpenoid alkaloids (DAs). It provides a proxy for understanding the genetic diversity and DA distribution patterns of species under various environmental conditions associated with the geological background in EA. In the present study, the plastome and chloroplast/nuclear DNA of 71 populations belonging to the S. japonica complex and its congeners were sequenced, combined with DA identification, environmental analyses, and ecological niche modelling, to investigate their phylogenetic relationships, genetic and DAs distribution patterns, biogeography, and demographic dynamics. An "ampliative" S. japonica complex was put forward, comprising all species of Sect. Calospira Ser. Japonicae , of which three evolutionary units carrying their respective unique types of DAs were identified and associated with the regionalization of EAF (referring to the Hengduan Mountains, central China, and east China). Moreover, a transition belt in central China with its biogeographic significance was revealed by genetic and DA distribution patterns from the perspective of ecological adaptation. The origin and onset differentiation of the "ampliative" S. japonica complex was estimated in the early Miocene (22.01/19.44 Ma). The formation of Japanese populations (6.75 Ma) was facilitated by the land bridge, which subsequently had a fairly stable demographic history. The populations in east China have undergone a founder effect after the Last Glacial Maximum, which may have been promoted by the expansion potential of polyploidization. Overall, the in-situ origin and diversification of the "ampliative" S. japonica complex since the early Miocene is a vertical section of the formation and development of modern EAF and was shaped by the geological history of each subkingdom. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Plasmonic nanostructures of semiconductors and noble metal nanospheres (NSs) hold great promise in the applications of solar energy conversion. Although it is known that the size of NSs plays a critical role in determining the photocatalytic performance of the resultant nanohybrids, the actual effects depend on multiple variables and needs to be elucidated for each specific scenario. Herein, ZnO nanorods (NRs) modified with AuNSs of diameters varying from 20 to 80 nm have been prepared to investigate the size effect of AuNSs on the photocatalytic activity of Au-ZnO hybrids. Interestingly, the Au-ZnONRs with 40-nm AuNSs demonstrate higher photocatalytic activity than the nanohybrids with AuNSs of either smaller or larger sizes. A possible “trade-off” mechanism between efficient charge transfer for smaller NSs and stronger LSPR effect for larger ones is proposed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With the antibiotics prohibition in feedstuffs worldwide, antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) are considered a more promising substitute for antibiotics to be used as feed additives, and positive results have been reported in livestock feeding studies. However, whether dietary supplementation of AMPs could promote the growth of mariculture animals such as fish and the underlying mechanism has not been elucidated yet. In the study, a recombinant AMP product of Scy-hepc was used as a dietary supplement (10 mg/kg) to feed mariculture juvenile large yellow croaker (Larimichthys crocea) with an average initial body weight (BW) of 52.9 g for 150 days. During the feeding trial, the fish fed with Scy-hepc showed a significant growth-promoting performance. Especially at 60 days after feeding, fish fed with Scy-hepc weighed approximately 23% more than the control group. It was further confirmed that the growth-related signaling pathways such as the GH-Jak2-STAT5-IGF1 growth axis, the PI3K-Akt and Erk/MAPK pathways were all activated in the liver after Scy-hepc feeding. Furthermore, a second repeated feeding trial was scheduled for 30 days using much smaller juvenile L. crocea with an average initial BW of 6.3 g, and similar positive results were observed. Further investigation revealed that the downstream effectors of the PI3K-Akt pathway, such as p70S6K and 4EBP1, were significantly phosphorylated, suggesting that Scy-hepc feeding might promote translation initiation and protein synthesis processes in the liver. Taken together, as an effector of innate immunity, AMP Scy-hepc played a role in promoting the growth of L. crocea and the underlying mechanism was associated with the activation of the GH-Jak2-STAT5-IGF1 axis, as well as the PI3K-Akt and Erk/MAPK signaling pathways. • Scy-hepc has significant growth-promoting effect on juvenile large yellow croaker. • Scy-hepc feeding activated the hepatic GH-Jak2-STAT5-IGF1 growth axis. • Scy-hepc feeding activated the hepatic PI3K-Akt and Erk/MAPK signaling pathways. • Scy-hepc feeding regulated the downstream effectors of the PI3K-Akt pathway. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• The most comprehensive biogeography study of cosmopolitan tribe Rubieae (Rubiaceae). • Rubieae originated in European region during the middle Oligocene. • Rubieae shows complex migration patterns within the North Hemisphere. • Important role of recent biogeographic diversification in the Northern Hemisphere. The global herbaceous flora is probably shaped by both ancient and/or recent diversification, companied with the impacts from geographic differences between the Northern and Southern Hemispheres. Therefore, its biogeographic pattern with respect to temporal and spatial divergence is far from full understanding. Tribe Rubieae, the largest herbaceous tribe in the woody-dominant Rubiaceae, provides an excellent opportunity for studying the macroevolution of worldwide colonization. Here, we aim to reconstruct the evolutionary history of Rubieae with regard to climate fluctuation and geological history in the Cenozoic. A total of 204 samples of Rubieae representing all the distribution areas of the tribe were used to infer its phylogenetic and biogeographic histories based on two nrDNA and six cpDNA regions. The ancestral area of Rubieae was reconstructed using a time-calibrated phylogeny in RASP and diversification rates were inferred using Bayesian analysis of macroevolutionary mixtures (BAMM). Our results show Rubieae probably originated in European region during the middle Oligocene, with the two subtribes separating at 26.8 million years ago (Ma). All the genera in Rubieae formed separate clades between 24.79 and 6.23 Ma. The ancestral area of the subtribe Rubiinae was the Madrean-Tethyan plant belt and the North Atlantic land bridge (NALB) provided passage between North America and Europe for Rubiinae. The subtribe Galiinae clade originated in Europe/central Asia during the late Oligocene. Two diversification shifts were detected within Rubieae in the late Neogene. Most extant Rubieae species diverged recently during the Neogene within clades that generally were established during the late Paleogene. The tribe shows complex migration/dispersal patterns within the North Hemisphere combined with multiple recent dispersals into Southern Hemisphere. Our results highlighted the important role of recent biogeographic diversification in the Northern Hemisphere in shaping the modern global herbaceous flora during the latest and rapid worldwide expansion in the Neogene. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The genus Deutzia (Hydrangeaceae), containing ca. 60 species circumscribed in three sections, is disjunctly distributed in eastern Asia and Central America (Mexico). Although the genus is well delimited, its subdivisions into sections and series have not been the subject of an explicit test of monophyly based on molecular data. A comprehensive examination of the evolutionary relationships within the genus is thus still lacking. We present a fossil-calibrated, molecular phylogeny of Deutzia based on two nuclear ribosomal DNA (ITS and 26S) and three chloroplast DNA regions ( matK , rbcL , and trnL-F intergenic spacer). Within this framework, we examine character evolution in petal arrangement, filament shape, and the number of stamens, and infer the ancestral area and biogeographic history of the genus. Our molecular phylogeny suggests that Deutzia is monophyletic. Two major clades are recovered: one composed of the species of sect. Neodeutzia from Mexico, and the other containing all remaining Deutzia species of sections Mesodeutzia and Deutzia from SW China and Northeast Asia. The latter two Asian sections were each revealed to be polyphyletic. The induplicate petals, 2-dentate filaments, and polystemonous androecia are inferred to be ancestral character states. Biogeographic reconstructions suggest a Northeast Asian origin for the genus and subsequent spread to Mexico during the Oligocene and to SW China during the Miocene. Based on our results, a new infrageneric classification of Deutzia inferred from molecular phylogeny is required. We propose to merge sections Mesodeutzia and Deutzia to ensure the monophyly at the sectional level. Cooling trends during the Oligocene resulted in isolation, separating eastern Asian and Mexican taxa, while the warm period during the middle Miocene stimulated the diversification from Northeast Asia to SW China. The uplift in the Qinghai-Tibetan Plateau and monsoon regimes are important in promoting high species diversification of Deutzia in SW China. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tubular epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) plays a crucial role in the progression of renal tubular interstitial fibrosis (TIF), which subsequently leads to chronic kidney disease (CKD) and eventually, end-stage renal disease (ESRD). We propose that augmenter of liver regeneration (ALR), a member of the newly discovered ALR/Erv1 protein family shown to ameliorate hepatic fibrosis, plays a similar protective role in renal tubular cells and has potential as a new treatment option for CKD. Here, we showed that recombinant human ALR (rhALR) inhibits EMT in renal tubular cells by antagonizing activation of the transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1) signaling pathway. Further investigation revealed that rhALR suppresses the expression of TGF-β receptor type II (TβR II) and significantly alleviates TGF-β1-induced phosphorylation of Smad2 and nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB). No apparent adverse effects were observed upon the addition of rhALR alone to cells. These findings collectively suggest that ALR plays a role in inhibiting progression of renal tubular EMT, supporting its potential utility as an effective antifibrotic strategy to reverse TIF in CKD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights: [•] The phylogeny of the Sino-Himalayan genus Cyananthus was reconstructed. [•] Cyananthus was shown to be monophyletic, consisting of three major clades. [•] Gynodioecy evolved from hermaphroditism only once in sect. Stenolobi. [•] Dispersal mechanism took effect during the early evolution of Cyananthus. [•] The diversification of Cyananthus was closely related to extensive orogenies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The cosmopolitan Solanaceae contains 21 tribes and has the greatest diversity in South America. Hyoscyameae and Mandragoreae are the only tribes of this family distributed exclusively in Eurasia with two centers of diversity: the Mediterranean–Turanian (MT) region and the Tibetan Plateau (TP). In this study, we examined the origins and biogeographical diversifications of the two tribes based on the phylogenetic framework and chronogram inferred from a combined data set of six plastid DNA regions (the atpB gene, the ndhF gene, the rps16-trnK intergenic spacer, the rbcL gene, the trnC-psbM region and the psbA-trnH intergenic spacer) with two fossil calibration points. Our data suggest that Hyoscyameae and Mandragoreae each forms a monophyletic group independently derived from different New World lineages in the early Miocene. Phylogenetic relationships within both tribes are generally well resolved. All genera of Hyoscyameae are found to be monophyletic and they diversified in middle to late Miocene. At nearly the same time, Mandragoreae split into two clades, corresponding to the MT region and the TP region, respectively. Both the phylogenetic relationships and the estimated ages of Hyoscyameae and Mandragoreae support two independent dispersal events of their ancestors from the New World into Eurasia. After their arrivals in Eurasia, the two tribes diversified primarily in the MT region and in the TP region via multiple biogeographic processes including vicariance, dispersal, recolonization or being preserved as relicts, from the mid Miocene to the late Quaternary. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Maianthemum (Ruscaceae) comprises 28–38 species and includes the two traditionally recognized genera: Maianthemum sensu stricto and Smilacina. Thirty-seven samples representing 22 species of Maianthemum and six closely related outgroup taxa were sequenced for eight chloroplast and nuclear markers (trnL-F, rps16, rpl16, psbA-trnH, rbcL, ndhF, trnK, and ITS) with a total length of nearly 10,000 base pairs. Phylogenetic analyses supported the monophyly of Maianthemum with Maianthemum sensu stricto nested within Smilacina. Almost all species from the eastern Himalayan region in SW China except for Maianthemum tatsienense and M. stenolobum form a well supported clade. This clade is characterized morphologically by short filaments and large anthers, relatively large flowers, and pubescent stems and leaves. Maianthemum tatsienense and M. stenolobum from SW to central China form another clade. The other species from eastern Asia (central to NE China and Japan) and the New World fall into several clades. The intercontinental disjunction between eastern Asia and North America in Maianthemum sensu stricto is estimated to be at 1.68 million years ago (mya) with the Bayesian relaxed clock relying on uncorrelated rates. A recent radiation at about 2.04mya is suggested in the high mountains of SW China, corresponding to the geographical heterogeneity in that region after the uplift of the Himalayas. Long distance dispersal by birds may have facilitated the evolution of their intercontinental disjunction and their biogeographic diversifications in SW China. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: This study employs three nuclear genes (PHYA, LFY, and GAI1) to reconstruct the phylogenetic and biogeographic history of Magnoliaceae. A total of 104 samples representing 86 taxa from all sections and most subsections were sequenced. Twelve major groups are well supported to be monophyletic within Magnoliaceae and these groups are largely consistent with the recent taxonomic revision at the sectional and subsectional levels. However, relationships at deeper nodes of the subfamily Magnolioideae remain not well resolved. A relaxed clock relying on uncorrelated rates suggests that the complicated divergent evolution of Magnolioideae began around the early Eocene (54.57mya), concordant with paleoclimatic and fossil evidence. Intercontinental disjunctions of Magnoliaceae in the Northern Hemisphere appear to have originated during at least two geologic periods. Some occurred after the middle Miocene, represented by two well-recognized temperate lineages disjunct between eastern Asia and eastern North America. The others may have occurred no later than the Oligocene, with ancient separations between or within tropical and temperate lineages. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

• Euclidieae was monophyletic and could be divided into five clades. • Early Miocene origin and subsequent diversification of Euclidieae. • Multiple ndh genes loss and pseudogenization in Euclidieae species. Euclidieae, a morphologically diverse tribe in the family Brassicaceae (Cruciferae), consists of 29 genera and more than 150 species distributed mainly in Asia. Prior phylogenetic analyses on Euclidieae are inadequate. In this study, sequence data from the plastid genome and nuclear ribosomal DNA of 72 species in 27 genera of Euclidieae were used to infer the inter- and intra-generic relationships within. The well-resolved and strongly supported plastome phylogenies revealed that Euclidieae could be divided into five clades. Both Cymatocarpus and Neotorularia are polyphyletic in nuclear and plastome phylogenies. Besides, the conflicts of systematic positions of three species of Braya and two species of Solms-laubachia s.l. indicated that hybridization and or introgression might have happened during the evolutionary history of the tribe. Results from divergence-time analyses suggested an early Miocene origin of Euclidieae, and it probably originated from the Central Asia, Pamir Plateau and West Himalaya. In addition, multiple ndh genes loss and pseudogenization were detected in eight species based on comparative genomic study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Complete or nearly complete sampling of non- Lepisorus genera is achieved. • All seven genera except Lepisorus in Lepisoreae are confirmed to be monophyletic. • Ellipinema is described as new to maintain the monophyly of Lepisorus. • Relationships of major clades are well resolved and strongly supported. • We propose an eight-genus classification based on the phylogeny, morphology, distribution. Lepisoroid ferns (tribe Lepisoreae, Polypodiaceae) are arguably one of the most confusing fern groups in Polypodiaceae in terms of delimitation of genera largely because of their simple morphology. Previous molecular studies either had very small taxon sampling of the non- Lepisorus genera and did not well resolve the relationships among these genera, or had a relatively large sampling at species level but the critical species were missing or their relationships were not well resolved. A recent study resolved the newly sampled Lepisorus jakonensis as sister to the remaining genera in Lepisoreae excluding Paragramma , and the authors lumped all the six well recognized genera into Lepisorus. In the present study, to infer a phylogeny we used DNA sequences of five plastid markers (matK, rbcL, rbcL-atpB , rps4 & rps4-trnS, trnL & trnL-F) of 172 accessions representing ca. 44 species of non- Lepisorus genera and 54 accessions representing ca. 50 species of Lepisorus as ingroup, and 10 non-Lepisoreae accessions from the most closely related four genera (Leptochilus , Microsorum , Phymatosorus , and Goniophlebium) in Microsoroideae and one genus (Pyrrosia) in Platycerioideae. Our major results include: (1) All seven currently defined genera except Lepisorus in Lepisoreae are confirmed to be monophyletic; (2) The Lepisorus jakonensis clade is confirmed to be the second earliest diverged lineage in Lepisoreae; (3) Neolepisorus is resolved as sister to the rest in a clade containing all non- Lepisorus genera except Paragramma ; (4) Lemmaphyllum is sister to a clade containing Lepidomicrosorium , Neocheiropteris , and Tricholepidium ; and (5) Ellipinema gen. nov. is segregated from Lepisorus based on the phylogeny and morphology in order to stabilize the current usage of the existing six non- Lepisorus genera and species names in these genera. A key to all eight genera of Lepisoreae is provided. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]