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Indoor cases of Tetranychus cinnabarinus displaying resistance have been documented, but the resistance level in field populations remains unexplored in China. This study delves into the resistance dynamics of T. cinnabarinus to fenpropathrin in various field populations across China, a pressing concern in contemporary agricultural pest control. The conventional bioassay and amplicon sequencing reveal a notable absence of significant fenpropathrin resistance in field populations, contrasting with known resistance in indoor cases. Current study highlights the limitations of traditional bioassays in detecting early-stage resistance and underscores the nuanced capabilities and constraints of amplicon sequencing in resistance gene frequency analysis. By employing an integrated approach, we combined dose-response bioassays, amplicon sequencing, and statistical modeling to assess resistance levels and investigate underlying genetic factors. The model with empirical data indicates that a 5% mutation frequency represents the threshold before resistance emerges. However, the detection of the kdr mutation in certain populations ranging from 0 to 1.2%, signals an early looming threat of future resistance emergence. Additionally, we further assessed a specific dsRNA targeting VGSC genes at two concentrations (10 ng/μL and 100 ng/μL), both inducing substantial mortality by silencing target genes effectively. The exploration of RNA interference (RNAi) as a novel, more environmentally friendly pest control measure opens new avenues, despite the ongoing challenge of resistance evolution. Overall, this study underscores the necessity for evolving pest management strategies, integrating advanced biotechnological approaches with traditional methods, to effectively counter pesticide resistance and ensure sustainable agricultural productivity. [Display omitted] • Current work identified a crucial 5% mutation threshold for resistance. • Novel RNAi method targeting on VGSC shows high pest mortality. • Urges combining biotech with traditional pesticide resistance monitoring. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With the world's population steadily shifting toward urban living, children's engagement with the natural environment seems to be diminishing. This raises significant concerns about the influence of urban greenspaces on the cardiovascular health of children. To assess the association between urban greenspaces exposure and blood pressure (BP) in Chinese primary schoolchildren. This prospective cohort study used data from the Children's growth environment, lifestyle, physical, and mental health development (COHERENCE) project in Guangzhou, China. Participants included 164,853 primary schoolchildren starting from 2016/17 to 2019/20 academic year. We assessed the surrounding greenspaces at home and school by using Sentinel-2 satellite data on the normalized difference vegetation index. Prehypertension and hypertension status were defined with BP above 90th to less than the 95th percentile, at or above the 95th percentile, respectively. The association of surrounding greenness with children's BP levels and risk of prehypertension/hypertension were examined using linear mixed-effects models and Cox proportional hazards model. Among 164,853 eligible children aged 7.21 (0.74) years, 89,190 (54.1%) were boys. Our results showed that average systolic and diastolic BP increased by 0.48 and 0.42 standard deviations, respectively, over the 3-year follow-up. We identified 23,225 new cases of prehypertension and 35,067 of hypertension status. An interquartile range increase both in home-, school- and home-school NDVI 100m was significantly associated with a reduction of 0.018–0.037 in BP z-scores and a 2.7%–7.6% lower risk of hypertension. Additionally, family socioeconomic status modified the impact of home-school greenness on BP levels. Air pollution exhibited mediating effects solely in school-greenness-BP associations, while physical activity and children's BMI mainly mediated the relationships between home-greenness and BP. The findings of this large cohort study suggest that surrounding greenspaces are associated with lower BP levels and a decreased risk of prehypertension and hypertension in Chinese schoolchildren. [Display omitted] • Location-specific greenspaces (home, school, and combined) were assessed. • Greenspaces were adverse associated with high blood pressure status. • Air pollution, physical activity, and BMI may mediate above these associations. • Location-specific greenness may emphasize distinct pathways related to BP. • Children with lower socioeconomic status obtain more benefit from greenspaces. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rhizoctonia solani is a widespread and devastating plant pathogenic fungus that infects many important crops. This pathogen causes tobacco target spot, a disease that is widespread in many tobacco-growing countries and is destructive to tobacco. To identify antagonistic microorganisms with biocontrol potential against this disease, we isolated Streptomyces strains from forest inter-root soil and screened a promising biocontrol strain, ZZ-21. Based on in vitro antagonism assays, ZZ-21 showed a significant inhibitory effect on R. solani and various other phytopathogens. ZZ-21 was identified as Streptomyces olivoreticuli by its phenotypic, genetic, physiological and biochemical properties. Complete genome sequencing revealed that ZZ-21 harbored numerous antimicrobial biosynthesis gene clusters. ZZ-21 significantly reduced the lesion length in detached inoculated leaf assays and reduced the disease index under greenhouse and field conditions. Based on an in vitro antagonistic assay of ZZ-21 culture, the strain exhibited an antifungal activity against R. solani in a dose-dependent manner. The culture filtrate could impair membrane integrity, possibly through membrane lipid peroxidation. ZZ-21 could secrete multiple extracellular enzymes and siderophores. According to a series of antifungal assays, the extracellular metabolites of ZZ-21 contained antimicrobial bioactive compounds composed of proteins/peptides extracted using ammonium sulfate precipitation, which were stable under stress caused by high temperature and protease K. The EC 50 value for ammonium sulfate precipitation was determined to be 21.11 μg/mL in this study. Moreover, the proteins/peptides also exhibited biocontrol ability and were observed to alter the plasma membrane integrity of R. solani which were evaluated by biocontrol efficacy assays on detached tobacco leaves and PI staining. Overall, strain ZZ-21 shows the potential to be developed into a biopesticide against tobacco target spot disease. [Display omitted] • A Streptomyces strain ZZ-21 showed a significant inhibition effect on R. solani was isolated. • ZZ-21 was identified as Streptomyces olivoreticuli by phenotypic, genetic, physiological and biochemical properties. • The antimicrobial bioactive compounds was stable proteins/peptides. • ZZ-21 could impair membrane integrity of the pathogen fungus R. solani. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Volatile organic compounds (VOC) contributing to smog formation, have been an important indicator of atmospheric governance during China's "14th Five-Year Plan". VOC would be possibly incorporated into the scope of environmental protection tax, but previous studies have seldom explored impacts of VOC control policies at national and regional levels. Here, we design a national uniform VOC control policy, as well as two regionally differentiated policies based on regional disparities in PM 2.5 concentrations and energy intensity by using a cross-scale dynamic computable general equilibrium (CGE) model. Our analysis is to assess the impacts of these policies on VOC, CO 2 , sulfur dioxide (SO 2), nitrogen oxides (NO X), and PM 2.5 emissions, air quality and environmental equity, and to estimate health benefits, policy costs and net benefits. We find that national and regionally differentiated VOC control policies generally lead to VOC emission reductions and generate co-benefits on emission reductions in CO 2 , SO 2 , NO X and PM 2.5 at national and provincial levels. However, regional emission leakage exists due to differences in the provincial costs of VOC mitigation. The regionally differentiated VOC pricing policies are found to be more effective to enhance environmental equity than the uniform policy. In particular, the regionally differentiated VOC control policy based on provincial energy efficiency is found to be superior to other policies in terms of improve air quality. Furthermore, the human health benefits associated with VOC pricing policies would partially offset policy costs at both the national and regional levels. Our results suggest that policymakers would pay attention to developing regions with low energy efficiency which have the great emission reduction potential. Advanced producing technology and further end-of-pipe control measures to reduce non-combustion PM 2.5 emissions are needed. VOC policy designed based on provincial energy efficiency provides great insights for environmental policy making to accomplish 2035 goal of building a Beautiful China. • National and regionally differentiated VOC tax policies are designed. • VOC tax generates climate co-benefits. • Regional emission leakage exists associated with regionally differentiated policies. • Regionally differentiated VOC tax are effective to enhance environmental equity. • Human health benefits associated with VOC tax partially offset policy costs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Objective Liver is uniquely vulnerable during sepsis. MicroRNA-155 (miR-155) is confirmed to play crucial roles in septic liver injury. The present study aims to investigate the mechanisms of miR-155 in septic liver injury. Methods The sepsis model was established by intraperitoneal injection of lipopolysaccharide (LPS) in mice. Mice were divided into four groups: Vehicle, miR-155 antagomir, LPS, LPS+ miR-155 antagomir. The survival rate and body weight were monitored. Liver injury was assessed by H&E staining. The levels of serum ALT and inflammatory cytokines were determined by ELISA kits. Oxidative stress was detected by MDA and SOD detection kits. The miR-155, Nrf-2, and markers related to oxidative stress, endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress, mitochondrial injury and apoptosis were detected by western blotting and qPCR. Apoptosis in liver tissues was detected by TUNELstaining. Results MiR-155 antagomir alleviated liver injury as evidenced by enhancing survival rate and body weight, inhibiting inflammatory cell infiltration, liver cells necrosis and decreasing ALT level. The productions of TNF-α, IL-6 were suppressed, while anti-inflammatory cytokine IL-10 was promoted by miR-155 antagomir. Oxidative stress was inhibited by miR-155 antagomir via enhancing nuclear factor, erythroid 2-like 2 (Nrf-2) expression. ER stress and Cytochrome C (Cyto-C) release were restrained by miR-155 antagomir. Sepsis-induced apoptosis was repressed by miR-155 antagomir as manifested by the decreased levels of Bax, cleaved caspase-12, 9 and 3, and increased levels of Bcl-2 and uncleaved PARP. Conclusion MiR-155 antagomir relieved septic liver injury through inhibiting oxidative stress-mediated ER stress, mitochondrial dysfunction and apoptosis via targeting Nrf-2, suggesting miR-155 as a therapeutic target for septic liver injury. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Air pollution exposures are increasingly suspected to influence the development of childhood adiposity, especially focusing on outdoor exposure, but few studies investigated indoor exposure and childhood obesity. We aimed to examine the association between exposure to multiple indoor air pollutants and childhood obesity in Chinese schoolchildren. In 2019, we recruited 6499 children aged 6–12 years from five Chinese elementary schools in Guangzhou, China. We measured age-sex-specific body mass index z score (z-BMI), waist circumference (WC), waist-to-hip ratio (WHR), and waist-to-height ratio (WHtR) on standard procedures. Four different indoor air pollution (IAP) exposures, including cooking oil fumes (COFs), home decoration, secondhand smoke (SHS), and incense burning, were collected by questionnaire and then converted into an IAP exposure index with four categories. Association between indoor air pollutants and childhood overweight/obesity as well as four obese anthropometric indices were assessed by logistic regression models and multivariable linear regression models, respectively. Children exposed to ≥3 types of indoor air pollutants had higher z-BMI (coefficient [β]:0.142, 95% confidence interval [CI]:0.011–0.274) and higher risk of overweight/obesity (odd ratio [OR]:1.27, 95%CI:1.01–1.60). And a dose-response relationship was discovered between the IAP exposure index and z-BMI as well as overweight/obesity (p for trend <0.05). We also found that exposure to SHS and COFs was positively associated with z-BMI and overweight/obesity (p < 0.05). Moreover, there was a significant interaction between SHS exposure and COFs on the higher risk of overweight/obesity among schoolchildren. Boys appear more susceptible to multiple indoor air pollutants than girls. Indoor air pollution exposures were positively associated with higher obese anthropometric indices and increased odds of overweight/obesity in Chinese schoolchildren. More well-designed cohort studies are needed to verify our results. • A total of 6753 schoolchildren aged 6–12 years from Guangzhou, China was included. • Multiple indoor air pollution exposures were positively associated with childhood obesity and obese anthropometric indices. • Secondhand smoke exposure interacts withcooking oil fumes exposure in association with childhood overweight/obesity. • Multiple indoor air pollution exposures for boys have higher z-BMI. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Two new lead(II) borate-sulfate mixed-anion compounds, namely, Pb 4 (BO 3 ) 2 (SO 4 ) and Pb 2 [(BO 2 )(OH)](SO 4 ), have been prepared by using high-temperature melt method or hydrothermal reaction. These compounds exhibit two different types of 3D structures composed of the same anionic units of BO 3 triangles and SO 4 tetrahedra which are interconnected by lead(II) cations. In Pb 4 (BO 3 ) 2 (SO 4 ), the lead(II) ions are bridged by borate anions into 3D [Pb 4 (BO 3 ) 2 ] 2+ architectures with 1D tunnels of 8-member rings along the a -axis, which are filled by the sulfate anions. In Pb 2 [(BO 2 )(OH)](SO 4 ), the lead(II) ions are interconnected by borate and sulfate anions into 2D Pb-B-O and Pb-S-O layers parallel to the ab plane, respectively, and these layers are further condensed into the 3D lead(II) borate-sulfate framework. TGA and DSC studies indicate that Pb 4 (BO 3 ) 2 (SO 4 ) is congruently melting with a melting point of 689 °C whereas Pb 2 [(BO 2 )(OH)](SO 4 ) decomposes at approximately 335 °C. UV/Vis/NIR optical diffuse reflectance spectrum measurements reveal the optical band gaps of 4.03 and 4.08 eV for Pb 4 (BO 3 ) 2 (SO 4 ) and Pb 2 [(BO 2 )(OH)](SO 4 ), respectively. Furthermore, the electronic structures of Pb 4 (BO 3 ) 2 (SO 4 ) have also been calculated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Neuroinflammation triggered by activation of glial cells plays an important role in the pathophysiology of several neurodegenerative diseases including Parkinson's disease (PD). Besides microglia, astrocytes are also critical in initiating and perpetuating inflammatory process associated with PD. Heat shock protein 70 (Hsp70) is originally described as intracellular chaperone, however, recent study revealed that it had anti-inflammatory effects as well. The present study is designed to investigate whether Hsp70 mediates neuroinflammation in astrocytes. By employing α-synuclein (α-Syn) (A53T) aggregates on primary cultured astrocytes of rats, we found that astrocytes were activated and neuroinflammatory response was triggered, as indicated by over-expression of glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP), cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) and inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), increased production of tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) and interleukin-1β (IL-1β). The data also showed that the neuroinflammatory response accompanied up-regulated Hsp70 expression. Moreover, over-expression of Hsp70 through transfection of Hsp70 cDNA plasmids could significantly reduce the production of TNF-α, IL-1β, and the expression of GFAP, COX-2 as well as iNOS. While inhibition of Hsp70 by VER155008 exacerbated neuroinflammatory response in astrocytes challenged by α-Syn aggregates. Further mechanistic study indicated that c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK) and nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) signalings were responsible for the neuroinflammation, which was also regulated by Hsp70. These findings demonstrated that Hsp70 was an important modulator in astrocytes induced inflammation, and up-regulation of Hsp70 might be a potential regulating approach for neuroinflammation-related neurodegenerative diseases, such as PD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Studies have reported an association between serum perfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) and asthma. However, few studies have examined the possible associations between PFASs and the 16-kDa club cell secretory protein (Clara) (CC16) level, a prominent biomarker of asthma, among adolescents. Methods We recruited a total of 231 asthmatic children and 225 non-asthmatic controls in the Genetic and Biomarkers study for Childhood Asthma (GBCA) in northern Taiwan from 2009 to 2010. Structured questionnaires were administered by face-to-face interview. Urine CC16 was determined by an enzyme-link immunoassay kit. Multiple general linear models were employed to examine the associations between PFASs and urinary CC16 levels. Results Asthmatic participants had significantly higher serum PFAS concentrations overall than the healthy controls. After adjusting for confounding factors, urinary CC16 was significantly, negatively associated with PFASs, especially PFOS, PFOA, PFDA and PFNA, and especially among males, as follows: PFOS (β = −0.003, 95% confidence interval [CI]: −0.004, −0.002), PFOA (β = −0.045, 95% CI: −0.086, −0.004), and PFHxA (β = −0.310, 95% CI: −0.455, −0.165) among asthmatic boys, and PFDA (β = −0.126, 95%CI: −0.241, −0.012) and PFNA (β = −0.329, 95% CI: −0.526, −0.132) among non-asthmatic boys. Among girls, PFDA (β = −0.088, 95% CI: −0.172, −0.004), was the only PFAS significantly associated with CC16. Significant interaction effects (p < 0.15) on CC16 levels were found between asthma and PFOS, PFOA, PFBS and PFHxA in all participants. Conclusion Our overall results showed that serum PFASs were significantly, inversely associated with CC16 levels. Associations were stronger among males. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sense of agency refers to the subjective feeling of being able to control an outcome through one’s own actions or will. Prior studies have shown that both sensory processing (e.g., comparisons between sensory feedbacks and predictions basing on one’s motor intentions) and high-level cognitive/constructive processes (e.g., inferences based on one’s performance or the consequences of one’s actions) contribute to judgments of sense of agency. However, it remains unclear how these two types of processes interact, which is important for clarifying the mechanisms underlying sense of agency. Thus, we examined whether performance-based inferences influence action-effect integration in sense of agency using a delay detection paradigm in two experiments. In both experiments, participants pressed left and right arrow keys to control the direction in which a moving dot was travelling. The dot’s response delay was manipulated randomly on 7 levels (0–480 ms) between the trials; for each trial, participants were asked to judge whether the dot response was delayed and to rate their level of agency over the dot. In Experiment 1, participants tried to direct the dot to reach a destination on the screen as quickly as possible. Furthermore, the computer assisted participants by ignoring erroneous commands for half of the trials (assisted condition), while in the other half, all of the participants’ commands were executed (self-control condition). In Experiment 2, participants directed the dot as they pleased (without a specific goal), but, in half of the trials, the computer randomly ignored 32% of their commands (disturbed condition) rather than assisted them. The results from the two experiments showed that performance enhanced action-effect integration. Specifically, when task performance was improved through the computer’s assistance in Experiment 1, delay detection was reduced in the 480-ms delay condition, despite the fact that 32% of participants’ commands were ignored. Conversely, when no feedback on task performance was given (as in Experiment 2), the participants reported greater delay when some of their commands were randomly ignored. Furthermore, the results of a logistic regression analysis showed that the threshold of delay detection was greater in the assisted condition than in the self-control condition in Experiment 1, which suggests a wider time window for action-effect integration. A multivariate analysis also revealed that assistance was related to reduced delay detection via task performance, while reduced delay detection was directly correlated with a better sense of agency. These results indicate an association between the implicit and explicit aspects of sense of agency. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Beauveria bassiana is an important entomopathogenic fungus which not only widely distributes in the environment but also shows phenotypic diversity. However, the mechanism of pathogenic differences among natural B. bassiana strains has not been revealed at transcriptome-wide level. In the present study, in order to explore the mechanism, two B. bassiana strains with different pathogenicity were isolated from silkworms ( Bombyx mori L.) and selected to analyze the gene expression of early stage by culturing on cuticle extracts of the silkworm and using RNA-sequencing technique. A total of 2108 up-regulated and 1115 down-regulated genes were identified in B. bassiana strain GXsk1011 (hyper-virulent strain) compared with B. bassiana strain GXtr1009 (hypo-virulent strain), respectively. The function categorization of differential expressed genes (DEGs) showed that most of them involved in metabolic process, biosynthesis of secondary metabolites, catalytic activity, and some involved in nutrition uptake, adhesion and host defense were also noted. Based on our data, distinct pathogenicity among different strains of B. bassiana may largely attribute to unique gene expression pattern which differed at very early infection process. Most of the genes involved in conidia adhesion, cuticle degradation and fungal growth were up-regulated in hyper-virulent B. bassiana strain GXsk1011. Furthermore, in combination with fungal growth analysis, our research provided a clue that fungal growth may also play an important role during early infection process. The results will help to explain why different B. bassiana strains show distinct pathogenicity on the same host even under same condition. Moreover, the transcriptome data were also useful for screening potential virulence factors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To systematically investigate the influence of the flexible or rigid auxiliary ligands on the structures and properties of transition metal compounds, we synthesized four new d 10 coordination polymers (CPs) from 3-(pyridin-4-yl)-5-(pyrazin-2-yl)-1H-1,2,4-triazole (4-Hpzpt) and flexible/rigid dicarboxylate ligands, [Cd(4-pzpt) 2 ] n ( 1 ), [Cd 3 (4-pzpt) 2 (suc) 2 ] n ( 2 ), [Cd 2 (4-Hpzpt)(nbc) 2 (H 2 O)] n ( 3 ) and {[Cd 2 (4-pzpt) 2 (tfbdc)(H 2 O) 4 ]·H 2 O} n ( 4 ) (H 2 suc=1,2-ethanedicarboxylic acid, H 2 nbc=hthalene-1,4-dicarboxylic acid, H 2 tfbdc =2,3,5,6-tetrafluoroterephthalic acid). Single crystal X-ray analysis indicates that compound 1 shows a 4 4 - sql layer, which is extended to a 3D network via nonclassical C–H … N hydrogen bonds. Compound 2 possesses a 6-connected pcu -4 12 0.6 3 net composed of trinuclear Cd II -clusters. Compound 3 represents a rare 3D (3,4,4,5)-connected topology with a Schläfli symbol of (4·6·7)(4·5 3 ·7 2 )(5 3 ·6·7·9)(4 2 ·5 5 ·6·7 2 ). Compound 4 exhibits a 2D+2D→2D parallel interpenetrated 6 3 - hcb network. The adjacent 2D networks are interdigitated with each other to form the resulting 3D supramolecular architecture through classical O–H … N and O–H … O hydrogen bonds. Structural diversities indicate that the nature of flexible/rigid-dicarboxlates plays crucial roles in modulating structures of these compounds. Moreover, the luminescent properties of them have been briefly investigated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

POMs-based coordination polymers are promising materials for their potential application in the fields of proton conduction, catalysis and magnetism. Three new coordination polymers namely, {[Co 2 (bib) 3 (H 2 O) 2 (H 4 W 12 O 40)]·7H 2 O} n (1), {[Zn 3 (bib) 8 (H 3 ZnW 12 O 40) 2 ]·12H 2 O} n (2) and {[Ag 5 (bib) 5 (H 3 W 12 O 40)]·5H 2 O} n (3) were synthesized under hydrothermal conditions based on linear nitrogen heterocyclic ligand 1,4-bis(1-imidazolyl)benzene (bib). In compound 1 , CoII ions are linked with [H 4 W 12 O 40 ]4– anions to form a planar network and can be simplified as kgd topology, which are further linked with bib ligands to form a 3D framework. Zn2 ions of compound 2 alternately connect with bib ligands and [H 3 ZnW 12 O 40 ]3– anions to form 1D chain structure, while Zn1 ion forms isolated unit with three bib ligands and one [H 3 ZnW 12 O 40 ]3– anion, and a 3D framework is finally constructed through π ... π stacking interactions. In compound 3 , the 3D structure is constructed from a number of 1D chains formed by AgI ions and bib ligands in different directions through π ... π stacking interaction and Ag⋯O weak connection. The proton conductivity of 1 – 3 are 2.03 ​× ​10−5, 1.04 ​× ​10−6 and 1.87 ​× ​10−4 ​S ​cm−1 at 98% RH and 358 ​K, respectively. In addition, compounds 1 – 3 exhibit photocatalytic degradation capacity towards RhB and compound 1 displays antiferromagnetic behavior. Three Keggin POM-based coordination polymers have been prepared under hydrothermal condition and characterized by single-crystal X-ray diffraction, IR, XRD and TGA. The highest proton conductivity of 3 is up to 1.87 ​× ​10−4 ​S ​cm−1 at 358 ​K and 98% RH. [Display omitted] • Three Keggin POM-based coordination polymers have been prepared under hydrothermal condition. • Their structures were characterized by single-crystal X-ray diffraction, IR, XRD and TGA. • The highest proton conductivity of 3 is up to 1.87 ​× ​10−4 ​S ​cm−1 at 358 ​K and relative humidity of 98% RH. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

High salt intake contributes to the development of autoimmune/inflammatory diseases, while potassium supplementation antagonizes the effects. Interleukin (IL)-17A are tightly related with autoimmune/inflammatory diseases. Thus, we explored the effects and underlying molecular mechanism of high salt and potassium supplementation on IL-17A production in T lymphocytes. Forty-nine healthy participants received a low-salt, high-salt, followed by a high-salt diet plus potassium supplement for 7 days, respectively. Human T lymphocyte Jurkat cells were treated with different concentrations of NaCl and KCl. In the participants, IL-17A levels in plasma and in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) were significantly increased after a high-salt diet, which was dramatically reversed when potassium was supplemented. In Jurkat cells, the addition of 40 mM NaCl markedly enhanced IL-17A production and the expression of phosphorylated p38/mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) and its downstream target, serum/glucocorticoid-regulated kinase (SGK)1, whereas combined treatment with additional 2 mM KCl significantly decreased them. Respective inhibition of p38/MAPK and SGK1 suppressed IL-17A expression induced by NaCl, and KCl inhibited IL-17A production induced by specific activator of p38/MAPK. We conclude potassium supplementation has a blocking effect on IL-17A production in T lymphocytes induced by salt loading. This protective effect is mediated through the direct suppression of p38/MAPK-SGK1 pathway. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Under solvothermal conditions, the reactions of Co II /Zn II ions with bent ligand 3-(pyridin-4-yl)-5-(pyrazin-2-yl)-1H-1,2,4-triazole (4-Hpzpt) afford two compounds {[M(4-pzpt) 2 ] guest} n (guest=H 2 O, M=Co II ( 1 ), Zn II ( 2 )). Both compounds are the thermally and hydrolytically robust 4-connected 3D NbO framework, which formed by double helical chains to give rise to 1D hollow nanochannel with uncoordinated nitrogens completely exposed on the pore surface. Compound 1 exhibits improved N 2 , CO 2 and H 2 uptake capacities, while compound 2 displays the strong luminescent emission with obvious red shift. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Basic-Helix-Loop-Helix-Orange (bHLH-O) transcription factor Hairy-related 4 ( her4 ) is a downstream effector of Notch-Delta signaling that represses expression of typically pro-neural genes in proliferative domains of the central nervous system. Notch-Delta signaling in the retina has been shown to increase in response to injury and influences neuroprotective properties of Müller glia. In contrast to mammals, teleost fish are able to regenerate retinal neurons in response to injury. In zebrafish, her4 is upregulated in the regenerating neural retina in response to both acute and chronic photoreceptor damage, but the contribution of her4 expressing cells to neurogenesis following acute or chronic retinal damage has remained unexplored. Here we investigate the role of her4 in the regenerating retina in a background of chronic, rod-specific degeneration as well as following acute light damage. We demonstrate that her4 is expressed in the persistently neurogenic ciliary marginal zone (CMZ), as well as in small subsets of slowly proliferating Müller glia in the inner nuclear layer (INL) of the central retina. We generated a transgenic line of zebrafish that expresses the photoconvertible Kaede reporter driven by a her4 promoter and validated that expression of the transgene faithfully recapitulates endogenous her4 expression. Lineage tracing analysis revealed that her4 -expressing cells in the INL contribute to the rod lineage, and her4 expressing cells in the CMZ are capable of generating any retinal cell type except rod photoreceptors. Our results indicate that her4 is involved in a replenishing pathway that maintains populations of stem cells in the central retina, and that the magnitude of the her4-associated proliferative response mirrors the extent of retinal damage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We examined the influence of goals on sense of control relative to that experienced when taking action randomly. In the experimental task, participants controlled the direction of a moving dot by pressing the left and right keys at will without a specific goal (the control condition), directed the moving dot to a destination as often as possible (the strong goal condition), or kept the moving dot in the central area of the screen (the weak goal condition) for as long as possible. The results showed that the strong goal impaired the sense of control, but the weak goal did not exert an influence. We concluded that the goal-based expectation influenced sense of control, but the goal-directed action selection did not. Furthermore, we proposed a modified comparator model of the sense of control, offering a promising approach to integration of the predictive and postdictive processes involved in the sense of control. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The roundworms of genus Strongylus are the common parasitic nematodes in the large intestine of equine, causing significant economic losses to the livestock industries. In spite of its importance, the genetic data and epidemiology of this parasite are not entirely understood. In the present study, the complete S. equinus mitochondrial (mt) genome was determined. The length of S. equinus mt genome DNA sequence is 14,545 bp, containing 36 genes, of which 12 code for protein, 22 for transfer RNA, and two for ribosomal RNA, but lacks atp 8 gene. All 36 genes are encoded in the same direction which is consistent with all other Chromadorea nematode mtDNAs published to date. Phylogenetic analysis based on concatenated amino acid sequence data of all 12 protein-coding genes showed that there were two large branches in the Strongyloidea nematodes, and S. equinus is genetically closer to S. vulgaris than to Cylicocyclus insignis in Strongylidae. This new mt genome provides a source of genetic markers for the molecular phylogeny and population genetics of equine strongyles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The equine pinworm Oxyuris equi (Nematoda: Oxyuridomorpha) is the most common horse nematode, has a worldwide distribution, and causes major economic losses. In the present study, the complete O. equi mitochondrial (mt) genome was sequenced, and the mt genome structure and organization were compared with those of other closely related pinworm species, Enterobius vermicularis and Wellcomia siamensis . The O. equi mt genome is a 13,641-bp circular DNA molecule that encodes 36 genes (12 protein-coding genes, 22 tRNAs, and two rRNAs) and one non-coding region, which is slightly shorter than that of E. vermicularis and W. siamensis . The O. equi mt gene arrangement was consistent with that of GA13-type E. vermicularis but it differs from GA12-type W. siamensis . Phylogenetic analyses using concatenated amino acid sequences of the 12 protein-coding genes with three different computational algorithms (maximum parsimony, maximum likelihood, and Bayesian inference) revealed that there were two distinct clades in Chromadorea nematodes that reflected infraorder. Spiruromorpha formed one clade, whereas Rhabditomorpha, Ascaridomorpha, and Oxyuridomorpha formed another clade. O. equi , E. vermicularis , and W. siamensis represent distinct but closely related species, which indicated that Oxyuridomorpha is paraphyletic. Sequencing the O. equi mt genome provides novel genetic markers for studying the molecular epidemiology and population genetics of pinworms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The sense of agency refers to the feeling of being able to initiate and control events through one’s actions. The “intentional binding” effect (Haggard, Clark, & Kalogeras, 2002), refers to a subjective compression of the temporal interval between actions and their effects. The present study examined the influence of action-outcome delays and arousal on both the subjective judgment of agency and the intentional binding effect. In the experiment, participants pressed a key to trigger a central square to jump after various delays. A red central square was used in the high-arousal condition. Results showed that a longer interval between actions and their effects was associated with a lower sense of agency but a stronger intentional binding effect. Furthermore, although arousal enhanced the intentional binding effect, it did not influence the judgment of agency. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

SoxC transcription factors play critical roles in many developmental processes, including neurogenesis, cardiac formation, and skeletal differentiation. In vitro and in vivo loss-of-function studies have suggested that SoxC genes are required for oculogenesis; however the mechanism was poorly understood. Here, we have explored the function of the SoxC factor Sox4 during zebrafish eye development. We show that sox4a and sox4b are expressed in the forebrain and periocular mesenchyme adjacent to the optic stalk during early eye development. Knockdown of sox4 in zebrafish resulted in coloboma, a structural malformation of the eye that is a significant cause of pediatric visual impairment in humans, in which the choroid fissure fails to close. Sox4 morphants displayed altered proximo-distal patterning of the optic vesicle, including expanded pax2 expression in the optic stalk, as well as ectopic cell proliferation in the retina. We show that the abnormal ocular morphogenesis observed in Sox4 - deficient zebrafish is caused by elevated Hedgehog (Hh) signaling, and this is due to increased expression of the Hh pathway ligand Indian Hedgehog b ( ihhb ). Consistent with these results, coloboma in sox4 morphants could be rescued by pharmacological treatment with the Hh inhibitor cyclopamine, or by co-knockdown of ihhb . Conversely, overexpression of sox4 reduced Hh signaling and ihhb expression, resulting in cyclopia. Finally, we demonstrate that sox4 and sox11 have overlapping, but not completely redundant, functions in regulating ocular morphogenesis. Taken together, our data demonstrate that Sox4 is required to limit the extent of Hh signaling during eye development, and suggest that mutations in SoxC factors could contribute to the development of coloboma. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights: [•] Compounds (1-C n H2n+1NH3)2MnCl4(s) (n =10 and 11) were synthesized. [•] Lattice potential energies of the compounds were calculated. [•] Molar enthalpies of dissolution at infinite dilution of the compounds were obtained. [•] The molar enthalpy of dissociation of [MnCl4]2−(g) were obtained. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights: [•] Crystal structure of Ba[d-C6H11O7]2 ·4H2O was determined. [•] Lattice potential energy of the compound was calculated. [•] Standard molar enthalpy of formation of the compound was calculated. [•] The molar enthalpy of dissolution at infinite dilution is determined. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights: [•] Compounds (n-C12H25NH3)2MCl4(s) (M=Cu and Cd) were synthesized. [•] The enthalpy changes of the synthesis reactions were obtained. [•] Standard molar enthalpies of formation were obtained. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A novel multifunctional coordination polymer {[Zn(HCOO) (bcbpy)Cl]·H 2 O} n (1) with multiple colour-changing has been synthesized from Zn(NO 3) 2 ·6H 2 O, and viologen ligand 1,1′-bis-((3-carboxylatobenzyl)-4,4′-bipyridinium) dichloride (H 2 bcbpy·2Cl). In coordination polymer (CP) 1 , bcbpy ligands bridge Zn2+ cations to form a 1D wave-like chain. CP 1 exhibited photochromic properties under xenon lamp and blue light irradiation while obtaining a structurally stable light product 1T. CP 1 thermochromic properties can also be observed during heating. 1 showed photo-controlled fluorescence properties during color rendering and decolorization, and its properties were studied. Interestingly, CP 1 can be deposited in filter paper by coating it with a solution of H 2 O. The filter paper can be used as a printing medium without ink. [Display omitted] • CP 1 was synthesized using viologen ligand 1,1′-bis-((3-carboxylatobenzyl)-4,4′-bipyridinium) dichloride (H 2 bcbpy·2Cl). • CP 1 exhibited photochromic properties under xenon lamp and blue light irradiation. • CP 1 obtaining a structurally stable light product 1T after irradiation. • CP 1 can be used as a good ink-free printing medium. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Dendritic spines are tiny protrusions along dendrites that receive excitatory synaptic inputs and compartmentalize postsynaptic responses in the mature brain. It is known that change in spine morphology is associated with brain functions such as learning and memory. α2A-Adrenoceptors (α2A-ARs) are highly expressed in cortical neurons and play important roles in neuronal differentiation, growth and neurotrophy. However, little is known about the role of α2A-ARs in the maturation of dendritic spines. Here, we report that stimulation of α2A-ARs promotes the maturation of dendritic spines in cultured neurons of the medial prefrontal cortex of rodents. Our results show that, stimulation of α2A-ARs by guanfacine induced significantly more stubby or mushroom spines in cultured mPFC neurons, with an enlargement of the spine head size. In parallel, the expression of PSD95 (a postsynaptic protein) in guanfacine-treated neurons was enhanced, while that of synapsin (a pre-synaptic protein) kept unchanged. These effects of guanfacine were blocked by co-administered yohimbine, a non-selective α2-AR antagonist. The present results implicate a prominent role of α2A-ARs in regulating the maturation of dendritic spines in the mPFC. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Ultraviolet B (UVB) radiation may cause the inflammation of retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) cells and play a role in development of age-related macular degeneration (AMD). The activation of the complement factor B (CFB) gene has been shown to be involved in formation of AMD. Here our results revealed that UVB induces IL-6/STAT3 signaling activation and the UVB-induced STAT3 is able to regulate the CFB expression in ARPE-19 cells. Tannic acid (TA) is a kind of water-soluble polyphenol and may have anti-inflammation effects. We also found that TA attenuates the UVB-induced IL-6 protein production, the STAT3 phosphorylation and the CFB expression. Taken together, these findings suggest UVB-induced inflammation of RPE can be mediated through the IL-6/STAT3/CFB pathway, and TA has a protected effect via the inhibition to the inflammatory response. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Ultraviolet B (UVB) radiation may cause the inflammation of retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) cells and play a role in development of age-related macular degeneration (AMD). The activation of the complement factor B (CFB) gene has been shown to be involved in formation of AMD. Here our results revealed that UVB induces IL-6/STAT3 signaling activation and the UVB-induced STAT3 is able to regulate the CFB expression in ARPE-19 cells. Tannic acid (TA) is a kind of water-soluble polyphenol and may have anti-inflammation effects. We also found that TA attenuates the UVB-induced IL-6 protein production, the STAT3 phosphorylation and the CFB expression. Taken together, these findings suggest UVB-induced inflammation of RPE can be mediated through the IL-6/STAT3/CFB pathway, and TA has a protected effect via the inhibition to the inflammatory response. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Concanavalin A (ConA), a Ca2+/Mn2+-dependent and mannose/glucose-binding legume lectin, has drawn a rising attention for its remarkable anti-proliferative and anti-tumor activities to a variety of cancer cells. ConA induces programmed cell death via mitochondria-mediated, P73-Foxo1a-Bim apoptosis and BNIP3-mediated mitochondrial autophagy. Through IKK-NF-κB-COX-2, SHP-2-MEK-1-ERK, and SHP-2-Ras-ERK anti-angiogenic pathways, ConA would inhibit cancer cell survival. In addition, ConA stimulates cell immunity and generates an immune memory, resisting to the same genotypic tumor. These biological findings shed light on new perspectives of ConA as a potential anti-neoplastic agent targeting apoptosis, autophagy and anti-angiogenesis in pre-clinical or clinical trials for cancer therapeutics. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: A dual reporter cell assay (DRCA) that allows real-time detection of herpes simplex virus (HSV) infection was developed. This was achieved by stable transfection of cells with an expression cassette that contains the dual reporter genes, secreted alkaline phosphatase (SEAP) and enhanced green fluorescent protein (EGFP), under the control of an HSV early gene promoter. Baby hamster kidney (BHK) and Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) cell lines were used as parental cell lines because the former is permissive for both HSV serotypes, HSV-1 and HSV-2, whereas the latter is susceptible to infection only by HSV-2. The DRCA permitted differential detection of HSV-1 and HSV-2 by observation of EGFP-positive cells, as substantiated by screening a total of 35 samples. The BHK-based cell line is sensitive to a viral titer as low as a single plaque-forming unit with a robust assay window as measured by a chemiluminescent assay. Evaluations of the DRCA with representative acyclovir-sensitive and acyclovir-resistant HSV strains demonstrated that their drug susceptibilities were accurately determined by a 48-h format. In summary, this novel DRCA is a useful means for serotyping of HSV in real time as well as a rapid screening method for determining anti-HSV susceptibilities. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Two new coordination polymers, [Ag(tza)]∞ (1) (Htza=tetrazole-1-acetic acid) and [Cu(tza)2]∞ (2) have been prepared at room temperature and characterized by X-ray crystallography, IR, UV–vis, fluorescence spectra and magnetism analysis. Compound 1 exhibits extended helical chains through bridging ligand tza. The Ag ctions between the adjacent chains form a 3-D framework featuring the extended tza-connected Ag chains that obviously affect the photoluminescent property. Compound 2 features undulated layered structure with hourglass-shaped [Cu4(tza)4] as subunits with the weak ferromagnetic interactions between Cu(II) ions, which are further stabilized by inter-lamellar Ch name="rad" /> n bonds in the resulting 3-D supramolecular framework. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Cysteinyl leukotrienes are involved in ischemic brain injury, and their receptors (CysLT1 and CysLT2) have been cloned. To clarify which subtype mediates the ischemic neuronal injury, we performed permanent transfection to increase CysLT1 and CysLT2 receptor expressions in PC12 cells. Oxygen glucose deprivation (OGD)-induced cell death was detected by Hoechst 33258 and propidium iodide fluorescent staining as well as by flow cytometry. OGD induced late phase apoptosis mainly and necrosis minimally. Over-expression of CysLT1 receptor decreased and over-expression of CysLT2 receptor increased OGD-induced cell death. An agonist LTD4 (10−7 M) also induced apoptosis, especially in CysLT2 receptor over-expressing cells. A selective CysLT1 receptor antagonist montelukast did not affect OGD-induced apoptosis; while non-selective CysLT receptor antagonist Bay u9773 inhibited OGD-induced apoptosis, especially in CysLT2 receptor over-expressing cells. Thus, CysLT1 and CysLT2 receptors play distinct roles in OGD-induced PC12 cell death; CysLT1 attenuates while CysLT2 facilitates the cell death. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

RNA interference (RNAi) is a sequence-specific, post-transcriptional process of mRNA degradation induced by small interfering RNA molecules. In this report, RNAi strategy was exploited to treat the infection of enterovirus 71 (EV71), considered as one of the most virulent pathogens that can cause severe complications in the family of Picornaviridae. We developed short hairpin RNA (shRNA) expression plasmids that significantly inhibited viral protein expression in a sequence-specific and dose-dependent fashion after transient transfection in cell cultures. Stable expression of shRNAs in cultured cells exhibited marked viral resistance in every step assessed in the viral replication. Using cytotoxicity of shRNA-expressing cells as a surrogate marker, it was shown that replication of EV71 was specifically attenuated by these plasmid-derived shRNAs, while replications of other related enteroviruses examined were not. These proof-of-concept studies demonstrated the feasibility of this approach for the therapy of EV71-associated diseases. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Cardiomyocytes are particularly prone to lipofuscin accumulation. In the aging heart, lipofuscin accumulation is augmented. This study examined distribution of lipofuscin and senescent cardiomyocytes and evaluated improvement of lipofuscin accumulation and cardiomyocytic senescence of the aging heart after treatment with rapamycin. The results of Schmorl staining, Sudan black staining and autofluorescence detection showed that there was more lipofuscin in the myocardium of the ventricles especially in the left ventricle. The conductive tissue contained less lipofuscin than the myocardium. In the aged hearts, lipofuscin accumulation and senescent cardiomyocytes were increased, and the level of autophagy was reduced. In double staining of Sudan black B and senescence-associated β-galactosidase, 10%–20% lipofuscin-loaded cardiomyocytes became senescent. All senescent cardiomyocytes contained lipofuscin deposits. After enhancing autophagy with feed of rapamycin for six months, lipofuscin accumulation and senescence of cardiomyocytes were improved in old rats. Colocalization of autophagic structure and lipofuscin as well as electron micrographs showed that some lipofuscin-loaded lysosomes were sequestrated by autophagic structures. This study suggests that rapamycin-enhanced autopahgy is effective for reducing lipofuscinogenesis and promoting degradation of lipofuscin. Therefore, enhancing autophagy is a novel therapy for alleviating lipofuscin accumulation and myocardial senescence. • Lipofuscin accumulation varies in different regions and tissues of the heart. • Lipofuscin accumulation is related to cardiomyocytic senescence. • Enhancement of autophagy alleviates lipofuscin accumulation and myocardial senescence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A novel 3D Zn (II)-based coordination polymer, [ZnL(H 2 O) 2 (complex 1) (H 2 L ​= ​2,5-di(1H-1,2,4-triazol-1-yl)terephthalic) with some active uncoordinated carboxylic groups, exhibiting excellent luminescence and good stability in water, harsh acidic and basic conditions (pH ​= ​2-12). 1 can act as a promising dual functional sensor for detecting and recognizing NFs (nitrofurazone, NZF; nitrofurantoin, NFT) and Fe3+ ions through fluorescence quenching with highly selectivity and sensitivity in aqueous phase. Besides, the probable mechanisms of the quenching effects are attributed to a competitive absorption mechanism between 1 and analytes. The present work contributes to the development of coordination polymers research, specifically in the application as biological and environmental fluorescent sensor. A water-stable luminescent Zn (II)-based coordination polymer was successfully synthesized by hydrothermal method and acts as a promising dual functional sensor for detecting and recognizing NZF, NFT and Fe3+ ion through fluorescence quenching with highly selectivity and sensitivity in aqueous phase. Image 1 • A luminescent Zn-CP was solvothermally synthesized. • The Zn-CP exhibits good stability in water, harsh acidic and basic conditions. • The Zn-CP exhibits high selectivity for NZF, NFT and Fe3+ ion in aqueous solution. • The mechanism of sensing properties was discussed in details. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fetal alcohol spectrum disorders (FASD) are a spectrum of developmental disorders caused by prenatal alcohol exposure. Neuronal loss or neurodegeneration in the central nervous system (CNS) is one of the most devastating features in FASD. It is imperative to delineate the underlying mechanisms to facilitate the treatment of FASD. Endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress is a hallmark and an underlying mechanism of many neurodegenerative diseases, including ethanol-induced neurodegeneration. Mesencephalic astrocyte-derived neurotrophic factor (MANF) responds to ER stress and has been identified as a protein upregulated in response to ethanol exposure during the brain development. To investigate the role of MANF in ethanol-induced neurodegeneration and its association with ER stress regulation, we established a CNS-specific Manf knockout mouse model and examined the effects of MANF deficiency on ethanol-induced neuronal apoptosis and ER stress using a third-trimester equivalent mouse model. We found MANF deficiency exacerbated ethanol-induced neuronal apoptosis and ER stress and that blocking ER stress abrogated the harmful effects of MANF deficiency on ethanol-induced neuronal apoptosis. Moreover, using an animal model of ER-stress-induced neurodegeneration, we demonstrated that MANF deficiency potentiated tunicamycin (TM)-induced ER stress and neurodegeneration. A whole transcriptome RNA sequencing also supported the functionality of MANF in ER stress modulation and revealed targets that may mediate the ER stress-buffering capacity of MANF. Collectively, these results suggest that MANF is a neurotrophic factor that can protect neurons against ethanol-induced neurodegeneration by ameliorating ER stress. • Conditional MANF knockout in the CNS alters endoplasmic reticulum (ER)-related RNA signature in the developing mouse brain. • The ablation of MANF in CNS exacerbates EtOH- and tunicamycin (TM)-induced ER stress and neuronal apoptosis. • ER stress plays an important role in MANF deficiency-promoted neuronal apoptosis in EtOH- and TM-exposed developing brain. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Previous studies have indicated that exposure to green space may benefit human health. However, the available evidence concerning the effects of greenness, especially school-based greenness, on pediatric obesity is scarce. To explore the association between school-based greenness and adiposity in children and adolescents in China. We conducted a nationwide cross-sectional study of 56,620 children and adolescents (aged 6–18 years) in seven provinces/municipalities across China. School-based greenness was assessed using satellite-derived Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) and Soil Adjusted Vegetation Index (SAVI) within 100-, 500-, and 1000-m circular buffers around each school's address. Generalized linear mixed regression models were used to estimate associations of greenness with BMI z-scores (zBMI), waist circumference, and prevalent overweight/obesity. We also explored the potential mediating role of ambient air pollution and physical activity in the greenness-adiposity associations. In the adjusted model, an IQR increase in NDVI -1000m was associated with lower zBMI (β: -0.11, 95% confidence interval[CI]: -0.13,-0.09) and waist circumference (β: -0.64, 95%CI: -0.78,-0.50). Consistently, an IQR increase in NDVI -100m , NDVI -500m , NDVI -1000m was associated with 7–20% lower odds of overweight/obesity in the adjusted models. Air pollutants mediated 6.5–29.1% of the association between greenness and zBMI. No significant mediation effect was observed for physical activity. Higher school-based greenness levels were associated with lower zBMI, waist circumference, and lower odds of overweight and obesity in children and adolescents. Ambient air pollutants may partially mediate the greenness-adiposity associations. Image 1 • This study was conducted in 56,620 Chinese schoolchildren aged 6–18 years. • School-based greenness was negatively associated with pediatric obesity. • PM 2.5 may partially medicated the association between greenness and pediatric obesity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This work demonstrates that β-ionone originated mono-carbonyl curcumin exhibited more stability and more potent cytotoxicity than curcumin, and could cause A549 cell apoptosis through enhancing the ROS production. • β-ionone derivatives exhibited more stability and more potential than curcumin. • " ortho effect " play a key role in the anticancer activity of β-ionone derivatives. • β-ionone derivatives caused A549 cells apoptosis through enhancing ROS generation. β-ionone, a cyclic terpenoid compound present in many fruits, has been showed a broad spectrum of biological activities. In this paper, we synthesized a panel of β-ionone derivatives and tested their anti-proliferation activity on cancer cell by the MTT assay. The results showed that most of the β-ionone derivatives were more active than β-ionone and curcumin. Particularly, the β-ionone derivatives (1a , 1d and 1g) with ortho -substituents on the aromatic ring exhibited much stronger cytotoxicity than their corresponding meta - and para -substituted compounds. Importantly, the cytotoxicity of the β-ionone derivatives (1a , 1d and 1g) were relationship with their reactive oxygen species (ROS)-generation abilities, which could lead to the redox imbalance, lipid peroxidation, the loss of mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP), the activation of Bax and Caspase 3, followed by cell apoptosis. This work suggest that the " ortho effect ", the ROS-generation ability and drawing fluorine atom into drugs may play a potent role in enhancing the anticancer activity of β-ionone derivatives. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Carbon policies are important not only for mitigating global climate change, but also for controlling local and regional air pollution. The large regional disparities in economic development and air pollution across China calls for regionally differentiated policies. Previous studies have not systematically investigated the environmental impacts of regional carbon policies in China covering different spatial scales. This study constructs a multi-regional dynamic computable general equilibrium (CGE) model covering 30 provinces of China to assess the impacts of national and subnational carbon polices on CO 2 emissions and co-emitted air pollutants from 2020 to 2050. We consider one national carbon policy which aims to achieve China's 2030 national CO 2 abatement target, as well as three regional policies with the same policy stringency as the national one but only applied to eastern China (EP), the Jiangsu-Shanghai-Zhejiang area (JSZP), and the Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei area (BTHP), respectively. We find that regional policies (EP, JSZP, and BTHP) are as effective in reducing CO 2 emissions in their targeted regions as the national policy. However, they lead to an increase in CO 2 emissions in untargeted regions (the so-called "emissions leakage"). The CO 2 leakage rates, which depend on the policy spatial coverage, are 4%, 13%, and 65% for EP, JSZP, and BTHP, respectively, in 2050. Compared with CO 2 , changes in air pollutant emissions, including sulfur dioxide (SO 2), nitrogen oxides (NO x), volatile organic compounds (VOC), and fine particulate matter (PM 2.5), exhibit a similar pattern under all policy scenarios, but the magnitude of change is significantly smaller. Transportation, thermal power, and some energy intensive industries are the three largest contributors to CO 2 and air pollutant emission reductions. Our results suggest that regional carbon policy is effective in reducing CO 2 and air pollutant emissions in the targeted regions, and extending the spatial coverage or increasing policy stringency can largely inhibit emissions leakage. • We examine effects of subnational carbon policies on CO 2 and co-emitted pollutants. • A multi-regional dynamic CGE model covering China's 30 provinces is constructed. • Subnational policies are as effective in their targeted regions as the national one. • Subnational policies lead to emission leakage to untargeted regions. • Extending spatial coverage or increasing policy stringency inhibits emission leakage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

It still remains a tremendous challenge in exploring high efficient electrocatalysts for hydrogen evolution reaction (HER). Herein, reaction of Co2+ ions and 3-(pyrid-4′-yl)-5 -(4″- carbonylphenyl) -1,2,4-triazolyl (H 2 Pycz) in a mixed solvent system has obtained a new 3D metal organic framework (MOF) formulated as Co 2 (Hpycz) 4 ·H 2 O (1). Compound 1 shows a 3D 8-fold interpenetrating 66- dia topological network with antiferromagnetic interactions between the Co(II) ions. The obtained Co-MOF exhibits a good HER performance: it displays a low onset potential of 101 mV, a small Tafel slope of 121 mV dec−1, exchange current density of 1.62 × 10−4 A cm−2 and long term stability of at least 72 h. This work may enrich the new candidates of MOFs materials for HER application. Herein, reaction of Co2+ ions and 3-(pyrid-4′-yl)-5-(4″-carbonylphenyl)-1,2,4-triazolyl (H 2 Pycz) in a mixed solvent system has obtained a new 3D metal organic framework (MOF) formulated as Co 2 (Hpycz) 4 ·H 2 O (1). Compound 1 shows a 3D 8-fold interpenetrating 66- dia topological network with antiferromagnetic interactions between the Co(II) ions. The obtained Co-MOF exhibits a good HER performance: it displays a low onset potential of 101 mV, a small Tafel slope of 121 mV dec−1, exchange current density of 1.62 × 10−4 A cm−2 and long term stability of at least 72 h. Image 1 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sense of agency refers to the subjective feeling of controlling one's own action, and through it, external events. Action-effect delay is widely used to disrupt this subjective feeling. Numerous studies have shown that self-reported sense of agency decreases along with the increase in delay. I discussed the distinction between body and external agency, and the possible different effects of delay on them. Furthermore, I reviewed literature that examined the influence of delay on self-reported sense of agency, implicit measures of sense of agency, and control-based action selection, and discussed possible reasons of the reported effects. Delay influences the measures of agency via multiple possible processes, such as graded response, task performance, sensory pre-activation, and temporal perceptual sensitivity. However, the causal relation between action and effect at higher-level of judgment may remain intact even for super-second delays. I conclude that the effects of delay on the sense of agency significantly differ between different levels, and researchers willing to use delay to disturb the sense of agency should carefully clarify which process it may affect. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In order to achieve excellent trajectory tracking performances, an improved genetic algorithm (IGA) is presented to search for the optimal proportional-integral-derivative (PID) controller parameters for the robotic excavator. Firstly, the mathematical model of kinematic and electro-hydraulic proportional control system of the excavator are analyzed based on the mechanism modeling method. On this basis, the actual model of the electro-hydraulic proportional system are established by the identification experiment. Furthermore, the population, the fitness function, the crossover probability and mutation probability of the SGA are improved: the initial PID parameters are calculated by the Ziegler-Nichols (Z-N) tuning method and the initial population is generated near it; the fitness function is transformed to maintain the diversity of the population; the probability of crossover and mutation are adjusted automatically to avoid premature convergence. Moreover, a simulation study is carried out to evaluate the time response performance of the proposed controller, i.e., IGA based PID against the SGA and Z-N based PID controllers with a step signal. It was shown from the simulation study that the proposed controller provides the least rise time and settling time of 1.23 s and 1.81 s, respectively against the other tested controllers. Finally, two types of trajectories are designed to validate the performances of the control algorithms, and experiments are performed on the excavator trajectory control experimental platform. It was demonstrated from the experimental work that the proposed IGA based PID controller improves the trajectory accuracy of the horizontal line and slope line trajectories by 23.98% and 23.64%, respectively in comparison to the SGA tuned PID controller. The results further indicate that the proposed IGA tuning based PID controller is effective for improving the tracking accuracy, which may be employed in the trajectory control of an actual excavator. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Exploring cost-effective, high-performance and durable non-precious metal catalysts is of great significance for the acceleration of sluggish oxygen reduction reaction (ORR). Here, we report an intriguing heteroatom-doped graphitized carbon encased Fe species composite by introducing N, S and B sequentially. The experimental approach was designed ingeniously for that the FeCl 3 ·6H 2 O could catalyze thiourea to synthesize N, S co-doped carbon materials which would further react with H 3 BO 3 and NH 3 (emerged at the heat-treatment process) to prepare N, S and B co-doped carbon materials (Fe-N/S/B-C). The Fe-N/S/B-C exhibits an impressive ORR activity for its half-wave potential of −0.1 V, which is 36 mV or 19 mV higher than that of the corresponding single or dual doped counterparts (Fe-N-C or Fe-N/S-C) and 31 mV positive than that of Pt/C catalyst, respectively. Further chronoamperometric measurement and accelerated aging test confirm the excellent electrochemical durability of Fe-N/S/B-C with the stable core–shell structure. The remarkable ORR performance and facile preparation method enable Fe-N/S/B-C as a potential candidate in electrochemical energy devices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Di-(2-ethylhexyl)-phthalate (DEHP), a ubiquitous industrial pollutant in our daily life, has been reported to cause adverse effects on glucose homeostasis and insulin sensitivity in epidemiological studies previously. Recently, it has been reported to be an endocrine disrupter and ligand to peroxisome proliferator activated receptor, which could influence the homeostasis of liver metabolic systems and contribute to the development of type-2 diabetes. However, the potential mechanisms are not known yet. This study was designed to solve these problems with male SD rats and normal human hepatocyte line, L02 cells, exposed to DEHP for toxicological experiments. Adult male SD rats were divided into four groups, normal group fed with regular diets and three DEHP-treated groups (dissolved in olive oil at doses of 0.05, 5 and 500 mg/kg body weight, respectively, once daily through gastric intubations for 15 weeks). L02 cells were divided into 6 groups, normal group with 5, 10, 25, 50, and 100 μmol/l DEHP groups. DEHP-exposed rats exhibited significant liver damage, glucose tolerance, and insulin tolerance along with reduced expression of insulin receptor and GLUT4 proteins in the liver tissues. The results of in vitro experiments could determine that the DEHP-induced activation of peroxisome proliferator activated receptor γ (PPARγ) played a key role in the production of oxidative stress and down-regulated expression of insulin receptor and GLUT4 proteins in L02 cells. This conclusion could be supported by the results of in vitro experiments, in which the cells were exposed to DEHP with GW9662 (PPARγ inhibitor). In general, these results highlight the key role of PPARγ in the process of insulin resistance induced by DEHP. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Increasing evidence suggests that the failure of clinical antidepressants may be related with neuroinflammation. The NOD-, LRR- and pyrin domain-containing protein 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome is an intracellular multiprotein complex, and has been considered as a key contributor to the development of neuroinflammation. Inhibition of NLRP3 inflammasome is an effective method for depression treatment. In this review, we summarized current researches highlighting the role of NLRP3 inflammasome in the pathology of depression. Firstly, we discussed NLRP3 inflammasome activation in patients with depression and animal models. Secondly, we outlined the possible mechanisms driving the activation of NLRP3 inflammasome. Thirdly, we discussed the pathogenetic role of NLRP3 inflammasome in depression. Finally, we overviewed the current and potential antidepressants targeting the NLRP3 inflammasome. Overall, the inhibition of NLRP3 inflammasome activation may be a potential therapeutic strategy for inflammation-related depression. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The small-size and efficient charge separation of MOFs catalysts are essential for improving photocatalytic performance. In this work, a series of small-size NH 2 -UiO-66 nanoparticle-modified Mo 2 C photocatalysts were successfully prepared by hydrothermal synthesis with in situ growing NH 2 -UiO-66 on the surface of Mo 2 C. The addition of Mo 2 C can not only obtain small-size NH 2 -UiO-66 nanoparticles, but also significantly increase the separation efficiency of photo-generated carriers and prolongs the carrier lifetime, thereby promoting the photoreduction of CO 2 in water vapor with excellent stability. The resulting 11-Mo 2 C/NH 2 -UiO-66 (11-MCNU) exhibits excellent catalytic activity for CO 2 reduction to CO product at room temperature and atmospheric pressure. The yield of CO can reach 11 μmol g−1 in the absence of organic solvents, sacrifice agents and photosensitizers, which is much higher than that of the isolated NH 2 -UiO-66 and Mo 2 C. [Display omitted] • A series of small-size NH 2 -UiO-66 nanoparticle-modified Mo 2 C photocatalysts were successfully prepared by hydrothermal synthesis. • The resulting 11-Mo 2 C/NH 2 -UiO-66 (11-MCNU) exhibits excellent catalytic activity for CO 2 reduction to CO. • The yield of CO can reach 11 μ mol g−1 in the absence of organic solvents, sacrifice agents and photosensitizers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The functional design of efficient and stable proton exchange membrane materials is an important research direction in the field of proton exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs). In this work, ammonia molecules were successfully encapsulated into the one-dimensional pores of MOF-74(Co) through fumigation with ammonia vapor. Alternating current (AC) impedance tests showed that the proton conductivity of NH 3 modified NH 3 @ MOF-74(Co) reaches an impressive value of 6.8 × 10−3 S/cm, being 10000 times that of the pristine MOF-74(Co) at 98% relative humidity (RH) and 50 °C. Various and abundant hydrogen bonds can improve the proton conduction of NH 3 modified compound. This strategy provides an efficient and convenient way to construct high proton conducting porous MOFs materials by attaching NH 3 molecules. [Display omitted] • Ammonia molecules were successfully encapsulated into the pores of MOF-74(Co) through fumigation with ammonia vapor. • The proton conductivity of NH 3 @ MOF-74(Co) reaches the maximum value of 6.8 × 10−3 S/cm, which is 10000 times that of the pristine MOF-74(Co) at same conditions. • This strategy provides an efficient and convenient way to construct high proton conducting porous MOFs materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]