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Natural indicators (anthocyanins and betacyanins) were mixed in different volumetric ratios (3:1, 3:2, 1:1, 2:3 and 1:3) and used for the preparation of κ-carrageenan-based pH-sensing films. Anthocyanins and betacyanins were fixed into films by hydrogen bond, which changed the spatial structure of the κ-carrageenan films. Betacyanins reduced the crystallinity of κ-carrageenan films while anthocyanin had little effect on the crystallinity of the films. Betacyanins significantly improved the thermal stability of the film, while anthocyanins had little effect on it. In addition, anthocyanins and betacyanins significantly improved the oxidation resistance, water vapor permeability, ammonia sensitivity and UV shielding performance of the films. The complex films showed good color stability. It monitored the physical and chemical indexes of pork during storage, and measured the color change of indicator film during this process. Results showed that the color change of the film containing anthocyanins/betacyanins mixture in the volume ratio of 3:1 was the most significant with the pork spoilage. According to the correlation analysis and principal component analysis, total color differences(ΔE) can indicate the freshness of pork. Therefore, the pH sensing film prepared by us provides a reference for the freshness indication of pork. [Display omitted] • Six different k -carrageenan films were combined with anthocyanins, betacyanins and their mixed dyes. • The film showed high pH-sensitive property and gas sensing properties. • The film exhibits UV-blocking ability and antioxidant behaviors. • The film realized real-time pork freshness detection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Qingzhuan tea (QZT) is classified as compressed dark tea and has been an essential daily commodity for ethnic minority communities in China's border areas. It boasts unique flavor characteristics and health benefits, captivating the attention of consumers both domestically and internationally. However, the QZT industry's historical closed nature and lengthy processing cycle have impeded a comprehensive scientific understanding and evaluation of this tea, as well as hindered the overall healthy development of the industry. This article provides a comprehensive overview of the research progress on QZT, covering defluoridation techniques, processing technology, flavor characteristics, chemical composition, microbial communities, health benefits, and their underlying mechanisms. A technology system aimed at reducing fluoride levels in tea, known as "appropriate fertilization-selection of low-fluorine tea tree varieties-control of raw material tenderness and growing period," has been proposed. Through the implementation of specific processing techniques, QZT exhibiting an orange-red infusion color, a mellow taste, and an aged aroma. During the key pile fermentation process, microorganisms release extracellular enzymes that initiate enzymatic and moist heat reactions, resulting in oxidation, hydrolysis, polymerization, and secondary metabolic conversions. These reactions serve as the underlying foundation for the distinctive sensory attributes of QZT. The regulation of microorganisms plays a vital role in attaining the desired flavor of QZT. Moreover, QZT encompasses a diverse array of bioactive constituents, which offer numerous health advantages such as antioxidative properties, anti-obesity and anti-diabetes effects, modulation of the intestinal microbiota, and alleviation of non-alcoholic fatty liver. • A systematic approach to reduce fluoride in tea is proposed. • Specific techniques are used to create Qingzhuan tea (QZT) with vibrant color, taste and aroma. • The role of microorganisms in developing QZT's sensory traits is revealed. • Diverse bioactive compounds in QZT for health benefits are highlighted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lettuce, a globally consumed nutritious vegetable, is often linked to concerns regarding pesticide residues. To address this issue, we conducted field trials and utilized dynamiCROP modeling to examine the uptake, distribution, translocation, and dissipation of five pesticides (λ-cyhalothrin, difenoconazole, acetamiprid, dimethomorph, and β-cypermethrin) commonly detected in lettuce. At harvest, pesticides residues were below the maximum residue limits (MRLs) at 0.05, 0.39, 0.047, 0.72, and 0.072 mg kg−1, respectively. Simulation results elucidated distinct behaviors of the pesticides following application to lettuce foliage across various compartments. However, all pesticides exhibited a common dissipation trend, initially stabilizing or increasing before gradually declining. For all five pesticides, the largest contribution of residues on lettuce leaves came from the leaf surface during the early period after application, and from the soil in the long term. Health risk assessments indicated negligible risks associated with consuming lettuce containing these pesticides, both in the short and long term. [Display omitted] • The dissipation trends of five pesticides were similar in leaf surface, air and soil. • Acetamiprid and λ-cyhalothrin translocated faster from the leaf surface to its interior. • The field trial results aligned well with dynamiCROP model predictions (R2 = 0.59–0.96). • Health risks from consuming pesticide-treated lettuce are negligible for consumers. • Our results shed light on establishing MRLs and practices in pesticide application. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Rejuvenated asphalt binders were subjected to re-aging. • The properties of the rejuvenated asphalt binders change rapidly first and slowly later. • More dosage of rejuvenator exhibited more obvious effects on the aging rheological behavior. • Aged asphalt binder was less affected by re-aging. The use of rejuvenator can potentially restore original properties of reclaimed asphalt pavement (RAP) materials to achieve the purpose of reuse, but less attention has been paid to the aging properties of rejuvenated asphalt binders. In this study, original asphalt binder, aged binder and the rejuvenated binders with 3 %, 6 %, and 9 % of rejuvenator by total weight of binder were prepared first. Then the five rejuvenated binders were subjected to the oven aging. Based on the results from Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy and Dynamic Shear Rheometer, the chemical and rheological properties of the five binders were investigated due to re-aging. It is showed that the of carbonyl index of the rejuvenated binders and original binder increase rapidly during the fast-aging state and then slowly during the constant-aging state, while aged binder increases approximately linearly. The rheological properties indexes such as complex shear modulus, phase angle δ, crossover frequency, crossover modulus, rheological index, G-R parameter and rutting factor of the five binders were determined, and the variation of these indexes are similar or opposite to carbonyl index during aging. Aging performances of the five binders were investigated using the oven aging indexes. It is showed the rejuvenated binders with more dosage of rejuvenator have faster aging rate and more obvious effects on the aging rheological behavior. The rheological properties of the aged binder are less affected by the re-aging. Among the rheological property indexes, the G-R-based oven aging index is most susceptible to the re-aging. There are some certain close relationships between the chemical property change and rheological property evolution during re-aging for the five binders, without considering the aging times and the dosage of rejuvenator. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• RIPK1 plays an important role in cell death, especially necroptosis, associated with inflammation and tumor. • Activation of RIPK1 is correlated with many skin diseases, including melanoma, psoriasis, systemic lupus erythematosus. • Inhibitors of RIPK1 may be a new strategy for skin diseases. Skin diseases bring great psychological and physical impacts on patients, however, a considerable number of skin diseases still lack effective treatments, such as psoriasis, systemic lupus erythematosus, melanoma and so on. Receptor-interacting serine threonine kinase 1 (RIPK1) plays an important role in cell death, especially necroptosis, associated with inflammation and tumor. As many molecules modulate the ubiquitination of RIPK1, disruption of this checkpoint can lead to skin diseases, which can be ameliorated by RIPK1 inhibitors. This review will focus on the molecular mechanism of RIPK1 activation in inflammation as well as the current knowledges on the contribution of RIPK1 in skin diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Two-dimensional (2D) metal nanoparticle platforms hold great potential in high-throughput point-of-care testing on basis of their excellent fluorescence enhancement effect. Self-assembly of metal nanoparticles (NPs) is versatile but simple for the preparation of 2D platforms; however, the surface charges on NPs would repel each other and induce large gaps on platforms, which hinder the generation of intense hotspots in electromagnetic fields and thus weaken the fluorescence enhancement effect. Here, we presented the hierarchical assembly of large-sized silver (Ag) NPs and small-sized gold (Au) NPs for constructing fluorescence enhanced platforms. The small Au NPs with weak fluorescence were chosen to complementarily fill into the larger gaps of the pre-assembled Ag platforms for increasing the electromagnetic hotspots. The resulting Ag/Au hybrid platforms (1-, 3- and 6-Ag/Au) exhibited growing fluorescence enhancement effects and the maximum enhanced factor reached 3.6-fold. The inserting of small Au NPs enhanced the fluorescence emission of fluorescent dye (cyanine-5) on the Ag platforms, especially on the monolayer 1-Ag platform, which increased by 161.6%. Moreover, the finite-difference time-domain (FDTD) calculations revealed the underlying cause of the improved electromagnetic fields in the Ag/Au hierarchical architecture in comparison to the Ag or Au NP. This work presents the hierarchical assembly is expected to be a powerful tool in the large-scale fabrication of fluorescence enhanced detection platforms. Graphical abstract The hierarchical assembly of silver and gold NPs toward constructing 2D fluorescence enhanced detection platforms. Unlabelled Image Highlights • The 2D metal NP platforms were constructed through the hierarchical assembly of different-sized Ag and Au NPs. • The small Au NPs were complementarily inserted into the large interspace of Ag platforms to induce additional hotspots. • The 2D hierarchical nanostructures achieved stronger fluorescence enhanced effect in fluorescence biodetection. • Fluorescence enhanced mechanism was mainly the improved electromagnetic fields rather than the weak fluorescence of Au NPs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Due to cage-like voids in the lattice, skutterudite NiP 3 is regarded as a promising negative electrode material with high specific capacity. The fabrication of phosphide based on ceramic routes always leads to multiphase formation and serious agglomeration of particles. The resultant cycle performance is thus to be improved. In this paper, single phase skutterudite NiP 3 particles (NNP) were fabricated by the reaction of NiS precursor with red phosphorus. As comparison, skutterudite NiP 3 was also prepared by the direct reaction of Ni with red phosphorus (MNP). After 50 cycles, NNP retained 712 mAh g−1 at current density of 159.1 mAg−1, while MNP delivered a capacity less than that of commercial graphite within 16 cycles. According to CV analysis, the improvement in cycling performance of NNP was attributed to an insertion-dominated two-step lithiation process, while MNP undergone a straightforward conversion process. The formation of layer-structured intermediate Li x NiP 3 phase by an insertion reaction would compete with the direct generation of Li 3 P and Ni (0) composites by a typical conversion reaction. The improvement in the rating performance originates from the low-impedance of charge transfer and fast migration of Li+ in the electrode of NNP. Graphical abstract Image 1 Highlights • Single phase skutterudite NiP 3 is fabricated using NiS precursor. • A size dependent lithiation path selection is confirmed. • An insertion-dominated lithiation process improves cycling performance. • The selection of lithiation process depends on the thermodynamic and kinetic competition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Electron transfer efficiency in electroactive biofilm is the limiting factor for bioelectricity output of bioelectrochemical system. Here, carbon felt (CF) is coated with manganese dioxide (MnO 2) which acts as electron mediator in electroactive biofilm. A wrapping layer of conducting Poly 3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene is developed to protect the MnO 2 and enhance electron transfer efficiency of MnO 2 mediator. The hybrid bioanode (PEDOT/MnO 2 /CF bioanode) delivered the highest electron transfer efficiency (6.3 × 10−9 mol cm−2 s−1/2) and the highest capacitance of 4.78 F, much higher than bare CF bioanode (1.50 ± 0.04 × 10−9 mol cm−2 s−1/2 and 0.42 F). As a result, microbial fuel cells could produce a maximum power density of 1534 ± 13 mW m−2, approximately 57.7% higher than that with the bare carbon felt anode (972 ± 21 mW m−2). Possible mechanisms are proposed to help understanding the different function of the PEDOT and MnO 2 on the anodic layer. This study introduces an effective method for the fabrication of high performance anode. Graphical abstract Unlabelled Image Highlights • A MnO 2 layer acts as electron mediator in electrochemical biofilm. • The wrapping layer of PEDOT helps to enhance electron transfer efficiency. • Electron transfer efficiency improved by ~4 times. • PEDOT/MnO 2 /CF anode increases the maximum power density by 143%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) mainly occurs as a result of abnormal proliferation and apoptosis resistance of pulmonary artery smooth muscle cells (PASMCs). Endothelial progenitor cell (EPC)-derived exosomes (Exos) (EPC-Exos) relieve PAH. However, there is still insufficient knowledge of whether EPC-Exos contribute to the pathological process of PAH, especially for PASMC repair. This study aimed to determine the effects of EPC-Exos on the proliferation, migration, and apoptosis of PASMCs and explore the possible underlying molecular mechanisms through bioinformatics analysis and in vitro testing. Bioinformatics analysis showed that the Ras signaling pathway and Exos were crucial in PAH. The PAH differential microRNAs (miRNAs) and miRNAs identified in EPC-Exos were intersected to obtain miR-21-5p. A target gene prediction program predicted mitofusin-2 (Mfn2) as a potential target of miR-21-5p. Cellular experiments demonstrated that EPC-Exos attenuated the viability, proliferation, migration, and apoptosis resistance of PASMCs under hypoxia. Mechanistically, EPC-Exos significantly upregulated Mfn2 expression and attenuated Ras-Raf-ERK1/2 signaling pathway activity. In conclusion, EPC-Exos suppress cell viability, proliferation, and migration and promote apoptosis in PASMCs under hypoxic conditions. It is possible to transport miR-21-5p to improve the expression of Mfn2 and inhibit the Ras-Raf-ERK1/2 signaling pathway directly or by targeting the expression of Mfn2. EPC-Exos are a potential therapeutic candidate for the treatment of PAH. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Inefficient extracellular electron transfer within bioanode leads to low current production by microbial fuel cell (MFC). In this study, magnetite was sprinkled in electroactive biofilm with the aid of magnet field. Magnetite located inside biofilm (interior-doped biofilm) facilitated the electron delivery of electroactive bacteria far away from electrode surface. Electron transfer efficiency was improved by 12% and 37% compared with that of biofilms with magnetite located at the interface of biofilm/electrode (surface-doped biofilm) and that without any magnetite (control biofilm) respectively. The output power density of MFC with interior-doped biofilm (764 ± 32 mW m −2 ) was greatly increased compared with that of MFCs with surface-doped biofilm (604 ± 22 mW m −2 ) and control biofilm (475 ± 12 mW m −2 ). SEM images showed that magnetite evenly distributed inside the interior-doped biofilm and penetrated the electroactive biofilm, which would facilitate extracellular electron transfer across electroactive biofilms and thus improving the bioelectricity production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory disease characterized by epidermal hyperplasia and increased T cell infiltration. Cytotoxic T lymphocyte antigen-4 (CTLA-4) is a key factor that affects T cell function and immune response. However, whether the expression of CTLA-4 affects the severity of psoriasis is still unknown. Objective The aim of the project was to investigate the correlation between the expression of CTLA-4 and the severity of psoriasis. Methods The plasma soluble CTLA-4 levels and membrane CTLA-4 expression were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and immunohistochemistry analysis in mild, moderate and severe psoriasis patients, respectively. Imiquimod-induced mouse model of psoriasis was treated with CTLA-4 immunoglobulin fusion protein (CTLA-4 Ig) or anti-CTLA-4 antibody. Epidermal thickness and infiltrating CD3+ T cell counts were evaluated. Results The plasma soluble CTLA-4 levels had no significant difference among mild, moderate, and severe patients ( p >  0.05). However, the membrane CTLA-4 expression in skin was significantly higher in mild psoriasis patients compared to moderate and severe psoriasis patients (17652.86 ± 18095.66 vs 6901.36 ± 4400.77 vs 3970.24 ± 5509.15, p <  0.001). Furthermore, in imiquimod-induced mouse model of psoriasis, the results showed that mimicking CTLA-4 function improved the skin phenotype and reduced epidermal thickness (172.87 ± 28.25 vs 245.87 ± 36.61 μm, n = 6, p <  0.01) as well as infiltrating CD3+ T cell counts (5.09 ± 3.45 vs 13.45 ± 4.70, p <  0.01) compared to control group. However, blocking CTLA-4 function aggregated the skin phenotype including enhanced epidermal thickness and infiltrating CD3+ T cell counts compared to control group. Conclusion These results indicated that the expression of mCTLA-4 in skin lesion inversely correlated with the severity of psoriasis and CTLA-4 might play a critical role in the disease severity of psoriasis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work, we prepared layer-by-layer (LbL) assembled films of fluorescein isothicyanate labeled poly(allylamine hydrochloride) (PAH-FITC) and poly(acrylic acid) (PAA) on cotton fabrics, and researched the influence of the PAH-FITC concentration on the FTIC aggregation. With the LbL assembly, the ratio of FITC dimers to monomers in films approached a constant that was decided by the deposition situation of PAH-FITC on cotton. The concentration increase of the PAH-FITC solution induced more FTIC dyes to deposit on fabrics, thus generating a higher degree of H-aggregation. Interestingly, as the PAH-FITC concentration decreased, a high content of FITC dimers was obtained in LbL-assembled films as well. The possible reason is the excessive PAA in LbL films made the counter PAH-FITC chains coil overlap, increasing the aggregation degree. Additionally, the H-aggregates with weak fluorescence were effectively inhibited in PAH-FITC films, which were prepared by a multi-immersion in the PAH-FITC solution. This work shows the concentration-dependent dye aggregation in LbL-assembly, providing a new strategy for the applications of dye molecules on fabrics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Leymus chinensis is an important perennial forage grass natively distributed in the Eurasian Steppe. However, little is known about the molecular mechanism of its adaptation to extreme environmental conditions. Based on L. chinensis cold-treated sequence database, a highly expressed S -adenosylmethionine decarboxylase gene ( LcSAMDC1 ) was isolated from L. chinensis . Gene structure analysis showed that LcSAMDC1 has two introns and three exons as well as three non-overlapping ORFs in its mRNA sequence. One hour of cold exposure caused a significant up-regulation of LcSAMDC1 , while abscisic acid (ABA), salt, and osmotic stresses slightly induced its expression. Analysis of gene expression in different tissues showed that LcSAMDC1 was expressed ubiquitously, with higher levels in the young spike and rhizome. Overexpression of the main ORF of LcSAMDC1 in transgenic Arabidopsis promoted increased tolerance to cold and salt stress relative to wild type Arabidopsis. The concentration of polyamines, proline, and chlorophyll was significantly higher in transgenic Arabidopsis , and spermine of polyamines increased more under cold than under salt stress. These results suggest that LcSAMDC1 was induced in response to cold and could influence the production of polyamines involved in stress tolerance of L. chinensis . Moreover, transgenic expression of LcSAMDC1 could be used to improve the abiotic resistance of crops. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Organic acid contaminated wastewater has been of great concerns for water recovery. Base-functionalized metal−organic framework DETA-UiO-66 by grafting diethylenetriamine onto UiO-66 achieved remarkable H 2 -FA capacity with large adsorption rate compared with parent UiO-66 and sulfonate-functionalized SO 3 H-UiO-66. According to the adsorption behavior at various p Hs, an adsorption mechanism was proposed involving the acid–base interaction and weak electrostatic interaction. Further investigation including adsorption kinetics, isotherms, thermodynamics, demonstrated that the H 2 -FA adsorption process on DETA-UiO-66 was a spontaneous exothermic process with a theoretical adsorption capacity reaching up to 561.8 mg g−1 at 10 °C. In addition, DETA-UiO-66 can be recovered through simple ethanol washing and reused for at least three times, remaining high adsorption capacity and adsorption rate. Meanwhile, DETA-UiO-66 showed high adsorption capacities for citric acid and sorbic acid, indicating DETA-UiO-66's wide potentials in capturing various organic acid pollutants. [Display omitted] • The amino-functionalized material DETA-UiO-66 was first synthesized by grafting diethylenetriamine onto robust UiO-66 via post-synthetic modification. • DETA-functionalized materials were applied to the adsorptive removal of organic acid pollutants, showing excellent adsorption performance. • Superior performance was observed on the DETA-UiO-66 prepared with high thermal stability proved by the TGA curve and excellent chemical resistance after immersion in acidic and basic solutions. • Adsorption mechanism was proposed involving the dominant acid-base interaction and weak electrostatic interaction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A simple and efficient approach was developed to fabricate an amperometric sensor for hydrogen peroxide (H 2 O 2 ) determination based on one-pot synthesis of highly dispersed PtAu nanoparticles–CTAB–graphene nanocomposites. In this study, graphene oxide was first functionalized with a cationic surfactant, cetyl trimethyl ammonium bromide (CTAB); then PtAu nanoparticles (NPs) were deposited on graphene (GR) via a simple chemical co-reduction method. A large amounts of highly dispersed bimetallic PtAu nanoparticles could be well loaded on the surface of the graphene, as revealed by transmission electron microscopy (TEM). In addition, PtAuNPs–CTAB–GR nanocomposites were also characterized by electrochemical methods including cyclic voltammetry (CV) and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS). The experimental results demonstrated that constructed sensor exhibited good catalytic activity toward H 2 O 2 , and obtained a wide linear range from 5.0 × 10 −9 to 4.8 × 10 −6 mol/L with a limit of detection (LOD) of 1.7 × 10 −9 mol/L (S/N = 3). Moreover, it could also be applied to real samples analysis. The excellent performance of this H 2 O 2 sensor could be ascribed to graphene being used as effective load matrix for the deposition of PtAuNPs and synergistic effect of bimetallic PtAuNPs and graphene nanomaterials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ginger, one of the most widely consumed condiment for various foods and beverages, has many pharmacological effects. 6-gingerol, a naturally occurring phenol, is one of the major pungent constituents of ginger. The purpose of this study was to characterize the effect of 6-gingerol on the p38/Nrf2/HO-1 and p38/NF-κB signaling pathway, as a possible means of combating hypoxia-related oxidative stress. H9c2 cells were chemically induced with CoCl 2 to mimic hypoxia-associated cellular damage. Cardiomyocyte injury was assessed by lactate dehydrogenase and creatine kinase. Reactive oxygen species production was assessed by 2′,7′-dichlorodihydrofluorescein diacetate. The antioxidative property of 6-gingerol was measured by estimating the activities of superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione and glutathione disulfide. Apoptosis was detected by flow cytometry after Annexin V-FITC-propidium iodide double staining. Western blotting was used to evaluate levels of p-p38, p38, cytoplasm p65, nuclear p65, total p65, nuclear Nrf2, total Nrf2, Keap1, HIF-1α, and HO-1. 6-gingerol was able to counter hypoxia-induced cardiomyocyte injury as evidenced by inhibiting the levels of oxidative stress indexes and increasing the percentage of apoptosis. Furthermore, 6-gingerol was able to down-regulate p-p38/p38, nuclear p65, total p65 and Keap1 expression induced by CoCl 2 stimulation and increased cytoplasm p65, nuclear Nrf2, total Nrf2, HO-1, and HIF-1α expression. However, treatment with specific Nrf2 inhibitor blunted the activation of Nrf2 signaling and removed the protective effects of 6-gingerol. These experiments provide evidence that 6-gingerol exerts cytoprotective effects, which may be associated with the regulation of oxidative stress and apoptosis, potentially through activating the Nrf2 pathway and inhibiting the p38/NF-κB pathways. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Changes in characteristic aroma-active compounds occur during processing at an industrial scale. • Pile fermentation increases the proportion of olefinic aldehyde compounds. • Methoxybenzene compounds formed during pile fermentation were weakened by aging. • Olefinic aldehydes, ketones, and methoxybenzenes were the characteristic volatiles of aged fragrances. Changes in key odorants and aroma profiles of Qingzhuan tea (QZT) during its manufacture were determined using headspace solid-phase microextraction gas chromatography-mass spectrometry/olfactometry. An aroma profile was constructed to illustrate sensory changes during manufacture. The characteristic aroma of QZT was aged fragrance, which was mostly developed during pile fermentation and was enhanced during the aging and drying stages. Using volatile compounds found in the raw materials, sun-dried green tea and QZT finished product were compared by orthogonal partial least square-discriminant analysis. Among 108 detected volatiles, 19 were significantly upregulated and 15 were downregulated. (E)-β-Ionone, (E,Z)-2,6-nonadienal, 1-octen-3-one, (E,E)-2,4-heptadienal, (E,E)-2,4-nonadienal, safranal, (E)-2-nonenal, α-ionone, and 1,2,3-trimethoxybenzene were found to be significant contributors to the aged QZT fragrance, reflecting their high odor-activity values and aroma intensities. Finally, the metabolic transformation of key aroma-active compounds was systematically analyzed. This study provided a theoretical basis for improving the processing and quality of QZT. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ginger, one of the most widely consumed condiment for various foods and beverages, has many pharmacological effects. 6-gingerol, a naturally occurring phenol, is one of the major pungent constituents of ginger. The purpose of this study was to characterize the effect of 6-gingerol on the p38/Nrf2/HO-1 and p38/NF-κB signaling pathway, as a possible means of combating hypoxia-related oxidative stress. H9c2 cells were chemically induced with CoCl2 to mimic hypoxia-associated cellular damage. Cardiomyocyte injury was assessed by lactate dehydrogenase and creatine kinase. Reactive oxygen species production was assessed by 2',7'-dichlorodihydrofluorescein diacetate. The antioxidative property of 6-gingerol was measured by estimating the activities of superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione and glutathione disulfide. Apoptosis was detected by flow cytometry after Annexin V-FITC-propidium iodide double staining. Western blotting was used to evaluate levels of p-p38, p38, cytoplasm p65, nuclear p65, total p65, nuclear Nrf2, total Nrf2, Keap1, HIF-1α, and HO-1. 6-gingerol was able to counter hypoxia-induced cardiomyocyte injury as evidenced by inhibiting the levels of oxidative stress indexes and increasing the percentage of apoptosis. Furthermore, 6-gingerol was able to down-regulate p-p38/p38, nuclear p65, total p65 and Keap1 expression induced by CoCl2 stimulation and increased cytoplasm p65, nuclear Nrf2, total Nrf2, HO-1, and HIF-1α expression. However, treatment with specific Nrf2 inhibitor blunted the activation of Nrf2 signaling and removed the protective effects of 6-gingerol. These experiments provide evidence that 6-gingerol exerts cytoprotective effects, which may be associated with the regulation of oxidative stress and apoptosis, potentially through activating the Nrf2 pathway and inhibiting the p38/NF-κB pathways. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights: [•] VLE data are measured at 101.3kPa for three ternary systems: THF+ethanol+[BMIM][BF 4 ], THF+ethanol+[OMIM][BF 4 ], and THF+ethanol+[BMIM][DCA]. [•] The experimental data are well fitted with the NRTL model. [•] The extractive capacities for separating the THF+ethanol azeotrope follows the order: [BMIM][DCA]>[BMIM][BF4]>[OMIM][BF4]. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: In this paper, a class of nonlinear matrix equations is considered. An equivalent form of this equation is derived, and the properties of the solutions are studied. Then Newton’s iterative method is applied to solve this equivalent one. Finally, two numerical examples are given to illustrate the efficiency of Newton’s method. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Highlights: [•] VLE data for THF+methanol+tetrafluoroborate-based ionic liquids measured at 101.3kPa. [•] [EMIM][BF4] totally eliminates the azeotropic point when its mole fraction is up to 0.20. [•] The ILs have a great salting-out effect, which enhances the relative volatility of THF. [•] The effect of alkyl chain length of ILs on the VLE for THF and methanol are compared. [•] The NRTL model has a good correlation with the experimental VLE data. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The accelerated charge transfer channels are constructed via the introduction of vanadium into CoFe-LDHs. The overall OER and HER performance are enhanced due to the interactions among three metal components. Herein, vanadium is responsible for optimizing the electronic structure while cobalt and iron play key roles in regulating the HER and OER performance, respectively. [Display omitted] • Composition, microstructure and morphology act as the catalyst design principles. • The charge transfer channels are constructed by introducing V into CoFe-LDHs. • The synergistic effect among metal components in CoFeV-LDHs is clearly revealed. • The dynamics barrier of OER is reduced via adjusting the molar ratio of metal ions. • The excellent HER performance of LDHs is performed through activating metal sites. A series of self-supported electrocatalysts composed of tri-metallic CoFeV-LDHs generated on conductive carbon cloth (denoted as CoFeV@CC) have been constructed. The specific interaction among Co, Fe and V is systematically revealed via tuning the molar ratios of M2+:M3+ and Fe3+:V3+ in these tri-metallic LDHs. Finally, the optimal synergistic effect is reached when the molar ratios of M2+:M3+ and Fe3+:V3+ are respectively 4:1 and 1:1, resulting in the product named Co 8 FeV@CC, which displays the best overall OER and HER performance. Only rather low overpotentials of 235 and 182 mV are required to attain the current density of 100 mA cm−2 with a Faradaic efficiency of nearly 100 % for OER and HER, respectively. Co 8 FeV@CC can thus be applied as both an anode and cathode in the symmetrical two-electrode and possesses a current density of 100 mA cm−2 at the cell voltage of 1.65 V, and further demonstrates ultra-high stability for 100 h. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hesperetin (HSP) is a natural flavonoid that offers useful curative effects for cardiovascular diseases, but its effect on myocardial ischemia and its precise mechanism remains unclear. The aim of this study is to explore the potential cardioprotective mechanism of HSP on myocardial ischemia caused by isoproterenol (ISO). Adult male Kunming mice were randomly divided into five groups: control, ISO, low-dose HSP (L-HSP, 25 mg/kg/d), high-dose HSP (H-HSP, 50 mg/kg/d), and verapamil (VER) group. Treatment groups of mice received HSP or VER for seven days, and the groups other than the control group were injected with ISO (100 mg/kg/d) subcutaneously for two consecutive days to establish a model of myocardial ischemia. Electrocardiogram and heart-histology changes were used to assess changes in myocardial architecture. The activities and the content of oxidative stress markers and inflammatory cytokines were determined and assayed using kits respectively. The expressions of proteins associated with apoptosis and the Sirt1/Nrf2 pathway were evaluated by Western blotting. The results demonstrate that VER, L-HSP and H-HSP significantly reduced the J-point displacement, heart rate, cardiac pathomorphological changes, and the levels of creatine kinase, lactated dehydrogenase, malonaldehyde, interleukin-6, and tumor necrosis factor-α in serum while promoting the activation of superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione in serum in the ISO-treated animals. Furthermore, L-HSP and H-HSP also reversed the ISO-induced apoptosis and the changes in the Sirt1/Nrf2 signaling pathway, as evident from the levels of proteins Bax, Bcl-2, caspase-3, Sirt1, Nrf2, NQO-1, and HO-1. In conclusion, HSP plays a protective role in ISO-induced myocardial ischemia by modulating oxidative stress, inflammation, and apoptosis via Sirt1/Nrf2 pathway activation. [Display omitted] • Hesperetin attenuates oxidative stress, inflammation, and apoptosis in mouse heart. • Hesperetin activates the expression of the Sirt1/Nrf2 pathway. • Hesperetin has a protective action on isoproterenol-induced myocardial ischemia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, the combination of octahedral Zn 2 SnO 4 with the carbon quantum dots (CQDs) is pioneered for the efficient detection of triethylamine. CQDs-modified Zn 2 SnO 4 materials were synthesized to perform rapid detection of trace triethylamine present in air. In the gas test, the optimal composite's response value to triethylamine is 600% higher than the value of the original Zn 2 SnO 4 to triethylamine, and the tendency of selective to triethylamine is more than ten times than other kinds of gases and possesses a short response/recovery times of 18 s/29 s. The exceptional properties of the composite are attributed to the superb electron transport capacity brought by the modification of 5 nm carbon quantum dots. The novel material will solve the issues of slow reaction time and low response of previous materials in detecting triethylamine. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Revealing the pathways of electron transport within electrochemically active biofilms (EABs) is of great importance. Here, mixed-culture EABs are grown on three interdigitated microelectrode arrays (IDAs) with different gap widths of 10 μm, 20 μm and 50 μm and their conductances are determined. The maximum conductive current increases with the decrease of the gap width and charge transfer resistance obtained for the biofilm attaching on the electrode is 3–11 fold less than that for biofilm bridging gaps, suggesting high conductance of biofilm closer to the electrode surface. Results from Raman analysis show high abundance of multi-heme cytochromes in biofilm bridging 10 μm gap, leading to small resistance of biofilm growing on the IDA with 10 μm gap. In addition, the maximum conductive current of biofilm bridging gaps at the potential of −0.40 V vs. Ag/AgCl suggests that electron transfer in biofilm growing on IDAs is redox driven. All these results indicate the spatial heterogeneity of electron transport processes acting within biofilm. Biofilm conductance decreased with the increase of gap's width. Small resistance was found for biofilm adjacent to the electrode surface. Biofilm conductance was depended the abundance of multi-heme cytochrome. The process of electron transfer with EABs was spatial heterogeneous. Panpan Liu: Conducting a research and investigation process, writing the initial draft [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Crocetin attenuates oxidative stress, inflammation and apoptosis in the kidney. • Crocetin activates the expression of the PI3K/AKT pathway related genes. • Crocetin has a protective action on arsenic trioxide-induced nephrotoxicity. Arsenic trioxide (ATO)-induced renal toxicity through oxidative stress and apoptosis restricts the therapeutic action of acute myelogenous leukemia. Crocetin (Crt) possesses antioxidant and antiapoptosis properties, and has certain renal protective effects, but it has not been reported that it has protective effect on renal injury caused by ATO. The current study explored the effects and mechanisms of Crt on kidney damage induced by ATO. Fifty Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly divided into five groups. Adult rats were given Crt concurrently with ATO for 1 week. On the 8th day, rats were killed and blood and kidney tissues were collected. Histopathological changes were measured, and kidney tissues and serum were used to determine renal function and antioxidant enzyme activity. In addition, the protein expression levels of P-PI3K, PI3K, P-AKT, AKT, CytC, Bax, Bcl-2 and Caspase-3 were determined via western blot analysis. Results revealed ATO induced renal morphological alterations and activated serum BUN and CRE. Compared with the control group, ROS, MDA, IL-1β, TNF-α, protein carbonyls (PC), lipid hydroperoxides (LOOH) and arsenic concentration levels were found to be significantly increased and SOD, CAT, GSH-Px, GSH and total sulphydryl groups (TSH) levels were attenuated in the ATO group. Crt markedly reduced oxidative stress in ATO-induced nephrotoxicity. Further, ATO induced apoptosis by significantly enhancing CytC, Bax and Caspase-3 and inhibiting Bcl-2. Administration with Crt markedly improved the expression of apoptosis factor. Moreover, Crt treatment stimulated the expressions of P-PI3K, PI3K, P-AKT, AKT induced by ATO. This study indicates Crt could prevent renal injury caused by ATO through inhibiting oxidative stress, inflammation and apoptosis, and its mechanism may be related to activation of PI3K/Akt signaling pathway. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

New capillaries are essential for deep tissue pressure injury wound healing. Tazarotene is a recently discovered small molecule drug and functions to promote neovascularization and tissue repair. At present, the application of tazarotene in the repair of pressure injuries has not previously been investigated. This study used poly (lactic- co -glycolic acid) (PLGA) as nanoparticle carriers loaded with tazarotene (Ta/PLGA NPs) for drug delivery and to overcome shortcomings associated with the low water solubility, short half-life, easy photolysis and low bioavailability of tazarotene itself. The physicochemical properties, drug release and bioactivity of Ta/PLGA NPs were examined in vitro by transmission electron microscope, spectrophotometry and cell assays. Mouse models of deep tissue pressure injuries (DTPI) were established and the therapeutic effects and mechanisms of Ta/PLGA NPs in local wound repair were studied. The results showed that Ta/PLGA NPs were of uniform size and distribution and were non-toxic both in vitro and in vivo. In vivo experiments suggested that Ta/PLGA NPs significantly promoted DTPI wound repair through activation of the VEGF/VEGFR-Notch1/DLL4 signaling pathway. This study highlights the potential clinical significance of implementation of tazarotene small molecule drugs in combination with effective biomaterial carriers for the treatment of chronic refractory wounds, such as DTPI. • The sustained release of Ta/PLGA NPs were successfully prepared by using the emulsification-volatiliztion method. • Ta/PLGA NPs accelerated wound healing of DTPI through activation of the VEGF-Notch signaling pathway. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Currently, numerous studies are devoted to the pursuit of thermal conductivity enhancement of phase change materials (PCMs). On the contrary, few researches are reported to reduce the thermal conductivity of PCMs. Generally, the PCMs with reduced thermal conductivity have great potential in thermal protection application. Herein, we propose a novel in situ one-step strategy to facilely prepare monolithic silica aerogel-based composite PCMs. The silica aerogels possess low thermal conductivity and are used to encapsulate PCMs to prepare composite PCMs, such as polyethylene glycol (PEG) or octadecanol. Compare with PEG2000@silica aerogel, the resulting monolithic octadecanol@silica aerogel have low thermal conductivity (0.12 W m−1 K−1), high latent heat (127.73 J/g), large compressive strength (11 MPa), good hydrophobicity (contact angle 124°) and superior thermal cycling stability. This monolithic silica aerogel-based composite PCMs could prolong heat preservation duration due to the synergistic effect between low thermal conductivity and high latent heat of composite PCMs, showing potential promise for direct application to the thermal insulation and thermal protection device. More importantly, this in situ one-step synthesis strategy is universal for different types of PCMs. Image 1 • An in situ one-step strategy was proposed to synthesize monolithic silica aerogel-based composite PCMs. • This in situ one-step strategy is universal for the encapsulation of diverse PCMs. • Monolithic silica aerogel-based composite PCMs possess excellent shape stability and high compressive strength (11 MPa). • The silica aerogel-based composite PCMs have low thermal conductivity (0.12 W m−1 K−1) and high latent heat (127.73 J/g). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

High sensitivity is essential for the application of bioelectrochemical system-based sensor (BES sensor) in water quality early-warning, where the electroactive biofilm is of vital importance as it delivers a responsive electric signal to toxic substances. This study artificially designed the morphology of a naturally formed biofilm by employing a serrated knife to scrape the biofilm and thus obtained a reduced thickness and roughness. Then it was further cut by half to halve the biomass. BES sensors equipped with control and processed biofilms were operated under constant anode potential (CAP) and tested at different Cu(II) concentrations to study their sensitivities. Results revealed that the scraped biofilms delivered much increased sensitivity towards Cu(II) shock, which was attributed to a reduced thickness as illustrated by macroscopic and microscopic morphology analysis. Another finding was that biomass per unit interfacial area, rather than the biomass, also affected the sensitivity. To further describe how the inner biofilm responded the toxicity after morphology design, a one-dimension mass transfer model was developed to simulate the mass transfer of Cu(II) in the biofilms with different thicknesses. The relative threshold value of inlet Cu(II) concentration was employed to fit the modeling and experimental results, indicating that decreased biofilm thickness was beneficial for improving the sensitivity. Unlabelled Image • Biofilm's morphology design leads to reduced thickness and roughness. • Scraping the biofilm raises the sensitivity by 34%. • Biofilm's thickness is recognized essential factor on sensitivity. • Biomass per unit interfacial area affects the sensitivity. • One-dimension model simulates the Cu(II) transfer in biofilm. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lysophosphatidylcholine (LPC) is the main component of oxidatively damaged low-density lipoprotein (oxLDL). LPC originates from the cleavage of phosphatidylcholine by phospholipase A2 (PLA2). LPC plays a biological role by binding to G protein-coupled receptors and Toll-like receptors. LPC can induce the migration of lymphocytes and macrophages, increase the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines, induce oxidative stress, and promote apoptosis, which can aggregate inflammation and promote the development of diseases. The effects of LPC on endothelial cells, vascular smooth muscle cells and arteries play a vital role in the progression of atherosclerosis and other cardiovascular diseases. In addition, the regulation of inflammation by LPC plays different roles in inflammatory and infectious diseases. In diabetes, LPC can induce insulin resistance. On the other hand, it can decrease blood glucose. The concentration of LPC varies in different tumours. LPC plays an important role in the invasion, metastasis and prognosis of tumours. Therefore, targeting LPC and lipid metabolism might be a potential therapeutic method for inflammation-related diseases. The effect of LPC on cells LPC can exert its biological function by activating ion channels, increasing the release of inflammatory factors and the expression of adhesion molecule, inducing apoptosis and oxidative stress. LPC can induce intracellular calcium mobilization via increasing external Ca(2+) influx and Ca(2+) release from endoplasmic reticulum Ca(2+) stores. Besides, LPC can affect the concentration of intracellular Na(+) and K(+), affecting the normal physiological function of cells. Importantly, LPC can bind to G protein coupled receptors (GPCRs) and Toll-like receptors (TLRs), activate transcription factors, stable mRNA and then increase the expression of target genes through Ca(2+)-mediated second messenger or directly inducing downstream inflammatory signalling pathways, which could increase the release of inflammatory factors, or induce the expression of adhesion molecules. In addition, there are many mechanisms by which LPC induces apoptosis, such as caspase activation, calcium influx, the release of cytochrome C, and the mitochondrial pathway. LPC increases ROS generation and enhances oxidative stress. Therefore, LPC plays a variety of biological functions in cells, so targeting LPC may be a potential method for the treatment of inflammation-related diseases. Unlabelled Image [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Advancing the application of bioelectrochemical systems necessitates the comprehensive understanding of electron transfer process in electrode-associated biofilm. While in situ electrical measurement by using the split electrode can illustrate the electron conduction in biofilm, the accuracy and interpretation of the obtained data is still in debate. Here, conductance of Geobacter sulfurreducens biofilm is measured by using the split electrode as substrate concentration is changed. Biofilm conductance decreases with the current production as the consumption of substrate. In addition, the measured conductance increases with the area of drain electrode (13.8 ± 1.8 μS for 0.5 cm2 and 29.4 ± 4.2 μS for 1 cm2). These results suggest the measured conductance of biofilm is influenced by microbial metabolism. This effect will diminish when the measurement is performed by using electrochemical impedance spectroscopy or under non-turnover condition. Our results provide the insight on the electrochemical origin of biofilm conductance determined by the in situ electrical measurement. • Biofilm conductance decreased with current production as consumption of substrate. • Biofilm conductance increased with the area of drain electrode. • The measurement of biofilm conductance was influenced by microbial metabolism. • Biofilm conductance significantly decreased under non-turnover condition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• The effect of gap width on biofilm conductivity was investigated. • Higher conductivity was observed for biofilm bridging on larger gaps. • Redox-driven EET was found for biofilms bridging gaps with different width. • Metabolic activity controls biofilm conductance. To understand electron transport in electrochemically active biofilms, it is necessary to elucidate the heterogeneous electron transport across the biofilm/electrode interface and in the interior of G. sulfurreducens biofilms bridging gaps of varying widths. The conductivity of Geobacter sulfurreducens biofilm bridging nonconductive gaps with widths of 5 µm, 10 µm, 20 µm and 50 µm is investigated. Results of electrochemical gating measurement show that biofilm conductivity peaks at the potential of −0.35 V vs. Ag/AgCl. The biofilm conductivity increases with gap width (10.4 ± 0.2 µS cm−1 in 5 µm gap, 13.3 ± 0.2 µS cm−1 in 10 µm gap, 16.7 ± 1.4 µS cm−1 in 20 µm gap and 41.8 ± 2.02 µS cm−1 in 50 µm gap). These results revealed that electron transfer in G. sulfurreducens biofilm is a redox-driven. In addition, higher biofilm conductivities and lower charge transfer resistances are observed in all gaps under a turnover condition than in those under a non-turnover condition. Our results offer insights into the spatial heterogeneity of biofilm structure and extracellular electron transfer in electrochemically active biofilms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sulfur autotrophic denitrification has been proved feasible for nitrate removal from aquatic environments and it utilizes elemental sulfur as the electron donor. A maximum denitrification rate of 194.57 mg N/L·d was achieved with biogenic sulfur as electron donor in a mixed culture collected from sulfur packed bed reactors; this rate was considerably higher than that delivered by α-S 8 or μ-S in the same mixed culture. The elemental sulfur was also tested in the pure culture of Thiobacillus denitrificans , while a lower denitrification rate was noted than in the mixed culture, bio-S (4.86 mg N/L·d) again outperformed other two elemental sulfur's. X-ray absorption near edge structure spectra were collected to examine possible metabolic intermediates during the sulfur autotrophic denitrification process. The analysis revealed the existence of two major intermediates: DL-cysteine and L-cystine. They were found to not only provide electrons but also play a critical role in promoting the elemental sulfur-mediated sulfur autotrophic denitrification process. In general, we investigated the formation and enhancement effects of sulfur intermediates in the sulfur autotrophic denitrification process. Unlabelled Image • Three forms of sulfurs were used for So-based denitrification process. • Bio-S could achieve the best nitrogen removal performance. • XANES analysis revealed the existence of DL-cysteine and L-cystine in bio-S. • DL-cysteine and L-cystine were able to improve So-based denitrification process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The development of real-time online warning system for toxicity materials is important to ensure the safety of water supply. This study for the first time constructs luminescent bacteria (Vibrio fischeri) biofilm to deliver both electrical and optical real-time response for Cu(II) toxic shock in a bioelectrochemical system (BES) sensor. Compared to biocathode, bioanode was more suitable as sensitive elements. With three tested concentrations of Cu(II), i.e., 1 mg/L, 3 mg/L and 6 mg/L, electrical signals were raised. But optical signal failed to respond to the lowest concentration, suggesting that electrical signal then was produced by chemical reaction of Cu(II) on the electrode surface. For 3 mg/L and 6 mg/L Cu(II) shock, more rapid optical signals were observed than electrical signal, indicating that both the biofilm's surface and inner was affected. In addition, high concentration of Cu(II) toxic as 6 mg/L caused irreversible damage in the biosensor as there were great fluctuation in the recovery curve and large recovery ratio up to -10.39% for optical signal. These results provided a comparison between optical and electrical signals simultaneously produced by a biosensor and visual evidences for better understanding of the toxicity process in the biosensor. Image 1 • Luminescent bacteria biofilm was constructed as a sensing element. • Simultaneously production of photons and electrons by Vibrio fischeri biofilm. • Compatible Vibrio fischeri biofilm as bioanode rather than biocathode with biosensor. • Both optical and electrical signals respond to Cu2+ shock. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Childhood emotional neglect is a risk factor of adolescent depression. • Maladaptive self-cognition is a potential explanatory factor underlying this relation. • Friendship quality plays a moderating role, with the effect being stronger for adolescents with lower levels of friendship quality. It has become the responsibility of the whole society to protect adolescents from depression. Based on an integration of attachment theory and stress-buffering model, the present study aimed to examine (a) whether childhood emotional neglect (CEN) would be significantly associated with depression; (b) whether maladaptive self-cognition would mediate the association between CEN and depression; and (c) whether friendship quality would moderate the direct and indirect associations between CEN and depression via maladaptive self-cognition. Participants were 1639 Chinese adolescents (M age = 14.49 years, SD = 1.11). They completed questionnaires regarding demographics, CEN, maladaptive self-cognition, and friendship quality at Time 1. After 7 months, they finished the measure of depression at Time 2. Results showed that CEN was positively associated with adolescent depression, and this relation was mediated by maladaptive self-cognition. Furthermore, friendship quality moderated the association between CEN and maladaptive self-cognition, with the relation being stronger for adolescents with lower levels of friendship quality. However, friendship quality did not moderate the association between maladaptive self-cognition and depression, as well as the direct association between CEN and depression. This study contributes to a better understanding of adolescent depression and provide important guidance for treating this disorder. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

How metal-support interaction (MSI) affects three-way catalysts (TWCs) performance has always been a focus. This work regulated the interaction between Rh and CeO 2 -ZrO 2 (CZ) by support pretreatment scheme, meanwhile deeply analyzed the effect on activity and stability. CZ after 1000 ℃ pretreatment weakened the MSI and made more active Rh on CZ surface, which significantly enhanced catalytic efficiency (C 3 H 8 T 90 decreased by 40 ℃). However, this weakened MSI prevented CZ from anchoring Rh, leading to the growth of Rh after aging and adversely affecting anti-aging ability (T 90 increased by 90 °C). Fortunately, when CZ pretreatment at 900 °C, the catalytic performance did not decrease after aging due to the retained strong MSI. In addition, the change of oxygen vacancy concentration caused by CZ pretreatment was positively correlated with MSI strength. This work provided an in-depth understanding for MSI and a new idea for Rh-based TWCs design by elucidating the correlation between MSI and TWCs performance. [Display omitted] • Support pretreatment temperature is closely related to metal-support interaction. • Weakened MSI after support pretreatment at 1000 °C made more active Rh on CZ surface and showed better activity. • Strong Rh-CeO 2 interaction after support pretreatment at 900 °C showed better thermal stability. • Oxygen vacancies concentration is positively correlated with Rh-CeO 2 interaction. • C 3 H 8 oxidation activity is extremely sensitive to the modulation of Rh-CeO 2 interaction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sulfur autotrophic denitrification is a feasible option for nitrate removal from wastewater. Element sulfur (So) can be utilized as an electron donor to enhance denitrification processes, with So metabolism playing an important role. The general concern with the use of So as an electron donor is the conversion and transfer of So, since So hardly dissolves in water. The conversion of So and the transfer of intermediates in So-based biofilms was investigated by applying a negative potential in a denitrification reactor with a So-carbon black cathode. The nitrate reduction rate was greatly increased, while nitrite accumulation was limited. When the cathode was prepared with equal volumes of element sulfur and carbon black powder, the nitrogen removal rate could reach 1.03 ± 0.00 g/m2/d. Half-order rates still applied to the reactions with applied potential, indicating that So-based denitrification was the dominant process. Raman analysis and cyclic voltammetry experiments suggested that reduced sulfur species (S x 2−) were generated in a So-based biofilm with a negative potential, their transfer was stimulated, and the sulfur related bacterial community was enhanced. It could be concluded that applying a negative potential improved the conversion and transfer of sulfur species, and thereby promote So-based denitrification process. Image 1 • So-CB cathode prepared for potential regulation to improve denitrification rates. • So-based denitrification was found to be dominant process in reactors. • S x 2− was generated during the conversion process of So. • Sulfur related bacteria were all enhanced on So-CB cathodes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Novel MMMs containing hydrophilic Zr-MOF NU-906 were fabricated for ethanol dehydration; • The incorporation of NU-906 enhanced both water affinity and structural stability of chitosan membranes; • Desirable interfacial interaction of NU-906 and chitosan was confirmed by FT-IR; • NU-906/CS MMMs exhibited excellent ethanol/water separation efficiency with long-term stability. Conquering the trade-off between selectivity and permeability is crucial for efficient ethanol dehydration. The sophisticated metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) have proven their potential as membrane fillers despite of the limited research on few frameworks. Herein, in order to achieve enhanced water permselectivity, hydrophilic zirconium-based NU-906 nanoparticles were incorporated into chitosan (CS) to fabricate NU-906/CS mixed matrix membranes (MMMs) for alcohol dehydration. The introduction of NU-906 brought excellent water affinity and structural stability to the hybrid membranes confirmed by the water contact angle and swelling resistance tests. Benefiting from the hydrophilicity and the ordered porosity of the incorporated NU-906, simultaneously enhanced water selectivity and permeability have been achieved on the hybrid membranes. The optimum membrane with 5.0 wt% NU-906 exhibited a high flux of 1086 g/(m2·h) and an excellent separation factor of 2651 for 90 wt% ethanol dehydration at 76 ℃. This research has expanded the range of MOFs available for the fabrication of MMMs and provided new options for organic solvent pervaporation dehydration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Impure ions in the precursor can cause the structural transition of prepared MnO 2 catalysts and influence their activity in toluene catalytic oxidation. Here, the effects of K+ and SO 4 2- on the catalytic activity of MnO 2 are examined. Removing absorbed SO 4 2- by repeating water washing facilitates the exposure of active sites on the surface of MnO 2. The temperature for toluene conversion reaches 90% (T 90) of catalysts decreases from 247 ºC to 238 ºC. While the loss of K+ during the water washing leads to the inferior performance of MnO 2. Re-impregnating of K+ can stimulate the generation of active oxygen species on the surface of catalysts (K/MnO 2), which showed elevated catalytic activity in toluene conversion (T 90 , 229 ºC). In addition, K/MnO 2 performs good stability for toluene combustion in long-term operation. Density Function Theory calculations reveal that the formation energy of oxygen vacancy and the adsorption energy of toluene on the surface of catalyst decrease from 6.996 eV and − 0.079 to 5.482 eV and − 0.468 eV as the introduction of K+, respectively. Our results provide a complete understanding of the effects of impurity ions on the performance of manganese oxide for catalytic oxidation of toluene. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A polarization-insensitive 2 × 2 multimode interference coupler based on double strip silicon nitride waveguides is proposed and optimized by using the three-dimensional finite difference time domain method. By optimizing the device’s structure parameters in detail, polarization independent excess loss of −0.32dB is obtained, and negligible output uniformities of −0.02dB and −0.03dB could be achieved for the TE and TM mode, respectively. The optimized polarization-insensitive 2 × 2 multimode interference coupler could be served as a building block on the double strip silicon nitride waveguides platform. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is a hematological malignancy with rapid disease progression and often becomes lethal without treatment. Development of effective new therapies is essential to improve the clinical outcome of AML patients. Enhancer of zeste homolog 2 (EZH2) and lysine specific demethylase 1 (LSD1) play important roles in epigenetic regulation and their altered expressions have been observed in cancer. Although EZH2 and LSD1 have opposite histone methylation functions, we found that both enzymes were paradoxically up-regulated in AML cells. Importantly, a combined inhibition of EZH2 and LSD1 resulted in a synergistic activity against AML in vitro and in vivo. Such synergy was mechanistically correlated with up-regulation of H3K4me1/2 and H3K9Ac and down-regulation of H3K27me3, leading to a decrease of anti-apoptotic protein Bcl-2. These epigenetic alterations also compromised the mitochondrial respiration capacity and glycolytic activity and resulted in ATP depletion, a key event contributing to the potent cytotoxic effect of the drug combination. Taken together, our work identified a novel therapeutic approach against AML by combining two small molecules that inhibit different histone methylation-modulating proteins with apparently opposite enzyme activities. Such a new drug combination strategy likely has significant clinical implications since epigenetic modulators are currently in clinical trials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The traditional microbial fuel cell (MFC) sensor with bioanode as sensing element delivers limited sensitivity to toxicity monitoring, restricted application to only anaerobic and organic rich water body, and increased potential fault warning to the combined shock of organic matter/toxicity. In this study, the biocathode for oxygen reduction reaction was employed for the first time as the sensing element in MFC sensor for toxicity monitoring. The results shown that the sensitivity of MFC sensor with biocathode sensing element (7.4±2.0 to 67.5±4.0 mA% −1 cm −2 ) was much greater than that showed by bioanode sensing element (3.4±1.5 to 5.5±0.7 mA% −1 cm −2 ). The biocathode sensing element achieved the lowest detection limit reported to date using MFC sensor for formaldehyde detection (0.0005%), while the bioanode was more applicable for higher concentration (>0.0025%). There was a quicker response of biocathode sensing element with the increase of conductivity and dissolved oxygen (DO). The biocathode sensing element made the MFC sensor directly applied to clean water body monitoring, e.g., drinking water and reclaimed water, without the amending of background organic matter, and it also decreased the warning failure when challenged by a combined shock of organic matter/toxicity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The use of biosensors for water alert system is critical for providing safe water to the general public. A cathode-shared microbial fuel cell (MFC) sensor array was designed improve the detection credibility by eliminating the cathode performance variation, based on the principle that only the bioanode would be used as the sensing and transducing element. Four integrated MFCs exhibited high parallelism, and independence without the cross contamination or electric signal interference. Two linear ranges were observed (from 0.25 to 0.75 mM and from 1 to 10 mM) for acetate detection. A linear relationship between inhibition ratio ( IR ) and Cu 2+ concentration from 2 to 6 mg/L was recorded. The sensor expressed an immediate voltage decrease when exposed to a pH decrease from 6 to 4. The compact design of the cathode-shared MFC sensor array assure the detection credibility, and the number of the integrated MFC sensors is alterable based on the monitoring requirement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nickel phosphide (Ni 3 P) is a promising anode material for lithium-ion batteries owing to its high specific capacity, though significant improvement in its cycling stability is highly desired. Here we propose an effective and low-cost solution via a three-dimensional construction of porous NiO covered Ni 3 P films over a substrate of Ni foam, through electroless plating of P-rich Ni 3 P and subsequent in situ oxidation in air. The in situ oxidation of P-rich Ni 3 P resulted in the formation of nano porous NiO capping layer. Remarkable enhancement in the cycling stability of such a composite anode was thus realized. The initial discharge capacity for a CR2016-type coin cell was as high as 920 mA h g −1 , and there was still a reversible capacity of 550 mA h g −1 after 60 cycles at a current density of 38.8 mA g −1 . The presence of porous NiO capping layer changed the lithiation path and significantly improved the cycling performance. The decreased resistance in charge transport due to the existence of adequate channels for Li ions diffusion also enhanced rate performance. A pristine Ni 3 P films was researched as a comparison. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To reveal the effects of Co-doping on the electrochemical performance of micro-sized LiNi 0.5 Mn 1.5 O 4 (LNMO), undoped LNMO and Co-doped LiCo 0.1 Ni 0.45 Mn 1.45 O 4 (LCoNMO) are synthesized via a PVP-combustion method and calcined at 1000 °C for 6 h. SEM and XRD analyses suggest that Co-doping decreases the particle size and the Li z Ni 1-z O 2 impurity at the calcination temperature of 1000 °C. LCoNMO has much better rate capability while its specific capacity at C/5 is 10% lower than that of LNMO. At 15 C rate, their specific capacities are closed, and the LCoNMO delivers 86.2% capacity relative to C/5, and this value for LNMO is only 77.0%. The D Li + values determined by potential intermittent titration technique (PITT) test of LCoNMO are 1–2 times higher than that of LNMO in most SOC region. The LCoNMO shows very excellent cycling performance, which is the best value compared with literatures. After 1000 cycles, the LCoNMO still delivers 94.1% capacity. Moreover, its coulombic efficiency and energy efficiency keep at 99.84% and over 97.3% during 1 C cycling, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• The importance of the library environment for archival preservation. • Mildew proof and fire proof file packaging material. • Archive storage strategies for micro-environmental interventions. • Low carbon and environmental protection storage of archives. • Mildew proof and flame retardant properties of inorganic nanomaterials. Archives, books and other cultural classics represent precious cultural wealth in every nation. However, the interaction between the paper components and external environmental factors decreases paper durability, leading to the gradual loss of paper cultural relics. This includes the impact of fungi and fire on books, documents, maps and paper works of art leading to incalculable and irreversible cultural losses. In addition, fungal metabolites induce a wide range of allergic reactions that threaten the health of library/archive professionals and users. Given this, it is urgent to explore an alternative archive storage strategy to enhance the comprehensive control of archive mould disease. The preservation environment of paper affects its preservation time and quality, and microenvironment regulation is an important approach to the preventive protection of paper cultural relics. In the present study, inorganic materials were introduced into the archive packaging box to alter the microenvironment and enhance the mould and fire prevention effect without affecting the paper performance. Archive packaging boxes have good anti-microbial effects, with a low content of carbon and nitrogen sources effectively blocking the growth and colonization of mould, creating a microenvironment blocking the growth of surrounding mould, and significantly blocking the occurrence of fire, which could effectively improve storage capabilities and staff health in libraries. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Synchronous removal of gaseous toluene and benzene were achieved by MFC-BTF. • Shifts of mass transfer and microbial community for VOCs removal were revealed. • The removal of benzene was stimulated with the presence of toluene in exhaust. • Various biodegradation pathways for toluene and benzene were proposed. Illustrating the biodegradation processes of multi-component volatile organic compounds (VOCs) will expedite the implication of biotechnology in purifying industrial exhaust. Here, performance shifts of microbial fuel cell and biotrickling filter combined system (MFC-BTF) are investigated for removing single and dual components of toluene and benzene. Synchronous removal of toluene (95 %) and benzene (97 %) are achieved by MFC-BTF accompanied with the output current of 0.41 mA. Elevated content of extracellular polymeric substance facilitates the mass transfer of benzene with the presence of toluene. Strains of Bacteroidota , Proteobacteria and Chloroflexi contribute to the removal of dual components VOCs. Empty bed reaction time and the VOCs concentration are the important factors influencing their dissolution in the system. The biodegradation of toluene and benzene proceeds with 2-hydroxymuconic semialdehyde and o-hydroxybenzoic acid as the main intermediates. These results provide a comprehensive understanding of multi-component VOCs removal by MFC-BTF and guide the system design, optimization, and scale-up. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cu@Cu 2 O/graphene nanocomposite was successfully synthesized by a facile one-step solovothermal approach. The in-situ formed Cu@Cu 2 O nanoparticles were homogeneously anchored onto graphene oxide sheets, which were simultaneously reduced directly to form the graphene sheets, and the nanoparticles acted as the spacers to avoid the neighboring graphene sheets aggregating or restacking. The composite exhibits a specific capacitance of 100.9 F/g at 0.1 A/g, which is higher than that of Cu@Cu 2 O nanoparticles (33.4 F/g). More importantly, the specific capacitance increases to 257 F/g after 1000 cycles at 0.1 A/g due to the electrochemical activation. The facile synthesis method and good electrochemical properties indicate that the nanocomposite could be a promising potential electrode candidate for supercapacitors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]