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A simple but robust strategy of ball milling (20 Hz, 30 Hz for 30 s, 60 s, 120 s, 180 s) was utilized to modify bamboo shoots fiber (BSDF) in shrimp surimi. The water holding capacity, swelling capacity, and oil binding capacity of 30 Hz-60 s milled BSDF exhibited the highest values of 5.61 g/g, 3.13 mL/g, and 6.93 g/g, significantly higher (P < 0.05) than untreated one (3.65 g/g, 2.03 mL/g, 4.57 g/g). Ball-milled BSDF exhibited a small-sized structure with the relative crystallinity decreased from 40.44 % (control) to 11.12 % (30 Hz-180 s). The myosin thermal stability, gelation properties of surimi were significantly enhanced by incorporating 20 Hz-120 s and 30 Hz-60 s BSDF via promoting protein unfolding, covalent hydrophobic interactions, and hydrogen bonding. A matrix-reinforcing and water entrapping effect was observed, exhibiting reinforced networks with down-sized water tunnels. However, BSDF modified at 180 s contributed to over-aggregated networks with fractures and enlarged gaps. Appropriate ball-milled BSDF (20 Hz-120 s, and 30 Hz-60 s) resulted in a significant decrease in α -helix (P < 0.05), accompanied by an increase of β -sheets and β -turn. This work could bring some insights into the applications of modified BSDF and its roles in the gelation of surimi-based food. • Characterization of bamboo shoots dietary fiber (BSDF) modified by ball milling is discussed. • Ball milling reduced the crystalline region and enhanced the hydration of BSDF. • Modified BSDF contributed to hydrogen bonding and hydrophobic interactions of surimi. • Compact and integral gel matrix with modified BSDF was observed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To modulate immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment and overcome the cancerous resistance to chemotherapy for effectively tumor killing, the novel nano-assemblies were developed for tumor chemo-immunotherapy. The broken of polydopamine (PDA) sensitized the tumor cells for reducing the tumor resistance against doxorubicin (DOX) and effectively induced immunogenic tumor cell death (ICD), respectively. The neo-antigen generated by the ICD effect in situ could be greatly presented by the simvastatin (SIM) activated dendritic cells (DCs) for specific T cells production. [Display omitted] • To modulate immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment and overcome the cancerous resistance to chemotherapy for effectively tumor killing, the SIM@NPs-PDA/DOX nano-assemblies, was developed to sequentially delivery doxorubicin (DOX), polydopamine (PDA) and simvastatin (SIM) for tumor chemo-immunotherapy. • The nano-assemblies were made of two kinds of lipopolymer, PDA-conjugated DSPE-PEG and DOX-absorbed DSPE-PEG. The SIM was subsequently loaded into the hydrophobic core during the self-assembling process. • The PDA was found the function of sensitizing the tumor cells for reducing the tumor resistance against DOX by deactivating AKT signaling pathway. • The neo-antigen generated by the immunogenic tumor cell death (ICD) effect in situ could be greatly presented by the SIM activated dendritic cells (DCs) for specific T cells production. The combination of chemotherapy and immunotherapy is the first line treatment for many cancers. However, resistance to chemotherapy is a common phenomenon, as well as the failure of antigen presentation and T cell infiltration are the fundamental obstacle for effective combined oncotherapy. Many studies have clarified the importance of increased reactive oxygen species (ROS) in reducing multidrug resistance (MDR) by disrupting oxidative balance and activating signaling pathways. Here, to modulate immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment (TME) and overcome the cancerous resistance to chemotherapy for effectively tumor killing, the SIM@NPs-PDA/DOX nano-assemblies, was developed to sequentially delivery doxorubicin (DOX), polydopamine (PDA) and simvastatin (SIM) for tumor chemo-immunotherapy. When the nano-assemblies penetrated into tumor TME, PDA and DOX were released by the hypoxia and low acid condition of TME, which sensitized the tumor cells for reducing the tumor resistance against DOX and effectively induced immunogenic tumor cell death (ICD), respectively. The neo-antigen generated by the ICD effect in situ could be greatly presented by the SIM activated dendritic cells (DCs) for specific T cells production. Simultaneously, the released DOX was also expected to kill tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) for enhancing the specific T cell infiltration. In B16F10 and MCF-7 tumor cells with acquired drug resistance and relevant tumor models, the designed nano-assemblies showed powerful anti-tumor effects by reducing MDR, killing cancer cells and TAMs, promoting CD8+ T cells activation and infiltration. This study provides a novel nano-assemblies for effective onco-immuno-chemotherapy by overcoming cancer multidrug resistance and immuno-depletion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Transcatheter arterial chemoembolisation (TACE) is the standard of care for intermediate-stage hepatocellular carcinoma and selected patients with advanced hepatocellular carcinoma. However, TACE does not achieve a satisfactory objective response rate, and the concept of TACE refractoriness has been proposed to identify patients who do not fully benefit from TACE. Moreover, repeated TACE is necessary to obtain an optimal and sustained anti-tumour response, which may damage the patient's liver function. Therefore, studies have recently been performed to improve the effectiveness of TACE. In this review, we summarise the detailed molecular mechanisms associated with TACE responsiveness and relapse after this treatment to provide more effective targets for adjuvant therapy while helping to improve TACE regimens. The graphical abstract of this review. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • SDZ was degraded in 5 min with the removal rate remaining at 78.2 % after 4 cycles. • Defect structures of the catalyst act as the active site to promote ROS production. • SDZ degradation involves synergistic effects of free radicals and non-free radicals. • Nitrogen-oxygen vacancies provide abundant local electrons for DO to form •O 2 −. This study utilized corn straw as the feedstock to synthesize biochar (BC) loaded with cobalt-zeolitic imidazolate framework nanoparticles and boron nitride quantum dots. The prepared BC composite, named BN 3 Z 0.5 BC, efficiently activated peracetic acid (PAA), resulting in the degradation of 94.8% of sulfadiazine (SDZ) in five minutes. Compared to pure BC, the SDZ removal rate increased nearly 5-fold. Mechanism analysis revealed that the main degradation pathway involves synergism between free and non-free radicals. The defect structure on the BC surface possesses a high charge density, stimulating PAA to produce more active species, while nitrogen–oxygen vacancy formation significantly promotes charge transfer. Besides, the unique structure of BC ensures good stability and recyclability, effectively controlling metal leaching. The BN 3 Z 0.5 BC/PAA system shows promising applicability across various water matrices, indicating a favorable application outlook. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Microplastics (>1 μm) were detected in chemical reagents, with the largest proportion at 1–5 μm. • Microplastics in chemical reagents were mainly from the reagent bottles and stoppers. • Batch and purity of reagents had little effect on the abundance of microplastics in chemical reagents. • Abundant nanoplastics (PE, PP) were also detected in chemical reagents based on Py-GCMS. There is an increasing concern about the potential effects of microplastics (MPs) and nanoplastics on human health and other organisms. For the separation and detection of MPs, there are various approaches, and the distinct procedures led to different results. However, the presence of MPs in the reagents was not addressed, which could cause false and/or inaccurate results during MPs detection. In this study, the chemical reagents commonly used for the separation and detection of MPs were selected to ascertain whether these reagents introduce MPs. It was shown that a large number of MPs were detected in the reagent and solvent samples. The largest number of MPs (>1 μm) was detected in the KOH reagent, with the abundance of 3070 items/g. The order of MPs abundance in the selected reagents was: KOH > NaCl > CaCl 2 > SDS > NaI > H 2 O 2. The types of MPs were the same as the body and stopper of the reagent packaging bottles. MPs size detected in reagent bottles was primarily smaller than 10 μm. The abundance of MPs in the reagents were independent of their purity, however, there was a certain difference in MPs abundance in reagents from different manufacturers. Furthermore, the presence of nanoplastics (< 1 μm) was verified in the reagents through Py-GCMS, with the abundance (39.47–43.01 mg/kg) higher than that of MPs. The obtained results in this study raised specific requirements and cautions for MPs and nanoplastics related research in terms of quality control. Also, this work can facilitate a more accurate assessment of MPs concentrations in the environment. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Biochar loaded by CoFe 2 O 4 composite was high-efficient in peracetic acid activation. • Biochar and Fe(IV), Co(IV) were conductive to 1O 2 production in TCH degradation. • 10 mg/L TCH could be nearly degraded at 60 seconds via 1O 2 in CFB-2/PAA system. Corn straw and sludge-derived biochar composite (BC) loaded with CoFe 2 O 4 was successfully prepared to activate peracetic acid (PAA) for efficient degradation of tetracycline hydrochloride (TCH). Within 60 s, 96 % TCH removal efficiency was achieved through a non-free radical degradation pathway, primarily driven by singlet oxygen (1O 2). The mechanism involves the electron-rich groups on the biochar surface, which facilitate the cleavage of the PAA O O bond to generate •O 2 −/1O 2 and provide electrons to induce the formation of high-valent Fe(IV) and Co(IV). The oxygen vacancies on the surface of the CoFe 2 O 4 -loaded biochar composite (CFB-2) contribute partially to 1O 2 production through their transformation into a metastable intermediate with dissolved oxygen. Moreover, elevated temperatures further enhance PAA activation by CFB-2, leading to increased reactive oxygen species (ROS) production through PAA decomposition, thereby promoting TCH removal. This study offers new insights into the catalysis of metal-loaded biochar for efficient TCH degradation via non-free radical generation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Wheat bran is an abundant source of cellulose and is still going to waste because of the lack of knowledge about its further exploitation and comprehensive utilisation. Here, cellulose nanocrystals (CNC) were prepared from wheat bran via sulfuric acid hydrolysis. The effects of hydrolysis time on the morphology, surface charge, yield, structure, thermal stability, physicochemical properties, and cytotoxicity of CNC were investigated. Results showed that non-cellulosic components were extensively removed by the purification process. Transmission electron microscopy confirmed that the obtained CNC displayed a needle-like shape with various dimensions. Zeta potential values of the CNC suspensions ranged from −36.5 to −39.8 mV. A hydrolysis time of 60 min resulted in CNC with the highest crystallinity (70.32%). The thermal stability of CNC shifted to lower temperature with increasing hydrolysis time. In addition, the obtained CNC exhibited interesting physicochemical properties (the water/oil retention capacities and the adsorption capacities to heavy metals) and good biocompatibility, suggesting their great potential as reinforcement for the manufacture of nanocomposites. • Cellulose nanocrystals (CNC) were successfully prepared from wheat bran. • The aspect ratio of CNC increased with acid hydrolysis time. • The water/oil retention capacities of CNC were investigated. • CNC exhibited excellent adsorption capacities to heavy metals. • CNC showed no obvious cytotoxicity to Caco-2 cells at 1000 μg/mL. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Hg (II) decreased the content of α-helix of croaker myosin. • The croaker myosin particles length increased after adding Hg (II). • The quenching between croaker myosin and Hg (II) was static quenching. • Hydrogen bonds, van der Waals forces were the main forces in complex formation. Heavy metals have long biological half-lives and are therefore a major threat to aquatic organisms, especially fish. Divalent mercury (Hg(II)) is an important form from a toxicological viewpoint. In this paper, we studied the interaction mechanism between large yellow croaker myosin and Hg(II) by multi-spectroscopies and molecular docking. Hg(II) had a positive effect on improving the elasticity of myosin gel, and the constant increase of charge would destroy the gel. Hg(II) caused myosin to aggregate, and the protein's apparent structure rapidly increased in length. The content of α-helix obviously decreased, β-turns and β-sheet increased. The myosin and Hg(II) quenching type was static quenching. Thermodynamic analysis suggested hydrogen bonding and van der Waals forces were the main forces for the combination. The molecular docking further confirmed the mechanism of action. This study provides a theoretical guidance for the preventions and control of marine heavy metals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract In the present work, highly sensitive Raman detection of nitenpyram using superhydrophobic filter paper as substrates is introduced. The process is simple, and efficient. By sequentially coating silver dendrites and Octyltrimethoxysilane (OTMOS) on filter paper, we produced highly active surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) substrates which show advancing and receding water contact angles of θ A / θ R = 159°/156°. Nitenpyram, a type of pesticides popularly used in agriculture, can be easily detected with the detection limit as low as 1 nM using the superhydrophobic filter paper as SERS substrates, which validates their use in Raman applications. Graphical abstract Image 1 Highlights • Sensitive and flexible SERS substrates based on silver dendrites-decorated filter paper are fabricated with great ease. • The SERS-active substrates show excellent water repellency with a sliding angle of ∼2°. • The substrate can detect nitenpyram with the LOD of ∼1 nM and the Raman AEF of ∼3.4 × 107. • The SERS substrate can be easily used to detect trace nitenpyram on fruits with high sensitivity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Graphical abstract Highlights • Silicon quantum dots show excellent selectivity to hydroquinone. • A highly selective and sensitive fluorescent probe for hydroquinone was developed. • The fluorescent probe can eliminate the interference from catechol and resorcinol. • The electron transfer and inner filter effect led to the fluorescence quenching. Abstract Hydroquinone (HQ) is a major phenol compound pollutant derived from industrial wastewater. Its content in environmental water is closely related to the water quality. Thus, it is in great need to develop facile, sensitive and selective detection methods for HQ. In this paper, an effective and selective HQ detection probe was fabricated based on novel silicon quantum dots (SiQDs), which were synthesized by a one-step hydrothermal method. Such SiQDs exhibited good water solubility and intensely green fluorescence. Interestingly, their fluorescence can be significantly quenched upon addition of HQ, which is attributed to the electron transfer from SiQDs to the generated 1,4-benzoquinone, and the inner filter effect of SiQDs-1,4-benzoquinone complex. This SiQD probe can detect HQ in a wide concentration range from 6 to 100 μM, with a detection limit of 2.63 μM. More importantly, compared with other reported methods, this probe can eliminate the interference from catechol (CC) and resorcinol (RS), and gives new insight on the discrimination HQ from its isomers. Furthermore, this fluorescent probe was also successfully applied for the determination of HQ in real water samples with satisfactory recoveries, indicating the reliability and potential application of this fluorescent probe for monitoring HQ. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Graphical abstract Highlights • Adding sponge into CAnSMBR could increase nitrate removal efficiency. • Sponge could adsorb EPS and minimize membrane fouling in SAnSMBR. • Protein-like components of SMP were more vital for membrane fouling. • Less SMP and longer operational cycle was found in the SAnSMBR. Abstract This paper investigated a strategy to minimize membrane fouling and increase treatment efficiency through an investigation of a specific approach by adding sponges into a conventional submerged anaerobic membrane bioreactor (CAnSMBR). During the operation, the protein-based soluble microbial products as the main factor affecting the membrane fouling could be reduced by sponge addition in the CAnSMBR (SAnSMBR). Furthermore, reducing HRT from 18 h to 12 h could shorten the membrane fouling cycle to 62% and 87% in CAnSMBR and SAnSMBR, respectively. At the initial of COD/NO 3 ratio ranges from 5 to 4, only 88% of nitrogen in CAnSMBR was removed, while the SAnSMBR could remove more than 90%. TOC removal efficiency could reach more than 95% under a good stirring scenario. It is evident that the SAnSMBR is a promising solution for improving overall CAnSMBR performance and substantially mitigating membrane fouling. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The p-block elements are evaluated as axial ligands of single-atom Mo for highly efficient two-electron CO 2 reduction reaction. [Display omitted] • Single-atom Mo modified by 20 p-block elements as axial ligands was studied by first-principles calculation. • The axial ligand had a significant effect on adsorption strength of Mo atom for CO 2 RR intermediates. • Ge-MoN 4 exhibited the best performance in the two-electron CO 2 RR. • The CO 2 RR activity was related to the inherent properties of the axial ligands. Inspired by the structure of molybdenum-based metalloenzymes with high CO 2 conversion efficiency in nature, the catalytic performance of a series of modified MoN 4 for two-electron CO 2 reduction reaction (CO 2 RR) was systematically studied using first-principles calculations. The effect of 20 p-block elements as axial ligands on the structure of MoN 4 was evaluated. Benefiting from the significant effect of the axial ligands on the adsorption strength of Mo for intermediates, both activity and selectivity were improved, especially Ge-MoN 4 exhibited the best performance in the formic acid (HCOOH) pathway. The orbital hybridization between Mo and the intermediate was weakened to varying degrees by axial ligands. Furthermore, the activity of the catalysts was related to the properties of the axial ligands, especially the Mo-N bond length and the electronegativity difference between Mo and the axial ligands. This work provides a thorough understanding and guidance for modifying the coordination environment of single-atom catalysts for CO 2 RR. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • The quenching between BSA and Syr was mainly static quenching. • The interaction mechanism of BSA and Syr was studied by molecular simulation. • The formation of Syr - BSA complexes was confirmed by molecular dynamics simulation. • The QSAR of Syr and its analogues were studied. Syringaldehyde (Syr) is a natural product with significant biological activities. This study investigated the interaction mechanism of bovine serum albumin (BSA) and Syr through multi-spectroscopies and molecular simulation. The spectroscopy results indicated the binding mechanism of BSA and Syr was static quenching, and the microenvironment of Trp and Tyr residues had changed. Thermodynamic analysis showed that the hydrogen bond and van der Waals force were the main force during the formation of the BSA-Syr complex. The BSA secondary structure changed, and protein became disordered and aggregated with each other with the adding of Syr. Molecular simulation illustrated the Syr mainly bound Trp 213 and Ser 343 of BSA, and formed stable complexes in vivo. It provides guidance for further obtaining highly active Syr analogs. In conclusion, our research provides a theoretical direction for the practical application of Syr and a proposed framework for improving phenolic compounds utilization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Fluorescein acted as a response signal and rhodamine B acted as a reference signal. • Zein/RhB-Flu label displayed a sensitive fluorescent color change for biogenic amine. • Zein/RhB-Flu label showed excellent reusability and stability. • Fluorescent label realized accurate, visual, in situ detection of shrimp freshness. A zein-based film functionalized with fluorescent dyes was constructed for visual, real-time monitoring of seafood freshness. The addition of fluorescent dyes had no significant effect on the mechanical property or water sensitivity of the zein-based film, and the fluorescent film exhibited dual emission response. When exposed to ammonia, fluorescein fluorescence increased whilst the fluorescence of rhodamine B was undisturbed. The fluorescent film presented a clearly distinguishable color transition from pink to green. Sample detection tests showed the fluorescent film served successfully as a response label for on-site visual detection of seafood freshness. Development of this intelligent fluorescent film provides a new platform for food safety and quality monitoring, benefiting economic value and public health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The process of energy conservation and emission reduction in China requires the specific and accurate evaluation of the energy efficiency of the industry sector because this sector accounts for 70 percent of China's total energy consumption. Previous studies have used a “black box” DEA (data envelopment analysis) model to obtain the energy efficiency without considering the inner structure of the industry sector. However, differences in the properties of energy utilization (final consumption or intermediate conversion) in different industry departments may lead to bias in energy efficiency measures under such “black box” evaluation structures. Using the network DEA model and efficiency decomposition technique, this study proposes an adjusted energy efficiency evaluation model that can characterize the inner structure and associated energy utilization properties of the industry sector so as to avoid evaluation bias. By separating the energy-producing department and energy-consuming department, this adjusted evaluation model was then applied to evaluate the energy efficiency of China's provincial industry sector. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The unexpected noise generated during the process of remote sensing images formation and transmission process is a main factor undermining the images’ quality and usage. In recent years, thanks to its local self-adapting characteristics, formal normalization, and modeling flexibility, PDE has received wide attention for its image de-noising functions, thus pushing the realization of maintaining image details while successfully de-noising a new goal for remote sensing images filtering. Having firstly analyzed and discussed the TV model and M model, a modified variation-model (S model for short) based on edge adaptive guiding function is proposed in this paper. The model introduces edge adaptive guiding function based on the standard gradient into the non-linear diffusion term and re-constructed approaching term, which adaptively adjust the smooth intensity around edge and texture information-rich regions of remote sensing images. S-model does not only overcome staircase effect that is easily produced in the TV model, but also avoids losing details and texture information which is often seen in M model, it can efficiently eliminate noises, maintain a good image edge and keep texture details perfectly. The experimental results validate the effectiveness and stability of the proposed model. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • An amine-response visual fluorescent tag was prepared by physical deposition. • Quantum dots with aggregation-induced emission effect acted as internal reference. • The tag can realize non-contact detection of biogenic amines. • The tag can be used for real-time and visual monitoring of seafood freshness. The method of monitoring the freshness of seafood is not satisfactory for ensuring food safety. Here, we develop a filter membrane-based smart fluorescent tag with excellent biogenic amine response, which can monitor the freshness of seafood in real time and visually. We use green fluorescent fluorescein as an indicator and red fluorescent carbon quantum dots (RQDs) with aggregation-induced emission property as an internal reference. After simple mixing, they are deposited on the commercial filter membrane by physical deposition method to prepare the fluorescent tag. When amine molecules are present, the molecular conformation of fluorescein changes and the fluorescence increases rapidly, while RQDs have no obvious response, thus achieving a clear fluorescence color response to biogenic amines. Under UV light of 254 nm and 365 nm, the fluorescent tag showed sensitive, rapid, and color-responsive to ammonia in a wide range of 250–2.5 × 104 ppm. To further verify the practical application potential, the fluorescent tag was used to monitor the freshness of shrimp and crab in situ in real time, and satisfactory results were achieved. More importantly, owing to the reversible conformational change of fluorescein, the fluorescent tag can be reused and manufactured at low cost, making it a more attractive platform for freshness monitoring in the field of food safety. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Spherical curcumin/polyvinylpyrrolidone nanocapsules (CurNC) with the improved water solubility and thermal stability than native curcumin (Cur) were synthesized. Subsequently, soy protein isolate-based pH-sensitive multifunctional packaging films reinforced with cellulose nanocrystals (CNC), CurNC, CNC/CurNC, and CNC/Cur were developed for shrimp freshness detection. It was found that adding the CNC-containing agents improved the tensile strength, hydrogen bond interactions, thermal stability, and crystalline structure of the film and decreased its water solubility and water vapor and oxygen permeability. The Cur-containing agents decreased the L* (lightness/darkness) and a* (redness/greenness) values and increased the b* (yellowness/blueness) and ΔE (total color difference) values of the film. A more dense and uniform matrix of the nanocomposite films was likely responsible for delaying the release of Cur from the film matrix. Interestingly, CNC/CurNC film displayed higher antiradical scavenging activity than CNC/Cur film, as well as remarkable color responsiveness to pH changes and NH 3 presence. Moreover, the CNC/CurNC film was able to decrease the total volatile basic nitrogen of stored shrimp and visually monitor shrimp freshness in real-time. [Display omitted] • Curcumin nanocapsules (CurNC) had improved water solubility and stability than Cur. • pH-sensitive antioxidant film based on soy protein isolate was developed. • Cellulose nanocrystals (CNC) delayed the release of Yu et al., 2017, 2018 curcumin from film matrix. • CNC/CurNC film showed good antioxidant activity and color response to pH and NH 3. • The film loaded with CNC/CurNC can visually monitor shrimp freshness in real-time. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Mechanism of cellulose nanocrystals (CNC) to improve film properties was proposed. • Adding CNC restricted water mobility and improved the viscoelasticity of films. • Incorporation of CNC enhanced hydrophobic and hydrogen bonding interactions. • CNC-induced conformational modifications promoted to form stronger film structures. • The obtained nanocomposite films can be used for pork and strawberry preservation. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of cellulose nanocrystals (CNC) on the basic properties of soy protein isolate films, and especially to propose the corresponding formation mechanism. Tensile strength, barrier properties, and water resistance were effectively improved after the formation of nanocomposite films. Incorporating CNC could restrict water mobility and improve the viscoelastic properties of films. Appropriate content of CNC (0.50% and 0.75%) promoted the construction of a more homogeneous and compact film structure, which may be attributed to the CNC-induced conformational modifications and the enhanced hydrophobic and hydrogen-bond interactions. While excessive CNC (1.00%) was not conducive to the integrity and continuity of film structures, resulting in the weakened functional properties. The obtained films were able to decrease total viable counts and total volatile basic nitrogen of stored pork, and extend the shelf-life of strawberry. This work offers a theoretical basis for the application of CNC in packaging industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• ASFV MGF100−1R was demonstrated in vitro that the gene is non-essential for virus replication. • In vivo evaluation, ASFV△MGF100-1R was inoculated intramuscularly and led to a similar pathogenesis that caused by the parental virus. • It confirmed that deletion of MGF100-1R gene from the ASFV genome does not impact virulence. African swine fever virus (ASFV) is a large nucleoplasmic DNA virus, in which the genome is around 170–198 kilobases (kb). More than 50 % genes have unknown functions. Here, MGF100-1R gene is chosen to study the primary function and sublocalization. The gene was located at the left variable region of the ASFV genome that belongs to MGF100 families. It located at the cytoplasm without cytotoxic activities. However, it related to induce the transcriptional levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines. A deletion mutant of MGF100-1R gene was constructed based on ASFV Chinese strain GZ201801. The recombinant deletion mutant (ASFV△MGF100-1R) was demonstrated in vitro that the gene is non-essential for virus replication with a similar replication kinetics in bone marrow-derived macrophages (BMDMs) cell cultures when compared to parental virus. In vivo evaluation, ASFV△MGF100-1R was inoculated intramuscularly and led to a similar pathogenesis that caused by the parental ASFV GZ201801, confirming that deletion of MGF100-1R gene from the ASFV genome does not impact virulence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

P -nitrophenol (PNP) has been widely applied to industry processing for many purposes, but the persistence and toxicity of residuum may pose risks to human health. To analyze PNP in industrial and agricultural wastewater, a versatile fluorescent probe sensing platform was proposed. In this work, we devised a fluorescence approach that utilized nitrogen, silicon co-doped carbon dots (N,Si-CDs) to monitor PNP originating from the inner filter effect (IFE). The N,Si-CDs were generated in a one-step hydrothermal synthesis, and which possessed outstanding fluorescence signal and water-dispersity. Emission at 441 nm was monitored with excitation at 360 nm using a common spectrofluorometer. The method achieved an exceptionally low limit of detection (LOD) of 0.011 μM. Furthermore, this method not only eliminates the interference from metal ions and acid ions, but also provides a potential application prospect for N,Si-CDs in the field of water monitoring. Analysis of tap and lake water led to 93.30–106.30% recoveries and <1% relative standard deviation at 2.5–25 μM PNP concentrations. Unlabelled Image • A novel fluorescence nanoprobe based on N,Si-CDs was designed for PNP detection. • The N,Si-CDs possessed outstanding fluorescence signal and water-dispersity. • This fluorometric assay has lower detection limit than other detection methods. • This fluorescence nanoprobe had been used to detect PNP in actual water samples with great recoveries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work, to prevent the spoilage of food by microbial contamination, copper sulfide nanoparticles (CuS NPs) with photothermal effect were successfully synthesized by a one-step hydrothermal method and uniformly dispersed in natural carrageenan (Carr) to obtain Carr/CuS films. Photothermal-induced antibacterial testing confirmed that the Carr/CuS film has a broad-spectrum antibacterial activity against Escherichia coli (99.2%) and Staphylococcus aureus (99.9%). Antibacterial test on beef also proved that near-infrared (NIR) irradiation significantly improved the antibacterial ability of the Carr/CuS film against bacteria on the food sample. In addition, compared with the Carr film, the Carr/CuS film with high transparency showed enhanced mechanical properties and thermal stability. The introduction of this NIR-induced strategy is expected to open a new way for broadening the application of antibacterial packaging. Image 1 • The Carr/CuS nanocomposite film exhibits controllable photothermal conversion effect. • The Carr/CuS photothermal film displays superior antibacterial activity against E. coli and S. aureus. • The antibacterial treatment time of this photothermal film decreased to 10 min under the 808 nm near-infrared irradiation. • The Carr/CuS nanocomposite film is almost colorless and highly transparent. • The addition of CuS NPs enhances the mechanical properties and thermal stability of carrageenan-based films. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• A chitosan-based aerogel embedded amino-MoS2 nanosheets were constructed. • The aerogel can be used as photothermal and adsorption agent to eliminate bacteria. • The aerogel showed prominent antibacterial properties in vitro and in vivo. The bacterial infection is one of the most common but critical problems in the wound healing process due to the general antibiotic resistance of bacteria. Hence it is increasingly necessary and urgent to develop an advanced and efficient sterilization strategy. Herein, a chitosan-based aerogel embedded amino-functionalized molybdenum disulfide nanosheets (abbreviated to CS/NMNSs) was successfully constructed through amino modification and physical assembly. Scanning electron microscopy characterizations and swelling experiments indicated that freeze-dried chitosan aerogel is provided with extremely regular sponge-like structure, high porosity, and favorable swelling property. The CS aerogel can be used as an ideal bacterial adsorption agent ascribed to its inherent positive charge. The result of antibacterial studies showed that the CS/NMNSs exhibited efficient bacterial elimination capacity via capture ability of chitosan aerogel and near infrared induced photothermal sterilization. Therefore, the CS/NMNSs have great potential in developing as a photothermal antibacterial agent in future application. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to develop soy protein isolate (SPI)-based active nanocomposite films reinforced with cellulose nanocrystals (CNC), zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnONP), CNC/ZnONP mixture (physical mixing), or CNC@ZnONP nanohybrids (in situ growth). The tensile strength, oxygen and water vapor barrier properties, water resistance ability, and thermal stability were substantially improved by the incorporation of nano reinforcements, particularly the CNC-containing agents. However, the nanocomposite films displayed a lower elongation at break, surface hydrophobicity, and transmittance compared with the pure SPI-based film. The filling effect of reinforcements and their hydrogen bonds with the film matrix contributed to the formation of a compact and homogeneous film structure. The ZnO-containing films obviously inhibited the growth of foodborne pathogens (Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus) and also reduced the total viable counts and the total volatile basic nitrogen values in a pork sample. Furthermore, the CNC@ZnONP film prevented the migration of zinc from the film into the food system. Therefore, the obtained nanocomposite films have broad application prospects in the field of active food packaging. Image 1 • Cellulose nanocrystals@ZnO nanoparticles (CNC@ZnONP) nanohybrids were synthesized. • Soy protein isolate-based antibacterial nanocomposite films were developed. • CNC improved the tensile strength, barrier ability, and thermal stability of films. • The films containing ZnONP had potential to extend the shelf-life of fresh pork. • The CNC@ZnONP film prevented the migration of zinc from film to the food system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Bacterial diversity of dry sausages was analysed by high-throughput sequencing. • L. plantarum and S. xylosus promoted the proteolysis and lipolysis in the sausages. • The inoculation with mixed strains improved the flavour of the sausages. • Growth of unwanted bacteria was inhibited in the inoculated sausages. • Flavour development was attributed to the improved microbiological quality. The use of starter cultures helps to improve the quality and safety of traditional meat products. In this study, the effects of Lactobacillus plantarum R2 and Staphylococcus xylosus A2 inoculation on microbial community, lipolysis, proteolysis, and volatile compounds in Chinese dry fermented sausages were investigated. Culture-dependent and culture-independent high-throughput sequencing) methods were employed to evaluate the bacterial communities. Results showed that the total contents of free fatty acids (FFAs) and free amino acids (FAAs) were increased by inoculating the starter cultures, especially a mixed culture. A significant decrease in pH and water activity was observed in the inoculated sausages (p < 0.05). Moreover, the inoculation treatment enhanced the competitiveness of dominant bacteria and inhibited the growth of unwanted bacteria. This was beneficial to promote the release of FFAs and FAAs and to prevent the formation of off-flavours and rancidity. Thus, the flavour development in the inoculated dry fermented sausages was attributed to the improvements in microbiological quality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Cellulose nanocrystals (CNC) strengthened heat-induced whey protein isolate gels. • CNC have good compatibility with protein matrixes at low concentrations. • Protein matrixes and CNC were combined by non-covalent interactions. • Active filling and enhanced cross-linking resulted in a stronger gel network. • CNC induced the formation of a stronger gel by concentrating protein matrixes. Cellulose nanocrystals (CNC) were successfully prepared from wheat bran, and their effects on the gelling properties and microstructure of heat-induced whey protein isolate (WPI) gels were investigated. The results showed that the water holding capacity, gel strength, viscoelasticity, and thermal stability of the composite gels were improved by increasing the CNC concentration from 0 to 1.0 % (w/v). The incorporation of CNC restricted water mobility and facilitated conformation conversion of the secondary structure from α-helix to β-sheet. CNC has good compatibility with the protein matrixes at relatively low concentrations. At higher CNC concentrations, the agglomerated CNC can serve as an active dehydrating agent to absorb moisture in the protein matrixes, which promotes unfolding and cross-linking of the protein molecules. Moreover, the active filling effects of CNC contributed to the formation of a compact and homogeneous gel structure. Therefore, naturally sourced CNC is suggested as a potential gel modifier in food industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Gallic acid serves as a green reducing agent to synthesize silver nanoparticles. • The photothermal conversion efficiency of GA-Ag NPs is as high as 48.7%. • GA-Ag NPs integrate photothermal effect with inherent antibacterial property. • GA-Ag NP hydrogel exhibits excellent broad-spectrum sterilization property. • Wound healing tests in vivo confirm the antibacterial effect and biocompatibility. Because of the indiscriminate use of antibiotics and threats of the drug resistance, bacterial wound infection remains one of the most difficult medical issues. Therefore, it is of great significance to develop novel antibacterial platforms. In this work, we successfully prepared gallic acid functional silver nanoparticles (GA-Ag NPs) by a one-pot method and then embedded them into the network structure of a biocompatible polysaccharide to obtain a novel hydrogel (GA-Ag NP hydrogel) with outstanding bactericidal effect. In this system, the embedded GA-Ag NPs not only act as an antibacterial agent sustainably released from the matrix of the hydrogel to realize sterilization, but also act as a photothermal agent that effectively and controllably converts 808 nm near-infrared ray light into heat to kill bacteria. In vitro testing verified the outstanding broad-spectrum sterilization property of the GA-Ag NP hydrogel against Gram-negative Escherichia coli (E. coli) and Gram-positive Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus). In vivo wound healing experiments confirmed the practical potential of this hydrogel in combating bacterial infections and accelerating wound healing. Hemolysis and cytotoxicity experiments showed that it has good biocompatibility. The development of this novel antibacterial hydrogel opens a new way to strengthen the antimicrobial arsenal for fighting bacterial infections. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The concentration of copper ion (Cu2+) in drinking water is closely related to the water quality and human health. Therefore, it is necessary to develop a novel, efficient and selective method for the detection of Cu2+ in drinking water. In this work, natural food pigment—red beet pigment was selected as a colorimetric indicator for the detection of Cu2+, which possessed a bright color, excellent water solubility and safety. Under alkaline condition, red beet pigment reacted selectively with Cu2+ by redox reaction and chelation, resulting in a color change from purple to orange-red. After analyzing the blue (B) value of the red beet pigment solution, it could be found that there was a good linear relationship between B value and the concentration of Cu2+ in the range of 4–20 μM, with a detection limit of 0.84 μM. In addition, a smart phone application based on Android system was developed for visual detection of Cu2+ by identifying B value of the colorimetric probe solution. The feasibility of this method was successfully verified in the detection of Cu2+ in drinking water by the standard-addition method, reflecting its great potential of practical application in environment monitoring and food security controlling. The method provides a new insight for rapid detection of heavy metal ions using nature pigments. Unlabelled Image • A red beet pigment-based colorimetric probe for copper ions was developed. • The possible mechanism was oxidative dehydrogenation reaction and chelation effect. • A colorimetric analysis application was built on smartphone with Android system. • It provides a great potential for on-site detection of copper ions in drinking water. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bimetallic nanostructures are currently a hot pot material among many hydrogen generation co-catalysts. In this study, CuCo bimetallic nanostructures were formed by introducing Co into Cu as the co-catalyst for TiO 2. Characterization results from XRD, XPS, and TEM indicated the successful preparation of the high-crystallinity, impurity-free CuCo/TiO 2 photocatalyst, with CuCo bimetallic nanoparticles uniformly dispersed on TiO 2. After the addition of Co, density functional theory (DFT) calculations showed that the free energy of H adsorption on the Cu site was optimized from 0.27 eV to −0.56 eV, which was beneficial for hydrogen production from TiO 2. Electrochemical characterization, photoluminescence (PL) spectroscopy, infrared (IR) thermography, and finite difference in time domain (FDTD) results showed that the bimetallic CuCo acted as the co-catalyst, which increased the temperature of the reaction system, facilitated the separation of light-generated electron-hole pairs, and accelerated the charge transfer, thus promoting the photocatalytic hydrogen generation. The findings of the photocatalytic performance demonstrate that the photocatalyst exhibits the H 2 generation rate of 1933.8 μmol/g/h, which is approximately 9 times greater than that of pure TiO 2 (213.4 μmol/g/h), when the bimetallic CuCo is loaded in the molar ratio of 5:5 and at the loading amount of 2 wt%. Additionally, the photocatalyst demonstrated excellent catalytic stability, reaching 87.1% of the initial after 16 h of cycling tests. It is foreseen that further study and optimization of various metal couplings may enable the larger widespread application of bimetals as co-catalysts for hydrogen generation. • Uniformly dispersed, highly crystalline and impurity-free CuCo/TiO 2 was prepared. • CuCo bimetal has more suitable ΔG H and more photogenerated heat carriers than Cu. • CuCo bimetal extends the light absorption of TiO 2 and prolongs the carrier lifetime. • The H 2 yield of CuCo/TiO 2 is 1933.8 μmol/g/h with excellent photocatalytic stability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fungal hydroxylation of steroids is a key step in the industrial production of various steroid drugs. The main enzymes that enable these reactions are Cytochrome P450s (CYP), though very few industrially important CYPs have been identified and characterized. In this study, we identified a CYP enzyme (CYP-N2) and a cytochrome P450 reductase (CPRns) from Nigrospora sphaerica 722 by a combination of transcriptome sequencing and heterologous expression in Pichia pastoris. Gene CYP-N2 co-expressed with CPRns in Pichia pastoris GS115 showed 6β- and 15α-hydroxylation activities on progesterone. Different hydroxylation specificity of CYP-N2 was observed on different steroid substrates. CYP-N2 showed 1α-hydroxylation on cortisone and 1α-hydroxylation and 6β-hydroxylation activities on androstenedione (AD). With dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) as a substrate, the hydroxylated products of CYP-N2 included 7α-hydroxy-DHEA and 7α,15α-dihydroxy-DHEA. In order to precisely elucidate CYP-N2 biological function and find out the key amino acids influencing its hydroxylation capabilities in the binding pocket, new generation artificial intelligence technology AlphaFold 2 was used to predict the function-structure of CYP-N2 with high reliability. Through molecular docking, it was concluded that the residues almost binding all substrates were located in the same substrate binding pocket and the various hydroxylation abilities might be due to the different binding conformations of different substrates in the binding pocket. Alanine scanning mutagenesis was used to verify key amino acids identified by the molecular docking with steroid substrates. The 128 THR mutation resulted in conversion rate increase for substrates AD and cortisone by 2.6-fold and 2.1-fold respectively. The information obtained in this study is beneficial to facilitating the engineering of more efficient steroid hydroxylases for industrial applications. • Tanscriptome sequencing greatly reduces the workload of direct genome screening. • cDNA not containing introns could be directly used for heterologous expression. • P.pastoris single and double gene expression systems were successfully constructed. • Double gene system solves mismatch between exogenous P450 and endogenous CPR of Pichia pastoris. • CYP-N2 had different hydroxylation sites towards a variety of steroid substrates. • Alphafold 2 modeled the protein three-dimensional structure with high quality. • Alanine scanning mutagenesis analyzed the key amino acids for protein activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

High amylose corn starch (HACS)-oat β-glucan (OBG) complex was prepared by ball milling treatment. The morphology and structure of the samples were characterized, and the digestibility of the samples was studied. SEM analysis showed that the grain structure of oat β-glucan-starch after ball milling showed an irregular aggregate shape. The rheological results indicated that the apparent viscosity of the solution of HACS-OBG complex prepared by ball milling, with the values of both G′ and G″ decreasing on the increase of OBG addition. Multi-scale structure analysis showed that the disorder of the crystal structure and short-range structure of the HACS-OBG complex would lead to the decrease of the double helix structure content. In terms of digestibility, the RDS of the complex decreased from 75.88 % to 66.26 %, which suppressed the digestibility of starch. Molecular docking and quantum chemistry techniques further demonstrated the strong hydrogen bond interaction between HACS and OBG and the inhibition rate of OBG on the enzyme, which was conducive to the slow digestion of HACS-OBG complex. Therefore, ball milling treatment can promote the binding of OBG to starch, which may be an effective method for postprandial blood glucose control. • Starch - Oat-β-glucan complexes were prepared by ball milling treatment. • High amylose corn starch - Oat-β-glucan complexes cannot form distinct crystallites. • Oat-β-glucan accelerated the disorder of starch short-range ordered structure. • Complexation with Oat-β-glucan can decrease the digestibility of starch. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The low solubility limits the utilization of other functional characteristics of wheat gluten (WG). This study effectively improved the solubility of WG through protease modification and explored the potential mechanism of protease modification to enhance the solubility of WG, further stimulating the potential application of WG in the food industry. Solubility of WG modified with alkaline protease, complex protease, and neutral protease was enhanced by 98.99%, 54.59%, and 51.68%, respectively. Notably, the content of β-sheet was reduced while the combined effect of hydrogen bond and ionic bond were increased after protease modification. Meanwhile, the reduced molecular size and viscoelasticity as well as the elevated surface hydrophobicity, thermostability, water absorption capacity, and crystallinity were observed in modified WG. Moreover, molecular docking indicated that protease was specifically bound to the amino acid residues of WG through hydrogen bonding, hydrophobic interaction, and salt bridge. [Display omitted] • Solubility of wheat gluten (WG) was improved after treatment by three proteases. • WG bound to proteases mainly through non-covalent interactions at specific sites. • Protease modification induced β-sheet changed into α-helix, β-turn and random coil. • Proteases enhanced the combined effect of hydrogen bond and ionic bond in WG. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Here, the influence and potential mechanism by which cellulose nanocrystals (CNC) collaborated with Ca2+ enhancing the heat-induced gelation of pea protein isolate (PPI) were investigated. It was found that the combination of 0.45% CNC and 15 mM Ca2+ synergistically increased the gel strength (from 14.18 to 65.42 g) and viscoelasticity of PPI while decreased the water holding capacity. The improved particle size, turbidity, and thermostability as well as the reduced solubility, crystallinity, and gel porosity were observed in CNC/CaCl 2 composite system. CNC fragments bind to specific amino acids in 11S legumin and 7S vicilin mainly through hydrogen bonding and van der Waals forces. Moreover, changes in the protein secondary structure and enhancement of the molecular interaction induced by CNC and Ca2+ could favor the robust gel network. The results will provide a new perspective on the functional regulation of pea protein and the creation of pea protein gel-based food. [Display omitted] • CNC and Ca2+ had a synergistic effect in the gelation of pea protein isolate. • CNC and Ca2+ affected the phase transition behavior of sol-gel. • Ca2+ strengthened cross-linking of CNC and proteins to form stable gel structure. • CNC combined with 7S vicilin and 11S legumin via hydrogen bond and Van der Waals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, the polyvinylpyrrolidone-alizarin nanoparticles (PVP-AZ NPs) with favorable water dispersion and the carbon quantum dots (RQDs) with aggregate induced emission effect were synthesized to construct an eco-friendly film for food freshness monitoring. The introduction of PVP-AZ NPs and RQDs enhanced the network structure and thermal stability of the cassava starch/polyvinyl alcohol film, and reduced its crystallinity and light transmittance via non-covalent binding with the film-forming matrix. The developed film exhibited visually recognizable colorimetric and fluorescent responses to ammonia at 0.025–25 mg/mL, and it can be reused at least 6 times. Practical application experiment proved that the film, as an indicator label, can achieve accurate, real-time, and visual dynamic monitoring of the freshness of shrimp stored at 25 °C, 4 °C, and − 20 °C under daylight (orange yellow to purple) and UV light (red to blue). The integration of multivariate detection technology can eliminate the interference of external factors by self-correction to improve sensitivity and reliability, which provides a reference for the development of other food quality and safety monitoring platforms. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, based on aggregation-induced emission (AIE) effect and antenna effect, a novel portable fluorescent responsive membrane was constructed with red carbon dots (R-CDs) as reference signal and terbium coordination polymer (Tb-AMP CPs) as response signal for visual, instrument-free, and sensitive detection of fluoroquinolones (FQs). Specifically, the fluorescent responsive membrane (R-T membrane) was prepared by physically depositing R-CDs with AIE property and Tb-AMP CPs on the surface of polyvinylidene fluoride filter membranes at ambient temperature. In the presence of FQs, Tb3+ in the Tb-AMP CPs of the prepared membrane coordinated with the β-diketone structure of FQs, which turned on the yellow-green fluorescence through the "antenna effect". As the concentration of FQs increased, the R-T membrane achieved a fluorescent color transition from bright pink to yellow-green. Its visual detection sensitivity for three FQs, including ciprofloxacin, difloxacin, and enrofloxacin, was 0.01 μM, and the detection limits were 7.4 nM, 7.8 nM, and 9.2 nM, respectively, by analyzing the color parameter green. In the residue analysis of FQs in real samples, the constructed membrane also exhibited remarkable anti-interference and reliability, which is of great significance for ensuring the safety of animal-derived food. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study focused on the dose-effect relationship and molecular mechanism of cellulose nanocrystals (CNC) in improving the gel property of pea protein isolate (PPI). The addition of 0.75% CNC enabled PPI molecules to form a dense and orderly network structure, and gel strength and water holding capacity were increased by 391.68% and 11.65% compared with the control (p < 0.05). Meanwhile, CNC reduced the production of irregularly protein aggregates and their particle size. Hydrogen bonds and van der Waals were found to be the mainly driving interaction of CNC binding to specific amino acids of 11 S Legumin and 7 S Vicilin. Moreover, CNC changed the microenvironment of amino acid and promoted the transformation of α-helix to β-sheet. Finally, the composite gel modified by 0.75% CNC had the potential to delay the release of tea flavor substances, and it could be applied to the development of pea protein-based products with tea flavor. This study provides a theoretical reference for the structural modification and functional application of pea protein. [Display omitted] • CNC specifically bound to Legumin and Vicilin mainly via non-covalent interaction. • The presence of CNC changed protein conformation and enhanced molecular interaction. • The composite gel modified by 0.75% CNC delayed the release of tea flavor. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• EGCG inhibits NF-κB phosphorylation and nuclear translocation to attenuate PD-1 expression level on T cells. • EGCG improves the cytotoxic effect of T cells on B16F10 melanoma via suppressing PD-1 expression. • EGCG inhibits B16F10 melanoma growth by inhibiting PD-1 of CD8+ T cells. Epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG) is an important tea polyphenol with anti-tumor potential. Our previous studies revealed that EGCG was a promising immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICI) as it could downregulate expression of programmed cell death 1 ligand 1 (PD-L1) in tumor cells, thereby resulting tumor killing effect. In particular, EGCG can effectively avoid the inflammatory storm caused by anti-tumor therapy, which is a healthy green capacity absent from many ICIs. However, the relationship between EGCG and programmed cell death 1 (PD-1) of T cells remains unclear. In this work, we explored the effect of EGCG on T cells and found that EGCG suppressed PD-1 via inhibiting NF-κB phosphorylation and nuclear translocation. Furtherly, the capability of EGCG was confirmed in tumor-bearing mice to inhibit PD-1 expression in T cells and enhance apoptosis in tumor cells. These results implied that EGCG could inhibit the expression of PD-1 in T cells, thereby promoting anti-tumor effects of T cells. EGCG will be a promising candidate in anti-tumor therapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The differences in the gelling properties of soy protein isolate (SPI) and soy protein isolate amyloid fibrils (SAFs) as well as the role of cellulose nanocrystals (CNC) in regulating their gel behaviors were investigated in this study. The binding of CNC to β-conglycinin (7S), glycinin (11S), and SAFs was predominantly driven by non-covalent interactions. CNC addition reduced the particle size, turbidity, subunit segments, and crystallinity of SPI and SAFs, promoted the conversion of α-helix to β-sheet, improved the thermal stability, exposed more tyrosine and tryptophan residues, and enhanced the intermolecular interactions. A more regular and ordered lamellar network structure was formed in the SAFs-CNC composite gel, which could be conducive to the improvement of gel quality. This study would provide theoretical reference for the understanding of the regulatory mechanism of protein amyloid fibrils gelation as well as the high-value utilization of SAFs-CNC complex as a functional protein-based material or food ingredient in food field. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• A novel fluorescent probe based on red emission carbon dots was fabricated. • It was applied colorimetric and fluorometric dual-mode detection of nitrite. • It had a high sensitivity and a low detection limit. • It was successfully applied in detecting nitrite in meat products with satisfactory recoveries. • This dual-mode probe presented great advantages for detection of nitrite in food samples. Nitrite (NO 2 –) is widely present in the human environment and accurate, sensitive and selective detecting of nitrite is of vital significance for food safety and water quality. Herein, a novel red emission carbon dots (r-CDs) fluorescent probe was fabricated for dual-mode detection of nitrite, which was capable of both convenient colorimetric analysis and accurate fluorometric detection. When NO 2 – is added to the rose-red r-CDs solution, NO 2 – interacts with the amino groups which on the surface of r-CDs to form diazotized substance, resulting in that the colorimetric color of r-CDs solution realizes the transition from rose red to light purple, and the red fluorescence is gradually quenched. The detection limits of colorimetric and fluorescence for NO 2 – were 0.193 μM and 0.149 μM, respectively. Furthermore, the dual-readout probe revealed satisfactory recovery and reliability when analyzing the concentration of NO 2 – in ham and bacon samples.. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, the β-cyclodextrin encapsulated betanin (BET@β-CD) with improved thermal stability and retention as well as the berberine (BBR) with aggregate induced luminescence effect were incorporated into corn amylose (CA) biomatrix to develop colorimetric/fluorescent dual-channel smart film. Results shown that the added functional components were uniformly distributed in the film matrix. The high tensile strength (78.87%), low water solubility (31.15%) and water vapor permeability (1.24 × 10−10 g Pa−1 s−1 m−1) of the film predicted its acceptable stability. It was worth mentioning that the film displayed excellent responsiveness to volatile ammonia (0.025–25 mg/mL) with at least 4 times recyclability. Application experiment demonstrated that the film can achieve macroscopic dynamic monitoring of the freshness of shrimps stored at 25 °C, 4 °C, −20 °C under daylight (red to yellow) and UV light (yellow-green to blue-green). Thus, the study suggests an attractive and effective strategy for constructing dual-mode smart packaging materials for food freshness detection. [Display omitted] • Betanin@β-cyclodextrin inclusion complex was successfully prepared. • The AIE property of berberine was triggered for the fluorescence response signal. • The label displayed clear color response under daylight and ultraviolet light. • The label had potential to detect bioamines in colorimetric/fluorescent dual mode. • The label achieved accurate, real-time, and visual monitoring of shrimp freshness. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study systematically investigated the dose-effect relationship and regulatory mechanism of theanine on the gelling properties of soy protein isolate (SPI). The results indicated that the strength and water holding capacity of 0.10% theanine-SPI gel increased by 238.80% and 1.13% compared with pure SPI gel, respectively. Hydrogen bonds and van der Waals forces mainly promoted the binding of theanine to β-conglycinin and glycinin. This binding could further change the protein aggregation state (reducing particle size and irregular aggregation), functional groups (exposing more hydrophilic amino acid residues and sulfhydryl groups), and molecular structure (α-helix and β-turn transforming into β-sheet). Furthermore, a more uniform and dense three-dimensional gel network was formed in the composite gels, offering the structural basis for improving the performance of the SPI gel. The results will provide theoretical basis and technical support for the precise regulation of gel properties of the functional amino acid-SPI complex as well as the efficient creation of new SPI-based foods. [Display omitted] • Theanine improved gel strength and water holding capacity of soy protein isolate. • Theanine bound to 7S and 11S globulin by hydrogen bonds and van der Waals forces. • Moderate theanine changed protein conformation and enhanced molecular interaction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fluoroquinolones (FQs) are widely used in livestock and poultry industry because of their satisfactory effects in preventing and treating bacterial infection. However, due to irrational use and poor biodegradability, FQs can easily remain in food animals and further enter the human body through the food chain. Therefore, accurate and sensitive detection of FQs residues in animal-origin food is significant. The traditional methods commonly used for FQs detection have some limitations. Ratiometric fluorescence detection technology has the advantages of fast, sensitive, self-correcting, and easy visualization. However, the reports on the use of ratiometric fluorescence probes for FQs detection are limited. In this work, a novel probe was proposed for ratiometric fluorescent analysis of FQs. In this probe, the fluorescence of dithioerythritol stabilized copper nanoclusters (DTE-Cu NCs) was significantly enhanced due to the Tb3+ triggered aggregation-induced emission effect. FQs bound Tb3+ in Tb3+/DTE-Cu NCs through carboxyl and carbonyl groups, so that Tb3+ was effectively sensitized to emit green fluorescence. However, the red fluorescence of DTE-Cu NCs was not interfered. The fluorescence of the probe transformed from red to green with the increase of FQs concentration. Using norfloxacin (NOR), difloxacin (DIF), and enrofloxacin (ENR) as FQs simulants, this probe showed a sensitive linear response ranged from 0.025 to 22.5 μM, with the limits of detection of 9.6 nM, 9.3 nM, and 7.7 nM. The application potential for FQs detection was verified via a standard addition assay of egg samples with the recovery rate of 90.4 %–114.7 %. The fluorescence probe based on Tb3+/DTE-Cu NCs is expected to realize the ratiometric fluorescence sensitive detection of FQs. The establishment of this simple, effective, and rapid detection platform opens up a new way for the detection of FQs residues in animal-origin foods, and also provides a new idea for the design of rapid detection platforms for other hazard factors. [Display omitted] • A novel probe was constructed based on Tb3+ and copper nanoclusters. • Ratiometric fluorescent detection was realized by the coordination of Tb3+ and FQs. • The probe changed color from red to green under a 365 nm UV lamp. • The developed probe was successfully used for sensitive analysis of FQs in eggs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, based on the oxidase-like (OXD) activity of platinum-nickel nanoparticles (Pt-Ni NPs) nanozyme and further in collaboration with 3,3′,5,5′-tetramethylbenzidine (TMB), a colorimetric/photothermal dual-mode probe for organophosphorus pesticides (OPs) detection was developed. TMB undergone the catalytic oxidation of Pt-Ni NPs to change from colorless to blue oxidized substance (oxTMB) and exhibited higher temperature under near-infrared irradiation. The hydrolysis product of acid phosphatase (ACP) with L-ascorbic acid 2-phosphate trisodium competed with the OXD-like activity of Pt-Ni NPs to prevent the oxidation of TMB. As the concentration of OPs grew, inhibiting the blocking effect by deactivating ACP, the generated oxTMB caused notable color and temperature changes in the reaction system. The dual-mode probe responded linearly to chlorpyrifos, with the detection limits for colorimetric and photothermal modes of 1.2 ng/mL and 1.66 ng/mL, respectively. This work proposes a simple and reliable colorimetric/photothermal platform for OPs identification, which overcomes the problem that single-mode detection probes are susceptible to external factors, and has broad application potential in the field of food safety. [Display omitted] • A novel visualization dual-mode probe for OPs detection was constructed. • This probe can achieve colorimetric and photothermal response to OPs. • Results of the two modes can be verified mutually, thus increasing sensitivity. • This probe was successfully applied to detect OPs residues in fruit wine samples. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to investigate the multiscale structure, physicochemical properties, and in vitro digestibility of black rice starch (BRS) and gallic acid (GA) complexes prepared using varying ultrasound powers. The findings revealed that ultrasonic treatment disrupted BRS granules while enhancing the composite degree with GA. The starch granules enlarged and aggregated into complexes with uneven surfaces. Moreover, the crystallinity of the BRS-GA complexes increased to 22.73 % and formed V6-I-type complexes through non-covalent bonds. The increased short-range ordering of the complexes and nuclear magnetic resonance hydrogen (1H NMR) further indicated that the BRS and GA molecules interacted mainly through non-covalent bonds such as hydrogen bonds. Additionally, ultrasound reduced the viscoelasticity of the complexes while minimizing the mass loss of the complexes at the same temperature. In vitro digestion results demonstrated an increase in resistant starch content up to 37.60 % for the BRS-GA complexes. Therefore, ultrasound contributes to the formation of V-typed complexes of BRS and GA, which proves the feasibility of using ultrasound alone for the preparation of starch and polyphenol complexes while providing a basis for the multiscale structure and digestibility of polyphenol and starch complexes. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Circular RNA circ-3626 was identified as a pivotal osteogenesis-related circRNA via RNA sequencing. • Over-expressing circ-3626 increases the expression of Runx2 by sponging miR-338-3p, thereby promoting the osteogenesis of BMSCs. • The bone repair capability of aging mice could be significantly improved by circ-3626 AAV treatment. Disorders of bone homeostasis are the key factors leading to metabolic bone disease, such as senile osteoporosis, which is characterized by age-related bone loss. Bone marrow stromal cells (BMSCs) possess high osteogenic capacity which has been regarded as a practical approach to preventing bone loss. Previous studies have shown that the osteogenic differentiation ability of BMSCs is significantly decreased in senile osteoporosis. Recently, circular RNAs (circRNAs) have been regarded as critical regulators in controlling the osteogenic differentiation of BMSCs by sponging microRNAs (miRNAs). Our study aimed to discover new and critical osteogenesis-related circRNAs that can promote bone formation in senile osteoporosis. We detected the dysregulated circRNAs of BMSCs upon osteogenic differentiation induction and identified the critical osteogenic circRNA (circ-3626). The relationship between circ-3626 and osteoporosis was further verified in clinical bone samples and aged mice by qPCR. Moreover, circ-3626 AAV was constructed to examine the osteogenic effect of circ-3626 on bone formation via using Micro-CT, double calcein labeling, and the three-point bending tests. Bioinformatics analysis, Luciferase report gene assays, FISH, RNA pull-down, qPCR, Western Blots, and alizarin red staining assay explore the effects and mechanisms of circ-3626 on osteogenic differentiation of BMSCs. Circ-3626 was identified as a pivotal osteogenesis-related circRNA via RNA sequencing. The results of alizarin red staining, Western blots, and qPCR assays suggest that overexpressing circ-3626 dramatically accelerates the osteogenic capability of BMSCs. Furthermore, the bone repair capability of aging mice could be significantly improved by circ-3626 AAV treatment. Micro RNA miR-338-3p was identified as the downstream target of circ-3626. Overexpression of circ-3626 increases the expression of Runx2 by sponging miR-338-3p, thereby promoting the osteogenic differentiation of BMSCs by upregulating the expression of osteogenic genes. In addition, Western blots, and qPCR assays suggest circ-3626 AAV treatment promote the expression of Runx2 and osteogenic marker genes. Thus, we demonstrate that circ-3626 plays a pivotal role in promoting bone formation through the miR-338-3p/Runx2 axis and may provide new strategies for preventing and treating the bone loss of senile osteoporosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Based on the aggregation-induced emission effect triggered by Al3+, a novel probe was constructed for the ratiometric fluorescence visualization detection of fluoroquinolones (FQs) residues. In this probe, Al3+ cased the glutathione-modified copper nanoclusters (GSH-CuNCs) to aggregate by the interaction with surface carboxyl groups, restricting the intramolecular vibration and rotation of GSH-CuNCs and reducing the non-radiative relaxation of excited states. Significant enhancement of fluorescence and quantum yield were achieved. In the presence of FQs, Al3+/GSH-CuNCs coordinated with FQs to form a polymer that inhibited intramolecular proton transfer in the excited state of FQs, thereby enhancing the intrinsic fluorescence of FQs, while the fluorescence intensity of Al3+/GSH-CuNCs was not disturbed. The probe solution changed from red to blue (or green) under UV lamp as the concentration of FQs increased, providing the possibility for semi-quantitative visual analysis. It also showed sensitive spectral responses to FQs with detection limits of 7.9 (ciprofloxacin), 6.8 (gatifloxacin), and 9.5 nM (enrofloxacin), respectively. The application potential in the detection of FQs residues in poultry eggs was verified by real sample test. Additionally, the probe has been extended to the development of fluorescent test paper and the smartphone detection platform, contributing to rapid, portable, visual quantitative analysis of FQs. [Display omitted] • A fluorescent probe based on the AIE effect of copper nanocluster triggered by Al3+. • Ratiometric fluorescence detection was realized by the coordination of Al3+ and FQs. • The probe changed color from red to blue (or green) under a 365 nm UV lamp. • Fluorescent test strips and a smartphone-based detection platform were developed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, type III resistant starch (RS3) was prepared from high amylose maize starch (HAMS) using hydrothermal (RS-H), hydrothermal combined ultrasonication (RS-HU), hydrothermal-alkali (RS-HA), and hydrothermal-alkali combined ultrasonication (RS-HAU). The role of the preparation methods and the mechanism of RS3 formation were analyzed by studying the multiscale structure and digestibility of the starch. The SEM, NMR, and GPC results showed that hydrothermal-alkali combined with ultrasonication could destroy the granule structure and α-1,6 glycosidic bond of HAMS and reduce the molecular weight of HAMS from 195.306 kDa to 157.115 kDa. The other methods had a weaker degree of effect on the structure of HAMS, especially hydrothermal and hydrothermal combined ultrasonication. The multiscale structural results showed that the relative crystallinity, short-range orderliness, and thermal stability of RS-HAU were significantly higher compared with native HAMS. In terms of digestion, RS-HAU had the highest RS content of 69.40 %. In summary, HAMS can generate many short-chain amylose due to structural damage, which rearrange to form digestion-resistant crystals. With correlation analysis, we revealed the relationship between the multiscale structure and the RS content, which can be used to guide the preparation of RS3. [Display omitted] • RS3 of HAMS was prepared by hydrothermal-alkali combined with ultrasonic treatment. • Hydrothermal-alkali combined with ultrasonic treatment can effectively destroy the dense structure of HAMS. • Hydrothermal-alkali combined with ultrasonic treatment degrades HAMS and generates a large number of short linear chains. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • A novel bimetallic organic framework based fluorescent aptamer probe was designed. • Aptamer was combined with Cu/UiO-66 by electrostatic force and van der Waals force. • Aptamer's fluorescence was quenched by the photoinduced electron transfer effect. • The probe realized sensitive detection of zearalenone in cereal and their products. • A detection limit of 0.048 ng/mL was achieved with a linear range of 0.5–60 ng/mL. In this work, a bimetallic organic framework (Cu/UiO-66) based "turn on" fluorescent aptamer probe was designed for the high-efficiency detection of zearalenone (ZEN). In the probe, the 6-carboxyfluorescein-labeled aptamer (FAM-Apt) was used as the recognition element, and the electrostatic interaction, coordination effect, and photoinduced electron transfer effect between FAM-Apt and Cu/UiO-66 caused fluorescence quenching. When ZEN existed, FAM-Apt recognized ZEN specifically, causing FAM-Apt to separate from the surface of Cu/UiO-66 and recovery of fluorescence. Under the optimal conditions, the probe had a linear detection range of 0.5 ng/mL–60 ng/mL, and the detection limit was 0.048 ng/mL. The application potential of the probe was verified by real detection of various cereals and their products, with a standard recovery from 83.67 %–106.8 %. The development of this efficient, rapid, and sensitive ZEN detection method provides a new platform for the quality control of cereals and their products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to evaluate the effect of calcium ions (Ca2+) on the thermal gelling properties of cellulose nanocrystals-whey protein isolate composite gels, as well as to propose a corresponding ion-induced gelation mechanism. It was found that the gel strength, viscoelasticity, and thermal stability of the mixed gels gradually improved with an increase in the Ca2+ concentration from 0 M to 0.15 M. The addition of an appropriate Ca2+ could induce the conformational transformation from α-helix to β-sheet, increase the content of tryptophan residues and reactive sulfhydryl groups, and enhance the hydrophobic interactions and the amide II band, which promoted the full unfolding and orderly aggregation of protein molecules to form a stable three-dimensional gel network. However, 0.20 M Ca2+ resulted in the formation of a coarse gel structure with some irregular aggregates, thereby leading to the decreased water holding capacity and gel strength. This research offers a theoretical foundation for the design and development of novel composite food gels with various functional properties. Image 1 • The ion-induced gelation mechanism in the CNC-WPI composite gels was proposed. • 0.05–0.15 M Ca2+ enhanced the gel strength, viscoelasticity and thermal stability. • 0.20 M Ca2+ led to a coarse gel structure and the declined thermal gelling ability. • Appropriate Ca2+ facilitated fully unfolding and orderly aggregation of proteins. • Ca2+-induced conformational modifications were the reason for improving gelation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to investigate the changes in the physicochemical properties, multiscale structure and in vitro digestibility of the corn starch (CS)- lauric acid (LA) complexes under ball milling treatment to elucidate the correlation between structure and digestibility based on intermolecular interactions. The findings showed that the apparent viscosity of CS decreased significantly with the increasing of ball milling time from 0 min to 60 min, and the average molecular weight decreased from 561.96 kDa to 274.66 kDa, which laid the foundation for the subsequent experiments. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) results indicated with increasing ball milling time, the surface morphology of the CS-LA complexes became more and more rough and agglomerated. The X-ray diffraction (XRD) and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) findings indicated that the CS-LA complexes prepared by ball milling exhibited higher thermal stability, better short-range ordering and a compact V-shaped crystal structure. In terms of digestibility, the rapidly digested starch (RDS) content of the CS-LA complexes decreased by 15.93% and the resistant starch (RS) increased by 14.96%, reducing the digestibility of the starch. Density functional theory (DFT) calculations showed that the ordered structure and intermolecular interactions between LA and CS were mainly composed of hydrogen bonds and hydrophobic interactions. We tentatively established the interconnection between multi-scale structure and digestibility through correlation analysis, which provided technical support for further exploitation of starch resources. [Display omitted] • The multi-scale structure and in vitro digestibility were changed by the addition of LA during the ball milling process. • The degree of complexation of CS and LA was significantly increased after ball milling. • Hydrophobic interactions and hydrogen bonds were major non-covalent linkages during CS-LA complexes formation. • Ball milling treatment was helpful for the formation of CS-LA complexes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]