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Mitochondrial quality control (MQC) plays a crucial role in maintaining mitochondrial health. Mitochondrial dynamics and mitophagy are two intricate processes of the MQC machinery acting at the organelle level to orchestrate mitochondrial homeostasis. Here, we discuss how viruses perturb these two processes to facilitate their infections and emphasize the rationale and challenges of therapeutically targeting MQC for treating viral diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Exploring plastic bacterial community succession is a crucial step in analyzing and predicting the ecological assembly processes of the plastisphere and its associated environmental impacts. However, microbial biofilm development and niche differentiation during plastic bacterial community succession have rarely scarcely considered. Here, we assessed the differences between three microplastics (MPs) and two natural polymers in terms of biofilm development and niche properties during bacterial community succession, and identified a genus of MPs-degrading bacteria with strong competitive potential in the plastisphere. MPs biofilm development exhibits secondary succession characteristics, whereas natural polymer biofilms persist during the primary succession stage. During succession in plastic bacterial communities, the relationship between nutrient resources and microbial competition was reflected in a positive correlation between species competition and niche breadth, which contradicted the common belief that increased nutrient availability leads to reduced competition. Furthermore, the co-occurrence network revealed that specialists were species with greater competitive potential within the plastisphere. Additionally, the MPs-degrading Exiguobacterium genus represented a key taxon in the plastisphere. Our study provides a reliable pathway for revealing the specificity of plastic bacterial community succession from multiple perspectives and enhances the understanding of ecological assembly processes in the plastisphere. [Display omitted] • Specialists exhibit strong competitive potential in plastisphere succession. • The biofilm development on MPs is faster than that on natural polymer. • The relationship between available resources and microbial competition is not constant. • MPs-degrading bacteria identified as specialists could be key species in succession. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Considerable amounts of microplastics (MPs) are stocked in plant rhizospheres, yielding adverse effects on rhizospheric microorganisms and threatening plant health. However, the adaptation of the rhizospheric microbiota for MPs remains largely unknown. Here, to evaluate the adaptive strategies of rhizospheric bacterial communities against MPs, we characterized the spatial dissimilarities in MPs properties and bacterial communities from mangrove non–rhizosphere to rhizosphere to root hair sediments. Consequently, two strategies were uncovered: (1) Bacterial communities showed significant niche differentiation induced by the increasingly enriched MPs evaluated by piecewise structural equation modeling (piecewise SEM), as increasing specialization (10.2 % to 19.4 % to 23.0 % of specialists) and decreasing generalization (10.4 % to 10.2 % to 8.7 % of generalists). (2) A self–remediation strategy of enhancing microbial plastic–degrading potentials was determined in bacterial communities, tightly coupled to the increase of specialists (linear regression analysis, R 2 = 0.54, P < 0.001) and increasing MPs weathering degrees visualized by the scanning electron microscopy (SEM) from non–rhizosphere to rhizosphere to root hair regions. Our study provides a novel insight into the ecological strategies that rhizospheric microbes utilize against MPs, and broadens our knowledge of the interaction between soil microbes and global MPs pollution. [Display omitted] • Microbial specialization increased from non-rhizosphere to root hair regions. • MPs acts vital role in the niche differentiation of rhizospheric communities. • Enhanced microbial plastic–degrading potential was found in rhizospheric communities. • Rhizospheric MPs accumulation may not be necessarily an irreversible process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Microplastics (MPs) are emerging as anthropogenic vectors to form plastisphere, facilitating microbiome colonization and pathogenic dissemination, thus contributing to environmental and health crises across various ecosystems. However, a knowledge gap persists regarding MPs risks and their driving factors in certain unique and vulnerable ecosystems, such as Karst travertine lakes, some of which are renowned World Natural Heritage Sites under ever-increasing tourism pressure. We hypothesized that tourism activities serve as the most important factor of MPs pollution, whereas intrinsic features, including travertine deposition can exacerbate potential environmental risks. Thus, metagenomic approaches were employed to investigate the geographical distribution of the microbiome, antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs), virulence factor genes (VFGs), and their combined environmental risks in Jiuzhaigou and Huanglong, two famous tourism destinations in Southwest China. The plastisphere risks were higher in Huanglong, contradicting our hypothesis that Jiuzhaigou would face more crucial antibiotic risks due to its higher tourist activities. Specifically, the levels of Lipopolysaccharide Lewis and fosD increased by sevenfold and 20-fold, respectively, from upstream to downstream in Huanglong, whereas in Jiuzhaigou, no significant accrual was observed. Structural equation modeling results showed that travertine deposition was the primary contributor to MPs risks in alpine karstic lakes. Our findings suggest that tourism has low impact on MPs risks, possibly because of proper management, and that travertine deposition might act as an MPs hotspot, emphasizing the importance of considering the unique aspects of travertine lakes in mitigating MPs pollution and promoting the sustainable development of World Natural Heritage Sites. [Display omitted] • Plastisphere ARGs, VFGs and PARBs were investigated in alpine karst lakes. • Plastisphere risk does not necessarily increase from upstream to downstream. • Tourism activities exerted little effect on the potential environmental risks. • Travertine deposition might act as microplastic amplifier and hotspot. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Liver enzyme abnormalities are common in patients with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). Whether or not severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection can lead to liver damage per se remains unknown. Herein, we reported the clinical characteristics and liver pathological manifestations of COVID-19 patients with liver enzyme abnormalities. We analyzed 156 patients diagnosed with COVID-19 from 2 designated centers in China and compared clinical features between patients with or without elevated aminotransferases. Postmortem liver biopsies were obtained from 2 cases who had elevated aminotransferases. We investigated the patterns of liver impairment by electron microscopy, immunohistochemistry, TUNEL assay and pathological studies. Sixty-four out of 156 (41.0%) patients with COVID-19 had elevated aminotransferases. The median levels of alanine aminotransferase were 50 U/L vs. 19 U/L, respectively, aspartate aminotransferase were 45.5 U/L vs. 24 U/L, respectively in abnormal and normal aminotransferase groups. Liver enzyme abnormalities were associated with disease severity, as well as a series of laboratory tests including higher alveolar-arterial oxygen partial pressure difference, higher gamma-glutamyltransferase, lower albumin, decreased CD4+ T cells and B lymphocytes. Ultrastructural examination identified typical coronavirus particles, characterized by spike structures, in the cytoplasm of hepatocytes in 2 COVID-19 cases. SARS-CoV-2-infected hepatocytes displayed conspicuous mitochondrial swelling, endoplasmic reticulum dilatation and glycogen granule decrease. Histologically, massive hepatic apoptosis and some binuclear hepatocytes were observed. Taken together, both ultrastructural and histological evidence indicated a typical lesion of viral infection. Immunohistochemical results showed scarce CD4+ and CD8+ lymphocytes. No obvious eosinophil infiltration, cholestasis, fibrin deposition, granuloma, massive central necrosis, or interface hepatitis were observed. SARS-CoV-2 infection in the liver directly contributes to hepatic impairment in patients with COVID-19. Hence, a surveillance of viral clearance in liver and long-term outcome of COVID-19 is required. Liver enzyme abnormalities are common in patients with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). We reported the clinical characteristics and liver pathological manifestations of COVID-19 patients with elevated liver enzymes. Our findings suggested that SARS-CoV-2 infection of the liver is a crucial factor contributing to hepatic impairment in patients with COVID-19. • Liver enzyme abnormalities in patients with COVID-19 are associated with disease severity. • Patients with liver enzyme abnormalities have higher A-aDO2 and GGT, lower albumin and decreased circulating CD4+ T cells and B lymphocytes. • SARS-CoV-2 is able to infect the liver and cause conspicuous hepatic cytopathy. • Massive apoptosis and binuclear hepatocytes were the predominant histological features of SARS-CoV-2-infected liver. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• The spatial dynamic variations of mangrove MPs-associated bacteria are uncovered. • New framework based on niches is crucial for deciphering plastisphere variations. • Ecological drivers of plastispheres are firstly evaluated from the view of niches. • Rhodococcus erythropolis is speculated as MPs degradation species in mangrove forest. Myriad inherent and variable environmental features are controlling the assembly and succession of bacterial communities colonizing on mangrove microplastics (MPs). However, the mechanisms governing mangrove MPs-associated bacterial responses to environmental changes still remain unknown. Here, we assessed the dissimilarities of MPs-associated bacterial composition, diversity and functionality as well as quantified the niche variations of each taxon on plastispheres along river–mangrove–ocean and mangrove landward–to–seaward gradients in the Beibu Gulf, China, respectively. The bacterial richness and diversity as well as the niche breadth on mangrove sedimentary MPs dramatically decreased from landward to seaward regions. Characterizing the niche variations linked the difference of ecological drivers of MPs-associated bacterial populations and functions between river–mangrove–ocean (microplastic properties) and mangrove landward–to–seaward plastispheres (sediment physicochemical properties) to the trade-offs between selective stress exerted by inherent plastic substrates and microbial competitive stress imposed by environmental conditions. Notably, Rhodococcus erythropolis was predicted to be the generalist species and closely associated to biogeochemical cycles of mangrove plastispheres. Our work provides a reliable pathway for tackling the hidden mechanisms of environmental factors driving MPs-associated microbe from perspectives of niches and highlights the spatial dynamic variations of mangrove MPs-associated bacteria. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hydrogels based on natural polymers such as agarose usually show low applicability due to their weak mechanical properties. In this work, we developed a dual cross-linked agarose hydrogel by adding different amounts of TEMPO-oxidized nano-chitin (0–0.2 %) to agarose hydrogel matrices and then physically cross-linked under acidic gas-phase coagulation. The prepared hydrogels were characterized by FTIR, XRD, TGA, and SEM. The effects of nano-chitin addition and acidic gas-phase coagulation on the properties of agarose hydrogels, such as gel strength, swelling degree, rheological properties, and methylene blue (MB) adsorption capacity, were also studied. Structural characterizations confirmed that nano-chitin was successfully introduced into agarose hydrogels. The gel strength, storage modulus, and MB adsorption capacity of agarose hydrogels gradually increased with the increasing nano-chitin addition, whereas the swelling degree decreased. After acidic gas-phase coagulation, agarose/nano-chitin nanocomposite hydrogels exhibited improved gel strength and storage modulus, while the swelling degree and MB adsorption capacity were slightly reduced. The combination of oxidized nano-chitin and acidic gas-phase coagulation is expected to be an effective way to improve the properties of natural polymer hydrogels. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although hepatitis E has emerged as a global health issue, there is limited knowledge of its infection biology and no FDA-approved medication is available. Aiming to investigate the role of protein kinases in hepatitis E virus (HEV) infection and to identify potential antiviral targets, we screened a library of pharmacological kinase inhibitors in a cell culture model, a subgenomic HEV replicon containing luciferase reporter. We identified protein kinase C alpha (PKCα) as an essential cell host factor restricting HEV replication. Both specific inhibitor and shRNA-mediated knockdown of PKCα enhanced HEV replication. Conversely, over-expression of the activated form of PKCα or treatment with its pharmacological activator strongly inhibited HEV replication. Interestingly, upon the stimulation by its activator, PKCα efficiently activates its downstream Activator Protein 1 (AP-1) pathway, leading to the induction of antiviral interferon-stimulated genes (ISGs). This process is independent of the JAK-STAT machinery and interferon production. However, PKCα induced HEV inhibition appears independent of the AP1 cascade. The discovery that activated PKCα restricts HEV replication reveals new insight of HEV-host interactions and provides new target for antiviral drug development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mangroves receive microplastics (MPs) from terrestrial, marine and atmospheric sources, acting as a huge filter for environmental MPs between land and sea. Due to the high primary production and complex hydrodynamic conditions in mangroves, MPs are extensively intercepted in various ways while flowing through mangroves, leading to a long-standing but fiercely increasing MPs accumulation. However, current researches mainly focused on the occurrence, source and fate of MPs pollution in mangroves, ignoring the role of mangrove forests in the interception of MPs. Our study firstly demonstrates that mangrove ecosystems have significantly greater MPs interception capacity than their surrounding environments. Then, the current status of studies related to the interception of MPs in mangrove ecosystems is comprehensively reviewed, with the main focus on the interception process and mechanisms. At last, the most pressing shortcomings of current research are highlighted regarding the intercepted flux, interception mechanisms, retention time and ecological risks of MPs in mangrove ecosystems and the relevant future perspectives are provided. This review is expected to emphasize the critical role of mangrove forests in the interception of MPs and provide the foundational knowledge for evaluating the MPs interception effect of mangrove forests globally. [Display omitted] • Decipher huge gaps of MPs between mangroves and their surrounding environments. • A summary of current MPs interception process and mechanisms is included. • The knowledge about assessing MPs intercepted flux and retention time is limited. • MPs retained in mangroves may increase the potential risks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rotavirus infection has emerged as an important cause of complications in organ transplantation recipients. Immunosuppressants used to prevent alloreactivity can also interfere with virus infection, but the direct effects of the specific type of immunosuppressants on rotavirus infection are still unclear. Here we profiled the effects of different immunosuppressants on rotavirus using a 2D culture model of Caco2 human intestinal cell line and a 3D model of human primary intestinal organoids inoculated with laboratory and patient-derived rotavirus strains. We found that the responsiveness of rotavirus to Cyclosporine A treatment was moderate and strictly regulated in an opposite direction by its cellular targets cyclophilin A and B. Treatment with mycophenolic acid (MPA) resulted in a 99% inhibition of viral RNA production at the clinically relevant concentration (10 μg/ml) in Caco2 cells. This effect was further confirmed in organoids. Importantly, continuous treatment with MPA for 30 passages did not attenuate its antiviral potency, indicating a high barrier to drug resistance development. Mechanistically, the antiviral effects of MPA act via inhibiting the IMPDH enzyme and resulting in guanosine nucleotide depletion. Thus for transplantation patients at risk for rotavirus infection, the choice of MPA as an immunosuppressive agent appears rational. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background & Aims Humans are frequently exposed to hepatitis E virus (HEV). Nevertheless, the disease mainly affects pregnant women and immunocompromised individuals. Organ recipients receiving immunosuppressants, such as rapalogs, to prevent rejection have a high risk for developing chronic hepatitis following HEV infection. Rapalogs constitute potent inhibitors of mTOR including rapamycin and everolimus. As a master kinase, the mechanism-of-action of mTOR is not only associated with the immunosuppressive capacity of rapalogs but is also tightly regulated during pregnancy because of increased nutritional demands. Methods We thus investigated the role of mTOR in HEV infection by using two state-of-the-art cell culture models: a subgenomic HEV containing luciferase reporter and a full-length HEV infectious cell culture system. Results In both subgenomic and full-length HEV models, HEV infection was aggressively escalated by treatment of rapamycin or everolimus. Inhibition of mTOR was confirmed by Western blot showing the inhibition of its downstream target, S6 phosphorylation. Consistently, stable silencing of mTOR by lentiviral RNAi resulted in a significant increase in intracellular HEV RNA, suggesting an antiviral function of mTOR in HEV infection. By targeting a series of other up- and downstream elements of mTOR signaling, we further revealed an effective basal defense mechanism of the PI3K-PKB-mTOR pathway against HEV, which is through the phosphorylated eIF4E-binding protein 1 (4E-BP1), however independent of autophagy formation. Conclusions The discovery that PI3K-PKB-mTOR pathway limits HEV infection through 4E-BP1 and acts as a gate-keeper in human HEV target cells bears significant implications in managing immunosuppression in HEV-infected organ transplantation recipients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights: [•] Glimepiride reduces Aβ production in cortical neurons. [•] Glimepiride downregulates expression of BACE1 mRNA and protein. [•] Glimepiride suppresses BACE1 activity. [•] Glimepiride inhibits high glucose-induced Aβ40 production. [•] PPARγ antagonist GW9662 reverses glimepiride inhibition of Aβ40 production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: A microconcentration concept is proposed to enhance the sensitivity of deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) hybridization due to evaporation of the hybridization solution on a patterned hydrophobic fluorocarbon polymer (FCP) surface. The combination of microconcentration and hybridization processes provides a tool to manipulate nanoliter solution. To fabricate a patterned DNA microarray with hydrophobic surrounding surface, a plasma polymerization and lift-off protocol was designed so that the process can be carried out in a standard microelectronic fabrication laboratory with minimal adjustments on the equipment. After microconcentration, a 1μL hybridization solution can be concentrated to below 10nL, which improves the hybridization sensitivity by a factor of 100. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: A DNA micro-array (DMA) for DNA detection is reported. The DMA combines a standard CMOS active pixel image sensor with a DNA detection protocol utilizing the binding of DNA targets and probes functionalized with gold nano-particles that can modify the opaqueness at the detection site. The DMA has been fabricated using a 0.5μm CMOS process together with on-chip timing control and correlated double sampling. Experimental results show that the system can detect DNA samples with extremely low concentration down to 10pM using ordinary light source. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

[Display omitted] • 1D/2D CoO/NiCo-LDH heterojunction is designed. • 1D CoO nanowires benefit the rapid electron transfer. • Suited energy levels of CoO and NiCo-LDH facilitate effective exciton separation. • A remarkable photocatalytic hydrogen evolution performance is achieved. The limited photoabsorption and undesirable recombination of photocarriers seriously impede the performance of photocatalysts to convert inexhaustible solar energy into hydrogen energy. Herein, we design a novel one dimensional/two dimensional (1D/2D) core–shell cobalt monoxide/nickel cobalt layered double hydroxide (CoO/NiCo-LDH) heterojunction with the effective interface contact by the bridge linkage of Co atoms. The rapid electron transport of 1D CoO nanowires and the suited energy levels of CoO and NiCo-LDH synergistic facilitate the separation and transfer of photocarriers at the interface of CoO/NiCo-LDH. In addition, this rational design enhances visible-light absorption and possesses a large surface area. Benefiting from the compositional and structural virtues, the CoO/NiCo-LDH heterojunction achieves an outstanding photocatalytic H 2 production efficiency up to 1.5 mmol g−1h−1 and even maintains 96% of initial efficiency after the 480 min reaction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Hepatitis E virus (HEV) is one of the major pathogens causing acute viral hepatitis. The infectious particle consists of an RNA genome and capsid proteins. The 7.2 kb genome encodes three open reading frames (ORF) and ORF2 is translated into the capsid protein. The knowledge of structure and function of the ORF2 protein is essential for understanding the evolution and life cycle of HEV. However, biophysical research in this respect remains limited due to technical challenges. We have carried out a series of computational analysis on HEV ORF2. We have identified 144 conserved sites among the 660 amino acid (AA) residues. 43 models based on the previously proposed reference sequences and a cell culture adapted infectious clone were successfully built by 3D protein structure prediction and refinement. Structure alignment of domains revealed structural conservation of the S and M domains, but to a lesser extent of the P domain. Moreover, molecular docking has predicted distinct binding affinities of a monoclonal antibody towards ORF2 across different genotypes. Thus, we have expanded the information on ORF2 at both sequence and structure levels. These findings may help to better understand the evolution and life cycle of HEV, but also facilitate the development of genetically engineered vaccines or antibodies. Highlights • 144 conserved sites among HEV ORF2 • N- and C-terminal regions have flexible chain structures. • Structural conservation of the S and M domains, but a lesser extent of the P domain • Distinct binding affinities of an monoclonal antibody towards ORF2 across different genotypes [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Compare the performance of MRI-based Gaussian mixture model, K-means clustering, and Otsu unsupervised algorithms in predicting sarcopenia. • The cohort-level GMM shows potential in predicting sarcopenia. • The application of these unsupervised algorithms improve the prediction accuracy and early diagnosis rate of sarcopenia. • The incorporation of independent clinical predictors further increased the performance. To compare the performance of MRI-based Gaussian mixture model (GMM), K-means clustering, and Otsu unsupervised algorithms in predicting sarcopenia and to develop a combined model by integrating clinical indicators. Retrospective analysis was conducted on clinical and lumbar MRI data from 118 patients diagnosed with sarcopenia and 222 patients without the sarcopenia. All patients were randomly divided into training and validation groups in a 7:3 ratio. Regions of interest (ROI), specifically the paravertebral muscles at the L3/4 intervertebral disc level, were delineated on axial T2-weighted images (T2WI). The Gaussian mixture model (GMM), K-means clustering, and Otsu's thresholding algorithms were employed to automatically segment muscle and adipose tissues at both the cohort and case levels. Subsequently, the mean signal intensity, volumes, and percentages of these tissues were calculated and compared. Logistic regression analyses were conducted to construct models and identify independent predictors of sarcopenia. An combined model was developed by combining the optimal magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) model and clinical predictors. The performance of the constructed model was assessed using receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis. Age, BMI, and serum albumin were identified as independent clinical predictors of sarcopenia. The cohort-level GMM demonstrated the best predictive performance both in the training group (AUC=0.840) and validation group (AUC=0.800), while the predictive performance of the other models was lower than that of the clinical model both in the training and validation groups. After combining the cohort-level GMM with the independent clinical predictors, the AUC of the training and validation groups increased to 0.871 and 0.867, respectively. The cohort-level GMM shows potential in predicting sarcopenia, and the incorporation of independent clinical predictors further increased the performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Microplastics (MPs) in ocean tides can be effectively intercepted by mangroves, especially sediments, which are considered to be effective sinks. However, the retention of plantation mangrove forests on MPs is still unclear. In this study, the spatial distribution and its implication factors of MPs in surface sediments of plantation mangrove forests were investigated for the first time. In plantation forests, MPs were detected with abundances ranging from 67 ± 21 to 203 ± 25 items/kg, and plantation forests were significantly lower than natural forests at the CJ sampling site (p < 0.05). Plantation forests had fewer fibrous MPs than natural forests (p < 0.05). Furthermore, the MPs abundance showed strong linear relationships with the sand content (p = 0.002, R2 = 0.86) and Aegiceras corniculata biomass (p = 0.001, R2 = 0.84). Partial least squares path modeling analysis (PLS-PM) indicated that these two factors influenced MPs abundance by retaining MPs with fibrous, fragmented, denser and larger-sized characteristics. Our results revealed the differences in MPs abundance and characteristics between plantation and natural mangrove forests, and it is necessary to monitor MPs pollution to provide significant guidance for the restoration of constructed wetlands. [Display omitted] • The MPs distribution in plantation mangrove forests was studied for the first time. • MPs abundance and characteristic differed between plantation and natural forests. • MPs abundance was positively related to sand content and A. corniculatum biomass. • MPs with different characteristics were proved to have different retention trends. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hepatitis E virus (HEV) infection, one of the foremost causes of acute hepatitis, is becoming a health problem of increasing magnitude. As other viruses, HEV exploits elements from host cell biochemistry, but we understand little as to which components of the human hepatocellular machinery are perverted for HEV multiplication. It is, however, known that the eukaryotic translation initiation factors 4F (eIF4F) complex, the key regulator of the mRNA-ribosome recruitment phase of translation initiation, serves as an important component for the translation and replication of many viruses. Here we aim to investigate the role of three subunits of the eIF4F complex: eukaryotic translation initiation factor 4A (eIF4A), eukaryotic translation initiation factor 4G (eIF4G) and eukaryotic translation initiation factor 4E (eIF4E) in HEV replication. We found that efficient replication of HEV requires eIF4A, eIF4G and eIF4E. Consistently, the negative regulatory factors of this complex: programmed cell death 4 (PDCD4) and eIF4E-binding protein 1 (4E-BP1) exert anti-HEV activities, which further illustrates the requirement for eIF4A and eIF4E in supporting HEV replication. Notably, phosphorylation of eIF4E induced by MNK1/2 activation is not involved in HEV replication. Although ribavirin and interferon-α (IFN-α), the most often-used off-label drugs for treating hepatitis E, interact with this complex, their antiviral activities are independent of eIF4E. In contrast, eIF4E silencing provokes enhanced anti-HEV activity of these compounds. Thus, HEV replication requires eIF4F complex and targeting essential elements of this complex provides important clues for the development of novel antiviral therapy against HEV. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Environmental risk of field MPs are firstly evaluated based on metagenomic results. • First evidences confirmed field MPs in urban river exhibit highest environmental risk. • Rural MPs are proved to be important source of microbiome and resistome in urban MPs. Microplastics (MPs) are emerging as anthropogenic vectors for the colonization and transportation of microbial communities in aquatic ecosystems. However, the composition of the microbiome and its environmental risk on field MPs at watershed scale has rarely been explored. Here, geographical distributions of microbiome, antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs) and virulence factors (VFs) on field MPs at watershed scale were characterized and their potential environmental risks were evaluated based on the data from metagenomic analyzes. The succession of microbial communities on MPs was observed along the watershed, and some ARGs and VFs were significantly enriched on MPs in urban region in comparison with rural region. Potential environmental risk of MPs conducted by Projection Pursuit Regression model in midstream (peri-urban region) and downstream (urban region) were significantly higher than that in upstream (rural region), and exhibit close relationships with MPs concentration and water velocity. Furthermore, our source tracking results demonstrated that the microbiome, ARGs and VFs in urban region MPs were largely derived from rural region MPs. Our results caution us that special attention should be paid to the risks posed by MPs in urban water bodies, and highlight the threat of MPs from rural upstream areas. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Metal tellurides attract recent attention because of their promising applications as effective catalysts for the oxygen evolution reaction (OER). However, inappropriate adsorption energy between OER intermediates and telluride leads to an unsatisfactory electrocatalytic intrinsic activity. Herein, we adopt a unique in-situ cathodic electrochemical activation process to facilitate the surface self-reconstruction to form oxygen vacancy (O V)-rich TeO 2 layer onto Fe-doped NiTe (O V @Fe-NiTe). Characterizations and theoretical calculation demonstrate that the presence of the O V -rich TeO 2 layer realizes the adjustment of d -band center of the active site that translates into an enhancement of the adsorption of *OOH intermediate and thus the optimization of the OER pathway. Consequently, the O V @Fe-NiTe only requires an ultralow overpotential of 245 mV to drive 100 mA cm-2 in 1 M KOH, 95 mV lower than that of Fe-NiTe, and hence becoming the best water oxidation electrocatalysts amongst recently reported telluride electrocatalysts. This study presents a unique strategy to exploit telluride-based catalysts through electrochemical surface engineering. [Display omitted] • In-situ cathodic electrochemical activation facilitate surface self-reconstruction of Fe-NiTe. • Surface self-reconstruction induces oxygen vacancy (O V)-rich TeO 2 layer on Fe-NiTe. • Oxygen-rich TeO 2 adjust d -band center of active Te and thus optimize pathway of OER. • O V @Fe-NiTe drastically decrease OER overpotential from 340 to 245 mV. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To exploit the synergistic effect of architectural and nano-heterointerface engineering on developing high-performance electromagnetic (EM) absorbing materials, herein, a carbon nanotubes@ZnIn 2 S 4 nanosheets/cellulose nanofibers aerogel structure (CNTs@ZIS/CNF) is constructed. On the one hand, the air phase introduced interspersed in CNTs by the 3D porous aerogel structure can effectively avoid mismatched impedance matching and shielding behavior. At the same time, the interlaced ZIS nanosheet decorated on the CNTs maximized the heterointerface coupling effects to enrich the polarization loss mechanism. The optimized CNTs@ZIS/CNF shows an excellent EM absorbing performance with effective bandwidth of 5.8 GHz at a relatively thin thickness of 2.7 mm, more excellent than most present aerogel-shaped EM absorbing material. The multi-angel arch method is also used to verify the practical reflection loss of CNTs@ZIS/CNF, indicating its application potential to cope with the growing EM contaminate issue. Moreover, CNTs@ZIS/CNF exhibits other functions including thermal insulation and secondary recovery benefit from the dissoluble CNF-based porous structure. This work put forward a feasible method for the construction and optimization of high-efficient EM absorbing material. [Display omitted] • A novel CNTs@ZIS/CNF heterostructure aerogel is constructed as EM absorbing material. • The 2D ZIS nanosheets are used to modify the 1D CNTs to construct high-efficient interfacial coupling. • The synthetic effects of architecture design and heterointerface engineering can enrich attenuation mechanisms. • The multi-angle arch method is used to verify the practical EM absorbing performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The construction of environment-adapted FCS@ZIS heterostructure with Schottky contact for enhancing EM absorbing property. [Display omitted] • A novel heterostructure composed of ZnIn 2 S 4 /carbon is constructed as EM absorber. • The interfacial design with Schottky contact can promote the polarization effect. • The EM absorbing ability is optimized by tunning energy level and heterointerface. • The FCS@ZIS has application potential with excellent environmental adaptability. To alleviate the electromagnetic (EM) contamination, high-performance EM absorbers are urgently required. Constructing heterostructures with diverse energy level structures and high interfacial coupling effects has been considered as an ideal strategy to induce outstanding EM absorbing ability. In this work, the in-situ synthesis of interlaced ZnIn 2 S 4 (ZIS) nanosheets on the 3D foam-like carbon skeleton (FCS) using convenient carbonization and solvothermal approach is used to create a novel heterostructure with Schottky contact, which is then used as EM absorbers. By developing highly utilized heterointerfaces and different energy level structures, the FCS@ZIS heterostructure demonstrates a balanced synergy of multiple-attenuation mechanisms and impedance matching. With appropriate ZIS adjustment, the absorption bandwidth improves from 3.8 GHz to 4.3 GHz, and the lowest reflection coefficient is optimized from −15.6 dB to −52.7 dB, revealing the EM absorbing potential of FCS@ZIS. Furthermore, the unique nano-micro structure of FCS@ZIS can boost the matrix's hydrophobic ability, which is quite significant in practical applications. The importance of the FCS@ZIS Schottky heterostructure in improving the EM absorbing property is revealed in this study, which also proposes a potential technique for developing outstanding EM absorbers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Control of Nitrogen dioxide (NO 2) byproducts is of great importance for the photocatalytic NO removal and environmental remedy. However, individual semiconductor photocatalysts generally show limited capabilities for selective NO removal due to severe charge recombination and inadequate redox potentials. Herein, the cotton-like g-C 3 N 4 was modified with Ti 3 C 2 @TiO 2 to construct a heterojunction photocatalyst Ti 3 C 2 @TiO 2 /g-C 3 N 4 , which showed outperformed photocatalytic NO removal and MB degradation abilities compared to the individual photocatalysts under visible light irradiation. The UV–vis absorption spectra and photoluminescence (PL) spectra confirmed that Ti 3 C 2 @TiO 2 /g-C 3 N 4 photocatalyst was endowed with superior light utilization and separation/transfer ability of charge carriers due to the presence of n-n heterojunction and Schottky barrier. Furthermore, the g-C 3 N 4 , Ti 3 C 2 , and TiO 2 were closely contacted showing a high specific surface area, which promoted the charge transfer and the exposure of more active sites, further inducing the formation of more active species. Therefore, the designed photocatalyst delivered a high removal rate of NO and a suppressed discharge of NO 2. Notably, the photocatalyst Ti 3 C 2 @TiO 2 /g-C 3 N 4 also presented superior NO removal ability during the cycling experiment, indicating their outstanding stability and recyclability. Besides, the effects of active species were monitored using a trapping experiment to propose probable photocatalytic mechanism. This study could shed a new light to the design of photocatalyst for air purification in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This work clarified the positive effects of pullulan on dough structure and application properties varied with its molecular weight. Pullulan with different molecular weights were introduced into dough system to explore their intervention effects on structural and technological properties of dough as well as physical and digestion properties of biscuits. Results showed that HPL (pullulan with molecule weight of 100– 300 kDa) could increase the intermolecular collisions, prompt the protein aggregation and limit the water migration in dough system, resulting in an integrate, continuous and dense network structure of the gel with strengthened elasticity and weakened extensibility, which caused an increase in biscuit thickness, hardness and crispness. On the contrary, LPL (pullulan with molecule weight of 3– 100 kDa) could go against the formation of stable and elastic dough through breaking down cross-linkage between protein and starch so as to provide biscuits with decreased hardness and crispness during baking. Both HPL and LPL delayed starch pasting and retrogradation process while HPL had the stronger retarding effect on starch digestibility of biscuits than LPL. These findings dedicated to a better understanding of pullulan function in dough system and provide suggestions for fractionation applications of pullulan in food field. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mangrove leaves have been acknowledged as crucial sink for coastal microplastics (MPs). Whereas, the temporal dynamics of MPs intercepted by mangrove leaves have remained poorly understood. Here, we detected MPs intercepted by submerged and non-submerged mangrove leaves over time and the potential driving factors. Abundance and characteristics of MPs interception by mangrove leaves exhibited dynamic fluctuations, with the coefficient of variation (CV) of submerged mangrove leaves (CV = 0.604; 1.76 n/g to 15.45 n/g) being approximately twofold higher than non-submerged mangrove leaves (CV = 0.377; 0.74 n/g to 3.28 n/g). Partial least squares path model (PLS-PM) analysis further illustrated that MPs abundance on submerged mangrove leaves were negative correlated to hydrodynamic factors (i.e., current velocity and tidal range). Intriguingly, secreted salt as a significantly driver of MPs intercepted by mangrove leaves. Results of this work highlights that MPs intercepted by mangrove leaves is characterized by dynamic fluctuations and reveals the importance of hydrodynamic factors and secreted salt. Overall, this work identifies the pivotal buffering role played by mangrove leaves in intercepting MPs, which provides basic knowledge for better understanding of microplastic pollution status and control from mangrove plants. [Display omitted] • Abundance and characteristics of MPs on mangrove leaves showed diurnal fluctuation. • Distinct diurnal variations in MPs on submerged and non-submerged leaves. • Secreted salt prompted MPs interception on mangrove leaves. • Mangrove leaves play a crucial role in buffering MPs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To improve the emissivity of ZrB 2 /SiC coatings for serving in more serious environment, ZrB 2 /SiC coatings with varying contents of high emissivity Sm 2 O 3 were fabricated using atmospheric plasma spraying. The microstructure, infrared radiative performance and anti-ablation behaviour of the modified coatings were investigated. The results showed that as the content of Sm 2 O 3 increased, the density of the coatings increased because of the low melting point of Sm 2 O 3. When the content of Sm 2 O 3 was 10 vol%, the coating had the highest emissivity in the 2.5–5 μm band at 1000 °C, up to 0.85, because of the oxygen vacancies promoting additional electronic transitions. Due to the high emissivity, the surface temperature of the coating modified with 10 vol% Sm 2 O 3 decreased by 300 °C, which led to little volatilisation of the sealing phase. Further, the mass ablation ratio of the above coating was 3.19 × 10−4 g/s, decreasing 31% compared to that of a ZrB 2 /SiC coating. The formed dense surface structure of the coatings showed considerable oxygen obstructive effects. These findings indicate that the modified coatings show considerable anti-ablation performance, which provides effective anti-ablation protection for the C/C composite substrate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background & aims Hepatitis E virus (HEV) infection contributes to substantial proportion of acute liver injury. This study aims to evaluate the ability of red cell distribution width (RDW), neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio (NLR) and RDW to lymphocyte ratio (RLR) in predicating the development of liver failure following HEV infection and the prognosis. Methods 93 healthy controls, 152 current/recent HEV infected patients without liver failure (HEV-non-LF) and 62 HEV patients who developed liver failure (HEV-LF) were enrolled in the study. The clinical and laboratory characteristics on admission, including RDW, neutrophil, lymphocyte, were recorded. Additional 24 HEV-LF patients and 24 HEV-non-LF patients were enrolled to validate the diagnostic efficacy of the three parameters. Results RDW, NLR and RLR were higher in HEV patients developing liver failure, compared with HEV-non-LF patients. Positive associations of increased RDW, RLR, NLR and incidence of liver failure were found. The AUC of RLR for predicting HEV-related liver failure was 0.74, superior to NLR and RDW. The sensitivity and specificity of RLR for predicting HEV-related liver failure were 0.74 and 0.65 respectively, superior to NLR (0.66, 0.70) and RDW (0.58, 0.67). However, no correlation between any of the three parameters and prognosis of HEV-LF was found. In addition, the three parameters were correlated with ALB, TBIL and Child-Pugh score in HEV-non-LF subjects, other than in HEV-LF patients. Conclusion RDW, NLR and RLR are capable to predicate the development of liver failure in HEV patients, among which RLR showed the best sensitivity and specificity. These routinely available parameters shall be considered as new preliminarily diagnostic markers for fulminant hepatic damage in HEV patients. Highlights • RDW, NLR and RLR are capable to predicate the risk of liver failure in patients with HEV infection. • The efficacy of RLR for predicating HEV-related liver failure is superior to RDW and NLR. • RDW, NLR and RLR have advantages of non-invasiveness, easy access, cost-efficiency and timeliness. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Microplastics (MPs) and marine lipophilic phycotoxins (MLPs) are two classes of emerging contaminants. Together, they may exacerbate the negative impacts on nearshore marine ecosystems. Herein, the loading of 14 representative MLPs, closely related to toxin-producing algae, on MPs and their relations with colorful MPs have been explored for the first time based on both field and lab data. The objectives of our study are to explore the roles of multiple factors (waterborne MLPs and MP characteristics) in the loading of MLPs by MPs with the applications of various statistical means, and to further explore the role of the color of MP in the loading of specific MLPs through lab simulation experiments. Our results demonstrated that MPs color determined the loading of some specific MLPs on MPs and green MPs can load much more than other colorful fractions (p < 0.05). These interesting phenomena illustrated that the color effects on the loading processes of MLPs on MPs are a dynamic process, and it can be well explained by the shading effect of MP color, which may affect the growth and metabolism of the attached toxic-producing algae on MPs and hence the production of specific MLPs. Furthermore, loading of MLPs on MPs can be considered as the comprehensive physicochemical and biological processes. Our results caution us that special attention should be paid to explore the real-time dynamic color shading effects on all kinds of bio-secreted contaminants loading on MPs, and highlight the necessary to comprehensive investigate the interaction between biota, organic contaminants and MPs. [Display omitted] • Color had greatest effect on the loading of some MLPs on MPs, different from POPs. • Loading of MLPs on colorful MPs are closely related to toxic-producing algae. • Loading of MLPs are the dynamic unity of physicochemical and biological processes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article presents a novel and innovative approach to address the challenges of carbon fixation and wastewater treatment by directly synthesizing urea from carbon dioxide and nitrate ions using electrocatalytic C-N coupling technology. The key scientific questions addressed in this study include the role of CO 2 in the urea synthesis, and the existence of alternative reaction mechanisms involved in urea synthesis. To answer these questions, a systematic research framework is established, utilizing two-dimensional porphyrin-based bi-atom (M 2 -Pc) catalysts as models, conducting mechanism investigation at the neutral condition (pH =7). The electronic structural analysis, thermodynamic and kinetic calculations provide valuable insights into the reaction mechanisms involved in direct CO 2 -NO coupling and offer guidance for the design of more efficient catalytic systems for electrochemical urea synthesis. This research contributes to advancing our knowledge in the field of electrochemical urea synthesis and provides some insightful guidance for future studies. [Display omitted] • Computational Simulation with Constant Potential Model: Employed a constant potential model matching the experiment to explore the impact of electrode potential on the C-N coupling reaction mechanism. • Proposed Reaction Mechanism for CO 2 -NO Coupling: Introduced a novel reaction mechanism for the coupling of CO 2 and NO. • Comprehensive Analysis of 2D Porphyrin-Based Catalysts: Conducted electronic, thermodynamic, and kinetic analyses of M 2 -Pc catalysts, providing insights into their performance and direct CO 2 -NO coupling mechanisms, promoting sustainable urea production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rapid ascent to high-altitude environment which is characterized by acute hypobaric hypoxia (HH) may increase the risk of cardiac dysfunction. However, the potential regulatory mechanisms and prevention strategies for acute HH-induced cardiac dysfunction have not been fully clarified. Mitofusin 2 (MFN2) is highly expressed in the heart and is involved in the regulation of mitochondrial fusion and cell metabolism. To date, however, the significance of MFN2 in the heart under acute HH has not been investigated. Our study revealed that MFN2 upregulation in hearts of mice during acute HH led to cardiac dysfunction. In vitro experiments showed that the decrease in oxygen concentration induced upregulation of MFN2, impairing cardiomyocyte contractility and increasing the risk of QT prolongation. Additionally, acute HH-induced MFN2 upregulation promoted glucose catabolism and led to excessive mitochondrial reactive oxygen species (ROS) production in cardiomyocytes, ultimately resulting in decreased mitochondrial function. Furthermore, co-immunoprecipitation (co-IP) and mass spectrometry analyses indicated that MFN2 interacted with the NADH-ubiquinone oxidoreductase 23 kDa subunit (NDUFS8). Specifically, acute HH-induced MFN2 upregulation increased NDUFS8-dependent complex I activity. Taken together, our studies provide the first direct evidence that MFN2 upregulation exacerbates acute HH-induced cardiac dysfunction by increasing glucose catabolism and ROS production. Our studies indicate that MFN2 may be a promising therapeutic target for cardiac dysfunction under acute HH. [Display omitted] • MFN2 was upregulated and mitochondrial fusion was increased in hearts of mice under acute hypobaric hypoxia (HH). • Acute HH-induced MFN2 upregulation promoted cardiac dysfunction. • Acute HH-induced MFN2 upregulation increased ROS production and glucose catabolism in the heart. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • A phase evolution carbonization procedure for synthetic molybdenum carbides with tunable phases. • Tailoring optimal ΔG H* and water splitting energy barrier on molybdenum carbides. • An in-depth insight into their structure-activity relationship. • Mo 2 C/MoC-1 shows admirable HER performance in pH-universal conditions. Molybdenum carbides are the most promising noble metal-free electrocatalyst for hydrogen evolution reaction (HER). However, the investigation of phase-dependent intermediate adsorption on phase evolution engineering of molybdenum carbides is still insufficient. Herein, we developed a phase evolution carbonization procedure for synthetic molybdenum carbides with tunable phases for efficient hydrogen production, whose hydrogen intermediate adsorption energies can be regulated. Among them, Mo 2 C/MoC-1 shows a lowest overpotential of 128 mV, 162 mV and 119 mV in acidic, neutral and alkaline environment, respectively, steady operating at 10 mA cm−2 for 100 h. Tunable phase composites of molybdenum carbide composites induce favorable electronic structure and a local nucleophilic/electrophilic region at the interface of α-MoC and β-Mo 2 C phases, which promotes their HER performance. Density functional theory (DFT) calculations further reveal that Mo 2 C/MoC-1 conveys a H ads adsorption free energy (ΔG H*) of −0.17 eV in acid and a low water dissociation energy barrier of 1.12 eV in alkaline and neutral environment, pledging admirable HER performance in pH-universal conditions. This work provides a guidance to modulate the phase of molybdenum carbides for hydrogen evolution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • A novel MXene@S-deficient ZnIn 2 S 4 heterostructure is designed for electromagnetic wave absorbing material. • The synthetic effects of interfacial and vacancy engineering can enhance electromagnetic wave absorbing ability. • The MXene@S-deficient ZnIn 2 S 4 also exhibits antibacterial ability for endowing its multi-function application potential. Interface and vacancy engineering on electromagnetic absorbing materials have been proved to be two effective strategies to enhance electromagnetic absorbing performance. Herein, a Ti 3 C 2 T x MXene/ZnIn 2 S 4 heterostructure with tunable interface/vacancy structure is fabricated, and the controllable electromagnetic properties are realized by the dual optimization. The intercalated nano-interface design of MXene is realized via the ultrathin 2D nanosheet structure of ZnIn 2 S 4 , and the vacancy structure design is realized by regulating the concentration of S vacancies. Benefiting from the synergistic effect of interface/vacancy dual optimization, the band structure and electron transport of the heterostructure are adapted, and the interface and dipolar polarization effect are improved. The effective absorption bandwidth of the heterostructure reaches 4.8 GHz (∼1.5 mm) with a minimum reflection loss of −38.5 dB. The results show that reasonable interface and vacancy structure design can not only affect the conductive loss by adjusting the energy gap but also improve the polarization loss through the interfacial and dipolar polarization. In addition, the interaction between MXene and ZnIn 2 S 4 also promotes carrier migration, which makes the heterostructure exhibit strong antibacterial activity. This interface/vacancy dual optimization approach provides a valuable direction for the development of multifunctional electromagnetic absorption materials in the field of multi-functional devices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• The CEL-FDEM method is capable of effectively simulating the rock failure induced by high-pressure water jet. • The effects of jet impact, splash and rebound, and the crack propagation and the generation of debris are revealed. • During the fixed-point impact process, a ring-shaped crater is formed by tensile failure, generating a horn-shaped crushing crater. • The jet has energy attenuation and water cushion effect, and rock crushing has stress concentration and local effect, resulting in a rock slit. • Symmetrical cracks are mainly caused by tensile failure, while radial and lateral cracks aregenerated in shear. The coupled Euler-Lagrange (CEL) method and finite-discrete element method (FDEM) are adopted to simulate the rock fracture process induced by high-pressure water jet and to solve the problems of highly nonlinear, fluid-solid coupling and large deformation. The water is characterized by the CEL model, and water can flow freely in the Euler mesh, which can better simulate the actual shape of water jets. The rock is integrated into the FEDM model, which is produced by embedding zero-thickness cohesive elements. The traction-separation criterion of the cohesive element is used to simulate the rock damage. In the simulation process of rock fracture by the water jet, infinite elements are used to realize the non-reflection boundary conditions, simulate real working conditions, and improve the calculation reliability. Furthermore, the VUSDFLD user subroutine is used to delete the elements outside the box and reduce the impact of the fallen rock debris on simulation speed, thus improving calculation efficiency. The formation process of rock impact pits and slits, as well as the velocity and distribution of water jets, are studied by comparing the simulation and experiments of water jet fixed-point impact and moving cutting. Subsequently, the fracture mechanism of rock under the water jet is revealed, presenting new possibilities for studies into rock fractures by high-pressure water jet. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• This study is the first one to show that the changes of peripheral lymphocyte subsets are associated with the survival of prostate cancer(PCa) patients. • The lower absolute counts of peripheral lymphocyte subsets are unfavorable factors for the survival of patients with PCa. • Peripheral lymphocyte subsets will assist clinicians to evaluate the degree of immune impairment in patients with PCa, and assess their survival status. Many studies have sought associations between the total peripheral blood lymphocyte count and prostate cancer (PCa) prognosis, but not peripheral lymphocyte subsets. We explored the associations between the absolute counts of peripheral lymphocyte subsets and PCa patient survival. 135 PCa patients were included in this study. The log-rank test and Kaplan-Meier method were employed to compare overall survival (OS) and progression-free survival (PFS) rates. Univariate and multivariate Cox's regression analyses were employed to identify prognostic factors. Flow cytometry analysis was used to determine the numbers of peripheral lymphocyte subsets. PCa patients with lower absolute counts of certain lymphocyte subsets showed poorer PFS and OS than those with higher absolute counts of these cells. The numbers of CD4+ T cells, CD3+ T cells, and natural killer (NK) cells were significantly higher in PCa patients of tumor node metastasis (TNM) Ⅰ-Ⅱ stages than those of TNM ⅠIII-IV stages. Univariate and multivariate Cox's regression analyses of OS and PFS indicated that neutrophil numbers > 4.81*109/L, CD4+ T cells ≤ 254 /μL, and NK cells ≤ 136 /μL were unfavorably prognostic for patients with PCa. Lower absolute counts of certain peripheral lymphocyte subsets (NK cells ≤ 136/μL and CD4+ T cells ≤ 254/μL) are prognostically unfavorable for PCa patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Despite the introduction of oral vaccines, rotavirus still kills over 450,000 children under five years of age annually. The absence of specific treatment prompts research aiming at further understanding of pathogenesis and the development of effective antiviral therapy, which in turn requires advanced experimental models. Given the intrinsic limitations of the classical rotavirus models using immortalized cell lines infected with laboratory-adapted strains in two dimensional cultures, our study aimed to model infection and antiviral therapy of both experimental and patient-derived rotavirus strains using three dimensional cultures of primary intestinal organoids. Intestinal epithelial organoids were successfully cultured from mouse or human gut tissues. These organoids recapitulate essential features of the in vivo tissue architecture, and are susceptible to rotavirus. Human organoids are more permissive to rotavirus infection, displaying an over 10,000-fold increase in genomic RNA following 24 h of viral replication. Furthermore, infected organoids are capable of producing infectious rotavirus particles. Treatment of interferon-alpha or ribavirin inhibited viral replication in organoids of both species. Importantly, human organoids efficiently support the infection of patient-derived rotavirus strains and can be potentially harnessed for personalized evaluation of the efficacy of antiviral medications. Therefore, organoids provide a robust model system for studying rotavirus–host interactions and assessing antiviral medications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Capturing microplastics (MPs) were one of the important characteristics for terrestrial plant. Whereas, role of mangrove leaves in capturing MPs from tidal water and air were still largely unexplored. Here, we detected the spatial distribution of MPs at both submerged (0.10-0.49 n/cm2) and non-submerged mangrove leaves (0.09-0.24 n/cm2) in the Beibu Gulf. Abundance of MPs on submerged mangrove leaves was significantly higher than that on non-submerged mangrove leaves in landward and middle zone (* p < 0.05). Almost no difference existed in the abundances of MPs detected on leaves of different mangrove species. Abundance of MPs on submerged mangrove leaves increased following the sequences of seaward zone (0.11 n/cm2) < middle zone (0.21 n/cm2) < landward zone (0.36 n/cm2). PE MPs with uncoloured/fiber characteristics dominated the MPs both on the non-submerged and submerged mangrove leaves. Furthermore, contribution of tidal water was significantly greater than that of atmospheric deposition on MPs retention on submerged mangrove leaves. Results of this work highlight the importance of tidal water and air in the spatial distribution of MPs at mangrove leaves, and the globally MPs gross reserves at mangrove leaves cannot be ignored in evaluating the MPs sink in mangrove wetland. [Display omitted] • The abundance and characteristics of MPs on mangrove leaves are firstly reported. • Air deposition is the dominant pathway for MPs on non-submerged mangrove leaves. • Significant differences are obtained for MPs on submerged and non-submerged leaves. • Contribution of tidal water to MPs on submerged mangrove leaves cannot be ignored. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: In this paper, we had proposed a silicon integrated circuit (IC) compatible DNA-detection platform using photodiode and ordinary optical illumination to detect DNA hybridization events occurred on the chip surface. The method utilizes gold nanoparticle labeling and silver enhancement to generate opaque surface at area with target DNA hybridization. A photodiode fabricated underneath the supporting surface can then be used to detect the light intensity changes, before and after the silver enhancement. With this technique, we have successfully discriminated single base-mismatched DNA from matched DNA sequence, and the detection limit could be as low as 10pM. By exploiting the advanced modern IC manufacturing technology and the well-established electrochemical immobilization of DNA, this approach has the potential to be used to construct a portable high-density DNA nanoarray system with fully electronic readout. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

• MoS 2 with expanded interlayered spacing realizes the enhanced H 2 production. • MoS 2 -1.12 achieves a prominent energy band structure for H 2 production. • Both optical and electric property are dramatically enhanced. • The MoS 2 -1.12@Au core-shell structure is designed to boost H 2 production. The MoS 2 with different interlayer space were obtained with a hydrothermal method. The photocatalytic performance can be improved because of the enhanced light absorption ability, proper energy structure and boosted carrier separation and transportation ability. ga1 The MoS 2 structure engineering including hybrid structure construction and material self-optimization (edge sites improvement and phase transition), is a potential solution to boost photocatalytic hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) performance. Among the influence factors to MoS 2 structure, the interlayer distance, which is a significant and non-ignorable parameter, plays a momentous role in tuning the photoelectric property and photocatalytic activity of MoS 2. Here, we prepare MoS 2 with different interlayer distances, and explore the corresponding optical and electrical properties. As the MoS 2 interlayer spacing expands, the MoS 2 -1.12 (interlayer spacing 1.12 nm) is equipped with optimal light absorption ability, broadened energy band structure, high carrier mobility, and good electron transfer performance, compared to the MoS 2 -0.87 (interlayer spacing 0.87 nm) and MoS 2 -0.62 (interlayer spacing 0.62 nm). Consequently, the sample MoS 2 -1.12 possesses better HER performance (hydrogen production rate 311.28 μmol/g/h) than the MoS 2 -0.87 and MoS 2 -0.62. In addition, the MoS 2 @Au core-shell structure with optimal interlayer distance is designed to further enhance the HER ability, and the H 2 production rate of the MoS 2 -1.12@Au (773.4 μmol/g/h) is 2.48 times than that of the MoS 2 -1.12. The remarkable enhancement originates from the additional plasmonic Au nanoparticles. These results are significant for developing promising MoS 2 -based photocatalysts in the field of photocatalytic HER. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

MoS 2 is widely used in photocatalytic hydrogen production owing to its unique optical and electrical properties. However, the photocatalytic performance of pure MoS 2 is usually limited by its narrow light absorption band, poor conductivity, and rapid photogenerated carrier recombination. Heteroatom doping is an effective method to improve the catalytic activity of photocatalysts. In this study, P-doped MoS 2 was prepared by the one-step hydrothermal method for efficient photocatalytic hydrogen evolution. P-doped MoS 2 exhibits wider spectra absorption compared to pure MoS 2 because of the narrow bandgap from 1.84 eV to 1.77 eV, which can improve visible-light utilization. P-doped MoS 2 also shows faster carrier transfer compared to pure MoS 2 owing to its low resistance. As a result, P-doped MoS 2 shows enhanced photocatalytic performance with a hydrogen production rate about 278.8 μmol/h/g, which is 2.8 times higher than that of pure MoS 2 (99.4 μmol/h/g). The findings of this work will serve as a platform for the development of efficient photocatalysts. • The P-doped MoS 2 has been synthesized by a simple one-step hydrothermal method. • The stronger and wider absorption of the P-doped MoS 2 is helpful for photocatalysis. • The faster carriers transfer of P-doped MoS 2 is achieved due to the low resistance. • The P-doped MoS 2 exhibits the enhanced photocatalytic performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]