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Seeking new cathode chemistry with high onset potential and compatibility with electrolytes has become a challenge for aqueous Zn ion batteries. Anion intercalation in graphite (4.5 V vs Li+/Li) possesses the potentiality but usually shows a competitive relationship with oxygen evolution reaction (OER) in aqueous solutions. Herein, a decoupled design is proposed to optimize a full utilization of perchlorate ion intercalation in graphite cathode by pH adjustment. Benefiting from the decoupled design, high Coulombic efficiency is obtained by decelerating the kinetic of OER in acidic media. The decoupled Zn‐graphite battery exhibits a wide potential window of 2.01 V, as well as an attractive energy density of 231 Wh kg−1. In addition, a Zn‐graphite battery with SO42−${\mathrm{SO}}_4^{2 - }$ insertion is assembled, which demonstrates the capability of the proposed decoupled strategy to integrate novel electrode chemistries for high‐performance aqueous Zn‐based energy storage systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the resting state, cortical neurons can fire action potentials spontaneously but synchronously (Up state), followed by a quiescent period (Down state) before the cycle repeats. Extracellular recordings in the infragranular layer of cortex with a micro‐electrode display a negative deflection (depth‐negative) during Up states and a positive deflection (depth‐positive) during Down states. The resulting slow wave oscillation (SWO) has been studied extensively during sleep and under anaesthesia. However, recent research on the balanced nature of synaptic excitation and inhibition has highlighted our limited understanding of its genesis. Specifically, are excitation and inhibition balanced during SWOs? We analyse spontaneous local field potentials (LFPs) during SWOs recorded from anaesthetised rats via a multi‐channel laminar micro‐electrode and show that the Down state consists of two distinct synaptic states: a Dynamic Down state associated with depth‐positive LFPs and a prominent dipole in the extracellular field, and a Static Down state with negligible (≈0mV$ \approx 0{\mathrm{\;mV}}$) LFPs and a lack of dipoles extracellularly. We demonstrate that depth‐negative and ‐positive LFPs are generated by a shift in the balance of synaptic excitation and inhibition from excitation dominance (depth‐negative) to inhibition dominance (depth‐positive) in the infragranular layer neurons. Thus, although excitation and inhibition co‐tune overall, differences in their timing lead to an alternation of dominance, manifesting as SWOs. We further show that Up state initiation is significantly faster if the preceding Down state is dynamic rather than static. Our findings provide a coherent picture of the dependence of SWOs on synaptic activity. Key points: Cortical neurons can exhibit repeated cycles of spontaneous activity interleaved with periods of relative silence, a phenomenon known as 'slow wave oscillation' (SWO).During SWOs, recordings of local field potentials (LFPs) in the neocortex show depth‐negative deflection during the active period (Up state) and depth‐positive deflection during the silent period (Down state).Here we further classified the Down state into a dynamic phase and a static phase based on a novel method of classification and revealed non‐random, stereotypical sequences of the three states occurring with significantly different transitional kinetics.Our results suggest that the positive and negative deflections in the LFP reflect the shift of the instantaneous balance between excitatory and inhibitory synaptic activity of the local cortical neurons.The differences in transitional kinetics may imply distinct synaptic mechanisms for Up state initiation.The study may provide a new approach for investigating spontaneous brain rhythms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Crohn's disease (CD) is a progressive inflammatory disease of the gastrointestinal tract associated with malnutrition, high levels of inflammation and calcium and magnesium deficiencies. However, the relationships between these symptoms are poorly defined. Method: Seventy‐six adult CD patients who had not yet started treatment and 83 healthy volunteers were recruited. The dietary intakes, serum calcium and magnesium levels, nutritional indicators and biochemical markers of disease activity were measured. Results: Most participants had inadequate magnesium and calcium intake. The serum magnesium and calcium levels, as well as nutritional and inflammatory indicators, differed significantly between CD patients and controls, especially in the active phase. Serum levels of magnesium and calcium correlated with both nutritional status and inflammation. The cut‐off values for CD development were 0.835 mmol/L (magnesium) and 2.315 mmol/L (calcium), whereas those for the active phase were 0.785 and 2.28 mmol/L, respectively. Conclusion: Adequate intake of magnesium and calcium may both improve the nutritional status of CD patients and reduce inflammation, benefiting disease relief. As both magnesium and calcium reflect CD status, they may be useful markers for CD diagnosis and disease activity. Highlights: CD patients suffer sustained calcium and magnesium deficiencies in both remission and active phase.The intake of dietary calcium and magnesium in Chinese CD patients is seriously inadequate.Serum magnesium and calcium levels can be used as biomarkers for the assessment of CD and its activity.Serum magnesium and calcium levels can act as a bridge between the nutritional and inflammatory conditions in CD patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Jujube peel pigment (JP), an ideal natural water‐soluble pigment extracted from jujube peel, mainly consists of flavonoids and possesses a wide range of physiological activities. In this study, JP‐loaded multivesicular liposomes (JP‐MVL) were prepared using the double emulsification method. JP‐MVL was characterized, and its encapsulation efficiency was determined using the UV‐Vis method. Furthermore, the release behavior and antioxidant capacity of JP‐MVL were evaluated in vitro. The results displayed in the structure of JP‐MVL were spherical with internal vesicles; the average particle size of JP‐MVL was 5.63 μm, and the zeta potential was −69.50 mV. Analysis of the release results indicated that the best‐fitting models in PBS (Phosphate buffered saline pH 7.4) and 0.9% NaCl were the Higuchi and first‐order kinetic models, respectively. The cytotoxicity of JP‐MVL at the appropriate concentrations was negligible and had a good protective effect against UVB‐induced photodamage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sodium metal batteries (NMBs) have attracted increasing attention as next‐generation rechargeable batteries. How to improve their cycling stability and safety under limited sodium excess conditions, ideally zero sodium excess (i.e., anode‐free architecture), is highly desired yet remains challenging. Herein, it is demonstrated that sodium formate (HCOONa), one component of the solid electrolyte interphase (SEI) naturally formed on sodium metal anode, is a promising candidate for designing high‐performance artificial SEI layers, which can suppress the sodium dendrite formation and reduce the side reactions between sodium and the electrolyte. Profiting from the HCOONa interface, the Na|Na3V2(PO4)3 battery with a high mass loading of Na3V2(PO4)3 (10 mg cm−2) exhibits a superior cycling stability with an ultralow decay rate of 0.004% per cycle over 800 cycles. More impressively, a single molecular layer of HCOONa in situ formed on commercial copper current collector helps to extend the lifespan of the anode‐free Cu|Na3V2(PO4)3 battery to 400 cycles with 88.2% capacity relation, representing the longest cycle lifetime reported in anode‐free NMBs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

"Prospection" refers to the ability to mentally simulate one's future episodes. Negative bias in prospection, which includes both reduced positivity and enhanced negativity, is considered to be closely related to the development and maintenance of depression. However, there is a relative paucity of measures that adequately assess negative bias in prospection in depressed people. The current study developed and initially validated the Negative Bias in Prospection Scale (NBPS) using a nonclinical sample (n = 959). The validity and reliability of the NBPS were investigated in several ways. Results suggested the 14 NBPS items loaded onto three factors, namely the "Increased negativity," the "Reduced positivity," and the "Overgeneralization." The NBPS demonstrated decent internal consistency and test–retest reliability. Further, the NBPS was strongly associated with severity of depressive symptoms. Moreover, the NBPS was correlated in a theoretically meaningful way with other measures of future‐oriented cognitions or negative biases. In conclusion, the NBPS has promising preliminary psychometric properties. It will be an efficient tool for exploring dysfunctional prospection in depression and provides a novel measure for mechanism of change in prospection‐based interventions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Microbial destabilization induced by pathogen infection has severely affected plant quality and output, such as Anoectochilus roxburghii, an economically important herb. Soft rot is the main disease that occurs during A. roxburghii culturing. However, the key members of pathogens and their interplay with non‐detrimental microorganisms in diseased plants remain largely unsolved. Here, by utilizing a molecular ecological network approach, the interactions within bacterial communities in endophytic compartments and the surrounding soils during soft rot infection were investigated. Significant differences in bacterial diversity and community composition between healthy and diseased plants were observed, indicating that the endophytic communities were strongly influenced by pathogen invasion. Endophytic stem communities of the diseased plants were primarily derived from roots and the root endophytes were largely derived from rhizosphere soils, which depicts a possible pathogen migration image from soils to roots and finally the stems. Furthermore, interactions among microbial members indicated that pathogen invasion might be aided by positively correlated native microbial members, such as Enterobacter and Microbacterium, who may assist in colonization and multiplication through a mutualistic relationship in roots during the pathogen infection process. Our findings will help open new avenues for developing more accurate strategies for biological control of A. roxburghii bacterial soft rot disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sweetness and pungency sensation are two of common flavors in snack foods and cuisines, and appropriate intake regulates physical and mental health. In this study, 20 panelists were used as the subjects; the rated difference from control method was used to determine the recognition threshold of five kinds of Sichuan pepper oleoresins and sweeteners, while the Taste Activity Value (TAV), Scoville Units (SU), and relative intensity (RI) of different stimuli were obtained using formula conversion. Meanwhile, generalized labeled magnitude scale (gLMS) was used to rate the suprathreshold intensity of the stimuli at five different concentrations. The results showed that the power exponents of the pungent stimuli were between 0.5801 and 0.8081, while the power exponents of the sweet stimuli were between 0.4709 and 0.9020. Moreover, the RI of five different Sichuan pepper oleoresins and sweeteners were calculated based on the power functions. Furthermore, the fitting models for pungency and sweetness were lnRI = 0.8580*lnSPU‐8.5528 (R2 =.5964, p <.01) and lnRI = 0.8230*lnSSU‐4.1574 (R2 =.8998, p <.01), respectively. Practical Applications: The relative intensity (RI) and the Scoville Unit (SU) methods are typically used to evaluate the intensity of sweetness and pungency, respectively. However, previous studies confirmed that the SU of the stimuli was poorly correlated with its suprathreshold intensity. Furthermore, differences in psychophysical parameters, such as sensory quality and time persistence, limited the determination of the sweetener RI. Therefore, studying the relationship between the SU and RI of sweeteners and Sichuan pepper oleoresins would be useful for predicting suprathreshold intensity according to the SU of sweetness or pungent stimuli, providing a mutual reference for the RI and SU results, while promoting the sensory quality control of sweet and pungent foods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The structural details of carbon materials directly affect their properties as an electrode material, such as specific capacitance and coulomb efficiency. Therefore, the structural analysis of carbon materials has always been an important step in the mechanistic insight into their roles in electrochemical energy storage. Raman spectroscopy, as molecular spectroscopy technique, has been widely used in understanding the lattice vibration mechanics of carbon materials and providing information on the chemical structure at molecular level, as well as microstructure analysis of carbon materials. In addition, the development of correlative‐Raman technology enables clarifying more comprehensive and accurate structural information for carbon‐based materials. With this information, it is of great significance to guide the construction of advanced carbon‐based electrode materials for energy storage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Main observation and conclusion: Chromatographic purification of Sigesbeckia glabrescens extracts led to three undescribed ent‐pimarane diterpenoid dimers, named glabreside A—C (1—3). Their structures were confirmed by comprehensive spectroscopic analyses, and the structures of compound 1 and 3 were confirmed by X‐ray crystallography. The results of anti‐inflammatory activity assay showed that glabreside C (3) exhibited the most potent inhibition activity on nitric oxide (NO) production induced by lipopolysaccharide (LPS) in BV2 microglia compared with the other two compounds. Glabreside C also increased the protein expression level of heme oxygenase‐1 (HO‐1), and suppressed inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) and cyclooxygenase 2 (COX2) in LPS‐stimulated BV2 cells. Mechanistically, glabreside C exerts its anti‐inflammatory effect by inhibiting AKT/MAPKs signaling pathway. These findings indicate the vital role of ent‐pimarane diterpenoid dimers in explaining the anti‐inflammatory activity of S. glabrescens and provide important evidence for further development and utilization of Sigesbeckiae Herba. These results also suggest that glabreside C is a potential lead compound for anti‐inflammatory drugs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chronic, non‐healing wounds pose significant challenges for public health, particularly in the context of diabetes, and carry significant economic consequences. This article introduces a new solution in the form of a wireless theranostic patch, developed to meet the critical need for real‐time monitoring and targeted treatments to facilitate optimal healing. The patch incorporates advanced materials that are both multifunctional and electro‐responsive, leveraging a sophisticated blend of smart hydrogels and wearable bioelectronics to support diabetic wound management with unparalleled efficacy. With electro‐responsive multifunctional polymer hydrogels at its core, the patch delivers a stretchable, antimicrobial, and moist environment for the wound, with added benefits such as conductivity and visibility. The materials also allow for continuous and autonomous monitoring of glucose and pH levels, providing precise and personalized treatments like insulin delivery via iontophoresis and electrical stimulation. Animal models have demonstrated that this integrated system is highly adaptable, effectively promoting wound closure and healing. Overall, the wireless theranostic system offers an exciting prospect for personalized healthcare solutions, adopting a patient‐centric approach that prioritizes real‐time, targeted care for chronic wounds. Its incorporation of advanced materials and electro‐controlled treatments paves the way for new and innovative approaches to wound management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: This study aimed to compare the perioperative outcomes of patients who underwent hysterectomy for benign gynecologic diseases using transvaginal natural orifice transluminal endoscopic surgery (vNOTES) or transumbilical laparoendoscopic single‐site surgery (TU‐LESS). Methods: A total of 314 patients who underwent hysterectomy for benign uterine disease at West China Second University Hospital between October 2018 and December 2021 were enrolled in this retrospective study. vNOTES (n = 157) and TU‐LESS (n = 157) recipients were matched 1:1 in terms of uterine volume. The operation time, blood loss, postoperative decrease in hemoglobin, uterus weight, postoperative hospital stay, postoperative pain score at 12 h, postoperative indwelling catheter time, and other clinical indicators were compared between the two groups. Results: All 314 patients successfully completed the surgery, and the two groups had similar baseline characteristics, with no statistical difference. Regarding intraoperative outcomes, the operation time was shorter in the vNOTES group than in the TU‐LESS group (80 vs 100 min, P = 0.04), and there were no significant differences in intraoperative blood loss, intraoperative blood transfusion rate, postoperative decrease in hemoglobin, or uterine weight. Concerning postoperative outcomes, vNOTES hysterectomy was significantly superior to TU‐LESS hysterectomy in terms of the length of hospital stay (3 vs 4 days, P < 0.001), visual analog scale score for pain at 12 h after surgery (P = 0.04), postoperative indwelling catheter time (39.5 vs 64.0 h, P < 0.001), and postoperative exhaust time (24.0 vs 42.0 h, P < 0.001). There were no significant differences in postoperative complications between the two groups. Conclusion: vNOTES and TU‐LESS seem safe and feasible for hysterectomy, but vNOTES hysterectomy was more conducive to the postoperative rehabilitation of patients, with less trauma, less pain, and better cosmetic effects than TU‐LESS hysterectomy. As an emerging surgical approach, more studies, including large‐sample, multicenter, randomized controlled trials, are needed to validate our findings. Synopsis: vNOTES hysterectomy was found to be comparable and more conducive to the postoperative rehabilitation of patients to TU‐LESS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The high‐efficiency transmitted acoustic focusing lenses based on the Helmholtz resonator (HR) metasurface is reported. The proposed lenses demonstrate superior focusing performances, which can provide deep‐subwavelength resolution. The proposed lenses demonstrate superior focusing performances, in which the performances of acoustic focusing metasurface is investigated in details and the bandwidth of the metasurface with hybrid resonant structures is broadened. For the former, the effects of different numerical apertures, different focusing distances, and different incidence angles are investigated. At the same time, off‐axis focusing and spherical wave focusing lenses are also demonstrated. For the latter, by spacing the HR elements with different resonant frequencies, a broad‐band acoustic lens is also designed and achieved, in which the favorable focusing performance can be realized in a relative wider frequency range. The proposed designs provide great potential applications in many scenarios, such as nondestructive testing, ultrasonic medical treatment and so on. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Retinopathy of prematurity (ROP), a major cause of significant visual morbidity and blindness in preterm infants, is closely related to pathological angiogenesis. The aim of the study is to evaluate the effect of a new 12‐aa peptide (named peptide CW‐703) from human insulin‐like growth factor‐2, against angiogenesis in ROP. Methods: In order to evaluate the inhibitory effect of CW‐703 on the proliferation, migration, tube formation and apoptosis of human umbilical vein endothelial cells (ScienCell) in vitro, we used MTS assays, a modified Boyden chamber, Matrigel system and TUNEL assays. Effects in vivo were assayed using chorioallantoic membrane assays and oxygen‐induced retinopathy (OIR) models in mice. We also performed eletrophysiological and histologic examinations to evaluate the possible toxicity of the peptide. Real‐time PCR, ELISA and western blotting were used to elucidate the mechanism of CW‐703. Results: CW‐703 inhibited angiogenesis in vitro by suppressing endothelial cell proliferation, migration and tube formation. CW‐703 also prevented angiogenesis in chicken chorioallantoic membrane assays and OIR assays in mice. No evident functional or morphologic abnormalities in neuroretina after CW‐703 injection were revealed in electrophysiological tests and histological examinations. Moreover, we elucidated that CW‐703 competed for binding to IGF‐1R and inhibited angiogenesis by inhibiting IGF‐1R/PI3K/AKT activation and downregulating vascular endothelial growth factor expression. Conclusion: The novel peptide CW‐703 may act as an effective inhibitor of ocular pathologic angiogenesis, especially in treating ROP. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: This study concentrates on exploring the synergistic effect of shikonin on cisplatin against oral cancer. Methods: To analyze the IC50 value of shikonin, gradient concentrations of shikonin were added to the oral cancer cell culture medium. After the cisplatin‐resistant cell line was established, the effects of cisplatin and shikonin on the survival rate, proliferation, apoptosis and related pathway protein expression of common/drug‐resistant oral cancer cells were compared through MTT, clone formation, flow cytometry, and Western blot experiments. β‐catenin, which had the most significant expression changes, was overexpressed and silenced, and used to design a reverse validation. Results: Shikonin inhibited the viability of oral cancer cells. Although cisplatin killed some cancer cells, its effect on drug‐resistant cancer cells was significantly reduced. The addition of shikonin enhanced the sensitivity of drug‐resistant cells to cisplatin. Shikonin regulated key proteins in cell proliferation and apoptosis‐related pathways. Among them, shikonin generated the most evident inhibitory effect on β‐catenin. Therefore, β‐catenin overexpression plasmid/siβ‐catenin was transfected into the cells. Silenced β‐catenin was found to reinforce the damaging effect of cisplatin on cancer cells, and overexpressed β‐catenin reversed the effect of shikonin. Conclusion: By down‐regulating β‐catenin expression, shikonin improves the sensitivity of drug‐resistant oral cancer cells to cisplatin. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bi5Ti3FeO15 (pentabismuth trititanium iron pentadecaoxide), which is a multiferroic four‐layer Aurivillius phase compound, has received much attention in recent years. However, three mutually inconsistent orthorhombic space groups, i.e. A21am, Fmm2 and Pnn2, have been reported for the room‐temperature phase of Bi5Ti3FeO15 by X‐ray and neutron diffraction investigations. Here, electron diffraction results are presented and discussed for the first time to unambiguously clarify the room‐temperature space group of ceramic Bi5Ti3FeO15. It has been found that all the observed reflections from the ceramic agree with those expected in A21am, while the observed reflections 011, 013 and 015 should be forbidden in the case of Fmm2, and no 107 and 109 reflections were observed although allowed for Pnn2. The present study has demonstrated that the space group of Bi5Ti3FeO15 ceramic is A21am rather than Fmm2 or Pnn2, an identification that proved to be a challenge for X‐ray diffraction. On the basis of the space group A21am, the lattice parameters of the Bi5Ti3FeO15 ceramic were calculated from its X‐ray diffraction data. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The mechanisms of species coexistence within a community have always been the focus in ecological research. Community phylogenetic structure reflects the relationship of historical processes, regional environments, and interactions between species, and studying it is imperative to understand the formation and maintenance mechanisms of community composition and biodiversity. We studied the phylogenetic structure of the shrub communities in arid and semiarid areas of the Mongolian Plateau. First, the phylogenetic signals of four plant traits (height, canopy, leaf length, and leaf width) of shrubs and subshrubs were measured to determine the phylogenetic conservation of these traits. Then, the net relatedness index (NRI) of shrub communities was calculated to characterize their phylogenetic structure. Finally, the relationship between the NRI and current climate and paleoclimate (since the Last Glacial Maximum, LGM) factors was analyzed to understand the formation and maintenance mechanisms of these plant communities. We found that desert shrub communities showed a trend toward phylogenetic overdispersion; that is, limiting similarity was predominant in arid and semiarid areas of the Mongolian Plateau despite the phylogenetic structure and formation mechanisms differing across habitats. The typical desert and sandy shrub communities showed a significant phylogenetic overdispersion, while the steppified desert shrub communities showed a weak phylogenetic clustering. It was found that mean winter temperature (i.e., in the driest quarter) was the major factor limiting steppified desert shrub phylogeny distribution. Both cold and drought (despite having opposite consequences) differentiated the typical desert to steppified desert shrub communities. The increase in temperature since the LGM is conducive to the invasion of shrub plants into steppe grassland, and this process may be intensified by global warming. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new cosensitization photoelectrochemical (PEC) strategy was established by using a donor–acceptor‐type photoactive material, poly{4,8‐bis[5‐(2‐ethylhexyl)thiophen‐2‐yl]benzo[1,2‐b:4,5‐b′]dithiophene‐2,6‐diyl‐alt‐3‐fluoro‐2‐[(2‐ethylhexyl)carbonyl]thieno[3,4‐b]thiophene‐4,6‐diyl} (PTB7‐Th), as a signal indicator, which was cosensitized with bis(4,4′dicarboxyl‐2,2′‐bipyridyl)(4,5,9,14‐tetraazabenzo[b]triphenylene)ruthenium(II) ([Ru(dcbpy)2dppz]2+) embedded in the grooves of the DNA duplex and fullerene (nano‐C60) immobilized on the surface of DNA nanoflowers for microRNA assay. [Ru(dcbpy)2dppz]2+ and nano‐C60 could effectively enhance the photoelectric conversion efficiency (PCE) of PTB7‐Th as a result of well‐matched energy levels among nano‐C60, [Ru(dcbpy)2dppz]2+ and PTB7‐Th, leading to a clearly enhanced photocurrent signal. Meanwhile, a target recycling magnification technique based on duplex‐specific nuclease was applied in this work to obtain higher detection sensitivity. The proposed biosensor demonstrated excellent analytical properties within a linear detection range of 2.5 fm to 2.5 nm and a limit of detection down to 0.83 fm. Impressively, this cosensitization PEC strategy offers an effective and convenient avenue to significantly improve the PCE of a photoactive material, resulting in a remarkably improved photocurrent signal for ultrasensitive and highly accurate detection of various targets. Into the groove: A cosensitization photoelectrochemical (PEC) strategy was established by using a donor–acceptor‐type photoactive material with a ruthenium complex and fullerene (see figure). The ruthenium complex is embedded in the grooves of the DNA duplex and fullerene is immobilized on the surface of DNA nanoflowers for microRNA assay. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Development of effective organocatalysts for the living ring‐opening polymerization (ROP) of lactones is highly desired for the preparation of biocompatible and biodegradable polyesters with controlled microstructures and physical properties. Herein, a new class of hydrogen‐bond donating bisurea catalysts is reported for the ROP of lactones under solvent‐free conditions. ROP of lactones mediated by the bisurea/7‐methyl‐1,5,7‐triazabicyclo[4.4.0]dec‐5‐ene (MTBD) catalyst exhibits a living/controlled manner, affording the polymers and copolymers with the well‐defined structure, predictable molecular weight, narrow molecular weight distribution, and high selectivity for monomer at low catalyst loadings at ambient temperature. The possible mechanism of bisurea/MTBD‐catalyzed ROP of lactones is proposed, in which the bisurea activates the carbonyl group of lactones while MTBD facilitates the nucleophilic attack of the initiating/propagating alcohol by hydrogen bonding. Moreover, the poly(ε‐caprolactone‐co‐δ‐valerolactone) [P(CL‐co‐VL)] random copolymers with various compositions were synthesized using the bisurea/MTBD catalyst. The measurements of thermal properties and crystalline structure demonstrate that the CL and VL units are cocrystallized in the crystalline phase of P(CL‐co‐VL) copolymers. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part A: Polym. Chem. 2019, 57, 90–100 A new class of hydrogen‐bonding bisurea catalysts is reported for the ring‐opening polymerization (ROP) of lactones under solvent‐free conditions. ROP of lactones mediated by the bisurea/7‐methyl‐1,5,7‐triazabicyclo[4.4.0]dec‐5‐ene catalyst exhibits a living/controlled manner, affording the polymers and copolymers with the well‐defined structure, predictable molecular weight, and narrow molecular weight distribution at low catalyst loadings at ambient temperature. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Robust Anode-Free Sodium Metal Batteries Enabled by Artificial Sodium Formate Interface (Adv. Anode-free batteries, sodium dendrites, sodium formate, sodium metal anodes, sodium metal batteries Keywords: anode-free batteries; sodium dendrites; sodium formate; sodium metal anodes; sodium metal batteries EN anode-free batteries sodium dendrites sodium formate sodium metal anodes sodium metal batteries 1 1 1 06/13/23 20230609 NES 230609 B Sodium Metal Batteries b In article number 2204125, Xiaoliang Fang and co-workers develop an artificial formate sodium interface with rapid ion conduction and high mechanical strength for constructing high-performance sodium metal batteries. [Extracted from the article]

As ancient gymnosperm and woody plants, cycads have survived through dramatic tectonic activities, climate fluctuation, and environmental variations making them of great significance in studying the origin and evolution of flora biodiversity. However, they are among the most threatened plant groups in the world. The principal aim of this review is to outline the distribution, diversity, and conservation status of Cycas in China and provide suggestions for conservation practices. In this review, we describe the taxonomy, distribution, and conservation status of Cycas in China. By comparing Chinese Cycas species with its relatives worldwide, we then discuss the current genetic diversity, genetic differentiation of Cycas, and try to disentangle the potential effects of Quaternary climate changes and topographical events on Cycas. We review conservation practices from both researchers and practitioners for these rare and endangered species. High genetic diversity at the species level and strong genetic differentiation within Cycas have been observed. Most Cycas species in southwest China have experienced population retreats in contrast to the coastal Cycas's expansion during the Quaternary glaciation. Additionally, human activities and habitat fragmentation have pushed these endangered taxa to the brink of extinction. Although numerous efforts have been made to mitigate threats to Cycas survival, implementation and compliance monitoring in protection zones are currently inadequate. We outline six proposals to strengthen conservation measures for Cycas in China and anticipate that these measures will provide guidelines for further research on population genetics as well as conservation biology of not only cycads but also other endangered species worldwide. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of transcutaneous electrical acupoint stimulation (TEAS) on ovarian reserve in patients with diminished ovarian reserve undergoing in vitro fertilization and embryo transfer. Material and Methods: A total of 240 patients were randomly divided into the Han's acupoint nerve stimulator TEAS treatment (TES), comforting false Han's placebo (FHP), artificial endometrial cycle treatment (AEC), and control (CON) groups. Results: Fifty-six patients in TES, 56 in FHP, 54 in AEC, and 60 in CON fulfilled the study, respectively. Antral follicle count and anti-Müllerian hormone levels were increased, whereas the estradiol level, follicle-stimulating hormone level, and follicle-stimulating hormone/luteinizing hormone ratio were significantly decreased after treatment in the TES and AEC groups. After treatment, the number of oocytes retrieved and average number of embryos transferred were higher in the TES and AEC than in the CON and FHP groups. Clinical pregnancy rate in the TES group was markedly higher than values obtained for the other three groups. Conclusion: TEAS and AEC treatments could improve basal endocrine levels in patients, and increase the number of oocytes retrieved and high-quality embryos. TEAS treatment could improve the clinical pregnancy rate in patients with decreased ovarian reserve during in vitro fertilization and embryo transfer cycles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Superparamagnetic MoS2/SiO2/Fe3O4 catalysts that consist of magnetite as the core, silica as the covering layer, and molybdenum sulfide as the top layer were prepared in easy steps. Two different surfactants (anionic and cationic) were used to assist with the synthesis of two of the samples, and one sample was prepared without surfactant. The surfactant was found to have a significant effect on the properties and activity of the final catalysts. Hydrodesulfurization (HDS) tests of the catalysts show higher activity for the cationic-surfactant-assisted catalyst. Between the direct desulfurization (DDS) and hydrogenation pathways for the prepared catalysts, the DDS pathway was found to be dominant for the HDS of dibenzothiophene. As a result of the magnetic properties of this catalyst, it can be separated easily from the reaction media by a magnetic field applied externally and reused, which makes it an ideal choice for slurry reactors that process heavy and extra-heavy crude oil. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective Whether circulating microvesicles convey bioactive signals in neurodegenerative diseases remains currently unknown. In this study, we investigated the biochemical composition and biological function of exosomes isolated from sera of patients with Parkinson's disease (PD). Methods Proteomic analysis was performed on microvesicle preparations from grouped samples of patients with genetic and sporadic forms of PD, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, and healthy subjects. Nanoparticle-tracking analysis was used to assess the number and size of exosomes between patient groups. To interrogate their biological effect, microvesicles were added to primary rat cortical neurons subjected to either nutrient deprivation or sodium arsenite. Results Among 1033 proteins identified, 23 exosome-associated proteins were differentially abundant in PD, including the regulator of exosome biogenesis syntenin 1. These protein changes were detected despite similar exosome numbers across groups suggesting that they may reflect exosome subpopulations with distinct functions. Accordingly, we showed in models of neuronal stress that Parkinson's-derived microvesicles have a protective effect. Interpretation Collectively, these data suggest for the first time that immunophenotyping of circulating exosome subpopulations in PD may lead to a better understanding of the systemic response to neurodegeneration and the development of novel therapeutics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigates the distributed containment control for second‐order multi‐agent systems with multiple stationary or dynamic leaders based on only position information. Based on stability and algebraic graph theories, some necessary and sufficient conditions are obtained. Firstly, when the leaders are stationary, a necessary and sufficient condition is given to guarantee that all followers will ultimately converge to the stationary convex hull spanned by the stationary leaders for arbitrary initial states. The containment control protocol is designed based on a distributed filter, which is used for estimating the neighbours' velocities of each follower. Secondly, when each leader is dynamic with constant velocity, using sampled current and outdated position data, a necessary and sufficient condition is obtained to drive the followers into the dynamic convex hull spanned by the dynamic leaders. Finally, some numerical simulations are presented to illustrate the proposed theories. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work, a novel series of zwitterionic gemini surfactants with different hydrophobic tails were synthesized and characterized. The physico-chemical properties of these products (such as surface tension, oil/water interfacial tension, foaming ability, and the wetting ability of paraffin-coated sandstone) were fully studied. The CMC of the synthesized surfactants ranged from 2.17 × 10 mol L to 5.36 × 10 mol L and corresponding surface tension ( γ) ranged from 26.49 mN m to 29.06 mN m, which showed excellent efficiency among the comparison surfactants. All the products can reduce the interfacial tension to a relatively low level of about 0.1-1.0 mN m. Additionally, results from applying different hydrocarbons suggested that the synergy will be clearer and oil/water interfacial tension will be lower if the oil components are similar to the surfactants. Contact angle and foaming measurements indicated that the surfactants exhibited good wetting and foaming abilities. The results of oil flooding experiments using an authentic sandstone microscopic model showed that C-12 and CA-12 could effectively improve the displacement efficiency by 21-29 %. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Living erythrocyte (red blood cell, RBC) membranes present rich ultrastructural and dynamic details, which require synchronous super‐resolution imaging and single‐molecule tracking to be revealed. Yet, it poses a serious challenge to achieve these dual functions in a single probe, due to the rigid and conflicting photophysical demands of the different techniques. Herein, we rationally developed a far‐red boron dipyrromethene membrane probe with blinking capability and persistent single‐molecule emission, and constructed a microfluidic platform for noninvasive trapping and long‐term imaging of RBCs. By combining them, multi‐dimensional super‐resolution reconstructions and single‐molecule tracking were achieved at the molecular scale on living human RBC membranes in a high‐throughput manner. Our integrated system defines a quantitative method for analyzing RBC membranes under physiological and pathological conditions, improving precision and revealing new perspectives for future disease diagnostics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Living erythrocyte (red blood cell, RBC) membranes present rich ultrastructural and dynamic details, which require synchronous super‐resolution imaging and single‐molecule tracking to be revealed. Yet, it poses a serious challenge to achieve these dual functions in a single probe, due to the rigid and conflicting photophysical demands of the different techniques. Herein, we rationally developed a far‐red boron dipyrromethene membrane probe with blinking capability and persistent single‐molecule emission, and constructed a microfluidic platform for noninvasive trapping and long‐term imaging of RBCs. By combining them, multi‐dimensional super‐resolution reconstructions and single‐molecule tracking were achieved at the molecular scale on living human RBC membranes in a high‐throughput manner. Our integrated system defines a quantitative method for analyzing RBC membranes under physiological and pathological conditions, improving precision and revealing new perspectives for future disease diagnostics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives Data regarding hypertension in elderly adults with chronic kidney disease ( CKD) remains limited. This study aimed to assess the epidemiological characteristics of hypertension in elderly adults with CKD using data from a nationwide survey. Design A nationwide, multicenter, cross-sectional study with a large sample. Setting The Survey of Prevalence, Awareness, and Treatment Rates in Chronic Kidney Disease Patients with Hypertension in China ( PATRIOTIC). Participants Participants in PATRIOTIC (aged ≥60; n = 2,414). Measurements Trained physicians measured blood pressure ( BP) using a standard protocol with a mercury sphygmomanometer at the time of admission. Results The prevalence, awareness, and treatment of hypertension in elderly adults with CKD were 82.0%, 90.7%, and 87.3%, respectively. The control of hypertension at BP less than 140/90 mmHg was 29.6% and at BP less than 130/80 mmHg it was 12.1%. No significant differences were noted in the prevalence, awareness, treatment, or control of hypertension in individuals with CKD divided into the age groups of 60 to 69, 70 to 79, and 80 and older ( P > .05). With increasing age, the proportion of isolated systolic hypertension in elderly adults with CKD with uncontrolled hypertension increased ( P = .02). Obesity ( P = .01), CKD Stages 4 and 5 ( P < .001), and concomitant diabetes mellitus ( P = .002) were significantly associated with uncontrolled hypertension in elderly adults with CKD, using the goal of BP less than 140/90 mmHg. Conclusion The prevalence of hypertension in elderly adults in China with CKD is high, and its control is poor. Most elderly adults with CKD with uncontrolled hypertension have systolic hypertension. Obesity, CKD Stages 4 and 5, and diabetes mellitus were adversely associated with greater uncontrolled hypertension in elderly adults with CKD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A large adiabatic temperature change along with a wide operating temperature region is usually required for the electrocaloric materials to fulfill their refrigeration function. In general, doping foreign ions into BaTiO3 is the frequently utilized strategy in order to obtain excellent electrocaloric materials for the practical application. In the current paper, BaTiO3 lead‐free ferroelectric ceramics were doped by Ca2+ and Sn4+ simultaneously in order to generate a coexistence state at room temperature, where ferroelectric domains and nanodomains exit. As a result, a large polarization and a wide operating temperature range were finally induced. It is found that Ba0.9Ca0.1Ti0.85Sn0.15O3 has a maximum adiabatic temperature change of 0.85 K and an excellent working temperature region (65 K, ∆T > 90% Tmax) was achieved under an electric field of 50 kV/cm. The above phenomenon indicates that the modified BaTiO3 ceramics can be a good potential electrocaloric material in the state of cross‐existence of ferroelectric domains and nanodomains. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The sonodynamic activities of gold nanoparticles (GNPs) with different morphologies, gold nanospheres (GNSs), gold nanoflowers (GNFs) and gold nanorods (GNRs), were explored by multi‐spectroscopic methods, in which the lesion degree of human serum albumin (HSA) was used as assessment index. The results revealed that three GNPs all had certain sonosensitivity but varying from different morphologies. It was also found that GNPs concentration and ultrasonic parameters were all critical influencing factors of sonodynamic injury HSA. Investigating the physical damage mechanism, the results indicated that the secondary and tertiary structure of HSA were compromised by ultrasound (US) combined with GNPs, so that the conformation of HSA was altered and the function was variously disturbed due to GNPs different morphologies. Studying the chemical damage mechanism, the results discovered that the yield of singlet oxygen (1O2) produced by GNPs with various morphologies combined with US was significant difference. Therefore, comprehensively analyzing the research results under different factors, the order of sonodynamic activities of GNPs was GNSs≈GNFs>GNRs. These findings may provide reference for the application of GNPs as sonosensitizers in sonodynamic therapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Immobilizing DNA with high accessibility at the interface is attractive but challenging. Current methods often involve multiple chemical reactions and derivatives. In this study, an endonuclease, TC1, is introduced to develop a robust strategy for immobilizing DNA with enhanced accessibility. TC1 enables direct immobilization of DNA onto a solid support through self‐catalytic DNA covalent coupling and robust solid adsorption capabilities. This method demonstrates high accessibility to target molecules, supported by the improved sensitivity of DNA hybridization and aptamer‐target recognition assays. TC1‐mediated DNA immobilization is a one‐pot reaction that does not require chemical derivatives, making it promising for the development of high‐performance DNA materials and technologies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

. Purpose: To evaluate the effect of ZY1, a novel 21-amino acid peptide from human placenta growth factor-1 (PlGF-1), against ocular neovascularization, and to study its possible toxicity to the retina and the underlying mechanism of antiangiogenic effect. Methods: MTS assays, a modified Boyden chamber and Matrigel™ were used to evaluate the effect of ZY1 on the proliferation, migration and tube formation of RF/6A rhesus macaque choroid-retina endothelial cells induced by vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) in vitro. The antiangiogenic effect of ZY1 was also studied with corneal micropocket angiogenesis assays and oxygen-induced retinopathy (OIR) assays in mice. Electrophysiological tests and histological examinations were used to study the possible toxicity of ZY1 against mouse neuroretina. Competitive ELISA and Western blotting were performed to elucidate the underlying mechanism of ZY1. Results: ZY1 inhibited VEGF-induced RF/6A proliferation, migration and tube formation. It also inhibited ocular neovascularization when applied to the corneal micropocket angiogenesis assays and OIR assays in mice. Electrophysiological tests and histological examinations revealed no evident functional or morphologic abnormalities in mouse neuroretina after ZY1 injection. ZY1 competed for binding to VEGFR-1 against PlGF and VEGF and inhibited VEGFR-1/ERK/AKT activation. Conclusion: It is concluded that the novel peptide ZY1 is an effective inhibitor of ocular pathologic angiogenesis and may provide a promising alternative for ocular antiangiogenic therapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background information Recently, it became apparent that microRNAs (miRNAs) can regulate gene expression post-transcriptionally. Despite the advances in identifying the testis-expressed miRNAs and their role in spermatogenesis, only few data are available showing the spatiotemporal expression of miRNAs during this process. Results To understand how different miRNAs can regulate germ cells differentiation, we generated a transgenic mouse model and purified pure populations of premeiotic (PrM) cells and primary spermatocytes (meiotic cells). We also established spermatogonial stem cell (SSC) culture using relatively simple and robust culture conditions. Comparison of global miRNA expression in these germ cell populations revealed 17 SSC-, 11 PrM- and 13 meiotic-specific miRNAs. We identified nine miRNAs as specific for both SSC and PrM cells and another nine miRNAs as specific for PrM and meiotic cells. Additionally, 45 miRNAs were identified as commonly expressed in all three cell types. Several of PrM- and meiotic-specific miRNAs were identified as exclusively/preferentially expressed in testis. We were able to identify the relevant target genes for many of these miRNAs. The luciferase reporter assays with SSC (miR-221)-, PrM (miR-203)- and meiotic (miR-34b-5p)-specific miRNAs and 3′-untranslated region constructs of their targets, c-Kit, Rbm44 and Cdk6, respectively, showed an approximately 30%-40% decrease in reporter activity. Moreover, we observed a reduced expression of endogenous proteins, c-Kit and Cdk6, when the testis-derived cell lines, GC-1 and GC-4, were transfected with miRNA mimics for miR-221 and miR-34b-5p, respectively. Conclusions Taken together, we established the miRNA signature of SSC, PrM and meiotic cells and show evidence for their functional relevance during the process of spermatogenesis by target prediction and validation. Through our observations, we propose a working model in which the stage-specific miRNAs such as miR-221, -203 and -34b-5p coordinate the regulation of spermatogenesis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Föppl‐von Kármán equations describing deformation of flexible thin plates are established on the basis of moderately large‐deflection and small rotation angle. For many years, the equations have been regarded as a classical and effective model used for the analysis of flexible thin plate problems, and at the same time, this model has also been constantly evolving and improving. The improvements for the model, however, come mainly from properties of materials perspective, but seldom from the deformation of plate perspective. In this study, we revisit Föppl‐von Kármán equations from the viewpoint of deformation concerning rotation angle. A new form for the classical equations without a small‐rotation‐angle assumption is derived, for the first time, by giving up the basic assumption that the sine function of the rotation angle equals to the first‐order derivative of the corresponding displacement, thus improving the governing equations while enhancing the nonlinearity. The abandonment of the small‐rotation‐angle assumption reveals such a fact that the second‐order derivative of displacement in classical equations originates from the curvature and twist of plates. Due to the complexity of the equations derived, its perturbation solution is obtained under cylindrical bending with two opposites fully fixed. Results indicate that via cylindrical bending, a two‐dimensional plate or membrane problem is easily associated with a one‐dimensional beam or cable problem. Results also show that the abandonment of the small‐rotation‐angle assumption will contribute to the free development of the deflection curve rotation of the plate, while at the same time, the deflection value will tend to decrease to agree with the deformation of the plate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: In this study, the evolutionarily conserved intracellular adaptor protein, receptor of activated C kinase 1 (RACK1) was identified as a novel interaction partner of protein inhibitor of activated STAT 2 (PIAS2) using a yeast two-hybrid screening system. The direct interaction and co-localization of RACK1 with PIAS2 was confirmed by immunoprecipitation and immunofluorescence staining analysis, respectively. The 5th to 7th Trp-Asp 40 (5–7 WD40) repeats of RACK1 were identified as the minimal domain required for interaction with PIAS2 by deletion analysis. Furthermore, multiple PIAS2-domains, particularly the ‘PINIT’ and RLD domains, bind the RACK1 5–7 WD40 domain. Structured summary of protein interactions: PIAS2 physically interacts with RACK1 by two hybrid (View interaction) RACK1 and PIAS2 colocalize by fluorescence microscopy (View interaction) PIAS2 physically interacts with RACK1 by two hybrid pooling approach (View interaction) PIAS2 and RACK1 colocalize by fluorescence microscopy (View interaction) PIAS2 physically interacts with RACK1 by anti bait coimmunoprecipitation (View Interaction: 1, 2) [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Bitumen extracted from oil sands is a highly viscous fluid; thus, its transportation via pipelines in its original form resembles a major challenge. Partial upgrading is a recently proposed approach that aims to reduce bitumen's viscosity to meet the pipeline specifications. To optimize the process and make it more cost‐effective, a novel approach is proposed and researched in this study. Ionic surfactants were for the first time employed to promote thermal cracking reactions and dispersion of asphaltenes in bitumen at elevated upgrading temperatures. Three surfactants representing the cationic, nonionic, and anionic charges were studied at the thermal upgrading conditions (360–400◦C) at their optimal addition ratios to mimic the bitumen partial upgrading conditions. The results demonstrated that the cationic surfactant (dodecyltrimethylammonium bromide, DTAB) surpassed the other two surfactants and that with the addition of only 0.25 wt% of it, it can effectively reduce the viscosity of bitumen by up to 60% more than the upgraded bitumen with no additives under the same upgrading temperature. The Saturates, Aromatics, Resins, and Asphaltene analysis revealed that the contents of saturates and aromatics within the upgraded bitumen were also enhanced when DTAB was added. Moreover, the detailed asphaltene nanostructural analysis using X‐ray diffraction, high‐resolution transmission electron microscope, and thermogravimetric analysis revealed that the addition of the cationic surfactant (DTAB) resulted in an increased asphaltene nanostructural disorder, smaller polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons size, and increased fringe curvature, as compared with the upgraded bitumen's asphaltene with no surfactants. Hence, the results have suggested that DTAB, a cheap and readily available ionic surfactant, can serve as a potential upgrading additive for designing partial upgrading procedures to produce upgraded bitumen with much less viscosity at lower upgrading temperatures. This upgrading technique will result in an upgraded bitumen that requires significantly reduced volumes of diluent for transportation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

CH3OH is an energy carrier that can be generated from renewable resources and be used as a fuel in fuel cells and internal combustion engines and a platform chemical for the synthesis of value‐added chemicals or gasoline. Carbon dioxide (CO2) hydrogenation is one of the widely researched methods to generate methanol. The traditional CO2 hydrogenation reaction method (requires high H2 pressure and temperatures) has attracted considerable attention. However, the new emerging field of catalysis referred to as nonthermal plasma (NTP) catalysis has also been developed extensively for methane reforming and CO2 hydrogenation to methane and CO. The plasma‐assisted approach not only presents remarkable advantages, such as room temperature and atmospheric H2 pressure but also has great potential to be powered by renewable electricity in a flexible way since it can be easily switched on/off. In this account, we review the recent articles published on methanol synthesis from CO2 and H2 using NTP. We reviewed and discussed the mechanism of this reaction under NTP, the modification of the reactor configurations, and the rationale behind the catalyst design. In the end, we discussed the advantages and disadvantages of each of these works and the future perspectives of this interesting privileged reaction. We believe this review is of interest to researchers active in sustainable heterogeneous catalysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the current study, the incorporation of Ba(Sn0.70Nb0.24)O3 (BSN) effectively modifies the phase boundary of the 0.8(Bi0.50Na0.50)TiO3‐0.2(Bi0.50K0.50)TiO3 (BNKT) lead‐free ceramic material, inducing enhanced electrostrain properties at room temperature, particularly results in a "bud‐like" strain profile without negative strain. A comprehensive investigation has been conducted into the microstructure, electrical properties, and electrostrain properties of the above‐mentioned ceramics. The addition of BSN was observed to be well incorporated into the BNKT crystal structure, forming a single perovskite structure according to the X‐ray diffraction pattern. With the increase in BSN solid solution content, the temperature at which the transition from ferroelectric to the relaxor phase occurs shifted from 88.1°C to beneath room temperature (30°C). Specifically, the BNKT‐0.0075BSN ceramic demonstrated a positive strain response of 0.459% along with a large signal piezoelectric coefficient (d33*) of 643 pm/V. Additionally, the strain hysteresis of the BNKT‐0.0175BSN ceramics was only about 3% at 120°C. These experimental findings suggest that BNKT‐xBSN ceramics could be strong contenders for actuators and sensors, presenting promising opportunities for lead‐free ceramic actuator applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tribocatalysis is vitally important for electrochemistry, energy conservation, and water treatment. Exploring eco‐friendly and low‐cost tribocatalysts with high performance is crucial for practical applications. Here, the highly efficient tribocatalytic performance of FeOOH nanorods is reported. The factors related to the tribocatalytic activity such as nanorod diameter, surface area, and surface roughness are investigated, and the diameter of the FeOOH nanorods is found to have a significant effect on their tribocatalytic performance. As a result, under ultrasonic excitation, the optimized FeOOH nanorods exhibit superior tribocatalytic degradation toward rhodamine B (RhB), acid orange 7, methylene blue, methyl orange dyes, and their mixture. The RhB and mixed dyes are effectively degraded within 20 min (k = 0.179 min−1) and 35 min (k = 0.089 min−1), respectively, with the FeOOH nanorods showing excellent reusability. Moreover, antibiotics, such as tetracycline hydrochloride, phenol, and bisphenol A are efficiently degraded. Investigation of the catalytic mechanism reveals that the friction‐generated h+ as well as these yielded •OH and •O2− active radicals participate in the catalytic reaction. This work not only shed light on the design of high‐performance tribocatalyst but also demonstrates that by harvesting mechanical energy, the FeOOH nanorods are promising materials for removing organic contaminants in wastewater. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article presents a case study of a 51-year-old Chinese woman who was receiving peginterferon α-2a therapy for hepatitis C for a year and was diagnosed with severe diabetic ketoacidosis and FTID (Fulminant type 1 diabetes) at the time of admission. It notes FTID is caused by peginterferon treatment and the patient is positive for glutamic acid decarboxylase autoantibody (GADA) and the patient was treated by withdrawing peginterferon.

Phytoalexins play a crucial role in plant immunity. However, the mechanism of how phytoalexin is primed by beneficial microorganisms against broad‐spectrum pathogens remains elusive. This study showed that Bacillus cereus AR156 could trigger ISR against broad‐spectrum disease. RNA‐sequencing and camalexin content assays showed that AR156‐triggered ISR can prime the accumulation of camalexin synthesis and secretion‐related genes. Moreover, it was found that AR156‐triggered ISR elevates camalexin accumulation by increasing the expression of camalexin synthesis genes upon pathogen infection. We observed that the priming of camalexin accumulation by AR156 was abolished in cyp71a13 and pad3 mutants. Further investigations reveal that in the wrky33 mutant, the ability of AR156 to prime camalexin accumulation is abolished, and the mediated ISR against the three pathogens is significantly compromised. Furthermore, PEN3 and PDR12, acting as camalexin transporters, participate in AR156‐induced ISR against broad‐spectrum pathogens differently. In addition, salicylic acid and JA/ET signalling pathways participate in AR156‐primed camalexin synthesis to resist pathogens in different forms depending on the pathogen. In summary, B. cereus AR156 triggers ISR against Botrytis cinerea, Pst DC3000 and Phytophthora capsici by priming camalexin synthesis. Our study provides deeper insights into the significant role of camalexin for AR156‐induced ISR against broad‐spectrum pathogens. Summary statement: Beneficial rhizobacterium AR156 triggered ISR by enhancing camalexin accumulation in Arabidopsis, with WRKY33 acting as a positive regulator. PEN3 and PDR12 are involved in AR156‐induced ISR. Salicylic acid and JA/ET signalling pathways participate in AR156‐primed camalexin synthesis to resist various pathogens. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The zeamines produced by Dickeya oryzae are potent polyamine antibiotics and phytotoxins that are essential for bacterial virulence. We recently showed that the RND efflux pump DesABC in D. oryzae confers partial resistance to zeamines. To fully elucidate the bacterial self‐protection mechanisms, in this study we used transposon mutagenesis to identify the genes encoding proteins involved in zeamine resistance in D. oryzae EC1. This led to the identification of a seven‐gene operon, arnEC1, that encodes enzyme homologues associated with lipopolysaccharide modification. Deletion of the arnEC1 genes in strain EC1 compromised its zeamine resistance 8‐ to 16‐fold. Further deletion of the des gene in the arnEC1 mutant background reduced zeamine resistance to a level similar to that of the zeamine‐sensitive Escherichia coli DH5α. Intriguingly, the arnEC1 mutants showed varied bacterial virulence on rice, potato, and Chinese cabbage. Further analyses demonstrated that ArnBCATEC1 are involved in maintenance of the bacterial nonmucoid morphotype by repressing the expression of capsular polysaccharide genes and that ArnBEC1 is a bacterial virulence determinant, influencing transcriptional expression of over 650 genes and playing a key role in modulating bacterial motility and virulence. Taken together, these findings decipher a novel zeamine resistance mechanism in D. oryzae and document new roles of the Arn enzymes in modulation of bacterial physiology and virulence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

PTB7‐Th as a donor–acceptor type photoelectric material has been widely applied as a photoelectrochemical biosensor. Despite efforts to improve the photoelectric conversion efficiency (PCE) of PTB7‐Th, the photogenerated signal of PTB7‐Th was limited owing to the complex and time‐consuming preparation procedure of sensitizers. In this work, the proposed strategy provided a simple and efficient method to improve the PCE of PTB7‐Th by numerously and simultaneously immobilizing two types of sensitizers on the surface of photoactive material assisted with DNA nanoflowers (NFs), which is expected to significantly increase the PCE of the PTB7‐Th and enhance the photogenerated signal. More information can be found in the Full Paper by R. Yuan, Y.‐Q. Chai, et al. on page 4087. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Vibrio parahaemolyticus is one of the most hazardous pathogens causing seafood‐borne diseases in the southern Fujian coast, China. From June to October 2016, a total of 250 samples were collected from retail markets in the Xiamen, Quanzhou, and Zhangzhou regions. Seventy‐seven V. parahaemolyticus isolates were identified using polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Then, molecular typing was performed using repetitive extragenic palindromic‐PCR (REP‐PCR). The distribution of seven virulence genes was detected by PCR. In aquatic products, the prevalence of V. parahaemolyticus was 30.8%, and the prevalence of tdh+ and trh+ was 2.6 and 1.3%, respectively. The prevalence of type III secretion system‐2 (T3SS2) and the ureC gene was 5.2 and 3.9%, respectively. All 77 strains and the reference strain V. parahaemolyticus ATCC 17802 were classified into seven molecular types using REP‐PCR. Thus, our findings demonstrated that the prevalence of V. parahaemolyticus was severe in the southern Fujian coast and that the regulations for aquatic food safety should be strengthened. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background & Aims: Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) consists of a broad spectrum of conditions, and nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) is the advanced form of NAFLD. TAF15 is a DNA and RNA binding protein and is involved in crucial inflammatory signalling pathways. We aimed to investigate the role of TAF15 in the progression of NASH and the underlying molecular mechanism. Methods: We generated mice with hepatocyte‐specific knockdown and overexpression of TAF15 using a specific adeno‐associated virus (AAV). NASH models were established by feeding mice high‐fat and high‐cholesterol diets and methionine‐ and choline‐deficient diets. Cleavage under targets and tagmentation and dual‐luciferase reporter assays were performed to investigate the effect of TAF15 on FASN transcription. Coimmunoprecipitation and immunofluorescence assays were conducted to explore the interaction of TAF15 and p65. In vitro coculture systems were established to study the interactions of hepatocytes, macrophages and HSCs. Results: TAF15 was significantly increased in the livers of mouse NASH models and primary hepatocyte NASH model. Knockdown of TAF15 inhibited steatosis, inflammation and fibrosis, while overexpression of TAF15 promoted NASH phenotypes. Mechanistically, TAF15 bound directly to the promoter region of FASN to facilitate its expression, thereby promoting steatosis. Moreover, TAF15 interacted with p65 and activated the NF‐κB signalling pathway, increasing the secretion of proinflammatory cytokines and triggering M1 macrophage polarization. Treatment with the FASN inhibitor orlistat partially reversed the phenotypes. Conclusions: These results suggested that TAF15 exacerbated NASH progression by regulating lipid metabolism and inflammation via transcriptional activation of FASN and interacting with p65 to activate the NF‐κB signalling pathway. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims/Introduction: Metformin, a widely prescribed antidiabetic agent, has been shown to exhibit anti‐inflammatory effects in obese and type 2 diabetes patients, but the mechanism is not well elucidated. Microribonucleic acids (miRNAs) are a group of small non‐coding ribonucleic acids that participate in many biological and pathological processes. The aim of the present study was to investigate whether Dicer, a key miRNA biogenesis enzyme, and miRNAs in macrophages are implicated in the anti‐inflammatory effects of metformin. Materials and Methods: Enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay and reverse transcription quantitative polymerase chain reaction were carried out to verify the anti‐inflammatory effects of metformin. miRNA microarray was applied to detect the expression profile of miRNA. Western‐blotting, enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay and reverse transcription quantitative polymerase chain reaction were used to examine the role Dicer and miRNAs play in the anti‐inflammatory effects of metformin. Results: In parallel with the suppression of interleukin‐6 and tumor necrosis factor‐α production in resting and lipopolysaccharide‐stimulated macrophages, metformin could induce an increase in Dicer and most miRNAs. When Dicer was knocked down, the anti‐inflammatory effects of metformin were significantly attenuated. Additionally, the upregulation of miRNA (miR)‐34a‐5p and miR‐125b‐5p by metformin were also blunted in Dicer knockdown macrophages. Furthermore, inhibition of miR‐34a‐5p and miR‐125b‐5p could impair the suppressive action of metformin on pro‐inflammatory factors production, whereas overexpression of the two miRNAs mimicked the anti‐inflammatory effects of metformin. Conclusions: Metformin might show anti‐inflammatory effects in macrophages through the induction of Dicer and the subsequent upregulation of miR‐34a‐5p and miR‐125b‐5p. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The clinical significance of dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) and its sulphate (DHEAS) in coronary heart disease (CHD) has not been thoroughly elucidated to date. We performed a meta‐analysis to clarify the correlations between endogenous DHEA(S) and CHD. We performed a literature search without language restriction up to August 10, 2017, and retrieved records from EMBase, PubMed, Web of Science, CNKI and WanFang databases to identify eligible cohort studies focused on the relation between DHEA(S) and CHD. A total of 26 studies were included in the systematic review and 14 case‐control studies were included in the meta‐analysis,which was performed using RevMan 5.1 and STATA 12. Subgroup analyses were used to discover possible sources of heterogeneity. Quality assessment was carried out using the Newcastle–Ottawa Scale. Odds ratios with 95% confidence intervals were calculated. Heterogeneity analyses were performed using meta‐regression and tests for publication bias were performed. The overall average DHEAS diffusivity of CHD cases was significantly lower than that of controls with a summarized standard (std) mean difference of −0.23(95% CI, −0.45 to −0.01, P = .04). There was no association between DHEA concentration and CHD with a summarized mean difference of −0.07 (95% CI, −0.32 to 0.18, P = .59). No association was found between DHEAS concentration and arteriosclerosis patients with a summarized standard (std) mean difference of −0.46(95% CI, −0.96 to 0.04, P = .07). All of the results had a high degree of heterogeneity. The present study suggested that decreased DHEAS may be associated with coronary heart disease risk but not with arteriosclerosis. We did not find a significant association between DHEA and CHD risk. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The title compound, [Zn(C7H5O2)2], is a mononuclear zinc(II) complex. The ZnII atom, lying on an inversion center, is coordinated by four O atoms from two salicyl­aldehyde ligands, forming a square planar geometry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]