Search

Quercetin is grafted to carboxymethyl sweetpotato starch (CMSS) by esterification. Upon esterification, the water solubility of CMSS decreases and the CMSS-quercetin conjugates (CMSS-Q) are yellowish. FT-IR and 1H NMR indicated the covalent attachment of quercetin to CMSS. Thermogravimetry revealed the superior thermal stability of CMSS-Q over CMSS and native sweetpotato starch (NSS). The in vitro digestibility assays showed that CMSS is highly resistant to digestion while the quercetin graft with degree of substitution (DS) above 0.074 slightly increased its digestibility. The quercetin graft imparted CMSS with strong antioxidant activity and enhanced its thermal stability, which increased with quercetin DS. In vitro cyotoxicity assessment revealed that CMSS-Q is as safe as CMSS and NSS. This study showed that CMSS-Q is a novel antioxidant-resistant starch in RS 4 form. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Lotus (Nelumbo Adans.) is used as an herbal medicine and the flowers are a source of natural flavonoids. 'Da Sajin', which was firstly found in the plateau area, is a natural mutant in flower color with red streamers dyeing around white petals. Results: The LC–MS-MS results showed that eight anthocyanin compounds, including cyanidin 3-O-glucoside, cyanidin 3-O-galactoside, malvidin 3-O-galactoside, and malvidin 3-O-glucoside, were differentially enriched in red-pigmented tissues of the petals, whereas most of these metabolites were undetected in white tissues of the petals. Transcriptome profiling indicated that the relative high expression levels of structural genes, such as NnPAL, NnF3H, and NnANS, was inconsistent with the low anthocyanin concentration in white tissues. Members of the NnMYB and NnbHLH transcription factor families were presumed to play a role in the metabolic flux in the anthocyanin and proanthocyanidin biosynthetic pathway. The expression model of translational initiation factor, ribosomal proteins and SKP1–CUL1–F-box protein complex related genes suggested an important role for translational and post-translational network in anthocyanin biosynthesis. In addition, pathway analysis indicated that light reaction or photo destruction might be an important external cause for floral color determination in lotus. Conclusions: In this study, it is supposed that the natural lotus mutant 'Da Sajin' may have originated from a red-flowered ancestor. Partial loss of anthocyanin pigments in petals may result from metabolic disorder caused by light destruction. This disorder is mainly regulated at post translation and translation level, resulting in a non-inherited phenotype. These results contribute to an improved understanding of anthocyanin metabolism in lotus, and indicate that the translational and post-translational regulatory network determines the metabolic flux of anthocyanins and proanthocyanidins under specific environmental conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: A high-risk prevention strategy is an effective way to fight against human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). The China AIDS Fund for Non-Governmental Organizations (CAFNGO) was established in 2015 to help social organizations intervene to protect high-risk populations in 176 cities. This study aimed to evaluate the role of social organizations in high-risk population interventions against HIV/AIDS. Methods: This study was based on the CAFNGO program from 2016 to 2020. The collected data included the number and types of social organizations participating in high-risk group interventions and the amount of funds obtained by these organizations each year. We explored the factors influencing the number of newly diagnosed AIDS cases using a spatial econometric model. Furthermore, we evaluated the effectiveness of intervention activities by comparing the percentages of the individuals who initially tested positive, and the individuals who took the confirmatory test, as well as those who retested positive and underwent the treatment. Results: Overall, from 2016 to 2020, the number of social organizations involved in interventions to protect HIV/AIDS high-risk populations increased from 441 to 532, and the invested fund increased from $3.98 to $10.58 million. The number of newly diagnosed cases decreased from 9128 to 8546 during the same period. Although the number of cities with overall spatial correlations decreased, the spatial agglomeration effect persisted in the large cities. City-wise, the number of social organizations (direct effect 19.13), the permanent resident population (direct effect 0.12), GDP per capita (direct effect 17.58; indirect effect − 15.38), and passenger turnover volume (direct effect 5.50; indirect effect − 8.64) were the major factors influencing new positive cases confirmed through the testing interventions performed by the social organizations. The initial positive test rates among high-risk populations were below 5.5%, the retesting rates among those who initially tested positive were above 60%, and the treatment rates among diagnosed cases were above 70%. Conclusions: The spatial effect of social organizations participating in interventions targeting high-risk populations funded by CAFNGO is statistically significant. Nevertheless, despite the achievements of these social organizations in tracking new cases and encouraging treatment, a series of measures should be taken to further optimize the use of CAFNGO. Working data should be updated from social organizations to CAFNGO more frequently by establishing a data monitoring system to help better track newly diagnosed AIDS cases. Multichannel financing should be expanded as well. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Antibody-mediated rejection (AMR) has a strongly negative impact on long-term renal allograft survival. Currently, no recognized effective treatments are available, especially for chronic antibody-mediated rejection (CAMR). Donor-specific antibodies (DSAs) secreted by long-lived plasma cells and memory B cells are acknowledged as biomarkers of AMR. Nevertheless, it may be too late for the DSA routine examination production since DSAs may have binded to graft vascular endothelial cells through complement-dependent or complement-independent pathways. Therefore, methods to effectively monitor memory B cells and long-lived plasma cells and subsequently prevent DSA production are key to reducing the adverse effects of AMR. Therefore, this review mainly summarizes the production pathways of memory B cells and long-lived plasma cells and provides suggestions for the prevention of AMR after transplantation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Identifying brain abnormalities in autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is critical for early diagnosis and intervention. To explore brain differences in ASD and typical development (TD) individuals by detecting structural features using T1-weighted magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), we developed a deep learning-based approach, three-dimensional (3D)-ResNet with inception (I-ResNet), to identify participants with ASD and TD and propose a gradient-based backtracking method to pinpoint image areas that I-ResNet uses more heavily for classification. The proposed method was implemented in a preschool dataset with 110 participants and a public autism brain imaging data exchange (ABIDE) dataset with 1099 participants. An extra epilepsy dataset with 200 participants with clear degeneration in the parahippocampal area was applied as a verification and an extension. Among the datasets, we detected nine brain areas that differed significantly between ASD and TD. From the ROC in PASD and ABIDE, the sensitivity was 0.88 and 0.86, specificity was 0.75 and 0.62, and area under the curve was 0.787 and 0.856. In a word, I-ResNet with gradient-based backtracking could identify brain differences between ASD and TD. This study provides an alternative computer-aided technique for helping physicians to diagnose and screen children with an potential risk of ASD with deep learning model. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dynamic restoration mechanism of 2050 Al–Li alloy and its constitutive model were investigated by means of hot compression simulation in the deformation temperature ranging from 340 to 500 °C and at strain rates of 0.001–10 s −1 . The microstructures of the compressed samples were observed using optical microscopy and transmission electron microscopy. On the base of dislocation density theory and Avrami kinetics, a physically based constitutive model was established. The results show that dynamic recovery (DRV) and dynamic recrystallization (DRX) are co-responsible for the dynamic restoration during the hot compression process under all compression conditions. The dynamic precipitation (DPN) of T1 and σ phases was observed after the deformation at 340 °C. This is the first experimental evidence for the DPN of σ phase in Al–Cu–Li alloys. The particle stimulated nucleation of DRX (PSN-DRX) due to the large Al–Cu–Mn particle was also observed. The error analysis suggests that the established constitutive model can adequately describe the flow stress dependence on strain rate, temperature and strain during the hot deformation process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The transcripts of the gene Colorectal Neoplasia Differentially Expressed (CRNDE) are recognized as long-noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs), which are expressed in specific regions within the human brain, and are the most upregulated lncRNA in gliomas. However, the underlying regulation and function of CRNDE in gliomas are largely unknown. In this study, the upregulation of CRNDE was confirmed in both primary specimens from glioma patients and in vitro with cell lines. Overexpression of specific CRNDE transcript promotes cell growth and migration in vitro while knockdown of CRNDE expression manifests a repressive function during these cellular processes. The growth promoting effect of CRNDE was also demonstrated in a xenograft mouse model. Mechanistic studies further revealed that histone acetylation in the promoter region might account for the upregulation of CRNDE, and the level of CRNDE expression could be modulated by mammalian Target of Rapamycin (mTOR) signaling in glioma. Thus, our results shed a light on utilizing CRNDE as a potential novel therapeutic target for the treatment of glioma. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The contribution of Ca 2+ in TGF-β-induced EMT is poorly understood. We aimed to confirm the effect of TGF-β on the gene expression of intracellular calcium-handling proteins and to investigate the potential underlying mechanisms in TGF-β-induced EMT. T47D and MCF-7 cells were cultured in vitro and treated with TGF-β. The mRNA expression of EMT marker genes and intracellular calcium-handling proteins were quantified by qRT-PCR. qRT-PCR and Western blot analysis results verified the changes of EMT marker gene expression. Furthermore, we found that TGF-β induced cell morphological changes significantly with an increase of cell surface area and cell length. These results indicated that TGF-β induced EMT. The mRNA expression levels of SPCA1, SPCA2 and MCU were not influenced by TGF-β treatment, while NCX1 expression was decreased in T47D cells. In addition, the mRNA levels of SERCAs and IP 3 Rs were significantly changed due to TGF-β-induced EMT. The TGF-β-treated T47D cells exhibited markedly greater response to ATP than the control cells, and the descent velocity of cytosolic calcium concentration was faster in TGF-β-treated cells than in control cells. This is the first report to demonstrate that TGF-β-induced EMT in human breast cancer cells is associated with alterations in endoplasmic reticulum calcium homeostasis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ultra-high-speed laser cladding (UHSLC) not only offers an efficient solution to the limitations of conventional laser cladding but also aligns with the contemporary objectives of material conservation and efficiency enhancement in metal protective coatings. This study investigates the fabrication of CrFeCoNiMo 0.2 high-entropy alloy (HEA) coatings using UHSLC and traditional laser cladding (TLC) methods. Key aspects such as macroscopic forming quality, element distribution, dilution rate, grain morphology, hardness, and electrochemical corrosion properties of both UHSLC and TLC coatings are thoroughly examined. Notably, UHSLC-produced coatings, with their significantly reduced thickness ranging from 100 to 300 μm, demonstrate an impressively low substrate dilution rate compared to the 2–3 mm thickness of TLC coatings. The rapid solidification inherent in UHSLC leads to smaller grain sizes in the coating, resulting in enhanced hardness. Moreover, the UHSLC coating exhibits superior corrosion resistance, characterized by a lower maintaining-passivity current density in 1 mol/L H 2 SO 4 and a higher self-corrosion potential relative to TLC coatings. This work presents a novel approach, employing high-efficiency and low-cost laser-cladding technology, to minimize dilution in the matrix and improve the coating properties of HEAs. • There are no macroscopic and microscopic defects in HEAs prepared by UHSLC. • Uniform distribution of elements in ultra-thin coating of CrFeCoNiMo 0.2 HEA. • The CrFeCoNiMo 0.2 HEA nanocrystalline coating was synthesized by UHSLC. • Nanocrystalline CrFeCoNiMo 0.2 HEA coating exhibit excellent corrosion resistance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work, a new creep aging route (pre-deformation+slow-heated creep aging, PSHCA) of AA2050 alloys was developed by the slow heating (20 °C/h) from 120 °C to 180 °C. The PSHCA alloy exhibits high creep strain with a simultaneous increase of strength and plasticity. The yield strength, ultimate tensile strength, and elongation reached 544 MPa, 581 MPa, and 11.1%, respectively. Both the rolling pre-deformation before aging and stress field during aging promoted the increased dislocation density and dense precipitation of T 1 phases in the aged alloys, hence, the strength was improved at the expense of plasticity. Meanwhile, the bimodal diameter distribution of T 1 phase of the PSHCA alloy and the enrichment of Ag atoms at T 1 /matrix interface was promoted by slow heating, slowing down the thickening of T 1 phases. This further promoted the plasticity of PSHCA alloys while maintaining high strength. Additionally, the slow precipitation of T 1 phase at the early stage of aging promoted dislocation slip and thus improving the creep strain of PSHCA alloys. These findings pave a way in designing large-curved and high-performance Al-Li components by creep aging technology. • Slow-heated creep aging enhanced strength and plasticity of AA2050 alloys. • Slow heating thinned T 1 phases, which benefited to strength and plasticity. • Thin T 1 phases were closely related to interfacial enrichment of Ag atoms. • Bimodal distribution of T 1 phase diameters avoided stress concentration. • Slow heating weakened dislocation slip barriers and increased creep strain. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In order to study the relationships between shatter resistance index and physical characteristics of tobacco leaves, correlation analysis, factor analysis, and gray correlation analysis were carried out on the tobacco leaves shatter resistance index and physical characteristics index, and the tobacco leaves of different regions were grouped according to the analysis results. The result showed as follows: shatter resistance index of tobacco leaves was significantly positively correlated with tensile strength, elongation, recovery, and thickness, and significantly negatively correlated with brittleness, shear force, cohesion, elasticity, adhesion, and penetration. Fac-1 (determined by tensile strength, cohesion, elasticity, recovery, adhesion, penetration), Fac-2 (determined by shear force, thickness), Fac-3(determined by elongation, brittleness and hardness) and Fac-4 (determined by adhesion) common factors were extracted from 12 physical characteristics, and the cumulative contribution rate was 88. 201%, the contribution rate of Fac-1 is significantly higher than the other three common factors, indicating that Fac-1 had the most significant impact. According to the contribution rate of the common factors and the factor score coefficient matrix, the comprehensive factor score model of the physical characteristics of tobacco leaf was established as F = 0.46FFac-1 +0.23FFac-2 +0.20FFac-3 +0.11FFac-4. Fac-3 had the greatest impact on the shatter resistance index of tobacco leaves, and Fac-4 had the least impact. According to cluster analysis, the tobacco leaves were divided into 4 categories, so that the comprehensive physical characteristics of the same category of tobacco leaves were closer, and the process parameters could be adjusted and processed into groups to reduce the breaking of tobacco leaves during processing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fine structured targets are promising in enhancing laser-driven proton acceleration for various applications. Here, we apply 3D-printed microwire-array (MWA) structure to boost the energy conversion efficiency from laser to proton beam. Under irradiation of high contrast femtosecond laser pulse, the MWA target generates over 1.2 × 1012 protons (>1 MeV) with cut-off energies extending to 25 MeV, corresponding to top-end of 8.7% energy conversion efficiency. When comparing to flat foils the efficiency is enhanced by three times, while the cut-off energy is increased by 32%. We find the dependence of proton energy/conversion-efficiency on the spacing of the MWA. The experimental trend is well reproduced by hydrodynamic and Particle-In-Cell simulations, which reveal the modulation of pre-plasma profile induced by laser diffraction within the fine structures. Our work validates the use of 3D-printed micro-structures to produce high efficiency laser-driven particle sources and pointed out the effect in optimizing the experimental conditions. The performance of laser-driven ion accelerators is intimately linked to the structure of the target. Here, laser-proton acceleration from a 3D-printed microwire-array target boosts the conversion efficiency and cut-off energy compared to a flat foil. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The hanger is one of the important components for through and half-through arch bridges. Conventional steel hangers are vulnerable to corrosion due to corrosive environments. Therefore, a new type of bridge hangers consisting of Carbon Fiber-Reinforced Polymer (CFRP) straps was developed recently. The CFRP straps are self-anchored, which is formed by layers-winding, and they have great advantages in corrosive environments such as high resistance to corrosion. In this study, the fatigue and fracture behavior of CFRP straps has been experimentally investigated. Firstly, the tensile testing of four CFRP strap specimens was conducted to investigate the static fracture behavior of CFRP straps, and three stages were observed, including delamination, cracking, and brittle rupture. Then, a fatigue test of thirty-nine specimens (four groups) was carried out to study the fatigue behavior of CFRP straps, where two types of pins, titanium alloy pin and CFRP pin, and two loading frequencies, 10 Hz and 15 Hz, were used. The number of cycles to failure, displacement, fatigue failure strain, outside surface temperature at the vertex of specimen, and scanning electron microscope (SEM) photographs were recorded and analyzed to investigate the fatigue behavior of CFRP straps. The experiment results show that the temperature development at the vertex of the CFRP strap varies obviously if different pins are used due to the different friction coefficients. In addition, the fatigue life of CFRP straps decreases significantly with the increase in loading rate for the titanium pin, while it only reduces slightly with the increase in loading rate for the CFRP pin. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Phosphor materials can be applied to enhance the energy conversion efficiency of a solar cell. Such materials convert low-energy transmitted photons to higher-energy photons that can be absorbed by the cell, substantially decreasing the spectral mismatch between the cell and the solar spectrum. In this paper, the efficiency of organic solar cells (OSCs) was improved by incorporating phosphor nanoparticles as dual functionality into TiO 2 cathode buffer layer. The dependence of devices performance on doping concentration of NaYF 4 :Yb 3+ ,Er 3+ nanoparticles was investigated. A high power conversion efficiency of 6.83% was achieved, which mainly attributes to the increase of short-circuit density. The absorption spectrum indicates that light-harvesting of doped films is higher than undoped film, which originates from scattering effect and NIR spectrum sensitization of phosphor nanoparticles. The measurement of electron-only devices shows that electron transport property of doped devices was apparently improved. Impedance spectroscopy reveals that the diffusion coefficient and carrier mobility were greatly enhanced. This study demonstrates that phosphor nanoparticles doping is useful for fabricating high performance OSCs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to investigate drug release mechanisms from physical mixtures of chitosan–anionic polymers-based matrix tablets and to obtain a comprehensive understanding about release characteristics. Six types of anionic polymers (i.e., Eudragit ® L100, sodium alginate, carrageenan, carboxymethylcellulose sodium, carbomer and xanthan gum) and two model drugs (i.e., theophylline and metoprolol succinate) with varied solubility were chosen. Texture analyzer, differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) were applied to better understand drug release mechanisms. In vitro release experiments were conducted in a pH-changing medium to simulate the physiological condition of the gastrointestinal tract. Interestingly, a common phenomenon was observed in all the CS–anionic polymers-based matrix tablets investigated here, that is, the inner layer of the swollen tablets was coated by CS–anionic polymer polyelectrolyte complexes (PEC)-based film formed by self-assembly. Formation of the in situ self-assembled film was further confirmed by texture analysis, DSC, and FTIR. It was further identified that properties of the film were influenced by the characteristics of anionic polymers and the physiological conditions of the gastrointestinal tract. Moreover, this novel structure could alter swelling and erosion-based release mechanisms of the tablets. In addition, drug release characteristics from CS–anionic polymer systems depended on the properties of anionic polymers and the drug solubility. In conclusion, our studies may broaden current views on cationic polymer–anionic polymer-based oral matrix tablets for extended release. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: A serum metabolomics method based on rapid resolution liquid chromatography coupled with quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry (RRLC-Q-TOF-MS) was performed for a holistic evaluation of the metabolic changes of collagen-induced arthritis (CIA) in rats and to assess the interventional effects of type II collagen (CII) in this model. Partial least-squares-discriminant analysis (PLS-DA) was employed to study the metabolic profiling of CIA rats and control rats. Ten metabolites, namely, 12(S)-HHTrE, 12(S)-HEPE, PGE2, TXB2, 12(S)-HETE, LysoPE(16:0), PE(O-18:0/0:0), Lyso-PE(18:2), Lyso-PE(20:4), and Lyso-PC(22:5) were identified as differential metabolites associated with the pathogenesis of CIA. These results suggested that dysregulation of the arachidonic acid (AA) and phospholipid metabolic networks is involved in the pathomechanism of CIA. Differential metabolomics and histopathological analyses demonstrated that CII inhibits the progress of arthritis. Furthermore, the therapeutic effects of CII on CIA may involve regulation of the disordered AA and phospholipid metabolic networks. This metabolomics study provides new insights into the pathogenesis of arthritis and, furthermore, indicates the potential mechanism underlying the significantly increased prevalence of metabolic syndrome, defined as a clustering of cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk factors, in arthritis patients. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Here we introduce a controllable route for the efficient synthesis of Zn 0.6 Ni 0.3 Cu 0.1 Fe 2 O 4 ferrite glass-ceramic with enhanced electromagnetic wave (EMW) absorbing performance. By adding a certain amount of Zn, Ni, Cu and Fe oxides into the SiO 2 –Al 2 O 3 –B 2 O 3 –CaO-R 2 O glass system, the microstructure of three-dimensional dendritic ferrites combined with amorphous SiO 2 -rich phase is constructed through a high-temperature melt and quenching route. The good EMW absorption performance is attributed to the unique combination of amorphous glass and spinel ferrite, which improves the impedance matching of the material and absorbs EMW by the dielectric loss and magnetic loss. Moreover, the dendritic ferrite crystal phase is compounded with the SiO 2 -rich amorphous phase to form grain boundaries and crystal-amorphous interfaces, which enhances the interfacial polarization and builds multiple transmission-absorption mechanisms. The results show that the reflection loss peak value of the glass-ceramics containing 60 wt% Zn 0.6 Ni 0.3 Cu 0.1 Fe 2 O 4 spinel is −42.16 dB with the sample thickness of 2 mm, and the effective absorption band range (reflection loss ≤ -10 dB) is 3.76 GHz (13.6–17.36 GHz) at 1.5 mm. This approach presents a scalable and low-cost solution that may be applied to the design of high-efficiency EMW consumption components in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights: [•] Identify possible therapeutic mechanisms of curcumin. [•] Curcumin improved spatial learning in AD model rats. [•] Enhancing the CRMP-2/p-CRMP expression ratio, promoting axonal regeneration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The establishment of a simple, low-cost, high-sensitive and rapid immunoassay for detecting SARS-CoV-2 antigen in human blood is an effective mean of discovering early SARS-CoV-2 infection and controlling the pandemic of COVID-19. Herein, a smartphone based nanozyme linked immunochromatographic sensor (NLICS) for the detection of SARS-CoV-2 nucleocapsid protein (NP) has been developed on demand. The system is integrated by disposable immunochromatography assay (ICA) and optical sensor devices. Immunoreaction and enzyme-catalyzed substrate color reaction were carried out on the chromatographic strip in a device, of which the light signal was read by a photometer through a biosensor channel, and the data was synchronously transmitted via the Bluetooth to the app in-stored smartphone for reporting the result. With a limit of detection (LOD) of 0.026 ng/mL NP, NLICS had the linear detection range (LDR) between 0.05 and 1.6 ng/mL NP, which was more sensitive than conventional ICA. NLICS took 25 min for reporting results. For detection of NP antigen in clinical serum samples from 21 COVID-19 patients and 80 healthy blood donor controls, NLICS and commercial enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) had 76.2% or 47.6% positivity, and 100% specificity, respectively (P = 0.057), while a good correlation coefficient (r = 0.99) for quantification of NP between two assays was obtained. In conclusion, the NLICS was a rapid, simple, cheap, sensitive and specific immunochromatographic sensing assay for early diagnosis of SARS-CoV-2 infection. [Display omitted] • SARS-CoV-2 needs rapid, reliable, quantitative and easy diagnostic assays for antigen. • A nanoenzyme linked immunochromatographic sensor (NLICS) was established with a LOD of 0.026 ng/mL SARS-CoV-2 NP. • NLICS had 100% specificity, 76.2% sensitivity and 95.1% accuracy for detecting SARS-CoV-2 NP in clinical samples. • Smartphone App and portable device were applied to quantitative detection. • NLICS was a sensitive, rapid, portable, low-cost and safe immunoassay for early diagnosis of SARS-CoV-2 infection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The tumor microenvironment (TME) is a heterogeneous ecosystem containing cancer cells, immune cells, stromal cells, cytokines, and chemokines which together govern tumor progression and response to immunotherapies. Methyltransferase-like 3 (METTL3), a core catalytic subunit for RNA N 6-methyladenosine (m6A) modification, plays a crucial role in regulating various physiological and pathological processes. Whether and how METTL3 regulates the TME and anti-tumor immunity in non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) remain poorly understood. Here, we report that METTL3 elevates expression of pro-tumorigenic chemokines including CXCL1, CXCL5, and CCL20, and destabilizes PD-L1 mRNA in an m6A-dependent manner, thereby shaping a non-inflamed TME. Thus, inhibiting METTL3 reprograms a more inflamed TME that renders anti-PD-1 therapy more effective in several murine lung tumor models. Clinically, NSCLC patients who exhibit low-METTL3 expression have a better prognosis when receiving anti-PD-1 therapy. Collectively, our study highlights targeting METTL3 as a promising strategy to improve immunotherapy in NSCLC patients. [Display omitted] • METTL3 promotes the expression of CXCL1, CXCL5, and CCL20 via c-Myc in NSCLC • METTL3 mediates PD-L1 mRNA m6A modification, resulting in destabilizing PD-L1 in NSCLC • METTL3 inhibition improves anti-PD-1 therapy in syngeneic murine LLC tumor model • METTL3 deficiency enhances PD-1 blockade in KP and orthotopic mouse lung tumor models Yu et al. report inhibiting METTL3 reprograms an inflamed tumor microenvironment that renders anti-PD-1 therapy more effective in several preclinical mouse NSCLC tumor models, highlighting the combination of METTL3 inhibitor with PD-1/PD-L1 immune-checkpoint blockade as a promising therapeutic strategy for NSCLC patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Specific primers were designed for the poisonous plant Gelsemium elegans. • A qPCR method was established to distinguish GE and the easily confused species. • The strategy was successfully applied to the detection of processed food and honey. • It was helpful for honey quality supervision and food poisoning prevention. Gelsemium elegans (GE) is a widely distributed hypertoxic plant that has caused many food poisoning incidents. Its pollen can also be collected by bees to produce toxic honey, posing a great threat to the health and safety of consumers. However, for the complex matrices such as cooked food and honey, it is challenging to perform composition analysis. It is necessary to establish more effective strategies for investigating GE contamination. In this study, the real-time PCR (qPCR) analysis combined with DNA barcode matK was proposed for the identification and detection of GE. Fifteen honey samples along with twenty-eight individuals of GE and the common confusable objects Lonicera japonica , Ficus hirta , Stellera chamaejasme and Chelidonium majus were gathered. Additionally, the food mixtures treated with 20-min boiling and 30-min digestion were prepared. Specific primers were designed, and the detection capability and sensitivity of qPCR in honey and boiled and digested food matrices were tested. The results demonstrated that the matK sequence with sufficient mutation sites was an effective molecular marker for species differentiation. GE and the confusable species could be clearly classified by the fluorescence signal of qPCR assay with a high sensitivity of 0.001 ng/μl. In addition, this method was successfully employed for the detection of deeply processed food materials and honey containing GE plants which even accounted for only 0.1 %. The sequencing-free qPCR approach undoubtedly can serve as a robust support for the quality supervision of honey industry and the prevention and diagnosis of food poisoning. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of the present work was to investigate the effect of heat treatment on the mechanical properties of CrMnFeCoNi high-entropy alloys with SiC addition (SiC-HEA) which were prepared using laser metal deposition (LMD). With the 2-h heat treatment at 900 °C, the yield strength, tensile strength and elongation of 5 at.% SiC added HEA samples were enhanced from 343 MPa, 631 MPa and 33.2% to 431 MPa, 717 MPa and 36.4%, respectively. For the 10 at.% SiC added HEA samples, comprehensive improvement in tensile strength and ductility was achieved to 706 MPa and 30.3% after 2-h heat treatment at 700 °C. The improvement in mechanical properties can be attributed to carbide particle morphology in the HEA with SiC addition transformed from coarseness to fine and uniform via heat treatment leading to the excellent combined effects of precipitation strengthening and stress dispersion. The present work introduces an innovative approach to utilizes heat treatment that adjust the morphology of strengthening phases in high-entropy alloys prepared by additive manufacturing, ultimately achieving outstanding mechanical properties. • SiC added CrMnFeCoNi high-entropy alloys were prepared via laser metal deposition. • Heat treatment can adjust the morphology and distribution of strengthening phases. • Appropriate heat treatment is conducive to improve strength and ductility. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Shield tunneling under complex geological conditions may lead to uneven surface settlement, thereby posing risks of damaging adjacent structures. This paper introduces the Geological Model for Numerical Simulation (GFNS) software, which employs OpenGL to implement a 3D geological model. The software incorporates an advanced geological stratum meshing algorithm based on conditional statements, facilitating the swift construction of numerical models for shield tunneling in intricate geological formations. In this study, a numerical model for shield tunneling in complex geological conditions was developed using GFNS. The research investigated potential risk levels to adjacent structures due to shield tunneling through alternating soft and hard geological strata along the tunnel's longitudinal axis. Moreover, the influence of shield excavation position and construction parameters on surface settlement was analyzed. Finally, a comparison was conducted with the traditional parallel geological modeling approach. The results revealed that simulating shield tunneling while considering complex geological conditions demonstrates a stronger correlation with the laws of stratum settlement. Thus, GFNS offers an auxiliary modeling method for simulating shield tunneling under complex geological conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The strength characteristics of unsaturated soil after freezing significantly influence the safety of engineering construction in frozen soil regions. In this study, the soil freezing characteristic curve (SFCC) and soil water characteristic curve (SWCC) of unsaturated lean clay were tested. Based on the similarity between SFCC and SWCC, the unfrozen water content of SFCC was used to replace the water content of the SWCC to obtain the expression for soil suction under different negative temperatures. A shear strength model of unsaturated frozen soil was established. According to unsaturated triaxial tests under different conditions, the effectiveness of the established unsaturated soil shear strength model was verified. The test results show that in the rapid freezing stage of the SFCC, the volumetric unfrozen water content with an initial matrix suction of 57 kPa exhibited the largest rate of change. The stress-strain curve of soil at positive temperature is strain hardening type, and that at negative temperature presents different types under the influence of temperature, initial matrix suction and confining pressure. The effective cohesion and internal friction angle of soil varied significantly under the influence of temperature and initial matrix suction. When the initial matrix suction was constant, the unsaturated shear strength of the soil increased nonlinearly with a decrease in temperature. When the temperature was ≥−5 °C, the shear strength increased with an increase in initial matrix suction, but decreased when the temperature was ≤−5 °C. The model fitting results were consistent with the measured results of the unsaturated triaxial test, which verifies the validity of the model. This research can provide a reference for studying the mechanical characteristics of unsaturated frozen soil under negative temperature. • The freezing characteristic curve (SFCC) and water characteristic curve (SWCC) are determined. • A shear strength model of unsaturated frozen soil is established based on SFCC and SWCC. • The shear strength of unsaturated frozen soil under various temperature are measured. • The validity of the established model is verified by the experimental data. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The microstructures, fatigue crack growth (FCG) rates and low-cycle fatigue (LCF) behaviors of 1445 Al-Li alloy sheet with T6 aging at 170 °C, single-step T8 (S-T8) aging at 150 °C and double-step T8 (D-T8) aging at 170 °C following aging at 150 °C for 4 h were investigated. The main precipitates in T6 and S-T8 samples are δ′ phases, but strain strengthening causes 40 MPa enhancement in the S-T8 sample yield strength (YS). Due to coherent shearable δ′ precipitates, the FCG rate curves of S-T8 samples are highly coincident. With the 2nd-step aging time extension, δ′ precipitates in D-T8 sample gradually coarsen, semi-coherent S′ phases form and their amount increases. The interaction between δ′ precipitates with dislocations transites from shearing to by-passing, leading to the YS enhancement and the FCG resistance decrease. Meanwhile, cyclic-hardening decreases and transfers to cyclic-softening during LCF at starin amplitude of 0.6% ∼ 0.9%. At 0.9% strain amplitude, due to greater cyclic-softening and cleavage fracture of S′ precipitates, the D-T8 sample with 2nd-step aging time of 120 h has a shorter LCF life. The D-T8 sample with 2nd-step aging time of 24 h possesses a comprehensive property of higher strength, lower FCG rate and better LCF life. • The 1445 Al alloy with δ' phase as the main precipitated phases is an excellent middle-strength and damage-resistant alloy. • The low cycle fatigue (LCF) life can be predicted well when the strain amplitude is 0.6%. • Semi-coherent S′ phases in 1445 Al alloy results in the strength enhancement, cyclic-softening and decreased LCF life. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Maternal glucose intolerance in late pregnancy can easily impair pregnancy outcomes and placental development. The impairment of placental angiogenesis is closely related to the occurrence of glucose intolerance during pregnancy, but the mechanism remains largely unknown. In this study, the pregnant mouse model of maternal high-fat diet and endothelial injury model of porcine vascular endothelial cells (PVECs) was used to investigate the effect of glucose intolerance on pregnancy outcomes and placental development. Feeding pregnant mice, a high-fat diet was shown to induce glucose intolerance in late pregnancy, and significantly increase the incidence of resorbed fetuses. Moreover, a decrease was observed in the proportion of blood sinusoids area and the expression level of CD31 in placenta, indicating that placental vascular development was impaired by high-fat diet. Considering that hyperglycemia is an important symptom of glucose intolerance, we exposed PVECs to high glucose (50 mM), which verified the negative effects of high glucose on endothelial function. Bioinformatics analysis further emphasized that high glucose exposure could significantly affect the angiogenesis-related functions of PVECs and predicted that Krüppel-like factor 4 (KLF4) may be a key mediator of these functional changes. The subsequent regulation of KLF4 expression confirmed that the inhibition of KLF4 expression was an important reason why high glucose impaired the endothelial function and angiogenesis of PVECs. These results indicate that high-fat diet can aggravate maternal glucose intolerance and damage pregnancy outcome and placental angiogenesis, and that regulating the expression of KLF4 may be a potential therapeutic strategy for maintaining normal placental angiogenesis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The AlCoCrFeNi 2.1 eutectic high-entropy alloy (EHEA) has become one of the hottest research topics owing to its comprehensive mechanical properties. In this study, the AlCoCrFeNi 2.1 EHEA was fabricated via the laser powder bed fusion (L-PBF) technique, and the grain morphology, eutectic structure, mechanical properties, and deformation mechanism were investigated. The results indicate that the samples have superfine grains and nano-lamellar eutectic structures, attributable to the high cooling rate of the L-PBF process. Furthermore, the phenomenon of solute trapping was observed in the boundary of the FCC and B2 semi-cohesive phase in the nano-lamellar eutectic structure. Based on the special eutectic structure of the AlCoCrFeNi 2.1 EHEA prepared using the L-PBF technique, the samples exhibited an exceptional tensile strength of up to 1.6 GPa, accompanied by tensile ductility of over 9.5 %. The improvement of mechanical properties may be attributable to the Hall–Petch strengthening and back stress effect caused by refining the eutectic structure, whereas the growth of the nano-lamellar structure may be closely related to the solute-trapping effect. • Nano-lamellar EHEA with K–S type OR was prepared by additive manufacturing. • The L-PBF EHEA exhibited an exceptional tensile strength of up to 1.6 GPa. • The solute trapping phenomenon was observed at the boundary of nano-lamellar. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Soft-magnetic high-entropy alloy (HEA) Fe 33 Co 28 Ni 28 Ta 5 Al 6 were prepared by laser-melting deposition (LMD). The microstructures and mechanical as well as magnetic properties of the fabricated samples were investigated. All samples comprised face- and body-centered cubic phases, where the proportion of the latter increased when the laser power was increased from 800 to 1400 W. With the increasing laser power, the yield strengths of the samples decreased slightly, and the saturation magnetization (B S) of the samples remained at approximately 1.07 T, the coercivity increased from 1034 A/m to 4456 A/m. The study showed that high laser powers resulted in high stress levels and increased the blocking effect on the motion of the magnetic domain walls of the samples. This work would provide a path way for the rapid manufacturing of high-performance soft-magnetic HEAs. • Prepared a soft-magnetic high-entropy alloy via laser-melting deposition (LMD). • Obtained a soft-magnetic material with good yield strength (1380 MPa) at a laser power of 800 W. • The mechanical and magnetic properties of the alloy can be improved via adjusted the laser powders. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To solve the problem of high NOx emission of 600‐MWe boilers in power plants, we established a cold gas–solid modeling testbed scaled by 1:5 for two‐channel overfire air (OFA). A phase‐Doppler anemometer was used to measure the characteristics of the outlet flow field of the two‐channel OFA under different OFA rates. We also verified the industrial feasibility of this testbed under loads of 300 and 600 MWe. The influence of the OFA rate on the divergence angle of the outlet jet was small: When the OFA rate was increased from 15% to 35%, the divergence angle only increased by 2.2°. The attenuation of the axial velocity of the outlet jet increases with increasing OFA rate. For OFA rates of 15% and 25%, the jet penetration depth was between 1.5d and 2.5d (where d is the cone diameter of the OFA model in the cold‐flow experiments). When the OFA rate was 35%, the jet penetration depth was between 2.5d and 3.5d. The jet maintained about 17% O2 concentration at 1.4 m (about 11d) in the furnace under different boiler loads, and the concentration of emitted NOx increased with decreasing load. Based on these findings, we propose the use of two‐stage OFA: The jet at the outlet of the first‐stage OFA ports should have a larger jet‐divergence angle, and the other stage should have a larger jet‐penetration depth to realize full mixing with the flue gas and to ensure high burnout and low NOx emission. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The pollution of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in food crops has been drawing worldwide attention due to their toxicity and carcinogenicity. However, the distribution process of PAHs in crop leaves is not clear. Here, we firstly study the distribution of phenanthrene in wheat, soybean and maize seedling leaves. High performance liquid chromatography was used to determine phenanthrene concentration in crop leaves. Over the exposure time, phenanthrene concentration in young and mature leaves of wheat and soybean increased to the maximum at 72 h, which were 8.25 and 1.47 mg kg−1, and 5.91 and 3.02 mg kg−1, respectively, and phenanthrene concentration of young leaves was higher. Inversely, phenanthrene concentration in maize mature leaves was the highest and that in the second leaves was the lowest. The distributions of phenanthrene concentration in leaf base, leaf medium and leaf apex of the three crops were as follows: it was leaf medium > leaf base > leaf apex in wheat; it was same for soybean and maize, with leaf apex > leaf medium > leaf base. Phenanthrene concentrations of leaf edge in wheat, soybean and maize were 10.55, 3.88 and 18.96 mg kg−1 at 72 h, which were higher than those of leaf middle (10.21, 3.39 and 10.47 mg kg−1), respectively. Phenanthrene concentrations of mesophylls and veins increased with time, and phenanthrene concentration of veins was higher. The observation of two-photon fluorescence microscopy showed that phenanthrene was mainly accumulated near the vascular bundles of major vein. Accordingly, distribution of phenanthrene in crop leaves depends on the type of crop, growth period, and contribution of xylem and phloem to acropetal transport. Our results are helpful not only for better understanding the distribution of PAHs in crop leaves, but also for effectively controlling the translocation of PAHs into the leaves to ensure the safety of agricultural products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Gastric cancer (GC) ranks third among the causes of cancer‐related deaths in the world. Circular RNA hsa_circ_0021087 (circ_0021087) plays a repressive role in GC. Nevertheless, the mechanism by which circ_0021087 constrains GC advancement is unclear. Materials and Methods: Expression patterns of circ_0021087, microRNA (miR)‐184 and FBJ murine osteosarcoma viral oncogene homolog B (FOSB) mRNA were assessed by quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction (RT‐qPCR). Gain‐of‐function experiments were conducted to verify the biological function of circ_0021087 in vitro and in vivo, including cell counting kit‐8 (CCK‐8), 5‐ethynyl‐2ʹ‐deoxyuridine (EdU), flow cytometry, transwell and xenograft assays. Protein levels were analysed by Western blotting and immunohistochemistry (IHC). The regulatory mechanism of circ_0021087 was analysed by bioinformatics analysis, dual‐luciferase reporter and RNA immunoprecipitation (RIP) assays. Results and Conclusion: Circ_0021087 and FOSB were lowly expressed in GC, whereas miR‐184 had an opposite result. Circ_0021087 overexpression repressed GC cell proliferation and epithelial‐mesenchymal transition (EMT) in xenograft models in vivo and induced GC cell apoptosis, repressed GC cell proliferation, EMT, migration and invasion in vitro. Circ_0021087 could elevate FOSB expression by adsorbing miR‐184. MiR‐184 mimic reversed the inhibitory influence of circ_0021087 overexpression on GC cell malignancy. Also, FOSB knockdown offset the suppressive impact of miR‐184 silencing on GC cell malignancy. In conclusion, circ_0021087 played a repressive influence on GC progression by elevating FOSB expression by adsorbing miR‐184, offering a new mechanism for circ_0021087 to inhibit the progression of GC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: A micro-textured Ti–Si–C–N/TiCN composite coating was obtained using laser direct cladding method. A mixture of 20wt.% SiO2 and 80wt.% TiC0.3N0.7 was used as the precursor. A metallurgical bonding at the interface was achieved. Variation in the laser scan speed appeared to have no detectable influence on the evolution of phase type in the modified surface region. All samples demonstrated the presence of the same phases such as Ti3SiC2, TiC0.3N0.7, and Ti2O. The average crystallite size and the average surface roughness Ra of the coatings presented a decreasing trend with increasing laser scan speed. Laser scan speed has an obvious influence on the thickness and the microstructure of the coating. The microhardness in the coating depends on laser scan speed. It increased first, followed by a decreasing trend with increasing laser scan speed, and got a maximum value of about 1400HV at laser scan speed of 3mm/s, which is more than 4 times of that of titanium substrate. Ti–Si–C–N coating distributes in a distance of about 100μm. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: A novel poly(2,6-anthracenevinylene) derivative (Pr) with donor–acceptor–donor motif was synthesized by Witting reaction of 9,10-dicyano-2,6-bis(diethylphosphoryl-methyl)anthracene and 4,6-bis(bis(2-ethylhexyl)amino)isophthalaldehyde, and its one- and two-photon properties were investigated. Pr showed a number-average molecular weight of 11,360 by end-group analysis and 15,300 by GPC, respectively. The Pr solution in toluene exhibited a maximal absorption wavelength peaked at 591nm with the onset wavelength of 690nm and emitted a red fluorescence centered at 665nm with a fluorescence quantum yield of 0.10. Pr exhibited the maximum two-photon absorption cross-section of 1430g per repeating unit at 920nm measured by two-photon-induced fluorescence method. The results indicate the polymers with large TPA cross sections can be obtained by employing effective TPA chromophores as the building blocks, and the wavelength of the maximal TPA for 2,6-anthracenevinylene-based polymers could be tuned by attaching appropriate donor and/or acceptor substituents. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Lily symptomless virus (LSV) is the most common lily virus, being detected in many species and hybrids. We established a microsphere-based fluorescent immunoassay for the determination of LSV, using a polyclonal antibody against LSV covalently bound to carboxy-modified microspheres able to capture LSV antigen. A monoclonal antibody against LSV conjugated to quantum dots (QDs) was used as a fluorescent probe, enabling LSV to be fluorescently detected by a combination of encoded beads and QDs. This method was 16 times more sensitive than ELISA in the detection of LSV, and could potentially be applied to the simultaneous detection of inhomogeneous matter. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: This experiment was conducted to evaluate the effects of fish oil replacement by conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) on body proximate analysis and thiobarbituric acid-reactive substances, fat content, shear force and fatty acid composition in musculature of Pacific white shrimp (Litopenaeus vannamei). Graded levels of CLA (0%, 0.5%, 1% and 2%) were added to the basic diet of shrimp at the expense of fish oil. Results showed that fat content (p =0.036) and shear force (p =0.001) in shrimp musculature were enhanced with increasing dietary CLA inclusion. Fish oil replacement by CLA significantly promoted the incorporation of cis-9, trans-11 CLA (p =0.0001) and trans-10, cis-12 CLA (p <0.0001) into shrimp musculature; moreover, the polyunsaturated fatty acid was elevated (p =0.020) and monounsaturated fatty acid was reduced by CLA inclusion (p =0.024). It was concluded that replacement of fish oil by CLA could improve some meat quality traits of shrimp and 1% CLA was an appropriate amount. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

An integrated CMOS-compatible Pirani vacuum sensor system has been developed in this paper, which consists of a tungsten microhotplate array with four same microhotplates in series, a constant current circuit, an 8-b A/D converter, and a digital interface. With a tiny amount of the external components, a gas pressure between 10^-1 and 10^5\ \Pa can be sampled, digitized, and real-time displayed by a LED. It can also be transferred to an external process unit, which makes it suitable for application in a gas pressure control system. The sensor system is implemented in a 0.5-\mu\m CMOS process. When the sensor system works at 5-V voltage and 2.5-MHz clock input, the total power consumption is 350 mW, and the temperature increase of each microhotplate is 35 ^\circ\C.\hfill[2010-0248] [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Anti-GP-1D8 monoclonal antibody was produced in our laboratory. Immunoaffinity purification of GP-1D8 glycoprotein from human breast carcinoma tissues, on column with the monospecific antibody, is developed. The procedure permits purification of GP-1D8 to a highly purified state. It appeared as a single band in sodium dodcyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS-PAGE). The molecular mass of GP-1D8 was determined to be 66 kDa by mass spectrometry. Its antigenicity was stable between 0 and 70°C. It was breast cancer specific, as determined by immunohistochemistry and immunocytochemistry. The preparation of anti-GP-1D8 monoclonal antibody will facilitate further detection of, and functional study on, GP-1D8. The study also provides a simple, economical, and efficient method for affinity purification of target proteins from human or animal tissues. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aquatic plants play effective in removing heavy metal (HM) as a prominent factor of bioremediations, however, there are still knowledge gaps in species selection and configuration for high removal efficiency (RE) of compound HM and ornamental value. In this study, seven emergent-aquatic-plant species were configured into seven groups and planted in a simulated swine wastewater (SW) with Cu, Zn, and Cd for 75 days in summer. REs of Cu, Zn, and Cd were 45.06–86.93%, 42.40–87.22%, and 73.85–85.52% at day 75, respectively. Higher REs were observed from day 30–45 for Cu and Zn, whereas days 15–30 for Cd. The synergistic removal of Zn and Cu or Zn and Cd was almost observed (p < 0.05). The configuration of G5 (S. tabernaemontani , I. sibirica , and P. cordata) was generally efficient roles in the removal at day 45, with REs of 85.14%, 87.06%, and 83.56% for Cu, Zn, and Cd, respectively. The dry weight of roots, water NH 4 +-N, temperature, pH, and dissolved oxygen acted on heavy-metal removal. During days 45–75, concentrations of Cu, Zn, and Cd in G5 were 0.52–0.66, 0.54–0.65, and 0.23–0.33 mg L−1. The former two were below the limits of Grade Ⅱ (1.0 mg L−1) and the latter was above the limits of Grade Ⅴ (0.1 mg L−1; GB3838-2002). Thus, G5 could be optimal for Cu and Zn removal from simulated SW, however, efficient Cd removal is required to ensure efficient SW recycling. • Compound HMs almost exist in SW, restrict SW reuse, and threaten human health. • REs of compound HMs were estimated and assessed under seven EAP groups. • The optimal configuration was the group of S. tabernaemontani , I. sibirica , and P. cordata. • Selected EAP configuration was proposed to plant about 45 days in summer. • Further steps should be taken for Cd removal with EAPs for SW recycles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Development of a microsphere-based competitive fluorescence immunoassay for the determination of hazardous low-molecular-weight compounds in food is described. In this method, antigens are covalently bound to carboxy-modified microspheres to compete monoclonal antibody with low-molecular-weight compounds in food samples; mouse IgG/fluorescein isothiocyanate conjugate is used as the fluorescent molecular probe. Thus, the hazardous low-molecular-weight compounds are quantified using a multiparameter flow cytometer. This method has been evaluated using clenbuterol as a model compound. It has a sensitivity of 0.01ng/mL with dynamic range of 0.01–100ng/mL, and the concentration of clenbuterol providing 50% inhibition (IC50) is 1.1ng/mL. The main advantages of this method are its high efficiency, biocompatibility, and selectivity, as well as ultralow trace sample consumption and low cost. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Uterine sensitization-associated gene-1 (USAG-1), originally identified as a secretory protein preferentially expressed in the sensitized rat endometrium, has been determined to modulate bone morphogenetic protein (BMP) and Wnt expression to play important roles in kidney disease. USAG-1 affects the progression of acute and chronic kidney damage and the recovery of allograft kidney function by regulating the BMP and Wnt signaling pathways. Moreover, USAG-1 has been found to be involved in the process of T cell immune response, and its ability to inhibit germinal center activity and reduce humoral immunity is of great significance for the treatment of autoimmune nephropathy and antibody-mediated rejection (AMR) after renal transplantation. This article summarizes the many advances made regarding the roles of USAG-1 in the progression of kidney disease and outlines potential treatments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A novel and enantioselective approach to δ-hydroxy-β-ketoalkanephosphonates has been developed via CALB-catalyzed enantioselective acetylation and CRL-catalyzed enantioselective hydrolysis. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Bioreduction of 3-substituted-2-oxoalkanephosphonates by baker's yeast afforded corresponding 2-hydroxy-alkanephosphonates in good yields and ee value. These compounds ( 2a,b ) could serve as useful chirons for the stereoselective synthesis of phosphorus analogs of (R)-Carnitine and (R)-GABOB. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• The increase of bridging oxygen enhances the integrity of the network structure and improves the dielectric performance at ambient temperature • The F promoted the conversion of the network outer body [BO 3 into [BO 4 and [AlO 6 into [AlO 4 , thus connecting the broken Si-O bond and increasing the structural integrity of the glass during the melting cooling period. • F could also decrease the high-temperature viscosity and the glass fibre drawing temperature The effect of F content on the structure, high-temperature viscosity and dielectric properties was investigated in a borosilicate glass system with SiO 2 -Al 2 O 3 -B 2 O 3 -RO-TiO 2. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) served to study glass structural changes through peak fitting calculations. The results showed that the addition of F from 0.26 wt% to 0.63 wt% promoted the conversion of the network outer body [BO 3 into [BO 4 and [AlO 6 into [AlO 4 during the melting cooling period. The increase of bridging oxygen enhances the integrity of the network structure and improves the dielectric performance at ambient temperature. In the high-temperature stage, the introduction of an appropriate amount of F decrease the viscosity of the liquid, which is beneficial to the homogenization, refining and drawing operations. These results could help elucidate the changes in properties of glass on the addition of F. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A novel circovirus designated "porcine circovirus type 4" (PCV4) was recently reported in pigs with severe clinical disease in Hunan Province, China. Relatively little is known about the molecular epidemiology of this recently discovered virus. In order to assess the prevalence of PCV4 infection in pigs and to analyze its genomic characteristics, 1683 clinical samples were collected in Inner Mongolia, China, from 2016 to 2018. The overall infection rate of PCV4 was 1.6% (27/1683) at the sample level and 21.6% (11/51) at the farm level, with rates ranging from 3.2% (1/31) to 20.0% (6/30) on different PCV4-positive pig farms. In addition, the PCV4 infection rates at both the sample and farm level increased from 2016 to 2018. This also showed that PCV4 was present in pigs in 2016 in China and therefore did not arrive later than this date. Additionally, our findings showed that PCV4 infections had no association with PCV2 or PCV3 infections. We sequenced the complete genomes of three PCV4 strains and found that the PCV4 strains had a high degree of genetic stability but shared less than 80% sequence identity with other circoviruses. We identified six amino acid mutations in the Rep protein and seven in the Cap protein. Phylogenetic analysis based on Cap and Rep sequences confirmed that the PCV4 strains grouped in an independent branch. Our findings provide important information about the prevalence and genetic characteristics of PCV4 strains. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Environmental salinity is a major factor influencing growth and development, reproduction, and physiology in fish. Recently, miRNAs have been confirmed to play an important role in regulating organismal adaptation in salinity challenge. Since the genomic studies on cobia (Rachycentroncanadum) are limited, the miRNA transcriptome of R. canadum is important to investigate the salinity adaptation. In this study, the miRNA transcriptome analysis of the gills in R. canadum was performed under conditions of normal salinity (30‰) and low salinity (10‰). In total, 409 known miRNAs and 139 novel miRNAs were identified, with 56 DEMs (differentially expressed miRNAs). There were 64,983 target genes predicted based on the R. canadum transcriptome, in which 43,283 target genes were attributed to DEMs. The GO annotation and KEGG pathway analysis of target genes indicated that metabolic pathways and signal transduction were the most strongly affected pathways in R. canadum to tackle low‐salinity stress, and R. canadum maintains osmotic homoeostasis and energy balance by regulating miRNAs in metabolism, ion channels, and transporters to adapt to low salinity. Overall, this study provides valuable genomic resources to further understanding the fundamental mechanisms of miRNA regulation in marine teleost response to hypoosmotic stress adaption. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: The incidence of perioperative neurocognitive disorders (PND) is higher in the elderly patients undergoing surgery. Microglia activation‐mediated neuroinflammation is one of the hallmarks of PND. Galectin‐1 has been identified as a pivotal modulator in the central nervous system (CNS), while the role of galectin‐1 in PND induced by microglia‐mediated neuroinflammation is still undetermined. Methods: An exploratory laparotomy model anesthetized with isoflurane was employed to investigate the role of galectin‐1 on PND in aged mice. Open field test and Morris water maze were used to test the cognitive function 3‐ or 7‐days post‐surgery. The activation of microglia in the hippocampus of aged mice was tested by immunohistochemistry. Western blot, enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), and quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction (qRT‐PCR) were employed to elucidate the underlying mechanisms. Results: Galectin‐1 attenuated the cognitive dysfunction induced by surgery in aged mice and inhibited microglial activity. Moreover, galectin‐1 decreased the expression level of inflammatory proteins (interleukin‐1β, interleukin‐6, and tumor necrosis factor‐α), and prevented neuronal loss in the hippocampus. Galectin‐1 inhibited the inflammation of BV2 microglial cells induced by lipopolysaccharide via decreasing the translocation of NF‐κB p65 and c‐Jun, while this kind of inhibition was rescued when overexpressing IRAK1. Conclusion: Our findings provide evidence that galectin‐1 may inhibit IRAK1 expression, thus suppressing inflammatory response, inhibiting neuroinflammation, and improving ensuing cognitive dysfunction. Collectively, these findings unveil that galectin‐1 may elicit protective effects on surgery‐induced neuroinflammation and neurocognitive disorders. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, a blue-green pigment has been prepared by partially replace Co2+ and Cr3+ in CoCr 2 O 4 spinel structure with Mg2+ and Al3+ using a gel casting method The gel precursor was calcined at various temperatures (900–1400 °C) to obtain Mg 0.5 Co 0.5 CrAlO 4 spinel pigment. Combining the Rietveld refinement method of XRD and peak fitting of XPS high-resolution spectra, the relationships between the cation distributions (Co2+, Mg2+, Al3+, and Cr3+) in the tetrahedron and octahedron of the spinel structure and the calcination temperature were examined. In the octahedron, the contents of Co2+ and Al3+ decreased with increasing calcination temperature, and the Mg2+ and Cr3+ contents exhibited the opposite trend. The bond lengths of A-O and B–O change with increasing calcination temperature, thereby leading to a change in the unit cell. The optical performance of the pigments was investigated via UV–vis and CIE L*a*b* spectrophotometry, and the study shows that the blue-green hue of the pigment powder is caused by the absorption at υ3～υ8 (370 nm–640 nm) in the visible light region. The varied contents of Co2+ and Cr3+ in the spinel structure among calcination temperatures cause the absorption spectrum intensity change, thereby resulting in various blue-green tones. This study lays the foundations for subsequent investigations of colour modification in Mg x Co 1-x Al y Cr 2-y O 4 spinel. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Exendin-4 has been found to have hypoglycemic effect and prevent bone loss in diabetic patients, but its mechanism of preventing bone loss is still unclear. In this study, high-fat diet combined with streptozotocin was used to establish type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) mice, and bone marrow mesenchyme stem cells (BMSCs) were isolated for osteogenic induction in vitro. Alizarin red staining and ALP activity detection were used to observe the effect of exendin-4 on osteogenic differentiation of BMSCs. Western blot was used to detect the proteins expression in BMSCs. In vivo, the effects of exendin-4 treatment on body weight, blood glucose, bone density and bone quality of T2DM mice were observed by treatment with exendin-4. The results showed that exendin-4 promoted osteogenic differentiation of T2DM derived BMSCs, down-regulated histone deacetylase 1 (HDAC1) and p-β-Catenin proteins expression, and up-regulated Wnt3, β-Catenin and runt-related transcription factor 2 (Runx 2) proteins expression. In vivo, exendin-4 effectively suppressed the blood glucose and increased body weight of T2DM mice, and significantly improved bone density and bone quality of the right tibia. Interestingly, by over-expression of HDAC1 in BMSCs, the effect of exendin-4 on promoting osteogenic differentiation of BMSCs was attenuated, and the regulation of Wnt3a, β-Catenin, p-β-Catenin or Runx2 proteins were reversed. By injecting adenovirus containing HDAC1 into the right tibia of mice, the effect of exendin-4 on bone density and bone quality of T2DM mice was significantly attenuated. All above results suggest that the HDAC1-Wnt/β-Catenin signal axis is involved in the anti-diabetic bone loss effect of exendin-4, and HDAC1 may be the target of exendin-4. • Exendin-4 could prevent bone loss in diabetic patients. • Exendin-4 promotes differentiation of BMSCs derived from T2DM mice into osteoblasts. • Over-expression HDAC1 could attenuate the effects of exendin-4. • Exendin-4 targets HDAC1-Wnt/β-catenin signal axis to ameliorate diabetic osteoporosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Adjusting the phase composition of high-entropy alloys is an effective approach to change its mechanical and magnetic properties. In this study, FeCoNiCr high-entropy alloys with Al addition (Al x FeCoNiCr; x = 0.0, 0.25, 0.5, 0.75, 1.0, 1.25, 1.75) were prepared by argon arc melting to obtain a special spinodal decomposition structure. There precipitated body-centered cubic (BCC) phase in the face-centered cubic (FCC) phase matrix for the samples with Al (x = 0.25, 0.5, 0.75) addition. Furthermore, the increase in the Al content (x = 1.0, 1.25, 1.75) transformed the alloy into a BCC phase, and resulted in a spinodal decomposition in the alloy. This spinodal decomposition created a low-misfit coherent nanostructure combining the enriching AlNiCo ordered B2 matrix with enriching Fe–Cr BCC disordered nanoprecipitates. The difference in the distribution of chemical elements of the two phases leads to different magnetic properties and induces the magnetoresistance (MR) effect. This provides a pathway for the design of advanced functional high-entropy alloys. [Display omitted] • Spinodal decomposition can induce magnetoresistance (MR) in AlFeCoNiCr alloy. • The magnetic and nonmagnetic phase is necessary condition for inducing MR effect. • The mechanical and MR properties can be controlled by spinodal decomposition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]