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Objective: The aim of the current study was to investigate which is the most suitable classification for colorectal cancer, log odds of positive lymph nodes (LODDS) classification or the classifications based on the number of positive lymph nodes (pN) and positive lymph node ratio(LNR) in a Chinese single institutional population. Design: Clinicopathologic and prognostic data of 1297 patients with colorectal cancer were retrospectively studied. The log-rank statistics, Cox's proportional hazards model, the Nagelkerke R2 index and a Harrell's C statistic were used. Results: Univariate and three-step multivariate analyses identified that LNR was a significant prognostic factor and LNR classification was superior to both the pN and LODDS classifications. Moreover, the results of the Nagelkerke R2 index (0.130) and a Harrell's C statistic (0.707) of LNR showed that LNR and LODDS classifications were similar and LNR was a little better than the other two classifications. Furthermore, for patients in each LNR classification, prognosis was homologous between those in different pN or LODDS classifications. However, for patients in pN1a, pN1b, LODDS2 and LODDS3 classifications, significant differences in survival were observed among patients in different LNR classifications. Conclusions: For patients with colorectal cancer, the LNR classification is more suitable than pN and LODDS classifications for prognostic assessment in a Chinese single institutional population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Foot-and-mouth disease virus (FMDV) causes an economically important and highly contagious disease of cloven-hoofed animals. RNAi triggered by small RNA molecules, including siRNAs and miRNAs, offers a new approach for controlling viral infections. There is no report available for FMDV inhibition by vector-delivered miRNA, although miRNA is believed to have more potential than siRNA. In this study, the inhibitory effects of vector-delivered miRNAs targeting the 3D gene on FMDV replication were examined. Results: Four pairs of oligonucleotides encoding 3D-specific miRNA of FMDV were designed and selected for construction of miRNA expression plasmids. In the reporter assays, two of four miRNA expression plasmids were able to significantly silence the expression of 3D-GFP fusion proteins from the reporter plasmid, p3D-GFP, which was cotransfected with each miRNA expression plasmid. After detecting the silencing effects of the reporter genes, the inhibitory effects of FMDV replication were determined in the miRNA expression plasmid-transfected and FMDV-infected cells. Virus titration and real-time RT-PCR assays showed that the p3D715-miR and p3D983-miR plasmids were able to potently inhibit the replication of FMDV when BHK-21 cells were infected with FMDV. Conclusion: Our results indicated that vector-delivered miRNAs targeting the 3D gene efficiently inhibits FMDV replication in vitro. This finding provides evidence that miRNAs could be used as a potential tool against FMDV infection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Interconnected carbon nanofibrous membranes were prepared by conventional electrospinning and bicomponent electrospinning to produce polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP)/polyacrylonitrile (PAN) blend nanofibers and PVP/PAN side-by-side bicomponent nanofibers, followed by a direct pyrolysis treatment. The inter-fiber connection was highly affected by the PVP/PAN ratio and electrospinning method. The carbon nanofibers prepared from the side-by-side PVP/PAN nanofibers were found to have higher electrochemical capacitance than those from the PVP/PAN blend nanofibers. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Polyetherketone cardo (PEK-C) nanofibres containing vapour-grown carbon nanofibres (VGCNFs) were electrospun, and used for toughening and reinforcing a triglycidyl amino phenol (TGAP) epoxy resin. The addition of PEK-C/VGCNF nanofibres to the epoxy resin led to the distribution of VGCNFs primarily within the phase separated PEK-C-rich domains. Synergistic effects of thermoplastic PEK-C and VGCNFs on the mechanical properties, phase morphologies and thermal stability of the resultant epoxy matrix composites were observed when the PEK-C/CNF nanofibres were blended at a low content into the epoxy resin. Strong and tough multifunctional nanocomposites were prepared with the addition of 5wt.% PEK-C/CNF nanofibres to the epoxy matrix. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Curcumin (diferulomethane) is the principal curcuminoid in the spice tumeric and a potent inhibitor of activation-induced T-lymphocyte proliferation; however, the molecular basis of this immunosuppressive effect has not been well studied. Here we show that micromolar concentrations of curcumin inhibited DNA synthesis by mouse CD4+ T-lymphocytes, as well as interleukin-2 (IL-2) and CD25 (α chain of the high affinity IL-2 receptor) expression in response to antibody-mediated cross-linking of CD3 and CD28. Curcumin acted downstream of protein kinase C activation and intracellular Ca2+ release to inhibit IκB phosphorylation, which is required for nuclear translocation of the transcription factor NFκB. In addition, IL-2-dependent DNA synthesis by mouse CTLL-2 cells, but not constitutive CD25 expression, was impaired in the presence of curcumin, which demonstrated an inhibitory effect on IL-2 receptor (IL-2R) signaling. IL-2-induced phosphorylation of STAT5A and JAK3, but not JAK1, was diminished in the presence of curcumin, indicating inhibition of critical proximal events in IL-2R signaling. In line with the inhibitory action of curcumin on IL-2R signaling, pretreatment of CD4+CD25+ regulatory T-cells with curcumin downregulated suppressor function, as well as forkhead box p3 (Foxp3) expression. We conclude that curcumin inhibits IL-2 signaling by reducing available IL-2 and high affinity IL-2R, as well as interfering with IL-2R signaling. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The article discusses a randomized study which examined the role of the peroxiredoxin 6 peroxidase in acute lung injury in mice induced by lipopolysaccharide. The study showed that lipopolysaccharide-induced acute lung injury and inflammation are exaggerated by deletion of peroxiredoxin 6. Deletion of peroxiredoxin 6 increased the inflammatory responses, oxidative stress and matrix degradation.

Hemorrhage remains a leading cause of early death after trauma, especially those with infectious complications in combat wounds. The aim of this study was to develop antibiotics-loaded zeolite (Zel)/polymer composites for hemostatic materials. The composite materials were fabricated from zeolite and various biodegradable polymers, including chitosan (CS), gelatin (Gel) and alginate (Alg), using the inversed emulsion method. The morphology of the composites was observed by SEM, and the results showed that the prepared Zel/polymer composites can form hollow microspheres under appropriate conditions. The microspheres contained three sizes of pores, nano-pore of zeolite, micrometer-sized pores between zeolite particles, and void cores having a size of tens of micrometers. It was these pores that made the composites have unexpected water-absorbing capacity. When antibiotics were loaded into the composite microspheres, they exhibited a prolonged drug-releasing period. Thus, we can make full use of the characteristics of chitosan, zeolite and antibiotics to create potential dual-functional hemostatic materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: We previously identified a zebrafish mast cell (MC) lineage and now aim to determine if these cells function analogously in innate and adaptive immunity like their mammalian counterparts. Intraperitoneal (IP) injection of compound 48/80 or live Aeromonas salmonicida resulted in significant MC degranulation evident histologically and by increased plasma tryptase compared with saline-injected controls (p =0.0006, 0.005, respectively). Pre-treatment with ketotifen abrogated these responses (p =0.0004, 0.005, respectively). Cross-reactivity was observed in zebrafish to anti-human high-affinity IgE receptor gamma (FcɛRIγ) and IgE heavy chain-directed antibodies. Whole mount in situ hybridization on 7-day embryos demonstrated co-localization of cpa5, a MC-specific marker, with myd88, a toll-like receptor adaptor, and zebrafish FcɛRI subunit homologs. Zebrafish injected IP with matched dinitrophenyl-sensitized mouse (anti-DNP) IgE and DNP-BSA or trinitrophenyl-sensitized mouse (anti-TNP) IgE and TNP-BSA demonstrated increased plasma tryptase compared with mismatched controls (p =0.03, 0.010, respectively). These results confirm functional conservation and validate the zebrafish model as an in vivo screening tool for novel MC modulating agents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Extra-nodal natural killer T-Cell (NK/T-cell) lymphoma is a progressive cancer with poor prognosis due to the lack of disease specific treatment. To develop specific therapeutic strategies, it is essential to identify tumor markers. Recent studies show that circulating microRNA (miRNA) may serve as diagnostic and/or prognostic markers for some diseases. To explore miRNAs as potential diagnostic and/or prognostic markers of NK/T-cell lymphoma, in our study, we compared circulating miR-221 levels in 79 patients and 37 normal subjects by real-time PCR amplification directly from plasma samples, and correlated patient's miR-221 levels with their clinic features and treatment outcomes. We observed a significant difference between the patient and control groups (p=0.038), and a correlation of plasma miR-221 level in patient with sex, as well as a reverse correlation with performance status and the overall survival after treatment. Univariate and multivariate analyses further revealed that plasma miR-221 level, age, B symptoms, LDH level and complete response after primary treatment all present prognostic values when judged by overall survival (OS). Together, our results show that it is feasible to perform direct amplification of plasma miRNAs without total RNA extraction, and plasma miR-221 may be a diagnostic and prognostic marker for NK/T-cell lymphoma. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: In the present study, we report the sequences and characterization of the porcine integrin cDNAs encoding αv, β3, β6 and β8 subunits and compare them to those of other species. The coding sequences for the porcine αv, β3, β6 and β8 subunits were found to be 3141, 2289, 2367 and 2304 nucleotides in length, encoding 1046, 762, 788 and 767-amino-acid-residue protein, respectively. The porcine integrin αv, β3, β6 and β8 subunit shares common structural and functional elements with their counterparts from the other species. Phylogenetic trees showed that the porcine αv, β3, β6 and β8 were clustered into the Artiodactyla group, together with those of camels, sheep, and cattle, that are susceptible to FMDV infection. Real-time RT-PCR was used to investigate expression of the integrins αvβ3, αvβ6 and αvβ8 in different tissues of pigs in order to determine the role of these receptors in tissue tropism. Expression analysis showed that αvβ6 and αvβ8 mRNA expression were detected at high levels in tissues known to support replication of FMDV. Tissue distribution pattern of αvβ3 mRNA seems to be unrelated to the known tissue tropism of FMDV. This study provided the first data of porcine integrins for the further studies of the FMDV pathogenesis in pigs. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Background and Aim: Circulating miRNAs exist in serum and plasma and they can be used as a potential noninvasive molecular marker for colorectal cancer (CRC) diagnosis. The present study was to test the availability of direct amplification of miRNAs from plasma without RNA extraction, and to evaluate its clinical application value in CRC. Methods: Plasma miR-21, miR-221 and miR-222 levels were determined in 103 CRC patients and 37 healthy normal controls by quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction. Immunohistochemical staining for p53, carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA), estrogen receptor (ER) and progesterone receptor (PR) was carried out in the same CRC patient cohort. The correlation between miR-221 levels and protein levels of p53, CEA, ER and PR, clinicopathological features or overall survival was analyzed. Results: A standard curve shows a good linearity between the log of sample input and CT values over three orders of magnitude of plasma miR-21, miR-221 and miR-222. ROC curve analysis reveals that the plasma levels of miR-221 is a potential biomarker for differentiating CRC patients from controls. Kaplan-Meier curve assessment shows that the elevated plasma miR-221 level is a significant prognostic factor for poor overall survival in CRC patients. The immunohistochemistry analysis demonstrates a significant correlation between plasma miR-221 level and p53 expression. Conclusions: The direct amplification of plasma miR-221 can be used as a potential noninvasive molecular marker for diagnosis and prognosis of CRC and is correlated with p53 expression. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Highly hydrophilic cotton fabrics were rendered superhydrophobic via electrostatic layer-by-layer assembly of polyelectrolyte/silica nanoparticle multilayers on cotton fibers, followed with a fluoroalkylsilane treatment. The surface morphology of the silica nanoparticle-coated fibers, which results in the variety of the hydrophobicity, can be tailored by controlling the multilayer number. Although with the static contact angle larger than 150°, in the case of 1 or 3 multilayers, the fabrics showed sticky property with a high contact angle hysteresis (>45°). For the cotton fabrics assembled with 5 multilayers or more, slippery superhydrophobicity with a contact angle hysteresis lower than 10° was achieved. The buoyancy of the superhydrophobic fabric was examined by using a miniature boat made with the fabric. The superhydrophobic fabric boat exhibited a remarkable loading capacity; for a boat with a volume of 8.0cm3, the maximum loading was 11.6 or 12.2g when the boat weight is included. Moreover, the superhydrophobic cotton fabric showed a reasonable durability to withstand at least 30 machine washing cycles. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

We have first demonstrated that a random laser action generated by a hybrid film composed of a semiconducting organic polymer (SOP) and TiO2 nanoparticles can be used to detect 2,4,6-trinitrotoluene (TNT) vapors. The hybrid film was fabricated by spin-casting SOP solution dispersed with nanosized TiO2 particles on quartz glass. The SOP in the hybrid film functioned as both the gain medium and the sensory transducer. A random lasing action was observed with a certain pump power when the size (diameter of 50 nm) and concentration (8.9 × 1012/cm3) of TiO2 nanoparticles were optimized. Measurements of fluorescence quenching behavior of the hybrid film in TNT vapor atmosphere (10 ppb) showed that attenuated lasing in optically pumped hybrid film displayed a sensitivity to vapors of explosives more than 20 times higher than was observed from spontaneous emission. This phenomenon has been explained with the four-level laser model. Since the sensory transducer used in the hybrid polymer/nanoparticles system could be replaced by other functional materials, the concept developed could be extended to more general domains of chemical or environment detection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Two intramolecular dimmers of 4-, 8-pyrenyl-substituted fluorenes bridged by 1,6-hexanyl unit have been synthesized. They showed very strong fluorescent emission with the emission peak at around 450nm and fluorescence efficiency as high as ∼0.9. The absorption spectra also had high extinction coefficients. The cyclic voltammetric curves showed that they can be used as electron-donating materials. The DSC results suggested the dimmers have higher glass transition temperature. It was also found that these novel dimmers can self-organize into spherical particles from the solutions due to evaporation of the solvent. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Background: Very little is known about the effects of manganese (Mn)-excess on citrus photosynthesis and antioxidant systems. Seedlings of sour pummelo (Citrus grandis) were irrigated for 17 weeks with nutrient solution containing 2 μM (control) or 500 μM (excess) MnSO4. The objective of this study were to understand the mechanisms by which Mn-excess leads to a decrease in CO2 assimilation and to test the hypothesis that Mninduced changes in antioxidant systems differ between roots and leaves. Results: Mn-excess decreased CO2 assimilation and stomatal conductance, increased intercellular CO2 concentration, but did not affect chlorophyll (Chl) level. Both initial and total ribulose-1,5-bisphosphate carboxylase/ oxygenase (Rubisco) activity in Mn-excess leaves decreased to a lesser extent than CO2 assimilation. Contents of glucose, fructose, starch and total nonstructural carbohydrates did not differ between Mn-excess leaves and controls, while sucrose content was higher in the former. Chl a fluorescence (OJIP) transients from Mn-excess leaves showed increased O-step and decreased P-step, accompanied by positive L- and K-bands. Mn-excess decreased maximum quantum yield of primary photochemistry (Fv/Fm) and total performance index (PItot,abs), but increased relative variable fluorescence at I-steps (VI) and energy dissipation. On a protein basis, Mn-excess leaves displayed higher activities of monodehydroascorbate reductase (MDAR), glutathione reductase (GR), superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT) and guaiacol peroxidase (GPX) and contents of antioxidants, similar ascorbate peroxidase (APX) activities and lower dehydroascorbate reductase (DHAR) activities; while Mn-excess roots had similar or lower activities of antioxidant enzymes and contents of antioxidants. Mn-excess did not affect malondialdehyde (MDA) content of roots and leaves. Conclusions: Mn-excess impaired the whole photosynthetic electron transport chain from the donor side of photosystem II (PSII) up to the reduction of end acceptors of photosystem I (PSI), thus limiting the production of reducing equivalents, and hence the rate of CO2 assimilation. Both the energy dissipation and the antioxidant systems were enhanced in Mn-excess leaves, while the antioxidant systems in Mn-excess roots were not upregulated, but still remained high activity. The antioxidant systems in Mn-excess roots and leaves provided sufficient protection to them against oxidative damage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Seedlings of sour pummelo (Citrus grandis) were irrigated daily for 18 weeks with nutrient solution containing four phosphorus (P) levels (50, 100, 250 and 500μM KH2PO4) and two aluminum (Al) levels [0 (−Al) and 1.2mM AlCl3·6H2O (+Al)]. Both malate and citrate concentrations in +Al leaves decreased with increasing P supply, but their concentrations in −Al leaves did not change in response to P supply. The concentrations of malate under 50μM P and of citrate under 50 and 100μM P were higher in +Al leaves than in −Al ones, but malate concentration was lower in +Al leaves than in −Al ones under 500μM P. There was no difference in root malate and citrate concentrations among different P and Al combinations except for an increase in malate and citrate under 50μM P+0mM Al and a slight decrease in malate under 50μM P+1.2mM Al. The activities of acid-metabolizing enzymes (citrate synthase, aconitase, phosphoenolpyruvate carboxylase, NADP-isocitrate dehydrogenase, phosphoenolpyruvate phosphatase, NAD-malate dehydrogenase, NADP-malic enzyme and pyruvate kinase) in most cases were less affected by P and Al interactions in roots compared to the leaves. Our results support the hypothesis that changes in organic acid metabolism differ between roots and leaves of C. grandis in response to P and Al interactions. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Well-aligned nanofibers were prepared from a conjugated polymer, poly(triphenylamine-alt-biphenylene vinylene) (TPA-PBPV), using a solution-assisted template wetting technique. TPA-PBPV was also coated on the surface of electrospun polyacrylonitrile (PAN) nanofiber nonwoven membrane. The extremely large surface area, highly porous fibrous structure, optical scattering and evanescent-wave guiding effect imparted these one-dimensional (1D) nanofibrous materials with highly improved sensory ability to 2,4,6-trinitrotoluene (TNT) vapors and higher quenching efficiency than that of the neat TPA-PBPV films. The results suggest that nanofibrous structures could be a promising strategy to improve the sensory efficiency of fluorescent chemosensors. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Integrins are heterodimeric adhesion receptors that participate in a variety of cell–cell and cell–extracellular matrix protein interactions. Many integrins recognize RGD sequences displayed on extracellular matrix proteins and the exposed loops of viral capsid proteins. Four members of the αv integrin family of cellular receptors, αvβ3, αvβ6, αvβ1 and αvβ8, have been identified as receptors for foot-and-mouth disease virus (FMDV) in vitro, and integrins are believed to be the receptors used to target epithelial cells in the infected animals. To analyse the roles of the αv integrins from a susceptible species as viral receptors, we have cloned Bactrian camel αv, β3 and β6 integrin cDNAs and compared them to those of other species. The coding sequences for Bactrian camel integrin αv, β3 and β6 were found to be 3165, 2289 and 2367 nucleotides in length, encoding 1054, 762 and 788 amino acids, respectively. The Bactrian camel αv, β3 and β6 subunits share many structural features with homologues of other species, including the ligand binding domain and cysteine-rich region. Phylogenetic trees and similarity analyses showed the close relationships of integrin genes from Bactrian camels, pigs and cattle, which are each susceptible to FMDV infection, that were distinct from the orders Rodentia, Primates, Perissodactyla, Carnivora, Galliformes and Xenopus. We postulate that host tropism of FMDV may in part be related to the divergence in integrin subunits among different species. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Four members of the αv integrin family of cellular receptors, αvβ1, αvβ3, αvβ6, and αvβ8, have been identified as receptors for foot-and-mouth disease virus (FMDV) in vitro, and integrins are believed to be the receptors used to target epithelial cells in the infected animals. To analyse roles of the αv integrins from a susceptible species as viral receptors, we have cloned sheep αv, β1, and β6 integrin cDNAs and compared them to those of other species. The coding sequences for sheep integrin αv, β1, and β6 were found to be 3147, 2397, and 2364 nuclotides in length, encoding 1048, 798, and 787 amino acids, respectively. The sheep αv, β1, and β6 subunits share many structural features including ligand binding domain and cysteine-rich region with homologues of other species. Phylogenetic trees and similarity analyses showed the close relationship of integrin genes among sheep, pigs, cattle and Bactrian camels that are susceptible to FMDV infection, which were distinct from the order Rodentia, Primates, Perissodactyla, Carnivora, Galliformes. We postulate that host tropism of FMDV may be related to divergence in integrin subunits among different species. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Pseudomonas aeruginosa is a common cause of lung infection in immune compromised individuals. Studies in humans and mice have demonstrated that P. aeruginosa lung infection is associated with a predominant Th2 immune response, whereas Th1 responses are accompanied by a better pulmonary outcome. Regulatory T cells (Tregs) are a subpopulation of T cells with unique immunologic characteristics that suppress effector T cell functions. Whether Tregs contribute to P. aeruginosa-induced host responses has not been studied previously. We found that P. aeruginosa lung infection induced an increase in natural Treg cells (CD4+CD25+FOXP3+ T cells) in the spleen of mice. To investigate a role of natural CD4+CD25+ Tregs in the host response to P. aeruginosa lung infection in vivo, anti-CD25 Ab was used to deplete endogenous CD4+CD25+ Tregs. Anti-CD25 treatment depleted 90% of CD4+CD25+FOXP3+ cells. Surprisingly, no differences of P. aeruginosa-induced NF-κB activation and cytokine/chemokine production (IL-1β, TNF, IL-6, IL-10, RANTES or MIP-2) were observed between anti-CD25-treated and isotype control Ab-treated animals. Similarly, no differences in lung histology and airway neutrophil infiltration were observed between anti-CD25 and control Ab-treated animals. Furthermore, no difference in survival outcome was found between anti-CD25 and control Ab-treated animals. These data demonstrate that although P. aeruginosa lung infection causes an increase of Tregs, the endogenous natural CD4+CD25+ Treg cells do not contribute significantly to the host response to this bacterium. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: A composite from a broad bandgap polymer, poly(phenylene ethylene) (PPE), and nano-sized TiO2 particles was found to be able to sense 2,4,6-trinitrotoluene (TNT) for TNT sensor. Fluorescence quenching induced by charge transfer from PPE to nano-sized TiO2 was observed in toluene solution. At high TiO2 composition, a strong exciplex band occurred at 550nm. Under prolonged light irradiation at 400nm, unusual fluorescence gains took place at 460nm, companied with a very small change in the UV–vis absorbance. After 30min light irradiation, the fluorescence at 460nm reached a maximum, but the peak at 550nm disappeared. This composite showed amplified sensor response to TNT compared to the pristine PPE film, which can be potentially used as sensing material for detecting TNT based explosives. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Seedlings of Citrus grandis were fertilized every other days for 15 weeks with nutrient solution containing 0 (deficiency), 10μM (control) or 500μM (excess) H3BO3. CO2 assimilation and chlorophyll (Chl) content decreased to a greater degree in B-deficient than in B-excess leaves, but photosynthetic enzyme activities were similarly decreased. Starch accumulated in B-deficient leaves, but not in B-excess ones. Chlorophyll a fluorescence transient showed that the positive L- and K-steps were more pronounced in B-excess than in B-deficient leaves. Maximum quantum yield of primary photochemistry (F v/F m), maximum variable fluorescence (F v), oxygen-evolving complex (OEC) were less decreased in B-deficient than in B-excess leaves, whereas minimum fluorescence (F 0) was less increased in B-deficient leaves. Boron-deficient leaves displayed higher or similar antioxidant enzyme activities and higher ascorbate (AsA) and reduced glutathione (GSH) contents compared to B-excess leaves. Content of thiobarbituric acid (TBA) reactive compounds was less increased by B-deficiency than by B-excess. We conclude that B-deficient leaves are less damaged by oxidative stress than B-excess leaves due to their higher ability to scavenge reactive oxygen species. Both the donor (i.e. the OEC) and the acceptor sides of photosystem II were less photoinhibited by B-deficiency than by B-excess. The greater decrease in CO2 assimilation and Chl content in B-deficient leaves may be caused by the excessive accumulation of starch. The reduction of CO2 assimilation by B-excess is probably caused by a combination of factors such as oxidative damage, reduced photosynthetic enzyme activities and impaired electron transport capacity. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

• Increasing pH lowered Cu uptake and Cu level in roots, stems and leaves. • Increasing pH alleviated Cu-toxic damage to citrus root growth and function. • Increasing pH improved plant nutrient and water status. • Increasing pH alleviated Cu-toxic impairment on photosynthetic electron transport. • Increasing pH alleviated Cu-toxic effects on photosynthesis and pigments. Little is known about pH-mediated alleviation of copper (Cu)-toxicity in plants. 'Xuegan' [ Citrus sinensis (L.) Osbeck] seedlings were irrigated with nutrient solution at a pH 3.0, 4.0 or 4.8 and a concentration of 0.5 (control) and 300 (Cu-toxicity) μM CuCl 2 for 17 weeks. Thereafter, a total of 125 physiological parameters including biomass, nutrient elements in roots, stems and leaves, relative water content (RWC) in roots and leaves, and pigments, gas exchange, chlorophyll (Chl) a fluorescence (OJIP) transients and related fluorescence parameters in leaves were investigated in order to understand the physiological mechanisms for increased pH-mediated alleviation of Cu-toxicity. Our results clearly demonstrated that both pH 3.0 (at a concentration of 0.5 or 300 μM Cu) and 300 μM Cu (at a pH of 3.0, 4.0 or 4.8) were toxic to C. sinensis seedlings, as indicated by decreased biomass and/or CO 2 assimilation. Raised pH decreased Cu uptake per plant (root dry weight) and Cu concentration in roots, stems and leaves and mitigated Cu-toxic damage to root growth and function, thus improving the uptake of water (root and leaf RWC) and some nutrients (nitrogen, potassium, phosphorus, magnesium, calcium, sulfur and iron), as well as the distribution of some nutrient elements (potassium, sulfur and zinc) in leaves, hence mitigating Cu-toxic impairment on the whole electron transport chain and increasing plant growth, leaf pigment level and CO 2 assimilation. Principal component analysis (PCA) indicated that Cu-toxic-effects on all these physiological parameters as a whole decreased with increase of pH. Low pH (pH 3.0) effects on OJIP transients and most of physiological parameters were less pronounced in control than in Cu-toxic seedlings. Interactive effects of pH Cu were significant on 84 physiological parameters. To conclude, low pH intensified Cu-toxic effects on C. sinensis seedlings; Cu-toxicity aggravated low-pH effects on C. sinensis seedlings. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Limited data are available on the physiological responses of Citrus to nitrogen (N) deficiency. 'Xuegan' (Citrus sinensis (L.) Osbeck) and 'Shantian pummelo' (Citrus grandis (L.) Osbeck) seedlings were fertilized with nutrient solution at a N concentration of 0, 5, 10, 15 or 20 mM for 10 weeks. N deficiency decreased N uptake and N concentration in leaves, stems and roots and disturbed nutrient balance and homeostasis in plants, thus inhibiting plant growth, as well as reducing photosynthetic pigment levels and impairing thylakoid structure and photosynthetic electron transport chain (PETC) in leaves, hence lowering CO2 assimilation. The imbalance of nutrients intensified N deficiency's adverse impacts on biomass, PETC, CO2 assimilation and biosynthesis of photosynthetic pigments. Citrus displayed adaptive responses to N deficiency, including (a) elevating the distributions of N and other elements in roots, as well as root dry weight (DW)/shoot DW ratio and root-surface-per-unit volume and (b) improving photosynthetic N use efficiency (PNUE). In general, N deficiency had less impact on biomass and photosynthetic pigment levels in C. grandis than in C. sinensis seedlings, demonstrating that the tolerance of C. grandis seedlings to N deficiency was slightly higher than that of C. sinensis seedlings, which might be related to the higher PNUE of the former. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Seedlings of sweet orange (Citrus sinensis) were fertilized for 14 weeks with boron (B)-free or B-sufficient (2.5 or 10μM H3BO3) nutrient solution every other day. Boron deficiency resulted in an overall inhibition of plant growth, with a reduction in root, stem and leaf dry weight (DW). Boron-starved leaves showed decreased CO2 assimilation and stomatal conductance, but increased intercellular CO2 concentrations. Activities of ribulose-1,5-bisphosphate carboxylase/oxygenase (Rubisco), NADP-glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase (NADP-GAPDH) and stromal fructose-1,6-bisphosphatase (FBPase) were lower in B-deficient leaves than in controls. Contents of glucose, fructose and starch were increased in B-deficient leaves while sucrose was decreased. Boron-deficient leaves displayed higher or similar superoxide dismutase (SOD), ascorbate peroxidase (APX), monodehydroascorbate reductase (MDAR) and glutathione reductase (GR) activities, while dehydroascorbate reductase (DHAR) and catalase (CAT) activities were lower. Expressed on a leaf area or protein basis, B-deficient leaves showed a higher ascorbate (AsA) concentration, but a similar AsA concentration on a DW basis. For reduced glutathione (GSH), we found a similar GSH concentration on a leaf area or protein basis and an even lower content on a DW basis. Superoxide anion (O2.-) generation, malondialdehyde (MDA) concentration and electrolyte leakage were higher in B-deficient than in control leaves. In conclusion, CO2 assimilation may be feedback-regulated by the excessive accumulation of starch and hexoses in B-deficient leaves via direct interference with chloroplast function and/or indirect repression of photosynthetic enzymes. Although B-deficient leaves remain high in activity of antioxidant enzymes, their antioxidant system as a whole does not provide sufficient protection from oxidative damage. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

• A new fluorescence method was developed for the MPD determination. • The proposed method had a wide linear range of 10–600 μg L−1. • A low detection limit of 4 μg L−1 was obtained. • The method was successfully applied for detecting MPD in real samples. This work presented a new fluorescence method for the determination of m-phenylenediamine (MPD) based on the reaction between MPD and acetylacetone. The formed compound Hacac-MPD exhibited strong blue fluorescence emission under 365 nm excitation. Its fluorescence intensity had an excellent correlation with the MPD concentration Under the optimal conditions, the developed method gave a linear range of 10–600 μg L−1 with a low detection limit of 4 μg L−1. Furthermore, the coexistence of common inorganic ions and other aromatic amines had hardly influence on the determination of MPD, demonstrating high selectivity. Additionally, the MPD in spiked water samples and hair dye samples was successfully detected by the developed method, and the recoveries were 97.5%-101.6% and 98.3%-98.9%, respectively. The established method exhibited a good application prospect for the determination of MPD in environment and daily necessities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Pseudomonas aeruginosa is a major opportunistic pathogen in immune-compromised individuals and cystic fibrosis patients. This organism stimulates a complex inflammatory response in the lung, including production of various cytokines and chemokines. The specific contribution of these mediators in the host defense against this bacterium has yet to be fully characterized. Interleukin-12 (IL-12) is commonly known as a master regulator of innate and adaptive immunity. IL-12 induces its biological effects through its associated intracellular signaling molecule, the signal transducer and activator of transcription 4 (STAT4). To examine a specific role of IL-12 and STAT4 in P. aeruginosa lung infection in mice, STAT4-deficient (STAT4−/−) and IL-12 p40-deficient (IL-12 p40−/−) mice were infected with P. aeruginosa intranasally. Interestingly, STAT4−/− mice, but not IL-12 p40−/− mice after 24h infection showed impaired production of the pro-inflammatory cytokines tumor necrosis factor, interleukin-1β, and macrophage-inflammatory protein-2. However, neither STAT4 nor IL-12 p40 deficiency significantly affected INFγ production or bacterial clearance compared to wild-type mice. Similarly, neutrophil recruitment was not affected in the STAT4−/− and IL-12 p40−/− mice. These results suggest that STAT4 contributes to P. aeruginosa-induced inflammation, but it is not essential for bacterial clearance. Although IL-12 is essential for the host defense against various pathogens, this cytokine is likely not a major player in the host response to P. aeruginosa lung infection. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Stem cell factor (SCF) is not only critical for mast cell development, but also an important mast cell functional regulator. However, roles of transcription factors involved in SCF-induced effects remain incompletely defined. Early growth response factor-1 (Egr-1) is a member of zinc-finger transcription factor family. Mouse bone marrow-derived mast cells (BMMC) were used to examine a role of Egr-1 in SCF-induced mast cell activation and growth. SCF induced a strong and rapid expression of Egr-1 mRNA as tested by real-time PCR analysis. SCF-induced Egr-1 nuclear translocation and DNA binding were demonstrated by electrophoretic mobility shift assay (EMSA) and immunofluorescence assay. To examine if Egr-1 is required for SCF-induced IL-13 expression, Egr-1-deficient BMMC were used. Levels of SCF-induced IL-13 mRNA and protein were reduced in Egr-1 deficient BMMC when compared with wild-type BMMC. Although Egr-1 is required for macrophage and lymphocyte development, SCF-induced mast cells growth was not affected by Egr-1 deficiency. Interestingly, SCF-induced Egr activation was blocked by a tyrosine kinase inhibitor PP2, suggesting a role of tyrosine phosphorylation in SCF-induced Egr-1 activation. Taken together, our results suggest that Egr-1 is required for SCF-induced IL-13 expression, but not mast cell growth. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: In this paper, for the first time, polypyrrole-coated electrospun nanofibre mats have been used as separation membranes to electrolessly recover Au from aqueous [Au(III)Cl4]− solutions, based on a continuous-flow membrane separation process. With a [Au(III)Cl4]− solution passing through the nanofibre membrane, the Au(III) ions were converted into elemental Au. The gold recovered was deposited on the nanofibre membranes in the form of Au particles, as confirmed by EDX and XPS measurements. It has been found that the polypyrrole-coated electrospun nanofibres are good candidate membrane material for the recovery of Au, and the recovery efficiency is affected by the membrane thickness, the permeate flux rate and the initial [Au(III)Cl4]− concentration. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Background: Genetic factors that influence subjective responses to drug use (such as euphoria) contribute to the risk of addiction. μ-opioid receptor is the molecular target of heroin mediating its effects in both pain relief and euphoria. Methods: To evaluate the association of μ-opioid receptor gene (OPRM1) variants with heroin-induced positive responses on first use, we studied 336 Chinese Han heroin addicts recruited in Shanghai and divided heroin addicts into two groups (positive vs. negative) according to the self-reporting feeling on first use. Association analyses with the genotypes and alleles in nine tagging single nucleotide polymorphisms (tSNPs) in OPRM1 with subjective responses were performed. Similar analysis with haplotypes of these tSNPs was also performed. Results: Allele frequencies of three tSNPs were significantly different between the positive and negative groups. They were rs696522 (odds ratio [OR] = 3.06, p = .0013), rs1381376 (OR = 3.16, p = .0008), and rs3778151 (OR = 3.12, p = .0004). Such association remains after adjustment for demographic covariates and for multiple testing. The subjects with heroin-induced positive responses on first use consumed more drugs than the negative group (Mann-Whitney U = 224.0, Wilcoxon W = 16334.0, p ≤ .0001). Conclusions: Self-reported positive responses on first use of heroin were found to be associated with OPRM1. The findings suggest that heroin-induced positive responses are likely associated with more heroin consumption. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Summary: Small ubiquitin-like modifier (SUMO) modification has emerged as an important posttranslational control of protein functions. Daxx, a transcriptional corepressor, was reported to repress the transcriptional potential of several transcription factors and target to PML oncogenic domains (PODs) via SUMO-dependent interactions. The mechanism by which Daxx binds to sumoylated factors mediating transcriptional and subnuclear compartmental regulation remains unclear. Here, we define a SUMO-interacting motif (SIM) within Daxx and show it to be crucial for targeting Daxx to PODs and for transrepression of several sumoylated transcription factors, including glucocorticoid receptor (GR). In addition, the capability of Daxx SIM to bind SUMO also controls Daxx sumoylation. We further demonstrate that arsenic trioxide-induced sumoylation of PML correlates with a change of endogenous Daxx partitioning from GR-regulated gene promoter to PODs and a relief of Daxx repression on GR target gene expression. Our results provide mechanistic insights into Daxx in SUMO-dependent transcriptional control and subnuclear compartmentalization. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The synthesis of novel [1,2,4]oxadiazoles and their structure–activity relationship (SAR) for the inhibition of tryptase and related serine proteases is presented. Elaboration of the P′-side afforded potent, selective, and orally bioavailable tryptase inhibitors. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Toll-like receptors (TLR) induce distinct patterns of host responses through myeloid differentiation factor 88 (MyD88)-dependent and/or -independent pathways, depending on the nature of the pathogen. Pseudomonas aeruginosa is a cause of serious lung infection in immunocompromised individuals and cystic fibrosis patients. The role of the TLR-MyD88 pathway in P. aeruginosa-induced lung infection in vivo was examined in this study. MyD88-/- mice demonstrated an impaired clearance of P. aeruginosa from the lung. Little or no neutro- phil recruitment was observed in the airways of MyD88-/- mice following P. aeruginosa lung infection. This observation was associated with a reduced production of inflammatory mediators that affect neutrophil recruitment, including macrophage-inflammatory protein-2, tumor necrosis factor, and interleukin-lβ in the airways of MyD88-/- mice. Similarly, MyD88-/- mice showed inhibited NF-κB activation in the lung following P. aeruginosa infection. Interestingly, P. aeruginosa infection induced a 7.5-fold increase of TLR2 mRNA expression in the lungs of MyD88+/+ mice. Furthermore, host responses to P. aeruginosa lung infection in TLR2-/- and TLR4 mutant mice were partially inhibited compared with the responses of respective control mice. Taken together, our results indicate that the MyD88-dependent pathway is essential for the development of early host responses to P. aeruginosa infection, leading to the clearance of this bacterium, and that TLR2 and TLR4 are involved in this process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A decrease in the bioavailability of endothelium-derived nitric oxide (NO) is linked to hypercholesterolemia. However, the mechanism by which low density lipoprotein (LDL) mediates endothelial NO synthase (eNOS) dysfunction remains controversial. We investigate the effect of LDL on eNOS regulation in human endothelial cells (ECs). In cultured ECs, a high level of LDL increased the abundance of eNOS and caveolin-1 (Cav-1) in the membrane caveolae and the association of eNOS with Cav-1. Furthermore, it decreased the basal level of NO and blocked NO production stimulated by the calcium ionophore A23187. LDL exposure also increased the formation of stress fibers and the membrane translocation of eNOS. These effects can be blocked by cytochalasin D, an actin cytoskeleton disruptor. In revealing the mechanism underlying the translocation of eNOS, we found that a high level of LDL increased the level of membrane-associated and GTP-formed RhoA and activated the RhoA downstream kinase ROCK-1 activity. Y-27632, a specific inhibitor of ROCK-1, blocked LDL-induced stress fiber formation, eNOS translocation and NO production. In conclusion, a high level of LDL increases the movement of eNOS to membrane caveolae via the increased stress fibers. The RhoA-mediated pathway may play a crucial role in this process in vascular ECs. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

We have expressed libraries of peptides in mammalian cells to select for trans-dominant effects on intracellular signaling systems. As an example?and to reveal pharmacologically relevant points in pathways that lead to Taxol resistance?we selected for peptide motifs that confer resistance to Taxol-induced cell death. Of several peptides selected, one, termed RGP8.5, was linked to upregulation of expression of the gene ABCB1 (also known as MDR1, for multiple drug resistance) in HeLa cells. Our data indicate that trans-dominant effector peptides can point to potential mechanisms by which signaling systems operate. Such tools may be useful in functional genomic analysis of signaling pathways in mammalian disease processes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The title compound, [Co(C7H4NO4)2(H2O)4], consists of one cobalt cation, two 4-hydroxy­pyridine-2,6-dicarboxyl­ate ligands, and four coordinated water mol­ecules. The geometry around the cobalt(II) cation, which is located on a centre of inversion, is distorted octa­hedral. The four coordinated water mol­ecules and the hydroxyl atoms from the ligand form inter­molecular hydrogen bonds, resulting in a three-dimensional supra­molecular network. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The analytical performance of immunochromatographic assay (ICA) is usually determined by the biological activity of antibody and gold nanoparticle conjugates (AuNP probes). However, conventional probes are constructed using the nondirectional coupling method that can cause the improper orientation of antibodies with the poor accessibility of antigen-binding sites. To address these issues, we report a site-specific directional coupling strategy to enhance the bioactivity of AuNP probes through the specific covalent binding of the aldehyde group in the Fc domain of antibodies with the hydrazide group modified on the surface of AuNPs. Through this design, the antibodies can be erected on the AuNP surface to fully expose the Fab domain and achieve the maximized functional availability. Leveraging these AuNP probes as ICA labels, we demonstrate an improved detection of the hepatitis B surface antigen with less used amount of labeled antibody (0.2 mg/pmol AuNPs), shorter reaction time (10 min), better antibody bioactivity, and higher detection sensitivity (2 ng/mL) compared with the carbodiimide method. Overall, this work provides great promise for the design and the construction of high-performance probes to enhance the detection performance of ICA sensors. [Display omitted] • Hydrazide-assisted directional antibody conjugation was executed to erect the antibodies on the surface of AuNPs. • The enhanced bioactivity of AuNP probes can effectively improve the detection performance of strips. • This method could be readily adapted to synthesize other biofunctional nanoprobes in point-of-care diagnostic applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Core-shell Ag/SiO 2 @ c TiO 2 is constructed for select photoreduction of nitrate to N 2. • Excellent performance was achieved by synergistic effect of light scattering and SPR. • Ag act as electron sink for promotion of charge carriers separation and transfer. • SPR effect of Ag enhance the photogenerated electrons density of Ag/SiO 2 @ c TiO 2. • e cb − is transferred from TiO 2 -shell to Ag for prevention of its oxidation to Ag+. Photocatalytic denitrification has attracted great attention owing to its high efficiency and environmentally friendly features. However, selectively photocatalytic reduction of high concentration nitrate to N 2 is still a challenging problem due to the competition of photons between nitrate and photocatalysts. Herein, the Ag/SiO 2 core encapsulated in the crystalline TiO 2 shell (Ag/SiO 2 @ c TiO 2) was constructed for improvement of photocatalytic denitrification. Finite difference time domain (FDTD) simulation demonstrated that strong light scattering improved light harvesting via optical confinement. Meanwhile, surface plasmon resonance and electron sink effect of Ag not only enhanced the photogenerated electrons density but also promoted charge carriers separation of Ag/SiO 2 @ c TiO 2. More importantly, e cb − of TiO 2 -shell could be immediately transferred to Ag to keep the balance between Ag0 and Ag+, which contributed to the good stability of Ag/SiO 2 @ c TiO 2. 95.8% nitrate (C 0 = 2000 mg/L) was removed by 5 wt%Ag/SiO 2 @ c TiO 2 with N 2 selectivity of 93.6% within 4 h. Even after five cycles, 5 wt%Ag/SiO 2 @ c TiO 2 still remained high photocatalytic denitrification efficiency (92.2%). Notably, since TiO 2 -shell prevented the reaction between Ag and Cl−, more than 92% nitrate could be removed within 5.3 h in the presence of high concentration Cl−. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, we report a novel, unusual catalytic system that can efficiently catalyze the cycloaddition of CO 2 with propylene oxide to form propylene carbonate in a mild solvent-free condition based on the combination of detonation nanodiamond (DND) and potassium iodide (KI). When the reaction was carried out at 0.8 MPa pressure and 90 °C for 6 h, the reaction catalyzed by DND-KI (e.g. 1.0 mol% KI relative to propylene oxide(PO), DND: KI = 0.8:1 wt/wt) has a yield as high as 96.4%, which is much higher than that catalyzed by DND with other substances such as potassium bromide, potassium chloride, tetrabutylammonium iodide, and 1-butyl-3-methylimidazolium iodide. DND-KI also shows a higher catalytic reaction yield than the catalyst systems from other carbon nanomaterials such as graphene, carbon nanotube and nanodiamond prepared by a high-pressure high-temperature method. The DND-KI has an excellent service life. After ten cycles of reaction, it has almost no loss in catalytic activity. DND-KI is also applicable to the cycloaddition of CO 2 with other epoxides. We further show that the excellent catalysis capability of DND-KI originates from the special subsidiary functional groups (e.g. hydroxyl and carboxyl groups) that the DND possesses and a synergetic effect between those functional groups and KI during the reaction. The large specific surface area and porous structure also facilitate the reaction. [Display omitted] • Detonation nanodiamond(DND)-KI was developed to catalyze the CO 2 -epoxide cycloaddition under relatively mild solvent-free condition. • Excellent synergetic effect takes place between DND and KI. • DND-KI shows no apparent loss of activity after ten cycles of reaction and exhibits excellent stability and reusability. • The activation energy for the DND-KI involved reaction was calculated and a possible mechanism was proposed [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fiber-shaped supercapacitors are an essential component for making wearable electronics and smart textiles. Despite the significant progress in this area, it is still a challenge to develop large capacitance, high energy density fiber-shaped supercapacitors for energy storage applications. Herein, we report a unique core-sheath fiber comprising graphene core and radially-aligned tungsten disulfide sheath via a one-step hydrothermal method. Two such fibers were used as electrodes for making an all solid fiber-shaped supercapacitor. This device has an areal capacitance as large as 270.36 mF cm−2 and volumetric capacitance as high as 54.07 F cm−3 (energy density 16.86 μWh cm−2). The graphene core ensures the fiber to have high conductivity, while the sheath nanosheet array creates numerous active sites and enables fast ion diffusion. The electrode material with a high capacitance, long-term stability, and excellent flexibility may form a novel candidate for the development of high-performance energy storage fibers. Image 1 • A rGOF@WS 2 core-sheath fiber was synthesized via a one-step hydrothermal method. • The flexible fiber-shaped supercapacitor with rGOF@WS 2 core-sheath electrodes has high capacitance and energy. • The high performance is due to the unique core-sheath structure and synergistic effects of graphene and WS 2. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Magnesium deficiency induces leaf chlorosis, leaf curling and impaired growth of C.sinensis seedlings. • Magnesium deficiency upregulates the relative abundances of most monosaccharides and amino acids in C.sinensis leaves. • Magnesium deficiency decreases the relative abundances of most pigment compounds and organic acids in C.sinensis leaves. In south China, Magnesium (Mg) deficiency is commonly found in Citrus orchard due to soil acidification. However, less information is available discussing the global metabolic profile of Mg-deficient leaves in Citrus species. In the study, seedlings of 'Xuegan' [ Citrus sinensis (L.) Osbeck] were treated with Mg-plus (2 mM, as Control) or Mg-deficiency (0 mM) for 16 weeks by sandy culture, respectively. The untargeted metabolomics based on UHPLC-Q-TOF/MS were investigated to reveal the metabolic responses to Mg-deficiency in leaves of C. sinensis. The results indicated severe growth inhibition and obvious leaf chlorosis in Mg-deficient seedlings of C. sinensis compared to control. The principal component analysis (PCA) and orthogonal partial least squares-discriminate analysis (OPLS-DA) on the LC/GC data demonstrated a clear discrimination between the profiles of metabolites in control leaves and Mg-deficient leaves of C.sinensis. Besides, the identification and classification of those differential expressed metabolites (DEMs) revealed Mg-deficiency upregulated relative abundances of 78.42 % lipids and lipid-like molecules. In contrast, Mg-deficiency downregulated 89.42 % phenylpropanoids and polyketides in leaves of C.sinensis. Remarkably, relative abundances of most monosaccharides and amino acids increased while relative abundances of most leaf pigment compounds and organic acids decreased in response to Mg-deficiency in C. sinensis leaves. Those results support both primary and secondary metabolic modifications in C. sinensis leaves exposed to Mg-deficiency. Overall, the findings of present study contribute to a better understanding on the metabolic changes of Mg-deficient Citrus species, which will provide references for nutrient management and quality control in Citrus production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Eu3+ and Tb3+ doped LaBO3 nanofibers have been prepared by electrospinning of a precursor solution that was prepared by a Pechini process and subsequent calcination treatment. The resulting nanofibers were characterized by X-Ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and photoluminescence (PL). The XRD result indicated that the electrospun nanofibers could crystallize into orthorhombic aragonite-type LaBO3 at 750°C. The SEM results showed that the precursor fiber shrank to less than 100nm during the calcination treatment. Compared with the powder sample, the luminescent LaBO3:Eu3+ (Tb3+) nanofibers have stronger luminescence intensity and longer luminescence decay times and are expected to be used for optical detector and full-color display devices. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

A novel, tough, transparent, self-healing POSS nanocomposite material was prepared through a thermally reversible Diels–Alder (DA) reaction between furan-end functionalized POSS and bismaleimide. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Carbon nanofibers from electrospun polymer nanofibers have received considerable attention. However, most of the carbon nanofibers with a surface area above 1000 m2/g were reported to have a supercapacitor electrode capacitance far below 350 F g−1. Herein, we report a novel carbon nanofibrous material that has a supercapacitor electrode capacitance as high as 394 F g−1 (1.0 A g−1). We used a polymer blend of polyacrylonitrile (PAN) and novolac (NOC) as materials, to electrospin them into precursor nanofibers and subsequently carbonize the nanofibers into carbon nanofibers. The carbon nanofibers prepared had a specific surface area as high as 1468 m2 g−1 with a meso-micro pores (average pore size 2.2 nm) predominated porous structure. The carbon nanofiber electrodes after 10,000 cycles of charging and discharging at 1.0 A g−1 maintained the capacitance almost unchanged. At the optimal condition, the supercapacitor device made of the electrodes had an energy density as high as 13.6 Wh∙kg−1 (at 0.5 kW kg−1). The high capacitance value comes from the carbon nanofibers with a large surface area and a unique porous structure. The high inter-fiber interconnection contributes to high capacitance. This super-high surface area carbon may be useful for the development of high-performance supercapacitors and other energy devices. Image 1 • Carbon nanofibers are prepared from electrospun polyacrylonitrile/novolac. • They contain micro-mese pores with a surface area as high as 1468 m2 g−1. • Electrodes made from the carbon nanofibers show a capacitance of 394 F g−1. • High capacitance originates from the unique structure and large surface area. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A durable biphilic surface was constructed on cellulose filter paper via atmospheric air plasma, which was integrated into the self-designed circulating filtration system. The water-amino attraction and oil-alkyl attraction would synergistically destabilize the surfactant-stabilized emulsion and separate the two phases. The filtration efficiency reached 99.13% and the oil recovery purity exceeded 99.98 wt%. • Atmospheric air plasma was first used to construct biphilic surface on filter paper. • Multi-scale wettable structure was fabricated by plasma-induced polymerization. • The biphilic surface exhibited excellent separation performance for emulsions. • The plasma-fabricated biphilic surface was very durable and stable. A novel method to prepare durable biphilic surface on cellulose filter paper by atmospheric air plasma treatment is reported. The as-prepared sample possessed excellent separation performance for surfactant-stabilized water-in-oil emulsions, of which the filtration efficiency reached 99.13% and the oil recovery purity exceeded 99.98 wt%. The hydrophobic surface with microscale hierarchical structure was constructed with long-chain alkyl silane and SiO 2 nanoparticles via plasma-induced crosslinking, on which amino-grafted SiO 2 nanoparticles was then fixed through plasma-induced chemical bonding. The water-amino attraction and oil-alkyl attraction would synergistically destabilize the emulsion and hence separate the two phases. The plasma-fabricated coating was very durable against ultrasonication in acetone and can be stored for 12 months without aging. The coating also exhibited excellent recyclability (over 20 cycles). The study may offer a facile, environment-friendly method to prepare filtering materials for highly efficient separation of water-in-oil emulsions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The mitigation of self-corrosion of commercial AA5052 Al alloy anode for alkaline Al-air batteries has been investigated using hydrogen evolution test and electrochemical measurement. The hybrid additives of 8-aminoquinoline (8-AQ) and zinc oxide (ZnO) exhibit excellent synergistic inhibition effect. Also, the electrochemical activity of Al anode is also substantially improved. Scanning electron microscope (SEM) and X-ray energy-dispersive spectrometer (EDS) are served for analyzing the surface topography of Al anode before and after discharge. Fourier transform infrared spectra are applied to reveal the synergistic mechanism of hybrid additives. The retardation of the hydrogen evolution by the hybrid additives is due to the formation of a compound protective film on the Al surface. The film can effectively enhance the discharge performance of Al anode and keep anodic utilization as high as 90.8%. Unlabelled Image • 8-AQ and ZnO are used as hybrid additives to retard self-corrosion of Al anode. • 8-AQ can suppress hydrogen evolution of Al anode in alkaline electrolyte. • 8-AQ coordinates with Zn2+/Al3+ ions to enhance the effect of ZnO in alkaline electrolyte. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cellulose nanofiber (CNF) is obtained from cellulose resources (e.g., natural cellulose, bacterial cellulose, etc.) and is considered to be a low-cost, green and inexhaustible material. The impressive optical, mechanical, and thermal properties of this material have aroused great interest in fabricating of flexible electronic devices based on CNF. Hereby, the CNF/Bi 2 Te 3 thermoelectric composite films are fabricated using a facile vacuum filtration method. Subsequently, n-type and p-type films composed of this composite materials are used as legs to assemble thermoelectric generator (TEG) prototype. Besides, these composite films exhibit excellent mechanical flexibility and the electrical conductivity of the CNF/Bi 2 Te 3 film only decreases by 8% after 1000 bending cycles. And the contact angle of the polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) solution and alkylketene dimmer (AKD) emulsion co-treated film is as high as 150.7°, which has superhydrophobic properties. The TEG prototype consists of five p-n legs. At a temperature gradient of 60 K, the output voltage of the TEG prototype is 22.34 mV and the output power is 561 nW. This work not only proves the great potential of CNF application in flexible thermoelectric (TE) materials, but also promotes robust development of cellulose-based electronics. Image 1 • A flexible, super-hydrophobic cellulose-based TE film is fabricated. • The dispersivity and flexibility of the inorganic TE material are improved by using BC nanofibers as dispersant and binder. • The cellulose-based TEG has been proven to have high output performance and mechanical stability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Correction for 'A facile deoxyuridine/biotin-modified molecular beacon for simultaneous detection of proteins and nucleic acids via a label-free and background-eliminated fluorescence assay' by Fei Yin, et al., Analyst, 2019, 144, 5504–5510, DOI: 10.1039/C9AN01016E. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]