Search

Background: Monoterpenes are among the most important volatile aromatic compounds contributing to the flavor and aroma of grapes and wine. However, the molecular basis of monoterpene biosynthesis has not yet been fully elucidated. Results: In our study, transcriptomics and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) were used to mine candidate genes and transcription factors involved in monoterpene biosynthesis between high-monoterpene and zero-monoterpene table grape cultivars. We found that monoterpene biosynthesis was positively correlated by the expression of five genes encoding 1-deoxy-D-xylulose-5-phosphate synthase (VvDXSs), one encoding 4-hydroxy-3-methylbut-2-enyl diphosphate reductase (VvHDR), three hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl-CoA synthases (VvHMGSs) and one mevalonate kinase (VvMVK), whereas the expression of one isopentenyl diphosphate isomerase (VvIDI) and one 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl-CoA reductase (VvHMGR) negatively correlated monoterpene biosynthesis. Of these genes, VvIDI was selected to validate its function in monoterpene accumulation through a transient overexpression experiment, and was shown to inhibit the biosynthesis of grape linalool and α-terpineol. Meanwhile, we found that a 64-amino acid extension sequence at the N-terminus can guide the VvIDI protein to target the chloroplast. Conclusions: The findings of this study should help to guide future functional analysis of key genes as well as mining the potential regulatory mechanism of monoterpene biosynthesis in grapes and grape products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Respiration is an important physiological process of the human body and can assess an individual's health status. Humidity detection is an effective method for real‐time breath monitoring. Herein, the α‐Co(OH)2‐based quartz crystal microbalance humidity sensor (Co‐QCM sensor) is prepared via the hydrothermal method. The Co‐QCM sensor is characterized by scanning electron microscopy, Fourier‐transform infrared, and X‐ray diffraction. The α‐Co(OH)2 with hierarchical nanostructure and hydroxy functional groups leads to good humidity‐sensing performance. The Co‐QCM sensor exhibits high sensitivity (23.1 Hz/% relative humidity), fast response and recovery times (within 3 and 4 s, respectively), high linearity (R2 = 0.994), and long‐term stability (≈30 days) in the humidity range of 4–73.3%. In addition, different human breathing signals, including free breathing, shallow breathing, and deep breathing, can be detected and distinguished by this humidity sensor, showing the potential application in human respiratory detection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Detection and conversion of mechanical forces into biochemical signals is known as mechanotransduction. From cells to tissues, mechanotransduction regulates migration, proliferation, and differentiation in processes such as immune responses, development, and cancer progression. Mechanosensitive structures such as integrin adhesions, the actin cortex, ion channels, caveolae, and the nucleus sense and transmit forces. In vitro approaches showed that mechanosensing is based on force-dependent protein deformations and reorganizations. However, the mechanisms in cells remained unclear since cell imaging techniques lacked molecular resolution. Thanks to recent developments in super-resolution microscopy (SRM) and molecular force sensors, it is possible to obtain molecular insight of mechanosensing in live cells. We discuss how understanding of molecular mechanotransduction was revolutionized by these innovative approaches, focusing on integrin adhesions, actin structures, and the plasma membrane. Mechanotransduction is involved in a variety of cell and tissue processes. For this, mechanosensitive structures, such as integrin adhesions, the cytoskeleton, or the plasma membrane, are key to sense, integrate, and transmit mechanical forces. Novel imaging methods and molecular sensors have unveiled how molecular mechanosensing occurs in these structures within the context of live cells. These include super-resolution imaging, single particle tracking, and molecular force sensors. Super-resolution microscopy and single protein tracking have revealed the 3D nanoscale organization and dynamics of integrin adhesion structures in various cell types, which are divided into functional nanolayers with specific paths for protein diffusion. Forces on actin regulators and F-actin trigger conformational changes controlling actin regulator function and binding, and therefore F-actin assembly and architecture. In migrating cells, mechanical plasticity emerges from global geometrical reorganization of actin networks under loads, or forces from elongating actin filaments controlling locally actin regulators dynamics and functions. Cell surface mechanics are emerging as a key parameter controlling cell motility, division, and differentiation. Variations in cortical tension and membrane-to-cortex attachment regulate the timing of differentiation while the nanoscale architecture of the actin cortex is linked to cortical tension. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: Fosfomycin resistance has become a clinical concern. In this study, we analysed the dynamic change of fosfomycin MIC in the epidemic Staphylococcus aureus lineages in a teaching hospital in Shanghai for 12 years and sought to elucidate the major underlying mechanisms.Methods: MLST was conducted for 4580 S. aureus isolates recovered from 2008 to 2019. Fosfomycin MIC was determined by the agar dilution method. The genome data of 230 S. aureus epidemic lineage isolates were acquired from a next-generation sequencing (NGS) platform. Gene deletion and corresponding complementation mutants were constructed to confirm the mechanism of fosfomycin resistance.Results: The predominant S. aureus lineages during the past 12 years were ST5 and ST239 (45.6%; 2090/4580). However, ST5 has been spreading clinically, while ST239 has gradually disappeared recently. Consistent with epidemic trends, fosfomycin-resistant ST5 increased from 19.5% to 67.3%. Most fosfomycin-resistant ST5 isolates (92.7%; 647/698) possessed high-level resistance (MIC > 1024 mg/L) with combined mutations mainly in glpT and uhpT. In contrast, fosfomycin-resistant ST239 isolates (76.8%; 149/194) mainly acquired low-level resistance (MIC = 64-128 mg/L) with mutation primarily in hptA. Deletion of a single resistant gene merely resulted in low-level fosfomycin resistance, while double-gene mutants ΔglpTΔuhpT, ΔglpTΔhptA and ΔglpTΔhptR acquired high-level fosfomycin resistance.Conclusions: The high-level fosfomycin resistance of S. aureus epidemic lineage ST5 is mainly due to the accumulation of mutations in the resistant genes related to membrane transporter systems, and partly contributes to its persistent prevalence under clinical antibiotic pressure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The biomechanical regulation of the cytoskeleton and cell adhesions underlies various essential cellular functions. Studying them requires visualizing their nanostructure and molecular dynamics with evermore precise spatio-temporal resolution. In this review we will focus on the recent advances in single molecule fluorescence imaging techniques and discuss how they improve our understanding of mechanically sensitive cellular structures such as adhesions and the cytoskeleton. We will also discuss future directions for research, emphasizing on the 3D nature of cellular structures and tissues, their mechanical regulation at the molecule level, as well as how super-resolution microscopy will enhance our knowledge on protein structure and conformational changes in the cellular context. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Due to the construction of complicated micro-/nanohierarchical structures, designing durable superamphiphobic Al surfaces by a simple, environmentally friendly, and fast method remains a great challenge. In this article, we used a simple and environmentally friendly technique that includes laser marking and water boiling treatment to create triple-scale micro-/nanostructures on 1060 Al surfaces. The as-prepared 1060 Al surfaces revealed excellent superamphiphobicity with low sliding angles, owing to great Cassie state stability after 1H,1H,2H,2H-perfluorodecyltriethoxysilane (FAS-17) modification. The contact angle of the water droplets reaches 160°, and that of peanut oil droplets reaches 155° on this surface. Meanwhile, this superamphiphobic Al surface also possesses excellent self-cleaning ability and oil resistance. Even when entirely immersed in oil sludge, the as-prepared Al surfaces can retain superamphiphobicity. Furthermore, the as-prepared superamphiphobic Al surface demonstrates outstanding chemical stability and endurance in a variety of application environments. In addition, the as-prepared superamphiphobic Al surface offers potential anti-icing and anti-frosting properties. Therefore, the as-prepared superamphiphobic Al surface will be a potential candidate with broad applications in aerospace, construction, and marine industries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As a promising method for local tumor treatment, nanosecond pulsed electric field (nsPEF) ablation elicits a potent anti-tumor immune response. However, the mechanism of the nsPEF-mediated anti-tumor immune response and its effects on the tumor microenvironment remains unclear. Here, we demonstrated that nsPEF treatment increased the level of membrane PD-L1 in liver cancer cells. Furthermore, nsPEF induced the release of PD-L1-associated extra-cellular vesicles, leading to the dysfunction of CD8+ T cells, which could potentially be reversed by PD-L1 blockade. Biological and functional assays also demonstrated that nsPEF treatment resulted in the increased PD-L1 level and dysfunction of infiltrated CD8+ T cells in tumor tissues in vivo, indicating the long term antitumor efficacy of nsPEF treatment. A combination of nsPEF treatment and PD-L1 blockade effectively inhibited tumor growth and improved the survival of the tumor-bearing mouse. In conclusion, nsPEF treatment induced the translocation and release of PD-L1 and contributed to the dysfunction of infiltrated CD8+ T cells, resulting in tumor progression at later stages. The combination of nsPEF treatment and PD-L1 blockade is a promising therapeutic strategy for liver cancer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The LiNi 0.5−x Zn x Mn 1.48 Y 0.02 O 4 (x = 0.01, 0.03, 0.05) series were prepared via a sol-gel method. The mechanism of the Zn2+ and Y3+ co-doping on the structural morphology and Mn3+ ion dissolution, which led to the improved electrochemical performance of the LiNi 0.5 Mn 1.5 O 4 (LNMO) sample, were studied. Compared with the pristine LNMO, Zn-Y co-doping led to increased lattice parameters, morphological evolution, decreased Mn3+ content, and better electrochemical properties. Among all the samples, LiNi 0.47 Zn 0.03 Mn 1.48 Y 0.02 O 4 (0.03ZnY) showed optimal electrochemical properties at room temperature and elevated temperature. After 200 cycles, the 0.03ZnY sample showed excellent cycling performance, i.e., 134.529 mAh g−1 at 1 C (with a capacity retention of 94.7%), which was higher than the pristine sample (104.913 mAh g−1, with a capacity retention of 92.7%). Furthermore, when tested at 1 C, at a high temperature (55 °C), the 2.03Zn-Y sample reached a discharge capacity of 94.004 mAh g−1 and maintained a 79.6% capacity retention after 120 cycles, which was higher than the pristine sample (52.430 mAh g−1, 43.6% capacity retention). • The pristine LNMO and Zn-Y co-doping cathode materials was synthesized via sol-gel method, co-doping did not change the structure of materials, and the lattice parameter of materials increased, enhancing the electrochemical performance. • LiNi 0.47 Zn 0.03 Mn 1.48 Y 0.02 O 4 (0.03ZnY) process the best electrochemical performance, which obtain 134.529 mAh/g at 1 C after 100 cycles at 25 ℃, higher than that of pristine sample(104.913 mAh/g). • Moreover, 0.03ZnY process 94.004 mAh/g at high temperature(55 ℃) at 1 C for 120 cycles, much higher than pristine sample(52.430 mAh/g). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We present a facile, low-cost, and fast method for preparing superamphiphobic surface with water contact angle and rapeseed oil contact angle of 160° and 153° on steel substrate. The fabrication process is composed of the phosphate, Cu co-deposition in phosphating bath and the low surface energy materials modification by 1H,1H,2H,2H-peruorodecyltriisopropoxysilane (FAS-17). Contact angle measurement, X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy equipped with energy-dispersive spectrometry, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, and electrochemical workstation were carried out to investigate the surface wettability, chemical composition, morphology, and anti-corrosion performance. Results show that the optimal CuSO·5HO concentration for the surface to achieve superamphiphobicity is 6 g L, and the prepared surface exhibits excellent mechanical abrasion resistance on 600 grit SiC sand paper. Moreover, the dynamic frosting-defrosting experiments indicated that the surface has a good anti-frosting ability. The potentiodynamic polarization proves that the superhydrophobic surface can protect the steel substrate from corrosion solution. Meanwhile the surface also shows a good chemical stability under different pH values and excellent self-cleaning ability in both muddy water and lubricating oil. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The closure of gaps is crucial to maintaining epithelium integrity during developmental and repair processes such as dorsal closure and wound healing. Depending on biochemical as well as physical properties of the microenvironment, gap closure occurs through assembly of multicellular actin-based contractile cables and/or protrusive activity of cells lining the gap. This review discusses the relative contributions of ‘purse-string’ and cell crawling mechanisms regulated by cell–substrate and cell–cell interactions, cellular mechanics and physical constraints from the environment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Superhydrophobic nano Cu/Al 2 O 3 Ni–Cr composited coating with a low adhesive force was deposited onto the Q345 carbon steel via electro-brush plating. Surface morphologies of nano Cu/Al 2 O 3 Ni–Cr composited coating were investigated by scanning electron microscope (SEM). Chemical compositions were characterized by energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS). First of all, by adjusting different process parameters such as working voltage, relative velocity, Cu particles concentration and plating time, we obtain the most optimal parameters: working voltage is 15 V, relative velocity is 4.8 m/min, Cu particles concentration is 5 g/L and plating time is 60 s. Under the best process parameters, the water contact angle reaches to 156° and a sliding angle is less than 2° on the nano Cu/Al 2 O 3 Ni–Cr coating. Then the mechanism of the superhydrophobic and low adhesion characteristic of this surface were explained by Cassie's model. Low adhesive force can be characterized by max rebound height of water droplet. As a result, to achieve low adhesive surface it is necessary to decrease the fraction of the solid/liquid interface under the water droplet. Finally the coating was proved to have an excellent self-cleaning performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ni-Co coating or texturing surface has been studied extensively to improve the anti-friction ability of the surface. In this paper, we combine the advantages of Ni-Co coating and textured surface, and then use a simple, novel and easily controlled method to fabricate a series of micro/nanoprotrusions on the Ni-Co coating surface. The nanotribology properties were characterized by AFM. The result shows that the micro/nanotextured surface significantly reduced the friction forces compared with the original Ni-Co coating surface. The half-ellipsoid patterns have better tribology properties than half-hemispherical patterns. Both laser power and laser scanning speed were found to influence the friction performances. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We demonstrate the formation of micro/nanoparticles and nanogratings on the zinc surface induced by a 150 fs, 775 nm laser. The nanoprotrusions or nanocavities of different sizes were fabricated by different laser pulses and laser fluences. A smaller nanoprotrusion or nanocavity can be produced by a smaller number of laser pulses and lower laser fluences. Also we report the formation of nanogratings and micro/nanoparticles when the laser beam scans the zinc surface. We observe a composite structure with nanogratings and microparticles on the zinc surface when the laser fluence is 0.3 J/cm. This phenomenon proves that the process of transformation from microparticles to nanogratings is a dynamic processing. Therefore, the use of femtosecond-laser ablation of zinc surfaces may be considered as an efficient technology to obtain various micro/nanostructures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Superhydrophobic PLA surface can be prepared by a one-step spraying methods. • The as-prepared PLA fabric can be used for continuous oil-water separation. • The as-prepared PLA fabric can separate oil-water mixtures under harsh environments. • The as-prepared PLA fabric exhibits outstanding environmental and mechanical stability. Various types of functional materials incorporating superhydrophobic components have been rapidly developed for efficient oil/water separation. The post-processing of these used separated materials remains a challenging problem due to their non-biodegradable characteristics in natural environments, thus easily contributing to secondary contamination. Herein, we report a biodegradable superhydrophobic PLA fabric with hierarchical coral-like micro/nano structures by a one-step spraying method. The as-prepared PLA fabric was found to be both superhydrophobic and superoleophilic with a static water contact angle of 161 ± 2° and an oil contact angle of 0°. In addition, the as-prepared PLA nonwoven fabrics also revealed efficient continuous oil separation efficiency (>97.5%) and tiny water droplet collection efficiency, as well as high oil flux ranging from 2239 L·m−2·h−1 to 59,713 L·m−2·h−1. Furthermore, these fabrics retained their inherent wetting property and oil separation ability in a variety of acidic and basic solutions, 3.5 wt% NaCl solution, hot (100 °C), and freezing (0 °C) temperatures. This study provides a novel and environmentally friendly method for preparing biodegradable oil–water separation materials with green post-treatment characteristics when compared to the non-biodegradable separation materials, indicating potential applications in the fields of green water treatment and petroleum refining. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The CD47–signal regulatory protein α (SIRPα) axis inhibits dendritic cell (DC) phagocytosis and contributes to immune evasion. However, the behaviour of DCs and the potential crosstalk between DCs and natural killer (NK) cells in the hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) microenvironment after CD47 blockade remain unclear. The infiltration of CD103+ DCs and NK cells were analysed by immunohistochemistry and immunofluorescence in both human and murine HCC specimens. An orthotopic liver tumour model was used to evaluate the function of the CD103+ DC–NK cell axis after CD47 blockade in vivo in wild-type, Rag1 -/- , Batf3 -/- , and STING1 -/- mice. Phagocytosis assays were performed in CD103+ DC and HCC cell lines. CD103+ DC-derived cytokines were analysed by chemokine array. Spleen-derived NK cells in C57BL/6J mice were used to evaluate cytotoxic functions in vitro. Higher CD47 expression was associated with worse prognosis in patients with HCC. CD47 blockade enhanced antitumour efficacy by stimulating the CD103+ DC–NK cell axis. The hypoxic microenvironment promoted CD47 blockade-induced tumour DNA phagocytosis by CD103+ DCs. By releasing IL-12 and CXCL9, activated CD103+ DCs induced the recruitment of NK cells with upregulated expression of granzyme B, NKG2D, interferon-γ, and tumour necrosis factor-α and downregulated expression of NKG2A. The antitumour effects of CD47 blockade could be abolished by cyclic GMP–AMP synthase (cGAS)–STING pathway inhibition. In addition to the classical DC–T cell axis, CD47 blockade significantly enhanced the ability of CD103+ DCs to take up tumour DNA, resulting in the stimulation of the cGAS–STING pathway, which promoted the infiltration and activation of NK cells in liver cancer. Hypoxia (low oxygen levels) is prevalent in the hepatocellular carcinoma microenvironment and promotes the phagocytosis (ingestion and elimination) of tumour DNA by CD103+ dendritic cells (a type of immune cell). Blockade of the cell surface protein CD47 resulted in activation of CD103+ dendritic cells which led to the recruitment and activation of natural killer cells (a different immune cell). When activated, these cells exhibit an antitumour effect. [Display omitted] • CD47-blockade enhances antitumour efficacy by triggering the CD103+ DC–NK cell axis in HCC. • CD47 blockade promotes CD103+ DC phagocytosis in synergy with hypoxia. • CD103+ DC-derived IL-12 and CXCL9 are responsible for NK cell activation and recruitment. • The intrinsic activation of the cGAS–STING pathway of CD103+ DC facilitates NK cell activation and recruitment in CD47 blockade. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: This study aims to prevent the sharp decline in the load-carrying capacity of lubricating oil film under harsh conditions of abrupt changes in friction interface temperature, which is a major challenge in lubrication technology. Design/methodology/approach: In this paper, we synthesized a series of silver pyrazole methylpyridine complexes containing a high metal concentration and minimal supporting organic ligands (complex 1 [Ag(LMe)]2(BF4)2, complex 2 [Ag(Li-Pr)n](BF4)n and complex 3 [Ag(LMe)(NO3)]2). The thermal decompose behavior of as-prepared silver complex was investigated by thermogravimetric analysis and X-ray photoelectron spectrometry (XPS). Four-ball friction testers were used to evaluate the friction and wear properties of lubricating oil in the temperature ranges associated with the operation of modern heavy machinery. Findings: The complex decomposed silver particles at high-temperature, which could fill the pits on the friction surface, change the wear form of the friction pair and reduce the roughness of the friction surface. Reduction in both friction coefficients and wear scar diameters was obtained by adding silver complexes in oil. The lubricating oil, with the additive content of 1.5 Wt.%, has the best tribological performance, moreover, the lubricating performance of the silver complexes in oil were correlated with their concentration and thermal decomposed temperatures, respectively. Originality/value: As a result, a series of silver pyrazole methylpyridine complexes as oil additives can support friction and wear reduction under abrupt high-temperature conditions are intended to be a controllable backup lubricant additive. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With its advantages of high transmission accuracy, dependable operation and high efficiency, gear transmission is the most significant and widely used type of mechanical transmission. It is used extensively in aerospace, machinery, transportation, instrument manufacturing and other industries. However, the relative sliding friction between the meshing tooth surfaces will produce a lot of heat, which will not only lower the transmission efficiency but also lead to failures like gluing and pitting of the gear teeth. Combined with the domestic and international research progress in gear thermal analysis, three aspects of theoretical calculation, numerical simulation and experimental research of gear transmission thermal analysis are analyzed, and key research directions are proposed. The analysis results show that the current methods of gear transmission system thermal analysis have their different advantages and disadvantages. The integration of multiple methods and improvement of existing technologies are expected to be one of the key research focuses in this field in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Holliday junction recognition protein (HJURP) has been implicated in many cancers including hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). However, the underlying mechanism by which HJURP promotes HCC cell proliferation remains unclear. Methods: RT-qPCR and immunohistochemistry were used to detect HJURP expression in HCC and adjacent tumor tissues and HCC cell lines. The localization of p21 were determined by immunofluorescence and western blot. Co-immunoprecipitation and western blot were used to validate the p21 stability and signaling pathways affected by HJURP. The effects of HJURP on HCC cell proliferation were assessed both in vivo and in vitro. The ERK1/2 pathway inhibitor U0126 and AKT pathway agonist SC-79 were used to treat HCC cell lines for further mechanistic investigations. Results: HJURP expression was higher in HCC tissues than in para-tumor tissues. Moreover, ectopic HJURP expression facilitated the proliferation of HCC cells, whereas the depletion of HJURP resulted in decreased cell growth in vitro and in vivo. Furthermore, the effects of HJURP silencing were reversed by p21 knockdown. Likewise, p21 overexpression inhibited cell growth ability mediated by HJURP elevation. Mechanistically, HJURP destabilized p21 via the MAPK/ERK1/2 and AKT/GSK3β pathways, which regulated the nucleus-cytoplasm translocation and ubiquitin-mediated degradation of p21. Clinically, high HJURP expression was correlated with unfavorable prognoses in HCC individuals. Conclusions: Our data revealed that HJURP is an oncogene that drives cell cycle progression upstream of p21 in HCC. These findings may provide a potential therapeutic and prognostic target for HCC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Abdominal penetrating aortic ulcer (aPAU) is defined as an ulceration of the aortic intima and media lamina, even with rupture of the internal elastic lamina. Recently, there have been an increasing number of publications on endovascular treatment for aPAU. This review aimed to assess the efficacy and safety of endovascular treatment and provide clinicians with the latest evidence-based medical data. Methods: 3 academic databases (Embase, PubMed, and Scopus) were systematically searched for literature reporting on aPAU from 1986 (the earliest appearance of the concept of aPAU) to September 1, 2021, and related data were collected and evaluated. A fixed/random effects model was used to construct the forest plots. Funnel plots and linear regression tests were used to assess the publication bias. Results: 6 articles including 121 patients were included in the analysis. The average age was 71.4 years, with 72.7% of males and 85.6% with hypertension. Saccular aneurysms (SA) were the most prevalent complication (35.5%). Endovascular treatment had a perioperative mortality rate of.24% (95% CI,.00-2.70). The technical success rate was 99.15% (95% CI, 96.49-100). The type-II endoleak rate was 5.69% (95% CI,.00-12.13). The 1-year survival rate was 95.69% (95% CI, 90.49-100). The revascularization rate was 7.20% (95% CI,.07-14.32). Endovascular treatments for aPAU would lead to a high rate of technical success, few complications, and satisfactory 1-year survival. Conclusions: aPAU are a common disease that mainly affects elderly males with hypertension and hyperlipidemia. Endovascular treatment is required when an ulcer progresses rapidly or manifests symptoms. Endovascular treatment is associated with high technical success, low complication, and satisfactory 1-year survival. Further investigation into the long-term results of endovascular treatment is necessary. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The purpose of this study is to investigate accurate and effective experimental methods for measuring the frictional loss of bearings (FLB) in mechanical systems and to measure the effect of various operating parameters on the frictional loss of high-speed mechanical systems. Design/methodology/approach: Two novel methods were studied in this paper to measure the FLB: the free-deceleration method and the energy-balance method. A special high-speed motorised spindle and a friction loss test rig were designed and built to measure the effects of rotational speed, lubrication, preload and operating temperature on the FLB. Findings: The experimental results showed that the frictional torque of bearings increases initially but then decreases with an increase in rotational speed. Similarly, the FLB decreases initially and then increases with an increase in temperature because of the influence of the viscosity–temperature relationship of the lubricant and the thermomechanical coupling factor. The optimal lubricant flow was determined, and the effectiveness of a novel preload online adjusting device was verified through experiments. Originality/value: The research results of this paper provide the basis and methods for the measurement, reduction and prediction of the FLB in mechanical systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • It established a cement-prosthesis stem debonding experiment to analyze the initial damage process of the interfacial adhesion and explored the relationship between the inter-facial adhesion stress and slip. • In terms of nondestructive testing technology detect damage of stem surface and inner bone cement, micro-morphology and micro-pores and micro-cracks and annular damage belts have been assessed and analyzed. The initial interface debonding damage behavior of cemented hip arthroplasty was simulated and investigated through the push-in experiment. A series of nondestructive testing techniques were carried out to detect damage to the stem-cement interface and cement. Results suggested that the initial stem-cement interface debonding and cement damage were induced at femur loading early period. The cement was subjected to a combination action of shear stress and bending from a sinking stem causing a pressure-arch effect resulting in compression creep and micro-crack on the cement successively. The stem-cement interfacial friction prevent stem from sinking due to the internal shear effect caused by the cement-stem interface micro-sliding. The interface debonding procession increased at first and then became stable, which was shown in cement's creep deformation-friction-fracture model. The initial micro-cracks released damage energy which was converted into stress waves. Further, the relationship of bond stress and slippage at different locations caused different degrees of damage belt for the interface and cement. It was concluded that the combination effect of pressure arching and shear lag was the primary reason for cement's initial damage and the matrix defect affected the failure progress. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Superhydrophobic surface is of wide application in the field of catalysis, lubrication, waterproof, biomedical materials, etc. The superhydrophobic surface based on hard metal is worth further study due to its advantages of high strength and wear resistance. This paper investigates the fabrication techniques towards superhydrophobic surface on carbon steel substrate via electric corrosion and studies the properties of as-prepared superhydrophobic surface. The hydrophobic properties were characterized by a water sliding angle (SA) and a water contact angle (CA) measured by the Surface tension instrument. A Scanning electron microscope was used to analyze the structure of the corrosion surface. The surface compositions were characterized by an Energy Dispersive Spectrum. The Electrochemical workstation was used to measure its anti-corrosion property. The anti-icing performance was characterized by a steam-freezing test in Environmental testing chamber. The SiC sandpaper and 500 g weight were used to test the friction property. The research result shows that the superhydrophobic surface can be successfully fabricated by electrocorrosion on carbon steel substrate under appropriate process; the contact angle of the as-prepared superhydrophobic surface can be up to 152 ± 0.5°, and the sliding angle is 1–2°; its anti-corrosion property, anti-icing performance and the friction property all show an excellent level. This method provides the possibility of industrialization of superhydrophobic surface based on iron substrate as it can prepare massive superhydrophobic surface quickly. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

CD103+ DC is crucial for antitumor immune response. As a promising local therapy on cancers, nanosecond pulsed electric field (nsPEF) has been widely reported to stimulate anti-tumor immune response, but the underlying relationship between intratumoral CD103+ DC and nsPEF treatment remains enigmatic. Here, we focused on the behavior of CD103+ DC in response to nsPEF treatment and explored the underlying mechanism. We found that the nsPEF treatment led to the activation and accumulation of CD103+ DC in tumor. Depletion of CD103+ DC via Batf3−/− mice demonstrated CD103+ DC was necessary for intratumoral CD8+ T cell infiltration and activation in response to nsPEF treatment. Notably, NK cells recruited CD103+ DC into nsPEF-treated tumor through CCL5. Inflammatory array revealed CD103+ DC-derived IL-12 mediated the CCL5 secretion in NK cells. In addition, the boosted activation and infiltration of intratumoral CD103+ DC were abolished by cGAS-STING pathway inhibition, following IL-12 and CCL5 decreasing. Furthermore, nsPEF treatment promoting CD103+ DC-mediated antitumor response enhanced the effects of CD47 blockade strategy. Together, this study uncovers an unprecedented role for CD103+ DC in nsPEF treatment-elicited antitumor immune response and elucidates the underlying mechanisms. • CD103+ DC is necessary for antitumor immune response induced by nsPEF treatment. • NsPEF treatment leads to activation of intratumoral CD103+ DC. • NsPEF treatment induces the recruitment of CD103+ DC via IL12-NK-CCL5 axis. • CGAS-STING pathway controls activation and recruitment of CD103+ DC. • CD47 blockade promotes nsPEF-mediated activation and recruitment of CD103+ DC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bacterial membrane vesicles (MVs) have recently gained much attention and have been shown to carry a wide diversity of secreted bacterial components. However, it is poorly understood whether MV carriage is an indispensable requirement for a cargo's function. Bacteriocins as weapons of bacterial warfare shape the composition of microbial communities. Many bacteriocins have pronounced hydrophobicity that is imposed by their mechanism of action, but how they diffuse through aqueous environments to reach their target competitors is not known. Here we show that antimicrobial competitive activity of an exemplary hydrophobic bacteriocin of the thiopeptide antibiotic family, micrococcin P1 (MP1), is dependent on incorporation into MVs, which were found to carry MP1 at high concentrations. In contrast, MP1 without MV association was poorly active due to low solubility. Furthermore, we provide previously unavailable evidence that MVs fuse with a Gram‐positive bacterium's cytoplasmic membrane, in this case to deliver a bacteriocin to its intracellular target. Our findings demonstrate how bacteria overcome the problem associated with secreting hydrophobic small molecules and delivering them to their target and show that MVs have a key function in bacterial warfare. Furthermore, our study provides hitherto rare evidence that MVs provide an essential rather than merely accessory function in bacterial physiology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Inter-symbol interference (ISI), mode coupling (MC) and other impairments present in high baud rate mode division multiplexing (MDM) systems significantly degrade the reliability and accuracy of optical signal transmission. Therefore, performing joint multi-parameter optical performance monitoring (OPM) is crucial to ensure the efficient operation of the system. We propose a scheme that combines asynchronous single channel sampling (ASCS) images with a multi-task residual neural network (MT-ResNet) to enable cost-effective joint OPM at intermediate nodes in a 100 GBaud MDM system. The scheme requires only one photodetector to receive the signal. Based on the distinct characteristics exhibited by ASCS images for different parameters in the MDM system, the MT-ResNet is improved to capture correlations among parameters and learn residual information between inputs and outputs. This enables high-precision and rapid simultaneous implementation of modulation format identification (MFI), MC estimation, optical signal-to-noise ratio (OSNR) estimation, and chromatic dispersion identification (CDI) in the intermediate nodes of a 100 GBaud MDM system. The effectiveness of the proposed scheme is verified using a 100 GBaud QPSK/8QAM/16QAM/32QAM/64QAM MDM simulation transmission system with five spatial modes (LP 01 /LP 11a /LP 11b /LP 21a /LP 21b). The results show that under the influence of different linewidth (LW) of laser and differential mode group delay (DMGD), a 100 % identification success rate can be achieved for five commonly used MFs and eight different cumulative CD values in high baud rate MDM systems, across a wide range of OSNR. Additionally, the mean absolute error (MAE) of OSNR estimation corresponding to the five MFs is 0.22 dB, 0.26 dB, 0.30 dB, 0.32 dB, and 0.36 dB, respectively. The MAE of the eight different MC intensities fluctuate between 0.015 and 0.030. These results fully demonstrate the superior performance of the proposed scheme. Furthermore, the scheme exhibits favorable tolerance to large LWs and fiber nonlinear effects. Moreover, the complexity of the scheme is accurately analyzed through floating-point operations (FLOPs) and parameters (Params), which are much less than existing typical schemes, with specific values of 14.8849 M and 1.3798 M. • A novel joint OPM scheme by using ASCS images and MT-ResNet in 100 GBaud MDM system. • A low-cost architecture for performing OPM at intermediate nodes in MDM systems. • The scheme can realize MFI, CDI, OSNR and MC estimation at the same time. • The scheme exhibits favorable tolerance to large LWs and fiber nonlinear effects. • The scheme not only has low complexity but also exhibits excellent OPM performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• A nonlinear compensation scheme for FMF MDM-WDM using PNN is proposed for the first time. • This scheme has a good benefit to fiber nonlinear compensation and device nonlinear compensation. • Its effectiveness is verified by simulation system. • The complexity of this scheme is lower than that of DBP under comparable performance. In this paper, we propose for the first time to apply probabilistic neural network (PNN) to fiber nonlinear compensation (NLC) in a high-speed coherent optical communication system that combines few-mode fiber (FMF) mode division multiplexing (MDM) with wavelength division multiplexing (WDM). By training on a small number of symbols, the PNN equalizer can compute the statistical distribution of the signal nonlinearity, make decisions on test symbols, and thereby compensate for the nonlinear impairments of the signals. To verify the effectiveness of the proposed scheme, we construct a MDM-WDM simulation system with 28 GBaud polarization division multiplexing (PDM) 16-quadrature amplitude modulation(QAM) and 64 GBaud PDM-64QAM, 6 spatial mode signals are transmitted over 11 wavelength channels with link lengths of 1500 km and 400 km, respectively. The results show that the PNN equalizer can make nonlinear judgments on received signals and effectively compensate the signal impairments caused by Kerr nonlinearity and device nonlinearity in a large launch power range after undergoing carrier phase recovery (CPR). Meanwhile, this scheme exhibits strong robustness against residual linear mode coupling (LMC), differential mode group delay (DMGD), and amplified spontaneous emission (ASE) noise. Finally, by the computational complexity comparison, it is proved that the complexity of the probabilistic neural network nonlinear compensation (PNN NLC) scheme is lower than that of digital back propagation (DBP) with comparable performance, which is on the order O(N). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Pathogenesis of cardiovascular diseases begins with endothelial dysfunction. Our previous study has shown that advanced glycation end products (AGE) could inhibit the expression of homeobox A9 (Hoxa9), thereby inducing endothelial dysfunction. Leucine-rich repeat flightless-interacting protein 1 (LRRFIP1) has been found to participate in a variety of pathological processes, but reports of its role in endothelial dysfunction are rare. Objectives: This study aims to investigate whether LRRFIP1 is involved in AGE-induced endothelial dysfunction through Hoxa9-mediated transcriptional activation. Methods: Chromatin immunoprecipitation was used to detect the transcriptional regulation of Hoxa9 on LRRFIP1 promoters. Human umbilical vein endothelial cells were treated with AGE or pyrrolidinedithiocarbamate (nuclear factor kappa-B [NF-κB] inhibitor). Moreover, changes in apoptosis, proliferation, migration, release of nitric oxide, and angiogenesis were detected. Results: Hoxa9 promotes LRRFIP1 expression by binding to the -LRRFIP1 promoter. Meanwhile, overexpression of LRRFIP1 inhibited phosphorylation of P65 and elevated expression of Hoxa9. Overexpression of LRRFIP1 or/and Hoxa9 reversed the effects of AGE on HUVEC. AGE-induced inhibition on the expression of LRRFIP1 and Hoxa9 could be reversed by the NF-κB inhibitor. Conclusion: LRRFIP1 is involved in AGE-induced endothelial dysfunction via being regulated by the NF-κB/Hoxa9 axis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• The coating cures quickly to obtain a superhydrophobic surface. • Prepared coating can be applied to a variety of complex surfaces. • The coating has good temperature resistance. • The coating has a certain degree of chemical and physical stability. Because of its significant role in the field of self-cleaning, super-hydrophobic coatings have attracted more and more attention from researchers around the world, while the properties of environmental weather resistance and structure-stability often limit the application in daily life of which. In this study, a fast curing super-hydrophobic coating with good thermal tolerance as well as structure-stability and can be applied to a variety of surfaces conveniently was fabricated with fluorocarbon resin (FEVE), methyl methacrylate (MMA) and micro/nanometer scale powders via solution method. A scanning electron microscope (SEM) and a confocal laser scanning microscope (CLSM) were used to evaluate the coating micro morphology. The influence of material content ratio of each component on wettability was analyzed by contact angle measuring instrument. The composition testing of Fourier Transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) indicated that the coating has a high fluorine content. And the test of friction, constant temperature and immersion experiments showed appropriate physical/chemical stability and weather fastness of the coating. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights • Synthesis of 3D dahlia-like Co 3 O 4 by hydrothermal deposition. • Co 3 O 4 coating has excellent superhydrophobicity after FAS-17 modification. • Unmodified Co 3 O 4 /nickel foam can efficiently separates various oil-water mixtures. • Superhydrophobic Co 3 O 4 /nickel foam can adsorb trichloromethane underwater. • Rapid oil-water separation and collection with different Co 3 O 4 /nickel foam. Abstract The synthesis of nanomaterial on porous materials and use of their porous structure for oil-water separation and oil absorption underwater at normal temperature and pressure are a very significant process, which has attracted wide attention. In this paper, dahlia-like Co 3 O 4 nanoparticles was synthesized on the surface of porous nickel foam by hydrothermal reaction. After modification with heptadecafluoro-1,1,2,2-tetrahydro-decyl-1-trimethoxysilane (FAS-17), the as-prepared sample surface could obtain good oleophobicity and excellent superhydrophobicity with high contact angles and low sliding angles. Furthermore, the as-prepared superhydrophobic composite had low adhesion to water and light oil, and could be subjected to simple and effective oil-water separation (including three light oil and one heavy oil) at normal temperature and pressure. Due to the magnetic properties of nickel foam, underwater oil absorption experiment was carried out by magnetic traction, which could achieve a perfect oil absorption effect. In addition, the comprehensive use of unmodified and modified Co 3 O 4 /nickel foam at the end of tube can quickly and efficiently carry heavy oil (trichloromethane)-water separation and collection. Therefore, the as-prepared dahila-like Co 3 O 4 on nickel foam not only has good application value in oil-water separation, but also has excellent potential in underwater oil absorption. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Tungsten trioxide (WO 3) and titanium dioxide (TiO 2) decorated commercial stainless steel meshes (SSM 304) were fabricated by chemical deposition and dip coating. WO 3 and TiO 2 particles were firmly and uniformly coated on the membrane surfaces, forming rough micro-nano double structures with underwater superoleophobicity, large contact angles and low oil-adhesion characteristic. Furthermore, the as-prepared membranes achieved effective oil-in-water (O/W) emulsions separation with high efficiency up to 98.5% or more. The separation of O/W emulsions was easily implemented under gravity with water fluxes of >200 L m−2 h−1 or low pressure with water fluxes up to 1300 L m−2 h−1 or more. In addition, the superhydrophilic membranes with WO 3 /TiO 2 coatings were demonstrated for high oil rejection, stable underwater superoleophobic properties after abrasion treatment and steady water permeation flux after several cycles. Highlights • A Method to prepare WO 3 /TiO 2 decorated steel meshes is proposed. • Membranes have a solid structure, good stability and underwater superoleophobicity. • Effectively membrane separation of stabilized oil-in-water emulsions. • Composite membranes have outstanding recyclability and potential for oil/water separation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fabrication of surfaces with capability of repelling both water and oil is badly needed. Meanwhile, the widespread use of nanomaterials has also attracted great interest in this field. In this paper, we provided novel methods to synthesize nano amorphous tungsten oxide coatings on Al-Mg metals. After modification with FAS-17, the surface could obtain excellent superamphiphobic abilities with lower sliding angles and higher contact angles to water and oil. In addition, outstanding anti-oil pollutant and low adhesion were obtained. Furthermore, the as-prepared superamphiphobic surfaces could survive 200 cm abrasion distance under 19.6 kPa pressure on 1000 grid SiC sandpaper. It should be noted that this coatings could obtain different colors in different temperature. Meanwhile, we found that the droplets with lower surface energy and low viscosity are easier to bounce than the droplets with high surface energy and high viscosity. So the simple procedure and excellent superamphiphobicity about fabricating colorful tungsten oxide coatings have great potential in protecting Al-Mg metal and have potential applied in signals which need to prevent wetting or pollution by water and oils. On one level, this method about synthesizing nano amorphous tungsten oxide also has more promising using in other fields. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, we focus on improving the durability and repairability of superhydrophobic polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE)/ultra-high-molecular-weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) composite coating via hot-press and followed texture treatment by weight and sandpaper. The hydrophobic properties were characterized by water contact angle measurement. A scanning electron microscope and step device were used to analyze the surface appearance. The anti-icing performance was characterized by a steam-freezing test in an environmental test chamber. The high-speed camera was used to analyze water droplet bouncing process and low adhesion property. The results show that the PTFE/UHMWPE superhydrophobic surface can be successfully fabricated by the hot-press and texture treatment with a contact angle of 150 ± 0.5°. Both the anti-icing performance and low adhesion property show an excellent level. Moreover, the total energy just consumed about 30%, as the water droplet in the process of falling and contacting was at a 10 mm height. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The low-temperature mechanochemical devulcanization (LTMD) method can maintain the effectiveness of the original additives in waste rubbers after rubber reclamation. To confirm this discovery, the LTMD method and the traditional high-temperature atmospheric devulcanization (HTAD) method are used to reclaim waste rubber powders. The reclaimed rubbers are mixed with different amounts of additional additives and then revulcanized alone or revulcanized after blending with all-terrain vehicle (ATV) tread rubbers. The properties of the reclaimed rubbers and the revulcanized rubbers are characterized, and the results reveal that the original sulfur agent is inactive in both the LTMD and HTAD processes and that the original curing assistants maintain high effectiveness after the LTMD process but not after the HTAD process. The tensile strength of the revulcanized LTMD-reclaimed rubbers with no additional curing assistants reaches 97% of that of the revulcanized LTMD-reclaimed rubbers with full additional curing assistants, and 30% higher than that of the revulcanized HTAD-reclaimed rubbers with full additional curing assistants. When blended with 40% reclaimed rubber from ATV tread rubber, the tensile strength of the vulcanized LTMD blends with only the sulfur agent reaches 89% of the pristine ATV tread rubber while that of the vulcanized HTAD blends with full additives only reaches 76% of the pristine ATV tread rubber. The LTMD method not only achieves high-value recycling of waste rubbers but also avoids the failure of the original curing assistants in waste rubbers, thereby saving large amounts of materials and showing great application prospects. [Display omitted] • Low-temperature mechano-chemical devulcanization is used for rubber reclamation. • High-temperature of HTAD method leads to failure of original curing assistants. • LTMD method maintains the effectiveness of original curing assistants. • LTMD method obtains high performance of reclaimed rubbers. • LTMD method saves curing assistants for reuse of reclaimed rubbers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the publication of our publication [1], we have noticed there is a wrong label in Fig. 1e, in which the position of "HCC" and "Adjacent" should be transposed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Multi-drug resistance is the major cause of chemotherapy failure in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). YAP, a critical effector of the Hippo pathway, has been shown to contribute to the progression, metastasis and invasion of cancers. However, the potential role of YAP in mediating drug resistance remains obscure. Methods: RT-qPCR and western blot were used to assess YAP expression in HCC cell lines. CCK-8 assays, flow cytometry, a xenograft tumour model, immunochemistry and GFP-mRFP-LC3 fusion proteins were utilized to evaluate the effect of YAP on multi-drug resistance, intracellular ROS production and the autophagy of HCC cells in vitro and in vivo. Autophagy inhibitor and rescue experiments were carried out to elucidate the mechanism by which YAP promotes chemoresistance in HCC cells. Results: We found that BEL/FU, a typical HCC cell line with chemoresistance, exhibited overexpression of YAP. Moreover, the inhibition of YAP by shRNA or verteporfin conferred the sensitivity of BEL/FU cells to chemotherapeutic agents through autophagy-related cell death in vitro and in vivo. Mechanistically, YAP silencing significantly enhanced autophagic flux by increasing RAC1-driven ROS, which contributed to the inactivation of mTOR in HCC cells. In addition, the antagonist of autophagy reversed the enhanced effect of YAP silencing on cell death under treatment with chemotherapeutic agents. Conclusion: Our findings suggested that YAP upregulation endowed HCC cells with multi-drug resistance via the RAC1-ROS-mTOR pathway, resulting in the repression of autophagy-related cell death. The blockade of YAP may serve as a promising novel therapeutic strategy for overcoming chemoresistance in HCC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the publication of this article [1], there are two inadvertent errors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Plant homeodomain finger protein 8 (PHF8) serves an activator of epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and is implicated in various tumors. However, little is known about PHF8 roles in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and regulating E-cadherin expression. Methods: PHF8 expression pattern was investigated by informatic analysis and verified by RT-qPCR and immunochemistry in HCC tissues and cell lines. CCK8, xenograft tumor model, transwell assay, and tandem mCherry-GFP-LC3 fusion protein assay were utilized to assess the effects of PHF8 on proliferation, metastasis and autophagy of HCC cells in vitro and in vivo. ChIP, immunoblot analysis, rescue experiments and inhibitor treatment were used to clarify the mechanism by which PHF8 facilitated EMT, metastasis and autophagy. Results: PHF8 upregulation was quite prevalent in HCC tissues and closely correlated with worse overall survival and disease-relapse free survival. Furthermore, PHF8-knockdown dramatically suppressed cell growth, migration, invasion and autophagy, and the expression of SNAI1, VIM, N-cadherin and FIP200, and increased E-cadherin level, while PHF8-overexpression led to the opposite results. Additionally, FIP200 augmentation reversed the inhibited effects of PHF8-siliencing on tumor migration, invasion and autophagy. Mechanistically, PHF8 was involved in transcriptionally regulating the expression of SNAI1, VIM and FIP200, rather than N-cadherin and E-cadherin. Noticeably, E-cadherin degradation could be accelerated by PHF8-mediated FIP200-dependent autophagy, a crucial pathway complementary to transcriptional repression of E-cadherin by SNAI1 activation. Conclusion: These findings suggested that PHF8 played an oncogenic role in facilitating FIP200-dependent autophagic degradation of E-cadherin, EMT and metastasis in HCC. PHF8 might be a promising target for prevention, treatment and prognostic prediction of HCC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]