Search

Objective Methods Results Conclusion This study delves into the correlation between individual income inequality as measured by the relative deprivation index and charitable giving, while also examining urban–rural heterogeneity. Additionally, it further explores the mechanisms by which online and offline forms of social interaction operate in this context.Utilizing data from the 2014–2020 China Family Panel Studies, we employed several methodologies including Probit regression models, cross‐model average marginal effects difference testing based on bootstrap method, instrumental variable method, and the Karlson–Holm–Breen (KHB) effect decomposition method.The findings reveal that individual income inequality measured by the relative deprivation index significantly reduces charitable giving among Chinese households. The inhibitory effect of individual income inequality on social charitable giving is higher than that on charitable giving directed toward friends or colleagues. Furthermore, this impact exhibits some heterogeneity between urban and rural areas. Mechanism analysis indicates that the adverse effect of income inequality on charitable giving operates through reducing social interaction, including both online and offline forms.Our results demonstrate that income inequality has distinct adverse effects on two types of charitable giving and explain the mechanisms underlying these effects through social interaction. A pattern of the differential mode of association similar to “ripples” in Chinese society is beneficial for understanding these differentiated impacts. We believe it is necessary to improve economic inequality conditions and enhance the enthusiasm of the Chinese public for participating in charitable donations by promoting various forms of social interaction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Alkaline metal‐air batteries are advantageous in high voltage, low cost, and high safety. However, metal anodes are heavily eroded in strong alkaline electrolytes, causing serious side reactions including dendrite growth, passivation, and hydrogen evolution. To address this limitation, we successfully synthesized an organic N‐heterocycle compound (NHCC) to serve as an alternative anode. This compound not only exhibits remarkable stability but also possesses a low redox potential (−1.04 V vs. Hg/HgO) in alkaline environments. To effectively complement the low redox potential of the NHCC anode, we designed a dual‐salt highly concentrated electrolyte (4.0 M KOH+10.0 M KCF3SO3). This electrolyte expands the electrochemical stability window to 2.3 V through the robust interaction between the O atom in H2O molecule with the K+ of KCF3SO3 (H−O⋅⋅⋅KCF3SO3). We further demonstrated the K+ uptaken/extraction storage mechanism of NHCC anodes. Consequently, the alkaline aqueous NHCC anode‐air batteries delivers a high battery voltage of 1.6 V, high‐rate performance (101.9 mAh g−1 at 100 A g−1) and long cycle ability (30,000 cycles). Our work offers a molecular engineering strategy for superior organic anode materials and develops a novel double superconcentrated conductive salt electrolyte for the construction of high‐rate, long‐cycle alkaline aqueous organic anode‐air batteries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Alkaline metal‐air batteries are advantageous in high voltage, low cost, and high safety. However, metal anodes are heavily eroded in strong alkaline electrolytes, causing serious side reactions including dendrite growth, passivation, and hydrogen evolution. To address this limitation, we successfully synthesized an organic N‐heterocycle compound (NHCC) to serve as an alternative anode. This compound not only exhibits remarkable stability but also possesses a low redox potential (−1.04 V vs. Hg/HgO) in alkaline environments. To effectively complement the low redox potential of the NHCC anode, we designed a dual‐salt highly concentrated electrolyte (4.0 M KOH+10.0 M KCF3SO3). This electrolyte expands the electrochemical stability window to 2.3 V through the robust interaction between the O atom in H2O molecule with the K+ of KCF3SO3 (H−O⋅⋅⋅KCF3SO3). We further demonstrated the K+ uptaken/extraction storage mechanism of NHCC anodes. Consequently, the alkaline aqueous NHCC anode‐air batteries delivers a high battery voltage of 1.6 V, high‐rate performance (101.9 mAh g−1 at 100 A g−1) and long cycle ability (30,000 cycles). Our work offers a molecular engineering strategy for superior organic anode materials and develops a novel double superconcentrated conductive salt electrolyte for the construction of high‐rate, long‐cycle alkaline aqueous organic anode‐air batteries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Calcium ion batteries (CIBs) are considered as an important candidate for post‐lithium energy storage devices due to their abundance of resources and low cost. However, CIBs still suffer from slow kinetics due to the large solvation structure and high desolvation energy of Ca2+ ions. Here, a solvation regulation strategy based on donor number (DN) is reported to achieve easy‐desolvation and rapid storage of Ca2+ in sodium vanadate (Na2V6O16·2H2O, NVO). Specially, the solvent with a low DN, represented by propylene carbonate (PC), forms the first solvation shell of calcium ions with weak binding energy and small shell structure, which facilitates the migration of Ca2+ in the electrolyte. More importantly, the low DN solvent is preferentially desolvated at the cathode/electrolyte interface, promoting the insertion of Ca2+ into the NVO electrode. Mechanism studies further confirm the highly reversible uptake/release of Ca2+ in the NVO cathode, along with the VO distance change in the coordination structure. Therefore, the NVO cathode achieves high capacity (376 mAh g−1 at 0.3 A g−1) and high‐rate performance (151 mAh g−1 at 5 A g−1). The weak solvation effect strategy further improves the electrochemical performance and provides great importance for the design of the long‐term development of CIBs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Remote sensing scene classification is the basis of advanced smart urban planning tasks such as urban functional zone division and land use type identification. In recent years, a wide range of emerging data sources is receiving progressive attention for urban features extraction, such as satellites, unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), and ground sensors. How to effectively utilize these multi-view data jointly to improve scene classification performance has become a hot topic of remote sensing challenge. Existing feature fusion methods tend to map data from different views into a common feature space, which is often difficult to find when the data between views differ greatly. Furthermore, because these methods require data from all views as input, they are not flexible enough to handle situations where there is only one view input when inferring. To address the aforementioned issues, a novel Coupled Parallel Architecture (CPA) using Weighted Collaboration Fusion Constrained by Consistency Between Views (CBV-WCF) is proposed in this paper. In the training phase, the CBV module reduces the impact of the heterogeneous gap across views by capturing the consistency information between views. Well the WCF module is used to fully mine and effectively fuse the complementary information between views to improve the performance of downstream tasks. In the inference phase, the proposed architecture can effectively improve the classification performance in both cases of multi-view and single-view input. Our method is evaluated on air-ground dual-view scene classification, which is a typical multi-view task with large image differences between views. Experimental results on two publicly available air-ground dual-view datasets demonstrate that the proposed framework significantly improves classification performance while bringing some inspiration and new solutions to multi-view tasks. The code of this paper will be published at: . [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tyrosine kinase inhibitors represented by sorafenib are the first‐line treatment for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), but the low response rate of HCC patient has become a clinical pain‐point. Emerging evidences have revealed that metabolic reprogramming plays an important role in regulating the sensitivity of tumor cells to various chemotherapeutics including sorafenib. However, the underlying mechanisms are very complex and are not fully elucidated. By comparing the transcriptome sequencing data of sorafenib‐sensitive and ‐insensitive HCC patients, it is revealed that cofilin 1 (CFL1) is highly expressed in the tumor tissues of sorafenib‐insensitive HCC patients and closely correlated with their poor prognosis. Mechanically, CFL1 can promote phosphoglycerate dehydrogenase transcription and enhance serine synthesis and metabolism to accelerate the production of antioxidants for scavenging the excessive reactive oxygen species induced by sorafenib, thereby impairing the sorafenib sensitivity of HCC. To translate this finding and consider the severe side effects of sorafenib, a reduction‐responsive nanoplatform for systemic co‐delivery of CFL1 siRNA (siCFL1) and sorafenib is further developed, and its high efficacy in inhibiting HCC tumor growth without apparent toxicity is demonstrated. These results indicate that nanoparticles‐mediated co‐delivery of siCFL1 and sorafenib can be a new strategy for the treatment of advanced HCC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The AlGaInP window layers with different growth modes of Al in (AlxGa1−x)0.5In0.5P were prepared to investigate the effect of different growth modes of Al on the photoelectric properties of red LEDs. The experimental results show that the forward voltage of (AlxGa1−x)0.5In0.5P LEDs n-window layer with the ridge gradient Al content was 30 mV (x = 0.15) and 190 mV (x = 0.45), respectively, which are lower than that of the n-window layer without ridge gradient Al content samples. Meanwhile, the light output power of the ridge gradient Al content LED is 12.3% (x = 0.15) and 3.6% (x = 0.45) higher than that of the other two samples, respectively. Compared with the Al composition ridge gradient sample, the photoelectric efficiency is 2.45% (x = 0.15) and 5.68% (x = 0.45), respectively, due to the reduction in the voltage and the increase in the light output power. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: This paper aims to study the effect of chloride concentration on the properties of passive film formed on Q235 steel in simulated concrete pore solutions. Design/methodology/approach: Mott–Schottky analysis and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy were used to study the passive film of Q235 steel in simulated concrete pore solution. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy was used to analyze the composition of passive film on Q235 steel. Findings: When the chloride concentration is below the chloride threshold value, open circuit potential (OCP) and Rct gradually increases and donor concentration (ND) remains unchanged with the increasing immersion time. When the chloride concentration exceeds chloride threshold value, OCP and Rct decreases after a temporary increase and ND increases. The linear region of the Mott–Schottky curve lost its linearity. The electrochemical process control step is changed from charge transfer control to oxygen diffusion control. As the chloride concentration increases, the FeO content in the passive film increases and the Fe2O3 content decreases. Chloride can destroy the outer layer of passive film and introduce impurities. Originality/value: The effects of chloride and immersion time on the change process of passive films on Q235 steel in simulated concrete pore solution were studied using electrochemical methods. The mechanism of chloride destroying passive film was analyzed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Synthesis of a novel three-dimensional porous Zn(BTC)4 (BTC = benzene-1,3,5-tricarboxylic acid) and preparation of a novel composite membrane MOF Zn(BTC)4/porous anodic alumina by the in situ growth method has been accomplished. The new material is characterized by SEM and TG. CO2 Storage ability has been tested. The results indicate that carbon dioxide adsorption performance of the MOF Zn(BTC)4/porous anodic alumina composite membrane is superior to that of the porous alumina membrane. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Achieving rapid response and recovery rates at low operating temperatures for NO 2 is desirable for the application of sensors in industrial safety. In this study, we integrate a thickness tunable 2D graphdiyne (GDY) film into ZnO nanowalls (GDY/ZnO) via thermal evaporation of GDY, where ZnO nanowalls are used as the template to confine the growth space of the GDY film. In situ diffuse reflectance infrared Fourier transform spectroscopy (DRIFTS) is used to reveal the transformation process of NO 2. Ultraviolet photoemission spectroscopy (UPS) is utilized to analyze changes about the energy band of the materials. Density functional theory (DFT) calculations explain the reason for the selectivity of the samples to NO 2. The scanning electron microscopy (SEM) results demonstrate that the thickness of the GDY film with a specific mesoporous structure (25‐53 nm) increases as the thermal evaporation temperature rises from 400 to 800°C.The representative ZG-600, synthesized with a thickness of 46 nm via thermal evaporation at 600°C, exhibits superior NO 2 sensing performance. This is evidenced by its ultrahigh response (13.86, at 100 ppm and 150°C) and rapid response/recovery speeds (150 s/198 s), outperforming the ZnO sensor (198 s and 326 s). Moreover, it offers remarkable stability. • GDY nanoparticles were decorated on the surface of ZnO nanowall. • GDY/ZnO heterojunction with adsorbed oxygen and oxygen vacancies has been synthesized. • GDY/ZnO composite nanowall exhibited highly better NO 2 sensing performance. • The electrons transfer and redox reaction between GDY and ZnO has been discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Purpose: Tacrolimus a first‐line medication used after transplantation can induce β‐cell dysfunction, causing new‐onset diabetes mellitus (NODM). Regenerating islet‐derived protein 3 gamma (Reg3g), a member of the pancreatic regenerative gene family, has been reported to improve type 1 diabetes by promoting β‐cell regeneration. We aim to investigate the role of Reg3g in reversing tacrolimus‐induced β‐cell dysfunction and NODM in mice. Experimental Approach Circulating REG3A (the human homologue of mouse Reg3g) in heart transplantation patients treated with tacrolimus was detected. The glucose‐stimulated insulin secretion and mitochondrial functions, including mitochondria membrane potential (MMP), mitochondria calcium, ATP production, oxygen consumption rate and mitochondrial morphology were investigated in β‐cells. Additionally, effects of Reg3g on tacrolimus‐induced NODM in mice were analysed. Key Results: Circulating REG3A level in heart transplantation patients with NODM significantly decreased compared with those without diabetes. Tacrolimus down‐regulated Reg3g via inhibiting STAT3‐mediated transcription activation. Moreover, Reg3g restored glucose‐stimulated insulin secretion suppressed by tacrolimus in β‐cells by improving mitochondrial functions, including increased MMP, mitochondria calcium uptake, ATP production, oxygen consumption rate and contributing to an intact mitochondrial morphology. Mechanistically, Reg3g increased accumulation of pSTAT3(Ser727) in mitochondria by activating ERK1/2‐STAT3 signalling pathway, leading to restoration of tacrolimus‐induced mitochondrial impairment. Reg3g overexpression also effectively mitigated tacrolimus‐induced NODM in mice. Conclusion and Implications: Reg3g can significantly ameliorate tacrolimus‐induced β‐cell dysfunction by restoring mitochondrial function in a pSTAT3(Ser727)‐dependent manner. Our observations identify a novel Reg3g‐mediated mechanism that is involved in tacrolimus‐induced NODM and establish the novel role of Reg3g in reversing tacrolimus‐induced β‐cell dysfunction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Currently, little is known about the function of l-arginine in the homeostasis of intestinal lipid metabolism. This study was conducted to test the hypothesis that dietary l-arginine supplementation may alter intestinal microbiota and lipid metabolism in tilapia. Tilapia were fed a basal diet (containing 16.9 g l-arginine per kilogram diets) or the basal diet supplemented with 1% or 2% l-arginine for 8 wks. In the present study, we found that dietary supplementation with 1% or 2% l-arginine induced a shift in the community structure of gut microbiota, as showed by increased (p < 0.05) α-diversity, altered (p < 0.05) β-diversity and function profile. This finding coincided with decreased lipid accretion in the intestine of tilapia, which was associated with an enhancement in mRNA levels for peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor α (Pparα), acyl-coenzyme a oxidase 1 (Acox1), and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ coactivator-1α (Pgc-1α). Using intestinal epithelial cell culture, we demonstrated that the lipid-lowering effect of l-arginine was mainly mediated by activating the AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) signaling pathway, carnitine palmitoyltransferase 1 (CPT1), and PPARα, as well as mRNA levels for Acox1 and Acox2. Collectively, our results suggest that dietary l-arginine supplementation of tilapia changed the intestinal microbiota and activated intestinal fatty acid oxidation. However, future studies are warranted to determine the relationship between microbiota and lipid metabolism in the intestine. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ti 3 C 2 T x MXene, a novel 2D material, has shown promise in the field of room temperature ammonia (NH 3) sensors through theoretical calculations and experimental. However, the disadvantage of low response hinders its practical application. In this study, we fabricate a gas sensor based on Fe 2 O 3 nanoplate/TiO 2 nanoparticles supported by 2D Ti 3 C 2 T x MXene to enhance NH 3 sensing capabilities. Results reveal that the S2 sensor (with 3 mL FeCl 3) exhibits a significantly larger response value (3.23 times) and shorter response/recovery times (62 s and 74 s) compared to the pure Ti 3 C 2 T x MXene sensor when exposed to 100 ppm NH 3 at room temperature (25℃). Additionally, the S2 sensor exhibits a good linear response (R2 = 0.95) within the range of 1–100 ppm NH 3. The enhanced gas sensing properties can be mainly attributed to the Fe 2 O 3 /TiO 2 /Ti 3 C 2 T x MXene heterogeneous structure and unique microstructure. This study is anticipated to serve as a valuable reference for the advancement of high-performance MXene-based NH 3 sensors. • Fe 2 O 3 /TiO 2 /Ti 3 C 2 T x composite were prepared by a one-step solvothermal method. • The sensor exhibited good selectivity and stability for NH 3. • The sensor exhibited a low detection limit of 1 ppm to NH 3. • The sensing properties depend on the Schottky barrier and n-n heterojunction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In an article published in Advanced Functional Materials, researchers discuss a solvation regulation strategy for enhancing the performance of vanadium-based calcium ion batteries. By using a low-donor number (DN) propylene carbonate, the researchers were able to achieve easy-desolvation and rapid storage of Ca2+ in sodium vanadate. This strategy allows for smooth migration of the propylene carbonate in the electrolyte and quick desolvation at the interface, resulting in excellent rate performance. The study provides valuable insights for improving the capacity and rate performance of Ca-ion batteries. [Extracted from the article]

Background: Excessive white fat accumulation in humans and other animals is associated with the development of multiple metabolic diseases. It is unknown whether dietary L-arginine supplementation reduces lipid deposition in high fat diet-fed Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus). Results: In the present study, we found that dietary supplementation with 1% or 2% arginine decreased the deposition and concentration of fats in the liver; the concentrations of triglycerides, low-density lipoprotein, total cholesterol, and high-density lipoprotein in the serum; and the diameter of adipocytes in intraperitoneal adipose tissue. Compared with the un-supplementation control group, the hepatic activities of alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase, and lactate dehydrogenase, and hepatic concentration of malondialdehyde were reduced but these for catalase and superoxide dismutase were enhanced by dietary supplementation with 2% arginine. Arginine supplementation reduced the total amounts of monounsaturated fatty acids, while increasing the total amounts of n-3 and n-6 polyunsaturated fatty acids in the liver. These effects of arginine were associated with reductions in mRNA levels for genes related to lipogenesis (sterol regulatory element-binding protein-1, acetyl-CoA carboxylase α, stearoyl-CoA desaturase, and fatty acid synthase) but increases in mRNA levels for genes involved in fatty acid β-oxidation (carnitine palmitoyltransferase 1α and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor α). In addition, hepatic mRNA levels for Δ4 fatty acyl desaturase 2 and elongase 5 of very long-chain fatty acids were enhanced by arginine supplementation. Conclusion: These results revealed that dietary L-arginine supplementation to tilapia reduced high fat diet-induced fat deposition and fatty acid composition in the liver by regulating the expression of genes for lipid metabolism. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nonsteroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs reportedly reduce the risk of developing cancer. One mechanism by which they reduce carcinogenesis involves the inhibition of the activity of cyclooxygenase‐2, an enzyme that is overexpressed in various cancer tissues. Its overexpression increases cell proliferation and inhibits apoptosis. However, selected cyclooxygenase‐2 inhibitors can also act through cyclooxygenase‐independent mechanisms. In this study, using ultrafiltration, enzyme‐immobilized magnetic beads, high‐performance liquid chromatography, and electrospray‐ionization mass spectrometry, several isoflavonoids in Trifolium pratense L. extracts were screened and identified. Semi‐preparative high‐performance liquid chromatography and high‐speed counter‐current chromatography were then applied to separate the active constituents. Using these methods, seven major compounds were identified in Trifolium pratense L. As cyclooxygenase‐2 inhibitors: rothindin, ononin, daidzein, trifoside, pseudobaptigenin, formononetin, and biochanin A, which were then isolated with >92% purity. This is the first report of the presence of potent cyclooxygenase‐2 inhibitors in Trifolium pratense L. extracts. The results of this study demonstrate that the systematic isolation of bioactive components from Trifolium pratense L., by using ultrafiltration, enzyme‐immobilized magnetic beads, semi‐preparative high‐performance liquid chromatography, and high‐speed counter‐current chromatography, represents a feasible and efficient technique that could be extended for the identification and isolation of other enzyme inhibitors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

One-dimensional titanium dioxide (TiO2) nanorods (NRs) array are grown on transparent conductive fluorine-doped tin oxide (FTO) glass substrate by the simple hydrothermal method. Bi2S3 nanopatricles (NPs) are loaded in the TiO2/FTO by a hydrothermal deposition method to a novel ball-and-stick heterostructure for enhancing the photoelectrochemical (PEC) properties. The structures, morphologies and optical properties of the prepared films are characterized by XRD, FESEM, TEM and UV-Vis spectrometer. The photoelectrochemical properties of the composite films are studied. The results show that all of the obtained TiO2 films are monocrystalline with a rutile structure and grow along the c axis direction. Bi2S3 nanoparticles are successfully deposited on the top of the TiO2 NRs, forming a Bi2S3/TiO2 ball-and-stick structure heterojunction. The optical absorption edges of the prepared composite films are extended to the visible light range, and the absorption edges of the samples show an obvious redshift. The composite films exhibited better photoelectrochemical properties. The analysis of performance include linear voltammetry and transient photocurrent reveals that the photocurrent of Bi2S3/TiO2 NRs is the photocurrent of pure TiO2 NRs. All these results indicate the potential application of the novel TiO2 NRs in solar cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pancreatic sympathetic innervation can directly affect the function of islet. The disorder of sympathetic innervation in islets during the occurrence of type 1 diabetes (T1D) has been reported to be controversial with the inducing factor unclarified. Several studies have uncovered the critical role that sympathetic signals play in controlling the local immune system. The survival and function of endocrine cells can be regulated by immune cell infiltration in islets. In the current review, we focused on the impact of sympathetic signals working on islets cell regulation, and discussed the potential factors that can induce the sympathetic innervation disorder in the islets. We also summarized the effect of interference with the islet sympathetic signals on the T1D occurrence. Overall, a comprehensive understanding of the regulatory effect of sympathetic signals on islet cells and local immune system could facilitate better strategies design to control inflammation and protect β cells in T1D therapy. Pancreatic sympathetic innervation and its disturbance during the occurrence of type 1 diabetes. The sympathetic nerve directly affects islet endocrine cells and immune cells via secreting transmitters, like NE, NPY and Galanin, acting on the corresponding receptors. The increase of infiltrating T cells and pro-inflammatory macrophages accelerates islet sympathetic disturbance. [Display omitted] • Pancreatic sympathetic innervation is disordered during the occurrence of T1D. • Inflammatory infiltration, especially macrophage, contributes to the loss of sympathetic neurons in islet. • The systemic crosstalk between sympathetic signals and immune system could be a potential therapeutic target for T1D. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A 59-days feeding trial was carried out to estimate the effects of fish meal replacement by defatted black soldier fly larvae meal (DBSFLM) on growth performance, antioxidate enzyme activities, digestive enzyme activities, hepatopancreas and intestinal morphology in Jian carp ( Cyprinus carpio var. Jian) juveniles (initial mean body weight, 34.78 g). Five isolipidic (5.29 ± 0.04%) and isoprotein (40.69 ± 0.11%) diets were formulated by replacing 0%, 25%, 50%, 75%, 100% fish meal (FM) protein with graded DBSFLM levels of 0%, 2.6%, 5.3%, 7.9% and 10.6%. Each diet was randomly assigned to triplicate groups of 20 fish per aquarium. Fish were fed three times daily to apparent satiation. The results showed that the growth performance and nutrients utilization of fish in five groups were not different ( P > 0.05). The hepatopancreas lipid and serum cholesterol content of treated groups was significantly lower than that of the control group ( P < 0.05). With increasing dietary DBSFLM level, the activity of the CAT significantly increased. No significant differences in the activity of intestinal protease, lipase and diastase were observed among dietary groups ( P > 0.05). The histological examination of intestine showed that when 75% or more FM protein was replaced, apparent pathological changes for example tissue disruption were observed in intestine, and relative gene expression of HSP70 in hepatopancreas significantly increased ( P < 0.05). The histological examination of hepatopancreas sections showed less vacuolated with lipid deposits in treatment groups compared with control group. These results suggested that the growth of Jian carp was not affected by dietary DBSFLM, while it boosted antioxidant status of Jian carp by higher CAT activity. However, dietary stress and intestinal histopathological damage was observed when the replacement levels exceeded 75%. The study demonstrates that it is suitable to replace up to 50% of dietary FM protein with DBSFLM. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• A Zn(II) coordination polymer based on a new ligand is designed and synthesized. • The layered-pillared structure of the polymer is determined by X-ray study. • The large O–thiocarbamate group can prompt the formation of the structure. • Fluorescent property of the polymer is investigated. Continuing our previous strategy for construction of layered–pillared coordination polymer, in this paper, a new O–thiocarbamate–containing ligand H 2 L (5–[(dimethylamino) thioxomethoxy ]–1,3–benzenedicarboxylic acid) has been designed and synthesized to construct a zinc(II)–based metal organic framework, namely [ZnL(4,4′–bpy)] n (1) (4,4′–bpy = 4,4′–bipyridine). Single crystal X–ray diffraction analysis of 1 reveals that the metal ions are bridged by L2– ligands to generate a two–dimensional layer, and the layers are further pillared by 4,4′–bpy to form a three–dimensional framework with a pcu topology. Furthermore, the solid state photoluminescent studies reveal that both H 2 L and polymer 1 display emission bands at 400 nm upon excitation at 325 nm. The average emission life time is 4.27 µs. A layered-pillared Zn(II) coordination polymer is designed and synthesized based on a new O–thiocarbamate –containing dicarboxylic acid ligand. The larger O–thiocarbamate group can properly increase the steric overcrowding, which make the formation of layered-pillared structure possible. The fluorescence of the polymer has also been studied. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The separation of a compound of interest from its structurally similar homologues to produce high-purity natural products is a challenging problem. This work proposes a novel method for the separation of iristectorigenin A from its structurally similar homologues by ionic-liquid-based ultrasound-assisted extraction and the subsequent screening and isolation of potential α-glucosidase inhibitors via ultrafiltration and semipreparative high-performance liquid chromatography. Ionic-liquid-based ultrasound-assisted extraction was successfully applied to the extraction of tectorigenin, iristectorigenin A, irigenin, and irisflorentin from Belamcanda chinensis. The optimum conditions for the efficient extraction of isoflavones were determined as 1.0 M 1-ethyl-3-methylimidazolium tetrafluoroborate with extraction time of 30 min and a solvent to solid ratio of 30 mL/g. Ultrafiltration with liquid chromatography and mass spectrometry was applied to screen and identify α-glucosidase inhibitors from B. chinensis, followed by the application of semipreparative high-performance liquid chromatography to separate and isolate the active constituents. Four major compounds including tectorigenin, iristectorigenin A, irigenin, and irisflorentin were screened and identified as α-glucosidase inhibitors, and then the four active compounds abovementioned were subsequently isolated by semipreparative high-performance liquid chromatography (99.89, 88.97, 99.79, and 99.97% purity, respectively). The results demonstrate that ionic liquid extraction can be successfully applied to the extraction of isoflavones from B. chinensis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A simple and efficient method based on ultrafiltration liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry (UFLC–MS) was applied to rapidly screen and identify ligands for lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) from the flowers of Pueraria lobata , and the compounds were assessed for anti-stroke activity using a PC12 cell model. Seven major isoflavones, kakkalide, 3′-hydroxy puerarin, puerarin, puerarin xyloside, tectoridin, tectorigenin, and ononin, were identified as potent LDH inhibitors. A continuous online method, which consisted of microwave-assisted extraction and countercurrent chromatography (MAE-CCC), was newly developed for scaled-up production of these compounds with high purity and efficiency. This novel approach, using UFLC–MS coupled with MAE-CCC and a PC12 cell model, provided a powerful tool for screening, extraction, and separation of LDH inhibitors from complex samples, and a useful platform for the large-scale production of functional food and nutraceutical ingredients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Black soldier fly larvae oil (BSO) is a potential fat source in aquaculture feeds, which is high in lauric acid (21.4%–49.3%). In order to investigate the effects of dietary BSO on growth performance, fatty acid composition and lipid deposition in juvenile Jian carp ( Cyprinus carpio var. Jian), five experimental diets were formulated by substitution of 0%, 25%, 50%, 75% and 100% soybean oil (SO) with BSO. Total 300 Jian carp (10.67 ± 0.80 g) were divided randomly into 5 groups (triplicate per group) and was fed with the diets above respectively). After 59 days feeding growth, fatty acid composition and lipid deposition was determined. The results showed that growth, nutritive utilization and serum biochemical parameters of fish in five groups were not different ( P > 0.05). Fatty acid composition in the intraperitoneal fat tissue, muscle and hepatopancreas was closely correlated with diets. While, the 22:6n-3 content of treated groups was significantly higher than that of the control group ( P < 0.05) in the muscle. Intraperitoneal fat index and the size of adipocyte in intraperitoneal fat decreased in higher BSO intake compared with SO group ( P < 0.05). Relative gene expression of PPARα significantly increased ( P < 0.05), while PPARγ and FAS was not significantly affected by dietary BSO level ( P > 0.05). The Bcl-2/Bax ratios were not different among five groups ( P > 0.05). These results suggested that the growth of Jian carp was not affected by dietary BSO, while it decreased lipid deposition in the intraperitoneal fat tissue of Jian carp by higher gene expression of PPARα. Statement of relevance Previous studies on nutrition of fish have highlighted the importance of fish oil. However, with the worldwide decreasing supplies as well as the escalating prices of this ingredient, alternative resources were sought and nutritionally evaluated. Plant or vegetable oils are now introduced in fish diets, but these sources have limitations, such as palatability and production issues. In the recent years, insects have received wide attention as a potential source of lipid, especially black soldier fly. Black soldier fly grow and reproduce easily, have high feed conversion efficiency and can be reared on biowastes. Insects often accumulate fat, especially during their immature stages. The lipid content of non-defatted black soldier fly larvae is highly (26%–35%). This study was designed to explore the possibility that black soldier fly larvae oil as a lipid resource in aquafeeds, and to determine its effect on growth performance, feed utilization efficiency, major nutrients composition, fatty acid composition and lipid deposition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Stroke represents the fourth leading cause of death in the USA and the second leading cause of death worldwide. Lactate dehydrogenase inhibitors are widely used in the treatment of ischemic stroke and natural products are considered a promising source of novel lactate dehydrogenase inhibitors. In this study, we used PC12 cells to determine the protective effect of extracts from the herb Belamcanda chinensis following toxic challenge. Using ultrafiltration high-performance liquid chromatography coupled with photo-diode array detection and electrospray ionization mass spectrometry, we screened and identified isoflavonoids from Belamcanda chinensis extracts. Semi-preparative high-performance liquid chromatography was then applied to separate and isolate the active constituents. Using these methods, we identified six major compounds in Belamcanda chinensis as lactate dehydrogenase inhibitors: tectoridin, iristectorin A, iridin, tectorigenin, irigenin, and irisflorentin, which were then isolated to >92% purity. This is the first report that Belamcanda chinensis extracts contain potent lactate dehydrogenase inhibitors. Our results demonstrate that the systematic isolation of bioactive components from Belamcanda chinensis guided by ultrafiltration high-performance liquid chromatography coupled with photo-diode array detection and electrospray ionization mass spectrometry represents a feasible and efficient technique that could be extended for the identification and isolation of other enzyme inhibitors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Stroke is among the leading causes of death and severe disability worldwide. Flavonoids have been extensively used in the treatment of ischemic stroke by reducing lactate dehydrogenase levels and thereby enhancing blood perfusion to the ischemic region. Here, we used ultrafiltration high-performance liquid chromatography coupled with diode array detection and mass spectrometry for the rapid screening and identification of flavonoids from five Chinese medicinal herbs: soybean, Radix pueraria, Flos pueraria, Rhizoma belamcandae, and Radix astragali. Using PC12 cells as a suitable in vitro model of toxicity, cell viability was quantitated using the 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide assay. The results showed that the extracts of soybean and the six major components, namely, acetyldaidzin, malonylgenistin, daidiain, glycitin, genistin, and acetylcitin; the extract of R. pueraria and its main component daidzein; the extract of F. pueraria and its three major components, tectorigenin, tectoridin, and tectorigenin-7- O-xylosylglucosid; and the extract of R. belamcandae and its main component, tectoridin, were strong lactate dehydrogenase inhibitors. Also, the components of R. astragali showed no bioactivity. These findings indicate that the ultrafltration high-performance liquid chromatography coupled with diode array detection and mass spectrometry method could be utilized in rapid screening and separation of bioactive compounds from a complex matrix. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Stimulator of interferon genes (STING, also known as MITA, ERIS or MPYS) induces the activation of TBK1 kinase and IRF3 transcription factor, upon sensing of microbial DNAs. How IRF3 is recruited onto the STING signalosome remains unknown. We report here that silencing of the ER adaptor SCAP markedly impairs the IRF3-responsive gene expression induced by STING. Scap knockdown mice are more susceptible to HSV-1 infection. Interestingly, SCAP translocates from ER, via Golgi, to perinuclear microsome in a STING-dependent manner. Mechanistically, the N-terminal transmembrane domain of SCAP interacts with STING, and the C-terminal cytosolic domain of SCAP binds to IRF3, thus recruiting IRF3 onto STING signalosome. Mis-localization of SCAP abolishes its antiviral function. Collectively, this study characterizes SCAP as an essential adaptor in the STING signaling pathway, uncovering a critical missing link in DNAs-triggered host antiviral responses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A two-step growth technique consisting of a low temperature pulsed atomic layer epitaxy (PALE) method and high temperature PALE method has been employed to deposit the AlN caplayer over GaN quantum dots (QDs). The results show that the photoluminescence intensity of GaN QDs with this two-step grown caplayer has been overall enhanced significantly and most enhancement occurs at the lower energy side compared with that of the GaN QDs with low temperature one-step grown AlN caplayer, which is mainly due to the decreased defects of the AlN caplayer and the preferential wetting layer carrier transportation to larger QDs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lactobacillus plantarum is known beneficial for the fish to defend against Aeromonas hydrophila infection which causes major disease outbreaks and severe economic losses for aquaculture. However, the mechanisms remain unclear. In the present study, 240 zebrafish with an average body weights of 0.33 ± 0.01 g were randomly divided into 4 groups. The zebrafish were fed a basal diet supplemented with 3.3 × 108 CFU L. plantarum WCFS1/g or not for 1 week. They were then exposed to water supplementation with or without 1.5 × 108 CFU A. hydrophila NJ-1/mL for 1 day. Finally, all the fish were transferred to fresh water and fed the basal diets for 5 days. The results showed that dietary supplementation with L. plantarum WCFS1 attenuated mortality, A. hydrophila NJ-1 colonization, histological damage, and inflammation in the intestine, liver, gill, and muscle of zebrafish challenged with A. hydrophila NJ-1. In addition, the suppressive effect of L. plantarum WCFS1 on pro-inflammatory genes expression (interleukin 1β and tumor necrosis factor-α) was associated with altered mRNA levels for autophagy (lysosomal-associated membrane protein 1, lysosomal-associated membrane protein 2, autophagy-related gene 6, and autophagy-related gene 5) and hypoxia-inducible factors (hypoxia-inducible factors - 1αa, hypoxia-inducible factors - 1αb, and hypoxia-inducible factors-3α). Furthermore, L. plantarum WCFS1 alleviated A. hydrophila NJ-1-induced muscle loss by down-regulation of mRNA expression for myostatin and F-box protein 32, and up-regulation of mRNA expression for myogenin and myogenic determination 1. Collectively, L. plantarum WCFS1 holds great potential in aquaculture to defend against A. hydrophila infection. [Display omitted] • WCFS1 reduced zebrafish mortality and histological damage induced by A. hydrophila. • WCFS1 reduced A. hydrophila colonization in zebrafish challenged by A. hydrophila. • WCFS1 inhibited A. hydrophila -induced inflammation by regulation of autophagy and hypoxia-inducible factors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lactobacillus plantarum is known beneficial for the fish to defend against Aeromonas hydrophila infection which causes major disease outbreaks and severe economic losses for aquaculture. However, the mechanisms remain unclear. In the present study, 240 zebrafish with an average body weights of 0.33 ± 0.01 g were randomly divided into 4 groups. The zebrafish were fed a basal diet supplemented with 3.3 × 108 CFU L. plantarum WCFS1/g or not for 1 week. They were then exposed to water supplementation with or without 1.5 × 108 CFU A. hydrophila NJ-1/mL for 1 day. Finally, all the fish were transferred to fresh water and fed the basal diets for 5 days. The results showed that dietary supplementation with L. plantarum WCFS1 attenuated mortality, A. hydrophila NJ-1 colonization, histological damage, and inflammation in the intestine, liver, gill, and muscle of zebrafish challenged with A. hydrophila NJ-1. In addition, the suppressive effect of L. plantarum WCFS1 on pro-inflammatory genes expression (interleukin 1β and tumor necrosis factor-α) was associated with altered mRNA levels for autophagy (lysosomal-associated membrane protein 1, lysosomal-associated membrane protein 2, autophagy-related gene 6, and autophagy-related gene 5) and hypoxia-inducible factors (hypoxia-inducible factors - 1αa, hypoxia-inducible factors - 1αb, and hypoxia-inducible factors-3α). Furthermore, L. plantarum WCFS1 alleviated A. hydrophila NJ-1-induced muscle loss by down-regulation of mRNA expression for myostatin and F-box protein 32, and up-regulation of mRNA expression for myogenin and myogenic determination 1. Collectively, L. plantarum WCFS1 holds great potential in aquaculture to defend against A. hydrophila infection. [Display omitted] • WCFS1 reduced zebrafish mortality and histological damage induced by A. hydrophila. • WCFS1 reduced A. hydrophila colonization in zebrafish challenged by A. hydrophila. • WCFS1 inhibited A. hydrophila -induced inflammation by regulation of autophagy and hypoxia-inducible factors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The paper presents the design principles and fabrication sequence of a newly developed mechanical structure of bulk micromachining resonant Z axis accelerometers on the same silicon substrate by maskless anisotropic wet etching technique. Four resonant beams are located at the top surface of silicon substrates in order to facilitate the patterning of excited resistors, piezoresistive resistors or electrode plates, whereas the gravity centre of the proof mass lies within the neutral plane of eight supporting beams to minimize the rotating of proof mass under in-plane acceleration. Compared with early reported mechanical structures, the simple structures can eliminate the bending moments caused by in-plane acceleration, as a result, avoid the rotating of the proof mass. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: This paper develops the concepts of strict practical stability of ordinary differential equations to impulsive differential system. Strict practical stability, known as stability in tube-like domain, can be made to estimate upper bound and lower bound of the solutions of impulsive differential equations. This note provides several stability criteria for strict practical stability of nonlinear dynamical systems with impulse effects by employing two Lyapunov-like functions under general restrictions. It may provide a greater prospect to solve problems which exhibit impulsive effects. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

[Display omitted] • A strategy to fabricate conductive SiO 2 @Ga core–shell microparticles is developed. • Maximizing catalytically active surface gallium for electrocatalysis of Li 2 S x. • The addition of microparticles promote the ion transfer kinetics of the electrodes. • A mechanism of conductive electron-given-surface and fast Li+ transport is proposed. • Li-S batteries with high sulfur loading and high specific capacity are achieved. A novel silica@gallium core–shell structure is designed to maximize catalytically active surface gallium for highly efficient electrocatalysis of lithium polysulfides in lithium-sulfur batteries. The fabricated SiO 2 @Ga/S cathode battery exhibits a high reversible capacity of 927.1 mAh g−1 at 0.75C and excellent cycling stability with a capacity retention rate of 85.97% for 600 cycles. When the sulfur mass loading is up to 6.5 mg cm−2, the battery displays a high discharge capacity of ~ 4.145 mAh cm−2 with high Coulombic efficiency of 85.04% after 200 cycles. Finally, a mechanism that the highly conductive electron-given-surface of liquid metal Ga shell on the surface of SiO 2 in the thick electrodes for reversible electrocatalysis of lithium polysulfides in lithium-sulfur batteries is proposed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: This paper develops the concept of practical stability to nonlinear differential equations with solutions starting with different initial times. Several practical stability criteria of nonlinear dynamical systems relative to initial time difference are presented by employing two Lyapunov-like functions. The method of two Lyapunov-like functions enables us to obtain results under weaker assumptions. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The current two-dimensional (2D) material based NH 3 sensors generally suffer from low response values and sluggish recovery dynamics, which is resulted from their inferior conductivity. Herein, high conductivity (0.045 S/m) of 2D hydrogen substituted graphyne (HsGY) nanosheets are successfully synthesized employing aqueous/organic interface method and using them for the first time for the detection of NH 3 at room temperature. The resultant gas sensing performance shows that the 2D HsGY nanosheets exhibit a high gas response value (4.9) to 100 ppm NH 3 and fast recovery time (108 s) at the room temperature. The NH 3 gas sensing mechanism is discussed by utilizing density functional theory (DFT) calculations. The present study provides novel gas sensing material for the development of high-performance room temperature NH 3 sensors. This study successfully synthesized two-dimensional hydrogen substituted graphyne (HsGY) nanosheets using an aqueous/organic interface method and applied them for the detection of NH 3 at room temperature for the first time. HsGY nanosheets exhibit excellent sensing performance towards NH 3 , due to their high conductivity and continuous thin gauze like morphology, which facilitates gas transport. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Salmonella typhimurium infection is associated with gastrointestinal disorder and cellular injury in the liver of both humans and animals. Cinnamaldehyde, the main component of essential oil from cinnamon, has been reported to have anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidative, and anti-apoptotic effects. However, it remains unknown whether cinnamaldehyde can alleviate Salmonella typhimurium infection-induced liver injury in mice. In the present study, we found that cinnamaldehyde attenuated Salmonella typhimurium-induced body weight loss, the increase of organ (liver and spleen) indexes, hepatocyte apoptosis, and the mortality rate in mice. Further study showed that cinnamaldehyde significantly alleviated Salmonella typhimurium-induced liver injury as shown by activities of alanine transaminase, aspartate transaminase, and myeloperoxidase, as well as malondialdehyde. The increased mRNA level of pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-1β, IL-6, TNF-α, and IFN-γ) and chemokines (CCL2 and CCL3) induced by Salmonella typhimurium were significantly abolished by cinnamaldehyde supplementation. These alterations were associated with a regulatory effect of cinnamaldehyde on TLR2, TLR4, and MyD88. 16S rDNA sequence analysis showed that Salmonella typhimurium infection led to upregulation of the abundances of genera Akkermansia, Bacteroides, Alistipes, Muribaculum, and Prevotellaceae UCG-001, and downregulation of the abundances of genera Lactobacillus, Enterorhabdus, and Eggerthellaceae (unclassified). These alterations were reversed by cinnamaldehyde supplementation. In conclusion, cinnamaldehyde attenuated the inflammatory response, oxidative stress, and apoptosis in the liver of Salmonella typhimurium-infected mice. Supplementation of cinnamaldehyde might be a preventive strategy to alleviate liver injury caused by Salmonella typhimurium infection in humans and animals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• A new method to fabricate 3D porous sulfur/gallium hybrid materials is developed. • The 3D porous sulfur/gallium hybrid materials increase the electrical and ion conductivity of the cathode. • The 3D porous sulfur/gallium hybrid materials promote the activation of the electrodes. • The surface of liquid metal Ga promote the redox reaction of lithium polysulfides due to its strong electrocatalytic effect. • Li-S batteries with high sulfur loading, long cycling and high specific capacity are achieved. Lithium–sulfur battery has long been considered as the best choice for the next generation secondary battery. However, the intrinsic insulativity of sulfur and the polysulfide shuttle effect have been the key problems that hinder the commercialization of lithium sulfur batteries. Here, using a facile shearing implement assists thermal synthesis process, in which liquid metal gallium and sulfur (mass ratio1:10) are the only reactants, we create a 3D porous sulfur/gallium hybrid materials (S/Ga). Micro/nanometer liquid metal gallium particles embed in the porous sulfur. The S/Ga cathode lithium cell exhibits a high Coulombic efficiencies of 98.7%, and high specific capacities of 1044 mAh g−1 after 100 cycles at 1.0 mA cm−2, and good cyclic stability. During first cycle discharge process of the S/Ga cathode, the sulfur reduces to Li 2 S 8 and dissolves in the electrolyte, then the liquid metal Ga has an intimate electrical contact with conductive carbon substrates. Electrons are easily transferred to high conductive liquid metal Ga. Due to the electron abundance on Ga surface, it shows an electrocatalytic effect for the conversion of soluble lithium polysulfides (Li 2 S 4-8) to Li 2 S 2 /Li 2 S, thus improving S utilization and cyclic stability. Image, graphical abstract [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Combination therapy has been developed as an innovative modality for effective cancer therapy. However, the administration of combinatorial therapeutics is limited by the varying pharmacokinetics of different drugs. Although numerous nanoparticles (NPs) can synchronize the delivery of combinatorial therapeutics to tumor cells, their clinical translation is still challenged, which is partly due to the complexity to precisely control the loading of combinatorial therapeutics to maximize therapeutic efficacy and suboptimal NP properties. Herein, a new redox-responsive polyprodrug nanoplatform was developed for targeted siRNA delivery and synergistic cancer therapy. This NP platform is made with redox-responsive 10-hydroxycamptothecin (HCPT)-based polyprodrug (polyHCPT) as the inner core, amphiphilic lipid-poly (ethylene glycol) (lipid-PEG) as the outer shell, and lactobionic acid (LA) decoration on the surface. After siRNA loading and subsequent systemic administration, the resulting NP platform could accumulate in tumor tissues and target hepatoma cells via specific recognition between LA and asialoglycoprotein (ASGP) receptors. With the high concentration of glutathione (GSH) in the cytoplasm to break the disulfide bonds in the polyHCPT, intact HCPT molecules and encapsulated B-cell lymphoma 2 (Bcl-2) siRNA (siBcl-2) could be rapidly released, leading to the synergistic inhibition of tumor growth via the induction of apoptosis by HCPT and the concurrent silencing of the anti-apoptotic gene by siBcl-2. Herein we developed a new redox-responsive polyprodrug NP platform for targeted siRNA delivery and synergistic cancer therapy. This long-circulating co-delivery NP platform could respond to the high concentration of GSH in the cytoplasm to induce the fast release of intact HCPT molecules and encapsulated siBcl-2, leading to synergistic inhibition of tumor growth via inducing apoptosis by HCPT and concurrently blocking the anti-apoptotic pathway by siBcl-2. This redox-responsive polyprodrug-based nanoplatform could be used as an effective tool to synchronize the delivery of various combinatorial therapeutics for cancer combination therapy. Image 1 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ShengMai-Yin and Ganmaidazao decoction are classic formulas in traditional Chinese medicine. Individually, Shengmai-Yin is used to treat cardiovascular diseases, and Ganmaidazao decoction for therapy of mental disorders. The combination of Shengmai-Yin and Ganmaidazao decoction (SGD) is normally used as adjuvant therapy for type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). The central aim is to elucidate the pharmacological efficacy of SGD and its mechanism in the treatment of T2DM with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Active ingredients in SGD and their drug targets were identified using network analysis followed by experimental validation. First, existing databases were mined for information relevant to SGD, including pharmacological actions, chemical components, physicochemical characteristics, potential targets, and implicated diseases. Candidate patterns obtained with the network analysis were then tested in a KKAy mouse model of T2DM with NAFLD. Various doses of SGD were administered, followed by measurements of fasting blood glucose, oral glucose tolerance tests, insulin tolerance tests, markers of lipid metabolism - including free fatty acids (FFA), triglycerides (TG), and total cholesterol (TC) - liver histology, and expression levels of implicated molecules including PI3K/AKT and PPARα. Over 300 potential active compounds with their physicochemical characteristics and 562 candidate targets were collected, and then the network of them was constructed. Follow-up pathway and functional enrichment analyses indicated that SGD influences metabolism-related signaling pathways including PI3K-Akt, AMPK, and PPAR. In validation experiments, treatment of KKAy mice with SGD reduced serum levels of glucose, TC, TG, and FFA, decreased numbers of crown-like structures in visceral adipose tissue, reduced adipocyte size, and lowered liver lipid deposits. Further, SGD improved liver metabolism by increasing the expressions of PPARα, HSL, and PI3K/Akt, and decreasing expressions of SREBP-1 and FASN, inhibiting lipid biosynthesis, and increasing insulin sensitivity. Experimental validation of network analysis revealed anti-diabetic effects of the plant product SGD, manifested most notably by improved serum profiles and diminished insulin resistance. These experimental results may have clinical implications. Image 1 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Well-ordered ZnO nanowire-networks thin film gas sensor obtained via a facile and green method. • Interconnected junctions structures possessing sufficient electron transfer channels foster gas sensing. • The gas mechanism related to the interjunctions is also clarified based on the experimental results. • The detection limit of SO 2 can reach 200 ppb and a novel strategy for ppb-level SO 2 gas sensor is achieved. SO 2 gas sensors based on ZnO nanostructures under wild conditions are used widely yet an insufficient electron transfer channels limit the enhancement of the gas-sensing performance. Herein, we report well-ordered ZnO nanowire-networks with interconnected junctions via a simple solution-processing method by adjustment of additive to produce remarkable SO 2 gas-sensing performance: low detection limit of 200 ppb, fast response-recovery speed (102 and 58 s) and high response value (8.28) to 10 ppm SO 2 at work temperature of 200 °C. The 3D net-work ZnO arrays with fully interconnected junctions, rich oxygen vacancies, and high conductivity are confirmed. Furthermore, the SO 2 gas mechanism related to the interjunctions is also clarified. This research offers a novel strategy for designing high performance ppb-level SO 2 gas sensor. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) play important roles in various biological activities as vital regulators. However, no study has focused on the lncRNA regulation of Outer membrane protein (OMP) immunization against aquatic bacterial infection. In this study, we examined the genome-wide expression of lncRNAs in the liver of European eel (Anguilla anguilla, Aa) administrated by a recombinant OmpA (rOmpA) from Edwardsiella anguillarum (Ea) to elucidate the functions of lncRNAs in the process of Ea infection and Aa anti- Ea infection using strand specific RNA-seq. Eels were challenged by Ea at 28 d post the immunization (dpi) of OmpA, and the result showed, compared to uninfected livers in the PBS group (Con group), the infected livers in the PBS group (Con_inf group) showed severe bleeding, hepatocyte atrophy and thrombi formed in the hepatic vessels; livers in the OmpA group (OmpA_inf) also formed slight thrombi in the hepatic vessels. The relative percent survival of eels in OmpA_inf vs Con_inf was 78.6%. Using high-throughput transcriptomics, we found 13405 lncRNAs in 3 compares of Con_inf vs Con, OmpA_inf vs Con and OmpA_inf vs Con_inf, of which 111, 129 and 158 DE-lncRNAs were ascertained. GO analysis of the DE-lncRNAs revealed the targeting DEGs were mainly involved in single-organism process, signaling, biological process and response to stimulus in BP, component of membrane in CC and binding in MF; KEGG pathways showed that the targeting DEGs in co-expression and co-location enriched in cell adhesion molecules. Finally, 54 DE-lncRNAs targeting 1675 DEGs were involved in an interaction network of 21692 co-expression and 483 co-location related links, of which 18 DE-lncRNAs appear to play crucial roles in anti- Ea infection. Thus, the interaction networks revealed crucial DE-lncRNAs underlying the process of Ea infection and Aa anti- Ea infection pre and post the immunization of OmpA. • LncRNAs activated by the infection of E. anguillarum after immunization was first reported. • The pathological changes of liver were greatly relieved after the OmpA immunization. • The relative percent survival of European eels was 78.6% after the OmpA immunization. • Eighteen DE-lncRNAs appear to play crucial roles in anti- E. anguillarum infection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new π-conjugated bridging-type dicarboxylic acid with a functional alkynyl group, 4,4′-(ethynylimino)bis[benzoic acid] (H2L), was designed and synthesized to construct a Zn(II)-based coordination compound [ZnL(dpa)]n (dpa = 4,4′-dipyridylamine). Compound 1 has two-dimensional layers with alkynyl groups protruding on each side of the layer. The introduction of the ligand dpa ensured the existence of uncoordinated nitrogen atoms. Through Hg⋯C (alkynyl group) and Hg⋯N (amino group) coordination interactions, 1 can effectively detect Hg2+ ions (Ksv = 1.34 × 104 M−1 and LOD = 3.75 × 10−4 mM) by fluorescence quenching. Meanwhile, for Fe3+, in addition to the coordination interactions between Fe3+ ions and the uncoordinated amino groups, competitive absorption was the major contributor to the fluorescence quenching of compound 1. Competitive absorption prompted the sensitive sensing of Fe3+ (Ksv = 3.09 × 104 M−1 and LOD = 1.94 × 10−4 mM) and 4-nitrophenol (Ksv = 7.46 × 104 M−1 and LOD = 4.32 × 10−4 mM). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Currently, most wheel-legged robots need to complete the switching of the wheel-and-leg modal in a stationary state, and the existing algorithms of statically switching the wheel-leg modal cannot meet the control requirements of multimodal switching dynamically for robots. In this paper, to achieve efficient switching of the wheel-and-leg modal for a quadruped robot, the novel transformable mechanism is designed. Then, a multimodal coordination operation control framework based on multiple algorithms is presented, incorporating the minimum foot force distribution method (algorithm No.1), the minimum joint torque distribution method (algorithm No.2), and the method of combining the single rigid body dynamic model with quadratic programming (algorithm No.3). In the process of switching wheel-leg modal dynamically, the existing algorithm No.3 is prone to produce the wrong optimal force due to the change of the whole-body rotational inertia. Therefore, an improved algorithm No.1 and algorithm No.2 are proposed, which do not consider the change in the body's inertia. The control effects of the three algorithms are compared and analyzed by simulation. The results show that algorithm No.3 can maintain a small error in attitude angle and speed tracking regardless of whether the robot is under multilegged support or omnidirectional walking compared to the other two algorithms. However, proposed algorithms No.1 and No.2 can more accurately track the target speed when the robot is walking with wheels raising and falling. Finally, a multi-algorithm combination control scheme formulated based on the above control effects has been demonstrated to be effective for the dynamic switching of the wheel-and-leg modal. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Design of practical tin oxide (SnO 2) semiconductor gas sensors is fundamental strategy to detect hazardous gases such as SO 2. However, challenges remain in the detection of SO 2 gas at low concentration and slow equilibrium between gas adsorption and desorption. Herein, the superior performance of nanostructured of Cu-doped flower-like SnO 2 architecture via feasible hydrothermal method demonstrated for the detection of SO 2 gas at low concentration (1–20 ppm) and fast gas adsorption and desorption equilibrium (14 s) towards 5 ppm SO 2. Furthermore, the as fabricated 3 mol% Cu-doped SnO 2 shows an outstanding gas response (∼ 4.05–20 ppm SO 2) at the working temperature of 300 ℃. The Cu-doping strategy may pave the way to ultrasensitive SO 2 gas sensor possessing low trace monitoring and fast equilibrium ability to satisfy the increasing demand for toxic SO 2 gas detection. • The Cu-doped flower-like SnO 2 architecture was prepared via feasible hydrothermal method. • The 3 mol% Cu-SnO 2 in the detection of SO 2 gas shows fast equilibrium and low trace monitoring (1 ppm). • The SO 2 sensing improvement reasons by doping of Cu was discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The optimal treatment for gastric varices (GVs) is a topic that remains definite for this study. This study compared the clinical outcomes of clip-assisted endoscopic cyanoacrylate injection (clip-ECI) to conventional endoscopic cyanoacrylate injection (con-ECI) for the treatment of GVs with a gastrorenal shunt. Data were collected retrospectively in five medical centers from 2015 to 2020. The patients were treated with con-ECI (n = 126) or clip-ECI (n = 148). Clinical characteristics and procedural outcomes were compared. Patients were followed until death, liver transplantation or 6 months after the treatment. The primary outcome was rebleeding, and the secondary outcome was survival. There were no significant differences in age, sex, etiology, shunt diameter and Child-Pugh classification between the two groups. Fewer GVs obliteration sessions were required in the clip-ECI group than in the con-ECI group (p = 0.015). The cumulative 6-month rebleeding-free rates were 88.6% in the clip-ECI group and 73.7% in the con-ECI group (p = 0.002). The cumulative 6-month survival rates were 97.1% in the clip-ECI group and 94.8% in the con-ECI group (p = 0.378). Compared with con-ECI, clip-ECI appears more effective for the treatment of GVs with a gastrorenal shunt, which required less sessions and achieved a higher 6-month rebleeding-free rate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract TiO 2 nanotree arrays films were obtained on fluorine doped tin oxide (FTO) substrates through a facile two-step hydrothermal method. The synthesized nanostructures were investigated by means of X-ray diffractometer, field-emission scanning electron microscopy and high-resolution transmission electron microscopy. The effect of TiO 2 nanotree morphology on optical and photoelectrochemical performance was systematically studied using UV–Vis absorption spectra, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS), Mott-Schottky, linear voltammetry and transient photocurrent measurements. The results revealed that a TiO 2 nanotree arrays film sample synthesized at 120 ℃ for nanobranched growth time 0.5 h showed a higher light trapping effect than TiO 2 nanorod arrays film, and achieved relatively lower charge transport resistance and higher photocurrent density compared with the other TiO 2 nanotree arrays samples. These behaviors can be mainly attributed to the formation of appropriate nanobranches manipulated the TiO 2 nanotree arrays by varying the hydrothermal reaction time to improve photoexcited electrons rate under the premise of high electronic transmission performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An abstract of the article "A Synthetic Promoter Drives Macrophage Expression of ApoE and Ameliorates Atherosclerosis," by Senlin Li, Weijing He, Mei Qiang, Robert A. Reddick, and Gregory L. Freeman is presented.

Cold tumor immune microenvironment (TIME) of pancreatic cancer (PC) with minimal dendritic cell (DC) and T cell infiltration can result in insufficient immunotherapy and chemotherapy. While gemcitabine (GEM) is a first-line chemotherapeutic drug for PC, its efficacy is reduced by immunosuppression and drug resistance. Ginsenoside Rh2 (Rh2) is known to have anti-cancer and immunomodulatory properties. Combining GEM with Rh2 may thus overcome immunosuppression and induce lasting anti-tumor immunity in PC. Here, we showed that after GEM−Rh2 therapy, there was significantly greater tumor infiltration by DCs. Caspase recruitment domain-containing protein 9 (CARD9), a central adaptor protein, was strongly up-regulated DCs with GEM−Rh2 therapy and promoted anti-tumor immune responses by DCs. CARD9 was found to be a critical target for Rh2 to enhance DC function. However, GEM−Rh2 treatment did not achieve the substantial anti-PC efficacy in CARD9−/− mice as in WT mice. The adoptive transfer of WT DCs to DC-depleted PC mice treated with GEM−Rh2 elicited strong anti-tumor immune responses, although CARD9−/− DCs were less effective than WT DCs. Our results showed that GEM−Rh2 may reverse cold TIME by enhancing tumor immunogenicity and decreasing the levels of immunosuppressive factors, reactivating DCs via the CARD9-BCL10-MALT1/ NF-κB pathway. Our findings suggest a potentially feasible and safe treatment strategy for PC, with a unique mechanism of action. Thus, Rh2 activation of DCs may remodel the cold TIME and optimize GEM chemotherapy for future therapeutic use. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The combination of sorafenib and hepatic arterial infusion chemotherapy (HAIC) is expected to exert a synergistic anticancer effect. We conducted this systematic review to examine the efficacy and safety of sorafenib plus HAIC vs sorafenib alone for advanced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Methods: We systematically searched the PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane Library with the following search terms: "sorafenib," "hepatic arterial infusion chemotherapy," "HAIC," "advanced," "hepatocellular carcinoma," and "HCC." Pooled hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% CIs were calculated for overall survival (OS) and progression‐free survival (PFS), and we calculated the pooled risk ratios (RRs) and 95% CIs for objective response rate (ORR) and adverse events (AEs). Results: We found that sorafenib plus HAIC was associated with significantly better OS (HR, 0.56; 95% CI, 0.37–0.83; P < 0.01), PFS (HR, 0.44; 95% CI, 0.27–0.72; P < 0.01), and ORR (RR, 3.77; 95% CI, 1.87–7.58; P < 0.01) than sorafenib alone in advanced HCC. Grade 3/4 AEs were more frequent in the sorafenib plus HAIC group, including leukopenia (RR, 4.54; 95% CI, 1.77–11.64; P < 0.01), neutropenia (RR, 7.81; 95% CI, 3.36–18.16; P < 0.01), thrombocytopenia (RR, 2.97; 95% CI, 1.98–4.46; P < 0.01), anemia (RR, 2.24; 95% CI, 1.22–4.09; P < 0.01), anorexia (RR, 2.37; 95% CI, 1.07–5.27; P = 0.03), nausea (RR, 2.98; 95% CI, 1.19–7.42; P = 0.02), and vomiting (RR, 3.99; 95% CI, 1.14–14.01; P = 0.03). Conclusion: Sorafenib plus HAIC improved OS, PFS, and ORR compared with sorafenib alone in advanced HCC, with acceptable safety profile. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]