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Background: The role of circRNAs in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) progression remains unclear. CircPIAS1 (circBase ID: hsa_circ_0007088) was identified as overexpressed in HCC cases through bioinformatics analysis. This study aimed to investigate the oncogenic properties and mechanisms of circPIAS1 in HCC development. Methods: Functional analyses were conducted to assess circPIAS1's impact on HCC cell proliferation, migration, and ferroptosis. Xenograft mouse models were employed to evaluate circPIAS1's effects on tumor growth and pulmonary metastasis in vivo. Bioinformatics analysis, RNA immunoprecipitation, and luciferase reporter assays were utilized to elucidate the molecular pathways influenced by circPIAS1. Additional techniques, including RNA pulldown, fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH), chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP), qPCR, and western blotting, were used to further explore the underlying mechanisms. Results: CircPIAS1 expression was elevated in HCC tissues and cells. Silencing circPIAS1 suppressed HCC cell proliferation and migration both in vitro and in vivo. Mechanically, circPIAS1 overexpression inhibited ferroptosis by competitively binding to miR-455-3p, leading to upregulation of Nuclear Protein 1 (NUPR1). Furthermore, NUPR1 promoted FTH1 transcription, enhancing iron storage in HCC cells and conferring resistance to ferroptosis. Treatment with ZZW-115, an NUPR1 inhibitor, reversed the tumor-promoting effects of circPIAS1 and sensitized HCC cells to lenvatinib. Conclusion: This study highlights the critical role of circPIAS1 in HCC progression through modulation of ferroptosis. Targeting the circPIAS1/miR-455-3p/NUPR1/FTH1 regulatory axis may represent a promising therapeutic strategy for HCC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A potassium carbonate promoted tandem oxy-Michael addition/cyclization of α,β-unsaturated carbonyl compounds with naphthol derivatives for the synthesis of 2-substituted naphthopyrans was developed. Using the readily available, inexpensive potassium carbonate as the promoter, a range of different substituted naphthopyrans were prepared. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Two new (1 and 2), together with five known (3–7) stilbene derivatives, were isolated from the tubers of Bletilla striata. The structures of these new compounds were elucidated by means of spectroscopic methods, while the known compounds were identified by comparison their data with those in the literature. Compounds 1 and 2 were tested for their anti-tobacco mosaic virus (anti-TMV) activities. The results revealed that 1 and 2 exhibited potential anti-TMV activities with inhibition rates of 31.5 and 30.6%, respectively, and these rates were close to that of a positive control. Compounds 1 and 2 were also tested for their anti-rotavirus activities, and compounds 1 and 2 showed potential activities with therapeutic index (TI) values of 15.5 and 16.2, respectively. These values are lower than that of a positive control. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Subduction‐related dehydration and exhumation‐related rehydration play an important role in water recycling on Earth. Water can be transported to the deep mantle through crustal subduction, whereas the behavior of water in the subducted crust during exhumation remains enigmatic. Here, we use an integrated micro X‐ray fluorescence spectrometry, transmission terahertz time‐domain, thermogravimetry, and differential scanning calorimetry approach for the first time on high‐pressure mafic granulite and amphibolite to investigate the water species and contents, as well as exhumation rehydration reactions. Our study demonstrates that garnet, hornblende, and ilmenite contain considerable amounts, and plagioclase contains minor amounts of water as molecular and structural species, whereas quartz contains only a minor amount of structural water. Water released from garnet and external fluids from the grain boundary will either migrate into hornblende, plagioclase, ilmenite, and quartz, or stored in the mantle wedge, or further subducted into the deep mantle. We suggest that water recycling between the Earth's surface and deep mantle is an unequilibrium process, and the lower crust and mantle may store a significant amount of water in deep Earth and can function as a container to feed and maintain the water recycling balance. Plain Language Summary: High‐pressure mafic granulites, representing rocks that underwent granulite facies metamorphism under high temperatures and pressures, are potential proxies to examine water recycling between Earth's surface and deep mantle layers through subduction zone channels. During metamorphism, water can be transported into the deep mantle via subduction‐related dehydration and returned to the surface through exhumation‐related rehydration processes, resulting in the formation of anhydrous and hydrous minerals in high‐pressure mafic granulites and amphibolites. The high‐pressure mafic granulite and amphibolite from the northern margin of the North China Block experienced the subduction of the Paleo‐Asian Ocean and the exhumation process of the subducted crust. In this study, we investigate the water species and content changes among the anhydrous and hydrous minerals, as well as whole‐rock during the exhumation process. We find that anhydrous mineral can store a considerable amount of water and release it into the hydrous minerals through rehydration reaction during exhumation. We propose that high‐pressure mafic granulite performing as a water carrier is able to transport significant amounts of water from deep mantle to the Earth's surface. Our study provides new insights for retrieving water recycling information in the deep Earth. Key Points: Hornblende, garnet, and ilmenite can store significant amounts of water, but only minor amounts in plagioclase and quartzHigh‐pressure granulite may be an important water carrier and is able to facilitate water recycling in deep EarthTransmission terahertz time‐domain spectroscopy offers a novel approach for water species and content detection in natural rocks [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] Methylene blue (MB) is a very widely used cationic dye for color cotton and silk products. The harmful MB has a complex aromatic structure that is difficult to be degraded in natural aqueous. In this study for the first time, a novel double Z-type ternary composite long-afterglow/graphitic carbon nitride@metal–organic framework (SrAl 2 O 4 :Eu2+,Dy3+/g-C 3 N 4 @NH 2 -UiO-66, SGN) has been synthesized by solvothermal method, and was used as a new photocatalyst for removal of MB. The photocatalytic performance of the composited photocatalyst SGN was largely improved compared to that of the non-composite. After 30 min of photocatalysis, the degradation ratio of SGN was 5.86, 4.04 and 10 times more efficient than that of long-afterglow (SAO), g-C 3 N 4 and NH 2 -UiO-66, respectively. The high photocatalytic activity of the SGN could be ascribed to the double Z-type electron transfer mechanism. More importantly, due to the luminescence of SAO, the degradation ratio of ternary SGN can reach about 50 % after 5 h in the dark. Superoxide anion (·O 2 –) was verified to be the main active substance in the photocatalytic process by quenching experiments and electron spin resonance (ESR) spectra analysis. The total organic matter contents (TOC) and partial degradation products were measured, which confirmed that some MB was mineralized into H 2 O and CO 2 , and some was degraded into smaller molecules. Moreover, the excellent stability and recyclability of this catalyst were also investigated. Here, a new promising material with high degradation performance for water pollution treatment is presented. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The alkaline complex in the southwest region of Luxi Terrane of the North China Craton is spatially correlated with the newly discovered Longbaoshan REE deposit. Its petrogenesis, however, remains ambiguous. In this study, we present an integrated petrology, whole-rock geochemistry, sphene U-Pb and rare earth element data from the Longbaoshan alkaline complex to investigate the petrogenesis, magma source and tectonic evolution. The Longbaoshan alkaline complex consists of mafic to intermediate rocks of hornblende diorite and alkaline hornblende syenite porphyry, biotite monzonite porphyry and aegirine diorite porphyrite. The hornblende diorites show a composition of low SiO2, high MgO, Fe2O3 and moderate Na2O, CaO and are metaluminous and medium-to-high-K calc-alkaline. The hornblende syenite porphyries, biotite monzonites and argirine diorite porphyrites display a relatively higher content of SiO2, Na2O, K2O and Al2O3 and lower contents of MgO, Fe2O3 and CaO and are metaluminous, peralkaline, high-K calcic-alkaline and shoshonite. The sphene U-Pb data shows that the parent magma of the hornblende diorite was emplaced at ca. 120 Ma. All these samples show a common depletion in Th, Nb-Ta and Zr-Hf and enrichment in large ion lithophile elements (e.g., Pb, Ba, Sr) and Light Rare Earth Elements. The magma may have experienced fractionation of pyroxene, amphibole, sphene, apatite and zircon during its evolution. The variable La content, La/Sm, Rb/Sr and (Ta/Th) N ratios indicate that the parent magma may produce by partial melting of a mantle source that was interacted with sediment-derived melts in a subduction setting. Therefore, we propose that the parent magma of the Longbaoshan alkaline complex was derived from a lithospheric mantle which was metasomatized by sediment-derived melt in a prior subduction process. The enriched magma was emplaced through an extension process and experienced subsequent fractionation and assimilation with the continental crust during the rollback of the Paleo Pacific Ocean plate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the last decade, biopolymers have been used as organic soil binders in ground improvement and earthen construction material modification. Although biopolymer-treated soils have substantially enhanced mechanical strength, the deformation characteristics under external loads and material durability (e.g. biodeterioration due to microbial activity) have not yet been fully understood, which limits the in situ practical application of the biopolymer-based soil treatment technology. This study investigated the efficiency of combined carrageenan and casein in strengthening a clayey soil with the biodeterioration consideration. Both mechanical tests (e.g. unconfined compressive strength and one-dimensional consolidation) and biological tests (e.g. high throughput sequencing and rating of mould growth) were conducted. Results indicated that the usage of the carrageenan–casein mixture induced a higher soil compressive strength compared with either carrageen or casein, due to the formation of a three-dimensional gel network. In addition, carrageenan–casein mixture and casein decreased the compressibility of the clayey soil, which might be attributed to the casein's peculiarity of self-associating into micelles, leading to minimal interactions with water molecules. Carrageenan, due to its affinity for water, increased the soil compressibility. Under the impact of microbial activity, the biopolymer-treated soils underwent deterioration in both surface appearance (i.e. coloured stains and patches caused by mould growth) and compressive strength. A linear relationship was proposed, in which a reduction in compressive strength by approximately 11% is expected while the rating of mould growth is increased by one in a five-rating system. The current research demonstrates that the soil reinforcement with combined carrageenan and casein is able to improve both soil strength and deformation behaviours. It is also suggested to take into account the biodeterioration considerations in the design and implementation of biopolymer-based soil reinforcement practices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) is the most common aggressive non-Hodgkin lymphoma, and about 10% of DLBCL cases primarily occur in the gastrointestinal tract. Previous reports have revealed that primary gastrointestinal-DLBCL (pGI-DLBCL) harbors different genetic mutations from other nodal or extranodal DLBCL. However, the exonic mutation profile of pGI-DLBCL has not been fully addressed. Methods: We performed whole-exome sequencing of matched tumor tissues and blood samples from 53 pGI-DLBCL patients. The exonic mutation profiles were screened, and the correlations between genetic mutations and clinicopathological characteristics were analyzed. Results: A total of 6,588 protein-altering events were found and the five most frequent mutated genes in our pGI-DLBCL cohort were IGLL5 (47%), TP53 (42%), BTG2 (28%), P2RY8 (26%) and PCLO (23%). Compared to the common DLBCL, significantly less or absence of MYD88 (0%), EZH2 (0%), BCL2 (2%) or CD79B (8%) mutations were identified in pGI-DLBCL. The recurrent potential driver genes were mainly enriched in pathways related to signal transduction, infectious disease and immune regulation. In addition, HBV infection had an impact on the mutational signature in pGI-DLBCL, as positive HBsAg was significantly associated with the TP53 and LRP1B mutations, two established tumor suppressor genes in many human cancers. Moreover, IGLL5 and LRP1B mutations were significantly correlated with patient overall survival and could serve as two novel prognostic biomarkers in pGI-DLBCL. Conclusions: Our study provides a comprehensive view of the exonic mutation profile of the largest pGI-DLBCL cohort to date. The results could facilitate the clinical development of novel therapeutic and prognostic biomarkers for pGI-DLBCL. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective. To study whether procalcitonin (PCT) is an important indicator of infection with or without agranulocytosis and to reveal whether PCT can distinguish between infected sites and affect prognosis after hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT). Method. In the present study, 682 patients with HSCT were enrolled, and their clinical characteristics were noted. Their blood culture and inflammatory and biochemical indicators were studied. The patients were divided into respective groups according to the degree of agranulocytosis, type of bacterial infection, infected sites, and prognosis. Results. The PCT, CRP, and D-dimer levels were significantly improved in patients with positive blood culture results compared to the case for those with negative blood culture results. The PCT level was the highest in the gram-negative group. The levels of PCT and D-dimer were significantly elevated in patients with infection and agranulocytosis after HSCT compared to those in the nonagranulocytosis cohort. Interestingly, no significant difference in the PCT level was observed among any of the eight foci. Lower PCT levels were associated with higher survival in patients with infection after HSCT. Conclusion. Among patients that underwent HSCT, PCT levels were significantly elevated in those with infection and agranulocytosis, with the levels being specifically high in the gram-negative group. Moreover, lower PCT levels were associated with higher survival in patients with infection after HSCT. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Psoriatic arthritis (PsA) is a common inflammatory disease affecting the peripheral and axial skeleton. History of psoriasis (PSO), either personal or family history, is an important factor in the diagnosis of PsA. We investigated the association between history of PSO and clinical characteristics of PsA. Methods: PsA patients were consecutive recruited from 2019 to 2020. These patients were subjected to clinical, biochemical, and radiographic examinations, and disease activity was evaluated. Continuous and categorical variables analyses were presented. Results: All registered patients (296 cases) met the classification criteria of PsA. They were divided into three groups based on the history of psoriasis (PSO), as: (1) 145 patients with PSO themselves (pPsA); (2) 96 patients with family history of PSO (fPsA); (3) 55 patients with family history and coexisting PSO themselves (fPsA/PSO). Compared to fPsA/PSO, the levels of CRP, ESR, uric acid, DAPSA, BASDAI, ASDAS, and BASFI were lower in fPsA, but similar to pPsA. The severity of sacroiliitis tended to be more severe in fPsA/PSO than fPsA (OR2 vs. 3 0.508; 95% CI 0.272 to 0.949, p < 0.05). No significant differences were found in HLA-B-27 and common inflammatory articular and extra-articular manifestations among the three groups. Furthermore, there were no differences in LEI, TJC, SJC, and DAS28CRP. Interestingly, a correlation was found between the ages of individuals with PSO and the onset of arthritis, and the earliest arthritis onset occurred in fPsA/PSO patients (p < 0.001). Conclusions: Our study demonstrates that currently existing cutaneous lesions in patients themselves are correlated with disease activity and severity of axial joint damage, whereas family history does not have an evident impact on the disease activity of PsA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The pathogenesis of vascular dementia (VD) is complex, and currently, no effective treatments have been recommended. Floralozone is a colorless liquid first discovered in Lagotis Gaertn. Recently, its medicinal value has been increasingly recognized. Our previous study has demonstrated that Floralozone can improve cognitive dysfunction in rats with VD by regulating the transient receptor potential melastatin 2 (TRPM2) and N -methyl-D-aspartate receptor (NMDAR) signaling pathways. However, the mechanism by which Floralozone regulates TRPM2 and NMDAR to improve VD remains unclear. AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) is an energy regulator in vivo; however, its role of AMPK activation in stroke remains controversial. MiR-7a-5p has been identified to be closely related to neuronal function. To explore whether Floralozone can regulate the miR-7a-5p level in vivo through AMPKα2 activation, affect the TRPM2 and NR2B expression levels, and improve VD symptoms. The VD model was established by a modified bilateral occlusion of the common carotid arteries (2-VO) of Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats and AMPKα2 KO transgenic (AMPKα2−/−) mice. Primary hippocampal neurons were modeled using oxygen and glucose deprivation (OGD). Morris water maze (MWM) test, hematoxylin-eosin staining (HE staining), and TUNEL staining were used to investigate the effects of Floralozone on behavior and hippocampal morphology in rats. Minichromosome maintenance complex component 2(MCM2) positive cells were used to investigate the effect of Floralozone on neurogenesis. Immunofluorescence staining, qRT-PCR, and western blot analysis were used to investigate the effect of Floralozone on the expression levels of AMPKα2, miR-7a-5p, TRPM2, and NR2B. The SD rat experiment revealed that Floralozone improved spatial learning and memory, improved the morphology and structure of hippocampal neurons, reduced apoptosis of hippocampal neurons and promoted neurogenesis in VD rats. Floralozone could increase the miR-7a-5p expression level, activate AMPKα2 and NR2B expressions, and inhibit TRPM2 expression in hippocampal neurons of VD rats. The AMPKα2 KO transgenic (AMPKα2−/−) mice experiment demonstrated that Floralozone could regulate miR-7a-5p, TRPM2, and NR2B expression levels through AMPKα2 activation. The cell experiment revealed that the TRPM2 and NR2B expression levels were regulated by miR-7a-5p, whereas the AMPKα2 expression level was not. Floralozone could regulate miR-7a-5p expression level by activating the protein expression of AMPKα2, control the protein expression of TRPM2 and NR2B, improve the morphology and structure of hippocampus neurons, reduce the apoptosis of hippocampus neurons, promote neurogenesis and improve the cognitive dysfunction. [Display omitted] • Floralozone has been found to be a promising neuroprotective agent for the treatment of VD. • The key role of AMPKα2 in improving symptoms of vascular dementia was found. • The key role of miR-7a-5p in improving the symptoms of vascular dementia was found. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The closure time of the Shangdan Ocean is critical for understanding the tectonic evolution of the Proto-Tethys Ocean. However, the proposed closure time was prolonged from Ordovician to Devonian. In the present study, detrital zircon from the metasedimentary rocks of the Liba Group in the West Qinling Belt was analyzed to constrain the closure time of the Shangdan Ocean. The three youngest grains from the Liba Group yield a maximum deposition age of 418 ± 13 Ma, indicating the Middle Devonian deposition. Detrital zircon grains show two main U–Pb age peaks of 810 Ma and 440 Ma with εHf(t) values spanning from −24.3 to +8.8 and −6.3 to +4.1, respectively, suggesting that the sediments of the Liba Group were derived from both the North and South Qinling Belts. The Lower Devonian in the South Qinling Belt shows similar provenance to the Liba Group, whereas sediments from the North Qinling Belt are absent in the Silurian strata of the South Qinling Belt. From Late Silurian to Early Devonian, the tectonic setting changed from subduction to collision. This evidence consistently suggests the disappearance of the Shangdan Ocean. The noticeable decrease in magmatism from 510–420 Ma to 420–390 Ma and the shrinking of εHf(t) values from −15.5–+12.8 to −8.4–+4.2 reveal that the Shangdan Ocean, as the eastmost embranchment of the Proto-Tethys Ocean, was closed at ca. 420 Ma. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

American ginseng (Panax quinquefolius L.) is an herbal medicine with polysaccharides as its important active ingredient. The purpose of this research was to identify the effects of the polysaccharides of P. quinquefolius (WQP) on rats with antibiotic-associated diarrhoea (AAD) induced by lincomycin hydrochloride. WQP was primarily composed of galacturonic acid, glucose, galactose, and arabinose. The yield, total sugar content, uronic acid content, and protein content were 6.71%, 85.2%, 31.9%, and 2.1%, respectively. WQP reduced the infiltration of inflammatory cells into the ileum and colon, reduced the IL-1β, IL-6, IL-17A, and TNF-α levels, increased the levels of IL-4 and IL-10 in colon tissues, improved the production of acetate and propionate, regulated the gut microbiota diversity and composition, improved the relative richness of Lactobacillus and Bacteroides, and reduced the relative richness of Blautia and Coprococcus. The results indicated that WQP can enhance the recovery of the intestinal structure in rats, reduce inflammatory cytokine levels, improve short-chain fatty acid (SCFA) levels, promote recovery of the gut microbiota and intestinal mucosal barrier, and alleviate antibiotic-related side effects such as diarrhoea and microbiota dysbiosis caused by lincomycin hydrochloride. We found that WQP can protect the intestinal barrier by increasing Occludin and Claudin-1 expression. In addition, WQP inhibited the MAPK inflammatory signaling pathway to improve the inflammatory status. This study provides a foundation for the treatment of natural polysaccharides to reduce antibiotic-related side effects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The giant Husab uranium deposit is located in the Paleoproterozoic Abbabis Metamorphic Complex, which was highly partially melted and metamorphosed during the Damara Orogenic Event. The timing of magma emplacement has been investigated; however, the petrogenesis is unclear. Here we reported petrology, geochemistry, and monazite U-Pb age data from biotite granitic gneisses, syeno-granite, syeno-granitic pegmatites, syeno-granitic gneiss, granitic syenite and biotite quartz monzonites of this complex. Geochemical data suggest that these Paleoproterozoic rocks show high SiO2, Al2O3, and K2O, moderate Na2O, low CaO and Fe2O3, and MgO abundance. The alkali-calcic to alkalic, peraluminous, low Fe-number, depletion in HFSE (Nb-Ta, Ti) and enrichment in LILE (e.g., Rb, Pb) characteristic correspond with I- and S-type granite. Major and trace elements are strongly fractionated with the increase of SiO2, which, together with strongly fractionated LREE patterns and high (La/Yb)N ratios of the biotite granitic gneiss and syeno-granitic gneiss, suggest that the magma was highly evolved and fractionated. Monazite U-Pb data show three metamorphic age groups of 581–535 Ma, 531–522 Ma and 518–484 Ma. The increasing trend of La/Sm and La/Yb with the increase of La, suggest these rocks most likely experienced a partial melting process during the late Palaeozoic metamorphism. We, thus, propose a fractional crystallization model for the generation of the Paleoproterozoic Abbabis Metamorphic Complex basement rock, which was metamorphosed and melted during the late Palaeozoic Damara Orogenic Event and provided the magma sources for primary uranium mineralization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hollow adsorptive beads with bi-layers of sorption sites for efficient removal of hexavalent chromium and copper ions were prepared. [Display omitted] • Novel bilayered hollow amphiphilic biosorbents were prepared. • This adsorbent has an abundance of easily accessible active sites. • Excellent removal of hexavalent chromium and copper ions. • Exceptional recovery performance for two typical heavy metal ions. Here, we have developed a novel bilayer hollow amphiphilic biosorbent (BHAB-3) with large adsorption capacity, rapid adsorption kinetics, and cost-effective for the removal of Cr(VI) and Cu(II) from aqueous solutions. The synthesis was based on the clever use of freeze-drying to fix the structure, secondary modification of the carboxymethyl cellulose microspheres with polyethyleneimine and cross-linking by glutaraldehyde. The consequences of pH, initial concentration, contact time and temperature on adsorption were investigated. The Langmuir model fits showed that the maximum adsorption capacities of the two target heavy metal ions reached 835.91 and 294.79 mg/g, respectively. Moreover, BHAB-3 was characterized by SEM, FT-IR, TGA, and XPS synergistically, showing that it exhibits a strong complexation ability for Cu(II) and a strong electrostatic effect for Cr(VI). Adsorption and desorption experiments showed only a slight decrease in the adsorption capacity of the BHAB-3 for Cr(VI) and Cu(II) ions after 5 and 26 cycles, respectively. Given the excellent properties of this adsorbent, it is a promising candidate for heavy metal ion removal. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) is characterized by abnormal remodeling of pulmonary vessel walls caused by excessive pulmonary arterial smooth muscle cell (PASMC) proliferation. Our previous clinical studies have demonstrated the importance of the downregulated circRNA in PAH. However, the role of upregulated circRNAs is still elusive. Here, we identified the upregulated circRNA in PAH patients, hsa_circWDR37_016 (circWDR37), as a key regulator of hypoxic proliferative disorder of pulmonary arterial smooth muscle cells (PASMCs). Quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR) analysis validated that exposure to hypoxia markedly increased the circWDR37 level in cultured human PASMCs. As evidenced by flow cytometry, 5-ethynyl-2 ′ -deoxyuridine (EdU) incorporation, wound healing, and Tunel assay, silencing of endogenous circWDR37 attenuated proliferation and cell-cycle progression in hypoxia-exposed human PASMCs in vitro. Furthermore, bioinformatics and Luciferase assay showed that circWDR37 directly sponged hsa-miR-138-5p (miR-138) and was involved in the immunoregulatory and inflammatory processes of PAH. Together, these studies suggested new insights into circRNA regulated the pathology of PAH, providing a new potential therapeutic target for PAH treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Novel millimeter hollow microspheres were fabricated from carboxymethyl cellulose microspheres and polyethyleneimine using glutaraldehyde as a crosslinking agent. The hollow microspheres prepared with different polyethyleneimine usages and different polyethyleneimine treatment time were investigated deeply and characterized via SEM-EDX, FT-IR, and BET surface area analysis. It was shown that polyethyleneimine could break the coordination bonds between the carboxyl and Al (III) in carboxymethyl cellulose microspheres, leading to the formation of hollow structures. Most importantly, the usage and treatment time of polyethyleneimine can distinctly tailor the structure of the carboxymethyl cellulose microspheres, resulting in the formation of different hollow microspheres with varied shell thickness and size. Most importantly, we found that the prepared hollow microspheres have excellent adsorption performance toward targeted methyl blue under testing conditions. By virtue of the large accessible amount of -NH 2 groups and its unique hollow structure, this type of millimeter hollow microspheres have broad application prospects in the treatment of emerging contaminants in wastewater. A novel millimeter-sized hollow microsphere enriched with a large amount of -NH 2 was prepared, and its formation was investigated. [Display omitted] • Novel millimeter hollow shell microspheres were prepared. • The hollow shell microspheres possess abundant -NH 2. • A well-developed 3D network structure was formed in the hollow shell microspheres. • The hollow shell structure gradually changes with PEI treatment conditions. • This new hollow microsphere has good adsorption properties of methyl blue. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a common autoimmune rheumatic disease that causes chronic synovitis, bone erosion, and joint destruction. The autoantigens in RA include a wide array of posttranslational modified proteins, such as citrullinated proteins catalyzed by peptidyl arginine deiminase4a. Pathogenic anti-citrullinated protein antibodies (ACPAs) directed against a variety of citrullinated epitopes are abundant both in plasma and synovial fluid of RA patients. ACPAs play an important role in the onset and progression of RA. Intensive and extensive studies are being conducted to unveil the mechanisms of RA pathogenesis and evaluate the efficacy of some investigative drugs. In this review, we focus on the formation and pathogenic function of ACPAs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Early recurrence (ER) after surgery is related to early death in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) after radical resection. To explore the role of preoperative contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) in predicting ER of HCC after curative resection and to stratify the risk of ER. Materials and methods: This study evaluated consecutive 556 patients with HCC who were examined by CEUS during the 2 weeks before curative resection between January 2011 and December 2018. ER was defined as intrahepatic and/or extrahepatic recurrence within 2 year after resection of HCC. Univariate and logistic regression analyses were performed to identify independent risk factors for ER after surgical resection of HCC. Recurrence-free time (RFS) rates were analyzed and compared by log-rank test. Results: ER occurred in 307 (55.2%) of the 556 patients. Univariate and multivariate analyses revealed that a tumor size ≥ 30 mm and satellite nodules seen on CEUS, DL(deep learning) radiomics reoccurrence score based on the frame of image with the maximum intensity of CEUS and an elevated alpha-fetoprotein level were significantly associated with ER (P <.05). Based on the number of predictors present, patients with CEUS LR-5 HCC were stratified into three risk subgroups: risk group 3 (high-risk patients, 4 predictors), risk group 2 (medium-risk patients, 2–3 predictors), and risk group 1 (low-risk patients, 0–1 predictor). The 2-year RFS rate was 19.4% in risk group 3, 40.9% in risk group 2, and 48.1% in risk group 1; the corresponding mean RFS times were 14.0 ± 2.9 months, 43.7 ± 6.6 months, and 55.5 ± 2.8 months, respectively (P <.001). Conclusions: Tumor size ≥ 30 mm and satellite nodules seen on CEUS, DL radiomics reoccurrence score based on the frame of image with the maximum intensity of CEUS and an elevated alpha-fetoprotein level can predict ER of HCC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: It remains unclear whether intensification of the chemotherapy backbone in tandem with an anti-EGFR can confer superior clinical outcomes in a cohort of RAS/BRAF wild-type colorectal cancer (CRC) patients with initially unresectable colorectal liver metastases (CRLM). To that end, we sought to comparatively evaluate the efficacy and safety of cetuximab plus FOLFOXIRI (triplet arm) versus cetuximab plus FOLFOX (doublet arm) as a conversion regimen (i.e., unresectable to resectable) in CRC patients with unresectable CRLM. Methods and findings: This open-label, randomized clinical trial was conducted from April 2018 to December 2022 in 7 medical centers across China, enrolling 146 RAS/BRAF wild-type CRC patients with initially unresectable CRLM. A stratified blocked randomization method was utilized to assign patients (1:1) to either the cetuximab plus FOLFOXIRI (n = 72) or cetuximab plus FOLFOX (n = 74) treatment arms. Stratification factors were tumor location (left versus right) and resectability (technically unresectable versus ≥5 metastases). The primary outcome was the objective response rate (ORR). Secondary outcomes included the median depth of tumor response (DpR), early tumor shrinkage (ETS), R0 resection rate, progression-free survival (PFS), overall survival (not mature at the time of analysis), and safety profile. Radiological tumor evaluations were conducted by radiologists blinded to the group allocation. Primary efficacy analyses were conducted based on the intention-to-treat population, while safety analyses were performed on patients who received at least 1 line of chemotherapy. A total of 14 patients (9.6%) were lost to follow-up (9 in the doublet arm and 5 in the triplet arm). The ORR was comparable following adjustment for stratification factors, with 84.7% versus 79.7% in the triplet and doublet arms, respectively (odds ratio [OR] 0.70; 95% confidence intervals [CI] [0.30, 1.67], Chi-square p = 0.42). Moreover, the ETS rate showed no significant difference between the triplet and doublet arms (80.6% (58/72) versus 77.0% (57/74), OR 0.82, 95% CI [0.37, 1.83], Chi-square p = 0.63). Although median DpR was higher in the triplet therapy group (59.6%, interquartile range [IQR], [50.0, 69.7] versus 55.0%, IQR [42.8, 63.8], Mann–Whitney p = 0.039), the R0/R1 resection rate with or without radiofrequency ablation/stereotactic body radiation therapy was comparable with 54.2% (39/72) of patients in the triplet arm versus 52.7% (39/74) in the doublet arm. At a median follow-up of 26.2 months (IQR [12.8, 40.5]), the median PFS was 11.8 months in the triplet arm versus 13.4 months in the doublet arm (hazard ratio [HR] 0.74, 95% CI [0.50, 1.11], Log-rank p = 0.14). Grade ≥ 3 events were reported in 47.2% (35/74) of patients in the doublet arm and 55.9% (38/68) of patients in the triplet arm. The triplet arm was associated with a higher incidence of grade ≥ 3 neutropenia (44.1% versus 27.0%, p = 0.03) and diarrhea (5.9% versus 0%, p = 0.03). The primary limitations of the study encompass the inherent bias in subjective surgical decisions regarding resection feasibility, as well as the lack of a centralized assessment for ORR and resection. Conclusions: The combination of cetuximab with FOLFOXIRI did not significantly improve ORR compared to cetuximab plus FOLFOX. Despite achieving an enhanced DpR, this improvement did not translate into improved R0 resection rates or PFS. Moreover, the triplet arm was associated with an increase in treatment-related toxicity. Trial Registration: ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT03493048. De-Shen Wang and colleagues evaluate the efficacy and safety of cetuximab plus FOLFOXIRI versus cetuximab plus FOLFOX as a conversion regimen in CRC patients with initially unresectable colorectal liver metastases. Author summary: Why was this study done?: Liver metastasis is a common and significant challenge in colorectal cancer (CRC). Achieving resection through local treatments such as surgery, radiofrequency treatment, and stereotactic body radiation therapy is crucial for long-term survival. Therefore, identifying strategies to increase the conversion to resection rate in patients with initially unresectable colorectal liver metastases (CRLM) is paramount. Although the combination of an anti-EGFR with a doublet chemotherapy backbone has been established as the upfront conversion regimen in RAS/BRAF wild-type CRC patients with initially unresectable CRLM, several Phase II studies highlighted the substantial efficacy of a triplet chemotherapy backbone. Nevertheless, the added value of an intensified chemotherapy backbone in combination with cetuximab has not been explored in a randomized controlled trial at the time of this study. What did the researchers do and find?: This prospective, open-label, randomized clinical trial aimed to assess the efficacy of upfront cetuximab plus FOLFOXIRI versus cetuximab plus FOLFOX in a cohort consisting only of RAS/BRAF wild-type CRC patients with initially unresectable CRLM. The study findings reveal that the objective response rates (ORRs) were comparable between the 2 treatment arms. Although a superior depth of tumor response was achieved in the cetuximab plus FOLFOXIRI treatment arm, this did not translate to improved resection rates or progression-free survival (PFS). Instead, this regimen was associated with increased treatment toxicities. What do these findings mean?: Collectively, the TRICE study recommends selecting cetuximab plus FOLFOX as the first-line regimen for RAS/BRAF wild-type CRC patients with unresectable CRLM requiring conversion to resection. Major limitations of the study include the inherent bias in subjective surgical decisions regarding resection feasibility and the lack of centralized assessment for study endpoints. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

SUMMARY: Lotus plumule, the embryo of the seed of the sacred lotus (Nelumbo nucifera), contains a high accumulation of secondary metabolites including flavonoids and possesses important pharmaceutical value. Flavonoid C‐glycosides, which accumulate exclusively in lotus plumule, have attracted considerable attention in recent decades due to their unique chemical structure and special bioactivities. As well as mono‐C‐glycosides, lotus plumule also accumulates various kinds of di‐C‐glycosides by mechanisms which are as yet unclear. In this study we identified two C‐glycosyltransferase (CGT) genes by mining sacred lotus genome data and provide in vitro and in planta evidence that these two enzymes (NnCGT1 and NnCGT2, also designated as UGT708N1 and UGT708N2, respectively) exhibit CGT activity. Recombinant UGT708N1 and UGT708N2 can C‐glycosylate 2‐hydroxyflavanones and 2‐hydroxynaringenin C‐glucoside, forming flavone mono‐C‐glycosides and di‐C‐glycosides, respectively, after dehydration. In addition, the above reactions were successfully catalysed by cell‐free extracts from tobacco leaves transiently expressing NnCGT1 or NnCGT2. Finally, enzyme assays using cell‐free extracts of lotus plumule suggested that flavone di‐C‐glycosides (vicenin‐1, vicenin‐3, schaftoside and isoschaftoside) are biosynthesized through sequentially C‐glucosylating and C‐arabinosylating/C‐xylosylating 2‐hydroxynaringenin. Taken together, our results provide novel insights into the biosynthesis of flavonoid di‐C‐glycosides by proposing a new biosynthetic pathway for flavone C‐glycosides in N. nucifera and identifying a novel uridine diphosphate‐glycosyltransferase (UGT708N2) that specifically catalyses the second glycsosylation, C‐arabinosylating and C‐xylosylating 2‐hydroxynaringenin C‐glucoside. Significance Statement: This paper provides new insights into biosynthesis of flavonoid di‐C‐glycosides in plants at a molecular level. This investigation will lay foundations for the exploration of other C‐glycosyltransferases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A palladium catalyzed reductive aminocarbonylation of benzylic ammonium triflates with nitroarenes for the synthesis of phenylacetamides was developed. Using Pd(acac)2/DPPF catalyst system, a range of different substituted phenylacetamides were prepared in moderate to good yields from benzylic ammonium triflates and nitroarenes through Csp3−N bond cleavage. A variety of alkyl, aryl, and halide substituents on both substrates can be used, and many useful functional groups can be tolerated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Amide synthesis is one of the most important transformations in organic chemistry due to their ubiquitous presence in our daily life. In this communication, a palladium catalyzed cascade azidation/carbonylation of aryl halides for the synthesis of amides was developed. Both iodo‐ and bromobenzene derivatives were transformed to the corresponding amides using PdCl2/xantphos as the catalyst system and sodium azide as the nitrogen‐source. The reaction proceeds via a cascade azidation/carbonylation process. A range of alkyl and halogen substituted amides were prepared in moderate to good yields. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple sequence repeat (SSR) markers play an important role in genetic and molecular breeding programs, especially for non‐model species. We identified SSRs from expressed sequence tags (EST‐SSRs) and whole genome sequences (gSSRs), by analysing the transcriptome and genome of the Mongolian sea buckthorn (Hippophae rhamnoides subsp. mongolica) cultivar 'Sunny'. Using the same number of loci, EST‐SSRs showed higher transferability to Hippophae than gSSRs, and phylogenetic trees based on EST‐SSRs demonstrated higher resolution for classifying Hippophae species and subspecies into clades, possibly due to high conservatism and/or existence of adaptive divergence between species/subspecies in coding sequence regions. In contrast, parentage analyses showed that gSSRs were more effective at resolving parentage than EST‐SSRs due to higher level of polymorphism in gSSRs. The markers developed in this study can be used in the identification and pedigree reconstruction of species/subspecies of sea buckthorn, while their usage in clarifying phylogenetic relationship among species remains to be discussed. The comparison between EST‐SSRs and gSSRs would provide insight into the trade‐off between differentiation and polymorphism in marker selection for breeding programs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cerebral small vessel disease (CSVD) causes 20%–25% of stroke and contributes to 45% of dementia cases worldwide. However, since its early symptoms are inconclusive in addition to the complexity of the pathological basis, there is a rather limited effective therapies and interventions. Recently, accumulating evidence suggested that various brain-waste-clearance dysfunctions are closely related to the pathogenesis and prognosis of CSVD, and after a comprehensive and systematic review we classified them into two broad categories: trans-barrier transport and lymphatic drainage. The former includes blood brain barrier and blood–cerebrospinal fluid barrier, and the latter, glymphatic-meningeal lymphatic system and intramural periarterial drainage pathway. We summarized the concepts and potential mechanisms of these clearance systems, proposing a relatively complete framework for elucidating their interactions with CSVD. In addition, we also discussed recent advances in therapeutic strategies targeting clearance dysfunction, which may be an important area for future CSVD research. • The main clearance systems can be classified into two broad categories: trans-barrier transport and lymphatic drainage. • Clearance systems must function in symbiosis to ensure proper brain waste removal. • Clearance dysfunction can occur before the manifestation of CSVD. • The brain-waste-clearance dysfunction is a breakthrough to understand the interaction between CSVD and neurodegenerative diseases. • Sleep management offers an easily implemented strategy and AQP4 is a pivotal target. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new chain compound consisting of Mn2(salen)2 building blocks bridged by aromatic selenite was synthesized and characterized. The compound displays antiferromagnetic interactions through the O–Se–O bridges. The coexistence of single chain magnet and metamagnet behaviour was observed in the compound. The compound is one of the rare examples of Mn-salen coordinated aromatic selenite-based magnetic materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Heavy metal ions pollution is a terrible issue that needs to be efficiently treated as a matter of priority to construct our sustainable society. However, the easy-to-handling of high-performance biomass-derived sorbents with fascinating features like high sorption capacity, favorable separation and recycling remain challenging. Herein, the development of a novel bead-like adsorbent with above features, that is, Al(III)-assembled carboxymethyl cellulose beads were used for the removal of Pb(II), Ni(II) and Co(II) from aqueous solution. Characterization methods like FT-IR, SEM, XPS and TGA were employed to confirm its physicochemical properties. Removal of the three heavy metal ions at different pH values, initial concentration and contact time were discussed at batch adsorption experiments. Meanwhile, regeneration was also discussed deeply. The results revealed that the adsorption capacity of the sorbents for three heavy metals increases with increasing pH and the initial concentration. The adsorption isotherm could be described well by the Freundlich model, and the maximum adsorption capacity for Pb(II), Ni(II) and Co(II) were 550, 620 and 760 mg/g, respectively. Kinetics study indicated that the Pseudo-second-order model described the best correlation with experimental data, this suggested that the complexation may participated in the adsorption process. More significantly, this type of bead-like adsorbents displayed excellent reusability after four sequential cycles. Recyclable and easy-to-handle bead-like adsorbent with oxygen-enriched moieties was prepared for highly efficient capture heavy metal ions from water under tested batch conditions. Unlabelled Image • Easy-to-handle route to bead-like adsorbent with enriched oxygen-functionalized moieties. • Demonstrating outstanding sorption performance for Pb(II), Ni(II) and Co(II) ions. • Adsorption mechanism over synthesized beads was elucidated in details. • Excellent reusability, environment-friendly and easy separation character. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Two‐dimensional materials have been extensively applied because of their unusual electronic, mechanical, and optical properties. In this paper, the electronic structure and optical properties of Hf2CO2 MXene under biaxial and uniaxial strains are investigated by the Heys‐Scuseria‐Ernzerhof (HSE06) method. Monolayer Hf2CO2 can sustain stress up to 6.453 N/M for biaxial strain and 3.072 N/M for uniaxial strain. Monolayer Hf2CO2 undergoes the transition from semiconductor to metal under −12% strain whether it is under biaxial or uniaxial strain. With the increasing biaxial compressive strain, the blue shift of Hf‐d, O‐p, and C‐p orbitals in valence band maximum results in the metallization of monolayer Hf2CO2, while the red shift of Hf‐d and O‐p orbitals in conduction band minimum results in the metallization of monolayer Hf2CO2 with increasing uniaxial compressive strain. The analysis of optical properties indicates that uniaxial strain weakens the reflectivity and refractive index of monolayer Hf2CO2 in the visible‐light range. In addition, the effective mass and the charge distribution under biaxial and uniaxial strains are also explored. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

C7H4Cl2N2O, monoclinic, P21/c (no. 14), a = 6.215(2) Å, b = 16.544(5) Å, c = 8.561(3) Å, β = 108.707(4)°, V = 833.8(5) Å3, Z = 4, Rgt(F) = 0.0339, wRref(F2) = 0.1265, T = 296 K. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Designing desirable adsorbent for highly efficient removal of heavy metal ions is of practical significance, given the cost-effectiveness, environmental benign, natural abundance and easy-handling collection features. Herein, a bead-like adsorbent with high adsorption capacity was prepared by modifying alginate beads using polyacrylate with high density of carboxyl groups. The developed alginate/polyacrylate beads were collaboratively characterized by FT-IR, TGA, SEM, XPS, etc., and various adsorption conditions were tested including the pH of the solution, contact time and the initial concentration. The experimental data were fitted well by the Freundlich isotherm model, and the maximum adsorption capacity was obtained from the Langmuir model was 611.0 mg/g, and adsorption process followed the Pseudo-second-order kinetic model. The adsorption mechanisms conformed to multi-layer adsorption, and mainly dominated by chemical interactions. The bead-like adsorbent exhibited excellent reusability after eight sequential cycles and displayed higher adsorption capacity towards lead ions. This type of adsorbent might possess promising role in treating heavy metals from water by virtue of degradable, cost-effective component and high adsorption efficiency. [Display omitted] • Fabrication of polycarboxyl-modified alginate bead adsorbents with multiple features. • Achieving optimal capacity of 611.0 mg/g for Pb(II). • Excellent mechanical property in recyclability. • High efficiency in Pb(II) removal as compared to related reported studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Unified theory of 2n+1 order nonlocal strain gradient functionally graded beams is established. • Mathematical difficulty for functionally graded nonlocal parameter is pointed out and satisfactorily solved. • Functionally graded nonlocal and strain gradient parameter are theoretically considered for the first time. • Some benchmarks solutions to the unified model are given for bending and buckling analyses. New insights on theoretical modeling of size-dependent functionally graded (FG) nanobeams are provided by establishing a unified theory of 2n+1 order shear deformable model with the aids of nonlocal strain gradient elasticity. The unified model covers Euler-type (n = 0), Reddy-type (n = 1), 5th (n = 2), 7th (n = 3) order beam and etc., and the limiting situation n → ∞ predicts nonlocal strain gradient Timoshenko model. The mathematical difficulty for FG nonlocal parameter is particularly emphasized, and an attempt is made for the first time to overcome the difficulty. Theoretically, the governing equations and boundary conditions of 2n+1 order nonlocal strain gradient beams, especially with FG nonlocal parameter and FG strain gradient parameter, are systematically formulated. The difficulty for FG nonlocal parameter is satisfactorily solved with by adopting the present 2n+1 order beam theory. Analytically, solutions to bending and buckling analyses within the unified model are obtained, from which the analytical solutions for Euler- and Timoshenko-type beam can be recovered. Numerically, bending deflection and buckling critical load for Euler beam, Reddy beam, 5th-11th order beam and Timoshenko beam are depicted, of which the benchmark solutions for the 5th to 11th order beam are given for the first time. Meanwhile, potential extensions of the unified model into fractional order is discussed, where benchmark solutions for n = 1.1, 0.88, 0.77, 0.4and0.2 are listed. The influences of FG nonlocal parameter, dimensionless height and Poisson's ratio (or the ratio E / G) on the bending deflection and buckling critical load are systematically studied. The present work mainly contributes to theoretical developments and greatly facilitates the mechanical analysis of beam-type structures. Image, graphical abstract [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Two new chain complexes consisting of a Mn(salen) building block bridged by O–Se–O units, [Mn2(salen)2(L)](ClO4) (1) and {[Mn(salen)]2(L)2}·Y (2) (salen = N,N′-bis(salicylidene)-ethylenediamine, L = 3,4,5-trifluorobenzeneseleninic acid, Y = salicylaldehyde) have been synthesized and characterized structurally and magnetically. In the two complexes above, the 3,4,5-trifluorobenzeneseleninic acid ligand adopts a syn–anti bridging coordination mode and all the MnIII ions show a distorted octahedral geometry. In complex 1, the [Mn2(salen)2]2+ dimers are connected alternatively by the bridging ligands into an infinite zigzag chain, while the [Mn(salen)]+ monomers are connected alternatively in complex 2. The magnetic measurements reveal that both complexes exhibit slow magnetic relaxation behaviours with an effective energy barrier Ueff = 31.2 K for 1 and Ueff = 35.1 K for 2, respectively. These compounds are rare examples of a small number of aromatic selenite based magnetic materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Considering that the hazardous heavy metal ions like Cd(II) and Cr(VI) are widely present in the environment, nowadays employing easy-to-handle adsorption-oriented processes are feasible choices towards efficient remediation of Cd(II) and Cr(VI) from aqueous systems. Herein we developed a novel amino-functionalized bead with cost-effectiveness, high sorption capacity and fast sorption kinetics to remove Cd(II) and Cr(VI) from aqueous solution. The carboxyl methylcellulose and chitosan-derived nanostructured sorbents synthesis were mainly through chitosan and dopamine self-polymerization, doped in sodium carboxymethyl cellulose, and glutaraldehyde cross-linking. The pH value, initial concentration and contact time were investigated. Experimental data were commendably described by Freundlich isotherm and Pseudo-second-order model. The maximum adsorption capacities of Cd(II) and Cr(VI) obtained from the experimental data were 470.0 mg/g and 347.0 mg/g, respectively. The adsorbents were collaboratively characterized by FT-IR, SEM, TGA, XPS, etc., and the adsorbent basically exhibited high complexation ability to Cd(II) and showed strong electrostatic effect with Cr(VI) under acidic conditions. The recycling characteristics suggested that it possesses an outstanding recyclability. The adsorbent may have a potential as high-value biological adsorbent to remove heavy metals and it deserves further research into the practical application. Unlabelled Image • Novel amino-functionalized microspheres were fabricated. • Efficient Cd(II) and Cr(VI) removal from wastewater • Optimal capacity of 470.0 mg/g for Cd(II) and 347.0 mg/g for Cr(VI) • Excellent mechanical property in recyclability [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Miscanthus species have received considerable attention as a potential biomass source for renewable energy production because of their ability to produce high yields of biomass and adapt to a wide range of climates and soils. To explore the genetic diversity and phylogenetic relationship of Miscanthus species in China, we used 24 simple sequence repeat markers to genotype 100 natural populations representing all four Chinese Miscanthus species (M. sinensis Andersson, M. floridulus (Lab.) Warb. ex K. Schum. & Lauterb., M. sacchariflorus (Maxim.) Hack., and M. lutarioriparius L. Liu ex Renvoize & S. L. Chen). Based on phylogenetic, principal coordinate, and Structure analyses, we found that the 100 populations formed two major groups corresponding to sect. Triarrhena and sect. Miscanthus. Group 1 (i.e., sect. Triarrhena) was further subdivided into two subgroups corresponding to M. sacchariflorus and M. lutarioriparius; Group 2 (i.e., sect. Miscanthus) was subdivided into three subgroups, group 2a (M. sinensis populations in southern China), group 2b (M. sinensis populations in northern China), and group 2c (all the M. floridulus populations). Population genetics analyses indicated high levels of the genetic diversity at both population (HE = 0.468–0.599) and species (HE = 0.559–0.708) levels, indicative of the potential of these wild resources in future breeding programs. The species distribution modeling showed that M. sacchariflorus and M. lutarioriparius have experienced population reductions during the last glacial maximum and population expansion afterward; in contrast, M. sinensis and M. floridulus both underwent gradual population expansions from the last interglaciation to the present. We also suggest that M. floridulus originated from M. sinensis in southeast China through ecological speciation. The understanding of the evolutionary history and population dynamics of these species not only provides valuable information for further genetic improvement and breeding of this energy crop but also gives important insights into the origin and speciation processes of the Miscanthus species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Voltage-gated sodium channel β2 (Navβ2), as an unconventional substrate of β-site amyloid precursor protein cleaving enzyme 1, is involved in regulating the neuronal surface expression of sodium channels. A previous study demonstrated that knockdown of Navβ2 protected neurons and induced spatial cognition improvement by partially reducing pathological amyloidogenic processing of amyloid precursor protein (APP) in aged APP/presenilin 1 (PS1) transgenic mice. The present study aimed to investigate whether Navβ2 knockdown altered APP metabolism via regulation of the Aβ-degrading enzyme neprilysin (NEP). APPswe/PS1ΔE9 mice (APP/PS1 transgenic mice with a C57BL/6J genetic background) carrying a Navβ2-knockdown mutation (APP/PS1/Navβ2-kd) or without Navβ2 knockdown (APP/PS1) were used for cell culture and further analysis. The present results demonstrated that in APP/PS1 mouse-derived neurons, Navβ2 knockdown partially reversed the reduction in pathological APP cleavage, and the recovery of neurite extension and neuron area. Additionally, Navβ2 knockdown increased NEP activity and levels, and the levels of intracellular domain fragment binding to the NEP promoter. The present findings suggested that knockdown of Navβ2 reversed the APP/PS1 mutation-induced deficiency in amyloid β degradation by regulating NEP. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Imidacloprid (IMC) is a widely used nicotine-based pesticide that can cause severe harm to water resources. To address this issue, a simple binary heterojunction photocatalyst was constructed to degrade IMC under visible light. Furthermore, the catalyst was able to continue degrading approximately 15% of IMC within 5 h under dark. The possible photocatalytic degradation intermediate's structure and low toxicity were verified by mass spectrometry and zebrafish embryo experiments, respectively. The catalyst also exhibited good stability. Therefore, a simple photocatalyst with excellent performance and low toxicity of degradation products was successfully developed for IMC pesticide removal in water. [Display omitted] • The simple photocatalyst show good performance for imidacloprid degradation. • The degradation process can carry out without enough light. • The structures and low toxicity of degradation intermediates were verified. • It is feasible in actual degradation of IMC in fruits and vegetables. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Guilt by association (GBA) algorithm has been widely used to statistically predict gene functions, and network-based approach increases the confidence and veracity of identifying molecular signatures for diseases. This work proposed a network-based GBA method by integrating the GBA algorithm and network, to identify seed gene functions for progressive diabetic neuropathy (PDN). The inference of predicting seed gene functions comprised of three steps: i) Preparing gene lists and sets; ii) constructing a co-expression matrix (CEM) on gene lists by Spearman correlation coefficient (SCC) method and iii) predicting gene functions by GBA algorithm. Ultimately, seed gene functions were selected according to the area under the receiver operating characteristics curve (AUC) index. A total of 79 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) and 40 background gene ontology (GO) terms were regarded as gene lists and sets for the subsequent analyses, respectively. The predicted results obtained from the network-based GBA approach showed that 27.5% of all gene sets had a good classified performance with AUC >0.5. Most significantly, 3 gene sets with AUC >0.6 were denoted as seed gene functions for PDN, including binding, molecular function and regulation of the metabolic process. In summary, we predicted 3 seed gene functions for PDN compared with non-progressors utilizing network-based GBA algorithm. The findings provide insights to reveal pathological and molecular mechanism underlying PDN. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article offers a study of 3‐methyl‐4‐nitrophenol (MNP), one of the components of diesel‐exhaust particles which l facilitates development of intestinal allergy Topics include exposure of mice fed with MNP and OVA daily showing that exposure to MNP increased absorption of FITC‐ dextran and induced intestinal epithelial barrier dysfunction and facilitated the development of intestinal allergy and suggests that environmental pollution may contribute to the development of allergic disease.

Numerous tectonic scenarios have been proposed for terrane growth and accretion within the Archean Dharwar Craton, southern Peninsular India. Previously accepted interpretations involving a two-terrane model—comprising a Western Dharwar Craton (WDC) and Eastern Dharwar Craton (EDC) block—have invoked west-dipping subduction and ocean closure, leading to arc magmatism and accretionary orogeny in the WDC, followed by metamorphic overprinting and collisional orogeny in the EDC. However, recent field investigations have revealed the existence of a previously unrecognized 'central' block (Central Dharwar Craton; CDC) within the craton, which requires revision of this model and reinterpretation of metamorphic and magmatic age data. Five samples of high-pressure, upper amphibolite- and granulite-facies meta-igneous and metasedimentary rocks from the southern portion of the Chitradurga Suture Zone, which divides the WDC and CDC, record minimum peak metamorphic conditions of ∼820–875°C at ∼10 kbar, indicating equilibration at the base of thickened continental crust. U–Pb zircon and Pb–Pb monazite geochronology indicates crystallization of parent mafic magmas at c. 2·61–2·51 Ga and subsequent regional metamorphism of these intrusions to garnet-amphibolite and garnet-granulite facies at c. 2·48–2·44 Ga, bracketing the timing of microblock accretion to the Archean–Proterozoic boundary. Light rare earth element enrichment within these zircon grains indicates magma generation in a suprasubduction-zone environment. In addition, detrital magmatic zircon grains with ages of c. 3·10–3·03 Ga and c. 2·97–2·86 Ga imply contamination of these magmas with Mesoarchean material sourced from the Western Dharwar Craton continental nucleus. Comparison of these metamorphic and magmatic age data with those recorded in the EDC shows that westward-directed subduction is implausible, and that all three terranes (the WDC, CDC, and EDC) must have accreted synchronously, driven by two separate eastward-dipping ocean–continent convergent plate margins. These data further support a recent abundance of observations from the geological record supporting the hypothesis that subduction-driven plate tectonics had initiated on Earth before c. 2·5 Ga, as opposed to a Neoproterozoic onset (c. 0·8–0·9 Ga) reported by numerous studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract The surface areas and the exposure of adsorption sites of nanomaterials can both affect the adsorption of heavy metal ions, and then lead to a diverse electrochemical detection response. However, it is an unsolved mystery that which one is the key factor for detection. Here, Fe 2 O 3 hollow nanocubes with larger surface areas and Fe 2 O 3 nanorods with more active adsorption sites are successfully synthesized derived from Prussian blue. The Fe 2 O 3 with two different morphologies are applied to modified bare electrodes that can serve as sensing interface for the electrochemical analysis of Pb(II). Interestingly, the Fe 2 O 3 nanorods with (010) plane, as an electrochemical sensor, are observed to be more advantageous than hollow nanocubes with (006) plane. The underlying mechanism about the diverse electrochemical performance between the two materials is sufficiently proved by Brunauer-Emmett-Teller and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. Remarkably, the evidences clearly suggest that a large surface area is not dominant to obtain a good analysis ability; while the exposed specific adsorption site on the surface of nanomaterials shows more determinant. Graphical abstract Image 1 Highlights • Fe 2 O 3 hollow nanocubes and nanorods are synthesized derived from Prussian blue. • A superior sensitivity of 109.67 μA μM−1 is obtained to Pb(II) on Fe 2 O 3 nanorods. • The response on Fe 2 O 3 nanorods is much better than Fe 2 O 3 hollow nanocubes. • The different behaviors of two Fe 2 O 3 is due to the diversity in adsorption sites. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights • Dendritic cells with overexpression of SOCS1 are constructed with lentivirus encoding SOCS1. • SOCS1 could block maturation process of Dendritic cells through inhibition of JAK/STAT pathway signaling. • Dendritic cells with increased expression of SOCS1 could ameliorate LPS/D-GalN induced acute liver failure. Abstract Acute liver failure is a devastating clinical syndrome with extremely terrible inflammation reaction, which is still lack of effective treatment in clinic. Suppressor of Cytokine Signaling 1 protein is inducible intracellular negative regulator of Janus kinases (JAK)/signal transducers and activators of transcription (STAT) pathway that plays essential role in inhibiting excessive intracellular signaling cascade and preventing autoimmune reaction. In this paper, we want to explore whether dendritic cells (DCs) with overexpression of SOCS1 have a therapeutic effect on experimental acute liver failure. Bone marrow derived dendritic cells were transfected with lentivirus encoding SOCS1 and negative control lentivirus, thereafter collected for costimulatory molecules analysis, allogeneic Mixed Lymphocyte Reaction and Western blot test of JAK/STAT pathway. C57BL/6 mice were randomly separated into normal control and treatment groups which respectively received tail vein injection of modified DCs, negative control DCs and normal saline 12 h earlier than acute liver failure induction. Our results indicated that DCs with overexpression of SOCS1 exhibited like regulatory DCs (DCregs) with low level of costimulatory molecules and poor allostimulatory ability in vitro, which was supposed to correlate with block of JAK2/STAT1 signaling. In vivo tests, we found that infusion of modified DCs increased survival rate of acute liver failure mice and alleviate liver injury via inhibition of TLR4/HMGB1 pathway. We concluded that DCs transduced with SOCS1 gene exhibit as DCregs through negative regulation of JAK2/STAT1 pathway and ameliorated lipopolysaccharide/ d -galactosamine induced acute liver failure via inhibition of TLR4 pathway. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A collage of crustal blocks ranging in age from Mesoarchean to Neoarchean accreted to the southern margin of the Dharwar Craton in Peninsular India preserve distinct evolutionary history, but share a common metamorphic record during Archean-Proterozoic transition. Here we investigate the tectonic boundary between two of these microblocks, the Shevaroy Block to the west and the Madras Block to east, termed as the Nallamalai Suture Zone (NLSZ). We present integrated field, petrological, geochemical and zircon U-Pb and Lu-Hf data from a suite of meta-igneous and metasedimentary units along the NLSZ and its flanks. Zircon grains from the meta-monzogranite, hornblende-biotite gneiss, amphibolite, granodiorite, diorite, charnockite, BIF (banded iron formation) and BMQ from this area show magmatic emplacement ages clustering around 2.50 to 2.56 Ga, except for the meta-monzogranite showing ages up to 3.2 Ga, correlating with long-lived convergent margin magmatism through multiple slab melting episodes. All the rocks show tightly constrained early Paleoproterozoic (ca. 2.46–2.48 Ga) metamorphic ages, including the metamorphic zircon in the BIFs, marking the timing of collision of the two continental blocks with consumption of the intervening oceanic lithosphere. The εHf(t) values of magmatic zircon grains from the different rock types range from −4.1 to +5.7, and together with T DM C Hf model ages of 2672–3247 Ma, a dominantly juvenile crust growth is indicated, which initiated around 3.3 Ga and continued to 2.7 Ga, followed by crustal reworking in a continental arc towards the end of Neoarchean. The geochemical data suggest that tholeiitic to calc-alkaline parental melts for the mafic-intermediate-felsic suite were generated by low degree partial melting of a peridotitic mantle wedge metasomatized by subduction-derived fluids and sediments and continuous slab melting ensued by intracrustal fractional crystallization of melts with reworking of older continental crust. The BIF and BMQ samples display positive Eu anomalies, negative to negligible Ce anomalies, and superchondritic Y/Ho ratios suggesting their formation in an oceanic realm proximal to an active continental margin setting. The magmatic and tectonic attributes are consistent with eastward oceanic subduction and ocean closure along the NLSZ which is defined here as the trace of a suture welding the Shevaroy and Madras Blocks. We envisage that multiple subduction and amalgamation of several microblocks occurred in the Dharwar Craton and its southern domains, amalgamating several microblocks during the Archean – Paleoproterozoic transition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An ultrasensitive electrochemical detection of heavy metal ions is achieved via defect- and phase-engineering of Mn-mediated MoS2 nanosheets. We find for the first time that chemical interactions between Pb(ii) and active S atoms in Mn–MoS2 facilitate the electron transfer and in situ catalytic redox reactions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) and long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) act as important molecular regulators in a wide range of biological processes during plant development and seed formation, including oil production. Tree peony seeds contain >90% unsaturated fatty acids (UFAs) and high proportions of α-linolenic acid (ALA, > 40%). To dissect the non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) pathway involved in fatty acids synthesis in tree peony seeds, we construct six small RNA libraries and six transcriptome libraries from developing seeds of two cultivars (J and S) containing different content of fatty acid compositions. After deep sequencing the RNA libraries, the ncRNA expression profiles of tree peony seeds in two cultivars were systematically and comparatively analyzed. A total of 318 known and 153 new miRNAs and 22,430 lncRNAs were identified, among which 106 conserved and 9 novel miRNAs and 2785 lncRNAs were differentially expressed between the two cultivars. In addition, potential target genes of the microRNA and lncRNAs were also predicted and annotated. Among them, 9 miRNAs and 39 lncRNAs were predicted to target lipid related genes. Results showed that all of miR414, miR156b, miR2673b, miR7826, novel-m0027-5p, TR24651|c0_g1, TR24544|c0_g15, and TR27305|c0_g1 were up-regulated and expressed at a higher level in high-ALA cultivar J when compared to low-ALA cultivar S, suggesting that these ncRNAs and target genes are possibly involved in different fatty acid synthesis and lipid metabolism through post-transcriptional regulation. These results provide a better understanding of the roles of ncRNAs during fatty acid biosynthesis and metabolism in tree peony seeds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Anorthositic rocks have attracted attention in terms of their possible role as the primordial crust of our planet, and also as markers of Archean-Paleoproterozoic plate tectonic regimes. Here we investigate the Konkanhundi gabbro-anorthosite suite from Peninsular India, adjacent to the major collisional suture between the Western and Eastern Dharwar cratonic blocks. The anorthosites display high Al 2 O 3 contents with negative correlation against MgO, high CaO and Sr contents, and positive Eu anomalies indicating plagioclase flotation in the magma chamber. The pyroxenite and gabbroic rocks of the suite show high Ni, Cr, Co contents and geochemical features typical of pyroxene cumulation. LA-ICPMS U-Pb analyses of magmatic zircon grains yield weighted mean 207 Pb/ 206 Pb ages of 2601 ± 12 Ma for pyroxenite, 2616 ± 12 Ma for gabbro, 2615 ± 13 Ma and 2627 ± 14 Ma for anorthositic gabbro, 2594 ± 16 Ma for anorthosite, and 2605 ± 27 Ma for microgabbro. The age data from the different rock types in the anorthosite suite are broadly consistent, marking the emplacement time as ca. 2.6 Ga, and providing insights on one of the oldest anorthosite complexes in Peninsular India. Zircon grains in the surrounding TTG gneisses into which the gabbro-anorthosite suite was emplaced show weighted mean 207 Pb/ 206 Pb age of 3321 ± 11 Ma suggesting Mesoarchean basement. The zircon grains display high Th/U values and REE patterns typical of magmatic crystallization with enriched HREE, positive Ce and Sm anomalies, and negative Pr, Nd, Eu anomalies. Zircon Lu-Hf analysis yield negative εHf(t) values of −4.9–−0.7 with T DM C (two stage model ages) of 3123–3376 Ma for pyroxenite, −4.5–−1.7 and 3192–3366 Ma for gabbro, −5.3–0.9 and 3034–3410 Ma for anorthositic gabbro, and −3.9–-2.4 and 3221–3311 Ma respectively, suggesting the incorporation of Mesoarchean components within the Neoarchean magmatic suite. However, zircon grains in the TTG gneiss possess more ‘juvenile’ εHf(t) values in the range of −0.2–1.3 with T DM C in the range of 3554–3646 Ma. The zircon Hf isotopes and trace element data, together with the whole rock geochemical features suggest that the parent magma of the Konkanhundi gabbro-anorthosite suite was derived from subduction-related depleted mantle source that also incorporated continental crustal components. The time of emplacement of the gabbro-anorthosite complex broadly correlates with widespread arc magmatism and crust production as well recycling in other domains of the Dharwar Craton. We envisage multiple convergence of microblocks during craton assembly at the end of Archean in Dharwar, with the greenstone belts marking zones of paleo-ocean closure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Developing a new ultrasensitive interface to detect As(III) is highly desirable because of its seriously toxic and low concentration in drinking water. Recently, Fe3O4 nanoparticles of high adsorption toward As(III) become very promising to be such an interface, which is still limited by the poor understanding of their surface physicochemical properties. Herein, we report that dumbbell-like Au/Fe3O4 nanoparticles, when being modified the screen-printed carbon electrode, can serve as an efficient sensing interface for As(III) detection with an excellent sensitivity of 9.43 μA ppb-1 and a low detection limit of 0.0215 ppb. These outstanding records were attributed to the participation of Fe(II)/ Fe(III) cycle on Fe3O4 surface in the electrochemical reaction of As(III) redox, as revealed by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, Xray absorption near edge structure, and extended X-ray absorption fine structure. This work provides new insight into the mechanism of electroanalysis from the viewpoint of surface active atoms, and also helps to predict the construction of ultrahighly sensitive electrochemical sensors for other heavy metal ions with nonprecious redox active materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mutual interference is a severe issue that occurs during the electrochemical detection of heavy metal ions. This limitation presents a notable drawback for its high sensitivity to specific targets. Here, we present a high electrochemical sensitivity of ~237.1 μA cm-2 μM-1 toward copper(II) [Cu(II)] based on oxygen-deficient titanium dioxide (TiO2-x) nanosheets. We fully demonstrated an atomic-level relationship between electrochemical behaviors and the key factors, including the high-energy (001) facet percentage, oxygen vacancy concentration, surface -OH content, and charge carrier density, is fully demonstrated. These four factors were quantified using Raman, electron spin resonance, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy spectra, and Mott-Schottky plots. In the mutual interference investigation, we selected cadmium(II) [Cd(II)] as the target ion because of the significant difference in its stripping potential (~700 mV). The results show that the Cd(II) can enhance the sensitivity of TiO2-x nanosheets toward Cu(II), exhibiting an electron-induced mutual interference effect, as demonstrated by Xray absorption fine structure spectra. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mu Dan Pi is a traditional Chinese medicine used to treat inflammation, cancer, allergies, diabetes, angiocardiopathy, and neurodegenerative diseases. In this study, the metabolome variation within Mu Dan Pi collected from 372 tree peony cultivars was systematically investigated. In total, 42 metabolites were identified, comprising of 14 monoterpene glucosides, 11 tannins, 8 paeonols, 6 flavonoids, and 3 phenols. All cultivars revealed similar metabolite profiles, however, they were further classified into seven groups on the basis of their varying metabolite contents by hierarchical cluster analysis. Traditional cultivars for Mu Dan Pi were found to have very low metabolite contents, falling into clusters I and II. Cultivars with the highest amounts of metabolites were grouped in clusters VI and VII. Five potential cultivars, namely, ‘Bai Yuan Qi Guan’, ‘Cao Zhou Hong’, ‘Da Zong Zi’, ‘Sheng Dan Lu’, and ‘Cheng Xin’, with high contents of monoterpene glycosides, tannins, and paeonols, were further screened. Interestingly, the majority of investigated cultivars had relatively higher metabolite contents compared to the traditional medicinal tree peony cultivars. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]