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The Cycolcarya paliurus (C. paliurus) has a long history of medicinal use as a traditional Chinese medicine to deal with diabetic, hyperlipidemic, inflammatory, and cancer, and triterpenes are one of its main active substances. Current studies on triterpenoids from C. paliurus have shown that different combinations of extraction methods and techniques have been used to isolate triterpenes from the leaves of the tree. The structures of the isolated triterpenoids from C. paliurus have also been elucidated to analyze their biological activities and conformational relationships. This paper presents a comprehensive evaluation of the triterpenes in C. paliurus in terms of extraction and purification methods, chemical structure, active functions and utilization, in order to provide a reference for the further development and utilization of triterpenoids in C. paliurus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Combining photodynamic antimicrobials with nonwovens is prospective. However, common photosensitizers still have drawbacks such as poor photoactivity and the inability to charge. In this study, a photodynamic and high‐efficiency antimicrobial protective material was prepared by grafting bis benzophenone‐structured 4,4‐terephthaloyl diphthalic anhydride (TDPA) photosensitizer, and antimicrobial agent chlorogenic acid (CA) onto spunbond‐meltblown‐spunbond (SMS) membranes. The charging rates for ·OH and H2O2 were 6377.89 and 913.52 μg/g/h. The light absorption transients structural storage remained above 69% for 1 month. High electrical capacity remained after seven cycles indicating its rechargeability and recyclability. The SMS/TDPA/CA membrane has excellent bactericidal performance when under illumination or lightless conditions, and the bactericidal efficiency of Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus reached over 99%. The construction of self‐disinfection textiles based on the photodynamic strategies proposed in this paper is constructive for expanding and promoting the application of textile materials in the medical field. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease and diabetes always coexist. The relationship of fatty liver and hyperglycemia is not clear. We studied the influence of hyperglycemia on triglyceride (TG) accumulation in the liver and explored its possible mechanisms. SD rats were divided into three groups: Group A (sham operation control), Group B (partially pancreatectomized rats), and Group C (partially pancreatectomized rats treated with insulin). At 4 weeks after surgery, pancreatic weights and liver TG contents were measured. Serum biochemical parameters were determined, and oral glucose tolerance tests (OGTT) were performed. The gene expression of sterol regulatory element-binding protein1c (SREBP-1c), carbohydrate regulatory element-binding protein (ChREBP), fatty acid synthase(FAS), carnitine palmitoyltransferase 1 (CPT-1), and fibroblast growth factor 21 (FGF21) was determined by real-time PCR. Compared with Group A, postprandial glucose increased significantly; the concentrations of insulin and C-peptides, pancreatic weights and serum FGF21 levels were decreased, liver TG was increased significantly in Group B, and insulin treatment improved these changes. Compared with Group A, the gene expressions of FGF21, CPT-1 and FAS in the liver were decreased in Group B (all p<0.05). Compared with Group B, the gene expressions of FGF21, FAS, ChREBP, SREBP-1c and CPT-1 in the liver in Group C were all increased significantly (p<0.05, respectively). Hyperglycemia induced by partial pancreatectomy could lead to increased liver TG. Insulin treatment could decrease glucose levels and improve fatty liver, and genes related to lipid metabolism may play a role in this process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Glutaredoxins (Grxs) are ubiquitous antioxidant proteins involved in many molecular processes to protect cells against oxidative damage. Here, we study the roles of Grxs in the pathogenicity of Toxoplasma gondii. We show that Grxs are localized in the mitochondria (Grx1), cytoplasm (Grx2), and apicoplast (Grx3, Grx4), while Grx5 had an undetectable level of expression. We generated Δgrx1‐5 mutants of T. gondii type I RH and type II Pru strains using CRISPR‐Cas9 system. No significant differences in the infectivity were detected between four Δgrx (grx2‐grx5) strains and their respective wild‐type (WT) strains in vitro or in vivo. Additionally, no differences were detected in the production of reactive oxygen species, total antioxidant capacity, superoxide dismutase activity, and sensitivity to external oxidative stimuli. Interestingly, RHΔgrx1 or PruΔgrx1 exhibited significant differences in all the investigated aspects compared to the other grx2‐grx5 mutant and WT strains. Transcriptome analysis suggests that deletion of grx1 altered the expression of genes involved in transport and metabolic pathways, signal transduction, translation, and obsolete oxidation–reduction process. The data support the conclusion that grx1 supports T. gondii resistance to oxidative killing and is essential for the parasite growth in cultured cells and pathogenicity in mice and that the active site CGFS motif was necessary for Grx1 activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Photoactive Cu(I) complexes are promising luminescent materials owing to their abundant reserves and marvelous biocompatibility. In this work, we report the synthesis and characterization of two binuclear sulfur‐bridged Cu(I) complexes (POP)2Cu2(μ‐HS/Cl)2 ⋅ 0.92MeOH 1 (POP=(oxybis(2,1‐phenylene))bis(diphenylphosphine)) and (POP)2Cu2(μ‐HS)22, which were prepared by one‐pot facile solvothermal method with copper‐4‐tert‐butylbenzenethiol (CuSC6H4tBu) and POP as precursors. Complex 1 exhibits sky‐blue emission while complex 2 displays blue. Complex 1 was systemically investigated by PXRD, UV‐vis spectrum, IR, TGA and steady‐state spectra. Temperature‐dependent steady‐state emission and decay lifetime indicate that complex 1 is a typical phosphorescent emitter. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Norovirus is a common cause of sporadic cases and outbreaks of gastroenteritis worldwide, although its prevalence and the dominant genotypes responsible for gastroenteritis outbreaks remain obscure. A systematic review was conducted on norovirus infection in China between January 2009 and March 2021. A meta-analysis and beta-binomial regression model were used to explore the epidemiological and clinical characteristics of norovirus infection and the potential factors contributing to the attack rate of the norovirus outbreaks, respectively. A total of 1132 articles with 155,865 confirmed cases were included, with a pooled positive test rate of 11.54% among 991,786 patients with acute diarrhea and a pooled attack rate of 6.73% in 500 norovirus outbreaks. GII.4 was the predominant genotype in both the etiological surveillance and outbreaks, followed by GII.3 in the etiological surveillance, and GII.17 in the outbreaks, with the proportion of recombinant genotypes increasing in recent years. A higher attack rate in the norovirus outbreaks was associated with age group (older adults), settings (nurseries, primary schools, etc.) and region (North China). The nation-wide pooled positive rate in the etiological surveillance of norovirus is lower than elsewhere in the global population, while the dominant genotypes are similar in both the etiological surveillance and the outbreak investigations. This study contributes to the understanding of norovirus infection with different genotypes in China. The prevention and control of norovirus outbreaks during the cold season should be intensified, with special attention paid to and enhanced surveillance performed in nurseries, schools and nursing homes from November to March. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Seed germination is a complex process that is regulated by various exogenous and endogenous factors, in which abscisic acid (ABA) plays a crucial role. The triphosphate tunnel metalloenzyme (TTM) superfamily exists in all living organisms, but research on its biological role is limited. Here, we reveal that TTM2 functions in ABA-mediated seed germination. Our study indicates that TTM2 expression is enhanced but repressed by ABA during seed germination. Promoted TTM2 expression in 35S::TTM2-FLAG rescues ABA-mediated inhibition of seed germination and early seedling development and ttm2 mutants exhibit lower seed germination rate and reduced cotyledon greening compared with the wild type, revealing that the repression of TTM2 expression is required for ABA-mediated inhibition of seed germination and early seedling development. Further, ABA inhibits TTM2 expression by ABA insensitive 4 (ABI4) binding of TTM2 promoter and the ABA-insensitive phenotype of abi4-1 with higher TTM2 expression can be rescued by mutation of TTM2 in abi4-1 ttm2-1 mutant, indicating that TTM2 acts downstream of ABI4. In addition, TTM1, a homolog of TTM2, is not involved in ABA-mediated regulation of seed germination. In summary, our findings reveal that TTM2 acts as a downstream factor of ABI4 in ABA-mediated seed germination and early seedling growth. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Several calcium-binding proteins including calcium-dependent protein kinases play important roles in several facets of the intracellular infection cycle of the apicomplexan protozoan parasite Toxoplasma gondii. However, the role of the calcium-binding epidermal growth factor (EGF) domain-containing proteins (CBDPs) remains poorly understood. In this study, we examined the functions of four CBDP genes in T. gondii RH strain of type I by generating knock-out strains using CRISPR-Cas9 system. We investigated the ability of mutant strains deficient in CBDP1, CBDP2, CBDP3, or CBDP4 to form plaques, replicate intracellularly, and egress from the host cells. The results showed that no definite differences between any of these four CBDP mutant strains and the wild-type strain in terms of their ability to form plaques, intracellular replication, and egress. Additionally, CBDP mutants did not exhibit any significant attenuated virulence compared to the wild-type strain in mice. The expression profiles of CBDP2-4 genes were conserved among T. gondii strains of different genotypes, life cycle stages, and developmental forms. Whether other CBDP genes play any roles in the pathogenicity of T. gondii strains of different genotypes remains to be elucidated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new type of N -isopropyl acrylamide/high-substituted hydroxypropyl cellulose/graphite carbon nitride (NIPAAm/HHPC/g-C3N4) smart hydrogel-based photocatalyst with thermally driven characteristic was successfully prepared by electron beam pre-radiation polymerization and radiation cross-linking methods. The agglomeration and loss of g-C3N4 nanosheets can be avoided effectively, and ensured high photocatalytic activity under visible light, once the g-C3N4 nanosheets are uniformly dispersed into the skeleton of a thermosensitive NIPAAm/HHPC hydrogel. NIPAAm/HHPC/g-C3N4 (NHC) hydrogel was characterized by nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, differential scanning calorimetry, thermogravimetric analysis, X-ray diffraction, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, and diffuse reflectance spectroscopy. The microstructure of NHC was further characterized by scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, and Brunauer–Emmett–Teller. The adsorption–photocatalytic removal rate of rhodamine B reached 71.4% at the mass ratio of g-C3N4 of 0.8% (NHC-0.8%) hydrogel in an aqueous medium under visible light. The thermal shrinkage ratio can reach 90.6% at 60°C after 5 min and could effectively achieve the function of recycling-free in a portable photocatalytic reaction device under the optimal conditions. Possible mechanism of adsorption–photocatalysis and thermally driven recycling-free on NHC hydrogel was also obtained. These thermally driven recycling-free characteristic and highly photocatalytic properties of the hybrid hydrogel-based photocatalyst show that it can be used as a promising new material with extensive applications in wastewater treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In order to prepare a cushioning composite with good resilience and compressibility, the 3D fabric was perforated into a hexagonal honeycomb, high elasticity porous polyurethane foam was used as substrate, and the air layer structure was encapsulated with the packaging film. By changing the hexagonal side length and wall thickness of the honeycomb structure, the integral fabric air layer polyurethane buffer composite was prepared. The properties of the structure were studied, and its compressive capacity under different compressive strains was analyzed. The results show that the mechanical properties of polyurethane foam were improved after adding the integral fabric air layer structure. When the composite HPU‐R1L2 (polyurethane cushioning composites with 1 cm side length and 2 cm wall thickness of hexagonal honeycomb) was compressed to 75%, its compressive capacity was 8.24 times that of PU (Polyurethane foam with 2.5% bentonite). The prepared composite HPU‐R1L1 (Polyurethane cushioning composites with 1 cm side length and 1 cm wall thickness of hexagonal honeycomb) absorbed 96.7% of the energy in the dynamic impact test, indicating that the composite cushioning performance was stronger than that of polyurethane foam. The HPU composites based on the synergistic reinforcement strategy of polyurethane foam and monolithic fabric air‐layer structures are an excellent candidate in the field of commodity packaging and personal protection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: Understanding the occupational characteristics of patients is not only related to patients' life and health, but also conducive to improving their happiness. However, there were no studies that had been conducted on the relationship between occupation characteristic and postoperative recovery in patients with spinal fractures. The purpose of this study was to explore the relationship between the occupation characteristics of patients with thoracolumbar fracture and the characteristics of disease injury, treatment, and recovery so as to reduce the incidence and improve postoperative rehabilitation. Methods: Patients (n = 719) with thoracolumbar fractures were recruited. Patients were grouped according to the characteristic of occupations: unemployed group (n = 299), white‐collar worker group (n = 20), and blue‐collar worker group (n = 400). Data were collected, including the characteristics, injury and treatment information, and the recovery records for 1 year after operation. One‐way ANOVA analysis, χ2 test, and binary logistic regression analysis was used to explore the relationship among these factors. Results: Male, high‐falling injuries and single segment injury (mainly T 11, T 12 and L2) were common in patients with thoracolumbar fractures, especially in the blue‐collar worker group (70.8%, 78.3%, and 85.4%). Compared with the unemployed group, the patients in the white‐collar worker group and blue‐collar worker group had a higher proportion of young patients, a higher height and weight, a lesser rate of hypertension or diabetes. One week after injury, 73.4% of patients underwent surgery, with the blue‐collar worker group accounted for the largest proportion. One month after surgery, 77.1% of patients were able to get out of bed, with the white‐collar worker group accounted for the largest proportion. In the postoperative recovery information, patients in the blue‐collar worker group were more likely to have severe low back pain (OR = 2.023, 95% CI: 1.440‐2.284) and pain‐disturbed sleep (OR = 2.287, 95% CI: 1.585‐3.299) than those who in the unemployed group. Conclusions: Blue‐collar workers, with a high risk of thoracolumbar fracture, have a higher incidence of low back leg pain and pain‐disturbed sleep in the recovery after thoracolumbar fracture surgery, and this requires more attention. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

SUMMARY: Low phosphate (LP) in soil is a common nutrient stress that severely restricts agricultural production, but the role, if any, of the major stress phytohormone abscisic acid (ABA) in plant phosphate (Pi) starvation responses remains elusive. Here, we report that LP‐induced ABA accumulation promotes Pi uptake in an ABA INSENSITIVE5 (ABI5)‐dependent manner in Arabidopsis thaliana. LP significantly activated plant ABA biosynthesis, metabolism, and stress responses, suggesting a role of ABA in the plant response to Pi availability. LP‐induced ABA accumulation and expression of two major high‐affinity phosphate transporter genes PHOSPHATE TRANSPORTER1;1/1;4 (PHT1;1/1;4) were severely impaired in a mutant lacking BETA‐GLUCOSIDASE1 (BG1), which converts conjugated ABA to active ABA, and the mutant had shorter roots and less Pi content than wild‐type plants under LP conditions. Moreover, a mutant of ABI5, which encodes a central transcription factor in ABA signaling, also exhibited suppressed root elongation and had reduced Pi content under LP conditions. ABI5 facilitated Pi acquisition by activating the expression of PHT1;1 by directly binding to its promoter, while overexpression of PHT1;1 completely rescued its Pi content under LP conditions. Together, our findings illustrate a molecular mechanism by which ABA positively modulates phosphate acquisition through ABI5 in the Arabidopsis response to phosphate deficiency. Significance Statement: Low phosphate (LP) is a common nutrient stress that severely suppresses plant growth and development, while whether and how the major stress phytohormone abscisic acid (ABA) functions in plant phosphate (Pi) starvation responses remains elusive. Our study showed that LP‐induced ABA promotes Pi uptake by activating PHOSPHATE TRANSPORTER1;1 expression in an ABA INSENSITIVE5‐dependent manner in Arabidopsis thaliana under LP. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: To find out the reasons why patients still need to use rescue analgesics frequently after gastrointestinal tumor surgery under the patient-controlled intravenous analgesia (IV-PCA), and the different abdominal surgery patients using the difference of analgesics. Methods: A total of 970 patients underwent abdominal operation for gastrointestinal tumors were included. According whether patients used dezocine frequently for rescue analgesics within 2 days after surgery, they assigned into two groups: RAN group (Patients who did not frequently use rescue analgesia, 406 cases) and RAY group (Patients who frequently used rescue analgesia, 564 cases). The data collected included patient's characteristics, postoperative visual analogue scale (VAS), nausea and vomiting (PONV), and postoperative activity recovery time. Results: No differences were observed in the baseline characteristics. Compared with the RAN group, patients in the RAY group had a higher proportion of open surgery, upper abdominal surgery, VAS score at rest on the first 2 days after surgery and PONV, and a slower recovery of most postoperative activities. Under the current use of IV-PCA background, the proportion of rescue analgesics used by patients undergoing laparotomy and upper abdominal surgery was as high as 64.33% and 72.8%, respectively. Regression analysis showed that open surgery (vs laparoscopic surgery: OR: 2.288, 95% CI: 1.650–3.172) and the location of the tumor in the upper abdomen (vs lower abdominal tumor: OR: 2.738, 95% CI: 2.034–3.686) were influential factors for frequent salvage administration. Conclusions: In our patient population, with our IV-PCA prescription for postoperative pain control, patient who underwent open upper abdominal surgery required more rescue postoperative analgesia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Drug delivery technology can prevent wound infection and inflammatory reactions and accelerate wound healing and quality. In this paper, we propose preparing a multifunctional medical dressing to meet the various needs of people for dressing. A multi-layered composite nanofiber membrane was constructed using silk fibroin as the substrate, and mesoporous silica nanoparticles (MSN) with high adsorption properties were first prepared and then electrosprayed on silk fibroin (SF)/chitosan (CS) microspheres to form MSN-SF/CS microspheres with uniform distribution. Then the MSN-SF/CS microspheres were sprayed on the silk fibroin (SF)/polycaprolactone (PCL)-polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) unidirectional water-conducting composite nanofiber membrane. The test results showed that the encapsulation rate of bovine serum albumin (BSA) by MSN-SF/CS drug-loaded microspheres was 65.53% and the cumulative release rate in vitro was 54.46%. The results of in vitro experiments also showed its good antibacterial effect and good biocompatibility. To eliminate excess wound exudate and reduce inflammation, the cumulative unidirectional transport capacity (AOTC) of 651.75% was achieved by spraying the microspheres on an SF/PCL- PVA unidirectional water conductive composite membrane. This study could stimulate and promote the use of additional wound healing biomaterials in clinical medicine. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: To investigated the effects of sufentanil in combination with flurbiprofen axetil and dexmedetomidine for patient-controlled intravenous analgesia (PCIA) on patients after open gastrointestinal tumor surgery, and compared this combination with traditional PCIA with pure opioids or epidural analgesia (PCEA). Methods: Patients (n = 640) who underwent open gastrointestinal tumor surgery and received patient-controlled analgesia (PCA) were included. According to the type of PCA, patients were assigned to three groups: MPCIA (PCIA with sufentanil, flurbiprofen axetil, dexmedetomidine and metoclopramide), OPCIA (PCIA with sufentanil, tramadol and metoclopramide) and PCEA group (PCEA with sufentanil and ropivacaine). The characteristics of patients, intraoperative use of analgesics, postoperative visual analogue scale (VAS), postoperative adverse reactions and postoperative recovery were collected. The primary outcome was postoperative VAS score. One-way ANOVA, Kruskal-Wallis H test, Fisher exact probability method, and binary logistic regression analysis were used for analysis. Results: There were no significant differences in the characteristics of patients, operation time, tumor site and the use of postoperative rescue analgesics among the groups. In the first two days after open gastrointestinal tumor surgery, the VAS (expressed by median and interquartile range) of MPCIA (24th h, resting: 1,1; movement: 3,2. 48th h, resting: 0,1; movement: 2,1.) and PCEA (24th h, resting: 0,1; movement: 2,1. 48th h, resting: 0,1; movement: 2,2.) groups were significantly lower than those of OPCIA group (24th h, resting: 2.5,2; movement: 4,2. 48th h, resting: 1.5,1.75; movement: 3,1.) (all p < 0.01). The incidence of postoperative nausea and vomiting in MPCIA group was 13.6% on the first day after surgery, which was significantly higher than that in PCEA group. There was no significant difference in the incidence of other postoperative adverse events. Higher intraoperative sufentanil dosage (OR (95%CI) = 1.017 (1.002–1.031), p = 0.021), lower body mass index (OR (95%CI) = 2.081 (1.059–4.089), p = 0.033), and tumor location above duodenum (OR (95%CI) = 2.280 (1.445–3.596), p < 0.001) were associated with poor postoperative analgesia. Conclusions: The analgesic effects of PCIA with sufentanil in combination with flurbiprofen axetil and dexmedetomidine on postoperative analgesia was better than that of traditional pure opioids PCIA, and similar with that of PCEA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, two natural clay minerals were combined with hydrogels to study the influence of natural adsorbents on the adsorption performance of hydrogels. Here, we separately doped bentonite and vermiculite and discussed their mechanical properties and adsorption properties. It was found that the compressive performance of the hydrogel added with clay increased by 21.6% and the swelling performance decreased or increased to varying degrees. Regarding the adsorption performance of hydrogels, it can be seen from the adsorption Langmuir isotherm model that the adsorption capacity of clay–hydrogels is improved to varying degrees (6.6%–15.8%) compared with non‐clay–hydrogels, and clay–hydrogels have different degrees of improvement (6.6%–15.8%). The hydrogel has a removal efficiency of more than 95% for low concentrations of heavy‐metal ions and dyes. In addition, the clay–hydrogel has low cost and is easy to prepare, and can be recycled many times. Therefore, the material is of great significance for the treatment of pollutants. Practitioner Points: The effect of natural clay on the adsorption performance of hydrogels was studied.Clay can enhance the compression and adsorption properties of hydrogels.The adsorption mechanism and adsorption capacity of clay hydrogels were evaluated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: MicroRNAs (miRNAs) play vital roles in plant development and defence responses against various stresses. Here, we show that blocking miR1871 improves rice resistance against Magnaporthe oryzae and enhances grain yield simultaneously. The transgenic lines overexpressing miR1871 (OX1871) exhibit compromised resistance, suppressed defence responses and reduced panicle number resulting in slightly decreased yield. In contrast, the transgenic lines blocking miR1871 (MIM1871) show improved resistance, enhanced defence responses and significantly increased panicle number leading to enhanced yield per plant. The RNA‐seq assay and defence response assays reveal that blocking miR1871 resulted in the enhancement of PAMP‐triggered immunity (PTI). Intriguingly, miR1871 suppresses the expression of LOC_Os06g22850, which encodes a microfibrillar‐associated protein (MFAP1) locating nearby the cell wall and positively regulating PTI responses. The mutants of MFAP1 resemble the phenotype of OX1871. Conversely, the transgenic lines overexpressing MFAP1 (OXMFAP1) or overexpressing both MFAP1 and miR1871 (OXMFAP1/OX1871) resemble the resistance of MIM1871. The time‐course experiment data reveal that the expression of miR1871 and MFAP1 in rice leaves, panicles and basal internode is dynamic during the whole growth period to manipulate the resistance and yield traits. Our results suggest that miR1871 regulates rice yield and immunity via MFAP1, and the miR8171‐MFAP1 module could be used in rice breeding to improve both immunity and yield. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bone tissue generates many biological signals during self-repair and regeneration, of which the transmission of electrical signals is critical to the success of bone repair. Therefore, in this study, barium titanate/hydroxyapatite(BT/HA) composite nanoparticles were synthesized using a hydrothermal method at 170°C, and BT/HA scaffolds with piezoelectric stimulation were prepared by blending them with sodium alginate in combination with two-dimensional braided tubes. The scaffolds were distributed with a pore size of 30–100 μm, a porosity of 60-70 %, a swelling rate of more than 300 %, and output voltages and currents of about 800 mV and 2.4 μA. The degradation rate reached 3.59 % after 21 days, and in vitro cell cultures confirmed that polarised scaffolds could further promote cell proliferation and differentiation. The cell survival rate on the polarised scaffold was 174.77 %. This study provides a new idea for the combination of piezoelectric materials and woven structures, which can be potentially applied to the field of bone repair. [Display omitted] • BT/HA nanocomposites synthesized by hydrothermal method. • Braided structures were used as scaffold carriers with high porosity and inter-crosslinked pore structures to provide a suitable environment for cell adhesion and growth. • The prepared BT/HA scaffolds have the ability of piezoelectric stimulation, which can output a voltage of about 800 mV and a current of 2.4 μA. • The BT/HA scaffold has good biodegradability and can degrade 3.59 % of its own weight within 21 days. • The cell survival rate on the scaffold was 174.77 %. In vitro cell culture confirmed that the enhanced electrical output further promoted cell proliferation and differentiation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Food chain information (FCI) as stated in Regulation (EC) No 853/2004 plays a vital role in supporting decision-making and guiding of risk managers at abattoirs by providing valuable insights into inspection methods and intensity. However, the lack of specific guidelines on data collection within FCI presents a challenge. To address this issue, we conducted an online survey among stakeholders in the European pig industry to assess the current state of FCI implementation and identify areas for improvement. Out of the 93 respondents, over 50% reported they had access to data on ante- and post-mortem findings as well as on treatments with withdrawal periods during the fattening period. Additionally, 49% had access to data on veterinary medicinal products (VMPs) administered to the pigs. Despite the mandatory nature of this data according to Regulation (EC) No 853/2004, our findings revealed a lack of legally required information in the transmission of FCI. When evaluating the usefulness of FCI in food safety decision-making, 60% of the respondents found it helpful, while 40% expressed varying levels of dissatisfaction with the currently available FCI. These results highlight the current challenges in the implementation of FCI for pigs in Europe. Furthermore, our study identified a significant correlation between the assessment of FCI usefulness and access to animal health data and additional information on abnormalities. We also identified research gaps in establishing critical thresholds for mortality rate and determining the relevant period for VMP documentation. To enhance the FCI system and improve animal health and food safety, management, comprehensive legislation and technical implementations for data exchange are crucial. Close collaboration among stakeholders, stakeholder training, development of abattoir-specific strategies and integration of harmonised epidemiological indicators into FCI are recommended. In conclusion, clear specifications regarding the necessary data for FCI are vital as FCI plays an integral role in the risk-based meat safety assurance system. Implementing these recommendations will enhance the effectiveness of FCI, improve decision-making processes and strengthen the overall food safety management. • FCI is crucial for the decision-making of risk managers at abattoirs • The lack of specific guidelines on data collection/FCI content poses a challenge • There is a serious lack in transmission of legally required and informative FCI • Access to animal health data significantly correlates with the usefulness of FCI • Effective FCI needs comprehensive, meaningful data and proper, targeted training [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Metal-organic framework materials not only possess porous structures, but also have excellent antibacterial properties. It is of great practical significance to prepare new antibacterial materials with excellent antibacterial effect by metal-organic framework materials. In our study, Zeolitic Imidazolate Framework-8 (ZIF-8) nanomaterials with antibacterial properties were prepared via the solvent method and diethanolamine template method. The materials were characterized by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), X-ray diffraction (XRD), cold field-emission scanning electron microscope (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), N2 adsorption-desorption experiment, antibacterial experiment, and biocompatibility experiment. Results showed that ZIF-8 prepared by solvent method has a more typical hexagonal structure, larger specific surface area, and smaller pore size, and the values are 1812.07 m2g−1 and 2.2412 nm, respectively. At the same time, the materials prepared by the two methods have excellent antibacterial properties, and exhibit good biocompatibility at low concentrations, the antibacterial activity against Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus are higher than 95%, and the cell viabilities of the selected five material concentrations of 12.5 µg mL−1, 25 µg mL−1, 50 µg mL−1, 100 µg mL−1 and 200 µg mL−1 are more than 70%. Therefore, this study provides a feasible method for preparing Nano-scale antibacterial functional particles, and it is of great significance to broaden the application field of ZIF-8 materials and prepare ZIF-8 drug-delivery functional materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Two novel compounds, a molecular trefoil knot and a Solomon link, were constructed successfully through the cooperation of multiple π–π stacking interactions. A reversible transformation between the trefoil knot and the corresponding [2 + 2] macrocycle could be achieved by solvent- and guest-induced effects. However, the Solomon link maintains its stability in different concentrations, solvents and guest molecules. Single-crystal X-ray crystallographic data, NMR spectroscopic experiments and ESI-MS support the synthesis and structural assignments. These synthesis methods open the door to the further development of smart materials, which will push the advancement of rational design of biomaterials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, by compounding different size of polyester nonwovens and nylon nonwovens with melamine‐bentonite composite PU foam, a high‐impact polyurethane composite material with excellent mechanical strength and good adsorbability was prepared. The cellular structure and mechanical property of PU foam was influenced by the composition of two different fabrics. With the adding of fabric, the cell size is decreased and a boundary‐like structure is formed at the fabric‐foam interface. The closer to the interface, the smaller and more uneven the foam cell is. The mechanical property of the composites was improved by adding fabric. The lower density of the composite surface, the better compression resistance the material is. The compression strength of 200 g/cm2 nylon nonwovens composite PU foam was 44.01 kPa, which was 213.83% of Neat PU. The optimum adsorption conditions, such as pH, adsorption time and initial concentration were investigated. The results showed that the Pb2+ could be removed effectively by fabric composite PU foam. Langmuir model, Freundlich model and adsorption kinetics model were used to evaluate the adsorption properties of fabric‐PU foam. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fatty acid uptake is extremely important for the survival and growth of the intracellular parasite Toxoplasma gondii. In this study, CRISPR-Cas9 gene editing technology was used to investigate the role of four lipid synthesis enzymes, namely, glycerol-3-phosphate dehydrogenase (G3PDH), malonyl CoA-acyl carrier protein transacylase (FabD), acyl-ACP thiolesterase (TE), and diacylglycerol acyltransferase (DGAT), in the virulence and infectivity of Type I RH and Type II Prugniaud (Pru) strains of T. gondii. Immunofluorescence analysis of the tachyzoite stage showed that FabD protein was located in the apicoplast; however, the expression level of the other three proteins was undetectable. Compared with wild-type (WT) strains, the growth of RHΔG3PDH, RHΔTE, and RHΔDGAT in vitro and their virulence in vivo were not significantly different. However, RHΔFabD exhibited a significantly reduced growth rate, compared with the WT strain. The deletion of FabD attenuated the virulence of Type II Pru strain and reduced the formation of cysts in vivo. These data improved our understanding of the role of lipid synthesis enzymes in the pathogenesis of T. gondii. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Geosynthetic clay liners (GCLs) are commonly used in engineering to prevent seepage. These liners' surface fabric often suffers damage, especially in toxic environments and under high pressure. To mechanically strengthen the GCLs, this study proposes reinforcement by using needle bonding and glass geogrid to establish glass-geogrid-reinforced GCLs (i.e., GGCLs), consisting of glass geogrid, bentonite layer, and 0.3 mm thick melt-blown nonwoven fabric. Tensile durability of GGCLs was determined by exposing them to thermal oxidation and UV degradation. Hydraulic conductivity and heavy metal ions adsorption of GGCLs was explored to simulate the damage caused by garbage leachate. Tensile strengths of polyamide (PA)- and polyethylene terephthalate (PET)-contained GGCLs retained greater than 73% and 90%, respectively, even after 20 h thermal oxidation at 100°C and 60 h UV degradation. Improvement of hydraulic conductivity after 2 h adsorptions of Cu2+, Ni2+, and Pb2+ reached 51.09, 51.04, and 45.56%. The absorptions of Cu2+ and Ni2+ conformed to the quasi-secondary dynamics model, but that of Pb2+ followed both the quasi-first-order and quasi-secondary dynamics models. The mechanical properties and impermeability of the resulting GGCLs declined under the simulated conditions. This study provides a basic theory to predict the durability and adsorption of heavy metal ion of landfill GGCLs under natural and severe weather conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Janus nanofibrous membranes with thin fiber diameter, small pore size, and easy-tailored wettability/thickness gradient have attracted considerable attention in the directional water transport field. However, designing textiles that ensure continuous directional water transport and outstanding moisture permeable, breathable performances has remained a great challenge. In this study, a novel polyacrylonitrile/polyvinyl alcohol–thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) sandwich nanofibrous membrane with robust moisture permeable, breathable, and directional water transport performance is successfully fabricated with an innovation strategy combining electrospinning with structure-induced method. A good water vapor transmission rate of 9760 g/m2 d and robust breathability of 103 mm/s are obtained by turning the mass ratio of polyacrylonitrile and polyvinyl alcohol and the opening porous structure of TPU; these values are approximately five times those of commercial membranes. The sandwich fibrous membranes are suggested as promising candidates for various applications, especially in moisture-wicking clothing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We studied for the first time the synergistic dispersion effect of the carbon nanotube (CNT)/graphene (Gr) and polypropylene (PP)/polycarbonate (PC) (1:1) double percolation structures on conductive polymer composites (CPCs). PP/PC/CNT/Gr films with different CNT/Gr ratios are prepared by melt blending and hot pressing. Results showed that a CNT/Gr ratio of 1:1 facilitated the creation of co‐continuous double percolation structures of matrices, and the electronic conductivity reached 33.11 S/m, which was five times greater than that of the matrices containing only CNT. Results showed that the synergistic dispersion effect and the co‐continuous double percolation structures provided the matrices with conductivity through an additive effect. Meanwhile, PP/PC/CNT/Gr composite films possessed good thermal stability and hydrophobicity. They also did not exhibit thermal degradation at 300°C and had a water contact angle of 94.5°. However, PP and PC were incompatible, causing considerable brittleness of composite films macroscopically, and the films can hardly curve. To respond to this downside and improve the flexibility, a small amount of thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) was added to the system. The presence of TPU helped combining the two materials in different phases, thereby strengthening the continuity. However, the presence of TPU adversely affected the double percolation structures and dispersion state of fillers, and subsequently decreased the conductivity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Cancer immunotherapy has gained increasing popularity as a novel approach to treat cancer. A member of the B7 family, V-domain immunoglobulin suppressor of T-cell activation (VISTA) is a novel immune checkpoint that regulates a broad spectrum of immune responses. VISTA is an acidic pH-selective ligand for P-selectin glycoprotein ligand-1(PSGL-1). CA-170, a first-in-class small-molecule dual antagonist of VISTA/PD-L1, was collaboratively developed by Aurigene Discovery Technologies Limited and Curis, Inc. It is currently in Phase I clinical trial. Results: In this study, we develop homology modeling for the VISTA 3D structure and subsequent virtual screening for VISTA small-molecule hit ligands. Visualization of the binding postures of docked ligands with the VISTA protein indicates that some small molecular compounds target VISTA. The ability of antagonist to disrupt immune checkpoint VISTA pathways was investigated though functional studies in vitro. Conclusions: Affinity active molecule for VISTA was obtained through virtual screening, and the antagonist compound activity to VISTA was assayed in cellular level. We reported a small molecule with high VISTA affinity as antagonist, providing ideas for development VISTA-targeted small molecule compound in cancer immunotherapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Composite materials prepared from polylactic acid have been used more and more widely in many fields. However, PLA has high brittleness, which largely restricts its application. Blending PLA with polycaprolactone (PCL) helps improve the disadvantages of pure PLA. In this study, different molecular weights of PCL were used and blended with PLA in different proportions to form a composite film by melt blending. The mechanical properties, thermal properties, and water wettability of Composite films are evaluated to examine the influences of the relative molecular weight of PCL and PCL/PLA ratio. When the relative molecular weight of PCL is 50,000, Composite films have high stress, strain, hydrophilicity, thermal properties, and UV-resisting property, but their thermal properties are not affected. At a specific relative molecular weight of PCL and PCL/PLA ratio of 30/70, the composite films reach their maximum stress and exhibit high strain, good hydrophilicity, and UV transmittance lower than 10%. Moreover, the PCL/PLA ratio has a marginal effect on the thermal properties of the composite films. This research has certain significance for promoting the application of PCL/PLA composite film in many fields. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nylon fabrics are used as the reinforcing upper layer. A warp-knitted spacer fabric that is saturated with flexible polyurethane foam is used as the lower layer. They are combined in order to form innovative impact energy absorbent composite sandwiches employing a two-step foam process. The quasi-static compressive strength, bursting strength, and dynamic shock cushioning characteristic of the composite sandwiches are evaluated, the latter of which is tested using a drop weight impact tester in order to simulate the impact resistance corresponding to complex environments. The experimental results suggest that a combination of warp-knitted spacer fabric increases the compressive strength and bursting strength of composite sandwiches by 107% and 60%, respectively. The shapes of impactors determine the contact force and dynamic impact time. The greater contact area results in the smaller contact force, indicating that the composite sandwiches have greater cushioning efficacy. Designed with a gradient combination, the flexible polyurethane foam strongly bonds the upper polyamide nonwoven fabric and the lower warp-knitted spacer fabric. The optimal compression resistance, a bursting strength of 1677 N, and a maximum energy absorption of 90% at a 15 J impact energy are presented. The innovative composite sandwiches have a promising perspective in packaging and individual impact protection in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A BiFeO 3 /TiO 2 p-n heterojunction photocatalyst with ferroelectric synergistic effect under visible-light irradiation was developed through facile hydrolysis and precipitation by forming nanospheres of TiO 2 on BiFeO 3 nanocube to improve the photocatalytic efficiency. Analyses of the microstructure, optical properties, and photoelectrochemical performance indicate the formation of a core–shell heterostructure of BiFeO 3 /TiO 2 with excellent energy band matching. The BiFeO 3 /TiO 2 p-n heterojunction has enlarged specific surface area, higher sensitivity to visible-light, and improved separation and transfer efficiency of photoelectron-hole pairs than single TiO 2 and BiFeO 3. Moreover, the composite exhibits superior photocatalytic degradation performance for methylene blue (MB) and common antibiotic tetracycline (TC) under UV and visible-light irradiation. The MB degradation rate within 180 min reaches 78.4% and 90.4% under UV and visible-light irradiation, respectively. Furthermore, the enhanced photocatalytic mechanism of BiFeO 3 /TiO 2 is explored by photoluminescence (PL), electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS), transient photocurrent analysis, radical quenching, and band structure characterization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The microenvironment in the seminiferous tubules of buffalo changes with age, which affects the self‐renewal and growth of spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs) and the process of spermatogenesis, but the mechanism remains to be elucidated. RNA‐seq was performed to compare the transcript profiles of pre‐pubertal buffalo (PUB) and adult buffalo (ADU) seminiferous tubules. In total, 17,299 genes from PUB and ADU seminiferous tubules identified through RNA‐seq, among which 12,271 were expressed in PUB and ADU seminiferous tubules, 4,027 were expressed in only ADU seminiferous tubules, and 956 were expressed in only PUB seminiferous tubules. Of the 17,299 genes, we identified 13,714 genes that had significant differences in expression levels between PUB and ADU through GO enrichment analysis. Among these genes, 5,342 were significantly upregulated and possibly related to the formation or identity of the surface antigen on SSCs during self‐renewal; 7,832 genes were significantly downregulated, indicating that genes in PUB seminiferous tubules do not participate in the biological processes of sperm differentiation or formation in this phase compared with those in ADU seminiferous tubules. Subsequently, through the combination with KEGG analysis, we detected enrichment in a number of genes related to the development of spermatogonial stem cells, providing a reference for study of the development mechanism of buffalo spermatogonial stem cells in the future. In conclusion, our data provide detailed information on the mRNA transcriptomes in PUB and ADU seminiferous tubules, revealing the crucial factors involved in maintaining the microenvironment and providing a reference for further in vitro cultivation of SSCs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The use of regular wound dressings commonly brings about excessively retained wound exudate between the dressing and the wound, which is detrimental to the healing. This study manages to control the biofluid around wounds effectively. To begin with, silk fibroin (SF) is extracted from silk. Next, SF and PCL are mixed and electrospun into multiscale hydrophobic nanofibers on the surface of the dopamine (PDA)-treated hydrophilic PVA nanofibrous membranes, thereby forming asymmetric wetability composite membranes with one-way water conduction. Moreover, PVA nanofibrous membranes are immersed in a PDA solution with an attempt to have a greater surface chemical activity and thus demonstrate an 85% greater wicking height and an air permeability being 90 mm/s. A 20% (w/v) SF solution and an 8% (w/v) PCL solution with a feeding rate being 1:3 provide the resulting SF/PCL nanofibrous membranes with greater hydrophobic properties, namely a water contact angle being 112°. In addition, the ultimate asymmetric wetability composite membranes exhibit an excellent wetting gradient, which benefits the directional transmission of moisture. The moisture management test results indicate that when the electrospinning time for PVA and SF/PCL layers is separately 30 min and 5 min, the resulting composite membranes attain the effect of one-way water conduction. In vitro analysis confirmed that the composite membrane produced were non-toxic. This unique wound dressing with one-way water conduction has a giant potential to serve as new type wound dressings for clinical use. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Oil and organic pollutants removal becomes an efficient solution to dispose of industrial oily and textile dye wastewater. This study proposes a lotus leaf-like bionic nanofibrous membrane with underwater superoleophobic for highly efficient oil-water separation. Papillary structure of the bionic membrane is formed by electrospraying of PVDF and TiO 2 solutions on the surface of beaded-structure PVDF/TiO 2 membrane. Dopamine is then decorated on the resultant PVDF/TiO 2 membrane by in situ polymerization to be with hydrophilic-underwater oleophobic property for highly efficient oil-water separation. This bionic membrane has > 99 % oil-water separation efficiency, and high flux of 1389 ± 67 L m−2 h−1. Its contact angle of underwater petroleum ether and dichlomethane reaches 155° and 152°, respectively. Moreover, it has excellent water transport capacity, photocatalytic property, as well as high separation efficiency and flux even after 5-cycle filtration. This bionic nanofibrous membrane will become a promising candidate in clean production, industrial oil/water separation, water purification and efficient liquid transmission. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Food chain information (FCI) refers to information that is gathered along the food chain for animals intended for slaughter and is exchanged between the stakeholders at the different stages of production. FCI includes, for example, information on veterinary medicinal products or other treatments administered to the animals within a relevant period (RP) and with a withdrawal period greater than 0 days according to Regulation (EC) No 853/2004. Since the EU regulation does not specify which exact data should be collected, there are different definitions of the RP and different forms for collecting FCI across Europe. As a consequence, the information content of FCI has become heterogenous. Our study aimed to gather FCI report forms and the definitions of RPs from 35 European countries via an expert survey. Our research showed that the time frame for the RPs ranges from 0 days to the entire fattening period for all three species across Europe. For pigs and bovines, there is no clear consensus on a meaningful time frame for the RP. However, for broilers, in most European countries the RP covers the entire fattening period. Thus, harmonising the RP to the entire fattening period for broilers should be considered across the EU. Further research is necessary to determine appropriate RPs for pigs and bovines. In the case of bovines, RPs should vary depending on production types. Establishing an animal health database and transitioning from paper-based to electronic FCI transmission could standardise RPs and bring data harmonisation. Currently, the various FCI forms have different structures and request differing information. While our study did not aim to identify the optimal parameters, we advise against using forms that only require a signature stating that there is no data that could affect meat safety. Instead, farmers should provide relevant data or answer yes-no-questions. Additionally, improving and modernising FCI should also include educating and training those who work with it daily. Reporting meaningful information and subsequent action at the abattoir are crucial to achieving the intended purpose of FCI as part of risk-based meat safety assurance systems. • Unspecific EU Regulation led to different content of FCI in Europe. • There are various FCI forms across Europe; either species-specific or covering all. • Type and amount of information reported via FCI are dissimilar between countries. • For broilers, the relevant period mostly covers the entire fattening period. • The defined relevant periods for pigs and bovines are very inconsistent. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In 2011, the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) introduced harmonised epidemiological indicators (HEIs) for pigs to be utilised as part of the risk-based meat inspection within the meat safety assurance framework. However, the application of HEIs is not regulated by law. HEIs enable risk categorisation of farms regarding the main foodborne biological hazards associated with pigs and pork in Europe: Salmonella , Yersinia enterocolitica , Toxoplasma gondii , Trichinella and Cysticercus cellulosae. A questionnaire was developed to evaluate the current implementation of HEIs for pigs in Europe and was targeted at official veterinarians and food business operators experienced or involved in the official monitoring and surveillance at abattoirs. The study examined which of the HEIs for pigs were applied by asking for i) the corresponding private and/or official monitoring and surveillance systems (MoSSs) in place, ii) the stages at which the testing was conducted, iii) the diagnostic methods and iv) the sample materials used. In general, 88% of the respondents stated monitoring for Salmonella , 10% for Yersinia enterocolitica , 2% for Toxoplasma gondii , 90% for Trichinella and 31% for Cysticercus cellulosae was in place. In most cases, MoSSs for Salmonella , Trichinella and Cysticercus cellulosae were in place at abattoir level. Monitoring for these pathogens at abattoir level is already regulated by EU legislation. When corresponding HEIs for a regulated pathogen existed, they largely overlapped with the testing regime of the MoSSs. HEIs for the same pathogens that focus on a different stage of the food chain were mostly declared by respondents to not have been implemented; the same situation was found with HEIs for the other pig-associated hazards, Yersinia enterocolitica and Toxoplasma gondii. The results also revealed some alarming inconsistencies in the mandatory monitoring prescribed by EU regulations. Some respondents demonstrated a lack of understanding regarding diagnostic procedures, failing to correctly match diagnostic methods with the appropriate sample materials or vice versa. While HEIs provide valuable data, especially in terms of a novel risk-based meat safety assurance system, this survey showed that they are currently underutilised for pigs in Europe. • HEIs are useful as part of the risk-based meat safety assurance system. • HEIs enable risk categorisation of pig farms and abattoirs. • HEIs for pigs that are equivalent to testing regulated by law were mostly implemented. • Additional HEIs for pigs are underutilised and not implemented properly in Europe. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Herein a facile and versatile hydrothermal method has been developed to construct a polypyrrole-derived carbon nanotube (PCN), MoS2 nanosheets and a carbon shell integrated sandwich-like heterostructure (PCN@MoS2@C). This heterostructure shows excellent performance in the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) over a wide pH range. The results indicate that the porous carbon shell coated heterostructure provides MoS2 nanosheets with sufficient conductivity, increased number of active sites, and strong structural stability, and thus boosts its HER performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, the thicknesswise fibers of the low-melting polyethylene terephthalate (LPET) nonwoven fabrics are needle punched and intertwined with the intra-laminar basalt fibers (BF) of basalt plain woven fabric in order to strengthen the stab-resistant property of LPET/BF sandwich composites as well as to fabricate armor that is composed of less lamination layers. Two LPET nonwoven fabrics and a BF plain woven fabric as an interlayer are laminated and combined using a needle-punch reinforcing method. The response surface analysis based on the Box–Behnken design is used to examine the influences of structure parameters of low-melting PET nonwoven fabrics including areal density (AD) and manufacture parameters including needle punching density (ND), and depth of needle punch (DP) on the spike stab resistance, knife stab resistance, bursting resistance, and tensile property. An empirical regression model of AD, ND, and DP is thereby established. The test results show that the bursting strength and quasi-static stab resistance of sandwich composites are highly dependent on AD and ND. Likewise, DP has a significant influence on the knife stab resistance and bursting strength, while the tensile strength is solely dependent on ND. According to the empirical regress model, the acquired optimal needle punching parameters of sandwich composites are an AD of 400 g/m2, ND of 143.77 needles/cm2, and DP of 6.41 mm. The 95% confidence interval yielded by the empirical regression model is in conformity with the test results. The empirical regression model of the stab resistance is proven to provide effective prediction of the number of lamination layers required by armor in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The development of molecule-semiconductor hybrid photoanodes is considered to possess the potential in fabricating practical photoelectrochemical (PEC) devices with high efficiency. Herein, α-Fe2O3 photoanode with morphology of highly interconnected and aligned nanorod arrays have been successfully grown on fluorine-doped tin oxide, and its PEC activity toward water oxidation was facilely optimized by controlling the electrodeposition time. And then, this photoanode was modified with a Co(II) salophen complex with pyrene moiety via a hydrophobic interaction to construct a hybrid photoanode. The obtained photoanode manifests remarkable enhanced PEC performance relative to pristine α-Fe2O3, affording a remarkable photocurrent response of 0.7 mA cm−2 at 1.23 V versus reversible hydrogen electrode and a low catalytic onset potential of 0.93 V in a neutral aqueous solution under simulated sunlight illumination (100 mW cm−2). Furthermore, the durability test indicates that this hybrid photoanode possesses good stability and a Faradaic efficiency of nearly 100% for oxygen evolution. The superior PEC performance is mainly due to the synergistic contribution of the Co(II) salophen co-catalyst and the α-Fe2O3 nanorod arrays, in which the co-catalyst greatly suppresses the surface holes/electrons recombination and accelerates the surface oxygen evolution reaction kinetics. One novel hybrid photoanode integrating α-Fe2O3 nanorod arrays semiconductor with Co(II) salophen co-catalyst is facilely fabricated and demonstrates remarkable photoelectrochemical performance toward water oxidation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The protozoan parasite Toxoplasma gondii secretes a number of dense granule proteins (GRAs) from the dense granule organelle to manipulate the host cell. Two of these effector proteins (GRA17 and GRA23) are involved in the trafficking of molecules between the parasitophorous vacuole (PV) and the host cell cytoplasm. However, their roles in establishing chronic infection remain obscured. In this study, CRISPR-Cas9 was used to delete gra17 or gra23 gene in T. gondii Pru strain (type II). The growth, the virulence, the ability to establish chronic infection, and the immunogenicity of the constructed mutant strains were investigated in Kunming mice. Pru:Δgra17 and Pru:Δgra23 mutants developed PVs with abnormal morphology and exhibited reduced growth rate, compared with the wild-type Pru strain. Deletion of gra17 abrogated acute infection and blocked cyst formation. Although the deletion of gra23 caused slight attenuation of the parasite virulence in mice, it caused a significant reduction in cyst formation. Immunization with Pru:Δgra17 induced high levels of IgG (IgG1 and IgG2a) antibodies and cytokines (interleukin-2 [IL-2], IL-10, IL-12, and interferon gamma [IFN-γ]), which conferred significant protection in mice challenged with virulent type I (RH), ToxoDB#9 (PYS) strains, or less virulent type II (Pru) strain of T. gondii. These findings show that GRA17 and GRA23 play important roles in T. gondii chronic infection and that irreversible deletion of gra17 in T. gondii type II Pru strain can be a viable option for stimulating protective immunity to T. gondii infection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Aim: Recently, there has been burgeoning interest in the utilization of fully covered self‐expandable metal stents (FCSEMSs) for managing main pancreatic duct strictures (MPDS) in chronic pancreatitis (CP). The primary aim was to investigate stricture resolution and recurrence rates of FCSEMS placement in patients with symptomatic CP complicated with MPDS. Methods: MEDLINE, EMBASE, and ISI Web of Science and Cochrane Library (up to December 2019) were searched to identify eligible studies. A meta‐analysis of stricture resolution and recurrence rates was carried out using R. The crude rate of adverse events related to stent therapy was also calculated. Results: Ten studies involving 163 patients were included. The weighted pooled rate of MPDS resolution was 93% (95% confidence interval [95%CI] 84–99%) with substantial heterogeneity (I2 = 63%). Duration of stent placement more than 3 months did not result in a significantly higher resolution rate than that of 3 months or less (93% vs 93%, P = 0.91). The weighted pooled rate of stricture recurrence was 5% (95%CI: 0–12%). The stricture recurrence rate for patients with duration of stent placement more than 3 months (3%; 95%CI: 0–10%) was lower than that in patients with 3 months or less of stent placement (7%; 95%CI: 0–23%), but not significantly (P = 0.45). The overall rate of adverse events related to stent therapy was 34.9%, and spontaneous stent migration occurred in 14.1% of patients. Conclusions: The use of FCSEMSs appears to be effective and safe in the management of MPDS caused by symptomatic CP. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ammonia synthesis based on electrocatalytic nitrogen reduction reaction (NRR) by using renewable sources of energy under ambient conditions has attracted wide research attentions. Herein, we report that the noble-metal-free CuCo 2 S 4 /multiwalled carbon nanotube nanocomposite, which is synthesized via a facile one-step hydrothermal and sulfuration approach, can work as the high active and durable catalyst for electrocatalytic NRR. This nanocomposite achieves a high NH 3 yield of 137.5 μg h−1 mg cat −1 and a high Faradaic efficiency of 8.7% at −0.5 V vs reversible hydrogen electrode (RHE) in 0.1 M Na 2 SO 4 solution, which outperforms CuCo 2 S 4 counterpart and most reported NRR catalysts. These results reveal that the MWCNT in nanocomposite not only suppresses the aggregation of CuCo 2 S 4 nanoparticles and maximizes the exposure of active sites, but also contributes to the synergistic effect between CuCo 2 S 4 nanoparticles and MWCNT, and facilitates the interfacial reaction kinetics. CuCo 2 S 4 /multiwalled carbon nanotube nanocomposite has been facilely prepared and experimentally proven to act as the high-active and stable catalyst for electrochemical N 2 reduction to NH 3 with high selectivity in neutral aqueous solution. Image 1 • CuCo 2 S 4 /MWCNT is synthesized via a facile one-step approach. • CuCo 2 S 4 /MWCNT works as a high active and durable catalyst for NRR. • The synergistic effect can facilitate the interfacial reaction kinetics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bio-ceramic hydroxyapatite (HA) coating has been commonly used to repair the bones or as the functionalized surface of bone substitutes due to its excellent biocompatibility, superior osteo-inductivity, and great corrosion resistance. Among many other methods for synthesizing HA coating, coating via the electrochemical deposition has a high degree of crystallinity and purity, which fits the nonlinear, complex, and rugged substrates. Furthermore, HA coating can be adjusted in terms of coating morphology, thickness, and chemical component via changing the parameters, such as electrolyte ion concentration, electrolyte composition, deposition current density, and deposition time, etc. Nevertheless, the properties of electrodeposited HA coating highly pertain to the bubbles generated by water electrolysis on the substrate surface as well as the concentration polarization of electrolyte ions near the cathode during the electrodeposition process. In this study, the critical factors and mechanisms of HA coating using the electrochemical deposition method are comprehensively evaluated, thereby examining the effects of parameter optimization (i.e., current mode, ultrasonic treatment, and postprocessing). Finally, the influences of ion substitution and HA composite coating on the surface structure and properties of the HA-based coatings are also discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The palynological sequence in core QZMS from Qizimei Mountain, central China, reflects the vegetation and climate dynamics since 12,900 calibrated years before present (cal yr BP). A palynological analysis demonstrated that the temperate deciduous broadleaved and coniferous mixed forest that was present from 12,900 to 10,600 cal yr BP changed to a deciduous broadleaved and coniferous mixed forest from 10,600 to 10,300 cal yr BP due to climate warming. From 10,300 to 7000 cal yr BP, a subtropical and temperate broadleaved and coniferous mixed forest was present. Then, the climate cooled from 7000 to 3000 cal yr BP. The variations in freshwater algae and Sphagnum (AS) and aquatic herbs (AH) indicate that rainfall increased from the early Holocene to 6890 cal yr BP and then gradually decreased. This change in rainfall coincided with changes in the Asian Summer Monsoon (ASM) and rainfall patterns in southern and northern China during different periods. The rainfall pattern was dominated by a shift in the summer rainbelt in the Chinese ASM region, which was mainly driven by orbitally forced changes in insolation and shifts in the El Nino/Southern Oscillation during the Holocene. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Trichinella nematodes are globally distributed food-borne pathogens, in which Trichinella spiralis is the most common species in China. Microsatellites are a powerful tool in population genetics and phylogeographic analysis. However, only a few microsatellite markers were reported in T. spiralis. Thus, there is a need to develop and validate genome-wide microsatellite markers for T. spiralis. Methods: Microsatellites were selected from shotgun genomic sequences using MIcroSAtellite identification tool (MISA). The identified markers were validated in 12 isolates of T. spiralis in China. Results: A total of 93,140 microsatellites were identified by MISA from 9267 contigs in T. spiralis genome sequences, in which 16 polymorphic loci were selected for validation by PCR with single larvae from 12 isolates of T. spiralis in China. There were 7–19 alleles per locus (average 11.25 alleles per locus). The observed heterozygosity (HO) and expected heterozygosity (HE) ranged from 0.325 to 0.750 and 0.737 to 0.918, respectively. The polymorphism information content (PIC) ranged from 0.719 to 0.978 (average 0.826). Among the 16 loci, markers for 10 loci could be amplified from all 12 international standard strains of Trichinella spp. Conclusions: Sixteen highly polymorphic markers were selected and validated for T. spiralis. Primary phylogenetic analysis showed that these markers might serve as a useful tool for genetic studies of Trichinella parasites. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An efficient asymmetric [4+2] cycloaddition of 1-((2-aryl)vinyl)naphthalen-2-ols and in situ generated ortho-quinone methides with chiral phosphoric acid as the catalyst was developed. This reaction enables the highly enantioselective synthesis of chiral polysubstituted chromanes bearing multiple contiguous stereogenic centers in excellent yields and stereoselectivities (up to 99% yield, >95 : 5 dr and >99% ee). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Green lacewing Chrysopa pallens (Rambur) is a general predator of many agricultural pests and plays a pivotal role in reducing crop damage by managing insect pest populations. Odorant binding proteins (OBPs) in insects can sense the semiochemicals in the environment and initiate the delivery of signals to their receptors. However, no Chrysopa pallens OBP (CpalOBP) structure has been reported yet, and their corresponding candidate semiochemicals are still largely unknown. Here, we reported the structure of CpalOBP4 solved with X-ray diffraction and showed its potential ligands. Our results showed that CpalOBP4 has a classical OBP structure with six α-helices and three disulfide bridges, and it can bind with farnesene, 2-tridecanone, cis-3-hexenyl hexanoate, nerolidol and farnesol through a central hydrophobic cavity. Our molecular docking results showed that Met31, Met78, Leu98, Phe141, Leu142 and Pro143 in the hydrophobic cavity were the key residues mediating the interaction of CpalOBP4 with farnesene, 2-tridecanone and cis-3-hexenyl hexanoate, which was further proven by the results that mutations of these residues led to significantly reduced binding affinities of CpalOBP4 for these ligands. Our study provides useful information for the further investigation of the biological function of CpalOBP4 as well as important cues for improving biological control in agriculture. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Inspired by pomelo peel, this study proposes bioinspired foam composites, which are prepared by one-step foaming and a combination of different fabric structures. The bioinspired composites are evaluated in terms of compression resistance, bursting strength and cushioning efficacy, thereby examining the influential mechanisms of fabric structures. The experimental results indicate that the bio-inspired composites have superior functions due to the reinforcement of a nylon fabric as well as high stiffness and energy absorption of polyurethane -based small-mesh-size spacer fabrics. The bioinspired foam composites have maximum compression resistance is 131 kPa with a corresponding strain of 60%, which is 245% greater than the control group. The deformation-absorption energy of bioinspired foam composites is 2.3 J, which is 78% greater than that of pomelo peel. The maximum bursting strength of bioinspired foam composites is 3370 N, which is two and twenty times that of the control group and pomelo peel, respectively. Compared to spacer fabrics at 0° lamination, spacer fabrics at 90° lamination has a positive influence on the bursting strength but a negative influence on compressive strength of bioinspired foam composites. Bioinspired foam composites have a peak contact force that is 45.1% lower than that of the control group, which suggests remarkable improvement in energy absorption. The resultant bioinspired composites are expected to be used as packaging and personal protective materials for commercial applications in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Toll-like receptors (TLRs) play an important role in the activation of innate immune response in animals. In this study, we identified a TLR from the oriental river prawn, Macrobrachium nipponense (MnToll1) and investigated its functions in immunity. The MnToll1 protein shares similar structural characteristics with other known Toll family proteins. MnToll1 transcripts are broadly distributed in all of the examined tissues, and its expression level was significantly up-regulated by bacterial challenge. RNAi-mediated knockdown of MnToll1 significantly impaired the survivability of Vibrio -challenged prawns. RNAi experiments also revealed that the expression of several antimicrobial peptide genes were regulated by MnToll1. Moreover, we found the extracellular region of MnToll1 could directly bind to bacteria and bacterial glycoconjugates. These findings suggest that MnToll1 function as a pattern recognition receptor to recognize invading pathogen and initiate downstream gene expression, to participate in antibacterial defense of M. nipponense. • RNAi-mediated knockdown of MnToll1 significantly impaired the survivability of Vibrio -challenged prawns. • The expression of several antimicrobial peptide genes were regulated by MnToll1. • The extracellular region of MnToll1 could directly bind to bacteria and bacterial glycoconjugates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The resonant frequency of the graphene nanoribbon is studied by the molecular dynamics simulation method, which is modulated the dynamic process of vibration after deformation by silicon probe. A series of simulations for the resonant frequency of graphene nanoribbons have been performed. Then the simulation results of the resonant frequency are analyzed, which are varied with the length, width, thickness and temperature of graphene nanoribbons. The resonant frequency of graphene nanoribbons is depended on size. The width, thickness and temperature have less influence on the resonant frequency of graphene nanoribbons, and the scale of the length is the main influence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • A drug-loaded microsphere was prepared from aminated mesoporous silica (MSN-NH 2), chitosan (CS) and curcumin (CUR). • A multifunctional Janus composite membrane was constructed by electrostatic spinning and electrostatic spraying based on a layer assembly strategy, giving the composite membrane the functions of antibacterial and antioxidant, drug delivery and slow release, unidirectional fluid delivery, and monitoring of wound healing. • Compounding of drug-loaded microspheres with electrostatic spinning membranes, giving the composite membrane the function of double drug loading. Bacterial infection, management of wound exudate and monitoring of healing status are the most prominent problems in wound treatment, however, according to research findings, the large multifunctionality of dressings studied so far is relatively homogeneous, and making wound dressings with simultaneous antibacterial and antioxidant properties, unidirectional fluid delivery and monitoring of wound healing is still a challenge in current research. Here, based on electrostatic spinning and electrostatic spraying techniques, a multifunctional Janus composite membrane was prepared by combining a hydrophilic layer polyacrylonitrile@poly(dopamine) (PAN@PDA), a hydrophobic layer polycaprolactone@ curcumin/silk fibroin (PCL@CUR/SF), and a drug-carrying layer aminated mesoporous silica-chitosan/curcumin (MSN-NH 2 -CS/CUR) to exploit the difference in wettability between the layers, excess wound exudate was drained. Interestingly, the cumulative in vitro release rate of the composite membrane was 7.67% at 551 h. The antioxidant activity was 79.01% at 120 min. The antibacterial properties of the composite membrane against Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus were about 98% and 99%, respectively, indicating the excellent drug retardation and antibacterial and antioxidant properties of the composite membrane. The color of the composite membrane slowly changed from yellow to orange-red when exposed to pH 6, 7.2, 8 and 9 buffers, indicating that the composite membrane can be used as a pH indicator in the wound healing process. MTT and cell adhesion experiments showed that the composite membrane has good cytocompatibility and is conducive to cell adhesion and proliferation. This multifunctional Janus composite membrane will be useful for wound management and treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]