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Biotic constraints, including pathogenic fungi, viruses and bacteria, herbivory insects, as well as parasitic nematodes, cause significant yield loss and quality deterioration of crops. The effect of conventional management of these biotic constraints is limited. The advances in transgenic technologies provide a direct and directional approach to improve crops for biotic resistance. More than a hundred transgenic events and hundreds of cultivars resistant to herbivory insects, pathogenic viruses, and fungi have been developed by the heterologous expression of exogenous genes and RNAi, authorized for cultivation and market, and resulted in a significant reduction in yield loss and quality deterioration. However, the exploration of transgenic improvement for resistance to bacteria and nematodes by overexpression of endogenous genes and RNAi remains at the testing stage. Recent advances in RNAi and CRISPR/Cas technologies open up possibilities to improve the resistance of crops to pathogenic bacteria and plant parasitic nematodes, as well as other biotic constraints. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Amidoxime-functionalized TPE ladder polymer AO-TPE was successfully prepared from TPE-PIM. • Extensive hydrogen bonding led to a large fraction of ultramicroposity in AO-TPE. • CO 2 /N 2 and CO 2 /CH 4 selectivity of fresh AO-TPE nearly doubled compared to the pristine TPE-PIM. • Tightened microstructure in AO-TPE resulted in a strong plasticization resistance. • AO-PIM displayed a CO 2 /CH 4 mixed-gas selectivity of 37.7 with a CO 2 permeability of 36.2 Barrer. Recent advances in solution-processible polymers of intrinsic microporosity (PIM) have attracted extensive research efforts in membrane-based gas separations due to their significantly enhanced gas permeability originating from inefficient chain packing. However, PIM-based membrane materials exhibit typically only moderate gas-pair selectivity, which is often insufficient especially for challenging gas separations containing highly sorbing feed components such as CO 2. More importantly, they suffer from CO 2 -induced polymer chain dilation commonly referred as plasticization, which leads to poor separation performance under aggressive CO 2 /CH 4 mixed-gas testing conditions. In this work, we conducted amidoxime (AO)-functionalization on a microporous tetraphenylethylene-based ladder polymer (TPE-PIM) by reacting its nitrile groups with hydroxyl amine under reflux conditions. Because of strong inter-chain hydrogen bonding, AO-functionalized TPE polymer (AO-TPE) exhibited a tightened and rigidified microstructure with 64 % reduction in Brunauer-Emmett-Teller (BET) surface area (175 m2/g) as compared to TPE-PIM (485 m2/g) derived from N 2 adsorption isotherms at 77 K. As a result, fresh AO-TPE showed decreased gas permeability concurrent with a two-fold increase in CO 2 /CH 4 selectivity (from 18 to 40) compared to TPE-PIM. Under aggressive 50:50 CO 2 :CH 4 mixed-gas testing conditions, AO-TPE showed a strong plasticization resistance with decreased CH 4 permeability over total feed pressure ranging from 4 to 30 bar. At 20 bar total pressure, AO-TPE demonstrated a mixed-gas CO 2 /CH 4 selectivity of 37.7 as compared to 14.5 for TPE-PIM. The simple AO functionalization strategy holds promise to be an effective post-modification method to increase gas selectivity and alleviate the detrimental effects from CO 2 -induced plasticization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

CO 2 -CH 4 mixed-gas sorption and permeation properties of a ladder polymer (PIM-Trip-TB) were measured experimentally at 35 °C to interpret nonideal transport behavior of polymers of intrinsic microporosity (PIMs). Both CH 4 and CO 2 mixed-gas solubilities were lower than those in the pure-gas environment mainly due to competitive sorption. In the range of pressures tested, the CO 2 /CH 4 mixed-gas solubility selectivity of PIM-Trip-TB coincided on average with the value at infinite dilution, and at all pressures, it was higher than the pure-gas solubility selectivity. Because CO 2 diffusion coefficient was found insensitive to mixture effects, we inferred that the increased diffusion coefficient of CH 4 and the consequent loss of CO 2 /CH 4 permselectivity in mixture environment were correlated to CO 2 -induced alteration of the selective diffusion domains of PIM-Trip-TB. Similar effects were also found for PIM-1 by an analysis of pure- and mixed-gas experimental permeation and sorption data. The increase of CH 4 mixed-gas diffusion coefficients from the pure-gas values was more pronounced for both PIMs (PIM-Trip-TB and PIM-1) than for a conventional low-free volume polymer 6FDA-mPDA polyimide reported previously; this indicates that the high intrachain rigidity in PIMs cannot restrain unfavorable mixture effects on CO 2 /CH 4 diffusion and permeability selectivity. Image 1 • CO 2 -CH 4 mixed-gas solubility in PIM-Trip-TB deviates from pure-gas values. • CO 2 vs. CH 4 mixed-gas solubilities can be fitted linearly regardless of concentration. • Equimolar CO 2 /CH 4 solubility selectivity in mixture is higher than pure-gas one. • CO 2 alters polymer size sieving domains thus depressing mixed-gas permselectivity. • Intrachain rigidity does not limit CO 2 -induced plasticization during CO 2 -CH 4 separations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The changes in physical, chemical, and gas permeation properties of a heat-treated hydroxyl-functionalized Tröger's base-derived intrinsically microporous polyimide, 6FDA-HTB, were systematically studied. Polyimide samples were heat-treated for 30 min at a fixed temperature to form (i) polybenzoxazole (PBO) by thermal rearrangement (TR) from ∼420 to ∼440 °C, (ii) polymer-carbon transition (PCT) from ∼460 to ∼500 °C, and (iii) early-stage carbon (ESC) membranes from >500 to 600 °C. As frequently observed in previous studies, TR-derived PBO membranes showed an increase in gas permeability with a concomitant decrease in gas-pair selectivity. The intermediate PCT region represents a transition state from a PBO to a partially carbonized polymer with superior properties by showing a simultaneous boost in gas permeability and gas-pair selectivity. The ESC membranes formed between 550 and 600 °C possessed further enhanced selectivity due to tightening of the amorphous CMS structure. A 135-day aged 6FDA-HTB-600 membrane showed very high hydrogen permeability of 3544 barrer coupled with an outstanding H 2 /CH 4 selectivity of 939. The mixed-gas separation properties of selected aged samples, pristine 6FDA-HTB, PBO (6FDA-HTB-420), intermediate PCT (6FDA-HTB-480), and early stage CMS analogs (6FDA-HTB-550 and 600), were investigated using a 1:1 CO 2 /CH 4 feed up to 30 bar. In this series, early-stage CMS membranes displayed the best mixed-gas CO 2 /CH 4 separation properties with performance significantly surpassing the 2018 polymer mixed-gas upper bound. [Display omitted] • Gas transport properties of heat treated 6FDA-HTB and its thermally treated analogs. • TR-derived PBO membranes showed an increase in gas permeability and drop in gas-pair selectivity. • Intermediate PCT membranes displayed boost in gas permeability and gas-pair selectivity. • ESC membranes exhibited exceptional H 2 /CH 4 , H 2 /N 2 , He/CH 4 , and CO 2 /CH 4 performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Atomistic simulations were performed to investigate pure- and mixed-gas CO 2 /CH 4 separation properties of a ladder polymer of intrinsic microporosity, PIM-Trip-TB. Despite expected intra-chain rigidity of the polymer, previous experimental reports observed significant loss in CO 2 /CH 4 perm-selectivity under high-pressure mixed-gas conditions. In this work, all-atomistic simulations were applied to accurately predict density, gas uptakes and gas diffusion properties of PIM-Trip-TB. Competitive sorption favoring CO 2 over CH 4 was apparent in mixed-gas sorption simulations, as previously demonstrated by experimental studies from our group. This effect resulted in enhanced mixed-gas CO 2 /CH 4 solubility selectivity. However, this increase did not translate to increased mixed-gas perm-selectivity because a significant increase in CH 4 permeability was observed by co-permeation of CO 2 relative to the pure-gas value. Back-calculated diffusion coefficients indicated very low CO 2 /CH 4 diffusion selectivity under mixed-gas conditions, eliminating any gain from competitive sorption. Structural analysis confirmed intact intra-chain rigidity of the polymer; on the other hand, a significant increase in fractional free volume (FFV) and shift to larger pores in the pore size distribution was revealed by our simulations which may be attributed to polymer dilation due a reduction in inter-chain packing. [Display omitted] • Pure- and mixed-gas CO 2 /CH 4 transport properties of PIM-Trip-TB were modeled accurately. • The effects of competitive sorption and co-permeation under mixed-gas conditions were analyzed. • PIM-Trip-TB preserved its initial intra-chain rigidity under mixed-gas conditions. • CO 2 -induced reduction of inter-chain packing led to loss in mixed-gas CO 2 /CH 4 diffusion- and perm-selectivity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Neuroblastoma, one of the most common types of cancer in childhood, is commonly treated with surgery, radiation and chemotherapy. However, prognosis and survival remain poor for children with high-risk neuroblastoma. Therefore, the identification of novel, effective therapeutic targets is necessary. N-Myc, a proto-oncogene protein encoded by the v-myc avial myelocytomatosis viral oncogene neuroblastoma derived homolog (MYCN) gene, is associated with tumorigenesis. In the present study, the effect of N-Myc silencing on MYCN-amplified CHP134 and BE-2C neuroblastoma cells was evaluated, and the underlying molecular mechanism was investigated. N-Myc was successfully knocked down using an N-Myc-specific small interfering RNA, the efficacy of interference efficiency confirmed by reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction and western blotting. Cell viability was evaluated by MTT assay and apoptosis was measured by ELISA assay. The results indicated that MYCN silencing significantly decreased cell viability and promoted apoptosis. Subsequently, the expression levels of key Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway proteins were detected by western blotting, and MYCN silencing was demonstrated to inhibit Wnt/β-catenin signaling, decreasing the expression ofanti-apoptosis proteins and increasing the expression of pro-apoptosis protein. This suggested that N-Myc regulated survival and growth of CHP134 and BE-2C neuroblastoma cells, potentially through Wnt/β-catenin signaling. Furthermore, associated proteins, N-Myc and STAT interactor and dickkopf Wnt signaling pathway inhibitor 1, were demonstrated to be involved in this regulation. Therefore, N-Myc and its downstream targets may provide novel therapeutic targets for the treatment of neuroblastoma. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Endothelial inflammatory responses promote the development and progression of atherosclerosis. It was reported that Toll‐like receptors 2 (TLR2) is associated with endothelial inflammation. However, the effect of TLR2 on inflammatory responses in human coronary artery endothelial cells (HCAECs) remains largely unknown. Here, we tested the hypothesis that TLR2 can enhance inflammatory reactions in HCAECs after stimulated by TLR2 agonist. First, we used CRISPR‐Cas9 technology to knockout TLR2 gene in HCAECs. Then, TLR2‐KO and wild type HCAECs were treated with TLR2 agonist peptidoglycan (PGN). The expression levels of intercellular cell adhesion molecule‐1 (ICAM‐1), interleukin‐6 (IL‐6), and interleukin‐8 (IL‐8) were analyzed by real‐time PCR, Western blot, and ELISA. The expression status of myeloid differentiation primary response gene 88 (MyD88), phosphorylated IRAK‐1 (pIRAK‐1) and phosphorylated NF‐κB (pNF‐κB) were detected by Western blot. Our results show that after treated with TLR2 agonist, the expression levels of ICAM‐1, IL‐6, and IL‐8 were downregulated in TLR2‐KO cells compared to those of wild type cells. Further, Western blots of MyD88, pIRAK‐1, and pNF‐κB show that the expression levels of these pro‐inflammatory molecules were much lower in TLR2‐KO cells compared to that of wild type cells by stimulating with TLR2 agonist. We suggest that TLR2 may affect inflammatory reaction in HCAECs by introducing pro‐inflammatory molecules like MyD88, pIRAK‐1, and pNF‐κB. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Competitive sorption of Pb(II) and Zn(II) on Shewanella oneidensis MR-1 biofilm-coated single-crystal α-Al 2 O 3 (1 −1 0 2) and α-Fe 2 O 3 (0 0 0 1) surfaces was investigated using long-period X-ray standing wave-florescence yield (LP-XSW-FY) spectroscopy. In situ partitioning of aqueous Pb(II) and Zn(II) between the biofilms and underlying metal-oxide substrates was probed following exposure of these complex interfaces to equi-molar Pb and Zn solutions (0.01 M NaNO 3 as background electrolyte, pH = 6.0, and 3-h equilibration time). At higher Pb and Zn concentrations (⩾10 −5 M), more than 99% of these ions partitioned into the biofilms at S. oneidensis /α-Al 2 O 3 (1 −1 0 2)/water interfaces, which is consistent with the partitioning behavior of both Pb(II) or Zn(II) in single-metal-ion experiments. Thus, no apparent competitive effects were found in this system at these relatively high metal-ion concentrations. However, at lower equi-molar concentrations (⩽10 −6 M), Pb(II) and Zn(II) partitioning in the same system changed significantly compared to the single-metal-ion systems. The presence of Zn(II) decreased Pb(II) partitioning onto α-Al 2 O 3 (1 −1 0 2) substantially (∼52% to ∼13% at 10 −7 M, and ∼23% to ∼5% at 10 −6 M), whereas the presence of Pb(II) caused more Zn(II) to partition onto α-Al 2 O 3 (1 −1 0 2) surfaces (∼15% to ∼28% at 10 −7 M, and ∼1% to ∼7% at 10 −6 M). The higher observed partitioning of Zn(II) (∼28%) at the α-Al 2 O 3 (1 −1 0 2) surfaces compared to Pb(II) (∼13%) in the mixed-metal-ion systems at the lowest concentration (10 −7 M) suggests that Zn(II) is slightly favored over Pb(II) for sorption sites on α-Al 2 O 3 (1 −1 0 2) surfaces under our experimental conditions. Competitive sorption of Pb(II) and Zn(II) at S. oneidensis /α-Fe 2 O 3 (0 0 0 1)/water interfaces at equi-molar metal-ion concentrations of ⩽10 −6 M showed that the presence of Pb(II) ions decreased Zn(II) partitioning onto α-Fe 2 O 3 (0 0 0 1) significantly (∼45% to <1% at 10 −7 M, and ∼41% to 3% at 10 −6 M), whereas adding Zn(II) caused only small changes in Pb(II) partitioning (∼59% to ∼47% at 10 −7 M, and ∼26% to ∼23% at 10 −6 M), suggesting that Pb(II) strongly outcompetes Zn(II) for sorption sites on S. oneidensis -coated α-Fe 2 O 3 (0 0 0 1) surfaces. Our study implies that caution should be taken when applying results obtained from partitioning studies of single-metal-ion systems to mixed-metal-ion systems at complex biofilm/mineral interfaces. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Microbial biofilms are often present as coatings on metal-oxide surfaces in natural and industrial environments and may induce significant changes in the partitioning behavior and speciation of aqueous metal ions, which in turn can impact their transport and fate. In this study, long-period X-ray standing wave-fluorescence yield (LP-XSW-FY) spectroscopy was used to measure under in situ conditions the partitioning of aqueous Pb(II) and Zn(II) between multilayer Shewanella oneidensis MR-1 biofilms and highly polished, oriented single-crystal surfaces of α-Al 2 O 3 and α-Fe 2 O 3 as a function of metal-ion concentration and time at pH 6.0. We show that after 3-h exposure time, Pb(II) binds preferentially to the α-Al 2 O 3 (1–102) and α-Fe 2 O 3 (0 0 0 1) surfaces at low Pb concentration ([Pb] = 10 −7 M) and then increasingly partitions into the biofilm coatings at higher concentrations (10 −6 to 10 −4 M). In contrast, Zn(II) partitions preferentially into the biofilm coating for both surfaces at all Zn concentrations studied (10 −7 to 10 −4 M). In comparison, the α-Al 2 O 3 (0 0 0 1) surface has a low affinity for both Pb(II) and Zn(II), and the biofilm coatings are the dominant sink for both ions. These findings suggest that in the presence of S. oneidensis biofilm coatings, α-Al 2 O 3 (0 0 0 1) is the least reactive surface for Pb(II) and Zn(II) compared to α-Al 2 O 3 (1–102) and α-Fe 2 O 3 (0 0 0 1). They also show that Zn(II) has a lower affinity than Pb(II) for reactive sites on α-Al 2 O 3 (1–102) and α-Fe 2 O 3 (0 0 0 1) at [Me(II)] of 10 −7 M; at 10 −5 M, the bulk of the metal ions partition into the biofilm coatings. At longer exposure times (20–24 h), both Pb(II) and Zn(II) increasingly partition to the metal-oxide surfaces at [Me(II)] = 10 −5 M and pH 6.0, indicating possible reaction/diffusion-controlled sorption processes. Pb L III -edge and Zn K-edge grazing-incidence extended X-ray absorption fine structure (GI-EXAFS) measurements suggest that both Pb(II) and Zn(II) ions may be complexed by carboxyl groups in S. oneidensis biofilms after 3-h exposure at pH 6.0 and [Me(II)] = 10 −5 M. In contrast with Burkholderia cepacia , which was used in our previous studies of monolayer biofilm-coated metal-oxide surfaces (Templeton et al., 2001), S. oneidensis MR-1 forms relatively thick biofilm coatings (6–20 μm) that are rich in reactive functional groups and are expected to dominate metal-ion adsorption. Our results show that even thick and highly reactive biofilms like S. oneidensis do not cause much change in the intrinsic chemical reactivities of the underlying metal-oxide surfaces with respect to aqueous Pb(II) and Zn(II) and don’t block reactive sites on the metal-oxide surfaces; instead they reduce the rate of Pb(II) and Zn(II) sorption onto these surfaces. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mineral surfaces are often coated by natural organic matter (NOM), which has a major influence on metal-ion sorption and sequestration because of the abundance of binding sites in such coatings and the changes they cause in local nanoscale environments. The effects of NOM coatings on mineral surfaces are, however, still poorly understood at the molecular level due to the complexity of these systems. In this study, we have applied long-period X-ray standing wave-fluorescence yield (LP-XSW-FY) spectroscopy to measure the partitioning of naturally present Cu(II) (0.0226%), Zn(II) (0.009%), and Pb(II) (∼0.0004%) between Elliott Soil Humic Acid (ESHA) coatings and three model single-crystal metal-oxide substrates: α-Al 2 O 3 (0 0 0 1), α-Al 2 O 3 (1 −1 0 2), and α-Fe 2 O 3 (0 0 0 1). The competitive sorption effects among these metal ions for binding sites in the ESHA coatings and on the metal-oxide surfaces were investigated as a function of reaction time, calcium content, and solution pH. Pb(II) ions present in the ESHA coatings were found to redistribute to reactive α-Al 2 O 3 (1 −1 0 2) and α-Fe 2 O 3 (0 0 0 1) surfaces after 3 h of reaction (pH = 6.0, [Ca(II)] = 2 mM). Pb(II) partitioning onto these reactive metal-oxide surfaces increased with increasing reaction time (up to 7 d). In addition, the partitioning of Cu(II) and Zn(II) from the ESHA coating to the α-Fe 2 O 3 (0 0 0 1) substrate increased slightly with reaction time (2.4% and 3.7% for Cu(II) and Zn(II), respectively, after 3 h and 6.4% and 7.7% for Cu(II) and Zn(II), respectively, after 72 h of reaction time). However, no changes in the partitioning of Cu(II) and Zn(II) onto the α-Al 2 O 3 (1 −1 0 2) surface were observed with increasing reaction time, suggesting that these ions strongly complex with functional groups in the ESHA coatings. Similar results were obtained for Cu(II) and Zn(II) on the ESHA-coated α-Al 2 O 3 (1 −1 0 2) surfaces in samples without the addition of calcium. However, the amounts of Pb(II) mobilized from the ESHA coatings onto the α-Al 2 O 3 (1 −1 0 2) surfaces increased from 40% (no added Ca) to 58% (with 2 mM Ca) after 72 h of reaction time, possibly due to displacement of Pb(II) by Ca(II) from binding sites in the ESHA coatings. In contrast, Pb(II), Cu(II), and Zn(II) present in the ESHA coatings were found to be unreactive with the α-Al 2 O 3 (0 0 0 1) surface. The observed reactivities of the three ESHA-coated metal-oxide surfaces with respect to metal-ion sorption are consistent with the trend observed for the uncoated metal-oxide surfaces: α-Fe 2 O 3 (0 0 0 1) > α-Al 2 O 3 (1 −1 0 2) > α-Al 2 O 3 (0 0 0 1). In addition, Pb(II) partitioning onto α-Al 2 O 3 (1 −1 0 2) surfaces increased with increasing pH from 4.0 to 9.0 as a result of the increasingly negative surface charge. These results show that intrinsic properties (nature of binding sites, binding affinities, and surface charge) of the ESHA coatings and metal-oxide surfaces, as well as external parameters such as pH and competing ions, are key factors governing the distribution and speciation of metal ions at complex NOM/mineral interfaces. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hydrogen is an emerging energy source with a wide range of applications in transportation, electricity generation, and manufacturing of important chemicals such as ammonia and methanol. Hydrogen is commonly coproduced with CO 2 using steam reforming of methane and its purification is typically achieved using energy-intensive processes such as pressure swing adsorption (PSA) and cryogenic distillation. Membrane technology with potentially lower energy consumption and lower carbon footprint could play an important role in developing a more sustainable hydrogen economy. In this study, we prepared carbon molecular sieve (CMS) membranes by the pyrolysis of a highly aromatic catalytic arene-norbornene annulation (CANAL)-Tröger's base ladder polymer of intrinsic microporosity precursor — CANAL-TB-1. CMS membranes obtained by pyrolysis between 600 and 900 °C displayed excellent gas separation performance for hydrogen/carbon dioxide separation and related applications. The CANAL-CMS-800 °C membrane showed a pure-gas hydrogen permeability of 41 Barrer with H 2 /CO 2 , H 2 /N 2 , and H 2 /CH 4 selectivity values of 39, 1952, and >8200 at 35 °C. Increasing the pyrolysis temperature to 850 and 900 °C further boosted the selectivity. For example, the CANAL-CMS-900 °C exhibited a stable long-term mixed-gas performance over a period of 38 days with an unprecedented H 2 /CO 2 selectivity of 174 and H 2 permeability of 8.2 Barrer at 10 bar total feed pressure and 100 °C, which significantly exceeded the performance of previously reported polymers and related CMS membrane materials. [Display omitted] • A microporous ladder polymer CANAL-TB-1 was employed as a precursor for CMS membranes fabrication. • CMS membranes pyrolized at high temperatures showed excellent H 2 /CO 2 gas separation performance. • CMS membranes pyrolyzed at 900 °C exhibited pure-gas H 2 /CO 2 selectivity of 248. • CMS membranes showed stable long-term mixed-gas H 2 /CO 2 selectivity of 174 at 10 bar and 100 °C. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

2,2-Bis(3,4-dicarboxyphenyl)-hexafluoropropane dianhydride (6FDA)-derived polyimides containing polar functional groups have been extensively studied for membrane-based gas separations and used as precursors for various solid-state thermal modifications such as thermal crosslinking of carboxyl-groups or thermal rearrangement of hydroxyl groups to form polybenzoxazoles. In this work, we studied four 6FDA-derived polyimides without polar functional groups to investigate in-situ thermal crosslinking involving partial decomposition of the hexafluoroisopropylidene (–C(CF 3) 2 –) mainchain group. A thorough examination of the 6FDA-based polyimides via thermal gravimetric analysis coupled with mass spectroscopy (TGA-MS) and energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX) under isothermal treatment at 450 °C for up to 3 h revealed that thermal treatment triggered continuous evolution of fluorine from (–C(CF 3) 2 –) groups. The 6FDA-based polyimides were insoluble after thermal treatment for only 30 min and maintained good mechanical strength with favorable changes in gas separation properties. For example, after 3 h isothermal heat treatment, the CO 2 permeability of crosslinked 6FDA-pPDA noticeably increased threefold from 39 to 115 barrer coupled with only a small drop in CO 2 /CH 4 selectivity from 54 to 46. The crosslinked polyimides demonstrated excellent plasticization resistance when tested under high-pressure binary CO 2 /CH 4 mixed-gas conditions. [Display omitted] • Non-functionalized 6FDA-based polyimides can be crosslinked after heating to 450 °C. • Crosslinking is induced by release of fluorine from hexafluoroisopropylidene groups. • Crosslinked polyimides show higher gas permeability with only small drop in gas-pair selectivity. • Crosslinked polyimides are plasticization resistant to at least 15 bar partial CO 2 pressure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A novel series of cis -diphenylethene and benzophenone derivatives as tubulin/HDAC dual-targeting inhibitors were designed and synthesized. Among them, compound 28g exhibited the most potent antiproliferative activities against six different human cancer cell lines, 28g could not only inhibited tubulin polymerization, disrupted cellular microtubule networks but also selectively inhibited class IIa HDACs, especially HDAC7 activity. Further molecular docking demonstrated 2 8g could occupy the binding pockets of tubulin and HDAC7 meanwhile. Cellular mechanism studies revealed that 28g could induce G2/M phase arrest by down-regulated expression of p-cdc2 and cell apoptosis by regulating mitochondrial membrane potential, reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels and apoptosis-related proteins (PARP, Caspase families) in a dose-dependent manner. Importantly, 28g significantly inhibited HUVEC tube formation, proliferation, migration and invasion. The inhibitory effect against angiogenesis in vivo was confirmed by zebrafish xenograft. Furthermore, 28g could effectively suppress the proliferation and metastasis of MGC-803 cells in vitro and in zebrafish xenograft. All above results indicated that 28g can act as a promising antitumor and antiangiogenic agent via targeting tubulin and class IIa HDACs. [Display omitted] • 28 g can obviously inhibit the polymerization of tubulin and has a high selectivity to HDAC-7, with an IC50 value of 0.05 μM. • 28 g showed strong potency to decrease angiogenesis in vitro and in vivo. • 28 g suppressed migration and invasion of stomach cancer in vitro and in vivo. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The efficiency of the forward modelling procedure in three-dimensional electromagnetic methods is one of the keys of successful inversion applications, especially on small-scale computation platforms. To improve the computational efficiency, we propose a multi-level down-sampling algorithm based on finite difference method for accelerating the computation of electric fields. This scheme reduces the number of the discrete electric fields horizontally in the original grid to form a reduced electromagnetic system, without introducing coarser grids as in the multi-resolution methods. After the reduced electromagnetic system is solved, the fields abandoned in this scheme can be recovered with a simple interpolation operation. For maximum efficiency and accuracy, we propose a way to automatically determine the applicable down-sampling domain in a specific discrete model for a given period of the electromagnetic field. Additionally, we prove that the discretized derivatives for the electric fields are first-order accurate in our scheme. The scheme is verified by test cases with both synthetic and real-world three-dimensional models. The results show that the electromagnetic field calculated with our scheme is accurate compared to solutions from the standard staggered-grid scheme. An up to 35% acceleration is observed for high-frequency calculations in the real-world three-dimensional model test. • The scheme accelerates forward modelling, while maintaining first-order accuracy. • The scheme directly reduces the number of discrete electric fields. • The applicable domains of the scheme is adaptively determined. • A simple procedure for formulating the system equations in our scheme is proposed. • After the reduced system is solved, the reduced fields can be recovered. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To clarify the role of T cells in the kidneys of MRL/MpJ- lpr (MRL/ lpr) mice, cytokine mRNA expression was analyzed, and tissue localization of T cells was examined by immunohistochemistry. Cells infiltrating the glomeruli, glomerular circumference, and perivascular areas in ten female MRL/ lpr mice were captured by laser microdissection (LMD). Nested reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) of samples was performed with primers specific for β-actin, T-cell receptor β chain (TCR-Cβ), Thy-1, B220, CD4, CD8, interleukin (IL)-2, IL-4, IL-10, IL-13, IL-17, and interferon (IFN)-γ. Frozen sections of lesions were also stained immunohistochemically. B220, MAC-1, Thy-1, CD4, and CD8 staining was observed in glomeruli and perivascular areas, especially in glomerular circumference areas. T cells infiltrating the glomeruli, glomerular circumference areas, and perivascular areas produce INF-γ, IL-13, and IL-17 predominately. IL-10 positivity was identified in 60% of perivascular T cells but not in a substantial number of glomerular or periglomerular T cells. The results of our study suggest that the pathogenesis of renal lesions in MRL /lpr mice is complex and not due simply to the Th1 and Th2 balance. These findings also support the concept of different molecular mechanisms for glomerulonephritis and vasculitis in these mice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Digital watermarking is an important technique to protect intellectual property right and to transmit useful secondary data. This paper investigates the performance analysis and error exponents of asymmetric watermarking systems. Asymmetric watermarking provides potentially better levels of security. Its detection is much different from commonly used watermarking detectors, particularly when both gain factors and exact values of the watermark are not known to the detector. Optimum detectors are constructed in this paper. To handle unwieldy computations of large matrices, we develop equivalent yet more practical detectors in the frequency domain using asymptotic analysis techniques. Due to the nonlinearity nature of these detectors, their performance analysis is challenging, especially when the size of the watermark becomes large. Gaussian approximations using the central limit theorem is limited in modeling the performance. To obtain fundamental performance limits, we go a step further to make use of asymptotic statistical analysis techniques to derive the exact error exponents. The analytical method gives insights into the performance of asymmetric watermarking, and paves the way toward seeking efficient watermarks for more general asymmetric watermarking systems. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

This comprehensive study explored the aging process of PIM-1, a ladder polymer of intrinsic microporosity (PIM), by applying molecular dynamics simulations for the first time. Through detailed analysis, our work illustrates the evolution of the polymer structure from a loosely packed, less dense state of the pristine polymer to a more tightly packed configuration due to physical aging. For this purpose, a novel molecular dynamics (MD) methodology was employed in the process toward equilibration of PIM-1. This structural transition was quantitatively captured by measuring key parameters such as density, fractional free volume (FFV), cohesive energy density (CED), d -spacing, surface area, and gas permeabilities. The simulations demonstrate a noticeable increase in density by approximately 7 % in aged PIM-1 compared to a fresh sample. This increase in density is accompanied by a corresponding decrease in FFV, suggesting a more compact molecular arrangement. The impact of these structural changes is evident in the gas transport properties. Permeabilities of all gases tested, He, H 2 , O 2 , N 2 , CO 2 and CH 4 , decreased by 33 %–80 %. Moreover, the selectivity of gas pairs like CO 2 /CH 4 and O 2 /N 2 exhibited increasing trends due to aging, as previously reported in experimental work. Structural analysis performed on the fresh and aged structures indicated collapse of free volume over aging, by disappearance of pores larger than ∼6.5 Å. Furthermore, no intrachain rearrangement was observed during physical aging in the ladder PIM-1 structure; rather, the aging resulted in increased interchain packing efficiency. Our methodology can be employed to other PIM architectures, such as polyimides of intrinsic microporosity (PIM-PIs) as well as low-free volume glassy polymers. [Display omitted] • Physical aging in PIM-1 was successfully simulated by MD. • Simulated fresh and aged pure-gas transport properties matched experimental data. • Effect of aging on density, d-spacing, FFV, PSD was analyzed. • Aging resulted in more efficient interchain packing without significantly affecting intrachain packing. • Our methodology was extended to other high-free-volume glassy polymers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The introduction of interfacially polymerized (IP) polyamide thin-film composite (TFC) membranes in the 1980s revolutionized the reverse osmosis desalination industry. However, IP-derived TFCs have not achieved industrial success for gas separation applications due to the presence of membrane defects in their dry state. In this work, we report defect-free crosslinked polyamide thin-film composite membranes prepared from para -substituted aromatic and cycloaliphatic diamines, p -phenylenediamine (PPD) and piperazine (PIP), reacted with trimesoyl chloride (TMC). The key parameters in our modified IP process to mitigate defects are long reaction time (~5 min) and high organic solution temperature (100 °C). The gas separation and desalination properties of the para -linked polyamide membranes were compared to previously reported polyamide TFCs made from meta -phenylenediamine (MPD) and TMC. The gas- and water permeances of the TFCs increased in the order: MPD-TMC < PPD-TMC < PIP-TMC, whereas gas-pair selectivities and salt rejections followed the opposite sequential trend: MPD-TMC > PPD-TMC ≥ PIP-TMC. Elimination of defects allowed exploitation of the ultra-selective nature of polyamide TFCs, specifically for hydrogen and helium separations. At 23 °C, PIP-TMC, PPD-TMC and MPD-TMC exhibited H 2 /CH 4 selectivities of 312, 362 and 1290, respectively, with moderate H 2 permeances of 37.4, 32.6 and 25.8 GPU (1 GPU = 10−6 cm3(STP) cm−2 s−1 cmHg−1). Furthermore, the TFCs demonstrated excellent performance for H 2 /CO 2 separation with pure-gas selectivities of 10–14 at 23 °C. The strong size-sieving capability of the polyamide TFCs originated from tight interchain packing induced by strong hydrogen bonding. Wide-angle X-ray diffraction confirmed a dominant fraction of submicropores of less than ~4 Å within PPD-TMC and PIP-TMC polyamide networks. Image 1 • Preparation of defect-free interfacially polymerized para -connected polyamides. • Effect of reaction time and organic solution temperature on gas transport properties. • Thin-film composite membranes show ultrahigh gas-pair selectivities. • Molecular sieving behavior results from submicroporosity [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tröger's base (TB) has been utilized as an important building block in designing ladder polymers of intrinsic microporosity (PIMs) and microporous polyimides (PIM-PIs) for membrane-based gas separations due to its unique V-shaped bicyclic structure and versatile molecular chemistry. Nearly a century after its discovery, Hünlich's base (HB) was recently reintroduced as a valuable diamine derivative of TB made by a single-step reaction of 2,4-diaminotoluene and formaldehyde, spurring use in molecular devices such as molecular tweezers and photo-switches. Unlike TB, HB has not been explored as a building block of PIMs and PIM-PIs for membrane-based gas separations. In this study, we synthesized two soluble PIM-PIs for the first time by reaction of HB as diamine and 4,4'-(hexafluoroisopropylidene)diphthalic anhydride (6FDA) or 9,10-diisopropyltriptycene tetracarboxylic dianhydride (TDA i 3), respectively. 6FDA-HB exhibited high Brunauer-Teller-Emmett (BET) surface area of 415 m2 g−1 and fractional free volume (FFV) of 0.26. The gas separation performance of the 6FDA-HB polymer was similar to other 6FDA-based dimethyl-substituted Tröger's base polyimide analogues, exhibiting O 2 , CO 2 and H 2 permeability of 62, 286, and 391 Barrer with O 2 /N 2 , CO 2 /CH 4 and H 2 /CH 4 selectivity of 4.4, 26 and 36, respectively. Compared to 6FDA-HB, the triptycene-containing Hünlich's base polyimide (TDA i 3-HB) displayed a higher BET surface area (501 m2 g−1) owing to the presence of the rigid bridged tricyclic triptycene contortion site, resulting in about two-fold increase in O 2 permeability to 188 Barrer coupled with slightly compromised O 2 /N 2 selectivity of 4.1. Beside the merit of facile synthesis, the Hünlich's base-derived polyimides experienced relatively modest effects of physical aging on gas permeation properties. Image 1 • Hünlich's base, a diamine analogue of Tröger's base, was synthesized. • Facile synthesis of two new polyimides with 6FDA and a triptycene dianhydride. • Polyimides showed microporous features with high BET surface area. • Polyimides displayed modest effects of aging on gas permeability and selectivity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Ultra-thick, porous anodic film was fabricated on type-304 stainless steel. • An etching anodic model was proposed to explain the pore shrinking of MOsF. • A step-potential tailoring anodization scheme was used to form uniform MOsF. In this work, pore initialization and further growth of metal-oxides-film (MOsF) with nanoporous structure on stainless steel (SS) substrate by electrochemical anodization have been investigated for controlling morphology of the porous MOsF. The competition between electric field assisted dissolution of the oxidized metals and anodization of SS substrate are analyzed by current-time response combined with the thickness variation of the barrier layer. The current density-time (i-t) curves show a drastic increase-a drastic drop-a gradual increase-stable shape while the barrier layer thickness presents a drastic increase-a gradual decrease-stable trend. Furthermore, the morphology (pore size, pore shape and film thickness) of the porous MOsF on SS substrate is strongly dependent on voltage drop across the barrier layer, anodizing duration and chemical constituents of the SS substrate. An electric field-assisted selective chemical dissolution model has been proposed to explain the formation of porous MOsF with cross-connected nanotube-shaped pores. An anodic etching model and an equivalent circuit of anodization system are built to theoretically analyze the formation mechanisms of pore shrinking (pore size varies from 53 ± 7 nm at the top to 34 ± 4 nm at the bottom) across the porous MOsF. Based on the achieved results, we are able to design an anodization scheme by step-potential tailoring to fabricate thick, porous MOsF with uniform nanostructures. By applying the step-potential tailoring anodization to keep a quasi-stable electric field across the barrier layer, ultra-thick (>17 μm), uniform, porous nanostructured MOsF on the SS substrates have been reported. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Carbon molecular sieve (CMS) membranes offer some of the best combinations of high selectivity and permeability for molecular separations of permanent and condensable gases available to date. In addition, the fabrication of CMS membranes benefits from the well-established solution processing methods developed for fabrication of high-performance commercial polymeric membranes. In this review, we critically evaluate the extensive data set on CMS membranes available in the peer-reviewed literature published since the 1980s. In the first part, we focus on the material perspectives and evaluate how various polymer chemistries were used as precursors for generation of CMS films. We highlight the role of fluorinated and non-fluorinated polyimides as well as polymers of intrinsic microporosity (PIMs) which tend to dominate the more recent literature. In addition, we identify the most important parameters that determine the gas separation performance of CMS membranes, such as (i) pyrolysis temperature, (ii) pyrolysis atmosphere, or (iii) pre- and post-treatments and others. We collected and evaluated the CMS membrane performance for the separation of permanent gases (He, H 2 , O 2 , N 2 , CH 4 , CO 2) and highly energy-intensive olefin/paraffin separation. In the second part, we highlight the currently available data on CMS thin-film composite and integrally-skinned asymmetric membranes, which exhibit excellent permeance and selectivity in many important industrial separations. Finally, we provide a set of recommendations for future research in the area of CMS materials and membranes based on a critical evaluation of the reported data. [Display omitted] • Comprehensive review of CMS materials and membranes since 1980s. • Detailed material-oriented perspective on the role of various CMS precursor chemistries. • Highlight of the emerging CMS precursors such as PIMs. • Insights on relevant pyrolysis parameters: temperature, atmosphere, pre-/post-treatment. • Examination of the effect of selective layer thickness in composite CMS membranes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aims to create oleogels by combining beeswax (BW) and plant sterols with diacylglycerol corn oil (DGCO). The findings demonstrate that gel formation occurred with 6:4 (w/w) blends of BW with sitosterol (Sit) and β-sitosterol (PS) oils at a 20% (w/w) concentration, while BW-plant sterol ester (PE) gelled at a 15% (w/w). Texture analysis reveals that the maximum hardness of the BW-PE oleogel (582.62 N) was approximately five times higher than other oleogels and DGCO-based oleogel displayed greater hardness (52.39 N∼140.89 N) and lower viscosity (−57.06 N∼−25.94 N). The melting point of the DGCO-based oleogel increased from 48.35 °C to 57.64 °C as the BW content increased and microstructure from polarized light microscope displayed that he BW-PE oleogel presented itself as bundle-shaped crystals and with an augmentation in concentration, the dimensions of these crystals diminished while their abundance escalated. Notably, the BW-PE oleogel based on DGCO exhibited the most condensed structure. X-ray diffraction analysis revealed oleogel based on DGCO corresponding to characteristic peaks of β′and β-type crystals while the infrared spectroscopy demonstrated no new peaks formation whether for hydrogen bonds or covalent interactions in DGCO-based oleogel. These stable physical DGCO-based gel system provide a choice for the preparation of functional oleogels with lipid-lowering ingredients. • Lipid-lowering oleogels prepared form sterols and diacetylated glycerol corn oil. • Physicochemical properties and the stability of oleogels. • Crystallization behavior and microstructure characteristics of oleogels. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Brain injury has been proposed as the major cause of the poor outcomes associated with intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH). Emerging evidence indicates that the nuclear receptor, peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor β/δ (PPAR-β/δ), plays a crucial role in the pathological process of central nervous impairment. The present study was undertaken to evaluate the protective effects of PPAR-β/δ activation using a selective PPAR-β/δ agonist, GW0742, against brain injury after ICH in a mouse model. ICH was induced by intravenous injection of collagenase into the right caudate putamen. To examine the protective effect of PPAR-β/δ activation against ICH-induced brain injury, mice were either intraperitoneally injected with GW0742 (3 mg/kg, body weight) or saline (control group) 30 min before inducing ICH. Behavioral dysfunction was evaluated 24 and 72 h after injury. Then, all mice were killed to assess hematoma volume, brain water content, and blood–brain barrier (BBB) permeability. TUNEL and Nissl staining were performed to quantify the brain injury. The expression of PPAR-β/δ, interleukin (IL)-1β, tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, Bcl-2-related X-protein (Bax), and B-cell lymphoma 2 (Bcl-2) in the perihematomal area was examined by immunohistochemistry and western blotting analysis. Mice treated with GW0742 showed significantly less severe behavioral deficits compared to the control group, accompanied by increased expression of PPAR-β/δ and Bcl-2, and increased expression of IL-1β, TNF-α, and Bax decreased simultaneously in the GW0742-treated group. Furthermore, the GW0742-pretreated group showed significantly less brain edema and BBB leakage. Neuronal loss was attenuated, and the number of apoptotic neuronal cells in perihematomal tissues reduced, in the GW0742-pretreated group compared to the control group. However, the hematoma volume did not decrease significantly on day 3 after ICH. These results suggest that the activation of PPAR-β/δ exerts a neuroprotective effect on ICH-induced brain injury, possibly through anti-inflammatory and anti-apoptotic pathways. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A highly contorted, carbon-rich intrinsically microporous polyimide (PIM-PI) made from spirobifluorene dianhydride and 3,3-dimethylnaphthidine (SBFDA-DMN) was employed as a precursor for the formation of carbon molecular sieve (CMS) membranes at pyrolysis temperatures from 550 to 1000 °C. The high carbon content of SBFDA-DMN (∼84%) resulted in only 28% total weight loss during pyrolysis under a nitrogen atmosphere at 1000 °C. The development of the various microstructural textures was characterized by gas sorption analysis, Brunauer-Emmett-Teller (BET) surface area, X-ray diffraction, Raman spectroscopy, electrical conductivity, and gas transport properties. Heat treatment of a pristine SBFDA-DMN membrane at 550 °C resulted in reduced permeability for all gases (e.g.: P CO2 dropped from 4700 to 1500 barrer) as well as lower BET surface area from 621 to 545 m2 g−1. At 600 °C, new pores induced by pyrolysis increased the BET surface area to nearly that of the precursor and significantly improved gas separation performance. Above 600 °C, a progressive collapse of the micropores became evident with CMS membranes showing higher gas-pair selectivity but lower permeability. At 1000 °C, ultra-micropores comparable in size with the kinetic diameter of CH 4 emerged and induced a prominent molecular sieving effect resulting in very high CH 4 rejection. This strong size exclusion effect, further supported by gravimetric gas sorption measurements, resulted in unusually high N 2 /CH 4 and CO 2 /CH 4 selectivities of 35 and 1475, respectively. Image 1 • Carbon molecular sieve membranes made from microporous SBFDA-DMN polyimide. • High temperature pyrolysis at 1000 °C leads to ultrahigh gas-pair selectivity. • CO 2 /CH 4 permselectivity of 1475 boosted by diffusion- and solubility selectivity. • CMS made at 1000 °C achieved extraordinary N 2 /CH 4 permselectivity of 35. • Physical aging had only moderate effect on gas permeability and gas-pair selectivity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Pumilio (Pum) RNA-binding protein family regulates post-transcription and plays crucial roles in stress response and growth. However, little is known about Pum in plants. In this study, a total of 19 ZmPum genes were identified and classified into two groups in maize. Although each ZmPum contains the conserved Pum domain, the ZmPum members show diversity in the gene and protein architectures, physicochemical properties, chromosomal location, collinearity, cis-elements, and expression patterns. The typical ZmPum proteins have eight α-helices repeats, except for ZmPum2, 3, 5, 7, and 14, which have fewer α-helices. Moreover, we examined the expression profiles of ZmPum genes and found their involvement in kernel development. Except for ZmPum2, ZmPum genes are expressed in maize embryos, endosperms, or whole seeds. Notably, ZmPum4, 7, and 13 exhibited dramatically high expression levels during seed development. The study not only contributes valuable information for further validating the functions of ZmPum genes but also provides insights for improvement and enhancing maize yield. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pyroptosis, a newly discovered proinflammatory programmed cell death, is involved in the regulation of cognitive dysfunction, such as Alzheimer's disease. Exploring potential drug targets that prevent pyroptotic procedures might benefit the development of a cure for these diseases. In the present study, we explored whether the transient receptor potential vanilloid 4 (TRPV4) blocker HC067047 and knockdown of TRPV4 in the hippocampus could improve cognitive behavior through the inhibition of pyroptosis in a mouse model developed using systemic administration of lipopolysaccharide (LPS). We found that systemic administration of HC067047 or knockdown of hippocampal TRPV4 prevented the activation of canonical and noncanonical pyroptosis in the hippocampus of LPS-treated mice. Consistent with the inhibition of the hippocampal pyroptosis pathway, a knockdown of hippocampal TRPV4 lowered expression of TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-18, and IL-6. Furthermore, we verified that the main pyroptosis cell type might be a neuron, indicated by reduced neuronal marker expression. Mechanically, we also found that knockdown of hippocampal TRPV4 might inhibit phosphorylation of CamkⅡα which results in NFκb mediated inflammasome reduction in the hippocampus of LPS-treated mice. More interestingly, mice intraperitoneally injected with HC067047 or the hippocampus injected with TRPV4 shRNA showed improved cognitive behavior, as indicated by the enhanced discrimination ratio in the NORT, NOPT, and SNPT. Collectively, we consider that HC067047 might be a small molecular drug that prevents pyroptosis, and TRPV4 could be an effective therapeutic target for preventing pyroptosis-induced cognitive dysfunction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigates whether the intensity of human activities conducted by urban populations and carried by urban land follows a wave-shaped diffusion rule using a harmonized DMSP-like NTL dataset during 1992–2018 in 234 cities of China. The results show that variations in the intensity of human activities are diffused in a wave-shaped manner from the urban center to the periphery in cities of different sizes and structures. The results demonstrate that variations in the intensity of human activity also exhibit a wave-shaped diffusion pattern, which is best modeled by a Gaussian function with an average R2 of 0.79 and standard deviation of 0.36 across all fitted functions. The outward movement of these waves in monocentric cities with an urban population <8 million occurred at a pace of ~0.5–1.0 km per year, reaching an average distance of ~18 km from the urban centers. While the pace decreased to ~0.2–0.6 km per year in larger or polycentric cities, the average distance of the waves from the urban centers increased to ~22–25 km in these larger cities. In addition, a process-pattern link between the distance-decayed rule and the wave-shaped rule of human activity dynamics was established. Moreover, a spatiotemporal Gaussian function was further discussed to enable modelers to forecast future variations in the intensity of human activities. The disclosed wave-shape rule and model can benefit the simulation of urban dynamics if integrated with other simulation technologies, such as agent-based models and cellular automata. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Over-activated microglia and inflammatory mediators are found in patients with depression, while manipulation of the microglia function might represent a potential therapeutic strategy. Insulin-like growth factor 2 (IGF2) has been implicated in bacterial infections and autoimmune disorders, but the role of IGF2 on the active phenotype of microglia and neuroinflammation has not been well established. IGF2 influences in modulating microglia responding to neuroinflammation induced by lipopolysaccharide（LPS）challenge will be carefully examined. In the current study, we verified that systemic IGF2 treatment could produce an anti-depression effect in LPS-treated mice. Particularly, we found that systemic IGF2 treatment inhibited microglia over-activation and prevented its transformation to a pro-inflammatory phenotype, thereby protecting hippocampal neurogenesis. Since microglia reactive to neuroinflammation is a common feature of neuropsychiatric disorders, the discoveries from the present study may provide therapeutic innovation for these diseases. • IGF2 inhibited hippocampal microglia activation in LPS-treated mice. • IGF2 inhibited the polarization of M1 microglia in the hippocampus of LPS-treated mice. • IGF2 could produce anti-depressive effective in LPS treated mice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A hydroxyl-functionalized triptycene-based polyimide of intrinsic microporosity (TDA1-APAF) was converted to a polybenzoxazole (PBO) by heat treatment at 460 °C under nitrogen atmosphere. TDA1-APAF treated for 15 min (TR 460) resulted in a PBO conversion of 95% based on a theoretical weight loss of 11.7 wt% of the polyimide precursor. The BET surface area of the TR 460 (680 m 2 g −1 ) was significantly higher than that of the TDA1-APAF polyimide (260 m 2 g −1 ) as determined by nitrogen adsorption at −196 °C. Heating TDA1-APAF for 30 min (TRC 460) resulted in a weight loss of 13.5 wt%, indicating full conversion to PBO and partial main-chain degradation. The TR 460 membrane displayed excellent O 2 permeability of 311 Barrer coupled with an O 2 /N 2 selectivity of 5.4 and CO 2 permeability of 1328 Barrer with a CO 2 /CH 4 selectivity of 27. Interestingly, physical aging over 150 days resulted in enhanced O 2 /N 2 selectivity of 6.3 with an O 2 permeability of 185 Barrer. The novel triptycene-based TR 460 PBO outperformed all previously reported APAF-polyimide-based PBOs with gas permeation performance close to recently reported polymers located on the 2015 O 2 /N 2 upper bound. Based on this study, thermally-rearranged membranes from hydroxyl-functionalized triptycene-based polyimides are promising candidate membrane materials for air separation, specifically in applications where space and weight of membrane systems are of utmost importance such as nitrogen production for inert atmospheres in fuel lines and tanks on aircrafts and off-shore oil- or natural gas platforms. Mixed-gas permeation experiments also demonstrated good performance of the TR 460 membrane for natural gas sweetening with a CO 2 permeability of ∼1000 Barrer and CO 2 /CH 4 selectivity of 22 at a typical CO 2 wellhead partial pressure of 10 bar. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Early responsive dehydration (ERD) genes can be rapidly induced by dehydration. ERD15 genes have been confirmed to regulate various stress responses in plants. However, the maize ERD15 members have not been characterized. In the present study, a total of five ZmERD15 genes were identified from the maize genome and named ZmERD15a, ZmERD15b, ZmERD15c, ZmERD15d, and ZmERD15e. Subsequently, their protein properties, gene structure and duplication, chromosomal location, cis-acting elements, subcellular localization, expression pattern, and over-expression in yeast were analyzed. The results showed that the ZmERD15 proteins were characterized by a similar size (113–159 aa) and contained a common domain structure, with PAM2 and adjacent PAE1 motifs followed by an acidic region. The ZmERD15 proteins exhibited a close phylogenetic relationship with OsERD15s from rice. Five ZmERD15 genes were distributed on maize chromosomes 2, 6, 7, and 9 and showed a different exon–intron organization and were expanded by duplication. Besides, the promoter region of the ZmERD15s contained abundant cis-acting elements that are known to be responsive to stress and hormones. Subcellular localization showed that ZmERD15b and ZmERD15c were localized in the nucleus. ZmERD15a and ZmERD15e were localized in the nucleus and cytoplasm. ZmERD15d was localized in the nucleus and cell membrane. The results of the quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR) showed that the expression of the ZmERD15 genes was regulated by PEG, salinity, and ABA. The heterologous expression of ZmERD15a, ZmERD15b, ZmERD15c, and ZmERD15d significantly enhanced salt tolerance in yeast. In summary, a comprehensive analysis of ZmERD15s was conducted in the study. The results will provide insights into further dissecting the biological function and molecular mechanism of ZmERD15s regulating of the stress response in maize. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Serious health problems have been linked to the consumption and exposure of arsenic-contaminated groundwater. In comparison to As(V), As(III) is smaller and predominantly present in its neutral form in groundwater, which hinders its efficient removal by conventional nanofiltration and reverse osmosis membranes. In this study, the removal of As(III) was investigated at different pH conditions using three defect-free interfacially polymerized thin-film composite (TFC) membranes made by an optimized in-house developed interfacial polymerization process (KRO). The membranes were fabricated from aromatic para -phenylenediamine (PPD) or meta- phenylenediamine (MPD) and cycloaliphatic piperazine (PIP) by reaction with trimesoyl chloride (TMC). The PPD-KRO, MPD-KRO, and PIP-KRO polyamide membranes were tested with a feed containing 5 ± 1 mg L−1 (ppm) As(III). Two commercial TFC membranes, a seawater (Sepro RO4) and a nanofiltration (DOW NF270) membrane, were also evaluated for comparison. At natural conditions (pH 6–8), the defect-free fully aromatic TFC membranes demonstrated unprecedented size-sieving performance for As(III) removal with a rejection of ∼99.5 and > 99.8% for PPD-KRO and MPD-KRO, respectively, in comparison to ∼95% for the commercial Sepro RO4 seawater membrane tested under the same conditions. In contrast, As(III) rejection of semi-aromatic piperazine-based TFCs, PIP-KRO and NF270, showed a strong dependence on the charge-exclusion mechanism with maximum As(III) rejections of 69.5 and 46.3% at pH 10, respectively. Most notably, we demonstrated that the MPD-KRO membrane achieved an As(III) concentration ∼5 μg L−1 in the permeate (less than the WHO permissible arsenic standard level of 10 μg L−1), whereas PPD-KRO achieved a slightly higher value of ∼14 μg L−1. Our results are very promising considering the arsenic standard level in highly As(III) contaminated groundwater in Bangladesh and India is set at 50 μg L−1. [Display omitted] • Defect-free cross-linked polyamide TFC membranes were evaluated for As(III) removal. • As(III) rejection >99.8% was achieved at natural pH conditions. • As(III) rejection was essentially independent of pH. • The WHO permissible As(III) standard of 10 μg L−1 in drinking water can be achieved. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hot spring or hot spa bathing (Onsen) is a traditional therapy for the treatment of certain ailments. There is a common belief that hot spring bathing has therapeutic effects for wound healing, yet the underlying molecular mechanisms remain unclear. To examine this hypothesis, we investigated the effects of Nagano hot spring water (rich in carbonate ion, 42°C) on the healing process of the skin using a nude rat skin wound model. We found that hot spring bathing led to an enhanced healing speed compared to both the unbathed and hot-water (42°C) control groups. Histologically, the hot spring water group showed increased vessel density and reduced inflammatory cells in the granulation tissue of the wound area. Real-time RT-PCR analysis along with zymography revealed that the wound area of the hot spring water group exhibited a higher expression of matrix metalloproteinases-2 and -9 compared to the two other control groups. Furthermore, we found that the enhanced wound healing process induced by the carbonate ion-enriched hot spring water was mediated by thermal insulation and moisture maintenance. Our results provide the evidence that carbonate ion-enriched hot spring water is beneficial for the treatment of skin wounds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This document is a correction notice for an article titled "Spatial Diffusion Waves of Human Activities: Evidence from Harmonized Nighttime Light Data during 1992–2018 in 234 Cities of China" published in the journal Remote Sensing. The correction addresses an error in Figure 1 of the original publication, where two sites were incorrectly marked and Taiwan was incorrectly labeled. The authors state that this correction does not affect the scientific conclusions of the study. The corrected figure is provided in the document. [Extracted from the article]

Nanofiltration (NF) and reverse osmosis (RO) membranes have revolutionized water treatment processes. However, emerging separations, such as the removal of organic micropollutants (OMPs), pose a challenge for traditional RO and NF membranes due to either low water permeance (RO) or inadequate OMP rejection (NF). In this work, we investigated the rejection of thirteen frequently detected OMPs at environmentally relevant low feed concentration of 12 μg/L by using a wide range of commercial RO and NF polyamide thin-film composite (TFC) membranes and an in-house prepared NF membrane. The membranes were characterized using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), atomic force microscopy (AFM), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), contact angle, and surface charge measurements. We investigated removal capabilities of OMPs at standard brackish water RO operating conditions (i.e., 15.5 bar transmembrane pressure, pH 8) and also examined the effect of feed solution transmembrane pressure on membrane performance. The rejection of ionic OMPs was strongly influenced by electrostatic repulsion effects, whereas rejection of non-ionic solutes was primarily driven by size exclusion and hydrophobic/hydrophilic interactions. The best performing TFC membranes — a lab-made semi-aromatic piperazine-based NF polyamide membrane and a fully aromatic commercial polyamide NF membrane (NF1) — displayed excellent rejection of OMPs comparable to a commercial RO seawater membrane (RO4), but exhibited ∼2-fold and ∼6-fold higher water permeance, respectively. [Display omitted] • OMP rejection is reported for a range of RO and NF polyamide TFC membranes. • Membrane performance follows water permeance/OMP selectivity trade-off. • MWCO alone does not provide sufficient information to predict OMP rejection. • Defect-free piperazine-based TFC displays higher rejection than commercial NF piperazine-type membranes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Overexpression of β3-tubulin is a common occurrence in human tumors and is associated with resistance to microtubule-targeting agents. PROTAC strategy has demonstrated significant potential in overcoming drug resistance. Herein, we report the discovery of W13 as the first PROTAC against tubulin, which was created by connecting a CRBN ligand to the widely recognized microtubule-destabilizing agent CA-4. Notably, it retains the inhibitory activity of the parental CA-4 and further exhibits substantial degradation of α/β/β3-tubulin in both A549 and A549/Taxol cell lines. The degradation of tubulin was subsequently verified to be mediated by the ubiquitin-proteasome system. Importantly, tumor xenograft research clearly showed W13 's promising antitumor activity against human lung cancer. Taken together, the discovery of W13 demonstrated the practicality and feasibility of PROTAC targeting tubulin, hence establishing a potential therapeutic approach for treating NSCLC caused by the overexpression of β3-tubulin. [Display omitted] • A series of CRBN-based PROTACs have been firstly synthesized as tubulin degrader. • W13 induces α/β/β3-tubulin in A549S and A549T cells via UPS-dependent manners. • The RI values of W13 on drug-resistant cancer cells was superior to that of Taxol. • The tumor growth inhibition values of W13 were 65.8% on A549T xenograft tumor model. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: High levels of apolipoprotein C3 (APOC3) can lead to hypertriglyceridemia, which increases the risk of cardiovascular disease. We aim to create APOC3-knockout (KO) rabbits and explore the effects of APOC3 deletion on the occurrence and development of atherosclerosis. Methods: An sgRNA anchored to exon 2 of APOC3 was designed to edit embryo genomes using the CRISPR/Cas9 system. The founder rabbits were sequenced, and their lipid profile, inflammatory cytokines, and atherosclerotic plaques were analyzed. Results: When given a normal chow (NC) diet, all APOC3-KO rabbits had 50% lower triglyceride (TG) levels than those of the matched age control group. Additionally, their plasma lipoprotein lipase increased. When fed a high-fat diet, APOC3 deficiency was observed to be more conducive to the maintenance of plasma TG, total cholesterol, and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels, and the inhibition of the inflammatory response and the protection against atherosclerosis in rabbits. Conclusion: APOC3 deficiency can delay the formation of atherosclerosis-induced HFD in rabbits, indicating this is a novel therapeutic target to treat atherosclerosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Characterizing interfacial reactions is a crucial part of understanding the behavior of nanoparticles in nature and for unlocking their functional potential. Here, an advanced nanostructure characterization approach to study the corrosion processes of silver nanoparticles (Ag-Nps), currently the most highly produced nanoparticle for nanotechnology, is presented. Corrosion of Ag-Nps under aqueous conditions, in particular in the presence of organic matter and halide species common to many natural environments, is of particular importance because the release of toxic Ag+ from oxidation/dissolution of Ag-Nps may strongly impact ecosystems. In this context, Ag-Nps capped with polyvinolpyrrolidone (PVP) in contact with a simple proxy of organic matter in natural waters [polyacrylic acid (PAA) and Cl− in solution] has been investigated. A combination of synchrotron-based X-ray standing-wave fluorescence yield- and X-ray diffraction-based experiments on a sample consisting of an approximately single-particle layer of Ag-Nps deposited on a silicon substrate and coated by a thin film of PAA containing Cl revealed the formation of a stable AgCl corrosion product despite the presence of potential surface stabilizers (PVP and PAA). Diffusion and precipitation processes at the Ag-Nps-PAA interface were characterized with a high spatial resolution using this new approach. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Drought stress is a common abiotic factor and restricts plant growth and development. Exploring maize stress-related genes and their regulatory mechanisms is crucial for ensuring agricultural productivity and food security. The BRI1-EMS1 suppressor (BES1)/brassinazole-resistant 1 (BZR1) transcription factors (TFs) play important roles in plant growth, development, and stress response. However, maize ZmBES1/BZR1s are rarely reported. In the present study, the ZmBES1/BZR1-1 gene was cloned from maize B73 and functionally characterized in transgenic Arabidopsis and rice in drought stress response. The ZmBES1/BZR1-1 protein possessed a conserved bHLH domain characterized by BES1/BZR1 TFs, localized in the nucleus, and showed transcription activation activity. The expression of ZmBES1/BZR1-1 exhibited no tissue specificity but drought-inhibitory expression in maize. Under drought stress, overexpression of ZmBES1/BZR1-1 resulted in the enhancement of drought sensitivity of transgenic Arabidopsis and rice with a lower survival rate, reactive oxygen species (ROS) level and relative water content (RWC) and a higher stomatal aperture and relative electrolyte leakage (REL). The RNA-seq results showed that 56 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were regulated by ZmBES1/BZR1-1 by binding to E-box elements in their promoters. The GO analysis showed that the DEGs were significantly annotated with response to oxidative stress and oxygen level. The study suggests that the ZmBES1/BZR1-1 gene negatively regulates drought stress, which provides insights into further underlying molecular mechanisms in the drought stress response mediated by BZR1/BES1s. • The ZmBES1/BZR1-1 protein localized in the nucleus and showed transcription activation activity. • The expression of ZmBES1/BZR1-1 gene was responsive to drought stress. • Overexpression of ZmBES1/BZR1-1 negatively regulated drought tolerance in transgenic Arabidopsis and rice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An intrinsically microporous hydroxyl-functionalized polyimide (PIM-PI) made from 4,4′-(hexafluoroisopropylidene)diphthalic anhydride (6FDA) and 2,6(7)-dihydroxy-3,7(6)-diaminotriptycene (DAT1-OH), was thermally converted to polybenzoxazole (PBO). The thermal rearrangement of the PIM-PI to PBO significantly increased the free volume, which was reflected by a boost in its microporosity as indicated by enhanced Brunauer-Emmett-Teller (BET) surface area from 167 to 405 m2 g−1. The increase in free volume noticeably improved the gas permeability but also resulted in reduced gas-pair selectivity. The fresh PBO membrane made by thermal treatment at 460 °C for 30 min (TRIP-TR-460-30) with a PBO conversion of 98% displayed a 20-fold higher CO 2 permeability of 840 barrer than the initial value of 43 barrer for the 6FDA-DAT1-OH polyimide at the expense of ~ 60% decrease in pure-gas CO 2 /CH 4 selectivity from 52 to 21. The TRIP-TR-460-30 PBO showed good performance for propylene/propane separation with pure-gas C 3 H 6 permeability of 21 barrer and C 3 H 6 /C 3 H 8 selectivity of 16 for a 28-days aged sample. When tested under mixed-gas conditions C 3 H 6 permeability dropped to 12.8 barrer and C 3 H 6 /C 3 H 8 selectivity of 8. TRIP-TR-460-30 PBO displayed mechanical properties comparable some rigid polyimides with tensile strength, Young's modulus and elongation at break of 58 MPa, 1.83 GPa and 4.3%, respectively. Image 1 • TR-derived PBO membranes made from 6FDA/triptycene OH-based diamine polyimide. • Fully converted PBO exhibited improved gas permeability but reduced selectivity. • Physical aging had large effect on gas permeability but small effect on selectivity. • PBO demonstrated performance located on the propylene/propane upper bound. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Endothelial cell injury in vascular arterial walls is a hallmark of atherosclerosis. Pterostilbene (Pts) has been shown to have an anti-oxidative and anti-apoptotic effect in numerous diseases via regulation of intracellular metabolism. The purpose of this study was to investigate the protective effect and possible mechanism of Pts against endothelial cell apoptosis in an atherosclerotic rat model. An atherosclerotic rat model was established using a high-fat, high glucose and high cholesterol diet. The effects of Pts on apoptosis and oxidative stress injury were measured using atherosclerotic lesion analysis, western blot analysis, hematoxylin and eosin straining, TUNEL assay and immunohistochemistry. In vivo results in an atherosclerosis rat model showed that Pts administration decreased the inflammatory response. Pts administration attenuated atherogenesis, reduced aortic plaque size, reduced macrophage infiltration, and suppressed oxidative stress and apoptosis of vascular arterial walls. In vitro assays using cultured human endothelial cells showed that Pts administration decreased hydrogen peroxide-induced cytotoxicity, oxidative stress injury and apoptosis via nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) activation in endothelial cells. Additionally, Pts administration increased the expression level of Nrf2 and 5′ adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase (AMPK), and the phosphorylation level of AMPK and decreased signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) expression in these cells. Furthermore, knockdown of Nrf2 prevented Pts-decrease oxidative stress injury and apoptosis. In conclusion, these data suggest that Pts can protect endothelial cells in the vascular arterial walls against atherosclerosis-induced injury through regulation of the Nrf2-mediated AMPK/STAT3 pathway. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: In recent years, an increasing number of studies have proved that circulating miRNAs could be used for the early diagnosis of cardiovascular diseases and even play vital roles in the evaluation of therapeutic effects or prognosis. This study was conducted to examine the correlation between serum microRNAs and hyperlipidemia to provide a theoretical basis for the early screening and intervention of atherosclerotic cardiovascular diseases (ASCVD). Methods: The serum samples and clinical data of 122 patients with hyperlipidemia and 168 healthy subjects were collected. Related clinical information was statistically analyzed for the two groups. Expression of circulating miRNAs was detected by miRNA microarray analysis and further verified by reverse transcription-quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR). Results: Statistical analysis of clinical information revealed a significant difference in the incidence of ASCVD between the two groups. The MiRNA microarray analysis (n = 10) showed 22 miRNAs with significantly different expression, among which 12 showed upregulation, and the others showed downregulation. Those possessing obvious differences and stable expression in the miRNA microarray, including miRNA-191-3p, miRNA-933, and miRNA-425-3p, were chosen for further investigation using RT-qPCR. The results demonstrated that several miRNAs were related to lipid metabolism disorders, especially miRNA-933. The area under the curve (AUC) of miRNA-933 in distinguishing the hyperlipidemia and ASCVD patients was 0.739 (95% CI, 0.682–0.795; P < 0.01) and 0.703 (95% CI, 0.643–0.763, P < 0.01), respectively. Conclusions: In conclusion, miRNA-191-3p, miRNA-933, and miRNA-425-3p may be depressed in the peripheral circulation of patients with lipid metabolism disorders (mainly LDL). Circulating miRNA-933 could be a feasible predictor for ASCVD at the early stage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To generate novel rabbit models with a large-fragment deletion of either LDL receptor (LDLR) and/or apolipoprotein (apoE) genes for the study of hyperlipidemic and atherosclerosis. Methods: CRISPR/Cas9 system directed by a multiple sgRNAs system was used in rabbit embryos to edit their LDLR and apoE genes. The LDLR and apoE genes of founder rabbits were sequenced, and their plasma lipids and lipoprotein profiles on a normal chow diet were analyzed, western blotting was also performed to evaluate the expression of apolipoprotein. Sudan IV and HE staining of aortic were performed to confirm the formation of atherosclerosis. Results: Six knockout (KO) rabbits by injection of both LDLR and apoE sgRNAs were obtained, including four LDLR KO rabbits and two LDLR/apoE double- KO rabbits. Sequence analysis of these KO rabbits revealed that they contained multiple mutations including indels, deletions, and substitutions, as well as two rabbit lines containing biallelic large fragment deletion in the LDLR region. Analysis of their plasma lipids and lipoprotein profiles of these rabbits fed on a normal chow diet revealed that all of these KO rabbits exhibited remarkable hyperlipidemia with total cholesterol levels increased by up to 10-fold over those of wild-type rabbits. Pathological examinations of two founder rabbits showed that KO rabbits developed prominent aortic and coronary atherosclerosis. Conclusion: Large fragment deletions can be achieved in rabbits using Cas9 mRNA and multiple sgRNAs. LDLR KO along with LDLR/apoE double KO rabbits should provide a novel means for translational investigations of human hyperlipidemia and atherosclerosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A triptycene-based diamine, 1,3,6,8-tetramethyl-2,7-diamino-triptycene (TMDAT), was used for the synthesis of a novel solution-processable polyamide obtained via polycondensation reaction with 4,4′-(hexafluoroisopropylidene)bis(benzoic acid) (6FBBA). Molecular simulations confirmed that the tetrasubstitution with ortho-methyl groups in the triptycene building block reduced rotations around the C–N bond of the amide group leading to enhanced fractional free volume. Based on N2 sorption at 77 K, 6FBBA-TMDAT revealed microporosity with a Brunauer–Emmett–Teller (BET) surface area of 396 m2 g−1; to date, this is the highest value reported for a linear polyamide. The aged 6FBBA-TMDAT sample showed moderate pure-gas permeabilities (e.g., 198 barrer for H2, ~109 for CO2, and ~25 for O2) and permselectivities (e.g., αH2/CH4 of ~50) that position this polyamide close to the 2008 H2/CH4 and H2/N2 upper bounds. CO2–CH4 mixed-gas permeability experiments at 35 °C demonstrated poor plasticization resistance; mixed-gas permselectivity negatively deviated from the pure-gas values likely, due to the enhancement of CH4 diffusion induced by mixing effects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Removal of boron from saline water sources has presented a major challenge for commercially available reverse osmosis desalination membranes. In this work, we report the boron and sodium chloride separation properties of truly defect-free, highly selective, interfacially polymerized aromatic polyamide thin-film composite membranes. The fabricated membranes show potential for separating sodium chloride with a maximum rejection of 99.6% obtained for the optimized film-forming protocol under lab-scale brackish water desalination conditions. This translated into promising boron rejection performance with rejections of up to 99% at pH 10, higher than a number of commercially available reverse osmosis membranes tested in-house. Comprehensive characterization including X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, atomic force microscopy, scanning electron microscopy, ellipsometry, and surface charge measurements revealed intimate insights on interfacially polymerized polyamide membrane structure-property relationships. Increased membrane crosslinking was shown to be the primary determining factor for membrane permselectivity performance. Furthermore, relationships were established between microstructural properties such as crosslinking and morphological characteristics like surface roughness, highlighting an intricate and complex structure formation mechanism. Graphical abstract Image 1 Highlights • Defect-free, highly selective MPD-TMC thin-film composite membranes were fabricated. • Membrane performance was compared to a group of commercially available membranes. • The fabricated membranes exhibited promising potential for improved boron and NaCl removal from water. • Methods and mechanisms to improve membrane rejection are reported. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Atherosclerosis (AS) is a chronic arterial disease and a major cause of vascular death, with multiple pathogenesis including chronic inflammatory. Tripterygium wilfordii (TGW) had a good effect on an anti-inflammatory. At present, more and more researches indicated that TGW could also regulate AS. Objective: The aim of this study is to clarify what the anti-atherosclerotic ingredients are in TGW and whether these ingredients improve AS synergistically. Materials and Methods: First, systematic pharmacology was utilized to predict the active ingredients and potential targets of TGW related to AS. Then, a bioactive compound of triptolide (TPL) and Tripterine (TPR) in TGW were evaluated if they presented the synergistically anti-atherosclerotic effects in Apo E-/-mice fed with a high-fat/high-cholesterol diet. In the experiment, Hematoxylin and Eosin tested the plaque areas; reverse transcriptase- polymerase chain reaction and Western blot analysis detected the matrix metalloprotein 9 (MMP-9), tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α), and NF-κB levels in the aortas. Results: The results shown that there are 17 bioactive compounds with 76 therapeutic proteins were identified. Moreover, TGW exhibits a protective effect on treatment AS likely through regulating multiple pathways including immune response, inflammatory response, and vascular structure improving. Further verified that TPL combined with TPR in TGW had synergistic effect on treatment AS by reducing levels of MMP-9, TNF-α, and NF-κB, might be the important pathway. Conclusion: TGW, synergistic effect of different compounds, could regulate AS by multiple pathways, especially improving immune response, inflammatory response, and vascular structure. The major compounds of Tripterine and Triptolide in TGW had a synergistic effect on anti-AS by suppressing matrix metalloprotein 9, TNF-α, and NF-κB. Abbreviations used: TGW: Tripterygium wilfordii, TRL: Triptolide, TRR: Tripterine, TRLR: TRL plus TRR, NC: Normal control, MC: Model control, MMP-9: Matrix metalloprotein 9; NF-kB, Nuclear factor-kappa B; TNF-a, Tumor necrosis factor alpha, AS: Atherosclerosis, H and E: Hematoxylin and Eosin, ox-LDL: Oxidized low-density lipoprotein, ICAM-1: intercellular adhesion molecule-1, VCAM-1: vascular cell adhesion molecule 1, HIF-1: Hypoxia inducible factor-1, IL-2: Interleukin-2, IFN-γ: Interferon-γ, MCP-1: Monocyte chemotactic protein 1, TCMSP: Traditional chinese medicine systems pharmacology, TCM: Traditional chinese medicine, PerOB: Predict oral bioavailability, PerDL: Predict drug-likeness, HL: Half-life, HFC: High-fat/high-cholesterol diet, T-P: Target-Pathway, KEGG: Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes, DAVID: Database for Annotation, Visualization and Integrated Discovery, ADME: Absorption, distribution, metabolism, excretion, TBST: tris-buffered saline, GAPDH: Glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase, DMSO: Dimethyl sulfoxide, HPLC: High Performance Liquid Chromatography. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Central neurocytoma (CN) is a rare periventricular tumor of the central nervous system in young adults. Typically, patients with CN exhibit a favorable prognosis, but in certain cases the clinical course is more aggressive. Therefore, investigating effective therapeutic approaches is important. Oridonin has attracted attention due to its antitumor activities. However, the role of oridonin in tumorigenesis and progression remains unknown. The present study examined the antitumor function of oridonin in CN cells, and investigated the underlying molecular mechanism. An MTT assay suggested that treatment with oridonin was able to significantly inhibit the proliferation of CN cells. The annexin V‑fluorescein isothiocyanate/propidium iodide assay and western blot analysis demonstrated that oridonin was able to induce apoptosis and alter the expression of apoptosis‑associated proteins by downregulating anti‑apoptotic protein, B‑cell lymphoma‑2 (Bcl‑2), and upregulating pro‑apoptosis proteins, Bcl‑2‑like protein 4, cleaved caspase‑3 and cleaved poly(ADP‑ribose) polymerase 1. Subsequently, the Wnt/β‑catenin signaling pathway was examined. Western blot analysis indicated that oridonin markedly decreased the expression of β‑catenin, cyclin D1 and v‑myc avian myelocytomatosis viral oncogene homolog. Furthermore, β‑catenin was silenced by small interference RNA or overexpressed in CN cells, and the effect on cell proliferation was examined. The results indicated that silencing of β‑catenin enhanced the inhibitory effect of oridonin on cell growth, whereas the overexpression of β‑catenin attenuated this effect. These data indicated that oridonin inhibited proliferation and induced apoptosis to exert its antitumor activity in CN cells by repressing Wnt/β‑catenin signaling. Therefore, the present study suggested that oridonin might be an effective adjuvant agent, and that the Wnt/β‑catenin signaling pathway may be a potent target for the therapy in CN. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose Women with epilepsy (WWE) are believed to be at risk of sexual dysfunction (SD) and face many sexual challenges because of multiple factors. This study aimed to assess the factors associated with SD in Chinese Han WWE. Methods This cross-sectional study examined 112 married WWE in the Affiliated Hospital of Yangzhou University with focal (FE) or generalized epilepsy (GE) on antiepileptic drugs (AEDs), and 120 healthy controls without epilepsy, all of Chinese Han nationality. Data collection tools included the Chinese version of Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI), the Chinese version of Zung Self-Rating Anxiety Scale (SAS), the Chinese version of the Zung Self-Rating Depression Scale (SDS), the Chinese version of the revised Morisky Medication Adherence Scale (MMAS-8), and the Chinese version of the National Hospital Seizure Severity Scale (NHS3). Chi-square test, t -test, one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA), and binary logistic regression were used for statistical analysis. Results A high rate (70.5%) of SD was detected in WWE, with 24.2% in controls. Sexual dysfunction affected all dimensions: desire (85.7%), arousal (56.3%), lubrication (47.3%), orgasm (66.1%), satisfaction (58.9%), and pain (41.1%). Elevated rates of anxiety (40.2%) and depression (33%) and poor medication adherence (31.3%) were also found in WWE. Binary logistic regression found that poor economic status (odds ratio (OR) = 13.904, 95% confidence interval (CI): 2.025–95.472, P = 0.007 and OR = 6.350, 95% CI: 1.323–30.477, P = 0.021), anxiety (OR = 1.222, 95% CI: 1.055–1.415, P = 0.007), and poor medication adherence (OR = 0.297, 95% CI: 0.124–0.707, P = 0.006) were associated with SD. Conclusions The associated factors of SD in Chinese Han WWE are multifactorial. The WWE have higher levels of anxiety, poor family economic status, and poor medication adherence. Medical professionals should not only better control seizures but also evaluate and improve patients' sexual function so as to improve the quality of life of WWE. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An intrinsically microporous polyimide is synthesized in m-cresol by a one-pot high-temperature condensation reaction of 4,4′-(hexafluoroisopropylidene)diphthalic anhydride (6FDA) and newly designed 2,6 (7)-dihydroxy-3,7(6)-diaminotriptycene (DAT1-OH). The 6FDA-DAT1-OH polyimide is thermally stable up to 440 °C, shows excellent solubility in polar solvents, and has moderately high Brunauer-Teller-Emmett (BET) surface area of 160 m2 g−1, as determined by nitrogen adsorption at −196 °C. Hydroxyl functionalization applied to the rigid 3D triptycene-based diamine building block results in a polyimide that exhibits moderate pure-gas CO2 permeability of 70 Barrer combined with high CO2/CH4 selectivity of 50. Mixed-gas permeation studies demonstrate excellent plasticization resistance of 6FDA-DAT1-OH with impressive performance as potential membrane material for natural gas sweetening with a CO2 permeability of 50 Barrer and CO2/CH4 selectivity of 40 at a typical natural gas well partial pressure of 10 atm. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Large-area, glass-metal heliostats have collection areas in the range of 100 m2–200 m2. The heliostats of Solar Tower power station, with high accuracy requirements during performance, are located at open terrain or suburban terrain and they are sensitive to gust. Therefore, wind load and wind-induced response should be an important factor in design. In this paper, experimental investigation of rigid heliostat model in wind tunnel under 3-dimensional wind loads was conducted. The obtained maximum wind forces coefficients and the corresponding wind directions are compared with the results of the measurements of Peterka et al. A finite element model is developed to calculate the wind-induced displacement, the equivalent stress and the structural natural vibration frequency of the heliostat. The results show that, under fluctuating wind pressure, the maximum displacement of the structure occurred at corners of upper parts and the level of the maximum equivalent stress in the rotation axis is higher than that in other components of the heliostat. A favorable stow position to resist wind loads is also suggested on the basis of the result analysis in this paper. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

In this paper, we aim to design a new photocatalyst with enhanced photocatalytic efficiency by the synergistic construction of a Z-scheme photocatalytic system composed with reduced graphene oxide (rGO)-bridged tungsten trioxide (WO 3) and molybdenum disulfide (MoS 2). This system shows excellent photocatalytic performances in the degradation of Rhodamine B. WO 3 /MoS 2 -rGO nanocomposite with 10% mass fraction of MoS 2 -rGO exhibits the highest degradation rate of 98.3% under 20 min's visible light irradiation. The degradation rate derived from the apparent first-order kinetics model is calculated as 0.00644 min−1, which is 1.8 and 1.6 times higher than those of pure WO 3 and WO 3 /MoS 2. Radical trapping experiment reveals the photo-induced active species hydroxyl and holes are the predominant active species during the reaction. The photocatalytic mechanism of WO 3 /MoS 2 -rGO nanocomposite is explained under Z-scheme system theory. Our research may provide new insights into the design and fabrication of high-efficient photocatalyst. Image 1 • Graphene-bridged WO 3 /MoS 2 photocatalyst are synthesized by hydrothermal method. • WO 3 /MoS 2 -rGO photocatalyst shows enhanced performance for RhB degradation. • The influence of MoS 2 -rGO mass fraction and environment pH value is investigated. • The mechanism of improved performance is dicussed under Z-scheme system theory. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]