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Herein, synergistically confining anthracene‐phenylpyridium derivatives (1' and 1) as dual‐rotor luminogens through macrocyclic cucurbit[8]uril (CB[8]) and hyaluronic acid (HA) mediated supramolecular secondary reassembly is reported to give bright fluorescence emission. The non‐emissive dual‐rotor molecule 1 first assembles with CB[8] to form non‐emissive supramolecular nanotubes, which are further reconstructed to be nanoparticles with a diameter of 83 nm by HA induced secondary reassembly through electrostatic interaction. Intriguingly, the secondary reassembly not only transforms the topological morphology, but also acts as a switch to activate the robust fluorescence of dual‐rotor molecule, accompanying emission at 600 nm with large Stokes shift (150 nm). This activation is mainly attributed to sufficient suppression of intramolecular rotation and promotion of intramolecular charge transfer of dual‐rotor molecule after reassembly. Benefiting from multiple components synergistic stimuli‐responsiveness and the targeted ability of HA to tumor cells, the secondary reassembly constructed dual‐rotor luminescence system is successfully applied in triplet encryption information security and targeted cancer cell imaging. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The use of augmented reality (AR) technology in the science curriculum has the potential to assist students in comprehending abstract and complex concepts or unobservable phenomena, as well as to better explain knowledge regarding science content by superimposing virtual objects over genuine items or environments in a multidimensional approach. However, the overall effects on students' academic achievement of using AR technology in scientific courses and the key factors that influence such effects are still unclear. Therefore, we performed a meta-analysis in this work to systematically review 35 empiric trials (with 39 effect sizes) that used experimental or quasi-experimental approaches to determine the academic achievement of using AR techniques in science-related courses. In addition, we explored possible moderators such as differences in disciplines, educational stages, types of AR (marker-based, markerless-based, or location-based), display devices (mobiles, tablets, computers, or headsets), intervention duration, group size, and instructional strategies. The results revealed that the overall mean effect size (with AR into instruction vs without AR into instruction) was 0.737 under the random effects model, indicating a medium-to-large significant positive effect on students' academic achievement. The disciplines had significant moderating effects, types of AR had marginally significant effects, while educational stages, display devices, intervention duration, group size, and strategies used had insignificant influence. The impact of AR technology on scientific education was discussed in connection to the above seven moderators. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the most lethal and prevalent solid malignancies worldwide. There is a great need of accelerating the development and diagnosis of CRC. Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNA) as transcribed RNA molecules play an important role in every level of gene expression. Metastasis‐associated lung adenocarcinoma transcript‐1 (MALAT1) is a highly conserved nucleus-restricted lncRNA that regulates genes at the transcriptional and post-transcriptional levels. High expression of MALAT1 is closely related to numerous human cancers. It is generally believed that MALAT1 expression is associated with CRC cell proliferation, tumorigenicity, and metastasis. MALAT1 by targeting multiple signaling pathways and microRNAs (miRNAs) plays a pivotal role in CRC pathogenesis. Therefore, MALAT1 can be a potent gene for cancer prediction and diagnosis. In this review, we will demonstrate signaling pathways associated with MALAT1 in CRC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A series of solid supramolecules based on acrylamide–phenylpyridium copolymers with various substituent groups (P−R: R=−CN, −CO2Et, −Me, −CF3) and cucurbit[7]uril (CB[7]) are constructed to exhibit tunable second‐level (from 0.9 s to 2.2 s) room‐temperature phosphorescence (RTP) in the amorphous state. Compared with other solid supramolecules P−R/CB[7] (R=−CN, −CO2Et, −Me), P−CF3/CB[7] displays the longest lifetime (2.2 s), which is probably attributed to the fluorophilic interaction of cucurbiturils leading to a uncommon host–guest interaction between 4‐phenylpyridium with −CF3 and CB[7]. Furthermore, the RTP solid supramolecular assembly (donors) can further react with organic dyes Eosin Y or SR101 (acceptors) to form ternary supramolecular systems featuring ultralong phosphorescence energy transfer (PpET) and visible delayed fluorescence (yellow for EY at 568 nm and red for SR101 at 620 nm). Significantly, the ultralong multicolor PpET supramolecular assembly can be further applied in fields of anti‐counterfeiting and information encryption and painting. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A series of solid supramolecules based on acrylamide–phenylpyridium copolymers with various substituent groups (P−R: R=−CN, −CO2Et, −Me, −CF3) and cucurbit[7]uril (CB[7]) are constructed to exhibit tunable second‐level (from 0.9 s to 2.2 s) room‐temperature phosphorescence (RTP) in the amorphous state. Compared with other solid supramolecules P−R/CB[7] (R=−CN, −CO2Et, −Me), P−CF3/CB[7] displays the longest lifetime (2.2 s), which is probably attributed to the fluorophilic interaction of cucurbiturils leading to a uncommon host–guest interaction between 4‐phenylpyridium with −CF3 and CB[7]. Furthermore, the RTP solid supramolecular assembly (donors) can further react with organic dyes Eosin Y or SR101 (acceptors) to form ternary supramolecular systems featuring ultralong phosphorescence energy transfer (PpET) and visible delayed fluorescence (yellow for EY at 568 nm and red for SR101 at 620 nm). Significantly, the ultralong multicolor PpET supramolecular assembly can be further applied in fields of anti‐counterfeiting and information encryption and painting. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An enhancement strategy is realized for ultralong bright room‐temperature phosphorescence (RTP), involving polymerization between phosphor monomers and acrylamide and host–guest complexation interaction between phosphors and cucurbit[6,7,8]urils (CB[6,7,8]). The non‐phosphorescent monomers exhibit 2.46 s ultralong lifetime after copolymerizing with acrylamide. The improvement is due to the rich hydrogen bond and carbonyl within the polymers which promote intersystem crossing, suppress nonradiative relaxation and shield quenchers effectively. By tuning the ratio of chromophores, a series of phosphorescent copolymers with different lifetimes and quantum yields are prepared. The complexation of macrocyclic hosts CB[6,7,8] promote the RTP of polymers by blocking aggregation‐caused quenching, and offsetting the losses of aforementioned interaction provided by polymer. Multiple lifetime‐encoding for digit and character encryption are achieved by utilizing the difference of their lifetimes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An enhancement strategy is realized for ultralong bright room‐temperature phosphorescence (RTP), involving polymerization between phosphor monomers and acrylamide and host–guest complexation interaction between phosphors and cucurbit[6,7,8]urils (CB[6,7,8]). The non‐phosphorescent monomers exhibit 2.46 s ultralong lifetime after copolymerizing with acrylamide. The improvement is due to the rich hydrogen bond and carbonyl within the polymers which promote intersystem crossing, suppress nonradiative relaxation and shield quenchers effectively. By tuning the ratio of chromophores, a series of phosphorescent copolymers with different lifetimes and quantum yields are prepared. The complexation of macrocyclic hosts CB[6,7,8] promote the RTP of polymers by blocking aggregation‐caused quenching, and offsetting the losses of aforementioned interaction provided by polymer. Multiple lifetime‐encoding for digit and character encryption are achieved by utilizing the difference of their lifetimes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Metastasis accounts for 90% of cancer death worldwide, and effective therapeutic strategies are lacking. The aim of this work is to identify the key drivers in tumor metastasis and screen therapeutics for treatment of esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC). Gene Ontology analysis of The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) gene expression datasets of ESCC patients with or without lympy metastasis identifies that TGFβ2 is highly enriched in the pathways essential for tumor metastasis and upregulates in the metastatic ESCC tumors. High TGFβ2 expression in ESCC correlates with metastasis and patient survival, and functionally contributes to tumor metastasis via activating extracellular signal‐regulated kinases (ERK) signaling. By screening of a library consisting of 429 bioactive compounds, imperatorin is verified as a novel TGFβ2 inhibitor, with robustly suppressive effect on tumor metastasis in multiple mice models. Mechanistically, direct binding of imperatorin and CREB1 inhibits phosphorylation, nuclear translocation of CREB1, and its interaction with TGFβ2 promoter, represses TGFβ2 expression and fibroblasts‐secreted CCL2, and then inactivates ERK signaling to block cancer invasion and abrogates the paracrine effects of fibroblasts on tumor angiogenesis and metastasis. Overall, the findings suggest the use of TGFβ2 as a diagnostic and prognostic biomarker and therapeutic target in ESCC, and supports the potential of imperatorin as a novel therapeutic strategy for cancer metastasis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Argumentation scaffolding can be used to enhance the formulation of logical arguments as well as the performance of such arguments. This study presents a web-based synchronized scientific argumentation environment integrated with prompt scaffolding to support simulation-based physics learning for elementary school students. To investigate the effects of prompt argumentation scaffolding, two sixth-grade classes totaling fifty-five students worked in small groups to complete a simulation-based physics learning activity regarding the principle of leverage. One class was allocated to an experimental group that received prompt argumentation scaffolding, whereas the other class was assigned to be the control group not receiving prompts. Learning achievements such as science conceptual understanding and scientific explanation skills were examined, and lag sequential analysis (LSA) was used to compare the argumentative behavioral patterns of the two groups. The results showed that the students in the experimental group outperformed those in the control group in terms of their capacity to produce scientific explanations, though no significant difference in their understanding of physical concepts. Furthermore, the LSA results revealed that the experimental group demonstrated more coherent, evidence-based arguments and conscious reasoning, whereas the control group displayed more of a conversational tone and was unstructured in its debates with others. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Vemurafenib is a B-Raf V600E inhibitor that exerts significant inhibitory effects in melanoma but not in colon cancer, and the mechanism of vemurafenib resistance remains unclear. In this study, bioinformatics analysis of gene profiles in cancer cells treated with vemurafenib or its analog revealed that cell cycle progression is significantly affected by vemurafenib. We found that CDK1 is stably activated in the vemurafenib-resistant (VR) colon cancer sublines that we established, indicating that CDK1 activation is responsible for vemurafenib resistance. As the KCTD12-CDK1 interaction is necessary for CDK1 activation, we screened an FDA-approved drug library consisting of 616 compounds and identified that adefovir dipivoxil (AD), a nucleoside analog for treatment of HBV infections, disrupts the CDK1-KCTD12 interaction and induces G2 phase arrest in the cell cycle. Functional assays demonstrated that AD significantly inhibited colon cancer cell proliferation and tumorigenesis both in vitro and in vivo with no observed side effects. Furthermore, AD sensitized vemurafenib-resistant colon cancer cells and tumor xenografts to vemurafenib. This study reveals that CDK1 activation induces vemurafenib resistance and that AD is a promising therapeutic strategy for colon cancer both as a single agent and in combination with vemurafenib. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Failure to eradicate cancer stem cells (CSC) during primary therapy may lead to cancer recurrence. We recently reported that CD133 is a functional biomarker for CSCs in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) but the molecular pathways critical for maintenance of CD133-positive CSCs are largely unknown. Here, we revealed that knockdown of IGF2 or treatment with PI3K/AKT inhibitors markedly inhibited the abilities of CD133-positive ESCC cells to self-renew, resist chemotherapeutic drugs, and form tumors. Further functional analysis identified miR-377 as a downstream regulator of PI3K/AKT signaling, and a mediator of the effects of IGF2 on CD133 expression and CSC properties. We found that the expression levels of IGF2 and CD133 were positively correlated with each other in primary ESCC, and that concurrent elevation of IGF2 and CD133 expression was significantly associated with poor patient survival. Furthermore, in vivo experiments demonstrated that IGF2-neutralizing antibody enhanced the sensitivity of tumor xenografts in nude mice to 5-fluorouracil treatment. This study underpins the importance of the IGF2-PI3K/AKT-miR-377-CD133 signaling axis in the maintenance of cancer stemness and in the development of novel therapeutic strategy for treatment of esophageal cancer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The roundworms of genus Strongylus are the common parasitic nematodes in the large intestine of equine, causing significant economic losses to the livestock industries. In spite of its importance, the genetic data and epidemiology of this parasite are not entirely understood. In the present study, the complete S. equinus mitochondrial (mt) genome was determined. The length of S. equinus mt genome DNA sequence is 14,545 bp, containing 36 genes, of which 12 code for protein, 22 for transfer RNA, and two for ribosomal RNA, but lacks atp 8 gene. All 36 genes are encoded in the same direction which is consistent with all other Chromadorea nematode mtDNAs published to date. Phylogenetic analysis based on concatenated amino acid sequence data of all 12 protein-coding genes showed that there were two large branches in the Strongyloidea nematodes, and S. equinus is genetically closer to S. vulgaris than to Cylicocyclus insignis in Strongylidae. This new mt genome provides a source of genetic markers for the molecular phylogeny and population genetics of equine strongyles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The equine pinworm Oxyuris equi (Nematoda: Oxyuridomorpha) is the most common horse nematode, has a worldwide distribution, and causes major economic losses. In the present study, the complete O. equi mitochondrial (mt) genome was sequenced, and the mt genome structure and organization were compared with those of other closely related pinworm species, Enterobius vermicularis and Wellcomia siamensis . The O. equi mt genome is a 13,641-bp circular DNA molecule that encodes 36 genes (12 protein-coding genes, 22 tRNAs, and two rRNAs) and one non-coding region, which is slightly shorter than that of E. vermicularis and W. siamensis . The O. equi mt gene arrangement was consistent with that of GA13-type E. vermicularis but it differs from GA12-type W. siamensis . Phylogenetic analyses using concatenated amino acid sequences of the 12 protein-coding genes with three different computational algorithms (maximum parsimony, maximum likelihood, and Bayesian inference) revealed that there were two distinct clades in Chromadorea nematodes that reflected infraorder. Spiruromorpha formed one clade, whereas Rhabditomorpha, Ascaridomorpha, and Oxyuridomorpha formed another clade. O. equi , E. vermicularis , and W. siamensis represent distinct but closely related species, which indicated that Oxyuridomorpha is paraphyletic. Sequencing the O. equi mt genome provides novel genetic markers for studying the molecular epidemiology and population genetics of pinworms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chemoprophylaxis and chemosensitization are promising strategies to combat human cancers. Natural antioxidant agents show great promise in cancer therapy, and the use of edible mushrooms against cancer is receiving more interest globally. In this study, the radical scavenging activities including diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl, superoxide anion radical, hydroxyl radical, and hydrogen peroxide were compared among hot water extracts from 3 edible mushrooms, among whichPleurotus pulmonarius(Pp) possessed the highest antioxidant potential. Oral administration of Pp 2 wk in advance could markedly inhibit the incidence and size of tumor (Huh7 liver cancer cells) with an inhibition rate of 93.1% in nude mice. No obvious side effect was observed in the Pp-treated mice as indicated by their body weight and histological analysis of major organs. The cancer prevention by Pp treatment might be explained by the inhibition of cancer cell proliferation indicated by reduction of ki-67 staining and the inactivation of phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K)/AKT signaling pathway in the Pp-treated mice. Furthermore, a significant synergistic effect was observed when the mice were treated with a combination of low dose of cisplatin and Pp. Taken together, these results suggest the potential application of Pp as an adjuvant in the chemotherapy of liver cancer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Plasma spray coating properties frequently depend -to a great extent- on the spray parameters. However, it is difficult to analyze and obtain a comprehensive model of the entire plasma spray process due to the complex chemical and thermodynamic reactions that take place during the process. In this study, Ni60CuMo coatings were prepared on ZL109 substrates. A Back Propagation (BP) Neural Network model in the artificial neural network was used to predict the change in bonding strength, microhardness, and porosity of the coatings under different spraying distances, spraying powers, and powder feeding rates. The results show that the R -value of the trained network training is 0.8828. Comparison of experimental and predicted results reveals that both show similar trends, which verifies that the BP model can effectively predict the properties of Ni-based coatings. • Ni-based coatings were prepared on the surface of aluminum alloy by plasma spraying. • The microstructure and mechanical properties of the coatings were improved after spraying. • The BP model of artificial neural network was used to optimize the spraying parameters. • The parameter combination for preparing the optimal coating was obtained. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Type III IFNs (IFN-λs) constitute a new subfamily with antiviral activities by signaling through a unique receptor complex composed of IFN-λs receptor 1 (IFNλR1) and interleukin-10 receptor 2 (IL10R2). As tree shrews (Tupaia belangeri) have shown susceptiblility to several human viruses, they are a potentially important model for analyzing viral infection. However, little is known about their IFN-λs system. We used the tree shrew genome to retrieve IFN-λs and their receptor contig sequences by BLASTN and BLASTZ algorithms, and GenScan was used to scan transcripts from the putative contig sequences. RT-PCR and bioinformatic methods were then used to clone and characterize the IFN-λs system. Due to its highest identity with human IFN-λ3, we opted to define one intact IFN-λ gene, tsIFN-λ3, as well as its two receptor subunits, tsIFNλR1 and tsIL10R2. Additionally, our results showed that tsIFN-λ3 contained many features conserved in IFN-λ3 genes from other mammals, including conserved signal peptide cleavage and glycosylation sites, and several residues responsible for binding to the type III IFNR. We also found six transcript variants in the receptors: three in tsIFNλR1, wherein different extracellular regions exist in three transmembrane proteins, resulting in different affinities with IFN-λs; and three more variants in tsIL10R2, encoding one transmembrane and two soluble proteins. Based on tissue distribution in the liver, heart, brain, lung, intestine, kidney, spleen, and stomach, we found that IFN-λs receptor complex was expressed in a variety of organs although the expression level differed markedly between them. As the first study to find transcript variants in IL-10R2, our study offers novel insights that may have important implications for the role of IFN-λs in tree shrews’ susceptibility with a variety of human viruses, bolstering the arguments for using tree shrews as an animal model in the study of human viral infections. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Microglial cells were activated in resiniferatoxin (RTX)-induced neuralgia. • Bone mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) alleviated RTX-induced mechanical allodynia. • PKCδ-CaMKIIɑ-p38/MAPK-p-P65 pathway activation leads to RTX-induced neuropathic pain. • An abnormal increase in mushroom dendritic spines leads to RTX-induced neuralgia. • Early BMSC transplantation can reverse hyperalgesia and modulate pain sensitization. Treatment of neuropathic pain (NP) resulting from nerve injury is one of the most complicated and challenging in modern practice. Pharmacological treatments for NP are not fully effectively and novel approaches are requisite. Recently, transplantation of bone mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) has represented a promising approach for pain relief and neural repair, but how it produces beneficial effects on resiniferatoxin (RTX) induced nerve injury is still unclear. Here, we identified the BMSCs' analgesic effects and their potential mechanisms of microglial cells activation on RTX induced neuralgia. Immunostaining, biochemical studies demonstrated that microglia rather than astrocyte cells activation involved in RTX induced mechanical hyperalgesia, whereas the GFP-labeled BMSCs alleviated this mechanical hyperalgesia. Moreover, pain-related TRPA1, PKCδ, CaMKIIɑ (Calcium/calmodulin dependent protein kinase II), P38/MAPK (mitogen-activated protein kinase), p-P65 activation and expression in the spinal cord were significantly inhibited after BMSC administration. In addition, BMSCs treated RTX mice displayed a lower density of mushroom dendritic spines. Our research suggested that activation of PKCδ-CaMKIIɑ-P38/MAPK-p-P65 pathway and mushroom dendritic spines abnormal increase in the spinal cord is the main mechanism of RTX induced neuropathic pain, and transplant of BMSCs to the damaged nerve may offer promising approach for neuropathic pain. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Here, we describe a mild, catalyst-free and operationally-simple strategy for the direct fluoroalkylation of olefins driven by the photochemical activity of an electron donor−acceptor (EDA) complex between DMA and fluoroalkyl iodides. The significant advantages of this photochemical transformation are high efficiency, excellent functional group tolerance, and synthetic simplicity, thus providing a facile route for further application in pharmaceuticals and life sciences. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Failure to eradicate cancer stem cells (CSC) during primary therapy may lead to cancer recurrence. We recently reported that CD133 is a functional biomarker for CSCs in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) but the molecular pathways critical for maintenance of CD133-positive CSCs are largely unknown. Here, we revealed that knockdown of IGF2 or treatment with PI3K/AKT inhibitors markedly inhibited the abilities of CD133-positive ESCC cells to self-renew, resist chemotherapeutic drugs, and form tumors. Further functional analysis identified miR-377 as a downstream regulator of PI3K/AKT signaling, and a mediator of the effects of IGF2 on CD133 expression and CSC properties. We found that the expression levels of IGF2 and CD133 were positively correlated with each other in primary ESCC, and that concurrent elevation of IGF2 and CD133 expression was significantly associated with poor patient survival. Furthermore, in vivo experiments demonstrated that IGF2-neutralizing antibody enhanced the sensitivity of tumor xenografts in nude mice to 5-fluorouracil treatment. This study underpins the importance of the IGF2-PI3K/AKT-miR-377-CD133 signaling axis in the maintenance of cancer stemness and in the development of novel therapeutic strategy for treatment of esophageal cancer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Herein, two kinds of amorphous solid‐state supramolecular systems with purely organic room temperature phosphorescence (RTP) from calix[3]phenothiazine (C[3]Pz) activated by 1,2‐/1,3‐dicyanobenzene (1,2‐/1,3‐DCB) are reported. Different from macrocycle‐confined guest phosphorescence emission, RTP of these two amorphous solid‐state supramolecular systems is entirely from the 1,2‐/1,3‐DCB rivets C[3]Pz cavity to form dense supramolecular complex through CH...π interactions, leading to two different phosphorescence emissions at 566/524 nm under 430 nm excitation, respectively. Although C[3]Pz shows a regular arrangement in the crystal, the vibration dissipation of the benzene ring results in C[3]Pz emitting only fluorescence at 508 nm at room temperature. 1,2‐DCB and 1,3‐DCB can act as molecular rivets to fix the C[3]Pz to inhibit molecular vibration so as to reduce nonradiative relaxation, which enables C[3]Pz to achieve effective RTP emission with 20.8–36.8% quantum yields. This kind of guest‐activated host RTP, which is fairly rare in supramolecular systems, is successfully used for color QR codes and information encryption. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tanshinone IIA (TSIIA) is a major component of Salvia miltiorrhiza, a Chinese herb that exhibits a therapeutic effect on polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). The present study replicated PCOS via the neonatal treatment of estradiol in mice. Estrous cycles, body and ovarian weight, serum levels of testosterone and estradiol were determined. Histological examination of ovaries was performed. The mRNA and protein levels of aromatase luteinizing hormone receptor and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSHR) in ovaries and granule cells were assayed by reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction and western blotting, respectively. TSIIA was revealed to reverse all disorders induced by estradiol treatment, including prolonged estrous cycles, increased body and ovarian weight, increased atretic cyst-like follicles and decreased corpus luteum, large antral follicles and preovulatory follicles. These improvements in PCOS as a result of TSIIA treatment are likely due to the revised testosterone/estradiol balance, as TSIIA reversed the decrease in aromatase mRNA, the enzyme that converts androgen to estrogen. As the expression of aromatase is regulated by the FSH pathway, TSIIA-mediated elevation in FSHR expression may lead to the upregulation of aromatase. Therefore, TSIIA revises the balance of androgen and estrogen by rescuing the reduced expression of FSHR and aromatase, thus attenuating murine PCOS. The current study aimed to further the application of natural drugs in the treatment of PCOS to confront the side effects of hormone drugs and expand the use of TSIIA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Possessing dual-targeted agents toward the lysosome and cancer cells, a ternary supramolecular assembly was constructed by a morpholine-modified permethyl β-cyclodextrin, sulfonated porphyrin, and folic acid-modified chitosan via multivalent interactions. As compared with free porphyrin, the obtained ternary supramolecular assembly showed promoted photodynamic effect and achieved dual-targeted precise imaging in cancer cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to improve the flame-retardant properties of laminated bamboo lumber (LBL) using phosphorus-nitrogen-boron flame retardants (FRs). The combination of a 7:3 ratio of monoammonium phosphate (MAP) and boric acid/borax compounds (SBX), and 74.32 kg/m3 of FRs (10.3% weight gain), exhibited enhanced fireproofing performance for LBL materials. A commercial flame retardant (guanylurea phosphate) (GUP) was systematically studied as a comparison. A cone calorimeter and a thermal analyzer were used to characterize the combustion behavior and thermal stability, respectively. The flame retardants morphology in bamboo cell cavities was investigated using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and an energy dispersive X-ray analysis (EDXA). The results showed that at a heat flux of 50 kW/m2, the heat release rate and the total heat release of LBL samples treated with MAP-SBX flame retardants decreased more considerably than that of the untreated samples. The use of MAP-SBX not only promoted carbonization of LBL greatly but also indicated a good performance of smoke and combustion suppression as well as for the GUP. Flame retardants were confirmed to penetrate into the cell cavities of the bamboo using SEM and EDXA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A multicolor room temperature phosphorescence (RTP) supramolecular photo‐switch encryption film is constructed by the coassembly of coumarin‐24‐crown‐8 (C24C8), diarylethene dicationic alkylammonium derivative (1), rhodamine B (RhB) and poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA). Benefiting from the tightly binding of C24C8 and secondary alkylammonium ion, 1 formed noncovalent bridged bis(coumarin‐24‐crown‐8), which displayed photo‐switchable RTP with green afterglow (more than 5 s) after coassembly with PVA. Especially doping with RhB gave a photo‐switchable highly efficient phosphorescence‐harvesting system with multicolor through triplet‐to‐singlet Förster‐resonance energy transfer (TS‐FRET). The energy transfer efficiency and antenna effect of C24C8+RhB@PVA film reached 88.3% and 62.6 when the donor/acceptor ratio is 50:1, respectively. Therefore, diarylethene noncovalent bridged bis(coumarin‐24‐crown‐8) supramolecular assembly not only displays a multicolor photoluminescence‐switch, but also presents a phosphorescent photo‐switch with afterglow, which provides a simple and feasible way to construct smart RTP materials through host‐guest strategy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the most common malignant tumors in the world, with high prevalence and low 5‐year survival. Most of the CRC patients show excessive activation of the Wnt/β‐catenin pathway which is a vital target for CRC treatment. Based on multiple CRC cell lines with different nuclear expression of β‐catenin, NU2058 is identified from a small molecule library consisting of 280 bioactive compounds and found to selectively inhibit the proliferation of CRC cells with nuclear β‐catenin activation in vitro and in vivo. The translational significance of NU2058 alone or in combination with chemotherapeutic drugs oxaliplatin and irinotecan (SN38) in CRC is demonstrated in orthotopic tumor model and patient‐derived xenograft models. By integrating limited proteolysis‐small molecule mapping (LiP‐SMap) and mass spectrometry (MS), Ran‐binding protein 3 (RanBP3) is identified as the direct target of NU2058. The results show that RanBP3 is a tumor suppressor in CRC and is associated with patient survival. Mechanistically, NU2058 increases the interaction of RanBP3 and β‐catenin to promote nuclear export of β‐catenin, which further inhibits transcription of c‐Myc and cyclin D1 to induce cell senescence. Collectively, NU2058 may serve as a promising therapeutic agent for CRC patients with selective disruption of pathologic Wnt/β‐catenin signaling. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Phosphorescent materials constructed by macrocyclic host confined guest has become a research hotspot in bioimaging. Herein, a highly efficient phosphorescent light‐harvesting supramolecular switch constructed by cucurbit[8]uril (CB[8]) encapsulated dicationic 6‐bromoisoquinoline derivative (G), sulfonatocalix[4]arene (SC4AD), near‐infrared (NIR) fluorescence dyes, and diarylethene molecular switch (1) is reported. First, the resulting supramolecular foldamer formed by G and CB[8] works as a phosphorescent donor with phosphorescence at 605 nm. When secondary assembling with SC4AD, the phosphorescent emission peak of G⊂CB[8] generates a hypsochromic shift to 583 nm with a 6.4‐fold enhancement of intensity. Further, NIR fluorescence dyes Nile Blue (NiB) and Sulfo‐Cyanine 5 (cy5) are introduced to the assembly as acceptors to construct phosphorescent light‐harvesting systems. As expected, light‐harvesting systems with energy transfer efficiency of 57.5%/75.7% and a high antenna effect of 359.7/247.7 are constructed at an efficient donor/acceptor ratio of 100:1/15:2 for NiB and cy5, respectively. After co‐assembly with diarylethene derivative (1), the phosphorescence transferred from G⊂CB[8]@SC4AD/NiB (or cy5) to 1 and caused the photoluminescence quenching after irradiation by 365 nm light. And the photoluminescence of the light‐harvesting system was restored with the irradiation by >450 nm light. The highly efficient phosphorescent light‐harvesting system is applied to lysosome targeted imaging in HeLa cells and information encryption. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Induction of Rab5-S34N (inactive form),8 but not wild-type (WT) Rab5 or Rab5-Q79L (active form), abrogated the C20orf24-induced p-MEK and p-ERK expression (Figure 3E and S4C). Interestingly, higher ability in cell proliferation was only observed in C20orf24-overexpressing HCT116 cells (Figure S1F-H), suggesting that C20orf24, but not TGIF2 or TGIF2-C20orf24, may be a novel regulator for tumorigenesis. C20orf24 promotes colorectal cancer progression by recruiting Rin1 to activate Rab5-mediated mitogen-activated protein kinase/extracellular signal-regulated kinase signalling Dear Editor, Epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR)-mediated mitogen-activated protein kinase/extracellular signal-regulated kinase (MAPK/ERK) signalling is highly activated in colorectal cancer (CRC).1,2 Small GTPase Ras-related protein Rab-5A (Rab5) is a critical player in transducing this oncogenic signal.3,4 Rab5 activation has been known to be enhanced by relevant guanine exchange factors (GEFs)5; however, the mechanism by which GEF activates Rab5 is poorly understood. [Extracted from the article]

Soil viruses, which are abundant and pivotal in soil ecology, remain understudied regarding composition, alpha diversity, and their association with cyanobacteria across different biocrust successional stages. We collected cyanobacteria crust, lichen crust, moss crust, and mixed crust in the Tengger Desert and evaluated virus and cyanobacteria composition through metagenomics. Phormidium phage MIS-PhV1A , Anabaena phage A-4L , and Shewanella SPP. dominated in all biocrusts. A 75 % positive correlation in the virus-cyanobacteria co-occurrence network was observed. Higher virus richness, abundance, and alpha diversity occurred in later successional stages of biocrust and were highly correlated with cyanobacteria diversity. Our results demonstrate that biocrust succession significantly influences soil virus composition and alpha diversity in a sandy desert. • Variability in soil virus composition and alpha diversity across biocrust succession. • Influence of cyanobacteria on viral community composition in biocrusts. • Positive trends were observed in virus alpha diversity during the forward biocrusts succession. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In recent years, tissue engineering has emerged as a promising approach to address limitations of organ transplantation. The ultimate goal of tissue engineering is to provide scaffolds that closely mimic the physicochemical and biological cues of native tissues' extracellular matrix. In this endeavor, new generation of scaffolds have been designed that utilize the incorporation of signaling molecules in order to improve cell recruitment, enhance angiogenesis, exert healing activities, and increase the engraftment of the scaffolds. Among different signaling molecules, the role of erythropoietin (EPO) in regenerative medicine is increasingly being appreciated. It is a biological macromolecule which can prevent programed cell death, modulate inflammation, induce cell proliferation, and provide tissue protection in different disease models. In this review, we have outlined and critically analyzed different techniques of scaffolds' modification with EPO or EPO-loaded nanoparticles. We have also explored different strategies for the incorporation of EPO into scaffolds. Non-hematopoietic functions of EPO have also been discussed. Finalizing with detailed discussion surrounding the applications, challenges, and future perspectives of EPO-modified scaffolds in regenerative medicine. [Display omitted] • Possible scaffold modification techniques with erythropoietin are highlighted. • Biological functions of erythropoietin are discussed. • Applications of erythropoietin-modified scaffolds in tissue repair are outlined. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the most common malignancies worldwide, and effective therapy remains a challenge. In this study, we take advantage of a drug repurposing strategy to screen small molecules with novel anticancer activities in a small-molecule library consisting of 1056 FDA-approved drugs. We show, for the first time, that lomitapide, a lipid-lowering agent, exhibits antitumor properties in vitro and in vivo. Activated autophagy is characterized as a key biological process in lomitapide-induced CRC repression. Mechanistically, lomitapide stimulated mitochondrial dysfunction-mediated AMPK activation, resulting in increased AMPK phosphorylation and enhanced Beclin1/Atg14/Vps34 interactions, provoking autophagy induction. Autophagy inhibition or AMPK silencing significantly abrogated lomitapide-induced cell death, indicating the significance of AMPK-regulated autophagy in the antitumor activities of lomitapide. More importantly, PP2A was identified as a direct target of lomitapide by limited proteolysis-mass spectrometry (LiP-SMap), and the bioactivity of lomitapide was attenuated in PP2A-deficient cells, suggesting that the anticancer effect of lomitapide occurs in a PP2A-dependent manner. Taken together, the results of the study reveal that lomitapide can be repositioned as a potential therapeutic drug for CRC treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Cell invasion is a hallmark of metastatic cancer, leading to unfavorable clinical outcomes. In this study, we established two highly invasive lung cancer cell models (A549-i8 and H1299-i8) and identified mesoderm-specific transcript (MEST) as a novel invasive regulator of lung cancer. We aim to characterize its biological function and clinical significance in lung cancer metastasis. Methods: Transwell invasion assay was performed to establish high-invasive lung cancer cell model. Immunohistochemistry (IHC) was used to detect MEST expression in tumor tissues. Mass spectrometry and bioinformatic analyses were used to identify MEST-regulated proteins and binding partners. Co-immunoprecipitation assay was performed to detect the interaction of MEST and VCP. The biological functions of MEST were investigated in vitro and in vivo. Immunofluorescence staining was conducted to explore the colocalization of MEST and VCP. Results: MEST overexpression promoted metastasis of lung cancer cells in vivo and in vitro by activating NF-κB signaling. MEST increased the interaction between VCP and IκBα, which accelerated IκBα degradation and NF-κB activation. Such acceleration was abrogated by VCP silencing, indicating that MEST is an upstream activator of the VCP/IκBα/NF-κB signaling pathway. Furthermore, high expressions of MEST and VCP were associated with poor survival of lung cancer patients. Conclusion: Collectively, these results demonstrate that MEST plays an important role in driving invasion and metastasis of lung cancer by interacting with VCP to coordinate the IκBα/NF-κB pathway. Targeting the MEST/VCP/IκBα/NF-κB signaling pathway may be a promising strategy to treat lung cancer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Esophageal cancer is a leading cause of cancer‐related deaths worldwide. In the past few years, the roles of epigenetics in cancer have been fully accepted. Recently, there has been an increased focus on epigenetic alterations underlying esophageal cancer carcinogenesis, with several epigenetic drug and RNA interference therapies being tested. However, the conclusion that epigenetic alterations are linked directly to an increased or decreased risk of esophageal cancer is less certain. Therefore, there is an urgent need to test novel epigenetic biomarkers for diagnostic and prognostic significance and to explore their potential as therapeutic targets. In this review, the discussion is concentrated on epigenetic alterations involving super‐enhancers, DNA methylation, histone modifications, and multiple noncoding RNAs (ncRNAs), including microRNAs (miRNAs), long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs), and circular RNAs (circRNAs), and their impact on tumor growth, invasion, metastasis, and drug resistance. Then specific instances of using epigenetic drugs, such as DNA methyltransferase and histone deacetylase inhibitors, to treat esophageal cancer are described. Recent developments in miRNA‐based therapeutic strategies, including antagomirs, lock nucleic acids, miRNA sponges, and microRNA replacement therapies, against esophageal cancer are also highlighted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lung cancer is the most frequent cancer worldwide with a poor prognosis. Identification of novel cancer targets and useful therapeutic strategies without toxicity are urgently needed. In this study, we screened natural products for anticancer bioactivity in a library consisting of 429 small molecules. We demonstrated for the first time that daurisoline, a constituent of Rhizoma Menispermi, repressed lung cancer cell proliferation by inducing cell cycle arrest at the G1 phase. Furthermore, daurisoline was found not only to suppress the growth of lung tumor xenografts in animals without obvious side effects, but also to inhibit cell migration and invasion. Mechanistically, quantitative proteomics and bioinformatics analyses, Western blotting and qRT-PCR confirmed that daurisoline exerted its anticancer effects by inhibiting the expression levels of β-catenin and its downstream targets c-myc and cyclin D1. Furthermore, our data from Drug Affinity Responsive Target Stability (DARTS), isothermal titration calorimetry (ITC) and a series of functional assays demonstrated that daurisoline could target HSP90 directly and disrupt its interaction with β-catenin, therefore increasing the ubiquitin-mediated proteasomal degradation of β-catenin. This study reveals that daurisoline could be a promising therapeutic strategy for the treatment of lung cancer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, we aim to compare and analyze the biomechanical repair and clinical efficacy of osteonecrosis of the femoral head (ONFH) with the use of metal trabecular bone reconstruction system and free vascularized fibular graft. The study enrolled 66 adult patients from medical records of nontraumatic ARCO 2A–3B stage ONFH. A simple ONFH model without surgical treatment was established in 13 cases, 29 cases were treated with metal trabecular bone reconstruction system, and 24 cases were treated with free vascularized fibular graft. Computer‐recognized and extracted femur outlines were imported, and three‐dimensional reconstructions were performed. The stress concentration and stress peak value were analyzed, and the Harris score, visual analog scale pain score, and operation status of the above patients were compared. Finally, quality of life assessment was performed using SF‐36 scale. Metal trabecular bone reconstruction system provided less operation time, blood loss, and the total length of postoperative hospital stay than free vascularized fibular graft. Metal trabecular bone reconstruction system promoted bone reconstruction, increased bone mineral density and Harris score. The total clinical effective rate of young patients (20–40 years) was higher than that of older patients (41–60 years). Metal trabecular bone reconstruction system provided higher physical component summary, mental component summary, and role/social component summary than free vascularized fibular graft. This study demonstrates that both metal trabecular bone reconstruction system and free vascularized fibular graft can prevent or delay the progression of ONFH, while metal trabecular bone reconstruction system is a better choice because of better short‐term clinical efficacy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Low treatment efficacy and resistance to chemoradiotherapy limits the treatment outcomes in cancer patients. The microbiota can interact with cancer treatments in a two-way way; on the one hand, anticancer treatments can destroy the microbial composition in intestine and cause malnutrition in patients, then microbiota affects the effectiveness of cancer treatment on the other hand.1 GLO:F2H7/01jan21:ctm2250-fig-0001.jpg PHOTO (COLOR): 1 Microbiota in various tissues gl Radiotherapy could break both single-strand and double-strand of DNA through radiation that penetrates tumor tissues directly and reduces tumor genotoxicity. Based on the past research, the gut microbiota probably causes a pharmacotherapeutics dilemma in the cancer therapy (Table S1). [Extracted from the article]

Currently, air pollution from vessel exhaust emission is increasingly prominent. In particular, Jiangsu province, as a large inland waterway transportation province, has a large amount of ship emissions; however, the amount of such emissions remains unidentified. Considering the importance of the Beijing-Hangzhou Grand Canal for Jiangsu province and for the country, the inland vessel emission inventory of the Beijing-Hangzhou Grand Canal in Jiangsu province in 2014 was established using activity-based approach, the total annual emissions of particulate and gaseous pollutants were quantified, and the emission characteristics of vessels were also discussed. Dry cargo ships are the largest source of air pollutants, with ships whose gross tonnage is between 200 and 600 tons having the greatest contribution to exhaust emission. The order of the emission contribution for each vessel operation condition was as follows: normal navigation > passing through the shippinglockage > berthing > mooring. Vessels running on the fairway made the greatest contribution in the aspect of the spatial distribution. Except in February, the monthly emissions not from ships presented a relatively steady trend. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Currently, air pollution from vessel exhaust emission is increasingly prominent. In particular Jiangsu province, as a large inland waterway transportation province, has a large amount of ship emissions; however, the amount of such emissions remains unidentified. Considering the importance of the Beijing-Hangzhou Grand Canal for Jiangsu province and for the country, the inland vessel emission inventory of the Beijing-Hangzhou Grand Canal in Jiangsu province in 2014 was established using activity-based approach, the total annual emissions of particulate and gaseous pollutants were quantified and the emission characteristics of vessels were also discussed. Dry cargo ships are the largest source of air pollutants, with ships whose gross tonnage is between 200 and 600 tons having the greatest contribution to exhaust emission. The order of the emission contribution for each vessel operation condition was as follows: normal navigation > passing through the shippinglockage > berthing > mooring. Vessels running on the fairway made the greatest contribution in the aspect of the spatial distribution. Except in February, the monthly emissions not from ships presented a relatively steady trend. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The influence of transmission medium on the focusing performance of gradient-index (GRIN) fiber probe is analyzed for the development and performance evaluation of the ultra-small probe. ABCD matrix transformation is employed to derive the functional relationship between the focusing performance of GRIN fiber probe and the refractive index of transmission medium and present the curve graphs of working distance, spot size and depth of field on refractive index of transmission medium. Under the same parameters, the working distance and the depth of field of GRIN fiber probe increase with the increase of refractive index of transmission medium, but the spot size remains the same. The result shows that transmission medium has a certain influence on the working distance and the depth of field of GRIN fiber probe but has nothing to do with spot size. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To increase efficiency of water and nitrogen (N) fertilizer use, this study was conducted with a split-root pot experiment to investigate the effects of different forms of N fertilizer on root growth, photosynthesis, instantaneous water use efficiency (IWUE), and yield of tomato ( Lycopersicon esculentum L.) under alternate partial root-zone irrigation (APRI). Three irrigation modes comprised conventional irrigation (CI) and two kinds of APRI, i.e., APRI with water content in the drying soil compartment controlled at ≥ 60% or 40% of the water-holding capacity (APRI-60, APRI-40). Two N forms included ammonium-N and nitrate-N supplied as calcium nitrate or ammonium sulfate, respectively. The results show that APRI-60 enhanced root growth and increased leaf IWUE with a slight yield reduction compared with CI regardless of the N form supplied. In contrast, APRI-40 significantly decreased root growth and inhibited photosynthesis, thereby resulting in a significant yield loss. In addition, at the flowering stage tomato plants grew better with ammonium-N than nitrate-N supply; however, at the fruit expansion stage and maturity stage, the tomato plants had a higher biomass accumulation and yield with nitrate-N than ammonium-N supply. Therefore, the application of APRI should consider the soil water condition coupled with an appropriate N form. In the present study, APRI controlled at ≥ 60% of the water-holding capacity (WHC) for the drying soil side with nitrate-N supply was the best water-fertilizer supply for tomato cultivation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To assess the accuracy of the Plusoptix A09 photoscreener in detecting amblyopia risk factors in children and determine referral criteria when using Plusoptix A09 for a large-scale vision screening. Methods: Pediatric patients attending our eye clinic underwent a comprehensive ophthalmic examination that included photorefraction, orthoptic examination, anterior segment assessment, fundus examination and cycloplegic retinoscopy. The measurements were collected for statistical analyses. Results: One hundred and seventy-eight children (mean age ± SD: 6.2±2.4 years, range: 2.2 to 14.1 years) were included in the study. The mean spherical equivalent (SE) obtained using Plusoptix A09 (PSE) was 0.57 D lower than that obtained from cycloplegic retinoscopy (CRSE) (P = 0.00). However, there was no statistically significant difference of Jackson cross cylinder J0 and J45 between Plusoptix A09 (PJ) and cycloplegic retinoscopy (CRJ) (P = 0.14, P = 0.26). The relationship of SE obtained from Plusoptix A09 and SE obtained from cycloplegic retinoscopy was presented as the equation: CRSE = 0.358 + 0.776 PSE + 0.064 PSE2 + 0.011 PSE3. Based on the Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC) curve, the Plusoptix A09 had an overall sensitivity of 94.9% and specificity of 67.5% for detecting refractive amblyopia risk factors. The sensitivity and specificity of the Plusoptix A09 for detection of strabismus were 40.7% and 98.3%, respectively; detection of amblyopia and/or strabismus was 84.7% and 63.2%, respectively. Conclusions: The Plusoptix A09 photoscreener underestimated hyperopia and overestimated myopia according to SE when compared with cycloplegic retinoscopy. The accuracy of the Plusoptix A09 in detecting amblyopia risk factors in children could be improved by the regression equation and optimized criteria for refractive amblyopia risk factors developed in the present study. Moreover, the Plusoptix A09 photoscreener is not suitable for a large-scale strabismus screening when it is applied solely. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Syphacia obvelata is a rodent nematode with high prevalence in laboratory mice. In the present study, we examined the genetic variability of S. obvelata from naturally infected laboratory mice in four different provinces, China. Five mitochondrial (mt) DNA regions, namely cytochrome c oxidase subunit 1 (p cox1), cytochrome b (p cytb), large subunit ribosomal RNA (p rrnL) and NADH dehydrogenase subunits 1 and 5 (p nad1 and p nad5), were amplified separately from individual nematodes by PCR, and then sequenced directly. The size of the sequences of p cox1, p cytb, p rrnL, p nad1 and p nad5 was 628 bp, 555 bp, 548 bp, 548 bp and 561 bp, respectively. While the intra-specific sequence variations within S. obvelata were 0-1.0% for p cox1, 0-1.6% for p cytb, 0-2.8% for p rrnL, 0-2.0% for p nad1 and 0-1.8% for p nad5, the inter-specific sequence differences among members of the Oxyuridae were significantly higher, being 14.0-17.5% for p cox1, 27.5-32.9% for p cytb, 35.8-37.2% for p rrnL, 22.2-26.8% for p nad1 and 22.3-25.2% for p nad5, respectively. Phylogenetic analyses based on combined sequences of four mt protein-coding genes, using Bayesian inference (BI), maximum likelihood (ML) and maximum parsimony (MP) methods, indicated that all of the S. obvelata samples grouped together with high statistical support, but samples from the same geographical origin did not always cluster together. These findings demonstrated the existence of low-level intra-specific variation in five mtDNA sequences among S. obvelata isolates from laboratory mice, but no obvious geographical distinction among S. obvelata isolates from laboratory mice in different geographic regions in China. These results provide basic information for further studies of systematics and population genetics of S. obvelata. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Electrochromic devices are emerging as a futuristic technology for flexible electronics with the practical application values in energy-saving, displaying and military camouflage, however, the limitations in the optical, electrical and mechanical properties of the existing transparent conducting electrodes (TCEs) appear as a major obstacle for realizing high performance flexible electrochromic devices. In this work, we have proposed and demonstrated a fast-response and bendable polymer poly (3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene):poly (styrenesulfonate) (PEDOT: PSS) electrochromic device based on the embedded nickel (Ni) grid electrode. The Ni grid electrode, fabricated though patterned electroplating, has low sheet resistance (~1.3 Ω/sq), high transparency (~80%), excellent mechanical reliability and long-term chemical stability, exhibiting a figure of merit of 1250, surpassing the most existing TCEs. In addition, we have proposed a compact electrochromic architecture with the electrochromic PEDOT: PSS layer and solid polymer electrolyte being sandwiched between two embedded Ni grid electrodes. The device shows a short coloration and bleaching time (~1 s for 90% optical contrast), a high coloration efficiency (325 cm2/C) and excellent mechanical reliability (optical contrast retention ~80% after 1000 bending circles), paving a way for high performance flexible electronics. Image 1 • Metal grid electrode with excellent mechanical properties was obtained by electroplating. • The chemically stable Ni grid electrode was utilized to construct the polymer ECD. • The PEDOT: PSS ECD shows a fast response time around 1s. • The ECD shows an optical retention of 80% after 1000 bending circles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An understanding of the interaction between the antibody and its targeted antigen and knowing of the epitopes are critical for the development of monoclonal antibody drugs. Complement factor H (CFH) is implied to play a role in tumor growth and metastasis. An autoantibody to CHF is associated with anti-tumor cell activity. The interaction of a human monoclonal antibody Ab42 that was isolated from a cancer patient with CFH polypeptide (pCFH) antigen was analyzed by molecular docking, molecular dynamics (MD) simulation, free energy calculation, and computational alanine scanning (CAS). Experimental alanine scanning (EAS) was then carried out to verify the results of the theoretical calculation. Our results demonstrated that the Ab42 antibody interacts with pCFH by hydrogen bonds through the Tyr315, Ser100, Gly33, and Tyr53 residues on the complementarity-determining regions (CDRs), respectively, with the amino acid residues of Pro441, Ile442, Asp443, Asn444, Ile447, and Thr448 on the pCFH antigen. In conclusion, this study has explored the mechanism of interaction between Ab42 antibody and its targeted antigen by both theoretical and experimental analysis. Our results have important theoretical significance for the design and development of relevant antibody drugs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]