Trapping Lithium Selenides with Evolving Heterogeneous Interfaces for High-Power Lithium-Ion Capacitors.

Transition metal selenides anodes with fast reaction kinetics and high theoretical specific capacity are expected to solve mismatched kinetics between cathode and anode in Li-ion capacitors. However, transition metal selenides face great challenges in the dissolution and shuttle problem of lithium selenides, which is the same as Li-Se batteries. Herein, inspired by the density functional theory calculations, heterogeneous can enhance the adsorption of Li2 Se relative to single component selenide electrodes, thus inhibiting the dissolution and shuttle effect of Li2 Se. A heterostructure material (denoted as CoSe2 /SnSe) with the ability to evolve continuously (CoSe2 /SnSe→Co/Sn→Co/Li13 Sn5 ) is successfully designed by employing CoSnO3 -MOF as a precursor. Impressively, CoSe2 /SnSe heterostructure material delivers the ultrahigh reversible specific capacity of 510 mAh g-1 after 1000 cycles at the high current density of 4 A g-1 . In situ XRD reveals the continuous evolution of the interface based on the transformation and alloying reactions during the charging and discharging process. Visualizations of in situ disassembly experiments demonstrate that the continuously evolving interface inhibits the shuttle of Li2 Se. This research proposes an innovative approach to inhibit the dissolution and shuttling of discharge intermediates (Li2 Se) of metal selenides, which is expected to be applied to metal sulfides or Li-Se and Li-S energy storage systems.

Design, Synthesis, and Antiproliferative Activity of Selective Histone Deacetylases 6 Inhibitors Containing a Tetrahydropyridopyrimidine Scaffold.

The development of selective histone deacetylase 6 inhibitors (sHDAC6is) is being recognized as a therapeutic approach for cancers. In this paper, we designed a series of novel tetrahydropyridopyrimidine derivatives as sHDAC6 inhibitors. The most potent compound, 8-(2, 4-bis(3-methoxyphenyl)-5, 8-dihydropyrido [3, 4-d]pyrimidin-7(6H)-yl)-N-hydroxy-8-oxooctanamide (8f), inhibited HDAC6 with IC50 of 6.4 nM, and showed > 48-fold selectivity over other subtypes. In Western blot assay, 8f elevated the levels of acetylated α-tubulin in a dose-dependent manner. In vitro, 8f inhibited RPMI-8226, HL60, and HCT116 tumor cells with IC50 of 2.8, 3.20, and 3.25 µM, respectively. Moreover, 8f showed good antiproliferative activity against a panel of tumor cells.

Construction of methylation-associated nomogram for predicting the recurrence-free survival risk of stage I-III lung adenocarcinoma.

Aim: The aim of our study was to investigate a methylation-associated predictor for prognosis in patients with stage I-III lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD). Methods: A DNA methylation-based signature was developed via univariate, least absolute shrinkage and selection operator and multivariate Cox regression models. Results: We identified a 14-site methylation signature that was correlated with recurrence-free survival of stage I-III lung adenocarcinoma patients. By receiver operating characteristic analysis, we showed the high ability of the 14-site methylation signature for predicting recurrence-free survival. In addition, the nomogram result showed a satisfactory predictive value. Conclusion: We successfully identified a DNA methylation-associated nomogram which can predict recurrence-free survival in patients with stage I-III lung adenocarcinoma.

Lay abstract Non-small-cell lung cancer patients have a high death rate as a result of cancer recurrence, which can lead to a dismal prognosis. Our study aimed to determine a novel DNA methylation-related biomarker for predicting the recurrence-free survival of stage I­III lung adenocarcinoma patients via comprehensive bioinformatics analysis. A prognostic model was developed and verified according to regression analysis. A high predictive ability of the 14-site methylation signature was determined. Additionally, we constructed a nomogram based on methylation-related risk score and several clinicopathological factors. In conclusion, an effective 14-site methylation signature was discovered which may act as a potential hallmark for stage I­III lung adenocarcinoma prognosis, and a DNA methylation-related nomogram was developed to promote the individual treatment of patients with stage I­III lung adenocarcinoma.

Self-assembly of nano/micro-structured Fe3O4 microspheres among 3D rGO/CNTs hierarchical networks with superior lithium storage performances.

Nano/micro-structured Fe3O4 microspheres among three-dimensional (3D) reduced graphene oxide (rGO)/carbon nanotubes (CNTs) hierarchical networks (the ternary composite is denoted as rGCFs) have been synthesized using a facile, self-assembled and one-pot hydrothermal approach. The rGCFs composite exhibits superior lithium storage performances: initial discharge and charge capacities of 1452 and 1036 mAh g(-1), respectively, remarkable rate capability at current densities from 100 mA g(-1) to 10 A g(-1) and outstanding cycling performance up to 200 cycles. The highly enhanced electrochemical performances of rGCFs depend heavily on the robust 3D rGO/CNTs hierarchical networks, the stable nano/microstructures of active Fe3O4 microspheres and the positive synergistic effects of building components. The systematic structure characterizations and electrochemical investigations provide insightful understanding towards the relationship between structure/morphology and lithium storage performances, which may pave the way for the rational design of composite materials with desirable goals.

The Influence of Fused Deposition Modeling Parameters on the Properties of PA6/PA66 Composite Specimens by the Taguchi Method and Analysis of Variance.

Fused deposition modeling (FDM) is widely used in the rapid prototyping of polymers. Polyamide (PA) has excellent mechanical properties, but its application in FDM is limited due to its high water absorption, warpage, and forming shrinkage. The material of the filament and the printing parameters of the printer are two critical aspects that affect the performance of a component. The prepared PA6/PA66 (composite polyamide [COPA], PA6:PA66 = 85:15) composite (COPA: acrylonitrile butadiene styrene [ABS]: maleic anhydride grafted acrylonitrile butadiene styrene [ABS-g-MAH]: polyethylene = 800:133:67:100) has low water absorption (0.39%) and high dimensional stability, which has a good application prospect in FDM. The influence of eight FDM parameters, including three rarely reported, on the properties of PA6/PA66 composite specimens was investigated by the Taguchi method. The significance of influencing factors was evaluated by analysis of variance (ANOVA) and the stability by signal-noise ratio. When the layer thickness was 0.15 mm, the infill pattern was zigzags, the build plate adhesion type was brim, and the distance from the nozzle to the printing platform and the layer thickness (ΔL) was 0.05 mm; the specimens' dimensional accuracy, surface quality, and mechanical properties were better than other levels. The layer thickness and infill pattern were the two most important factors. The switch of the cooling fan and the temperature printing platform played a significant role in the specimens' dimensional accuracy and surface quality. ΔL tremendously influenced the thickness and warping degree of the specimens. The preparation of high-performance PA composites and the investigation of multiparameters by the Taguchi method provide a possible solution for applying polyamide in FDM.

Puerarin alleviates osteoporosis in rats by targeting the JAK2/STAT3 signaling pathway.

Osteoporosis (OP) is a common chronic progressive bone disease that increases fracture risk in postmenopausal women. Research suggests that puerarin (Pue) may be an effective treatment for OP. This study examined the effects and underlying mechanisms of Pue in treating postmenopausal osteoporosis (PMOP) in rats. Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats underwent bilateral ovariectomy to simulate PMOP and were then treated with subcutaneous injections of Pue. Bone mineral density (BMD) was measured using a bone densitometer. Micro-CT scans assessed femur bone structure and various parameters were calculated: bone volume fraction (BV/TV), bone surface density (BS/TV), trabecular thickness (Tb.Th), trabecular number (Tb.N), trabecular separation (Tb.Sp), and bone surface area-to-bone volume ratio (BS/BV). Hematoxylin-eosin (HE) staining was employed to observe femoral tissue pathology. Serum levels of bone formation metabolism-related markers-osteocalcin (OC), bone alkaline phosphatase (BALP), and procollagen type I N-terminal propeptide (PINP)-were measured via enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The protein expression levels of the Janus kinase 2/signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (JAK2/STAT3) signaling pathway in bone tissue were evaluated using Western blotting assay. The results showed improved bone density and reduced bone loss in rats treated with Pue. There were also significant increases in serum levels of OC and BALP, indicating enhanced osteogenesis. Furthermore, there was a decrease in activation of the JAK2/STAT3 pathway in femoral tissue, suggesting a pathway inhibition. These findings indicate that Pue may combat osteoporosis by promoting osteogenesis and inhibiting activation of the JAK2/STAT3 pathway activation.

Designing of molecularly imprinted polymer-based potentiometric sensor for the determination of heparin.

A novel potentiometric sensor with high selectivity and sensitivity has been developed for the determination of heparin, based on the modification of heparin-imprinted polymer film onto a glassy carbon. The performance of the developed heparin sensor was evaluated, and the results indicated that a sensitive potentiometric sensor could be fabricated. The obtained heparin sensor shows high-selectivity monitoring of heparin, shorter response time (<4 min), wider linear range (0.003-0.7 µM), lower detection limit (0.001 µM), and satisfactory long-term stability (>2 months). The potentiometric sensor was successfully applied to the determination of heparin in heparin sodium injection with recoveries between 97.1% and 110.0%.

Distal clavicle fractures treated by anteroinferior plating with a single screw: Two case reports.

BACKGROUND: For the treatment of distal clavicle fractures, each treatment method has its own advantages and disadvantages, and there is no optimal surgical solution. CASE SUMMARY: Based on this, we report 2 cases of distal clavicle fractures treated utilizing an anterior inferior plate with a single screw placed in the distal, in anticipation of providing a better surgical approach to distal clavicle fracture treatment. Two patients were admitted to the hospital after trauma with a diagnosis of distal clavicle fracture, and were admitted to the hospital for internal fixation of clavicle fracture by incision and reduction, with good postoperative functional recovery. CONCLUSION: With solid postoperative fixation and satisfactory prognostic functional recovery, this technique has been shown to be simple, easy to perform and effective.

The influence of decreased salinity levels on the survival, growth and physiology of eelgrass Zostera marina.

Low salinity generally promotes the growth and propagation of temperate seagrasses, but the appropriate range is unclear. We subjected shoots of eelgrass Zostera marina to different salinity levels [10, 15, 20, 25, 30 PSU (control)] for 6 weeks under controlled laboratory conditions. We measured eelgrass responses in terms of survivorship, growth, productivity, leaf pigmentation and carbohydrate concentrations. Survival analysis combined with growth assessment suggested that the optimal salinity range for the propagation of Z. marina shoots was 18-21 PSU. Structural equation model (SEM) analysis indicated that the promotion effect of decreased salinity levels on the survival and growth of Z. marina shoots mainly depended on the increase in chlorophyll content and the accumulation and synthesis of nonstructural carbohydrates. The carotenoid content and soluble sugar content of the aboveground tissues of Z. marina shoots exposed to 20 PSU were 1.1 and 1.6 times higher than those of shoots under the control, respectively. The results will provide valuable data that could prove helpful in the development of efficient artificial propagation technology for Z. marina shoots.

Carbon Dots-Regulated Pomegranate-Like Metal Oxide Composites: From Growth Mechanism to Lithium Storage.

Carbon dots (CDs) are considered as excellent structural regulator for metal oxides (MOs) due to their abundant functional groups, superior dispersibility, and ultrasmall size (<10 nm). Herein, a new approach is proposed to construct porous pomegranate-like MOs/CDs composite based on the CDs-induced in situ growth mechanism of ion adsorption-multipoint surface nucleation-crosslinking agglomeration. The proposed methodology is successfully applied to prepare SnO2 /CDs, Cu2 O/CDs, and Fe2 O3 /CDs composites, respectively, demonstrating its universality to metal oxides. Taking SnO2 /CDs composite as a case study for anode material in lithium-ion batteries, it exhibits high lithium storage capacity, excellent cycling stability, and a special feature of capacity increase upon cycling. This study provides a new idea for the design of metal oxides materials tuned by CDs and broadens the application of CDs in the field of material synthesis.

Physalin B reduces Aß secretion through down-regulation of BACE1 expression by activating FoxO1 and inhibiting STAT3 phosphorylation.

Physalin B (PB), one of the major active steroidal constituents of Solanaceae Physalis plants, has a wide variety of biological activities. We found that PB significantly down-regulated ß-amyloid (Aß) secretion in N2a/APPsw cells. However, the underlying mechanisms are not well understood. In the current study, we investigated the changes in key enzymes involved in ß-amyloid precursor protein (APP) metabolism and other APP metabolites by treating N2a/APPsw cells with PB at different concentrations. The results indicated that PB reduced Aß secretion, which was caused by down-regulation of ß-secretase (BACE1) expression, as indicated at both the protein and mRNA levels. Further research revealed that PB regulated BACE1 expression by inducing the activation of forkhead box O1 (FoxO1) and inhibiting the phosphorylation of signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3). In addition, the effect of PB on BACE1 expression and Aß secretion was reversed by treatment with FoxO1 siRNA and STAT3 antagonist S3I-201. In conclusion, these data demonstrated that PB can effectively down-regulate the expression of BACE1 to reduce Aßsecretion by activating the expression of FoxO1 and inhibiting the phosphorylation of STAT3.

FoxO1 overexpression reduces Aß production and tau phosphorylation in vitro.

Forkhead box O1 (FoxO1), a key molecule in the regulation of cell growth, differentiation and metabolism, is an important transcription factor. However, the effect of FoxO1 on Alzheimer's disease (AD) needs further investigation. In this study, we aimed to explore the function and mechanism of FoxO1 in amyloid-ß (Aß) production and tau phosphorylation in AD. First, compared with the age matched wild-type (WT) mice, we showed that FoxO1 protein levels were reduced in the cortices but nearly unchanged in the hippocampi of 6-month-old APPswe/PSEN1dE9 transgenic mice expressing Swedish APP and Presenilin1 delta exon 9 mutations (APP/PS1 mice). Then, we found that overexpression of FoxO1 significantly attenuated Aß production through inhibiting the amyloidogenic processing of ß-amyloid precursor protein (APP), mediated by the key enzymes BACE1 and PS1, in N2a/APPsw cells. Furthermore, in FoxO1-overexpressing HEK293/Tau cells, the decreased levels of tau phosphorylation at selective sites (S262 and T231) were accompanied by increasing the expression of p-GSK-3ß (S9), and reducing p-ERK. In contrast, the total tau (Tau-5), non-phosphorylated tau (Tau-1), p-Tau (S404), CDK5 and PP2A levels remained unchanged. These findings indicate that FoxO1 is related to AD and suggest FoxO1 as a therapeutic target for AD that reduces the levels of both Aß expression and tau phosphorylation.

High Conversion of D-Fructose into D-Allulose by Enzymes Coupling with an ATP Regeneration System.

D-Allulose is a rare monosaccharide that exists in extremely small quantities in nature, and it is also hard to prepare at a large scale via chemical or enzyme synthetic route due to low conversion and downstream separation complexity. Using D-psicose epimerase and L-rhamnulose kinase, a method enabling high conversion of D-allulose from D-fructose without the need for a tedious isomer separation step was established recently. However, this method requires expensive ATP to facilitate the reaction. In the present study, an ATP regenerate system was developed coupling with polyphosphate kinase. In our optimized reaction with purified enzymes, the conversion rate of 99% D-fructose was achieved at the concentrations of 2 mM ATP, 5 mM polyphosphate, 20 mM D-fructose, and 20 mM Mg2+ when incubated at 50 °C and at pH 7.5. ATP usage can be reduced to 10% of the theoretical amount compared to that without the ATP regeneration system. A fed-batch mode was also studied to minimize the inhibitory effect of polyphosphate. The biosynthetic system reported here offers a potential and promising platform for the conversion of D-fructose into D-allulose at reduced ATP cost.

Correction: Assimilable organic carbon (AOC) determination using GFP-tagged Pseudomonas fluorescens P-17 in water by flow cytometry.

[This corrects the article DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0199193.].

Assimilable organic carbon (AOC) determination using GFP-tagged Pseudomonas fluorescens P-17 in water by flow cytometry.

One of the newly developed methods for Assimilable organic carbon (AOC) determination is leveraged on the cell enumeration by flow cytometry (FC) which could provide a rapid and automated solution for AOC measurement. However, cell samples staining with fluorescence dye is indispensable to reduce background and machine noise. This step would bring additional cost and time consuming for this method. In this study, a green fluorescence protein (GFP) tagged strain derived of AOC testing strain Pseudomonas fluorescens P-17 (GFP-P17) was generated using Tn5 transposon mutagenesis. Continuous culture of this mutant GFP-P17 showed stable expression of eGFP signal detected by flow cytometry without staining step. In addition, this GFP-P17 strain displayed faster growth rate and had a wider range of carbon substrate utilization patterns as compared with P17 wild-type. With this strain, the capability of a new FC method with no dye staining was explored in standard acetate solution, which suggests linear correlation of counts with acetate carbon concentration. Furthermore, this FC method with GFP-P17 strain is applicable in monitoring GAC/BAC efficiency and condition as similar trends of AOC level in water treatment process were measured by both FC method and conventional spread plating count method. Therefore, this fast and easily applicable GFP-P17 based FC method could serve as a tool for routine microbiological drinking water monitoring.

High-sensitivity paracetamol sensor based on Pd/graphene oxide nanocomposite as an enhanced electrochemical sensing platform.

Well-dispersed Pd nanoparticles were facilely anchored on graphene oxide (Pd/GO) via a one-pot chemical reduction of the Pd(2+) precursor without any surfactants and templates. The morphology and composition of the Pd/GO nanocomposite were characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and energy dispersive analysis of X-ray (EDX). The stepwise fabrication process of the Pd/GO modified electrode and its electrochemical sensing performance towards paracetamol was evaluated using electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS), cyclic voltammetry (CV) and differential pulse voltammetry (DPV). The experimental results indicate that the as-synthesized Pd nanoparticles are relatively uniform in size (5-10 nm) without large aggregation and uniformly distributed in the carbon matrix with the overall Pd content of 28.77 wt% in Pd/GO. Compared with the GO modified electrode, the Pd/GO modified electrode shows a better electrocatalytic activity to the oxidation of paracetamol with lower oxidation potential and larger peak current, so the Pd/GO nanocomposite can be used as an enhanced sensing platform for the electrochemical determination of paracetamol. The kinetic parameters of the paracetamol electro-oxidation at Pd/GO electrode were studied in detail, and the determination conditions were optimized. Under the optimal conditions, the oxidation peak current is linear to the paracetamol concentration in the ranges of 0.005-0.5 µM and 0.5-80.0 µM with a detection limit of 2.2 nM. Based on the high sensitivity and good selectivity of the Pd/GO modified electrode, the proposed method was successfully applied to the determination of paracetamol in commercial tablets and human urines, and the satisfactory results confirm the applicability of this sensor in practical analysis.