Cardioprotection of voluntary exercise against breast cancer-induced cardiac injury via STAT3.

Exercise is an effective way to alleviate breast cancer-induced cardiac injury to a certain extent. However, whether voluntary exercise (VE) activates cardiac signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) and the underlying mechanisms remain unclear. This study investigated the role of STAT3-microRNA(miRNA)-targeted protein axis in VE against breast cancer-induced cardiac injury.VE for 4 weeks not only improved cardiac function of transgenic breast cancer female mice [mouse mammary tumor virus-polyomavirus middle T antigen (MMTV-PyMT +)] compared with littermate mice with no cancer (MMTV-PyMT -), but also increased myocardial STAT3 tyrosine 705 phosphorylation. Significantly more obvious cardiac fibrosis, smaller cardiomyocyte size, lower cell viability, and higher serum tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α were shown in MMTV-PyMT + mice compared with MMTV-PyMT - mice, which were ameliorated by VE. However, VE did not influence the tumor growth. MiRNA sequencing identified that miR-181a-5p was upregulated and miR-130b-3p was downregulated in VE induced-cardioprotection. Myocardial injection of Adeno-associated virus serotype 9 driving STAT3 tyrosine 705 mutations abolished cardioprotective effects above. Myocardial STAT3 was identified as the transcription factor binding the promoters of pri-miR-181a (the precursor of miR-181a-5p) and HOX transcript antisense RNA (HOTAIR, sponged miR-130b-3p) in isolated cardiomyocytes. Furthermore, miR-181a-5p targeting PTEN and miR-130b-3p targeting Zinc finger and BTB domain containing protein 20 (Zbtb20) were proved in AC-16 cells. These findings indicated that VE protects against breast cancer-induced cardiac injury via activating STAT3 to promote miR-181a-5p targeting PTEN and to promote HOTAIR to sponge miR-130b-3p targeting Zbtb20, helping to develop new targets in exercise therapy for breast cancer-induced cardiac injury.

Diversity and distribution of bamboo-feeding true bugs in China.

The Bambusoideae subfamily, originating in the late Cretaceous, has evolved to include over 1500 species globally. Notably, China hosts the richest diversity of Bambusoideae, with 728 species documented. After a long period of coevolution, plenty of animals could feed on these plants rich in cellulose and lignin. As an important group of pests and participants in the ecosystem, bamboo-feeding true bugs (BFTBs, or bamboo-feeding Heteropteran insects) have attracted the attention of researchers. However, the diversity and distribution of BFTBs still lack systematic and generalized research. In this study, we reviewed the BFTBs in China and simulated the diversity pattern and the driving forces of this pattern. A list of 36 genera with 69 species of BFTBs in China was obtained through paper review and field surveys. And their bamboo-feeding habit had multiple independent origins. The spatial diversity pattern showed that the biodiversity hotspots of BFTBs are located in and around the tropics of southern China. Environmental driving force analysis showed that the minimum temperature of coldest month and annual precipitation were the dominant environmental factors shaping the spatial diversity of BFTBs. Our work quantified the diversity and distribution of BFTBs in China, providing fundamental data support for pest control and evolutionary research.

Memory inflation: Beyond the acute phase of viral infection.

Memory inflation is confirmed as the most commonly dysregulation of host immunity with antigen-independent manner in mammals after viral infection. By generating large numbers of effector/memory and terminal differentiated effector memory CD8+ T cells with diminished naïve subsets, memory inflation is believed to play critical roles in connecting the viral infection and the onset of multiple diseases. Here, we reviewed the current understanding of memory inflated CD8+ T cells in their distinct phenotypic features that different from exhausted subsets; the intrinsic and extrinsic roles in regulating the formation of memory inflation; and the key proteins in maintaining the expansion and proliferation of inflationary populations. More importantly, based on the evidences from both clinic and animal models, we summarized the potential mechanisms of memory inflation to trigger autoimmune neuropathies, such as Guillain-Barré syndrome and multiple sclerosis; the correlations of memory inflation between tumorigenesis and resistance of tumour immunotherapies; as well as the effects of memory inflation to facilitate vascular disease progression. To sum up, better understanding of memory inflation could provide us an opportunity to beyond the acute phase of viral infection, and shed a light on the long-term influences of CD8+ T cell heterogeneity in dampen host immune homeostasis.

Targeting the sulfur-containing amino acid pathway in leukemia.

sulfur-containing amino acids have been reported to patriciate in gene regulation, DNA methylation, protein synthesis and other physiological or pathological processes. In recent years, metabolism-related molecules of sulfur-containing amino acids affecting the occurrence, development and treatment of tumors have been implicated in various disorders, especially in leukemia. Here, we summarize current knowledge on the sulfur-containing amino acid metabolism pathway in leukemia and examine ongoing efforts to target this pathway, including treatment strategies targeting (a) sulfur-containing amino acids, (b) metabolites of sulfur-containing amino acids, and (c) enzymes and cofactors related to sulfur-containing amino acid metabolism in leukemia. Future leukemia therapy will likely involve innovative strategies targeting the sulfur-containing amino acid metabolism pathway.

A novel bi-layered asymmetric membrane incorporating demineralized dentin matrix accelerates tissue healing and bone regeneration in a rat skull defect model.

Objectives: The technique of guided bone regeneration (GBR) has been widely used in the field of reconstructive dentistry to address hard tissue deficiency. The objective of this research was to manufacture a novel bi-layered asymmetric membrane that incorporates demineralized dentin matrix (DDM), a bioactive bone replacement derived from dentin, in order to achieve both soft tissue isolation and hard tissue regeneration simultaneously. Methods: DDM particles were harvested from healthy, caries-free permanent teeth. The electrospinning technique was utilized to synthesize bi-layered DDM-loaded PLGA/PLA (DPP) membranes. We analyzed the DPP bilayer membranes' surface topography, physicochemical properties and degradation ability. Rat skull critical size defects (CSDs) were constructed to investigate in vivo bone regeneration. Results: The synthesized DPP bilayer membranes possessed suitable surface characteristics, acceptable mechanical properties, good hydrophilicity, favorable apatite forming ability and suitable degradability. Micro-computed tomography (CT) showed significantly more new bone formation in the rat skull defects implanted with the DPP bilayer membranes. Histological evaluation further revealed that the bone was more mature with denser bone trabeculae. In addition, the DPP bilayer membrane significantly promoted the expression of the OCN matrix protein in vivo. Conclusions: The DPP bilayer membranes exhibited remarkable biological safety and osteogenic activity in vivo and showed potential as a prospective candidate for GBR applications in the future.

An artificial intelligence platform for the screening and managing of strabismus.

OBJECTIVES: Considering the escalating incidence of strabismus and its consequential jeopardy to binocular vision, there is an imperative demand for expeditious and precise screening methods. This study was to develop an artificial intelligence (AI) platform in the form of an applet that facilitates the screening and management of strabismus on any mobile device. METHODS: The Visual Transformer (VIT_16_224) was developed using primary gaze photos from two datasets covering different ages. The AI model was evaluated by 5-fold cross-validation set and tested on an independent test set. The diagnostic performance of the AI model was assessed by calculating the Accuracy, Precision, Specificity, Sensitivity, F1-Score and Area Under the Curve (AUC). RESULTS: A total of 6194 photos with corneal light-reflection (with 2938 Exotropia, 1415 Esotropia, 739 Vertical Deviation and 1562 Orthotropy) were included. In the internal validation set, the AI model achieved an Accuracy of 0.980, Precision of 0.941, Specificity of 0.979, Sensitivity of 0.958, F1-Score of 0.951 and AUC of 0.994. In the independent test set, the AI model achieved an Accuracy of 0.967, Precision of 0.980, Specificity of 0.970, Sensitivity of 0.960, F1-Score of 0.975 and AUC of 0.993. CONCLUSIONS: Our study presents an advanced AI model for strabismus screening which integrates electronic archives for comprehensive patient histories. Additionally, it includes a patient-physician interaction module for streamlined communication. This innovative platform offers a complete solution for strabismus care, from screening to long-term follow-up, advancing ophthalmology through AI technology for improved patient outcomes and eye care quality.

Epidemiological Characterization of Dengue Fever - Yunnan Province, China, 2010-2021.

Objective: The goal of this study is to analyze the epidemiological patterns of dengue fever across different districts and counties in Yunnan Province from 2010 to 2021. Methods: In this study, we employed joinpoint regression analysis, spatial autocorrelation analysis, and space-time scan analysis to illustrate the spatio-temporal propagation and demographic influence of dengue fever, using both graphical and tabular presentations to clearly demonstrate the findings. Results: Yunnan Province reported 14,098 cases of dengue fever during the period from 2010 to 2021. Of these, 11,513 cases were caused by local transmission, 2,566 were imported internationally, and 19 were inter-provincial imports. Seasonal trends emerged, revealing a surge in incidences during the summer and autumn months. The sex ratio of male to female cases was 1:0.88, with a significant majority of 82.00% of cases involving individuals belonging to the age group of 15-60. Commercial service workers constituted the most impacted occupational group, forming 20.96% of total cases. A spatio-temporal scan identified significant clustering of dengue fever cases across space and time, with the most pronounced cluster observed in southern Yunnan, primarily between 2015 and 2019. Conclusions: Dengue fever in Yunnan Province manifests as biennial outbreaks, underscoring the necessity for increased surveillance, particularly in counties bordering other regions.

Effects of virtual reality on balance in people with diabetes: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

Purpose: This systematic review aims to identify, critically appraise, and synthesize the effects of virtual reality on balance in people with diabetes. Methods: Five biomedical databases were searched from inception to December 15, 2023. Clinical trials investigating the effects of virtual reality on performance-based or patient-reported outcome measures related to balance function among people with diabetes were included. Two independent reviewers conducted study selection, data extraction, and quality assessment. Cochrane risk-of-bias tool-2 were used to assess included studies. Meta-analysis was performed to examine the effects of the intervention. Results: Six studies with a total of 257 participants were identified. Two studies had high risk of bias, and four studies had some concerns regarding risk of bias. No adverse events related to virtual reality were reported. Meta-analysis revealed significant improvements in the Berg Balance Scale (SMD = 1.56, 95% CI 0.71 to 2.40, p < 0.001), Timed Up and Go test (SMD = -0.74, 95% CI -1.21 to -0.28, p = 0.002), and falls efficacy (SMD = 0.99, 95% CI 0.43 to 1.54, p < 0.001) following virtual reality intervention. No significant differences were found for postural sway and single leg stance measures. Conclusion: Virtual reality-based rehabilitation demonstrates promising effects for improving balance in people with diabetes. Further studies with high methodological quality and large sample sizes are warranted. Supplementary Information: The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s40200-024-01413-7.

A novel inhalable nanobody targeting IL-4Rα for the treatment of asthma.

BACKGROUND: Inhalable biologics represent a promising approach to improve the efficacy and safety of asthma treatment. Although several mAbs targeting IL-4 receptor α chain (IL-4Rα) have been approved or are undergoing clinical trials, the development of inhalable mAbs targeting IL-4Rα presents significant challenges. OBJECTIVE: Capitalizing on the distinctive advantages of nanobodies (Nbs) in maintaining efficacy during storage and administration, we sought to develop a novel inhalable IL-4Rα Nb for effectively treating asthma. METHODS: Three IL-4Rα immunized Nb libraries were used to generate specific and functional IL-4Rα Nbs. LQ036, a bivalent Nb comprising 2 HuNb103 units, was constructed with a high affinity and specificity for human IL-4Rα. The efficacy, pharmacokinetics, and safety of inhaled LQ036 were evaluated in B-hIL4/hIL4RA humanized mice. RESULTS: LQ036 inhibited secreted embryonic alkaline phosphatase reporter activity, inhibited TF-1 cell proliferation, and suppressed phosphorylated signal transducer and activator of transduction 6 in T cells from patients with asthma. Crystal structure analysis revealed a binding region similar to dupilumab but with higher affinity, leading to better efficacy in blocking the signaling pathway. HuNb103 competed with IL-4 and IL-13 for IL-4Rα binding. Additionally, LQ036 significantly inhibited ovalbumin-specific IgE levels in serum, CCL17 levels in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid, bronchial mucous cell hyperplasia, and airway goblet cell hyperplasia in B-hIL4/hIL4RA humanized mice. Inhaled LQ036 exhibited favorable pharmacokinetics, safety, and tissue distribution, with higher concentrations observed in the lungs and bronchi. CONCLUSIONS: These findings from preclinical studies establish the safety and efficacy of inhaled LQ036, underscoring its potential as a pioneering inhalable biologic therapy for asthma.

Integrative taxonomy, phylogenetics and historical biogeography of subgenus Aeschyntelus Stål, 1872 (Hemiptera: Heteroptera: Rhopalidae).

The subgenus Aeschyntelus includes six species that show variations in body color and shape, thus making it difficult to identify them based on morphological identification alone. To date, no genetic study has evaluated species within this genus. Herein, we collected 171 individuals from 90 localities of Rhopalus and employed an integrative taxonomic approach that incorporated morphological data, mitochondrial genomic data (COI, whole mitochondrial data) and nuclear genomic data (18S + 28S rRNAs, nuclear genome-wide SNPs) to delineate species boundaries. Our analyses confirmed the status of nine described species of Rhopalus and proposed the recognition of one new species known as Rhopalus qinlinganus sp. nov., which is classified within the subgenus Aeschyntelus. Discrepancies arising from nuclear and mitochondrial data suggest the presence of mito-nuclear discordance. Specifically, mitochondrial data indicated admixture within Clade A, comprising R. kerzhneri and R. latus, whereas genome-wide SNPs unambiguously identified two separate species, aligning with morphological classification. Conversely, mitochondrial data clearly distinguished Clade B- consisting of R. sapporensis into two lineages, whereas genome-wide SNPs unequivocally identified a single species. Our study also provides insights into the evolutionary history of Aeschyntelus, thus indicating that it likely originated in East Asia during the middle Miocene. The development of Aeschyntelus biodiversity in the southwestern mountains of China occurred via an uplift-driven diversification process. Our findings highlight the necessity of integrating both morphological and multiple molecular datasets for precise species identification, particularly when delineating closely related species. Additionally, it reveals the important role of mountain orogenesis on speciation within the southwestern mountains of China.

Resolvin D1 delivery to lesional macrophages using antioxidative black phosphorus nanosheets for atherosclerosis treatment.

The buildup of plaques in atherosclerosis leads to cardiovascular events, with chronic unresolved inflammation and overproduction of reactive oxygen species (ROS) being major drivers of plaque progression. Nanotherapeutics that can resolve inflammation and scavenge ROS have the potential to treat atherosclerosis. Here we demonstrate the potential of black phosphorus nanosheets (BPNSs) as a therapeutic agent for the treatment of atherosclerosis. BPNSs can effectively scavenge a broad spectrum of ROS and suppress atherosclerosis-associated pro-inflammatory cytokine production in lesional macrophages. We also demonstrate ROS-responsive, targeted-peptide-modified BPNS-based carriers for the delivery of resolvin D1 (an inflammation-resolving lipid mediator) to lesional macrophages, which further boosts the anti-atherosclerotic efficacy. The targeted nanotherapeutics not only reduce plaque areas but also substantially improve plaque stability in high-fat-diet-fed apolipoprotein E-deficient mice. This study presents a therapeutic strategy against atherosclerosis, and highlights the potential of BPNS-based therapeutics to treat other inflammatory diseases.

TWAS facilitates gene-scale trait genetic dissection through gene expression, structural variations, and alternative splicing in soybean.

A genome-wide association study (GWAS) identifies trait-associated loci, but identifying the causal genes can be a bottleneck, due in part to slow decay of linkage disequilibrium (LD). A transcriptome-wide association study (TWAS) addresses this issue by identifying gene expression-phenotype associations or integrating gene expression quantitative trait loci with GWAS results. Here, we used self-pollinated soybean (Glycine max [L.] Merr.) as a model to evaluate the application of TWAS to the genetic dissection of traits in plant species with slow LD decay. We generated RNA sequencing data for a soybean diversity panel and identified the genetic expression regulation of 29 286 soybean genes. Different TWAS solutions were less affected by LD and were robust to the source of expression, identifing known genes related to traits from different tissues and developmental stages. The novel pod-color gene L2 was identified via TWAS and functionally validated by genome editing. By introducing a new exon proportion feature, we significantly improved the detection of expression variations that resulted from structural variations and alternative splicing. As a result, the genes identified through our TWAS approach exhibited a diverse range of causal variations, including SNPs, insertions or deletions, gene fusion, copy number variations, and alternative splicing. Using this approach, we identified genes associated with flowering time, including both previously known genes and novel genes that had not previously been linked to this trait, providing insights complementary to those from GWAS. In summary, this study supports the application of TWAS for candidate gene identification in species with low rates of LD decay.

Clinical application of voriconazole in pediatric patients: a systematic review.

The purpose of this study was to review the literature on the clinical use of voriconazole (VRC) in pediatric patients. MEDLINE, Embase, PubMed, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library were searched from January 1, 2000, to August 15, 2023 for relevant clinical studies on VRC use in pediatric patients. Data were collected based on inclusion and exclusion criteria, and a systematic review was performed on recent research related to the use of VRC in pediatric patients. This systematic review included a total of 35 observational studies among which there were 16 studies investigating factors influencing VRC plasma trough concentrations (Ctrough) in pediatric patients, 14 studies exploring VRC maintenance doses required to achieve target range of Ctrough, and 11 studies focusing on population pharmacokinetic (PPK) research of VRC in pediatric patients. Our study found that the Ctrough of VRC were influenced by both genetic and non-genetic factors. The optimal dosing of VRC was correlated with age in pediatric patients, and younger children usually required higher VRC doses to achieve target Ctrough compared to older children. Establishing a PPK model for VRC can assist in achieving more precise individualized dosing in children.

Improvement in mechanical strength and biological function of 3D-printed trimagnesium phosphate bioceramic scaffolds by incorporating strontium orthosilicate.

Trimagnesium phosphate (TMP) bioceramic scaffolds are deemed as promising bone grafts, but their mechanical and biological properties are yet to be improved. In the study, strontium orthosilicate (SrOS) was used to modify the TMP scaffolds, whose macroporous structure was constructed by the filament deposition-type 3D printing method. The new phases of SrMg2(PO4)2 and Sr2MgSi2O7, which showed nanocrystalline topography, were produced in the 3D-printed TMP/SrOS bioceramic composite scaffolds. The compressive strength (1.8-64.1 MPa) and porosity (39.7%-71.4%) of the TMP/SrOS scaffolds could be readily tailored by changing the amounts of SrOS additives and the sintering temperature. The TMP/SrOS scaffolds gradually degraded in the aqueous solution, consequently releasing ions of magnesium, strontium and silicon. In contrast with the TMP scaffolds, the TMP/SrOS bioceramic scaffolds had profoundly higher compressive strength, and enhanced cell proliferative and osteogenic activities. The TMP/SrOS scaffolds incorporated with 5 wt% SrOS had the highest mechanical strength and beneficial cellular function, which made them promising for treating different sites of bone defects.

FAM83B promotes cell proliferation via regulating the expression of CDK4/CDK6/CCND1 complex in laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma.

FAM83B, as one of the FAM83 family members, has been closely involved in cell transformation, and a growing number of scholars have been studied its role in tumours over the years. Whereas the effect and potential mechanism of FAM83B in laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma (LSCC) have not been investigated. In this research, we discovered that the expression quantity of FAM83B was remarkably higher in LSCC tissues (79.65 ± 35.98) than in matched adjacent tissues (59.34 ± 32.59) by tissue microarrays and immunohistochemistry. Furthermore, expression of FAM83B was knocked down in HEP-2 and TU177 cell lines via lentivirus, and in the course of intracorporal and extracorporeal experiments, FAM83B knockdown showed the inhibition of tumour growth, migration, and invasion ability. Moreover, cell cycle assay showed that FAM83B knockdown leads to an apparent accumulation of cells in the G1 phase, indicating that FAM83B knockdown can inhibit cell proliferation. Meanwhile, western blotting (WB) demonstrated that FAM83B knockdown led to a significant reduction in CDK4/CDK6/CCND1 protein expression, which may have decelerated cell cycle progression. Collectively, this study demonstrates that FAM83B serves as an oncogene in LSCC, promoting cell proliferation by controlling the protein expression of CDK4, CDK6, and CCND1, thus inducing a transference of the G1 stage to S stage in cell-cycle of LSCC cells. These results provide an academic foundation for elucidating the mechanism of LSCC occurrence and evolution and for developing treatment strategies for LSCC.

A humanized trivalent Nectin-4-targeting nanobody drug conjugate displays potent antitumor activity in gastric cancer.

BACKGROUND: Gastric cancer represents a highly lethal malignancy with an elevated mortality rate among cancer patients, coupled with a suboptimal postoperative survival prognosis. Nectin-4, an overexpressed oncological target for various cancers, has been exploited to create antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs) to treat solid tumors. However, there is limited research on Nectin-4 ADCs specifically for gastric cancer, and conventional immunoglobulin G (IgG)-based ADCs frequently encounter binding site barriers. Based on the excellent tumor penetration capabilities inherent in nanobodies (Nbs), we developed Nectin-4-targeting Nb drug conjugates (NDCs) for the treatment of gastric cancer. RESULTS: An immunized phage display library was established and employed for the selection of Nectin-4-specific Nbs using phage display technology. Subsequently, these Nbs were engineered into homodimers to enhance Nb affinity. To prolong in vivo half-life and reduce immunogenicity, we fused an Nb targeting human serum albumin (HSA), resulting in the development of trivalent humanized Nbs. Further, we site-specifically conjugated a monomethyl auristatin E (MMAE) at the C-terminus of the trivalent Nbs, creating Nectin-4 NDC (huNb26/Nb26-Nbh-MMAE) with a drug-to-antibody ratio (DAR) of 1. Nectin-4 NDC demonstrated excellent in vitro cell-binding activities and cytotoxic efficacy against cells with high Nectin-4 expression. Subsequent administration of Nectin-4 NDC to mice bearing NCI-N87 human gastric cancer xenografts demonstrated rapid tissue penetration and high tumor uptake through in vivo imaging. Moreover, Nectin-4 NDC exhibited noteworthy dose-dependent anti-tumor efficacy in in vivo studies. CONCLUSION: We have engineered a Nectin-4 NDC with elevated affinity and effective tumor uptake, further establishing its potential as a therapeutic agent for gastric cancer.

Cell division cyclin 25C knockdown inhibits hepatocellular carcinoma development by inducing endoplasmic reticulum stress.

BACKGROUND: Cell division cyclin 25C (CDC25C) is a protein that plays a critical role in the cell cycle, specifically in the transition from the G2 phase to the M phase. Recent research has shown that CDC25C could be a potential therapeutic target for cancers, particularly for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). However, the specific regulatory mechanisms underlying the role of CDC25C in HCC tumorigenesis and development remain incompletely understood. AIM: To explore the impact of CDC25C on cell proliferation and apoptosis, as well as its regulatory mechanisms in HCC development. METHODS: Hepa1-6 and B16 cells were transduced with a lentiviral vector containing shRNA interference sequences (LV-CDC25C shRNA) to knock down CDC25C. Subsequently, a xenograft mouse model was established by subcutaneously injecting transduced Hepa1-6 cells into C57BL/6 mice to assess the effects of CDC25C knockdown on HCC development in vivo. Cell proliferation and migration were evaluated using a Cell Counting Kit-8 cell proliferation assays and wound healing assays, respectively. The expression of endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress-related molecules (glucose-regulated protein 78, X-box binding protein-1, and C/EBP homologous protein) was measured in both cells and subcutaneous xenografts using quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR) and western blotting. Additionally, apoptosis was investigated using flow cytometry, qRT-PCR, and western blotting. RESULTS: CDC25C was stably suppressed in Hepa1-6 and B16 cells through LV-CDC25C shRNA transduction. A xenograft model with CDC25C knockdown was successfully established and that downregulation of CDC25C expression significantly inhibited HCC growth in mice. CDC25C knockdown not only inhibited cell proliferation and migration but also significantly increased the ER stress response, ultimately promoting ER stress-induced apoptosis in HCC cells. CONCLUSION: The regulatory mechanism of CDC25C in HCC development may involve the activation of ER stress and the ER stress-induced apoptosis signaling pathway.

In situ acid production by organic matter induced with trace homogeneous Fenton reagent for membrane fouling control.

The homogeneous Fenton process involves both coagulation and oxidation, but it requires added acidity, so it is rarely used to control membrane fouling. This work found that the pH of neutral simulated wastewater sharply declined to 4.1 after pre-treatment with 0.1 mM Fenton reagent (Fe2+:H2O2=1:1) without added acidity. This occurred mainly because the trace homogeneous Fenton reagent induced in situ acid production by organic matter in the wastewater, which supplied the acidic conditions required for the Fenton reaction and ensured that the reaction could proceed continuously. Then, oxidation during the pre-Fenton process enhanced the electrostatic repulsion forces and effectively weakened the hydrogen bonds of organic matter at the membrane surface by altering the net charge and hydroxyl content of organic matter, while coagulation caused the foulants to gather and form large aggregates. These changes diminished the deposition of foulants onto the membrane surface and resulted in a looser fouling layer, which eventually caused the membrane fouling rate to decline from 83 % to 24 % and the flux recovery rate to increase from 44 % to 98 % during 2 h of filtration. This membrane fouling mitigation ability is much superior to that of pre-H2O2, pre-Fe2+ or pre-Fe3+ processes with equivalent doses.

Efficient energy transport throughout conical implosions.

The double-cone ignition (DCI) scheme has been proposed as one of the alternative approaches to inertial confinement fusion, based on direct-drive and fast-ignition, in order to reduce the requirement for the driver energy. To evaluate the conical implosion energetics from the laser beams to the plasma flows, a series of experiments have been systematically conducted. The results indicate that 89%-96% of the laser energy was absorbed by the target, with moderate stimulated Raman scatterings. Here 2%-6% of the laser energy was coupled into the plasma jets ejected from the cone tips, which was mainly restricted by the mass reductions during the implosions inside the cones. The supersonic dense jets with a Mach number of 4 were obtained, which is favorable for forming a high-density, nondegenerated plasma core after the head-on collisions. These findings show encouraging results in terms of energy transport of the conical implosions in the DCI scheme.