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Tan ML, Xie CT, Tu X, Li YW, Chen QL, Shen YJ, Liu ZH. Short daylight photoperiod alleviated alarm substance-stimulated fear response of zebrafish. Gen Comp Endocrinol 2023; 338:114274. [PMID: 36940834 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygcen.2023.114274] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2023] [Revised: 03/11/2023] [Accepted: 03/17/2023] [Indexed: 03/23/2023]
Abstract
Photoperiod has been well-documented to be involved in regulating many activities of animals. However, whether photoperiod takes part in mood control, such as fear response in fish and the underlying mode(s) of action remain unclear. In this study, adult zebrafish males and females (Danio rerio) were exposed to different photoperiods, Blank (12 h light: 12 h dark), Control (12 h light: 12 h dark), Short daylight (SD, 6 h light: 18 h dark) and Long daylight (LD, 18 h light: 6 h dark) for 28 days. After exposure, fear response of the fish was investigated using a novel tank diving test. After alarm substance administration, the onset to higher half, total duration in lower half and duration of freezing in SD-fish were significantly decreased, suggesting that short daylight photoperiod is capable of alleviating fear response in zebrafish. In contrast, comparing with the Control, LD didn't show significant effect on fear response of the fish. Further investigation revealed that SD increased the levels of melatonin (MT), serotonin (5-HT) and dopamine (DA) in the brain while decreased the plasma level of cortisol comparing to the Control. Moreover, the expressions of genes in MT, 5-HT and DA pathways and HPI axis were also altered consistently. Our data indicated that short daylight photoperiod might alleviate fear response of zebrafish probably through interfering with MT/5-HT/DA pathways and HPI axis.
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Zhang G, Chen G, Huang H, Qin Y, Fu M, Tu X, Ye D, Wu J. Insights into the Role of Nanorod-Shaped MnO 2 and CeO 2 in a Plasma Catalysis System for Methanol Oxidation. NANOMATERIALS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2023; 13:1026. [PMID: 36985920 PMCID: PMC10057529 DOI: 10.3390/nano13061026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2023] [Revised: 03/04/2023] [Accepted: 03/06/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Published papers highlight the roles of the catalysts in plasma catalysis systems, and it is essential to provide deep insight into the mechanism of the reaction. In this work, a coaxial dielectric barrier discharge (DBD) reactor packed with γ-MnO2 and CeO2 with similar nanorod morphologies and particle sizes was used for methanol oxidation at atmospheric pressure and room temperature. The experimental results showed that both γ-MnO2 and CeO2 exhibited good performance in methanol conversion (up to 100%), but the CO2 selectivity of CeO2 (up to 59.3%) was much higher than that of γ-MnO2 (up to 28.6%). Catalyst characterization results indicated that CeO2 contained more surface-active oxygen species, adsorbed more methanol and utilized more plasma-induced active species than γ-MnO2. In addition, in situ Raman spectroscopy and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR) were applied with a novel in situ cell to reveal the major factors affecting the catalytic performance in methanol oxidation. More reactive oxygen species (O22-, O2-) from ozone decomposition were produced on CeO2 compared with γ-MnO2, and less of the intermediate product formate accumulated on the CeO2. The combined results showed that CeO2 was a more effective catalyst than γ-MnO2 for methanol oxidation in the plasma catalysis system.
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Peng H, Yu Y, Wang P, Yao Y, Wu X, Zheng Q, Wang J, Tian B, Wang Y, Ke T, Liu M, Tu X, Liu H, Wang QK, Xu C. NINJ2 deficiency inhibits preadipocyte differentiation and promotes insulin resistance through regulating insulin signaling. Obesity (Silver Spring) 2023; 31:123-138. [PMID: 36504350 DOI: 10.1002/oby.23580] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2022] [Revised: 07/19/2022] [Accepted: 08/03/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Genetic variants in ninjurin-2 (NINJ2; nerve injury-induced protein 2) confer risk of ischemic strokes and coronary artery disease as well as endothelial activation and inflammation. However, little is known about NINJ2's in vivo functions and underlying mechanisms. METHODS The phenotypes of NINJ2 knockout mice were analyzed, and mechanisms of NINJ2 that regulate body weight, insulin resistance, and glucose homeostasis and lipogenesis were investigated in vivo and in vitro. RESULTS This study found that mice lacking NINJ2 showed impaired adipogenesis, increased insulin resistance, and abnormal glucose homeostasis, all of which are risk factors for strokes and coronary artery disease. Mechanistically, NINJ2 directly interacts with insulin receptor/insulin-like growth factor 1 receptor (INSR/IGF1R), and NINJ2 knockdown can block insulin-induced mitotic clonal expansion during preadipocyte differentiation by inhibiting protein kinase B/extracellular signal-regulated kinase (AKT/ERK) signaling and by decreasing the expression of key adipocyte transcriptional regulators CCAAT/enhancer-binding protein β (C/EBP-β), C/EBP-α, and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ (PPAR-γ). Furthermore, the interaction between NINJ2 and INSR/IGF1R is needed for maintaining insulin sensitivity in adipocytes and muscle via AKT and glucose transporter type 4. Notably, adenovirus-mediated NINJ2 overexpression can ameliorate diet-induced insulin resistance in mice. CONCLUSIONS In conclusion, these findings reveal NINJ2 as an important new facilitator of insulin receptors, and the authors propose a unique regulatory mechanism between insulin signaling, adipogenesis, and insulin resistance.
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Tu X, Zhang J, Yuan W, Wu X, Xu Z, Qing C. Simvastatin Enhanced Anti-tumor Effects of Bevacizumab against Lung Adenocarcinoma A549 Cells via Abating HIF-1α-Wnt/β-Catenin Signaling Pathway. Anticancer Agents Med Chem 2023; 23:2083-2094. [PMID: 37587804 DOI: 10.2174/1871520623666230816090914] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2023] [Revised: 06/16/2023] [Accepted: 07/06/2023] [Indexed: 08/18/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Bevacizumab increased hypoxia-inducible factor (HIF-1α) expression attenuates its antitumor effect. Simvastatin can reduce the expression of HIF-1α to exert a tumor-suppressive effect in many in vitro experiments. Therefore, this study aimed to determine whether simvastatin could strengthen the anti-tumor activity of bevacizumab in lung adenocarcinoma. OBJECTIVE To determine whether simvastatin could strengthen the anti-tumor activity of bevacizumab in lung adenocarcinoma. METHODS The changes in the biological behavior of A549 cells treated with different drugs were determined through colony forming assay, Cell Counting Assay-8 (CCK-8), transwell assay, wound healing assay, and flow cytometry. The expressions of pathway-related factors HIF-1α and β-Catenin were determined via qRT-PCR and western blotting. The expressions of proliferation-related proteins, invasion-related proteins, and apoptosis-related proteins were detected by western blotting. In addition, a xenograft non-small cell lung cancer model in nude mice was used to explore in vivo tumor growth. RESULTS We found that simvastatin combined with bevacizumab synergistically suppressed the proliferation, migration, and invasion of A549 cells while promoting their apoptosis. As demonstrated by qRT-PCR and western blotting experiments, the bevacizumab group displayed a higher expression of pathway-related factors HIF-1α and β-Catenin than the control groups, however simvastatin group showed the opposite trend. Its combination with bevacizumab induced elevation of HIF-1α and β-catenin expressions. During in vivo experiments, simvastatin inhibited tumor growth, and in comparison, the inhibitory effects of its combination with bevacizumab were stronger. CONCLUSION Based on our findings, simvastatin may affect the biological responses of bevacizumab on A549 cells by restraining the HIF-1α-Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway, thus representing a novel and effective combination therapy that can be potentially applied in a clinical therapy for lung adenocarcinoma.
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Mei D, Sun M, Liu S, Zhang P, Fang Z, Tu X. Plasma-enabled catalytic dry reforming of CH4 into syngas, hydrocarbons and oxygenates: Insight into the active metals of γ-Al2O3 supported catalysts. J CO2 UTIL 2023. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jcou.2022.102307] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
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Franz C, Tu X, Qin Y, Elman J, Fennema-Notestine C, DeAnda J, Wu TC, Kremen W. COGNITIVE EFFECTS OF PM2.5 EXPOSURE FROM MID-LIFE TO EARLY OLD AGE. Innov Aging 2022. [PMCID: PMC9766483 DOI: 10.1093/geroni/igac059.2297] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Air pollution exposure is a notable public health hazard with adverse effects on multiple health outcomes as well as with increased risk of developing cognitive impairment, Alzheimer’s disease, and related dementias. Few studies examine associations between air pollution exposure in midlife or the transition from midlife to old age. We examined associations between exposure in midlife and cognitive functioning in early old age in ~800 men from the Vietnam Era Twin Study of Aging. Measures included PM2.5 and NO2 exposure in the three years prior to the time 1 (mean age 56; range 51-61) assessment, and cognitive performance in 5 domains at time 1 and time 2 (mean age 68; range 65-72). Analyses adjusted for multiple health and lifestyle covariates. Cognitive performance in all domains was worse at age 68 than at age 56. There was a main effect of midlife PM2.5 on verbal fluency; greater PM2.5 exposure was associated with worse fluency. This association was at a trend level for NO2. In addition, we found significant PM2.5-by-APOE genotype interactions. Increased exposure to PM2.5 in midlife was related to lower executive function and working memory performance in APOE-ε4 carriers, but not non-carriers. Both early executive deficits and APOE-ε4 status have been associated with increased risk for progression to mild cognitive impairment and Alzheimer’s disease. The present results indicate that midlife PM2.5 exposure in men is an additional factor contributing to poorer frontal-executive function, and that APOEε4 carriers are more susceptible to the deleterious effects of PM2.5.
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Yang Y, Wang S, Tu X, Hu Z, Zhu Y, Guo H, Li Z, Zhang L, Peng M, Jia L, Yang M, Yang G, Qiao X, Sun J, Liang X, Zhang Z, Zhu Y, Shi L, Jiang C, Zhao Y, Li J, Shao Z, Zhang X, Sun Y. Atomic cerium modulated palladium nanoclusters exsolved ferrite catalysts for lean methane conversion. EXPLORATION (BEIJING, CHINA) 2022; 2:20220060. [PMID: 37324800 PMCID: PMC10190994 DOI: 10.1002/exp.20220060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2022] [Accepted: 05/31/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
The active and stable palladium (Pd) based catalysts for CH4 conversion are of great environmental and industrial significance. Herein, we employed N2 as an optimal activation agent to develop a Pd nanocluster exsolved Ce-incorporated perovskite ferrite catalyst toward lean methane oxidation. Replacing the traditional initiator of H2, the N2 was found as an effective driving force to selectively touch off the surface exsolution of Pd nanocluster from perovskite framework without deteriorating the overall material robustness. The catalyst showed an outstanding T50 (temperature of 50% conversion) plummeting down to 350°C, outperforming the pristine and H2-activated counterparts. Further, the combined theoretical and experimental results also deciphered the crucial role that the atomically dispersed Ce ions played in both construction of active sites and CH4 conversion. The isolated Ce located at the A-site of perovskite framework facilitated the thermodynamic and kinetics of the Pd exsolution process, lowering its formation temperature and promoting its quantity. Moreover, the incorporation of Ce lowered the energy barrier for cleavage of C─H bond, and was dedicated to the preservation of highly reactive PdOx moieties during stability measurement. This work successfully ventures uncharted territory of in situ exsolution to provide a new design thinking for a highly performed catalytic interface.
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Van Orden KA, Conwell Y, Chapman BP, Buttaccio A, VanBergen A, Beckwith E, Santee A, Rowe J, Palumbos D, Williams G, Messing S, Sörensen S, Tu X. The helping older people engage (HOPE) study: Protocol & COVID modifications for a randomized trial. Contemp Clin Trials Commun 2022; 30:101040. [PMID: 36479062 PMCID: PMC9720528 DOI: 10.1016/j.conctc.2022.101040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2022] [Revised: 10/31/2022] [Accepted: 11/27/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Objectives Evidence-based strategies to reduce loneliness in later life are needed because loneliness impacts all domains of health, functioning, and quality of life. Volunteering is a promising strategy, as a large literature of observational studies documents associations between volunteering and better health and well-being. However, relatively few studies have used randomized controlled trials (RCTs) to examine benefits of volunteering, and none have examined loneliness. The primary objective of the Helping Older People Engage (HOPE) study is to examine the social-emotional benefits of a social volunteering program for lonely older adults. This manuscript describes the rationale and design of the trial. Methods We are randomly assigning adults aged 60 or older (up to 300) who report loneliness to 12 months of either AmeriCorps Seniors volunteering program or an active control (self-guided life review). Co-primary outcomes are assessed via self-report-loneliness (UCLA Loneliness Scale) and quality of life (WHOQOL-Bref). Enrollment was completed in May 2022 and follow-up assessments will continue through May 2023, with completion of primary outcomes soon thereafter. Conclusions Since older adults who report loneliness are less likely to actively seek out volunteering opportunities, if results support efficacy of volunteering for reducing loneliness, dissemination and scaling up efforts may involve connecting primary care patients who are lonely with AmeriCorps Seniors through aging services agencies.This RCT is registered at clinicaltrials.gov (NCT03343483).
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Guo Y, Zhang H, Li L, Chen M, Jia Z, Tu X. The compliance of digital exercise with smart tools in subjects with cardiac arrythmias. Eur Heart J 2022. [DOI: 10.1093/eurheartj/ehac544.2448] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Background
The exercise has well-documented health benefits on cardiovascular disease, and the use of mobile health (mHealth) may promote physical activity to reduce the risk.
Objective
The present study aimed to investigate the compliance of exercise dose and pattern through wearables and mHealth in subjects with cardiac arrhythmia in a real-world setting.
Method
The photoplethysmography (PPG)-algorithms with wearables to detect the ectopic and AF have been developed in the HUAWE HEART STUDY. Using the PPG-based smart devices, the adult subjects with identified arrhythmia received the personalized App-based lifestyle and exercise package was proposed. The V̇O2 peak (mL kg–1 min–1)was estimated from a non-exercise prediction model. The metabolic equivalent (MET)/week and Borg scale were utilized for the assessment of intensity of exercise. All subjects followed up for 3 months for the compliance to the exercise package.
Results
There were 7419 subjects (mean age ± standard deviation, SD, 35±12 years old, 92.1% male) who identified with the arrhythmia between April 1, 2021 and Dec 31, 2021. Among them, there were 165 subjects with identified AF, and 5277 subjects with the ectopic. The obstructive sleep apnea was the most reported risk profile (2643, 35.6%), while 1326 (17.9%) subjects were overweight.
Upon the baseline assessment, the personalized exercise package for cardiovascular disease prevention were proposed for 2864 subjects, exercise package to control the weight for 2510 subjects, and exercise package to reduce the weight for 1886 subjects.
Among 6366 subjects who took the exercise packages, 1867 (29.3%) subjects achieved target exercise, 395 (6.2%) subjects over target exercise, and 4104 (64.5%) under target exercise. The V̇O2 peak (mL kg–1 min–1, SD)in subjects who achieved the target exercise package, under target exercise, and over target exercise were (47.36±5.12, 32.14±22.47, and 65.99±10.38, p<0.001).
For subjects who achieved target exercise, the intensity of exercise was as follows: 0.4% with low-intensity exercise, 95.8% with moderate-intensity exercise, and 3.7% with high-intensity exercise. Nonetheless, there were 37.7% of low-intensity, 60.6% of moderate-intensity exercise, and 1.7% with high-intensity exercise in subjects who didn't achieve exercise target.
77.9% subjects under target exercise had less than 1/week of physical activity, while there was only 12.9% in subjects with target exercise (p<0.001).
Compared to randomly selected 8000 subjects (mean age ± SD, 39±13 years, 80.8% male) without exercise package, the proportion of steps/day over 10000 of 20% was significantly increased in subjects (37±13 years, 91.3% male) receiving the personalized App-based exercise package (31.2%, vs. 12.2%, p<0.001).
Conclusion
The wearables facilitated the improvement of physical activity habit in subjects with cardiac arrhythmia, but subjects-centered self-management would be enhanced to the target exercise.
Funding Acknowledgement
Type of funding sources: Public grant(s) – National budget only. Main funding source(s): National Natural Science Foundation of China
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Ajmera V, Kim BK, Yang K, Majzoub AM, Nayfeh T, Tamaki N, Izumi N, Nakajima A, Idilman R, Gumussoy M, Oz DK, Erden A, Quach NE, Tu X, Zhang X, Noureddin M, Allen AM, Loomba R. Liver Stiffness on Magnetic Resonance Elastography and the MEFIB Index and Liver-Related Outcomes in Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Individual Participants. Gastroenterology 2022; 163:1079-1089.e5. [PMID: 35788349 PMCID: PMC9509452 DOI: 10.1053/j.gastro.2022.06.073] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2022] [Revised: 06/01/2022] [Accepted: 06/27/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS Magnetic resonance elastography (MRE) is an accurate biomarker of liver fibrosis; however, limited data characterize its association with clinical outcomes. We conducted an individual participant data pooled meta-analysis on patients with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease to evaluate the association between liver stiffness on MRE and liver-related outcomes. METHODS A systematic search identified 6 cohorts of adults with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease who underwent a baseline MRE and were followed for hepatic decompensation, hepatocellular carcinoma, and death. Cox and logistic regression were used to assess the association between liver stiffness on MRE and liver-related outcomes, including a composite primary outcome defined as varices needing treatment, ascites, and hepatic encephalopathy. RESULTS This individual participant data pooled meta-analysis included 2018 patients (53% women) with a mean (± standard deviation) age of 57.8 (±14) years and MRE at baseline of 4.15 (±2.19) kPa, respectively. Among 1707 patients with available longitudinal data with a median (interquartile range) of 3 (4.2) years of follow-up, the hazard ratio for the primary outcome for MRE of 5 to 8 kPa was 11.0 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 7.03-17.1, P < .001) and for ≥ 8 kPa was 15.9 (95% CI: 9.32-27.2, P < .001), compared with those with MRE <5 kPa. The MEFIB index (defined as positive when MRE ≥3.3 kPa and Fibrosis-4 ≥1.6) had a robust association with the primary outcome with a hazard ratio of 20.6 (95% CI: 10.4-40.8, P < .001) and a negative MEFIB had a high negative predictive value for the primary outcome, 99.1% at 5 years. The 3-year risk of incident hepatocellular carcinoma was 0.35% for MRE <5 kPa, 5.25% for 5 to 8 kPa, and 5.66% for MRE ≥8 kPa, respectively. CONCLUSION Liver stiffness assessed by MRE is associated with liver-related events, and the combination of MRE and Fibrosis-4 has excellent negative predictive value for hepatic decompensation. These data have important implications for clinical practice.
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Sun Y, Wu J, Wang Y, Li J, Wang N, Harding J, Mo S, Chen L, Chen P, Fu M, Ye D, Huang J, Tu X. Plasma-Catalytic CO 2 Hydrogenation over a Pd/ZnO Catalyst: In Situ Probing of Gas-Phase and Surface Reactions. JACS AU 2022; 2:1800-1810. [PMID: 36032530 PMCID: PMC9400056 DOI: 10.1021/jacsau.2c00028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/26/2023]
Abstract
Plasma-catalytic CO2 hydrogenation is a complex chemical process combining plasma-assisted gas-phase and surface reactions. Herein, we investigated CO2 hydrogenation over Pd/ZnO and ZnO in a tubular dielectric barrier discharge (DBD) reactor at ambient pressure. Compared to the CO2 hydrogenation using Plasma Only or Plasma + ZnO, placing Pd/ZnO in the DBD almost doubled the conversion of CO2 (36.7%) and CO yield (35.5%). The reaction pathways in the plasma-enhanced catalytic hydrogenation of CO2 were investigated by in situ Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy using a novel integrated in situ DBD/FTIR gas cell reactor, combined with online mass spectrometry (MS) analysis, kinetic analysis, and emission spectroscopic measurements. In plasma CO2 hydrogenation over Pd/ZnO, the hydrogenation of adsorbed surface CO2 on Pd/ZnO is the dominant reaction route for the enhanced CO2 conversion, which can be ascribed to the generation of a ZnO x overlay as a result of the strong metal-support interactions (SMSI) at the Pd-ZnO interface and the presence of abundant H species at the surface of Pd/ZnO; however, this important surface reaction can be limited in the Plasma + ZnO system due to a lack of active H species present on the ZnO surface and the absence of the SMSI. Instead, CO2 splitting to CO, both in the plasma gas phase and on the surface of ZnO, is believed to make an important contribution to the conversion of CO2 in the Plasma + ZnO system.
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Ye Z, Zhao L, Nikiforov A, Giraudon JM, Chen Y, Wang J, Tu X. A review of the advances in catalyst modification using nonthermal plasma: Process, Mechanism and Applications. Adv Colloid Interface Sci 2022; 308:102755. [PMID: 36030562 DOI: 10.1016/j.cis.2022.102755] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2022] [Revised: 05/05/2022] [Accepted: 08/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
With the continuous development of catalytic processes in chemistry, biology, organic synthesis, energy generation and many other fields, the design of catalysts with novel properties has become a new paradigm in both science and industry. Nonthermal plasma has aroused extensive interest in the synthesis and modification of catalysts. An increasing number of researchers are using plasma for the modification of target catalysts, such as modifying the dispersion of active sites, regulating electronic properties, enhancing metal-support interactions, and changing the morphology. Plasma provides an alternative choice for catalysts in the modification process of oxidation, reduction, etching, coating, and doping and is especially helpful for unfavourable thermodynamic processes or heat-sensitive reactions. This review focuses on the following points: (i) the fundamentals behind the nonthermal plasma modification of catalysts; (ii) the latest research progress on the application of plasma modified catalysts; and (iii) main challenges in the field and a vision for future development.
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Mei D, Zhang P, Duan G, Liu S, Zhou Y, Fang Z, Tu X. CH4 reforming with CO2 using a nanosecond pulsed dielectric barrier discharge plasma. J CO2 UTIL 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jcou.2022.102073] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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Fang C, Wang P, Yu D, Zhang X, Gou D, Liang L, Bai X, Xie W, Li H, Pu J, Yao Y, Wang B, Ren X, Ke T, Tu X, Xu C, Wang QK. Genome-Wide Association Study for Idiopathic Ventricular Tachyarrhythmias Identifies Key Role of
CCR7
and
PKN2
in Calcium Homeostasis and Cardiac Rhythm Maintenance. Circ Genom Precis Med 2022; 15:e003603. [DOI: 10.1161/circgen.121.003603] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND:
Idiopathic ventricular tachycardia (VT) occurs in structurally normal hearts and accounts for a significant number of all types of VT. The genome-wide association study is the most effective strategy for identifying novel genetic variants for common diseases. However, no genome-wide association study has been reported for idiopathic VT.
METHODS:
We conducted the first genome-wide association study for idiopathic VT in the Chinese Han population using a discovery population with 246 cases and 648 controls and a replication population with 222 cases and >4072 controls. Candidate VT genes were functionally characterized in zebrafish. Real-time RT-PCR analysis was used to determine the effects of candidate genes on expression of ion channels and regulators. Patch-clamping was used to record L-type calcium current from neonatal rat cardiomyocytes with overexpression of candidate genes.
RESULTS:
We identified 4 significant loci represented by rs78960694 (minor allele frequency [MAF]=5.02% in cases and 1.84% in controls;
P
=4.30×10
−
12, odds ratio [OR]=3.91) and rs2229095 (MAF=3.25% in cases and 1.63% in controls;
P
=1.02×10
−
7, OR=3.44) near and in
CCR7
, respectively, rs68126098 in
NELL1
(MAF=40.98% in cases and 32.07% in controls;
P=
2.40×10
−
8, OR=1.53), rs2390325 between
PKN2
and
LMO4
(MAF=21.19% in cases and 15.12% in controls;
P
=1.92×10
−
7, OR=1.62), and rs270065 in
CSMD1
(MAF=33.63% in cases and 40.25% in controls;
P
=9.51×10
−
7, OR=0.69). Note that the associations of idiopathic VT for
CCR7
variant rs78960694 and
NELL1
variant rs68126098 reach genome-wide significance (
P
<5.00×10
−
8). Overexpression of either
PKN2
or
CCR7
increased the heart rate in zebrafish, and enhanced expression of
CACNA1C
,
RYR2
, or
NOS1AP
in zebrafish embryos, HEK293, and AC16 cardiomyocytes. Overexpression of either
PKN2
or
CCR7
significantly increased L-type Ca2+ current density.
CONCLUSIONS:
The first genome-wide association study identifies 4 novel loci and 2 risk genes (
PKN2
and
CCR7
) for idiopathic VT. These findings identify new molecular determinants for cardiac calcium homeostasis and rhythm maintenance and provide novel targets for diagnosis and treatment for idiopathic VT.
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Yang Y, Zhang L, Guo H, Ding Z, Wang W, Li J, Zhou L, Tu X, Qiu Y, Chen G, Sun Y. Keys Unlocking Redispersion of Reactive PdO x Nanoclusters on Ce-Functionalized Perovskite Oxides for Methane Activation. ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES 2022; 14:30704-30713. [PMID: 35763553 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.2c04442] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Nowadays, trace CH4 emitted from vehicle exhausts severely threaten the balance of the ecology system of our earth. Thereby, the development of active and stable catalysts capable of methane conversion under mild conditions is critical. Here, we present a convenient method to redisperse catalytically inert PdO nanoparticles (NPs) (>10 nm) into reactive PdOx nanoclusters (∼2 nm) anchored on a Ce-doped LaFeO3 parent. Isothermally activated in an N2 flow, the redispersed catalyst achieved a CH4 conversion of 90% at 400 °C, which is significantly higher than the fresh and H2- and O2-treated counterparts (625, 616, and 641 °C, respectively), indicating the importance of the gas atmosphere in the redispersion of PdO NPs. In addition, the comprehensive catalyst characterizations demonstrated that the isolated Ce ions in the perovskite lattice play an irreplaceable role in the redispersion of reactive sites and the reduction of the energy barrier for C-H scission. More importantly, the Ce additive helps to stabilize the PdOx species by reducing overoxidation, resulting in significant lifetime extension. Through a thorough understanding of structural manipulation, this study sheds light on the design of highly performing supported catalysts for methane oxidation.
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Mei D, Liu S, Yanik J, Lopez G, Olazar M, Fang Z, Tu X. Plasma-Catalytic Reforming of Naphthalene and Toluene as Biomass Tar over Honeycomb Catalysts in a Gliding Arc Reactor. ACS SUSTAINABLE CHEMISTRY & ENGINEERING 2022; 10:8958-8969. [PMID: 35846799 PMCID: PMC9277663 DOI: 10.1021/acssuschemeng.2c02495] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/13/2023]
Abstract
Biomass gasification is a promising and sustainable process to produce renewable and CO2-neutral syngas (H2 and CO). However, the contamination of syngas with tar is one of the major challenges to limit the deployment of biomass gasification on a commercial scale. Here, we propose a hybrid plasma-catalytic system for steam reforming of tar compounds over honeycomb-based catalysts in a gliding arc discharge (GAD) reactor. The reaction performances were evaluated using the blank substrate and coated catalytic materials (γ-Al2O3 and Ni/γ-Al2O3). Compared with the plasma alone process, introducing the honeycomb materials in GAD prolonged the residence time of reactant molecules for collision with plasma reactive species to promote their conversions. The presence of Ni/γ-Al2O3 gave the best performance with the high conversion of toluene (86.3%) and naphthalene (75.5%) and yield of H2 (35.0%) and CO (49.1%), while greatly inhibiting the formation of byproducts. The corresponding highest overall energy efficiency of 50.9 g/kWh was achieved, which was 35.4% higher than that in the plasma alone process. Characterization of the used catalyst and long-term running indicated that the honeycomb material coated with Ni/γ-Al2O3 had strong carbon resistance and excellent stability. The superior catalytic performance of Ni/γ-Al2O3 can be mainly ascribed to the large specific surface area and the in situ reduction of nickel oxide species in the reaction process, which promoted the interaction between plasma reactive species and catalysts and generated the plasma-catalysis synergy.
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Ding W, Xia M, Shen C, Wang Y, Zhang Z, Tu X, Liu CJ. Enhanced CO2 conversion by frosted dielectric surface with ZrO2 coating in a dielectric barrier discharge reactor. J CO2 UTIL 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jcou.2022.102045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
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Wang Y, Yang W, Xu S, Zhao S, Chen G, Weidenkaff A, Hardacre C, Fan X, Huang J, Tu X. Shielding Protection by Mesoporous Catalysts for Improving Plasma-Catalytic Ambient Ammonia Synthesis. J Am Chem Soc 2022; 144:12020-12031. [PMID: 35731953 PMCID: PMC9284550 DOI: 10.1021/jacs.2c01950] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
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Plasma catalysis
is a promising technology for decentralized small-scale
ammonia (NH3) synthesis under mild conditions using renewable
energy, and it shows great potential as an alternative to the conventional
Haber–Bosch process. To date, this emerging process still suffers
from a low NH3 yield due to a lack of knowledge in the
design of highly efficient catalysts and the in situ plasma-induced
reverse reaction (i.e., NH3 decomposition). Here, we demonstrate
that a bespoke design of supported Ni catalysts using mesoporous MCM-41
could enable efficient plasma-catalytic NH3 production
at 35 °C and 1 bar with >5% NH3 yield at 60 kJ/L.
Specifically, the Ni active sites were deliberately deposited on the
external surface of MCM-41 to enhance plasma–catalyst interactions
and thus NH3 production. The desorbed NH3 could
then diffuse into the ordered mesopores of MCM-41 to be shielded from
decomposition due to the absence of plasma discharge in the mesopores
of MCM-41, that is, “shielding protection”, thus driving
the reaction forward effectively. This promising strategy sheds light
on the importance of a rational design of catalysts specifically for
improving plasma-catalytic processes.
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Wang M, Tu X. The Genetics and Epigenetics of Ventricular Arrhythmias in Patients Without Structural Heart Disease. Front Cardiovasc Med 2022; 9:891399. [PMID: 35783865 PMCID: PMC9240357 DOI: 10.3389/fcvm.2022.891399] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2022] [Accepted: 05/25/2022] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Ventricular arrhythmia without structural heart disease is an arrhythmic disorder that occurs in structurally normal heart and no transient or reversible arrhythmia factors, such as electrolyte disorders and myocardial ischemia. Ventricular arrhythmias without structural heart disease can be induced by multiple factors, including genetics and environment, which involve different genetic and epigenetic regulation. Familial genetic analysis reveals that cardiac ion-channel disorder and dysfunctional calcium handling are two major causes of this type of heart disease. Genome-wide association studies have identified some genetic susceptibility loci associated with ventricular tachycardia and ventricular fibrillation, yet relatively few loci associated with no structural heart disease. The effects of epigenetics on the ventricular arrhythmias susceptibility genes, involving non-coding RNAs, DNA methylation and other regulatory mechanisms, are gradually being revealed. This article aims to review the knowledge of ventricular arrhythmia without structural heart disease in genetics, and summarizes the current state of epigenetic regulation.
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Xia K, Wang F, Lai X, Luo P, Chen H, Ma Y, Huang W, Ou W, Li Y, Feng X, Lei Z, Tu X, Ke Q, Mao F, Deng C, Xiang A. Gene Editing/Gene Therapies: AAV-MEDIATED GENE THERAPY PRODUCES FERTILE OFFSPRING IN THE LHCGR-DEFICIENT MOUSE MODEL OF LEYDIG CELL FAILURE. Cytotherapy 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/s1465-3249(22)00156-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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Skomal AE, Zhang J, Yang K, Yen J, Tu X, Suarez-Torres J, Lopez-Paredes D, Calafat AM, Ospina M, Martinez D, Suarez-Lopez JR. Concurrent urinary organophosphate metabolites and acetylcholinesterase activity in Ecuadorian adolescents. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2022; 207:112163. [PMID: 34627797 PMCID: PMC9138777 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2021.112163] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2021] [Revised: 09/28/2021] [Accepted: 09/29/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Organophosphates are insecticides that inhibit the enzymatic activity of acetylcholinesterase (AChE). Because of this, AChE is considered a physiological marker of organophosphate exposure in agricultural settings. However, limited research exists on the associations between urinary organophosphate metabolites and AChE activity in children. METHODS This study included 526 participants from 2 exams (April and July-October 2016) of ages 12-17 years living in agricultural communities in Ecuador. AChE activity was measured at both examinations, and organophosphate metabolites, including para-nitrophenol (PNP), 3,5,6-trichloro-2-pyridinol (TCPy), and malathion dicarboxylic acid (MDA) were measured in urine collected in July-October. We used generalized estimating equation generalized linear model (GEEGLM), adjusting for hemoglobin, creatinine, and other demographic and anthropometric covariates, to estimate associations of urinary metabolite concentrations with AChE activity (July-October) and AChE% change between April and July-October. RESULTS The mean (SD) of AChE and AChE% change (April vs July-October) were 3.67 U/mL (0.54) and -2.5% (15.4%), respectively. AChE activity was inversely associated with PNP concentration, whereas AChE% change was inversely associated with PNP and MDA. There was evidence of a threshold: difference was only significant above the 80th percentile of PNP concentration (AChE difference per SD increase of metabolite = -0.12 U/mL [95%CI: 0.20, -0.04]). Likewise, associations with AChE% change were significant only above the 80th percentile of TCPy (AChE % change per SD increase of metabolite = -1.38% [95%CI: 2.43%, -0.32%]) and PNP -2.47% [95%CI: 4.45%, -0.50%]). PNP concentration at ≥80th percentile was associated with elevated ORs for low AChE activity of 2.9 (95% CI: 1.5, 5.7) and for AChE inhibition of ≤ -10% of 3.7 (95% CI: 1.4, 9.8). CONCLUSIONS Urinary organophosphate metabolites, including PNP, TCPy and MDA, particularly at concentrations above the 80th percentile, were associated with lower AChE activity among adolescents. These findings bring attention to the value of using multiple constructs of pesticide exposure in epidemiologic studies.
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Zhou Y, Zhao Y, Zha L, Zhou M, Wang M, Cheng X, Huang Z, Liu M, Ke T, Tu X. KCNMA1 promotes obesity-related hypertension: integrated analysis based on Genome-wide Association Studies. Genes Dis 2022; 10:58-61. [PMID: 37013043 PMCID: PMC10066329 DOI: 10.1016/j.gendis.2022.04.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2021] [Revised: 03/30/2022] [Accepted: 04/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
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Zhou Y, Zha L, Wu J, Wang M, Zhou M, Wu G, Cheng X, Huang Z, Xie Q, Tu X. MED12 Regulates Smooth Muscle Cell Functions and Participates in the Development of Aortic Dissection. Genes (Basel) 2022; 13:genes13040692. [PMID: 35456498 PMCID: PMC9027749 DOI: 10.3390/genes13040692] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2021] [Revised: 04/12/2022] [Accepted: 04/12/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Aortic dissection (AD) is a life-threatening disease with high morbidity and mortality, and effective pharmacotherapeutic remedies for it are lacking. Therefore, AD’s molecular pathogenesis and etiology must be elucidated. The aim of this study was to investigate the possible mechanism of mediator complex subunit 12 (human: MED12, mouse: Med12)involvement in AD. Firstly, we examined the expression of MED12 protein (human: MED12, mouse: Med12) in the aortic tissues of AD patients and AD mice. Subsequently, Med12 gene silencing was accomplished with RNA interference (siRNA). The effects of Med12 on AD and the possible biological mechanisms were investigated based on the proliferation, senescence, phenotypic transformation, and its involved signal pathway of mouse aortic smooth muscle cells (MOVAS), s. The results show that the expression of MED12 in the aortae of AD patients and AD mice was decreased. Moreover, the downregulation of Med12 inhibited the proliferation of MOVAS and promoted senescence. Further research found that Med12, as an inhibitor of the TGFβ1 signaling pathway, reduced the expression of Med12 and enhanced the activity of the TGFβ1 nonclassical signaling pathway, while TGFβ1 inhibited the phenotype transformation and proliferation of MOVAS by inhibiting Med12 synthesis. In conclusion, Med12 affected the phenotype, proliferation, and senescence of MOVAS through the TGFβ signaling pathway. This study provides a potential new target for the prevention and treatment of AD.
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Song C, Chen Z, Zheng X, Yang S, Duan X, Jiang Y, Tu X, Gan J, Jiang S. Growth Characteristic Analysis of Haematococcus pluvialis in a Microfluidic Chip Using Digital in-Line Holographic Flow Cytometry. Anal Chem 2022; 94:5769-5775. [PMID: 35384647 DOI: 10.1021/acs.analchem.1c04732] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
In order to obtain high yield of astaxanthin, a high-value compound with ultrastrong antioxidant capacity, it is necessary to identify the growth characteristics (biomass, morphology, and size) of Haematococcus pluvialis. The current detection methods have the disadvantages of labor-consuming operation or complicated measurement system. It is an urgent need to explore a simple and cost-effective method for the detection of H. pluvialis with large size distribution during its growth period. In this work, a digital in-line holographic flow cytometry using a linear array sensor is proposed to measure the growth characteristics of H. pluvialis in a two-dimensional (2-D) hydrodynamic focusing microfluidic chip. Based on the modified angular spectrum method, the distorting holograms caused by the asynchrony of sample flow velocity and acquisition speed of the linear array sensor were rectified and reconstructed. In addition, the depth-of-focus of the imaging system were digitally extended to cover the entire depth of the microfluidic channel for optimized imaging quality. We have utilized the proposed method to statistically investigate the biomass, morphology and size of H. pluvialis under different culture conditions and growth durations.
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Li W, Liu B, Liu D, Guo P, Liu J, Wang R, Guo Y, Tu X, Pan H, Sun D, Fang F, Wu R. Alloying Co Species into Ordered and Interconnected Macroporous Carbon Polyhedra for Efficient Oxygen Reduction Reaction in Rechargeable Zinc-Air Batteries. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2022; 34:e2109605. [PMID: 35233852 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202109605] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2021] [Revised: 02/25/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Engineering non-precious transition metal (TM)-based electrocatalysts to simultaneously achieve an optimal intrinsic activity, high density of active sites, and rapid mass transfer ability for the oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) remains a significant challenge. To address this challenge, a hybrid composite consisting of Fex Co alloy nanoparticles uniformly implanted into hierarchically ordered macro-/meso-/microporous N-doped carbon polyhedra (HOMNCP) is rationally designed. The combined results of experimental and theoretical investigations indicate that the alloying of Co enables a favorable electronic structure for the formation of the *OH intermediate, while the periodically trimodal-porous structured carbon matrix structure not only provides highly accessible channels for active site utilization but also dramatically facilitates mass transfer in the catalytic process. As expected, the Fe0.5 Co@HOMNCP composite catalyst exhibits extraordinary ORR activity with a half-wave potential of 0.903 V (vs reversible hydrogen electrode), surpassing most Co-based catalysts reported to date. More remarkably, the use of the Fe0.5 Co@HOMNCP catalyst as the air electrode in a zinc-air battery results in superior open-circuit voltage and power density compared to a commercial Pt/C + IrO2 catalyst. The results of this study are expected to inspire the development of advanced TM-based catalysts for energy storage and conversion applications.
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