Search Results (6,174)

Root exudates are critical signaling molecules in belowground plant–plant interactions, regulating physiological and ecological responses in adjacent plants through kinship recognition and self-/non-self-discrimination systems. This review systematically synthesizes the compositional diversity of root exudates, with particular emphasis on elucidating the ecological foundations of plant recognition modalities (kin recognition, allelopathy, plant self-/non-self-identification, and growth regulation). The analyses demonstrate that exudate composition is dynamically modulated by plant species identity, rhizosphere microbial communities, and environmental stressors, with signaling functions mediated through both physical signal transduction and chemical signal decoding. This chemical communication system not only drives species-specific interaction strategies but redefines the theoretical frameworks of plant community assembly by establishing causal linkages between molecular signaling events and ecological outcomes. Full article

Cell-mediated extracellular matrix (ECM) self-assembly provides a biologically relevant approach for developing near-physiological tissue-engineered constructs by utilizing stromal cells to secrete and assemble ECM components in the presence of ascorbic acid. Despite its unique advantages, this method often results in scaffolds with limited mechanical properties, depending on the cell type. This research aimed to enhance the mechanical properties of these constructs by culturing cells derived from various sources, including skin, bladder, urethra, vagina, and adipose tissue, on electrospun scaffolds composed of polycaprolactone and collagen (PCLCOL). The hybrid scaffolds were evaluated using various in vitro assays to assess their structural and functional properties. Results showed that different stromal cells could deposit ECM on the PCLCOL with distinct composition compared to the ECM that was self-assembled on tissue culture plates (TCP). Additionally, cells cultured on PCLCOL exhibited a different growth factor secretion profile compared to those on TCP. Mechanical testing demonstrated that the hybrid scaffolds exhibited high mechanical properties and superior manipulability. These findings suggest that PCLCOL could be a promising platform for developing biomimetic scaffolds that combine enhanced mechanical strength with integrated biological cues for tissue repair. Full article

This study focuses on the preparation of poly(HCQM-co-VP) copolymeric nanoparticles (NPs) to enhance the aqueous solubility and bioavailability of the hydrophobic and antitumor molecules HCQ (hydroxychloroquine) and α-TOS (α-tocopheryl succinate). HCQ is covalently incorporated into the polymer backbone, while α-TOS is encapsulated within the nanoparticles by non-covalent interactions. Poly(HCQM-co-VP) was synthesized from a vinyl derivative of HCQ (HCQM) and N-vinylpyrrolidone (VP), with a molar composition of 17% HCQM and 83% VP, providing the optimal hydrophobic/hydrophilic balance for forming, via nanoprecipitation, empty nanoparticles (NPs) with a diameter of 123.6 nm and a zeta potential of −5.8 mV. These nanoparticles effectively encapsulated α-TOS within their hydrophobic core, achieving an encapsulation efficiency (%EE) of 78%. These α-TOS-loaded NPs resulted in smaller diameters and more negative zeta potentials (71 nm, −19.2 mV) compared to the non-loaded NPs. The cytotoxicity of these NPs was evaluated using the AlamarBlue assay on MCF-7 breast cancer cells. The empty NPs showed no toxic effects within the tested concentration range, after 72 h of treatment. In contrast, the α-TOS-loaded NPs, exhibited a pronounced cytotoxic effect on MCF-7 cells with an IC₅₀ value of 100.2 μg·mL⁻¹, thereby demonstrating their potential as controlled drug delivery systems for cancer treatment. These findings contribute to the development of a new HCQ-based polymeric nanocarrier for α-TOS or other hydrophobic drugs for the treatment of cancer and other diseases treatable with these drugs. Full article

β-Hydroxy-β-methylbutyrate (HMB), a natural metabolite derived from the essential amino acid leucine, is primarily recognised for its anabolic and anti-catabolic effects on skeletal muscle tissue. Recent studies indicate that HMB may also play a role in influencing the structural organisation of extracellular matrix (ECM) components, particularly collagen, which is crucial for maintaining the mechanical integrity of connective tissues. In this investigation, bovine type I collagen was polymerised in the presence of two concentrations of HMB (0.025 M and 0.25 M) to explore its potential function as a molecular modulator of fibrillogenesis. The morphology of the resulting collagen fibres and their molecular architecture were examined using atomic force microscopy (AFM) and Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy. The findings demonstrated that lower levels of HMB facilitated the formation of more regular and well-organised fibrillar structures, exhibiting increased D-band periodicity and enhanced stabilisation of the native collagen triple helix, as indicated by Amide I and III band profiles. Conversely, higher concentrations of HMB led to significant disruption of fibril morphology and alterations in secondary structure, suggesting that HMB interferes with the self-assembly of collagen monomers. These structural changes are consistent with a non-covalent influence on interchain interactions and fibril organisation, to which hydrogen bonding and short-range electrostatics may contribute. Collectively, the results highlight the potential of HMB as a small-molecule regulator for soft-tissue matrix engineering, extending its consideration beyond metabolic supplementation towards controllable, materials-oriented modulation of ECM structure. Full article

Timber structures and structural members have undergone rapid development in recent decades and are now fully competitive with traditional structures made of reinforced concrete or structural steel in many areas. Low self-weight, high durability, rapid construction assembly, and a favourable environmental footprint predispose timber structures for wider future use. A persisting drawback is the often-complicated joining of individual elements, especially when moment resistance is required. For CLT panels, this issue is more urgent due to their relatively small thickness and cross-laminated lay-up. This paper presents experimental research investigating parameters related to the actual behaviour of a moment-resisting embedded joint of CLT panels. The test programme consisted of four series (12 specimens) loaded in four-point bending to failure. The proposed and tested joint consists of high-strength steel rods glued into the two connected parts of the CLT panel. In addition to a detailed investigation of the resistance and stiffness of the joint, this research evaluates the effect of composite action with a reinforced-concrete slab on the performance of this type of joint. The experimental results and their detailed analysis are also extended to propose a framework concept for creating a theoretical (mechanical) model based on the component method. Full article

The global transition to a circular bioeconomy is accelerating the demand for sustainable, high-performance materials. Filamentous fungi represent a promising solution, as they function as living foundries that transform low-value biomass into advanced, self-assembling materials. While mycelium-based composites have proven potential, progress has been predominantly driven by empirical screening of fungal species and substrates. To unlock their full potential, a paradigm shift from empirical screening to rational design is required. This review introduces a conceptual framework centered on the biochemical programming of the fungal cell wall. Viewed through a materials science lens, the cell wall is a dynamic, hierarchical nanocomposite whose properties can be deliberately tuned. We analyze the contributions of its principal components—the chitin–glucan structural scaffold, the glycoprotein functional matrix, and surface-active hydrophobins—to the bulk characteristics of mycelium-derived materials. We then identify biochemical levers for controlling these properties. External factors such as substrate composition and environmental cues (e.g., pH) modulate cell wall architecture through conserved signaling pathways. Complementing these, an internal synthetic biology toolkit enables direct genetic and chemical intervention. Strategies include targeted engineering of biosynthetic and regulatory genes (e.g., CHS, AGS, GCN5), chemical genetics to dynamically adjust synthesis during growth, and modification of surface chemistry for specialized applications like tissue engineering. By integrating fungal cell wall biochemistry, materials science, and synthetic biology, this framework moves the field from incidental discovery toward the intentional creation of smart, functional, and sustainable mycelium-based materials—aligning material innovation with the imperatives of the circular bioeconomy. Full article

In this paper, a target detection network algorithm based on a multi-branch convolution and attention improvement Cross-Stage Partial-Fusion Bottleneck with Two Convolutions (C2F) module is proposed for the difficult task of detecting small targets in unmanned aerial vehicles. A C2F module method consisting of fusing partial convolutional (PConv) layers was designed to improve the speed and efficiency of extracting features, and a method consisting of combining multi-scale feature fusion with a channel space attention mechanism was applied in the neck network. An FA-Block module was designed to improve feature fusion and attention to small targets’ features; this design increases the size of the miniscule target layer, allowing richer feature information about the small targets to be retained. Finally, the lightweight up-sampling operator Content-Aware ReAssembly of Features was used to replace the original up-sampling method to expand the network’s sensory field. Experimental tests were conducted on a self-complied mountain pedestrian dataset and the public VisDrone dataset. Compared with the base algorithm, the improved algorithm improved the mAP50, mAP50-95, P-value, and R-value by 2.8%, 3.5%, 2.3%, and 0.2%, respectively, on the Mountain Pedestrian dataset and the mAP50, mAP50-95, P-value, and R-value by 9.2%, 6.4%, 7.7%, and 7.6%, respectively, on the VisDrone dataset. Full article

Titanium dioxide (TiO₂), owing to its excellent photocatalytic performance and environmental friendliness, holds great potential in the remediation of water pollution. In this study, we introduce a green and facile strategy to fabricate TiO₂-based hybrid aerogels, in which the peptide FQFQFIFK first self-assembles into peptide nanofibers (PNFs), followed by in situ biomineralization of TiO₂ on the PNFs. The TiO₂-loaded PNFs are then combined with graphene oxide (GO) via π–π interactions and integrated with microcrystalline cellulose (MCC) to construct a stable three-dimensional (3D) porous framework. The resulting GO/MCC/PNFs-TiO₂ aerogels exhibit high porosity, low density, and good mechanical stability. Photocatalytic experiments show that the aerogels efficiently degrade various organic dyes (methylene blue, rhodamine B, crystal violet, and Orange II) and antibiotics (e.g., tetracycline) under visible-light irradiation, achieving final degradation efficiencies higher than 90%. The excellent performance is attributed to the synergistic effect of the ordered interface provided by the PNF template, the stabilization and uniform dispersion facilitated by GO, and the mechanically robust 3D scaffold constructed by MCC. This work provides an efficient and sustainable strategy for designing functional hybrid aerogels and lays a foundation for their application in water treatment and environmental remediation. Full article

Polymeric vesicles, characterized by enhanced colloidal stability, excellent mechanical properties, controllable surface functionality, and adjustable membrane thickness, are extremely useful in nano- and bio-technology for potential applications as nanosized carriers for drugs and enzymes. However, a few preparative steps are necessary to achieve a unilamellar vesicle with a narrow size distribution. Herein, we report the spontaneous formation of unilamellar polymeric vesicles with nanometer sizes (<50 nm), fabricated by simply mixing diblock copolymers (P(EO-AGE)(2K-2K) and P(EO-AGE)(0.75K-2K)) with differing hydrophilic mass fractions in aqueous solutions. Depending on the mixing ratio of block copolymers and the temperature, the block copolymer mixtures self-assemble into various nanostructures, such as spherical and cylindrical micelles, or vesicles. The self-assembled structures of the block copolymer mixtures were characterized by small-angle neutron scattering, resulting in a phase diagram drawn as a function of temperature and the mixing condition. Notably, the critical temperature for the micelle-to-vesicle phase transition can be easily controlled by altering the mixing conditions; it decreases with an increase in the concentration of one of the block copolymers. Full article

Large-scale measurement of key feature points (KFPs) on an aircraft is essential for coordinated movement of locators, which is critical to the final assembly accuracy. Due to the large number and wide distribution of KFPs as well as line-of-sight occlusion, network measurement of laser trackers (LTs) is required. Existing approaches rely on operational experience for the configuration of stations, sequences and station transitions of LTs, which compromises both efficiency and automation capability. To tackle this challenge, this article presents an autonomous mobile measurement method for KFPs in complex scenes of aircraft assembly, incorporating path self-planning and self-positioning capabilities, thereby substantially diminishing temporal expenditure. Firstly, a simultaneous self-planning method of measurement stations and tasks is proposed to determine the minimum number of stations, optimal locations, and their specific KFPs at each station. Secondly, considering obstacles and turning time, a path planning model of mobile LTs combining coarse and fine localization is established to realize automatic station transitions. Finally, an optimal sequence of series of KFPs with a wide spatial distribution is generated to minimize total distance. Aircraft component assembly experiments validated the method, cutting measurement error by 37% and total measurement time by over 50%. Full article

The success of mRNA-based SARS-CoV-2 vaccines has been confirmed in both preclinical and clinical settings. However, the development of safe and efficient mRNA vaccine delivery platforms remains challenging. In this report, PBAE-G-B-SS-modified CaO₂ nanofibers and Au@OVA@Cu@Dendrobium huoshanense polysaccharides were employed to establish novel self-assembling polymeric micelles (CaO₂@Au@OVA@Cu@DHPs) capable of serving as both an adjuvant and a delivery system for mRNA vaccines. In vitro, CaO₂@Au@OVA@Cu@DHPs nanoparticles (NPs) were conducive to effective macrophage antigen uptake and efficient antigen processing. In vivo, P-CaO₂@Au@OVA@Cu@DHPs NP administration was associated with a reduction in the ovalbumin (OVA) release rate that was conducive to the sustained induction of long-term immunity and to the production of higher levels of different IgG subtypes, suggesting that these effects were attributable to enhanced antigen uptake by antigen-presenting cells. Overall, these present data highlight the promise of these P-CaO₂@Au@OVA@Cu@DHPs NPs as an effective and safe platform amenable to vaccine delivery through their ability to provide robust adjuvant activity and sustained antigen release capable of eliciting long-term immunological memory while potentiating humoral and cellular immune responses. Full article

Podocytopathy, characterized by proteinuria, contributes significantly to kidney diseases, with hypertension playing a key role in damaging podocytes and the glomerular filtration barrier (GFB). The lack of functional in vitro models, however, impedes research and treatment development for hypertensive podocytopathy. We established a novel constant pressure-driven podocyte-on-chip model, utilizing our previously developed dynamic staining self-assembly cell array chip (SACA chip) and 3D printing. This platform features a differentiated podocyte monolayer under controlled hydrostatic pressures, mimicking the epithelial side of the GFB. Using this platform, we investigated mechanical force-dependent permeability to three sizes of fluorescent dextran under varying hydrostatic pressures, comparing the results with a puromycin aminonucleoside (PAN)-induced injury model. We observed that external pressures induced size-dependent permeability changes and altered cell morphology. Higher pressures led to greater macromolecule infiltration, especially for larger dextran (70 kDa, 500 kDa). Mature podocytes exhibited immediate, pressure-dependent cytoskeleton rearrangements, with better recovery at lower pressures (20 mmHg) but irreversible injury at higher pressures (40, 60 mmHg). These morphological changes were also corroborated by dynamic mRNA expression of cytoskeleton-associated proteins, Synaptopodin and ACTN4. This platform offers a promising in vitro tool for investigating the pathomechanisms of hypertension-induced podocytopathy, performing on-chip studies of the GFB, and conducting potential drug screening. Full article

In this study, nanoparticles prepared by the heat-induced self-assembly of bovine serum albumin-dextran conjugates (BSA-DX) were utilized as an effective delivery system for the immunoregulatory peptide Gln-Leu-Asn-Trp-Asp (QLNWD) from Meretrix meretrix. The effects of dry-heating duration on the fabrication and characteristics of glycoprotein nanoparticles (GBA NPs) were investigated. Stable GBA NPs (110.84 nm) were obtained after 9 h of dry-heating. Depending on the addition sequence of QLNWD, the QLNWD-loaded nanoparticles were categorized into two types: pre-loading and post-loading. The two strategies were evaluated based on physicochemical characterization, colloidal stability, and RAW264.7 macrophage uptake. Results showed that upon QLNWD incorporation, both pre-loading NPs and post-loading NPs exhibited spherical morphology, with particle sizes decreasing to 105.51 nm and 94.27 nm, respectively. The encapsulation efficiency of pre-loading NPs for QLNWD was higher (87.74%), and the co-localization ability between post-loading NPs and QLNWD was stronger (Pearson’s correlation coefficient = 0.95). In vitro simulated gastrointestinal digestion experiments showed that QLNWD bioaccessibility increased to 47.5% and 42.7% for pre-loaded and post-loaded NPs, respectively. Compared to free QLNWD, NP encapsulation significantly enhanced the uptake of QLNWD by macrophages. Thus, GBA NPs, particularly those prepared by the pre-loading method, are considered promising delivery systems for marine bioactive peptides. Full article

Self-assembled monolayers of alkane thiolate and alkane selenolate have been proven to inhibit atmospheric corrosion, but upon prolonged exposure to the important constituents of indoor atmosphere, namely humidified air with formic acid, the protective layer eventually breaks, but the exact reason is not yet clear. In this paper, we report on an XPS study of co-adsorbed formic acid and hexane selenol on a Cu surface. Adsorption of hexane selenol at room temperature breaks the Se-C bond, leaving a monolayer of Se on the surface, whereas adsorption at 140 K leaves a layer of selenolate. Formic acid exposure to the selenolate-Cu surface leads to adsorbed formate on unprotected areas and absorption of formic acid within the alkane chain network. During heating, the formic acid desorbs and the Se-C bond breaks, but formic acid does not accelerate the Se-C scission, which occurs just below room temperature both with and without formic acid. Thus, formic acid alone does not affect the Se-C bond, but its presence may create disorder and open up the alkane carpet for other species. Selenol removes formate and oxide from the surface at room temperature. The Se-C bond breaks and the alkane chain reacts with surface oxygen to form carbon oxides and volatile hydrocarbons. Full article

A mycelium is a network of hyphae that possesses the ability to self-assemble and grow into various shapes, acting as a natural binder that minimises the need for intensive chemical and energy processes, making it an alternative capable of forming structures that may eventually outperform traditional fibres such as animal leather and polyester. In this work, two mycelium mats were created, and their thickness, water absorption, coverage, and tear strength for the sewing process were determined. Fibre mats were grown in vitro or on a jute substrate. The mats were treated with salt, tannin or citric acid solutions, then air- or oven-dried. In general, the treatment that least modified the colour and appearance of the mycelium mats was citric acid, and when dried by airflow, the thickness averaged 1.4 mm. The highest tear strengths were 10.55 N/mm and 12.7 N/mm for the mycelium mats treated with citric acid without and with jute, respectively. A high percentage of water absorption was observed, reaching 267% (mycelium mats treated with tannins and dried at 65 °C) and 28% (mycelium mats treated with citric acid and air-dried). In general, all mycelium mats can be sewn, except for those treated with citric acid, which have a viscous texture and require slow sewing to prevent the mycelium from breaking. The Trametes fungus can be utilised in the production of mycelial materials, allowing for the optimisation of growth conditions to obtain mycelial mats that meet the requirements for use as an environmentally friendly alternative in the textile and related industries. Full article