Search

Background: A growing body of research supports dispositional mindfulness as important in influencing physical and mental health as well as physical activities in patients with chronic illnesses. Knee osteoarthritis (OA), which often causes health problems, is one of the most common chronic illnesses, but less is known about dispositional mindfulness in relation to this condition. Objective: To explore possible associations between dispositional mindfulness and physical and mental health as well as physical activity in knee OA patients. Methods: For this cross-sectional study, we recruited a purposive sample of orthopedic clinic patients in hospitals in Southern Taiwan. Instruments included the Mindful Attention Awareness Scale (MAAS) and the Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC). Health-related characteristics were also measured. Demographic statistics, bivariate correlations, and multiple linear regression informed our exploration of potentially related factors for dispositional mindfulness. Results: Participants with knee OA (N = 250) were mostly elderly (88%), female (70.5%), and married (84%). Marital status, perceived health status, depression, and physical activity were associated with dispositional mindfulness. Better perceived health, lower depression, and greater physical activity were significantly associated with greater dispositional mindfulness. However, the severity of symptoms, fear of falling, and exercise self-efficacy did not reach statistical significance in relation to dispositional mindfulness. Conclusion: Greater emphasis should be placed on the cultivation of mindfulness to enhance individuals' perceived health, decrease their depressive mood, and promote their engagement in physical activity, which could indirectly alleviate their experience of pain and improve their physical function, yielding better quality of life and well-being. Future research should focus on interventions to apply dispositional mindfulness in order to determine whether dispositional mindfulness can effectively improve physical and mental health as well as physical activity in those with knee OA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lipid peroxidation from oxidative stress is considered a major contributor to age-related macular degeneration (AMD). The retina is abundant with circulating low-density lipoproteins (LDL), which are taken up by LDL receptor (LDLR) in the RPE and Müller cells. The purpose of this study is to investigate the role of LDLR in the NaIO3-induced model of dry AMD. Confluent primary human RPE (hRPE) and LDLR-silenced ARPE-19 cells were stressed with 150 µM tert-butyl hydroperoxide (tBH) and caspase 3/7 activation was determined. WT and Ldlr−/− mice were administered NaIO3 (20 mg/kg) intravenously. On day 7, fundus imaging, OCT, ERG, and retinal thickness were measured. Histology, TUNEL, cleaved caspase 3 and lipid accumulation were assessed. Treatment of hRPE with tBH markedly decreased LDLR expression. Caspase 3/7 activation was significantly increased in LDLR-silenced ARPE-19 cells treated with tBH. In Ldlr−/− mice, NaIO3 administration resulted in significant (a) retinal thinning, (b) compromised photoreceptor function, (c) increased percentage of cleaved caspase 3 positive and apoptotic cells, and (d) increased lipid droplet accumulation in the RPE, Bruch membrane, choroid, and sclera, compared to WT mice. Our findings imply that LDLR loss leads to lipid accumulation and impaired retinal function, which may contribute to the development of AMD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Several methods can assist in detecting early esophageal cancer (EEC) and staging esophageal cancer (EC) invasion depth. Objective: To evaluate the accuracy of magnifying endoscopy with narrow-band imaging (ME-NBI) plus endoscopic ultrasonography (EUS) for diagnosing EC. Methods: We searched the PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, and China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI) databases for relevant studies. The Quality Assessment of Diagnostic Accuracy Studies 2 (QADAS2) was used to assess the studies' methodological quality. The sensitivity, specificity, positive likelihood (LR+), negative likelihood (LR−), and diagnostic odds ratio (DOR) were calculated, and the summary receiver operating characteristic (SROC) curves were drawn to evaluate the diagnostic performance. Results: Seven studies were included. The meta-analysis suggested that the pooled sensitivity, specificity, LR+, LR−, and DOR of ME-NBI plus EUS for diagnosing EC were 0.947 (95% confidence interval [CI], 0.901–0.975), 0.894 (95% CI, 0.847–0.931), 7.989 (95% CI, 4.264–14.970), 0.066 (95% CI, 0.035–0.124), and 137.96 (95% CI, 60.369–315.27), respectively. Those values for staging the invasive depth were 0.791 (95% CI, 0.674–0.881), 0.943 (95% CI, 0.906–0.968), 13.087 (95% CI, 7.559–22.657), 0.226 (95% CI, 0.142–0.360), and 61.332 (95% CI, 27.343–137.57). The areas under the curves (AUCs) for diagnosis and staging were 0.97 and 0.95, respectively. Conclusions: ME-NBI plus EUS might be an adequate diagnostic and staging modality for EC. Due to the study limitations, more large-scale, high-quality studies are needed to confirm the diagnostic accuracy of ME-NBI plus EUS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Paris polyphylla var. chinensis (Franch.) Hara is a perennial herb belonging to the Trilliaceae family. Ultraperformance liquid chromatography quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry (UPLC/Q–TOF MS) was used to detect the composition of different fractions of Paris polyphylla var. chinensis leaves. Meanwhile, the extracts of different fractions were evaluated for their cytotoxic activities against four selected human cancer cell lines and one human normal epithelial cell line based on the MTT assay method. Multivariate statistical analysis was performed to screen differential compounds and to analyze the distributions between different fractions. Finally, more than 60 compounds were obtained and identified from the different fractions of Paris polyphylla var. chinensis leaves, and the chloroform and n−butanol extracts showed significant cytotoxic effects on these four cancer cells. Several compounds were preliminarily identified from different fractions, including 36 steroidal saponins, 11 flavonoids, 10 ceramides, 8 lipids, 6 organic acids, and 8 other compounds. Various compounds were screened out as different chemical components of different fractions, which were considered as a potential substance basis for the cytotoxicity of Paris polyphylla var. chinensis leaves. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Follow-up care of patients in the community is an important topic for improving patient outcomes, especially when medical personnel receives a notification of the critical test result (CTR) when the CTR becomes available after patients have been out of hospital; how to recall the patient back to the hospital and follow-up treatment is essential for preventing the healthcare risk of neglecting or delayed intervention with respect to the patient's CTR. We are concerned that the follow-up of CTR and timely recall of our patients in the community improves and facilitates patient safety. We built the CTR Recall Supporting System (RSS) to follow up and recall our patients in the community. Measures were introduced to evaluate the effectiveness of CTR RSS; the rate of return of patients within 7 days increased from 58.5% to 88.8%, an increase of 30.3%, the patients in the community's return follow-up interval days decreased from 10.9 days to 6.2 days, reduced by 4.7 days (p < 0.001), and the mortality rate of the patients in the community within 48 h decreased from 8.0% to 1.9%, a decrease of 6.1%, p < 0.001. The implementation of the CTR RSS significantly increases the discharged patient in he community's CTR return follow-up within 7 days rate, decreases CTR return follow-up interval days, and reduces the CTR mortality rate within 48 h. This effectively improves the effects of CTR on return follow-up visits and provides a prototype system for hospitals that intend to improve this issue. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A proper optimization algorithm is very important for solving the parameters of neural networks. People always want to train neural networks as fast as possible and obtain optimal parameters, while existing optimization algorithms are still far from perfect in both efficiency and convergence. In this paper, we propose an Adaptive optimization algorithm with Gradient bias Correction (AdaGC) for training neural networks. In this algorithm, the iterative direction is improved utilizing the gradient deviation and momentum. The step size is adaptively revised using the second-order moment of gradient deviation. Intuitively, when the iterative vector changes significantly, the iterative vector is corrected by enlarging the effect of iterative deviation and reducing the effect of momentum. At the same time, the step size will decrease correspondingly based on the second-order moment of gradient deviation. When the iterative vector changes slightly, the gradient deviation also decreases, and the influence of momentum will increase at this time. The second-order moment of gradient deviation is correspondingly reduced, resulting in a large step size. In this case, a large iterative step is probably to reduce the iterative time and enlarge the rate of convergence. Furthermore, rigorous theoretical analysis is provided to prove the convergence of the AdaGC algorithm in both convex and non-convex optimization problems. The proposed algorithm is also validated through extensive experimentation. It has better performance and faster convergence for different networks and applications. Code is available at https://github.com/breeze7-opt/optimizer. • Introducing gradient bias into momentum accelerates convergence adaptively. • Using second-order moment information of gradient deviation to accelerate convergence. • Strict theoretical proof of convergence for convex and non-convex optimization. • Numerous experiments support the effectiveness of our algorithm. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The efficacy of liraglutide to treat type 2 diabetic nephropathy (T2DN) remains controversial. Thus, we conducted this meta-analysis to systematically evaluate the clinical effect of liraglutide on T2DN patients. Methods: Eight databases (PubMed, Web of Science, the Cochrane Library, EMBASE, Chinese National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI), Wanfang database, China Science and Technology Journal Database, and China Biology Medicine Database (CBM)) were searched for published articles to evaluate the clinical efficacy of liraglutide in subjects with T2DN. The Revman 5.3 and Stata 13 software were used for analyses and plotting. Results: A total of 18 randomized controlled trials (RCTs) with 1580 diabetic nephropathy patients were screened. We found that the levels of UACR, Scr, Cysc were lower in the experimental group of T2DN patients treated with liraglutide than in the control group intervened without liraglutide. Liraglutide also reduced the levels of blood glucose (including FBG, PBG, and HbA1c), body mass index (BMI), and anti-inflammatory indicators (TNF–α, IL-6). However, there was no significant difference in BUN and eGFR between the experimental group and the control group. Conclusions: Liraglutide reduced the levels of Blood Glucose, BMI, renal outcome indicators, and serum inflammatory factors of patients with T2DN, suggesting the beneficial effects of liraglutide on renal function. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The durability of foundations with localized sinkholes can be improved by geosynthetic-reinforced soil. Current design methods for geosynthetic-reinforced structures are based on the assumptions that the vertical load is distributed uniformly on the geosynthetic above the sinkhole and it corresponds to the geostatic stress in the anchorage area. In this study, a new analytical method is proposed to consider the 'secondary arching effect' and the vertical load distribution in the anchorage area due to the 'arching effect.' The influence of vertical load acting on the geosynthetic is analyzed based on three different cases. Results indicate that the increment of vertical load on the geosynthetic in the anchorage area has little effect on the maximum tensile force and surface settlement. Compared to a uniform load distribution on the geosynthetic above the sinkhole, the assumption of an inverse triangular load distribution can reduce the maximum tensile force and surface settlement. A new design method is proposed to determine the minimum geosynthetic stiffness to meet design standards. The obtained results verify the method as an applicable tool to meet the serviceability limit state and the ultimate limit state criteria. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Two new isostructural complexes, namely, poly[aqua[μ3‐2‐(4‐carboxyphenoxy)terephthalato‐κ3O1:O4:O4′](1,10‐phenanthroline‐κ2N,N′)cobalt(II)], [Co(C15H8O7)(C12H8N2)(H2O)]n or [Co(μ3‐Hcpota)(phen)(H2O)]n, I, and poly[aqua[μ3‐2‐(4‐carboxyphenoxy)terephthalato‐κ3O1:O4:O4′](1,10‐phenanthroline‐κ2N,N′)nickel(II)], [Ni(C15H8O7)(C12H8N2)(H2O)]n or [Ni(μ3‐Hcpota)(phen)(H2O)]n, II, have been synthesized by solvothermal reactions. Complexes I and II were fully characterized by IR spectroscopy, elemental analyses, thermogravimetric analyses, and powder and single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction. They both present two‐dimensional structures based on [M2(μ‐COO)2]2+ (M = CoII or NiII) dinuclear metal units with a fes topology and a vertex symbol (4·82). Interestingly, the positions of the two dimeric metal motifs and the two partially deprotonated Hcpota2− ligands reproduce regular flying butterfly arrangements flipped upside down and sharing wings in the ab plane. Magnetic studies indicate antiferromagnetic interactions (J = −5.21 cm−1 for I and −11.53 cm−1 for II) in the dimeric units, with Co...Co and Ni...Ni distances of 4.397 (1) and 4.358 (1) Å, respectively, that are related to double syn–anti carboxylate bridges. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Using sustainable biowastes to prepare low-cost biochar photocatalysts. • Biochar photocatalysts shows superior responsiveness in oxidation of amine. • Diphenolic groups and pyrene core are the dominant photo-catalytic sites. • Biochar photocatalysts can be at least seven runs (90 % imine yields). Metal-free carbon photocatalysts hold great promise in future visible-light-driven selective photocatalytic organic synthesis. However, designing ideal carbon photocatalysts from sustainable strategies to further improve the photo-efficiency and economic nature is crucial for portable industrial applications. Herein, a clean and economic strategy to fabricate hydrochar microspheres as the first metal-free biochar potocatalysts is reported by a facile hydrothermal post-treatment approach from biowaste. The obtained hydrochars present excellent photocatalytic activity and reusability toward the selective oxidative coupling reactions of various amines under visible-light irradiation. Experimental studies and theoretical calculation revealed that the abundant oxygenated functional groups built-in on the surface could function as photocatalytic active sites. In particular, the diphenolic hydroxyl functional groups and quinone moieties attached to the large π-electronic-system were the main active sites involved in the photocatalytic activity. This research highlights that the utilization of sustainable biowaste-derived hydrochar materials as a low-cost and eco-environmental carbocatalysts, may open up a new avenue for light-driven diverse organic transformations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims/Introduction: Maternal hyperglycemia leads to adverse pregnancy outcomes, and also subsequently affects both mothers and their offspring in later life. The prevalence of type 2 diabetes mellitus is increasing worldwide, and gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is also believed to be increasing. More precise nationwide and up‐to‐date data on GDM are required. Materials and Methods: A population‐based retrospective cohort study was carried out with the Birth Certificate Application database and linked to the National Health Insurance Research Database to explore trends in the annual crude prevalence of GDM in all women who gave birth between 1 January 2004 and 31 December 2015 in Taiwan and their pregnancy outcomes. The registry is considered complete, reliable and accurate. Results: A total of 2,468,793 births from 2,430,307 pregnancies were reported between 1 January 2004 and 31 December 2015. Finally, 2,053,305 pregnancies were included for further analysis. The annual prevalence of GDM increased by 1.8‐fold during the 12 years from 2004 to 2015, with a significant continuous increasing trend (from 7.6% to 13.4%, P < 0.001). The annual prevalence of GDM significantly increased in each age group (all trends P < 0.001), particularly for women with maternal ages of 31 years and older. Urbanization level, geographic risk factors and seasonal variations were also noted. Conclusion: The annual prevalence of GDM increased by 1.8‐fold in the 12‐year period from 2004 to 2015 in Taiwan, with a significant continuous increasing trend (from 7.6% to 13.4%, P < 0.001). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Earlier reports have indicated that begomoviruses encode four proteins (AC1/C1, AC2/C2, AC3/C3, and AC4/C4 proteins) using complementary‐sense DNA as the template. In recent years, several reports have shown that some begomoviruses also encode an AC5/C5 protein from the complementary DNA strand, and these AC5/C5 proteins play different roles in virus infections. Here, we provide evidence showing that Ageratum leaf curl Sichuan virus (ALCScV), a monopartite begomovirus, also encodes a C5 protein that is important for disease symptom formation and can affect viral replication. Infection of Nicotiana benthamiana plants with a potato virus X (PVX)‐based vector carrying the ALCScV C5 gene resulted in more severe disease symptoms and higher virus accumulation levels. ALCScV C5 protein can be found in the cytoplasm and the nucleus. Furthermore, this protein is also a suppressor of posttranscriptional gene silencing. Mutational analysis showed that knockout of C5 gene expression significantly reduced ALCScV‐induced disease symptoms and virus accumulation, while expression of the C5 gene using the PVX‐based vector enhanced ALCScV accumulation in coinfected N. benthamiana plants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Traditional diagnosis methods for lymph node metastases are labor-intensive and time-consuming. As a result, diagnostic systems based on deep learning (DL) algorithms have become a hot topic. However, current research lacks testing with sufficient data to verify performance. The aim of this study was to develop and test a deep learning system capable of identifying lymph node metastases. Methods: 921 whole-slide images of lymph nodes were divided into two cohorts: training and testing. For lymph node quantification, we combined Faster RCNN and DeepLab as a cascade DL algorithm to detect regions of interest. For metastatic cancer identification, we fused Xception and DenseNet-121 models and extracted features. Prospective testing to verify the performance of the diagnostic system was performed using 327 unlabeled images. We further validated the proposed system using Positive Predictive Value (PPV) and Negative Predictive Value (NPV) criteria. Results: We developed a DL-based system capable of automated quantification and identification of metastatic lymph nodes. The accuracy of lymph node quantification was shown to be 97.13%. The PPV of the combined Xception and DenseNet-121 model was 93.53%, and the NPV was 97.99%. Our experimental results show that the differentiation level of metastatic cancer affects the recognition performance. Conclusions: The diagnostic system we established reached a high level of efficiency and accuracy of lymph node diagnosis. This system could potentially be implemented into clinical workflow to assist pathologists in making a preliminary screening for lymph node metastases in gastric cancer patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Early diagnosis of Peritoneal metastasis (PM) is clinically significant regarding optimal treatment selection and avoidance of unnecessary surgical procedures. Cytopathology plays an important role in early screening of PM. We aimed to develop a deep learning (DL) system to achieve intelligent cytopathology interpretation, especially in ascites cytopathology. Methods: The original ascites cytopathology image dataset consists of 139 patients' original hematoxylin–eosin (HE) and Papanicolaou (PAP) Staining images. DL system was developed using transfer learning (TL) to achieve cell detection and classification. Pre-trained alexnet, vgg16, goolenet, resnet18 and resnet50 models were studied. Cell detection dataset consists of 176 cropped images with 6573 annotated cell bounding boxes. Cell classification data set consists of 487 cropped images with 18,558 and 6089 annotated malignant and benign cells in total, respectively. Results: We established a novel ascites cytopathology image dataset and achieved automatically cell detection and classification. DetectionNet based on Faster R-CNN using pre-trained resnet18 achieved cell detection with 87.22% of cells' Intersection of Union (IoU) bigger than the threshold of 0.5. The mean average precision (mAP) was 0.8316. The ClassificationNet based on resnet50 achieved the greatest performance in cell classification with AUC = 0.8851, Precision = 96.80%, FNR = 4.73%. The DL system integrating the separately trained DetectionNet and Classificationnet showed great performance in the cytopathology image interpretation. Conclusions: We demonstrate that the integration of DL can improve the efficiency of healthcare. The DL system we developed using TL techniques achieved accurate cytopathology interpretation, and had great potential to be integrated into clinician workflow. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new coordination polymer (CP), namely, poly[[diaquatris[μ2‐1,4‐bis(1H‐imidazol‐1‐yl)benzene]bis[μ6‐4‐(2,4‐dicarboxylatophenoxy)phthalato]tetracobalt(II)] hexahydrate], {[Co4(C16H6O9)2(C12H10N4)3(H2O)2]·6H2O}n, has been synthesized by solvothermal reaction. The CP was fully characterized by IR spectroscopy, elemental analysis, thermogravimetric analysis, and powder and single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction. It presents a three‐dimensional (3D) structure based on tetranuclear CoII secondary building units (SBUs) with a tfz‐d net and point symbol (43)2(46·618·84). The 4‐(2,4‐dicarboxyphenoxy)phthalic acid (H4dcppa) ligands are completely deprotonated and link {Co4(COO)4}4− SBUs into two‐dimensional (2D) layers. Furthermore, adjacent layers are connected by 1,4‐bis(1H‐imidazol‐1‐yl)benzene (bib) ligands, giving rise to a 3D supramolecular architecture. Interestingly, there are numerous elliptical cavities in the CP where isolated unique discrete hexameric water clusters have been observed. The results of thermogravimetric and magnetic analyses are described in detail. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Two new Zn2+‐based metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) based on biphenyl‐2,2′,5,5′‐tetracarboxylic acid, i.e. H4(o,m‐bpta), and N‐donor ligands, namely, poly[[(μ4‐biphenyl‐2,2′,5,5′‐tetracarboxylato)bis{[1,3‐phenylenebis(methylene)]bis(1H‐imidazole)}dizinc(II)] dimethylformamide monosolvate dihydrate], {[Zn2(C16H6O8)(C14H14N4)2]·C3H7NO·2H2O}n or {[Zn2(o,m‐bpta)(1,3‐bimb)2]·C3H7NO·2H2O}n (1) {1,3‐bimb = [1,3‐phenylenebis(methylene)]bis(1H‐imidazole)}, and poly[[(μ4‐biphenyl‐2,2′,5,5′‐tetracarboxylato)bis{[1,4‐phenylenebis(methylene)]bis(1H‐imidazole)}dizinc(II)] monohydrate], {[Zn2(C16H6O8)(C14H14N4)2]·H2O}n or {[Zn2(o,m‐bpta)(1,4‐bimb)2]·H2O}n (2) {1,4‐bimb = [1,4‐phenylenebis(methylene)]bis(1H‐imidazole)}, have been synthesized under solvothermal conditions. The complexes were characterized by IR spectroscopy, elemental analysis, single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction and powder X‐ray diffraction analysis. Structurally, the (o,m‐bpta)4− ligands are fully deprotonated and combine with Zn2+ ions in μ4‐coordination modes. Complex 1 is a (3,4)‐connected porous network with honeycomb‐like [Zn2(o,m‐bpta)]n sheets formed by 4‐connected (o,m‐bpta)4− ligands. Complex 2 exhibits a (2,4)‐connected network formed by 4‐connected (o,m‐bpta)4− ligands linking Zn2+ ions in left‐handed helical chains. The cis‐configured 1,3‐bimb and 1,4‐bimb ligands bridge Zn2+ ions to form multi‐membered [Zn2(bimb)2] loops. Optically, the complexes show strong fluorescence and display larger red shifts compared to free H4(o,m‐bpta). Complex 2 shows ferroelectric properties due to crystallizing in the C2v polar point group. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The current market demands for thin-film transistor (TFT) liquid crystal display (LCD) is high; however, the LCD televisions still have contrast ratio-related issues. To resolve this, researchers conventionally use trial and error methods for parameter optimization and adjustment. However, this method is slow and can delay the development of new products. Therefore, this study focused on the high contrast ratio of the in-plane switching (IPS) panel. The Define–Measure–Analyze–Design–Verify procedure, comprising the methodology of the Design for Six Sigma, was used to help the researchers enhance the ultra-high contrast ratio of LCD panels. In this study, customer requirements were confirmed, after which the quality function deployment method was used to establish the technical requirements of the enhanced high contrast ratio of LCD. The contradiction matrix of TRIZ was then used to find the corresponding principles and thus propose the design scheme for the LCD contrast ratio. Methodologies, such as design failure modes and effect analysis, Taguchi’s parameter design, and reliability tests were used to enhance the ultra-high LCD contrast ratio. After the implementation of an actual case, the ultra-high contrast ratio of LCD panel was enhanced to 1000000:1; the benefits of such an improvement exceeded U.S. \\(9.5 million. This has also driven market orders for TFT IPS LCD. This study can serve as a reference for product design, product performance enhancement, pilot run yield improvement, and patent applications of LCD panel plants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Two CoII‐based coordination polymers, namely poly[(μ4‐biphenyl‐2,2′,5,5′‐tetracarboxylato){μ2‐1,3‐bis[(1H‐imidazol‐1‐yl)methyl]benzene}dicobalt(II)], [Co2(C16H6O8)(C14H14N4)2]n or [Co2(o,m‐bpta)(1,3‐bimb)2]n (I), and poly[[aqua(μ4‐biphenyl‐2,2′,5,5′‐tetracarboxylato){1,4‐bis[(1H‐imidazol‐1‐yl)methyl]benzene}dicobalt(II)] dihydrate], {[Co2(C16H6O8)(C14H14N4)2(H2O)2]·4H2O}n or {[Co2(o,m‐bpta)(1,4‐bimb)2(H2O)2]·4H2O}n (II), were synthesized from a mixture of biphenyl‐2,2′,5,5′‐tetracarboxylic acid, i.e. [H4(o,m‐bpta)], CoCl2·6H2O and N‐donor ligands under solvothermal conditions. The complexes were characterized by IR spectroscopy, elemental analysis, single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction and powder X‐ray diffraction analysis. The bridging (o,m‐bpta)4− ligands combine with CoII ions in different μ4‐coordination modes, leading to the formation of one‐dimensional chains. The central CoII atoms display tetrahedral [CoN2O2] and octahedral [CoN2O4] geometries in I and II, respectively. The bis[(1H‐imidazol‐1‐yl)methyl]benzene (bimb) ligands adopt trans or cis conformations to connect CoII ions, thus forming two three‐dimensional (3D) networks. Complex I shows a (2,4)‐connected 3D network with left‐ and right‐handed helical chains constructed by (o,m‐bpta)4− ligands. Complex II is a (4,4)‐connected 3D novel network with ribbon‐like chains formed by (o,m‐bpta)4− linkers. Magnetic studies indicate an orbital contribution to the magnetic moment of I and II due to the longer Co...Co distances. An attempt has been made to fit the χMT results to the magnetic formulae for mononuclear CoII complexes, the fitting indicating the presence of weak antiferromagnetic interactions between the CoII ions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Graphical abstract Abstract A series of poly(2-ethyl-2-oxazoline)-poly(L-lactide) (PEOz-PLA) diblock copolymers were synthesized by ring-opening polymerization of l -lactide using a monohydroxy terminated PEOz-OH macro-initiator in the presence of stannous octoate as catalyst. The resulting diblock copolymers were characterized by 1H nuclear magnetic resonance and gel permeation chromatography. Self-assembled micelles were prepared using the co-solvent evaporation method in water and in phosphate buffered saline (PBS) at pH 7.4, 6.5 and 5.0. The resulting micelles exhibit different morphologies, such as spherical micelles and worm-like micelles depending on the hydrophilic/hydrophobic balance. Spherical micelles were exclusively observed for PEOz-PLA copolymers with short PLA blocks, whereas co-existence of worm-like and spherical micelles was observed for copolymers with long PLA blocks. The micelle size increases with decreasing pH due to the electrostatic repulsion between PEOz chains resulting from ionization of the tertiary amide groups along PEOz chains. A hydrophobic anti-tumor drug, paclitaxel, was entrapped in PEOz-PLA micelles. High loading efficiency up to 86.7% was obtained for copolymers with long PLA blocks. Drug release was performed in PBS at different pH values. During the 30-day release period, faster release was obtained for copolymers with shorter PLA blocks than for copolymers with longer PLA blocks, at acidic pH than at pH 7.4. It is thus concluded that pH-responsive PEOz-PLA copolymer micellss could be promising as carrier of anti-tumor drugs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Coordination polymers constructed from conjugated organic ligands and metal ions with a d10 electronic configuration exhibit intriguing properties for chemical sensing and photochemistry. A ZnII‐based coordination polymer, namely poly[aqua(μ6‐biphenyl‐3,3′,5,5′‐tetracarboxylato)(μ2‐4,4′‐bipyridine)dizinc(II)], [Zn2(C16H6O8)(C10H8N2)(H2O)2]n or [Zn2(m,m‐bpta)(4,4′‐bipy)(H2O)2]n, was synthesized from a mixture of biphenyl‐3,3′,5,5′‐tetracarboxylic acid [H4(m,m‐bpta)], 4,4′‐bipyridine (4,4′‐bipy) and Zn(NO3)2·6H2O under solvothermal conditions. The title complex has been structurally characterized by IR spectroscopy, elemental analysis, single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction and powder X‐ray diffraction analysis, and features a μ6‐coordination mode. The ZnII ions adopt square‐pyramidal geometries and are bridged by two syn–syn carboxylate groups to form [Zn2(COO)2] secondary buildding units (SBUs). The SBUs are crosslinked by (m,m‐bpta)4− ligands to produce a two‐dimensional grid‐like layer that exhibits a stair‐like structure along the a axis. Adjacent layers are linked by 4,4′‐bipy ligands to form a three‐dimensional network with a {44.610.8}{44.62} topology. In the solid state, the complex displays a strong photoluminescence and an excellent solvent stability. In addition, the luminescence sensing results indicate a highly selective and sensitive sensing for Fe3+ ions. In a ZnII‐based coordination polymer synthesized from a mixture of biphenyl‐3,3′,5,5′‐tetracarboxylic acid, 4,4′‐bipyridine and Zn(NO3)2·6H2O under solvothermal conditions, the ZnII ions adopt square‐pyramidal geometries and are bridged by two syn–syn carboxylate groups to form [Zn2(COO)2] units. These units are crosslinked by tetracarboxylate ligands to produce a two‐dimensional grid‐like layer that exhibits a stair‐like structure along the a axis. The luminescence sensing results indicate a highly selective and sensitive sensing for Fe3+ ions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ligands based on polycarboxylic acids are excellent building blocks for the construction of coordination polymers; they may bind to a variety of metal ions and form clusters, as well as extended chain or network structures. Among these building blocks, biphenyltetracarboxylic acids (H4bpta) with C2 symmetry have recently attracted attention because of their variable bridging and multidentate chelating modes. The new luminescent three-dimensional coordination polymer poly[(μ5-1,1′-biphenyl-2,2′,4,4′-tetracarboxylato)bis[μ2-1,4-bis(1 H-imidazol-1-yl)benzene]dizinc(II)], [Zn2(C16H6O8)(C12H10N4)] n, was synthesized solvothermally and characterized by single-crystal X-ray diffraction, elemental analysis and IR spectroscopy. The crystal structure contains two crystallographically independent ZnII cations. Both metal cations are located on twofold axes and display distorted tetrahedral coordination geometries. Neighbouring ZnII centres are bridged by carboxylate groups in the syn- anti mode to form one-dimensional chains. Adjacent chains are linked through 1,1′-biphenyl-2,2′,4,4′-tetracarboxylate and 1,4-bis(1 H-imidazol-1-yl)benzene ligands to form a three-dimensional network. In the solid state, the compound exhibits blue photoluminescence and represents a promising candidate for a thermally stable and solvent-resistant blue fluorescent material. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a global pandemic metabolic disorder. In recent years, the amount of medical resources required for the treatment of diabetes has increased as diabetes rates have gradually risen. The combined effects of individual and neighbourhood socio-economic status (SES) on DM survival rates are still not clear, especially in patients of working age. In this paper, we aim to analyze the combined effects of neighbourhood and individual SES on DM survival rates in patients of working age in Taiwan. Methods: The study of 23,781 people who were diagnosed with DM by using population—based study between 2002 and 2006. Each sample was followed up for 4 years or as a sensor case. We defined Individual SES and neighbourhood SES by each patient’s job category and household income which characterized as advantaged or disadvantaged. Then we compared the survival rates by SES group used Cox proportional hazards model for adjust risk factors. Results: The 4-year overall survival rates of diabetic patients were worst for those with low individual SES who living in advantaged neighbourhoods. After adjustment for patient characteristics, DM patients with high individual SES living in disadvantaged neighbourhoods had the same risk of mortality as those patients with high individual SES living in advantaged neighbourhoods (hazard ratio: 1.11; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.81–1.51). The study found that DM patients with low individual SES who live in disadvantaged areas had a greater risk of mortality than those with high SES (odds ratio: 2.57; 95% CI: 2.04–3.24). There were significant differences in survival rates between patients with high individual SES and patients with low individual SES. In contrast, the results did not statistically significant differences in survival rates between advantaged and disadvantaged neighbourhood SES groups. Conclusion: DM patients with low individual SES had the worst survival rate, regardless of whether they were living in a high or low SES neighbourhood area. The competitive cause of death, i.e., the fact that complications, rather than DM itself, are often the cause of death, may be the reason for the inverse relationship found between the effects of individual SES and neighbourhood SES on DM survival. We conclude that the socio-economic gradient in survival among DM patients may be the result of differences in access to medical treatment and attributes related to individual SES. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Motivation Functional imaging at single-neuron resolution offers a highly efficient tool for studying the functional connectomics in the brain. However, mainstream neuron-detection methods focus on either the morphologies or activities of neurons, which may lead to the extraction of incomplete information and which may heavily rely on the experience of the experimenters. Results We developed a convolutional neural networks and fluctuation method-based toolbox (ImageCN) to increase the processing power of calcium imaging data. To evaluate the performance of ImageCN, nine different imaging datasets were recorded from awake mouse brains. ImageCN demonstrated superior neuron-detection performance when compared with other algorithms. Furthermore, ImageCN does not require sophisticated training for users. Availability and implementation ImageCN is implemented in MATLAB. The source code and documentation are available at https://github.com/ZhangChenLab/ImageCN. Supplementary information Supplementary data are available at Bioinformatics online. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bovine tuberculosis results from infection with Mycobacterium bovis, a member of the Mycobacterium tuberculosis family. Worldwide, M. bovis infections result in economic losses in the livestock industry; cattle production is especially hard-hit by this disease. Generating M. bovis-resistant cattle may potentially mitigate the impact of this disease by reducing M. bovis infections. In this study, we used transgenic somatic cell nuclear transfer to generate cattle expressing the gene encoding human β-defensin 3 ( HBD3), which confers resistance to mycobacteria in vitro. We first generated alveolar epithelial cells expressing HBD3 under the control of the bovine MUC1 promoter, and confirmed that these cells secreted HBD3 and possessed anti-mycobacterial capacity. We then generated and identified transgenic cattle by somatic cell nuclear transfer. The cleavage and blastocyst formation rates of genetically modified embryos provided evidence that monoclonal transgenic bovine fetal fibroblast cells have an integral reprogramming ability that is similar to that of normal cells. Five genetically modified cows were generated, and their anti-mycobacterial capacities were evaluated. Alveolar epithelial cells and macrophages from these cattle expressed higher levels of HBD3 protein compared with non-transgenic cells and possessed effective anti-mycobacterial capacity. These results suggest that the overall risk of M. bovis infection in transgenic cattle is efficiently reduced, and support the development of genetically modified animals as an effective tool to reduce M. bovis infection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: To evaluate the suitability of a modified lateral upper arm free flap (LAFF) for reconstruction of soft tissue defects after resection of oral cancer. Methods: Eighteen cases of soft tissue defect repair performed between January 2011 and December 2013 using a modified LAFF after resection of oral cancer were reviewed. The design and harvest of the LAFF, the reconstruction procedure, and postoperative morbidity were reviewed and evaluated over a follow-up period of at least 12 months. Results: The overall flap survival was 94.4 % (17/18 patients). A broad scar at the donor site was the most common morbidity, but patients did not report dissatisfaction with the scar because they could easily cover it. All wounds at the donor site achieved primary recovery. One case of flap loss was repaired with a radial forearm free flap. One case complicated by diabetes mellitus involved infection of the flap with one-third of the flap becoming necrotic. This flap survived after removal of the necrotic tissue. In one other case, fat liquefactive necrosis (1.5 x 1.0 cm) occurred in the flap on the tip of the tongue, and this flap survived after debridement. Overall, the shape and function of the reconstructed tissues were well restored, and there was no severe morbidity at the donor site in any case. Conclusion: The modified LAFF was safe and reliable for the reconstruction of soft tissue defects after resection of oral cancer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Diospyros blancoi A. DC. is an evergreen tree species of high-quality wood. Mabolo, the fruit of this plant, is popular among the natives in Taiwan, but its potential in economic use has not been fully explored. Mabolo has a rich aroma. Of the 39 different volatile compounds isolated, its intact fruit and peel were found to both contain 24 compounds, whereas the pulp contained 28 compounds. The most important aroma compounds were esters and afarnesene. Our data show that mabolo is rich in dietary fiber (3.2%), and the contents of other nutrients such as malic acid, vitamin B2, vitamin B3, folic acid, pantothenic acid, and choline chloride were 227.1 mg/100 g, 0.075 mg/100 g, 0.157 mg/100 g, 0.623 mg/100 g, 0.19 mg/100 g, and 62.52 mg/100 g, respectively. Moreover, it is rich in calcium and zinc; the contents of which were found to be 42.8 mg/100 g and 3.6 mg/100 g, respectively. Our results show that D. blancoi has the potential to be bred for a novel fruit. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hypoxia is a hallmark of solid tumors that drives malignant progression by altering epigenetic controls. In breast tumors, aberrant DNA methylation is a prevalent epigenetic feature associated with increased risk of metastasis and poor prognosis. However, the mechanism by which hypoxia alters DNA methylation or other epigenetic controls that promote breast malignancy remains poorly understood. We discovered that hypoxia deregulates TET1 and TET3, the enzymes that catalyze conversion of 5-methylcytosine (5mC) to 5-hydroxymethylcytosine (5hmC), thereby leading to breast tumor--initiating cell (BTIC) properties. TET1/3 and 5hmC levels were closely associated with tumor hypoxia, tumor malignancy, and poor prognosis in breast cancer patients. Mechanistic investigations showed that hypoxia leads to genome-wide changes in DNA hydroxymethylation associated with upregulation of TNFα expression and activation of its downstream p38--MAPK effector pathway. Coordinate functions of TET1 and TET3 were also required to activate TNFα--p38--MAPK signaling as a response to hypoxia. Our results reveal how signal transduction through the TET--TNFα--p38--MAPK signaling axis is required for the acquisition of BTIC characteristics and tumorigenicity in vitro and in vivo, with potential implications for how to eradicate BTIC as a therapeutic strategy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The title coordination polymer, poly[[aqua(μ5-1,1′-biphenyl-2,2′,5,5′-tetracarboxylato)bis[μ2-1,4-bis(1 H-imidazol-1-yl)benzene]dicadmium(II)] dihydrate], {[Cd2(C16H6O8)(C12H10N4)2(H2O)]·2H2O} n, was crystallized from a mixture of 1,1′-biphenyl-2,2′,5,5′-tetracarboxylic acid (H4bpta), 1,4-bis(1 H-imidazol-1-yl)benzene (1,4-bib) and cadmium nitrate in water-dimethylformamide. The crystal structure consists of two crystallographically independent CdII cations, with one of the CdII cations possessing a slightly distorted pentagonal bipyramidal geometry. The second CdII centre is coordinated by carboxylate O atoms and imidazole N atoms from two separate 1,4-bib ligands, displaying a distorted octahedral CdN2O4 geometry. The completely deprotonated bpta4− ligand, exhibiting a new coordination mode, bridges five CdII cations to form one-dimensional chains viaμ3-η1:η2:η1:η2 and μ2-η1:η1:η0:η0 modes, and these are further linked by 1,4-bib ligands to form a three-dimensional framework with a (42.64)(4.62)(43.65.72) topology. The structure of the coordination polymer is reinforced by intermolecular hydrogen bonding between carboxylate O atoms, aqua ligands and crystallization water molecules. The solid-state photoluminescence properties were investigated and the complex might be a candidate for a thermally stable and solvent-resistant blue fluorescent material. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and purpose The immunosuppressant drug rapamycin was reported to have an antiaging activity, which was attributed to the TORC1 inhibition that inhibits cell proliferation and increases autophagy. However, rapamycin also exhibits a number of harmful adverse effects. Whether rapamycin can be developed into an antiaging agent remains unclear. Methods and results We demonstrated that rapamycin at micro-doses (below the TORC1 inhibiting concentration) exhibits a cell-protective activity: (1) It protects cultured neurons against neurotoxin MPP+ and H2O2. (2) It increases survival time of neuron in culture. (3) It maintains the nonproliferative state of cultured senescent human fibroblasts and prevents cell death induced by telomere dysfunction. (4) In animal models, it decreased the cerebral infarct sizes induced by acute ischemia and dramatically extended the life span of stroke prone spontaneously hypertensive rats ( SHR- SPs). Conclusion We propose that rapamycin at micro-dose can be developed into an antiaging agent with a novel mechanism. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction. LAMA1, also known as laminin subunit α1, is a member of the laminin family, which is widely reported to be a key basement membrane molecule that affects various biological activities and is associated with many kinds of diseases. We aimed to investigate the association between LAMA1single-nucleotide polymorphisms and the occurrence and progression of esophageal squamous cell carcinoma in the Chinese population. Method. 2,186 participants were collected retrospectively between October 2008 and January 2017, including 1,043 ESCC patients and 1,143 noncancer patients. A 2 mL blood sample was obtained intravenously for the LDR for SNP analysis. The 6 SNP loci of LAMA1 were selected and examined. We analyzed the association of several genetic models of 6 LAMA1 SNP loci, sex, age, smoking and drinking status, and the occurrence of esophageal squamous cell carcinoma. Results. In the rs62081531 G > A locus, genotype GA was a protective factor for ESCC compared with GG (OR: 0.830, P = 0.046), especially among the younger and nondrinkers. At rs607230 T > C, genotype TC was linked with a lower risk of ESCC compared with TT. (OR: 0.613, P = 0.034). Haplotype Frequencies revealed that Ars62081531Grs621993Ars539713Trs566655Ars73938538Crs607230 (OR: 0.803, P = 0.028) and Grs62081531Grs621993Ars539713Trs566655Crs73938538Crs607230 (OR: 0.679, P = 0.010) were strongly associated with lower susceptibility of ESCC. Conclusion. The LAMA1 rs62081531, rs539713, rs566655, and rs607230 polymorphisms were demonstrated to be related to susceptibility to ESCC in the Chinese population. LAMA1 SNPs may have a significant impact on the occurrence of esophageal cancer and may serve as potential diagnostic biomarkers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a leading cause of cancer mortality worldwide, and cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) play a major role in the tumor microenvironment (TME), which facilitates the progression of CRC. It is critical to understand how CAFs promote the progression of CRC for the development of novel therapeutic approaches. The purpose of this study was to understand how CAF-derived stromal-derived factor-1 (SDF-1) and its interactions with the corresponding C-X-C motif chemokine receptor 4 (CXCR4) promote CRC progression. Our study focused on their roles in promoting tumor cell migration and invasion and their effects on the characteristics of cancer stem cells (CSCs), which ultimately impact patient outcomes. Here, using in vivo approaches and clinical histological samples, we analyzed the influence of secreted SDF-1 on CRC progression, especially in terms of tumor cell behavior and stemness. We demonstrated that CAF-secreted SDF-1 significantly enhanced CRC cell migration and invasion through paracrine signaling. In addition, the overexpression of SDF-1 in CRC cell lines HT29 and HCT-116 triggered these cells to generate autocrine SDF-1 signaling, which further enhanced their CSC characteristics, including those of migration, invasion, and spheroid formation. An immunohistochemical study showed a close relationship between SDF-1 and CXCR4 expression in CRC tissue, and this significantly affected patient outcomes. The administration of AMD3100, an inhibitor of CXCR4, reversed the entire phenomenon. Our results strongly suggest that targeting this signaling axis in CRC is a feasible approach to attenuating tumor progression, and it may, therefore, serve as an alternative treatment method to improve the prognosis of patients with CRC, especially those with advanced, recurrent, or metastatic CRC following standard therapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The self-assembly of three coordination polymers with dinuclear metal units, namely {[Co 2 (bpta)(phen) 2 ]·2H 2 O} n (1), {[Co 2 (bpta)(phen)(H 2 O)]·4H 2 O·CH 3 CN} n (2), and {[Ni 2 (bpta)(phen)(H 2 O)]·2H 2 O·0.5CH 3 CN} n (3), has been tuned via the control of pH under solvothermal conditions. The structures are characterized by FTIR spectroscopy, elemental analysis, single-crystal X-ray diffraction and powder X-ray diffraction analysis. The H 4 bpta ligands exhibit μ 6 - κ 2: κ 1: κ 2: κ 1 and μ 7 -κ 2 :κ 2 :κ 1 :κ 2 coordination modes in the complexes 1 – 3. The octahedral metal ions are connected by carboxylate and μ 2 -O bridges to form [Co 2 (μ -OCO) 2 ] and [M 2 (μ- OCO) 2 (μ 2 -O)] SBUs, respectively. Complex 1 shows a 2D framework with {44.62} sql -net topology. Complexes 2 and 3 display 3D networks with {42.84} pts -net topology. Magnetic studies reveal that 1 and 2 exhibit weak antiferromagnetic interactions in the double- and triple-bridged dimeric cobalt(II) units (J ​= ​−0.53(6) cm−1 for 1 , and − E 2 / k ​= ​−0.77 ​K for 2 , respectively). Complex 3 shows a ferromagnetic interaction (J ​= ​2.44(1) cm−1) between two dimeric Ni(II) ions. The combination of mixed carboxylate and phen ligands constructs CPs tuned via the control of pH. Three Co/Ni(II)-CPs possess dimeric SBUs with double- and triple-bridged carboxylate bridges, and show different magnetic interactions between dimeric metal ions. [Display omitted] • The complexes 1–3 were synthesized via the tuning of pH under solvothermal conditions. • The H 4 bpta ligands act as μ 6 - κ 2: κ 1: κ 2: κ 1 and μ 7 -κ 2 :κ 2 :κ 1 :κ 2 coordination modes in the complexes 1–3. • The dinuclear [Co 2 (μ -OCO) 2 ] and [M 2 (μ- OCO) 2 (μ 2 -O)] SBUs exhibit different magnetic properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Inflammatory responses play an important role in the pathogenesis of adverse ventricular remodeling after myocardial infarction (MI). We previously demonstrated that interleukin (IL)-17A plays a pathogenic role in myocardial ischemia/reperfusion injury and viral myocarditis. However, the role of IL-17A in post-MI remodeling and the related mechanisms have not been fully elucidated. Acute MI was induced by permanent ligation of the left anterior descending coronary artery in C57BL/6 mice. Repletion of IL-17A significantly aggravated both early- and late-phase ventricular remodeling, as demonstrated by increased infarct size, deteriorated cardiac function, increased myocardial fibrosis, and cardiomyocyte apoptosis. By contrast, genetic IL-17A deficiency had the opposite effect. Additional studies in vitro indicated that IL-17A induces neonatal cardiomyocyte (from C57BL/6 mice) apoptosis through the activation of p38, p53 phosphorylation, and Bax redistribution. These data demonstrate that IL-17A induces cardiomyocyte apoptosis through the p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK)-p53-Bax signaling pathway and promotes both early- and late-phase post-MI ventricular remodeling. IL-17A might be an important target in preventing heart failure after MI. Key message: • We demonstrated that IL-17A plays a pathogenic role both in the early and late stages of post-MI remodeling. • IL-17A induces murine cardiomyocyte apoptosis. • IL-17A induces murine cardiomyocyte apoptosis through the p38 MAPK-p53-Bax signaling pathway. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An interim report of a case-control study was conducted to explore the role of environmental factors in the development of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). Sixty-six cases and 66 age- and gender-matched controls were recruited. Detailed information regarding residence history, occupational history, smoking, physical activity, and other factors was obtained using questionnaires. The association of ALS with potential risk factors, including smoking, physical activity and chemical exposure, was investigated using conditional logistic regression models. As compared to controls, a greater number of our randomly selected ALS patients reported exposure to fertilizers to treat private yards and gardens and occupational exposure to pesticides in the last 30 years than our randomly selected control cases. Smoking, occupational exposures to metals, dust/fibers/fumes/gas and radiation, and physical activity were not associated with ALS when comparing the randomly selected ALS patients to the control subjects. To further explore and confirm results, exposures over several time frames, including 0–10 and 10–30 years earlier, were considered, and analyses were stratified by age and gender. Pesticide and fertilizer exposure were both significantly associated with ALS in the randomly selected ALS patients. While study results need to be interpreted cautiously given the small sample size and the lack of direct exposure measures, these results suggest that environmental and particularly residential exposure factors warrant close attention in studies examining risk factors of ALS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Environmental exposures typically involve mixtures of pollutants, which must be understood to evaluate cumulative risks, that is, the likelihood of adverse health effects arising from two or more chemicals. This study uses several powerful techniques to characterize dependency structures of mixture components in personal exposure measurements of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) with aims of advancing the understanding of environmental mixtures, improving the ability to model mixture components in a statistically valid manner, and demonstrating broadly applicable techniques. We first describe characteristics of mixtures and introduce several terms, including the mixture fraction which represents a mixture component's share of the total concentration of the mixture. Next, using VOC exposure data collected in the Relationship of Indoor Outdoor and Personal Air (RIOPA) study, mixtures are identified using positive matrix factorization (PMF) and by toxicological mode of action. Dependency structures of mixture components are examined using mixture fractions and modeled using copulas, which address dependencies of multiple variables across the entire distribution. Five candidate copulas (Gaussian, t, Gumbel, Clayton, and Frank) are evaluated, and the performance of fitted models was evaluated using simulation and mixture fractions. Cumulative cancer risks are calculated for mixtures, and results from copulas and multivariate lognormal models are compared to risks calculated using the observed data. Results obtained using the RIOPA dataset showed four VOC mixtures, representing gasoline vapor, vehicle exhaust, chlorinated solvents and disinfection by-products, and cleaning products and odorants. Often, a single compound dominated the mixture, however, mixture fractions were generally heterogeneous in that the VOC composition of the mixture changed with concentration. Three mixtures were identified by mode of action, representing VOCs associated with hematopoietic, liver and renal tumors. Estimated lifetime cumulative cancer risks exceeded 10−3 for about 10% of RIOPA participants. Factors affecting the likelihood of high concentration mixtures included city, participant ethnicity, and house air exchange rates. The dependency structures of the VOC mixtures fitted Gumbel (two mixtures) and t (four mixtures) copulas, types that emphasize tail dependencies. Significantly, the copulas reproduced both risk predictions and exposure fractions with a high degree of accuracy, and performed better than multivariate lognormal distributions. Copulas may be the method of choice for VOC mixtures, particularly for the highest exposures or extreme events, cases that poorly fit lognormal distributions and that represent the greatest risks. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Let X, X be independent geometric random variables with parameters p, p, respectively, and Y, Y be i.i.d. geometric random variables with common parameter p. It is shown that X, the maximum order statistic from X, X, is larger than Y, the second order statistic from Y, Y, in terms of the hazard rate order [usual stochastic order] if and only if $p\geq \tilde{p}$, where $\tilde{p}=(p_{1}p_{2})^{\frac{1}{2}}$ is the geometric mean of ( p, p). This result answers an open problem proposed recently by Mao and Hu (Probab. Eng. Inf. Sci. 24:245-262, 2010) for the case when n=2. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Selective oxygenation of alkanes via C H bond activation still remains a challenge because the oxygen-containing products are more active than the substrates. Here, we develop a new concept of eco-friendly zeolite-fixed photocatalyst to impart catalytic performance via loading CuCl 2 upon visible-light irradiation. Complete selectivity in terms of the final oxidation product KA-oil was obtained with 24% conversion in the application of cyclohexane oxidation. After optimization, the desired ketones and alcohols were also obtained in good to excellent selectivities with broad substrate scope. Multiple experimental studies combined with theoretical calculations demonstrate that the formation of the unique CuCl 2 /TS-1 hollow structure with isolated CuCl 2 species anchored onto the inner and outer surface of TS-1 shells: the function of the major tetrahedral Ti–O 4 sites in heterojunctions to isolate energy levels near the conduction and valence bands. In photocatalysis, the presence of Cu–O–Ti–O 3 heterojunctions facilitates separation and transfer of photogenerated electrons and holes [Display omitted] • Hollow CuCl 2 -decorated TS-1 shows superior responsiveness in oxidation of alkanes. • A concept of zeolite-fixed photocatalyst to impart the catalytic performance. • 23% cyclohexane conversion and 100% KA-oil selectivity are achieved. • Cl–Cu–O 4 –Ti bridging sites in hollow TS-1 are the main photocatalytic sites. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Community and environmental exposure to volatile organic compounds (VOCs) has been associated with a number of emission sources and activities, e.g., environmental tobacco smoke and pumping gasoline. Such factors have been identified from mostly small studies with relatively limited information regarding influences on VOC levels. This study uses data from the Relationship of Indoor Outdoor and Personal Air (RIOPA) study to investigate environmental, individual and social determinants of VOC concentrations. RIOPA included outdoor, indoor and personal measurements of 18 VOCs from 310 non-smoking households and adults in three cities and two seasons, and collected a wide range of information pertaining to participants, family members, households, and neighborhoods. Exposure determinants were identified using stepwise regressions and linear mixed-effect models. Most VOC exposure (66 to 78% of the total exposure, depending on VOC) occurred indoors, and outdoor VOC sources accounted for 5 (d-limonene) to 81% (carbon tetrachloride) of the total exposure. Personal exposure and indoor measurements had similar determinants, which depended on the VOC. Gasoline-related VOCs (e.g., benzene, methyl tertiary butyl ether) were associated with city, residences with attached garages, self-pumping of gas, wind speed, and house air exchange rate (AER). Odorant and cleaning-related VOCs (e.g., 1,4-dichlorobenzene and chloroform) also were associated with city and AER, and with house size and family members showering. Dry-cleaning and industry-related VOCs (e.g., tetrachloroethylene and trichloroethylene) were associated with city, residence water supply type, and dry-cleaner visits. These and other relationships were significant, explained from 10 to 40% of the variation, and are consistent with known emission sources and the literature. Outdoor concentrations had only two common determinants: city and wind speed. Overall, personal exposure was dominated by the home setting, although a large fraction of VOC concentrations were due to outdoor sources. City, personal activities, household characteristics and meteorology were significant determinants. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Background: Metastasis occurs in a series of discrete steps involving invasion, angiogenesis, lymphovascular space permeation, and establishment of secondary tumors. Malignant pleural effusion (MPE), a type of tumor metastasis, is usually a poor prognostic sign for patients with pulmonary adenocarcinoma, although its underlying mechanism has received less attention than other types of metastases have. The objective of the current study was to confirm whether cancer stem cells (CSCs) in MPE contribute to the “metastatic cascade” through the epithelial – mesenchymal transition (EMT), anoikis, and adaptation in the microenvironment. Methods: Pulmonary tissue and corresponding cell blocks of MPE samples from 20 patients with primary adenocarcinoma were analyzed by immunohistochemical staining with CSC-representative markers (CD133, Nanog, and OCT-4) and EMT-associated markers (E-cadherin and vimentin). Correlations between these variables and clinico-pathological parameters were analyzed. Primary cultures from eight cases of MPE were investigated to characterize the CSC properties, including marker expression, sphere formation, and differentiation. Results: Expressions of CSC-representative markers for 20 cases of MPE cell blocks were quite diverse and variable ranging from 15% to 90%. Stronger expression of CSC-representative markers and alteration of EMT-associated markers were found at the invasive fronts and in MPEs compared with the expression in primary pulmonary tumor tissues. The expression of OCT-4 in MPEs significantly related to distant metastasis and stage, as well as inversely correlated with patient survival. Primary cultures confirmed the CSC properties in MPE. Five of eight cases of MPE yielded adequate cell clusters, which also showed variable expressions of CSC markers in addition to sphere formation and the ability for differentiation and metastasis. Conclusion: This pilot study offers a better understanding of the metastatic cascade. Establishing a model of MPE will provide further insight into the role of CSCs in metastasis and may explain the high therapeutic failure rates for patients with MPE. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Extreme value theory, which characterizes the behavior of tails of distributions, is potentially well-suited to model exposures and risks of pollutants. In this application, it emphasizes the highest exposures, particularly those that may be high enough to present acute or chronic health risks. The present study examines extreme value distributions of exposures and risks to volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Exposures of 15 different VOCs were measured in the Relationship between Indoor, Outdoor and Personal Air (RIOPA) study, and ten of the same VOCs were measured in the nationally representative National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES). Both studies used similar sampling methods and study periods. Using the highest 5 and 10% of measurements, generalized extreme value (GEV), Gumbel and lognormal distributions were fit to each VOC in these two large studies. Health risks were estimated for individual VOCs and three VOC mixtures. Simulated data that matched the three types of distributions were generated and compared to observations to evaluate goodness-of-fit. The tail behavior of exposures, which clearly neither fit normal nor lognormal distributions for most VOCs in RIOPA, was usually best fit by the 3-parameter GEV distribution, and often by the 2-parameter Gumbel distribution. In contrast, lognormal distributions significantly underestimated both the level and likelihood of extrema. Among the RIOPA VOCs, 1,4-dichlorobenzene (1,4-DCB) caused the greatest risks, e.g., for the top 10% extrema, all individuals had risk levels above 10−4, and 13% of them exceeded 10−2. NHANES had considerably higher concentrations of all VOCs with two exceptions, methyl tertiary-butyl ether and 1,4-DCB. Differences between these studies can be explained by sampling design, staging, sample demographics, smoking and occupation. This analysis shows that extreme value distributions can represent peak exposures of VOCs, which clearly are neither normally nor lognormally distributed. These exposures have the greatest health significance, and require accurate modeling. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Background: Treatment failure in oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) leading to local recurrence(s) and metastases is mainly due to drug resistance. Cancer stem cells (CSCs) are thought be responsible for the development of drug resistance. However, the correlations between CSCs, drug resistance, and new strategy against drug resistance in OSCC remain elusive. Methods: A drug-resistant sphere (DRSP) model was generated by using a nonadhesive culture system to induce drug-resistant cells from SCC25 oral cancer cells. A comparative analysis was performed between the parent control cells and DRSPs with a related treatment strategy focusing on the expression of epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT)-associated markers, drug-resistance-related genes, and CSC properties in vitro, as well as tumorigenicity and the regimen for tumor regression in vivo. Results: Our data show the presence of a phenomenon of EMT with gradual cellular transition from an epithelioid to mesenchymal-like spheroid morphology during induction of drug resistance. The characterization of DRSPs revealed the upregulation of the drug-resistance-related genes ABCG2 and MDR-1 and of CSC-representative markers, suggesting that DRSPs have greater resistance to cisplatin (Cis) and stronger CSC properties compared with the control. Moreover, overexpression of phosphorylated heat-shock protein 27 (p-Hsp27) via the activation of p38 MAPK signaling was observed in DRSPs. Knockdown of Hsp27 decreased Cis resistance and induced apoptosis in DRSPs. Furthermore, an inhibitor of Hsp27, quercetin (Qu), suppressed p-Hsp27 expression, with alterations of the EMT signature, leading to the promotion of apoptosis in DRSPs. A xenographic study also confirmed the increase of tumorigenicity in DRSPs. The combination of Qu and Cis can reduce tumor growth and decrease drug resistance in OSCC. Conclusions: The p38 MAPK-Hsp27 axis plays an important role in CSCs-mediated drug resistance in OSCC. Targeting this axis using Qu combined with Cis may be a treatment strategy to improve prognosis in patients with OSCC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Cancer stem cells (CSCs) play an important role in tumor initiation, progression, and metastasis and are responsible for high therapeutic failure rates. Identification and characterization of CSC are crucial for facilitating the monitoring, therapy, or prevention of cancer. Great efforts have been paid to develop a more effective methodology. Nevertheless, the ideal model for CSC research is still evolving. In this study, we created a nonadhesive culture system to enrich CSCs from human oral squamous cell carcinoma cell lines with sphere formation and to characterize their CSC properties further. Methods: A nonadhesive culture system was designed to generate spheres from the SAS and OECM-1 cell lines. A subsequent investigation of their CSC properties, including stemness, self-renewal, and chemo- and radioresistance in vitro, as well as tumor initiation capacity in vivo, was also performed. Results: Spheres were formed cost-effectively and time-efficiently within 5 to 7 days. Moreover, we proved that these spheres expressed putative stem cell markers and exhibited chemoradiotherapeutic resistance, in addition to tumorinitiating and self-renewal capabilities. Conclusions: Using this nonadhesive culture system, we successfully established a rapid and cost-effective model that exhibits the characteristics of CSCs and can be used in cancer research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Exposures to volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are ubiquitous due to emissions from personal, commercial and industrial products, but quantitative and representative information regarding long term exposure trends is lacking. This study characterizes trends from 1988 to 2004 for the 15 VOCs measured in blood in five cohorts of the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES), a large and representative sample of U.S. adults. Trends were evaluated at various percentiles using linear quantile regression (QR) models, which were adjusted for solvent-related occupations and cotinine levels. Most VOCs showed decreasing trends at all quantiles, e.g., median exposures declined by 2.5 (m,p-xylene) to 6.4 (tetrachloroethene) percent per year over the 15 year period. Trends varied by VOC and quantile, and were grouped into three patterns: similar decreases at all quantiles (including benzene, toluene); most rapid decreases at upper quantiles (ethylbenzene, m,p-xylene, o-xylene, styrene, chloroform, tetrachloroethene); and fastest declines at central quantiles (1,4-dichlorobenzene). These patterns reflect changes in exposure sources, e.g., upper-percentile exposures may result mostly from occupational exposure, while lower percentile exposures arise from general environmental sources. Both VOC emissions aggregated at the national level and VOC concentrations measured in ambient air also have declined substantially over the study period and are supportive of the exposure trends, although the NHANES data suggest the importance of indoor sources and personal activities on VOC exposures. While piecewise QR models suggest that exposures of several VOCs decreased little or any during the 1990’s, followed by more rapid decreases from 1999 to 2004, questions are raised concerning the reliability of VOC data in several of the NHANES cohorts and its applicability as an exposure indicator, as demonstrated by the modest correlation between VOC levels in blood and personal air collected in the 1999/2000 cohort. Despite some limitations, the NHANES data provides a unique, long term and direct measurement of VOC exposures and trends. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: To improve the mechanical properties of polypropylene (PP), poly (ethylene-co-octene copolymer) (PEOc) and clay particles were incorporated by melt blending with the aid of supercritical carbon dioxide. Results from X-ray diffraction, electron microscopy, and rheology show that using sc-CO2 makes the clay layers mainly intercalated by polymer chains and well exfoliate in the nanocomposites relative to direct melt blending. This leads to a three-dimensional network structure formed in the nanocomposites as confirmed by rheology. Evidences from scanning electron microscope (SEM) indicate most of clay particles are mainly localized close to or inside the PEOc phase and others disperse separately in the PP phase. The incorporation of PEOc and clay significantly improve the impact strength of PP without the expense of lowering PP’s stiffness and strength. The use of sc-CO2 or PP-g-MA during melt-compounding can further improve the mechanical properties of the ternary nanocomposites. Compared to PP-g-MA, sc-CO2 is more favorable for dispersing clay in PP/PEOc blend and improving the mechanical properties of the nanocomposites. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The article discusses a study which examines the volatile components of three indigenous citrus species in Taiwan including Citrus (C.) taiwanica, C. tachibana and C. depressa. Findings reveal that eight volatile components were identified including linalool, geranial and limonene. It also indicates that C. taiwanica was associated with sour orange while either C. depressa or C. tachibana belonged to the mandarin group as revealed in the qualitative and quantitative patterns of the volatiles.

Abstract: A flow-based immunoassay system utilizing secondary-antibody coated microbeads and Cy5-secondary antibody for signal production was successfully developed to quantitate target bacteria with a kinetic exclusion assay (KinExA™ 3000 Instrument). It directly measured the concentration of unliganded antibody separated from the equilibrated mixture of antibody and bacteria through a 0.2μm polyethersulfone membrane, enabling it to quantify the concentration of bacteria. The novel method demonstrated the qualities of rapidness, sensitivity, high accuracy and reproducibility, and ease to perform. Detection of Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Staphylococcus aureus was accomplished with low detection limits of 4.10×106 and 5.20×l04 cells/mL, respectively, with an assay time of less than 15min. The working ranges for quantification were 4.10×l06 to 1.64×l010 cells/mL for P. aeruginosa, and 5.20×l04 to 1.04×l09 cells/mL for S. aureus. It yielded an assay with at least 10-fold greater sensitivity than ELISA and could correctly assess the concentration of predominant bacterium spiked in the mixture of P. aeruginosa and S. aureus. With this reliable platform, the average amount of antibody bound by one cell in the maximum capability could be further provided: (1.6–2.5)×l05 antibodies for one P. aeruginosa cell and (2.2–2.7)×l08 antibodies for one S. aureus cell. The KinExA system is flexible to determine different kinds of bacteria conveniently by using anti-mouse IgG as the same immobilizing agent. However, a higher specificity of the antibodies to the target bacteria will be required for the use of this system with higher detection sensitivity. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The pure and plasma treated-hybrid glass/PTFE fabric was used to prepare fabric/phenolic composites by dip-coating in a phenolic resin and the relative mass content of hybrid glass/PTFE fabric in the composites is 70–75%. The friction wear performance of the composites were evaluated with a Xuanwu-III high temperature friction and wear tester in a dry sliding condition. The chemical compositions of pure and air-plasma treated-hybrid glass/PTFE fabric were analyzed by means of FTIR. The microstructure and the morphologies of the worn surfaces of the composites were analyzed by means of scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The results showed that the structure of the composite made of the untreated-hybrid glass/PTFE fabric consists of the compact layer and the loose layer, whereas the structural integrity of it made of the plasma treated-hybrid glass/PTFE fabric has been strengthened significantly. The load-carrying capacity, friction-reduction and wear-resistance of the composite made of the air-plasma treated-hybrid glass/PTFE fabric are significantly improved. The generating oxygenic and nitrogenous groups are introduced on the surface of the fabric, coupled with the increase of the surface roughness, which contribute to strengthening the bonding strength between the fabric and the phenolic adhesive and hence to improving the tribological properties of the fabric/phenolic composites. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Nomex fabric composites filled with the particulates of polyfluo150 wax (PFW) and nanoparticles of SiO2, respectively, were prepared by dip-coating of Nomex fabric in a phenolic resin containing particulates to be incorporated and the successive curing. The friction and wear behaviors of the pure and filled-Nomex fabric composites sliding against AISI-1045 steel in a pin-on-disk configuration were evaluated on a Xuanwu-III high temperature friction and wear tester. The structure of the composites, and the morphologies of the worn surfaces and of the counterpart steel pins were analyzed by means of scanning electron microscopy. The adhesion and tensile strength of the unfilled, PFW or nano-SiO2 filled Nomex fabric composites were evaluated with a DY35 universal material tester. The results showed that the addition of PFW and nano-SiO2 significantly improved the wear resistance and decreased the friction coefficient, moreover the PFW as a filler is better than nano-SiO2. The improved tribological performance of filled-Nomex fabric composites when compared with the unfilled one, can be attributed to the self-properties of filler, such as the self-lubricative of PFW, the bonding strength between the Nomex fabric and the adhesive resin adopted with the different particles and the special characteristic of transfer film. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: This paper proposes a new efficient authentication protocol for mobile networks. The user, service provider and key distribution center authenticate mutually in the proposed protocol. In addition, the user and service provider will generate a secret session key for communication in this protocol. We prove the proposed protocol by using BAN logic. In our protocol, the key distribution center of the networks does not need to maintain the secret key database of users by using the key derivation function. The proposed protocol is based on symmetric cryptosystem, challenge–response and hash chaining. It only needs four message exchange rounds for intra-domain initial phase and seven message exchange rounds for inter-domain initial phase. Our initial phase only takes 17% and our subsequent phase requires 26% communication cost of Chien and Jan''s protocol. The proposed protocol is more efficient than the others. It is suitable to apply in the mobile networks. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

A novel method for vectorizing construction engineering drawing images is presented. The method consists of two algorithms: a seed-segment based line-network vectorization algorithm and a knowledge-supported vectorization algorithm designed specially for construction engineering drawings. The seed-segment based algorithm converts a line wholly and a line network globally so that both the quality and speed are satisfied. The knowledge supported vectorization algorithm takes full use of the features and rules of construction engineering drawings to solve the difficulties of vectorization caused by noises and degradations. The performance of this method is discussed at the end of this paper. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]