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Objective: This study aimed to investigate the role of various factors contributing to growth retardation, including nutritional intake, disease duration, and treatment history, and further identify key risk factors that may influence growth outcomes in patients with juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA). Methods: Clinical data from 155 JIA children who were treated at our hospital between January 2019 and December 2022 were analyzed. The children were divided into the growth retardation group (n = 40) and the non-growth retardation group (n = 115) based on the height Z-score < -2 SD or not. The two groups were compared based on their baseline characteristics, disease-related factors, dietary habits, lifestyle, and family background. Logistic regression and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analyses were employed to identify and assess the factors associated with growth retardation. Results: Out of the 155 children, 40 (25.81%) were diagnosed with growth retardation. Children with growth retardation were more likely to have a disease duration ≥ 3 years (72.50% vs. 39.13%, P < 0.001), exercise time < 1 h/per day (68.50% vs. 33.04%, P < 0.001), glucocorticoid use (65.00% vs. 34.78%, P = 0.001), and active disease activity (72.50% vs. 37.39%, P < 0.001). These factors were identified as independent risk factors for growth retardation in multivariate analysis. The area under the curve (AUC) values for these factors ranged from 0.651 to 0.676, indicating moderate predictive accuracy. When considering all these factors together, the combined model demonstrated an AUC value of 0.702, suggesting a high predictive value. Conclusion: The incidence of growth retardation in children with JIA is high, with factors such as disease duration, exercise time, GC treatment, clinic visits, picky eating, and disease activity contributing to its development. While each of these factors demonstrates moderate predictive value individually, their combined consideration significantly improves predictive accuracy. Clinical trial number: Not applicable. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Synthesis of a Mn4+‐activated fluoride red‐emitting phosphor combining high efficiency, excellent thermal stability, and outstanding moisture resistance still remains a challenge. Herein, this work synthesizes a red‐emitting phosphor Cs2NbF6: Mn4+ (CNF: Mn4+) based on the cation‐exchange method. Interestingly, as a result of the redox reaction between Mn3+ (Mn2+) and Nb5+ ions during the exchange reaction, the real Mn4+ concentration is remarkably increased, while Nb5+ ions are reduced to Nb4+. The obtained optimum CNF: Mn4+ phosphor shows high internal and external photoluminescence (PL) quantum yield (QY) of 92% and 58%, respectively. Moreover, the CNF: Mn4+ exhibits excellent thermal stability (I@150 = 105%) and moisture resistance. A white light‐emitting diode (LED) packaged by combining blue diode chips, Y3Al5O12:Ce3+ yellow phosphor, and CNF: Mn4+ red phosphor demonstrates a low correlated color temperature (CCT) of 3872 K, high color rendering index (CRI) of Ra = 88, and a luminous efficacy of 105 lm W−1. The high‐performance of the white LED suggests the great potential of the CNF: Mn4+ narrowband red phosphor in display and lighting fields. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the present work, we report the discovery and complete genome sequence of a novel partitivirus identified from Brassica campestris L. ssp. chinensis, which we have named "Brassica campestris chinensis cryptic virus 1" (BCCV1). Next-generation sequencing (NGS) combined with adapter-ligation-mediated amplification allowed assembly of the full-length genome sequence of BCCV1. The genome of BCCV1 contains two dsRNA segments, dsRNA1 (1595 bp) and dsRNA2 (1591 bp), which encode a conserved RNA-dependent RNA polymerase (RdRp) and a putative capsid protein (CP), respectively. Homology searches and phylogenetic analysis of the 479-aa RdRp and 438-aa CP showed that BCCV1 is a new member of the genus Deltapartitivirus, family Partitiviridae. This is the first report of the identification of a member of the family Partitiviridae in Brassica campestris L. ssp. chinensis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Here, we report the full-length genome sequence of a novel cogu-like virus identified in Brassica campestris L. ssp. Chinensis (B. campestris), an economically important vegetable in China. This virus, tentatively named "Brassica campestris chinensis coguvirus 1" (BCCoV1), has a bipartite genome that consists of two RNA molecules (RNA1 and RNA2). The negative-stranded (ns) RNA1 is 6757 nt in length, encoding the putative RNA-dependent RNA polymerase (RdRp), and the ambisense RNA2 is 3061 nt long, encoding the putative movement protein (MP) and nucleocapsid protein (NP). A homology search of the RdRp, MP, and NP showed that they are closely related to five other recently discovered negative-stranded RNA (nsRNA) viruses infecting plants, belonging to the new genus Coguvirus. Phylogenetic analysis of the 252-kDa RdRp confirmed the classification of this virus, showing that BCCoV1 possibly belongs to the genus Coguvirus, family Phenuiviridae, order Bunyavirales. The present study improves our understanding of the viral diversity in B. campestris and the evolution of nsRNA viruses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Constructing 2D gold nanorods monolayer films with precise particle assembly is of great importance to fundamental and real applications. However, it is usually difficult to achieve macroscopic size, freestanding feature, high density of particle packing, and precisely controllable particle orientation in monolayer films. In this work, a macroscopic, uniform, freestanding orientational monolayer film is facilely and controllably prepared through precise assembly of asymmetrically modified gold nanorods at water–oil interface. The assembling morphologies can be controlled through regulating the interaction between gold nanorods by varying the amounts and sites of modified molecules. The intriguing tunable assemblies exhibit not only adjustable absorption spectrum in a wide range attributed to different particle coupling, but also optimized photothermal conversion capability under low energy density (0.08 W cm‐2). Together with a commercial thermochromic dye, the patterned assemblies show excellent photothermal anti‐counterfeiting performance by reproducing accurate full images in 20 s that are invisible after laser off in 10 min. The excellent laser writing performance is also demonstrated by writing any information on thermochromic dye‐coated assemblies. With the advantages of being macroscopic, equipment‐free, transferable, scalable and with high photothermal conversion capability, the orientational monolayer films pave the way for on‐demand design of sensing and device applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Food adulteration is a common challenge in the meat industry. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) has been used as a method to detect contamination from different species of meat. From a consumer perspective, a PCR method with measurements in terms of weight/weight (w/w) ratios will be more familiar. In this study, the focus was on how to convert the results of quantitative analysis from genome/genome (g/g) to w/w using real-time PCR. The mixtures with different ratios of mutton in pork were analyzed as test samples. The c values of different species, as a reflection of the key conversion factors, were established and evaluated. The effects of heat treatment on w/w conversion of PCR data were also assessed. The results indicated that the c value shows significant variability among individual samples. An average c value was found to cause a bias of more than 7% for mixtures in the range of 20–80%. For individual meat samples with pre-determined c-values, real-time PCR was useful for quantitative analysis of mutton contamination in pork within the range of 20–80%, with a bias of detection of less than 2%. However, this method was shown to have a limit of quantification of 5% with mutton in pork. Furthermore, heat treatment (121°C, 15 min) significantly reduced the accuracy of quantitative analyses. Because the c value is not available for most commercial samples, and some food products are subjected to heat treatment as a method of sterilization, accurate quantitative analysis (w/w) may not be an option for commercial samples using PCR-based technology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRACT The relationship between hemodynamic parameters and body mass index (BMI) in the context of blood pressure regulation in hypertension is unclear. Here, we analyzed data from 1368 uncontrolled hypertensive patients, including key hemodynamic indicators such as heart rate (HR), cardiac index (CI), arterial stiffness (AS), systemic vascular resistance index (SVRI), and thoracic blood ratio (TBR). In this cohort, the average BMI across all hypertension patients was 26.859 ± 3.897 (kg/m2), with obese patients (BMI ≥ 28 kg/m2) averaging 31.01 ± 2.87 kg/m2 and non‐obese (BMI<28 kg/m2) averaging 24.70 ± 2.28 kg/m2. Younger obese patients exhibited higher diastolic pressures than non‐obese peers (p < 0.01). Hemodynamic analysis showed obese patients had increased HR and SVRI but lower CI and AS (p < 0.01). Hypertensive males aged under 60 with obesity displayed a more prominent peripheral vascular phenotype (p < 0.05) and volemic phenotype (p < 0.01) than non‐obese males. Obese females aged under 60 showed a higher incidence of cardiac phenotype (p < 0.01). Across genders, obese hypertensive patients aged over 60 had a greater prevalence of volemic phenotype than non‐obese patients (p < 0.05, p < 0.01, respectively). BMI inversely correlated with CI and positively with SVRI across age and gender categories (p < 0.01). Taken together, we find that patients with hypertension exhibit diverse hemodynamic profiles, and BMI significantly correlates with hemodynamic parameters such as SVRI and CI. Our research identifies BMI as a valuable target for personalized hypertension treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study aimed to observe the therapeutic effect of combined mizolastine and proteoglycan in chronic urticaria. The patients were randomly divided into the treatment group (n = 56) and the control group (n = 44). The treatment group was medicated with calcium gluconate (10 mg/ time, 1 time/day), vitamin D3 (intramuscular 10 mg/time, 1 time/week), mizolastine (10 mg/time, 1 time/day), and proteoglycan (1.2 g/time, 3 times/day), while the control group was administered with the same drugs except proteoglycan for 4 weeks. After treatment with combined mizolastine and proteoglycan, therapeutic effect with symptoms decline index (SDI) more than 60% was significant different (44 vs. 24, p = 0.000973) and the relapse rate after 2 months was significantly lower (17.9% vs. 38.6%, p = 0.0202). Using ELISA, we found that the IFN-γ (37.88 ± 4.27 pg/mL vs. 21.91 ± 4.95 pg/mL, p = 0.028) levels were specifically increased in the experiment group. The combination of mizolastine plus proteoglycan is effective in treating chronic urticaria with better therapeutic effect and lower relapse rate through promoting IFN-γ production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Thorium is not only a promising candidate for developing next generation nuclear fuel but also a potential radioactive contaminant. Efficient detection of thorium contamination is critically important in both nuclear science and environmental protection. We present here a 3D luminescent europium organic framework [Eu2(FDC)3(DMA)2]·4H2O (compound 1), which exhibits excellent hydrolytic stability and features highly selective detection capacity (KSV = 6.68 × 104) towards radioactive Th4+ ions among the selected monovalent, divalent and tervalent metal ions in aqueous solution. The detection limit of the material towards Th4+ is 3.49 × 10−5 mol L−1 which is close to the WHO standard. The detection capability and the sensing mechanism were demonstrated by Th4+ uptake kinetics, energy-dispersive spectroscopy mapping, absorption spectroscopy, luminescence lifetime, and competitive adsorption measurements. Compound 1 represents a rare case of a MOF based Th4+ probe. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Inward migration of cerebellar granule cells (CGCs) after birth is critical for lamination in the cerebellar cortex. N -methyl- d -aspartate (NMDA) subtype of glutamate receptor (NMDAR) tethering CGCs into Bergmann glial fibers mediates the inward movement during the glial-dependent migratory phase. Activation of NMDAR depends on simultaneous binding of the GluN2 subunit by glutamate, and of the GluN1 subunit by d -serine or glycine; d -serine is believed to be an endogenous ligand of NMDAR. We hypothesized that lamination of the cerebellar cortex may be compromised in Srr (the gene for serine racemase (SR)) mutated mice ( Srr null ) because of significantly low levels of d -serine per se . Indeed, the external germinal cell layer (EGL) in Srr null was thicker than in sibling wild-type (WT) mice on postnatal day7 (P7), which accords with decreased CGC migration in Srr null mice. However, the cerebellar laminar structure in Srr null mice was normal on P12 and later. Feeding d -serine to pregnant mice abrogated the increased EGL thickness in Srr null mice on P7. To determine the underlying mechanism of abnormal laminar structure during cerebellar development in Srr null mice, we examined NMDAR subunits and their ligands. We found increased GluN2B on P10 and increased glycine during P7–12 in the cerebellar homogenates from Srr null mice compared with the corresponding values from sibling WT mice. In summary, the study revealed how the potential defect in early cerebellar development caused by Srr mutation is circumvented by a compensatory mechanism. This knowledge advances understanding of the adaptation of cerebellar development under the condition of Srr mutation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The uniqueness of the solution for the definite problem of a parabolic variational inequality is proved. The problem comes from the study of the optimal exercise strategies for the perpetual executive stock options with unrestricted exercise in financial market. Because the variational inequality is degenerate and the obstacle condition contains the partial derivative of an unknown function, it makes the theoretical study of the definite problem of the variational inequality problem very difficult. Firstly, the property which the value function satisfies is derived by applying the Jensen inequality. Then the uniqueness of the solution is proved by using this property and maximum principles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The cell-associated glucansucrase from Leuconostoc citreum SK24.002 was isolated, purified, characterized and used for de novo synthesis of α-glucan and acceptor-products. The final specific glucansucrase activity was 1.4 U/mg protein with 13.2-fold purification. The obtained glucansucrase had a molecular weight of 186 kDa, T m of 61.7 °C and △H of 176.7 kJ/mol. The enzyme showed maximum activity at pH 5.0-6.0 and 45 °C. The enzyme activity was enhanced by Ca 2+ , Mn 2+ or Co 2+ ions, whereas the activity decreased as the methanol, ethanol, n -butanol, DMSO or isopropanol concentration increased. The chemical inhibitors including BD, DTNB, EDC or NBS also significantly inhibited enzyme activity. K m , V max and k cat of glucansucrase were 10.9 mM, 3.6 U/mg and 306.6 1/s, respectively. For de novo synthesis from sucrose, α-glucan polymer with molecular weight of 1.5 × 10 7 g/mol and maltose acceptor products (trisaccharide, tetrasaccharide and pentasaccharide) were obtained by glucansucrase via glucosyltransfer reactions, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background/Aims: MicroRNA (miRNA) is a small non-coding RNA molecule that functions in regulation of gene expression by targeting mRNA to affect its stability and/or translation. The aim of this study was to evaluate the miRNAs involvement in gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM), a well known risk factor for fetal overgrowth. Methods: Differential microRNA expression in placental tissues of normal controls and women with GDM were identified by miRNA micorarray analysis and further confirmed by quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR) on an independent set of normal and GDM placental tissues. Target genes of microRNAs were bioinformatically predicted and verified in vitro by Western blotting. Results: Our results uncovered 9 miRNAs that were significantly deregulated in GDM samples: miR-508-3p was up-regulated and miR-27a, miR-9, miR-137, miR-92a, miR-33a, miR-30d, miR-362-5p and miR-502-5p were down-regulated. Bioinformatic approaches revealed that the microRNAs signature identifies gene targets involved in EGFR (epidermal growth factor receptor)-PI3K (phosphoinositide 3-Kinase)-Akt (also known as protein kinase B) pathway, a signal cascade which plays important roles in placental development and fetal growth. We found that the protein levels of EGFR, PI3K and phospho-Akt were up-regulated and PIKfyve (a FYVE finger-containing phosphoinositide kinase), a negative regulator of EGFR signaling, was down-regulated significantly in GDM tissues. We also confirmed PIKfyve was a direct target of miR-508-3p. Conclusion: Our data identified a miRNA signature involvement in GDM which may contribute to macrosomia through enhancing EGFR signaling. © 2015 S. Karger AG, Basel [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Medulloblastoma (MB) is the most common malignant brain tumor of childhood. Current therapies are toxic and not always curative that necessitates development of targeted immunotherapy. However, little is known about immunobiology of this tumor. In this study, we show that MB cells in 9 of 20 primary tumors express CD1d, an antigen-presenting molecule for Natural Killer T cells (NKTs). Quantitative RT-PCR analysis of 61 primary tumors revealed an elevated level of CD1d mRNA expression in a molecular subgroup characterized by an overactivation of Sonic Hedgehog (SHH) oncogene compared with Group 4. CD1d-positive MB cells cross-presented glycolipid antigens to activate NKT-cell cytotoxicity. Intracranial injection of NKTs resulted in regression of orthotopic MB xenografts in NOD/SCID mice. Importantly, the numbers and function of peripheral blood type-I NKTs were preserved in MB patients. Therefore, CD1d is expressed on tumor cells in a subset of MB patients and represents a novel target for immunotherapy. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Background: Rituximab, a mouse Fab and human Fc chimeric antibody, has been widely used to treat Non-Hodgkin's lymphoma (NHL). However, only 48% of patients respond to the treatment and complete response rate is below 10%. Also, immunogenicity was reported in 17-20% patients receiving the treatment, making it unsuitable for long term diseases such as autoimmune disorders. It has been a hot research field to 'humanize' rituximab toward improved efficacy and reduced immunogenicity. Methods: In this study, an advanced antibody humanization technology was applied to the sequence of the anti-CD20 antibody 2B8, its sequence of which was based on the original murine monoclonal antibody of rituximab in Roche. The complementarity-determining regions (CDRs) of the humanized antibodies were further optimized through computer-aided molecular dock. Results: Five novel humanized anti-CD20 antibodies 1-5(1635, 1534, 3637, 1634 and 1536) were generated and their immunogenicity was significantly decreased when compared to rituximab. The novel humanized anti-CD20 antibodies 1-5 retained the binding activity of their murine counterpart, as demonstrated by the fluorescence-activated cell-sorting analysis (FACS). When compared to rituximab, the humanized antibodies still have the similar properties on both complement-dependent cytotoxicity (CDC) and antibody-dependent cell-mediated cytotoxicity (ADCC). Furthermore, its anti-tumor efficacy in xenograft model is comparable to that of rituximab. Conclusion: The humanized anti-CD20 antibodies 1-5 have lower immunogenicity than rituximab. And at the same time, they still retain the anti-tumor effect both in vitro and vivo. © 2013 S. Karger AG, Basel [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The IKK/ NF-κ B pathway is an essential signalling process initiated by the cell as a defence against viral infection like influenza virus. This pathway is therefore a prime target for viruses attempting to counteract the host response to infection. Here, we report that the influenza A virus NS1 protein specifically inhibits IKK-mediated NF-κ B activation and production of the NF-κ B induced antiviral genes by physically interacting with IKK through the C-terminal effector domain. The interaction between NS1 and IKKα/ IKKβ affects their phosphorylation function in both the cytoplasm and nucleus. In the cytoplasm, NS1 not only blocks IKKβ-mediated phosphorylation and degradation of Iκ Bα in the classical pathway but also suppresses IKKα-mediated processing of p100 to p52 in the alternative pathway, which leads to the inhibition of nuclear translocation of NF-κ B and the subsequent expression of downstream NF-κ B target genes. In the nucleus, NS1 impairs IKK-mediated phosphorylation of histone H3 Ser 10 that is critical to induce rapid expression of NF-κ B target genes. These results reveal a new mechanism by which influenza A virus NS1 protein counteracts host NF-κ B-mediated antiviral response through the disruption of IKK function. In this way, NS1 diminishes antiviral responses to infection and, in turn, enhances viral pathogenesis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Vα24-invariant NKT cells inhibit tumor growth by targeting tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs). Tumor progression therefore requires that TAMs evade NKT cell activity through yet-unknown mechanisms. Here we report that a subset of cells in neuroblastoma (NB) cell lines and primary tumors expresses membrane-bound TNF-α (mbTNF-α). These proinflammatory tumor cells induced production of the chemokine CCL20 from TAMs via activation of the NF-κB signaling pathway, an effect that was amplified in hypoxia. Flow cytometry analyses of human primary NB tumors revealed selective accumulation of CCL20 in TAMs. Neutralization of the chemokine inhibited in vitro migration of NKT cells toward tumor-conditioned hypoxic monocytes and localization of NKT cells to NB grafts in mice. We also found that hypoxia impaired NKT cell viability and function. Thus, CCL20-producing TAMs served as a hypoxic trap for tumor-infiltrating NKT cells. IL-15 protected antigen-activated NKT cells from hypoxia, and transgenic expression of IL-15 in adoptively transferred NKT cells dramatically enhanced their antimetastatic activity in mice. Thus, tumor-induced chemokine production in hypoxic TAMs and consequent chemoattraction and inhibition of NKT cells represents a mechanism of immune escape that can be reversed by adoptive immunotherapy with IL-15-transduced NKT cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A series of neutral nickel complexes featuring N-fluorinated phenyl salicylaldiminato chelate ligands was synthesized, and the novel molecular structure of complex C14 was further confirmed by X-ray crystallographic analysis. The neutral nickel complexes showed high activity up to 9.96×105 g oligomers/(mol Ni·h) and high selectivity of C6 in catalyzing ethylene oligomerization using methylaluminoxane (MAO) as cocatalyst. It was observed that the strong electron-withdrawing effect of the fluorinated salicylaldiminato ligand was able to significantly increase the catalytic activity for oligomerization of ethylene. In addition, the influence of reaction parameters such as Al/Ni molar ratio, reaction temperature, a variety of cocatalyst and ethylene pressure on catalytic activity was investigated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: A parabolic variational inequality is investigated which comes from the study of the optimal exercise strategy for the perpetual American executive stock options in financial markets. It is a degenerate parabolic variational inequality and its obstacle condition depends on the derivative of the solution with respect to the time variable. The method of discrete time approximation is used and the existence and regularity of the solution are established. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Epoxy resin filled with carbon materials including graphite nanoplatelets, carbon blacks and carbon nanotubes was synthesized via a liquid mixing method. It was suggested that the conductivity of the composite filled with three fillers was much higher than that filled with only one or two carbon fillers. While the percolation threshold was 1wt.% and 0.5wt.% respectively for the composites filled with pure graphite nanopatelets and graphite nanoplatelet/carbon black (mass ratio of 9:1), it was only 0.2wt.% for the nanocomposites filled with graphite nanoplatelets/carbon black/carbon nanotubes (mass ratio of 7:1:2). The synergistic conductive effect among the three carbon fillers was investigated in detail. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Ethyl 4,4,4-trifluoro-3-oxobutanoate reacted with nitrostyrenes in the presence of Et3N to afford ethyl 5-(hydroxyim�ino)-4-aryl-2-(trifluoromethyl)-2,5-dihydrofuran-3-carboxylates along with a small amount of ethyl 2-hydroxy-5-imino-4-aryl-2-(trifluoromethyl)-2,5-dihydrofuran-3-carboxylates. Treatment of ethyl 5-(hydroxyimino)-4-aryl-2-(trifluoromethyl)-2,5-dihydro�furan-3-car�boxylates with 1.2 equivalents of TsOH in t-BuOH, afforded ethyl 2-hydroxy-5-imino-4-aryl-2-(trifluoromethyl)-2,5-dihydrofuran-3-carboxylates in good yields. However, ethyl 2-ethoxy or methoxy-5-oxo-4-aryl-2-(trifluoromethyl)-2,5-dihydrofuran-3-carboxylates were obtained as major products in EtOH or MeOH along with a small amount of ethyl 2-hydroxy-5-imino-4-aryl-2-(trifluoromethyl)-2,5-dihydrofuran-3-carboxylates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Health Sciences Library System (HSLS) at the University of Pittsburgh decided to become a member of Cooperative Online Serials (CONSER) in 2003. This came at a time when the library was acquiring an increasing number of electronic journal titles, and recent changes in serials cataloging practices resulted in a need for more bibliographic records conforming to current standards. This article explains the factors involved in the library's decision to join CONSER and then describes the process undertaken by HSLS to become an independent CONSER member, including initial decision-making, record review, and finally reflections on the overall experience. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Study Objective. To compare the effects of ropinirole with those of placebo on sleep, as evaluated by specific domains of the Medical Outcomes Study (MOS) sleep scale, as well as the Clinical Global Impression-Improvement (CGI-I) scale, in patients with restless legs syndrome (RLS). Design. Meta-analysis of six randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, parallel-group trials conducted in the United States and Europe. Patients. A total of 1679 patients aged 18-79 years with primary moderate-to-severe RLS who received ropinirole (835 patients) or placebo (844 patients). Measurements and Main Results. A systematic review of MEDLINE (January 1980-January 2007) and clinical trial registers was performed to identify placebo-controlled trials of ropinirole that used the 12-item MOS sleep scale to assess sleep in patients with RLS. Individual patient data from both published and nonpublished trials were pooled for meta-analysis. In the eligible studies, immediate-release ropinirole 0.25-6 mg or placebo had been given for at least 12 weeks. In addition, sleep scale summary scores for the domains of sleep quantity, adequacy, disturbance, and daytime somnolence had to have been assessed at baseline and at 12 weeks. Our meta-analysis found that at baseline study patients slept an average of 5.8 hours/night. At the end of 1.2 weeks, ropinirole-treated patients slept a mean of 2.5 hour,3/week more and had a 21% greater improvement from baseline in sleep adequacy scores compared with patients receiving placebo. Ropinirole-treated patients also had 1.4% less sleep disturbance and 8% less daytime somnolence than patients receiving placebo. Clinicians rated 63% of ropinirole-treated patients and 47% of patients receiving placebo as responders based on the CGI-I scale. Mixed effects analysis of covariance was used to estimate treatment effect adjusting for study center as a random effect, as well as the following fixed effects known to affect sleep: baseline sleep characteristics, age, sex, and chronic medical conditions. All differences were statistically significant (p<0.05), even after adjusting for multiple comparisons. Conclusion. Pooled data from six similarly designed clinical trials provide evidence that ropinirole improves sleep quantity and adequacy, and lessens sleep disturbance and daytime somnolence in patients with primary RLS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The trifluoromethyl containing heterocycles, 2-hydroxy-4-aryl-3-(thien-2-oyl)-2-(trifluoromethyl)-3,4,7,8-tetrahydro-2H-chromen-5(6H)-one derivatives 4, were synthesized via a one-pot three-component reaction of aldehyde 1 with 1,3-cyclohexanedione 2 and 4,4,4-trifluoro-1-(thien-2-yl)butane-1,3-dione 3 in the presence of a catalytic amount of Et3N. The effect of bases and solvents on the reaction efficiency and yield was briefly investigated. Treatment of 4 with an excess amount of NH4OAc in ethanol afforded 2-trifluoromethyl-1H-quinolin-5-one derivatives 5. Refluxing of 4 with TsOH in CHCl3 gave the corresponding dehydrated products 8. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Results suggest a high probability that abasic (AP) sites occur at least once per herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) genome. The parameters that control the ability of HSV-1 DNA polymerase (pol) to engage in AP translesion synthesis (TLS) were examined because AP lesions could influence the completion and fidelity of viral DNA synthesis. Pre-steady-state kinetic experiments demonstrated that wildtype (WT) and exonuclease-deficient (exo−) pol could incorporate opposite an AP lesion, but full TLS required absence of exo function. Virtually all of the WT pol was bound at the exo site to AP-containing primer-templates (P/Ts) at equilibrium, and the pre-steady-state rate of excision by WT pol was higher on AP-containing than on matched DNA. However, several factors influencing polymerization work synergistically with exo activity to prevent HSV-1 pol from engaging in TLS. Although the pre-steady-state catalytic rate constant for insertion of dATP opposite a T or AP site was similar, ground-state-binding affinity of dATP for insertion opposite an AP site was reduced 3–9-fold. Single-turnover running-start experiments demonstrated a reduced proportion of P/Ts extended to the AP site compared to the preceding site during processive synthesis by WT or exo− pol. Only the exo− pol engaged in TLS, though inefficiently and without burst kinetics, suggesting a much slower rate-limiting step for extension beyond the AP site. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Ser-10 phosphorylation of histone H3 is revealed to be relative to chromosome condensation at prophase during mitosis. In this report, we demonstrate using immunofluorescence microscopy that the subcellular distribution of the Ser-10 phosphorylated histone H3 was similar to that characteristic of chromosomal passenger proteins during the terminal stages of cytokinesis. Co-immunoprecipitation indicates that the Ser-10 phosphorylated histone H3 is associated with the aurora B, and both of the proteins were compacted into a complex with special ternary structure located in the centre of the midbody. When the level of the Ser-10 phosphorylated histone H3 was reduced by RNA interference, the cells formed an aberrant midbody and could not complete cytokinesis successfully. This evidence suggests that Ser-10 phosphorylated histone H3 is a chromosomal passenger protein and plays a crucial role in cytokinesis. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Valpha24-invariant natural killer T (NKT) cells are potentially important for antitumor immunity. We and others have previously demonstrated positive associations between NKT cell presence in primary tumors and long-term survival in distinct human cancers. However, the mechanism by which aggressive tumors avoid infiltration with NKT and other T cells remains poorly understood. Here, we report that the v-myc myelocytomatosis viral related oncogene, neuroblastoma derived (MYCN), the hallmark of aggressive neuroblastoma, repressed expression of monocyte chemoattractant protein-1/CC chemokine ligand 2 (MCP-1/CCL2), a chemokine required for NKT cell chemoattraction. MYCN knockdown in MYCN-amplified neuroblastoma cell lines restored CCL2 production and NKT cell chemoattraction. Unlike other oncogenes, MYCN repressed chemokine expression in a STAT3-independent manner, requiring an E-box element in the CCL2 promoter to mediate transcriptional repression. MYCN overexpression in neuroblastoma xenografts in NOD/SCID mice severely inhibited their ability to attract human NKT cells, T cells, and monocytes. Patients with MYCN-amplified neuroblastoma metastatic to bone marrow had 4-fold fewer NKT cells in their bone marrow than did their nonamplified counterparts, indicating that the MYCN-mediated immune escape mechanism, which we believe to be novel, is operative in metastatic cancer and should be considered in tumor immunobiology and for the development of new therapeutic strategies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: A facile two-step procedure for the synthesis of 6-(trifluoromethyl)-1,4,5,6-tetrahydropyrazolo[3,4-b]pyran derivatives (4) from the reaction of 4-arylidene-3-methyl-1-phenyl-5-pyrazolones (1) with ethyl trifluoroacetoacetate (2), a versatile fluorinated building-block, was presented. Furthermore, to increase the efficiency of this reaction, the more convenient one-pot three-component process was also developed with a slightly lower yield. Treatment of 4 with P2O5, conc. H2SO4, POCl3/Py or p-TsOH under the drastic conditions did not afford the corresponding dehydrated products. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: In the presence of a catalytic amount of NEt3, ethyl 4,4,4-trifluoro-3-oxobutanoate 1 reacted readily with arylidenemalononitriles 2 in ethanol at room temperature. It gave two products 2-trifluoromethyl-3,4-dihydro-2H-pyran derivatives 3 and 2-(trifluoromethyl)piperidine derivatives 4 , the ratio of 3 and 4 was depended on the substrates 2 and reaction solvents. Reflux of the ethanol solution of 4 with a catalytic amount of NEt3 afforded 2-trifluoromethyl-1,4,5,6-tetrahydropyridine derivatives 5 in moderate to good yields. The structures of new compounds 3 , 4 and 5 were determined by spectral methods, microanalysis and X-ray diffraction analysis. A possible reaction mechanism for the formation of 3 , 4 and 5 was presented. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

UL30, the herpes simplex virus type-1 DNA polymerase, stalls at the base preceding a cisplatin crosslinked 1,2 d(GpG) dinucleotide and engages in a futile cycle of incorporation and excision by virtue of its 3′-5′ exonuclease. Therefore, we examined the translesion synthesis (TLS) potential of an exonuclease-deficient UL30 (UL30D368A). We found that UL30D368A did not perform complete translesion synthesis but incorporated one nucleotide opposite the first base of the adduct. This addition was affected by the propensity of the enzyme to dissociate from the damaged template. Consequently, addition of the polymerase processivity factor, UL42, increased nucleotide incorporation opposite the lesion. The addition of Mn2+, which was previously shown to support translesion synthesis by wild-type UL30, also enabled limited bypass of the adduct by UL30D368A. We show that the primer terminus opposite the crosslinked d(GpG) dinucleotide and at least three bases downstream of the lesion is unpaired and not extended by the enzyme. These data indicate that the primer terminus opposite the lesion may be sequestered into the exonuclease site of the enzyme. Consequently, elimination of exonuclease activity alone, without disrupting binding, is insufficient to permit bypass of a bulky lesion by this enzyme. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Assesses the potential mechanisms by which the fidelity of the herpes simplex virus type 1 DNA polymerase catalytic subunit is enhanced by its processivity factors. Use of steady-state kinetics of nucleotide incorporation and excision; Equilibrium dissociation constant for the enzyme in a stable state; Level of nucleotide affinity.

Grafting of methyl methacrylate (MMA) onto isotactic polypropylene (iPP) film was carried out by free radical polymerization using supercritical (SC) carbon dioxide (SC CO 2 ) as a solvent and swelling agent. The iPP film was first impregnated with the monomer MMA and initiator benzoyl peroxide (BPO) using SC CO 2 at 308.15 K. After releasing CO 2 , the MMA molecules in the film were grafted onto the iPP at a higher reaction temperature. Using this method, the grafting level and the morphology can be controlled by the soaking time, pressure and concentrations of MMA and BPO in the fluid phase. The products were characterized by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), and wide angle X-ray diffraction (WAXD). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Developing stable and efficient catalysts for artificial photoreduction of soluble hexavalent uranium (U(VI)) into less mobile complexes is of considerable value to U enrichment and environmental sustainability. However, the pursuit of high-performance U(VI) photoreduction is greatly plagued by inferior charge separation and utilization for semiconductors. Herein, the multipolar donor-acceptor (D-A) interface and hydroxyl groups are rationally integrated into covalent triazine frameworks (CTFs) for enhancing U(VI) photoreduction without sacrificial agents. Once incorporating phenolic hydroxyl (Ph-OH) groups as electron donors, the targeted CTF-HUST-OH displays high efficiency (∼100 %) for U(VI) removal with a brilliant enrichment capacity (681.15 mg·g−1) under visible light irradiation, superior to most reported metal-free catalysts. Experimental and density functional theory (DFT) results validate that the polarized internal micro-electric field is formed in CTF-HUST-OH with an oriented charge transfer from Ph-OH to triazine units, thus achieving efficient electron separation and utilization. Impressively, the introduced -OH groups promote U(VI) adsorption via increase of pore hydrophilicity, and create reaction sites towards H 2 O 2 production, thereby facilitating in-situ generation of UO 2 O 2 ·4H 2 O(s). This study highlights a new strategy on the molecular-level design of D-A type CTF photocatalysts for efficient uranyl removal and extraction from uranium-bearing aqueous environments. [Display omitted] • Rational construction of D-A type hydroxyl CTFs modulated surface microenvironment. • The Ph-OH serve as sites for U(VI) adsorption and O2 reduction to generate H2O2. • CTF-HUST-OH achieved efficient in-situ U(VI) reduction and enrichment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: One-pot four-component reactions of aromatic aldehyde, Meldrum’s acid, ethyl-4,4,4-trifluoro-1,3-dioxobutanoate, and ammonium acetate afford ethyl 2-hydroxy-6-oxo-4-aryl-2-(trifluoromethyl)piperidine-3-carboxylate in good yields. The one-pot four-component process consists of an initial Michael addition, and a subsequent intramolecular cyclization. The effect of solvents on the reaction efficiency and yield is briefly investigated. The structure of product is further confirmed by XRD analysis. Meanwhile, the further transformation of hemi-aminal moiety to the corresponding dehydrated product is also achieved under the mild reaction conditions. The possible mechanism for the formation of product is presented. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Cephalopods can change their skin color by using high‐speed electron transduction among receptors, neural networks, and pigmentary effectors. However, it remains challenging to realize a neuroelectrical transmission system like that found in cephalopods, where electrons/ions transmit on nanoscale, which is crucial for fast adaptive electrochromic tuning. Inspired by that, hereby an ideal, rapidly responsive, and multicolor electrochromic biomimetic skin is introduced. Specifically, the biomimetic skin comprises W18O49 nanowires (NWs) that are either colorless or blue, Au nanoparticles@polyaniline (Au NPs@PANI) ranging from green to pink, and a flexible conductive substrate. As the applied voltage changes from 0.4 V to ‐0.7 V and back to 0 V, the color of the biomimetic skin transforms from green to blue and ultimately to pink. This color change is attributed to the electrically induced redox reaction of Au NPs@PANI and W18O49 NWs, triggered by the transfer of electrons and ions. Furthermore, the high versatility and adaptability of electrical stimulus enable the creation of a highly interactive electrochromic biomimetic skin system through the integration of sensitive acoustic sensors, providing a perfect environment‐responsive platform. This work provides a biomimetic multicolor electrochromic skin that depends on electron/ion transfer on nanoscale, expands potential uses for camouflage skin. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Halogen bonding play a crucial role in fluorinated N-aromatic L-proline crystals. • Fluorinated L-proline derivatives could act as receptors for anions in solution. • Theoretical studies demonstrate the non-covalent effects in L-proline derivatives. Intermolecular interactions, such as halogen bonding, π-π stacking, F...π interactions, and anion-π interactions, play pivotal roles in the fields of chemistry, materials science, and biological technology. In this study, N-aromatic L-proline and its fluorinated derivatives were chosen as exemplars. X-ray diffraction and NMR techniques were employed to investigate these interactions in both solid-state and solution phases respectively. Theoretical investigations encompassing geometry optimization along with QTAIM (Quantum Theory of Atoms in Molecule) and IGMH (Independent Gradient Model based on the Hirshfeld partition) analyses provided profound insights into the intermolecular interactions. Parameters obtained from X-ray diffraction analysis of single crystals provide compelling evidence for F...F interaction with intermolecular F...F distances measuring 2.879 Å and 3.125 Å in compounds 2 and 3 crystal structures respectively. QTAIM and IGMH analyses indicate that F...π contacts significantly contribute to the formation of these two fluorinated crystals while H-bonding and CH...π contacts predominantly shape the crystal structure of the non-fluorinated L-proline derivative. F...F and F...π contacts play a significant role to control the crystal structures and anion-π interactions of some fluorinated N-aromatic L-proline derivatives, which explore new horizon for the design and application of synthetic fluorinated amino acids. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article discusses effective strategies for creating self-compatible Brassica rapa (Chinese cabbage) plants by introducing mutated SRK and SCR/SP11 genes from Brassica napus (rapeseed). Self-incompatibility (SI) is a common trait in Brassica vegetable crops, but it hinders the development and propagation of inbred lines. The manipulation of SI genes, such as SRK and SCR/SP11, can lead to the creation of self-compatible materials. The researchers used CRISPR/Cas9 technology to mutate the BnSRK-1 gene in B. napus and then employed distant hybridization to introduce the mutated gene into B. rapa, resulting in the generation of self-compatible materials. This research has important implications for improving the breeding process of Brassica vegetable crops. [Extracted from the article]

With the continuous improvement of human living standards, dietary habits are constantly changing, which brings various bowel problems. Among them, the morbidity and mortality rates of colorectal cancer have maintained a significant upward trend. In recent years, the application of deep learning in the medical field has become increasingly spread aboard and deep. In a colonoscopy, Artificial Intelligence based on deep learning is mainly used to assist in the detection of colorectal polyps and the classification of colorectal lesions. But when it comes to classification, it can lead to confusion between polyps and other diseases. In order to accurately diagnose various diseases in the intestines and improve the classification accuracy of polyps, this work proposes a multiclassification method for medical colonoscopy images based on deep learning, which mainly classifies the four conditions of polyps, inflammation, tumor, and normal. In view of the relatively small number of data sets, the network firstly trained by transfer learning on ImageNet was used as the pretraining model, and the prior knowledge learned from the source domain learning task was applied to the classification task about intestinal illnesses. Then, we fine-tune the model to make it more suitable for the task of intestinal classification by our data sets. Finally, the model is applied to the multiclassification of medical colonoscopy images. Experimental results show that the method in this work can significantly improve the recognition rate of polyps while ensuring the classification accuracy of other categories, so as to assist the doctor in the diagnosis of surgical resection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Intra-operative urinary catheterization frequently causes postoperative catheter related bladder discomfort (CRBD) during recovery. We conducted this study to evaluate the efficacy of tramadol, which with muscarinic receptor antagonist property, as a treatment for CRBD. Methods: Ninety patients who underwent elective gynecological surgery and complained of CRBD in the (PACU) were randomized into three groups of 30 each. Group A received normal saline, group B 1 mg/kg tramadol, and group C 1.5 mg/kg tramadol. The medication was administered from the Murphy's dropper with a slow drip, and the severity of CRBD (none, mild, moderate, and severe) and postoperative pain were assessed after 0, 0.5, 1, 2 and 6 h. Results: The severity of CRBD was reduced in group C compared with that in groups A and B at 1 h, and in groups C and B compared with that in group A at 2 h. The incidence of CRBD was reduced in group C compared with that in groups A and B at 2 h, and in group C compared with that in group A at 6 h. The visual analog scale (VAS) was reduced in group C compared with that in groups A and B at all time intervals. No differences in adverse effects were observed. Conclusions: Tramadol 1.5 mg/kg was more effective than tramadol 1 mg/kg in treating CRBD and reducing postoperative pain, without significant side effects. Trial registration: ChiCTR1800016390. Registered on 30 May 2018. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• STZ treatment induced type 1 diabetes and compromised learning and memory ability. • STZ-induced diabetic rats had iron deposition in hippocampal. • Ferroptosis may drive the cognitive impairment in diabetic conditions. • SLC40A1 mediated ferroptosis may play an important role in pathogenesis of diabetes induced cognitive dysfunction. Cognitive dysfunction often accompanies diabetes. Both hypoglycemia and hyperglycemia cause cognitive dysfunctions. However, the underlying pathophysiology remains unclear. Recent evidence show that ferroptosis primarily triggers nerve cell death, Alzheimer's disease (AD), Huntington's disease (HD), and Parkinson's disease (PD). The present study aimed to investigate whether ferroptosis is a vital pathogenic pathway in diabetes-induced cognitive dysfunction. Type 1 diabetic rat model was created by intraperitoneal injection of streptozotocin (STZ). Significant cognitive dysfunction was observed in the diabetic rats as evidenced by increase in latency period to find a hidden platform and decreased cumulative time spent in the target quadrant (TQ) in the Morris water maze test. We detected the amplitude of low-frequency fluctuation (ALFF) of the BOLD (Blood Oxygenation Level-Dependent) signal using resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging (rs-fMRI). Consequently, we found that the ALFF values, as well as the T2 relaxation time of the bilateral hippocampus, were reduced in Type 1 diabetic rats. We detected Fe2+ level and lipid peroxidation products (malondialdehyde (MDA) and 4-Hydroxynonenal (4-HNE)) in the hippocampus. Mitochondria and neuron injury in the STZ-induced diabetic rats were determined using a Transmission Electron Microscope and Nissl body staining. Iron overload and ferroptosis were detected in the hippocampus. Furthermore, mRNA microarray analysis revealed 201 dysregulated mRNAs in STZ-induced type 1 diabetes (T1D). Pathway enrichment analyses indicated that differentially expressed mRNAs associated-coding genes were associated with ferroptosis. Among ferroptosis signaling pathway genes, Slc40a1 gene (ferroportin) was downregulated. We show that ferroptosis is associated with diabetic cognitive dysfunction and Slc40a1 mediates ferroptosis in T1D. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article presents a research progress on the occurrence mechanism of detained hydrocarbon, which is divided into organic retaining ability and inorganic retaining ability. Topics include the swelling action and organic material adsorption of kerogen, retaining ability of organic and inorganic pores, and adsorption of detrital minerals. Also discussed is the significant effect of adsorption properties of clay minerals in shale.

Abstract We report here the investigation of using a luminescent europium organic framework, [Eu 2 (MTBC)(OH) 2 (DMF) 3 (H 2 O) 4 ]·2DMF·7H 2 O (denoted as compound 1), for detecting of both Cu2+ and UO 2 2+ with high sensitivity. Based on the spectroscopy analysis, compound 1 could selectively respond to Cu2+ and UO 2 2+ ions among other selected monovalent, divalent, trivalent metal cations based on a turn-off mechanism. The detection limit of compound 1 towards Cu2+ ion was as low as 17.2 μg/L, which is much lower than the maximum tolerable concentration of Cu2+ in drinking water (2 mg/L) defined by United States Environmental Protection Agency. On the other hand, the detection limit towards UO 2 2+ ions is 309.2 μg/L, which could be used for detecting uranium in relative severely contaminated areas. The concentration-dependent luminescence intensity evolution process could be fully understood by the absorption kinetics and isotherm investigations. Furthermore, the quenching mechanism was elucidated by the UV-vis, excitation, luminescence, and lifetime studies. Compound 1 , as the first MOF based luminescence probe for both Cu2+ and UO 2 2+ ions, provides insight into developing MOF-based multifunctional sensors for both nonradioactive and radioactive elements. Graphical abstract fx1 Highlights • A new lanthanide metal organic framework was used for both radioactive UO 2 2+ and nonradioactive Cu2+ detection. • The detection limits toward UO 2 2+ and Cu2+ are 17.2 ppb and 309.2 ppb respectively. • The material could be used for directly detecting UO 2 2+ and Cu2+ contamination in a wide concentration range. • The detection mechanism was systematically investigated by bath experiments, spectroscopy and lifetime studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Multi‐layered plasmonic nanostructures are able to highly promote the near‐field confinement and effectively activate analytes, which are of predominate significance but are extremely challenging. Herein, the semi‐open Au core@carved AuAg multi‐shell superstructure nanoparticles (multi‐Au@Ag‐Au NPs, multi = mono, bi, tri, tetra, and penta) are reported with a high designability on electromagnetic field and capability of effectively capturing analytes. By controlling synthetic parameters such as the number of galvanic exchange and Ag growth, multi‐Au@Ag‐Au NPs are successfully obtained, with tunable layer numbers and asymmetric nanoholes. Due to collective plasmon oscillations of multi‐layered built‐in nanogaps, the electromagnetic field strength of a single penta‐Au@Ag‐Au entity reach 48841. More importantly, the penta‐Au@Ag‐Au NPs show a remarkable light‐harvesting capability, which is adaptive to different Raman lasers, supporting high‐diversity detection. Additionally, the structural specificity allows analytes to be sufficiently captured into interior hotspots, and further achieve highly sensitive detection with limit of detection down to 3.22 × 10−12 M. This study not only provides an effective pathway for integrating abundant hotspots and activating target molecules in single plasmonic superstructure, but stimulates advancements in SERS substrates for various applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Furoylhydrazones of general formula 4-R-C6H4-CH= NNH-CO-2-C4H3O [R = H (HL1) and OCH4 (HL2)] have been conveniently prepared from furan-2-carbohydrazide. The reaction of HL1 with Li2[PdCl4] and CH3COONa provided the di-µ-chloro-bridged cyclopalladated complex [Pd(C6H4-CH=N-NH-CO-2-C4H3O)(μ-Cl)]2 (1) through aryl C-H bond activation, whereas the unusual tetranuclear cluster [Pd(4-CH3O-C6H4-CH=N-NH-CO-2-C4H3O)(μ-Cl)]4 (2) was obtained from the reac tion with ligand HL2. The crystal structures of 1 and 2 show a slightly distorted square-planar coordination geometry around the palladium ion to which the furoylhydrazone is attached in a bidentate fashion. The two palladium(II) complexes were able to catalyze the Suzuki-Miyaura coupling reactions of phenylboronic acid with aryl halides to afford the desired biaryl derivatives in excellent yields (up to 99.2 %). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Comprehensive Summary: Plasmonic superlattices of nanoparticles (NPs) possess unique "surface lattice resonances" properties that facilitates their wide applications in plasmonic sensing, photocatalysis, and nanoscale light manipulation. However, it is still challenging to manufacture superlattices with precisely controllable NPs distance and break the size limitation of NPs. Herein, we provided an effective strategy to construct NPs superlattices via shape‐persistent polyhedral oligosilsesquioxane (POSS) molecular nanoparticles govern interfacial assembly. As a nanoscale molecule with diameter of 1.5 nm, the POSS‐SH molecule provides sufficient rigid steric hindrance and hydrophobic effect for tailoring the uniformity and controllable distance between NPs in superlattices. Interestingly, synergistically with hydrophilic ligands of polyethylene glycol (PEG‐SH) with optimized ratio, the rigid POSS ligands can effectively regulate the distance between NPs in a fixed range of 2.3—2.8 nm, which is independent of ligands molecular weight and particle size. Furthermore, the effective approach can be universal to anisotropic NPs for manufacturing monolayer films with high NPs density. We believe this nanoscale molecule tailored interfacial self‐assembly strategy can effectively break the size of NPs and assembly obstacles for superlattice monolayer film. Additionally, the definite distance between NPs in superlattices can minimize optical energy attenuation and facilitates the applications such as surface‐enhanced Raman spectroscopy and photocatalysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although the role of serine racemase (SR) in neuropsychiatric disorders has been extensively studied, its role in cell proliferation and differentiation remains unclear. Deletion of Srr, the encoding gene for SR, has been shown to reduce dendritic arborization and dendritic spine density in the brains of adult mice, whereas increased SR levels have been associated with differentiation in cell cultures. Previously, we demonstrated that valproic acid induces differentiation in the N2A neuroblastoma cell line, and that this differentiation is associated with increased SR expression. These observations suggest that SR may have a role in cell proliferation and differentiation. We herein found that both valproic acid and all‐trans retinoic acid induced N2A differentiation. In contrast, knockdown of SR reduced levels of differentiation, increased N2A proliferation, promoted cell cycle entry, and modulated expression of cell cycle‐related proteins. To further evaluate the effects of SR expression on cell proliferation and differentiation, we used an in vivo model of neuroblastoma in nude mice. N2A cells stably expressing scramble shRNA (Srrwt‐N2A) or specific Srr shRNA (Srrkd‐N2A) were subcutaneously injected into nude mice. The weights and volumes of Srrwt‐N2A‐derived tumors were lower than Srrkd‐N2A‐derived tumors. Furthermore, Srrwt‐N2A‐derived tumors were significantly mitigated by intraperitoneal injection of valproic acid, whereas Srrkd‐N2A‐derived tumors were unaffected. Taken together, our findings demonstrate for the first time that alterations in SR expression determine the transition between proliferation and differentiation in neural progenitor cells. Thus, in addition to its well‐established roles in neuropsychiatric disorders, our study has highlighted a novel role for SR in cell proliferation and differentiation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of this study was to determine the mechanism and effect of hematoporphyrin monomethyl ether mediated photodynamic therapy (HMME-PDT) on oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC). Human OSCC CAL-27 cells were randomly divided into four groups: control group, HMME group, laser group, and HMME-PDT group. Cell viability was detected by the CCK-8 method. Cell cycle distribution was evaluated by flow cytometry. GEO database was used to screen differentially expressed microRNAs (DEMs), and TCGA database was performed to verify DEM expression in OSCC and normal tissues. The effects of HMME-PDT on DEM expression were assayed by real-time PCR, and the expressions of miRNAs target genes were measured by western blot. Fluorescence probes were used to determine the production of singlet oxygen (1O2). Compared with the other three groups, HMME-PDT dramatically inhibited CAL-27 cell proliferation and induced G0/G1 cycle arrest. The expressions of miR-21 and miR-155 were significantly upregulated in OSCC. HMME-PDT downregulated the expression of miR-21 but had no obvious effect on miR-155. HMME-PDT remarkably upregulated the levels of P53 and miR-21 target proteins, such as PDCD4, RECK, and SPRY2. 1O2 was generated during HMME-PDT, and inhibition of 1O2 production could reverse the regulation of HMME-PDT on P53, miR-21, and its target proteins, thus restoring cell viability. HMME-PDT can significantly inhibit the growth of OSCC cells, and the mechanism of this effect is related to the regulation of the P53-miR-21-PDCD4 axis via 1O2 induced by HMME-PDT. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

p53 (N15)-Ant 32-peptide has been considered a novel and effective peptide for cancer therapy. To further enhance its anticancer effect and overcome the limitation of peptide therapy, a recombinant lentivirus was constructed in this study with the following strategies: the secretory expression of therapeutic peptide and lentivirus gene transfer system. The results demonstrated that LV-NT4(Si)-p53 (N15)-Ant could significantly suppress cell growth and induce rapid cell death in MCF-7 (overexpressed wild-type p53), HepG2(wide-type p53), OVCAR-3 (mutant type p53) and H1299 (null p53)cells in time-dependent manners through successful gene transfer and secretory expression of therapeutic peptide at 48 h post-infection. Transmission electron microscopy and flow cytometric analysis revealed that LV-NT4(Si)-p53 (N15)-Ant could induce two different kinds of cell death (necrosis and apoptosis) by two different mechanisms, since p53 (N15)-Ant peptide has the potential of blocking interaction of mdm-2 with other protein target, and on the other hand, it could form S-shape helix-loop-helix structures, which is able to rapidly disrupt cancer cell membranes. Based on these finding, LV-NT4 (Si)-p53 (N15)-Ant may be a novel recombinant virus because it induces cell death by two different pathways. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The red color in radish taproots is an important quality index and is mainly affected by anthocyanins. However, the metabolite components and gene expression underlying dark red taproot color formation in radish remain elusive. In this study, the metabolites and gene expression patterns affecting anthocyanin biosynthesis were monitored in the dark red taproots. Comparative analysis of anthocyanin metabolites between dark red taproots and white taproots indicated that pelargonin and pelargonidin 3-O-beta-D-glucoside were the most promising dark red pigments responsible for the coloration of the taproots. Transcriptomic analysis of gene expression between dark red taproots and white taproots revealed that most of genes involved in the anthocyanin biosynthesis pathway were up-regulated in dark red taproots. In particular, RsCHS and RsDFR were the two most up-regulated genes in the dark red taproots. Moreover, the higher coexpression of two R2R3-Myb transcription factors, RsMYB1 and RsMYB2, may contribute to dark red color formation. Our work documents metabolomic and transcriptomic changes related to the dark red color formation in taproots radish and provides valuable data for anthocyanin-rich radish breeding. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]