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Extracellular vesicles (EVs) play a crucial role in intercellular communication. Characterizing EV protein composition is essential to understand EV function(s). Isolating EVs from cell culture medium is a common approach to study EVs, but it remains unclear whether EVs isolated from in vitro conditions accurately reflect physiological conditions of the same source in vivo tissues. Here, we analyzed the protein composition of EVs isolated from freshly dissected mouse forebrain and primary dissociated mouse forebrain culture medium. In total, 3,204 and 3,583 proteins were identified in EVs isolated in vivo and in vitro, respectively. Among the proteins identified from both EV sources, there was substantial overlap (~86%). While the overall proteome compositions were very similar, in vitro EVs were relatively enriched with transmembrane/GPI-anchored membrane and cytosolic proteins (MISEV2023 category 1 and 2) typically associated with EVs. Conversely, while both in vivo and in vitro EVs express likely non-EV proteins (MISEV2023 category 3), the in vivo samples were significantly more enriched with these probable contaminants, specifically ribosomal proteins. Our findings highlight that in vitro EVs may be representative of in vivo EVs when isolated from the same source tissue using similar methodology; however, each population of EVs have differences in both total and, primarily, relative protein expression likely due to differing levels of co-eluting contaminants. Therefore, these points must be considered when interpreting results of EV studies further suggesting that improved methods of isolation to reduce non-EV contaminants should be further investigated., Competing Interests: The authors have declared that no competing interests exist., (Copyright: © 2024 Xu et al. This is an open access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original author and source are credited.)

A series of unprecedented supramolecular complexes of covalently modified Anderson-type polyoxometalates (POMs) and α-cyclodextrins (α-CDs) have been obtained and characterized in solid state by single-crystal X-ray diffraction, and in aqueous solution using various techniques including 1H DOSY, 2D NOESY 1H NMR, isothermal titration calorimetry (ITC), and electrospray ionization time-of-flight mass spectroscopy (ESI-TOF-MS). It has been demonstrated that the supramolecular assembly process can be modulated by different covalent modification modes of the Anderson POMs, giving rise to a new type of POM/α-CD complexes featuring organic-inorganic pseudo-rotaxane structures, which are in good contrast to those of POM/γ-CD with poly-rotaxane type structures. Moreover, it is delighted to find that these pseudo-rotaxanes of POM/α-CD exhibit stable chirality in aqueous solution, which has not been accomplished in previously reported POM/γ-CD assemblies., (© 2024 Wiley‐VCH GmbH.)

The global diversity of fungi has been estimated between 2 to 11 million species, of which only about 155 000 have been named. Most fungi are invisible to the unaided eye, but they represent a major component of biodiversity on our planet, and play essential ecological roles, supporting life as we know it. Although approximately 20 000 fungal genera are presently recognised, the ecology of most remains undetermined. Despite all this diversity, the mycological community actively researches some fungal genera more commonly than others. This poses an interesting question: why have some fungal genera impacted mycology and related fields more than others? To address this issue, we conducted a bibliometric analysis to identify the top 100 most cited fungal genera. A thorough database search of the Web of Science, Google Scholar, and PubMed was performed to establish which genera are most cited. The most cited 10 genera are Saccharomyces , Candida , Aspergillus , Fusarium , Penicillium , Trichoderma , Botrytis , Pichia , Cryptococcus and Alternaria . Case studies are presented for the 100 most cited genera with general background, notes on their ecology and economic significance and important research advances. This paper provides a historic overview of scientific research of these genera and the prospect for further research. Citation: Bhunjun CS, Chen YJ, Phukhamsakda C, Boekhout T, Groenewald JZ, McKenzie EHC, Francisco EC, Frisvad JC, Groenewald M, Hurdeal VG, Luangsa-ard J, Perrone G, Visagie CM, Bai FY, Błaszkowski J, Braun U, de Souza FA, de Queiroz MB, Dutta AK, Gonkhom D, Goto BT, Guarnaccia V, Hagen F, Houbraken J, Lachance MA, Li JJ, Luo KY, Magurno F, Mongkolsamrit S, Robert V, Roy N, Tibpromma S, Wanasinghe DN, Wang DQ, Wei DP, Zhao CL, Aiphuk W, Ajayi-Oyetunde O, Arantes TD, Araujo JC, Begerow D, Bakhshi M, Barbosa RN, Behrens FH, Bensch K, Bezerra JDP, Bilański P, Bradley CA, Bubner B, Burgess TI, Buyck B, Čadež N, Cai L, Calaça FJS, Campbell LJ, Chaverri P, Chen YY, Chethana KWT, Coetzee B, Costa MM, Chen Q, Custódio FA, Dai YC, Damm U, de Azevedo Santiago ALCM, De Miccolis Angelini RM, Dijksterhuis J, Dissanayake AJ, Doilom M, Dong W, Alvarez-Duarte E, Fischer M, Gajanayake AJ, Gené J, Gomdola D, Gomes AAM, Hausner G, He MQ, Hou L, Iturrieta-González I, Jami F, Jankowiak R, Jayawardena RS, Kandemir H, Kiss L, Kobmoo N, Kowalski T, Landi L, Lin CG, Liu JK, Liu XB, Loizides M, Luangharn T, Maharachchikumbura SSN, Makhathini Mkhwanazi GJ, Manawasinghe IS, Marin-Felix Y, McTaggart AR, Moreau PA, Morozova OV, Mostert L, Osiewacz HD, Pem D, Phookamsak R, Pollastro S, Pordel A, Poyntner C, Phillips AJL, Phonemany M, Promputtha I, Rathnayaka AR, Rodrigues AM, Romanazzi G, Rothmann L, Salgado-Salazar C, Sandoval-Denis M, Saupe SJ, Scholler M, Scott P, Shivas RG, Silar P, Souza-Motta CM, Silva-Filho AGS, Spies CFJ, Stchigel AM, Sterflinger K, Summerbell RC, Svetasheva TY, Takamatsu S, Theelen B, Theodoro RC, Thines M, Thongklang N, Torres R, Turchetti B, van den Brule T, Wang XW, Wartchow F, Welti S, Wijesinghe SN, Wu F, Xu R, Yang ZL, Yilmaz N, Yurkov A, Zhao L, Zhao RL, Zhou N, Hyde KD, Crous PW (2024). What are the 100 most cited fungal genera? Studies in Mycology 108 : 1-411. doi: 10.3114/sim.2024.108.01., Competing Interests: The authors declare that there is no conflict of interest., (© 2024 Westerdijk Fungal Biodiversity Institute.)

While great achievements have been made in the development of mechanically robust nanocomposite hydrogels, incorporating multiple interactions on the bases of two demensional inorganic cross-linkers to construct self-strengthening hydrogels has rarely been investigated. To this end, we propose here a new method for the coupling the dynamic covalent bonds and non-covalent interactions within a pseudo double-network system. The pseudo first network, formed through the Schiff Base reation between Tris-modified layered double hydroxides (Tris-LDHs) and oxidized dextran (ODex), is linked to the second network built upon non-covalent interactions between Tris-LDHs and poly(acrylamide-co-2-acrylamido-2-methyl-propanesulfonate) (p-(AM-co-AMPS). The swelling and mechanical properties of the resulting hydrogels have been investigated as a function of the ODex and AMPS contents. The as-prepared hydrogel can swell to 420 times of its original size and retain more than 99.9 wt.% of water. Mechanical tests show that the hydrogel can bear 90 % of compression and is able to be stretched to near 30 times of its original length. Cyclic tensile tests reveal that the hydrogels are capable of self-strengthening after mechanical training. The unique energy dissipation mechanism based on the dynamic covalent and non-covalent interactions is considered to be responsible for the outstanding swelling and mechanical performances., (© 2023 Wiley-VCH GmbH.)

Tamoxifen is the frontline therapeutic agent for the estrogen receptor-positive (ER + ) subtype of breast cancer patients, which accounts for 70-80% of total breast cancer incidents. However, clinical resistance to tamoxifen has become increasingly common, highlighting the need to identify the underlying cellular mechanisms. In our study, we employed a genome-scale CRISPR-Cas9 loss-of-function screen and validation experiments to discover that Tafazzin (TAZ), a mitochondrial transacylase, is crucial for maintaining the cellular sensitivity of ER+ breast cancer cells to tamoxifen and other chemotherapies. Mechanistically, we found that cardiolipin, whose synthesis and maturation rely on TAZ, is required to maintain cellular sensitivity to tamoxifen. Loss of metabolic enzymatic activity of TAZ causes ERα downregulation and therapy resistance. Interestingly, we observed that TAZ deficiency also led to the upregulation of lysophosphatidylcholine (LPC), which in turn suppressed ERα expression and nuclear localization, thereby contributing to tamoxifen resistance. LPC is further metabolized to lysophosphatidic acid (LPA), a bioactive molecule that supports cell survival. Thus, our findings suggest that the depletion of TAZ promotes tamoxifen resistance through an LPC-LPA phospholipid synthesis axis, and targeting this lipid metabolic pathway could restore cell susceptibility to tamoxifen treatment., (© 2023. The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Springer Nature America, Inc.)

Introduction: We previously discovered a pyridazine derivative compound series that can improve cognitive functions in mouse models of Alzheimer's disease. One of the advanced compounds from this series, LDN/OSU-0215111-M3, was selected as the preclinical development candidate. This compound activates local protein translation at the perisynaptic astrocytic process (PAP) and enhances synaptic plasticity sequentially. While biochemical evidence supports the hypothesis that the compound enhances the structural plasticity of the tripartite synapse, its direct structural impact has not been investigated., Methods: Volume electron microscopy was used to study the hippocampal tripartite synapse three-dimensional structure in 3-month-old wild-type FVB/NJ mice after LDN/OSU-0215111-M3 treatment., Results: LDN/OSU-0215111-M3 increased the size of tertiary apical dendrites, the volume of mushroom spines, the proportion of mushroom spines containing spine apparatus, and alterations in the spine distribution across the surface area of tertiary dendrites. Compound also increased the number of the PAP interacting with the mushroom spines as well as the size of the PAP in contact with the spines. Furthermore, proteomic analysis of the isolated synaptic terminals indicated an increase in dendritic and synaptic proteins as well as suggested a possible involvement of the phospholipase D signaling pathway. To further validate that LDN/OSU-0215111-M3 altered synaptic function, electrophysiological studies showed increased long-term potentiation following compound treatment., Discussion: This study provides direct evidence that pyridazine derivatives enhance the structural and functional plasticity of the tripartite synapse., Competing Interests: The authors declare that the research was conducted in the absence of any commercial or financial relationships that could be construed as a potential conflict of interest., (Copyright © 2023 Xu, Foster, Lashley, Wang, Benson, Kidd and Lin.)

Background: The equilibrium of the scalp microbiome is important for maintaining healthy scalp conditions, including sebum secretion, dandruff, and hair growth. Many different strategies to improve scalp health have been reported; however, the effect of postbiotics, such as heat-killed probiotics, on scalp health remains unclear. We examined the beneficial effects of heat-killed probiotics consisting of Lacticaseibacillus paracasei, GMNL-653, on scalp health., Results: Heat-killed GMNL-653 could co-aggregate with scalp commensal fungi, Malassezia furfur, in vitro, and the GMNL-653-derived lipoteichoic acid inhibited the biofilm formation of M. furfur on Hs68 fibroblast cells. The mRNA of hair follicle growth factors, including insulin-like growth factor-1 receptor (IGF-1R), vascular endothelial growth factor, IGF-1, and keratinocyte growth factor was up-regulated in skin-related human cell lines Hs68 and HaCaT after treatment with heat-killed GMNL-653. For clinical observations, we recruited 22 volunteer participants to use the shampoo containing the heat-killed GMNL-653 for 5 months and subsequently measured their scalp conditions, including sebum secretion, dandruff formation, and hair growth. We applied polymerase chain reaction (PCR) to detect the scalp microbiota of M. restricta, M. globosa, Cutibacterium acnes, and Staphylococcus epidermidis. A decrease in dandruff and oil secretion and an increase in hair growth in the human scalp were observed after the use of heat-killed GMNL-653-containing shampoo. The increased abundance of M. globosa and the decreased abundance of M. restricta and C. acnes were also observed. We further found that accumulated L. paracasei abundance was positively correlated with M. globosa abundance and negatively correlated with C. acnes abundance. S. epidermidis and C. acnes abundance was negatively correlated with M. globosa abundance and positively correlated with M. restricta. Meanwhile, M. globosa and M. restricta abundances were negatively associated with each other. C. acnes and S. epidermidis abundances were statistically positively correlated with sebum secretion and dandruff, respectively, in our shampoo clinical trial., Conclusion: Our study provides a new strategy for human scalp health care using the heat-killed probiotics GMNL-653-containing shampoo. The mechanism may be correlated with the microbiota shift., (© 2023. The Author(s).)

The antioxidant effect of probiotics has been widely recognized across the world, which is of great significance in food, medicine, and aquaculture. There are abundant marine microbial resources in the ocean, which provide a new space for humans to explore new probiotics. Previously, we reported on the anti-infective effects of Planococcus maritimu ML1206, a potential marine probiotic. The antioxidant activity of ML1206 in C. elegans was studied in this paper. The study showed that ML1206 could improve the ability of nematodes to resist oxidative stress and effectively prolong their lifespan. The results confirmed that ML1206 could significantly increase the activities of CAT and GSH-PX, and reduce the accumulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in nematodes under oxidative stress conditions. In addition, ML1206 promoted DAF-16 transfer to the nucleus and upregulated the expression of sod-3 , hsp-16.2 , and ctl-2 , which are downstream antioxidant-related genes of DAF-16. Furthermore, the expression of the SOD-3::GFP and HSP-16.2::GFP was significantly higher in the transgenic strains fed with ML1206 than that in the control group fed with OP50, with or without stress. In summary, these findings suggest that ML1206 is a novel marine probiotic with an antioxidant function that stimulates nematodes to improve their defense abilities against oxidative stress and prolong the lifespan by regulating the translocation of FOXO/DAF-16. Therefore, ML1206 may be explored as a potential dietary supplement in aquaculture and for anti-aging and antioxidant purposes.

Integrating different types of supramolecular interactions opens the possibility to generate nanoparticle surfactants (NPSs) at the liquid-liquid interface that are responsive to multiple stimuli. Here we develop a covalently modified polyoxometalate/β-cyclodextrin (POM/β-CD) organic-inorganic hybrid, consisting of a negatively charged POM cluster with β-CD host groups. The POM/β-CD hybrid can be dispersed in water and interacts at a water/oil interface with ligands dissolved in an oil phase through electrostatic or host-guest interactions, thereby generating POM-surfactants (POMSs) having pH, redox, and guest-competitive responsiveness, respectively. By taking advantage of the jamming of POMSs at the interface, a reconfigurable all-liquid system could be produced that is responsive to orthogonal changes in the external environment., (© 2022 Wiley-VCH GmbH.)

Telomere shortening can cause detrimental diseases and contribute to aging. It occurs due to the end replication problem in cells lacking telomerase. Furthermore, recent studies revealed that telomere shortening can be attributed to difficulties of the semi-conservative DNA replication machinery to replicate the bulk of telomeric DNA repeats. To investigate telomere replication in a comprehensive manner, we develop QTIP-iPOND - Quantitative Telomeric chromatin Isolation Protocol followed by isolation of Proteins On Nascent DNA - which enables purification of proteins that associate with telomeres specifically during replication. In addition to the core replisome, we identify a large number of proteins that specifically associate with telomere replication forks. Depletion of several of these proteins induces telomere fragility validating their importance for telomere replication. We also find that at telomere replication forks the single strand telomere binding protein POT1 is depleted, whereas histone H1 is enriched. Our work reveals the dynamic changes of the telomeric proteome during replication, providing a valuable resource of telomere replication proteins. To our knowledge, this is the first study that examines the replisome at a specific region of the genome., (© The Author(s) 2021. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of Nucleic Acids Research.)

Gulf War illness (GWI) is a chronic and multi-symptomatic disorder affecting veterans who served in the Gulf War. The commonly reported symptoms in GWI veterans include mood problems, cognitive impairment, muscle and joint pain, migraine/headache, chronic fatigue, gastrointestinal complaints, skin rashes, and respiratory problems. Neuroimaging studies have revealed significant brain structure alterations in GWI veterans, including subcortical atrophy, decreased volume of the hippocampus, reduced total grey and white matter, and increased brain white matter axial diffusivity. These brain changes may contribute to or increase the severities of the GWI-related symptoms. Epidemiological studies have revealed that neurotoxic exposures and stress may be significant contributors to the development of GWI. However, the mechanism underlying how the exposure and stress could contribute to the multi-symptomatic disorder of GWI remains unclear. We and others have demonstrated that rodent models exposed to GW-related agents and stress exhibited higher extracellular glutamate levels, as well as impaired structure and function of glutamatergic synapses. Restoration of the glutamatergic synapses ameliorated the GWI-related pathological and behavioral deficits. Moreover, recent studies showed that a low-glutamate diet reduced multiple symptoms in GWI veterans, suggesting an important role of the glutamatergic system in GWI. Currently, growing evidence has indicated that abnormal glutamate neurotransmission may contribute to the GWI symptoms. This review summarizes the potential roles of glutamate dyshomeostasis and dysfunction of the glutamatergic system in linking the initial cause to the multi-symptomatic outcomes in GWI and suggests the glutamatergic system as a therapeutic target for GWI., (Copyright © 2021 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Arthrinium has a widespread distribution occurring in various substrates (e.g., air, soil debris, plants, lichens, marine algae and even human tissues). It is characterized by the basauxic conidiogenesis in the asexual morph, with apiospores in the sexual morph. In this study, seventeen isolates of Arthrinium were collected in China. Based on their morphology and phylogenetic characterization, four new species ( A. biseriale , A. cyclobalanopsidis , A. gelatinosum , and A. septatum ) are described and seven known species ( A. arundinis , A. garethjonesii , A. guizhouense , A. hydei , A. neosubglobosa , A. phyllostachium and A. psedoparenchymaticum ) are identified, of which the sexual morph of three species ( A. guizhouense , A. phyllostachium and A. psedoparenchymaticum ) and asexual morph of A. garethjonesii are reported for the first time. The detailed descriptions, illustrations and comparisons with related taxa of these new collections are provided. Phylogenetic analyses of combined ITS, LSU, TUB2, and TEF sequence data support their placements in the genus Arthrinium and justify the new species establishments and identifications of known species., Competing Interests: The authors declare that the research was conducted in the absence of any commercial or financial relationships that could be construed as a potential conflict of interest., (Copyright © 2021 Feng, Liu, Lin, Chen, Xiang and Liu.)

With the widespread occurrence of aquaculture diseases and the broad application of antibiotics, drug-resistant pathogens have increasingly affected aquatic animals' health. Marine probiotics, which live under high pressure in a saltwater environment, show high potential as a substitute for antibiotics in the field of aquatic disease control. In this study, twenty strains of non-hemolytic bacteria were isolated from the intestine of wild oysters and perch, and a model of Caenorhabditis elegans infected by Vibrio anguillarum was established. Based on the model, ML1206, which showed a 99% similarity of 16S rRNA sequence to Planococcus maritimus , was selected as a potential marine probiotic, with strong antibacterial capabilities and great acid and bile salt tolerance, to protect Caenorhabditis elegans from being damaged by Vibrio anguillarum . Combined with plate counting and transmission electron microscopy, it was found that strain ML1206 could significantly inhibit Vibrio anguillarum colonization in the intestinal tract of Caenorhabditis elegans . Acute oral toxicity tests in mice showed that ML1206 was safe and non-toxic. The real-time qPCR results showed a higher expression level of genes related to the antibacterial peptide ( ilys-3 ) and detoxification ( ugt-22 , cyp-35A3 , and cyp-14A3 ) in the group of Caenorhabditis elegans protected by ML1206 compared to the control group. It is speculated that ML1206, as a potential probiotic, may inhibit the infection caused by Vibrio anguillarum through stimulating Caenorhabditis elegans to secrete antibacterial effectors and detoxification proteins. This paper provides a new direction for screening marine probiotics and an experimental basis to support the potential application of ML1206 as a marine probiotic in aquaculture.

A family of six polyoxometalate-based magnetic compounds were synthesized by anchoring N-oxide type TEMPO radicals onto an Anderson type polyoxometalate cluster. The complexes were structurally characterised by single crystal X-ray diffraction and the intramolecular paramagnetic interactions between TEMPO radicals and Mn ions of the resulting hybrids were investigated in detail by electron paramagnetic resonance and the Evans NMR method.

Purpose: To provide theoretical basis for clinical CAD/CAM restorations with a comparison of the fracture strength between two chairside CAD/CAM immediate restorative materials (IPS e.max CAD and Vita Enamic) with different occlusal thickness in vitro., Methods: IPS e.max CAD and Vita Enamic full-crowns with occlusal thicknesses 1.5/2.0/2.5 mm were fabricated with CEREC and adhesively seated to dies customized by manufacturer (n=42). All specimens were stored in distilled water at 37 ℃ for 24 h. Later, static fractural loading was performed. The fracture surface was observed through scanning electron microscope (SEM) and energy dispersive spectrum (EDS). The composites of two materials were detected by X-Ray diffraction (XRD) techniques. The results of fracture strength were analyzed by one-way ANOVA and t-test via SPSS 20.0 software package., Results: With the increase of occlusal thickness, the fracture strength of IPS e.max CAD increased remarkably. However, the Vita Enamic's fracture strength remained the same with no significant difference. With the occlusal thickness increased from 1.5 to 2.0 mm, there was no significant difference in the fracture strength between IPS e.max CAD group and Vita Enamic group. As the thickness increased from 1.5 to 2.0 mm, the fracture strength of IPS e.max CAD group was significantly higher than that of Vita Enamic group. The results of SEM showed that the filler particles of IPS e.max CAD were smaller compared to that of Vita Enamic. Cone cracks were mainly found in the fracture surface of IPS e.max CAD, while radical cracks appeared in Vita Enamic. EDS showed the metal oxide and SiO2 in Vita Enmic was significantly higher than that in IPS e.max CAD. XRD showed that the primary crystal phase of IPS e.max CAD was lithium silicate, while Vita Enamic was amorphous., Conclusions: Both IPS e.max CAD and Vita Enamic can meet the standard of clinical application as the occlusal thickness reaches 1.5 mm. IPS e.max CAD showed better fracture resistance when the thickness was greater than 2.0 mm.

Bacteria response to their environment by producing some compounds which are used in cosmetic and pharmaceutical applications. Some probiotics can regulate immune response and modulate the symptoms of several diseases. Bacteria affect skin response to skin care products. Bacteria are thought to play an important role in acne incidence, skin moisture, and nutrient metabolism, but only a few studies have focused on the extracts of Lactobacillus plantarum in skin care. In this study, we identified that L. plantarum- GMNL6 enhanced collagen synthesis and the gene expression of serine palmitoyltransferase small subunit A. Meanwhile, L. plantarum- GMNL6 reduced the melanin synthesis, the biofilm of Staphylococcus aureus , and the proliferation of Cutibacterium acnes. Information from clinical observation during the ointment for external face use in people displayed that the syndromes of skin moisture, skin color, spots, wrinkles, UV spots, and porphyrins were improved. The diversification of human skin microbiomes was affected by smearing the face of volunteers with L. plantarum -GMNL6. Understanding the potential mechanisms of the action of L. plantarum -GMNL6 in dermatologic conditions promotes the development of care products., Competing Interests: Competing Interests: The authors have declared that no competing interest exists., (© The author(s).)

The structural phase of a metal oxide changes with temperature and pressure. During phase transitions, component ions move in multidimensional metal-oxygen networks. Such macroscopic structural events are robust to changes in particle size, even at scales of around 10 nm, and size effects limiting these transitions are particularly important in, for example, high-density memory applications of ferroelectrics. In this study, we examined structural transitions of the molecular metal oxide [Na@(SO 3 ) 2 (n-BuPO 3 ) 4 Mo V 4 Mo VI 14 O 49 ] 5- (Molecule 1) at approximately 2 nm by using single-crystal X-ray diffraction analysis. The Na + encapsulated in the discrete metal-oxide anion exhibited a reversible order-disorder transition with distortion of the Mo-O molecular framework induced by temperature. Similar order-disorder transitions were also triggered by chemical pressure induced by removing crystalline solvent molecules in the single-crystal state or by substituting the countercation to change the molecular packing., (© 2020 Wiley-VCH GmbH.)

Gulf War illness is associated with a combination of exposure to war-related chemical agents and traumatic stress. Currently, there are no effective treatments, and the pathophysiology remains elusive. Neurological problems are among the most commonly reported symptoms. In this study, we investigated the glutamatergic system in the hippocampi of mice exposed to war-related chemical agents and stress. Mice developed Gulf War illness-like symptoms, including mood deficits, cognitive impairments, and fatigue. They exhibited the following pathological changes in hippocampi: elevated extracellular glutamate levels, impaired glutamatergic synapses, astrocyte atrophy, loss of interneurons, and decreased neurogenesis. LDN/OSU-215111 is a small-molecule that can strengthen the structure and function of both the astrocytic processes and the glutamatergic synapses that together form the tripartite synapses. We found that LDN/OSU-215111 effectively prevented the development of mood and cognitive deficits in mice when treatment was implemented immediately following the exposure. Moreover, when symptoms were already present, LDN/OSU-215111 still significantly ameliorated these deficits; impressively, benefits were sustained one month after treatment cessation, indicating disease modification. LDN/OSU-215111 effectively normalized hippocampal pathological changes. Overall, this study provides strong evidence that restoration of tripartite glutamatergic synapses by LDN/OSU-215111 is a potential therapy for Gulf War illness., Competing Interests: The authors declare that they have no conflict of interest., (© 2020 The Authors.)

Protein exerts a critical influence on the degradation behavior of absorbable magnesium (Mg)-based implants. However, the interaction mechanism between protein and a micro-arc oxidation (MAO) coating on Mg alloys remains unclear. Hereby, a MAO coating was fabricated on AZ31 Mg alloy. And its degradation behavior in phosphate buffer saline (PBS) containing bovine serum albumin (BSA) was investigated and compared with that of the uncoated alloy. Surface morphologies and chemical compositions were studied using Field-emission scanning electron microscope (FE-SEM), Fourier transform infrared spectrophotometer (FT-IR) and X-ray diffraction (XRD). The degradation behavior of the bare Mg alloy and its MAO coating was studied through electrochemical and hydrogen evolution tests. Cytotoxicity assay was applied to evaluate the biocompatibility of Mg alloy substrate and MAO coating. Results indicated that the presence of BSA decreased the degradation rate of Mg alloy substrate because BSA (RCH(NH 2 )COO‾) molecules combined with Mg 2+ ions to form (RCH(NH 2 )COO) 2 Mg and thus inhibited the dissolution of Mg(OH) 2 by impeding the attack of Cl‾ ions. In the case of MAO coated Mg alloy, the adsorption of BSA on MAO coating and the formation of (RCH(NH 2 )COO) 2 Mg exhibited a synergistic effect and enhanced the corrosion resistance of the coated alloy significantly. Furthermore, cell bioactive assay suggested that the MAO coating had good viability for MG63 cells due to its high surface area., Competing Interests: The authors declare that they have no known competing financial interests or personal relationships that could have appeared to influence the work reported in this paper., (© 2020 Production and hosting by Elsevier B.V. on behalf of KeAi Communications Co., Ltd.)

Background: The lack of effective treatment options for Alzheimer's disease (AD) is of momentous societal concern. Synaptic loss is the hallmark of AD that correlates best with impaired memory and occurs early in the disease process, before the onset of clinical symptoms. We have developed a small-molecule, pyridazine-based series that enhances the structure and function of both the glial processes and the synaptic boutons that form the tripartite synapse. Previously, we have shown that these pyridazine derivatives exhibit profound efficacy in an amyloid precursor protein AD model. Here, we evaluated the efficacy of an advanced compound, LDN/OSU-0215111, in rTg4510 mice-an aggressive tauopathy model., Methods: rTg4510 mice were treated orally with vehicle or LDN/OSU-0215111 (10 mg/kg) daily from the early symptomatic stage (2 months old) to moderate (4 months old) and severe (8 months old) disease stages. At each time point, mice were subjected to a battery of behavioral tests to assess the activity levels and cognition. Also, tissue collections were performed on a subset of mice to analyze the tripartite synaptic changes, neurodegeneration, gliosis, and tau phosphorylation as assessed by immunohistochemistry and Western blotting. At 8 months of age, a subset of rTg4510 mice treated with compound was switched to vehicle treatment and analyzed behaviorally and biochemically 30 days after treatment cessation., Results: At both the moderate and severe disease stages, compound treatment normalized cognition and behavior as well as reduced synaptic loss, neurodegeneration, tau hyperphosporylation, and neuroinflammation. Importantly, after 30 days of treatment cessation, the benefits of compound treatment were sustained, indicating disease modification. We also found that compound treatment rapidly and robustly reduced tau hyperphosphorylation/deposition possibly via the inhibition of GSK3β., Conclusions: The results show that LDN/OSU-0215111 provides benefits for multiple aspects of tauopathy-dependent pathology found in Alzheimer's disease including tripartite synapse normalization and reduction of toxic tau burden, which, in turn, likely accounted for normalized cognition and activity levels in compound-treated rTg4510 mice. This study, in combination with our previous work regarding the benefit of pyridazine derivatives against amyloid-dependent pathology, strongly supports pyridazine derivatives as a viable, clinically relevant, and disease-modifying treatment for many of the facets of Alzheimer's disease.

Purpose: To evaluate the long-term locoregional control, failure patterns, and late toxicity after reducing the target volume and radiation dose in patients with locoregionally advanced nasopharyngeal carcinoma patients treated with induction chemotherapy (IC) plus concurrent chemoradiotherapy (CCRT)., Methods and Materials: Previously untreated patients with locoregionally advanced nasopharyngeal carcinoma were recruited into this prospective study. All patients received 2 cycles of IC followed by CCRT. The gross tumor volumes of the nasopharynx (GTVnx) and the neck lymph nodes (GTVnd) were delineated according to the post-IC tumor extension and received full therapeutic doses (68 Gy and 62-66 Gy, respectively). The primary tumor shrinkage after IC was included in the high-risk clinical target volume (CTV1) with a reduced dose of 60 Gy. The locoregional recurrence-free survival (LRRFS), distant metastasis-free survival (DMFS), and overall survival (OS) were calculated using the Kaplan-Meier method. The location and extent of locoregional recurrences were transferred to pretreatment planning computed tomography for dosimetry analysis., Results: There were 112 patients enrolled in this study. The average mean dose of post-GTVnx, post-GTVnd (left), post-GTVnd (right), post-CTV1, and post-low-risk clinical target volume (CTV2) was 75.24, 68.97, 69.16, 70.49, and 63.37 Gy, respectively. With a median follow-up of 125.95 months, the 10-year LRRFS, DMFS and OS were 89.0%, 83.3%, and 75.9%, respectively. There were 8 local recurrences and 6 regional recurrences in 12 patients. All 8 of the local recurrences were in-field; among the 6 regional recurrences, 4 were in-field, 1 was marginal, and 1 was out-field. The most common late toxicities were grade 1 to 2 subcutaneous fibrosis, hearing loss, and xerostomia. No grade 4 late toxicities were observed., Conclusions: Reduction of the target volumes according to the post-IC tumor extension and radiation dose to the post-IC tumor shrinkage could yield excellent long-term locoregional control with limited marginal and out-field recurrences and mild late toxicities., (Copyright © 2019 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Eukaryotic cells pack their genomic DNA into euchromatin and heterochromatin. Boundaries between these domains have been shown to be set by boundary elements. In Tetrahymena, heterochromatin domains are targeted for deletion from the somatic nuclei through a sophisticated programmed DNA rearrangement mechanism, resulting in the elimination of 34% of the germline genome in ∼10,000 dispersed segments. Here we showed that most of these deletions occur consistently with very limited variations in their boundaries among inbred lines. We identified several potential flanking regulatory sequences, each associated with a subset of deletions, using a genome-wide motif finding approach. These flanking sequences are inverted repeats with the copies located at nearly identical distances from the opposite ends of the deleted regions, suggesting potential roles in boundary determination. By removing and testing two such inverted repeats in vivo, we found that the ability for boundary maintenance of the associated deletion were lost. Furthermore, we analyzed the deletion boundaries in mutants of a known boundary-determining protein, Lia3p and found that the subset of deletions that are affected by LIA3 knockout contained common features of flanking regulatory sequences. This study suggests a common mechanism for setting deletion boundaries by flanking inverted repeats in Tetrahymena thermophila., (© The Author(s) 2019. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of Nucleic Acids Research.)

Purpose: To analyze the long-term outcome and pattern of failure for patients with nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) after intensity-modulated radiotherapy (IMRT)., Methods and Materials: Patients with NPC after IMRT from 2001 to 2008 were recruited (n = 865). Clinical features, laboratory data, and treatments were collected., Results: The 10-year local recurrence-free survival, distant metastasis-free survival, and disease-specific survival (DSS) were 92.0%, 83.4%, and 78.6%, respectively. A total of 209 patients died: 59% of whom died from distant metastasis. The 10-year DSS was higher in patients who received chemoradiotherapy than those who received IMRT alone for patients with high-risk stage III disease, while there was no survival difference for patients with stage II and low-risk stage III disease., Conclusions: IMRT provides satisfactory long-term survival for patients with NPC. Distant metastasis has been the most common reason for failure. Adding chemotherapy did not improve survival in patients with stage II and low-risk stage III disease., (© 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.)

Two new species, Castanediellabrevis and C.monoseptata , are described, illustrated and compared with other Castanediella taxa. Evidence for the new species is provided by morphological comparison and sequence data analyses. Castanediellabrevis can be distinguished from other Castanediella species by the short hyaline conidiophores and fusiform, aseptate hyaline conidia, while C.monoseptata differs from other Castanediella species by its unbranched conidiophores and fusiform, curved, 0-1-sepatate, hyaline conidia. Phylogenetic analysis of combined ITS and LSU sequence data was carried out to determine the phylogenetic placement of the species. A synopsis of hitherto described Castanediella species is provided. In addition, Castanediella is also compared with morphologically similar-looking genera such as Idriella , Idriellopsis , Microdochium , Neoidriella , Paraidriella and Selenodriella .

Polyoxometalates (POMs) have been found to be good end-capping ligands for gold nanoparticles (AuNPs). Herein, we introduce a new synthetic method to synthesize gold nanoparticle-POM hybrids by heating a solution of AuNO 3 (PMe 3 ) in acetonitrile in the presence of appropriate POM species with tetrabutylammonium (TBA) as a countercation at 120 °C in a microwave. This method allowed us to produce POM-capped AuNPs without over-reduction of the solution causing decomposition or reorganization of the POMs. Analysis of the resulting material by transmission electron microscopy showed that the POM's size, charge, and functionality are key factors controlling the resulting POM-AuNP hybrid structure. Additionally, the reaction was monitored by electrospray ionization mass spectrometry (ESI-MS), ultraviolet-visible spectroscopy, and dynamic light scattering. The ESI-MS studies reveal crucial information regarding the nature of the reaction that takes place, showing the cation exchange between Au(I) and TBA cations, followed by self-reduction of the Me 3 PAu(I)-POM complex.

A worth noticing pattern in current invasive biology is the clonal ability of many of the world's worst invasive plants. Selective placement of ramets (i.e. foraging behavior) can intensify ramet performance and allocation, and place more ramets in the more favorable microhabitats, which can maximum utilize resource and share risk in heterogeneous environments. Still little is known about whether invasive alien and native clonal plants differ in the selective placement patterns of ramets in invasive clonal plants or not. We used five congeneric pairs of naturally co-occurring invasive alien and native clonal plant species in China. In a glasshouse, we grew all species in pots under a homogeneous and three heterogeneous conditions (i.e. light, soil nutrients or water) subjected to resource-high or -low patches. All biomass parameters and number of ramets significantly increased in resource-high patches in all three types of heterogeneous environments. Interestingly, growth of invasive alien plants benefited significantly more from resource-high patches than native plants in all heterogeneous environments. Overall, invasive had higher biomass parameters per ramet than natives. Ramet parameters of invasive plants also benefited more from resource-low patches than natives. Three different selective placement patterns of ramets in resource-low patches were exhibited in invasive plants: ramet increasing shoot investment (above pattern), increasing root investment (below pattern) and increasing both investments (complete pattern) in the light, soil water and nutrient heterogeneity, respectively. Investment on less, larger ramet was the adaptive strategy of invasive plants in resource-poor patches. The results suggest that adaptively selective placement patterns of ramets promote a higher morphology plasticity and performance in invasive clonal plants over natives. When alien clonal plants spread new areas with light, soil nutrients or water heterogeneity, selective placement patterns of ramets might play an important role in plant performance and competitive superior by capitalizing more on additional resources., (Copyright © 2018 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.)

Hydrothermal-synthesis-based reactions are normally single step owing to the difficulty of manipulating reaction mixtures at high temperatures and pressures. Herein we demonstrate a simple, cheap, and modular approach to the design reactors consisting of partitioned chambers, to achieve multi-step synthesis under hydrothermal conditions, in digitally defined reactionware produced by 3D printing. This approach increases the number of steps that can be performed sequentially and allows an increase in the options available for the control of hydrothermal reactions. The synthetic outcomes of the multi-stage reactions can be explored by varying reaction compositions, number of reagents, reaction steps, and reaction times, and these can be tagged to the digital blueprint. To demonstrate the potential of this approach a series of polyoxometalate (POM)-containing metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) unavailable by "one-pot" methods were prepared as well as a set of new MOFs., (© 2018 Wiley-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.)

Intramolecular charge transfers between π-conjugated molecules and polyoxometalate (POM) clusters have been observed in donor-acceptor systems based on organic donors and inorganic POM acceptors, which unfortunately results in a general quenching of the chromophore luminescence. The development of POM-chromophore dyads that are capable of tackling the quenching process and enhancing the fluorescence intensity of such systems remains a highly challenging area of study. A family of organic-inorganic polyoxometalate hybrids, {[(n-C 4 H 9 ) 4 N] 3 [(MnMo 6 O 24 ){(CH 2 ) 3 CR} 2 ]} [1, R = -NHCH 2 C 14 H 9 , namely (anthracen-9-ylmethyl)amino; 2, R = -NHCH 2 C 13 H 9 , (9H-fluoren-2-ylmethyl)amino; 3, R = -NHCH 2 C 10 H 7 , (naphthalen-2-ylmethyl)amino; 4, R = -NHCH 2 C 16 H 9 , (pyren-2-ylmethyl)amino], were synthesized by covalently tethering π-conjugated molecules onto an Anderson cluster. The resulting POM-chromophore dyads were fully characterized by various spectroscopic techniques, single-crystal X-ray diffraction analysis and ESI-MS. The fluorescence features of these dyads were studied in detail to verify a dramatic emission enhancement that can be achieved by fine-tuning the microenvironment in solution and suppressing the intrinsic photo-induced electron-transfer process.

Background: Risperidone and paliperidone have been the mainstay treatment for schizophrenia and their potential role in neuroprotection could be associated with brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and N400 (an event-related brain potential component). So far, different effects on both BDNF and N400 were reported in relation to various antipsychotic treatments. However, few studies have been conducted on the mechanism of risperidone and paliperidone on BDNF and N400. This study aimed to compare the effects of risperidone and paliperidone on BDNF and the N400 component of the event-related brain potential in patients with first-episode schizophrenia., Methods: Ninety-eight patients with first-episode schizophrenia were randomly divided into the risperidone and paliperidone groups and treated with risperidone and paliperidone, respectively, for 12 weeks. Serum BDNF level, the latency, and amplitude of the N400 event-related potential before and after the treatment and Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale (PANSS) scores were compared between the two groups., Results: A total of 94 patients were included in the final analysis (47 patients in each group). After the treatment, the serum BDNF levels in both groups increased (all P < 0.01), while no significant difference in serum BDNF level was found between the groups before and after the treatment (all P > 0.05). After the treatment, N400 amplitudes were increased (from 4.73 ± 2.86 μv and 4.51 ± 4.63 μv to 5.35 ± 4.18 μv and 5.52 ± 3.08 μv, respectively) under congruent condition in both risperidone and paliperidone groups (all P < 0.01). Under incongruent conditions, the N400 latencies were shortened in the paliperidone group (from 424.13 ± 110.42 ms to 4.7.41 ± 154.59 ms, P < 0.05), and the N400 amplitudes were increased in the risperidone group (from 5.80 ± 3.50 μv to 7.17 ± 5.51 μv, P < 0.01). After treatment, the total PANSS score in both groups decreased significantly (all P < 0.01), but the difference between the groups was not significant (P > 0.05). A negative correlation between the reduction rate of the PANSS score and the increase in serum BDNF level after the treatment was found in the paliperidone group but not in the risperidone group., Conclusions: Both risperidone and paliperidone could increase the serum BDNF levels in patients with first-episode schizophrenia and improve their cognitive function (N400 latency and amplitude), but their antipsychotic mechanisms might differ., Competing Interests: There are no conflicts of interest

Excitatory amino acid transporter 2 (EAAT2) is primarily located in perisynaptic astrocytic processes (PAP) where it plays a critical role in synaptic glutamate homeostasis. Dysregulation of EAAT2 at the translational level has been implicated in a myriad of neurological diseases. We previously discovered that pyridazine analogs can activate EAAT2 translation. Here, we sought to further refine the site and mechanism of compound action. We found that in vivo, compound treatment increased EAAT2 expression only in the PAP of astrocytes where EAAT2 mRNA also was identified. Direct application of compound to isolated PAP induced de novo EAAT2 protein synthesis, indicating that compound activates translation locally in the PAP. Using a screening process, we identified a set of PAP proteins that are rapidly up-regulated following compound treatment and a subset of these PAP proteins may be locally synthesized in the PAP. Importantly, these identified proteins are associated with the structural and functional capacity of the PAP, indicating compound enhanced plasticity of the PAP. Concomitantly, we found that pyridazine analogs increase synaptic protein expression in the synapse and enhance hippocampal long-term potentiation. This was not dependent upon compound-mediated local translation in neurons. This suggests that compound enhances the structural and functional capacity of the PAP which in turn facilitates enhanced plasticity of the tripartite synapse. Overall, this provides insight into the mechanism action site of pyridazine derivatives as well as the growing appreciation of the dynamic regulation and functional aspects of the PAP at the tripartite synapse., (Copyright © 2018. Published by Elsevier Ltd.)

Introduction: In intensity modulated radiotherapy (IMRT) of nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) patients, an effective immobilisation system is important to minimise set up deviation. This study evaluated the effectiveness of three immobilisation systems by assessing their set up deviations., Methods: Patients were randomly assigned to one of the three immobilisation systems: (1) supine on head rest and base plate (HB); (2) supine with alpha cradle supporting the head and shoulder (AC); (3) supine with vacuum bag supporting the head and shoulder (VB). CBCT was conducted weekly for each patient on the linear accelerator. Image registration was conducted at the nasopharynx (NP) and cervical regions. The translational displacements (latero-medial, antero-posterior and cranio-caudal), rotational displacements (pitch, yaw and roll) and 3D vectors obtained at the NP and cervical regions were recorded and compared among the three systems., Results: The mean translational and rotational deviations were within 3 mm and 2°, respectively, and the range of 3D vector was 1.53-3.47 mm. At the NP region, the AC system demonstrated the smallest translational and rotational deviations and 3D vector. The differences were significant except for the latero-medial, yaw and roll directions. Similarly, at the cervical region, the AC system showed smaller translational and rotational deviations and 3D vector, with only the cranio-caudal and yaw deviations that did not reach statistical significance., Conclusions: Set up deviation was greater in the neck than the NP region. The set up accuracy of the AC system was better than the other two systems, and it is recommended for IMRT of NPC patients in our institution., (© 2016 The Authors. Journal of Medical Radiation Sciences published by John Wiley & Sons Australia, Ltd on behalf of Australian Society of Medical Imaging and Radiation Therapy and New Zealand Institute of Medical Radiation Technology.)

Ciliated protozoans perform extreme forms of programmed somatic DNA rearrangement during development. The model ciliate Tetrahymena thermophila removes 34% of its germline micronuclear genome from somatic macronuclei by excising thousands of internal eliminated sequences (IESs), a process that shares features with transposon excision. Indeed, piggyBac transposon-derived genes are necessary for genome-wide IES excision in both Tetrahymena (TPB2 [Tetrahymena piggyBac-like 2] and LIA5) and Paramecium tetraurelia (PiggyMac). T. thermophila has at least three other piggyBac-derived genes: TPB1, TPB6, and TPB7 Here, we show that TPB1 and TPB6 excise a small, distinct set of 12 unusual IESs that disrupt exons. TPB1-deficient cells complete mating, but their progeny exhibit slow growth, giant vacuoles, and osmotic shock sensitivity due to retention of an IES in the vacuolar gene DOP1 (Dopey domain-containing protein). Unlike most IESs, TPB1-dependent IESs have piggyBac-like terminal inverted motifs that are necessary for excision. Transposon-like excision mediated by TPB1 and TPB6 provides direct evidence for a transposon origin of not only IES excision machinery but also IESs themselves. Our study highlights a division of labor among ciliate piggyBac-derived genes, which carry out mutually exclusive categories of excision events mediated by either transposon-like features or RNA-directed heterochromatin., (© 2016 Cheng et al.; Published by Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory Press.)

The maintenance of chromosome integrity is crucial for genetic stability. However, programmed chromosome fragmentations are known to occur in many organisms, and in the ciliate Tetrahymena the five germline chromosomes are fragmented into hundreds of minichromosomes during somatic nuclear differentiation. Here, we showed that there are different fates of these minichromosomes after chromosome breakage. Among the 326 somatic minichromosomes identified using genomic data, 50 are selectively eliminated from the mature somatic genome. Interestingly, many and probably most of these minichromosomes are eliminated during the growth period between 6 and 20 doublings right after conjugation. Genes with potential conjugation-specific functions are found in these minichromosomes. This study revealed a new mode of programmed DNA elimination in ciliates similar to those observed in parasitic nematodes, which could play a role in developmental gene regulation., Competing Interests: The authors have declared that no competing interests exist.

In recent decades, 3D printing (also known as additive manufacturing) techniques have moved beyond their traditional applications in the fields of industrial manufacturing and prototyping to increasingly find roles in scientific research contexts, such as synthetic chemistry. We present a general approach for the production of bespoke chemical reactors, termed reactionware, using two different approaches to extrusion-based 3D printing. This protocol describes the printing of an inert polypropylene (PP) architecture with the concurrent printing of soft material catalyst composites, using two different 3D printer setups. The steps of the PROCEDURE describe the design and preparation of a 3D digital model of the desired reactionware device and the preparation of this model for use with fused deposition modeling (FDM) type 3D printers. The protocol then further describes the preparation of composite catalyst-silicone materials for incorporation into the 3D-printed device and the steps required to fabricate a reactionware device. This combined approach allows versatility in the design and use of reactionware based on the specific needs of the experimental user. To illustrate this, we present a detailed procedure for the production of one such reactionware device that will result in the production of a sealed reactor capable of effecting a multistep organic synthesis. Depending on the design time of the 3D model, and including time for curing and drying of materials, this procedure can be completed in ∼3 d.

The objective of this study is to identify the risk factors and construct a prediction-score model for distant metastasis (DM) in nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) patients treated with intensity-modulated radiotherapy (IMRT). A total of 520 nonmetastatic NPC patients were analysed retrospectively. The independent risk factors for DM were tested by multivariate Cox regression analysis. The prediction-score model was established according to the regression coefficient. The median follow-up was 88.4 months. The 5-year DM rate was 15.1%. N2-3, primary tumour volume of nasopharynx (GTVnx) >24.56 cm(3), haemoglobin change after treatment (ΔHGB) >25.8 g/L, albumin-globulin ratio (AGR) ≤1.34, pretreatment neutrophil-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) >2.81 and pretreatment serum lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) >245 U/L were significantly adverse independent predictive factors for DM. Three subgroups were defined based on the prediction-score model: low risk (0-2), intermediate risk (3-4) and high risk (5-8). The 5-year DM rates were 4.6, 21.8 and 50.8%, respectively (P < 0.001). The areas under the curve for DM in the prediction-score model and the UICC/AJCC staging system seventh edition were 0.748 and 0.627, respectively (P < 0.001). The scoring model is useful in evaluating the risk of DM in IMRT-treated NPC patients and guiding future therapeutic trials. Further prospective study is needed.

Background: Endothelial dysfunction plays an important role in the pathophysiology of coronary artery disease (CAD). Previous studies suggested that human endothelial cell-specific molecule-1 (endocan) may be a novel endothelial dysfunction marker. This study aims to investigate the relationship between serum endocan level and the presence and severity of CAD in patients with hypertension., Methods: A total of 190 eligible hypertension patients were enrolled in this study. Serum endocan level was measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. The presence and severity of CAD were evaluated by coronary angiography., Results: Hypertensive patients with CAD had significantly higher serum endocan level than those without CAD (1.63 ± 0.51 ng/mL vs 1.31 ± 0.65 ng/mL, P < 0.05). Multivariate logistic regression revealed that serum endocan level was independently associated with the presence of CAD (odds ratio, 2.662; 95% confidence interval, 1.560-4.544; P < 0.001). Spearman rank correlation analysis demonstrated that serum endocan level was associated with SYNergy between PCI with TAXUS and Cardiac Surgery score (r = 0.349, P = 0.001)., Conclusions: Serum endocan level is independently correlated with the presence and severity of CAD in hypertension patients, and those with high endocan level may have an increased risk of developing atherosclerosis.

Schizophrenia is associated with the inflammation-related pathways, including aberrant cytokines levels. In this study, we examined the association of serum IL-3 levels with psychopahological symtoms in chronic schizophrenia. Serum IL-3 levels were assessed in 42 patients diagnosed with schizophrenia and compared to 43 healthy control subjects matched for age and gender. Schizophrenia symptomatology was assessed with the Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale (PANSS), and serum IL-3 levels were measured by sandwich enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Our results showed that IL-3 levels were significantly increased in patients with chronic schizophrenia compared to healthy control subjects. Correlation analysis revealed a significant positive correlation between the IL-3 levels and the PANSS general subscore. Moreover, IL-3 levels were significantly positively correlated with depressive subscore. Our results suggested that IL-3 related pathway is associated with psychopathology of schizophrenia patients., (Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.)

Purpose: To report the distant metastasis (DM) risk and patterns for nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) treated with intensity-modulated radiotherapy (IMRT) and to analyze the benefits of chemotherapy based on DM risk., Materials and Methods: 576 NPC patients were analyzed. The DM rates were calculated using the Kaplan-Meier method, and the log-rank test was used to compare differences. The patients were divided into different risk subclassifications according to DM hazard ratios., Results: 91 patients developed DM after treatment, with bone as the most common metastatic sites. 82.4% of DMs occurred within 3 years of treatment. Patients were classified as low-risk, intermediate-risk and high-risk, and the corresponding 5-year DM rates were 5.1%, 13.1% and 32.4%, respectively (P < 0.001). Chemotherapy failed to decrease the DM rate in the low-risk subclassification, but decreased the DM risk in the intermediate-risk subclassification (P = 0.025). In the high-risk subclassification, the DM rate was 31.9% though chemotherapy was used, which was significantly higher than that of other two subclassifications., Conclusions: DM is the dominant treatment failure in NPC treated by IMRT, with similar occurrence times and distributions to those that occurred in the era of conventional radiotherapy. Further studies on treatment optimization are needed in high-risk patients.

Background: The optimal model of total dose and fraction size for patients with locally recurrent nasopharyngeal carcinoma treated with intensity-modulated radiotherapy (IMRT) remains unclear. The authors designed a randomized phase 2 clinical trial to investigate the efficacy of 2 different models, with the objective of determining an optimal model., Methods: Between January 2003 and December 2007, a total of 117 patients with locally recurrent nonmetastatic nasopharyngeal carcinoma were randomized to 2 different models of total dose and fraction size: group A (59 patients) received 60 gray in 27 fractions and group B (58 patients) received 68 gray in 34 fractions. Both groups received 5 daily fractions per week. All patients received IMRT alone., Results: The median follow-up was 25.0 months. The 5-year overall survival in group A was higher than that in group B (44.2% vs 30.3%; P =.06), and the local failure-free survival in group A was slightly lower than that in group B (63.7% vs 71.0%; P =.41). Severe late complications were the main cause of death. The incidences of mucosal necrosis and massive hemorrhage in patients in group B were significantly higher than those among patients in group A at 50.8% versus 28.8% (P =.02) and 31.0% versus 18.6% (P =.12), respectively. Tumor volume (P<.01) and model of total dose and fraction size (P =.03) were found to be significant factors for mucosal necrosis and massive hemorrhage., Conclusions: Appropriately decreasing the total dose and increasing the fraction size can achieve local control similar to that achieved with a higher dose after IMRT; furthermore, it can improve overall survival by significantly reducing the incidence of severe late complications including mucosal necrosis and massive hemorrhage., (© 2014 American Cancer Society.)

A series of tripodal alcohols substituted Anderson-type polyoxometalates (POMs) including mono-substituted (compounds and ), asymmetrical bi-substituted (compound ), and symmetrical bi-substituted ones (compounds and ) have been synthesized under hydrothermal conditions using a pre-designed step-by-step strategy, and compounds , and have been fully characterized by single-crystal X-ray diffraction, ESI-MS, and elemental analysis.

Downconversion materials, which can convert one high-energy photon to two low-energy photons, have provided a promising avenue for the enhancement of solar cell efficiency. In this work, the Pr3+-Yb3+ codoped 25GeS2-35Ga2S3-40CsCl chalcohalide glasses were synthesized in a vacuumed silica ampoule by the melting-quenching technique. Under 474 nm excitation, the visible and near-IR emission spectra reveal the energy transfer from Pr3+ to Yb3+ ions, resulting in the intense 1008 nm near-IR emission for the c-Si solar cells. By tuning the excitation laser power, it is determined that one visible photon has been cut into two near-IR photons during the energy transfer process. With the help of an integrated sphere, the real quantum yields of near-IR emissions were calculated. For the 0.2Pr2S3-0.2Yb2S3 (in mol.%) codoped chalcohalide glass, the quantum yield equals 10.8%. Although this efficiency is still low, this result will open a new route to realize the efficient spectral modification of the solar spectrum.

It is becoming increasingly evident that certain phytochemicals possess cancer chemopreventive properties. In this study, the antiproliferative activity of extracts from different parts of the jaboticaba (Myrciaria cauliflora) plant was evaluated for its effect on human oral carcinoma cell lines. The cytotoxicities of various plant extract concentrations were examined and the 50% maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) was determined. Water extracts of jaboticaba seeds showed concentration-dependent antiproliferative effects. Annexin V/propidium iodide positivity with active caspase-3 induction indicated that the treated cells underwent apoptosis. Several important regulatory proteins (Bcl-2, Bcl-xL, Bid, and survivin) involved in apoptosis were also evaluated. The antioxidant activity of jaboticaba was investigated using 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and 2,2'-azinobis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulphonic acid) (ABTS) assays, and the drug concentration eliciting 50% maximum stimulation (SC50) was determined. The present findings suggest that water extracts of jaboticaba seeds exhibit an antiproliferative effect against oral cancer cells by inducing apoptosis through downregulating survivin expression and thereby activating caspase-mediated Bid cleavage.

Purpose: To evaluate the patterns of nodal failure and toxicity in clinically negative necks of N0-1 nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) patients who were treated with intensity modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) but did not receive elective neck irradiation (ENI) to level IV and Vb nodes., Methods and Materials: We conducted a phase 2 prospective study in N0-1 NPC patients treated with IMRT. ENI included the retropharyngeal nodes and levels II to Va but omitted levels IV and Vb in clinically negative necks. Patterns of nodal failure, regional control (RC), and late toxicity were evaluated., Results: Between 2001 and 2008, a total of 212 patients (128 N0 and 84 N1) were enrolled in the study. Seven patients (4 in-field and 3 out-of-field) developed nodal failure. One patient (0.5%) developed nodal failure at level Vb, but no patients developed nodal failure at level IV. The 5-year RC rates of the entire group, N0 patients and N1 patients were 95.6%, 98.2%, and 91.3%, respectively. Fifteen patients (7.1%) developed distant metastases. The 5-year distant failure-free survival (DFFS) and overall survival (OS) rates were 91.4% and 89.8%, respectively. The rates of grade 2 or greater skin dystrophy, subcutaneous fibrosis and xerostomia were 6.2%, 16.6%, and 17.9%, respectively., Conclusions: The rate of out-of-field nodal failure when omitting ENI to levels IV and Vb in clinically negative necks of patients with N0-1 NPC was extremely low; therefore, a further phase 3 study is warranted., (Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Objective: To clarify the correlation between serum fetuin-A levels and the presence and severity of coronary artery disease (CAD) in patients with type 2 diabetes (T2DM)., Methods: A total of 241 consecutive patients with T2DM and 69 controls were recruited. Serum fetuin-A levels were analyzed by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. The presence and severity of CAD were evaluated by coronary angiography (CAG)., Results: Serum fetuin-A levels are independently correlated with the presence and severity of CAD in T2DM patients., Conclusions: Fetuin-A might serve as a potential biomarker for reflecting the development and progression of CAD in T2DM patients.

Purpose: To investigate the correlation between the alterations of single-voxel (1)H MRS and the histopathological characteristics of radiation brain injury following radiation., Materials and Methods: Twenty-seven rabbits were randomized into nine groups to receive radiation with a single dose of 25 Gy. The observation time points included a pre-radiation and 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, and 8 wk following radiation. Each treatment group underwent conventional MRI and single-voxel 1H MRS, N-acetyl aspartate (NAA), choline (Cho), and creatine (Cr) were observed over the region of interest, and the presence or absence of lactate (Lac) and lipid (Lip) was detected. Histological specimens of each group were obtained after image acquisition., Results: The values of Cho were significantly increased in the first 3 wk, and decreased over the following 5 wk after radiation. Levels of NAA showed a trend toward a decrease 5 wk after radiation. The levels of Cr were not changed between before and after radiation. The Cho/NAA metabolic ratio was significantly increased in weeks 6, 7, and 8 following irradiation, compared to pre-radiation values. Vascular and glial injury appeared on 2 wk after RT in the histology samples, until 4 wk after RT, necrosis of the oligodendrocytes, neuronal degeneration and demyelination could be observed., Conclusions: MRS is sensitive to detect metabolic changes following radiation, and can be used in the early diagnosis of radiation brain injury., (Copyright © 2012 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.)

Background: Transcatheter device closure (TCDC) and intraoperative device closure (IODC) have emerged as minimally invasive methods in the treatment of secundum atrial septal defects (ASDs), but the long-term safety and efficacy remains uncertain for the large ASDs., Hypothesis: TCDC may be as safe and efficacious as IODC for closure of large ASDs in terms of long-term clinical outcomes., Methods: Ninety-two patients who had ASDs with a defect diameter of ≥30 mm were included in this study. The patients received either TCDC (n = 42) or IODC (n = 50). An Amplatzer septal occluder was used in both groups. The dumbbell-like device deploying technique was introduced in the TCDC group. Physical exams, electrocardiography, and echocardiography were performed preprocedurally and postprocedurally at the index follow-up visits., Results: The procedural immediate success rate was 97.6% for TCDC and 98.0% for IODC (P = 0.328). The rate of periprocedural complications was 9.5% for TCDC and 28.0% for IODC (P = 0.026). The mean hospital stay was 7.5 ± 2.7 days for TCDC and 11.9 ± 3.8 days for IODC (P < 0.001). For the mean follow-up of 5.4 ± 0.5 years, there were no cardiac deaths and late complications in either group. No significant residual shunts were documented, and symptoms were significantly improved in both groups. Right and left ventricular diameter, pulmonary artery diameter, and pulmonary systolic pressure were all significantly decreased in both groups (P < 0.05)., Conclusions: The present study confirmed the long-term safety and efficacy for closing a large ASD either by TCDC or IODC. Either of them could become an effective alternative to the surgery for large ASD closure. The authors have no funding, financial relationships, or conflicts of interest to disclose., (© 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.)

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a debilitating neurodegenerative disease characterized by axonal/neuronal damage that may be caused by defective remyelination. Current therapies aim to slow the rate of degeneration, however there are no treatment options that can stop or reverse the myelin sheath damage. Bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are a potential candidate for the cell implantation-targeted therapeutic strategies, but the pro-remyelination effects of MSCs when directly injected into a demyelinated cord lesion have been questioned. Neurotrophin-3 (NT-3) has been shown to serve a crucial role in the proliferation, differentiation and maturation of oligodendrocyte lineages. Here, we showed that implantation of NT-3 gene-modified MSCs via a recombinant adenoviral vector (Adv) into a region of ethidium bromide (EB)-induced demyelination in the spinal cord resulted in significant improvement of locomotor function and restoration of electrophysiological properties in rats. The morphological basis of this recovery was evidenced by robust myelin basic protein (MBP) expression and the extensive remyelination. AdvNT-3-MSC implants promote the endogenous remyelinating cells to participate directly in myelination, which was confirmed under light and electron microscopy. Our study suggested that genetically modified MSCs could be a potential therapeutic avenue for improving the efficacy of stem cell treatment for neurodegenerative diseases such as MS., (Copyright © 2011 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.)

Background: The optimal stenting strategy for the treatment of coronary bifurcation lesions (CBLs) remains uncertain. The present study observed technical feasibility and reliability, 9-month clinical and angiographic outcomes of the modified culotte stenting (MCS) in the treatment of CBLs with drug-eluting stents., Methods: A total of 34 consecutive patients with CBLs that required stenting the parent vessel (PV), the main branch (MB) and the side branch (SB) were included. All patients were first assigned to receive MCS for CBL interventions (per MCS), and might be switched to receive the double-kissing-crush stenting (DKS) in case of temporally acute branch occlusion (per protocol)., Results: The immediate angiographic or procedural success was achieved in 33/34 (97%) lesions (patients) per MCS, 34/34 (100%) lesions (patients) per protocol with 100% successful final balloon kissing. The long-term clinical success at 9 months was 94% per MCS and 94% per protocol, only 2 patients had reoccurrence of angina but none of them needed target lesion revascularization. There were no procedure-related biomarker elevation, no in-stent thrombosis peri-procedurally and at 9-month follow-up. Quantitative coronary angiography data at 9 months showed that in-stent (6%) or in-segment (6%) binary stenosis was infrequent, and minimal lumen diameter was significantly reduced but late lumen loss was acceptable with only (0.10 ± 0.14) mm for PV, (0.21 ± 0.23) mm for MB and (0.27 ± 0.32) mm for SB., Conclusions: MCS for treatment of CBLs that required dual-stent implantation was technically easier and safer, readily to complete final balloon kissing, and was associated with high immediate success and optimal 9-month outcomes.