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Abstract: A sequential one-pot two-step tandem reaction for selective and efficient synthesis of pyrrolo[2,1-a]isoquinoline and its dihydro- and tetrahydro-derivatives has been developed. The tandem reactions of isoquinoline, α-halogenated methylene compounds, aromatic aldehydes, and cyanoacetamide firstly give tetrahydropyrrolo[2,1-a]isoquinolines as main products. The corresponding pyrrolo[2,1-a]isoquinolines and dihydropyrrolo[2,1-a]isoquinolines can be obtained directly by controlling oxidation with DDQ. The mechanism of this tandem reaction involved the 1,3-dipolar cycloaddition of isoquinolinium ylide as the key step. A unique elimination of the amido group preferring to the cyano group has been observed. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: In the paper (), by combining the rough set theory with the interval-valued fuzzy set theory, Gong and Han proposed the concept of the interval-valued rough fuzzy sets and studied a parameters-related roughness measure of the interval-valued fuzzy sets in an approximation space, respectively. Since the measure inherited from Banerjee’s about the fuzzy sets in , it inevitably holds some similar undesirable properties. In this paper, we first remark some defects about the above mentioned measure, and then give a new roughness measure–rough entropy of the interval-valued fuzzy sets in an approximation space by using the information entropy theory, and demonstrate the difference between the two measures by a simple illustration example. Furthermore, in respect that the two measures mentioned above both strongly depend on parameters, we propose a parameter-free roughness measure of the interval-valued fuzzy sets in an approximation space based on the notions of the average mass assignment and average membership function of an interval-valued fuzzy set, adhering to the idea of parameter-free roughness measure of the fuzzy sets proposed in . Some related properties about the new measure are discussed. Finally, we discuss how use the new measure to evaluate the rough approximation quality of classification in an interval-valued fuzzy decision information system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The hot deformation behavior of 00Cr23Ni4N duplex stainless steel under medium–high strain rates (5–50s−1) has been analyzed using the Zener–Hollomon parameter and processing maps, which is based on compression tests made at temperatures ranging from 900 to 1150°C. The results display the significant influence of high strain rate and high temperature on hot deformation behavior of 00Cr23Ni4N duplex stainless steel. A classical hyperbolic sine equation is applied to reveal the relations between the peak stress, strain rate and deformation temperature, in which the activation energy, Q and stress exponent, n are 263.4kJ/mol and 2.6, respectively. The Zener–Hollomon parameters at low and high temperatures are calculated respectively to reflect the microstructural evolutions. Based on the processing map obtained, an ideal hot working condition for commercial processing is in the temperature range between 1075 and 1150°C with a strain rate of 10 to 30s−1. Under such condition, both ferrite and austenite dynamic re-crystallizations can be obtained and the corresponding Zener–Hollomon parameter is relatively low. Furthermore, the unstable domains are indicated by the processing map. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: New zwitterionic salts of pyridinium–Meldrum acid and pyridinium–barbituric acid are conveniently synthesized from the three-component reactions of 2-, 3-, or 4-pyridacylpyridinum iodides, aromatic aldehydes, and Meldrum acid or N,N-dimethylbarbituric acid in the presence of triethylamine as base promoter in acetonitrile. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The availability of synthetic peptides has paved the way for their use in tailor-made interactions with biomolecules. In this study, a 16mer LacI-based peptide was used as an affinity ligand to examine the scale up feasibility for plasmid DNA purification. First, the peptide was designed and characterized for the affinity purification of lacO containing plasmid DNA, to be employed as a high affinity ligand for the potential capturing of plasmid DNA in a single unit operation. It was found there were no discernible interactions with a control plasmid that did not encode the lacO nucleotide sequence. The dissociation equilibrium constant of the binding between the 16mer peptide and target pUC19 was 5.0±0.5×10−8 M as assessed by surface plasmon resonance. This selectivity and moderated affinity indicate that the 16mer is suitable for the adsorption and chromatographic purification of plasmid DNA. The suitability of this peptide was then evaluated using a chromatography system with the 16mer peptide immobilized to a customized monolith to purify plasmid DNA, obtaining preferential purification of supercoiled pUC19. The results demonstrate the applicability of peptide–monolith supports to scale up the purification process for plasmid DNA using designed ligands via a biomimetic approach. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: A new, divergent, efficient, and selective synthesis of furo- and thieno[2,3-d]pyrimidin-4-amine derivatives by microwave irradiation has been developed starting from readily available amines and substituted 2-aminofuran-3-carbonitrile or 2-aminothiophene-3-carbonitrile, which are converted into corresponding formamidines in DMF using benzenesulfonyl chloride. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Three new Securinega alkaloids, flueggethers B and C ( 1 and 2 ) as dimers and flueggether D ( 3 ) as a trimer, were isolated from the twigs and leaves of a Chinese herb, Flueggea virosa . Their structures were characterized by spectroscopic means and NMR comparison with known analogues. Among all Securinega alkaloid oligomers reported to date, alkaloids 1 and 2 are rare examples linked via an ether bond, while 3 represents the first member with a mixed oligomerizing pattern incorporating both oxygen bridge and carbon–carbon linkage. An in vitro anti-HIV bioassay revealed moderate activity for 3 . [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The current study was designed to determine whether castration with or without testosterone replacement resulted in changes in cardiac sympathetic nerve activity in rats with heart failure induced by isoproterenol. At eight weeks post-castration, dysfunction of the cardiac sympathetic nerve system was aggravated as indicated by elevated plasma norepinephrine, reduced myocardial norepinephrine content and tyrosine hydroxylase (TH) protein. These effects of castration were reversed by testosterone replacement, as indicated by decreased plasma norepinephrine, increased myocardial norepinephrine and density of TH-labeled nerve fibers, as well as by an upregulated expression of myocardial TH protein. We also explored whether the neuroprotective effect of testosterone was influenced by the antiandrogen, flutamide. Interestingly, flutamide failed to block these testosterone-induced neuroprotective effects on the cardiac sympathetic nervous system in castrated rats with heart failure. These results provide the first evidence that endogenous testosterone deprivation in rats significantly worsened cardiac sympathetic function during pathophysiological changes associated with heart failure, and testosterone replacement reversed these adverse effects. These neuroprotective effects of testosterone, may, in part, be mediated through an upregulation in TH protein, but do not appear to involve the androgen receptor. Therefore, androgens may play an important role in modulating pathophysiological changes in the cardiac sympathetic nervous system that result from heart failure and our findings suggest the potential for beneficial effects of testosterone in the treatment of this condition. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Target of rapamycin (TOR) is a highly conserved serine/threonine kinase that controls cell growth, primarily via regulation of protein synthesis. In Saccharomyces cerevisiae, TOR can also suppress the transcription of stress response genes by a mechanism involving Tap42, a serine/threonine phosphatase subunit, and the transcription factor Msn2. A physical association between mammalian TOR (mTOR) and the transcription factor signal transducer and activator of transcription-i (STAT!) was recently identified in human cells, suggesting a similar role for mTOR in the transcription of interferon-γ-stimulated genes. In the current study, we identified a macromolecular protein complex composed of mTOR, STAT1, the Tap42 homologue α4, and the protein phosphatase 2A catalytic subunit (PP2Ac). Inactivation of mTOR enhanced its association with STAT1 and increased STAT1 nuclear content in PP2Ac-dependent fashion. Depletion of α4, PP2A, or mTOR enhanced the induction of early (i.e. IRF-1) and late (i.e. caspase-1, hiNOS, and Fas) STAT1-dependent genes. The regulation of IRF-1 or caspase-1 by mTOR was independent of other known mTOR effectors p70 S6 kinase and Akt. These results describe a new role for mTOR and α4/PP2A in the control of STAT 1 nuclear content, and the expression of interferon-γ-sensitive genes involved in immunity and apoptosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The current study combined structural magnetic resonance imaging (sMRI) and diffusion tensor MRI (DT-MRI) to investigate both gray matter density (GMD) and white matter integrity (WMI) in 18 pianists and 21 age-matched non-musicians. The pianists began their piano training at a mean age of 12. Voxel-based morphometry of the sMRI data showed that the pianists had higher GMD in the left primary sensorimotor cortex and right cerebellum. Voxel-based analysis of the DT-MRI data showed that pianists had higher fractional anisotropy (FA) (indicating higher WMI) in the right posterior limb of the internal capsule. The sMRI and DT-MRI results indicate that both the GMD and WMI of pianists may exhibit movement-related increases during adolescence or even early adulthood compared with non-musicians. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: This study documented the reproductive performance of 210 adult female Formosan sambar deer (FSD, Cervus unicolor swinhoei) from four semi-domesticated deer herds in Taiwan. An extensive analysis of 525 reproductive records from 2000 to 2008, including the conditions of estrus, gestation, and parturition was conducted. The mean±S.E.M. lengths of the estrous cycle, gestation, and fawning interval were 18.2±0.5d (n =56), 258.6±0.3d (n =160), and 369.9±2.3d (n =122), respectively. Hand breeding was performed between June and December (n =494), with the majority (93.1%) occurring between July and October (P <0.05). Fawning occurred from February to September (n =318), and most frequently (83.0%) between April and June (P <0.05). Pregnancy rate per mating in FSD hinds was 64.4%. There was a 1.3:1 male-to-female ratio at birth (P <0.05) among 320 fawns, and only two cases of twinning (0.63%). The postnatal mortality rate was 6.6% (21/320), and the mortality rate in fawns before weaning did not exceed 8% on any farm. Fecundity was enhanced by high pregnancy rates and high offspring survival rates. This study provides baseline information on reproductive performance of FSD, which should be valuable to veterinarians and deer industry personnel for management of FSD on farms in subtropical countries. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: In this paper we are concerned with the regression model under correlated errors and , where the design points are known and nonrandom, the slope parameter and the nonparametric component are unknown, are martingale differences. For the first case, it is assumed that are known and nonrandom, is unknown function, we study the issue of asymptotic normality for two different slope estimators: the least squares estimator and the weighted least squares estimator. For the second case, we consider the asymptotic normality of the least squares estimator of . Also, the asymptotic normality of the nonparametric estimators of under the two cases are considered. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Based on the principle of relativity and the postulate on universal invariant constants () as well as Einstein''s isotropy conditions, three kinds of special relativity form a triple with a common Lorentz group as isotropy group under full Umov–Weyl–Fock–Lorentz transformations among inertial motions. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The three-component reaction of triphenylphosphine, hex-2-en-4-ynedioate, and ß-nitrostyrene in methylene dichloride at room temperature afforded triphenylphosphanylidene cyclopent-2-enecaroboxylates in good yields and high diastereoselectivity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • The influence of the pore structure on the adsorption of iodine vapor and iodine in aqueous was investigated. • The LFC expressed excellent absorption capability for iodine vapor (4060 mg g−1) and iodine in water (1295 mg g−1). • The adsorbent showed superior adsorption cycle stability for iodine adsorption. Developing an efficient adsorbent for adsorbing and capture radioactive iodine as a fission product in air and aqueous solution during the nuclear disposal process and in the event of a nuclear accident is of great importance. In this work, lignin-based porous flower-like carbon nanosheets have been developed by using lignin as a carbon precursor, MgO as a template coupled with KOH-activation (LFC-K), and KOH/NaOH eutectic activation (LFC-KN), which were tested for the adsorption of iodine molecules in iodine vapor and in solution. The combination of nanosheets structure and abundant pores makes LFC-K, and LFC-KN excellent absorbability for iodine. The LFC-K with both micropores and mesopores had a higher adsorption capacity for I 2 vapor (4060 mg g−1); in comparison, LFC-KN with both micropores, mesopores and macropores had a higher adsorption capacity for I 2 in water (1295 mg g−1). After several iodine adsorption and release cycles, the two adsorbents still exhibit excellent reusability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Single step affinity chromatography was employed for the purification of plasmid DNA (pDNA), thus eliminating several steps compared with current commercial purification methods for pDNA. Significant reduction in pDNA production time and cost was obtained. This chromatographic operation employed a peptide–monolith construct to isolate pDNA from Escherichia coli (E. coli) impurities present in a clarified lysate feedstock. Mild conditions were applied to avoid any degradation of pDNA. The effect of some important parameters on pDNA yield was also evaluated with the aim of optimising the affinity purification of pDNA. The results demonstrate that 81% of pDNA was recovered and contaminating gDNA, RNA and protein were removed below detectable levels. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

We numerically investigated a novel temperature sensor, which utilized a liquid-filled and Au-coated hollow-core negative-curvature fiber. All the air holes in the fiber were filled with a temperature-sensitive liquid, while two cladding tubes were coated with Au films. As the temperature increased, the coupling wavelength between the core mode and surface plasmon polariton mode supported by the Au layer shifted. The temperature sensitivity was 2.860 nm/°C in the range of 20–40 °C, and the inner wall of double-sided cladding tubes were deposited with a 30 nm Au layer. The designed sensor shows a high sensitivity, which is suitable for temperature detection in industrial and biomedical applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the present study, the evolution and strengthening effect of precipitates in 17Cr ferrite stainless steel during the creep process are investigated. The precipitates are characterized by scanning electron microscopy, energy dispersive spectroscopy and transmission electron microscopy. Moreover, the interactions between the precipitates and the grain boundary and dislocation are quantitatively analysed. The results show that Cu- and Nb-rich phases are formed during the creep process. The stress concentration at the tip of the precipitates, the stacking fault at the precipitate edge and the internal dislocation can promote the nucleation of the Nb-rich phase. The Nb-rich precipitates can provide the driving force for the nucleation of Cu-rich particles through stacking fault, dislocation entanglement and internal dislocation. At 700 °C, as the creep time increases, the pinning effect of precipitates on the grain boundary increases linearly, while the pinning effect on the dislocation decreases. As the creep temperature increases, a peak pinning effect on the grain boundary is observed at 750 °C, and the pinning effect of the precipitates on dislocation decreases gradually inside the grain. The formation of dislocation networks at grain boundaries can delay pinning effect reduction of the Nb-rich phase, and the main blocking mechanism of precipitates on dislocation movement is bypassing. The precipitation strengthening effects of Cu- and Nb-rich phases are also compared with each other. • The precipitation rule of Cu-rich phase is BCC → Non-twin 9R → FCC. • The orientation relations of the precipitates with matrix are revealed. • The Nb-rich phase mainly pins the grain boundary, while the motion of dislocation is easy to be blocked by the Cu-rich particles. • The dislocation networks promote nucleation of precipitates. • The strengthening effect of Cu- and Nb-rich phases is compared. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The formation process of self-assembled monolayer (SAM) of decanethiol (C10SH) on Au(111) single crystal electrode has been investigated for wide range of C10SH concentration (0.1–500μM) and temperature (253–298K). The amount and quality of C10SH SAM were determined from area and position, respectively, of reductive desorption peak of the SAM modified Au(111) electrode measured in 0.5M KOH aqueous solution. The kinetic analysis indicates that SAM formation proceeded by two steps, diffusion-limited physisorption followed by chemisorption. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The oral administration route is popular with T2DM patients because they need convenience in lifelong medication. At present, oral Exenatide is not available on the market and therefore the relevant studies are valuable. Herein, we constructed a novel dual cholic acid-functionalized nanoparticle for oral delivery of Exenatide, which was based on the functionalized materials of deoxycholic acid-low molecular weight protamine and glycocholic acid-poly (ethylene glycol)- b -polysialic acid. The hydrophobic deoxycholic acid strengthened the nanoparticles and the hydrophilic glycolic acid targeted to specific transporter. We first condensed Exenatide-Zn2+ complex with deoxycholic acid-low molecular weight protamine to prepare nanocomplexes with ζ-potentials of +8 mV and sizes of 95 nm. Then, we used glycocholic acid-poly (ethylene glycol)- b -polysialic acid copolymers masking the positive charge of nanocomplexes to prepare nanoparticles with negative charges of −22 mV and homogeneous sizes of 140 nm. As a result, this dual cholic acid-functionalized nanoparticle demonstrated enhanced uptake and transport of Exenatide, and a special targeting to apical sodium-dependent cholic acid transporter in vitro. Moreover, in vivo studies showed that the nanoparticle effectively accumulated in distal ileum, raised the plasma concentration of Exenatide, prolonged hypoglycemic effect, reduced blood lipid levels, and lightened organ lesions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: We show that if Yang''s quantized space–time model is completed at both classical and quantum level, it should contain both Snyder''s model, the de Sitter special relativity and their duality. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Influence diagrams have been widely used as knowledge bases in medical informatics and many applied domains. In conventional influence diagrams, the numerical models of uncertainty are probability distributions associated with chance nodes and value tables for value nodes. However, when incomplete knowledge or linguistic vagueness is involved in the reasoning systems, the suitability of probability distributions is questioned. This study intends to propose an alternative numerical model for influence diagrams, possibility distributions, which extend influence diagrams into fuzzy influence diagrams. In fuzzy influence diagrams, each chance node and value node is associated with a possibility distribution which expresses the uncertain features of the node. This study also develops a simulation algorithm and a fuzzy programming model for diagnosis and optimal decision in medical settings. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Reactions of [M(Cp∗)Cl(μ-Cl)]2 (M=Ir(1a); M=Rh(1b)) with tridentate ligands tpt (tpt=2,4,6-tripyridyl-1,3,5-triazine) gave the corresponding trinuclear complexes [M3(Cp∗)3(μ3-4-tpt-κN)Cl6] (M=Ir(2a); M=Rh(2b)), which can be converted into hexanuclear complexes [M6(Cp∗)6(μ3-4-tpt-κN)2(μ-Cl)6](O3SCF3)6 (M=Ir(3a); M=Rh(3b)) by treatment with AgO3SCF3, respectively. X-ray of 3b revealed that each of six pentamethylcyclopentadienyl metal moieties was connected by two μ-Cl-bridged atoms and a tridentate ligand to construct a cation triangular metallo-prism cavity with the volume of about 273Å3 based on the distance of the two triazine moieties is 3.62Å. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The reaction of [Cp∗IrCl2]2 and [(p-Cymene)RuCl2]2 with disodium maleonitriledithiolate (Na2Mnt) yield the 16-electron complexes Cp∗Ir(Mnt) (1) and [(p-Cymene)Ru(Mnt)] (2). Complexes 1 and 2 can further react with PPh3 to form the corresponding 18-electron complexes Cp∗Ir(Mnt)PPh3 (3) and [(p-Cymene)Ru(Mnt)PPh3] (4). All complexes have been fully characterized by IR and NMR spectroscopy, as well as elemental analysis. The molecular structures of 1 and 4 have been confirmed by X-ray crystallography. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The binuclear half-sandwich iridium complexes {Cp∗IrCl2}2(μ-2,6(7)-bis(4-pyridyl)-1,4,5,8-tetrathiafulvalene) (3) and {Cp∗Ir[E2C2(B10H10)]}2(μ-2,6(7)-bis(4-pyridyl)-1,4,5,8-tetrathiafulvalene) (E=S(5a), Se(5b)) were prepared from the reaction of [Cp∗IrCl(μ-Cl)]2 or the “pseudo-aromatic” half-sandwich iridium complex Cp∗Ir[E2C2(B10H10)] (E=S(4a), Se(4b)) with a tetrathiafulvalene (TTF) derivative 2,6-bis(4-pyridyl)-1,4,5,8-tetrathiafulvalene (2) at room temperature. The complexes (3, 5a and 5b) have been fully characterized by IR and NMR spectroscopy, as well as elemental analysis. And the molecular structures of 2 and 5a were established through X-ray crystallography. It is interesting that infinite tunnels are created by repeating ‘buckled bowl’ molecules of 5a. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: If our universe is asymptotic to a de Sitter space, it should be closed with curvature in in view of dS special relativity. Conversely, its evolution can fix on Beltrami systems of inertia in the ds-space without Einstein''s ‘argument in a circle’. Gravity should be local ds-invariant based on localization of the principle of inertia. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Let be independent identically distributed random variables with common density function, f. We are interested in testing the hypothesis vs. where is a given density. In this note, we discuss the law of the iterated logarithm (LIL) of the Bickel–Rosenblatt test statistic under fixed alternatives. These results are of particular importance if the null hypothesis cannot be rejected. Also the proof of the results shows that the test statistics are of different order under the null hypothesis and the alternative hypothesis. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: This paper is concerned with the heteroscedastic semi-parametric regression model , where , are fixed design points, and are unknown functions, and random errors are negatively associated (NA) random variables. The strong consistency and asymptotic normality for least-squares estimators and weighted least-squares estimators of are studied. In addition, the strong consistency for the estimators of and is investigated. Some results on independent random error settings are extended. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: A discrete total variation calculus is presented in this paper. Using this calculus, we prove that the solution of the system of difference equations in Lee’s discrete mechanics preserves a symplectic structure in the space–time sense. Numerical experiments are also reported. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Febrile seizure (FS) is a frequently encountered seizure type in childhood. Changes of brain function following FS have clinical importance. The recently identified gamma-aminobutyric acid B receptor (GABABR) is a metabotropic receptor of GABA. In this study, we used a rat model of recurrent FS to investigate the changes of GABABR1a and GABABR2 subunits in hippocampus after recurrent FS by using Western blot, quantitative RT-PCR, double immunofluorescence, in situ hybridization and immunoprecipitation/Western blot. After treatment of hyperthermia and the presence of induced seizures once every 2 days for 10 times, GABABR1a and GABABR2 subunits in hippocampus were decreased after 24 h of the last treatment. The decrease of GABABR1a lasted for 15 days but that of GABABR2 persisted for more than 30 days. The binding of GABABR1a to GABABR2 in hippocampus was also decreased significantly after 24 h of the last treatment and lasted for more than 30 days. In situ hybridization showed that GABABR1a mRNA was significantly decreased in dentate gyrus, and GABABR2 mRNA was considerably reduced in CA3 region. In H10 and FS1 groups in which hyperthermia treatment was the same but no (H10 group) or only one seizure (FS1 group) was induced, the decrease of GABABR1a and GABABR2 subunits and the reduced binding capability between GABABR1a and GABABR2 subunits were also detected but with less severity, and the time recovering from these abnormalities was shorter. We conclude that GABABR1a and GABABR2 subunits and the binding of the 2 subunits decrease in hippocampus for a relatively long period of time after recurrent FS in immature rats. These changes may result in long-lasting imbalance of excitation/inhibition function in hippocampus, and are derived from the consequences of recurrent febrile seizures. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: 2,3,7,8-Tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin (TCDD) is a reproductive and developmental toxicant that can alter endocrine status, leading to decreased fertility and altered embryonic development; however, there are limited reports on TCDD toxicity during early pregnancy. In the present study, pregnant and pseudopregnant NIH mice were exposed to TCDD orally (2, 50 and 100ng/kg body weight) during early gestation (days 1–8), pre-implantation stages (days 1–3), and peri-implantation to early post-implantation stages (days 4–8). TCDD concentration in uterus, liver, kidney, brain and fat on day 9 of pregnancy was monitored by an aryl hydrocarbon receptor (Ah receptor, AhR)-mediated LacZ reporter system in yeast. Results showed that the number of implanted embryos was significantly reduced on day 9 of gestation by 50 and 100ng/kg TCDD exposure. The number of implantation sites was lower for animals exposed to TCDD on days 1–3 versus those exposed during days 4–8. Decidualization in pseudopregnant mice was also inhibited by TCDD exposure. TCDD concentrations as low as 2ng/kg significantly decreased serum progesterone levels but had no effect on serum estradiol. TCDD level in the uterus was equal to levels in the liver, but lower than the fat tissue. These results suggest that TCDD sensitivity might be attributed its local accumulation in the uterus. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Our previous studies showed that angiotensin II (Ang II) in the paraventricular nucleus (PVN) potentiated the cardiac sympathetic afferent reflex (CSAR) in rats. This study investigated whether the reactive oxygen species (ROS) in the PVN modulated the CSAR and contributed to the effect of Ang II on the CSAR in rats. Under α-chloralose and urethane anesthesia, renal sympathetic nerve activity (RSNA), mean arterial pressure (MAP) and heart rate were recorded in sinoaortic-denervated and cervical-vagotomized rats. The CSAR was evaluated by the RSNA response to epicardial application of bradykinin (0.04 and 0.4 μg). Compared with microinjection of saline into the PVN, superoxide anion scavenger, either tempol (20 nmol) or tiron (10 nmol), significantly decreased the CSAR (P < 0.05). Conversely, superoxide dismutase (SOD) inhibitor diethyldithio-carbamic acid (DETC, 10 nmol) potentiated the CSAR (P < 0.05). Microinjection of Ang II (0.3 nmol) into the PVN resulted in an enhanced CSAR (P < 0.05). The effect of Ang II on the CSAR was completely inhibited by pretreatment with either tempol or tiron (P < 0.05) but was not affected by DETC. On the other hand, either tempol or tiron decreased the RSNA (P < 0.05), but DETC increased the RSNA (P < 0.05). Ang II increased the RSNA (P < 0.05) and MAP (P < 0.05). The effect of Ang II on the RSNA and MAP was abolished by pretreatment with either tempol or tiron but was not affected by DETC. These results indicated that the ROS in the PVN modulated the CSAR and contributed to the effect of Ang II in the PVN on the CSAR. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Hydrogen sulfide (H2S) is recognized as a new neuromodulator in regulating various brain functions. Some of our recent studies showed that H2S alleviates the hippocampal damage induced by recurrent febrile seizures (FS). In the present study, we used a rat model of recurrent FS and found that sodium sulfhydrate (NaHS, a donor of H2S) down-regulated the expression of c-fos and increased the expression of gamma-aminobutyric acid B receptor subunits 1 (GABABR1) and 2 (GABABR2). Hydroxylamine (an inhibitor of cystathionine b-synthase) up-regulated the expression of c-fos and down-regulated the expression of GABABR2, but did not change the expression of GABABR1. These results suggest that H2S plays a regulatory role through modulating GABABR function in the pathogenesis of recurrent FS. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) with high hydrolysis degree and poly(acrylamide) (PAM) was selected to encapsulate carbon black (CB) nanoparticles via a simple method of coacervation. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) images clearly demonstrated that the successful encapsulation of the two polymers happened at the surfaces of CB nanoparticles. The particle size distribution measurements indicated that the majority of the obtained polymer-encapsulated CB (CB@polymer) nanoparticles has the nanoscale dimension, and that PVA is more suitable to prepare hydrophilic CB@polymer nanoparticles than PAM. The effect of the nonsolvent of PVA and the shear force during the encapsulation on the size of CB nanoparticles was discussed in detail. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Summary: This study proposes an optimization model for optimal treatment of bacterial infections. Using an influence diagram as the knowledge and decision model, we can conduct two kinds of reasoning simultaneously: diagnostic reasoning and treatment planning. The input information of the reasoning system are conditional probability distributions of the network model, the costs of the candidate antibiotic treatments, the expected effects of the treatments, and extra constraints regarding belief propagation. Since the prevalence of the pathogens and infections are determined by many site-by-site factors, which are not compliant with conventional approaches for approximate reasoning, we introduce fuzzy information. The output results of the reasoning model are the likelihood of a bacterial infection, the most likely pathogen(s), the suggestion of optimal treatment, the gain of life expectancy for the patient related to the optimal treatment, the probability of coverage associated with the antibiotic treatment, and the cost-effect analysis of the treatment prescribed. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Many individuals with acquired brain injury (ABI) report reading problems of oculomotor origin. These may include frequent loss of place, skipping of lines and difficulty shifting to the next line of print. We describe two protocols for the testing and training of reading-related eye movements in adult individuals with ABI (traumatic brain injury [TBI] and stroke with hemianopia), who experience oculomotor-based symptoms when reading. These protocols use objective eye movement recording techniques and computer-based stimulus presentation and analysis. One protocol tests and the other trains basic horizontal and vertical versional eye movements (fixation, saccades and pursuit), as well as reading eye movements using simulated single and multiple line dynamic arrays. In addition, a reading rating-scale questionnaire is administered before and after completion of training to assess subjective reading improvement. In all paradigms, the target consists of a 0.5° luminous square, which is displayed on a computer monitor positioned 40 cm from the subject along the midline. All testing and training are conducted under binocular viewing conditions with optical correction in place. There are two modes of training: normal internal oculomotor visual feedback either alone (4 weeks) or in conjunction with external oculomotor auditory feedback (4 weeks) administered in a counterbalanced manner within each diagnostic group. Training is performed 1 h, twice weekly for the 8 weeks. Oculomotor testing is conducted before, midway and after training. Following training, reading-related eye movements and reading ability improved as assessed both subjectively and objectively. These protocols provide a systematic approach to the quantitative and comprehensive testing and training of reading-related eye movement skills and behaviors in the ABI population manifesting oculomotor-based reading dysfunctions. Furthermore, the training protocol results in the rapid remediation of the eye movement deficits, which appear to transfer to activities of daily living. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Based on the principle of relativity and the postulate of invariant speed and length, we propose the theory of special relativity with cosmological constant , in which the cosmological constant is linked with the invariant length. Its relation with the doubly special relativity is briefly mentioned. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Principal Curves are extensions of Principal Component Analysis and are smooth curves, which pass through the middle of a data set. We extend the method so that, on pairs of data sets which have underlying non-linear correlations, we have pairs of curves which go through the ‘centre’ of data sets in such a way that the non-linear correlations between the data sets are captured. The core of the method is to iteratively average the current local projections of the data points which produces an increasingly sparsified set of nodes. The Twinned Principal Curves are generated in three ways: by joining up the nodes in order, by performing Local Canonical Correlation Analysis and by performing Local Exploratory Correlation Analysis (Koetsier et al., 2002). The latter two are shown to improve the forecasting capability of the method but at an increased computational load. We show that it is crucial to terminate the algorithm after a small number of iterations for the first method and investigate several criteria for doing so. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Carbyne contamination was found to exist on the as-prepared carbon-coated transmission electron microscope (TEM) microgrids made by the method of vacuum-resistive heating deposition from a graphite rod. It is a source to bring mistaken and confusing information to the samples being studied by TEM. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

We extend the principal curves algorithm by creating twinned principal curves which extend through two related data sets simultaneously. The criteria for accepting a pair of data points as neighbours for any other pair of data points is that each of the relevant points must be close in the appropriate space. We illustrate the algorithm''s predictive power on artificial data sets before using it to predict on a real financial time series. We compare the error from this twinning with that achieved by a related algorithm which twins self-organising maps. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

In higher plants, there are two pathways leading to the formation of isoprenoids: the mevalonate pathway and the recently discovered methyl-d-erythritol 4-phosphate (MEP) pathway. It was shown that the isoprenoid moiety, constituting ring C of anthraquinones (AQs) in the plant family Rubiaceae, is formed from the MEP pathway. 1-Deoxy-d-xylulose 5-phosphate synthase (DXS), catalyzing the first step of the MEP pathway, is suggested to be a regulatory enzyme. In order to evaluate the potential regulatory role of the DXS in AQ biosynthesis, we identified a full-length cDNA encoding DXS from Morinda citrifolia, a member of the Rubiaceae family, by a PCR strategy. The cDNA encodes a protein of 722 amino acids with a calculated molecular mass of 78 kDa. The deduced amino acid sequence shares high homology with amino acid sequences of DXSs from other higher plants. Southern blot indicated the existence of a small family of DXS genes in M. citrifolia. Northern blot analysis showed that the DXS transcript levels were correlated with AQ accumulation, suggesting that AQ biosynthesis is regulated at the transcriptional level of the DXS gene. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

A high-performance liquid chromatography assay for activity of 1-deoxy-d-xylulose 5-phosphate synthase, an early enzyme in the recently discovered 2-C-methyl-d-erythritol-4-phosphate pathway, was developed. In this assay, the enzymatic product 1-deoxy-d-xylulose was first derivatized with a fluorescent reagent 2-anthranilic acid, followed by separation using HPLC on a Nova-Pak phenyl column with a mobile phase containing CH3CN–water–1-butylamine–tetrahydrofuran–H3PO4 (2:97:0.125:0.5:0.25, v/v). The eluate was monitored by fluorescence detection at an excitation wavelength of 320 nm and an emission wavelength of 425 nm for quantitation of the fluorescent derivative. A linear response was obtained between 5 and 200 ng of 1-deoxy-d-xylulose. This assay was successfully applied to measure the 1-deoxy-d-xylulose 5-phosphate synthase activity in a recombinant E. coli overexpressing dxs gene. It demonstrated that this assay is simple, sensitive and selective compared to the methods used at present. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Yttrium oxide (Y 2 O 3) nanoparticles have critical applications in many industries, including ceramics, optics, and biomedicine. However, conventional synthesis methods are typically cumbersome and time-consuming. Herein, a novel emulsion detonation method successfully achieved the one-step synthesis of Y 2 O 3 nanoparticles. In this method, yttrium nitrate hexahydrate was uniformly dispersed in the emulsion explosive as a precursor and an auxiliary oxidizer. After the emulsion explosive was detonated in a detonation chamber, the detonation products were collected, purified and characterized by X-ray diffraction, Fourier transform infrared spectrometer, Raman spectrometer, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, field emission scanning electron microscopy, field emission transmission electron microscopy, and ultraviolet spectrophotometer. The results show that the as-synthesized powders are high-purity cubic phase yttrium oxide nanoparticles with a spherical-like morphology and an average particle size of approximately 30 nm. These Y 2 O 3 nanoparticles have a wide (5.53 eV) energy band gap, close to the conventional methods. Based on detonation theory, thermochemical theory, and characterization results, this text discussed the mechanism of the Y 2 O 3 nanoparticles synthesized by the emulsion detonation method. During detonation, the formation of the Y 2 O 3 nanoparticles underwent three stages: the formation of the Y 2 O 3 molecules by the collision of Y and O ions, the formation of the crystal nucleus at supersaturation concentration, and crystal growth. This study provides a novel, cost-effective method for efficiently synthesizing Y 2 O 3 nanoparticles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Here, we report an efficient strategy for its preparation by using the commonly used Trt-protected and StBu-protected cysteines. Due to the thiol-disulfide exchange, S-StBu group is generally considered incompatible with sulfhydryl group under neutral conditions. We find that, in DIPEA-containing DMF solution, the peptide that contains both sulfhydryl and S-StBu groups can undergo selective thiol bisalkylation while maintaining the integrity of the S-StBu groups. • An effective strategy for constructing bicyclic peptides is reported. • S-StBu group and sulfhydryl group are compatible in DIPEA-containing DMF solution. • A bicyclic peptide targeting IL-17 is efficiently synthesized. Thioether-bonded bicyclic peptide can resist proteolytic degradation and become a promising scaffold for peptide-based inhibitor discovery. Chemical synthesis of thioether-bonded bicyclic peptide usually requires two orthogonal Cys protecting groups. Here, we report an efficient strategy for its preparation by using the commonly used Trt-protected and StBu-protected cysteines. Due to the thiol-disulfide exchange, S-StBu group is generally considered incompatible with sulfhydryl group under neutral conditions. We find that, in DIPEA-containing DMF solution, the peptide that contains both sulfhydryl and S-StBu groups can undergo selective thiol bisalkylation while maintaining the integrity of the S-StBu groups. In our strategy, the formation of two thioether bonds are both conducted in solution, and can be easily tracked by HPLC, which may be beneficial for the chemical synthesis of thioether-bonded bicyclic peptides. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• A facile strategy for constructing head-to-tail cyclized peptide is reported. • A new type of 2-chlorotrityl resin is developed. • Three thioether-bonded head-to-tail cyclized peptides are efficiently synthesized. Thioether-bonded cyclic peptide is widely present in current peptide-based drug discovery, and the diversification of its topological structure is conducive to the optimization of its biological activity. In this paper, we report a facile strategy for the synthesis of thioether-bonded head-to-tail cyclized peptides containing cross-linking arms of different length. The key of our strategy is the development of AMDMBT -based 2-chlorotrityl resins, which are prepared by the treatment of 2-chlorotrityl chloride resin with aminoethanethiol, dibromomethylbenzene and dithiol. The AMDMBT 2-chlorotrityl resin allows us to conveniently obtain peptides containing bromoacetyl group at the N -terminus and structurally diverfied sulfhydryl group at the C-terminus. The peptides can undergo head-to-tail cyclization in solution to form thioether-bonded head-to-tail cyclized peptides. The reported method will facilitate the in-depth optimization of the structure and activity of thioether-bonded head-to-tail cyclized peptides. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purple sweet potato is a nutritive food rich in anthocyanins that possess antioxidant effects. Drosophila melanogaster owns short growth cycle, fast reproduction, less chromosomes, more mutants, small individuals, therefore, which is an appropriate genetic model organism. To investigate the anti-aging activity of Purple Sweet Potato Extract (PSPE) in male Drosophila melanogaster and explore the underlying mechanism. PSPE-induced longevity was associated with improvements in climbing ability and tolerance to stressors such as paraquat and hydrogen peroxide (H 2 O 2). Furthermore, PSPE supplementation increased the activity of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT), as well as expression of SOD and CAT genes, but decreased malondialdehyde (MDA) content. Meanwhile, PSPE decreased the intestinal stem cells (ISCs) proliferation and improved intestinal homeostasis, which was measured by Smurf assay and colony-forming units (CFUs) measurement in aging flies. Additionally, PSPE markedly inhibited the expression of upstream genes AKT-1, PI3K and mTOR and elevated the downstream gene 4E-BP, which further activated the expression of autophagy-related genes (Atg1, Atg5, Atg8a and Atg8b). Moreover, the production of lysosomes increased, indicating that the autophagy pathway was activated. The results provided direct evidence of PSPE anti-aging effects on an organism level, indicating PSPE could be developed for use in effective anti-aging products. Unlabelled Image [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, an AlSi10Cu4Mg alloy was prepared by selective laser melting (SLM) using a mixture of pre-alloyed AlSi10Mg and elemental Cu powders, followed by aging at 180 ℃ for 2 h. The high-temperature tensile properties of both the SLMed and SLM-aged samples were tested in the temperature range of 200–400 ℃, and the microstructure changes during deformation were compared. At the temperature of 200 ℃, the SLMed sample exhibits outstanding tensile properties with an ultimate tensile strength (UTS) of 327±2 MPa and an elongation (EL) of 25.5±0.5 %. This is mainly related to the strain hardening that caused by the accumulation of anomalous dislocations near the high-volume fraction of Si nano-particles within the grains. For the SLM-aged sample, the aging treatment is found to further increase the strength, yielding a UTS of 381±3 MPa. The metastable transition of the Al 2 Cu phase indirectly promotes the precipitation of the nano-sized Si phase during the aging process. As the testing temperature increases, the strength increment of the SLM-aged sample gradually diminishes, while the elongation increment increases. Due to the limited intrinsic thermal stability of Si nano-particles and θ′ phase, the coarsening of the precipitates can weaken the strengthening effect. The dynamic recrystallization process can be accelerated by the aging treatment, thereby helping to improve the elongation. [Display omitted] • The high-temperature tensile properties of AlSi10Cu4Mg alloy prepared by SLM were evaluated. • The SLMed AlSi10Cu4Mg alloy exhibited outstanding comprehensive tensile properties at 200 ℃. • The metastable transition of the Al 2 Cu phase facilitates nano-sized Si precipitation during aging process. • The strength increment of SLM-aged sample gradually diminishes with increasing testing temperature while the elongation increment increases instead. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]