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The research on microbial fuel cells (MFCs) is rising tremendously but its commercialization is restricted by several microbiological, material, and economic constraints. Hence, a systematic assessment of the research articles published previously focusing on potential upcoming directions in this field is necessary. A detailed multi-perspective analysis of various techniques for enhancing the efficiency of MFC in terms of electric power production is presented in this paper. A brief discussion on the central aspects of different issues are preceded by an extensive analysis of the strategies that can be introduced to optimize power generation and reduce energy losses. Various applications of MFCs in a broad spectrum ranging from biomedical to underwater monitoring rather than electricity production and wastewater treatment are also presented followed by relevant possible case studies. Mathematical modeling is used to understand the concepts that cannot be understood experimentally. These methods relate electrode geometries to microbiological reactions occurring inside the MFC chamber, which explains the system's behavior and can be improved. Finally, directions for future research in the field of MFCs have been suggested. This article can be beneficial for engineers and researchers concerned about the challenges faced in the application of MFC. [Display omitted] • Basic principles and mathematical modeling of MFC technology are discussed. • Limitations in various electrode and membrane materials are outlined. • Mass transfer limitations as well the ways to overcome are provided. • All potential applications of MFC technology are included with case studies. • Need for MFC standardization to indicate power performance is explored. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The effects of Mn substitution for Mg on the microstructure, mechanical properties, and corrosion behavior of Mg69−xZn27Ca4Mnx (x=0, 0.5 and 1at.%) alloys were investigated using X-ray diffraction, compressive tests, electrochemical treatments, and immersion tests, respectively. Microstructural observations showed that the Mg69Zn27Ca4 alloy was mainly amorphous. The addition of Mn decreases the glass-forming ability, which results in a decreased strength from 545MPa to 364MPa. However, this strength is still suitable for implant application. Polarization and immersion tests in the simulated body fluid at 37°C revealed that the Mn-doped Mg–Zn–Ca alloys have significantly higher corrosion resistance than traditional ZK60 and pure Mg alloys. Cytotoxicity test showed that cell viabilities of osteoblasts cultured with Mn-doped Mg–Zn–Ca alloys extracts were higher than that of pure Mg. Mg68.5Zn27Ca4Mn0.5 exhibits the highest bio-corrosion resistance, biocompatibility and has desirable mechanical properties, which could suggest to be used as biomedical materials in the future. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Purpose: Prior studies examining the connection between disposable income and adolescent smoking often yielded mixed results, partly due to the lack of consideration for contextual variables. In the present study, we sought to broaden understanding of disposable income on adolescent smoking behaviors via both absolute and relative perspectives in the school context. Methods: We obtained data from the 2010 Global Youth Tobacco Survey (GYTS) in Taiwan. Information concerning sociodemographics, disposable income, smoking history, and contextual smoking exposure (e.g., school) were assessed via self-report. Recent-onset smokers were defined as those who had their first cigarette within two years of the survey. Complex survey and multilevel analyses were carried out to estimate association. Results: Adolescents with higher monthly disposable income were 2∼5 times more likely to start smoking and become regular smokers. Having the least disposable income in a class appeared linked with increased risk of tobacco initiation by 40% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 2%–91%). Pupils’ odds to start smoking were lowered to .70 when the majority of schoolmates had low disposable income (95% CI: .51–.99). Conclusions: Adolescent risk of smoking initiation may be differentially affected by individual- and contextual-level absolute and relative disposable income. Future research is needed to delineate possible mechanisms underlying unfavorable health behaviors associated with disposable incomes in early adolescence. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Respiratory sensitizers are considered as substances of higher risk, at the same level as carcinogens, mutagens and toxic chemicals for reproduction. Presently, there is no validated assay for identifying the respiratory sensitizers. Based on a fully differentiated and functional in vitro cell model of the human airway epithelium, MucilAir™, we attempt to develop such assay. To this end, we invented a novel method, using Dextran as carrier, for applying the water insoluble chemicals to the apical surface of the airway epithelia. Using the Dextran carrier method, we successfully tested some reference chemical compounds known to cause respiratory sensitisation in human beings, including MDI, TMA and HCPt. Interestingly, these chemical sensitizers differentially up-regulated the releases of certain cytokines and chemokines involved in allergic responses. We believe that based on MucilAir™ an in vitro assay could be developed for identification and characterization of the respiratory sensitizers. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Aim of the study: Dietary obesity is usually characterized by leptin resistance and abnormal lipid metabolism. Lithocarpus polystachyus Rehd.(Sweet Tea) leaf is a kind of Chinese folkloric medicine, and it has been widely used for obesity, diabetes, and hypertension in South China. The present study is aimed at investigating the pharmacological mechanism of the anti-hyperleptinaemia effects of Sweet Tea leaves extract in high fat diet-induced obese rats. Materials and methods: We induced high fat diet obesity for 14weeks to test the corrective effects of three ST doses (75, 150 and 300mg/kg per day) for 8 weeks. At the end of the experiment, body weight, fasting blood glucose and serum lipids, superoxide dismutase (SOD), malondialdehyde (MDA), fasting serum insulin and leptin, C-reactive protein, adiponectin and resistin levels were measured, Homeostasis Model Assessment for Insulin Resistance (HOMA-IR) was also calculated. mRNA gene expression of PPARγ (peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ) and C/EBPα(CCAAT/enhancer-binding protein α) in epididymal adipose tissue of DIO control and experimental groups were evaluated. Results: Sweet Tea leaves extract could significantly decrease the levels of serum lipids, attenuate body weight gain and lower circulatingleptin and insulin levels, ameliorate the state of oxidative stress, raise serum adiponectin, reduce circulating CRP and resistin levels, and depress the expression of PPARγ and C/EBPα in epididymal adipose tissue of obese rats. Conclusion: The present findings suggest that ST can effectively attenuate the leptin resistance at least through anti-hyperlipidemic activity and thus has the therapeutic potential in treating hyperlipidemia and hyperleptinaemia related to dietary obesity. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Summary: Gallbladder carcinoma is a lethal malignancy and is hard to cure by current treatment. Thus, identification of molecular prognostic markers to predict gallbladder carcinoma as therapeutic targets is urgently needed. Recent studies have demonstrated that L1 cell adhesion molecule is associated with the prognosis of variable malignancy. Here, we investigated L1 cell adhesion molecule expression in gallbladder carcinoma and its prognostic significance. In this study, we examined L1 cell adhesion molecule expression in tumor specimens from 69 patients with gallbladder carcinoma by immunohistochemistry and analyzed the correlation between L1 cell adhesion molecule expression and clinicopathologic factors or survival. L1 cell adhesion molecule was not expressed in the normal epithelium of the gallbladder but in 63.8% of gallbladder carcinomas, remarkably at the invasive front of the tumors. In addition, L1 cell adhesion molecule expression was significantly associated with high histologic grade, advanced pathologic T stage and clinical stage, and positive venous/lymphatic invasion. Multivariate analyses showed that L1 cell adhesion molecule expression (hazard ratio, 3.503; P = .028) and clinical stage (hazard ratio, 3.091; P = .042) were independent risk factor for disease-free survival. L1 cell adhesion molecule expression in gallbladder carcinoma was significantly correlated with tumor progression and unfavorable clinicopathologic features. L1 cell adhesion molecule expression was an independent poor prognostic factor for disease-free survival in patients with gallbladder carcinoma. Taken together, our findings suggest that L1 cell adhesion molecule expression could be used as a novel prognostic factor for patient survival and might be a potential therapeutic target in gallbladder carcinomas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Yes-associated protein, a downstream effector of the Hippo signaling pathway, has been linked to progression of non–small-cell lung carcinoma. The aim of this study was to investigate expression of Yes-associated protein in lung adenocarcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma. Associations of Yes-associated protein expression with clinicopathologic parameters, expression of cell cycle–specific markers, and epidermal growth factor receptor gene amplification were also analyzed. In a univariate analysis of the 66 adenocarcinomas, high nuclear expression of Yes-associated protein was significantly correlated with expression of cyclin A and mitogen-activated protein kinase. Multivariate analysis, including age and sex, showed that cyclin A expression was independently correlated with nuclear expression of Yes-associated protein in adenocarcinomas. Furthermore, high nuclear expression of Yes-associated protein was also a significant predictor of epidermal growth factor receptor gene amplification for adenocarcinoma. For the 102 squamous cell carcinomas, univariate analysis revealed that high cytoplasmic expression of Yes-associated protein was correlated with the low pathologic TNM staging (stage I) and histologic grading. Multivariate analysis, including age and sex, showed that cytoplasmic expression of Yes-associated protein was an independent predictor of low pathologic TNM staging. These results indicate that nuclear overexpression of Yes-associated protein contributes to pulmonary adenocarcinoma growth and that high cytoplasmic expression of Yes-associated protein is an independent predictor of low pathologic TNM staging and histologic grading. The differential effects of Yes-associated protein expression patterns in adenocarcinomas and squamous cell carcinomas suggest that Yes-associated protein may play important roles in different pathways in distinct tumor subtypes. These observations may, therefore, lead to new perspectives on therapeutic targeting of these tumor types. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

It has been long recognized that, in addition to its barrier function, the airway epithelium is also involved in modulating innate and adaptive immune responses. The recent discovery of TSLP''s function in Th2-mediated allergic responses has further reinforced the central position of the airway epithelium in pathogenesis of asthma. This paradigm justifies the development and use of in vitro cell models of the airway epithelium in asthma research and in drug development. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The conflict between climate change and growing global energy demand is an immense sustainability challenge that requires noteworthy scientific and technological developments. Recently the importance of microbial fuel cell (MFC) on this issue has seen profound investigation due to its inherent ability of simultaneous wastewater treatment, and power production. However, the challenges of economy-related manufacturing and operation costs should be lowered to achieve positive field-scale demonstration. Also, a variety of different field deployments will lead to improvisation. Hence, this review article discusses the possibility of integration of MFC technology with various technologies of recent times leading to advanced sustainable MFC technology. Technological innovation in the field of nanotechnology, genetic engineering, additive manufacturing, artificial intelligence, adaptive control, and few other hybrid systems integrated with MFCs is discussed. This comprehensive and state-of-the-art study elaborates hybrid MFCs integrated with various technology and its working principles, modified electrode material, complex and easy to manufacture reactor designs, and the effects of various operating parameters on system performances. Although integrated systems are promising, much future research work is needed to overcome the challenges and commercialize hybrid MFC technology. [Display omitted] • The impact of COVID-19 on global energy consumption and climate change is reviewed. • A comprehensive overview of microbial fuel cell technology is provided. • Understanding electron transfer with the help of various potentials is focussed. • Several technologies aid in enhancing the MFC power performance are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • In vitro colon models are in high demand. • The complexity of in vitro models depends on the research target. • Microbiota composition, reaction and reactor design are highly important for in vitro colon models. • Solid state fermentation, biofilm and high cell density technologies facilitate the colon model development. The search for life/health quality has driven the search for a better understanding of food components on the overall individual health, which turns to be intrinsically related to the digestive system. In vitro digestion models are considered an alternative for the in vivo studies for a variety of practical reasons, but further research is still needed concerning the colon model establishment. An effective in vitro colon model should consider all unit operations and transport phenomena, together with chemical and biochemical reactions, material handling and reactor design. Due to the different techniques and dependence on the donor microbiota, it is difficult to obtain a standard protocol with results reproductible in time and space. Furthermore, the colon model should be fed with a representative substrate, thus what happens in upper digestion tract and absorption prior to colon is also of crucial importance. Essentially, there are two ways to think about how to achieve a good and useful in vitro colon model: a complex biomimetic system that provides results comparable with the in vivo studies or a simple system, that despite the fact it could not give physiologically relevant data, it is sufficient to understand the fate of some specific components. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The experiments of electronic speckle pattern interferometer (ESPI) successfully applied to sandwich plates with two inserts has been earliest presented in this paper. Proposed ESPI has advantages of full-field and non-destructive testing, which can measures microscopic out-of-plane displacement in the elastic region without wasting specimen. For validation purpose, the finite element method (FEM) analysis was conducted. By comparing the results of ESPI and FEM displacement fields around the inserts, a convincing agreements is revealed. The effect of insert spatial interval on the deformation of two-inserted sandwich plates was obtained by the ESPI and FEM: the wider the spatial interval of the two inserts is, the bigger the out-of-plane displacement at the insert center of sandwich loaded by the same force is. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Various studies on stress–strain modeling of adhesively bonded sandwich beams are briefly described in this paper. An analytical model of sandwich beams taking into account contribution of adhesive layers towards the overall beam stiffness is then proposed. In this model the displacements of each of the five constituent layers of a sandwich beam are computed considering the overall continuity conditions of the sandwich beam. The Euler–Ostrogradskii equations are used to derive the equations of equilibrium, which contain four differential equations with 12 orders. For validation purpose, a case study of a simply supported three-point bending sandwich beam subjected to a load at the mid-span of the beam is carried out using the proposed analytical method, finite element method and a theory proposed by Allen [Analysis and Design of Structural Sandwich Panels, Oxford, UK, 1969]. From the comparison of results obtained from the three methods, there are reasons to suggest improvements in reliability and accuracy of the proposed analytical method, which takes the effect of the adhesive layers into account, over Allen’s theory. The proposed method has clearly shown that the contribution of the adhesive layers to the overall strength of a given sandwich beam cannot be neglected. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

A series of 2-arylindoles containing novel heteroaromatic substituents on the tryptamine tether, based on compound 1, was prepared and evaluated for their ability to act as gonadotropin releasing hormone (GnRH) antagonists. Successful modifications of 1 included chain length variation (reduction) and replacement of the pyridine with heteroaromatic groups. These alterations culminated in the discovery of compound 27kk which had excellent in vitro potency and oral efficacy in rodents. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

In this paper, we examine the interaction between a retailer's information acquisition and a manufacturer's advertising strategies by incorporating the advertising threshold effect under manufacturer encroachment. We elaborate on two acquisition timings, namely, ex ante acquisition and ex post acquisition, depending on whether the retailer makes the information acquisition decision before or after the manufacturer's advertising decision. We demonstrate that under ex ante acquisition, the retailer's acquisition incentive and the manufacturer's optimal advertising level exhibit a non-monotonic relationship with the advertising threshold. Under ex post acquisition, given that the threshold is not too high, the retailer's acquisition incentive weakly increases with the advertising threshold, and the optimal advertising level is always pushed up by the advertising threshold effect and the acquisition inducing effect. More importantly, the advertising threshold effect does not necessarily hurt (benefit) the manufacturer (retailer), as the information acquisition effect can conditionally alleviate the detrimental effect of the advertising threshold. Moreover, the retailer may prefer either ex ante acquisition or ex post acquisition, depending on the advertising level comparison. By contrast, the manufacturer prefers ex post acquisition only when the acquisition incentive under ex post acquisition is higher than that under ex ante acquisition; otherwise, the manufacturer always weakly prefers ex ante acquisition. • The interaction between a retailer's information acquisition and a manufacturer's advertising strategies is studied. • The advertising threshold effect is incorporated under manufacturer encroachment. • Two acquisition timings, namely, ex ante acquisition and ex post acquisition, are examined. • The advertising threshold effect does not necessarily hurt (benefit) the manufacturer (retailer). • The firms may prefer either ex ante acquisition or ex post acquisition under certain conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aiming at the resource utilization of CO 2 and the value-added catalytic conversion of ethane, different reducibility oxide carriers were used to study. Through catalytic reaction experiments, catalyst characterization and kinetic analysis, the interaction between reducible carriers and active metals and their regulation on the catalytic reaction performance of ethane with CO 2 were revealed. Fe 1.5 Ni 0.5 /CeO 2 has the highest ethylene selectivity of 87% near 650 °C, and is a good catalyst for the CO 2 -assisted ethane oxidative dehydrogenation to ethylene reaction. The strong interaction between the reducible CeO 2 and ZrO 2 carriers and active metals makes the Fe–O–Ce and Fe–O–Zr covalent bonds on the Fe 1.5 Ni 0.5 /CeO 2 and Fe 1.5 Ni 0.5 /ZrO 2 catalysts stronger than Fe–O–Ti and Fe–O–Al covalent bonds on Fe 1.5 Ni 0.5 /TiO 2 and Fe 1.5 Ni 0.5 /γ-Al 2 O 3 catalysts. The lattice oxygen on the reducible catalyst is more readily involved in the reaction. The strong interaction between the active metal and the carrier results in the reduction of the FeO x species and the formation of new active sites, resulting in a high reactivity of the catalyst. The mutually promoted redox cycle between the active species Fe3+/2+-Ni2+/0 and the reducible carrier variable metal Ce4+/3+ species improves the catalytic performance for the reaction of ethane awith CO 2. • Resource utilization of CO 2 and value-added conversion of C 2 H 6 are achieved. • Reducible Fe 1.5 Ni 0.5 /CeO 2 catalyst has the highest ethylene selectivity of 87%. • Lattice oxygen on reducible carrier is more readily involved in the reaction. • Redox cycle between Fe3+/2+-Ni2+/0 and Ce4+/3+ improves catalytic performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Four lactic acid bacteria (LAB) strains were cultured in reconstituted skim milk with different solids contents to compare the thermotolerance of resulting cultures. As milk concentration was increased from 5 to 30 wt%, the population of non-lactose-fermenting strains increased by around 1 log at stationary growth phase. High solids milk maintained relative stable pH (ΔpH<0.5) when fermented with a lactose-fermenting strain, compared to a drastic pH drop by 1.35 in low solids milk. All four strains cultured in 20 or 30 wt% milk demonstrated significant improvements in cell survival (remaining viability > 108 CFU/mL) and growth capability after heat treatment at 65 °C for 10 min, indicating a general thermoprotective effect irrespective of metabolic pathways. Besides cellular response to high osmolality during bacterial growth, we proposed that the increased concentration of protective dairy components and the increased viscosity and thermal resistance of culture medium also contributed to the excellent thermotolerance. • LAB grown in 20%–30% skim milk showed better thermotolerance than that in 5% milk. • The improved thermotolerance was general for four strains with different metabolism. • After 10-min heating at 65 °C, residual viability of each strain was > 108 cfu/mL. • Cellular stress response may be activated when grown in high solids milk. • The rich protective agents and high viscosity of milk medium may protect cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Microbial fuel cells (MFCs) provide an efficient way to utilize energy from biomass while it offer advantages such as pollution avoidance, high energy conversion efficiency, and flexibility for a wide range of applications. MFCs have gained much attention and are considered as current research hotspot in bioenergy. To further improve the reaction area, microbial compatibility, and to increase the power generation efficiency in the design and manufacturing of a small-scale MFC, the use of 3D printing technology and the employment of a high-efficiency mixing area are proposed in this work. Carbon cloth is employed as the electrode substrate of the MFC. Moreover, the carbon nanotubes and graphene dispersions are used to modify the carbon electrode plates. The results show that the graphene modified carbon cloth electrode MFC has a maximum power density of 199.24 mW m−2 at a current density of 1.52 A m−2. While the unmodified carbon cloth electrode MFC has a current density of 0.63 A m−2. This indicates that the graphene modified carbon cloth electrode MFC achieved a maximum power density of about 232% compared with the unmodified carbon cloth electrode MFC. The lowest internal resistance obtained was 0.66 kΩ when the electron transfer medium was accounted. This indicated a low anode impedance which is desired in MFC systems. Result revealed that the graphene modified carbon cloth electrode is the best electrode material based on the enhanced power density and lowered internal resistance. The results of the work aims to provide insight in the improvement of the MFC electrode modification technology. • The study aims to improve the power generation efficiency of MFCs. • Carbon cloth is employed as an electrode substrate. • A designed mixer is introduced to enhance the reaction rate in the MFCs. • Results have shown a maximum power density of 0.633 A m−2. • Carbon cloth and graphene are the best choices as plate materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Non-destructive examination and 350℃ bursting pressure tests of defected tube. • Probabilistic bursting pressure model of Inconel690 tube with volume defect. • Fit for service criterion for Inconel690 tube with less conservatism. Fit for service(FFS) assessment of Steam Generator Tube(SGT) plays a key role in safety operating of Pressurized Water Reactors. Engineering practices have emerged probabilistic method is a powerful tool in reducing redundant safety margin of FFS assessment strategy. The aim of this work is to develop a probabilistic structural integrity assessment method for typical Inconel690 alloy SGT with volume defect. The study consists of four parts: Firstly, an experiment program including tensile test, eddy current examination and SGT bursting test were introduced. Then, potential bursting pressure models were analyzed based on test dataset. Proper bursting pressure model was suggested. Thirdly, probabilistic bursting pressure prediction model was developed based on Monte Carlo Simulation. At last, parametric study was performed and an application instance on anti-vibration bar fretting wear was presented. The results indicated the proposed SGT structural integrity assessment method is less conservative than current repair criterions. This study represents a further step towards developing of smart FFS assessment of Nuclear Power Plant. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• A F 2 population was developed from the flexuosus × reticulatus cross with distinct phenotypic differences. • The ddRAD-seq protocol was used to genotype the F 2 population generating high-quality SNPs. • A high-density genetic map containing 12 linkage groups was constructed with 1090 bin markers. • Haplotype map and linkage relationship heat map verified a high-quality feature of the genetic map. Melon (Cucumis melo L.) is an economically important fruit crop with high phenotypic diversity, but the high-density genetic map suitable for QTL analysis of multiple phenotypes is unavailable to date. In this study, we adopted double-digest restriction-site associated DNA sequencing (ddRAD-seq) for large-scale discovery of single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) and construction of a high-density genetic map in melon. A F 2 population containing 140 individuals was developed from two parental lines, H581 and H906, which respectively belonged to flexuosus and reticulatus botanical groups and showed a significant phenotypic difference. Approximately 441 Gb of data containing 3.4 × 109 paired-end reads were obtained following the ddRAD-seq. Mining this dataset, 11,073 SNPs were detected between the two parents, of which 4654 valid SNPs were finally retained in the population for genetic map construction. In total, 1090 bin markers, consisting of all the 4654 SNPs, were sorted into 12 linkage groups (LGs). The total length of the bin map was 1462.30 cM, with an average marker density of 1.39 cM and a recombination rate of 3.90 cM/Mb. Haplotype map and linkage relationship heat map revealed that most of the recombination blocks were well defined in the segregating population, confirming a high accuracy of the bin map. This map could be used for discovery of QTLs/genes related to the diverse phenotypes between the two botanical groups, further facilitating molecular breeding in melon. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Magnesium is the lightest metal and is extensive in the structural application. The metal matrix composites are developed to improve the strength of magnesium alloys. In this research, AZ91 alloy reinforced with 1 wt% WS 2 was produced using stir casting process. The composite was homogenized for 24 h at 410 °C and subsequently aged for 10 h at 200 °C. The severe plastic deformation was performed using equal channel angular pressing (ECAP). The phase composition was analyzed using X-ray diffraction techniques. The microstructure, fractography, and mechanical properties of ECAPed composites have been investigated using scanning electron microscope, and universal testing machines, respectively. The results indicate that B-phases are present in the form of particles inside and at grain boundaries in annealed composites, which are refined to needle-shaped precipitates at grain boundaries, and grains size is refined to 0.2 μm after 4passes of ECAP. Microhardness and tensile yield strength are proportional to the number of passes, and 20.45% and 103.5% are increased respectively after 4pass. The UTS was found to be maximum (324.8 MPa) for 4P WS 2 /AZ91. Fractography analysis revealed that plastic fracture in annealed and elastic-plastic fracture occurred after 4P WS 2 /AZ91 MMC. • WS 2 /AZ91 (MMCs) were manufactured by stir casting method and subsequently annealed are deformed by ECAP. • ECAP effects on microstructure and mechanical behavior of WS 2 /AZ91 MMCs have been investigated. • The relation between number of passes and strength has been established. • The investigations reveal that 4pass-WS 2 /AZ91 exhibits maximum hardness and ultimate tensile strength. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new efficient framework coupling the two dimensional (2D) discrete dislocation dynamics (DDD) and the extended finite element method (XFEM) is developed for modeling the dynamic evolution of multiple dislocations in crystalline materials with abundant interfaces/surfaces. By a specially introduced stress calculation scheme with cut-off radius and virtual elements, the present algorithm can capture interaction between neighboring dislocations accurately although no time-consuming dislocation-core enrichment is employed. Since it is not sensitive to the FE mesh size and large XFEM time step can be used, its efficiency is evidently improved compared with other DDD frameworks. Due to the merits of XFEM itself, the present DDD-XFEM scheme can treat intractable surface/interface problems conveniently, with no additional image stress calculation as in the DDD-FEM superposition framework and special plastic-strain distribution near the surfaces/interfaces as in the discrete-continuous method (DCM) needed. For these, it can be used to model plastic behaviors of crystals with abundant interfaces/surfaces (i.e. grain/phase boundaries and crack/void surfaces). To show the ability of present DDD-XFEM scheme, it is used to simulate the mechanical responses of polycrystalline aluminum with assumed rigid and penetrable grain boundaries. A three-stage model for dislocation penetrating through grain boundary (DPTGB) is suggested. The results show that the present DDD-XFEM scheme can capture the formation of dislocation pile-ups and thus the Hall-Petch effect successfully. The DPTGB can decrease the flow stress and hardening rate evidently; moreover, it can weaken the grain size effect and may enhance the cyclic stress relaxation of polycrystals greatly. Image 1 • A more efficient and accurate XFEM-DDD framework for simulating the micro-plasticity of materials is developed. • The newly developed XFEM-DDD framework can well deal with various complex discontinuities in materials. • The present XFEM-DDD framework can simulate efficiently the problems on much longer/larger temporal/spatial scale. • A three-stage model for dislocation penetrating through GB (DPTGB) is suggested. • The grain size effect on strength and the cyclic stress relaxation are captured efficiently by the present scheme. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• The Shuttleworth-Wallace (SW) model was parameterized and validated in a Venlo-type greenhouse. • There was a good agreement between estimated and observed evapotranspiration as well as transpiration. • Transpiration was the dominant component of evapotranspiration in a greenhouse over the full growing season. • The ratio of soil evaporation to evapotranspiration was the highest at the cucumber seedling stage. Partitioning of evapotranspiration (ET c) into soil evaporation (E g) and plants transpiration (T r) is of great importance to assess biomass production and improve water use efficiency under greenhouse conditions. The Shuttleworth-Wallace (SW) model, which is used to separately predict E g and T r has been validated by many studies in open field, however, the model's parameters for the low wind speed and heterogeneous underlying surface in greenhouses are quite different from the open field. Therefore, an experiment was conducted in a Venlo-type greenhouse in south-east China during two planting seasons of cucumber plants in 2018, where the ET c and T r were directly measured by lysimeters and sap flow sensors. The soil surface and canopy resistances were parameterized based on the soil water content at 5–10 cm depth and solar radiation inside the greenhouse, respectively. The SW model simulated ET c and T r at hourly interval with root mean square error (RMSE) and index of agreement (d) of 42.10 W m−2 and 0.93; 40.50 W m−2 and 0.91 for the spring season, while for the autumn season the values were 26.60 W m−2 and 0.93; 15.63 W m−2 and 0.93, respectively. The average E g / ET c were 7.75% and 21.87% for spring and autumn planting seasons, respectively, indicating that the T r was the dominant component of ET c of cucumber grown in greenhouse over the full crop season. Our research shows the parameterized SW model would be a relatively accurate way to separately simulate the dynamic variations of the T r and E g , and for future use to improve irrigation scheduling for cucumber plants under greenhouse conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The prediction of structure's ultimate load has a lot of practical applications in composite structure. In the present work, limit and shakedown load of structure made from arbitrary inhomogeneous material was predicted by a novel solution algorithm named Back Stress Iteration Method, where material's kinematic hardening behavior is involved as well. Firstly, details about the proposed algorithm were introduced. Basis reduction method was employed as framework and its advantage in computational efficiency is inherited. Secondly, the influence of inhomogeneous kinematic hardening was solved by a new invented Back Stress Iteration process. Then, three examples with increasing complexity were investigated numerically for validation purpose. The results were discussed intensively with respect to the accuracy, the effect of inhomogeneity and the inhomogeneous kinematic hardening behavior to verify the rationality of the proposed method. At last, the paper was summarized and conclusions were drawn. The proposed method is promising to provide a powerful tool for the accurate prediction of arbitrary inhomogeneous structure's load-bearing capacity, such is applicable to many kinds of composite structures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The tribological behavior of AZ31 Mg alloy reinforced with multiwall carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) was studied through experiments on a ring-on-block wear testing apparatus against 45C steel. The composites were successfully fabricated using stir-casting processing with different percentages of MWCNTs and then age hardened for 10 h. The effect of the various concentrations of MWCNTs on the microstructures, tribological properties, and wear mechanisms of the composites were systematically examined by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). With increasing percentage content of MWCNTs, the wear rate and the coefficient of friction decreased, which is attributed to the microhardness and self-lubricating properties of the MWCNTs. The microstructure characterization results established different mechanisms—specifically, abrasion, oxidation, and delamination—and very small plastic deformation. • Magnesium alloy AZ31 reinforced with multiwalled carbon nanotubes was fabricated using stir casting method. • Samples were homogenized for 24 h at 400C0 and then aged for 10 h at 200C0 temperature. • Wear tests for as-cast and aged composites were performed using Ring on Block wear apparatus under dry and wet conditions and mass wear loss and coefficient of friction was determined. • Worn surfaces were analyzed using scanning electron microscope for wear mechanism analysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• FLCF alleviated LPS/D-GalN-induced experimental acute liver injury in mice. • FLCF inhibited the TLR4/MyD88/NF-κB signaling in vitro and in vivo. • FLCF promoted the Nrf2/HO-1 signaling in vitro and in vivo. • Blockade of Nrf2 attenuated the effect of FLCF on NF-κB suppression. Livistona chinensis fruit is a traditional Chinese medicine widely used for treating hepatitis, but its protective effect against hepatitis remains unknown. This study investigated the hepatoprotective effect and mechanism of flavonoids from Li vistona chinensis fruit (FLCF). Mice received FLCF pre-treatment for 7 days and induced liver injury with LPS+D-GalN. RAW264.7 cells were triggered inflammation by LPS and received FLCF for 24 h. The result showed that FLCF ameliorated the liver pathology in mice, decreased the levels of AST, ALT, MDA, but increased SOD and GSH. Moreover, FLCF inhibited TLR4/NF-κB signaling, while activated Nrf2/HO-1 signaling in LPS+D-GalN mice. These effects were consistent with the in vitro data revealing that FLCF suppressed TLR4/NF-κB signaling, while promoting Nrf2/HO-1 signaling in RAW264.7 cell. The effects of FLCF were neutralized by Nrf2 siRNA. Taken together, these results demonstrated that FLCF has a protective role against acute liver injury and supports its use as a dietotherapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A high-strength Mg-8.8Gd-3.8Y-1.0Zn-0.7Mn (wt%) alloy hollow profile with complex cross-section was successfully fabricated through porthole die extrusion, and its weld seam was analyzed for microstructure and element distribution to investigate the impact of solid-state bonding. The weld seam displayed a homogeneous magnesium grain structure and a precipitation-free zone. The diffusion behavior of alloying elements during solid-state bonding significantly affected the microstructure of the weld seam, with Gd and Y atoms diffusing towards the outside of the weld region. The hollow profile exhibited favorable mechanical properties, with an ultimate tensile strength (UTS) of 470 MPa, a tensile yield strength (TYS) of 309 MPa, and an elongation (EL) of 7.4%, and showed a minor negative effect from the weld seam. • High-strength Mg-Gd-Y-Zn-Mn alloy hollow profiles showed a favorable metallurgical bond in the weld seam with a homogeneous magnesium grain structure and no microvoids. • Alloying element diffusion influenced the weld seam microstructure, resulting in lower concentrations of Gd and Y in the weld region, while Zn and Mn showed a more uniform distribution. • The presence of the weld seam had minimal impact on the overall mechanical properties of the hollow profiles, which retained superior mechanical performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Airway complications (AC) are one of leading causes of morbidity and mortality after lung transplant (LTx), but their predictors and outcomes remain controversial. This study aimed to identify potential risk factors and prognosis of AC. A systematic review was performed by searching PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane Library. All observational studies reporting outcome and potential factors of AC after LTx were included. The incidence, mortality, and estimated effect of each factor for AC were pooled by using the fixed-effects model or random-effects model. Thirty-eight eligible studies with 52,116 patients undergoing LTx were included for meta-analysis. The pooled incidence of AC was 12.4% (95% confidence interval [CI] 9.5-15.8) and the mean time of occurrence was 95.6 days. AC-related mortality rates at 30-days, 90-days, 6 months, 1 year, and 5 years were 6.7%, 17.9%, 18.2%, 23.6%, and 66.0%, respectively. Airway dehiscence was the most severe type with a high mortality at 30 days (60.9%, 95% CI 20.6-95.2). We found that AC was associated with a higher risk of mortality in LTx recipients (hazard ratio [HR] 1.71, 95% CI 1.04-2.81). Eleven significant predictors for AC were also identified, including male donor, male recipient, diagnosis of COPD, hospitalization, early rejection, postoperative infection, extracorporeal membrane oxygenation, mechanical ventilation, telescopic anastomosis, and bilateral and right-sided LTx. AC was significantly associated with higher mortality after LTx, especially for dehiscence. Targeted prophylaxis for modifiable factors and enhanced early bronchoscopy surveillance after LTx may improve the disease burden of AC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Respiratory viral infections cause mild to severe diseases, such as common cold, bronchiolitis and pneumonia and are associated with substantial burden for society. To test new molecules for shortening, alleviating the diseases or to develop new therapies, relevant human in vitro models are mandatory. MucilAir™, a human standardized air-liquid interface 3D airway epithelial culture holds in vitro specific mechanisms to counter invaders comparable to the in vivo situation, such as mucus production, mucociliary clearance, and secretion of defensive molecules. The objective of this study was to test the relevance of such a model for the discovery and validation of antiviral drugs. Fully differentiated 3D nasal epithelium cultures were inoculated with picornaviruses, a coronavirus and influenza A viruses in the absence or in the presence of reference antiviral drugs. Results showed that, rupintrivir efficiently inhibits the replication of respiratory picornaviruses in a dose dependent manner and prevents the impairment of the mucociliary clearance. Similarly, oseltamivir reduced the replication of influenza A viruses in a dose dependent manner and prevented the impairment of the epithelial barrier function and cytotoxicity until 4 days of infection. In addition we found that Rhinovirus B14, C15 and influenza A(H1N1) induce significant increase of β Defensins 2 and Cathelicidin release with different time course. These results reveal that a large panel of epithelial functions is modified upon viral infection and validate MucilAir™ as a pertinent tool for pre-clinical antiviral drug testing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents an investigation on the relationship between the process parameters and geometrical characteristics of the sectional profile for the single track cladding (STC) deposited by High Power Diode Laser (HPDL) with rectangle beam spot (RBS). To obtain the geometry parameters, namely cladding width W c and height H c of the sectional profile, a full factorial design (FFD) of experiment was used to conduct the experiments with a total of 27. The pre-placed powder technique has been employed during laser cladding. The influence of the process parameters including laser power, powder thickness and scanning speed on the W c and H c was analyzed in detail. A nonlinear fitting model was used to fit the relationship between the process parameters and geometry parameters. And a circular arc was adopted to describe the geometry profile of the cross-section of STC. The above models were confirmed by all the experiments. The results indicated that the geometrical characteristics of the sectional profile of STC can be described as the circular arc, and the other geometry parameters of the sectional profile can be calculated only using W c and H c . Meanwhile, the W c and H c can be predicted through the process parameters. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Both resveratrol(Res) and diphenyleneiodonium(DPI) have been shown to have radioprotective effects on hematopoietic system injury. However, the cooperative effect of Res and DPI are unknown. In this study, we explored the radioprotective effect of the combination of Res and DPI both in vitro and in vivo. Our results showed that the combined treatment of Res and DPI was more effective in protecting irradiated BMMNCs in terms of cell viability, colony-forming ability, and reconstitution ability in vitro compared with Res or DPI treatment alone. However, in mice, the combination of Res and DPI had no enhanced protection on 4 Gy total body irradiation (TBI)-induced hematopoietic system injury, including TBI-induced myelosuppression, induction of the splenic index, and increases in HSC/HPC numbers and the colony-forming ability of BMCs,compared to Res or DPI alone. An exception was the number of BMCs. These studies illustrated the inconsistency between experiments carried out in vitro and in vivo and suggest an interaction between Res or DPI in vivo. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper is aimed to investigate the structural-borne acoustics analysis and multi-objective optimization of an enclosed box structure by using the panel acoustic participation (PAP) and response surface methodology (RSM). The acoustic frequency response function is applied to achieve the critical frequency of interest under each excitation. The PAP analysis is then carried out at all critical frequencies and the remarkable acoustic panels are identified. The correlation coefficient matrix method is proposed for reselecting and grouping the positions of acoustic panels identified to paste damping layer to control noise. With the help of faced central composite design, an efficient set of sample points are generated and then the second-order polynomial functions of sound pressure response at each critical frequency are computed and verified by the adjusted coefficient of multiple determination. The functional relationships between sound pressure responses and the thicknesses of damping layers are investigated, and multi-objective optimization of the thicknesses of damping layers is developed. The results indicate that, by using the PAP and RSM, the structural-borne acoustics at critical frequencies are calculated conveniently and controlled effectively. The optimization process of the explicit optimization model proposed in this paper is simple and the computational time is saved. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Protective carriers that encapsulate probiotics in spray drying could improve the survival ratio of dried cells through different mechanisms. Unveiling the protective mechanism of each carrier will contribute to a rational design of high performance carrier formulation. This study utilized single droplet drying (SDD) technique to investigate the effects of calcium cation in varied carrier formulation. Inactivation histories of Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG (LGG) in different carriers were compared, and cellular injury history of probiotics during droplet drying was studied for the first time. Adding 1 mM CaCl 2 to lactose carrier protected cell viability, mitigated cellular injuries, and enhanced regrowth capability as drying progressed, demonstrating the positive effect of Ca 2 + with possible mechanism of stabilizing sub-cellular structures. At later drying stages, cell survival in Lac/Ca carrier was increased by 0.5–1.5 log on selective media compared to lactose carrier. Supplementing calcium-binding agents lowered the protective effect, shortening the initiation of rapid cell inactivation down to 120 s of drying. Adding CaCl 2 to trehalose carrier barely improved cell survival, indicating that the protective effect could be influenced by carrier formulation. Pure trehalose carrier exerted excellent protection on LGG, supporting cells to regrow in liquid rich medium even after 180 s of drying. The protection of trehalose may stem from stabilization of sub-cellular structures, which possibly overlap the effect of Ca 2 + . The findings suggested that high performance carrier formulation might be developed by combining carrier materials with different protective mechanisms, for maximizing the survival of active dry probiotics in industrial spray drying operation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Terpene synthase (TPS) plays an important role in terpenoids biosynthesis. Cinnamomum camphora (camphor tree) contains dozens of terpenoids with medicinal value, especially borneol, which has been widely used since ancient times. However, limited information is available regarding the genome-wide identification and characterization of the TPS family in the C. camphora. In this study, 82 CcTPS genes were identified from the camphor tree genome (CTG). Gene cluster and sequence syntenic analysis suggested that tandem duplication occurred within the TPS family of the CTG, especially for the TPS-b subfamily. The chemotype-specific gene expression analysis showed significantly differential expression patterns among six chemotypes. It is worth noting that three genes (CcTPS26, CcTPS49 and CcTPS72) exhibited relatively high expression in the borneol-type camphor tree, compared to the other five chemotypes. Further functional characterization of them indicated that they were all bornyl diphosphate synthases (BPPSs), which function in catalyzing GPP into BPP and then undergoes dephosphorylation to yield borneol. This is the first report that multiple BPPSs exist within a single species. Intriguingly, CcTPS49 and CcTPS72 lead to the generation of dextral-borneol, while CcTPS26 contributes to the biosynthesis of levo-borneol. In addition, the functional characterization of another six CcTPSs suggested that they are responsible for the biosynthesis of linalool, eucalyptol and several other monoterpenes in camphor tree. In conclusion, these novel results provide a foundation for further exploration of the role of the CcTPS gene family and shed light on a better understanding of the biosynthesis and accumulation of monoterpenes in camphor tree. • This is the first comprehensive study and systematic genome-wide analysis of TPS gene families in C. camphora. • This is the first report that multiple bornyl diphosphate synthase (BPPSs) found in a single species. • This is the first report that both L- and D-BPPS coexist within a single species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ethnopharmacological relevance The water-soluble total flavonoids (WSTF) were extracted from Isodon lophanthoides var. gerardianus (Benth.) H. Hara, a common folk herbal medicine in China, which has been recorded by the “Chinese Pharmacopoeia” in 2015 and used for prevention and clinical treatment of common diseases of liver and gall for many years. Objective of the study The aim of this study is to evaluate the effects of WSTF on apoptosis in HepG2 cell and investigate the relevant mechanisms underlying. Materials and methods C ytotoxicity was evaluated in HepG2 cells (human hepatoma cell lines) using MTT assay. The influence of the WSTF on the intracellular reactive oxygen species (iROS) and the mitochondrial membrane potential were also determinated. We used flow cytometry analysis to detect the effects of WSTF on apoptosis, cell cycle. Then we applied RT-PCR for genetic expression of main effectors and western blot analysis for activation of main effectors involved in the potential apoptosis signaling pathways. Results WSTF inhibited cell growth in HepG2 cells. Moreover, WSTF stimulates to increase amount of iROS, mitochondrial membrane potential, and the apoptotic relevant factors (cytochrome c, caspase-3) in HepG2 cells. WSTF could significantly induce apoptosis through downregulating apoptosis-antagonizing protein (Bcl-2, Survivin, mcl-1) and upregulating apoptosis-promoting proteins (Bax) and cell cycle G0/G1 arrest in HepG2 cells. Conclusion The results indicate that WSTF induces cell apoptosis through mitochondrial pathway in the HepG2 cells. Therefore, these studies suggest that WSTF could be used as a chemotherapeutic agent to treat hepatoma. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper is aimed to investigate the kinetic parameters matching and designing method for a multi-stage torsional stiffness dual mass flywheel (DMF) based on torsional vibration control. Using the numerical analysis methods, three critical technological problems are resolved subsequently. The first one is that the kinetics simulation model of vehicle drivetrain is established, and the actual torsional vibration excitation of crankshaft and different gear pairs engaged multi-operating conditions for drivetrain are taken into account during modeling. The second one is that the kinetic parameters sensitivity of DMF with respect to torsional vibration control are obtained and the range of each kinetic parameter (i.e. rotation inertia ratio, torsional stiffness and damping) is derived further. The last one is that the parameters matching and designing methods for a multi-stage torsional stiffness DMF, considering the constraint conditions that transmission torque, relative angle and distribution of natural frequencies of DMF-drivetrain, are carried out. The results show that the torsional vibration of drivetrain is controlled effectively after matching a three-stage torsional stiffness DMF and the amplitude of angular velocity at input end of gearbox decreases significantly, which verifies that the designing and matching methods are effective and the result can thus be used in vibration control for vehicle drivetrain. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background This study examines whether the measurement of circulating epithelial cells (CECs) facilitates the identification and follow-up of a patient with thyroid cancer. Methods A 29-y-old woman with no cancer history was enrolled as a healthy control in a CEC study. CECs were enriched from the peripheral blood by the negative selection system PowerMag. Various medical examinations were performed on the patient to establish the diagnosis and to follow-up her disease status during treatment. Results This patient had unexpectedly high CEC counts that were sustained for more than two weeks. Thyroid gland ultra-sonography revealed lesions in the left lobe that could not be confirmed as cancer by magnetic resonance imaging, 18 F–fludeoxyglucose-positron emission tomography–computed tomography or cytopathological analysis, but were histologically confirmed after thyroidectomy as papillary thyroid microcarcinoma. Both the CEC count and serum thyroglobulin (Tg) concentration were significantly decreased after thyroidectomy, and they and the patient's disease status were correlated during remnant ablation therapy. The CEC count returned to normal when the patient was disease-free 10 months after thyroidectomy. Conclusions CEC testing facilitates the identification of individuals at risk for cancer. Longitudinal follow-up of the CEC count may complement serum Tg testing for monitoring the status of patients with thyroid cancer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • The Xigaze forearc basin was located at ∼ 21.5° ± 3.7°N during the late Paleocene. • The southern margin of the Lhasa terrane was oriented east–west during the Late Cretaceous–early Eocene. • The intracontinental shortening between the Lhasa terrane and the stable part of Asia has been 890 ± 470 km since the late Paleocene. This study aims to constrain the paleolatitude of the southern margin of the Lhasa terrane during the late Paleocene and refine the constraints on intracontinental shortening within Asia resulting from the India–Asia collision. An integrated paleomagnetic and petrographic study was conducted on the upper Paleocene Jialazi Formation in the Xigaze forearc basin, southern Tibet. The limestone in the Jialazi Formation was demonstrated to reliably preserve primary remanence. Combined with previously published data, the tilt-corrected mean direction was Ds = 166.6° and Is = -38.2° with α 95 = 4.1 (n = 118), corresponding to a paleomagnetic pole at 75.3°N, 323.4°E, with an A 95 of 3.7°. Consequently, the paleolatitude of the Xigaze forearc basin from 56–59 Ma was estimated at ∼ 21.5°N for the reference point at 29.8°N, 84.9°E. Compared with data from the western Lhasa terrane, the Xigaze forearc basin and the Linzhou Basin, these findings suggest that the southern margin of the Lhasa terrane had an east–west orientation during the Late Cretaceous–early Eocene. A comparison with the apparent polar wander paths for Asia indicates that the intracontinental shortening between the Lhasa terrane and stable Asian interior has been 890 ± 470 km since the late Paleocene. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Neurosyphilis (NS) caused by Treponema pallidum (T. pallidum) subspecies pallidum, can affect the central nervous system during any stage of the disease. To assess several laboratory parameters for NS diagnosis, we performed a case control study on 42 hospitalized NS patients negative for human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and 40 syphilis/non-NS patients, excluding NS patients at Xiamen Zhongshan Hospital from June 2010 to June 2011. Multivariate logistic regression model showed that the cerebrospinal fluid white blood cell (CSF-WBC, P =0.009) levels, the CSF-LDH (P =0.006) levels, the albumin quotient (P =0.009) and the IgA index (P =0.042) were independently associated with high risk of NS. The receiver operator characteristic (ROC) curve analysis revealed that the optimal cut-offs were 10×106 cells/L for the CSF-WBC concentration, 19.3U/L for the CSF lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) concentration, 7.08 for the albumin quotient, and 0.14 for the IgA index. Combining the CSF-WBC level, the CSF-LDH level, the albumin quotient and the IgA index increased the NS diagnosis sensitivity to 97.6%. T. pallidum particle agglutination (TPPA) index significantly correlated with the CSF-WBC (r=0.453, P =0.000), the IgA index (r=0.446, P =0.000), the albumin quotient (r=0.262, P =0.017), and the CSF-LDH (r=−0.278, P =0.012), respectively. In addition, there were correlations between the CSF-WBC and the IgA index (r=0.329, P =0.003), and between the CSF-WBC and the albumin quotient (r=0.306, P =0.005). Our results indicated that simultaneous testing of CSF-WBC levels, albumin quotient, IgA index and CSF-LDH can help predict the likelihood of NS in HIV-negative patients. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Ethnopharmacological relevance: Leaves of Lithocarpus polystachyus Rehd. are used for the treatment of disorders such as diabetes, hypertension, and epilepsy in folk medicine of South China. The possible antidiabetic effects of the leaves were investigated in experimental type 2 and type 1 diabetic rats. Materials and methods: Type 2 diabetic rats received orally three different extracts of Lithocarpus polystachyus Rehd. leaves for 4 weeks (aqueous extract [ST-1], ethanol extract [ST-2], flavonoid-rich fraction [ST-3]). At the end of the experiment biochemical parameters were tested and livers and pancreases were excised for histological study. After the comparison of the pharmacological test results of the three extracts, the one which showed the best bioactivity was further studied to confirm its antidiabetes effect on both type 2 and type 1 diabetic rats. Results: Compared to ST-1 and ST-2, ST-3 had better effects on regulation of blood glucose, glycosylated serum protein, cholesterol, triglyceride, malondialdehyde, superoxide dismutase and attenuation of liver injury in type 2 diabetic rats (p <0.01 or p <0.05). ST-3 administration for four weeks also significantly reduced the fasting serum insulin and C-peptide level and improved the insulin tolerance (p <0.05). In type 1 diabetic rats, ST-3 supplement for three weeks caused significant reduction in fasting blood glucose, total cholesterol, triglyceride, urea nitrogen, creatinine and liver mass, along with significantly inhibiting the decline of insulin level compared to diabetic control (p <0.05 or p <0.01). Conclusion: The flavonoid-rich fraction of Lithocarpus polystachyus Rehd. leaves (ST-3) had better beneficial effect than that of the ethanol or aqueous extract in experimental diabetic rats, which means that the bioactivity of the herbal leaves is probably due to the presence of flavonoids. The results also strongly suggest that the antidiabetic effect of ST-3 was possibly through multiple mechanisms of action including blood lipid and antioxidant mediation. The results indicated that the aqueous flavonoid-rich fraction of Lithocarpus polystachyus Rehd. leaves possessed significant protective activity in type 2 and type 1 diabetes. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Dual specificity phosphatase 6 (DUSP6) is a member of the MAP kinase phophatase family. DUSP6 inactivates extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK), belonging to the MAP kinase family, and can act in tumor suppressive pathways. The aim of this study was to investigate associations of DUSP6 expression with expression of ERK and Ki-67 and with clinicopathological parameters in lung adenocarcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma. A total of 102 squamous cell carcinomas and 66 adenocarcinomas were studied using immunohistochemistry for DUSP6, ERK1/2, and Ki-67. In 66 adenocarcinomas, high DUSP6 expression was positively correlated with ERK1/2 expression. High DUSP6 expression was correlated with lower histological grade and lower Ki-67 index in the adenocarcinomas. In 102 squamous cell carcinomas, high DUSP6 expression was correlated with lower ERK expression, with greater smoking pack-years, but not with the Ki-67 index. These results indicate that DUSP6 acts as a negative feedback regulator of ERK in adenocarcinoma progression, but that DUSP6 does not play a role in the downregulation of ERK in squamous cell carcinoma. The differential expression of DUSP6 correlated with Ki-67 index, suggesting that DUSP6 plays an important role in cancer resistance in different subtypes of non-small cell lung carcinoma. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Mutations in the cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) cause a chronic inflammatory response in the lung of patients with Cystic Fibrosis (CF). We have showed that TNF-α signaling through the Src family tyrosine kinases (SFKs) was defective as determined by an inability of TNF-α to regulate gap junctional communication (GJIC) in CF cells. Here, we sought to elucidate the mechanisms linking TNF-α signaling to the functions of CFTR at the molecular level. In a MDCKI epithelial cell model expressing wild-type (WtCFTR) or mutant CFTR lacking its PDZ-interacting motif (CFTR-ΔTRL), TNF-α increased the amount of WtCFTR but not CFTR-ΔTRL in detergent-resistant membrane microdomains (DRMs). This recruitment was modulated by SFK activity and associated with DRM localization of TNFR1 and c-Src. Activation of TNFR1 signaling also decreased GJIC and markedly stimulated IL-8 production in WtCFTR cells. In contrast, the absence of CFTR in DRMs was associated with abnormal TNFR1 signaling as revealed by no recruitment of TNFR1 and c-Src to lipid rafts in CFTR-ΔTRL cells and loss of regulation of GJIC and IL-8 secretion. These results suggest that localization of CFTR in lipid rafts in association with c-Src and TNFR1 provides a responsive signaling complex to regulate GJIC and cytokine signaling. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]