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Yoga is effective in binge eating disorder (BED) treatment, but it does not seem effective enough to improve low physical fitness. In contrast, high-intensity interval training (HIIT) is effective in improving physical fitness but has never been studied in the context of BED. In the study, 47 young inactive females with mild to moderate BED were recruited and randomly assigned to a HIIT group (HIIT), a Yoga group (YG), or a control group (CG; age, 19.47 ± 0.74, 19.69 ± 0.874, and 19.44 ± 0.63 years; BMI, 21.07 ± 1.66, 21.95 ± 2.67, and 20.68 ± 2.61 kg/m2, respectively). The intervention groups participated in 8-week specific exercises, while the CG maintained their usual daily activity. Before and after the training, participants were evaluated for BED using the binge eating scale (BES) and for physical fitness. The obtained data were compared within groups and between groups, and a correlation analysis between BES and physical fitness parameters was performed. After the training, the YG presented significant improvements in BES (− 20.25%, p = 0.006, ηp2 = 0.408), fat mass (FM, − 3.13%, p = 0.033, ηp2 = 0.269), and maximal oxygen consumption (VO2max, 11.51%, p = 0.000, ηp2 = 0.601), whereas the HIIT showed significant improvements in body weight (BW, − 1.78%, p = 0.006, ηp2 = 0.433), FM (− 3.94%, p = 0.033, ηp2 = 0.285), and BMI (− 1.80%, p = 0.006, ηp2 = 0.428), but not in BES. Comparisons between groups revealed that both HIIT and YG had significantly higher VO2max levels than CG (HIIT 12.82%, p = 0.006, ηp2 = 0.088; YG: 11.90%, p = 0.009, ηp2 = 0.088) with no difference between HIIT and YG. Additionally, YG presented significantly lower BES than both HIIT (15.45%, p = 0.02, ηp2 = 0.03) and CG (11.91%, p = 0.022, ηp2 = 0.03). In conclusion, Yoga is an effective treatment for BED, but HIIT is not, despite its high efficacy in improving physical fitness. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To confirm the efficacy and safety of Ganyushu Granule (GYSG) in treating premenstrual syndrome (PMS) in patients with Gan (Liver) depression and qi stagnation syndrome (GDQSS) and determine its effective dosage. Methods: From June 2018 to March 2021, a total of 240 PMS women with GDQSS were included and randomly divided into 3 groups in a 1:1:1 ratio using central block randomization: high-dose GYSG group (n=78, GYSG 2 packs/time), low-dose GYSG group (n=82, GYSG and its simulant 1 pack/time), and placebo group (n=80, GYSG simulant 2 packs/time). Treatment with GYSG or placebo was given thrice daily and for up to 3 menstrual cycles. Primary outcomes were PMS diary (PMSD) score and premenstrual tension syndrome self-rating scale (PMTS). Secondary outcomes were Chinese medicine (CM) syndrome efficacy. PMSD, PMTS, and efficacy of CM were evaluated with menstrual cycles during the treatment period. Outcome indicators were analyzed after each menstrual cycle. All analyses were performed using an intention-to-treat method, and clinical safety was assessed. Results: Of the 216 patients included in the effectiveness analysis, 70, 75, and 71 patients were in the high-, low-dose GYSG, and placebo groups, respectively. From the 2nd treatment cycle, the change in PMSD scores in the high- and low-dose groups was lower than that in the placebo group (P<0.05). PMTS scores in the high-dose GYSG group after the 1st treatment cycle was lower than that in the placebo group (P<0.05), while after the 3rd treatment cycle, that in the low-dose group was lower than that in the placebo group (P<0.05). After the 2nd treatment cycle, the high-dose GYSG group had the best CM syndrome efficacy (P<0.05). No serious adverse reactions were reported. Conclusions: GYSG was safe and well-tolerated at both doses for treating PMS patients with GDQSS. High-dose GYSG might be the optimal dose for a phase III trial. (Registration No. ChiCTR1800016595) [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: We aim to evaluate the efficacy and safety of pioglitazone/metformin fixed-dose combination (FDC) versus uptitrated metformin in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) without adequate glycemic control. Methods: A total of 304 patients were recruited from 15 hospitals in China and randomly assigned (1:1) to the test group (pioglitazone/metformin FDC, 15/500 mg) or the control group (uptitrated metformin, 2000–2500 mg/day). The primary endpoint was the proportion of patients with glycated hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) ≤ 6.5% and ≤ 7.0% at week 16. The secondary outcomes included the change from baseline in glucose, serum lipids, and liver function. Full analysis set (FAS) and per-protocol set (PPS) were used for analyses. Results: In the test group, 103 (69.59%) patients reached HbA1c ≤ 7.0% (FAS, P = 0.009), with 68 (45.95%) patients achieved HbA1c ≤ 6.5 (FAS, P = 0.043). More reduction in HbA1c, homeostatic model assessment for insulin resistance, and diastolic pressure was found. Bodyweight, body mass index, and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol increased markedly. The changes of triglycerides, alanine transaminase, aspartate aminotransferase, and high-sensitivity C-reactive protein decreased noticeably. There were no significant differences in rates of adverse events between the two groups. Conclusions: Pioglitazone/metformin FDC was superior to uptitrated metformin among patients with T2DM without adequate glycemic control. Trial Registration Number: This trial is registered with the Chinese Clinical Trial Registry (ChiCTR1900028606). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nesidiocoris tenuis (Reuter) is an important omnivorous insect in tobacco fields. It is of practical scientific significance to regulate the population of N. tenuis by employing insect lure strategies with specific light spectra. In this study, the phototactic behavior of N. tenuis adults and nymphs to 15 kinds of monochromatic lights was examined. N. tenuis adults have a higher response rate and a longer displacement to different light spectra and different light intensities compared with nymphs. N. tenuis adults were more attractived by monochromatic lights at 628, 504, 568 and 589 nm among the 15 monochromatic lights. While N. tenuis nymphs were more attractived by monochromatic lights at 628, 549 and 577 nm, and there was no significant difference between the nymphs' response displacements to monochromatic lights except for red light at 628 nm and darkness treatments. The light intensity significantly affected the phototactic behavior of N. tenuis adults but not nymphs. These results suggested that insect traps with a red light at 628 nm, blue-green light at 504 nm, yellow-green light at 568 nm and yellow-green light at 589 nm can be used to monitor and regulate N. tenuis population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Epilepsy is a chronic brain disease and often occurs suddenly for no reason. Eucommiae folium (EF), an edible herb, can be used in the treatment of various kinds of brain diseases in clinic. From the perspective of safety and efficacy, EF is especially suitable for the treatment of chronic brain diseases. With the help of biolabels, this study was aimed to explore the value and feasibility of EF in the treatment of epilepsy. Proteomics and metabolomics were used to explore the biolabels of EF intervention in brain tissues. Bioinformatics was then applied to topologically analyze its neuroprotective effects and mechanisms and material basis based on biolabels, which were validated in an animal model. The biolabel-led research revealed that EF may exert the therapeutic potential to treat brain diseases through the interaction between multiple compounds and multiple targets, among which its therapeutic potential for epilepsy is particularly prominent. In the pentylenetetrazole-induction model, EF and four active compounds (oleamide, catechol, chlorogenic acid, and kaempferol) protected epileptic hippocampal neurons (Nissl and FJB staining) against mitochondrial dysfunction (MYH6, MYL3, and MYBPC3, etc.) and calcium overload (TNNI3, TNNC1, and TNNT2, etc.) through the hypertrophic cardiomyopathy pathway. This study provides new evidence and insights for the neuroprotective effects of EF, in which four active compounds may be potential drug candidates for the treatment of epilepsy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Electrocatalytic CO2 reduction reaction (CO2RR) to obtain C2 products has drawn widespread attentions. Copper-based materials are the most reported catalysts for CO2 reduction to C2 products. Design of high-efficiency pseudo-copper catalysts according to the key characteristics of copper (Cu) is an important strategy to understand the reaction mechanism of C2 products. In this work, density function theory (DFT) calculations are used to predict nickel-zinc (NiZn) alloy catalysts with the criteria similar structure and intermediate adsorption property to Cu catalyst. The calculated tops of 3d states of NiZn3(001) catalysts are the same as Cu(100), which is the key parameter affecting the adsorption of intermediate products. As a result, NiZn3(001) exhibits similar adsorption properties with Cu(100) on the crucial intermediates *CO2, *CO and *H. Moreover, we further studied CO formation, CO hydrogenation and C-C coupling process on Ni-Zn alloys. The free energy profile of C2 products formation shows that the energy barrier of C2 products formation on NiZn3(001) is even lower than Cu(100). These results indicate that NiZn3 alloy as pseudo-copper catalyst can exhibit a higher catalytic activity and selectivity of C2 products during CO2RR. This work proposes a feasible pseudo-copper catalyst and provides guidance to design high-efficiency catalysts for CO2RR to C2 or multi-carbon products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We investigate the quantum walks of a three-boson system on one-dimensional lattice by using the Bose–Hubbard model with two- and three-body interactions. We focus on the propagation of two- and three-particle correlations as well as density distributions for different typical initial states, thereby analyzing the formation of particle pairs and trios for the specific initial states after an evolution time. For the two cases of only considering two-body interaction and including the two- and three-body interactions simultaneously with a fixed strength ratio, we discuss in detail the variations of correlations and density distribution with the interaction strength. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: We aim to determine the risk of acute ischemic stroke in patients with severe and non-severe coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). Methods: A literature search was conducted in the PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library databases until October 28, 2020. Studies covering COVID-19's severity classification data and COVID-19 patients with acute ischemic stroke were included. Two independent evaluators extracted data, and the random effects model was used to calculate the risk ratios (RR) and 95% confidence interval (95% CI) of acute ischemic stroke associated with COVID-19's severity. Results: A total of 8 studies were included, involving 5266 patients. Among all COVID-19 patients, the total incidence of ischemic stroke was 1.76% (95% CI: 0.82–3.01). Severe patients have an increased risk of acute ischemic stroke compared with non-severe patients (RR = 3.53, 95% CI: 2.06–6.07, P < 0.0001; I2 = 12%). This association was also observed when COVID-19's severity was defined by clinical parameters (RR 2.91, 95% CI: 1.17–7.26, P = 0.02; I2 = 29%) and the need for intensive care (RR 4.47, 95% CI: 2.40–8.31, P < 0.0001; I2 = 0%). Conclusions: This meta-analysis shows that the severe course of COVID-19 is associated with an increased risk of acute ischemic stroke. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article titled "Retraction Note: A Porous Ni(II)-MOF for CO2 Cycloaddition and Protective Effect on Type-II Diabetes via Reducing Cell ROS Production and Cell Apoptosis" has been retracted by the Editor-in-Chief and the Publisher of the Journal of Cluster Science. The retraction was prompted by evidence of systematic manipulation of the publication process, including issues with citations, phrasing, figures, and ethics approval statements. The authors have not responded to correspondence regarding the retraction. Springer Nature, the publisher, remains neutral in regards to jurisdictional claims and institutional affiliations. [Extracted from the article]

The solvothermal reaction of the 5-methoxyisophthalic acid (H2mia) ligand and Ni(NO3)2·6H2O affords a new highly porous metal–organic framework {[Ni2(mia)2(H2O)](DMF)4}n (1). The structural composing of the as-prepared complex 1 was determined via the elemental analysis and its structural arrangement was probed via the single crystal analysis. Due to its large porous volume along with the abundant open metal sites, complex 1 could be used as a good catalyst for cyclic addition of carbon dioxide to ring oxides under mild conditions of 1 bar carbon dioxide for high yield synthesis of cyclocarbonates. The protective effect of the complex 1 on Type-II diabetes was further evaluated. The inhibitory effect of compound on pancreatic β-cell apoptosis and cell cycle arrest was determined via Annexin V-FITC/PI assay. The oxidative stress state influenced by compound was determined by DCFH-DA assay. The results obtained from molecular docking and pose scoring software exhibited a possible binding mode of the compound binding to Bcl2, which might provide potential regulation mechanisms for the compound. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The traditional compressed sensing method for improving resolution is realized in the frequency domain. This method is affected by noise, which limits the signal-to-noise ratio and resolution, resulting in poor inversion. To solve this problem, we improved the objective function that extends the frequency domain to the Gaussian frequency domain having denoising and smoothing characteristics. Moreover, the reconstruction of the sparse reflection coefficient is implemented by the mixed L1_L2 norm algorithm, which converts the L0 norm problem into an L1 norm problem. Additionally, a fast threshold iterative algorithm is introduced to speed up convergence and the conjugate gradient algorithm is used to achieve debiasing for eliminating the threshold constraint and amplitude error. The model test indicates that the proposed method is superior to the conventional OMP and BPDN methods. It not only has better denoising and smoothing effects but also improves the recognition accuracy of thin interbeds. The actual data application also shows that the new method can effectively expand the seismic frequency band and improve seismic data resolution, so the method is conducive to the identification of thin interbeds for beach-bar sand reservoirs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) constitutes nearly 85% of all cases of lung cancer. Drug resistance, dose-limiting toxicity, and metastasis in NSCLC eventually reduce the efficacy of chemotherapeutics. In this study, we have shown that the methanol-ethyl acetate partitioned fraction from Magnolia grandiflora L. seeds (MEM) exhibit potential anti-cancer activities against NSCLC H1975 cells in vivo and in vitro. MEM significantly inhibited the proliferation of H1975 cells in a concentration- and time-dependent manner. Further, MEM exhibited potent anti-tumor efficacy and low toxicity in nude mice bearing H1975 tumors. Our study also showed that MEM could induce cellular apoptosis in H1975 cells by down-regulating the protein expression levels of Akt and p-Akt-473, and by increasing the ratio of Bax/Bcl-2. Also, MEM significantly inhibited metastasis-related cell invasion and migration of H1975 cells, which associated with the down-regulation of HIF-1α, MMP-2, and MMP-9 protein expression levels. Thus, our data shows that MEM may be an effective fraction of M. grandiflora in NSCLC treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The crystal structures of zinc complexes 1 and 3 were determined following synthesis via a one-pot method involving the reaction of 2-hydro-6-methyl-nicotinonitrile and 2-cyanopyridine with different l-amino alcohols mediated by 120–130 mol% ZnCl2. Copper complex 4 and cobalt complex 5 were prepared by reacting (R)/(S)-a-phenylethylamine with dimethyl dichloride silane in the presence of 52 mol% CuCl2 or 50 mol% CoCl2 as the third components. Crystalline compounds 1–5 were all characterized by elemental analysis, IR and NMR spectroscopies, and X-ray diffraction. Then, complexes 1 and 3–5 were evaluated for cytotoxicity against the human tumor cell line SMMC-7721 and were also used as catalysts in the nucleophilic addition reaction of trimethylsilonitrile with diphenylketimine. Both complexes exhibited anticancer activity against the human tumor cell line SMMC-7721 and showed enhanced catalytic effects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Accumulating evidence indicates that the zinc-finger transcription factor ZEB1 is predominantly expressed in the stroma of several tumours. However, the role of stromal ZEB1 in tumour progression remains unexplored. In this study, while interrogating human databases, we uncover a remarkable decrease in relapse-free survival of breast cancer patients expressing high ZEB1 levels in the stroma. Using a mouse model of breast cancer, we show that ZEB1 inactivation in stromal fibroblasts suppresses tumour initiation, progression and metastasis. We associate this with reduced extracellular matrix remodeling, immune cell infiltration and decreased angiogenesis. ZEB1 deletion in stromal fibroblasts increases acetylation, expression and recruitment of p53 to FGF2/7, VEGF and IL6 promoters, thereby reducing their production and secretion into the surrounding stroma. Importantly, p53 ablation in ZEB1 stroma-deleted mammary tumours sufficiently recovers the impaired cancer growth and progression. Our findings identify the ZEB1/p53 axis as a stroma-specific signaling pathway that promotes mammary epithelial tumours. In epithelial cells Zeb1 is involved in the epithelial to mesenchymal transition. In this study, the authors show in a mouse model of breast cancer, that Zeb1 expression in stromal cells is required for tumour formation and metastasis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hypoxia inducible factor-1α (HIF-1α) plays a central role in cell survival, invasion, metastasis and angiogenesis, and also is emerging as an important target in anti-cancer drug discovery. In the present study, bishonokiol A, a dimeric neolignan isolated from Magnolia grandiflora, was identified as a novel HIF-1α inhibitor. We here demonstrated that in a dose-dependent manner, bishonokiol A inhibited metastasis-related cell invasion and migration of cobalt chloride (CoCl2)-induced MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231 cells, associating with the reduction in HIF-1α levels. Transfection of MDA-MB-231 cells with HIF-1α small interfering ribonucleic acid (siRNA) resulted in a reduction in cell invasion and migration. Furthermore, we found that bishonokiol A not only inhibited the synthesis of HIF-1α protein and protein kinase B (AKT-473) phosphorylation without affecting the expression of HIF-1α mRNA or ubiquitination degradation, but also inhibited the expression of matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9) and promoter activity. Nude mice bearing MDA-MB-231 cells incubation were treated with bishonokiol A and results showed that bishonokiol A exhibited potent antitumor activity and low toxicity. Therefore, we suggest that bishonokiol A may be a potential inhibitor of HIF-1α and effective antitumor agent for breast cancer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Journal of Central South University is the property of Springer Nature and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Journal of Central South University is the property of Springer Nature and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Pulsed laser welding of Ti alloy to stainless steel (SS) has been applied without filler metal. When the laser beam was focused on the Ti alloy-SS interface, large volumes of Ti-Fe intermetallics were formed in the joint. These Ti-Fe intermetallics were highly brittle, causing the joint to crack spontaneously after welding. The brittle coarse Ti-Fe intermetallics seriously deteriorates the joint strength of Ti alloy and SS; therefore, it is necessary to control the quantities and distributions of brittle Ti-Fe intermetallics in the joint. The amount of melted base materials was controlled by changing laser offset to control the melted proportion and thus control the quantity and distribution of brittle Ti-Fe intermetallics in weld. When laser beam was on the SS side, melting amount of Ti alloy in weld was decreased. When laser beam was on the Ti alloy side, melting amount of SS in weld was decreased. When the laser offset was 0.35 mm away from SS side, the sample realizes the effective connection between Ti alloy and SS. A compound layer was formed at the SS side with the main microstructure of β-Ti and TiFe2. The joint fractured at the compound layer with the maximum tensile strength of 182 MPa. Microstructures and mechanical properties of joints were improved by changing laser offset. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Joining Ti3Al-based alloy to Ni-based superalloy is of great interest for applications in the aerospace fields. Direct welding of these two materials was very difficult and the joint usually fractured during laser welding which cannot form an effective welding joint. In this work, a pure titanium interlayer with a thickness of 0.4 mm was used between the base metals. The results indicated that the addition of titanium interlayer has a great effect on the joint performance. No macrocracks were found through the whole joint. The average room-temperature tensile strength of the joint with titanium was 177 MPa which still much lower than the two base metals. The weak link of the dissimilar joint was the Ti3Al/weld interface. The presence of Ti2Ni, α2-Ti3Al and AlNi2Ti brittle intermetallic compounds in the Ti3Al/weld interface deteriorated the joint properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new diterpenoid, 19-O-β-D-glucopyranosyl-labda-8(17),14-dien-13-ol (1), and nine known triterpenes (2-10) were isolated from the aerial parts of Tripterygium hypoglaucum. All structures were elucidated by NMR spectroscopic methods. Moreover, the inhibition of superoxide anion generation and elastase release were also examined. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Increased circulating syncytiotrophoblast microparticles (STBMs) are often associated with preeclampsia (PE) but the molecular mechanisms regulating STBM shedding remain elusive. Experimental evidence has shown that actin plays a key role in STBM shedding and that Rho/ROCK is important in regulating actin rearrangement. To investigate the role of RhoB/ROCK-regulated actin arrangement in STBM shedding in PE, chorionic villous explants were prepared from placenta of patients with normotensive or PE pregnancies and BeWo cells were fused to imitate syncytiotrophoblasts. The oxygen-glucose deprivation (OGD) conditions were applied to imitate the pathophysiology of PE in vitro. The results showed that RhoB and ROCK were activated in the preeclamptic placenta, accompanied by increased actin polymerization and decreased outgrowing microvilli. In villous tissue cultures or BeWo cells, OGD activated RhoB, ROCK1 and ROCK2 and promoted STBM shedding and actin stress fibers formation. In BeWo cells, RhoB overexpression activated ROCK1 and ROCK2, leading to F-actin redistribution and STBM shedding and the OGD-induced actin polymerization and STBM shedding could be reversed by RhoB or ROCK knockdown. These results reveal that RhoB and ROCK play a key role in PE by targeting STBM shedding through actin rearrangement and that RhoB/ROCK intervention may be a potential therapeutic strategy for PE. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Two new ursane-type triterpenoid saponins, bodiniosides M ( 1) and N ( 2), along with three known saponins, oblonganosides I ( 3), pseudobuxussaponin B ( 4) and bodinioside A ( 5), were isolated from the aerial parts of Elsholtzia bodinieri. The structures of compounds 1 and 2 were characterized by spectroscopic data as well as acid hydrolysis and GC analysis as 3- O- β- d-xylopyranosyl-19α-hydroxy-23-acetoxy-urs-12(13)-en-28-oic acid 28- O-α- l-rhamnopyranosyl-(1-2)- β- d-glucopyranoside and 3- O- β- d-glucopyranosyl-2α,19α-dihydroxy-urs-12(13)-en-28,20 β-lactone. Compounds 1 and 5 exhibited potent anti-HCV activities in vitro with a selective index of 6.53 and 4.41, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Two water-soluble monophosphine [PPh and 2-dicyclohexylphosphino-2′,6′-dimethoxybiphenyl(Sphos)]-palladacycles containing hydroxymethyl groups 2- 3 were prepared by cyclopalladation and chloride bridge-splitting reactions. The complexes were characterized by elemental analysis, ESI-MS and NMR. In addition, single-crystal X-ray analysis reveals that they have one-dimensional lamellar structures involving intermolecular hydrogen bonds and π- π interactions. The use of these palladacycles as catalysts for amination and Suzuki coupling of aryl chlorides in water was investigated. Complex 3 was found to be very efficient for these coupling reactions. Additionally, it was also successfully used in Suzuki coupling of (hydroxymethyl)phenylboronic acid for the synthesis of substituted 2- N-heterocyclic biarylmethanols. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

By applying the conjugate gradient method in the evaluation of three-qubit's three-tangle, the genuine tripartite entanglement dynamics and transfer for a triple Jaynes-Cummings model is investigated numerically. In the triple Jaynes-Cummings model, three entangled atoms A, B and C locally interact with independent cavities a, b and c, respectively. By choosing two types of Greenberger-Horne-Zeilinger (GHZ)-like states as atomic initial states, we show the time evolutions of three-tangle for all non-interaction three-qubit subsystems and find that genuine tripartite entanglement dynamical behavior depends on the type of atomic initial state. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Glycosylation is often used to improve a natural product's properties such as water solubility, chemical stability, pharmacological potency, and structure diversification. In this study, we studied the enzymatic synthesis of novel isobavachalcone glucosides using a UDP-glycosyltransferase (YjiC) from Bacillus licheniformis DSM-13. The chemical structures of compounds 1 and 2 were elucidated by spectroscopic techniques, including LC-MS, MS, and NMR. Meanwhile, the parameters of glycosylation reaction such as incubation time, UDP-glucose concentration, and pH of buffer were also optimized during this study. Furthermore, the compounds 1 and 2 exhibited weak anti-proliferative activities against five human cancer cell lines, with IC values ranging from 58.6 to 86.6 μM. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Two 2-dicyclohexylphosphino-2′,6′-dimethoxybiphenyl (Sphos) adducts of cyclopalladated arylpyrazine complexes have been synthesized and characterized. Additionally, the structures of both complexes were determined by single-crystal X-ray analysis. These palladacycles are fluorescent in CHCl at room temperature. They have been applied to the double Suzuki coupling of N-heteroaryl halides with 1,4-benzenediboronic acid, giving the desired products in good yields. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new silver coordination polymer [Ag(BPTC)] has been synthesized by solvothermal reaction of AgNO and HBPTC. The X-ray crystal structural analysis indicates that 1 is a 2D coordinated framework, which contains argentophilic interactions and Ag-C interactions. The thermal stability and luminescent properties were also investigated. In addition, it was found to be efficient catalyst for the Sonogashira reaction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bioassay-guided fractionation of the MeOH extract of Magnolia grandiflora seeds resulted in the isolation of a new dimeric neolignan, named bishonokiol A ( 1), as well as two known neolignans magnolol ( 2) and honokiol ( 3). The structures of the compounds were determined on the basis of data obtained using NMR and MS. Bishonokiol A ( 1) showed potent anti-proliferative activities in four human cancer cell lines, with IC values ranging from 5.1 to 7.5 µM. Additionally, bishonokiol A ( 1) induced apoptosis, as well as down-regulated the expression of the anti-apoptotic protein Bcl-2 and caspase-3 cleavage in HepG2 cell line. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Truffle ( Tuber spp.), also known as 'underground gold,' is popular in various cuisines because of its unique and characteristic aroma. Currently, truffle fruiting bodies are mostly obtained from nature and semi-artificial cultivation. However, the former source is scarce, and the latter is time-consuming, usually taking 4 to 12 years before harvest of the fruiting body. The truffle submerged fermentation process was first developed in Tang's lab as an alternative to its fruiting bodies. To the best of our knowledge, most reports of truffle submerged fermentation come from Tang's group. This review examines the current state of the truffle submerged fermentation process. First, the strategy to optimize the truffle submerged fermentation process is summarized; the final conditions yielded not only the highest reported truffle biomass but also the highest production of extracellular and intracellular polysaccharides. Second, the comparison of metabolites produced by truffle fermentation and fruiting bodies is presented, and the former were superior to the latter. Third, metabolites (i.e., volatile organic compounds, equivalent umami concentration, and sterol) derived from truffle fermentation could be regulated by fermentation process optimization. These findings indicated that submerged fermentation of truffles can be used for commercial production of biomass and metabolites as a promising alternative to generating its fruiting bodies in bioreactor. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The identification of the complete repertoire of functional peptides in a cell is ultimately essential for a systems-wide understanding of its behavior. There have indeed been a plethora of studies purportedly designed to this end. However, these studies in fact routinely overlook a potentially significant portion of their data that might encode for peptides that are smaller than 100 amino acids. This is largely owing to technical reasons associated with the difficulty of distinguishing, with statistical significance, a coding sequence of this length from a non-coding sequence. Recently, a growing number of studies have shown that there are indeed many small open reading frame (sORF) encoded peptides that play important roles in a wide range of different biological processes. As such, there is now significant interest in methodologies that can be used to identify this drastically neglected portion of the cellular proteome. In this review, we introduce the presently known annotated sORFs and describe the new strategies that have been used to determine the coding sORFs, genome-wide. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With the accomplishment of the genome draft sequences, identification of functional elements in genome has become an urgent task. Full-length cDNAs provide an important resource for gene identification and their precise structural feature determination. It also provides a basis for genomic element definition. As many regulatory elements are around transcription start sites (TSSs), precise localization of TSSs in the genome becomes a critical step for identifying the associated core promoters. Massive parallel snapshot of TSSs at a particular time under a specific experimental condition makes it possible to globally analyze important regulatory elements around TSSs and further construct transcriptional regulatory networks. In this paper, we first reviewed two important full-length cDNA cloning techniques: cap-trapper technique and oligo-capping technique. Then, we introduced deepCAGE, a cap-trapper and deep sequencing-based TSS profiling technique, and its applications in the research of transcriptional regulation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Knowledge of variability in climatic variables changes and its impact on crop yields is important for farmers and policy makers, especially in southwestern China where rainfed agriculture is dominant. In the current study, six climatic parameters (mean temperature, rainfall, relative humidity, sunshine hours, temperature difference, and rainy days) and aggregated yields of three main crops (rice: Oryza sativa L., oilseed rape: Brassica napus L., and tobacco: Nicotiana tabacum L.) during 1985-2010 were collected and analyzed for Chongqing-a large agricultural municipality of China. Climatic variables changes were detected by Mann-Kendall test. Increased mean temperature and temperature difference and decreased relative humidity were found in annual and oilseed rape growth time series ( P < 0.05). Increased sunshine hours were observed during the oilseed rape growth period ( P < 0.05). Rainy days decreased slightly in annual and oilseed rape growth time series ( P < 0.10). Correlation analysis showed that yields of all three crops could benefit from changes in climatic variables in this region. Yield of rice increased with rainfall ( P < 0.10). Yield of oilseed rape increased with mean temperature and temperature difference but decreased with relative humidity ( P < 0.01). Tobacco yield increased with mean temperature ( P < 0.05). Path analysis provided additional information about the importance and contribution paths of climatic variables to crop yields. Temperature difference and sunshine hours had higher direct and indirect effects via other climatic variables on yields of rice and tobacco. Mean temperature, relative humidity, rainy days, and temperature difference had higher direct and indirect effects via others on yield of oilseed rape. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fifty-two polysaccharides were isolated from the fermentation systems of Tuber melanosporum, Tuber indicum, Tuber sinense, Tuber aestivum and the fruiting bodies of Tuber indicum, Tuber himalayense, Tuber sinense by elution with an activated carbon column. Polysaccharides from Tuber fermentation system exhibited relatively higher in vitro antitumor activity against HepG2, A549, HCT-116, SK-BR-3, and HL-60 cells than those from Tuber fruiting bodies. All polysaccharides were mainly composed of d-mannose, d-glucose, and d-galactose, which suggested that the polysaccharides from Tuber fruiting bodies and fermentation system have identical chemical compositions. The results of antitumor activity and structural identification indicated that the polysaccharide fractions could promote antitumor activity. Tuber polysaccharides from Tuber fermentation system exhibited relatively higher than that from Tuber fruiting bodies. These results confirm the potential of Tuber fermentation mycelia for use as an alternative resource for its fruiting bodies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tuber melanosporum is highly appreciated in culinary contexts due to its unique and characteristic aroma. T. melanosporum fermentation has been established as a promising alternative for fruiting bodies to produce volatile organic compounds (VOCs). In this work, a technique using a combination of chromatographic fingerprint similarity analysis, head-space solid phase microextraction and gas chromatography was developed to rank the significance of fermentation conditions on the VOCs profile during T. melanosporum fermentation. Omission tests indicated that the absence of major carbon source (i.e., sucrose) in the fermentation media had the most significant effect on the profile of VOCs, followed by the absence of yeast extract or peptone. Consideration of the culture conditions revealed that VOCs produced was the most significantly affected by temperature. These results indicated that it is possible to adjust the aroma of truffles via fermentation process control. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tuber melanosporum, known as the black diamond of cuisine, is highly appreciated for its unique and characteristic aroma, which is mainly due to its volatile organic sulfur-containing compounds (VOSCs). In this work, by adding 5 g/L  l-methionine to the fermentation medium, the activities of aminotransferase and α-ketoacid decarboxylase were significantly enhanced by 103 and 250 %, respectively, while the activities of alcohol dehydrogenase and demethiolase were decreased by 277 and 39 %. Then, the six VOSCs, i.e., methanethiol (MTL), dimethyl sulfide (DMS), dimethyl disulfide (DMDS), dimethyl trisulfide (DMTS), 3-(methylthio)propanal (methional), and 3-(methylthio)-1-propanol (methionol), were first detected in the submerged fermentation of T. melanosporum. These results indicated that the biosynthesis of VOSCs was triggered by aminotransferase and α-ketoacid decarboxylase. The production of methional and methionol increased with the increased concentrations of l-methionine (i.e., 5, 10, 15, and 20 g/L) before day 4 of the culture protocol, and methionol was the major product in the Ehrlich pathway. The production of MTL was significantly decreased after day 4 with a significantly increased DMDS, and DMDS was the major product of the demethiolation pathway. Compared with the demethiolation pathway with a total flux of sulfur of 11.33–24.32 μM, the Ehrlich pathway with a total flux of sulfur of 6,149–10,330 μM was considered the major pathway for the biosynthesis of VOSCs. This is the first report linking the metabolism of l-methionine to the biosynthesis of VOSCs by the Ehrlich and demethiolation pathways during the submerged fermentation of T. melanosporum. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Qe report a new compound, namely [Zn(BTC)(NO)(DMA)], with 1,3,5-benzenetricarboxylic acid (HBTC) and N, N′-dimethylacetamide (DMA) by the solvothermal method. The compound is characterized by elemental analysis, thermal analysis and X-ray diffraction (XRD). Single crystal XRD analysis reveals that the compound is an extended three-dimensional framework containing dinuclear [Zn(COO)] units as building blocks and can be simplified into a 3-connected srs topological network. There are two kinds of graceful helical chains with opposite chirality. The compound exhibits strong photoluminescent properties at room temperature. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To determine the effect of berberine (Ber) on norepinephrine (NE)-induced apoptosis in neonatal rat cardiomyocytes. Methods: The cultured neonatal rat cardiomyocytes were treated with NE in the presence or absence of Ber. The activity of lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) in the culture medium was examined, and apoptosis of cardiomyocytes was assessed by Hoechst 33258, isothiocyanate (FITC)-conjugated annexin-V, and propidine iodide (PI) staining. In addition, the activities of caspases-2 and-3 were measured by a fluorescent assay kit. The level of secreted tumor necrosis factor α (TNF-α) and production of intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) were also determined. Results: NE at a concentration of 50 μ mol/L induced an obvious increase in the activity of LDH in the culture medium ( P<0.05), which was inhibited by coincubation with 0.5, 1.0, or 2.0 μ mol/L Ber ( P<0.05). Ber also significantly attenuated NE-induced apoptosis in a dose-dependent manner ( P<0.01). Moreover, Ber at a dose of 2 μ mol/L markedly decreased the ROS and TNF-α productions ( P <0.05) and inhibited the activation of caspases-2 and -3 in cardiomyocytes exposed to NE ( P<0.05)h. Conclusion: The present study suggested that Ber could reduce NE-induced apoptosis in neonatal rat cardiomyocytes through inhibiting the ROS-TNF-α-caspase signaling pathway. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Two new metal-organic entangled frameworks, namely [Cd(FA)(bix)(HO)]· nNO ( 1) and [Cd(FA)(bib)(HO)] ( 2) (FA = fumaric acid, bix = 4,4′-bis(imidazol-1-ylmethyl)benzene, bib = 1,4-bis(imidazolyl)butane), have been successfully hydrothermally synthesized through mixed ligands strategy. Single crystal X-ray diffraction analysis reveal that 1 is a 2D → 3D polycatenated framework, while 2 is a triply interpenetrated 4-connected dia topological net. Moreover, both compounds exhibit intense luminescence emission at room temperature. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Two air-stable N-heterocyclic carbene (NHC) adducts of cyclopalladated ferrocenylpyridine containing chloride or iodide anions 2- 3 have been easily prepared from the bridge-splitting reaction of the palladacyclic dimer 1 and anion exchange reaction, respectively. They were characterized by elemental analysis, IR, H, and C NMR. Additionally, the structures of these complexes were determined by single-crystal X-ray analysis. These adducts have been successfully applied to the coupling of terminal alkynes with arylboronic acids under atmospheric conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new phenolic glycoside, 3′-keto rhododendrin ( 1) and a new sesquilignan, alutaceuol ( 2), together with twelve known phenolic compounds, were isolated from the leaves of Rhododendron alutaceum. Their structures were elucidated by extensive spectroscopic data analysis and comparison with literature values. In addition, the detailed analysis of 2D NMR data led us to conclude that the chemical shifts of dihydrobuddlenol B ( 5) need to be revised. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A method using distillation-solid-phase extraction coupled with gas chromatography and flame ionization detector was developed for assaying the major volatile organic compounds (VOCs) (i.e., 3-methyl-1-butanol, 2-methyl-1-butanol, and 2-phenylethanol) in the Tuber melanosporum fermentation system. Satisfied linearity, precision, accuracy, and recovery obtained in the method validation test indicate that the method was simple, accurate, and reproducible. Furthermore, the developed analytical method was used for the dynamic monitoring of the T. melanosporum fermentation process, and the highest amount of major VOCs was occurred on days 9 and 10. This method can be employed to monitor the VOCs in the fermentation process and thus to evaluate the VOC quality of the truffle fermentation system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The dissolved oxygen tension of 20% of air saturation, pH-shift from 4.0 to 5.5 on day 3, and a moderate shear stress (calculated as an impeller tip speed, $$ V_{\text{tip}} = 0. 9 2 6- 2. 1 6 1 \, {\text{m}}/{\text{s}} $$) were identified to be the key factors in scaling-up the mated fermentation of Blakeslea trispora NRRL 2895 (+) and 2896 (−) for lycopene production from a shake flask to a stirred-tank fermenter. The maximal lycopene production of 183.3 mg/L was obtained in 7.5-L stirred-tank fermenter, and then the mated fermentation process was successfully step-wise scaled-up from 7.5- to 200-L stirred-tank fermenter. The comparability of the fermentation process was well controlled and the lycopene production was maintained during the process scale-up. Furthermore, with the integrated addition of 150 μmol/L abscisic acid on day 3, 0.5 g/L leucine and 0.1 g/L penicillin on day 4, the highest lycopene production of 270.3 mg/L was achieved in the mated fermentation of B. trispora in stirred-tank fermenter. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The mated fermentation process for the production of lycopene by Blakeslea trispora NRRL 2895 (+) and NRRL 2896 (−) was systematically optimized in shake flasks. The ratio of the (+) to (−) strains, the lycopene cyclase inhibitors piperidine and creatinine, the trisporic acid structural analog abscisic acid, the 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl-coenzyme A (HMG-CoA) precursor leucine, and the mevalonate kinase enhancer penicillin were all identified as key factors affecting lycopene biosynthesis. With an optimal ratio of 5:1 for the (+) to (−) strains and the addition of 6 g/L creatinine on day 3, the highest lycopene production was 98.1 ± 15.5 mg/L. Based on the above result, the addition of 0.1 g/L penicillin on day 4, 150 μmol/L abscisic acid on day 3 or 0.5 g/L leucine on day 4 enhanced lycopene production to 119.7 ± 17.2, 120.6 ± 12.3 and 135.2 ± 7.0 mg/L, respectively. Finally, an integrated strategy by combining the above key factors was developed, and the highest lycopene production of 156.2 ± 15.4 mg/L was obtained, which was enhanced by 134.9% comparing with its production of 66.5 ± 3.6 mg/L before the optimization process of this work. The results obtained in this study may be useful for large-scale industrial lycopene production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A neutralizing agent combination strategy was developed to enhance the succinic acid production by Actinobacillus succinogenes ATCC 55618. First, a maximal succinic acid production of 48.2 g/L was obtained at a culture pH of 7.5. Second, NaOH and KOH were screened to identify the optimal neutralizing agent for pH control. However, the production of succinic acid did not increase, and severe cell flocculation was observed due to a high concentration of metal ions when only one neutralizing agent was used to control pH. Finally, a neutralizing agent combination strategy was developed with a supply of neutralizing agents with OH and carbonate. The cell flocculation was eliminated, and a maximum succinic acid production of 59.2 g/L was obtained with 5 M NaOH and 40 g/L of MgCO; this production was 27.9% higher than that obtained with NaOH alone. The results obtained in this study may be useful for the large-scale industrial production of succinic acid. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aroma active compounds of three Tuber fruiting bodies (i.e., Tuber himalayense, Tuber indicum, and Tuber sinense) were firstly systematically evaluated by instrumental gas chromatography-olfactometry combining with quantitative analysis, aroma reconstitution, and omission tests. Twelve aroma active compounds were characterized by aroma extract dilution analysis, and 3-(methylthio) propanal, 3-methylbutanal, and 1-octen-3-ol with the highest flavor dilution (FD) factor (i.e., 1,024-2,048) were suggested as key contributors to the aroma. Odor activity value (OAV) was employed to determine the relative contribution of each compound to the aroma, and the compound with the highest FD factor also had the highest OAV (i.e., 10,234-242,951). Then, the synthetic blends of odorants (aroma reconstitution) were prepared with OAV larger than 15, and their aromas were very similar to the originals. Omission tests were carried out to verify the significance of 3-(methylthio) propanal, 1-octen-3-ol, and 3-methylbutanal as key compounds in the aroma of tested Tuber fruiting bodies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Manipulation of product heterogeneity was attempted by using yeast extract as nitrogen source in Alternaria alternata S-f6 transformation process of 4′-demethylepipodophyllotoxin. When the nitrogen source of NaNO was replaced by yeast extract, the heterogeneity of biotransformation products was significantly varied from a single product (i.e., 4′-demethylpodophyllotoxone) to four podophyllum derivates. According to the kinetics of 4′-demethylepipodophyllotoxin biotransformation process by A. alternata S-f6, the starting substrate of 4′-demethylepipodophyllotoxin was preferentially transformed to produce 4′-demethylpodophyllotoxone ( 1) with an oxidation reaction. By the further comparison of products configuration, 4β-caprinoyl-4′-demethylepipodophyllotoxin ( 3) was produced from 4′-demethylpodophyllotoxone ( 1) instead of 4′-demethylisopicropodophyllone ( 2), which might be produced from 4′-demethylpodophyllotoxone ( 1) with the isomerization of lactone. Finally, 4′-demethylisopicropodophyllone ( 2) was hydrolyzed to produce 3α-hydroxymethyl-(6, 7)-dioxol-4-one-naphthalene ( 4). This work shows new information on the 4′-demethylepipodophyllotoxin biotransformation process by A. alternata S-f6 and provides a foundation for further studies on the structural diversification of a bioactive natural lead compound. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim:To investigate the mechanisms responsible for the protective action of berberine (Ber) against gut damage in endotoxemic mice.Methods:Male BALB/c mice were administered intragastrically with distilled water (0.1 mL/10 g), Ber (50 mg/kg) alone, yohimbine (2 mg/kg) alone, or Ber (50mg/kg) in combination with yohimbine (2 mg/kg) for 3 d. On the third day, lipopolysaccharide (LPS, 18 mg/kg) or normal saline was intraperitoneally injected one hour after the intragastric administration. Following the treatment, intestinal injury in the ileum was histopathologically accessed; enterocyte apoptosis was examined using TUNEL method; Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) mRNA expression was measured using RT-PCR assay; inhibitor protein-κBα (I-κBα) phosphorylation and myeloperoxidase content were examined using Western blloting. The macrophage inflammatory protein-2 (MIP-2) production was measured using ELISA assay.Results:Mice challenged with LPS caused extensive ileum injury, including a significantly increased injury score, decreased intestinal villus height, reduced gut mucosal weight and increased intestinal permeability. Furthermore, LPS significantly induced enterocyte apoptosis, increased TLR4 mRNA expression, I-κBα phosphorylation, MIP-2 production and myeloperoxidase content in the ileum. Pretreatment with Ber significantly alleviated all the alterations in the ileum in the endotoxemic mice. Pretreatment with the α2-adrenoceptor antagonist yohimbine did not block the protective action of Ber against LPS-induced intestinal injury. In addition, treatment with yohimbine alone did not prevent LPS-induced intestinal injury.Conclusion:Pretreatment with Ber provides significant protection against LPS-induced intestinal injury in mice, via reducing enterocyte apoptosis, inhibiting the TLR4-nuclear factor κB-MIP-2 pathway and decreasing neutrophil infiltration that are independent of α2-adrenoceptors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A series of Mn-doped TiO2 nanowires (NWs) were prepared by hydrothermal method at the mole fraction of Mn changing from 0 to 12.0%. X-ray powder diffraction (XRD) analysis shows that all the samples have pure anatase structure. SEM and TEM studies show that the diameter and the length of the Mn-doped TiO2 NWs are larger than those of the undoped TiO2 NWs. Energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX) reveals that the samples are composed of Ti, Mn and O. According to magnetization measurements, all samples show ferromagnetic behavior, but only the undoped TiO2 NWs are completely ferromagnetic with a saturated magnetization about 1.0 mA·m2/kg. Mn-doped TiO2 samples exhibit antiferromagnetic and ferromagnetic (AF-FM) behaviors simultaneously. Photoluminescence (PL) spectra demonstrate the existence of MnO2 sublattice. These observations indicate that an AF-WF crossover is induced by the coexistence of TiO2 sublattice and MnO2 sublattice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]