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Background: Chronic actinic dermatitis (CAD) is an immune‐mediated photodermatosis characterized by a high eosinophil count and total immunoglobulin E (IgE) in the peripheral blood of patients. At present, however, the reasons for their elevation remain unclear. Objective: The current study aimed to detect changes in inflammatory cytokines in CAD and explore their role in this disease. Methods: Enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay and Luminex assay were conducted to measure inflammatory factor levels. Immunohistochemical analysis and quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction were performed to evaluate the expression levels of interleukin‐36γ (IL‐36γ), IL‐8, chemokine (C‐C motif) ligand 17 (CCL17), and CCL18. CCK8 kits were used to assess cell proliferation. Immunofluorescence was used to detect nuclear factor κB (NF‐κB) p65 nuclear translocation. Western blot analysis was performed to detect the protein expression level of phosphorylated NF‐κB (p‐NF‐κB) p65. Hematoxylin and eosin and Masson trichrome staining were applied to observe histological changes in a chronic photo‐damaged mouse model. Results: Eosinophils, total IgE, IL‐36γ, IL‐8, tumor necrosis factor α, CCL17, and CCL18 were elevated in CAD. Of note, IL‐36γ promoted the proliferation of eosinophilic cells (EOL‐1) and the production of IgE in peripheral blood mononuclear cells. IL‐36γ also promoted the production of IL‐8 and CCL18 in immortalized human keratinocytes (HaCaT cells), while ultraviolet radiation (UVR)‐induced IL‐36γ via activation of the NF‐κB signaling pathway. Conclusions: IL‐36γ was involved in the pathogenesis of CAD and UVR contributed to the production of IL‐36γ, which may provide a novel therapeutic target for CAD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We present here a novel strategy for the chemical recycling of bio-based poly(ethylene furanoate)s (PEF) to value-added high-performance bio-based poly(ethylene-co-isosorbide furanoate) (PEIF) copolyesters by the combination of cyclodepolymerization method with rapid cascade polycondensation-coupling ring-opening polymerization (PROP). The solution cyclodepolymerization of commercially available PEF affords cyclic oligo(ethylene 2,5-furandicarboxylate)s (COEFs), and the effects of reaction conditions on the yield of COEFs were studied. PEIF copolyesters with different isosorbide (IS) contents were synthesized via the cascade PROP of COEFs with IS, which show significant enhanced glass transition temperature. By melt spinning, PEIF fibers with different orientation factors were prepared, with excellent thermal stability and mechanical performance. The obtained PEIF fibers can lift a weight ∼25000 times higher than its weight. The PEIF fibers are stable under ambient conditions but are biodegradable following the "surface erosion" mechanism. These sustainable value-added biodegradable PEIF fibers offer a solution to the environmentally friendly fibers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Chronic actinic dermatitis (CAD) is an immune‐mediated photo‐allergic skin disease. In the clinic, the treatment of this disease is hampered by the lack of proper understanding of the skin barrier dysfunction mechanism. Objective: To illuminate the mechanism of skin barrier dysfunction in CAD. Methods: Transcriptome sequencing and protein profiling were used to detect skin barrier injury‐related genes. RNA pull down, a promoter‐reporter gene assay, and chromatin isolation by RNA purification‐sequencing were used to elucidate the effect of WAKMAR2 in skin barrier functionality. Results: Transcriptome sequencing from patient's tissues showed a significantly decreased expression of WAKMAR2. Down‐regulation of WAKMAR2 destroyed the keratinocyte barrier. Moreover, WAKMAR2 can directly bind to the c‐Fos protein. This novel long non‐coding RNA (LncRNA)‐protein complexes were targeted to the CLDN1 promotor. Overexpression of WAKMAR2 enhanced the promoter activity of CLDN1, while the addition of AP‐1 inhibitor could reverse this phenomenon. Furthermore, our in vivo results suggested that expression of WAKMAR2 was required for the repair of skin damage in mice induced by ultraviolet irradiation. Conclusions: We identified a crucial LncRNA (WAKMAR2) for the protection of the skin barrier in vitro and in vivo. Mechanically, it can specifically interact with c‐Fos protein for the regulation of CLDN1, a finding which could be applied for CAD treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Here, sulfonated polyaniline (SPAN) was decorated on the surface of copper-based metal organic frame (HKUST-1) and the composite was functionalized by luminol to construct a chemiluminescence (CL) hybrids (SPAN/HKUST-1@Luminol). The as-prepared SPAN/HKUST-1@Luminol demonstrated a great dispersion and stability performance in aqueous solution. Moreover, the resultant SPAN/HKUST-1@Luminol hybrids exhibited extremely strong CL properties, and the CL quantum yield was 136 times higher than that of luminol. In particular, it exhibited outstanding CL activity not only under alkaline conditions, but also under neutral conditions. The sensitive response of the hybrid to hydrogen peroxide was used to construct CL methods for the detection of hydrogen peroxide at a wide range of pH, with the detection limit of 60 nM at a neutral condition and 25 pM at alkaline condition. Due to strong and stable signal of the SPAN/HKUST-1@Luminol, the CL method provides a viable tool for determination of H 2 O 2 in biological systems and enabled the monitoring of stimulated production of H 2 O 2 released by living cells. SPAN/HKUST-1@Luminol CL hybrid exhibited extremely strong CL properties and the CL signal maintained over a wide range of pH ranges. The resultant CL composite was applied as the probe to directly detect the amount of hydrogen peroxide released after stimulation of living cells under physiological conditions. [Display omitted] • A novel CL hybrid was constructed with luminol attached to the composite of SPAN and HKUST-1. • The as-prepared SPAN/HKUST-1@Luminol demonstrated a great dispersion and stability performance in aqueous solution. • The SPAN/HKUST-1@Luminol hybrid exhibited great luminous efficiency under a wide range of pH conditions. • The CL probe enabled the monitoring of stimulated production of H2O2 released by living cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Foliar stable nitrogen (N) isotopes (δ15N) generally reflect N availability to plants and have been used to infer about changes thereof. However, previous studies of temporal trends in foliar δ15N have ignored the influence of confounding factors, leading to uncertainties on its indication to N availability. In this study, we measured foliar δ15N of 1811 herbarium specimens from 12 plant species collected in southern China forests from 1920 to 2010. We explored how changes in atmospheric CO2, N deposition and global warming have affected foliar δ15N and N concentrations ([N]) and identified whether N availability decreased in southern China. Across all species, foliar δ15N significantly decreased by 0.82‰ over the study period. However, foliar [N] did not decrease significantly, implying N homeostasis in forest trees in the region. The spatiotemporal patterns of foliar δ15N were explained by mean annual temperature (MAT), atmospheric CO2 (PCO2), atmospheric N deposition, and foliar [N]. The spatiotemporal trends of foliar [N] were explained by MAT, temperature seasonality, PCO2, and N deposition. N deposition within the rates from 5.3 to 12.6 kg N ha−1 year−1 substantially contributed to the temporal decline in foliar δ15N. The decline in foliar δ15N was not accompanied by changes in foliar [N] and therefore does not necessarily reflect a decline in N availability. This is important to understand changes in N availability, which is essential to validate and parameterize biogeochemical cycles of N. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The spatially heterogeneous association between built environments and housing prices is crucial for real estate management and urban governance, as it reveals residents' preferences. Despite efforts to refine the factors influencing housing prices, most studies encountered the statistical challenges brought by spatial heterogeneity, and failed to account for a city's internal heterogeneity of potential distinct mechanisms of housing prices by strata. To address this, we developed a comprehensive framework to analyze the relationship between built environments and housing prices in Guangzhou, categorizing the city into three distinct zones: exurban, suburban, and central urban areas, based on multifaceted characteristics variability. The global model shows expected results that distance to the city center and built year are the two most important factors for property prices. However, the influence of environmental visual features outweighs these two features in exurb communities, highlighting the evolving purchasing preferences with people's increasing pursuit of living environment. Additionally, the visual ratio of people and buildings is found significant to housing prices, implying buyers' preferences for "gated communities" characterized by residence complexes and limited external access. Our findings shed light on the contribution of various built environment factors to shaping the spatial pattern of housing prices, which provides potential implications for balancing "livable" built environments and "valuable" land development. • Identify potential determinants and uncover the unique mechanisms across different community strata. • The importance of environmental visual factors increasingly surpasses traditional factors as construction years progress. • Buyers' preferences for "gated communities" are implied by street view of people and buildings in models. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We demonstrate here a novel method for the design of liquid crystals (LCs) via the cyclization of mesogens by flexible chains. For two azobenzene-4,4′-dicarboxylate derivatives, the cyclic dimer, cyclic bis(tetraethylene glycol azobenzene-4,4′-dicarboxylate) (CBTAD), shows LC properties with smectic A phase, while its linear counterpart, bis(2-(2′-hydroxyethyloxy)ethyl azobenzene-4,4′-dicarboxylate (BHAD), has no LC phase. The difference is ascribed to the shackling effect from the cyclic topology, which leads to the much smaller entropy change during phase transitions and increases the isotropic temperature greatly for cyclics. In addition, the trans-to-cis isomerization of azobenzene groups under UV-light is also limited in CBTAD. With the reversible isomerization of azobenzene groups, CBTAD showed interesting isothermal phase transition behaviors, where the LC phase disappeared upon photoirradiation of 365 nm UV-light, and recovered when the UV-light was off. Combined with the smectic LC nature, a novel UV-light tuned visible light regulator was designed, by simply placing CBTAD in two glass plates. The scattered phase of smectic LC was utilized as the "OFF" state for light passage, while the UV-light induced isotropic phase was utilized as the "ON" state. The shackling effect outlined here should be applicable for the design of cyclic LC oligomers/polymers with special properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose. Ultraviolet radiation (UVR) is one of the exogenous stimuli increasing melanogenesis. UV light, especially UVB, is also a potent inducer of epidermal cytokine release. This study is aimed at determining the underlying mechanisms by which UVB-induced cytokines in keratinocytes regulate melanin production in vitro. Methods. Expression levels of mRNA for interleukin- (IL-) 1, IL-1β, IL-6, IL-10, IL-17, and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) were measured using RT-qPCR at various time points after UVB irradiation in C57BL/6 mice and HaCaT cells. NaOH lysis and L-dihydroxyphenylalanine (L-DOPA) oxidation method were used to measure melanin content and tyrosinase (TYR) activity, respectively, in melanoma B16 cells. RT-qPCR and Western blot were used to assess mRNA and protein levels of microphthalmia-associated transcription factor (MITF), TYR, tyrosine-related protein-1 (TRP-1), and tyrosine-related protein-2 (TRP-2) in B16 cells. Finally, expression levels of cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) mRNA and stem cell factor (SCF) in HaCaT cells were measured following knockdown of IL-1β using siRNA (siIL-1β). Results. UVB irradiation increased IL-1β mRNA expression levels in both C57BL/6 mice and HaCaT cells. The melanin content, TYR activity, and expression levels of TYR and TRP-1 were all raised when B16 cells were treated with 4 pg/l of IL-1. Moreover, IL-1β also upregulated the expression levels of SCF and COX-2 in nonirradiated HaCaT cells. Conversely, knockdown of IL-1β attenuated UVB irradiation-induced upregulation of SCF and COX-2 expression in keratinocytes. Conclusions. UVB-induced melanogenesis is mediated in part by IL-1β, leading to upregulation of the TYR/TRP1 expression in melanoma B16 cells. IL-1β can also stimulate the expression of COX-2 and SCF in HaCaT cells, which in turn increase melanin synthesis in melanocytes. These results suggest that anti-inflammatory approaches could possibly mitigate UVB-induced hyperpigmentation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Background: Some studies suggested that Glutathione S-transferases M1/T1(GSTM1/T1) null polymorphisms may be associated with the risk of vitiligo. Aims: The purpose of this study is to further evaluate the association between GSTM1/T1 null polymorphisms and the susceptibility to vitiligo. Methods: We carried out a retrieval of studies in the databases. Odds ratios (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (95% CIs) were used to assess the strength of this association. We analyzed the data using Stata 11.0. Results: Six case–control studies including 1358 cases and 1673 controls were included in this meta-analysis. Our overall results showed the GSTM1 or GSTT1 null polymorphism was associated with vitiligo (GSTM1:OR=1.59, 95% CI: 1.21–2.08, P=0.001; GSTT1: OR=1.30, 95% CI: 1.12–1.51, P=0.001). In the subgroup analysis, the GSTM1 null polymorphism might be a genetic risk factor to vitiligo in East Asian (OR=1.71, 95% CI: 1.12–2.63, P=0.014) but not in the Mediterranean, however individuals with the GSTT1 null polymorphism in the Mediterranean (OR=1.76, 95% CI: 1.15–2.71, P=0.010) but not in East Asian have a greater predisposition to vitiligo. In addition there was also a significant trend toward an association with the combination of the GSTM1 null and GSTT1 null in either East Asians or Mediterraneans. Conclusion: The GSTM1/T1 null polymorphisms may be associated with vitiligo. More studies are needed to confirm this conclusion. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The discrete element method (DEM) has been widely used in landslide research. However, selecting microscopic parameters is complicated due to the diversity and complexity of landslide material composition, induced mechanism and geological conditions. This study proposed an intelligent calibration method of microscopic parameters based on the measured landslide accumulation morphology. Post-sliding accumulation thickness, sliding height difference, sliding distance and accumulation dip were proposed to describe the morphological characteristics of landslide accumulation. Latin hypercube sampling (LHS) was used to establish the training sample set. The surrogate model of the discrete element numerical simulation method was established by combining the relevance vector mechanism (RVM) and the third-generation nondominated sorting genetic algorithm (NSGA-III) to find the nonlinear relationship between the accumulation characteristics after landslide and microscopic parameters. Based on the calibration results, the area that may be affected by landslides was predicted. The results showed that the similarity between the calculated value of the intelligent model and the measured value was 97.49%. The intelligent calibration method had high accuracy and applicability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Due to the poor solubility of aromatic polyesters in common organic solvents, trifluoroacetic acid is usually used as a co-solvent to increase their solubility for characterizations. However, only few studies have reported the side reactions induced by it. We present here the application of in situ1H-NMR techniques to explore its effect on the hydroxyl end-groups, which are usually used for the molecular weight determination of polyesters by end-group estimation method. Using bis(2-hydroxyethyl) terephthalate (BHET) as model compound, 1H quantitative NMR results show the peak integration of hydroxyethyl end-groups decreased with time via a pseudo-first-order kinetics in dtrifluoroacetic acid/d-chloroform mixture solvent (1:10, V:V). This is due to the esterification of hydroxyethyl groups with trifluoroacetic acid, revealed by the 1H-13C gradient-enhanced heteronuclear multiple bond correlation (gHMBC) spectrum. The mixtures of dimethyl terephthalate and BHET with different molar ratios were used to represent poly(ethylene terephthalate) (PET) with different degrees of polymerization, and the effect of trifluoroacetic acid on the estimation of hydroxyethyl groups and subsequent molecular weight determination of polyesters was studied. Our results show that if a relative error of 5% is allowed, the NMR measurements must be finished within 1.3 h of solution preparation at 25 °C in the mixture solvent. The results were confirmed in PET sample, while in poly(ethylene adipate), the obtained esterifaction constant is faster that those in aromatic system. The results can be applied to other polymer systems with alcohol functionalized groups, and used as a guideline for the characterization of polyesters and polyethers by end-group estimation method. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Rosacea is a common chronic inflammatory dermatosis with uncertainty of etiology. Although clinical features and risk factors of the disease in Caucasians have been reported, this information in Chinese is largely unavailable. Aims: To analyze the clinical features and associated risk factors of rosacea in Chinese. Methods: A questionnaire was given to outpatients with rosacea who visited the dermatology department of the first affiliated hospital of Kunming Medical University from June 2018 to March 2019. Analyses included demographic characteristics of subjects, clinical characteristics, and risk factors of rosacea. Results: A total of 254 outpatients completed the questionnaire. The ratio of female to male was 5.68:1.00. The mean age at onset was 31.18 ± 10.23 years. Erythematotelangiectatic subtype accounted for 51.60%, while 39% of the subjects were of papulopustular subtype. The rest were phymatous type (9.40%). Subjects with flushing, persistent facial erythema, and telangiectasia accounted for 91.73%, 90.55%, and 83.07%, respectively. One hundred and thirteen subjects (44.49%) had papules or pustules, and 24 subjects (9.40%) were with phymatous changes. The most commonly involved sites were the cheeks (93.31%), followed by the nose (82.68%), the perioral area (61.42%), and the forehead (51.97%). The clinical symptoms included burning (93.70%), dryness (90.55%), and itching (75.59%). The main risk factors were sun exposure (90.94%), temperature change (87.40%), etc. Fifty‐one (20.08%) patients had comorbidities. Conclusions: Rosacea mainly affects young females. The common signs and symptoms include flushing, persistent facial erythema, and burning. Sun exposure and temperature changes are the common risk factors. Patients can have comorbidities of systemic disorders. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: In this study, solubilization of PAHs from a manufactured gas plant (MGP) soil and two artificially spiked soils using fatty acid methyl esters (FAME) was investigated. PAH removals from both the MGP and the spiked soils by FAME, methanol, soybean oil, hydroxypropyl-β-cyclodextrin, Triton X-100, and Tween 80 were compared. The effect of FAME:MGP soil ratios on PAH removals was also investigated. Results showed that the FAME mixture synthesized by our lab was more efficient than the cyclodextrin and the two surfactants used for PAH removal from the spiked soils with individual PAH concentrations of 200 and 400mgkg−1. However, the difference among three PAH removals by the FAME, soybean oil and methanol was not quite pronounced. The FAME synthesized and market biodiesel exhibited better performance for PAH removals (46% and 35% of total PAH) from the weathered contaminated MGP soil when compared with the other agents (0–31%). Individual PAH removals from the weathered MGP soil were much lower than those from the spiked soils. The percentages of total PAH removals from the MGP soil were 59%, 46%, and 51% for the FAME:MGP soil ratios of 1:2, 1:1, and 2:1, respectively. These results showed that the FAME could be a more attractive alternative to conventional surfactants in ex situ washing of PAH-contaminated soils. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Background: Although the reentrant circuit of typical atrial flutter (AFL) has been well recognized, the activation around the Eustachian ridge (ER) has not been fully characterized. The aim of this study was to delineate the activation patterns around the ER during typical AFL using high-resolution noncontact mapping. Methods: Fifty-three patients (M/F = 43/10, 62 ± 14 years) with typical AFL were included. The high-resolution mapping of the right atrium using a noncontact mapping system during AFL and pacing from the coronary sinus (CS) was performed to evaluate the conduction through the ER. Results: Three types of activation patterns around the ER could be classified according to the ER conduction during AFL and CS pacing. Type I (n = 21, M/F = 16/5, 61 ± 13 years) exhibited conduction block at the ER during AFL and CS pacing. The local unipolar electrograms at the ER exhibited long double potentials (DPs) (109 ± 12 ms, range 77–153 ms) during AFL and CS pacing (84 ± 18 ms, range 48–129 ms). Type II (n = 8, M/F = 7/1, 61 ± 15 years) exhibited conduction block at the ER during AFL, but conduction through the ER during CS pacing. The unipolar electrograms exhibited long DPs (119 ± 12 ms, range 97–141 ms) at the ER during the tachycardia and an rS pattern during CS pacing. Type III (n = 24, M/F = 20/4, 61 ± 16 years) exhibited an activation wavefront that passed along the ER, with the sinus venosa as the posterior barrier during AFL. During CS pacing, all cases exhibited conduction through the ER with an rS pattern. Conclusions: This study is the first to demonstrate the three patterns of activation along the ER during AFL and CS pacing. This finding suggested that the ER is an anatomic and functional barrier during typical AFL. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: A new and simple high-performance liquid chromatography–evaporative light scattering detection (HPLC–ELSD) method for the determination of spectinomycin hydrochloride and its related substances was developed. The column was Agilent SB-C18 (250mm×4.6mm, 5μm).The mobile phase was 25mM trifluoroacetic acid. The drift tube temperature was 40°C. The pressure of nebulizing gas was 3.5bar. Good separation of spectinomycin from main related substances could be achieved. The standard curve was rectilinear in the range of 0.07–3.8mg/ml (r =0.9997). Precision was 1.0% (R.S.D.). The limit of detection was 6μg/ml. The method is simple and rapid, and the results are accurate and reproducible. The HPLC–MS n method was used to characterize the structures of impurities contained in the spectinomycin. In positive mode, impurities were elucidated by use of electrospray ion trap mass spectrometry in the multi-stage MS full scan mode. The possible structures of impurities C and D in spectinomycin were deduced based on the HPLC–MS n data. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

LIN, Y.-J.,et al.: Electrophysiological Mechanisms and Catheter Ablation of Complex Atrial Arrhythmias from Crista Terminalis: Insight from Three-Dimensional Noncontact Mapping. Paroxysmal atrial fibrillation (PAF) can be initiated by ectopic activation from the crista terminalis. The crista terminalis conduction gap is also a critical isthmus in atrial reentrant arrhythmias like upper and lower loop reentry. The aim of this study was to investigate the mechanism and results of catheter ablation for complex atrial arrhythmias originating from the crista terminalis using the noncontact mapping system (NCM). The study population consisted of six patients (5 men, 1 woman; 70± 9 years) with drug refractory PAF and typical/atypical atrial flutter. NCM identified the earliest ectopic activation originating from the crista terminalis in these six patients. The reentry circuit of atypical atrial flutter propagated around the upper crista terminalis in five patients, and lower crista terminalis in one patient. The reentry circuit of atypical atrial flutter and the initial reentry circuit of AF conducted through the crista terminalis gap in all patients. Radiofrequency applications were delivered on the sites of ectopy, which initiated AF. Substrate modification was also performed over the crista terminalis gap (six patients) and cavotricuspid isthmus (three patients) responsible for the reentry. During a mean follow-up of 9± 5 months (range 5–18 months), five patients were free of AF without antiarrhythmic drugs, and one patient did not have AF or atrial flutter using propafenone. NCM demonstrated the mechanism of crista terminalis ectopy-initiating AF and associated typical/atypical atrial flutter. Catheter ablation of crista terminalis ectopy and substrate for the reentry guided by NCM successfully eliminated these atrial arrhythmias.(PACE 2004; 27:1231–1239) [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Oligonucleotide microarray has become one of the most powerful tools in the areas such as genotyping, gene expression, and SNPs detection. However quality control is critical for rapid development of this technology. Several approaches have been attempted to monitor the fabrication steps from oligonucleotide probe printing to data analysis. Yet, quality control methods for presynthesized oligonucleotide probes have not been available. Here we propose a novel approach for the control of the quality of oligonucleotide probes using the technology of denaturing high-performance liquid chromatography (DHPLC). In this work, all possibly existing types of poorly synthesized oligonucleotide probes prepared by artificial method were used to validate the discriminating ability of DHPLC. It was found that DHPLC can not only provide the purity ratio of the oligonucleotide probes accurately, but also detect misincorporation of chemicals in the oligonucleotides such as one base substitution, one base deletion, or failed amino modification which is difficult to be distinguished through routine methods such as PAGE. For 277 oligonucleotide probes, 31% of the probes had a purity ratio of 70% or less. The results indicate that DHPLC can be a practical approach to control the quality of oligonucleotide probes before they are printed to the microarray slides. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Background: Chronic actinic dermatitis (CAD) is a photoallergic skin disease with abnormal hyperplasia. At present, the mechanism of abnormal proliferation is not clear. Objective: To explore possible mechanism of CAD proliferative lesions. Methods: Immunohistochemistry (IHC) assay and small RNA sequencing were carried out. Quantitative real‐time PCR (qRT‐PCR) analysis was performed to evaluate expression levels of hsa‐miR‐221‐3p and FOS. The interaction between hsa‐miR‐221‐3p and FOS was identified by dual‐luciferase reporter assay. Expression of hsa‐miR‐221‐3p also was detected by qRT‐PCR after UVB irradiation. Influences of hsa‐miR‐221‐3p and FOS on cell viability and apoptosis were assessed through a series of functional experiments and rescue experiments. Western blot analysis was used to detect protein expression of fos, Bax, Bcl‐xL, and caspase‐3. Results: Patients with CAD had marked epidermal hyperplasia. The expression of hsa‐miR‐221‐3p was up‐regulated in CAD while FOS was significantly down‐regulated. Dual‐luciferase reporter assay confirmed that hsa‐miR‐221‐3p targeted FOS 3'UTR. Hsa‐miR‐221‐3p induced by UVB ranged from 0 to 30 mJ. Moreover, hsa‐miR‐221‐3p overexpression or FOS knockdown promoted cell proliferation and reduced cell apoptosis. Western blot showed that hsa‐miR‐221‐3p negatively regulated fos, which regulated Bcl‐xL/Bax. Cell proliferation caused by hsa‐miR‐221‐3p overexpression or FOS knockdown could be reversed by Bcl‐xL inhibitor. Conclusion: Hsa‐miR‐221‐3p induced by UVB targeted FOS 3′UTR, which played an important role in regulating proliferation and apoptosis of keratinocytes via Bcl‐xL/Bax pathway; this may provide a new insight for CAD proliferative lesions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Migration and invasion is one of the most important features in tumor metastasis and development. Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is one of the most common types of cancer globally, and has been linked to air contamination. Evidence indicates that cysteine-rich angiogenic inducer 61 (CYR61) is associated with the migration and invasion of NSCLC. Overexpression of CYR61 protein promotes the migration and the transition of tumor-derived vascular endothelial cells in NSCLC. However, the association between CYR61 and NSCLC remains poorly understood. Lenvatinib is an oral multi-target drug that targets various receptors upon tumor angiogenesis. Dexamethasone is widely approved for combination therapy in patients with NSCLC. In the current study, the expression and function of CYR61 in NSCLC was analyzed during the progression of NSCLC. Inhibitory effects on migration and invasion induced by lenvatinib and dexamethasone were determined by migratory and invasion assays. Migratory pathways of extracellular signal-regulated kinases (ERK) and protein kinase B (AKT) were also investigated by targeting vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and CYR61 via synergistic treatment with transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1) and dexamethasone. Therapeutic outcomes of combined treatment with lenvatinib and dexamethasone were assessed in NSCLC-bearing mice. The results of the present study indicate that cooperative treatment of lenvatinib and dexamethasone significantly inhibited TGF-β1-induced cell migration and suppressed tumor growth (P<0.01). Notably, the results demonstrated that dexamethasone eradicated the promotion effects of TGF-β1 on the AKT/epithelial-mesenchymal transition process and lenvatinib extinguished tumor cell metastasis by targeting VEGF. The results of the current study also demonstrate that dexamethasone suppressed the expression of CAG-I and enhanced expression of matrix metalloproteinase-1. Synergistic treatment for NSCLC was demonstrated to be efficacious. In conclusion, dexamethasone inhibited AKT/ERK phosphorylation and lenvatinib antagonism bound VEGF leading to the limitation of migration and invasion of cancer cells in NSCLC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Discusses a case of a woman with a narrow complex tachycardia with ventriculoatrial dissociation after catheter ablation of atrioventricular nodal reentrant tachycardia. Factors that favor nodofascicular tachycardia; Observation on the junctional tachycardia related to injury to the atrioventricular node; Differential diagnosis.

In this study, a folate-targeted pH-sensitive bortezomib conjugate was developed for cancer-specific drug delivery and therapy. The conjugate showed improved cellular uptake, penetration, and anticancer activity compared to free bortezomib, a bortezomib-mannitol derivative, and a PEGylated bortezomib conjugate in folate receptor overexpressing cancer cells and their 3D spheroids. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We present here the thermodynamic investigation of in situ cascade polycondensation-coupling ring-opening polymerization (PROP) for three cyclic aromatic ester monomers, i.e., cyclic oligo(2-methyl-1,3-propylene terephthalate)s (COMPTs), cyclic oligo(neopentylene terephthalate)s (CONTs) and cyclic oligo(2-methyl-2-propyl-1,3-propylene terephthalate)s (COMPPTs). The equibrium monomer to polymer weight ratio in bulk at different polymerization temperatures for each monomer was estimated by the size exclusion chromatography (SEC), and the thermodynamic parameters were estimated by Dainton equation. Quite different from the thermodynamics of aliphatic lactones polymerization, which is an exothermic process with entropy reduction, our results showed the polymerization thermodynamics for three cyclic aromatic ester monomers was a weak exothermic process with slight entropy increment, i.e., a both enthalpy and entropy driving process. Among them, CONTs showed the largest value of enthalpy change, due to its symmetric dimethyl substitution on β-position of propandiol segments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Disruption of epidermal permeability barrier enhances UV-induced hyperpigmentation Conversely, enhancement of epidermal permeability barrier can attenuate UV-induced increase in cutaneous inflammation.[6] Epidermal hyperpigmentation is a common phenomenon following UV exposure. Thirty-six C57BL/6 mice were randomly divided into 4 groups, that is normal control, tape-stripping, normal + UV radiation, and tape-stripping + UV radiation, 9 mice per group. The underlying mechanism by which barrier disruption enhances UV-induced melanogenesis is likely due to reduced protective capability of stratum corneum against UV radiation. [Extracted from the article]

Chronic actinic dermatitis (CAD), a photosensitive dermatosis, is characterized by inflammatory lesions, especially on sun-exposed skin. However, its pathogenesis remains unclear. In this study, second-generation RNA sequencing and comprehensive bioinformatics analyses of mRNAs and long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) were performed to determine the transcriptome profiles of patients with CAD. A total 6889 annotated lncRNAs, 341 novel lncRNAs, and 65091 mRNAs were identified. Interestingly, patients with CAD and healthy controls showed distinct transcriptome profiles. Indeed, 198 annotated (81.48%) and 45 novel (18.52%) lncRNAs were differentially expressed between the two groups. GO, KEGG, and RGSEA analyses of lncRNAs showed that inflammatory and immune response related pathways played crucial roles in the pathogenetic mechanism of CAD. In addition, we unveiled key differentially expressed lncRNAs, including lncRNA RP11-356I2.4 which plays a role probably by regulating TNFAIP3 and inflammation. qRT-PCR data validated the differentially expressed genes. The newly identified lncRNAs may have potential roles in the development of CAD; these findings lay a solid foundation for subsequent functional exploration of lncRNAs and mRNAs as therapeutic targets for CAD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We present here the first synthesis of cyclic oligo(ethylene adipate)s (COEAs) via pseudo-high dilution condensation reaction of adipoyl chloride with ethylene glycol, and the synthesis of corresponding poly(ethylene adipate) (PEA) via the melt polymerization of COEAs. The structure of COEAs was characterized and proved by H-NMR and MALDI-TOF mass measurements. The effects of organic base, reaction temperature and the ratio of adipoyl chloride to ethylene glycol on the yield of COEAs were studied, and the optimum reaction condition was revealed. PEA, a diacid and diol based semi-crystalline green aliphatic polyester, was synthesized by the melt polymerization of COEAs using Ti( n-CHO) as catalyst and 1,10-decanediol as initiator at 200 °C, which follows the polycondensation-coupling ring-opening polymerization method. Our strategy should be applicable to the synthesis of versatile aliphatic polyesters based on diacid and diol monomers, which have potential applications as biocompatible and biodegradable materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We present here the application of one-dimensional and two-dimensional NMR techniques to characterize the structure of methoxyl end-functionalized polystyrenes (PS). The peaks in H-NMR spectra corresponding to main-chain, side-chain and chain-end groups are assigned by H-H gCOSY, H-C gHSQC and gHMBC spectra. For the first time, the spin-lattice relaxation time ( T ) of protons of the chain-ends is revealed to be affected more by polymer molecular weight (MW) than by the protons of the main-chains and the side-chains (almost independent from MW). As a result, a much higher delay time ( d1) for chain-ends ( d1 > 20 T ) is needed for quantitative NMR measurement when using end-group estimation method to obtain the MW of PS, which is in accordance with the value estimated by GPC. An improved method for the polymer MW determination is established, by combination of different NMR techniques to distinguish the peaks, and a large d1 setting to achieve quantitative NMR analysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Plant iWUE presented a non-linear increase in the last century in Sothern China. • The annual rate of change of iWUE in Southern China showed an S-curve pattern. • Multiple atmospheric factors jointly affected iWUE in subtropical and tropical forests. Intrinsic water-use efficiency (iWUE) is a key physiological trait; however, the spatiotemporal variation in iWUE and which factors affect iWUE in the tropics and subtropics are poorly known. We determined the temporal (1920-2010) and spatial patterns of iWUE using leaf carbon-isotopic composition (δ13C) of 1,811 herbarium specimens and associated these patterns with environmental factors across biomes in southern China. We found that iWUE increased by 15.7 μmol mol−1 in the entire studied area from 1920 to 2010. The iWUE declined from west to east in southern China, with higher values concentrated in the southwest. Rising CO 2 concentrations ([CO 2 ]), N deposition, increases in mean annual temperature (MAT) and vapor pressure deficit (VPD), and changes in temperature seasonality (TS) contributed to the spatiotemporal changes in iWUE. Our results confirm that, in addition to a continuous increase in iWUE has, the rate of change of iWUE decreased in southern China in the later years. Multiple atmospheric factors jointly determine the changes in both iWUE and the rate of change of iWUE in the studied regions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We demonstrate here seven pure cyclic samples, which belongs to two series of oligoesters, cyclic oligo(trimethylene terephthalate)s (COTTs) and cyclic oligo(butylene terephthalate)s (COBTs), showing odd-even effect of degree of oligomerization (repeating units number) on properties. The pentamer of COTT and trimer of COBT show much lower melting temperature, and the trimer of COTT and trimer of COBT show significant lower refractive index, which can be ascribed to the low packing density of cyclic oligoesters with odd number of degree of oligomerization. Our results reveal the discrete property change as a function of cyclic size of oligomers, which can be used to design materials with special properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background/Aims: Urothelial carcinoma-associated 1 (UCA1) is a recently identified long non coding RNA (lncRNA). However, few studies have explored its role in cardiomyocytes after focal cardiac ischemia reperfusion injury (CIR). Methods: Rat CIR models were established using ligation of the Lower Anterior Descending artery (LAD). Cell apoptosis and reactive oxygen species (ROS) production in cardiac tissues were explored using immunohistochemistry and DHE staining. lncRNA expression patterns were detected using microarray and validated by qPCR. Cell viability and apoptosis were examined using MTT assay and flow cytometry. Results: CIR significantly induced cell apoptosis and ROS production in the rat model. The results of microarray demonstrated the reduced expression of UCA1, which was validated by qPCR. Follow-up experiments showed that UCA1 was involved in H2O2-induced cell apoptosis. We further showed that UCA1 negatively correlated with the expression of p27. Moreover, overexpression of p27 could induce primary cardiomyocyte apoptosis. Conclusions: Reduction of UCA1 levels plays a pro-apoptotic role in primary cardiomyocytes partially through stimulation of p27 protein expression. These results are in agreement with the observed levels of UCA1, p27 and apoptosis after cardiac I/R injury, suggesting that UCA1 might have an important role during I/R injury. © 2015 S. Karger AG, Basel [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In order to overcome the poor stability of polyaniline (PANI) and to improve the electrochemical performance based on graphene, MnO 2 and PANI ternary composite, graphene/MnO 2 /PANI nanorod arrays (GMPNAs) were fabricated firstly via synthesizing highly ordered MnO 2 /PANI coaxial nanorod arrays on graphene film, using a simple and controllable electrochemical technique. With the arrays structure and synergetic interaction between graphene, MnO 2 , and PANI, which not only can provide high interfacial area, short ion diffusion path, and fast electrical pathways, but also can reduce agglomeration of material in using process, the specific capacitance and cycling stability of GMPNAs were improved greatly compared to that of pure PANI and MnO 2 /PANI binary composite. The maximum specific capacitance of GMPNAs was as high as 755 F g −1 at a current density of 0.5 A g −1 and retained 87% of the initial capacitance after 1000 cycles. It is believed that the GMPNAs composite will have a great potential for application in supercapacitors and the design of microstructure of GMPNAs is extendable to other pseudocapacitive electrodes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Core–shell poly(2,3-dimethylaniline)/organic-attapulgite (P(2,3-DMA)/APTES-ATP) nanofibers were prepared by self-assembling and graft polymerization in the presence of organically modified attapulgite, based on the encapsulation of attapulgite (ATP) template with P(2,3-DMA) after the surface modification with γ-aminopropyltriethoxysilane (APTES) to form a self-assembled layer on the surface of ATP rod-shaped particle (APTES-ATP). Structure, morphology and thermal stability of the nanocomposites were characterized by XRD, FTIR, SEM, TEM and TGA measurements, respectively. The anticorrosion property of the as-prepared nanocomposites was evaluated by open circuit potential (OCP) and impedance spectroscopy (EIS) in 3.5 wt% NaCl aqueous solution. Experimental results indicated that P(2,3-DMA)/APTES-ATP had a more higher thermal stability and anti-corrosion properties compared with the bulk poly(2,3-dimethylaniline) (P(2,3-DMA)). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights: [•] PANI/PVP/CIP core–shell composite was prepared, where PVP can hinder aggregation of CIP and PANI/PVP/CIP composites. [•] Core–shell structure increases absorbent interface, benefiting reflection, scattering and electromagnetic wave absorption. [•] PANI/PVP/CIP core–shell composites show better electromagnetic matching and microwave absorption in a wider frequency range. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ultraviolet (UV) radiation is considered to be essential for the progression of actinic keratosis (AK) to squamous cell carcinoma (SCC); however, the mechanisms have not been fully elucidated. To understand this process, the effects of UV radiation on the transforming growth factor beta 1 (TGFβ1)/Smads pathway and p53 in normal skin and AK were studied. Normal human skin and AK tissues were cultured and divided into the following four groups according to the UV radiation dose: 0 (control group), 5, 10, and 20 J/cm. The tissues were radiated for four consecutive days; 24 h after radiation, the tissues were collected for investigation. Compared with the control group, greater proliferative inhibition and apoptosis were induced by UV radiation in normal skin than AK. The expression of TGFβ1, Smad7, and p53 was increased in AK and normal skin, while the level of TβRII was decreased. Smad2 was reduced in AK only. The expressions of TβRI, Smad3, and Smad4 were not significantly changed. The results demonstrated that although p53 was induced, suppression of the TGFβ1/Smads pathway by UV radiation might contribute to the progression of AK to SCC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A letter to the editor is presented which discusses the study regarding the clinical characteristics of bilateral rhegmatogenous retinal detachments (RRD).

Objective: To assess the 10-year incidence of retinal vein occlusions (RVOs) and associated factors in adult Chinese subjects. Design: Population-based, longitudinal study. Participants: The Beijing Eye Study, which included 4439 subjects (age: 40+ years) in 2001, was repeated in 2011 with 2695 subjects participating (66.4% of the survivors). Methods: The study participants underwent a detailed ophthalmic examination. Fundus photographs were examined for the new development of RVOs, differentiated into branch RVOs (BRVOs) and central RVOs (CRVOs). Main Outcome Measures: Incidence of RVOs. Results: Incident RVOs were detected in 51 eyes (49 subjects) with an incidence of 1.9±0.1 per 100 persons and 1.0±0.1 per 100 eyes. Incidence of BRVO was 1.6±0.1 per 100 subjects (43 subjects [88% of patients with RVO]; 44 eyes), and incidence of CRVO was 0.3±0.1 per 100 persons. Of 61 patients with an RVO in 2001 and 25 subjects reexamined in 2011, at least 4 subjects (7%) developed a second RVO. Incident BRVOs were located more often in the superior temporal quadrant and inferior temporal quadrant (32% and 34%, respectively) than in the superior nasal quadrant and inferior nasal quadrant (21% and 14%, respectively). In 35 eyes (80% of the BRVO eyes), the BRVO was located at an arteriovenous crossing. At the crossing sites, arterioles were found superficial to venules in 28 eyes (64% of the BRVO eyes). Macular edema was detected in 18 (37%) of all RVO eyes, including 13 (30%) of BRVO eyes. In multivariate logistic analysis, incident RVOs were associated with higher systolic blood pressure (P = 0.01; odds ratio [OR], 1.04), hypertension (P = 0.03; OR, 4.62), lower cognitive function score (P = 0.007; OR, 0.88), blood concentration of cholesterol ≥5.72 mmol/L (P = 0.007; OR, 3.29), and status after cerebral infarction/hemorrhage (P = 0.02; OR, 1.19). Incident RVOs were not significantly related to the intake of aspirin (P=0.37). Conclusions: The 10-year incidence of RVOs in Greater Beijing (1.9±0.1 per 100 persons) was similar to that in other studies on Caucasian populations. The 10-year incidence of RVOs was related to the known risk factors of arterial hypertension, hypercholesterolemia, and status after cerebral infarction/hemorrhage, as well as with a lower cognitive function score. Incident BRVO was approximately 6 times more frequent than incident CRVO. Macular edema was detected in approximately 30% of BRVO eyes. Financial Disclosure(s): The author(s) have no proprietary or commercial interest in any materials discussed in this article. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

To explain how individuals’ self-perceived long-term mate value influences their mate preference and mate choice, two hypotheses have been presented, which are “potentials-attract” and “likes-attract”, respectively. The potentials-attract means that people choose mates matched with their sex-specific traits indicating reproductive potentials; and the likes-attract means that people choose mates matched with their own conditions. However, the debate about these two hypotheses still remains unsolved. In this paper, we tested these two hypotheses using a human’s actual mate choice data from a Chinese online dating system (called the Baihe website), where 27,183 users of Baihe website are included, in which there are 590 paired couples (1180 individuals) who met each other via the website. Our main results show that not only the relationship between individuals’ own attributes and their self-stated mate preference but also that between individuals’ own attributes and their actual mate choice are more consistent with the likes-attract hypothesis, i.e., people tend to choose mates who are similar to themselves in a variety of attributes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: We report the design, synthesis and biological evaluation of a novel 99mTc 4-(4-cyclohexylpiperazine-1-yl)-butan-1-one-1-cyclopentadienyltricarbonyl technetium ([99mTc]5) as a potential SPECT tracer for imaging of σ2 receptors in tumors. [99mTc]5 was prepared in 25±5% isolated radiochemical yield with radiochemical purity of >99% via double-ligand transfer (DLT) reaction from the ferrocene precursor 2b (4-(4-cyclohexylpiperazine-1-yl)-1-ferrocenylbutan-1-one). The corresponding Re-complex 4 and the ferrocenyl complex 2b showed relatively high affinity towards σ2 receptors in in vitro competition binding assay (K i values of 4 and 2b were 64.4±18.5nM and 43.6±21.3nM, respectively) and moderate to high selectivity versus σ1 receptors (K iσ1/K iσ2 ratios were 12.5 and 95.5, respectively). The log D value of [99mTc]5 was determined to be 2.52±0.33. Biodistribution studies in mice revealed comparably high initial brain uptake of [99mTc]5 and slow washout. Administration of haloperidol 5min prior to injection of [99mTc]5 significantly reduced the radiotracer uptake in brain, heart, lung, and spleen by 40–50% at 2h p.i.. Moreover, [99mTc]5 showed high uptake in C6 glioma cell lines (8.6%) after incubation for 1h. Blocking with haloperidol to compete with [99mTc]5 significantly reduced the cell uptake. Preliminary blocking study in C6-brain-tumor bearing rats showed that [99mTc]5 binds to σ receptors in the brain-tumor specifically. These results are encouraging for further exploration of 99mTc-labeled probes for σ2 receptor tumor imaging in vivo. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: UVB-induced skin cell damage involves the opening of mitochondrial permeability transition pore (mPTP), which leads to both apoptotic and necrotic cell death. Cyclophilin D (Cyp-D) translocation to the inner membrane of mitochondrion acts as a key component to open the mPTP. Our Western-Blot results in primary cultured human skin keratinocytes and in HaCaT cell line demonstrated that UVB radiation and hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) induced Cyp-D expression, which was inhibited by anti-oxidant N-acetyl cysteine (NAC). We created a stable Cyp-D deficiency skin keratinocytes by expressing Cyp-D-shRNA through lentiviral infection. Cyp-D-deficient cells were significantly less susceptible than their counterparts to UVB- or H2O2-induced cell death. Further, cyclosporine A (Cs-A), a Cyp-D inhibitor, inhibited UVB- or H2O2-induced keratinocytes cell death. Reversely, over-expression of Cyp-D in primary keratinocytes caused spontaneous keratinocytes cell death. These results suggest Cyp-D’s critical role in UVB/oxidative stress-induced skin cell death. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: We demonstrate here that a relative low dose of perifosine significantly enhanced UVB-induced apoptosis in skin cells (keratinocytes and fibroblasts), associated with a significant increase of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and ceramide production as well as multiple perturbations of diverse cell signaling pathways, shifting to a significant pro-apoptosis outcomes. Perifosine inhibited UVB-induced pro-survival Akt/mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) and ERK activation, while facilitating pro-apoptotic AMP-activated protein kinas (AMPK), c-Jun-NH2-kinase (JNK), and p53 activation; these signaling changes together promoted a striking increase in skin cell apoptosis and a significantly reduced amount of DNA damages. Our results suggest that perifosine may represent a novel skin cancer prevention strategy. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Objectives: To compare the efficacy and safety of valsartan (VAL)/HCTZ 80/12.5 mg with VAL 80 mg in Chinese patients with mild-to-moderate essential hypertension not adequately controlled with VAL 80 mg alone.Research Design and Methods: This was a multicenter, double-blind, double-dummy, randomized, active-controlled, parallel-group trial. Patients (1175) with mild-to-moderate essential hypertension (mean sitting diastolic blood pressure [MSDBP] > or = 95 and < 110 mmHg) from 26 centers in China received VAL 80 mg o.d. for 4 weeks, 864 patients whose MSDBP remained > or = 90 and < 110 mmHg were randomized (1:1) to receive VAL80/HCTZ12.5 mg (n = 429) or VAL80 mg (n = 435) for 8 weeks.Main Outcome Measures: The efficacy variable was changed from baseline to endpoint in trough MSDBP. The secondary efficacy variables were changed in mean sitting systolic blood pressure (MSSBP), response rate, and control rate.Results: Significant reductions in MSDBP and MSSBP from baseline to endpoint were observed in both groups. There were significantly greater reductions in MSDBP (8.4 mmHg vs. 6.2 mmHg) and MSSBP (10.2 mmHg vs. 6.7 mmHg), higher response (64.2% vs. 52.5%) and control rates (53.9% vs. 40.9%) in the VAL80/HCTZ12.5 group as compared with the VAL80 group at endpoint (p < 0.001). VAL80/HCTZ12.5 was equally effective in both age subgroups (> or = 65 and < 65 years) and was well tolerated. There were no deaths and the two serious adverse events reported were unrelated to study medication.Conclusion: In Chinese patients with mild-to-moderate essential hypertension not adequately controlled by VAL 80 mg alone, VAL80/HCTZ12.5 mg combination was well tolerated and showed additional BP reduction. The limitations of this study were the inability to include an HCTZ arm as a control group and the short trial duration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Background: Atrioventricular nodal reentrant tachycardia (AVNRT) is the most common supraventricular tachycardia in adulthood. Although selective ablation of the slow AV nodal pathway can cure AVNRT, accidental AV block may occur. The details on the electrophysiologic characteristics, quantitative data on the voltage inside Koch''s triangle, and the use of three-dimensional noncontact mapping to facilitate the catheter ablation of AVNRT associated with a high-risk for AV block or other arrhythmias have been limited. Methods and results: Nine patients (M/F =5/4, 34±23 years, range 17–76) with clinically documented AVNRT were included. All patients had undergone previous sessions for slow AV nodal pathway ablation but they had failed, because of repetitive episodes of complete AV block during the RF energy applications. Further, one patient had a complex anatomy and 4 patients were associated with other tachycardias, respectively. The electrophysiologic studies revealed that 4 patients had the slow–fast, 4 the slow–intermediate and one the fast–intermediate form of AVNRT. Noncontact mapping demonstrated two types of antegrade AV nodal conduction, markedly differing sites of the earliest atrial activation during retrograde VA conduction, and a lower range of voltage within Koch''s triangle. The lowest border of the retrograde conduction region was defined on the map, and the application of the RF energy was delivered below that border to prevent the occurrence of AV block. The distance between the successful ablation lesions and the lowest border of the retrograde conduction region was significantly shorter in the patients with the slow–intermediate form of AVNRT than in those with the slow–fast form (5.5±3.4 vs. 15±7.6 mm; p <0.05). After the ablation procedure, either rapid pacing or extrastimulation could not induce any tachycardia, and there was no recurrence during the follow-up (10.3±5.4, 2 to 22 months). Conclusions: Noncontact mapping could effectively demonstrate the antegrade and retrograde atrionodal conduction patterns, electrophysiologic characteristics of Koch''s triangle, and guide the successful catheter ablation in difficult AVNRT cases. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Polymethoxylated flavones (PMFs) were extracted from Pericarpium Citri Reticulatae Viride using a procedure that obtained a consistent mixture of PMFs both in identity and proportion. The mixture consisted of isosinensetin (0.2%) (1), sinensetin (1.7%) (4), tetramethyl-o-isoscutellarein (0.3%) (5), nobiletin (40.5%) (6), tetramethyl-o-scutellarein (1.2%) (7), tangeretin (45.6%) (10), 5-demethylnobiletin (8.7%) (12), 5-demethyl tangeretin (0.8%) (14) and other flavonoids including heptamethoxyflavone (1.0%) (9), among which, compounds 1, 4, 5, 7 and 9 were identified based on their UV spectra, MS data and elution order described in the literature while compounds 6, 10, 12 and 14 were isolated and identified by UV, IR, MS, 1H NMR, 13C NMR and 2D NMR spectral studies. In addition, compound 14 was isolated and identified for the first time from Citrus. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Objectives: This study was performed to differentiate upper loop re-entry (ULR) from reverse typical atrial flutter (AFL). Background: Right atrial ULR and reverse typical AFL have different mechanisms and ablation strategies, but similar electrocardiographic characteristics. Methods: This study included 26 patients with reverse typical AFL and 20 patients with ULR. The noncontact mapping system (EnSite-3000, Endocardial Solutions, St. Paul, Minnesota) was used to confirm diagnosis and guide successful radiofrequency ablation. Flutter wave polarity and amplitude in the 12-lead surface electrocardiogram were determined by two independent electrophysiologists. Results: The flutter wave polarity in leads I and aVL was significantly different between the reverse typical AFL and ULR groups (p ≤ 0.001). Voltage measurement revealed significant differences between reverse typical AFL and ULR in leads I, II, aVR, aVF, V1, and V2 (p &#60; 0.001). A new diagnostic algorithm based on negative or isoelectric/flat flutter wave polarity and amplitude ≤0.07 mV in lead I was useful for diagnosis of ULR, with an accuracy of 90% to 97%, a sensitivity of 82% to 100%, and a specificity of 95%. Conclusions: Polarity and voltage measurement of flutter wave in lead I can differentiate reverse typical AFL from ULR. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Right Atrial Substrate of Supraventricular Tachyarrhythmias. Background:Voltage mapping has been used to detect diseased myocardium. However, accurate determination of the local atrial voltage at the same site, and simultaneous recordings from multiple mapping sites were limited. The purpose of this study was to investigate the right atrial (RA) substrate properties in patients with supraventricular tachyarrhythmias (SVT).Methods and Results:Forty patients (aged 55± 20 years) undergoing noncontact mapping and ablation of SVT constituted the study population. There were eight patients with atrioventricular node reentrant tachycardia (AVNRT), eight patients with focal atrial tachycardia (AT), 14 patients with atrial flutter (AFL), and 10 patients with atrial fibrillation (AF). The mean peak negative voltage (PNV) was analyzed in virtual unipolar electrograms, which were obtained from 256 equally distributed RA endocardial sites during sinus rhythm (SR), atrial pacing, and tachycardia. The mean PNV of global RA during SR (−1.34± 0.22 vs.−0.90± 0.40 vs.−1.00± 0.36 vs.−0.85± 0.35 mV, P= 0.04), atrial pacing at cycle lengths of 500 ms (−1.30± 0.29 vs.−0.70± 0.35 vs.−0.76± 0.25 vs.−0.64± 0.26 mV, P= 0.02), and 300 ms (−1.54± 0.47 vs.−0.94± 0.21 vs.−0.75± 0.27 vs.−0.57± 0.22 mV, P<0.01) were significantly greater in patients with AVNRT compared to AT, AFL, and AF. Furthermore, the mean PNV decreased during atrial pacing with shorter pacing cycle length was demonstrated only in patients with AFL and AF.Conclusion:Negative unipolar voltage analysis of global RA showed different RA substrate characteristics during various SVT. The substrate property of activation and cycle length-dependent voltage reduction may be related to the development of AFL and AF.(J Cardiovasc Electrophysiol, Vol. 16, pp. 1-8, March 2005) [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Focal Atrial Tachycardia. Introduction:Adenosine can terminate most focal atrial tachycardias (ATs). However, information about the termination mechanism is limited. This study investigated the effects and mechanism of adenosine on terminating focal AT using a three-dimensional noncontact mapping system.Methods and Results:The study consisted of 7 patients (4 men and 3 women; age 44± 29 years) with focal AT. Cycle length variation and atrial activation pattern at baseline and just before AT termination by adenosine (3–12mg) were analyzed. Noncontact mapping demonstrated focal AT propagated from the origin (O) with preferential conduction and spread away from the breakout sites to the whole atrium. Compared to baseline AT, termination episodes revealed higher mean beat-to-beat variation of AT cycle length (11.7± 11.7 msec vs 4.7± 4.5 msec, P<0.001) and standard deviation of normalized AT cycle length (0.033± 0.014 vs 0.011± 0.005, P<0.001). In termination episodes, adenosine significantly decreased the peak negative voltage of AT-O (–27.2± 15.3%, P<0.01), preferential conduction (proximal:–32.1± 18.7, mid:–28.4± 22.8, distal portion:–29.6± 21.4%, P<0.01), and breakout (–31.4± 12.5%, P<0.01). However, adenosine did not affect voltage in nontermination episodes. Adenosine shifted the locations of AT-O in 5 of 10 AT episodes with termination. Mean number of shifting AT-O was 2.4± 1.5 (range 1–4), with maximum shifting distance of 15.0± 3.1 (range 10–19) mm. Focal activation at AT-O simply disappeared in all termination episodes and therefore was not due to conduction block within preferential conduction or breakout site. Catheter ablation lesions covered 50% of total shifting origins, without late recurrence.Conclusion:Adenosine-induced AT termination was associated with significantly decreased electrogram voltage, shifting AT-O locations, and disappearance of focal activation.(J Cardiovasc Electrophysiol, Vol. 15, pp. 1-7, December 2004) [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Repolarization Changes During SVT. Introduction: Previous literature has documented the association between narrow QRS supraventricular tachycardia (SVT) and pronounced ST-T segment change. The aim of this study was to evaluate repolarization changes during SVT initiation and demonstrate the possible mechanism. Methods and Results: Fifty-one consecutive patients (20 men and 31 women; mean age 46.1 ± 16.4 years) with narrow QRS SVT (32 patients with AV nodal reentrant tachycardia and 19 patients with AV reentrant tachycardia) were included. We retrospectively analyzed the intracardiac recordings and ST-T segment changes on 12-lead surface ECGs during SVT initiation. Twenty-six (51%) patients developed ST segment repolarization changes during SVT initiation. Patients with shorter baseline sinus cycle length, shorter tachycardia cycle length, elevated systolic blood pressure before tachycardia induction, and greater reduction of systolic blood pressure had a higher incidence of repolarization changes. However, multivariate analysis showed that reduction of systolic blood pressure after SVT induction was the only independent predictor of repolarization changes. Furthermore, the maximal degree of ST segment depression during SVT correlated with the reduction of systolic blood pressure (r = 0.75, P < 0.001). Conclusion: Repolarization changes during SVT initiation were caused mainly by concurrent hemodynamic change after SVT initiation with abrupt cycle length shortening. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: The purpose of this study was to investigate the characteristics of the second component of local virtual unipolar electrograms recorded at the ablation line during coronary sinus (CS) pacing after radiofrequency ablation (RFA) of the cavotricuspid isthmus (CTI) for typical atrial flutter (AFL).Background: Radiofrequency ablation of the CTI can produce local double potentials at the ablation line. The second component of unipolar electrograms represents the approaching wavefront in the right atrium opposite the pacing site. We hypothesized that the morphologic characteristics of the second component of double potentials would be useful in detecting complete CTI block.Methods: Radiofrequency ablation of the CTI was performed in 52 patients (males = 37, females = 15, 62 ± 12 years) with typical AFL. The noncontact mapping system (Ensite 3000, Endocardial Solutions, St. Paul, Minnesota) was used to guide RFA. Virtual unipolar electrograms along the ablation line during CS pacing after RFA were analyzed. Complete or incomplete CTI block was confirmed by the activation sequence on the halo catheter and noncontact mapping.Results: Three groups were classified after ablation. Group I (n = 37) had complete bidirectional CTI block. During CS pacing, the second component of unipolar electrograms showed an R or Rs pattern. Group II (n = 12) had incomplete CTI block. The second component of unipolar electrograms showed an rS pattern. Group III (n = 3) had complete CTI block with transcristal conduction. The second component of unipolar electrograms showed an rSR pattern.Conclusions: A predominant R-wave pattern in the second component of unipolar double potentials at the ablation line indicates complete CTI block, even in the presence of transcristal conduction. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]