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In field of drug delivery, graphene is a potential material as drug carrier due to its large specific surface area and excellent chemical stability. Many kinds of drug molecules can be adsorbed on graphene surface through single or multiple benzene ring structures in drug molecules. Graphene loaded with drug molecules needs to be transported to the lesion site through blood. The content of water molecules in blood accounts for 92%. Therefore, the influence of water molecule on adsorption performance cannot be ignored. Here, the influence and mechanism of water molecule on the adsorption properties between benzene molecule and graphene is studied. The adsorption models of benzene molecule on graphene surface in vacuum and water environments are established, respectively. The adhesion energy, adhesion force and stable adsorption position of benzene molecule in two environments are analyzed by molecular dynamics simulation and potential function theory. Moreover, a model of preadsorption of a single water molecule on graphene surface is further presented, which explains the reason of the difference in adsorption performance in vacuum and water environment from the perspective of energy. The preadsorption of water molecule on graphene surface promotes the adsorption of benzene molecule. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Taste-active compounds are significant for the taste and nutrition of food, but their simultaneous quantification remains challenging due to the lack of efficient methods. The existing methods are difficult to simultaneously quantify many species and quantities of taste-active compounds by a single assay. In this study, a rapid and reliable method based on hydrophilic interaction chromatography coupled with triple quadrupole-tandem mass spectrometry (HILIC-MS/MS) was established for the simultaneous quantification and validation of 51 taste-active compounds in different food samples. The established method had a wide linear range (0.1–3000 ng/mL) and the limits of quantification were within the range from <0.1 to 100 ng/mL. This method demonstrated good quantification recovery in the range of 60–130 %. With the method proposed, the simultaneous determination of 51 taste-active compounds in 25 food samples was successfully applied. The quantitative and comparative results of taste-active compounds in different food products reveal the chemical characteristics and differences among different types of foods. This method showed good performance and a good application prospect for the simultaneous quantification of taste-active compounds in food samples. The analysis of key taste-active compounds in various food raw materials can enrich the diversification and individual flavor customization needs of food flavorings. [Display omitted] • A new method for simultaneous quantifying 51 taste-active compounds. • The separation effect of analytes by different columns was compared. • The method revealed good linearity, precision, repeatability, and recovery. • Different taste-active compound fingerprints in different samples were reported. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • The metallogenic link among Au, Sb and Hg has been identified. • Sulfur in the Au-Sb-Hg-rich fluids derived from the Cambrian ore-bearing strata via thermal-chemical sulfate reduction process. • Fluid-rock interaction and changes of temperature and oxygen-sulfur fugacity are responsible for Au and Sb mineralization, respectively. • The Au-Sb-Hg deposits are best classified as orogenic type. The turbidite-hosted Au-Sb-Hg deposits in the Sandu-Danzhai area are distributed along the southwestern marginal fault of the Jiangnan Orogen, yet any genetic link among the Au, Sb and Hg mineralization and their respective ore-forming process remain unclear. Here, we investigate the Paiting Au(-Hg) and Miaolong Au-Sb deposits and present a new metallogenic model based on detailed petrographic observations, and in-situ trace element (EPMA and LA-ICP-MS) and sulfur isotope (fs-LA-MC-ICPMS) analyses on sulfide minerals. Our results show that the ore formation in the Sandu-Danzhai metallogenic belt (SDMB) can be divided into Au (pyrite + arsenopyrite + dolomite), Au-Sb (pyrite + arsenopyrite + stibnite + quartz), Sb (stibnite + native antimony + barite + dolomite + quartz) and Hg (cinnabar + calcite) stages, based on mineral paragenetic and vein crosscutting relationships. Trace element compositions suggest that progressive As enrichment in pyrite is accompanied by increasing Au, Sb and Cu contents, implying that these elements may have been leached from the same source via fluid-rock reactions. Sulfur isotope compositions of the sulfates and sulfides in the Au-Sb-Hg ores reveal that the sulfur was originated from thermal-chemical sulfate reduction (TSR) of marine sulfates in the Cambrian ore-bearing strata. Thus, we propose that deep metamorphic fluids (as evidenced from the high fluid CO 2 and CH 4 contents) may have promoted ore-material (e.g., Au, Sb, As, Hg) mobilization in the metamorphic basement and/or Cambrian strata. As for the metal transport and precipitation mechanism, fluid-rock interaction may have decreased the ore-fluid As content and caused auriferous pyrite precipitation. Meanwhile, changes in temperature and oxygen-sulfur fugacity may have significantly decreased Sb solubility, leading to extensive stibnite precipitation. Cinnabar associated with calcite was likely deposited via carbonate dissolution in the Cambrian strata in late hydrothermal (waning) stage. Overall, we propose that the Au-Sb-Hg deposits in the SDMB are best classified as orogenic type, and the metallogeny was controlled by boundary faults of the Jiangnan Orogen. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This document is a correction notice for an article titled "IL-8 is a novel prometastatic chemokine in intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma that induces CXCR2-PI3K/AKT signaling upon CD97 activation" published in Scientific Reports. The correction addresses an error in Figure 3 of the original article, where the siNC group and IL-8+siNC group were misused. The corrected version of the article is now available. [Extracted from the article]

Magnetic solid-phase extraction is an effective and useful technique to preconcentrate trace analytes from food samples. In this study, a magnetic trimeric chromium octahedral metal-organic framework (Fe 3 O 4 -NH 2 @MIL-101) was fabricated and characterized. Fe 3 O 4 -NH 2 @MIL-101 was applied as an adsorbent of magnetic solid-phase extraction combined with high performance liquid chromatography to effectively isolate and simultaneously determine six Sudan dyes (Para Red, Sudan I–IV, and Sudan Red 7B) from tomato sauce. Potential factors affecting the MSPE were investigated in detail, and adsorption efficiency of Fe 3 O 4 -NH 2 @MIL-101 was compared with those of conventional adsorbents, such as neutral alumina, HLB, and C 18 . The developed method facilitated the extraction with using only 3 mg of adsorbent in 2 min. In addition, enhancement factors of 50, linear range of 0.01–25 μg/mL, and detection limit (S/N = 3) of 0.5–2.5 μg/kg were obtained. The intra-day and inter-day recoveries for spiked Sudan dyes were in the range of 72.6%–92.9% and 69.6%–91.6%, respectively, with relative standard deviations of ≤9.2%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Plants respond to diurnal and seasonal changes in temperature by reprogramming vital developmental pathways. Understanding the molecular mechanisms that define environmental modulation of plant growth and reproduction is critical in the context of climate change that threatens crop yield worldwide. Here, we report that elevated temperature accelerates fruit dehiscence in members of the Brassicaceae family including the model plant Arabidopsis thaliana and important crop species. Arabidopsis fruit development is controlled by a network of interacting regulatory genes. Among them, the INDEHISCENT ( IND ) gene is a key regulator of the valve-margin tissue that mediates fruit opening, hence facilitating fruit dehiscence. We demonstrated that the valve-margin development is accelerated at higher temperature and that IND is targeted for thermosensory control. Our results reveal that IND upregulation is facilitated via temperature-induced chromatin dynamics leading to accelerated valve-margin specification and dispersal of the seed. Specifically, we show that temperature-induced changes in IND expression are associated with thermosensory H2A.Z nucleosome dynamics. These findings establish a molecular framework connecting tissue identity with thermal sensing and set out directions for the production of temperature-resilient crops. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Gene expression patterns can be used as prognostic biomarkers in various types of cancers. We aimed to identify a gene expression pattern for individual distant metastatic risk assessment in patients with locoregionally advanced nasopharyngeal carcinoma.Methods: In this multicentre, retrospective, cohort analysis, we included 937 patients with locoregionally advanced nasopharyngeal carcinoma from three Chinese hospitals: the Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center (Guangzhou, China), the Affiliated Hospital of Guilin Medical University (Guilin, China), and the First People's Hospital of Foshan (Foshan, China). Using microarray analysis, we profiled mRNA gene expression between 24 paired locoregionally advanced nasopharyngeal carcinoma tumours from patients at Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center with or without distant metastasis after radical treatment. Differentially expressed genes were examined using digital expression profiling in a training cohort (Guangzhou training cohort; n=410) to build a gene classifier using a penalised regression model. We validated the prognostic accuracy of this gene classifier in an internal validation cohort (Guangzhou internal validation cohort, n=204) and two external independent cohorts (Guilin cohort, n=165; Foshan cohort, n=158). The primary endpoint was distant metastasis-free survival. Secondary endpoints were disease-free survival and overall survival.Findings: We identified 137 differentially expressed genes between metastatic and non-metastatic locoregionally advanced nasopharyngeal carcinoma tissues. A distant metastasis gene signature for locoregionally advanced nasopharyngeal carcinoma (DMGN) that consisted of 13 genes was generated to classify patients into high-risk and low-risk groups in the training cohort. Patients with high-risk scores in the training cohort had shorter distant metastasis-free survival (hazard ratio [HR] 4·93, 95% CI 2·99-8·16; p<0·0001), disease-free survival (HR 3·51, 2·43-5·07; p<0·0001), and overall survival (HR 3·22, 2·18-4·76; p<0·0001) than patients with low-risk scores. The prognostic accuracy of DMGN was validated in the internal and external cohorts. Furthermore, among patients with low-risk scores in the combined training and internal cohorts, concurrent chemotherapy improved distant metastasis-free survival compared with those patients who did not receive concurrent chemotherapy (HR 0·40, 95% CI 0·19-0·83; p=0·011), whereas patients with high-risk scores did not benefit from concurrent chemotherapy (HR 1·03, 0·71-1·50; p=0·876). This was also validated in the two external cohorts combined. We developed a nomogram based on the DMGN and other variables that predicted an individual's risk of distant metastasis, which was strengthened by adding Epstein-Barr virus DNA status.Interpretation: The DMGN is a reliable prognostic tool for distant metastasis in patients with locoregionally advanced nasopharyngeal carcinoma and might be able to predict which patients benefit from concurrent chemotherapy. It has the potential to guide treatment decisions for patients at different risk of distant metastasis.Funding: The National Natural Science Foundation of China, the National Science & Technology Pillar Program during the Twelfth Five-year Plan Period, the Natural Science Foundation of Guang Dong Province, the National Key Research and Development Program of China, the Innovation Team Development Plan of the Ministry of Education, the Health & Medical Collaborative Innovation Project of Guangzhou City, China, and the Program of Introducing Talents of Discipline to Universities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

OBJECTIVE: This study aims to investigate the clinical significance of serum Smac, HE4 and CA125 alone or combined for detecting endometriosis-associated ovarian cancer (EAOC). METHODS: The level of serum Smac, HE4 and CA125 in 40 healthy controls, 40 cases of benign endometriosis ovarian tumor, and 60 cases of EAOC were detected by ELISA and electrochemical immune method. RESULTS: Serum Smac expression level was significantly lower in the EAOC group than in the control group and benign ovarian tumor group (P < 0.05), while HE4 and CA125 expression levels were significantly higher in the EAOC group than the other two groups. The sensitivity of Smac single detection was up to 91.67%, and the specificity of HE4 was up to 98.75%. Furthermore, the sensitivity of Smac + HE4 + CA125 combined was the highest, which reached up to 98.33%; but the specificity was low, which reached up to 75%. The serum expression level differences before and after surgery were statistically significant. As the number of chemotherapies increases, the Smac level increased, and HE4 and CA125 levels gradually decreased. Furthermore, Smac increased to normal at the end of the 2nd period of chemotherapy, while HE4 and CA125 decreased to normal in 2nd and 3rd period of chemotherapy, respectively. CONCLUSION: Serum Smac, HE4 and CA125 may play an important role in predicting EAOC and in monitoring the prognosis of postoperative EAOC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new approach of the initial orbit determination for too-short-arc with angular measurements is implemented by building the probabilistic model in the solution space with the estimation of distribution algorithm. Without any assumption about distribution, the non-parametric kernel density estimation is employed in the model building. The method, unlike other evolutionary algorithms, such as the genetic algorithm and particle swarm optimization, considers the fitness as well as the characteristics of the solution space. Numerical experiments with real observations indicate that without any constraints, the proposed technique has a good performance for the observations of usual accuracy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The organic acids in fruits have critical impacts on palatability and flavor. In this paper, we established a method to quantify 21 essential organic acids in animal and plant matrices using HPLC mass spectrometry with high sensitivity and broad applicability. The organic acids in 12 animal and plant matrices were quantified. Additionally, the profile and concentration of organic acids could achieve the classification of samples. The fruit quality traits and important organic acids content during the storage of cherry tomatoes were monitored via our method. Nine organic acids changed significantly in 16 days of storage, especially citric acid, as the most predominant organic acid, decreased from 4260 to 2290 μg/g, leading to a decline in sourness of 46.2 %. In contrast, after 16 days of storage, galacturonic, gluconic, malonic and quinic acids increased by 155 %, 88 %, 162 %, and 112 %, respectively, which had a potential effect on softening and deteriorating of cherry tomatoes. [Display omitted] • 21 organic acids in animal and plant matrices were quantified simultaneously. • The organic acid profile of 12 various samples was presented. • Nine organic acids changed signicifantly during cherry tomato storage. • Citric acid affected sourness of cherry tomato during storage. • Galacturonic acid, gluconic acid, malonic acid, quinic acid were vital indicator. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (ICC) is a rare but highly aggressive malignant tumor arising within the liver, with a 5-year survival rate of only 20–40% after surgery. The role of interleukin-8 (IL-8) in ICC progression remains elusive. A transcriptomic approach based on IL-8 stimulation first revealed significant upregulation of the prometastatic gene CD97 and key epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT) factors E-cadherin and vimentin. Immunohistochemistry of 125 ICC tissues confirmed the positive correlation between IL-8 and CD97. Multivariable Cox regression indicated that they are both independent predictors of ICC prognosis. Mechanistically, IL-8 treatment induced CD97 expression at 50 and 100 ng/ml in QBC-939 and QBE cells, respectively. Moreover, the induction of cell migration and invasion upon IL-8 treatment was attenuated by CD97 RNA interference, and the expression of EMT-associated genes was dramatically inhibited. To determine whether CXCR1 or CXCR2 are downstream effectors of IL-8, siCXCR2 was applied and shown to significantly attenuate the oncogenic effects of IL-8 by inhibiting the phosphorylation of PI3K/AKT. Finally, the induction of CD97 expression by the PI3K pathway was verified by treatment with the inhibitor LY294002. In vivo, the significant tumor growth and lung metastasis effects induced by intraperitoneal injection of IL-8 were greatly inhibited by silencing CD97 in nude mice. Collectively, the study presents a novel mechanism of the IL-8-CXCR2-PI3K/AKT axis in regulating CD97 expression, which leads to ICC metastasis mainly through EMT. The study may provide alternatives for targeting the tumor microenvironment in metastatic ICC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An efficient and eco-friendly procedure has been developed for synthesis of naphthoquinone-fused oxazine derivatives via one-pot pseudo four-component reaction of 2-hydroxy-1,4-naphthoquinone, aromatic amine and formaldehyde in water under ultrasound irradiation. This protocol has the advantages of being catalyst-free, with short reaction times and high yields, and being environmentally benign with an easy work-up. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A tetraphenylethene-based dye (FLA-1) was used to develop for enhancing the visualization of the latent fingerprints on the surfaces of various substrates. The resolution of the fingerprints visualized by the probe FLA-1 is enough to offer a positive match according to the information supplied from a police database. Experimental results confirm the accuracy of using the probe for LFPs detection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: To investigate the feasibility of contralateral lower neck sparing intensity modulation radiated therapy (IMRT) for nasopharyngeal carcinoma patients (NPC) with unilateral cervical lymph node metastasis.Materials and Methods: Retrospective review of 546 patients with unilateral cervical lymph node metastasis treated between November 2009 and February 2012 at one institution. All patients were staged using magnetic resonance imaging and received radical IMRT. Patients were classified into two groups: the inferior border of the negative neck irradiation field only covered Levels III to Va in Group 1; the inferior border covered entire neck down to Levels IV to Vb in Group 2.Results: Median follow-up was 49.9months (range, 1.3-69.2months). Four-year overall survival (OS:89.3% vs. 88.9%, P=0.91), disease-free survival (DFS:81.7% vs. 81.0%, P=0.91), distant metastasis-free survival (DMFS:88.2% vs. 87.9%, P=0.95), local relapse-free survival (LRFS:96.7% vs. 94.7%, P=0.70) and nodal relapse-free survival (NRFS: 96.1% vs. 95.9%, P=0.94) were not significantly different between Group 1 and Group 2. Twenty-two patients developed cervical lymph node relapse; of whom 20/22 (91.0%) developed unilateral relapse within pretreatment positive neck. Only one patient developed out-of-field relapse, though this patient also relapsed within the neck irradiation field (Level II). No clinicopathological feature tested had significant prognostic value for NRFS in multivariate analysis.Conclusions: In the IMRT and MRI era, contralateral lower neck sparing IMRT seems to be feasible for NPC patients with unilateral cervical lymph node metastasis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The investigation into the cockroach genus Paranauphoeta Brunner vonWattenwyl is insufficient, and there is a lack of taxonomic documentation of this genus from China. Recently, the authors obtained some newly collected specimens which facilitated this study. In this paper the generalized morphology of Paranauphoeta is interpreted in detail, particularly for the male phallic complex, which is illustrated as a whole rather than in pieces. The taxonomy of Paranauphoeta species from China is revised. One out of four species recorded from China, P. indica Saussure&Zehntner, is removed; instead, P. kirby nom. nov. is recorded from China. Together with three new species described in this paper, namely, P. anulata sp. nov., P. brachyptera sp. nov. and P. lineola sp. nov., a total of seven Paranauphoeta species are now known to occur in China, whose habitus photos are provided. The new species confirm that this genus is wing-polymorphic. Male structures, if available, are illustrated. Female structures and oothecae, of which knowledge is limited in this genus and also in cockroach taxonomy, are illustrated or documented, respectively. A key to and a distribution map of the Paranauphoeta species from China are provided. In addition, P. atra Shelford nom. rev., P. sinica Bey-Bienko stat. nov. and P. vietnamensis Anisyutkin stat. nov. are regarded as valid separate species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

When the genetic algorithm is used to solve the problem of too short-arc (TSA) orbit determination, due to the difference of computing process between the genetic algorithm and the classical method, the original method for outlier deletion is no longer applicable. In the genetic algorithm, the robust estimation is realized by introducing different loss functions for the fitness function, then the outlier problem of the TSA orbit determination is solved. Compared with the classical method, the genetic algorithm is greatly simplified by introducing in different loss functions. Through the comparison on the calculations of multiple loss functions, it is found that the least median square (LMS) estimation and least trimmed square (LTS) estimation can greatly improve the robustness of the TSA orbit determination, and have a high breakdown point. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A huge quantity of too-short-arc (TSA) observational data have been obtained in sky surveys of space objects. However, reasonable results for the TSAs can hardly be obtained with the classical methods of initial orbit determination (IOD). In this paper, the IOD is reduced to a two-stage hierarchical optimization problem containing three variables for each stage. Using the genetic algorithm, a new method of the IOD for TSAs is established, through the selections of the optimized variables and the corresponding genetic operators for specific problems. Numerical experiments based on the real measurements show that the method can provide valid initial values for the follow-up work. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, the low–temperature disintegration behavior of vanadium titanomagnetite (VTM) pellets in H 2 –CO–CO 2 –N 2 mixtures was investigated. Thermodynamic calculations indicated that pseudobrookite (Fe 2 TiO 5) was reduced in the order Fe 2 TiO 5 → Fe 2 TiO 4 → FeTiO 3 → FeTi 2 O 5 , and the reduction potentials of H 2 and CO were mainly depended on the temperature. The experiments were carried out at temperatures of 400–700 °C with H 2 /(H 2 + CO) of 0–1. The experimental results revealed that disintegration mainly occurred over the temperature range of 500–600 °C, because hematite/pseudobrookite was reduced to magnetite/titanomagnetite resulted in the lattice expansion. A maximum RDI −3.15mm of 45.30% was obtained at 550 °C with a H 2 /(H 2 + CO) ratio of 0.26, and the corresponding reduction degree was 13.31%. Moreover, cracks were observed with a H 2 /(H 2 + CO) ratio of 0.20. A certain interaction between H 2 and CO reduction exists, owing to their different diffusion coefficients and reduction potentials. The reduction by individual CO gases tended to follow the topochemical reaction mode, whereas the non-topochemical reaction mode was dominant with H 2 –CO mixtures. [Display omitted] • Thermodynamically, the reduction of pseudobrookite (Fe2TiO5) by H2 and CO is studied. • The disintegration behavior under different conditions is investigated. • The effect of different parameters on disintegration is obtained, and the reason is revealed. • The reaction modes named topochemical and non–topochemical under different gas mixtures are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The pyruvate kinase (PK) is a rate-limiting glycolytic enzyme catalyzing the dephosphorylation of phosphoenolpyruvate to pyruvate, yielding one molecule of ATP. The M2 isoform of PK (PKM2) is predominantly expressed in normal proliferating cells and tumors, and both metabolic and non-metabolic activities for the enzyme in promoting tumor cell proliferation have been identified. However, the exact roles of PKM2 in tumor initiation, growth and maintenance are not yet fully understood. Using immunoprecipitation-coupled LC-MS/MS in MCF7 cells exposed to DNA-damaging agent, we report that the nuclear PKM2 interacts directly with P53 protein, a critical safeguard for genome stability. Specifically, PKM2 inhibits P53-dependent transactivation of the P21 gene by preventing P53 binding to the P21 promoter, leading to a nonstop G1 phase. As a result, PKM2 expression provides a growth advantage for tumor cells in the presence of a DNA damage stimulus. In addition, PKM2 interferes with phosphorylation of P53 at serine 15, known to stimulate P53 activity by the ATM serine/threonine kinase. These findings reveal a new role for PKM2 in modulating the DNA damage response and illustrate a novel mechanism of PKM2 participating in tumorigenesis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: A die-punch fracture is a depression fracture of the lunate fossa of the distal radius. We propose a morphological classification of die-punch fractures that includes five types: center depression fractures, vertical depression fractures, volar depression fractures, dorsal depression fractures, and double die-punch fractures. Methods: The radiographs of 112 die-punch fractures treated between January 2005 and January 2015 were retrospectively reviewed. The clinical images were examined independently for two rounds by six orthopedists with different clinical experiences: two residents, two attending physicians, and two consultants. A category-specific kappa score and a kappa score for more than two observers were analyzed. We used Cohen's kappa to test intraobserver variation. Results: The kappa score for interobserver reliability was 0.69 for the first round and 0.70 for the second round. The intraclass correlations were 0.65 and 0.63, respectively. Intraobserver reproducibility using Cohen's kappa test was satisfactory. All of the results indicated a kappa value >0.4, suggesting good agreement within, as well as between, observers. Conclusions: The outcome was assessed using kappa statistics, which showed good interobserver reliability and intraobserver reproducibility. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • The N, S-CDs-Sop were first green synthesized through hydrothermal method. • The N, S-CDs-Sop/Fe3+ system was sensitive and selective for AMX. • The fluorescent strategy was successfully applied to AMX detection in human plasma. This article first reported the green synthesis of N, S co-doped fluorescent carbon dots (N, S-CDs-Sop) and sought to establish the fluorescence detection system for amoxicillin (AMX). By using Sophora japonica L. flower as the green precursor and dl -homocystine as the co-dopant, N, S-CDs-Sop were successfully prepared via a one-pot hydrothermal method, exhibiting good water solubility and excellent photoluminescence. It was revealed that the surface of N, S-CDs-Sop was abundant in amino, hydroxyl and carboxyl groups after being characterized by a variety of techniques. When Fe3+ was added, Fe3+ could be complexed with N, S-CDs-Sop to from N, S-CDs-Sop-Fe3+ chelation leading to a significant static quenching of fluorescence. However, when N, S-CDs-Sop, Fe3+ and AMX coexisted, AMX would coordinate with Fe3+ and form the strong chelate due to the favorable chemical structure, resulting in the rapid fluorescence recovery. Such a fast, simple and sensitive fluorescence "off–on" strategy with a low LOD and a relatively wide range was successfully applied to the detection of AMX, which is closely correlated with human health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fe-based cermets are of considerable research interest owing to their excellent physical and mechanical properties. In this study, a new process for the reduction and nitridation of Panzhihua ilmenite using NH 3 was proposed to prepare Fe-TiN composites, and the process was deemed feasible by thermodynamic calculations. The final products, Fe and TiN, could be formed based on the reaction conditions. The experimental results validated that metallic Fe could be easily formed, while MgTiO 3 was more difficult to reduce than FeTiO 3. The final products of Fe/TiN/MgO obtained at 1373–1473 K were consistent with those from the thermodynamic analysis. By increasing the reduction temperature or duration, the Fe particles increased in size and mixed with the TiN particles. The elemental content of Mg, Al, and Ca in the magnetic product was 5.85 wt% after magnetic separation. A Fe-TiN cermet was prepared from the magnetic product by hot-pressing (HP) sintering. Fe and TiN were uniformly distributed in the cermet, and the hardness of the obtained cermet reached 18.2 GPa. This work could offer a new approach to the preparation of Fe-based cermets from low-grade ilmenite. [Display omitted] • A novel method for synthesizing Fe–TiN composites from low–grade ilmenite is proposed. • Clean ammonia gas is used as reduction and nitridation agent. • The phase transformation and microstructure evolution of ilmenite during the reduction roasting process are studied. • The Fe–TiN cermet with a hardness of 18.2GPa is prepared by hot pressing (HP) sintering. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Aphasia is a debilitating language impairment, affecting millions of people worldwide. About 40% of stroke survivors develop chronic aphasia, resulting in life-long disability. Objective: This review examines extrinsic and intrinsic neuromodulation techniques, aimed at enhancing the effects of speech and language therapies in stroke survivors with aphasia. Methods: We discuss the available evidence supporting the use of transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS), repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation, and functional MRI (fMRI) real-time neurofeedback in aphasia rehabilitation. Results: This review systematically evaluates studies focusing on efficacy and implementation of specialized methods for post-treatment outcome optimization and transfer to functional skills. It considers stimulation target determination and various targeting approaches. The translation of neuromodulation interventions to clinical practice is explored, emphasizing generalization and functional communication. The review also covers real-time fMRI neurofeedback, discussing current evidence for efficacy and essential implementation parameters. Finally, we address future directions for neuromodulation research in aphasia. Conclusions: This comprehensive review aims to serve as a resource for a broad audience of researchers and clinicians interested in incorporating neuromodulation for advancing aphasia care. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Quercetin, a ubiquitous flavonol, represents a promising leading drug for development of new chemotherapeutic agents. However, its limited cytotoxicity to cancer cells hampers its clinical use. In order to obtain novel quercetin derivatives with superior cytotoxicity, seven alkylated quercetin derivatives were synthesized. Solubility of these derivatives was determined by turbidimetry. Cytotoxicity of the high-soluble derivatives against MCF-7 cells and caco-2 cells was determined using MTT assay. Among these seven products, 7-O-butylquercetin had the highest solubility in DMEM medium and 7-O-geranylquercetin had the most potent cytotoxicity. Further study on cytotoxicity of 7-O-geranylquercetin on NCI-H446, A549, MGC-803 and SGC-7901 cell lines revealed potential antiproliferative effects. The 7-O-geranylquercetin is a broad spectrum cytotoxic agent and it may be a promising leading drug for cancer chemotherapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: To explore the association between hypomethylation of repetitive elements (LINE-1, Sat2, and ALU) in blood leukocyte DNA and risks of gastric lesions, and development of gastric cancer (GC), a population-based study was conducted in a high-risk area of GC in China.Materials: Methylation levels were determined by MethyLight in 902 subjects with various gastric lesions from two cohort studies at baseline and 276 subjects with long-term follow-up data.Results: The frequency of LINE-1 or Sat2 hypomethylation was significantly increased in subjects with dysplasia (DYS) compared with superficial gastritis/chronic atrophic gastritis. The odds ratios (ORs) were 2.22 [95% confidence interval (CI): 1.45-3.40] for LINE-1 and 1.58 (95% CI: 1.14-2.21) for Sat2. A dose-response pattern was found for the risk of DYS and LINE-1 hypomethylation (P-trend<0.001). Further stratified analysis indicated that the frequency of LINE-1 or Sat2 hypomethylation was higher in subjects with Helicobacter pylori infection. The ORs were 1.83 (95% CI: 1.12-2.99) for LINE-1 and 1.44 (95% CI: 1.01-2.05) for Sat2. The follow-up data indicated that the risk of progression to GC was increased in intestinal metaplasia (IM) subjects with LINE-1 hypomethylation (OR=2.82; 95% CI: 1.17-6.77) or Sat2 hypomethylation (OR=2.78; 95% CI: 1.15-6.74). The risk of progression to GC was also increased in DYS subjects with Sat2 hypomethylation (OR=5.24; 95% CI: 2.00-13.74).Conclusions: These findings suggest that hypomethylation of repetitive elements in blood leukocytes is associated with the risks of advanced gastric lesions and development of GC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The incorrect generic name Perisphaeria Burmeister, 1838 results from a mistake by Princis (1947). Perisphaeria is an incorrect spelling by Burmeister referring to Perisphaerus Serville, 1831. Princis (1947) incorrectly regarded Perisphaeria as proposed by Burmeister and as the senior synonym of Hyposphaeria Lucas, 1863, which is valid. The subfamilial name Perisphaeriinae based on Perisphaeria should be corrected to Perisphaerinae Brunner von Wattenwyl, 1865 based on Perisphaerus; but note Princis' Perisphaeriinae is based on his Perisphaeria Burmeister. The taxa involved are listed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, we propose two alternative schemes of fast online sequential extreme learning machine (ELM) for training the single hidden-layer feedforward neural networks (SLFN), termed as Cholesky factorization based online regularized ELM with forgetting mechanism (CF-FORELM) and Cholesky factorization based online kernelized ELM with forgetting mechanism (CF-FOKELM). First, the solutions of regularized ELM (RELM) and kernelized ELM (KELM) using the matrix Cholesky factorization are introduced; then the recursive method for calculating Cholesky factor of involved matrix in RELM and KELM is designed when RELM and KELM are applied to train SLFN online; consequently, the CF-FORELM and CF-FOKELM are obtained. The numerical simulation results show CF-FORELM demands less computational burden than Dynamic Regression ELM (DR-ELM), and CF-FOKELM also owns higher computational efficiency than both FOKELM and online sequential ELM with kernels (OS-ELMK), and CF-FORELM is less sensitive to model parameters than CF-FOKELM. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Asiatic acid (1) is a natural triterpenoid isolated fromCentella asiatica. This paper reports the microbial transformation of asiatic acid by an endophytic fungusUmbelopsis isabellinato obtain derivatives potentially useful for further studies. Incubation of asiatic acid withU. isabellinaafforded two derivatives 2α,3β,7β, 23-tetrahydroxyurs-12-ene-28-oic acid (2) and 2α,3β,7β,23-tetrahydroxyurs-11-ene-28,13-lactone (3). The structures of these compounds were elucidated by spectral data. Compound3has formed an unusual lactone. These two products are new compounds. The possible transformation passway was also discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

In order to make the whole fiber core modified, an improved point-by-point inscription method (called a transversal-scanning inscription method) is proposed to fabricate long period fiber gratings (LPFGs) by using femtosecond laser. LPFGs with an attenuation depth of 16 dB are achieved within the wavelength range of 1580–1680 nm. We have compared the bending properties of LPFGs fabricated by the line-by-line scanning inscription method and the transversal-scanning inscription method at the orthogonal directions. It is found that increasing scanning area using the transversal-scanning method can enhance the bend sensitivity obviously. The resulting curvature sensitivities are −4.82 nm/m −1 and −1.63 nm/m −1 at the 0° and 90° bend orientations respectively, within the curvature range from 1.75 m −1 to 3 m −1 in the experiment. The LPFG-I fabricated by the line-by-line scanning inscription method experiences red-shift, while the LPFG-II fabricated by the transversal-scanning inscription method experiences blue-shift. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • The pH effect of adhesion force of benzene on graphene is quantitatively studied. • The edge effect of adhesion force is confirmed by experiment. • The potential function method is used to reveal the mechanism of pH effect. • The edge effect is explained by the vdW and electrostatic interaction. Graphene materials, as drug carriers, play an important role in the specific drug delivery system. The drug molecules with aromatic structures can be adsorbed on the surface of graphene in vitro through π-π stacking interaction and released directionally at the lesion under special temperature and pH-value environment. This paper proposes a new experimental method and theoretical model for the purpose to study the effect and mechanism of environmental pH and edge of graphene on the adsorption mechanical properties between graphene and benzene. The experimental results based on atomic force microscope show that the acidic environment is more conducive to the adsorption of benzene on the surface of graphene than the alkaline environment. The adsorption performance of benzene at the center of graphene is better than that at the edge. Moreover, based on experimental results, mechanisms of pH effect and edge effect are revealed by potential function theory. The pH effect is influenced by the change of electrostatic interaction in different pH environments. In addition, edge effect is mainly dominated by van der Waals interaction. This study solves the problem of specific influence mechanism of pH on π-π stacking interaction using mechanical means for the first time, and shows that graphene as a drug carrier has strong pH response characteristics and great application potential. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

OTSSP167 is an anti-tumor drug significantly inhibiting tumor growth in xenotransplantation studies using mouse breast, lung, prostate, and pancreatic cancer cell lines. Its phase I clinical trial has been completed, indicating its great potential for future treatment of solid tumors. However, its drug-related adverse effects on reproductive systems have not yet been reported. In this study, we evaluated the effects of OTSSP167 on reproduction of female mice by determining oocyte quality and follicular development. We selected four-week-old female ICR mice for a 21-day intraperitoneal injection of OTSSP167 at a dose of 5 mg/kg/d. We found that OTSSP167 could block the meiotic process of oocytes, leading to a decrease in oocyte maturation and ovulated oocyte numbers, as well as a decrease in the quality of oocytes. The results showed that OTSSP167 treatment caused disordered spindle assembly, decreased mitochondria membrane potential, and increased accumulation of reactive oxygen species in oocytes. Further investigation showed that OTSSP167 induced DNA double-strand breaks, as indicated by increased levels of γH2AX in oocytes of primordial follicles and granulosa cells of growing follicles, which induced follicular atresia and decreased the numbers of follicles at various growing stages. Our study suggests that OTSSP167 treatment may have serious effects on the ovary and consequences for female cancer patients, providing strong evidence for the necessity of protecting female fertility in clinical OTSSP167 trials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Peripartum cardiomyopathy is defined as an idiopathic cardiomyopathy manifested as heart failure due to left ventricular systolic dysfunction toward the end of pregnancy or in five months after delivery when no other causes of heart failure ars found. Peripartum cardiomyopathy occurs in previously healthy woman, with unknown origin. Although the incidence is low, the mortality rate is high, and the prognosis is different. The patients commonly have dyspnea, cough, neck vein distension and edema, some patients even occurred arrhythmia and myocardial infarction. Diagnosis relies mainly on echocardiography and magnetic resonance images. The disease can be treated by positive myodynamia, diuresis, and anticoagulant drugs. In some patients the clinical symptoms and ultrasonic cardiogram quickly improve and return normal; but in other patients, the clinical symptoms rapidly deteriorating and the drug treatment is ineffective, if persistent left ventricular dysfunction develop to chronic heart failure, ventricular assist devices and cardiac transplantation maybe required. Summarize the etiology, diagnosis and treatment management of the disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new type of pump-jet propulsor (PJP) was designed and installed on the DARPA Suboff. The installation position of this new PJP is different from the traditional PJP, which gives more possibilities to improve the comprehensive performance of submarine. The duct of PJP has been automatically modeled based on pumped rotor, stator and hull shape. The rotor of PJP has been modeled as an actuator disc based on body force method coupled with the experimental open water data. The hydrodynamic performance analysis was applied on the self-propulsion point, and the self-propulsion characteristics were estimated by the thrust identity method. Moreover, the pressure and velocity distribution for different duct geometric parameters have been compared and discussed. The results indicate that the size of the duct has an impact on the generation of negative pressure zone and the wake distribution. When the geometric parameters of duct are equal to r = 0.75R, L = 3.5D and H = 0.8D, the overall performance is superior. The new pump jet destroys the circumferential correlation of the duct vortex and accelerates the dissipation of the vortex. • Submarine combined with a new kind of pump-jet propulsor have been designed. • Hydrodynamic characteristics of submarine with new PJP are investigated. • The dissipation of the tail vortex is acceleration with the new PJP. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In order to design a more concise and efficient algorithm for real-time trajectory simplification, by modifying the concept of zoning angle, which was more suitable for trajectory simplification of moving objects, this paper developed a new trajectory simplification algorithm NPLAZA based on PLAZA (piecewise linear approximation with zoning angle). With the instantaneous speed of moving objects, NPLAZA algorithm could control the errors in distance and direction to a smaller range. NPLAZA algorithm constructed a security zone to limit the error range of interpolation point by utilizing region filtering. Simulation experiments show that NPLAZA algorithm has smaller error range, high efficiency and stability in trajectory simplification. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pollen undergo a maturation process to sustain pollen viability and prepare them for germination. Molecular mechanisms controlling these processes remain largely unknown. Here, we report an Arabidopsis thaliana mutant, dayu (dau), which impairs pollen maturation and in vivo germination. Molecular analysis indicated that DAU encodes the peroxisomal membrane protein ABERRANT PEROXISOME MORPHOLOGY9 (APEM9). DAU is transiently expressed from bicellular pollen to mature pollen during male gametogenesis. DAU interacts with peroxisomal membrane proteins PEROXIN13 (PEX13) and PEX16 in planta. Consistently, both peroxisome biogenesis and peroxisome protein import are impaired in dau pollen. In addition, the jasmonic acid (JA) level is significantly decreased in dau pollen, and the dau mutant phenotype is partially rescued by exogenous application of JA , indicating that the male sterility is mainly due to JA deficiency. In addition, the phenotypic survey of peroxin mutants indicates that the PEXs most likely play different roles in pollen germination. Taken together, these data indicate that DAU/APEM9 plays critical roles in peroxisome biogenesis and function, which is essential for JA production and pollen maturation and germination. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Focal cerebral infarction causes secondary damage in the ipsilateral ventroposterior thalamic nucleus (VPN). Chondroitin sulfate proteoglycans (CSPGs) are a family of putative inhibitory components, and its degradation by chondroitinase ABC (ChABC) promotes post-injury neurogenesis. This study investigated the role of ChABC in the primary and secondary injury post stroke in hypertension. Renovascular hypertensive Sprague-Dawley rats underwent middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO), and were subjected to continuous intra-infarct infusion of ChABC (0.12U/d for 7 days) 24h later. Neurological function was evaluated by a modified neurologic severity score. Neurons were counted in the peri-infarct region and the ipsilateral VPN 8 and 14 days after MCAO by Nissl staining and NeuN labeling. The expressions of CSPGs, growth-associated protein-43 (GAP-43) and synaptophysin (SYN) were detected with immunofluorescence or Western blotting. The intra-infarct infusion of ChABC, by degrading accumulated CSPGs, rescued neuronal loss and increased the levels of GAP-43 and SYN in both the ipsilateral cortex and VPN, indicating enhancd neuron survival as well as augmented axonal growth and synaptic plasticity, eventually improving overall neurological function. The study demonstrated that intra-infarct ChABC infusion could salvage the brain from both primary and secondary injury by the intervention on the neuroinhibitory environment post focal cerebral infarction. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Solvothermalreactions of Zn(NO3)2with tetrakis(4-pyridyl)cyclobutane(tpcb) and 1,4-naphthalenedicarboxylic acid (1,4-H2ndc)and 2,3-naphthalenedicarboxylic acid (2,3-H2ndc) in differentsolvents led to the formation of three polydimensional coordinationpolymers {[Zn2(H2O)(1,4-ndc)2(tpcb)]}n(1), {[Zn(1,4-ndc)(tpcb)0.5]}n(2), and {[Zn2(H2O)(2,3-ndc)2(tpcb)]}n(3). Compounds 1–3were characterized by elemental analysis, IR, powder X-raydiffraction (PXRD), and single crystal X-ray diffraction. Compound 1is a three-dimensional (3D) (3,3)-connected net with a (10·122)·(102·12) Schläfli symbol. Compound 2holds a 2-fold interpenetrating 3D framework with a (42·62·72)·(4·62·73) Schläfli symbol, which shows hexagonal-prism-likeone-dimensional channels. Compound 3shows a two-dimensional(3,8)-connected network. The solid state luminescent, optical, andthermal stability properties of 1–3at ambient temperature were also investigated. A comparative studyon their photocatalytic activity toward the degradation of methylorange and methyl blue in polluted water was explored. The resultsprovided some interesting insights into solvent effects on the structuresof zinc(II) coordination polymers and their photocatalytic applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: The goal of this study was to investigate whether vitamin A combined with iron supplementation for preschool children resulted in improved changes in children's infectious morbidity. Method: In this randomized placebo-controlled and blinded field intervention trial, totally 445 preschoolers, ages 3 to 6 y old, were randomly selected. All children were randomly divided into four groups: vitamin A supplement-only group (group I), iron supplement-only group (group II), vitamin A and iron supplement group (group III), and no vitamin A and ferrous sulfate as placebo-control (group IV) for 6 mo. The morbidity of diarrhea and respiratory infections, were collected during supplementation. Results: There was evidence of the lowest incidence rate of respiratory-related illnesses and fewest symptoms of runny nose, cough, and fever for children in group III compared with children in groups I, II and IV (P < 0.05). Moreover, despite the undistinguished incidence rate of vomiting, nausea, and stomach pain, the rate of diarrhea-related illness was significantly lower for children in group III than for those in the other three groups. Conclusion: The beneficial affects on infectious morbidity over 6 mo, highlight the potential of vitamin A plus an iron supplement for preschool-aged children. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Field-effect transistors (FETs) for logic applications, based on two representative two-dimensional (2D) materials, graphene and MoS2, are discussed. These materials have drastically different properties and require different considerations. The unique band structure of graphene necessitates engineering of the Dirac point, including the opening of the bandgap, the doping and the interface, before the graphene can be used in logic applications. On the other hand, MoS2 is a semiconductor, and its electron transport depends heavily on the surface properties, the number of layers, and the carrier density. Finally, we discuss the prospects for the future developments in 2D material transistors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We give a single vendor and single buyer VMI model in which raw materials are no deteriorating, items are deteriorating and buyer faces partial backlogging for unmet demand. It's not necessarily the best optimal way that vendor employs lot-for-lot strategy to yield items for the impact of setup cost. Therefore, we allow that vendor employs integer ratio strategy to procure raw materials and yield items, which means that each batch of raw materials procurement meet integer time of production, and each batch of items yield meet integer time of replenishment to buyer. We get these decision variables of time that meet production of each batch of raw materials procurement, time that meet replenishment to buyer of each batch of items yield, replenishment interval and buyer's service level by solving steps based on genetic algorithm. The result of numerical example indicates that the VMI system can get the satisfied solution of minimum per unit time total cost when vendor employs integer ratio strategy to procure raw materials and yield items. The respective change of setup cost, deterioration rate and losing sale ratio has an affect on vendor decision to produce and the minimum per unit time total cost of VMI system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to assess the potential merits of formulating sustained-release microspheres of recombinant human granulocyte macrophage colony stimulating factor ( rhGM-CSF) via freezing-induced phase separation (FIPS) of the protein with dextran followed by encapsulation with binary mixture of poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) 2A (MW∼12K) and 3A (MW∼47K) or of PLGA2A and polylactic acid (PLA; MW∼83K). The formulated dextran particles and microspheres were characterized in vitro for loading, aggregation, bioactivity and release behavior of the protein where appropriate. rhGM-CSF retained about 60%% of bioactivity with no significant aggregation after each formulation step. Encapsulation of protein-loaded dextran particles attained only 80%% with the PLGA2A and PLGA3A blend, but 100%% with the PLGA2A and PLA mixture. The former formulation exhibited a triphasic in-vitro release profile typical of PLGA microspheres while the latter revealed a much lower initial burst followed by a steady and complete release of rhGM-CSF with preserved bioactivity over a 15-day period. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Au electrodeposition has been performed on carbon electrodes to fabricate Au nanostructures on the working electrode of screen-printed carbon chips. The amount of Au deposited was characterized using the raw reflection spectra obtained by detecting UV–Vis spectrum reflected from the electrode surface. SEM images at different deposition time points provided evidence for the growth of Au nanostructures. The increase in deposition time led to an increase in the intensity of the spectrum obtained for both chips. The acquired optical properties of the carbon chips provide a promising platform for simultaneous optical and electrochemical measurements. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Electrochemical oxidation of two isomeric coumarins, umbelliferone (UF, 7-hydroxycoumarin) and benzotertonic acid (BA, 4-hydroxycoumarin), were comparatively studied in aqueous buffer solutions by cyclic voltammetry, in situ long-path-length thin-layer UV–vis spectroelectrochemistry and ex situ ATR-FTIR spectrometry. Both the coumarins undergo the completely irreversible oxidation but following totally different oxidation mechanisms. The 7-OH but not the 4-OH group can contribute to antioxidative activity of coumarin via an electron transfer mechanism. Electro-oxidation of UF occurs at the 7-OH position and produces an insulating polymer film at the electrode surface, which probably consists of a poly(ethylene oxide) backbone with coumarin side groups. The toxicity-related coumarin 3,4-epoxide is a possible intermediate in the UF oxidation. Electro-oxidation of BA occurs at the C3=C4 double bond, also yielding a non-conductive film at the electrode surface. In this process salicylaldehyde as the possible intermediate undergoes further oxidation to form the poly(aryl ether) film. The knowledge of the mechanisms of UF and BA oxidation should be helpful in understanding the roles and conversion of coumarins in their biological and chemical processes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Acetylcholinesterase (AChE)-induced growth of colloidal gold (AuNP) via the reduction of chloroauric acid (HAuCl4) using thiocholine (TCh) was investigated using differential pulse voltammetry (DPV). The growth of Au nanostructures on the surface of gold disposable electrochemical printed (DEP) chips was detected using the electrochemical reduction signal. A shift in the peak potential of Au reduction signal and an increase in the peak current intensity were observed in the presence of HAuCl4. The growth of gold nanostructures was also examined using a well-established colorimetric assay using Au nanoparticles (AuNPs). Assay results showed a larger blue shift in the presence of the AChE–acetylthiocholine (ATCh) complex, HAuCl4, and AuNP seeds in the solution indicating the reductive enlargement of the AuNPs. Based on these measurements, it was found that the increased Au nanostructure formation allowed for low reduction potentials as well as high intensity current signals to be produced. The AChE-induced formation of Au nanostructures on the DEP chip surface is a promising platform for the development of novel biosensors. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

A modified tip generation/substrate collection mode of SECM was used to separate the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) current from the coupled multireaction current on pure titanium spontaneously passivated in air (P-Ti), activated by electrochemical method (EA-Ti) and fluoride ion (FA-Ti). Besides, the HER kinetics of Ti electrodes pretreated by different approaches were also simulated. The pretreatments influence the HER behavior and kinetics on Ti through changing the electronic structure of passive film. [Display omitted] • Effect of pretreatment on HER behavior and kinetics of Ti was studied. • Coupled multireaction current on Ti was quantitatively separated by modified TG/SC mode of SECM. • Kinetics parameters of HER on Ti with different pretreatment were simulated. • Pretreatment change the electronic structure of passive film thus affect HER on Ti. The behaviors and kinetics of hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) on pure titanium spontaneously passivated in air (P-Ti), activated by electrochemical method (EA-Ti) and fluoride ion (FA-Ti) were investigated by impedance and scanning electrochemical microscopy (SECM). During cathodic polarization, the passive film and proton were simultaneously reduced on P-Ti, only HER current was detected on EA-Ti, while both HER and active/passive transition behavior presented on FA-Ti. Corresponding transfer coefficients and standard rate constants of HER are 0.48/6.00 × 10−12 cm/s, 0.25/7.60 × 10−7 cm/s and 0.24/1.14 × 10−6 cm/s, respectively. These differences originate from the change in electronic structure of passive film by pretreatments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mutations in the parkin gene are the major cause of early-onset familial Parkinson's disease (PD). We previously reported the generation and analysis of a knockout mouse carrying a deletion of exon 3 in the parkin gene. F1 hybrid pa+/– mice were backcrossed to wild-type C57Bl/6 for three more generations to establish a pa–/–(F4) mouse line. The appearance of tyrosine hydroxylase-positive neurons was normal in young and aged pa–/– (F4) animals. Loss of parkin function in mice did not enhance vulnerability of dopaminergic neurons to 1-methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridine (MPTP) toxicity. However, the pa–/– (F4) mice displayed impaired exploration and habituation to a new environment and exhibited thigmotaxis behaviour in the open field and Morris water maze. Abnormal anxiety-related behaviour of pa–/– (F4) mice was also observed in the light/dark exploration test paradigm. Dopamine metabolism was enhanced in the striatum of pa–/– (F4) mice, as revealed by increased homovanillic acid (HVA) content and a reduced ratio of dihydroxyphenylacetic acid (DOPAC)/HVA. The alterations found in the dopaminergic system could be responsible for the behavioural impairments of pa–/– (F4) mice. Consistent with a recent observation of cognitive dysfunction in parkin-linked patients with PD, our findings provide evidence of a physiological role of parkin in non-motor behaviour, possibly representing a disease stage that precedes dopaminergic neuron loss. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Increasing evidence of a fundamental influence of cathepsins on inflammation has drawn interest in a thorough understanding of their role in physiological and pathological processes. Even though the number of identified cathepsins has more than doubled in the last years, information about their expression, regulation and function in the brain is still incomplete. In the present study we analyzed the regional, cellular and subcellular localization and the activity of the recently discovered cathepsin X in the normal, developing and pathological mouse brain. Our results show that CATX is: (i) is expressed in almost all cells in the mouse brain with a preference for glial cells; (ii) already widely expressed early in development and age-dependently upregulated in amount and activity; (iii) prominently localized in the lysosomal system but also scattered in the somal cytoplasm in the aged brain; (iv) upregulated in numerous glial cells of degenerating brain regions in a transgenic mouse model of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis; and (v) associated with plaques in a transgenic mouse model and in Alzheimer patients. These results strongly suggest that cathepsin X is an important player in degenerative processes during normal aging and in pathological conditions. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]