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The Medial Habenular (MHb) and the Lateral Habenular nuclei are 2 main parts of the habenular complex (Hb). Recent studies showed that MHb plays an important role in memory, and in the expression of ErbB4. However, the expression of MHb ErbB4 receptor and its role in fear memory is not well understood. In this study, western blotting and quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction were used to assess the protein and mRNA levels of ErbB4 in the process of contextual fear conditioning. A pharmacological approach was used to block and stimulate the ErbB4 receptor. Contextual fear conditioning tests induced a significant increase on the expression of ErbB4 at various times in the Hb and the MHb. Moreover, the blockade and stimulation of MHb ErbB4 receptors did not affect the fear formation but impaired and improved the contextual-dependent fear expression. Furthermore, in vitro electrophysiological recordings showed that the blockade of the MHb ErbB4 receptor reduced the presynaptic gamma-amino butyric acid release. ErbB4 is a susceptible gene for schizophrenia and the above findings may provide new insights into the mechanisms of fear-related responses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work, the flotation performance of separately added Pb 2+ ions and benzohydroxamic acid (BHA) was compared with that of Pb 2+ /BHA (Pb-BHA) complexes, and the possible adsorption mechanism on the ilmenite surface was investigated by conducting single-mineral flotation tests as well as zeta potential, ultraviolet (UV) spectroscopy, microcalorimetry, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) analyses. The results of mineral flotation testing revealed that Pb-BHA complexes exhibited better flotation characteristics as compared to those of their sequentially dosed components, while the collection properties of these complexes depended on their compositions. Thus, the complexes with Pb 2+ /BHA molar ratios equal to 1:2 and 1:1 exhibited much higher ilmenite collection efficiencies and wider effective pH ranges than those of the complexes with Pb 2+ /BHA ratios of 2:1 and 3:1. Furthermore, the obtained zeta potentials indicated that the resultant Pb-BHA complexes with a Pb 2+ /BHA molar ratio of 1:1 were slightly positively charged. After increasing its magnitude, the zeta potential of ilmenite shifted toward positive values. Large amounts of Pb 2+ ions in solution were possibly adsorbed on the surface of ilmenite, which suppressed the adsorption of Pb-BHA species. The obtained UV spectra showed that varying the Pb 2+ /BHA ratio strongly affected the compositions of the produced complexes. The results of microcalorimetry analysis indicated that the adsorption heats (−Δ ads H) of the utilised reagents could be ranked in the order of Pb 2+  < BHA < Pb-BHA, suggesting that Pb-BHA species exhibited the highest affinities to the ilmenite surface. Finally, the obtained FTIR and XPS spectra revealed that Pb-BHA complexes were adsorbed on the ilmenite surface more strongly than their individual components. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The hepatitis C virus (HCV) subgenomic replicon is a valuable tool for studying virus replication and HCV drug development. Despite the fact that HCV genotype 1a (HCV1a) is the most prevalent genotype in the United States, few HCV1a reporter replicon constructs have been reported, and their replication capacities are not as efficient as those of HCV1b or 2a, especially in transient expression. In this study, we selected efficient HCV1a replicons and characterized the novel adaptive mutations derived from stable HCV1a (strain H77) replicon cells after G418 selection. These novel adaptive mutations were scored in NS3 (A1065V, C1073S, N1227D, D1431Y, and E1556G), NS4A (I1694T and E1709V), and NS4B (G1871C). The D1431Y mutation alone or combinations of other adaptive mutations introduced into the parental HCV1a replicon construct was observed to differentially enhance either transient or stable expression of replicon. In particular, two replicon mutants VDYG (A1065V, N1227D, D1431Y, and E1556G within NS3) and VDYGRG, VDYG with two additional adaptive mutations (NS4A-K1691R and NS4B-E1726G), displayed robust replication and exhibited no impairment in the susceptibility of replicon activity to various known HCV inhibitors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Previous studies have demonstrated that aging promotes myocardial apoptosis after ischemia/reperfusion, via unknown specific mechanisms. The present study investigates the potential relationship between lncRNAs and aging-related apoptosis by lncRNA/mRNA microarray technology. The results indicate aging increased myocardial lncRNA ENSMUST00000134285 and mMAPK11, confirmed by both bioinformatics analysis and polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Mouse cardiomyocytes were subjected to gene manipulation (ENSMUST00000134285 knockdown and overexpression). Knockdown of ENSMUST00000134285 inhibited MAPK11 activity and increased the myocardial apoptotic ratio (determined by TUNEL staining and caspase activity assays) after hypoxia/reoxygenation. Conversely, overexpression of ENSMUST00000134285 increased MAPK11 activity and decreased the myocardial apoptotic ratio. Furthermore, luciferase reporter assay revealed that miR760 may be a mediator between ENSMUST00000134285 and mMAPK11. We have provided evidence that lncRNAs are the important regulatory molecules in aging-mediated effects upon apoptosis. The apoptosis regulatory effects of aging are complex. Except apoptosis-promoting effects, aging could also inhibit myocardial apoptosis after hypoxia or ischemia. Further studies investigating the mechanisms that aging inhibit myocardial apoptosis after hypoxia/ischemia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Integrating the properties of magnetite nanoparticles (MNPs) and high‐density polymer brushes in one structure requires sophisticated synthetic designs and effective chemical approaches. A simple and versatile strategy for the fabrication of hydrophilic‐polymer‐capped magnetite‐core‐silica‐shell nanohybrids with well‐defined structure employing reverse microemulsion technique and reversible addition–fragmentation chain transfer (RAFT) polymerization is presented. The high‐density polymer brush allows precise patterning of the magnetic nanohybrids with a tunable interparticle distance ranging from 20 nm to 80 nm by controlling the polymer size. The high structural precision provides a near stand‐alone state of the MNPs in the nanohybrids with effectively inhibited magnetic interaction, as shown by superconducting quantum interference device (SQUID) measurements. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A charge-conversional and NIR responsive rapid release liposomal system (PSD/DOX/Cypate-BTSL) was developed to enhance therapeutic efficacy of cancer therapy. The cationic liposomes containing Cypate, doxorubicin (DOX) and NH 4 HCO 3 were shielded by pH-sensitive poly(methacryloyl sulfadimethoxine) (PSD) through electrostatic interaction at pH 7.4. At the tumor site (pH 6.5), PSD was deshielded and the liposomes displayed pH-sensitive charge reversal capability. The DOX released from PSD/DOX/Cypate-BTSL with irradiation was markedly higher than the other groups, indicating NIR irradiation and NH 4 HCO 3 had a significant effect on the drug release. After irradiation, the hyperthermia induced by Cypate could produce CO 2 bubbles quickly on account of the decomposition of NH 4 HCO 3 , achieving the rapid drug release. In 4T1 cells, PSD/DOX/Cypate-BTSL improved cellular uptake and cytotoxicity with irradiation at pH 6.5. In vivo results implied that the liposomes with irradiation could efficiently enhance the tumor accumulation and antitumor efficacy, and reduce systemic side effects of DOX. In conclusion, PSD/DOX/Cypate-BTSL is a promising candidate as a carrier for synergistic effects of PTT and chemotherapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work, 25.6BaO-6.4K 2 O-32Nb 2 O 5 -36SiO 2 -xTiO 2 (0 ≤ x ≤10 mol%) (BKNST) glass ceramics were synthesized by conventional melts and controllable crystallization method. The effects of different TiO 2 addition on the phase composition, dielectric and energy storage properties of BKNS glass ceramics were systematically evaluated. With the TiO 2 concentration increasing, a growing content of Ba 2 TiO 4 phase was observed in the glass ceramics. The microstructures appeared to be homogenous and uniform with very low porosity through the addition of TiO 2 , for which the maximal breakdown strength of 2112 kV/cm and the corresponding energy storage density of 9.48 J/cm 3 were obtained with x = 7.5. The extremely low dielectric loss of less than 1‰ (25 °C, 100 kHz) and the obviously improved microstructure contributed to the increased breakdown strength. In addition, the discharge power density of the glass-ceramic capacitor (x = 7.5) was investigated using the RLC charge-discharge circuit and a relatively high value of 16 MW/cm 3 at 300 kV/cm was obtained. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mutual interference is a severe issue that occurs during the electrochemical detection of heavy metal ions. This limitation presents a notable drawback for its high sensitivity to specific targets. Here, we present a high electrochemical sensitivity of ~237.1 μA cm-2 μM-1 toward copper(II) [Cu(II)] based on oxygen-deficient titanium dioxide (TiO2-x) nanosheets. We fully demonstrated an atomic-level relationship between electrochemical behaviors and the key factors, including the high-energy (001) facet percentage, oxygen vacancy concentration, surface -OH content, and charge carrier density, is fully demonstrated. These four factors were quantified using Raman, electron spin resonance, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy spectra, and Mott-Schottky plots. In the mutual interference investigation, we selected cadmium(II) [Cd(II)] as the target ion because of the significant difference in its stripping potential (~700 mV). The results show that the Cd(II) can enhance the sensitivity of TiO2-x nanosheets toward Cu(II), exhibiting an electron-induced mutual interference effect, as demonstrated by Xray absorption fine structure spectra. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mosquito adults usually need to ingest sugar from nectar host plants to sustain their metabolic needs. Mosquitoes could be differentially attracted by various flowering plant species, and the volatiles were thought to be important factors attributed to the differential attractiveness. However, whether mosquitoes' preference for host plants correlates with their nutritional rewards from sugar sources remains unclear. In the present study, the preference of newly emerged Culex pipiens pallens to three kinds of flowering plants ( Ligustrum quihoui, Abelia chinensis, and Nerium indicum) was determined in the olfactometer. Besides, when the newly emerged mosquitoes were provided with these flowering plants as sugar sources, the content of their metabolic reserves (glycogen, lipid, and protein) was determined. The results revealed that Cx. pipiens pallens could be differentially attracted by the odors emitted by the inflorescences of the tested flowering plants, and the nutritional rewards of mosquitoes were significantly affected by feeding on different inflorescences. The present study demonstrated that feeding on nectar host plants with differential attraction could affect the energy reserves of Cx. pipiens pallens. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

While dose dependencies in pharmacokinetics and clearance are often observed in clinically used small molecules, very few studies have been dedicated to the understandings of potential dose-dependent in vivo transport of nanomedicines. Here we report that the pharmacokinetics and clearance of renal clearable gold nanoparticles (GS-AuNPs) are strongly dose-dependent once injection doses are above 15 mg kg−1: high dose expedited the renal excretion and shortened the blood retention. As a result, the no-observed-adverse-effect-level (NOAEL) of GS-AuNPs was >1000 mg kg−1 in CD-1 mice. The efficient renal clearance and high compatibility can be translated to the non-human primates: no adverse effects were observed within 90 days after intravenous injection of 250 mg kg−1 GS-AuNPs. These fundamental understandings of dose effect on the in vivo transport of ultrasmall AuNPs open up a pathway to maximize their biomedical potentials and minimize their toxicity in the future clinical translation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

While dose dependencies in pharmacokinetics and clearance are often observed in clinically used small molecules, very few studies have been dedicated to the understandings of potential dose-dependent in vivo transport of nanomedicines. Here we report that the pharmacokinetics and clearance of renal clearable gold nanoparticles (GS-AuNPs) are strongly dose-dependent once injection doses are above 15 mg kg−1: high dose expedited the renal excretion and shortened the blood retention. As a result, the no-observed-adverse-effect-level (NOAEL) of GS-AuNPs was >1000 mg kg−1 in CD-1 mice. The efficient renal clearance and high compatibility can be translated to the non-human primates: no adverse effects were observed within 90 days after intravenous injection of 250 mg kg−1 GS-AuNPs. These fundamental understandings of dose effect on the in vivo transport of ultrasmall AuNPs open up a pathway to maximize their biomedical potentials and minimize their toxicity in the future clinical translation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the investment casting process, different parts of the casting always have various macroscopic structures. Different distribution of internal stress appears in these different parts in the casting, which let each part have different shrinkage distribution. As the design of die cavity can be based on computer-aided design model and fractional shrinkage in the casting process, it can be of benefit for the die cavity design if the fractional shrinkage can be predicted based on structural parameters of the computer-aided design model. Compared to the traditional die-repair method, it is favorable to achieve fast die-repairing and reduce trial-manufacture cost. As an initial study, a wheel shape casting is designed and it is divided into three parts. Fractional shrinkage of these parts is analyzed to research shrinkage rule. The research methods are casting simulation and experiment. The same process parameters are used in the two methods. The simulated and measured results of fractional shrinkage distribution in the corresponding parts show the same trend. It can be concluded that the simulated result can also reflect the fractional shrinkage distribution effectively. Besides, structural parameters that can influence fractional shrinkage are chosen. Then, the mapping model between these structural parameters and fractional shrinkage is built by regression method. Furthermore, the predicted values of the mapping model are compared with measured values. The result shows that the mapping model has a good performance in predicting fractional shrinkage of different parts in wheel shape casting. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new core–shell nanostructured composite composed of Fe(III)-based metal–organic framework (Fe-MOF) and mesoporous Fe 3 O 4 @C nanocapsules (denoted as Fe-MOF@mFe 3 O 4 @mC) was synthesized and developed as a platform for determining trace heavy metal ions in aqueous solution. Herein, the mFe 3 O 4 @mC nanocapsules were prepared by calcining the hollow Fe 3 O 4 @C that was obtained using the SiO 2 nanoparticles as the template, followed by composing the Fe-MOF. The Fe-MOF@mFe 3 O 4 @mC nanocomposite demonstrated excellent electrochemical activity, water stability and high specific surface area, consequently resulting in the strong biobinding with heavy-metal-ion-targeted aptamer strands. Furthermore, by combining the conformational transition interaction, which is caused by the formation of the G-quadruplex between a single-stranded aptamer and high adsorbed amounts of heavy metal ions, the developed aptasensor exhibited a good linear relationship with the logarithm of heavy metal ion (Pb 2+ and As 3+ ) concentration over the broad range from 0.01 to 10.0 nM. The detection limits were estimated to be 2.27 and 6.73 pM toward detecting Pb 2+ and As 3+ , respectively. The proposed aptasensor showed good regenerability, excellent selectivity, and acceptable reproducibility, suggesting promising applications in environment monitoring and biomedical fields. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Predator species of animal can absorb plant microRNA that can regulate target gene expression and physiological function across species. The herb Lycium barbarum , a traditional Chinese medicine, has a wide range of antitumor effects. However, there are no reports on the effects of microRNA derived from it on the cross-border regulation of renal cell carcinoma (RCC). We performed in vitro and in vivo experiments to explore the role and mechanism of the L. barbarum -derived microRNA miR166a (Lb-miR166a) in cross-border regulation of RCC. Our mRNA sequencing analysis showed that Lb-miR166a regulates the expression of various genes in tumor cells, including 1232 upregulated genes and 581 downregulated genes, which were enriched to 1094 Gene Ontology entries and 43 Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes pathways. In vitro cell experiments confirmed that Lb-miR166a can inhibit the proliferation of RCC cells, promote the apoptosis of tumor cells, and inhibit the invasion and metastasis of tumor cells by regulating the expression of related genes. Furthermore, our in vivo tumor-bearing experiment showed that subcutaneous tumor formation volume decreased in Lb-miR166a mice, along with the number of liver metastases. This study elucidates the role and mechanism of Lb-miR166a in RCC treatment (Fig. 1). Our results further mechanistically confirm the antitumor properties of L. barbarum. Our study may contribute to the clinical development of a targeted drug for RCC treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study was conducted in order to evaluate the role of low-level laser treatment (LLLT) in hair growth in C3H/HeJ mice. Healthy C57BL/6 mice were randomly divided into two groups: with and without low-level laser treatment. The skin color of each mouse was observed each day. Skin samples were collected for H&E, immunofluorescence, PCR, and western blot analysis, to observe the morphology of hair follicles and detect the expression levels of Wnt10b and β-catenin. Observation of skin color demonstrated that black pigmentation started significantly earlier in the laser group than in the control group. Hair follicle number in both groups showed no difference; however, the hair follicle length presented a significant difference. Wnt10b protein was detected on the second day in hair matrix cells in the LLLT group but not in the control group. PCR and western blot results both illustrated that expression of Wnt10b and β-catenin was significantly higher in the LLLT group than in the control group. Our study illustrated that low-level laser treatment can promote hair regrowth by inducing anagen phase of hair follicles via initiating the Wnt10b/β-catenin pathway. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An electrochemical method for direct determination of inorganic arsenic [As(III), As(V), and total inorganic arsenic] was developed using an electrochemically etched gold wire microelectrode (Au-ME) by square wave anodic stripping voltammetry. Bromide was adopted to facilitate the electrochemical etching of gold through its complexation with gold ions, and controllably etched gold wire microelectrode can be obtained by adjusting the linear sweep voltammetry recycling numbers. Although the diameter of Au-ME decreases from 25.67 to 15.41 μm, for the determination of As(III) in 0.5 M H 2 SO 4 , the sensitivity increases 1.5-fold to 6.8 μA cm −2 ppb −1 and the limit of detection (LOD) decreases 2.8-fold to 2.6 ppb; for determination of As(V) in 0.25 M HCl, the sensitivity increases 1.6-fold to 2.6 μA cm −2 ppb −1 and LOD decreases 2.5-fold to 3.9 ppb. The As(V) deposition mechanism is put forward: first, chemically reduce to As(III) associated with active chlorine, and then electrochemically reduce to As(0), which experience two reduction step. Given that the LODs for both As(III) and As(V) are lower than the arsenic guideline value of 10 ppb, Au-ME shows efficiency in determining trace arsenic when applied to real environmental samples. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The turbine blade is one of the most important parts in turbine machinery. Casting deformation is an important index to evaluate the quality of the turbine blade. In order to control the deformation of the turbine blade during investment casting, a novel compensation method based on reverse deformation was proposed in this study. Firstly, the process of deformation compensation was discussed. To overcome the disadvantage of the iteration compensation process, a one-step compensation model was developed based on Taylor expansion. Moreover, a smooth deformation function for the compensation model was regressed based on casting simulation results. Finally, two blades were optimized according to the proposed methodology. The deformations before and after compensation were compared. The results indicated that the casting deformation was reduced significantly. Hence, a more accurate blade can be achieved. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• The GeBi 4 Te 7 -based saturable absorber has been obtained. • Different soliton molecules have been recorded in three fiber cavities. • Pulse-tunable soliton molecules have reached by adjusting pump power. As a member of 2D materials, GeBi 4 Te 7 (GBT) nanoflakes about 3 nm thickness were fabricated using liquid-phase exfoliation. The GBT-SA has excellent nonlinear optical effects that the modulated depth and saturation power are 6.6 % and 1.07 mW measured by the double-balance detection method. The single-, dual-, triple-, fifth-, sixth-, and tenth-pulses molecules have been recorded under different pump power in the cavity length of 26.5 m, 16.7 m and 13.5 m cavities. These multiple soliton molecules are state-tunable by only adjusting pump power. The experimental results demonstrate the GBT has excellent nonlinear optics effects and broad application prospects in fiber communication and ultrafast lasers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Postharvest quality deterioration and pathogenic infestation interfere with the development of the pear industry. Nitric oxide (NO), as an emerging potential postharvest fruit protectant, can simultaneously stop fruit senescence and improve disease resistance. Global visualization of NO in the pears postharvest process is necessary. In this study, NO gas was used to fumigate 'Korla' fragrant pear, we explored changes in phenotypic indicators and gene expression of pear fruit during 120 d of refrigeration and 15 d of Alternaria sp. infection. Similar to 1-MCP treatment, NO treatment hindered the deterioration of pear quality, reduced and delayed the respiration and ethylene release rates, increased the contents of major quality traits and nutrients, and downregulated many carbohydrate metabolism genes. NO reduced Alternaria sp. damage, activated the activity of resistance enzymes of infected pears, and increased the contents of antioxidant substances. A large number of induced systemic resistance genes were upregulated in infected pears. Pear cuticular wax biosynthesis responded to NO treatment with increased total wax content and upregulation of the core genes ECERIFERUM (CER) and 3-KETOACYL-COA SYNTHASE (KCS). These results provide guidance for the application of NO in fruit postharvest. • NO enhances the storage performance in refrigerated pears. • NO and 1-MCP did not differ clearly in their effects on pear postharvest quality. • NO can reduce the injury of Alternaria to pear fruit. • NO may promote the accumulation of epidermal wax content in pear postharvest. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Smoking is considered to be one of the primary causes of atherosclerosis and vascular injury. Previous studies have shown that nicotine in tobacco can lead to vascular inflammation and endothelial dysfunction. Perivascular adipose tissue (PVAT) is known to secrete various types of adipokines to maintain vascular homeostasis. The present study investigated whether nicotine-induced PVAT malfunction can accelerate endothelial inflammation and eventually lead to endothelial dysfunction. The levels of inflammatory adipokines, including nuclear factor (NF)-κB, interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-6 and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, the ICAM-1 and VCAM-1 adhesion molecules and secretion of adiponectin were assessed in mature adipocytes and endothelial cells cultured alone or in co-culture under nicotine stimulation. It was found that nicotine reduced the secretion of adiponectin and stimulated secretion of the NF-κB, IL-1β, IL-6 and TNF-α inflammatory adipokines in mature adipocytes. Although nicotine stimulated endothelial cells to secrete IL-1β and IL-6, no significant increase in the secretion of TNF-α was observed. The co-culture of mature adipocytes with endothelial cells markedly augmented the expression of the NF-κB, IL-1β, IL-6 and TNF-α inflammatory adipokines and the ICAM-1 and VCAM-1 adhesion molecules, and significantly lowered the levels of adiponectin. These findings suggested that nicotine induced mature adipocyte dysfunction, which caused the abnormal secretion of adiponectin and inflammatory adipokines, and exacerbated endothelial inflammation. These findings also suggested a mechanism whereby nicotine induced the secretion of adiponectin and inflammatory cytokines by adipocytes. The results of the present study elucidated a novel pathway induced by cigarette smoke, which contributed to atherosclerosis and vascular injury. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The transfer matrix method was used to analyze the acoustical properties of stepped acoustic resonator in the previous paper. The present paper extends the application of the transfer matrix method to analyzing acoustic resonators with gradually varying cross-sectional area. The transfer matrices and the resonant conditions are derived for acoustic resonators with four different kinds of gradually varying geometric shape: tapered, trigonometric, exponential and hyperbolic. Based on the derived transfer matrices, the acoustic properties of these resonators are derived, including the resonant frequency, phase and radiation impedance. Compared with other analytical methods based on the wave equation and boundary conditions, the transfer matrix method is simple to implement and convenient for computation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The flotation and adsorption of sodium oleate (NaOL) on spodumene with four different particle size fractions (45–75 μm, 38–45 μm, 19–38 μm and 0–19 μm) were investigated. The flotation recovery increases upon slightly decreasing the size fraction, reaching a peak value at a size fraction of 38–45 μm. The recovery then decreases gradually upon further decreasing the particle size over the entire investigated range of solution pH values. The specific chemisorption sites for the anionic NaOL collector are the Al sites on the surface of negatively charged spodumene, which is confirmed by FTIR and zeta potential measurements. Anisotropic surface energies and broken bond densities are calculated based on density function theory (DFT) to characterize the surface chemistry of spodumene crystal planes. The anisotropic adsorption behavior of NaOL on different crystal planes of spodumene is studied in terms of adsorption conformations and interaction energies by molecular dynamics (MD) simulations. It is demonstrated that NaOL prefers to bind in a monodentate chelating complex configuration to the most stable surface plane, the (1 1 0) plane, which has two broken Al O bonds. The (1 1 0) plane of spodumene is more favorable for chemisorbing NaOL than the (0 0 1) plane, which has one broken Al O bond. The flotation behavior of spodumene with different particle sizes is well explained by the surface crystal chemistry. Based on the findings of this work, further improvement in spodumene flotation is possible if a selective comminution or grinding process is used that favors the production of (1 1 0) planes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and aims: Severe motion sickness is a huge obstacle for people conducting precise aviation, marine or emergency service tasks. The combination of scopolamine and D-amphetamine is most effective in preventing severe motion sickness. However, this combination is not included in any present pharmacopoeia due to the abuse liability of D-amphetamine. We wanted to find a combination to replace it for the treatment of severe motion sickness. Methods and results: We compared the efficacy of scopolamine, diphenhydramine, and granisetron (representing three classes of drugs) with different doses, and found that scopolamine was the most effective one. We also found scopolamine inhibited central nervous system at therapeutic doses and caused anxiety. Then, we combined it with different doses of psychostimulants (D-amphetamine, modafinil, caffeine) to find the best combination for motion sickness. The efficacy of scopolamine with modafinil (1 + 10 mg/kg) was equivalent to that of scopolamine with D-amphetamine (1 + 1 mg/kg); This combination also excited central nervous system and abolished the anxiety caused by scopolamine. Conclusions: The optimal dose ratio of scopolamine and modafinil is 1:10. This combination is beneficial for motion sickness and can abolish the side effects of scopolamine. So, it might be a good replacement of scopolamine and D-amphetamine for severe motion sickness. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims Acute cerebral ischemia may lead to ischemic stroke, which is a major cause of death and disability worldwide. Hydrogen sulfide (H2S) functions importantly in mammalian systems. The present work was designed to study the effect of sodium sulfide, a donor of H2S, on acute cerebral ischemia. Methods Acute cerebral focal ischemia was produced by middle cerebral artery occlusion ( MCAO) in Sprague-Dawley ( SD) rats. Bilateral vertebral arteries and common carotid arteries were blocked to establish cerebral global ischemia in SD rats. Acute cerebral anoxia was produced by hypobaric anoxia in C57BL/6 mice and hypoxic anoxia in SD rats. Nimodipine and aspirin were set as positive control separately. Results Infarct size after MCAO was decreased by sodium sulfide. Sodium sulfide improved cerebral energy metabolism after cerebral global ischemia and prolonged survival time of animals with acute cerebral anoxia. In addition, increased cerebral blood flow and decreased cerebrovascular resistance, blood viscosity, and thrombogenesis were observed in animals treated with sodium sulfide. In cultured neurons, sodium sulfide increased cell viability and decreased cell apoptosis induced by oxygen-glucose deprivation. Conclusion Sodium sulfide, a H2S donor, presents protective effect on acute cerebral ischemia, and might be a promising therapeutic drug. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The early dysfunction and subsequent recovery after stroke, characterized by the destruction and remodeling of connective pathways between cortex and subcortical regions, is associated with neuroinflammation. As major components of the inflammatory process, reactive astrocytes have double-edged effects on pathological progression. The temporal patterns of astrocyte and neuronal pathway activity can be revealed by systemic and stereotactic manganese-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging (MEMRI), respectively. In the present study, we aimed to detect an association between astrocyte activity and recovery of neuronal connective pathways by combining systemic with stereotactic MEMRI.Methods: Fifty adult rats, divided into two groups, underwent a 60-min occlusion of the middle cerebral artery. The groups were given either a systemic administration or stereotactic injection of MnCl2 at 1, 3, 7, and 14 days after stroke and underwent MRI 4 and 2 days later, respectively. Immunofluorescence (IF) of group 1 was conducted to corroborate the results. Repetitive behavioral testing was also performed with all rats at 1, 3, 7, and 14 days to obtain a functional score.Results: Ring- or crescent-shaped enhancements formed in the striatal peri-infarct regions (STR) at 11 and 18 days. This was concurrent with the activity of glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP)-positive astrocytes, which mainly localized at the peri-infarct region and significantly increased in number at 11 and 18 days after stroke. Microglia/macrophages, detected by IF, mainly localized in the lesion core, rather than in the region of enhancement. The ipsilateral substantia nigra (SN) revealed Mn-related signal enhancement reduction and subsequent signs of the recovery process at 3 to 5 days and 9 to 16 days, respectively. Behavioral testing showed that sensorimotor functions were initially disturbed, but subsequently recovered at 7 and 14 days.Conclusions: We found a positive temporal correlation between astrogliosis and the recovery of neuronal connective pathways at the chronic stage by using the in vivo method of MEMRI. Our results highlighted the potential contribution of astrocytes to the neuronal recovery of these connective pathways. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To further explore the coordination possibilities of the flexible tripodal ligand, 4,4′,4′′-(benzene-1,3,5-triyl-tris(oxy))tribenzoic acid (H3BTTB), two solvent-controlled three-dimensional (3D) manganese(II) coordination polymers, [Mn3(BTTB)2(H2O)4](H2O)2 ( 1) and [Mn3(BTTB)2(DMF)2](DMF)2 ( 2), were synthesized and characterized. Single crystal X-ray diffraction analysis indicates that in the MnII complexes the BTTB ligands exhibit two coordination modes, which have not been reported previously. Complexes 1 and 2 involve different one-dimensional (1D) rod-shaped metal-carboxylate secondary building units (SBUs). The 1D SBUs are further extended to afford two different three-dimensional (3D) frameworks with similar flu topology via linkage of the BTTB ligands. The results demonstrate that the reaction solvent as well as conformation and coordination mode of BTTB ligands play key roles on the formation of the final framework structures. Additionally, their luminescent properties were investigated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSSs) were originally introduced to provide positioning and timing services for terrestrial Earth users. However, space users increasingly rely on GNSS for spacecraft navigation and other science applications at several different altitudes from the Earth surface, in Low Earth Orbit (LEO), Medium Earth Orbit (MEO), Geostationary Earth Orbit (GEO), and feasibility studies have proved that GNSS signals can even be tracked at Moon altitude. Despite this, space remains a challenging operational environment, particularly on the way from the Earth to the Moon, characterized by weaker signals with wider gain variability, larger dynamic ranges resulting in higher Doppler and Doppler rates and critically low satellite signal availability. Following our previous studies, this paper describes the proof of concept “WeakHEO” receiver; a GPS L1 C/A receiver we developed in our laboratory specifically for lunar missions. The paper also assesses the performance of the receiver in two representative portions of an Earth Moon Transfer Orbit (MTO). The receiver was connected to our GNSS Spirent simulator in order to collect real-time hardware-in-the-loop observations, and then processed by the navigation module. This demonstrates the feasibility, using current technology, of effectively exploiting GNSS signals for navigation in a MTO. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Reaching the Moon poses very strict requirements in terms of performance, flexibility and cost for all the spacecraft subsystems. These requirements become more stringent if the mission is designed to be accomplished using a small spacecraft. The navigation subsystem is without any doubts essential and nowadays, several systems offer different solutions to the navigation problem. Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSSs) such as GPS, GLONASS, or the future Galileo and BeiDou systems, introduce an easier way to provide an autonomous on-board orbit determination system; they only require an on-board GNSS receiver, with low-cost, low-power consumption and limited mass and volume. While GNSS receivers have been already exploited with success for Low Earth Orbit (LEO), their use for very High Earth Orbit (HEO) up to the Moon altitude is still at the research stage. In this context, the purpose of the present work is to determine the potential achievable accuracy of a code-based GNSS receiver solution, during the whole trajectory to reach the Moon. GPS, Galileo, and GPS-Galileo combined (dual constellation) solutions are estimated, by considering constellations availability, pseudorange error factors and geometry factors. Unlike previous investigations, our study is making use of the very accurate multi-GNSS constellation simulator “Spirent GSS8000”, which supports simultaneously the GPS and Galileo systems with L1, L5, E1, and E5 frequency bands. The contribution of this study, clearly demonstrates that GNSS signals can be tracked up to the Moon׳s surface, but not with the current GNSS receiver׳s technology for terrestrial use. We consider and discuss a possible navigation solution that uses a double constellation GPS-Galileo receiver aided by an on board orbital filter system in order to improve the accuracy of the navigation solution and achieve the required sensitivity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: We aimed to explore the feasibility of transfection methods for antisense imaging.Procedures: Antisense oligonucleotides (ASON) targeted to the mRNA of hTERT gene were synthesized and labeled with Technetium-99m and fluorescein isothiocyanate (FITC), respectively. Then, ASON was combined with transfection reagent Lipofectamine 2000 and Xfect(TM), named Lipo-ASON and Xfect-ASON, respectively. After transfection, the labeled ASON was characterized in hNPCs-G3 and hRPE cells. Reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) and Western blotting were performed to assay the hTERT mRNA and protein levels after hNPCs-G3 cells were incubated with Lipo-ASON, Xfect-ASON, and naked ASON. In addition, Lipo-ASON, Xfect-ASON, and naked ASON were injected into tumor-bearing mice, and the biodistribution in vivo was performed.Results: The presence of two transfection reagents significantly increased intracellular uptake of radiolabeled ASON in both cell lines compared with naked ASON (p < 0.05). However, there was no significant difference in cellular uptake rates of Lipo-ASON and Xfect-ASON between hNPCs-G3 and hRPE cells. In comparison with naked ASON, the fluorescence intensity was strongly enhanced after binding to transfection reagents. Furthermore, the levels of hTERT mRNA and protein were significantly reduced in cells treated with Lipo-ASON and Xfect-ASON (p < 0.05), but naked ASON had no significant effect on hTERT expression level. The biodistribution study indicated that tumor radioactivity uptake of radiolabeled ASON for naked ASON, Lipo-ASON, and Xfect-ASON group was low and shown no significant difference in vivo.Conclusions: Lipofectamine transfection and Xfect(TM) transfection were not effective delivery methods of ASON for antisense imaging. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bone tissue engineering shows good prospects for mandibular reconstruction. In recent studies, prefabricated tissue-engineered bone (PTEB) by recombinant human bone morphogenetic proteins (rhBMPs) applied in vivo has found to be an effective alternative for autologous bone grafts. However, the optimal time to transfer PTEB for mandibular reconstruction is still not elucidated. Thus, here in an animal experiment of rhesus monkey, the suitable transferring time for PTEB to reconstruct mandibular defects was evaluated by 99mTc-MDP SPECT/CT, and its value in monitoring orthotopic rhBMP-2 implants for mandibular reconstruction was also evaluated. The result of SPECT/CT showed higher 99mTc-MDP uptake, indicating osteoinductivity, in rhBMP-2 incorporated demineralized freeze-dried bone allograft (DFDBA) and coralline hydroxyapatite (CHA) implants than those without BMP stimulation. 99mTc-MDP uptake of rhBMP-2 implant peaked at 8 weeks following implantation while CT showed the density of these implants increased after 13 weeks’ prefabrication. Histology confirmed that mandibular defects were repaired successfully with PTEB or orthotopically rhBMP-2 incorporated CHA implants, in accordance with SPECT/CT findings. Collectively, data shows 99mTc-MDP SPECT/CT is a sensitive and noninvasive tool to monitor osteoinductivity and bone regeneration of PTEB and orthotopic implants. The PTEB achieved peak osteoinductivity and bone density at 8 to 13 weeks following ectopic implantation, which would serve as a recommendable time frame for its transfer to mandibular reconstruction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Proper evaluation of myocardial microvascular perfusion and assessment of infarct size is critical for clinicians. We have developed a novel computer-aided diagnosis (CAD) approach for myocardial contrast echocardiography (MCE) to measure myocardial perfusion and infarct size. Rabbits underwent 15 min of coronary occlusion followed by reperfusion (group I, n = 15) or 60 min of coronary occlusion followed by reperfusion (group II, n = 15). Myocardial contrast echocardiography was performed before and 7 d after ischemia/reperfusion, and images were analyzed with the CAD system on the basis of eliminating particle swarm optimization clustering analysis. The myocardium was quickly and accurately detected using contrast-enhanced images, myocardial perfusion was quantitatively calibrated and a color-coded map calibrated by contrast intensity and automatically produced by the CAD system was used to outline the infarction region. Calibrated contrast intensity was significantly lower in infarct regions than in non-infarct regions, allowing differentiation of abnormal and normal myocardial perfusion. Receiver operating characteristic curve analysis documented that −54-pixel contrast intensity was an optimal cutoff point for the identification of infarcted myocardium with a sensitivity of 95.45% and specificity of 87.50%. Infarct sizes obtained using myocardial perfusion defect analysis of original contrast images and the contrast intensity-based color-coded map in computerized images were compared with infarct sizes measured using triphenyltetrazolium chloride staining. Use of the proposed CAD approach provided observers with more information. The infarct sizes obtained with myocardial perfusion defect analysis, the contrast intensity-based color-coded map and triphenyltetrazolium chloride staining were 23.72 ± 8.41%, 21.77 ± 7.8% and 18.21 ± 4.40% (% left ventricle) respectively ( p > 0.05), indicating that computerized myocardial contrast echocardiography can accurately measure infarct size. On the basis of the results, we believe the CAD method can quickly and automatically measure myocardial perfusion and infarct size and will, it is hoped, be very helpful in clinical therapeutics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A promising alternative strategy for designing mesoporous metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) has been proposed, by modifying the symmetry rather than expanding the length of organic linkers. By means of this approach, a unique MOF material based on the target [Zn8(ad)4] (ad=adeninate) clusters and C3-symmetric organic linkers can be obtained, with trigonal microporous (ca., 0.8 nm) and hexagonal mesoporous (ca., 3.0 nm) 1D channels. Moreover, the resulting 446-MOF shows distinct reactivity to transition and lanthanide metal ions. Significantly, the transmetalation of CoII or NiII on the ZnII centers in 446-MOF can enhance the sorption capacities of CO2 and CH4 (16-21 %), whereas the impregnation of EuIII and TbIII in the channels of 446-MOF will result in adjustable light-emitting behaviors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims To observe the geometric changes in aortic-mitral valve coupling ( AMC) on three-dimensional transesophageal echocardiography and the factors leading to decreased mitral regurgitation (MR) after coronary artery bypass grafting ( CABG). Methods and Results This study included 23 patients undergoing CABG for coronary artery disease. Fifteen patients with moderate to severe MR were separately analyzed to determine whether the severity of MR influences the geometric change in AMC. Echocardiographic examinations were performed pre- and post- CABG, and the studied parameters were obtained using Siemens Auto Valve Analysis software. The effective mitral regurgitant orifice area, left ventricular ejection fraction ( LVEF), end-diastolic volume ( EDV), and end-systolic volume ( ESV) were measured pre- and post- CABG using Philips QLAB software. Ischemic MR, EDV, and ESV significantly decreased (all P < 0.05) and LVEF significantly improved (P < 0.05) after CABG. There were no significant differences between the pre- and post- CABG mitral valve (MV) parameters, aortic valve parameters, aortic-mitral annular angle, or centroid distance (all P > 0.05). Patients with moderate to severe MR exhibited the same results. Conclusion The results of this study show that CABG does not cause an acute change in the geometry of AMC. Improved left ventricular function might increase the closing force of the MV, leading to decreased MR after CABG alone. MR significantly improved after CABG alone without MV treatment in the present study. This result may help to guide surgeons in choosing the optimal surgical methods for individual patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We describe the quantitative synthesis of a Schiff base derived from methionine and salicylaldehyde (SMSB) which displayed turn-on selective fluorescent chemo-sensing properties for Zn 2+ in buffered CH 3 CN/H 2 O (1:1) solution. In physiological pH (7.2 buffered) SMSB exhibited high selectivity and sensitivity toward Zn 2+ over the other selected metal ions. Upon the addition of Zn 2+ 33 folds of emission enhancement was observed in SMSB and limit of detection ( C L ) for Zn 2+ was found to be 5.0 × 10 −7 M. This binding phenomenon was studied by 1 H NMR and HR-MS analysis. Mass spectrometry analysis revealed that SMSB interacts with Zn 2+ and form a 1:1 complex, also confirmed by Job's plot. This probe was completely retrieved by adding EDTANa 2 solution, exhibited a fluorescent quenching effect by removing Zn 2+ from the sensor. SMSB was observed to have a good tolerance for fluorescence detection of Zn 2+ in pH range 6–10. Furthermore it is successfully investigated for living cells imaging using MCF-7 cells. Combine experimental results indicated SMSB to be a useful and powerful chemosensing probe for Zn 2+ in water as well as in living cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the present study, sulfated derivatives of Artemisia sphaerocephala polysaccharide (SASP) with high degree of substitution (DS) were synthesized by using 4-dimethylaminopyridine (DMAP)/dimethylcyclohexylcarbodiimide (DCC) as catalyst in homogeneous conditions. It was found that DMAP/DCC showed marked improvement in DS of sulfated samples. Compared to sulfated derivatives without catalyst, the DS of SASP increased from 0.91 to 1.28 with an increment in dosage of DMAP from 0 to 10 mg. The influence of DMAP/DCC on the DS of sulfated derivatives was depended on the content of DMAP. The effect of DMAP might be due to its strong coordination to the hydroxy group. The results of FT-IR and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) indicated that SO 3 − group (S 6+ , binding energy of 172.3 eV) was widely present in sulfated polysaccharide molecules. 13 C NMR results indicated that C-6 substitution was predominant for sulfated polysaccharide when compared with other positions. In the sulfation reaction, a sharp decrease in M W was observed. DMAP/DCC was an effective catalyst system in sulfated modification of polysaccharide. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Transfer matrix method was applied in the study of stepped acoustic resonators. Transfer matrix method was more competent in comparison with analytic method to investigate the acoustic properties of stepped acoustic resonator, especially multi-step acoustic resonator. With the help of the numerical solution, the resonance frequencies, the phase angles and the radiation impedances of stepped acoustic resonators which consisted of one to five sub-tubes were studied theoretically and experimentally. The numerical solutions were in excellent agreement with the experimental results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights: [•] Magnetite–reduced graphene oxide (Fe3O4–RGO) was synthesized via a hydrothermal method. [•] The selective detection of Cd2+ with Fe3O4–RGO as sensing material was achieved. [•] The sensitivity of Cd2+ was 14.82μAμM−1. [•] The favorable stability of Fe3O4–RGO modified electrode was obtained. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Diabetic peripheral neuropathy is a common chronic complication of diabetes. Routine clinical management uses analgesics to relieve pain in combination with drugs for nerve repair. The drugs are often not effective for the severe pain cases, and these western medications also have side effects. We report a more effective treatment of diabetic peripheral neuropathic pain using a high dose of a traditional Chinese medicine, aconitum (including both Radix aconite preparata and Radix aconite kusnezoffii), in combination with Huangqi Guizhi Wuwu Tang (i.e., astragalus, cassia twig, white peony root, and spatholobi). In order to achieve stronger analgesic effects, we increased the clinical dosage of aconitum from 15 to 120 g. The aconitum was boiled for 6-8 hours, and licorice was also used to reduce potential toxicities of aconitum. In the four reported cases, the patients' neuropathic pain was remarkably reduced and the EMG profile was also improved with this treatment regimen. Adverse reactions were not observed during the therapy. Thus, aconitum represents a promising and safe treatment for the well-being of patients and their diabetic peripheral neuropathic pain. Future controlled clinical trials using traditional Chinese medicines containing aconitum in treating the neuropathic pain are warranted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim To summarize the ultrasonic features of isolated fallopian tube torsion ( IFTT) by retrospectively analyzing cases presenting at our hospital. Methods This analysis was approved by the ethical committee of our hospital. Medical records of surgically proven IFTT patients admitted to our hospital since 2002 were collected. Clinical features and preoperative diagnoses of the patients were analyzed retrospectively. Ultrasonic images were reviewed and characteristics, including location, size, shape, echo and vascularity of the fallopian tube, were summarized. Results Eleven patients with IFTT were studied. No obvious association was found between the torsion and menstruation cycle. Only four accurate diagnoses were made before the operation. Degrees of torsion ranged 360-2160°. Most of them (9/11, 81.8%) were greater than 720°. Sonograms of the 11 patients could be classified into four types: cystic masses, tube-like structures, heterogeneous masses and whirlpool signs. Cystic masses were the most commonly seen type (4/11, 36.4%), followed by tubular structures (3/11, 27.3%). Whirlpool sign was believed to be the most specific sign in diagnosing IFTT. Conclusion Through review of the authors' experiences, it is possible to diagnose IFTT preoperatively by ultrasound. Sonograms of the IFTT could be divided into four types while clinical significance of this classification requires further confirmation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Use of cobalt oxide as saturable absorber for mode-locked in 1.5-μm region. • The Co 3 O 4 has modulation depth of 13% and saturation intensity of 8.3 MW/cm2. • The Co 3 O 4 embedded PVA composite film provides stable soliton mode-locked pulse. Herein, a soliton mode-locked erbium-doped fiber laser is proposed for the 1.5-μm region using Co 3 O 4 as a saturable absorber (SA). Spherical Co 3 O 4 nanoparticles (NPs) were embedded in polyvinyl alcohol to form a Co 3 O 4 - polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) film. Highly stable soliton mode-locked pulses based on the Co 3 O 4 -PVA film output were observed at 1558.86 nm with a 3 dB bandwidth, fundamental frequency, pulse width, and signal-to-noise ratio of 2.25 nm, 5.68 MHz, 1.24 ps, and 72.37 dB, respectively. Our experimental results demonstrate that the spherical Co 3 O 4 NPs exhibited good performance in creating soliton mode-locked fiber lasers as a promising SA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The objective of the present work was to investigate the optimum density of octreotide on the surface of nanostructured lipid carriers (NLC) loaded with hydroxycamptothencine (HCPT) to enhance receptor-mediated endocytosis and tumor targeting selectivity. Different amounts of octreotide-polyethylene glycol (100) monostearate (OPMS), a ligand for somatostatin receptors (SSTRs), were coupled into NLC. In vitro evaluation of OPMS modified NLCs (O-NLCs) was done by studying the physicochemical properties, drug release, cellular uptake and cytotoxicity. Whereas in vivo evaluation was done by studying the tissue distribution in S180 tumor-bearing mice through ex vivo fluorescence imaging and HCPT quantitative study. The results showed that O-NLCs with an average size of ∼100nm possessed obvious sustained release. When OPMS was used in the amount of 5μmol (O5-NLC) highest cellular uptake, cytotoxicity in SMMC-7721 cell line and remarkable accumulation in S180 tumor were observed. The treatments of O5-NLC brought about significant tumor inhibition and prolonged the median survival time as compared with HCPT, unmodified NLC and the pegylated NLC (P5-NLC) groups. It appears that to achieve a more rational approach of receptor mediated tumor targeted drug delivery system the surface density of the targeting moiety on the surface of nanocarriers should be considered. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Objective: Based on the results of a recently accomplished multicenter clinical trial for the incremental value of a dual-tracer (18F-FDG and 18F-FLT), dual-modality (PET and CT) imaging in the differential diagnosis of pulmonary lesions, we investigate some issues that might affect the image interpretation and result reporting. Methods: The images were read in two separate sessions. Firstly the images were read and reported by physician(s) of the imaging center on completion of each PET/CT scanning. By the end of MCCT, all images collected during the trial were re-read by a collective of readers in an isolated, blinded, and independent way. Results: One hundred sixty two patients successfully passed the data verification and entered into the final analysis. The primary reporting result showed adding 18F-FDG image information did not change the clinical performance much in sensitivity, specifity and accuracy, but the ratio between SUVFLT and SUVFDG did help the differentiation efficacy among the three subgroups of patients. The collective reviewing result showed the diagnostic achievement varied with reading strategies. ANOVA indicated significant differences among 18F-FDG, 18F- FLT in SUV (F = 14.239, p = 0.004). CT had almost the same diagnostic performance as 18F-FLT. When the 18F-FDG, 18F- FLT and CT images read in pair, both diagnostic sensitivity and specificity improved. The best diagnostic figures were obtained in full-modality strategy, when dual-tracer PET worked in combination with CT. Conclusions: With certain experience and training both radiologists and nuclear physicians are qualified to read and to achieve the similar diagnostic accuracy in PET/CT study. Making full use of modality combination and selecting right criteria seems more practical than professional back ground and personal experience in the new hybrid imaging technology, at least when novel tracer or application is concerned. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A novel approach is proposed towards the design of fiber Bragg gratings with multi-channel right-angled triangular spectrum. Firstly, a single-channel grating is synthesized utilizing an adaptive quantum particle swarm optimization with the piecewise constant mutated factor. Meanwhile, the reflectivity spectrum with good linear edge for a short grating is obtained. Then, for its merits of easy fabrication, the superposition method is adopted to design multi-channel gratings with initial spectral distortion. Finally, this distortion is optimized by the method in the first step. It is shown that the design outcomes still retain the features of easy fabrication and short length. Such gratings would be useful as wavelength-interrogation devices with multiple physical parameters in optical sensor systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: A simulation model relying on Transfer Matrix Method is established to describe the working mechanism of an epitaxially grown multilayer Fabry–Pérot filter, which is formed by Metal-organic Chemical Vapor Deposition on GaAs substrate. By employing this model as theoretical guidance, a particular technique is proposed for the relocation of transmission characteristics (i.e. transmission peak wavelength and stop-band) of this filter. Two experiments are carried out to demonstrate this technique. In comparison with the typical one, this technique presents much higher efficiency, and consequentially is remarkably cost-effective. Moreover, this technique offers a referable methodology for the relocation of operation wavelengths of Fabry–Pérot micro-cavity-based devices. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Methadone, a synthetic racemic opioid that primarily works as a μ-opioid receptor (OPRM1) agonist, is commonly used for the treatment of heroin addiction. Genetic association studies have reported that the OPRM1 gene is involved in the physiology of heroin and alcohol addiction. Our current study is designed to test the hypothesis that genetic polymorphisms in the OPRM1 gene region are associated with methadone dosage, plasma concentrations, treatment responses, adverse reactions and withdrawal symptoms in a methadone maintenance treatment (MMT) cohort from Taiwan. Fifteen OPRM1 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) were selected and genotyped using DNA samples from 366 MMT patients. The plasma concentrations of methadone and its metabolite were measured by high performance liquid chromatography. The results obtained using dominant model analysis indicate that the OPRM1 SNPs rs1074287, rs6912029, rs12209447, rs510769, rs3798676, rs7748401, rs495491, rs10457090, rs589046, rs3778152, rs563649, and rs2075572 are significantly associated with change-in-libido side effects (adjusted p<0.042). Using recessive model analysis, these SNPs were also found to be significantly associated with insomnia side effects in this cohort (p<0.009). The significance of the insomnia findings was mainly contributed by a subgroup of patients who had a positive urine morphine test (p<0.022), and by individuals who did not use benzodiazepine hypnotics (p<0.034). Our current data thus suggest that genetic polymorphisms in OPRM1 may influence the change-in-libido and insomnia side effects sometimes found in MMT patients. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Accumulating evidence suggests that podocyte hypoxia is an alternative mechanism for the pathogenesis of renal diseases. Functional, large-conductance, calcium-activated potassium channels (BKCa channels) are expressed in podocytes as mechanosensitive channels; however, whether BKCa channels are involved in the podocyte response to chronic hypoxia and the possible underlying mechanisms remain unclear. Here, we use the patch clamp technique to show that the exposure of human podocytes to 2% O2 for 24h causes a significant reduction in BKCa channel currents. Molecular biology experiments showed that chronic hypoxia increased BKCa channel β4-subunit mRNA and protein expression, but not the expression of the BKCa pore-forming α- or β3-subunits. Furthermore, chronic hypoxia shifted the channel activation range toward more depolarized voltages and slowed its activation kinetics, which are similar to the properties conferred by the β4-subunit. We conclude that BKCa channels are involved in the response of podocytes to chronic hypoxia via the upregulation of the β4-subunit. These findings provide new insight into the mechanism underlying the cellular responses of podocytes to hypoxia. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Objective: To assess the clinical value of strain ratio in differentiating thyroid solid nodules and explore its distribution characters based on pathological results. Materials and methods: The study was approved by the ethic committee and the informed consents were signed. Ninety nine solid thyroid nodules (67 benign and 32 malignant) from 71 female (mean age 46.3±9.8 years) and 28 male (mean age 54.9±11.7 years) patients were evaluated. Five radiologists evaluated the nodules based on a four-degree elastography score system. Strain ratio was calculated on-line. Diagnostic performances of the two evaluations were compared using Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC) curves. Values of different pathological nodules were compared by one-way ANOVA. Results: Areas under the ROC curve (AUC) of the five readers were 0.82, 0.81, 0.79, 0.73 and 0.83, respectively. The AUC of strain ratio evaluation was higher (0.88 vs. 0.79, p <0.001) than that of the ES score evaluation. Best cut-off points of the two evaluations were 3.5 (82% sensitivity, 72% specificity) and 4.225 (81% sensitivity, 83% specificity), respectively. Both the ES score and strain ratio were higher for malignant nodules than that for benign ones (p <0.001). Conclusions: Strain ratio was a useful index in differential diagnosis of thyroid solid nodules. It can provide quantitative information on thyroid nodule characterization and improve diagnostic confidence. The best cut-off point for benign and malignant nodules was 4.2. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

We investigated the effect of using a novel segmentation algorithm on radiologists' sensitivity and specificity for discriminating malignant masses from benign masses using ultrasound. Five-hundred ten conventional ultrasound images were processed by a novel segmentation algorithm. Five radiologists were invited to analyze the original and computerized images independently. Performances of radiologists with or without computer aid were evaluated by receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis. The masses became more obvious after being processed by the segmentation algorithm. Without using the algorithm, the areas under the ROC curve (Az) of the five radiologists ranged from 0.70∼0.84. Using the algorithm, the Az increased significantly (range, 0.79∼0.88; p < 0.001). The proposed segmentation algorithm could improve the radiologists' diagnosis performance by reducing the image speckles and extracting the mass margin characteristics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]