Search

Virus diseases are a major production constraint for pumpkin. Recessive resistance to squash leaf curl China virus and tomato leaf curl New Delhi virus has been mapped in Cucurbita moschata (Duchesne ex Poir.) breeding line AVPU1426 to chromosomes 7 and 8, respectively. Molecular markers tightly associated with the resistance loci have been developed and were able to correctly predict resistance and susceptibility with an accuracy of 99% for squash leaf curl China virus resistance and 94.34% for tomato leaf curl New Delhi virus in F2 and back cross populations derived from the original resistance source AVPU1426. The markers associated with resistance are recommended for use in marker-assisted breeding. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Low-intensity pulsed ultrasound (LIPUS) is a kind of therapeutic ultrasound. It can help improve bone fracture repair and soft tissue healing. Our previous study found that LIPUS treatment could halt the chronic kidney disease (CKD) progression in mice; unexpectedly, we observed the improvement of CKD-reduced muscle weights by LIPUS treatment. Here, we further tested the protective potential of LIPUS on CKD-associated muscle wasting/sarcopenia using the CKD mouse models. Mouse models of both unilateral renal ischemia/reperfusion injury (IRI) with nephrectomy and adenine administration were used to induce CKD. LIPUS with condition of 3MHz, 100mW/cm², 20 min/day was applied to the kidney of CKD mice. LIPUS treatment significantly reversed the increased serum BUN/creatinine levels in CKD mice. LIPUS effectively prevented the decrease in grip strength, muscle weight (soleus, tibialis anterior, and gastrocnemius muscles), cross-section areas of muscle fibres, and muscular phosphorylated Akt protein expression by immunohistochemistry, and the increase in muscular atrogenes Atrogin1 and MuRF1 protein expression by immunohistochemistry in CKD mice. These results indicated that LIPUS could help improve weak muscle strength, muscle mass loss, muscle atrophy-related protein expression, and Akt inactivation. LIPUS application may be an alternative non-invasive therapeutic intervention on the management of CKD-associated muscle wasting. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Autonomous robots heavily rely on simultaneous localization and mapping (SLAM) techniques and sensor data to create accurate maps of their surroundings. When multiple robots are employed to expedite exploration, the resulting maps often have varying coordinates and scales. To achieve a comprehensive global view, the utilization of map merging techniques becomes necessary. Previous studies have typically depended on extracting image features from maps to establish connections. However, it is important to note that maps of the same location can exhibit inconsistencies due to sensing errors. Additionally, robot-generated maps are commonly represented in an occupancy grid format, which limits the availability of features for extraction and matching. Therefore, feature extraction and matching play crucial roles in map merging, particularly when dealing with uncertain sensing data. In this study, we introduce a novel method that addresses image noise resulting from sensing errors and applies additional corrections before performing feature extraction. This approach allows for the collection of features from corresponding locations in different maps, facilitating the establishment of connections between different coordinate systems and enabling effective map merging. Evaluation results demonstrate the significant reduction of sensing errors during the image stitching process, thanks to the proposed image pre-processing technique. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Enhanced scattering from local surface plasmon resonance by light has attracted much attention due to its special applications in sensor, cell, and biological imaging. Here, we investigate the ratio of scattering to absorption in bimetallic three-layered nanoshells with different geometrical parameters using quasi-static theory. We show that the ratio of scattering to absorption strongly depends on the inner radius, shell thickness, middle dielectric function, and surrounding medium function. To gain insight into the effect of such geometrical parameters on the plasmonic scattering, we also provide a comparison between silver–dielectric–gold nanoshells and gold–dielectric–silver nanoshells. This work provides an alternative approach to analyze the optical properties of bimetallic three-layered nanoshells with potential applications in sensors and photo-detectors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • STPA-VIKOR method was proposed to assess settlement risk during slurry shield tunneling. • STPA method was used to identify risk factors. • Sensitivity analysis of VIKOR method improves the accuracy of the model. • Measured results of Chunfeng tunnel validates the proposed model. • Proposed model was imported into BIM platform to guide project management. This paper introduces an integrated approach for assessing and managing the risk of ground settlement induced by slurry balance shield tunnel construction. The methodology combines the System Theoretical Process Analysis (STPA) and the Visekriterijumsko Kompromisno Rangiranje (VIKOR) methods. STPA is used to identify potential factors contributing to ground settlement, and while VIKOR calculates the Q -value related to the risk grade. By fitting the field measurements and corresponding Q -values, a classification principle for risk level is derived. The efficacy of the model is demonstrated through an analysis of the Chunfeng tunnel in Shenzhen. The quadratic fitting results are used to classify the risk level. and the results of risk classification are as follows: Risk level I: Q < 0.57, II:0.57 ≤ Q < 0.74, III: Q ≥ 0.74. Yielding results are consistent with on-site settlement monitoring. To enhance practical application, the model is integrated into the Building Information Modelling (BIM) platform of the Shenzhen Chunfeng tunnel, enabling 3D visualization-based management. Ultimately, this proposed model offers valuable insights and methodologies for the assessment and management of ground-settlement risks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Promising surface sulfurization for liners and ruthenium films was developed. • A crystalline TiTaS x or RuS 2 sulfide layer was formed on the film surface. • The binding state was changed from a nitride or metallic to a sulfide state. • The interface scattering was effectively reduced to elevate the permeability. • The resistivity scaling was lessened for 40 % at a thickness of below 10 nm. Ruthenium with a low resistivity, high melting temperature and short electron mean free path has been considered to replace copper as the next-generation interconnect metallization. However, its ascending resistivity with linewidth scaling because of the diffuse scattering of electrons at the interface with dielectrics or liners is a concern. Thus, in this study, sulfurization was applied on the surface of titanium-tantalum nitride and ruthenium films to form an ultrathin sulfide layer to reduce interface scattering. The microstructure, chemical composition, bonding configuration, and stability of the layer were characterized, and the resistivity scaling of the ruthenium films was examined. Microscopic observations suggested a crystalline TiTaS x layer formed on the titanium-tantalum nitride films while RuS 2 formed on the ruthenium films, both of which changed the binding state/energy of the metals. With the surface sulfurization, the interface scattering of electrons for the ruthenium films was effectively reduced to elevate the specularity parameter from 0.2 to 0.9 and lessen the resistivity scaling for at least 40 % at a thickness of below 10 nm, without a marked loss of interfacial adhesion. However, an increase in contact resistance of molybdenum to the surface-sulfurized ruthenium films needs to be considered. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We aimed to identify serum exosomal microRNAs (miRNAs) associated with the transition from atrial fibrillation (AF) to sinus rhythm (SR) and investigate their potential as biomarkers for the early recurrence of AF within three months post-treatment. We collected blood samples from eight AF patients at Chang Gung Memorial Hospital in Taiwan both immediately before and within 14 days following rhythm control treatment. Exosomes were isolated from these samples, and small RNA sequencing was performed. Using DESeq2 analysis, we identified nine miRNAs (16-2-3p, 22-3p, 23a-3p, 23b-3p, 125a-5p, 328-3p, 423-5p, 504-5p, and 582-3p) associated with restoration to SR. Further analysis using the DIABLO model revealed a correlation between the decreased expression of miR-125a-5p and miR-328-3p and the early recurrence of AF. Furthermore, early recurrence is associated with a longer duration of AF, presumably indicating a more extensive state of underlying cardiac remodeling. In addition, the reads were mapped to mRNA sequences, leading to the identification of 14 mRNAs (AC005041.1, ARHGEF12, AMT, ANO8, BCL11A, DIO3OS, EIF4ENIF1, G2E3-AS1, HERC3, LARS, NT5E, PITX1, SLC16A12, and ZBTB21) associated with restoration to SR. Monitoring these serum exosomal miRNA and mRNA expression patterns may be beneficial for optimizing treatment outcomes in AF patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Thin films of single-phase ruthenium aluminide (RuAl) intermetallic compound were deposited by magnetron co-sputtering. An ordered B2 body-centered cubic structure of high crystallinity was formed after rapid thermal annealing at 800 °C for 1 min. Data fittings using the Fuchs–Sondheimer and Mayadas–Shatzkes models suggested the very short mean free path of electrons of below 5 nm and the high specularity parameter of 0.9. The short mean free path and the much reduced diffuse scattering of electrons at the interface effectively suppressed the resistivity scaling of the B2 RuAl intermetallic compound as compared to ruthenium metal. At an ultra-small film thickness of below 5 nm, the reflection of electrons by grain boundaries or domain walls might alternatively dominate the increase in resistivity. The RuAl intermetallic compound with an ordered B2 structure and a high cohesive energy (a large negative mixing enthalpy) also demonstrated a superior thermal stability at an extreme temperature up to 900 °C. It could be a promising candidate for potential use as the next-generation interconnect metallization without the need of a diffusion barrier. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Ectopic insulin-like growth factor binding protein 3 (IGFBP3) expression has been shown to enhance cell migration and lymph node metastasis of oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) cells. However, OSCC patients with high IGFBP3 expression had improved survival compared with those with low expression. Therefore, we speculated that IGFBP3 expression may play a role in response to conventional OSCC therapies, such as radiotherapy. Methods: We used in vitro and in vivo analyses to explore IGFBP3-mediated radiosensitivity. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) detection by flow cytometry was used to confirm IGFBP3-mediated ionizing radiation (IR)-induced apoptosis. Geneset enrichment analysis (GSEA) and ingenuity pathway analysis (IPA) were used to analyze the relationship between IGFBP3 and nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells (NF-κB) signaling. Assays involving an NF-κB inhibitor, ROS scavenger or interleukin 6 (IL-6) were used to evaluate the NF-κB/IL-6/ROS signaling in IGFBP3-mediated radiosensitivity. Results: Ectopic IGFBP3 expression enhanced IR-induced cell-killing in vitro. In vivo, IGFBP3 reduced tumor growth and increased apoptotic signals of tumor tissues in immunocompromised mice treated with IR. Combined with IR, ectopic IGFBP3 expression induced mitochondria-dependent apoptosis, which was apparent through mitochondrial destruction and increased ROS production. Ectopic IGFBP3 expression enhanced NK-κB activation and downstream cytokine expression. After IR exposure, IGFBP3-induced NF-κB activation was inhibited by the ROS scavenger N-acetyl-L-cysteine (NAC). IGFBP3-mediated ROS production was reduced by the NF-κB inhibitor BMS-345541, while exogenous IL-6 rescued the NF-κB-inhibited, IGFBP3-mediated ROS production. Conclusions: Our data demonstrate that IGFBP3, a potential biomarker for radiosensitivity, promotes IR-mediated OSCC cell death by increasing ROS production through NF-κB activation and cytokine production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ephrin type-A receptor 10 (EPHA10) has been implicated as a potential target for breast and prostate cancer therapy. However, its involvement in oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) remains unclear. We demonstrated that EPHA10 supports in vivo tumor growth and lymphatic metastasis of OSCC cells. OSCC cell migration, epithelial mesenchymal transition (EMT), and sphere formation were found to be regulated by EPHA10, and EPHA10 was found to drive expression of some EMT- and stemness-associated transcription factors. Among EPHA10 ligands, exogenous ephrin A4 (EFNA4) induced the most OSCC cell migration and sphere formation, as well as up-regulation of SNAIL, NANOG, and OCT4. These effects were abolished by extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) inhibition and NANOG knockdown. Also, EPHA10 was required for EFNA4-induced cell migration, sphere formation, and expression of NANOG and OCT4 mRNA. Our microarray dataset revealed that EFNA4 mRNA expression was associated with expression of NANOG and OCT4 mRNA, and OSCC patients showing high co-expression of EFNA4 with NANOG or OCT4 mRNA demonstrated poor recurrence-free survival rates. Targeting forward signaling of the EFNA4-EPHA10 axis may be a promising therapeutic approach for oral malignancies, and the combination of EFNA4 mRNA and downstream gene expression may be a useful prognostic biomarker for OSCC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In an attempt to synthesise new tyrosinase inhibitors, we designed and synthesised a series of chalcone-hydroxypyridinone hybrids as potential tyrosinase inhibitors adopting strategic modifications of kojic acid. All the newly synthesised compounds were characterised by NMR and mass spectrometry. Initial screening of the target compounds demonstrated that compounds 1a, 1d, and 1n had relatively strong inhibitory activities against tyrosinase monophenolase, with IC50 values of 3.07 ± 0.85, 2.25 ± 0.8 and 2.75 ± 1.19 μM, respectively. The inhibitory activity against monophenolase was 6- to 8-fold higher than that of kojic acid. Compounds 1a, 1d, and 1n also showed inhibition of diphenolase, with IC50 values of 17.05 ± 0.07, 11.70 ± 0.03 and 19.3 ± 0.28 μM, respectively. The inhibition kinetics of diphenolase indicates that compounds 1a and 1d induce reversible inhibition on tyrosinase. Finally, we found that copper coordination should be one of the important inhibitory mechanism of these compounds in tyrosinase. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

While the popularity of China Wind (zhongguofeng 中國風) music during the 2000s has waned somewhat since its peak, the notion of Chineseness in popular music requires reconfiguration. In the world of popular music, transnational flows of culture, migration, and capital have created various forms of Chineseness with different functions. This article examines two ways in which the perception of Chineseness functions in the music industry, namely as a re-centred Chineseness in the creative industries, and Chineseness as a globalising project, by examining the internationally franchised televised music contest The Voice of China and the recent work of two artists known for their China Wind songs, Jay Chou and Wang Leehom. Through textual analysis of media content and songs, as well interviews with industry practitioners, this article argues that Chineseness in today's Chinese popular music is often shaped by markets, industrial practices, media censorship, state policy, and cross-industry convergence, and musicians' artistry increasingly plays a part in forming and authorising the representation of Chineseness in contemporary Chinese popular music. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tandis que la popularité de la musique China Wind (zhongguofeng ...) connaît un déclin relatif depuis son apogée dans les années 2000, la notion de sinité dans la musique populaire nécessite d'être reconfigurée. Dans le monde de la musique populaire, les flux culturels, financiers et migratoires transnationaux ont créé de nombreuses formes de sinité aux fonctions différentes. Cet article étudie deux manières par lesquelles la perception de la sinité fonctionne dans l'industrie musicale, à savoir comme une sinité recentrée dans les secteurs de la création et une sinité conçue comme projet de mondialisation. Pour cela, l'article examinera un concours musical télévisé dont la formule a fait le tour du monde, The Voice of China, et les productions récentes de deux artistes réputés pour leurs chansons China Wind, Jay Chou et Wang Leehom. À travers l'analyse textuelle de chansons et de contenus médiatiques, ainsi que d'entretiens avec des professionnels du secteur, cet article avance que la sinité à l'œuvre dans la musique populaire chinoise actuelle est souvent façonnée par les marchés, les pratiques industrielles, la censure des médias, les politiques gouvernementales et la convergence intersectorielle. Dans ce contexte, le talent artistique des musiciens joue un rôle croissant dans la formation et l'autorisation des représentations de la sinité dans la musique populaire chinoise contemporaine. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A novel dihydrophenazine‐based organic di‐anchoring dye DK‐11 was synthesized by utilizing a simple synthetic protocol. The dye was characterized by optical and electrochemical studies and used as a sensitizer for dye‐sensitized solar cell. The proposed butterfly structure was supported by IR experiments which ensured the binding of both carboxylic acid units on the semiconductor surface. Using the dye DK‐11, the device generated an efficiency of 5.07% with JSC, VOC, and FF values of 10.65 mA/cm2, 0.67 V, and 0.71, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The iron(III) affinity constants for schizokinen and its imide derivative are reported for the first time. Surprisingly, schizokinen possesses a higher affinity for iron(III) than desferrioxamine B; log KFeIII (FeL), 36.2 and 30.6, respectively. This increase in value is associated with the substitution of one hydroxamate function by an α-hydroxycarboxylate grouping. By virtue of the similarity of siderophore–iron(III) complexes and siderophore–gallium(III) complexes, schizokinen (which is a Gram positive siderophore) has potential for 68Ga PET-based imaging. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigated the effects of different temperature treatments (18, 24, and 30 8C) on apex development in tropical cauliflower cultivars of varying maturity types. Two commercial cultivars, H-37 (early maturity) and H-80 (mid-late maturity), were used as the testing materials. 'H-37' reached the curd-initiation phase earlier than 'H-80' and showed superior growth during the curd's initial development phase under all temperature treatments. Analysis of variance revealed significant effects regarding main temperature and cultivar as well as their interaction. 'H-37' at a temperature of 18 8C demonstrated the optimal transformation of apex development from the vegetative to reproductive stage. A temperature of 24 8C promoted the apex development of 'H-37' at the curd initial development phase. Gene expression analysis results indicated that the BoFLC2 expression of 'H-37' was significantly down-regulated than that of 'H-80' after curd initiation and advanced growth. A temperature 30 8C accelerated the ending of juvenile stage and forward to curd initiation in 'H-80' and declined with temperature decreased. Moreover, expression of the BoFLC2 transcript level of both tropical cauliflower cultivars nearly disappeared at the high temperature of 30 8C following curd initiation, suggesting that heat stress hinders curd formation. The results of this study also indicate that the number of leaves required to induce curd initiation is less than nine in tropical cauliflower at temperatures of 18 to 30 8C. In conclusion, under nonvernalized high temperatures, different cultivars of tropical cauliflower can initiate curd development but with a different pattern from those cultivars grown in temperate zones. This information may provide novel insights for cauliflower farmers or breeders in tropical regions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • The resistivity scaling of ruthenium and molybdenum films were investigated. • The bulk resistivity of the metal films was dominated by impurities (oxygen). • The grain-boundary reflectivity was controlled by the structure coherency. • Low electronegativity promoted interface bonding but caused low permeability. • A simple methodology to predict the interface permeability was established. Ruthenium and molybdenum are of great potential to replace copper for use as the next-generation interconnect metallization. Important parameters including their intrinsic resistivity, grain-boundary reflectivity and interface permeability need to be carefully examined. Hence in this study, ruthenium and molybdenum films with various thicknesses were prepared on different substrates by physical vapor, chemical vapor and atomic layer depositions. The microstructure, chemical compositions, bonding configurations and interfacial adhesion were characterized, and the electrical resistivities with scaling was examined using the Fuchs-Sondheimer and Mayadas-Shatzkes models. Experimental results indicate that the grain-boundary reflectivity was strongly influenced by the structure coherency and impurity (oxygen) segregation. Thermal annealing facilitated defect elimination and structure recovery, lowering the intrinsic resistivity and the grain boundary reflectivity. Strong interface bonding caused serious interface diffuse scattering, and an inverse proportional relationship between interfacial adhesion strength and interface permeability was suggested, which was dominated by the electronegativity of the metals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The prototype tris(1,6-dimethyl-3-hydroxypyridin-4-one) chelator for gallium-68, THPMe, has shown great promise for rapid and efficient kit-based 68Ga labelling of PET radiopharmaceuticals. Peptide derivatives of THPMe have been used to image expression of their target receptors in vivo in preclinical and clinical studies. Herein we describe new synthetic routes to the THP platform including replacing the 1,6-dimethyl-3-hydroxypyridin-4-one N1–CH3 group of THPMe with O (tris(6-methyl-3-hydroxypyran-4-one, THPO) and N1–H (tris(6-methyl-3-hydroxypyridin-4-one), THPH) groups. The effect of these structural modifications on lipophilicity, gallium binding and metal ion selectivity was investigated. THPH was able to bind 68Ga in extremely mild conditions (5 min, room temperature, pH 6, 1 μM ligand concentration) and, notably, in vivo, when administered to a mouse previously injected with 68Ga acetate. The 67Ga radiolabelled complex was stable in serum for more than 7 days. [68Ga(THPH)] displayed a log P value of −2.40 ± 0.02, less negative than the log P = −3.33 ± 0.02 measured for [68Ga(THPMe)], potentially due to an increase in intramolecular hydrogen bonding attributable to the N1–H pyridinone units. Spectrophotometric determination of the Ga3+/Fe3+ complex formation constants for both THPMe and THPH revealed their preference for binding Ga3+ over Fe3+, which enabled selective labelling with 68Ga3+ in the presence of a large excess of Fe3+ in both cases. Compared to THPMe, THPH showed significantly reduced affinity for Fe3+, increased affinity for Ga3+ and improved radiolabelling efficiency. THPO was inferior to both THPH and THPMe in terms of labelling efficiency, but its benzylated precursor Bn-THPO (tris(6-methyl-3-benzyloxypyran-4-one)) provides a potential platform for the synthesis of a library of THP compounds with tunable chemical properties and metal preferences. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Graphical abstract Highlights • Bis(trifluoromethane)sulfonimide lithium salt and camphorsulfonic acid were added to the gel-based electrolytes for DSSCs. • Lithium salt and camphorsulfonic acid can enhance the conductivity of the electrolytes. • Adding lithium salt and camphorsulfonic acid to the gel-based electrolytes effectively enhanced the DSSC efficiency. • The DSSC devices with the gel-based electrolytes exhibited a longer stability. Abstract In this study, gel-based electrolytes were produced by mixing a liquid-based electrolyte with poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA), which served as a gelator to enhance the stability of the electrolytes and dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs). Furthermore, bis(trifluoromethane)sulfonimide lithium salt (LiTFSI) and camphorsulfonic acid (C 10 H 16 O 4 S) were separately added to the gel-based electrolytes. The results indicate that adding LiTFSI and C 10 H 16 O 4 S to the gel-based electrolytes effectively enhanced the device efficiency. In particular, the device with the 1:1 + 0.1 M LiTFSI gel-based electrolyte exhibited the optimal efficiency (7.33%), which was higher than that observed in the device with the liquid-based electrolyte. The results also proved that the DSSC devices with the gel-based electrolytes exhibited a longer stability. Therefore, using optimized gel-based electrolytes can enhance the power conversion efficiency and stability of DSSC devices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Carbamazepine is known to produce the side effect of euphoria. As such, it lends itself to being a drug of abuse, particularly in the adolescent population. This retrospective study evaluated carbamazepine abuse, treatment course, and associated morbidity in Chinese adolescents. The median dose of carbamazepine resulting in overdose was 2,000 mg (800–5,000). Patients were largely from urban-rural fringe areas (76.47%, 52.94%) with school performance within the last 1/3 range and (52.94%) unsupervised by parents. 35.29% experienced an obvious sense of euphoria. All patients had nervous system symptoms, 6 (35.29%) cases developed coma (GCS < 8), and 5 (29.41%) cases experienced convulsion. Four cases were treated with hemodialysis. The incidence rate in young patients with repeat carbamazepine use and without the supervision of parents was higher than that in first-time users (5/7 versus 4/10), but the difference was not significant. The toxic dose of repeat users was 3428 ± 1035 mg, significantly higher than that of 1470 ± 646 mg in first-time users (P=0.001). Carbamazepine can produce a sense of euphoria, which is more likely to lead to its abuse and overdose in adolescents. To prevent carbamazepine abuse and overdose will be critical in educating at-risk adolescents and preventing associated morbidities in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The interaction of pyridoxal isonicotinoyl hydrazone (PIH) and salicylaldehyde isonicotinoyl hydrazone (SIH), two important biologically active chelators, with iron has been investigated by spectrophotometric methods. High iron(III) affinity constants were determined for PIH, logβ 2 = 37.0 and SIH, logβ 2 = 37.6. The associated redox potentials of the iron complexes were determined using cyclic voltammetry at pH 7.4 as + 130 mV ( vs normal hydrogen electrode, NHE) for PIH and + 136 mV( vs NHE) for SIH. These redox potentials are much higher than those corresponding to iron chelators in clinical use, namely deferiprone, − 620 mV; desferasirox, − 600 mV and desferrioxamine, − 468 mV. Although the positive redox potentials of SIH and PIH are similar to that of EDTA, namely + 120 mV, the iron complexes of these two hydrazone chelators, unlike the iron complex of EDTA, do not redox cycle in the presence of vitamin C. These properties render PIH and SIH as excellent scavengers of iron, under biological conditions. Both SIH and PIH scavenge mononuclear iron(II) and iron(III) rapidly. These fast kinetic properties of the hydrazone-based chelators provide a ready explanation for the adoption of SIH in fluorescence-based methods for the quantification of cytosolic iron(II). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background:School physical education (PE) programs provide a prime environment for interventions that attempt to develop school-aged children’s motor competence and overall physical fitness, while also stimulating competence motivation to engage in physical activity during childhood. It is generally recognized that a pedometer-based intervention strategy combined with a goal-setting strategy may be effective in increasing physical activity participation among school-aged children. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the impact of an 8-week pedometer-based goal-setting intervention on children’s motivation in PE, motor competence, and physical activity. Methods:A pretest–posttest comparison group design was used with the 8-week intervention (3 days/week for 24 sessions). Participants were 273 (boys = 136, girls = 137) students recruited from 3 elementary schools in the US. Classes in each school were randomly allocated to three experimental conditions: (1) an intervention group with a personalized pedometer weekly target to reach in their PE class (N = 110), (2) an intervention group with the fixed pedometer target range to reach in each PE class based on the recommended criteria (N = 90), or (3) a control group without intervention (N = 73). Analysis/results:The factorial repeated measures MANOVA indicated significant multivariate effects for the group [F(6, 528) = 12.954,p < .001].Post hocanalyzes showed that both experimental groups had significantly higher expectancy-value beliefs, motor competence, and physical activity compared to the control group (p < .001). Conclusions:Health practitioners should be aware that goal-directed action can contribute to school students’ PE-related achievement motivation, motor competence, and achieving the recommended 60 min of moderate-to-vigorous physical activity. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

This paper presents a case study of red tide hazards around the Pearl River Estuary (PRE). Red tide hazards, meteorological data, and seawater monitoring data were collected from 1996 to 2020 at different locations around the PRE to investigate the internal and external factors influencing the occurrence of red tides. The enhancement of the assessment of estuarine trophic status (ASSETS) method enables us to evaluate the effects of meteorological factors and seawater eutrophication status on the red tide risk level. Using ASSETS, we established a framework for red tide risk assessment of the Pearl River Estuary. We analysed the external and internal factors causing the red tide based on meteorological data and seawater monitoring data in the PRE. The results show that the temperature was higher than the annual monthly average temperature of 1.265 °C, and east and north winds at velocities of 3–4 m/s could result in the formation of red tides. However, precipitation inhibits the formation of the red tide in PRE. [Display omitted] • We analysed the interior factors and external factors effect on red tide occurrence. • The meteorological conditions suitable for algae growth in PRE area were proposed. • Forming mechanism of meteorological factors affecting red tide is described. • Relationship between nutrient concentration and red tide in PRE area was analysed. • ASSETS method was adopted to evaluate the red tide risk level. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The main objective of this study was to develop reversed hexagonal (H II ) mesophase for transdermal delivery of methyl salicylate. The formulation was prepared, characterized and evaluated for its skin penetration in vitro and skin retention in vivo. Preliminary pharmacodynamics and skin irritation were also investigated. The formulation was identified as hexagonal structure. In vitro study exhibited that H II mesophase enhanced the skin permeation by delivering 2.61 times more methyl salicylate than the commercially available cream. Meanwhile, H II mesophase presented higher bioavailability as AUC (0–24) and AUC (0–∞) were 32.894 μg·mL − 1 and 32.935 μg·mL − 1 respectively, while the cream were 12.791 μg·mL − 1 and 12.970 μg·mL − 1 . Preliminary pharmacodynamics studies demonstrated that H II mesophase possessed anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects for inhibiting paw edema, granuloma and pain. MeSa H II mesophase showed no skin irritation on the normal rat skin. Thus, H II mesophase was considered as an effective delivery system for MeSa. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The extant literature has largely overlooked not only the causes of electricity conservation at the firm-level, but also the potential industry-level moderators that shape the relationship. Taiwan faces an impending energy crisis due to overwhelming reliance on foreign fossil fuel and electricity legislation failure (such as raising electricity prices). Drawing on self-regulation theory to ground the study and a sample from Taiwan, this study documents that the existence of a sustainability committee is positively associated with corporate electricity usage reduction. However, the relationship does not seem to be linear. Memberships in environmentally-intensive industries negatively moderate the relationship between electricity usage reduction and the existence of sustainability committees. • Overwhelming reliance on foreign fossil fuel make Taiwan vulnerable to energy market risks. • Sustainability committees represent internal governance mechanisms that respond to reduce electricity use. • Sustainability committees serve as substitutes for statutory control in non-electricity consumption industries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

By D-arginine and L-arginine chiral peptides induced spin selectivity and Au NPs enhanced spin polarization, chiral peptides purification has been effectively simplified and the purification performance has raised from a mixture system. The angular momentums of light are operated by the polarizer and wave plates. Au NPs decorated ZnO nanorods electrodes are utilized to modulate the polarization of spintronic. Seed growth methods are for synthesizing spherical Au NPs. UV light reduction methods are for urchin-liked Au NPs. Au NPs are decorated on ZnO nanorods electrodes for rising photon to electron conversion efficiency and enhancing spin polarization rates by surface plasmon effect. From our results, photon to the electron conversion efficiency of ZnO nanorods electrodes has effectively enhanced by urchin-liked Au NPs decorating. Ultrahigh localized plasmon conversion efficiency as high as 60% was also obtained. Besides, density functional theory (DFT) calculations simulated the force on spintronic. Since the D-arginine and L-arginine are on Au substrate, DFT results demonstrate different angular momentum and spin polarization coupling. Along with urchin-liked Au NPs rising chiral induced spin polarization by surface plasmon resonance, the sensitivity of chiral arginine has been raised around 5000% from bare ZnO nanorods electrodes. The purification and separation time of a specific chiral arginine only needs 5 min. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hepcidin is a peptide hormone that regulates the homeostasis of iron metabolism. The N-terminal domain of hepcidin is conserved amongst a range of species and is capable of binding Cu and Ni through the amino terminal copper-nickel binding motif (ATCUN). It has been suggested that the binding of copper to hepcidin may have biological relevance. In this study we have investigated the binding of Cu with model peptides containing the ATCUN motif, fluorescently labelled hepcidin and hepcidin using MALDI-TOF mass spectrometry. As with albumin, it was found that tetrapeptide models of hepcidin possessed a higher affinity for Cu than that of native hepcidin. The log K value of hepcidin for Cu was determined as 7.7. Cu binds to albumin more tightly than hepcidin (log K = 12) and in view of the serum concentration difference of albumin and hepcidin, the bulk of kinetically labile Cu present in blood will be bound to albumin. It is estimated that the concentration of Cu-hepcidin will be less than one femtomolar in normal serum and thus the binding of copper to hepcidin is unlikely to play a role in iron homeostasis. As with albumin, small tri and tetra peptides are poor models for the metal binding properties of hepcidin. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Esophageal carcinoma (EC) is one of the most aggressive cancer types worldwide. However, the underlying genomic events of EC are not fully understood. It is becoming evident that long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) play vital roles in tumorgenesis, metastasis, prognosis and diagnosis. Accumulating EC-related lncRNAs have been verified to involve in various biological processes through diverse functions including signal, decoy, scaffold and guide. However, the molecular mechanism of lncRNAs in EC has not been fully explored. In this review, we outline the functions and underlying mechanism of EC-related lncRNAs to pave the way for identification of novel potential biomarkers for EC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Myeloid leukemia cells maintain a high intracellular ROS level and use redox signals for survival. The metabolism of ROS also affects cell fate, including cell death and differentiation. Superoxide dismutases (SODs) are major antioxidant enzymes that have high levels of expression in myeloid leukemia cells. However, the role of SODs in the regulation of myeloid leukemia cells' biological function is still unclear. To investigate the function of SODs in myeloid leukemia cell death and differentiation, we used myeloid leukemia cell lines K562, MEG-01, TF-1, and HEL cells for this study. We found that PMA-induced megakaryocytic differentiation in myeloid leukemia cells is accompanied by cell death and SOD1 down-regulation, while SOD2 expression is not affected. The role of SOD1 is verified when ATN-224, a SOD1 specific inhibitor, inhibits cell proliferation and promotes cell death in myeloid leukemia cells without PMA treatment. Moreover, inhibition or silencing of SODs further increases cell death and decreases polyploidization induced by PMA while they were partially reversed by SOD1 overexpression. Thus, SOD1 expression is required for myeloid leukemia cell fate determination. In addition, the knockdown of PKD2 reduces cell death and promotes polyploidization induced by PMA. PMA/PKD2-mediated necrosis via PARP cleavage involves both SOD1-dependent and -independent pathways. Finally, ATN-224 enhanced the inhibition of cell proliferation by Ara-C. Taken together, the results demonstrate that SOD1 regulates cell death and differentiation in myeloid leukemia cells. ATN-224 may be beneficial for myeloid leukemia therapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The sources of evidence contributing to metacognitive assessments of confidence in decision-making remain unclear. Previous research has shown that pupil dilation is related to the signaling of uncertainty in a variety of decision tasks. Here we ask whether pupil dilation is also related to metacognitive estimates of confidence. Specifically, we measure the relationship between pupil dilation and confidence during an auditory decision task using a general linear model approach to take into account delays in the pupillary response. We found that pupil dilation responses track the inverse of confidence before but not after a decision is made, even when controlling for stimulus difficulty. In support of an additional post-decisional contribution to the accuracy of confidence judgments, we found that participants with better metacognitive ability – that is, more accurate appraisal of their own decisions – showed a tighter relationship between post-decisional pupil dilation and confidence. Together our findings show that a physiological index of uncertainty, pupil dilation, predicts both confidence and metacognitive accuracy for auditory decisions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, we analyze and discuss the problem of lens distortion in 3-D floating images. Lens distortion impacts the viewing zone distribution of auto-stereoscopic images. To understand the relationship between lens distortion and stereoscopic effects, we set up measurement methods to evaluate them. Measured data from these methods allow us to easily determine the optimization results of the 3-D floating image system. It will help to improve the 3-D floating display system when we try to optimize its optical design and user interface. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Hydrogen-based compounds have been found to exhibit high superconducting critical temperature ( T c ) through the electron–phonon coupling mechanism under ultrahigh pressure. Herein, a new two-dimensional transition metal dichalcogenide material is constructed, namely, the Janus WSH monolayer. It is formed by replacing one layer of S atoms in the WS2 monolayer with H atoms. Then the electronic structure, phonon dispersion, electron–phonon coupling, and superconductivity are investigated by first-principles calculations. The results show that the introduction of H atoms helps to flatten the electronic dispersion and leads to high electronic density of states at the Fermi level, resulting in strong electron–phonon coupling. Additionally, the softening of phonon modes from the hybridization of in-plane W atomic vibrations and out-of-plane H atomic vibrations boosts the electron–phonon coupling further. The strong interactions between electrons and phonons lead to phonon-mediated superconductivity in Janus WSH monolayer with a calculated T c being about 23.1 K. This is the highest T c predicted in WS2-based materials at present, which indicates that hydrogenation is a great way to improve the T c of transition metal dichalcogenide materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aims to investigate the different ground reaction force (GRF) characteristics from different stride types. This study included 30 Taiwanese elite college and professional baseball pitchers. Each pitcher was classified into one of the following stride types: tall and fall (TF), dip and drive (DD), or mixed (MX). Our findings indicated that DD pitchers pressed their bodies forward earlier than TF pitchers. In contrast, the GRF of the pivot leg of TF pitchers increased slowly in the first half of the stride phase and continued to increase even after the stride leg touched the ground. This type of continuous pressing in TF was different from that in DD and MX pitchers, which decreased rapidly into the arm-cocking & acceleration phases. We conclude that the lower extremities were used differently by TF, DD and MX pitchers. This information could serve as a training guideline for coaches and pitchers to enhance training effectiveness, while simultaneously lowering injury risks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Fenofibrate, a fibric acid derivative, is known to possess lipid-lowering effects. Although fenofibrate may activate peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor (PPAR)α and regulate the transcription of several genes, the underlying mechanisms are poorly understood. In this study, we demonstrated that incubation of C2C12 myotubes with fenofibrate increased adipose triglyceride lipase (ATGL) expression and suppressed fatty acid synthase (FAS) level, thereby decreasing intracellular triglyceride accumulation when cells were incubated at high-glucose condition. Fenofibrate increased the phosphorylation of AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK), which subsequently increased fatty acid β-oxidation. AMPK phosphorylation was reduced by pretreatment with GW9662 (a PPARα inhibitor), suggesting that AMPK may be a downstream effector of PPARα. Pretreatment with compound C (an AMPK inhibitor) or GW9662 blocked fenofibrate-induced ATGL expression and the lipid-lowering effect. Our results suggest that AMPK is as an upstream regulator of ATGL. With further exploration, we demonstrated that fenofibrate stimulated FoxO1 translocation from the cytosol to nuclei by immunefluorescence assay, chromatin immuneprecipitation assay, and reporter assay. Furthermore, oral administration of fenofibrate ameliorated the body weight, visceral fat and serum biochemical indexes in db/db mice. Taken together, our results suggest that the lipid-lowering effect of fenofibrate was achieved by activating PPARα and AMPK signaling pathway that resulted in increasing ATGL expression, lipolysis, and fatty acid β-oxidation. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Using the 4×4 transfer matrix method, we study the optical properties of a designed structure composing one magnetic film sandwiched between two identical metal films. There is a special resonant effect. At one special wavelength, the incidence of one linearly polarized light result in one pure left-handed circular polarization or one pure right-handed circular polarization with the same intensity. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Museums need an interactive data collection and visualisation tool for their artefacts. This paper describes a study in which we enable access to Chinese and Japanese cultural heritage information from two history museums, the National Palace Museum in Taiwan and the Tokugawa Art Museum in Japan. Results from these museum databases were used to develop a prototype system to demonstrate advanced cultural learning and historical timeline functionalities for foreigners. This system is based on temporal data from the museums' databases, and provided the user with powerful data manipulation and graphical visualisation tools. It might become a basis of an interactive digital museum system for Chinese and Japanese heritages especially for foreign users. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The objective of this paper is to present an analytical solution for describing the head distribution in an unconfined aquifer with a single pumping horizontal well parallel to a fully penetrating stream. The Laplace-domain solution is developed by applying Fourier sine, Fourier and Laplace transforms to the governing equation as well as the associated initial and boundary conditions. The time-domain solution is obtained after taking the inverse Laplace transform along with the Bromwich integral method and inverse Fourier and Fourier sine transforms. The upper boundary condition of the aquifer is represented by the free surface equation in which the second-order slope terms are neglected. Based on the solution and Darcy’s law, the equation representing the stream depletion rate is then derived. The solution can simulate head distributions in an aquifer infinitely extending in horizontal direction if the well is located far away from the stream. In addition, the solution can also simulate head distributions in confined aquifers if specific yield is set zero. It is shown that the solution can be applied practically to evaluate flow to a horizontal well. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Summary: Objectives: The aim of this study was to compare the effectiveness and safety of microdebrider-assisted inferior turbinoplasty (MAIT) with submucosal resection (SR) for children with hypertrophic inferior turbinates. Materials and methods: One hundred and twenty children with chronic nasal obstruction due to hypertrophic inferior turbinates were enrolled. These children were randomly assigned to receive SR of the inferior turbinate (n =60) or MAIT (n =60). Ten children who did not appear to display any nasal discomfort served as normal controls. Surgical-outcome was evaluated with respect to four distinct parameters: nasal endoscopy, subjective assessment of nasal symptoms by the patient using a visual analogue scale, anterior rhinomanometry, and saccharin test. These evaluations were conducted before surgery and at 1 week, 1 and 3 months after surgery. Results: In the SR group, turbinate edema was decreased significantly at 1 and 3 months after surgery (p <0.05). Nasal secretions and crusting were increased significantly (p <0.05) in the SR group at 1 week after surgery and then decreased significantly at 1 and 3 months after surgery. In the MAIT group, turbinate edema and nasal secretions were decreased significantly at 1 and 3 months after surgery (p <0.05). Nasal crusting was not observed after surgery. Subjective complaints including nasal obstruction, sneezing, rhinorrhea and hyposmia were significantly improved in both groups from 1 month after surgery (p <0.05). Rhinomanometric assessment did not reveal significant improvement until 3 months after surgery in both groups. Saccharin transit time was significantly increased (p <0.05) compared to baseline at 1 week after surgery in the SR group but was not significantly different in the MAIT group. Conclusion: MAIT and SR are both effective at relieving nasal obstruction due to the presence of hypertrophic inferior turbinates. MAIT is superior to SR with regard to preserving the nasal mucosa. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Phorbol-12-myristate-13-acetate (PMA) induces megakaryocytopoeisis in human erythroleukemia (HEL) cells which is characterized by the increase in cell size, increase in nuclear polyploidization and expression of megakaryocyte marker, CD41. However, upon treatment with 100nM of selective prostacyclin (IP) agonist beraprost inhibits the induced differentiation. Moreover, selective non-prostanoid IP agonist, BMY 45778 prevents PMA induced megakaryocytopoeisis in HEL cells similarly, while prostaglandin E2 and specific EP3 agonist sulprostone have no effect. Thus, IP receptor is involved. Furthermore, adenylate cyclase activator forskolin and cAMP analog dibutyryl-cAMP also prevented PMA induced megakaryocytopoeisis in HEL cells. Thus, IP agonists inhibition of PMA induced megakaryocytopoeisis in HEL cells may involve a cAMP dependent pathway. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Sulfonated poly(phthalazinone ether)s 7a–f were directly synthesized by aromatic nucleophilic polycondensation of bisphthalazinone 4 with the mixture of sulfonated dihalide 5 and non-modified dihalide 6 via N–C coupling reaction. The sulfonated polymers were characterized by 1H NMR, elemental analysis and other technologies. Because of their specially designed molecular structure, the novel sulfonated polymers showed excellent thermal and oxidative stability. The sulfonated polymers also had reasonable water affinity and moderate proton conductivity for the usage in proton exchange membrane fuel cells. Display Omitted [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The present paper describes the process of preparing nano-scaled and well-crystallized cerium-doped yttrium aluminum garnet (YAG:Ce) crystalline phosphors synthesized by co-precipitation method with the addition of hexamethyldisilazane (HMDS) as OH-scavenging reagent. Thermal analyzer and X-ray diffractometer measurements showed that pure YAG phase could be got at the temperature of 900°C lower than that by solid-state method. It was also found that smaller size crystallites (∼33nm) were made after the HMDS treatment under the transmission electron microscope (TEM) observation. We inferred that it was achieved by reducing the surface condensing hydroxyl groups and by restricting the grain boundary motion due to second-phase particles pinning. Meanwhile, optical properties of YAG:Ce prepared in the present work were examined and showed that the photoluminescence intensity of the co-precipitated YAG:Ce crystallites plus HMDS treatment was better than those prepared by solid-state reaction or co-precipitation without any further treatment. It was proposed that the existing second-phase particles as well as higher specific surface area of nano-scaled YAG:Ce crystallites enhance the absorption of excitation. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

[Display omitted] • Study shows functionalized SAMs at metal/dielectric interface reduce line resistivity. • Tof-SIMS confirms SAMs at Ru/SiO 2 interface post-sputter and RTA. • SAM-modified SiO 2 /Ru lowers resistivity, improves adhesion—deviating from past studies. • SAMs on Ru lower work function, reduce resistivity, and boost adhesion. As the number of transistor increases in modern devices, the resistivity of metal lines increases with the downscaling of the vias dimension due to the increased in surface scattering of electrons. Herein, we evaluated the electrical performance and the adhesion strength of the Ru/SiO 2 substrate upon functionalizing with benzyliminetriethoxysilane (BITES) and aminoproyltriethoxysilane (APTES) self-assembled monolayers (SAMs)s at the Ru/SiO 2 interface. The covalent bonding and retention of the SAM film on the SiO 2 surface were characterized via angle-resolved X-ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy (AR-XPS) and Time-of-Flight Secondary Ion Mass Spectrometry (Tof-SIMS), respectively. According to the Fuchs–Sondheimer (FS) model and scratch test, the specularity parameter and the adhesion strength of the Ru/BITES/SiO 2 simultaneously improved after thermal annealing compared to the non-functionalized Ru/SiO 2 substrate. The effect of different SAM's terminal groups (amine and benzylimine) on the electron scattering behavior was investigated based on the formation of an interface dipole upon chemisorption of organic molecules on the metal film. Our results indicate that SAM with the benzylimine terminal group formed a larger positive dipole at the SAM layer of the Ru/BITES/SiO 2 interface compared to the Ru/APTES/SiO 2 , leading to an increased in specular electron scattering events and, thus an enhanced electrical performance of the Ru/BITES/SiO 2. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Patients with primary mitral regurgitation (MR) may remain asymptomatic for many years. For unknown reasons, some shift from a compensated to a decompensated state and progress to fatal heart failure. To elucidate the genetic determinants of this process, we recruited 28 patients who underwent mitral valve surgery and stratified them into control, compensated MR, and decompensated MR groups. Tissue biopsies were obtained from the patients' left ventricular (LV) lateral wall for a transcriptome-wide profiling of 64,769 probes to identify differentially expressed genes (DEGs). Using cutoff values at the 1% FDR significance level and sex- and age-adjusted regression models, we identified 12 significant DEGs (CTGF, MAP1B, SERPINE1, MYH9, MICAL2, MYO1D, CRY1, AQP7P3, HTRA1, PRSS23, IGFBP2, and FN1). The most significant gene was CTGF (adjusted R2 = 0.74, p = 1.80 × 10−8). We found that the majority of genes expressed in the more advanced decompensated MR group were pro-fibrotic genes associated with cardiac fibrosis. In particular, six pro-fibrotic genes (CTGF, SERPINE1, MYH9, HTRA1, PRSS23, and FN1) were overexpressed and enriched in pathways involved in ECM (extracellular matrix) protein remodeling. Therapeutic interventions that antagonize these six genes may slow the progression toward decompensated MR. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction. Occupational therapy (OT) educational programs are aimed at enrolling a diverse student population that is likely to succeed in the academic and fieldwork components of the program. Comprehending the array of factors that influence students' learning and academic and fieldwork success is important for university educators. This study investigated the existing literature on predictors of academic and fieldwork performance in OT students. Methods. The search process used in this review included screening, eligibility, and study quality. We searched the PubMed and Cochrane Library databases for literature published in the past 10 years (1 January 2012 to 30 March 2022). As a comprehensive search, the following keywords were used for abstract, title, and keywords sections: occupational therapy student, predictors, fieldwork, academic, academic success, academic performance, fieldwork success, and fieldwork performance. The Medical Education Research Study Quality Instrument was used to assess the quality of studies. Results. The systematic review retrieved 14 articles that met inclusion criteria. Most were cross-sectional studies, followed by cohort, retrospective analysis of secondary data, and exploratory studies. Four articles focused on academic success, eight focused on fieldwork success, and two explored both aspects. Promising predictors of academic performance included the admission grade point average and the student's approach to studying. Predictors of fieldwork performance included a graduate record examination score, emotional intelligence, and interpersonal relationships. Conclusion. This systematic review explores predictors of academic and fieldwork success in OT students, which provide opportunities to identify early the learning difficulties of students and assist educators to target modifiable predictors so they can provide high-quality education. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Two new indole alkaloids, Bufotenidine B (2) and Bufocarboline A (6), along with seven known indole alkaloids (1, 3–5, and 7–9) and three organic acids (10–12), were isolated from the water extract of toad venom. The structures of the new alkaloids were elucidated by extensive spectroscopic methods. The absolute configurations of 4, 6, and 8 were determined for the first time by electronic circular dichroism (ECD) calculations. The cytotoxic activity of all compounds was tested against human malignant melanoma cells A375 by the MTT method, and no antitumor activity was observed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We established the NHRI-HN1 cell line from a mouse tongue tumor induced by 4-nitroquinoline 1-oxide (4-NQO)/arecoline, with further selection for cell stemness via in vitro sphere culture, to evaluate potential immunotherapies for oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) in East and Southeast Asia. In vivo and in vitro phenotypic characterization, including tumor growth, immune modulator administration, gene expression, morphology, migration, invasion, and sphere formation assays, were conducted. NHRI-HN1 cells are capable of generating orthotopic tumors in syngeneic mice. Interestingly, immune stimulation via CpG oligodeoxynucleotide (CpG-ODN) dramatically reduced the tumor growth in NHRI-HN1 cell-injected syngeneic mice. The pathways enriched in genes that were differentially expressed in NHRI-HN1 cells when compared to non-tumorigenic cells were similar to those that were identified when comparing human OSCC and non-tumorous tissues. NHRI-HN1 cells have characteristics of epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT), including enhanced migration and invasion. NHRI-HN1 cells showed aggressive cell growth and sphere formation. The blockage of extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) activation suppressed cell migration and reduced stemness characteristics in NHRI-HN1 cells, similar to human OSCC cell lines. Our data suggest that NHRI-HN1 cells, showing tumorigenic characteristics of EMT, cancer stemness, and ERK activation, are sufficient in modeling human OSCC and also competent for use in investigating oral cancer immunotherapies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Adenosine 5′-monophosphate (AMP)-activated protein kinase (AMPK) is a key regulator of sperm function and physiological metabolism. Metformin, an inexpensive and effective antioxidant, is known to play an important role in the activation of AMPK. Therefore metformin has potential to improve sperm cryopreservation. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of metformin during semen cryopreservation of sheep and to find the most effective concentration in freezing extender. Semen were cryopreserved with extender containing different concentrations of metformin (0, 0.25, 0.5, 1.0, 2.0 and 4.0 mmol/L). Sperm motility, acrosome integrity and plasma membrane integrity were measured after semen freezing and thawing. All results showed that sperm quality was significantly increased in the 1.0 mmol/L metformin-treated group compared with the control group (P < 0.05). In addition, the study showed that metformin effectively reduced the content of malondialdehyde (MDA) and reactive oxygen species (ROS), and increased the activity of glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px), superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT) and total antioxidant capacity (T-AOC) of freeze-thawed sperm (P < 0.05). The optimal concentration of metformin was 1.0 mmol/L. Moreover, the results showed that AMPK was localized in the acrosome region, junction and midsection of sperm, and p-AMPK was distributed in the post-acrosomal region, junction and midsection. Western blot analysis indicated that 1.0 mmol/L metformin stimulated the phosphorylation of AMPK in sperm. Further results showed that 1.0 mmol/L metformin significantly increased the mitochondrial membrane potential (ΔΨm), ATP content, glucose uptake and lactate efflux of post-thawed sperm through the AMPK pathway, improved sperm quality, and increased the cleavage rate of in vitro fertilization (P < 0.05). • Metformin improved sheep sperm quality and antioxidant capacity after freezing and thawing, and the optimal concentration was 1.0 mmol/L. • Metformin (1.0 mmol/L) improved sperm mitochondrial function and in vitro fertilization (IVF) via promoted AMPK phosphorylation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effects of microstructure and loading mode on the mechanical properties of Au nanowires (NWs) are studied using molecular dynamics simulations based on the many-body embedded-atom potential. The effects are investigated in terms of common neighbour analysis, shear strain distribution, and stress-strain curves. The microstructure effect is examined using single-crystalline (SC), nanocrystalline (NC), and amorphous (AC) structures. The simulation results show that during tension, SC, NC, and AC NWs have visually similar deformations and similar ultimate strains, but completely different deformation mechanisms. For all loading modes, the SC NWs have the highest tensile and shear strength values and the NC NWs have the highest compressive strength. The AC NWs have poor strength under tensile, compressive, and shear loadings. The presence of grain boundaries increases the geometric instability of the NC NWs under compression and shear loadings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]