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Macrophage polarization is closely associated with the inflammatory processes involved in the development and chemoresistance of colorectal cancer (CRC). M2 macrophages, the predominant subtype of tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) in a wide variety of malignancies, have been demonstrated to promote the resistance of CRC to multiple chemotherapeutic drugs, such as 5-fluorouracil (5-FU). In our study, we investigated the potential of 23-Hydroxybetulinic Acid (23-HBA), a significant active component of Pulsatilla chinensis (P. chinensis), to inhibit the polarization of M2 macrophages induced by IL-4. Our results showed that 23-HBA reduced the expression of M2 specific marker CD206, while downregulating the mRNA levels of M2 related genes (CD206, Arg1, IL-10, and CCL2). Additionally, 23-HBA effectively attenuated the inhibitory effects of the conditioned medium from M2 macrophages on apoptosis in colorectal cancer SW480 cells. Mechanistically, 23-HBA prevented the phosphorylation and nuclear translocation of the STAT6 protein, resulting in the inhibition of IL-10 release in M2 macrophages. Moreover, it interfered with the activation of the IL-10/STAT3/Bcl-2 signaling pathway in SW480 cells, ultimately reducing M2 macrophage-induced resistance to 5-FU. Importantly, depleting STAT6 expression in macrophages abolished the suppressive effect of 23-HBA on M2 macrophage polarization, while also eliminating its ability to decrease M2 macrophage-induced 5-FU resistance in cancer cells. Furthermore, 23-HBA significantly diminished the proportion of M2 macrophages in the tumor tissues of colorectal cancer mice, simultaneously enhancing the anti-cancer efficacy of 5-FU. The findings presented in this study highlight the capacity of 23-HBA to inhibit M2 macrophage polarization, a process that contributes to reduced 5-FU resistance in colorectal cancer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The high-magnesium gangue severely affects the melting performance and fluidity of slag in nickel matte smelting. To detect the adaptability when the CaO-modified slag for treating high-magnesia nickel sulfide concentrate in flash smelting, the synergistic effect of MgO and other oxides on the microstructure and physicochemical properties of slag were analyzed through molecular dynamics simulation associated with the experimental analysis. The results indicate that the MgO content increases from 5 wt% to 11 wt%, part of the Fe2+ ions in silicate are gradually replaced by Mg2+, and some of them are transformed into Fe3+ in the external atmosphere. Accordingly, the generated Fe3+ may destroy the bridge oxygen between Si4+-O2--Si4+ and more complex silicate ions will be dissociated into SiO 4 4+. As a consequence, the Q0 proportion in the modified high-magnesia smelting slag improved from 24.33% to 29.69%, and the n (BO/T) decreased from 1.45 to 1.29. However, when MgO content is high enough, SiO 4 4+ tetrahedron ions may attract Fe2+ and Mg2+ to form (Fe, Mg) 2 SiO 4 with a more robust interaction network structure, resulting in an adverse effect on melting temperature and ions diffusion coefficient. The modified nickel slags with 5–11 wt% MgO represent hospitable melting temperature less than 1320 °C, viscosity lower than 0.091 Pa s, and surface tension between 0.4811 N/m to 0.4838 N/m. In brief, the CaO-modified slag turned out to be conducive for treating high-magnesium nickel sulfide concentrates in flash matte smelting, especially for those containing MgO less than 7 wt%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

It has become a general developing trend to resource recyciing lead-contammg soiid waste,such as lead-silver leaching residues by kad smelting. However, due to the obvious difference of raw material structure, the conventional direct reduction control theory of ligh--ead slag is not suitable for that of the mixed lead-si1ver eaching resddues and lead concentrates. To investigate the stag formation characteristics and reaction kinetics of the direct reduction process for recyciing lead-si1ver stag leaching resddues^n the basss of the occurrence state analysis of raw materiais and thermodynamic caiculation, combined subsequent reduction experiment.. The resuits show that both the early and kte stages of reduction (>30 min) are controled by interfacia1 reactions, and the 20 -- 30 min of reduction controled by external diffuson. Therefore, the reduction reaction efficiency can be enhanced by Increasing the reaction interface and reducing the viscosity of stag. As the reduction process proceeds, the !ead-containing phase in the slag vansshed off, the zinc mejijite and iron-zinc spinel phases gradually increased, the sijicate structure of stag ss changed from simple SiO" to Si2O7, and the meiiing temperature and viscosity of the stag Increase accordingly. The dreci smeiiing process for treating !ead-silver eaching residues mixed with !ead concentrates can meet the requrrements of reduction smeiiing production though controlling reduction smeiing stag with FeO/SiO2=1. 6,CaO/SiO2 = 0. 6, and ZnO ) 20 w.. %. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

PTEN-induced kinase 1 (PINK1) autophosphorylation-triggered mitophagy is the main mitophagic pathway in the nervous system. Moreover, multiple studies have confirmed that mitophagy is closely related to the occurrence and development of epilepsy. Therefore, we speculated that the PINK1 autophosphorylation may be involved in epileptogenesis by mediating mitophagic pathway. This study aimed to explore the contribution of activated PINK1 to epileptogenesis induced by pentylenetetrazol (PTZ) in Sprague‒Dawley rats. During PTZ-induced epileptogenesis, the levels of phosphorylated PINK1 were increased, accompanied by elevated mitophagy, mitochondria oxidative stress and neuronal damage. After microRNA intervention targeting translocase outer mitochondrial membrane 7 (TOM7) or overlapping with the m-AAA protease 1 homolog (OMA1), the levels of PINK1 phosphorylation, mitophagy, mitochondrial oxidative stress, neuronal injury were observed in the rats with induced epileptogenesis. Furthermore, inhibiting of the expression of TOM7, a positive regulator of PINK1 autophosphorylation, reversed the increase in PINK1 phosphorylation and alleviated mitophagy, neuronal injury, thereby preventing epileptogenesis. In contrast, reducing the levels of OMA1, a negative regulator of PINK1 autophosphorylation, led to increased phosphorylation of PINK1, accompanied by aggravated neuronal injury and ultimately, epileptogenesis. This study confirmed the contribution of activated PINK1 to PTZ-induced epileptogenesis and suggested that the inhibition of PINK1 autophosphorylation may assist in preventing epileptogenesis. [Display omitted] • Increased levels of PINK1 phosphorylation during PTZ-induced epileptogenesis. • Suppressing PINK1 phosphorylation attenuates neuronal injury and epileptogenesis. • Promoting PINK1 phosphorylation aggravates neuronal injury and epileptogenesis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Previous studies have suggested that xenon inhalation has neuroprotective and antiepileptic effects; however, the underlying mechanisms involved remain unclear. This study aimed to investigate the possible xenon inhalation mechanisms involved in the neuroprotection and antiepileptic effects. A neonatal hypoxic C57BL/6J mouse model was used for the experiments. Immediately after hypoxia treatment, the treatment group inhaled a xenon mixture (70% xenon/21% oxygen/9% nitrogen) for 60 min, while the hypoxia group inhaled a non-xenon mixture (21% oxygen/79% nitrogen) for 60 min. Seizure activity was recorded at designated time points using electroencephalography. Oxidative stress levels, iron levels, neuronal injury, and learning and memory functions were also studied. The results showed that hypoxia increased the levels of iron, oxidative stress, mitophagy, and neurodegeneration, which were accompanied by seizures and learning and memory disorders. In addition, our results confirmed that xenon treatment significantly attenuated the hypoxia-induced seizures and cognitive defects in neonatal C57 mice. Moreover, the increased levels of iron, oxidative stress, mitophagy, and neuronal injury were reduced in xenon-treated mice. This study confirms the significant protective effects of a xenon mixture on hypoxia-induced damage in neonatal mice. Furthermore, our results suggest that reducing oxidative stress levels and iron accumulation may be the underlying mechanisms of xenon activity. Studying the protective mechanisms of xenon will advance its applications in potential therapeutic strategies. Image 1 • Xenon exhibited an anti-seizure role in neonatal hypoxic mice. • Xenon reduced the neuronal injury and cognitive defect induced by neonatal hypoxia. • Xenon attenuated the levels of iron accumulation and oxidative stress in hypoxic mice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The transition metal chalcogenides (TMCs) are promising anode materials with excellent theoretical capacity and controllable synthesis approaches for Sodium ion batteries. However, the obvious volume effects and sluggish kinetics in the long-term sodiation/desodiation reaction limit the stability and high-capacity. Herein, the CoTe 2 @carbon nanocomposite electrodes (CoTe 2 @CNTs) are designed by ZIF-67 derived to conquer the volume expansion, synchronously, and CNTs anchored strategy are adopted to promote Na+ diffusion dynamics, and ensure cyclic stability and long cycle life of anode materials. Specifically, the as prepared nanocomposite constructed by CoTe 2 and CNT has displayed efficient Na+ storage mechanism by providing multiple adsorption sites, interconnected conductive network and abundant ions transport pathways, which are revealed by the density functional theory calculations. Furthermore, the in-situ CNTs anchored of CoTe 2 polyhedron have significantly enhanced the charge transfer capacity for Na+/electron and metallic properties of CoTe 2 @CNT composites, which exhibit outstanding electrochemical capacities (112.7 mAh g−1 at 2 A g−1 after 500 cycles) and pseudocapacitive-dominated behaviors when used as anodes. This work is expected to provide a legitimate and convenient approach with the controllable preparation of nanocomposite in energy storge devices. [Display omitted] • The synergy of MOF-derived and CNTs anchor retain a stable structure after high temperature tellurization. • The CNTs are anchored on CoTe 2 nanoparticles to generate conductive network and abundant active sites for transfer of Na+. • The modified materials exhibit extremely high pseudo-capacitance contribution and outstanding long life cycling stability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Antimony in minerals mainly exists in the form of antimony sulfide, valentinite, stibiconite/antimonite, and the stibiconite is relatively insoluble in alkaline solution. • The antimony extraction rate response values against individual factors can be presented as second order regression equation 1through response surface model. Y 1 = 93.33 + 1.52 A + 0.42 B + 0.48 C + 0.43 A B - 0.37 A C - 0.03 B C - 1.33 A 2 - 0.56 B 2 + 0.46 C 2 • The addition of NaOH and inhibitors can restrain the oxidation of S2- converting into S n 2- and S 2 O 3 2- ions in leaching solution, accordingly inhibit the associated leaching of gold. • The relevance degree between extraction rate of antimony and process parameters can be deduced as: Na 2 S concentration > temperature > NaOH concentration. And the extraction rates of antimony and gold are 94.15% and 3.37%, respectively, under the optimal conditions. To eliminate the adverse effect of antimony on extracting of gold in matte smelting process from Sb-bearing refractory gold ores, the sodium sulfide leaching method was proposed to selectively remove antimony in advance. On the basis of the analysis and characterization of raw materials (XRD, SEM-EDS, mineralogical phase analysis, etc.), it can be detected that the antimony in refractory gold ores is mainly in form of stibnite with small quantities of oxides, and the gold is mainly wrapped up in sulfides and silicates. The effects of sodium sulfide and sodium hydroxide concentration, temperature, leaching time and liquid–solid ratio on the extraction rate of antimony and gold were discussed. Furthermore, the response surface method was applied to distinguish the interaction influence of process parameters on the antimony and gold extraction rate. It is detected that the polysulfides and thiosulfates are the main cause of associated leaching of gold. Furthermore, the regression equation model is established adopting the antimony extraction rate as response value, and it can be deduced that the relevance degree is Na 2 S concentration > temperature > NaOH concentration. Accordingly, the optimized process results are determined as follows: the extraction rates of antimony and gold reach 94.15% and 3.37%, respectively, under Na 2 S concentration of 85.66 g/L, NaOH concentration of 45.5 g/L, liquid–solid ratio of 1.5, leaching at 90 °C for 5 min, which are very consistent with the predicted values of the regression equation, proving the feasibility of the proposed optimization model. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

MoS 2 microspheres were synthesized by hydrothermal method using thioacetamide (CH 3 CSNH 2 ) as S-source and reducing agent. The influences of Mo to S mole ratio, pH value and surfactants on the morphology, crystallinity and purity of the resultants were investigated. The pure two-layer hexagonal (2H) MoS 2 microspheres with about 200 nm average diameter were synthesized at 220 °C in the pH = 6 solution when the Mo/S mole ratio was 1:2. The agglomeration of synthesized MoS 2 was restrained by the addition of surfactants. The MoS 2 synthesized with PVP addition showed a uniform spherical morphologies with smaller average diameter (about 160 nm) than the samples prepared with other surfactants addition as a result of the steric-hinerance effect of PVP. The best effects on restraining reunion and modifying morphology could be reached when Mo to S were 1:2, pH = 6, reaction temperature at 220 °C with 8 wt% of PVP addition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, crystallization behavior of an industrial mold flux was investigated using both single hot thermocouple technique (SHTT) and double hot thermocouple technique (DHTT). Continuous cooling transformation (CCT) and time-temperature transformation (TTT) diagrams were constructed using SHTT. The critical cooling rate in continuous cooling process was determined as 7 °C s−1 above which a glassy phase was formed. The TTT diagram showed two noses at approximately 1000 and 1075 °C. Phase identification carried out using X-ray diffraction (XRD) revealed that dicalcium silicate (Ca2SiO4) was the major phase at both 950 and 1100 °C, together with minor precipitates of Na2CaSi3O8 and Ca2MgSi2O7 whose concentrations were relatively higher at 950 °C. Cuspidine (Ca4Si2O7F2) was also identified by XRD at 950 °C. Crystallization kinetics was analyzed using Johnson-Mehl-Avrami-Kolmogorov equation. DHTT was used to simulate the temperature gradient between copper mold and strand in the continuous casting mold. Glassy phase was formed quickly near the cold side when it was quenched from 1500 to 800 °C. Crystals started to precipitate in the glassy region after 48 s. Then major part of the glassy region was gradually transformed to crystalline phase and the crystals subsequently grew to the liquid region. A steady three-layer state was reached after 360 s. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Development of fluoride-free mould flux is important for steel continuous casting. Properties of the mould flux depend on the flux crystallinity. This paper analyzes phase composition of fluxes containing B2O3, TiO2, Na2O, and MgO which can be feasible candidates to replace the fluorides. The phase equilibria of these fluoride-free boracic mould fluxes were calculated using the thermochemical software FACTSage. In the process of crystallization of the CaOSiO2Al2O3B2O3Na2O flux with high CaO/SiO2, combeite (Na2,Ca)Na2CaSi3O9, Ca11B2Si4O22, and nepheline NaAlSiO4 were formed, which can substitute cuspidine in the fluoride-containing fluxes. At high CaO/SiO2, adding MgO into CaOSiO2Al2O3B2O3Na2OTiO2 mould flux remarkably increased crystallization temperature by forming merwinite (Ca3MgSi2O8), decreasing the relative crystal phase contents of (Na2,Ca)Na2CaSi3O9 and Ca11B2Si4O22. The calculated data were in reasonable agreement with results of XRD and SEM/EDS analyses of selected boracic fluxes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper investigated melting properties and viscosity of SiO2-CaO-Al2O3-B2O3 fluxes with a mass ratio of CaO/SiO2 from 0.83 to 1.5 and B2O3 content from 5 to 9 wt%. Melting properties of these fluxes were studied using the hot stage microscopy method; viscosity was measured using the rotating cylinder method. Break temperature was also determined from the viscosity change with temperature in flux cooling process. Equilibrium liquidus temperature was calculated using FactSage. Increase in CaO/SiO2 ratio was found to decrease hemispherical temperature and viscosity. The addition of B2O3 did not significantly affect hemispherical temperature but decreased the flux viscosity. Viscosity was analyzed in relation to the flux structure. The increase of the CaO/SiO2 ratio reduced the degree of flux polymerization, and B2O3 apparently acted as a weak network modifier under the low concentration of B2O3. The experimental viscosity was in a good agreement with calculated viscosity using the modified NPL model. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

SnO2 is a theoretically excellent transformed anode material with high theoretical capacity for SIBs. However, SnO2 faces serious volume effect and high resistance, which greatly damages its electrochemical performance. Given that, the SnS−SnO2 heterostructures is constructed with special internal electric field, which is beneficial to promote the transfer ability of sodium ions. Besides, the graphene oxide (GO) modification is carried out to isolate the intrinsic materials from direct contact with electrolyte, and alleviate volume expansion of the anode, ultimately promote the electrochemical performance. Furthermore, the structure and the conductivity characteristics of SnS, SnO2, SnS−SnO2 and SnS−SnO2@ GO are simulated respectively by first principles and are compared with the correspondence experiment results to verify the accuracy of established models. Owing to the special p‐n junction in SnS−SnO2@GO heterostructures, the resistance of SnS−SnO2@GO can be reduced to 36.23 Ω, much lower than that of SnO2 (Rct=341.9 Ω). Notably, the combination of GO has effectively alleviated the volume expansion of SnS−SnO2@GO electrodes, and present excellent capacity higher than 384.7 mAh g−1 after 100 cycles. Thus, the efficient synthesis of SnS−SnO2@GO heterostructure electrodes with excellent performance for sodium storage is expected to provide valuable direction for SIBs anode materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study explored the role of succinate accumulation in the oxidative stress and iron accumulation in both pentylenetetrazol (PTZ)-induced epileptogenesis and kainic acid (KA)-induced status epilepticus (SE). The levels of succinate, oxidative stress, iron content, iron-related protein expression, and the severity of neuronal injury and seizures were measured in both models. We found that increased concentrations of succinate were associated with increased levels of oxidative stress, iron content, iron regulator protein, and iron importer divalent metal transporter 1, as well as decreased levels of iron exporter ferropotin 1. Aggravated neuronal injury was observed in the hippocampi and cortices of both models. The cell-permeable molecule dimethyl malonate (DM), a competitive inhibitor of succinate dehydrogenase (SDH), significantly attenuated succinate accumulation, reduced the oxidative stress and iron levels, and mitigated the severity of the seizures and neuronal injury. Our results thus indicate that the accumulation of succinate due to the reverse catalysis of SDH may exacerbate oxidative stress and thus induce iron accumulation and neuronal injury in both models. Targeting succinate accumulation may achieve neuroprotective and anti-seizure effects. • KA- and PTZ-induced seizures were accompanied by succinate accumulation. • Succinate accumulation contributes to the elevated ROS and iron levels. • Succinate accumulation may be due to inverse catalysis of SDH from fumarate. • Inhibiting succinate accumulation relieved ROS and iron levels. • Inhibiting succinate accumulation attenuated neuronal injury and seizure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• The rat crypt epithelial cells (IEC-6) were highly susceptible to different subtypes of PEDV. • The PEDV replication capacity in IEC-6 cells was similar to Vero cells and superior to that in IPEC-J2 cells. • PEDV infection activated a robust immune response in IEC-6 cells. Porcine epidemic diarrhea (PED) is a devastating enteric disease to the world's swine production. Porcine epidemic diarrhea virus (PEDV), as the PED causative agent, has been commonly propagated and investigated in Vero cells, as well as in IPEC-J2, a porcine epithelial cell-jejunum 2. However, Vero cells, which are defective in interferon production, cannot represent the host response in enteric cells while PEDV replicates poorly in IPEC-J2 cells. In this study, we observed that rat crypt epithelial cells (IEC-6) were highly susceptible to different subtypes of PEDV. The replication kinetics of PEDV in IEC-6 cells is similar to that in Vero cells, but it is much higher than in IPEC-J2 cells. Besides that, PEDV infection in IEC-6 cells can induce the production of inflammatory cytokines and interferon, especially the type III IFNs. Collectively, our findings suggest that IEC-6 is an ideal cell line for PEDV replication and immune response studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To improve the conditions of extracting iron from nickel smelting residues, the composition modulating from FexO-SiO2-CaO-MgO-"NiO" slag source for matte smelting using high MgO nickel sulfide concentrate was carried out. Based on the molecular dynamics simulation and experimental characterization, the effect of CaO content in nickel slags on the physicochemical properties, the microstructure evolution, and the feasibility of subsequent iron extraction were analyzed. The results showed that, for nickel smelting slag with 9 wt.% MgO, 13–15 wt.% CaO and Fe/SiO2 ratio of 1.2, the melting temperature of nickel slag was lower than 1200 °C, and the viscosity was lower than 0.22 Pa·s at 1350 °C. The electric conductivity was similar to that of the industrial slag, and the interfacial tension between slag and matte was relatively large, which ensured a good separating characteristic. It not only met the requirements for the slag performances in the existing flash smelting process but also improved conditions for the subsequent iron extraction. Additionally, it could be adapted to the current situation where an increasing MgO content exists in the nickel sulfide concentrate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Endothelial pro-inflammatory activation is pivotal in cardiac ischemia–reperfusion (I/R) injury pathophysiology. The dried flower bud of Edgeworthia gardneri (Wall.) Meisn. (EG) is a commonly utilized traditional Tibetan medicine. However, its role in regulating endothelium activation and cardiac I/R injury has not been investigated. Herein, we showed that the administration of EG ethanolic extract exhibited a potent therapeutic efficacy in ameliorating cardiac endothelial inflammation (p < 0.05) and thereby protecting against myocardial I/R injury in rats (p < 0.001). In line with the in vivo findings, the EG extract suppressed endothelial pro-inflammatory activation in vitro by downregulating the expression of pro-inflammatory mediators (p < 0.05) and diminishing monocytes' firm adhesion to endothelial cells (ECs) (p < 0.01). Mechanistically, we showed that EG extract inhibited the nuclear factor kappa-B (NF-κB), c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK), extracellular regulated protein kinase (ERK), and p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling pathways to attenuate EC-mediated inflammation (p < 0.05). Collectively, for the first time, this study demonstrated the therapeutic potential of EG ethanolic extract in alleviating I/R-induced inflammation and the resulting cardiac injury through its inhibitory role in regulating endothelium activation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

N,N′-dioctyl-N,N′-di-dodecyl-3-oxapentane-1,5-diamide ((DdO)2DGA) is a novel unsymmetrical diglycolamide. Herein, we analyzed the third phase formation and extraction behavior of trivalent actinides and lanthanides with (DdO)2DGA in kerosene. Moreover, FT-IR and UV/Vis spectra of the extracted phase of Nd(III) with (DdO)2DGA were analyzed. The third phase is not formed by the extraction of Nd(III) with 0.10 mol/L (DdO)2DGA at 298 K. The metal ion distribution ratios increase with increased acidity and extractant concentration. Moreover, thermodynamic analysis demonstrates that the extraction is an exothermic reaction with ΔH = − 64.94 kJ/mol and ΔS = − 144.42 J/(mol·K). Both slope and spectroscopic analysis suggest that the extracted species is Nd(NO3)3·3(DdO)2DGA and the change in the acidity or extractant concentration will not change the extracted species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

SnS and SnS 2 are two promising anode materials with excellent theoretical capacity for Sodium ion batteries. However, severe volume collapse and low electric charge conductivity dramatically affect the electrochemical performance of SnS and SnS 2. As a consequence, SnS-SnS 2 heterostructures are constructed to improve the conductivity of the anode material. The volume effect is prevented by compounding with Graphene Oxide (GO) to ensure cyclic stability and improve the initial coulombic efficiency of anode materials. The first-principles simulation is used to simulate SnS, SnS 2 , SnS-SnS 2 and SnS-SnS 2 @GO respectively, and the comparison is made through actual experiments. Experimental studies indicate that SnS-SnS 2 @GO processes superior conductivity and cycle stability, unique nano-flake structure and the composite modification of GO can restrain the volume effect and ensure long cycle stability of the anode material (450.6 mAh·g−1 after 100 cycles). Moreover, attributing to the p-n heterostructures, the internal charges transfer and improve the electrical conductivity of SnS-SnS 2 can be promoted obviously. Simultaneously, it has been detected that the multilayer SnS-SnS 2 heterostructures combining GO effectively improve the conductivity and ensure good structure stability. Therefore, SnS-SnS 2 @GO composites can be considered as an ideal anode material for sodium ion batteries. • SnS@GO, SnS 2 @GO, SnS-SnS 2 and SnS-SnS 2 @GO composites, as anode materials for sodium ion batteries, are prepared through one-step solvothermal method. • The energy band offset of p-n junction in SnS-SnS 2 heterostructures can be spontaneously generated to accelerate electron transfer effectively. • Owing to the synergistic effect of the special internal electric field of heterostructures and GO protection, the prepared SnS-SnS 2 @GO composites possess excellent conductive and cyclic properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the melting process, the fundamental slag system of PbO-CaO-SiO2-FeO-ZnO was chosen based on the composition and phase of the jarosite residue and melt agent. The phase diagram of the slag system was drawn by FactSage thermodynamic software, combined with relevant slag performance measurement tests to explore the effect of changing the FeO/SiO2 ratio and CaO/SiO2 ratio on the physical and chemical properties of the slag. The results showed that if there are no more additional components in this system, the melting point gets higher with the FeO/SiO2 ratio increasing, and the melting point became lowest (1 338 °C) when the FeO/SiO2 ratio was 0.92. When the CaO/SiO2 ratio increased from 0.3 to 0.8, the melting point shows a decreasing trend, while the CaO/SiO2 ratio is 0.78, the lowest melting point appeared, and the value is 1 385 °C. The viscosity of slags with a low melting point was measured, and the results showed that when the temperature was 1 500 °C, the viscosities of all slags were less than 0.5 Pa ⋅ s. It means that the smelting requirements for fluidity could be achieved. Finally, the optimized slag adjustment scheme was proposed which is adding CaO and reducing SiO2 to a CaO/SiO2 ratio of 0.78. It is beneficial to the subsequent iron extraction after slag adjustment because the phases of slag are mainly magnetite and silicate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Triple negative breast cancer (TNBC) exhibits the characteristics of strong metastatic ability and a high recurrence rate, and M2-type macrophages play an important role in this process. Previous research data suggested that Anemoside A3 (A3), a monomeric component of Pulsatilla Chinensis, could prevent and treat TNBC by converting M0 macrophages into M1 immunogen phenotypes. This study showed that A3 significantly restrained the lung metastases of 4 T1-Luc cells with bioluminescence imaging in vivo and Hematoxylin and Eosin (H&E) staining. Meanwhile, the percentage of M2-type macrophages (CD206+ labeled cells) in the lung tissues was evidently decreased through immunohistochemical assay. We further proved that A3 markedly prevented M2-type polarization induced by IL-4 in vitro, as illustrated by the down-regulated expression of the cell surface marker CD206 protein by FACS and Arg-1, and of the Fizz1 and Ym1 genes by RT-PCR in M2-type macrophages. Furthermore, the invasion and migration of 4 T1 cells, which was promoted by the conditioned medium from M2-type macrophages, could be suppressed by A3. Luminex assay demonstrated that A3 treatment resulted in a reduction of the levels of CCL2, VEGF, CCL7, and MMP-9 in conditioned medium. Additionally, the expression of phosphorylated-STAT3 protein was inhibited by A3, which resulted in the macrophage M2-type polarization arrest, while no significant difference in JAK2 phosphorylation was detected. SiRNA transfection experiments suggested that STAT3 might be the target of A3 inhibiting M2-type polarization of macrophages. In conclusion, these results indicate that A3 could attenuate the metastasis of TNBC by inhibiting the M2-type polarization of macrophages, which may be related to the STAT3 pathway. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • A novel DES based on phenylphosphinic acid was used to leach NCM cathode materials. • Leaching efficiencies for Li, Ni, Co, and Mn were>93%. • The coordination configurations of metals in the leaching solution were revealed. • Compared to the other DESs, the leaching conditions were milder and safer. Deep eutectic solvents (DESs) play an important role in efficient recovery of spent lithium-ion batteries (LIBs). In this study, we proposed an efficient and safe method by using a choline chloride-phenylphosphinic acid DES as a lixiviant for the leaching of LiNi x Co y Mn z O 2 (NCM) cathode active materials of spent LIBs. The leaching conditions were optimized based on the leaching time, liquid–solid ratio, and leaching temperature. Under optimal experimental conditions, the leaching efficiencies of Li, Co, Ni, and Mn reached 97.7 %, 97.0 %, 96.4 %, and 93.0 %, respectively. The kinetics of the leaching process were well-fitted using the logarithmic law equation. The apparent activation energies for Li, Co, Ni, and Mn have been reported to be 60.3 kJ/mol, 78.9 kJ/mol, 99.3 kJ/mol, and 82.1 kJ/mol, respectively. UV–visible spectroscopy and Fourier transform infrared analysis revealed that the coordination configurations of Ni and Co in the leaching solution were octahedral and tetrahedral, respectively. In addition, the P O bond in phenylphosphinic acid was involved in coordination during leaching. This finding may provide an effective and safe approach for leaching valuable metals from spent LIBs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Porcine deltacoronavirus (PDCoV) is an enteric virus that was first identified in 2012. Although PDCoV has been detected worldwide, there is little information about its circulation in western China. In this study, fecal samples were collected from piglets with watery diarrhea in western China between 2015 and 2018 for the detection of PDCoV. The positive rate was 29.9%. A PDCoV strain (CHN/CQ/BN23/2016, BN23) was isolated and selected for further investigation. Phylogenetic analysis showed that this strain formed an individual cluster between the early Chinese lineage and the Chinese lineage. RDP4 and SimPlot analysis demonstrated that strain BN23 is a recombinant of Thailand/S5015L/2015 and CHN-AH-2004. The pathogenicity of BN23 was evaluated in 3-day-old piglets. Challenged piglets developed serious clinical signs and died at 3 days post-inoculation. Our data show that PDCoV is prevalent in western China and that strain BN23 is highly pathogenic to newborn piglets. Therefore, more attention should be paid to emerging PDCoV strains in western China. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Field observation of H 2 O 2 was conducted at an urban site in Beijing from Sep.23rd to Nov.4th of 2018. The daily peak concentrations of H 2 O 2 and organic peroxides (OPs) during the measurement were 0.57 ppbv (Range: 0.07–1.89 ppbv) and 0.16 ppbv (Range 0.06–0.35 ppbv). Using an observation based model, the modeled HO 2 level reproduced a much lower H 2 O 2 production rate than the observation, especially in the morning under the weak wind, non-turbulent surface winds conditions. With the modeled-HO 2 concentration corrected based on the previously reported observed/modeled HO 2 ratio in this city, the daily integrated H 2 O 2 production rate increased by 144%–164%, which is important but still not enough to explain the observed high H 2 O 2 in the lightly polluted and polluted days. Heterogeneous production of H 2 O 2 on aerosols and the overestimation of H 2 O 2 removal rates were examined not the underlying causes of this additional H 2 O 2 missing source. H 2 O 2 concentrations in residual layers were evaluated. The residual layer was revealed a stronger reservoir of H 2 O 2 than its reservoir effect on O 3. In the morning of non-turbulent conditions at the urban site, the residual layers H 2 O 2 were estimated about 20–80 times of the ground surface H 2 O 2 before the air layers vertical mixing. The vertical mixing significantly affects gaseous H 2 O 2 concentration on the ground in the morning. This work highlights the importance to consider the HO 2 underestimation and air mass vertical mixing in atmospheric H 2 O 2 studies. • Field H 2 O 2 was observed at an urban site in Beijing from Sep.23rd to Nov.4th of 2018. • Daily peak concentrations of H 2 O 2 and organic peroxides (OPs) were 0.57 ppbv and 0.16 ppbv. • It is important to consider the HO 2 underestimation in atmospheric H 2 O 2 studies. • The H 2 O 2 in residual layers can be 20–80 times of the ground H 2 O 2 level in morning of non-turbulent condition at urban site. • The vertical mixing has a large effect on gaseous H 2 O 2 concentration on the ground in morning time. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The composition of fluoride‐containing mold fluxes changes when their melting point or viscosity are measured because the fluoride in the mold fluxes evaporates at high temperatures. Therefore, the measured melting points and viscosities are not those of the original fluxes, and thus, the results are not accurate. Therefore, evaluating the effects of evaporation is essential to accurately investigate the relevant properties. Herein, the chemical composition of the slag is determined using thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), roasting tests, and evaporation mechanism after the physical properties of the slag are measured using conventional methods. The measured melting point and viscosity are then matched with the modified slag composition instead of the original composition. This method is applied to different fluoride‐containing mold fluxes. The weight of the mold fluxes is reduced by more than 10% during the measurements, indicating that a large amount of the volatiles react and evaporate. The actual flux compositions corresponding to the observed melting point or viscosity of the mold fluxes are obtained through roasting test and TGA; therefore, one can easily match the measured mold flux properties to the flux composition. This study will help in determining other physical properties of slag and other melts containing volatiles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

α-Hederin, a potent bioactive compound of Pulsatilla chinensis (Bunge) Regel (Ranunculaceae), has many pharmacological uses, but its effect on cancer cell metabolism is still unclear. To elucidate the role of α-hederin in the glucose metabolism of lung cancer cells. Cell Counting Kit 8 and colony formation assays were employed to assess the antiproliferative effects of α-hederin. Glucose uptake, ATP generation, and lactate production were measured. Glycolysis-related proteins were detected using western blotting, and a sirtuin 6 (SIRT6) inhibitor was used to verify A549 cell proliferation. Sixty male BALB/c nude mice were divided into normal control, 5-FU (25 mg/kg), and α-hederin (5 and 10 mg/kg) groups to assess the antitumor effect for 32 days. Glycolysis-related protein expression was evaluated using immunohistochemical analysis. α-Hederin inhibited A549 (IC50 = 13.75 μM), NCI-H460 (IC50 = 17.57 μM), and NCI-H292 (IC50 = 18.04 μM) proliferation; inhibited glucose uptake and ATP generation; and reduced lactate production. Furthermore, α-hederin (10 and 15 μM) markedly inhibited hexokinase 2, glucose transporter 1, pyruvate kinase M2, lactate dehydrogenase A, monocarboxylate transporter, c-Myc, hypoxia-inducible factor-1α, and activated SIRT6 protein expression. Using a SIRT6 inhibitor, we demonstrated that α-hederin inhibits glycolysis by activating SIRT6. A tumour xenograft mouse model of lung cancer confirmed that α-hederin (5 and 10 mg/kg) inhibits lung cancer growth by inhibiting glycolysis in vivo. α-Hederin inhibits A549 cell growth by inhibiting SIRT6-dependent glycolysis. α-Hederin might serve as a potential agent to suppress cancer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A viscosity estimation model for fluorine-containing mold flux for continuous casting was investigated based on the Arrhenius formula and the rotating cylinder method combined with nonlinear regression analysis. This model is highly applicable and not limited by the slag of a certain composition. For most slag compositions, the viscosities estimated with this model deviated from the measured values by no more than 10%, which was in better agreement with the measured values than the viscosities estimated by the Riboud, Iida and Mills models. According to the model calculation and experimental detection, a viscosity isogram of CaF2-Na2O-Al2O3-CaO-SiO2-MgO slag was produced, and the mass fraction of CaF2 in the low-viscosity zone was nearly 14%. An X-ray fluorescence spectrometric analysis of slag after the viscosity test showed that CaF2 and Na2O were significantly reduced, and the measured viscosity was greater than the theoretical viscosity due to the volatilization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nickel slags can be produced through ferronickel preparation by the pyrometallurgical processing of laterite nickel ores; however, such techniques are underutilized at present, and serious environmental problems arise from the stockpiling of such nickel ores. In this study, a modification to the process of ferronickel preparation by the direct reduction of carbon bases in laterite nickel ores is proposed. The gangue from the ore is used as a raw material to prepare a cementitious material, with the main components of tricalcium silicate and tricalcium aluminate. By using FactSage software, thermodynamic calculations are performed to analyze the reduction of nickel and iron and the effect of reduction on the formation of tricalcium silicate and tricalcium aluminate. The feasibility of a coupled process to prepare ferronickel and cementitious materials by the direct reduction of laterite nickel ore and gangue calcination, respectively, is discussed under varying thermodynamic conditions. Different warming strategies are applied to experimentally verify the coupled reactions. The coupled preparation of ferronickel and cementitious materials with calcium silicate and calcium aluminate as the main phases in the same experimental process is realized. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pulsatilla chinensis (Bunge) Regel (Ranunculaceae) possess antitumour effects; however, its antitumour potential has not been extensively investigated. To investigate the synergetic effect of multi-components from P. chinensis induced cell apoptosis and explore the mechanism. The cytotoxicity was measured against NCI-H460, SMMC-7721, HCT-116 and U251 cell lines treated with eight monomers from P. chinensis. The synergetic effect of a combination of Pulsatilla saponin D (PSD), Raddeanoside R13 (R13), and Pulsatilla saponin A (PSA) was assessed using CalcuSyn3.0. Annexin V-FITC/PI and DAPI staining analyzed apoptosis of NCI-H460 cells treated with PSD, R13 and PSA alone or in combination. Proteins differential expression was analyzed using proteomic, DAVID Bioinformatics Resources, R software environment and KEGG database, and verified by western blotting. PSD, R13, and PSA displayed greater antitumor activity with IC50 values of 5.6, 5.1 and 10.5 µM against NCI-H460 cells compared with other monomers. The combination of PSD, R13, and PSA had a synergistic effect at CI = 0.27 and induced 17.53% cells apoptotic detected by flow cytometric. Bioinformatic analysis showed an overview of the differentially expressed proteins and some signalling pathways. Moreover, some candidate proteins (LDHA, PI3K, NOL3 and cleaved-caspase-3) were validated by western blotting. These results show PSD, R13, and PSA are good candidates as natural products for use in the treatment of lung cancer. Potential signalling pathways and protein targets need to be further validated. The application of the drug combination approach also provides a therapeutic strategy for cancer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Methylation of the N6 position of adenosine (m6A) is a widespread RNA modification that is critical for various physiological and pathological processes. Although this modification was also found in the RNA of several viruses almost 40 years ago, its biological functions during viral infection have been elucidated recently. Here, we investigated the effects of viral and host RNA methylation during porcine epidemic diarrhea virus (PEDV) infection. The results demonstrated that the m6A modification was abundant in the PEDV genome and the host methyltransferases METTL3 and METTL14 and demethylase FTO were involved in the regulation of viral replication. The knockdown of the methyltransferases increased PEDV replication while silencing the demethylase decreased PEDV output. Moreover, the proteins of the YTHDF family regulated the PEDV replication by affecting the stability of m6A-modified viral RNA. In particular, PEDV infection could trigger an increasement of m6A in host RNA and decrease the expression of FTO. The m6A modification sites in mRNAs and target genes were also altered during PEDV infection. Additionally, part of the host responses to PEDV infection was controlled by m6A modification, which could be reversed by the expression of FTO. Taken together, our results identified the role of m6A modification in PEDV replication and interactions with the host. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The melting point and volatilization characteristics of a fluorine-containing slag were investigated under different heating rates and premelting processes. The "hemisphere method" was used to detect the melting point, and the results showed that the measurements for the fluorine-free slag increased with increasing heating rate, and the deviation reached 60 °C and was affected by the hysteresis and fractional melting. The measured values and volatilization of the fluorine-containing slag decreased with increasing heating rate. The weight loss reached 16.8%, and the melting point deviation reached 90 °C, which was primarily affected by the volatility. The melting point of the synthetic fluorine-containing slag was 70 °C higher than that of the premelted slag due to flux volatilization of 8.3%. Scanning electron microscopy-energy dispersive spectroscopy revealed a large amount of CaF2 on the surface of the melted slag. The internal crystals in the synthetic slag were mainly diamond-shaped calcium fluoroaluminate (3CaO·3Al2O3·CaF2) and those in the premelted slag were needle-shaped cuspidine (3CaO·2SiO2·CaF2) that formed during secondary crystallization. Two factors that impacted the volatilization were proposed: one is the content of free CaF2, and the other is the slag structure. Based on these factors, volatilization models for synthetic and premelted fluorine-containing slags were established. This work is of significance for relevant measurement specifications to ensure the repeatability and comparability of the physicochemical properties, especially for volatile-containing slags. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To mitigate the drawback of the short service life of titanium-based SnO 2 electrodes, we prepared Ti/SnO 2 Sb La electrodes by the sol-gel method with two kinds of Ce Mn and Fe Mn composite intermediate layers, a Mn intermediate layer, or no intermediate layer. The surface structure and morphology of the prepared electrode coating were characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), and the influence of the composite intermediate layer on the electrochemical performance of the electrode and the electrocatalytic oxidation of phenol were analysed by cyclic voltammetry, anodic linear voltammetry, AC impedance spectroscopy and Mott-Schottky curve tests; additionally, accelerated lifetime tests were performed for electrodes with different intermediate layers. The experimental results show that, compared to electrodes with the Mn interlayer or no intermediate layer, the electrode with the Ce Mn composite intermediate layer had markedly improved electrochemical performance and oxygen evolution potential, and the highest oxygen evolution potential could reach 1.84 V. Moreover, the capacity for electrocatalytic oxidation degradation of phenol was enhanced to some degree, with the highest removal rate of phenol reaching 93.6% after treatment for 180 min, and the maximum removal rate of COD can reach 77.92%. In the process of degrading phenol, the cell voltage of the electrode is kept to a minimum, and the stability is maximized. Accelerated lifetime testing showed that, compared with that of the no-intermediate-layer electrode, the lifetime of the electrode with the Ce Mn composite intermediate layer was increased 5-fold, with the longest lifetime reaching 85 min. Therefore, the Ce Mn composite intermediate layer can effectively improve the service life of electrodes based on titanium and tin. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The strong haemolytic toxicity of Pulsatilla saponin A (PSA) has hampered its clinical development as an injectable anticancer agent. To circumvent this challenge, twenty PSA derivatives with C ring or C-28 or C-3 modifications were synthesized and evaluated for cytotoxicity against seven selected human tumor lines, as well as for haemolytic toxicity. Structure-activity relationship (SAR) and structure-toxicity relationship (STR) correlations were also elucidated. Compared with PSA, compound 22 showed a better balance between haemolytic toxicity (HD 50 > 500 μM) and cytotoxicity toward lung cancer cells A549 (IC 50 = 4.68 μM). Molecular studies indicated that 22 was liked to lead to G1 cell cycle arrest and therefore, 22 may be a potent antitumor drug candidate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary The scarcity of tissue-specific stem cells and the complexity of their surrounding environment have made molecular characterization of these cells particularly challenging. Through single-cell transcriptome and weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA), we uncovered molecular properties of CD133 + /GFAP − ependymal (E) cells in the adult mouse forebrain neurogenic zone. Surprisingly, prominent hub genes of the gene network unique to ependymal CD133 + /GFAP − quiescent cells were enriched for immune-responsive genes, as well as genes encoding receptors for angiogenic factors. Administration of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) activated CD133 + ependymal neural stem cells (NSCs), lining not only the lateral but also the fourth ventricles and, together with basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF), elicited subsequent neural lineage differentiation and migration. This study revealed the existence of dormant ependymal NSCs throughout the ventricular surface of the CNS, as well as signals abundant after injury for their activation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A multifunctional transition metal CdII coordination polymer based on an amide-inserted flexible multicarboxylate ligand, bis(3,5-dicarboxyphenyl)terephthalamide (H4L), [CdL] ·[+H2N(CH3)2] (DMF)(H2O)3 (MOF1) was synthesized by the solvothermal method. Its structure was determined by single-crystal X-ray diffraction analysis and it was characterized by elemental analysis, IR spectroscopy and thermogravimetric analysis. MOF1 shows selective sensitivity to detecting aniline pollutants in both aqueous media and as vapors due to its strong fluorescence emission and microporous structure. In addition, the visible-light-driven photocatalytic degradation of Rhodamine B (RhB) by MOF1 and polyaniline (PANI) composite material (named PANI/MOF1), which was prepared by loading PANI onto the surface of MOF1, was also studied. The results obtained illustrate that PANI/MOF1 exhibits improved photocatalytic activity over MOF1, which could be used to effectively treat wastewater containing organic dyes in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights: [•] We found that the 3′ UTR of the Fmr1 mRNA is a target of miR-130b. [•] MiR-130b suppresses the expression of Fmr1 in mouse embryonic stem cell. [•] MiR-130b alters the proliferation of mouse embryonic stem cell. [•] MiR-130b alters fate specification of mouse embryonic stem cell. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The role of spliceosomal intronic structures played in evolution has only begun to be elucidated. Comparative genomic analyses of fungal snoRNA sequences, which are often contained within introns and/or exons, revealed that about one-third of snoRNA-associated introns in three major snoRNA gene clusters manifested polymorphisms, likely resulting from intron loss and gain events during fungi evolution. Genomic deletions can clearly be observed as one mechanism underlying intron and exon loss, as well as generation of complex introns where several introns lie in juxtaposition without intercalating exons. Strikingly, by tracking conserved snoRNAs in introns, we found that some introns had moved from one position to another by excision from donor sites and insertion into target sties elsewhere in the genome without needing transposon structures. This study revealed the origin of many newly gained introns. Moreover, our analyses suggested that intron-containing sequences were more prone to sustainable structural changes than DNA sequences without introns due to intron's ability to jump within the genome via unknown mechanisms. We propose that splicing-related structural features of introns serve as an additional motor to propel evolution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The present research describes a simple low-temperature synthesis route for obtention of porous YVO4:Dy and YVO4:Tm nanoplates via a chemical co-precipitation method using commercially available Y2O3, NH4VO3, Tm2O3, Dy2O3 and ethylene glycol as the reacting precursors. To investigate the effect of heating temperatures on the pore size and morphology of nanoplates-like powders, the as-synthesized YVO4:Ln were thermally treated at 300 and 600°C for 2h which is much lower than that of the conventional preparation methods. The obtained samples were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and photoluminescent (PL) spectroscopy. The photoluminescence measurement revealed that the luminescence intensity was significantly increased with increasing annealing temperature that causes increase of crystallinity and pore size of the porous nanoplates. From PL spectra, it was found that porous YVO4:Dy nanoplates have characteristic emission peaks due to the 4F9/2 → 6H13/2 and 4F9/2 → 6H15/2 emission transitions of Dy3+. The experimental results have showed that the host YVO4 transfers the adsorbed energy to thulium ions and strong blue emission at 475nm assigned to 1G4 → 3H6 transition was observed. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

• ZGS II increased the number of WBCs and neutrophils in the PB of leukopenia mice. • ZGS II increased nucleated cells and HSPCs (ST-HSC, MPP, and GMP) in BM. • ZGS II expanded the myeloid clonogenic capacity of HSPCs from leukopenia mice. • The mechanism involved gene regulatory for HSPCs proliferation and differentiation. Ziyuglycoside II (ZGS II) is a major bioactive ingredient of Sanguisorbae officinalis L., which has been widely used for managing myelosuppression or leukopenia induced by chemotherapy or radiotherapy. In the current study, we investigated the pro-hematopoietic effects and underlying mechanisms of ZGS II in cyclophosphamide-induced leukopenia in mice. The results showed that ZGS II significantly increased the number of total white blood cells and neutrophils in the peripheral blood. Flow cytometry analysis also showed a significant increase in the number of nucleated cells and hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells (HSPCs) including ST-HSCs, MPPs, and GMPs, and enhanced HSPC proliferation in ZGS II treated mice. The RNA-sequencing analysis demonstrated that ZGS II effectively regulated cell differentiation, immune system processes, and hematopoietic system-related pathways related to extracellular matrix (ECM)-receptor interaction, focal adhesion, hematopoietic cell lineage, cytokine-cytokine receptor interaction, the NOD-like receptor signaling pathway, and the osteoclast differentiation pathway. Moreover, ZGS II treatment altered the differentially expressed genes (DEGs) with known functions in HSPC differentiation and mobilization (Cxcl12, Col1a2, and Sparc) and the surface markers of neutrophilic precursors or neutrophils (Ngp and CD177). Collectively, these data suggest that ZGS II protected against chemotherapy-induced leukopenia by regulating HSPC proliferation and differentiation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Xenon is an inhalation anesthetic with a favorable safety profile, and previous studies have demonstrated its neuroprotective efficacy. However, whether xenon plays a role in the treatment of epilepsy or seizure remains unclear. This study aimed to investigate the role of xenon inhalation and explore the role of different xenon ratio gradients and different delayed treatment times in seizure models. Kainic acid (KA)-induced status epilepticus and neonatal hypoxia-induced seizure models were used in our study. Animals were subject to inhalation of xenon mixture for 60 min after the stimulation used to induce seizures. The control group was treated with 70% nitrogen/30% oxygen, as in previous reports. Behavioral changes, electroencephalography, neuronal injury, and learning and memory function were investigated in each group. The results indicate that xenon mixture significantly reduced the severity of seizures and neurodegeneration in both KA-induced status epilepticus and in neonatal mice with hypoxia-induced seizure. Moreover, treatment with different percentages of xenon (35%, 50%, or 70%), as well as at different intervention time points (immediately, delayed for 15 min, delayed for 30 min) after hypoxia induction significantly attenuated the severity of seizure and neuronal injury. Additionally, 50% or 70% xenon treatment, as well as immediate xenon treatment or with a delay of 15 min attenuated the learning and memory impairments induced by hypoxia. This study confirmed that xenon mixture exerts strong inhibitive effects in seizure and seizure-induced neuronal injury and defects of cognitive function. Moreover, the results suggest that intervention time window and percentage of xenon influence the efficacy of the xenon treatment. Our study supports that xenon inhalation represents a safe means to inhibit seizures and neuronal injury. Unlabelled Image • Xenon mixture had strong anti-seizure and neuroprotective effects on KA-induced SE. • Xenon mixture exerts strong inhibitive effects in hypoxia-induced seizure. • Intervention time window influences the efficacy of the xenon treatment. • Percentage of xenon influences the efficacy of the xenon treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]