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Objective: Ankylosing spondylitis (AS) and rheumatoid arthritis (RA) are chronic inflammatory joint diseases, linking to the alterations of immune cells. We attempted to assess whether the alterations in the composition of CD4+/CD8+ T cells are different between AS and RA and identify the characteristic cells between male and female patients. Methods: The proportions of CD3+ or double positive T cells, 6 CD4+ T subsets and 9 CD8+ T cell subsets were detected by flow cytometry and compared in 30 healthy individuals, 42 AS patients and 45 RA patients. The differentially altered cells were individually analyzed for associations with disease activity parameters. In addition, their proportions were compared between different genders in the 3 groups. Results: The proportions of CD4+ T cells, naive CD4+ T cells and central memory CD4+ T cells were lower in AS patients (P = 0.001, P = 0.002 and P = 0.007, respectively) and RA patients (P = 0.032, P < 0.001 and P = 0.016, respectively), but the proportion of effector memory ones was higher when compared with healthy populations (both P < 0.001), as were the decrease of naive/central memory CD8+ T cells in AS (P = 0.003 and P = 0.016, respectively) and RA (P < 0.001 and P = 0.006, respectively), and the increased tendency of terminally differentiated CD8+ T cells. However, these above‐mentioned cells, regulatory T (Treg) cells and CD8+ T cells with different CD127 expressions between AS and RA were similar in proportion. Furthermore, naive CD4+ T cells were positively associated with C‐reactive protein (CRP) in AS, whereas CD4+ T cells and terminally differentiated CD8+ T of RA patients were associated with CRP in RA. The gender‐related alterations predominantly displayed the overexpressions of Treg cells and naive CD8+ T cells in female patients with AS and RA, respectively. Conclusions: AS patients and RA patients have some similar peripheral CD4+/CD8+ T cell subsets but are distinct from healthy individuals, which may contribute to disease severity. Females are respectively characterized by the up‐regulation of Treg cells and naive CD8+ T cells in AS patients and RA patients. The study offers an in‐depth understanding of the role of T cell subsets in the similarities of the disorders and helps us to monitor disease changes and may offer a theoretical basis of developing novel therapies against common targets. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Previous studies have shown that human leukocyte antigen (HLA)‐B27 induces the accumulation of unfolded proteins in the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) to cause ER stress, resulting in the unfold protein response (UPR), apoptosis and autophagy. However, it is still unknown whether it affects the survival of monocytes. In this study, we attempted to examine the effect of HLA‐B27 gene knockout on the proliferation and apoptosis of THP‐1 monocytic cell line and its potential mechanism. Methods: HLA‐B27 gene knockout THP‐1 cell line was constructed by lentivirus infection, and knockout efficiency was detected by immunofluorescence, quantitative reverse transcription ‐ polymerase chain reaction (qRT‐PCR) and western blot. Cell Counting Kit‐8 (CCK‐8) method and Annexin‐V/PI double staining were used to detect the proliferation and apoptosis of the constructed THP‐1 cell line, respectively. qRT‐PCR was used to detect the effect of HLA‐B27 inhibition on the expressions of ER molecular chaperone binding immunoglobulin protein (BiP) and genes about the UPR pathway. The proliferation rate of human BiP protein‐stimulated THP‐1 cells was detected by CCK‐8 method. Results: HLA‐B27 gene knockout THP‐1 cells were successfully constructed by lentivirus infection. Knockout of HLA‐B27 effectively promoted the proliferation of THP‐1 cells and inhibited the apoptosis induced by cisplatin. qRT‐PCR showed that BiP was synchronously increased, while activation of UPR pathway was inhibited. Stimulation with human BiP promoted the proliferation of THP‐1 cells in a concentration‐dependent manner. Conclusions: HLA‐B27 inhibition can promote the proliferation and inhibit the apoptosis of THP‐1 cells. The inhibition function may be achieved through promotion of BiP and inhibition of UPR pathway activation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Two Co(II) coordination polymers, {[Co(ca)(bpe)(H2O)] ⋅ H2O}n (1) and [Co(ca)(bibp)]n (2) (H2ca=citraconic acid, bpe=1,2‐di(4‐pyridyl)ethylene, bibp=4,4′‐bis(imidazolyl)biphenyl) were prepared by hydrothermal reactions, and characterized by single‐crystal X‐ray diffractions, elemental analysis, FT‐IR, PXRD and TGA. Compound 1 shows a 2D grid layer containing Co‐carboxylate chains. Compound 2 exhibits a three‐dimensional metal‐organic framework with the dia topology type and 66 topology symbol. Both compounds have high thermal stabilities and good phase purity. The photocatalytic reactions of two compounds were investigated under UV irradiation in the presence of H2O2, and the results show that both compounds are highly efficient photocatalysts for MB and RhB degradation, which may be used as potential materials for wastewater treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

C26H21N5O8Cu, monoclinic, P21/c (no. 14), a = 17.2262(10) Å, b = 7.3474(3) Å, c = 21.1086(11) Å, β = 111.498(6)°, V = 2485.8(2) Å3, Z = 4, Rgt(F) = 0.0629, wRref(F2) = 0.1433, T = 293(2) K. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We theoretically investigate the dwell time for electrons in an antiparallel double δ-magnetic-barrier nanostructure, which is constructed on the surface of the InAs/AlxIn1-xAs heterostructure by patterning two ferromagnetic (FM) stripes. It is shown that the dwell time is dependent on electron spins due to the spin–field interaction between spins and magnetic fields. It is also shown that both magnitude and sign of the spin polarization in the dwell time can be modulated by the structural width or magnetic-strength difference between two magnetic barriers, which may give rise to a controllable temporal spin splitter for spintronics device applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Phytochemical investigation on the leaves of Rabdosia serra led to the isolation of two new abietane diterpenoids, raserranes A (1) and B (2), and four known phenylpropanoids (3–6). Their structures were determined by spectroscopic data. Compound 1 represented the rare examples of abietane diterpenoids featuring a 16-methoxycarbonyl group. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

C26H23N5O8Ni, monoclinic, P21/c (no. 14), a = 15.4152(5) Å, b = 10.8836(3) Å, c = 16.1172(5) Å, β = 112.097(4)°, V = 2505.42(14) Å3, Z = 4, Rgt(F) = 0.0361, wRref(F2) = 0.0876, T = 293(2) K. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We report a theoretical investigation on wave-vector filtering (WVF) effect in a magnetic nanostructure, which can be experimentally realized by depositing ferromagnetic (FM) stripes on the surface of GaAs/AlxGa1-xAs heterostructure. An appreciable WVF effect appears in this nanosystem. The WVF efficiency is associated with structural parameters of magnetic nanostructure. Therefore, such a device can be employed as a momentum filter for nanoelectronics device applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Avian influenza virus (AIV) can infect poultry, mammals, and other hosts and causes enormous economic losses to the global poultry industry. In this study, to develop a novel and potent oral vaccine based on Lactobacillus plantarum (L. plantarum) for controlling the spread of AIV in the poultry industry, we constructed a recombinant L. plantarum strain displaying the 3M2e-HA2 protein of the influenza virus and determined the effect of N/pgsA′-3M2e-HA2 against AIV in chicks. We first confirmed that the 3M2e-HA2 fusion protein was expressed on the surface of L. plantarum via flow cytometry and immunofluorescence experiments. Our experimental results demonstrated that chicks immunized with N/pgsA′-3M2e-HA2 could induce specific humoral, mucosal, and T cell-mediated immune responses, eliciting the host body to protect itself against AIV. Additionally, compared to oral administration, the intranasal immunization of chicks with N/pgsA′-3M2e-HA2 provided a stronger immune response, resulting in a potent protective effect that hindered the loss of body weight, decreasing pulmonary virus titers and reducing lung and throat pathological damages. Thus, our results indicate that our novel approach is an effective method of vaccine design to promote mucosal immunity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Porcine epidemic diarrhea virus (PEDV) is one of the most important causative pathogens of swine diarrhea, which is widely prevalent throughout the world and is responsible for significant economic losses in the commercial pig industry, both domestic and abroad. The spike (S) protein in the PEDV capsid structure can carry the major B lymphocyte epitope, which induces production of neutralizing antibodies and provides immunoprotective effects. Moreover, the conserved region encoded by the S gene can be considered a target for establishing a new diagnostic method and is a new candidate for vaccine design. In this study, use of anchorin pgsA' allowed the fusion protein of S-DCpep to express on the surface of recombinant Lactobacillus plantarum (NC8-pSIP409-pgsA'-S-DCpep) NC8 strain. Mice were immunized by lavage administration of the recombinant NC8-pSIP409-pgsA'-S-DCpep, which was observed to induce DC activation and high production of sIgA and IgG antibodies in experimental animals, while also eliciting production of significantly more IgA + B220 + B cells. More importantly, secretion of cytokines IFN-γ, IL-4 and IL-17 in mice that were vaccinated with NC8-pSIP409-pgsA'-S-DCpep was remarkably increased. The results of our study suggest that NC8-pSIP409-pgsA'-S-DCpep potently triggers cellular and humoral immune responses. The obtained experimental results can provide a theoretical basis that lays the foundation for production of a novel oral vaccine against PED. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Low pathogenic H9N2 subtype avian influenza virus (AIV) can lead to moderate respiratory symptoms and low egg production rates in poultry. Due to its immunologic suppression, other various infectious pathogens give rise to the co-infection of hosts, causing heavy economic losses in the commercial poultry industry in both China and worldwide. Therefore, it is time to explore a novel, safe, and effective vaccine. We have already made use of the surface of Lactobacillus plantarum to display AIV HA2 (NC8-pSIP409-pgsA′-HA2), which demonstrated that it has a good immunogenicity. In this study, by evaluating the immune protection effect of NC8-pSIP409-pgsA′-HA2 on chickens, we found that the hemagglutination inhibition (HI) antibodies, specificity IgG antibody in chickens, the sIgA titer in broncho alveolar lavage fluids (BALF), and the T cell response were increased notably after oral vaccination with NC8-pSIP409-pgsA′-HA2. In addition, weight loss, lung titers, and lung pathologies were improved when chickens were orally vaccinated with NC8-pSIP409-pgsA′-HA2 after challenge with H9N2 AIV. This strategy lays the foundation for the development of recombinant L. plantarum oral vaccines in the prevention of AIV. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a chronic psychiatric disorder, characterized by intense fear, and increased arousal and avoidance of traumatic events. The current available treatments for PTSD have limited therapeutic value. Genistein, a natural isoflavone, modulates a variety of cell functions. In this study, we tested anti-anxiety activity and underlying mechanisms of genistein in a PTSD rat model. The rats were trained to associate a tone with foot shock delivery on day 0, then fear conditioning was performed on day 7, 14 and 21. Genistein (2–8 mg/kg) was injected intraperitoneally daily for 7 days. The anti-anxiety effects of genistein were measured by contextual freezing behavior and elevated plus maze. By the end of the experiments, the amygdala was extracted and subject to neurochemistry analysis. Genistein alleviated contextual freezing behavior and improved performance in elevated plus maze dose-dependently in PTSD rats. Furthermore, in these rats, genistein enhanced serotonergic transmission in the amygdala, including upregulation of tryptophan hydroxylase, serotonin, and phosphorylated (p)-CaMKII and p-CREB, as well. Genistein exerts anti-anxiety effects on a PTSD model probably through enhancing serotonergic system and CaMKII/CREB signaling pathway in the amygdala. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Avian influenza virus (AIV) is spreading worldwide and is a serious threat to the health of poultry and humans. In many countries, low pathogenic AIVs, such as H9N2, have become an enormous economic burden on the commercial poultry industry because they cause mild respiratory disease and decrease egg production. A recombinant Lactobacillus plantarum NC8 strain expressing NP-M1-DCpep from H9N2 AIV has been studied in a mouse model. However, it remains unknown whether this L. plantarum strain can induce an immune response and provide protection against H9N2 AIV in chickens. In this study, chickens that were orally vaccinated with NC8-pSIP409-NP-M1-DCpep exhibited significantly increased T cell-mediated immune responses and mucosal sIgA and IgG levels, which provided protection against H9N2 AIV challenge. More importantly, compared with oral administration of NC8-pSIP409-NP-M1-DCpep, intranasal administration induced stronger immune responses and provided effective protection against challenge with the H9N2 virus by reducing body weight loss, lung virus titers, and throat pathology. Taken together, these findings suggest that L. plantarum expressing NP-M1-DCpep has potential as a vaccine to combat H9N2 AIV infection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The influenza A (H1N1) virus is a highly contagious acute respiratory disease affecting pigs and humans. This disease causes severe economic loss in many countries, and developing mucosal vaccines is an efficient strategy to control the influenza virus. The neonatal Fc receptor (FcRn) plays an important role in transferring IgG across polarized epithelial cells. In the present study, an oral vaccine was developed using Lactobacillus plantarum to deliver the internal influenza viral protein M2e fused to an IgG Fc fragment. Oral vaccination with recombinant L. plantarum expressing 3M2e-Fc elicited Peyer's patch (PP) DC activation, improved the number of gamma interferon (IFN-γ)-producing T cells and increased the frequency of CD8 + IFN-γ + cells in the mesenteric lymph nodes (MLNs). In addition, the recombinant L . plantarum can induce PP B220 + IgA + expression and enhance specific sIgA secretion and the shaping of growth centers (GCs) in PPs. Furthermore, the data demonstrated that immunization with recombinant L. plantarum expressing 3M2e-Fc markedly reduced the viral load in the lung and protected against H1N1 influenza virus and mouse-adapted H9N2 avian influenza virus (AIV) challenge in BALB/c mice. Collectively, the data also showed that this vaccine strategy provided effective protective immunity against infection with homologous and heterologous influenza viruses in a mouse model and may be useful for future influenza vaccine development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We report on a theoretical study of giant magnetoresistance (GMR) effect in a δ -doped GaAs / Al x Ga 1 − x As heterostructure modulated by two stripes of ferromagnetic metal and a stripe of Schottky metal in parallel configuration. The δ -doping dependent transmission and conductance of the device are calculated. It is shown that a considerable giant magnetoresistance (GMR) effect exists in this structure. It is also shown that the magnetoresistance ratio ( MR ) can be switched by the δ -doping. The underlying physical mechanism of the results is analysed in light of δ -doping-dependent tunneling process in the device. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

C42H36N4O9Mn, monoclinic, P21/c (no. 14), a=9.6432(10) Å, b=8.8336(10) Å, c=42.379(5) Å, β=92.053(1)°, V=3607.7(7) ų, Z=4, Rgt(F)=0.0434, wRref(F²)=0.0910, T=296(2) K. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We report a theoretical study of spin-dependent transport in a magnetic nanostructure, which can be experimentally realized by depositing a ferromagnetic metal (FM) stripe and a Schottky metal (SM) stripe on the top and at the bottom of the semiconductor heterostructure. Theoretical analysis reveals that the intrinsic symmetry in a single FM-stripe magnetic system can be broken by the SM stripe placed at the bottom of the heterostructure, and thus a sizeable spin polarization effect appears. Numerical calculation shows that not only amplitude of the spin polarization but also its sign varies with the width and/or the position of the SM stripe. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fermented cottonseed meal is a kind of high quality protein feed made from common cottonseed meal by screening one or several microbial strains. Microbial fermentation treatment can effectively improve nutritional level and utilization efficiency of feed, eliminate or reduce anti-nutritional factors in feed, improve palatability of feed, and enhance production performance and health level of animals. In the paper, the nutritional characteristics of fermented cotton meal and its application in ruminant production are reviewed, in order to provide reference for further application of fermented cotton meal in ruminant production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

C22H20Cl6N2O6Mn, monoclinic, P21/c (no. 14), a = 12.0080(7) Å, b = 14.9289(8) Å, c = 15.2997(8) Å, β = 103.590(2)°, V = 2665.9(3) Å3, Z = 4, Rgt(F) = 0.0428, wRref(F2) = 0.1147, T = 296 K. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

C25H18N4O4Mn, orthorhombic, P212121, a = 7.9366(11) Å, b = 10.2389(15) Å, c = 26.313(4) Å, V = 2138.3(5) Å3, Z = 4, Rgt(F) = 0.0385, wRref(F2) = 0.0832, T = 296(2) K. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

C30H25N5O9Mn2, monoclinic, P21/c (no. 14), a = 15.5012(6) Å, b = 9.3423(3) Å, c = 19.7517(6) Å, β = 95.966(3)°, V = 2844.90(18) Å3, Z = 4, Rgt(F) = 0.0362, wRref(F2) = 0.0971, T = 293(2) K. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Four new coordination polymers [Zn(3-Nbdc)(bpa)] ( 1), [Cd(3-Nbdc)(bpa)(HO)] ( 2), [Zn(3-Nbdc)(bpp)] ( 3) and {[Zn(3-Nbdc)(bpe)]·1.5HO} ( 4) (3-Nbdc = 3-nitrobenzene-1,2-dicarboxylate, bpa = 1,2-bi(4-pyridyl)ethane, bpp = 1,3-bis(4-pyridyl)propane and bpe = 1,2-bi(4-pyridyl)ethene), were synthesized hydrothermally and characterized structurally by single crystal X-ray diffractions, elemental analysis and infrared spectroscopy. Complexes 1 and 3 exhibit three-dimensional (3D) metal-organic frameworks with the (6) dia topology and (6·8) cds topology, respectively, and both of them contain metal-carboxylate helix chains. Compounds 2 and 4 show 2D → 3D interpenetrated networks with (4,4) grid layers and 2D layer, respectively, and both of them contain metal-carboxylate binuclear units. The thermal stabilities and fluorescence properties for complexes 1- 4 are investigated. The blue-shift of the luminescent wavelength in 2 may be due to the absence of interligand π··· π effects compared with that of other three compounds, but there exist the strong face-to-face π··· π interactions in 1 and edge-to-face π··· π interactions in 3 and 4, showing a certain degree of interchromophore coupling interaction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to investigate whether single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) located near the gene of the ABO blood group play an important role in the genetic aetiology of menstrual disorders (MDs). Polymerase chain reaction-ligase detection reaction technology was used to detect eight SNPs near the ABO gene location on the chromosomes in 250 cases of MD and 250 cases of normal menstruation. The differences in the distribution of each genotype, as well as the allele frequency in the normal and control groups, were analysed using Pearson's χ² test to search for disease-associated loci. SHEsis software was used to analyse the linkage disequilibrium and haplotype frequencies and to inspect the correlation between haplotypes and the disease. Compared with the control group, the experimental group exhibited statistically significant differences in the genotype distribution frequencies of the rs657152 locus of the ABO blood group gene and the rs17250673 locus of the tumour necrosis factor cofactor 2 (TRAF2) gene, which is located downstream of the ABO gene. The allele distribution frequencies of rs657152 and rs495828 loci in the ABO blood group gene exhibited significant differences between the groups. Dominant and recessive genetic model analysis of each locus revealed that the experimental group exhibited statistically significant differences from the control group in the genotype distribution frequencies of rs657152 and rs495828 loci, respectively. These results indicate that the ABO blood group gene and TRAF2 gene may be a cause of MDs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Two Mn(II) coordination polymers, formulated as [Mn(Hhtpa)2(bpa)2(H2O)]n(1) and {[Mn(htpa)(H2O)]·H2O}n(2) (htpa = 4-carboxyphenylacetate, bpa = 1,2-di(4-pyridyl)-ethane), have been synthesized by the hydrothermal reaction and characterized by single-crystal X-ray diffraction, elemental analysis, IR, and thermo-gravimetric analyses (TGA). The structures of both compounds are based on different Mn(II)-carboxylate chain motifs. Complex 1 is a one-dimensional coordination polymer featuringμ2-carboxyl bridged MnO4N2octahedra. Complex 2 contains Mn-O inorganic chains, featuringμ2-O bridged MnO6octahedra, which are interconnected further by interchain htpa ligands to form a two-dimensional coordination polymer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper experimentally and numerically investigated the heat transfer and friction characteristics of microfluidic heat sinks with variously-shaped micro-ribs, i.e., rectangular, triangular and semicircular ribs. The micro-ribs were fabricated on the sidewalls of microfluidic channels by a surface-micromachining micro-electro-mechanical system (MEMS) process and used as turbulators to improve the heat transfer rate of the microfluidic heat sink. The results indicate that the utilizing of micro-ribs provides a better heat transfer rate, but also increases the pressure drop penalty for microchannels. Furthermore, the heat transfer and friction characteristics of the microchannels are strongly affected by the rib shape. In comparison, the triangular ribbed microchannel possesses the highest Nusselt number and friction factor among the three rib types. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Asthma is one of the most common chronic inflammatory diseases characterized by airway infiltration of inflammatory cells inducing hyper-responsiveness. Due to the inefficacy of currently used drugs to definitely cure asthma, there is an insistent need for identification of novel therapies. In the present research, efficiency of Brassica rapa extract in asthma induced mouse model was investigated. Asthma was induced in mice by ovalbumin induction. The extract (125-500 mg/kg) effectively reduced ovalbumin-specific IgE in serum and levels of interleukins (IL): IL-4, IL-5 and IL-13 in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF). B. rapa extract inhibited inflammatory cell infiltration in BALF and also improved lung compliance and airway resistance. The extract caused marked reduction in the expression levels of phosphorylated ERK, p38, IκB-α and NF-κB, however dose-dependent activation of JNK was observed. The extract of B. rapa thus was effective in suppressing ovalbumin-induced asthma. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The shift from hunting and gathering to farming is one of the most important transitions in human history. Pig domestication has long been an issue of interest in archaeology and genetics. As the real-time carrier of the genetic information for dead or extinct animals, ancient DNA provides continuous molecular evidence for tracing the history of domestication. We collected 30 Late Pleistocene wild boar fossils from three caves in Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region (Guangxi ZAR), Southern China. Through the use of the fragmented ancient DNA sequences and the homologous sequences of both domestic pigs and wild boars across Asia and Europe, we reconstructed phylogenetic trees of the pig family. The results show that most wild boar individuals from Guangxi have a closer phylogenetic relationship to Asian pigs than European ones. The data provide additional geographic and temporal evidence for a genetic continuity between ancient Chinese wild boars and the domestic pigs. Moreover, we obtained preliminary evidence for genetic similarity between the ancient wild boar in Guangxi and the European pigs. We suggest that further ancient DNA investigation of the Chinese wild boar samples is essential for revealing the historical process of pig domestication. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Four new coordination polymers {[Ni(4-Nbdc)(bpa)(H 2 O)]} n ( 1 ), {[Co(4-Nbdc)(bpp) (H 2 O)]} n ( 2 ), {[Ni(4-Nbdc)(bpp)(H 2 O)]·H 2 O} n ( 3 ), and {[Mn 2 (3-Nbdc) 2 (bib) 3 ]·2H 2 O} n ( 4 ) (4-Nbdc=4-nitrobenzene-1,2-dicarboxylate, 3-Nbdc=3-nitrobenzene-1,2-dicarboxylate, bpa=1,2-bi(4-pyridyl)ethane, bpp=1,3-bis(4-pyridyl)propane, and bib=1,4-bis(1-imidazoly)benzene), were synthesized by hydrothermal reactions, and characterized by single-crystal X-ray diffractions, elemental analysis, FT-IR, PXRD, TGA and magnetic analysis. Complexes 1 and 2 display quasi-trapezoidal chain and brick-wall layer, and both of them contain metal–carboxylate binuclear units. Complexes 3 and 4 exhibit three-dimensional frameworks with the (6 6 ) dia topology and (4 4 .6 10 .8)(4 4 .6 2 ) fsc topology, and both of them contain metal–carboxylate chains. The carboxyl groups with syn-anti coordination mode mediate effectively the weak ferromagnetic coupling interaction within Ni(II)–carboxylate binuclear in 1 ( J =1.27 cm −1 ) and Ni(II)–carboxylate chain in 3 ( J =1.44 cm −1 ), respectively, and the carboxyl groups with anti-anti coordination mode leads to the classic antiferromagnetic coupling interaction within Mn(II)–carboxylate chain in 4 ( J =−0.77 cm −1 ). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We report a theoretical study on spin-polarized lateral displacement for the electron across a magnetic nanostructure with a zero average magnetic field, which can be experimentally realized by depositing a ferromagnetic stripe with a plumb magnetization on the top of a semiconductor heterostructure. It is shown that, the lateral displacement depends strongly on the electron spins due to the Zeeman coupling and the intrinsic symmetry, though the average magnetic field is vanishing in the nanostructure. It is also shown that the spin-polarized lateral displacement is related closely to the structural parameters. Therefore, such a novel magnetic nanostructure may be used as a spin spatial splitter for spintronics applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Oral attenuated rotavirus vaccine is safe and effective in developed countries but, however, it is less effective in low income countries such as African and Asian countries. Low vaccine effectiveness in low-income countries is arising from a variety of sources such as maternal antibodies, chronic enteropathy and other enteric diseases such as cholera, typhoid, and parasitic diseases, as well as the microbiota. There is increasingly evidence related to the risk of intussusception for the oral vaccine. The development of effective and safer rotavirus vaccines, particularly, non-living candidates, is critical. The aim of this review therefore is to explore some of the effective rotavirus vaccine alternatives to live attenuated oral virus vaccines. It primarily reveals non-living candidates such as inactive rotavirus vaccines, rotavirus-like particles, recombinant subunit proteins and non-living mucosal rotavirus vaccines. These approaches have been tested in a variety of animal models with great success in eliciting powerful immune responses. It is high time now for various vaccine manufacturers to look at these tested approaches, as they will provide hope to low-income countries in terms of producing vaccines that are both safe and effective. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

C52H40Co2N8O14, triclinic, P1¯ (no. 2), a = 11.423(5) Å, b = 13.051(6) Å, c = 17.776(8) Å, α = 74.185(5)°, β = 86.110(6)°, γ = 70.758(6)°, V = 2407(2) Å3, Z = 2, Rgt(F) = 0.0933, wRref(F2) = 0.1817, T = 296 K. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: A new coordination polymer, namely [Zn(Hnbdc)2(bpe)]n (1) (H2nbdc=3-nitrobenzene-1,2-dicarboxylic acid and bpe=1,2-bi(4-pyridyl)ethylene), has been hydrothermally synthesized and characterized preliminarily by elemental analysis, infrared spectroscopy, thermal analysis, and X-ray diffractions. Single crystal X-ray diffraction showed that compound 1 possesses a ladder-like topology structure featuring carboxyl-bridged dinuclear Zn(II) spaced by parallel bpe coligand pairs and has the capacity of undergoing a 100% photochemical [2+2] cycloaddition reaction to transform into compound [Zn(Hnbdc)2(rctt-tpcb)]n (2) in a single-crystal to single-crystal form. In addition, the fluorescent property of 1 was also investigated. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The Zn/Cd(II)-nbdc carboxylate motifs mediated by various dipyridyl-typed ligands afforded three new coordination compounds, namely, [Zn(nbdc)(bpa)(HO)]·HO ( 1), [Zn(nbdc)(bpp)]·HO ( 2), and [Cd(nbdc)(bpe)(HO)] ( 3) (Hnbdc = 4-nitrobenzene-1,2-dicarboxylic acid, bpa = 1,2-bi(4-pyridyl)ethane, bpe = 1,2-di(4-pyridyl)ethylene, and bpp = 1,3-bis(4-pyridyl)propane), which were synthesized by hydrothermal reaction and characterized by elemental analysis, IR, thermal analysis (TGA), and fluorescent analysis. The single-crystal X-ray diffractions reveal that three complexes display a diverse range of connectivity topology from 1D to 3D, which is dependent on the type of dipyridyl-typed ligands and metal centers. Complex 1 is the 1D chain featuring Zn-carboxylate binuclears extended further by bpa coligands. Complex 2 is the 2D thick-layer containing double-stranded chains cross-linked further by bpp coligands. Complex 3 is the 3D framework with (6)(6.8) ins topology featuring Cd-carboxylate chiral layers pillared by bpe coligands. The thermal stabilities and fluorescence properties for complexes 1- 3 are investigated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The living hyena species (spotted, brown, striped and aardwolf) are remnants of a formerly diverse group of more than 80 fossil species, which peaked in diversity in the Late Miocene (about 7-8 Ma). The fossil history indicates an African origin, and morphological and ancient DNA data have confirmed that living spotted hyenas ( Crocuta crocuta) of Africa were closely related to extinct Late Pleistocene cave hyenas from Europe and Asia. The current model used to explain the origins of Eurasian cave hyena populations invokes multiple migrations out of Africa between 3.5-0.35 Ma. We used mitochondrial DNA sequences from radiocarbon-dated Chinese Pleistocene hyena specimens to examine the origin of Asian populations, and temporally calibrate the evolutionary history of spotted hyenas. Our results support a far more recent evolutionary timescale (430-163 kya) and suggest that extinct and living spotted hyena populations originated from a widespread Eurasian population in the Late Pleistocene, which was only subsequently restricted to Africa. We developed statistical tests of the contrasting population models and their fit to the fossil record. Coalescent simulations and Bayes Factor analysis support the new radiocarbon-calibrated timescale and Eurasian origins model. The new Eurasian biogeographic scenario proposed for the hyena emphasizes the role of the vast steppe grasslands of Eurasia in contrast to models only involving Africa. The new methodology for combining genetic and geological data to test contrasting models of population history will be useful for a wide range of taxa where ancient and historic genetic data are available. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: This paper first reports on the condensation of DNA to a tightly packed state induced by a V-shaped di-ruthenium(II) complex [Ru2(bpy)4(mbpibH2)]Cl4 (bpy=2,2′-bipyridine and mbpibH2 =1,3-bis([1,10]phenanthroline[5,6-d]imidazol-2-yl)benzene), which binds to the groove of herring sperm DNA (hsDNA) with the binding constant of 2.0×107 M−1 (0.05M NaCl, pH7.2). The di-Ru(II) complex is found to induce the condensation of both hsDNA to long chain-like particle clusters and originally circular plasmid pBR322 DNA to particulate structure under neutral conditions. More interestingly, the presence of NaCl has a significant impact on the condensation and decondensation of DNA upon incorporation of [Ru2(bpy)4(mbpibH2)]4+, representing tunable luminescence characteristics by NaCl. High salt concentration facilitates the decondensation of DNA-[Ru2(bpy)4(mbpibH2)]4+ adducts. The results from this study offer an effective method to control the condensation and decondensation of DNA upon incorporation of luminescent concentrators. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Basic oxygen furnace (BOF) slag is a by-product of steel plants and is different from conventional natural aggregates. Studies have shown that BOF slag asphalt concrete is able to store heat. However, no quantitative research results have been presented. In this study, conventional natural aggregates and reclaimed asphalt pavement (RAP) are replaced by BOF slag in an asphalt concrete mixture. To observe the temperature variations in BOF slag asphalt concrete pavement during construction and after being opened to traffic, test roads with different levels of BOF slag and RAP were constructed in Kaohsiung City, Taiwan. The goal of this study was to provide information about the temperature differences between asphalt concrete pavement containing natural aggregates and those containing BOF slag aggregates. The results of this research indicate that for the same transportation time and distance, the temperature of asphalt concrete pavement with 40% BOF slag was approximately 7°C higher than that with 0% BOF slag. Because the internal heat energy of pavement with a large amount of BOF slag is not easily released, a longer curing time is needed after rolling compaction of the pavement, and thus, a longer time is needed before the BOF slag pavement can be opened to traffic. The temperature required to open the pavement to traffic was approximately 65°C. Furthermore, after opening the road to traffic, temperatures at depths of 3 and 5 cm in pavement with 40% BOF slag were 2 to 4°C lower than at the same depths in pavement with 0% BOF slag. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: An imidazophenanthroline-containing ruthenium(II) complex [Ru(bpy)2(mbpibH2)]2+ (bpy=2,2′-bipyridine, mbpibH2=1,3-bis([1,10]phenanthroline[5,6-d]imidazol-2-yl)benzene) can bind DNA through groove-binding and/or non-classical intercalation modes, revealed by spectrophotometric methods, viscosity measurements and variable ionic strength experiments. On the basis of binding interactions between cationic [Ru(bpy)2(mbpibH2)]2+ and anionic DNA at a molar ratio of 1:1, a yellow transparent cast film has been assembled on an indium-tin oxide (ITO) surface using a solution-based self-standing method. The prepared DNA-[Ru(bpy)2(mbpibH2)]2+ film shows a bi-exponential luminescence decay with τ 1 =62.1ns (8.0%) and τ 2 =594.5ns (92.0%), whose lifetimes become much shorter than those of DNA-bound [Ru(bpy)2(mbpibH2)]2+ in buffer solutions. The Ru(II) complex with a free bi-dentate coordination site in the DNA cast film shows tunable luminescence, quenched dynamically by Cu2+ and restored by using EDTA to eliminate two modes of Cu2+-binding. The results from this study provide a significant foundation for better understanding the fabrication and modulation of a DNA-based solid luminescence device using the Ru(II) complexes as DNA-concentrating and signal-sensing agents. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

A comprehensive laboratory testing program, including rotary loaded wheel rutting, four-point bending fatigue, and low-temperature bending tests, was carried out in this study to evaluate a newer type of asphalt concrete mixture modifier, termed as Interface Modifier. Unlike many of the traditional asphalt binder modifiers, such as Styrene-butadiene-styrene (SBS), Styrene-butadiene Rubber Latex (SBR), Polyethylene (PE), etc., the Interface Modifier was fed directly into the mixing chamber and mixed with heated aggregate. The electron microscope scanning combined with rheology testing was also used to analyze the mechanism of interface modifier/aggregate interactions. With the use of the Interface Modifier, improved bonding between the asphalt binder and the aggregates were observed. Test results show that the use of the Interface Modifier in the asphalt concrete mix could improve its resistance to rutting at high temperature and water stability, as well as increase its fatigue life significantly. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Although the critical role of complement component C3d as a molecular adjuvant in preventing virus infection is well established, its role in cancer therapies is unclear. In this study, we have engineered a DNA vaccine that expresses extracellular region of murine VEGFR-2 (FLK1265–2493) and 3 copies of C3d (C3d3), a component of complement as a molecular adjuvant, designed to increase antitumor immunity. VEGFR-2 has a more restricted expression on endothelial cells and is upregulated once these cells proliferate during angiogenesis in the tumor vasculature. Immunization of mice with vector encoding FLK1265–2493 alone generated only background levels of anti-VEGFR-2 antibodies and slight inhibitory effect on tumor growth. However, the addition of C3d3 to the vaccine construct significantly augmented the anti-VEGFR-2 humoral immune response and inhibited the tumor growth. The antitumor activity induced by vaccination with vector encoding FLK1265–2493-C3d3 fusion protein was also demonstrated via growth inhibition of established tumors following passive transfer of immune serum from vaccinated mice. Our results suggest that vaccination with vector encoding FLK1265–2493 with C3d3 as a molecular adjuvant induces adaptive humoral activity, which is directed against the murine VEGFR-2 and can significantly inhibit tumor growth, and that administration of C3d as a molecular adjuvant to increase antibodies levels to VEGFR-2 may provide an alternative treatment modality for cancer therapies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Neodymium chloride isopropanol complex (NdCl·3PrOH) activated by modified methylaluminoxane (MMAO) was examined in isoprene polymerization in hexane, with regards to Nd compounds, aluminum (Al) compounds, [Al]/[Nd] ratio, polymerization temperature and time. NdCl·3PrOH exhibited high activity producing polymers featuring high cis-1,4 stereospecificity (> 96%), very high molecular weight ( Mn > 1.0 × 106) and fairly narrow molecular weight distribution (MWD, Mw /Mn < 2.0) simultaneously. In comparison, neodymium isopropoxide also showed high activity providing polymers with narrow MWD ( Mw /Mn = 2.07), but somewhat low cis-1,4 content ( ca. 92%), while neodymium chloride had no activity under present polymerization conditions. The Al compounds affected the polymer yield in the order of Al( i- Bu) > MMAO > Al( i-Bu)H. MMAO as cocatalyst afforded polyisoprene with high Mn over 1.0 × 106, whereas as stronger chain transfer agent than MMAO, Al( i-Bu) and Al( i-Bu)H yielded polymers with low Mn (1.0 × 10−8.0 × 105). NdCl·3PrOH/MMAO catalyst showed a fairly good catalytic activity even at relatively low [Al]/[Nd] ratio of 30, and the produced polymer remained high cis-1,4 content of 95.8% along with high Mn over 1.0 × 106 even at elevated temperatures up to 70°C. The polymerization rate is of the first order with respect to the concentration of isoprene. The mechanism of active species formation was discussed preliminarily. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: We present a theoretical study of spin-dependent electron transport in an antiparallel double -magnetic-barrier nanostructure with an applied bias. It is shown that large spin-polarized current can be achieved in such a device with unidentical strength between two -magnetic-barriers. It also is shown that the degree of electron–spin polarization is strongly dependent upon the applied bias. These interesting properties may provide an alternative scheme to spin-polarize electrons into semiconductors, and this device may be used as a bias-tunable spin filter. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Superantigens, like staphylococcal enterotoxin A (SEA), induce a strong proliferative response followed by clonal deletion of a substantial portion of defined Vβ T-cells. The remaining cells display in vitro anergy. Anergy is a major mechanism to ensure antigen-specific tolerance in T-lymphocyte in the adult. Co-stimulatory molecules B7-1 (CD80)/B7-2 (CD86) and their counter-receptors CD28/CTLA-4 play pivotal roles in T-cell activation and immune regulation. While increasing data further suggested a role for CTLA-4 in regulating T-cell tolerance in vivo, the mechanism by which CTLA-4 influences T-lymphocyte tolerance is unclear. In the present study, we established an in vitro anergy model using superantigen SEA as the anergizing agents and examined CD3, CD28 and CTLA-4 expression of anergic T-cells in response to SEA rechallenge. It is found that anergic T-cell fails to produce the autocrine growth factor interleukin-2 (IL-2) upon stimulation, and addition of exogenous IL-2 can reverse the anergic state. Both TCR/CD3 complex and CD28 expression is not reduced in anergic cells during whole immune response, but the expression of CTLA-4 on the cell surface is enhanced dramatically in the late stages of an immune response. Using CTLA-4/B7-blocking agent, we found T-cell anergy was aborted and anergic T-cells restored the ability to proliferate and produce IL-2, suggesting that CTLA-4 may play a critical role in the induction of T-cell anergy. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Responding to concerns raised by the Bhopal accident, more and more attention has been paid to local emergency, especially chemical emergency, prevention and planning worldwide, and many chemical emergency response systems for public response personnel have been built. With the successful application of geographical information system (GIS) technology in many fields, GIS can be an efficient tool for effective response to chemical emergencies. The purpose of this paper is to introduce the application of GIS technology in emergency response. Typical GIS technology is simply introduced and some of its existing applications to emergency, mainly natural disaster, response are summarized. Spatial data and spatial analysis requirements for chemical monitoring and emergency response are also discussed in detail. Finally a chemical monitoring and emergency response system under development by combining GIS and expert system for both chemical distribution centers and public response personnel is presented. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Reveals the status of environmental technology (ET) in China. Environmental problems that call for technological solutions; Opportunities and constraints for the development of ET; Strategies for its future development; Focal points of research and development; Spatial distribution; Sectoral structure.

Looks at the development of the principles and procedures for integrated environmental assessment (IEA) based on the specific urban conditions and Chinese characteristics. Development process of environmental assessment in China; Indicators for integrated environmental assessment; Methods for integrated environmental assessment; Future developments.

Various solid-state transformations in a metal-organic framework were determined by X-ray crystallography. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) have been shown to promote stroke recovery, however, the underlying mechanisms are not well understood. In this study naïve rats were intravenously injected with syngeneic BMSCs to screen for potential differences in brain metabolite spectrum versus vehicle-treated controls by capillary electrophoresis-mass spectrometry. A total of 65 metabolites were significantly changed after BMSC treatment. Among them, 5-oxoproline, an intermediate in the biosynthesis of the endogenous glutathione (GSH), was increased. To confirm the obtained results and investigate the metabolic pathways, BMSCs were injected into rats 24 h after middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO). Rats receiving vehicle solution and sham-operated animals served as controls. High performance liquid chromatography, reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction, and Western blotting revealed that intravenous BMSC application increased the levels of 5-oxoproline and GSH in MCAO rats, as well as the expression of key enzymes involved in GSH synthesis including, gamma-glutamylcyclotransferase and gamma-glutamylcysteine ligase. Subsequent clinical investigation confirmed that acute ischemic stroke patients had higher plasma 5-oxoproline and GSH levels than age- and sex-matched non-stroke controls. The optimal cutoff value for 5-oxoproline diagnosing acute ischemic stroke (≤ 7d) was 3.127 µg/mL (sensitivity, 63.4 %; specificity, 81.2 %) determined by receiver characteristic operator curve. The area under the curve was 0.782 (95 % confidence interval: 0.718–0.845). Our findings indicate that BMSCs play a protective role in ischemic stroke through upregulation of GSH and 5-oxoproline is a potential biomarker for acute ischemic stroke. Ischemic stroke causes oxidative stress and induction of endogenous, glutathione-dependent anti-oxidative mechanisms. 5-oxoproline, an important metabolite in glutathione biosynthesis, could serve as a biomarker of acute ischemic stroke. Moreover, intravenous bone marrow mesenchymal stem cell (BMSC) treatment after experimental stroke upregulates the expression of key enzymes involved in glutathione synthesis, which results in better antioxidative defense and improved stroke outcome. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With the help of stationary phase method, we investigate the Goos-Hänchen (GH) effect of electrons in nanostructures consisting of realistic magnetic barriers (MB) created by lithographic patterning of ferromagnetic (FM) or superconducting films. Due to intrinsic symmetry, only nanostructures with symmetric magnetic field possess a considerable spin-dependent GH effect, and GH shifts of transmitted spin beams are found to depend upon the incident angle and the incident energy of electrons as well as the size and position of the FM stripe. These interesting properties may provide an effective scheme to realize spin injection into semiconductor and also give rise to a type of spin beam splitters based on MB nanostructures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Identification of rapid, inexpensive, and reliable prognostic factors can improve survival estimation and guide healthcare in patients with acute heart failure (AHF). In this study, we aimed to determine the prognostic value of the platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio (PLR) in patients with AHF. A total of 443 patients from two hospitals met the inclusion criteria from January 2010 to December 2017. Univariate and multivariate Cox analyses were performed to determine the association of PLR with survival. All-cause mortality was analysed using the Kaplan-Meier method. The 6-month survival rate for patients according to PLR quartiles (<110.63, 110.63–139.23, 139.23–177.17, and >177.17) were 90.09%, 76.79%, 50.07%, and 37.27%, respectively (p < 0.001). Univariate analysis identified high PLR (>110.63), old age (≥73 years), smoking habit, low estimated glomerular filtration rate (<57), and high platelet count (≥198 × 109/l) as poor prognostic factors for survival. In the multivariate analysis, after adjusting for confounding factors, the third (hazard ratio [HR] = 3.118, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.668–5.386, p < 0.001) and fourth (HR = 2.437, 95% CI = 1.302–3.653, p < 0.001) quartiles of PLR were identified as independent prognostic factors in patients with AHF. A higher PLR was associated with poor clinical outcomes in patients with AHF and might be a novel marker in AHF management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]