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With the improvement of people's living standards and health requirements, green, healthy and high-quality beverages are people's highest requirements. Tea as a beverage requires ecological development in terms of planting, processing, packaging and sales. Combined with the emphasis on rural revitalization during the "14th Five-Year Plan" period, the application of circular economy to the development of the tea industry is the general trend of the development direction of the tea industry. Huoshan County is located in the west of Anhui Province, rich in tea, but still faces poverty problems, which has typical research significance. This paper predicts China's tea sales in recent years through the gray correlation prediction model, analyzes the development status and scale of the tea industry in recent years, and then combines the actual situation of Huoshan County and links with the circular economy, so as to provide some suggestions for promoting the construction of tea economy and the construction of ecological Huoshan tea in Huoshan County, relying on the tea industry to drive tea villages to get rid of poverty and become rich.

A well-developed canopy structure can increase the biomass accumulation and yield of crops. Peanut seeds were sown in a soil inoculated with an arbuscular mycorrhizal fungus (AMF) and uninoculated controls were also sown. Canopy structure was monitored using a 3-D laser scanner and photosynthetic characteristics with an LI-6400 XT photosynthesis system after 30, 45 and 70 days of growth to explore the effects of the AMF on growth, canopy structure and photosynthetic characteristics and yield. The AMF colonized the roots and AMF inoculation significantly increased the height, canopy width and total leaf area of the host plants and improved canopy structure. AMF reduced the tiller angle of the upper and middle canopy layers, increased that of the lower layer, reduced the leaf inclination of the upper, middle and lower layers, and increased the average leaf area and leaf area index after 45 days of growth, producing a well-developed and hierarchical canopy. Moreover, AMF inoculation increased the net photosynthetic rate in the upper, middle and lower layers. Plant height, canopy width, and total leaf area were positively correlated with net photosynthetic rate, and the inclination angle and tiller angle of the upper leaves were negatively correlated with net photosynthetic rate. Overall, the results demonstrate the effects of AMF inoculation on plant canopy structure and net photosynthetic rate.

Weiran Zhou,1,* Huili Zhou,1,* Shuan Zhao,1– 5 Yang Li,1– 5 Yiqin Shi,1– 5 Xiaoqiang Ding1– 5 1Division of Nephrology, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, People’s Republic of China; 2Shanghai Medical Center of Kidney Disease, Shanghai, People’s Republic of China; 3Shanghai Institute of Kidney and Dialysis, Shanghai, People’s Republic of China; 4Shanghai Key Laboratory of Kidney and Blood Purification, Shanghai, People’s Republic of China; 5Hemodialysis Quality Control Center of Shanghai, Shanghai, People’s Republic of China*These authors contributed equally to this workCorrespondence: Xiaoqiang Ding; Yiqin ShiDepartment of Nephrology, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, No. 180, Fenglin Road, Xuhui District, Shanghai, 200032, People’s Republic of ChinaEmail ding.xiaoqiang@zs-hospital.sh.cn; shi.yiqin@zs-hospital.sh.cnBackground: Patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) are prone to muscle strength degeneration. However, the relationship between mild-to-moderate renal insufficiency and low muscle strength remains unclear. As cystatin C is not subject to muscular conditions and is a sensitive serum marker in preclinical renal disease, we aimed to investigate the association between estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) based on cystatin C and muscle strength in the Chinese population.Methods: This was a cross-sectional study enrolling 12,398 Chinese participants aged above 45 years (5762 men and 6636 women) from the 2015 China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study. Handgrip strength (HGS) was used to assess muscle strength. Locally weighted scatterplot smoothing (LOWESS) curves were employed to visualize the relationships between eGFR and HGS. Multivariable logistic regression was conducted to analyze the correlation between kidney function and low muscle strength.Results: Significant differences in HGS by CKD stage were observed in both sexes after adjusting for age and body mass index. LOWESS curves demonstrated concomitant decreases in HGS and kidney function at eGFR levels below 120 mL/min/1.73 m2 in both sexes. According to multivariate logistic regression, participants with CKD stages 2 (odds ratio [OR]: 1.256, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.120– 1.409), 3 (OR: 2.725, 95% CI: 2.2585– 3.288), and 4– 5 (OR: 3.069, 95% CI 1.747– 5.392) had higher risk of low muscle strength than those who were normal or had CKD stage 1 after adjusting for demographic and clinical variables.Conclusion: Our study illustrated that CKD stage was independently associated with low muscle strength in Chinese middle-aged and elderly populations.Keywords: muscle strength, chronic kidney disease, kidney function, glomerular filtration rate, CHARLS, epidemiology

We consider the parameter estimation for multiplicative linear regression models with or without multiplicative distortion measurement errors. For the latter, both the response variable and the cov...

Unlike adult mammalian heart, zebrafish heart has a remarkable capacity to regenerate after injury. Previous study has shown Notch signaling activation in the endocardium is essential for regeneration of the myocardium and this activation is mediated by hemodynamic alteration after injury, however, the molecular mechanism has not been fully explored. In this study we demonstrated that blood flow change could be perceived and transmitted in a primary cilia dependent manner to control the hemodynamic responsive klf2 gene expression and subsequent activation of Notch signaling in the endocardium. First we showed that both homologues of human gene KLF2 in zebrafish, klf2a and klf2b, could respond to hemodynamic alteration and both were required for Notch signaling activation and heart regeneration. Further experiments indicated that the upregulation of klf2 gene expression was mediated by endocardial primary cilia. Overall, our findings reveal a novel aspect of mechanical shear stress signal in activating Notch pathway and regulating cardiac regeneration.

Ravidasvir (RDV) is a novel oral hepatitis C virus NS5A inhibitor. This study aimed to evaluate the pharmacokinetics and safety of RDV and the drug-drug interactions between RDV and ritonavir-boosted danoprevir (DNVr) in healthy adults. In the 1st study, healthy volunteers were administered single oral doses of 100, 200, and 300 mg of RDV and 200 mg once daily for 7 days. The 2nd study was a randomized, double-blinded, and placebo-controlled sequential design (day 1 for 200 mg of RDV alone, day 7 for 100 mg/100 mg of DNVr, day 13 for 200 mg of RDV plus 100 mg/100 mg DNVr, followed by 200 mg of RDV once daily with 100 mg/100 mg of DNVr twice daily for 10 days). The results showed that RDV exposure increased in a dose-proportional manner following a single dose with no evidence of accumulation with multiple doses. Coadministration with DNVr (100 mg/100 mg, twice daily) resulted in a 2.92-fold and 1.99-fold increase in minimum plasma concentration at steady state (C(min,ss)) and area under the concentration-time curve at steady state (AUC(τ)) of RDV, respectively. With coadministration of RDV, maximum plasma concentration (C(max)) and area under the concentration-time curve from 0 to 12 h (AUC(0–12)) of DNV increased 1.71-fold and 2.33-fold, respectively. We did not observe any significant changes in ritonavir exposure. Both single and multiple doses of RDV with or without DNVr were well tolerated. The favorable pharmacokinetic and safety results support ravidasvir’s continued clinical development and treatment. (The studies described in this paper have been registered at ClinicalTrials.gov under identifiers NCT03430830 and NCT03288636.)

Lihua Wu,1,2,* Chang Xu,1,2,* Guolan Wu,1,2 Huili Zhou,1,2 Duo Lv,1,2 You Zhai,1,2 Yujie Huang,1,2 Wenling Tang,3 Fangqiong Li,4 Jianzhong Shentu1–3 1Research Center for Clinical Pharmacy, State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Disease, The First Affiliated Hospital, College of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, People’s Republic of China; 2Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory for Drug Evaluation and Clinical Research, The First Affiliated Hospital, College of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, People’s Republic of China; 3College of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, People’s Republic of China; 4Clinical Research Department, Haisco Pharmaceutical Group, Sichuan, People’s Republic of China*These authors contributed equally to this workCorrespondence: Jianzhong ShentuResearch Center for Clinical Pharmacy, State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Disease, The First Affiliated Hospital, College of Medicine, Zhejiang University, 79 Qingchun Road, Hangzhou 310003, People’s Republic of ChinaTel +86 571 87236560Fax +86 571 87214223Email stjz@zju.edu.cnPurpose: A fixed-dose combination (FDC) tablet of melitracen/flupentixol has been widely used for depression. The purpose of this study was to assess the safety profile and the relative bioavailability of two FDC products containing 10 mg melitracen and 0.5 mg flupentixol from two different manufacturers, in order to acquire adequate pharmacokinetic evidence for registration approval of the test formulation.Methods: The study was designed as a single-dose, randomized, open-label, 2-period crossover study under fasted or fed conditions in healthy Chinese subjects. Twenty-four subjects (16 men and 8 women) were selected for fasted study, and another 24 cases (16 men and 8 women) were in fed study. Each subject was randomized at the beginning to receive either a single dose of the reference FDC or the test FDC tablet during the first period. Following two-week washout period, all subjects received the alternate formulation during the second period. Blood samples were collected up to 144 hrs after administration. Pharmacokinetic parameters, including Cmax, Tmax, AUC0-t, AUC0-∞, t½, CL/F, and Vd/F were acquired based on the time versus concentration profiles. Then, the geometric mean ratios (GMR) and corresponding 90% CIs were calculated for the determination of bioequivalence analysis. Safety assessment included changes in vital signs and laboratory tests, physical examination findings, and incidence or reports of adverse events (AEs).Results: The present study has clearly indicated the test and the reference FDC products are bioequivalent in terms of rate and extent of drug absorption. GMR of Cmax, AUC0–t, and AUC0-∞ for both flupentixol and melitracen between the two formulation FDC products, and corresponding 90% CIs, were all within the range of 80% to 125% under fasted or fed conditions. Both the test and the reference FDC products indicated good tolerance in all volunteers. Chinese Clinical Trials Registry identifier: CTR20171256.Keywords: bioequivalence, melitracen, flupentixol, pharmacokinetics, fixed-dose combination tablet

The effects of multiple-dose administration of tenofovir disoproxil fumarate (TDF) on the pharmacokinetics of morinidazole (MOR) were compared in healthy subjects. MOR exposure was similar, with an area under the curve from 0 h to infinity (AUC0-∞) treatment ratio for MOR+TDF/MOR of 1.01 (90% confidence interval, 0.97 to 1.06). No relevant differences were observed regarding plasma exposure of metabolites. Renal clearances of MOR and its metabolites were not affected by TDF., The effects of multiple-dose administration of tenofovir disoproxil fumarate (TDF) on the pharmacokinetics of morinidazole (MOR) were compared in healthy subjects. MOR exposure was similar, with an area under the curve from 0 h to infinity (AUC0-∞) treatment ratio for MOR+TDF/MOR of 1.01 (90% confidence interval, 0.97 to 1.06). No relevant differences were observed regarding plasma exposure of metabolites. Renal clearances of MOR and its metabolites were not affected by TDF. No unexpected safety or tolerability issues were observed.

Mixed sesquioxide crystals (R2O3, R = Lu, Y or Sc, where R is occupied by two different elements) have drawn an increasing attention due to their outstanding physical and chemical properties. In this work, we have grown Ho3+,Yb3+ co-doped mixed sesquioxide LuYO3 and LuScO3 single crystal fibers (SCFs) in centimeter-length by laser heated pedestal growth (LHPG) method for optical temperature sensing. Both mixed sesquioxide SCFs yield strong green emission (5F4,5S2→5I8) and weak red emission (5F5→5I8) under the excitation of 980 nm laser. Their upconversion (UC) levels are not thermally coupled levels (NTCL). Importantly, these mixed sesquioxide SCFs show a good temperature sensitivity in the temperature range of 298–748 K. Using UC fluorescence intensity ratio (FIR) method, the calculated maximum values of absolute sensitivity of Ho,Yb:LuYO3 and Ho,Yb:LuScO3 are 0.1603 (at 303 K) and 0.0886 K−1 (at 300 K), respectively. These features indicate that our grown mixed sesquioxides show a great potential for high-sensitivity temperature sensing applications. Furthermore, the presented mixed sesquioxide SCFs are excellent candidates for the high-integrated temperature sensor.

A series of YAG: x mol%Sm3+ single crystal (SC) materials, in which x is 0.3, 0.5, 1, 2, respectively, have been synthesized through laser heated pedestal growth (LHPG) method. The down-conversion luminescence properties of prepared fluorescent materials were investigated under a 405 nm laser. According to the results, 0.5 mol% was selected as the optimal doping concentration, and the integrated YAG single crystal fiber (SCF) with end Sm3+ doped was further fabricated. Then the optical temperature sensing characteristics were studied by the technique of the fluorescence intensity ratio (FIR) in detail. It shows that 4F3/2 and 4G5/2 of Sm3+ ions are thermally coupled energy levels. The FIR of the 4F3/2/4G5/2 → 6H5/2 increases monotonously as temperature rises, and its temperature measurement range can be extended to 1178 K. The maximum absolute sensitivity and maximum relative sensitivity are 3.046 × 10−4 K−1(1129 K) and 5.033 × 10−3 K−1 (500 K), respectively. Additionally, the FIRs of various emission bands from 4G5/2 → 6H5/2, 7/2 and the FIR of the emission sub-bands from 4G5/2 → 6H9/2 exhibit temperature dependence in 303–1028 K and 303–878 K, respectively. These results indicate that YAG: Sm3+ SC is a very promising high-temperature sensing material.

Facing the needs of optical thermometry application, the 0.5 at% Tm3+, 5 at% Yb3+ co-doped sesquioxide family (Lu2O3, LuScO3 and Sc2O3) single crystal fibers (SCFs) were successfully grown by the laser heated pedestal growth (LHPG) method. The Tm3+ and Yb3+ ions are uniformly distributed in the three fibers. The power dependent emission spectra with 980 nm excitation from 20 to 220 mW were investigated. There is a good linear relationship between the logarithm of emission intensity and the pumping power. In addition, the up-conversion luminescence (UCL) of the transitions of 3F2,3 →3H6 from 670 to 730 nm and 3H4 →3H6 from 750 to 850 nm of Tm3+ were systemically obtained with different temperature under a 980 nm laser. The maximum values of relative sensitivity of the Lu2O3, LuScO3 and Sc2O3 crystal fibers are 0.0056, 0.0180, 0.0067 K−1, corresponding to the temperature of 535, 323 and 427 K, respectively. The highest detection temperature of Lu2O3 and LuScO3 crystals was 973 K, while that of Sc2O3 crystal was up to 1073 K. Considering that Tm3+, Yb3+: Sc2O3 crystal still had high emission intensity at 1073 K, and the absolute sensitivity increases with increasing temperature, it was believed that the Sc2O3 crystal fiber was particularly suitable for higher temperature and sensitivity detection.

In order to reduce the viscosity of heavy oil, the performance of emulsifying viscosity reducers is limited. In this study, a new kind of amphiphilic low molecular weight viscosity reducer was prepared by emulsion copolymerization of acrylamide (AM), acrylic acid (AA), 2-acrylamido-2-methylpropanesulfonic acid (AMPS), and Butene benzene (PB). The synthesis feasibility and viscosity reduction mechanism of viscosity reducer in heavy oil were explored using Materials Studio software from the perspective of molecular dynamics. The results of the molecular dynamics simulation revealed that the addition of viscosity reducer into heavy oil varied the potential energy, non-potential energy, density and hydrogen bond distribution of heavy oil. Benefiting from its structure, the benzene ring in PB was well embedded in the interlayer structure of asphaltene, contributing to weaken the network structure of the heavy oil. Moreover, the two strong polar groups (COO− and SO3−) of AA and AMPS, which constituted the branched chains of the viscosity reducer’s molecular structure, gradually disassembled the network structure from the ‘inward’ to the ‘outward’ of the heavy oil network structure, thereby driving heavy oil viscosity reduction (as clarified by molecular dynamics). Owing to its temperature resistance, this kind of new amphiphilic low molecular copolymer could be an effective viscosity reducer for heavy oil cold recovery at elevated temperatures.

A single shallow learning algorithm cannot fit the characteristics of high-voltage reactors well. Aiming at the above problems, this paper uses the error back propagation neural network and the particle swarm algorithm optimized by adaptive inertia weight to optimize the combined prediction model B for data training, verification and testing are carried out to achieve the purpose of effectively reducing the manufacturing cost of high-voltage reactors. Through experimental verification, the maximum error between the predicted value and the true value is 2.9%, and the minimum error is 0.05%. This provides certain technical support and inspiration for future devices such as optimizing high-voltage reactors.

A series of LuAG: 5 mol%Yb3+/x mol%Tm3+ (x = 0.1, 0.3, 0.5, 1, 2) poly-crystals have been prepared through floating zone method with CO2 laser. The up-conversion luminescence spectra of the samples were recorded under 980 nm excitation. The results tell us that the optimal concentration of Tm3+ ions is around 0.3 mol%. Moreover, the optical temperature sensing properties of the LuAG: 5 mol%Yb3+/0.3 mol%Tm3+ have been investigated by using fluorescence intensity ratio (FIR) method. The FIR data obtained agree well with the fitting curve from 298 K to 1023 K. The absolute and relative sensitivities reach the highest values of 5.55 × 10−3 K−1 at 1023 K and 7.17 × 10−3 K−1 at 555 K, respectively. The results indicate that the Tm3+/Yb3+:LuAG poly-crystalline phosphor is a promising candidate for wide-range and highly sensitive temperature sensor.

A new method for the preparation of the mono-sheet bipolar membrane applied to fuel cells was developed based on the pre-irradiation grafting technology. A series of bipolar membranes were successfully prepared by simultaneously grafting of styrene onto one side of the poly(ethylene- co -tetrafluoroethylene) base film and 1-vinylimidazole onto the opposite side, followed by the sulfonation and alkylation, respectively. The chemical structures and microstructures of the prepared membranes were investigated by ATR-FTIR and SEM-EDS. The TGA measurements demonstrated the prepared bipolar membranes have reasonable thermal stability. The ion exchange capacity, water uptake and ionic conductivity of the membranes were also characterized. The H 2 /O 2 single fuel cells using these membranes were evaluated and revealed a maximum power density of 107 mW cm −2 at 35 °C with unhumidified hydrogen and oxygen. The preliminary performances suggested the great prospect of these membranes in application of bipolar membrane fuel cells.

Objective Febuxostat is a novel non-purine selective inhibitor of xanthine oxidase indicated for the chronic management of hyperuricemia in patients with gout. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the pharmacokinetic properties and tolerability of single and multiple oral administrations of febuxostat capsules in healthy Chinese volunteers. Methods This openlabel, single- and multiple-dose three-way crossover study was conducted in healthy Chinese volunteers. Subjects were randomized to receive a single dose of febuxostat 40, 80, or 120 mg in separate trial periods, with a 1-week washout between periods. Those allocated to the 40 mg and 80 mg dose continued into the multiple-dose phase, in which they received 40 mg or 80 mg once daily for 6 consecutive days. During the course of the study, blood samples were collected and the concentrations of febuxostat were determined using LC-MS/MS. Pharmacokinetic parameters were estimated using a noncompartmental model. Tolerability was determined using clinical evaluation and monitoring of adverse events (AEs). Results 12 healthy Chinese volunteers were enrolled and completed 3 treatment periods. After oral administration of single doses of 40, 80, and 120 mg of febuxostat, the mean (SD) Cmax was 2,835.43 (1,136.41), 5,356.75 (1,711.33), and 7,718.21 (2,446.34) ng/mL, respectively; the AUC0-48h was 8,821.10 (3,018.35), 17,854.46 (5,113.28), and 30,832.05 (10,992.20) ng×h/ mL; the AUC0-∞ was 8,990.33 (3,046.14), 18,193.58 (5,160.80), and 31,466.93 (1,1074.74) ng×h/mL; the t1/2 was 5.95 (2.71), 9.41 (7.47), and 12.34 (10.34) hours; the Cl/F was 4.81 (1.18), 4.70 (1.21), and 4.18(1.19) L/h; and the Vz/F was 39.66 (16.69), 62.72 (51.41), and 73.41 (64.84) L. After administration of multiple doses of 40 and 80 mg febuxostat, the mean (SD) Cmax,ss was 2,762.38 (1,331.96) and 5,047.27 (1,456.57) ng/mL; the Cmin,ss was 124.10 (6.32) and 46.93 (15.86) ng/mL; the AUCss,0-τ was 8,525.49 (2,160.64) and 16,757.12 (4,223.17) ng×h /mL; the steadystate plasma concentration (Css) was 355.23 (90.03) and 698.21 (175.97) ng/mL; the t1/2 was 7.68 (3.30) and 11.33 (6.94) hours; the Cl/F was 4.99 (1.30) and 5.05 (1.22) L/h; and the Vz/F was 54.10 (24.10) and 85.51 (65.99) L. No serious AEs were reported, and there were no discontinuations due to AEs. Conclusion The PK of febuxostat exhibited dose proportional kinetics from 40 to 120 mg dose. After multiple doses, the pharmacokinetic parameters of febuxostat were consistent with those after single doses. There was no accumulation in febuxostat exposure in healthy Chinese between multiple doses and single dose. At the doses studied, febuxostat appeared to be well tolerated in these healthy volunteers.

The YAG: Ho3+/xCe3+/Yb3+(x = 0.0, 0.2, 0.5, 1.0 mol%) up-conversion luminescence (UCL) materials were prepared with a melting method utilizing CO2 lasers. The UCL spectra of the prepared samples were measured under the excitation of a 980 nm laser diode. Since the energy gaps between 5I6 and 5I7 levels, 5F4/5S2 and 5F5 levels, 5F2,3/3K8 and 5F4/5S2 levels of Ho3+ match well with the energy gap between 5F5/2 and 5F7/2 levels of Ce3+, the generation of three cross-relaxation (CR) processes between Ho3+ and Ce3+ enables the doping of Ce3+ ions to tune the intensity and intensity ratio of the green emission to the red emission of the YAG: Ho3+/Yb3+ sample. The temperature sensing performances of the samples were analyzed. When both the temperature measurement range and sensitivity are considered, the YAG: Ho3+/0.2 mol%Ce3+/Yb3+ sample may be a more promising candidate for the temperature sensing material, the temperature measurement range of which is 298–1023 K, and the maximum absolute sensitivity and relative sensitivity are 0.0514 K-1 and 0.0094 K-1, respectively.

Objective. To evaluate the value of transvaginal two-dimensional contrast-enhanced ultrasonography (2D-CEUS) in the diagnosis of atypical ovarian corpus luteum hematoma (AT-OCLH). Methods. A prospective study was performed on 53 consecutive patients with suspected AT-OCLH, and the diagnostic results by transvaginal 2D-CEUS were statistically compared with the gold standard. The gold standard results were confirmed by surgical pathology or long-term follow-up. Results. The characteristic perfusion patterns of AT-OCLH in 2D-CEUS showed no contrast agent perfusion within the tumor mass, and the capsule wall showed rapid, annular, high enhancement perfusion; perfusion patterns could be classified into type Ia and type IIa. AT-OCLH can be distinguished from ovarian tumors based on perfusion characteristics and perfusion pattern type, which can be diagnosed based on the significantly stronger cystic wall perfusion intensity, earlier arrival time, and thicker cystic wall than nonluteal cystic foci (P17.5 were diagnosed as AT-OCLH. Conclusion. 2D-CEUS is an effective method for diagnosing AT-OCLH.

Novel anion-exchange membranes based on two kinds of pyrrolidonium type ionic liquids, N-methyl-N-vinyl-pyrrolidonium (NVMP) and N-ethyl-N-vinyl-pyrrolidonium (NVEP), have been synthesized via polymerization and crosslinking treatment, followed by membrane casting. The covalent cross-linked structures of these membranes are confirmed by FT-IR. The obtained membranes are also characterized in terms of water uptake, ion exchange capacity (IEC), ionic conductivity as well as thermal, dimensional and chemical stability. The membranes display hydroxide conductivity of above 10−2 S cm−1 at 25 °C. Excellent thermal stability with onset degradation temperature above 235 °C, good alkaline stability in 6 mol L−1 NaOH at 60 °C for 168 h and remarkable dimensional stability of the resulting membranes have been proved. H2/air single fuel cells employed membrane M3 and N3 show the open-circuit voltage (OCV) of 0.953 V and 0.933 V, and the maximum power density of 88.90 mW cm−2 and 81.90 mW cm−2 at the current density of 175 mA cm−2 and 200 mA cm−2 at 65 °C, respectively.

Purpose A new generic formulation of cycloserine has been developed in China but the pharmacokinetic properties of cycloserine in the Chinese population have not been reported. The aim of our study was to evaluate the pharmacokinetic properties and tolerability of single and multiple oral administrations of cycloserine capsules in healthy Chinese volunteers. Methods This open-label, single- and multiple-dose 3-way crossover study was conducted in healthy Chinese volunteers. Subjects were randomized to receive a single dose of cycloserine (250, 500, or 1000 mg) in separate trial periods, with a 1-week washout between periods. Those allocated to the 250-mg dose continued into the multiple-dose phase, in which they received 250 mg BID for 5 consecutive days. During the single-dose phase, blood samples were collected at regular intervals from 0 to 72 hours after drug administration and the concentrations of cycloserine were determined using LC-MS/MS. During the multiple-dose phase, blood samples were obtained before drug administration on Days 4, 5, and 6 to determine the Cmin at steady state. On Day 6, blood samples were also collected from 0 to 72 hours after drug administration. Pharmacokinetic parameters were estimated using noncompartmental methods. Tolerability was determined using clinical evaluation and monitoring of adverse events. Findings The study enrolled 12 healthy Chinese volunteers (6 men: mean [SD] age = 23.0 [2.6] years, weight = 60.2 [6.2] kg, height = 170.0 [3.0] cm, and body mass index = 20.7 [1.7]; 6 women: mean [SD] age = 25.3 [1.4] years, weight = 51.5 [3.3] kg, height = 160.0 [4.0] cm, and body mass index = 20.1 [0.9]). After administration of a single dose, cycloserine was rapidly absorbed, reaching peak plasma concentrations approximately 0.84 hours after oral administration, and t½ in plasma was about 13.0 hours. The geometric mean (SD) Cmax value increased in proportion to cycloserine dose, from 19.42 (5.89) to 84.76 (21.74) mg/L, and the geometric mean (SD) AUC0–72h value increased from 264.16 (133.37) to 1153.87 (522.16) mg·h/L in the range of a 250- to 1000-mg dose. After administration of multiple doses of cycloserine 250 mg BID, the mean (SD) t½ was 13.56 (4.38) hours, the apparent total clearance of the drug from plasma after oral administration was 1.02 (0.42) L/h, and the apparent volume of distribution was 18.22 (5.25) L, which were comparable with those after single dosing. The accumulation index was 2.19 (0.51), and the fluctuation was 1.05 (0.35). Results of the t tests of Cmax and AUC found no significant differences between the male and female groups. No serious adverse events were reported, and there were no discontinuations due to adverse events. Implications The pharmacokinetic properties of cycloserine were linear at doses from 250 mg to 1000 mg. After multiple doses, the pharmacokinetic properties of cycloserine were consistent with those after single doses. At the doses studied, cycloserine appears to be well tolerated in these healthy volunteers. Chinese Clinical Trials registration: ChiCTR-TTRCC-13003982.

Background and Objectives Cefozopran is a parenteral cephalosporin with a broad spectrum of activity against Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria. The objective of this study was to evaluate the pharmacokinetics of cefozopran after single- and multiple-dose intravenous administration in healthy subjects, to provide clinical guidance in its application. Methods This was a single-center, open-label, randomized, two-phase study conducted in 12 subjects. In the single-dose phase, subjects were randomly assigned to receive single doses of 0.5, 1.0 and 2.0 g of injected cefozopran hydrochloride in a three-way crossover design with a 5-day washout period between administrations. In the multiple-dose phase, subjects received 2.0 g every 12 h for 4 days. Plasma and urine pharmacokinetic samples were assayed by a validated high-performance liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry method. Pharmacokinetic parameters were calculated and analyzed statistically. Safety assessments were conducted throughout the study. Results Twelve healthy volunteers (six males and six females) were enrolled and completed the study. Following a single 1-h intravenous infusion of 0.5, 1.0 or 2.0 g cefozopran, maximum plasma concentration (Cmax) and area under the plasma concentration–time curve from time zero to the time of the last measurable concentration (AUClast) increased in a dose-proportional manner. The mean half-life in plasma (t½) was in the range of 1.20–2.80 h. Cefozopran was mainly excreted in its unchanged form, with no tendency for accumulation, via the kidney, and varied from 65.99 to 73.33 %. No appreciable accumulation of either drug occurred with multiple intravenous doses of cefozopran, and pharmacokinetic parameters for cefozopran were similar on days 1 and 4. No serious adverse events were reported. Adverse events were generally mild. Conclusion Cefozopran was safe and well tolerated in the volunteers and displayed linear increases in the Cmax and AUClast values.

Objective: A generic vaginal progesterone gel has recently been developed in China. Little is known about its pharmacokinetic properties in Chinese subjects. The purpose of our study was to investigate the pharmacokinetics of three forms of vaginal progesterone gel (test formulations at 4 and 8% strength vs. a reference formulation: Crinone 8%) in Chinese healthy post-menopausal women. Methods: This study consisted of two parts study. The part 1 study was a single-center, open-label, 3-period study. Twelve healthy post-menopausal women were to evaluate the safety and pharmacokinetics of 45 mg vaginal progesterone gel (Test 4%) following single dose and multiple doses administered once every other day (q.o.d.) for six times or once daily (q.d.) for 6 days. The part 2 study was a randomized, open-label, 3-stage crossover study. Twelve post-menopausal women received 90 mg vaginal progesterone gel (Test 8%) or 90 mg Crinone (Reference 8%) following single dose and multiple doses (q.o.d. or q.d.). Plasma concentrations of progesterone were measured up to 72 h by using a validated liquid chromatography tandem-mass spectrometry method. The primary pharmacokinetic parameters, maximum plasma concentration (Cmax) and area under the plasma concentration–time curve (AUC) from time zero to last measurable concentration (AUC0-t) and extrapolated to infinity (AUC0-∞) were compared by an analysis of variance using log-transformed data. Results: Totally 24 subjects were enrolled in and completed the study. Following single dose, The geometric mean Cmax values for Test 4%, Test 8%, and Crinone 8% were 6.35, 10.34, 10.45 ng/mL, and their geometric mean AUC0-t (AUC0-∞) were 113.73 (118.00), 169.39 (173.98), and 190.07 (201.13) ng⋅h/mL, respectively. The mean T1/2 values of progesterone were 11.00, 10.92, and 11.40 h, respectively. For 8% test formulation vs. reference, the 90% CIs of the least squares mean test/reference ratios of Cmax, AUC0-t, and AUC0-∞ were 78.32–124.85%, 54.31–146.24%, and 53.64–137.75, respectively. The most frequent adverse events were increased vaginal secretions, most of which were of mild intensity and considered related to treatment. Conclusion: Results with single and multiple doses of vaginal progesterone gel suggest similar pharmacokinetics properties between test formulations and Crinone 8%. Overall, vaginal progesterone gel was well tolerated.

OBJECTIVE Sitafloxacin is a new fluoroquinolone with a broad spectrum of antibacterial activity, including grampositive and gram-negative bacteria. This study was to evaluate the pharmacokinetic characteristics of a single dose of sitafloxacin in healthy Chinese volunteers. METHODS This was a single-center, open-label, randomized-sequence study conducted in 12 subjects. Subjects were randomly assigned to receive single doses of 50, 100, and 200 mg of sitafloxacin in a 3-way crossover design with a 7-day washout period between administrations. Quantification was carried out using a validated high-performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (HPLC-MS/MS) method. Pharmacokinetic parameters were calculated and analyzed statistically. Safety assessments were conducted throughout the study. RESULTS After administration of single doses of 50, 100, and 200 mg, geometric mean estimate for sitafloxacin Cmax were 0.72, 1.62, and 2.73 μg/mL and the mean of AUClast were 3.97, 8.71, and 18.03 μg x h/mL, respectively. Sitafloxacin was rapidly absorbed, reaching Cmax ranged from 0.85 to 1.21 hours. The terminal half-life ranged from 5.19 to 6.28 hours. The Cmax and AUC last were proportional to the doses. The mean clearance, the half-life, and the volume of distribution were constant, irrespective of the dose. CONCLUSION In healthy Chinese subjects, single dosing of sitafloxacin resulted in linear plasma pharmacokinetics.

Copen is a derivative obtained from the structural modification of osthole, which inhibits tumoral proliferation in many tumor cell lines. A rapid and sensitive liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) method was established for the quantification of copen in rat plasma. After a simple sample preparation procedure by one-step protein precipitation with methanol, copen and bicalutamide (internal standard, IS) were chromatographed on a Zorbax SB-C18 (4.6×100 mm, 1.8 µm) column with a mobile phase consisting of methanol-5 mm ammonium formate water with 0.1% formic acid (80:20, v/v). MS detection was performed on a triple quadrupole tandem mass spectrometer in the multiple reaction monitoring mode with a positive eletrospray ionization source. The assay was validated in the concentration range of 51.58-20,630 ng/mL, with a limit of quantitation (LOQ) of 51.58 ng/mL. The intra- and inter-day precisions (relative standard deviation) were ≤3.21 and ≤11.3%, respectively, with accuracy (%) in the range of 94.66-102.1%. The method was fully validated in a study of the pharmacokinetics of copen (25 mg/kg) after intragastric administration in rats.

Background Bepotastine is a second-generation histamine 1 receptor antagonist that is used in the treatment of allergic rhinitis, urticaria, and pruritus associated with skin disease. A new generic formulation of bepotastine has been developed in China, and information concerning bioavailability and pharmacokinetic properties in the Chinese population has not been reported. Objective The aim of the present study was to compare the bioavailability and pharmacokinetic properties of 2 tablet formulations of bepotastine, the 10-mg generic formulation (test) and a branded formulation (reference), in healthy male Chinese volunteers to obtain registration approval of the test formulation. Methods A single-center, open-label, randomized, 2-way crossover study with a 1-week washout period was conducted in 24 healthy male volunteers. Blood samples were collected for 16 hours after a single dose of the 10-mg bepotastine test formulation or the reference formulation. Plasma bepotastine concentrations were determined using a validated LC-MS/MS method. C max , T max , AUC 0–t , AUC 0–∞ , and t ½ were determined using noncompartmental analysis. The formulations were considered bioequivalent if the 90% CIs for the log-transformed C max and AUC values were within the predetermined interval of 75% to 133% and 80% to 125%, respectively, according to the guidelines of the China Food and Drug Administration. Results No significant differences were found in mean (SD) pharmacokinetic parameters between the test and reference drugs, including C max (74.81 [9.91] ng/mL vs 78.60 [29.58] ng/mL), AUC 0–t (295.55[115.29] ng·h/mL vs 299.17[109.29] ng·h/mL), and AUC 0-∞ (305.28 [118.50] ng·h/mL vs 310.90 [112.20] ng·h/mL). The mean (SD) t ½ values of the test and reference formulations were 2.53 (0.50) hours and 2.62 (0.41) hours, respectively. The 90% CIs of the treatment ratios for the logarithmic transformed values of C max , AUC 0–t , and AUC 0–∞ were 86.96% to 101.80%, 93.22% to 104.13%, and 92.66% to 103.30%, respectively. All values were within the predetermined bioequivalence range. Two adverse events were reported as neutropenia (1 volunteer [4.2%]) and neutrophilia (1 volunteer [4.2%]). Both adverse events were transient and considered mild by physicians. Conclusion The test and reference tablets met the regulatory criteria for bioequivalence as defined by the China Food and Drug Administration. Both formulations were well tolerated. Chinese Clinical Trials Registry identifier: ChiCTR-TTRCC-13003723.

A mixed-mode anion exchange solid phase extraction (SPE) method for extraction and clean up of carbazochrome sodium sulfonate (CSS) and (1S)-(+)-10-camphorsulfonic acid (IS) was optimized for quantification by high-performance liquid chromatography/negative electrospray ionization mass spectrometry. The analytes were extracted from 1mL of human plasma via SPE on Oasis(®) WAX cartridge. Chromatographic separation was achieved on a Zorbax SB-Aq (4.6×250mm, 5μm) column under an isocratic condition. Detection was performed using electrospray ionization in negative ion multiple reaction monitoring (MRM) mode. The deprotonated precursor to product ion transitions monitored for CSS and IS was at m/z 299.0→256.0 and m/z 230.9→79.8, respectively. The method was fully validated for its selectivity, sensitivity, precision, accuracy, recovery, matrix effect and stability. Linear range was 0.189-37.8ng/mL with a high square regression coefficient (r=0.9995). The intra-and inter-day precision (RSD, %) ranged from 0.95% to 4.17%, and the intra-and inter-day accuracy was between 95.03% and 105.9%. This method was successfully applied to a bioequivalence study of 90mg CSS formulation in 18 healthy Chinese male subjects under fasting condition.

Objective Recently a formulation of intravenous (IV) ibuprofen was developed in China for management of mild to moderate pain in patients who could not take oral medications or where intravenous administration was preferable. The aim of this study was to evaluate the pharmacokinetic properties and tolerability of single and multiple doses of ibuprofen injection in healthy Chinese volunteers. Methods This open-label, single- and multiple-dose study was conducted in healthy Chinese volunteers. In the single-dose phase, subjects were randomized to receive a single dose of ibuprofen injection 0.2, 0.4, or 0.8 g administered as a 30-minute IV infusion with a 1-week washout between periods. Blood samples were collected at regular intervals from 0 to 12.5 hours after drug administration and were analyzed using a validated LC-MS/MS method. In the multiple-dose phase, subjects received 0.4 g ibuprofen every 6 hours for 9 doses. Blood samples were obtained before the 7th, 8th, and 9th administration to determine the Cmin at steady state; on the 9th intravenous administration, blood samples were also collected for 12.5 hours after drug administration. Pharmacokinetic parameters were estimated using a noncompartmental model. Tolerability was determined using clinical evaluation and monitoring of adverse events (AEs). Results A total of 12 healthy male (n = 6) and female (n = 6) Chinese volunteers were enrolled and completed the trial. After IV administration of single dose, the mean (SD) Cmax value increased from 35.77 (6.98) to 117.12 (19.78) µg/mL, and the mean (SD) AUC0-t value increased from 67.63 (10.30) to 230.50 (33.55) µg×h/mL in the range of 0.2-g to 0.8-g dose. The terminal half-life in plasma was ~ 2.0 hours. After IV administration of 9 doses of ibuprofen 400 mg every 6 hours, the mean (SD) Cmax was 66.49 (8.49) µg/mL, the AUC0-t was 135.65 (26.91) µg×h/mL, the t1/2 was 2.14 (0.34) hours, the Cl/F was 3.34 (0.68) L/h, and the Vz/F was 10.32 (2.69) L, which were comparable with those after single dosing. The accumulation index was 1.17 (0.06), and the fluctuation was 304.0 (57.7) %. Results of the t-tests of Cmax and AUC found no significant differences between the male and female groups. No serious AEs were reported, and there were no discontinuations due to AEs. Conclusion The pharmacokinetics of ibuprofen exhibited dose-related kinetics from the 0.2- to the 0.8-g dose. After multiple doses, the pharmacokinetic parameters of ibuprofen were consistent with those after single doses. There was no accumulation in ibuprofen exposure in healthy Chinese between multiple doses and single dose. At the doses studied, ibuprofen appeared to be well tolerated in these healthy volunteers. .

The pharmacokinetics (PKs) of febuxostat varies among individuals, while the main causes are still unknown. We investigated whether the polymorphisms of UGT1A1 and UGT1A3 played an important role in the disposition of the drug after oral administration of febuxostat tablet in Chinese subjects. A total of 42 healthy subjects were from two previous independent clinical bioequivalence (BE) trials of febuxostat, in which the same reference formulation (ULORIC® tablet, 80 mg) was taken, and thus the PK data were combined for the evaluation of pharmacogenomic effect on febuxostat PKs. Our study clearly indicated that the area under the plasma concentration-time curve (AUC) in the heterozygote and homozygote of UGT1A1*6 (c.211G > A, rs4148323) was significantly higher than that in the wild-type. Meanwhile, the clearance (CL/F) exhibited a significant reduction by 22.2%. Interestingly, UGT1A1*28, in perfect linkage disequilibrium (LD) with UGT1A3*2a, significantly increased its clearance. These results indicate that UGT1A1*6 was an important factor influencing the drug disposition, thus providing a probable explanation for interindividual variation of febuxostat PKs in Chinese subjects. In addition, by considering of the different allele distribution of UGT1A1*6 and *28 in Eastern and Western populations, these findings might further interpret the ethnic difference of febuxostat PKs.

We study the dynamical properties of the quantum Rabi model within a systematic expansion method. Based on the observation that the parity symmetry of the Rabi model is kept during the evolution of the states, we decompose the initial state and the time-dependent one into a part of a positive and a negative parity expanded by the superposition of the coherent states. The evolutions for the corresponding positive and the negative parity are obtained, where the expansion coefficients in the dynamical equations are known from the recurrence relation derived., Comment: 10 pages

In order to comply with the requirements for a drug listed in China, the study was developed to compare the pharmacokinetics and relative bioavailability of two different enteric formulations of omeprazole (OPZ) in healthy Chinese subjects. A total of 32 volunteers participated in the study. Plasma concentrations were analyzed by nonstereospecific liquid chromatography/tandem mass spectrometric (LC-MS/MS) method. After administration of a single 40-mg dose of the two OPZ formulations, the comparative bioavailability was assessed by calculating individual AUC(0‒t) (the area under the concentration-time curve from time zero to the last measurable concentration), AUC(0‒∞) (the area under the concentration-time curve extrapolated to infinity), C(max) (the maximum observed concentration), and T(peak) (the time to C(max)) values of OPZ, 5-hydroxyomeprazole (OH-OPZ), and omeprazole sulfone (OPZ-SFN), respectively. The 90% confidence intervals (CIs) of AUC(0‒t), AUC(0‒∞), and C(max) were 85.4%‒99.0%/88.8%‒98.6%/87.6%‒99.4%, 85.5%‒99.2%/89.0%‒98.6%/88.5%‒101.3%, and 72.3%‒87.6%/79.6%‒91.1%/88.4%‒99.1% for OPZ/OH-OPZ/OPZ-SFN, respectively, and T(peak) values did not differ significantly. In this study, the test formulation of OPZ in fasting healthy Chinese male volunteers met the Chinese bioequivalance standard to the reference formulation based on AUC, C(max), and T(peak).