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Li-succinate molecules are connected into a two-dimensional network structure by van der Waals forces and ligand binding forces. In contrast to Li-succinate, the presence of the ligand water in hexahydrate Na-succinate leads to the formation of intramolecular and intermolecular hydrogen bonds, which in turn interact with van der Waals and interionic forces to form a two-dimensional network structure. [Display omitted] • Anhydrous Li-succinate and hexahydrate Na-succinate were synthesized and the crystal structures were characterized by X-ray single crystal diffraction technique. • The Hirshfeld surface and 2D fingerprints revealed the similarities and differences in the types of intermolecular interactions between the two complexes, respectively. • The experimental heat capacity data were mathematically fitted to obtain the Sulpine heat capacities of the two complexes. Their fundamental thermodynamic function values were then calculated relative to 298.15 K. • TG/DSC curves also revealed the crystal structures of the two complexes. In this work, two aqueous and nonaqueous metal complexes of succinic acid were synthesized, namely Li-succinate (CCDC: 2284044) and hexahydrate Na-succinate (CCDC: 2296979). Their crystal structures were determined by single crystal X-ray crystallography. The Li-succinate crystallizes in trigonal space group R 3 ¯ and the hexahydrate Na-succinate in triclinic P 1 ¯ . The Hirshfeld surfaces and the corresponding 2D fingerprints of the two complexes were recorded, showing that the nature of the intermolecular interactions between Li-succinate are mainly coordination bonds and that the intermolecular interactions between hexahydrate Na-succinate are mainly intermolecular hydrogen formation. The experimental heat capacities of the two complexes in the low-temperature interval were determined using a precise automatic adiabatic calorimeter, and the polynomial equations for the variation of the heat capacities with the folding transition temperature were obtained by fitting the measured experimental heat capacities using the least squares method, on the basis of which the values of their Sulpine heat capacities at intervals of 5 K in the low temperature interval and the values of their thermodynamic functions with respect to 298.15 K were calculated. The TG/DSC curves also reveal the molecular structure of the title complexes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Mechanisms causing mass variation of combusting coal were separated and evaluated. • Contributions of different mechanisms to mass variation of coal were researched. • Transformation of the kinetic mode in spontaneous coal combustion was explored. • Kinetic compensation effect of variations in E a and A was investigated. Coal spontaneous combustion (CSC) is a severe threat to coal mining operations. Using thermogravimetric experiments, the contributions of different mechanisms to the mass variation during CSC were analysed. Furthermore, the kinetic mode and kinetic compensation processes were investigated. Among the different mechanisms of coal–oxygen reaction, solid-phase combustion contributes least to mass loss; for coals of high rank, gas-phase combustion makes the greatest contribution. Oxidative decomposition contributes most for coals of low rank. Furthermore, the kinetic mode governing CSC is three-dimensional diffusion in the mass gain stage and changes to random nucleation and subsequent growth in the mass loss stage. The apparent activation energy reaches its maximum near the ignition temperature and indicates a kinetic compensation effect with the pre-exponential factor in each stage. These findings are crucial for understanding the processes involved in CSC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• The involvement of IL-18, IL-23 and IL-17 on Aβ clearance is still unclear. • Aβ42 incubation with THP-1/BV2 could increase IL-18, IL-23 and IL-17 expression. • The capacity of THP-1/BV2 clearing Aβ42 was impaired by IL-18, IL-23 or IL-17. • The impairment of Aβ42 clearance could be blocked by corresponding antibodies. • IL-18/IL-23/IL-17 axis might be a therapeutic target in AD. Recent studies have provided overwhelming evidence of the involvement of microglia-related molecular networks in the pathogenesis of Alzheimer's diseases (AD). The potential involvement of pro-inflammatory cytokines interleukin (IL)-18, IL-23 and IL-17 on amyloid (Aβ) clearance is still unclear. In this study, we addressed that there might be a net relationship among IL-18, IL-23, and IL-17 and they can affect Aβ clearance in cultured macrophage/microglia cells. In human macrophage cell line THP-1, Aβ42 incubation could increase the expression of IL-18, IL-23 and IL-17 in a concentration dependent manner. THP-1 cell could clear Aβ42 in the culture medium time-dependently, but its capacity of Aβ clearance was impaired by IL-18, IL-23 or IL-17 treatment. Similarly, the capacity of the microglia cell line BV2 to clear Aβ42 was impaired by IL-18, IL-23 or IL-17 treatment. In co-cultures of BV2 with APP/PS1 neuron, Aβ was efficiently cleared by BV2 cell, but Aβ clearance was impaired by IL-18, IL-23 or IL-17 treatment. The effects of IL-18, IL-23 and IL-17 could be blocked by their corresponding neutralizing antibodies. In addition, the inhibitory effects of IL-18 were blocked by IL-23 or IL-17 neutralizing antibodies while the inhibitory effects of IL-23 were blocked by IL-17 neutralizing antibodies. Our study provides evidences showing that amyloid induced IL-18/IL-23/IL-17 axis could impair macrophage and microglia-mediated Aβ clearance. Thus, IL-18/IL-23/IL-17 axis might be a therapeutic target in AD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Transient receptor potential canonical (TRPC) 6 inhibits Aβ in Alzheimer's disease (AD) mouse brain and improves the behavioral performance. To evaluate the association of TRPC6 expression in peripheral leucocytes from AD and mild cognitive impairment (MCI) patients and to explore its potential value in early diagnosis of AD. TRPC6 mRNA levels in peripheral leucocytes were detected by quantitative real-time PCR. The Spearman correlation test was used to ascertain the associations between TRPC6 and the scores of MMSE, ADL, CSDD, CDR. The Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC) curve was drawn to evaluate the diagnostic potential of TRPC6 for AD and MCI. There were 108 CE, 136 MCI, 164 Con and 60 PD in the study. The expression of TRPC6 mRNA level in peripheral leucocytes was significantly lower: 1) in patients with AD and MCI compared to Con; 2) in AD compared to MCI; 3) in hospitalized AD compared to AD from communities. There was a significantly positive correlation between TRPC6 mRNA and MMSE score (p =.001, R = 0.327). Significantly inverse correlations were found between TRPC6 and CDR score (p < 0.001, R = −0.303) as well as between TRPC6 and ADL score (p =.001, R = −0.342) for all AD. The area under curve of ROC was 0.881 for the classification of AD, and 0.706 for the classification of MCI, respectively. TRPC6 expression is inversely correlated with cognitive performance of AD. TRPC6 in peripheral leucocytes may be a potential biomarker for the diagnosis of AD. • TRPC6 is associated with AD. • TRPC6 expression is inversely correlated with cognitive performance of AD patients. • TRPC6 in peripheral leucocytes may be a potential biomarker for the diagnosis of AD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A large-scale radio astronomical telescope is a typical complex coupled system, consisting of a feed cabin, cables, and supporting structures. The system is extremely sensitive to wind loads, especially the feed cabin, which has high requirements for vibration displacement during operation, and excessive vibration may affect normal operation. To investigate the wind-induced vibration characteristics of such coupled systems, this study takes the Five-hundred-meter Aperture Spherical Radio Telescope (FAST) as an example to conduct research. First, a refined finite element model of FAST is established, and a dynamic analysis using simulated random wind loads is conducted. The influence of the cable boundary on the time–frequency domain responses of the feed cabin is particularly considered. Then, the gust response factor (GRF) for different structural components within the coupled system is calculated. Finally, the evolution law of the GRF under various wind speeds and directions is revealed by parametric analysis. The parameter analysis only considers the wind directions ranging from 0° to 60°, because FAST is a symmetric structure. The results indicate that obvious differences are observed in both the rotational and translational displacements of the feed cabin under northward wind, especially the results along the east–west axis. When the supporting towers are considered, there is no change in the power spectral density (PSD) of the feed cabin in the low-frequency range. However, in the high-frequency range, taking the supporting towers into account leads to an increase in PSD and a resonance near the first-order natural frequency of the supporting tower. The GRF based on the dynamic response exhibits substantial deviations compared to those obtained from design codes, highlighting the need for an independent analysis when determining GRF for such coupled systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Objectives: To investigate the association between neck circumference (NC) and cognitive impairment and interactions between relevant variables to the risk of cognitive impairment. Methods: A population‐based survey was conducted among elderly inhabitants aged 60 years and over from a community in Shanghai suburb. Multivariate logistic regression analyses were performed to evaluate associations and log likelihood ratio tests to examine interactions. Results: Cognitive impairment was identified in 269 (10.8%) subjects from 2,500 participants. Higher BMI (OR = 1.55; 95% CI = 1.11–2.16), higher WHR (OR = 1.44; 95% CI = 1.07–1.95), and higher total cholesterol (TC) (OR = 1.52; 95% CI = 1.09–2.13) were significantly associated with the increased risk of cognitive impairment. Significant interactions were observed between TC and a few other relevant variables, respectively. Conclusions: NC was associated with the high risk of cognitive impairment. Additive effects of NC with TC on cognitive impairment were observed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Thermal properties of coal govern the thermal transfer in coal mass. Taking coal samples from Huainan mining area as the objects, thermophysical parameters (thermal diffusivity, specific heat capacity, and thermal conductivity) were measured from 30 to 300 °C by LFA457 laser-flash apparatus. Predictive models for thermal diffusivity and specific heat capacity were then established. The results indicate that the thermal diffusivity of coal samples in Huainan mining area decreases with increased temperature, whereas specific heat capacity and thermal conductivity rise. The predictive models could accurately forecast the values and variations of thermophysical parameters for coal samples in Huainan mining area below 300 °C. Furthermore, the modeling method is suitable for the establishment of models for coal samples in other areas. These will be beneficial for the understanding of thermal transfer in coal mass and shorten the testing time in the laboratory. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The critical temperature is a key parameter in coal spontaneous combustion. To acquire variation of the critical temperature and the corresponding relationship between the index gases and critical temperature, we gleaned the coal samples from No. 3 seam in Yanzhou coalfield, Shandong Province, China. Thermogravimetry (TG) was used to analyze the effects of particle size, heating rate, and oxygen concentration on critical temperature. The index gases were determined by 15-t experimental furnace of coal spontaneous combustion. The results showed that the critical temperature measured by TG experiment indicates a trend that is augmented with the increase in particle size. When the heating rate was set up with 5 °C min and the oxygen concentration was 14.9 mass% (13 vol%), the critical temperatures of coal samples with different particle sizes reached the maximal values. When the heating rate rose to 20 °C min and the oxygen concentration was 14.9 mass% (13 vol%), the critical temperatures of coal samples with particle sizes <0.105 mm reached maximums, while they reached minimums when the particle size was >0.105 mm. As the particle was smaller than 0.098 mm, the difference in critical temperatures during two kinds of heating rate tended to first increase, then decrease, and reached a maximum under the condition that the oxygen concentration was 14.9 mass% (13 vol%), while it reached a minimum when the particle size was larger than 0.098 mm and presented a style of 'M.' The critical temperature as measured by TG experiment was in the range of 45.4-103.2 °C. The critical temperature is, respectively, achieved in coal spontaneous combustion by the 15-t experimental furnace, in which the concentrations of CO and CO increased obviously and the value of CO/CO reached its maximum. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A soft sensor for oxide scales on the steam side of superheater tubes of utility boiler under uneven circumferential loading is proposed for the first time. First finite volume method is employed to simulate oxide scales growth temperature on the steam side of superheater tube. Then appropriate time and spatial intervals are selected to calculate oxide scales thickness along the circumferential direction. On the basis of the oxide scale thickness, the stress of oxide scales is calculated by the finite element method. At last, the oxide scale thickness and stress sensors are established on support vector machine (SMV) optimized by particle swarm optimization (PSO) with time and circumferential angles as inputs and oxide scale thickness and stress as outputs. Temperature and stress calculation methods are validated by the operation data and experimental data, respectively. The soft sensor is applied to the superheater tubes of some power plant. Results show that the soft sensor can give enough accurate results for oxide scale thickness and stress in reasonable time. The forecasting model provides a convenient way for the research of the oxide scale failure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Two new Ag(I) coordination polymers, namely [Ag(bpp)]·0.5 n(1,5-NDSA)·n(H2O) (1) and [Ag2(bpp)2]n·n(2,7-NDSA)·2 n(H2O)·n(CH3CN) (2) (Na2(1,5-NDSA) = sodium 1,5-naphthalenedisulfonate dibasic, Na2(2,7-NDSA) = sodium 1,5-naphthalenedisulfonate dibasic, bpp is 1,3-bis(4-pyridyl)propane), were generated via the solution evaporation method under room temperature. Moreover, the solids of these two compounds display strong luminescence emission at RT. And the application values of the compounds against the glioblastoma treatment were determined, and the corresponding mechanism was simultaneously tested. The analysis of CCK-8 was first implemented and the glioblastoma viability was measured. The real-time RT-PCR was next performed, and the signaling pathway activation of VEGF in glioblastoma cells was tested after treating by the above compound. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Lampetra japonica is representative of the ancient cyclostomota class of animals, and its buccal gland secretion (called lamphredin) is known to act as an anticoagulant. In this study, it was observed by both native-PAGE and SDS-PAGE that the secretion mainly contained two protein bands, buccal gland secretion protein-1 (BGSP-1, 159,909Da) and buccal gland secretion protein-2 (BGSP-2, 25,660Da). The N-terminal amino acids of BGSP-1 (EAESF QNLKT RICGG LNGLG) and BGSP-2 (TSVND WKLLD TKLSA NRKVI) were sequenced. Using a Sephadex G-75 column, we isolated BGSP-1, BGSP-2 and small peptides from the buccal gland secretion, but found only BGSP-1 showed fibrinogenolytic activity. BGSP-1 and lamphredin were found to rapidly degrade the alpha chain of human fibrinogen, slowly degrade the beta chain and hardly degrade the gamma chain. BGSP-1 and lamphredin showed a similar map by SDS-PAGE for the degradation of fibrinogen by cleavage at Ala10–Glu11 and His368–Ser369. BGSP-1 was also found to hydrolyze neuronal protein tau at Glu12–Asp13 and Gln244–Thr245. Further study showed that lamphredin and BGSP-1 were inactivated in the presence of a metal chelating agent EDTA. However, addition of Ca2+ or Mg2+ but not Zn2+ restored the fibrinogenolytic activity. This suggests that BGSP-1 acts in the buccal gland as a metalloproteinase with a broad substrate specificity. Furthermore, the secretion showed cytolytic properties towards human SH-SY5Y and HeLa cells in culture, and lamphredin at a 50-fold dilution induced cell death. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Phylogenetic relationships among 37 living species of order Carnivora spanning a relatively broad range of divergence times and taxonomic levels were examined using nuclear sequence data from exon 1 of the IRBP gene (≈1.3 kb) and first intron of the TTR gene (≈1 kb). These data were used to analyze carnivoran phylogeny at the family and generic level as well as the interspecific relationships within recently derived Felidae. Phylogenetic results using a combined IRBP+TTR dataset strongly supported within the superfamily Califormia, the red panda as the closest lineage to procyonid-mustelid (i.e., Musteloidea) clade followed by pinnipeds (Otariidae and Phocidae), Ursidae (including the giant panda), and Canidae. Four feliform families, namely the monophyletic Herpestidae, Hyaenidae, and Felidae, as well as the paraphyletic Viverridae were consistently recovered convincingly. The utilities of these two gene segments for the phylogenetic analyses were extensively explored and both were found to be fairly informative for higher-group associations within the order Carnivora, but not for those of low level divergence at the species level. Therefore, there is a need to find additional genetic markers with more rapid mutation rates that would be diagnostic at deciphering relatively recent relationships within the Carnivora. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The taxomic classification and phylogenetic relationships within the bear family remain argumentative subjects in recent years. Prior investigation has been concentrated on the application of different mitochondrial (mt) sequence data, herein we employ two nuclear single-copy gene segments, the partial exon 1 from gene encoding interphotoreceptor retinoid binding protein (IRBP) and the complete intron 1 from transthyretin (TTR) gene, in conjunction with previously published mt data, to clarify these enigmatic problems. The combined analyses of nuclear IRBP and TTR datasets not only corroborated prior hypotheses, positioning the spectacled bear most basally and grouping the brown and polar bear together but also provided new insights into the bear phylogeny, suggesting the sister-taxa association of sloth bear and sun bear with strong support. Analyses based on combination of nuclear and mt genes differed from nuclear analysis in recognizing the sloth bears as the earliest diverging species among the subfamily ursine representatives while the exact placement of the sun bear did not resolved. Asiatic and American black bears clustered as sister group in all analyses with moderate levels of bootstrap support and high posterior probabilities. Comparisons between the nuclear and mtDNA findings suggested that our combined nuclear dataset have the resolving power comparable to mtDNA dataset for the phylogenetic interpretation of the bear family. As can be seen from present study, the unanimous phylogeny for this recently derived family was still not produced and additional independent genetic markers were in need. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Coal spontaneous combustion (CSC) is a major concern in the exploitation and utilisation processes of coal. Various technologies for inhibiting CSC have been developed, promoting industrial safety. With consideration of the complexity of the processes involved, efficient fire prevention and control techniques should be developed. Commonly used retardants for CSC prevention were reviewed. Based upon the necessary conditions required for CSC and coal − oxygen reaction mechanism, various materials used in CSC inhibition are analysed in detail and classified into physical-based, chemical-based, as well as composite retardants. The novel composite retardants combine both physical and chemical-based mechanisms in controlling CSC. The advantages and disadvantages of each CSC retardant are discussed and inter-compared. This review can promote research in the most needed areas to develop more efficient and affordable materials for CSC prevention. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The datum surface of the active reflector of the Five-hundred-meter Aperture Spherical radio Telescope (FAST) is a spherical crown with a radius of 300 m and an aperture of 500 m. The reflector is supported on a cable net structure. Due to its sensitivity to wind loads, it is imperative to investigate its aerodynamic characteristics and wind-induced vibration response. This paper explores the aerodynamic characteristics of the reflecting panel through computational fluid dynamics (CFD). Compared with the nonporous panel, the drag coefficient of the reflecting panel with a punching rate of approximately 50% increases by approximately 51%, and the main reason is that the resistance changes little, but the projected area decreases by 50%. On this basis, the calculation method of the aerodynamic coefficient of the reflecting panel under arbitrary wind direction angle is established. Then, the simulation model of the active reflector system is established, and the wind-induced vibration response is analyzed under different wind speed conditions. The displacement and stress responses of the cable net structure, ring beams, and lattice columns are studied, and the gust response factors (GRFs) are calculated. The results show that the wind load has a very strong effect on the nodal displacement and column bottom stress but has little effect on the stress of the cable net structure; the displacement GRFs of the cable net structure, ring beams, and lattice columns increase with increasing wind speed, of which the simulated results can provide a reference for the design of similar projects. • A calculation method of the aerodynamic coefficient of the reflecting panel under arbitrary wind directions is established. • The simulation model of the active reflector system is established, and the wind-induced vibration response is analyzed. • The displacement GRFs of the cable net structure, ring beams, and lattice columns are calculated and discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fractures generated in the overlying rock of coalfield fire areas can develop into air leakage and oxygen supply channels, thus helping sustain and intensify the fire. However, the formation, evolution, and distribution of such fractures are complex. This study used physical similarity simulation and numerical simulation to analyse the formation and evolution process of the underground coal field fire area at the Tanyaoqu coalmine. The first air leakage and oxygen supply channel in a coal fire area is formed when the overlying rock fractures reach the surface. The average collapse step distance of overlying rock after the formation of the first air leakage and oxygen supply channel in the research area was approximately two times that before. The length of the main fracture in the overlying rock increased gradually with coal combustion temperature. The angle between the main fracture and the horizontal plane decreased as temperature increased before the formation of the first channel and increased with temperature after the formation. When the coal combustion temperature was 600, 800, and 1000 °C, the distances from the coal seam damage position to the first air leakage and oxygen supply channel position are 122.7, 114.7, and 103.1 m, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Coal fire combustion has been known for a long time to be a complicated physical and chemical process, and finding hidden coal fires has always been a challenge. With the arrival of an advanced quantum detection method, such fires can be accurately identified. Before applying the method to detect hidden coal fires, researchers must develop a better understanding of the transport properties of heat carriers in coal. An examination of a lignite sample taken from a typical coal fire region (Tunbao, Xinjiang, China) was conducted using experimental and computational methods. The molecular structure of Tunbao coal was clarified using methods such as 13C-NMR, XPS, and elemental analysis. A model of Tunbao coal's molecular structure was generated, and its chemical formula was C311H209N3O68. Moreover, ab initio molecular dynamics was used to compute the heat carriers in coal molecules. As revealed by calculations, this coal is a semiconductor with metallic characteristics and is capable of transporting electrons. Naphthalene and pyrrole contribute to this metallicity, and coals with larger amounts of naphthalene and pyrrole may have stronger electrical conductivity. In accordance with the AIMD results, when the temperature rose, the electron transport of coal molecules became more frequent and powerful, resulting in increased electrical conductivity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Coal spontaneous combustion (CSC), as the central cause of coal fire disasters, gravely threatens the safety and efficiency of coalmine production. We take Huating long flame coal as an example and use simultaneous thermal analyzer to investigate how oxygen concentration and heating rate effects CSC characteristics. The reaction process, variation of characteristic temperature, and heat flow were studied. Besides, the kinetic model and parameters were calculated through Šatava and Ozawa methods. The results indicated that the curve peaks of TG and DSC moved to lower temperatures and the characteristic temperatures gradually decreased when the oxygen concentration changed from 3 to 21%. On the contrary, the curve peaks of TG and DSC moved to higher temperature region and the characteristic temperatures increased as the heating rate rose. The most probable mechanism function of Huating long flame is determined to be Avrami–Erofeev equation (n = 3) by calculation. When oxygen concentration is 3% or 21%, CSC showed larger tendency. The higher the heating rate, the larger the apparent activation energy, and harder to occur CSC. These findings provide a basis for discovering the formation and evolution mechanism of coal fires. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Proanthocyanidin antioxidant was first selected for study, and the inhibitory effect of proanthocyanidin and the optimal mass ratio of 6 mass% were obtained through temperature-programmed experiments. To compensate for the inhibitory effect and action time of a single antioxidant, a composite inhibitor with a physical and chemical synergistic effect was obtained through compounding with sodium polyacrylate, a superabsorbent resin, which improved the inhibitory effect on the spontaneous combustion of long-flame coal. In addition to the temperature-programmed experiments, the spontaneous combustion of long-flame coal was researched through a thermogravimetric (TG)–differential scanning calorimetric (DSC) experiment, and the optimal compound ratio of proanthocyanidins/sodium polyacrylate was determined to be 1:4. Under this ratio, the inhibition rate was close to 88% when the coal temperature ranged from 40 to 130 °C. The TG–derivative TG curve moved to the high-temperature region, and the composite inhibitors improved the characteristic temperature of raw coal and reduced its mass loss. The temperature corresponding to the peak value of the DSC curve increased, and the maximum heat release power was reduced. Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy experiments revealed that the intensity of the hydroxyl peaks was reduced with the addition of composite inhibitors, and the peak intensity of methyl and methylene was lower than that of the raw coal. The inhibition characteristics of the composite inhibitor were thus obtained through a study of the change pattern of functional groups of coal samples during the heating process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To explore the heat transfer characteristics of oxidised coal, four kinds of bituminous coal from Shilawusu coalmine (SLWS), Huangling coalmine (HL), Ewirgol coalmine (AWEG), and Sangshuping coalmine (SSP) respectively, were collected and oxidised at 80, 120, 150, and 200 °C in air. The thermal conductivity of each coal were measured by laser flash apparatus with 30–300 °C. Main proximate analysis indexes influencing the thermal conductivity of oxidised coal were received by grey correlation method. A predictive model was established to forecast the thermal conductivity of oxidised coal. The results indicated that, when the temperature enhanced from 30 to 300 °C, the thermal conductivity of each coal gradually increased, the thermal conductivity for SLWS, HL, AWEG, and SSP increased by 12.0–12.6%, 9.2–10.9%, 7.0–9.6%, and 7.6–8.7%. At fixed temperature, the thermal conductivity of each coal increased linearly, which was markedly affected by the change of fixed carbon, ash, and volatiles in coal. Furthermore, a predictive model was established to forecast accurately the thermal conductivity of oxidised coal with a low relative error. Such findings can deepen the understanding of heat transfer in oxidised coal, and provide a theoretical basis in the prevention and intervention of coal fires. • Thermal conductivity of oxidised coal enhanced with rising temperature. • Thermal conductivity linearly increased with rising oxidation temperature. • Main parameters effecting thermal conductivity of oxidised coal was obtained. • A predictive model of thermal conductivity for oxidised coal was established. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hollow porous CuO/C composite microcubes are prepared by controlled pyrolysis of [Cu 3 (btc) 2 ] n (btc = benzene-1, 3, 5-tricarboxylate) metal-organic frameworks (MOFs). SEM and TEM images indicate that the as-prepared CuO/C microcubes possess uniform appearance with hollow porous structures. Electrochemical measurements show that the hollow porous CuO/C composite microcubes deliver a highly reversible capacity of 510.5 mA h g −1 after 200 cycles at a current density of 100 mA g −1 . Due to its hollow porous structure and the enhanced conductivity of residual carbon, the rate performance delivers excellent reversible capacity of 232.78 mA h g −1 at a high current rate of 3.2 A g −1 . The recycled morphology could remain the original structure, further indicating that the microcubes are resistant to collapse and more suitable for lithium-ion batteries storage materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims: To evaluate the serum levels of interleukin (IL)-18, IL-23 and IL-17 in Chinese patients with Alzheimer's disease (AD), and explore correlations between the three cytokines and relevant parameters. Methods: Serum concentrations of IL-18, IL-23 and IL-17 were measured by ELISA for 53 AD patients and 53 sex- and age-matched healthy controls in a community of elderly individuals in a Shanghai suburb. Results: Serum concentrations of IL-18, IL-23 and IL-17 were significantly higher in AD patients than controls. The serum level of IL-23 was observed to be significantly higher (p = 0.049) in female AD patients than male AD patients. In addition, a significantly inverse correlation was found between IL-18 and MMSE score (rs = -0.356, p = 0.011) for all AD patients. Conclusion: Elevated IL-18, IL-23 and IL-17 levels are observed in AD patients and differences may exist between males and females. Besides, IL-18 may correlate with the severity of AD. © 2014 S. Karger AG, Basel [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Air leakage rates are a crucial factor affecting the oxygen supply and heat storage capacity of coal spontaneous combustion (CSC) in goaf in underground coalmines. A suitable airflow rates in goaf can significantly promote CSC. To accurately reveal the effect of airflow rate on CSC, a bituminous coal was selected, and the thermogravimetric and differential scanning calorimetry were used to receive the mass loss characteristics and enthalpy changes for sample. Six characteristic temperatures and five reaction stages were identified under multiple airflow rates, the combustion characteristics were calculated, and apparent activation energy was obtained by Coats–Redfern, FWO and Starink methods. The results indicate that with the increasing airflow rate, the characteristic temperatures decreased firstly and then rose, of which all characteristic temperatures at 150 mL min−1 were the lowest. Meanwhile, the stability and combustion capability of sample were prominently enhanced, and its exothermic ability and heat release enlarged, and the reaction capability with oxygen was the highest at 150 mL min−1. Then, the Avrami–Erofeev equation (n = 3/2) was verified to be the most appropriate mechanism of the coal sample. In addition, apparent activation energy of sample was the lowest at 150 mL min−1, and the CSC ability was sensibly strengthened. The findings will serve as a theoretical basis for the initial stage on CSC in underground coalmines. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As a critical evolutionary pivot between invertebrates and vertebrates, lampreys provide rich genetic information. Lamprey immune protein (LIP) is a key immune regulator. MicroRNAs, well-conserved in the response to immunological stress, remain understudied in lamprey immunity. We generated a lamprey microRNA expression atlas, using deep sequencing, upon Vibrio anguillarum infection. Using comparative methods, we found that miR-4561 potentially regulates innate immunity via interaction with lip. We found a sequence in the 3′-UTR region of LIP mRNA complementary to the miR-4561 seed region; miR-4561 expression was negatively correlated with LIP. During V. anguillarum infection, miR-4561 inhibited LIP expression and bacterial clearance. Notably, LIP expression in supraneural body cells was necessary for the Gram-negative immune response. Additionally, we observed that overexpression of miR-4561 induced apoptosis in embryonic cells, suggesting a role in embryonic development. Collectively, we show lamprey microRNAs may significantly affect gene regulation and provide new insights on LIP-mediated immune regulation. Ma et al characterise differentially expressed miRNAs in Lamprey upon bacterial infection. They identify miR-4561 as being decreased after infection and show that it targets the 3′UTR of the mRNA encoding lamprey immune protein (LIP) involved in lamprey innate immunity and regulates survival in lamprey embryos. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The parasitic phase lampreys (Lampetra japonica) are bloodsuckers in the marine, and their buccal gland secretion (lamphredin) contains various regulators such as anticoagulants, ion channel blockers, and immune suppressors like those from leeches, insects, ticks, vampire bats, and snakes. This review focuses on the functions and characteristics of the active proteins from the buccal gland of L. japonica for the first time, and provides new insights into the parasitic mechanisms of lampreys and the possibilities of developing drugs such as novel anticoagulants, thrombolytic agents, local anesthetics, and immunosuppressants. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

• Variation of atomic ratio and microcrystalline structure with temperature under nitrogen atmosphere were explored. • Abrupts of H/C and O/C occured as rising the temperature of coal samples. • Correlation was established by thermal property with atomic ratio and microcrystalline structure. To explore the main influencing factors of atomic ratio (O/C, N/C, and H/C) as well as microcrystalline structure (d 002 , L a , L c , and M c) on thermal properties (specific heat capacity, thermal conductivity, and thermal diffusivity) at certain temperatures within 30.0–300.0 °C, three coal samples were collected from coal mines of Dafosi, Yangjiaping, and Hujiahe in Binchang coalfield, Shaanxi Province, PR China. Thermal properties of coal samples were determined by laser-flash apparatus in nitrogen atmosphere. After temperature treated at 30.0, 60.0, 90.0, ..., 300.0 °C in nitrogen atmosphere, the atomic ratio and microcrystalline structure of samples were measured by proximate analyser and X-ray diffractometer. The results indicated that with an increment in the temperature, the value of H/C for three coal samples diminished slightly and then promptly, whereas O/C diminished slightly and then increased before 120.0 °C, as well as finally increasing, and the N/C had no obvious change. Concurrently, the microcrystalline structure of coal samples became more orderly and complete. Furthermore, the TD decreased with temperature, the SHC and TC showed an opposite trend with TD. Based upon grey correlation analysis, the major influencing factors of atomic ratio and microcrystalline structure on thermal property were approached. The results provided insight into the physicochemical properties of the coal of interest for predicting the progress of coal spontaneous combustion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To investigate the impact of oxygen for the feature parameters of the coal oxidation process, the coal samples were selected from mines of Liuhuanggou and Ewirgol in Xinjiang Province, China. TGA/DSC–FTIR was employed to conduct the coal mass, heat, and functional groups under oxygen concentrations of 3, 6, 9, 15, and 21 vol% from 30 to 950 °C. In the entire coal–oxygen reaction, the characteristic temperatures were divided into T1 (adsorption temperature), T2 (oxygen-adsorption mass-gain starting temperature), T3 (oxygen-adsorption mass-gain maximum temperature), T4 (ignition temperature), T5 (max mass loss rate temperature), and T6 (burnout temperature). The results indicated that with the decrease in oxygen concentration, the feature temperature point gradually transferred to the high-temperature area. The coal samples maximum exothermic temperature rose, the maximum exothermic power decreased, and the net thermal release decreased along the entire reaction process of coal sample. The feature temperature excursion of the coal–oxygen composite reactive incurred the hysteresis effect, which was obvious when the oxygen concentration was 3 vol%. Furthermore, the content of main functional groups of coal microstructure was the highest at T2, and the content gradually decreased with the temperature increase continuously. As the increase in oxygen concentration, the content of main functional groups increased. Among them, there was no considerable change in the hydroxyl content in the coal microstructure on the characteristic temperatures of 75, 140, and 350 °C. As the temperature rose to 140 °C, the content of main functional groups with a varying degree grew. When the temperature reached 350 °C, the oxygen-containing functional group began to decrease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Diabetic retinopathy (DR) is a serious microvascular complication of diabetes and remains the leading cause of blindness in adults. Retinal inflammation is playing a crucial role in the development of DR, and targeting inflammatory mediators is a promising strategy for controlling DR. Here, we investigated compound Chinese medicine Luo Tong formula (LTF) alleviated retinal inflammatory responses in a STZ-induced diabetic rat model. Methods: Sprague–Dawley rats were divided into four groups: control, streptozotocin-induced diabetic, LTF-treated diabetic, and calcium dobesilate (CaD)-treated diabetic rats. Blood samples were collected for blood glucose examination. Hematoxylin–eosin and periodic acid-Schiff staining were conducted for light microscopy observations. Retinal cell apoptosis was detected using the TUNEL assay. Proteins expression was quantified by Western blotting and/or immunohistochemistry, and gene expression was assessed by real-time PCR. Results: Diabetic rats showed significant increases in the expression of tumor necrosis factor α (TNF-α), interleukin-1β (IL-1β), monocyte chemotactic protein-1 (MCP-1), intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1), nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB), and the phospho-p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (p-p38-MAPK)/p38 MAPK ratio compared to control rats. LTF treatment significantly improved both retinal and pancreatic pathological injury, LTF treatment also inhibited inducible the p-p38 MAPK/p38 MAPK ratio and NF-κB activation and decreased the subsequent induction of the retinal expression of proinflammatory mediators TNF-α, IL-1β, MCP-1 and ICAM-1 compared to diabetic rats. LTF also exhibited a protective effect on islet function. Conclusions: LTF before the onset of DR can alleviate retinal pathological injury, LTF may play an anti-inflammatory role by inhibiting p38-MAPK and then inhibiting NF-κB pathway. But further studies are needed to confirm this conclusion. Trial registration This is an animal experiment, trial registration is not necessary. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Analytical method combining thermal analysis with thermal property was adopted. • Effect of oxygen concentration on the thermal property of coal was investigated. • Model of thermal diffusivity and thermal conductivity was established. • Macroscopic variations of mass and heat intensity were revealed by microcosmic. Thermophysical properties govern the heat transfer during coal spontaneous combustion. Under different oxygen concentrations, the mass and heat intensity of three metamorphic levels of bituminous coal were investigated through synchronous thermal analysis, and their thermophysical parameters were tested using a laser-flash apparatus. The results indicated that as the oxygen concentration increased, the T 3 (the temperature at maximum mass) and exothermic initial temperature slowly decreased. The changes in T 1 (maximum adsorption temperature) and T 2 (initial temperature at the oxygen-absorption and mass-gain stage) were nonsignificant. The effect of oxygen concentration on mass, heat intensity, and thermophysical parameters was primarily concentrated in high-temperature regions. As the temperature increased, the thermal diffusivity first decreased and then increased. The specific heat capacity gradually increased, then plateaued until it began to decrease; meanwhile, the thermal conductivity increased, first slowly and then quickly. A calculation model for different temperatures and oxygen concentrations was established through curve fitting. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Innate lymphoid cells (ILCs) are a novel family of innate immune cells that act as key coordinators of intestinal mucosal surface immune defense and are essential for maintaining intestinal homeostasis and barrier integrity by responding to locally produced effector cytokines or direct recognition of exogenous or endogenous danger patterns. ILCs are also involved in the pathogenesis of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Many studies have demonstrated the occurrence of crosstalk between ILCs and intestinal microbiota, and ILCs have recently been shown to be connected to the enteric nervous system (ENS). Thus, ILCs may act as a key link between the nervous system and microbiota in intestinal networks. In this review, we briefly summarize the role of the ILCs in the intestinal tract (particularly in the context of IBD) and discuss the relationship between ILCs and the microbiota/ENS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Different strategies are increasingly used for early intervention in prediabetes in China, but the effects of these strategies on incident diabetes have not yet been confirmed. The aim of the present study was to assess systematically the effects of different strategies for preventing diabetes, aimed at Chinese people with prediabetes. Seven electronic databases were searched to identify eligible trials published from inception to September 20, 2016. Randomized controlled trials with a minimum follow‐up duration of 6 months were included. Standard pairwise meta‐analysis with a random‐effects model and network meta‐analysis with a frequentist framework were performed. A total of 63 studies, including 11 intervention strategies, were included. Compared with placebo, all strategies, except for lipid‐affecting drugs and sitagliptin, reduced the rate of incident diabetes with different levels of effectiveness, ranging from 0.18 (95% confidence interval [CI] 0.12, 0.27) to 0.39 (95% CI 0.20, 0.75). Ranking probability analysis indicated that metformin and β‐cell‐stimulating drugs reduced the risk of diabetes most, with probabilities of 87.4% and 81%, respectively. Ethnicity and cultural factors should be considered for diabetes prevention. Most of the included trials were of poor methodological quality, however, and the results should be interpreted with caution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nanograined Ni-Co alloys with controlled composition were prepared by co-precipitate assisted hydrogen reducing method, and their crystal structure, morphology and magnetic properties were obtained. Effect of the Co content on magnetic properties of the Ni-Co alloy was discussed. Results show that the saturation magnetization increases with higher Co content, which reaches to 214.70emu/g when the Co content is 90%. The coercivity increases with increasing in the Co content to 70%, and then it decreases as the Co content further increases. The research reveals that the saturation magnetization is affected by the atomic magnetism moment and the magnitude of coercivity is affected by both the Co content and the grain size. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Graphene-like MoS 2 has attracted significant interest because of its unique electronic, optical and catalytic properties with two-dimensional lamellar structure. A novel intercalation-detonation method was used to prepare monolayer and multilayer graphene-like MoS 2 . MoS 2 was first completely intercalated by abundant oxygen-containing functional groups bonded to the sulfur atom layer in basal planes of the MoS 2 structure, increasing the layer spacing and decreasing the Van-der-Waals' force between the layers. Then, the intercalated MoS 2 was rapid exfoliated by high energy of detonation. Characterization results indicate that the graphene-like MoS 2 was successfully prepared by the explosion method. This type of processing is simple, highly efficient and generates fewer impurities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of the present study was to investigate the expression of microRNA-218 (miRNA-218) in the serum and cervical tissue and its association with the clinicopathological features of cervical cancer (CC). The expression of miRNA-218 was detected in the serum and cervical tissue of 112 patients with CC and 50 age-matched hysteromyoma patients via the reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction. The clinical data were collected and the association between the expression of miRNA-218 and the clinicopathological characteristics of the patients was analyzed. The expression of miRNA-218 in the cancer group was significantly decreased in the cervical tissue and serum compared with that in the control group (P<0.001). The decreased expression of miRNA-218 was associated with a later International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics stage, a more invasive pathological type and lymphatic node metastasis but not with age, age at menarche, menopausal status, number of pregnancies and deliveries, family history of cancer or tumor size. In conclusion, miRNA-218 was found to be downregulated in the cancer tissue and serum of the patients with CC. The decreased expression of miRNA-218 in CC was associated with the invasiveness of the tumor. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The chromium-free passivation system has drawn great focus in view of its advantages of green environmental feature and high performances. In this study, a phytic acid system passivation solution was developed and used to electrodeposit phytic acid film on the surface of rolled copper foil. The micromorphology, surface tension, oxidation and corrosion resistance performance of the phytic acid film were characterized by scanning electron microscope (SEM), dyne pens, X-ray photoelectron spectroscope (XPS) and electrochemical workstation, respectively. The results indicate that the electrodepositing process parameters within a certain range can facilitate the integrated, dense and smooth phytic acid film. Further, the formula of the phytic acid system passivation solution has a significant influence on surface tension, oxidation and corrosion resistance of phytic acid film. With the phytic acid concentration of 8 ml/l, polyethylene glycol concentration of 1 g/l, the cathodic polarization ability is enhanced, which results in the grain refinement, surface oxidability reduction and inhibition efficiency improvement. The three corrosion inhibitors in the aqueous solution could take a unique orientation, form a certain structure, and change the interface state of the system. The comprehensive performance meets the requirements standard of GB/T 36146-2018. Moreover, the environmentally friendly phytic acid passivation system can save more water resources, which is great significance to the green and rapid development of the electronic information industry. • A green chromate-free phytic acid system passivation solution was developed. • The passive film can be used to protect the rolled copper foil from oxidation and corrosion. • The passive film is integrated, dense, smooth and transparent. • The development of the passivation system is great significance to the electronic information industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Leprosy is an ancient infectious disease, with over 200,000 affected people (mainly in Asia and Africa) being registered annually. Genetic factors may confer susceptibility to this disease. In the present study, we genotyped 12 genetic variants of the MRC1 gene and the IFNG gene in 527 Han Chinese with leprosy and 583 healthy individuals from Yunnan, China, to discern potential association of these two genes with leprosy. In particular, we aimed to validate the recently reported association of MRC1 variant rs1926736 (p.G396S) and IFNG variant rs2430561 (+874 T>A) with leprosy, which were initially observed in Vietnamese and Brazilian populations, respectively. Our results failed to confirm the reported association between variants rs1926736 and rs2430561 and leprosy in Han Chinese. However, we found that variants rs692527 ( P = 0.022) and rs34856358 ( P = 0.022) of the MRC1 gene were associated with paucibacillary leprosy, and rs3138557 of the IFNG gene was significantly associated with multibacillary leprosy. The exact role of the MRC1 gene and the IFNG gene in leprosy awaits future study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To identify the functional gene fragment, a neutrophil inhibitory factor (NIF) like protein was found in the buccal gland of Lampetra japonica, suggesting that this related lamprey protein represents a novel class of integrin receptor antagonists. The recombinant Lampetra japonica-NIF like (rLj-NIF) was identified by SDS-PAGE and purified by using His·Bind affinity chromatography. Effect of rLj-NIF on neutrophil migration suggested that rLj-NIF can act as a neutrophil inhibitory factor. Besides that, oxidative burst activity of neutriphil was tested by flow cytometry using dihydrorhodamine (DHR123) as a fluorogenic substrate, and the data suggested that the mean fluorescence intensity significantly decreased compared with positive controls ( p<0.01). All above results indicated that rLj-NIF could also prevent the binding of β2 integrins to the surface of PMN and its FITC-labeled monoclonal antibodies ( p<0.05). These data suggest that Lampetra japonica-NIF like protein is secreted by the stage of the parasite at the site of attachment. rLj-NIF plays an essential role in physiological reaction of neutrophil by a novel class of β2 integrin receptor antagonists. The activity of immunosuppressant of L. japonica-NIF could have potential medicinal value in anti-inflammation and therapy of autoimmune diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Objectives: To verify the efficacy and safety of fluoxetine in treating patients with persistent somatoform pain disorder (PSPD). Methods: In this 8-week, randomized double-blind placebo-controlled study, 80 patients with an ICD-10 diagnosis of PSPD were randomly assigned to receive 20mg fluoxetine or a placebo. Several psychological scales including Medical Outcomes Study Pain Measures (MOSPM), Hamilton Depression Scale-17 items (HAMD17) and Treatment Emergent Symptom Scale (TESS) were used to assess analgesic efficacy and safety of fluoxetine, and the possible analgesic mechanism of fluoxetine was preliminarily analyzed. All data were analyzed by SPSS11.5 with t-test, one-way ANOVA and a mixed-effects model repeated measures analysis. Intent-to-treat (ITT) analysis was performed and the last observation carry forward (LOCF) was used for missing values. Results: There was a significant difference of MOSPM total score between the fluoxetine and placebo group after 2weeks of treatment. The analgesic effect of fluoxetine was related with treatment time, and depressive patients showed a better analgesic effect than non-depressive patients. An adverse effect of fluoxetine was scarcely found. Conclusions: Fluoxetine has a better analgesic effect than a placebo in treating persistent somatoform pain disorder, and is considered a safe treatment; its analgesic effect may be related to an antidepressant effect. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]