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Quercetin (1) was converted into quercetin 7-O-succinyl glucoside (2) by used Bacillus amyloliquefaciens FJ18 as a solvent-resistant whole-cell biocatalyst. The structure of the new compound was confirmed by LC-MS analysis and NMR spectroscopy. The water-solubility of this novel quercetin 7-O-succinyl glucoside (2) was approximately 1000 times higher than that of native quercetin (2). Quercetin (1) and quercetin 7-O-succinyl glucoside (2) exhibited significant DPPH scavenging capacity with IC50 values of 23.55 and 36.05 µM, respectively. Both compounds showed moderate cytotoxic effects against the two human cancer cell lines (MCF-7 and HepG2) with IC50 values ranging from 39.45-63.38 µM. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Many veterinarians consider English Bulldogs to have a greater perianesthetic mortality risk. The aims of this study were to 1) determine total and anesthesia-related, perianesthetic mortality (PAM) rates in English Bulldogs (EB), 2) identify potential risk factors associated with mortality in EB, and 3) determine the difference in the perianesthetic mortality rates between EB, other-brachycephalic breeds (OB), and non-brachycephalic breeds (NB). Records from EB that were anesthetized between 2010 and 2017, were investigated. OB and NB were enrolled to match with each EB based on a procedure and age from the study period. Data collected in EB included: age, ASA status, weight, procedure types, anesthetic and analgesic management, anesthetic duration, anesthetic recovery location, and cause of death. Age and cause of death were determined from OB and NB. Fisher's exact test was used to compare PAM rate and age in EB, OB, and NB. Mann–Whitney U test was used to compare EB survivor and EB non-survivor. Logistic regression models were used to identify factors and odds ratio (OR) associated with PAM in EB. Result: Two hundred twenty nine EB, 218 OB, and 229 NB were identified. The total and anesthesia-related PAM rates in EB were 6.6 and 3.9%, respectively. EB had a greater total PAM rate compared with OB (p = 0.007). ASA status was different between survivors and non-survivors in EB (p < 0.01). Risk factors identified regardless of the cause of death were premedication with full μ opioids (OR = 0.333, p = 0.114), continuous infusion of ketamine post-operatively (OR = 13.775, p = 0.013), and acepromazine administration post-operatively (OR = 7.274, p = 0.004). The most common cause of death in EB was postoperative respiratory dysfunction (87.5%). Conclusion: Total and anesthesia-related mortality in EB is considerable. Most deaths in EB occurred during the postoperative period secondary to respiratory complications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Calcineurin, protein phosphatase 2B (PP2B) or protein phosphatase 3 (PP3), is a calcium‐dependent serine/threonine protein phosphatase. Calcineurin is widely expressed in the kidney and regulates renal Na+ and K+ transport. In the thick ascending limb, calcineurin plays a role in inhibiting NKCC2 function by promoting the dephosphorylation of the cotransporter and an intracellular sorting receptor, called sorting‐related‐receptor‐with‐A‐type repeats (SORLA), is involved in modulating the effect of calcineurin on NKCC2. Calcineurin also participates in regulating thiazide‐sensitive NaCl‐cotransporter (NCC) in the distal convoluted tubule. The mechanisms by which calcineurin regulates NCC include directly dephosphorylation of NCC, regulating Kelch‐like‐3/CUL3 E3 ubiquitin–ligase complex, which is responsible for WNK (with‐no‐lysin‐kinases) ubiquitination, and inhibiting Kir4.1/Kir5.1, which determines NCC expression/activity. Finally, calcineurin is also involved in regulating ROMK (Kir1.1) channels in the cortical collecting duct and Cyp11 2 expression in adrenal zona glomerulosa. In summary, calcineurin is involved in the regulation of NKCC2, NCC, and inwardly rectifying K+ channels in the kidney, and it also plays a role in modulating aldosterone synthesis in adrenal gland, which regulates epithelial‐Na+‐channel expression/activity. Thus, application of calcineurin inhibitors (CNIs) is expected to abrupt calcineurin‐mediated regulation of transepithelial Na+ and K+ transport in the kidney. Consequently, CNIs cause hypertension, compromise renal K+ excretion, and induce hyperkalemia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Objective Breast cancer and its surgical treatment and chemotherapy have great impact on the immune system. This study aimed to monitor the various T cells in breast cancer patients and evaluate the immune functions. Methods Blood samples were collected from 249 breast cancer patients at the following time points: 1–3 days preoperative, postoperative (before the chemotherapy), after 3 chemotherapy cycles, and after 6 chemotherapy cycles. The percentages of the CD3+, CD4+, CD8+, CD45RA+, and CD45RO+ T cells were measured using flow cytometry. Another 200 healthy women were used as control. Results Patients with stage II/III breast cancer had significantly lower percentages of CD3+, CD4+, CD8+, CD45RA+, and CD28+ T cells in comparison with normal control and those with stage I breast cancer (P < 0.05). The percentages of CD45RO+ T cells and CD4+CD25+ (Treg) cells were significantly higher in stage II/III malignancies versus stage I, and was significantly higher in stage I malignancies versus the normal control (P < 0.05). Breast cancer patients had significantly lower percentages of CD3+ and CD4+ T cells in comparison with the normal control (P < 0.05). The preoperative percentages of CD3+ and CD4+ T cells were significantly reduced after 3 cycles and after 6 cycles of chemotherapy (P < 0.05). In patients with stage II/III malignancies, there was a higher percentage of CD45RO+ T cells than CD45RA+ T cells, which was reversed after surgery. After 6 chemotherapy cycles, the percentage of Treg cells was significantly reduced in comparison with that before the chemotherapy in the patients with stage II/III malignancies. Conclusions Patients with breast cancer had significantly suppressed immune functions. Surgical removal of the tumor may improve the immune functions. Chemotherapy significantly reduced the percentages of CD3+ and CD4+ T cells. Highlights • T cells in breast cancer patients and immune functions were evaluated. • Patients with breast cancer had significantly suppressed immune functions. • Surgical removal of the tumor may improve the immune functions. • Chemotherapy significantly reduced the percentages of CD3+ and CD4+ T cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Atopic dermatitis (AD), one of the most common chronic eczematous skin disorders, is associated with cutaneous hyperactivity as a response to environmental triggers. Metallothionein (MT) plays a constitutive defensive role in the response to noxious stimuli. However, the role of MT in AD development is unclear. Using an AD-like murine model created by the topical application of 2.4-dinitrofluorobenzene, we studied the dynamic pattern of MT expression on AD development. AD-like lesions were evaluated based on the development of erythema, edema, exfoliation, scaling, increased thickness, and increased weight of lesional skin. These characteristics of AD-like lesions and thymic stromal lymphopoietin (TSLP) expression peaked at Day 1 of the establishment of our model and gradually alleviated over time. The MT expression in lesional skin was increased and peaked at Day 3. By immunostaining, increased expression of MT was translocated from the cytoplasm to the nucleus. MT-1/2 knockout (MT−/−) mice and wild type (MT+/+) mice were also used to evaluate the role of MT on AD. MT−/− mice had greater edema scores, thickness, lesional skin weight, as well as more CD4+ T cells, TSLP, superoxide dismutase, and NDUFAF1. These results suggest that MT may play a protective role against AD development, and that antioxidant and nuclear protective mechanisms may be involved. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background/objective Facial dermatitis is common and the roles different exogenous factors play between facial and nonfacial dermatitis is unknown. The study aim was to investigate the etiology and self-reported exogenous aggravation factors in facial dermatitis. Methods There were 89 facial dermatitis patients patch tested in a tertiary hospital during a 1-year period, and 112 patients with nonfacial dermatitis tested in the same period who served as a control. Association of exogenous factors was investigated by multivariate analyses. Results Of the cases of facial dermatitis, 30.3% were confirmed allergic contact dermatitis, which was higher than that (23.2%) in controls. Cosmetic allergy was much more common in facial than nonfacial allergic contact dermatitis (96.3% vs. 19.2%); 51.9% of facial allergic contact dermatitis cases were caused by facial creams; 6.7% of facial dermatitis were irritant contact dermatitis, compared with 2.7% for controls; 9.0% of cases were seasonal facial dermatitis. The positive patch test reactions to at least one standard allergen were 65.2% in facial dermatitis and 58.0% in controls. Self-reported exogenous aggravation factors in facial dermatitis were spicy food ingestion (24.7%), low moisture (22.5%), sunlight (19.1%), alcohol ingestion (15.7%), seafood ingestion (14.6%), beef or lamb ingestion (12.4%), and high humidity (5.6%). Multivariate logistic regression analysis adjusting for sex, age, disease duration, atopic diathesis, and contact allergy showed that more patients reported aggravation by sunlight exposure ( p = 0.008), ingestion of spicy food ( p = 0.025), or alcohol ( p = 0.044). Conclusions Contact factors play an important role in facial dermatitis. Aggravation by sunlight exposure, ingestion of spicy food, or alcohol are more reported in facial dermatitis compared with nonfacial dermatitis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Secretory immunoglobulin A (SIgA) and immunoglobulin G (IgG) antibody-secreting cells (ASCs) are two important cell types in the mucosal immune system. This study aimed to explore the distribution of these ASC populations in the small intestine of Bactrian camels of different ages. Twenty-four Alashan Bactrian camels were divided into the following four age groups: young (1–2 years), pubertal (3–5 years), middle-aged (6–16 years) and old (17–20 years). SIgA and IgG ASCs in the intestinal mucosa lamina propria (LP) were observed and analyzed using immunohistochemcal techniques. The results from all age groups show that both SIgA and IgG ASCs were diffusely distributed in the intestinal LP, and some cells aggregated around the crypts. Moreover, the densities of the two ASC populations gradually increased from the duodenum to the jejunum and then decreased in the ileum. Meanwhile, there were more SIgA ASCs than IgG ASCs in the duodenum, jejunum, and ileum, and these differences were significant in the young and pubertal groups (P<0.05). In addition, the SIgA and IgG ASC densities increased from the young to the pubertal period, peaked at puberty, and then gradually decreased with age. The results demonstrate that the SIgA and IgG ASC distributions help to form two immunoglobulin barriers in the intestinal mucosa to provide full protection, helping to maintain homeostasis. These findings also underscore the importance of researching the development and degeneration of intestinal mucosal immunity in Bactrian camels. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Proteinase 3 (Pr3), and human neutrophil elastase (HNE) are two major neutrophilic serine proteases (NsPs) expressed in neutrophil azurophil granules. Emerging data suggest that excessive release of proteases mediates tissue damage, and therefore prolonged neutrophil accumulation has an important role in the pathogenesis of many diseases. Thus, HNE and Pr3 inhibitors may prove to be targets for the generation of agents in the treatment of neutrophilic inflammatory disease. Sivelestat is the only commercially available selective HNE inhibitor. Therefore, sivelestat was chosen as the model structure in an attempt to obtain more potent anti-NsPs agents. In the present study, a series 2-aminobenzaldehyde oxime and 2-aminobenzoate analogs were synthesized and their inhibitory effects on NsPs (CatG, Pr3, and HNE) were determined, respectively. The results of structure–activity relationships studies concluded that a hydroxyl oxime moiety plays an important role in ligand–enzyme affinity through hydrogen bonding. As compound 6 had more potency and showed dual inhibitory effects on NE and Pr3, both in vitro and in vivo experiments were carried out to evaluate its selectivity, effects in cell-based assays, and efficacy in models of inflammation and damage. Compound 6 had the potential to reduce paw edema induced by LPS and HNE, as well as acute lung injury, and may be approved as a candidate for the development of new agents in the treatment of neutrophilic inflammatory diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Saline soil is considered to have a greater reserve of potentially cultivable land in China, especially in coastal areas with abundant rainfall. The possible use of oats ( Avena sativa L. or Avena nuda L.) for phytoremediation of the salinity and thus to improve soil quality for other crops is receiving greater attention. Six varieties (Bayou-1, Baiyan-2, Baiyan-7, Huawan-6, Huazao-2 and Pin-16) of oat were studied for their accumulation and distribution of salt ions in plant organs using a saline coastal area near the Bohai sea of North China. The objective was to determine the effects of variety, plant organs and time of harvest on the phytoremediating potential of oat. Plant uptake of sodium, potassium and chloride ions as well as growth rate varied significantly according to variety, growth stage, plant organ, and their interactions. The peak uptake of sodium and chloride ions in leaves across varieties was at the heading stage but in stem it was at maturity; for most varieties, potassium concentration was much higher in the stem during the growth period. The partitioning of ions to stem, root and panicle increased from heading to maturity but declined from maturity to delayed harvesting stage. However, those in the leaf continually decreased from heading to delayed harvesting stage. Averaged across growth stages and organs, the highest uptake rate for sodium ion (1739.4 g ha −1 day −1 ) and chloride ion (3693.7 g ha −1 day −1 ) was in the stem of BaiYan-7 variety during heading to maturity. The uptake rates for potassium ion in the stem were also the highest (2880.2 g ha −1 day −1 in the stem of BaiYan-2 variety) but they occurred from elongation to heading stage. Since most of the ions were concentrated in the straw, especially the stem, managing oats to enhance stem or straw biomass production and optimizing harvest or clipping times would have both economic and remediation benefits. Data from this study have added new information on how best to use oat for reclaiming degraded saline soils. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The aggregated lymphoid nodules area (ALNA) in abomasum of Bactrian camels is a special immune structure discovered only in Bactrian camels in recent years (2003). The anatomy research found that there was a close relationship between degree of development, anatomical characteristics and age. To further establish the relationship between histological characteristics of this special structure and animal age, 24 Alashan Bactrian camels of the following four age groups were studied: young (1–2 years), pubertal (3–5 years), middle-aged (6–16 years) and old (17–20 years). Mucosal-associated lymphoid tissue (MALT) of ALNA in abomasum was particularly observed and analyzed by histology, histochemistry and statistical methods. The results showed that the average number of lymphoid nodules in reticular mucosal folds region of ALNA in abomasum from young group to old group was in order of 26.8, 32.7, 17.6 and 7.8, and in longitudinal mucosal folds region was 20.1, 26.0, 10.3 and 5.1. The number of lymphoid nodules in the four experimental groups first increased and then decreased with increasing age (P <0.01). In young and pubertal camels lymphoid nodules were distributed evenly on both sides of the axis of mucosal folds and mostly displayed round, oval or wedge shape. The number of lymphoid nodules, follicle-associated epithelium (FAE), reticular fibers and plasmocytes in mucosal folds gradually increased from 1 to 2 years and peaked at puberty. There were up to 37 visible lymphoid nodules in a mucosal fold. However, ALNA of middle-aged and old camels gradually degenerated as aging. Lymphoid nodules were unevenly distributed on both sides of the axis of mucosal folds, which mostly displayed oval or irregular shape. Lymphoid tissue in old camels mostly existed as diffuse form. Although germinal centers of the lymphoid nodules were still obvious, the number of reticular fiber and plasmocyte and lymphoid nodules gradually decreased. The results indicated that in accord with the anatomical results, there was a close relationship between histology characteristics of lymphoid tissue of ALNA in abomasum and animal age. In summary, the lymphoid tissue of ALNA in abomasums gradually increased from young to pubertal groups with increasing age, peaked in 3–5 year-old camels, and subsequently declined with age and when 17–20 years old this immunity structure had severely atrophied. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The surface chemical properties and morphology changes that occurred on carbon nanotubes after modification by oxygen dielectric barrier discharge (DBD) at atmospheric pressure were investigated by dispersion test, XPS, FTIR, Raman, SEM and nitrogen adsorption. The effects of plasma treatment parameter, such as discharge power and treatment time, have been conducted. At the power of 15W following 40min exposure to the discharge, the surface atomic oxygen percentage could increase from 1.90% to 7.47%. Meanwhile, the surface area increased from 125m2/g to 156m2/g and the total volume from 0.309cm3/g to 0.358cm3/g. The possible mechanism is drawn for the modification process. Firstly, the plasma would attack on the defect site, transformed the sp2-hybridized carbons in nanotubes framework into sp3-hybridization and introduce the oxygen-containing functional groups including OH, COOH groups within 10min. Furthermore, the hydroxyl groups could be further oxidized to form carboxyl groups. Moreover, the COOH groups were further oxidized to CO2 and H2O under excessive exposure time causing the decrease of the amount of oxygen atom. This investigation may be a simple and nonpolluting method for the modification of MWCNTs. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

C33H27lrN2O6, Triclinic, P-1, a = 7.4840(11) Å, b = 11.7312(17) Å, c = 17.438(2) Å, V = 1427.0(3) Å3, Z = 2, Rgt (F) = 0.0280, wRref (F2 ) = 0.0677, T = 293(2) K. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Renal outer medulla K (ROMK) channels play an important role in K recycling in the thick ascending limb and in K secretion in the cortical collecting duct. ROMK1, a member of the ROMK family, has been shown to be a substrate for protein tyrosine kinase (PTK). The tyrosine phosphorylation of ROMK channels increases with low dietary K intake and decreases with high dietary K intake. Moreover, the stimulation of tyrosine phosphorylation of ROMK1 channels decreases the number of K channels by facilitating endocytosis. In contrast, the stimulation of tyrosine dephosphorylation increases the number of ROMK1 channels in the cell membrane by enhancing membrane insertion. PTK and tyrosine phosphatase-induced regulation of ROMK1 channels play a key role in mediating the effect of the dietary K intake on renal K secretion. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Background: Bactrian camel is one of the important economic animals in northwest China. They live in arid desert, and their gestation period is about 13 months, which is longer than other ruminants (such as cattle and sheep). The harsh living conditions have made its unique histological characteristics a research focus. Aggregated lymphoid nodules area (ALNA) in the abomasum of Bactrian camels, as one of the most important sites for the induction of the immune response, provide a comprehensive and effective protective role for the organism, and their lack of information will affect the feeding management, reproduction and epidemic prevention of Bactrian camels. In this study, the histological characteristics of the fetal ALNA in the abomasum of Bactrian camels at different developmental gestation have been described by using light microscopy and histology. Results: The ALNA in the abomasum of the Chinese Alashan Bactrian camel is a special immune structure that was first discovered and reported by Wen-hui Wang. To further establish the developmental characteristics of this special structure in the embryonic stage, the abomasum ALNA of 8 fetuses of Alashan Bactrian camels with different gestational ages (5~13 months) were observed and studied by anatomy and histology. The results showed that the aggregation of reticular epithelial cells (RECs) surrounded by a very small number of lymphoid cells was detected for the first time in the abomasum of fetal camel at 5 months gestation, which was presumed to be primitive ALNA. At 7 months gestation, the reticular mucosal folds region (RMFR) appeared, but the longitudinal mucosal folds region (LMFR) was not significant, and histological observations showed that there were diffusely distributed lymphocytes around the RECs. At 10months gestation, RMFR and LMFR were clearly visible, lymphoid follicles appeared in histological observation, lymphocytes proliferated vigorously. By 13 months, the volume of lymphoid follicles increased, forming the subepithelial dome (SED), and there was a primitive interfollicular area between the lymphoid follicles, which contained high endothelial vein (HEV), but no germinal center (GC) was found. In summary, ALNA of Bactrian camels is not fully mature before birth. Conclusions: Generally, the small intestine PPs of ruminants (such as cattle and sheep) is already mature before birth, while the ALNA in the abomasum of Bactrian camels is not yet mature in the fetal period. During the development of ALNA in Bactrian camel, the development of lymphoid follicles extends from submucosa to Lamina propria. Interestingly, the deformation of FAE changes with age from simple columnar epithelium at the beginning of pregnancy to Simple cuboidal epithelium, which is opposite to the FAE deformation characteristics of PPs in the small intestine of fetal cattle and sheep. These results are the basis of further research on the specificity of ALNA in the abomasum of Bactrian camels. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Studies the cytochrome P-450 metabolites mediation of extracellular calcium-induced inhibition of apical potassium channels in the thick ascending limb of the rat kidney. Effect of an increase in calcium concentration on the apical 70-pS potassium channel; Effect of neomycin on channel activity.

Reports that nitric oxide (NO) regulates the low-conductance potassium ion channel in basolateral membrane of rat cortical collecting duct (CCD). Preparation of rat CCD; Patch-clamp technique.

Reports on the two types of potassium channel in thick ascending limb of rat kidney. Low-conductance versus intermediate-conductance potassium channels; Measurement for slope conductances; Factors that block channel activity.

Investigates the role of the actin cytoskeleton in the modulation of potassium channel activity in the apical membrane of the cortical collecting duct. Patch-clamp and channel analysis of rats; Immunofluorescent staining; Effect of cytochalasins on channel activity; Addition of either actin monomers or polymerizing actin filaments to the cytosolic medium.

Presents an approach for the study of potassium (K) channels in the lateral membrane of principal cells (PC) in rat cortical collecting ducts. Evaluation of the functional viability of the PC; Contrast between low-conductance K channel and intermediate-conductance K channel; Hyperpolarization of K channels.

Provides information on a study which examined the effect of high concentrations of nitric oxide (NO) on small-conductance K+ channel (SK) in cortical collecting duct (CCD) of rat kidney. Methodology; Inhibitory effects of NO; Three types of NOS found in the kidney; Conclusions.

Examines the role of protein kinase C and the cytochrome P-450-dependent metabolites of arachidonic acids in mediating the Ca2+-induced inhibition of channel activity. Patch-clamp technique; Experimental solutions and statistics.

Investigates the biophysical properties and regulatory mechanisms of the intermediate-conductance K+ channel with patch clamp techniques. Increase in activity by hyperpolarization; Measurement of the slope conductance of the channel in inside-out patches; Shift in the voltage dependence curve of channel activity.

Nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChRs) are widespread throughout the central nervous system. Signaling through nAChRs contributes to numerous higher-order functions, including memory and cognition, as well as abnormalities such as nicotine addiction and neurodegenerative disorders. Although recent studies indicate that the PDZ-containing proteins comprising PSD-95 family co-localize with nicotinic acetylcholine receptors and mediate downstream signaling in the neurons, the mechanisms by which α7nAChRs are regulated remain unclear. Here, we show that the PDZ-LIM domain family protein PDLIM5 binds to α7nAChRs and plays a role in nicotine-induced α7nAChRs upregulation and surface expression. We find that chronic exposure to 1 μM nicotine upregulated α7, β2-contained nAChRs and PDLIM5 in cultured hippocampal neurons, and the upregulation of α7nAChRs and PDLIM5 is increased more on the cell membrane than the cytoplasm. Interestingly, in primary hippocampal neurons, α7nAChRs and β2nAChRs display distinct patterns of expression, with α7nAChRs colocalized more with PDLIM5. Furthermore, PDLIM5 interacts with α7nAChRs, but not β2nAChRs in native brain neurons. Knocking down of PDLIM5 in SH-SY5Y abolishes nicotine-induced upregulation of α7nAChRs. In primary hippocampal neurons, using shRNA against PDLIM5 decreased both surface clustering of α7nAChRs and α7nAChRs-mediated currents. Proteomics analysis and isothermal titration calorimetry (ITC) results show that PDLIM5 interacts with α7nAChRs through the PDZ domain, and the interaction between PDLIM5 and α7nAChRs can be promoted by nicotine. Collectively, our data suggest a novel cellular role of PDLIM5 in the regulation of α7nAChRs, which may be relevant to plastic changes in the nervous system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The experiment was to study the effect of grazing and house-feeding on growth, slaughter performance and meat quality of mutton sheep. A total of 24 healthy and disease-free Duhan hybrid mutton sheep with a body weight (20.0±2.2) kg were randomly divided into grazing group and house-feeding group, with 12 replicates per group and one sheep per replicate, half in male and half in female. The sheep in the grazing group were fed a diet primarily composed of cypress seeds and cypress leaves, with the appropriate amount of basic diet. The sheep in the house-feeding group were fed a 30% cypress seeds in the basic diet. The pre-feeding period was 15 days and the formal period was 90 days. The results showed that the final weight and average daily gain of the mutton sheep in the house-feeding group were extremely higher than those in the grazing group (P<0.01), and the total weight gain was significantly higher than that in the grazing group (P<0.05). The live weight before slaughter, carcass weight, net meat percentage and dressing percentage of mutton sheep in the house-feeding group were significantly or extremely higher than those in the grazing group ( P<0.05 or P<0.01). The water loss rate and cooking loss rate of mutton in the house-feeding group were significantly higher than those in the grazing group ( P<0.05), and the pH24 h value of mutton in the grazing group was significantly higher than that in the house-feeding group (P<0.05). The content of aspartic acid, glutamic acid, leucine, phenylalanine, histidine, threonine and serine in the grazing group was significantly higher than those in the house-feeding group ( P<0.05). The content of alanine, valine and lysine in mutton sheep in the house-feeding group was significantly higher than those in the grazing group ( P<0.05), and the content of glycine was extremely higher than that in the grazing group ( P<0.01). The color, aroma, taste and total score of mutton in the grazing group were significantly higher than those in the house-feeding group ( P<0.05). The study indicates the house-feeding mode can improve the fatten and weight gain effect of mutton sheep, and improve the slaughtering performance of mutton sheep. The grazing feeding mode can improve the flavor and quality of mutton to a certain extent. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Toll-like receptor 8 (TLR8) can recognize specific pathogen-associated molecular patterns and exert multiple immunological functions through activation of signaling cascades. However, the precise distribution and age-related alterations of TLR8 in the spleens of Bactrian camels have not yet been investigated. This study aimed to prepare a rabbit anti-Bactrian camel TLR8 polyclonal antibody and elucidate the distribution of TLR8 in the spleens of Bactrian camels at different age groups. The methodology involved the construction of the pET-28a-TLR8 recombinant plasmid, followed by the expression of TLR8 recombinant protein via prokaryotic expression. Subsequently, rabbits were immunized with the purified protein to prepare the TLR8 polyclonal antibody. Finally, twelve Alashan Bactrian camels were categorized into four groups: young (1–2 years), pubertal (3–5 years), middle-aged (6–16 years) and old (17–20 years). These camels received intravenous sodium pentobarbital (20 mg/kg) anesthesia and were exsanguinated to collect spleen samples. Immunohistochemical techniques were employed to observe and analyze the distribution patterns and age-related changes of TLR8 in the spleen. Results: The results showed that the TLR8 recombinant protein was expressed in the form of inclusion body with a molecular weight of 52 kDa, and the optimal induction condition involved 0.3 mmol/L IPTG induction for 8 h. The prepared antibody yielded a titer of 1:32 000, and the antibody demonstrated specific binding to TLR8 recombinant protein. TLR8 positive cells exhibited a consistent distribution pattern in the spleen across different age groups of Bactrian camels, primarily scattered within the periarterial lymphatic sheath of the white pulp, marginal zone, and red pulp. The predominant cell type expressing TLR8 was macrophages, with expression also observed in neutrophils and dendritic cells. Statistical analysis revealed that there were significant differences in the distribution density of TLR8 positive cells among different spleen regions at the same age, with the red pulp, marginal zone, and white pulp showing a descending order (P<0.05). Age-related changes indicated that the distribution density in the marginal zone and red pulp exhibited a similar trend of initially increasing and subsequently decreasing from young to old camels. As camels age, there was a significant decrease in the distribution density across all spleen regions (P<0.05). Conclusions: The results confirmed that this study successfully prepared a rabbit anti-Bactrian camel TLR8 polyclonal antibody with good specificity. TLR8 positive cells were predominantly located in the red pulp and marginal zone of the spleen, signifying their pivotal role in the innate immune response of the spleen. Aging was found to significantly reduce the density of TLR8 positive cells, while leaving their scattered distribution characteristics unaffected. These findings provide valuable support for further investigations into the immunomorphology and immunosenescence of the spleen in Bactrian camels. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To evaluate the safety and effectiveness of endovascular treatment for massive haemoptysis caused by pulmonary pseudoaneurysm (PAP). Methods: The clinical data, imaging data, and endovascular treatment protocol of 23 patients with massive haemoptysis caused by continuous PAP were retrospectively analysed. The success, complications, postoperative recurrence rate, and influence of the treatment on pulmonary artery pressure were also evaluated. Results: Nineteen patients with a bronchial artery-pulmonary artery (BA-PA) and/or nonbronchial systemic artery-pulmonary artery (NBSA-PA) fistula underwent bronchial artery embolization (BAE) and/or nonbronchial systemic artery embolization (NBSAE) + pulmonary artery embolization (PAE). The pulmonary artery (PA) pressures before and after embolization were 52.11 ± 2.12 (35–69 cmH2O) and 33.58 ± 1.63 (22–44 cmH2O), respectively (P = 0.001). Four patients did not have a BA-PA and/or NBSA-PA fistula. Embolization was performed in two patients with a distal PAP of the pulmonalis lobar arteria. Bare stent-assisted microcoils embolization was performed in the other two patients with a PAP of the main pulmonary lobar arteries. The PA pressures of the four patients before and after treatment were 24.50 ± 1.32 (22–28 cmH2O) and 24.75 ± 1.70 (22–29 cmH2O), respectively (P = 0.850). The technique had a 100% success rate with no serious complications and a postoperative recurrence rate of 30%. Conclusion: Endovascular treatment is safe and effective for massive haemoptysis caused by PAP. BAE and/or NBSAE can effectively reduce pulmonary hypertension in patients with a BA-PA and/or NBSA-PA fistula. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

C16H16F6N3P, monoclinic, P21/ n, a = 8.6414(8) Å, b = 20.755(2) Å, c = 10.1157(8) Å, β = 104.686(9)°, V = 1755.0(3) Å3, Z = 4, Rgt (F) = 0.0547, wRref (F2 ) = 0.1496, T = 291(2) K. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Exploring the expression characteristics of FcμR in small intestinal lymph nodes of bactrian camels can lay the foundation for further revealing the function of FcμR. The FcμR expression characteristics were systematically analysed by using prokaryotic expression, antibody preparation, immunohistochemical staining and statistical analysis. FcμR positive cells were mainly located in the lymphoid follicles and their numbers decreased in the order of duodenal lymph nodes, jejunal lymph nodes and ileal lymph nodes, and the number of positive cells was statistically significant between different intestinal segments (P<0.05). The FcμR is expressed in lymphoid follicular B cells, which not only facilitates the body's ability to regulate secretory IgM levels, but also acts as a local immune defence barrier. The small intestine has dual functions of immune tolerance and immune response, the proximal part mainly focuses on immune tolerance, and the distal part mainly focuses on immune response. This distribution ensures the unity of the duodenal absorption and immune defence, and also significantly increases the efficiency of the entire small intestine, which is why the number of FcμR positive cells decreases in the order of duodenal lymph nodes, jejunal lymph nodes and ileal lymph nodes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Outbreaks of hand, foot and mouth disease (HFMD) have occurred frequently in the Asian-Pacific region over the last two decades, caused mainly by the serotypes in Enterovirus A species. High-quality monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) are needed to improve the accuracy and efficiency of the diagnosis of enteroviruses associated HFMD. In this study, a mAb 1A11 was generated using full particles of CV-A5 as an immunogen. In indirect immunofluorescence and Western blotting assays, 1A11 bound to the viral proteins of CV-A2, CV-A4, CV-A5, CV-A6, CV-A10, CV-A16, and EV-A71 of the Enterovirus A and targeted VP3. It has no cross-reactivity to strains of Enterovirus B and C. By mapping with over-lapped and truncated peptides, a minimal and linear epitope 23PILPGF28 was identified, located at the N-terminus of the VP3. A BLAST sequence search of the epitope in the NCBI genus Enterovirus (taxid: 12059) protein database indicates that the epitope sequence is highly conserved among the Enterovirus A species, but not among the other enterovirus species, first reported by us. By mutagenesis analysis, critical residues for 1A11 binding were identified for most serotypes of Enterovirus A. It may be useful for the development of a cost-effective and pan-Enterovirus A antigen detection for surveillance, early diagnosis and differentiation of infections caused by the Enterovirus A species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Gastrointestinal associated lymphoid tissue (GALT) is an important component of the mucosal immune system. It is the largest mass of lymphoid tissues in the body and makes up more than 70% immune cells of entire body. GALT is considered to be the origin of systemic mucosal immunity and consists of solitary lymphoid nodules, aggregated lymphoid nodules (Peyer's patches, PPs), scattered lymphoid tissues, and follicular associated epithelia. PPs play important roles as antigen inductive sites of the mucosal immune system, which are mainly distributed in the intestine of animals and humans (especially ileum and appendix). However, a special area of well-developed aggregated lymphoid nodules in the abomasum of Dromedary camel was found in our laboratory. Its existence was rarely described in the stomach before. In the present study, we investigated this special structure with the dromedary camels of different ages (young, 0.5–2 years; pubertal, 3–5 years; middle-aged, 6–16 years; old, 17–20 years), by the anatomical, histological and immunohistochemical approaches. The results showed that the special structure was mainly distributed in the cardiac glandular area of the abomasum, forming a triangular area. The mucosal folds in this area were significantly thicker than those in the surrounding region. These mucosal folds had two different forms, namely reticular mucosal folds (RMF) and longitudinal mucosal folds (LMF). There were abundant lymphoid nodules in the submucosa of RMF and LMF, which were arranged in one or multiple rows. The statistical analysis of the height and thickness of RMF and LMF showed that the structure was most developed in pubertal dromedary camels. The histological characteristics of the structure were the same as PPs in the intestine of the Dromedary camel, while anatomical appearance showed some difference. The immunohistochemical examination revealed that both immunoglobulin A (IgA) and G (IgG) antibodies-producing cells (APCs) were extensively distributed in the gastric lamina propria (LP) in all age group. Our finding suggest that camel stomach not only performs digestive functions, but also involves parts of body immunity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We calculate the electron impact excitation of Ni-like gold by using the Dirac R-matrix theory, and the corresponding collision strengths and effective collision strengths are obtained. In the calculations of the level energy, (1s22s22p6)3s23p63d10, 3s23p63d94l, 3s23p53d104l, and 3s3p63d104l (l = 0, 1, 2, 3) configurations are included and 107 fine-structure levels are generated. In the calculations of the collision strengths, only the first 59 levels are included. Comparisons are made with the distorted wave (DW) results of Zeng et al. for both collision strengths and effective collision strengths. For the collision strengths, the two sets of calculations are in excellent agreement for most of the transitions. However, because of the inclusion of the resonances, our effective collision strengths are generally several times larger than those of Zeng et al.. The accuracy of our calculations is assessed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Post-stroke dysphagia (PSD) is a common and costly complication of stroke and is associated with increased mortality, morbidity, and hospitalization. Although most patients can spontaneously resume swallowing, there are still many patients who do not recover and even die. Despite multiple advances in the acute treatment and secondary prevention of stroke, the effective treatment of PSD remains a neglected area. Studies have shown that repair mechanisms of neurostimulation techniques and increased cortical activity play an important role in the treatment of PSD. In addition, nutritional interventions are also crucial for the treatment of malnutrition in PSD patients. Therefore, this article reviews the effects of the current main clinical treatment methods and nutritional interventions on the treatment and rehabilitation of PSD patients. It also emphasized the necessity of developing an individualized care plan for PSD patients, which is of great significance to promote the clinical treatment, nutritional status, prognosis, and quality of life of PSD patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Efforts on developing transient receptor potential vanilloid 1 (TRPV1) drugs for pain management have been hampered by deleterious hypo- or hyperthermia caused by TRPV1 agonists/antagonists. Here, we compared the effects of four antagonists on TRPV1 polymodal gating and core body temperature (CBT) in Trpv1 +/+ , Trpv1 −/− , and Trpv1 T634A/T634A . Neither the effect on proton gating nor drug administration route, hair coverage, CBT rhythmic fluctuations, or inflammation had any influence on the differential actions of TRPV1 drugs on CBT. We identified the S4-S5 linker region exposed to the vanilloid pocket of TRPV1 to be critical for hyperthermia associated with certain TRPV1 antagonists. PSFL2874, a TRPV1 antagonist we discovered, is effective against inflammatory pain but devoid of binding to the S4-S5 linker and inducing CBT changes. These findings implicate that biased allosteric mechanisms exist for TRPV1 coupling to nociception and CBT regulation, opening avenues for the development of non-opioid analgesics without affecting CBT. [Display omitted] • TRPV1 analgesics' impact on proton gating does not contribute to CBT disturbance • Biased allosteric mechanisms of TRPV1 are coupled to nociception and CBT regulation • The S4-S5 linker's allostery is pivotal for hyperthermia in TRPV1 analgesics • Biased allosterism of TRPV1 facilitates the development of non-opioid analgesics Development of analgesics targeting TRPV1 receptors has been hampered by undesirable hypo- or hyperthermic effects induced by TRPV1 agonists/antagonists. Huang et al. suggest that biased allosteric mechanisms exist for TRPV1 coupling to nociception and CBT regulation, which may be selectively targeted for developing non-opioid analgesics without the confounding CBT alterations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The pharyngeal tonsil, located in the nasopharynx, can effectively defend against pathogens invading the body from the upper respiratory tract and play a crucial role in mucosal immunity of the respiratory tract. Immunoglobulin A (IgA) and Immunoglobulin G (IgG) serve as key effector molecules in mucosal immunity, exhibiting multiple immune functions. This study aimed to investigate the distribution patterns and age-related alterations of IgA and IgG antibody-secreting cells (ASCs) in the pharyngeal tonsils of Bactrian camels. Twelve Alashan Bactrian camels were categorized into four age groups: young (1–2 years, n=3), pubertal (3–5 years, n=3), middle-aged (6–16 years, n=3) and old (17–20 years, n=3). The distribution patterns of IgA and IgG ASCs in the pharyngeal tonsils of Bactrian camels of different ages were meticulously observed, analyzed and compared using immunohistochemical and statistical methods. The results revealed that IgA ASCs in the pharyngeal tonsils of all age groups were primarily clustered or diffusely distributed in the reticular epithelium and its subepithelial regions (region A) and around the glands (region C), scattered in the subepithelial regions of non-reticular epithelium (region B), and sporadically distributed in the interfollicular regions (region D). Interestingly, the distribution pattern of IgG ASCs in the pharyngeal tonsils closely mirrored that of IgA ASCs. The distribution densities of IgA and IgG ASCs in these four regions were significantly decreased in turn (P <0.05). However, IgA ASCs exhibited significantly higher densities than IgG ASCs in the same region (P <0.05). Age-related alterations indicated that the distribution densities of IgA and IgG ASCs in each region of the pharyngeal tonsils exhibited a trend of initially increasing and subsequently decreasing from young to old camels, reaching a peak in the pubertal group. As camels age, there was a significant decrease in the densities of IgA and IgG ASCs in all regions of the pharyngeal tonsils (P <0.05). The results demonstrate that the reticular epithelium and its subepithelial regions in the pharyngeal tonsils of Bactrian camels are the primary regions where IgA and IgG ASCs colonize and exert their immune functions. These regions play a pivotal role in inducing immune responses and defending against pathogen invasions in the pharyngeal tonsils. IgA ASCs may be the principal effector cells of the mucosal immune response in the pharyngeal tonsils of Bactrian camels. Aging significantly reduces the densities of IgA and IgG ASCs, while leaving their distribution patterns unaffected. These findings will provide valuable insights for further investigations into the immunomorphology, immunosenescence, and response mechanisms of the pharyngeal tonsils in Bactrian camels. • IgA and IgG antibody-secreting cells (ASCs) were distributed in each region of the pharyngeal tonsils, contributing to the formation of a complete immune defense barrier. • The reticular epithelium and its subepithelial regions were the primary regions where IgA and IgG ASCs colonized and exerted their immune functions. • IgA ASCs might be the principal effector cells in the mucosal immune response of the pharyngeal tonsils of Bactrian camels. • Aging had no effect on the distribution patterns of IgA and IgG ASCs. • Aging significantly reduced the distribution densities of IgA and IgG ASCs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The concentration of immunoglobulin (Ig) E is the lowest among serum Igs, but it can induces type I hypersensitivity and plays an important role in anti-parasitic infection. The present study aimed to explore the residence characteristics of IgE+ cells in the sheep small intestine and the impact of Moniezia benedeni infection on them. The recombinant plasmids pET-28a-IgE were constructed and induced and expressed in Escherichia coli. BL21 (DE3). The rabbit anti-sheep IgE polyclonal antibody was prepared using the obtained recombinant protein as antigen. Finally, the levels of IgE+ cells in the small intestine of healthy (Control group) and naturally M. benedeni -infected (Infected group) sheep were detected analyzed. The results showed that the rabbit anti-sheep IgE polyclonal antibody with good immunogenicity (titer = 1: 128000) could specifically bind to the heavy chain of natural sheep IgE. In the Control group, the IgE+ cells were mainly distributed in lamina propria of the small intestine, and the densities were significantly decreased from duodenum to ileum (P <0.05), with respective values of (4.28 cells / 104 μm2, 1.80 cells / 104 μm2, and 1.44 cells / 104 μm2 in duodenum, jejunum, and ileum. In the Infected group, IgE+ cells density were 6.26 cells / 104 μm2, 3.01 cells / 104 μm2, and 2.09 cells / 104 μm2 in duodenum, jejunum and ileum respectively, which were significantly higher in all segments compared to the Control group (P <0.05), increasing by 46.26%, 67.22% and 45.14%, respectively. In addition, compared with the Control group, the IgE protein levels were significantly increased in all intestinal segments of the Infected group (P <0.01), however, there was no significant differences among the different intestinal segments within the same group (P >0.05). The results demonstrated that M. benedeni infection could significantly increase the content of IgE and the distribution density of its secreting cells in sheep small intestine. The intestinal mucosal immune system of sheep presented obvious specificity against M. benedeni infection. This lays a good foundation for further exploring molecular mechanisms of the intestinal mucosal immune system monitoring and responding to M. benedeni infection. • The prepared rabbit anti-sheep IgE polyclonal antibody has good immunogenicity and specificity. • Moniezia benedeni infection significantly increased IgE+ cells residence in sheep small intestine. • The intestinal mucosal immunity system of sheep presented obvious regional specificity in responding to M. benedeni infection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] Transient receptor potential vanilloid 1 (TRPV1) channel plays an important role in a wide range of physiological and pathological processes, and a comprehensive understanding of TRPV1 gating will create opportunities for therapeutic intervention. Recent incredible advances in cryo-electron microscopy (cryo-EM) have yielded high-resolution structures of all TRPV subtypes (TRPV1–6) and all of them share highly conserved six transmembrane (TM) domains (S1–S6). As revealed by the open structures of TRPV1 in the presence of a bound vanilloid agonist (capsaicin or resiniferatoxin), TM helices S1 to S4 form a bundle that remains quiescent during channel activation, highlighting differences in the gating mechanism of TRPV1 and voltage-gated ion channels. Here, however, we argue that the structural dynamics rather than quiescence of S1–S4 domains is necessary for capsaicin-mediated activation of TRPV1. Using fluorescent unnatural amino acid (flUAA) incorporation and voltage-clamp fluorometry (VCF) analysis, we directly observed allostery of the S1–S4 bundle upon capsaicin binding. Covalent occupation of VCF-identified sites, single-channel recording, cell apoptosis analysis, and exploration of the role of PSFL828, a novel non-vanilloid agonist we identified, have collectively confirmed the essential role of this coordinated S1–S4 motility in capsaicin-mediated activation of TRPV1. This study concludes that, in contrast to cryo-EM structural studies, vanilloid agonists are also required for S1–S4 movement during TRPV1 activation. Redefining the gating process of vanilloid agonists and the discovery of new non-vanilloid agonists will allow the evaluation of new strategies aimed at the development of TRPV1 modulators. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Neuromedin U (NMU) plays an important role in activating the group 2 innate lymphoid cells (ILC2s) and initiating the host's anti-parasitic immune responses. It is aimed to explore the distribution characteristics of NMU in the sheep small intestine and the influence of Moniezia benedeni infection on them. In the present study, the pET-28a-NMU recombinant plasmids were constructed, and Escherichia coli. BL21 (DE3) were induced to express the recombinant protein. And then, the rabbit anti-sheep NMU polyclonal antibody was prepared and immunofluorescence staining was performed with it. The expression levels of NMU in the intestine of normal and Moniezia benedeni-infected sheep were detected by ELISA. Results: The results showed that the molecular weight of the obtained NMU recombinant protein was consistent with the expected molecular (13 kDa) and it was expressed in the form of inclusion body. The titer and specificity of obtained rabbit anti-sheep NMU polyclonal antibody were good. The results of immunofluorescence analysis showed that the nerve fibers which specifically expressed NMU mainly extended from the ganglion in the submucosal to lamina propria (LP) in the sheep small intestine, and the expression level was relatively high; especially on the nerve fibers of LP around the intestinal glands. The expression levels were gradually increased from the duodenum to the ileum, and the levels in the jejunum and ileum were significantly higher than that in the duodenum (P < 0.05). In addition, scattered NMU positive cells were distributed in the epithelium of the jejunal crypts. Moniezia benedeni infection increased the expression of NMU in each intestinal segment, especially in the jejunum and ileum there were significant increase (P < 0.05). Conclusions: It was suggested that Moniezia benedeni infection could be detected by the high expression of NMU in sheep enteric nervous, and which laid the foundation for further studies on whether NMU exerts anti-parasitic immunity by activating ILC2s. In addition, NMU was expressed in some intestinal gland epitheliums, which also provided a basis for studying its roles in regulation of the immune homeostasis. The present study laid the foundation for further revealing the molecular mechanism of sheep's neural-immune interaction network perceiving the colacobiosis of parasites. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Polymeric immunoglobulin receptor (pIgR), the transmembrane transporter of polymeric immunoglobulin A and M, has multiple immune functions. To explore the characteristics of pIgR expression in Bactrian camel lungs, twelve healthy adult (2–7 years old) Bactrian camels were systematically studied. The results showed that pIgR was mainly expressed in the cytoplasm and membrane of ciliated cells, as well as in the cytoplasm and membrane of basal cells, serous cells of bronchial glands, club cells and alveolar type 2 cells in Bactrian camel lungs. Specially, as the bronchial branches extended, the pIgR expression level in ciliated cells significantly declined (p<0.05), and the corresponding bronchial luminal areas obviously decreased (p<0.05). However, pIgR was not expressed in goblet cells, endocrine cells, alveolar type 1 cells and mucous cells of bronchial glands. The results demonstrated that ciliated cells continuously distributed throughout the whole bronchial tree mucosa were the major expression sites of pIgR, and pIgR was also expressed in basal cells, serous cells of bronchial glands, club cells and alveolar type 2 cells, which would facilitate secretory immunoglobulin A (SIgA) transmembrane transport by pIgR and form an intact protective barrier. Moreover, the pIgR expression level in ciliated cells was positively correlated with the bronchial luminal areas; but negatively correlated with the cleanliness of airflow through the bronchial cross-sections, showing that the pIgR expression level in the bronchial epithelium was inhomogeneous. Our study provided a foundation for further exploring the regulatory functions of immunoglobulins (i.e., SIgA) after transport across the membrane by pIgR in Bactrian camel lungs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

First published July 20, 2004; doi: 10.1 152/ajprenal.00 183.2004.-We used the patch-clamp technique to study the effect of adenosine on the apical 70-pS K channel in the thick ascending limb (TAL) of the rat kidney. Application of 1 μM cyclohexyladenosine (CHA), an adenosine analog, stimulated apical 70-pS K channel activity and increased the product of channel open probability and channel number (NPo) from 0.34 to 0.7. Also, addition of CGS-2 1680, a specific A2a adenosine receptor agonist, mimicked the effect of CHA and increased NP0 from 0.33 to 0.77. The stimulatory effect of CHA and CGS-2 1680 was completely blocked by H89, an inhibitor of protein kinase A (PKA), or by inhibition of adenylate cyclase with SQ-22536. This suggests that the stimulatory effect of adenosine analogs is mediated by a PKA-dependent pathway. The effect of adenosine analog was almost absent in the TAL from rats on a K-deficient (KD) diet for 7 days. Application of DDMS, an agent that inhibits cytochrome P-450 hydrolase, not only significantly increased the activity of the 70-p S K channel but also restored the stimulatory effect of CHA on the 70-pS K channel in the TAL from rats on a KD diet. Also, the effect of CHA was absent in the presence of 20-HETE. Inhibition of PKA blocked the stimulatory effect of CHA on the apical 70-p S K channel in the presence of DDMS in the TAL from rats on a KD diet. We conclude that stimulation of adenosine receptor increases the apical 70-p S K channel activity via a PKA-dependent pathway and that the effect of adenosine on the apical 70-pS K channel is suppressed by low-K intake. Moreover, the diminished response to adenosine is the result of increase in 20-HETE formation, which inhibits the cAMP-dependent pathway in the TAL from rats on a KD diet. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The kidney's major role in potassium (K) homeostasis depends on its ability to respond effectively to changes in external K balance and to stabilize the extracellular concentration of K. The correction of deviations from normal plasma K levels and the maintenance of external K balance depend on the intrinsic ability of distal nephron segments to either secrete or reabsorb K. Net K secretion occurs mainly in principal cells while K absorption takes place in intercalated cells. Studies on single tubules and principal and intercalated cells have defined the determinants of K secretion and reabsorption including the electrochemical driving forces, specific carriers, ATPases, and K channels. Recent studies on the properties and molecular identity of renal K channels have also contributed significantly to understanding the renal mechanisms that transport and regulate K excretion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The microbial communities colonize the mucosal immune inductive sites could be captured by hosts, which could initiate the mucosal immune responses. The aggregated lymphoid nodule area (ALNA) and the ileal Payer's patches (PPs) in Bactrian camels are both the mucosal immune inductive sites of the gastrointestinal tract. Here, the bacteria community associated with the ALNA and ileal PPs were analyzed using of 16S rDNA-Illumina Miseq sequencing. The mutual dominant bacterial phyla at the two sites were the Bacteroidetes, Firmicutes, Verrucomicrobia and Proteobacteria, and the mutual dominant genus in both sits was Prevotella. The abundances of the Fibrobacter, Campylobacter and RFP12 were all higher in ALNA than in ileal PPs. While, the abundances of the 5-7N15, Clostridium, and Escherichia were all higher in ileal PPs than in ALNA. The results suggested that the host's intestinal microenvironment is selective for the symbiotic bacteria colonizing the corresponding sites, on the contrary, the symbiotic bacteria could impact on the physiological functions of this local site. In ALNA and ileal PPs of Bactrian camel, the bacteria which colonized different immune inductive sites have the potential to stimulate different immune responses, which is the result of the mutual selection and adaptation between microbial communities and their host. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Effect of revascularization in the treatment of thromboangiitis obliterans (TAO) and the predictive value of serum vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), interleukin-1 (IL-1) and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) of risk factors of amputation were investigated. From April 2012 to August 2015, a total of 117 patients with TAO admitted to the First Hospital of Lanzhou University were selected. Patients treated with revascularization combined with prostaglandin sodium and cilostazol were enrolled in group A (67 patients), and patients treated with sodium and cilostazol were enrolled in group B (50 patients). The clinical efficacy was evaluated by calculating the intermittent claudication distance and the ankle brachial index (ABI) of patients. The occurrence probability of nausea and vomiting, skin pruritus, abdominal pain, coagulation abnormalities and amputation were recorded. The concentration of serum VEGF, IL-1 and TNF-α were measured using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). After treatment, the intermittent claudication distance, ABI and efficiency of group A was markedly higher than that of group B (P<0.05). After treatment, serum VEGF concentration in group A was clearly higher than that in group B (P<0.05), and IL-1 and TNF-α levels were much lower than those in group B (P<0.05). The amputation rate in group A was significantly lower than that in group B (P<0.05). Patients with amputation in both groups were enrolled in the study group (24 cases), and those without amputation were included in the control group (93 cases). The serum VEGF concentration in the study group before treatment was significantly lower than that in the control group (P<0.05), while IL-1 and TNF-α levels were significantly higher than those of the control group (P<0.05). In conclusion, pretreatment serum VEGF, IL-1 and TNF-α had a positive diagnostic value for poor prognosis of patients with amputation, and low concentration of VEGF and higher concentration of IL-1 and TNF-α are the risk factors for amputations in patients with TAO. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With no lysine kinase 4 (WNK4) is essential to activate the thiazide-sensitive NaCl cotransporter (NCC) along the distal convoluted tubule, an effect central to the phenotype of familial hyperkalemic hypertension. Although effects on potassium and sodium channels along the connecting and collecting tubules have also been documented, WNK4 is typically believed to have little role in modulating sodium chloride reabsorption along the thick ascending limb of the loop of Henle. Yet wnk4-/- mice (knockout mice lacking WNK4) do not demonstrate the hypocalciuria typical of pure distal convoluted tubule dysfunction. Here, we tested the hypothesis that WNK4 also modulates bumetanide- sensitive Na-K-2Cl cotransporter (NKCC2) function along the thick ascending limb. We confirmed that wnk4-/- mice are hypokalemic and waste sodium chloride, but are also normocalciuric. Results from Western blots suggested that the phosphorylated forms of both NCC and NKCC2 were in lower abundance in wnk4-/- mice than in controls. This finding was confirmed by immunofluorescence microscopy. Although the initial response to furosemide was similar in wnk4-/- mice and controls, the response was lower in the knockout mice when reabsorption along the distal convoluted tubule was inhibited. Using HEK293 cells, we showed that WNK4 increases the abundance of phosphorylated NKCC2. More supporting evidence that WNK4 may modulate NKCC2 emerges from a mouse model of WNK4-mediated familial hyperkalemic hypertension in which more phosphorylated NKCC2 is present than in controls. These data indicate that WNK4, in addition to modulating NCC, also modulates NKCC2, contributing to its physiological function in vivo. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The artciel presents a case study of a 34-year-old lactating woman with primary breast angiosarcoma (PBA) was died of rapid liver enlargement and metastasis followed by rupture of the liver after mastectomy. It mentions that she presented with a mass in left breast about 1.5 cm in size with mild tenderness, no redness or swelling in the surrounding tissue with the potential to increase in size.

Background & Aims Placement of an irradiation stent has been demonstrated to offer longer patency and survival than an uncovered self-expandable metallic stent (SEMS) in patients with unresectable malignant biliary obstruction (MBO). We aim to further assess the efficacy of an irradiation stent compared to an uncovered SEMS in those patients. Methods We performed a randomized, open-label trial of participants with unresectable MBO at 20 centers in China. A total of 328 participants were allocated in parallel to the irradiation stent group (ISG) or the uncovered SEMS group (USG). Endpoints included stent patency (primary), technical success, relief of jaundice, overall survival, and complications. Results The first quartile stent patency time (when 25% of the patients experienced stent restenosis) was 212 days for the ISG and 104 days for the USG. Irradiation stents were significantly associated with a decrease in the rate of stent restenosis (9% vs. 15% at 90 days; 16% vs. 27% at 180 days; 21% vs. 33% at 360 days; p  = 0.010). Patients in the ISG obtained longer survival time (median 202 days vs. 140 days; p  = 0.020). No significant results were observed in technical success rate (93% vs. 95%; p  = 0.499), relief of jaundice (85% vs. 80%; p  = 0.308), and the incidence of grade 3 and 4 complications (8.5% vs. 7.9%; p  = 0.841). Conclusions Insertion of irradiation stents instead of uncovered SEMS could improve patency and overall survival in patients with unresectable MBO. Lay summary For patients with unresectable malignant biliary obstruction (MBO), placement of a self-expandable metallic stent (SEMS) is a recommended palliative modality to relieve pruritus, cholangitis, pain, and jaundice. However, restenosis is a main pitfall after stent placement. Data from this first multicenter randomized controlled trial showed that insertion of an irradiation stent provided longer patency and better survival than a conventional metal stent. ClinicalTrials.gov ID: NCT02001779. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

First Appearance Datums (FADs) of selected, easily recognizable acritarch morphotypes are assessed to determine their potential contribution to correlation between Lower and Middle Ordovician stages and substage divisions along the Gondwanan margin (Perigondwana) and between Perigondwana and other palaeocontinents. The FADs for 19 genera, species and species groups are recorded throughout their biogeographical ranges. The taxa investigated fall into three groups. Some have FADs at about the same level throughout their biogeographical ranges and are useful for long‐distance and intercontinental correlation. Among these are Coryphidium, Dactylofusa velifera, Peteinosphaeridium and Rhopaliophora in the upper Tremadocian Stage; Arbusculidium filamentosum, Aureotesta clathrata simplex and Coryphidium bohemicum in the lower–middle Floian Stage; Dicrodiacrodium in the upper Floian Stage; Frankea in the Dapingian–lower Darriwilian stages; and Orthosphaeridium spp., with FADs in the Dapingian–lower Darriwilian stages of Perigondwanan regions and at about the same level in Baltica. Other taxa, however, have diachronous (or apparently diachronous) FADs, and this needs to be taken into account when using them for correlation. A second group of genera and species, comprising Striatotheca, the Veryhachium lairdii group and the V. trispinosum group, have a recurring pattern of FADs in the Tremadocian Stage on Avalonia and in South Gondwana and West Gondwana, but in the Floian Stage of South China and East Gondwana. The third group, consisting of Arkonia, Ampullula, Barakella, Dasydorus, Liliosphaeridium and Sacculidium, have FADs that are markedly diachronous throughout their biogeographical ranges, although the global FADs of Arkonia, Ampullula, Liliosphaeridium and Sacculidium are apparently in South China and/or East Gondwana. It is possible that diachronous FADs are only apparent and an artefact of sampling. Nevertheless, an alternative interpretation, suggested by recurring patterns, is that some as yet undetermined factor controlled a slower biogeographical spread over time, resulting in diachroneity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effects of different doses of folic acid and vitamin B12 on rabbits with deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and hyperhomocysteinemia were investigated. In total, 60 New Zealand rabbits were divided into untreated control, low-dose and high-dose groups. After inducing DVT, hemorheology and coagulation indexes were measured 3 and 10 days later. We found that both treatment groups performed better than the control group, and the high-dose performed better than the low-dose. Ten days after thrombosis, the levels of Hcy and D-dimer were lower in the high-dose group. Moreover, the changes of lower extremity deep venous thrombosis were significantly reduced in both high- and low-dose groups, but the high-dose group showed the most improvement. The effective rate of the high-dose group was 100%, higher than the rate in the low-dose and control groups. Overall, high-dose of folic acid and vitamin B12 can significantly improve plasma Hcy, coagulation indexes, and pathological changes in the venous thrombosis of the lower extremity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aggregated lymphoid nodules area (ALNA) in the abomasum is a special organized lymphoid tissue discovered only in Bactrian camels at present. This study aimed to explore the impact of aging on distribution of IgA + and IgG + cells in ALNA in abomasum of Bactrian camels. Twenty-four Alashan Bactrian camels were divided into the following four age groups: young (1–2 years), pubertal (3–5 years), middle-aged (6–16 years) and old (17–20 years). IgA + and IgG + cells in the lamina propria of ALNA were observed and analyzed using immunohistochemical and statistical techniques. The results showed that, in ALNA, the distribution of IgA + and IgG + cells were diffuse, and only a few were in subepithelium dome (SED) and most of them in non-SED. Meanwhile, there were significantly more IgA + cells than IgG + cells in SED from the young to the middle aged group, but which reversed in old group ( P < 0.05). However, the aging significantly decreased the densities of IgA + and IgG + cells populations in non-SED ( P < 0.05); in SED, there were no significant differences between the densities of IgA + and IgG + cells, but which were both significantly lower in old group than those in young group ( P < 0.05). The results demonstrated that, in mucosal effector sites, the aging significantly decreased the densities of IgA + and IgG + cells populations and impacted on the defense barriers formed by IgA and IgG, but had no impact on the scattered characteristics. In inductive sites, the aging dramatically declined their densities, and they should have close relationships with immune memory. These findings lay the foundation for further researching the mucosal immune disorder or decline caused by aging, and especially underscore the importance of researching the impact of aging on the relationship between IgA + and IgG + cells populations and the microbiota colonized in abomasum of Bactrian camels. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The day/night band (DNB) of the Visible Infrared Imaging Radiometer Suite (VIIRS) on board Suomi National Polar-orbiting Partnership (Suomi-NPP) represents a major advancement in night-time imaging capabilities. However, the DNB is sensitive to noise introduced from straylight, which appears as a grey haze in radiance images. This effect on the DNB is caused by solar illumination entering the optical path when the satellite passes through the day-night terminator projected on the Earth's surface. It results in an overall increase in the recorded radiance values. This effect is more significant during solstice. Straylight correction techniques have been implemented to remove this unwanted effect. This study presents an effective method to assess straylight correction performance for VIIRS DNB using DNB observations over Dome C in the Antarctic and Greenland under lunar illumination. Nadir observations of these high-latitude regions by VIIRS are selected during the perpetual night season over various lunar phases. Through cross-comparison between the lunar-phase dependence of DNB observations of events with straylight correction and those without straylight, the quality of straylight correction can be assessed. Using this method, DNB radiance data from two different sources, i.e. the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Operational Interface and Data Processing Segment (IDPS) and the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) Land Product Evaluation and Algorithm Test Element (PEATE), were compared for their performance in straylight correction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]