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To study the viscosity coefficient and thickness of the viscous layer on the Tibetan Plateau, the relationship between the change in viscosity coefficient and thickness of a lower crustal flow and the change in elevation has been investigated based on the principle of a pipeline flow with different viscosity and thickness of terrain elevation. The viscosity and thickness of the lower crustal flow in different directions were determined based on the changes in the terrain along different directions on the Tibetan Plateau. The following results were obtained: (1) The greater the viscosity and the smaller the thickness of the lower crustal conduit flow, the steeper the ground elevation change formed; (2) The maximum viscosity coefficient in the region from India to the Kunlun Mountains in the southern Tibetan Plateau through the Himalayan boundary is approximately 1020Pas, and the thickness of the conduit flow is approximately 25 km. (3) The maximum value of the viscosity coefficient of the lower crustal flow in the region ranging from the Tibetan Plateau to the Qinghai- Gansu section is attained when the flow thickness in this region approaches 40 km (4) The maximum value of the viscosity coefficient of the lower crustal flow in the region ranging from the Tibetan Plateau to the Qinghai- Gansu section is attained when the flow thickness in this region approaches 40 km., which does not substantially differ from that of the region ranging from the Tibetan Plateau to the Qinghai-Gansu area. (5) The maximum viscosity coefficient of the lower crustal flow from the southeast of the Tibetan Plateau to Yunnan is approximately 1018Pas, and the thickness is approximately 32 km, which differs from the flow thickness in the Sichuan Basin and Qinghai-Gansu regions. The results show variations in the viscosity of the flow along different directions on the Tibetan Plateau, in addition to considerable variation in the thickness of the lower crustal channel flow from region to region, with the overall characteristics of thinness in the west and thickness in the east. The results of the four profiles reveal that the channel flow thickness is the steepest at the southwest border of the Tibetan Plateau with India. This paper presents a reasonable interpretation of the geomorphology of the Tibetan Plateau using different thickness and viscosity coefficients of the lower crustal channel flow model. In this paper, a possible mechanism for the formation of the Tibetan Plateau topography is explained using a horizontal pipe flow for four profiles of the Tibetan Plateau. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Based on the structure related to the high-temperature superconductor yttrium-barium-copper oxide, two novel high-efficiency visible light photocatalysts were created in this study. The yttrium-barium oxide (YBO) semiconductors Y 2 Ba 3 O 6 (YB3O) and Y 2 Ba 4 O 7 (YB4O) were prepared by a copper-free solid-phase sintering method. They were applied for the effective treatment of dye-containing wastewater by photocatalysis under visible light irradiation. The degradation efficiency of methylene blue (MB) reached more than 95% within 10 min. Stable visible light degradation of methyl orange (MO) was achieved in the presence of YB3O and YB4O. The electron spin resonance technique and active substance capture technique confirmed the presence of superoxide radicals (·O 2 −), hydroxyl radicals (·OH) and holes (h VB +) under visible light illumination. UV–Vis diffuse reflectance spectroscopy analysis showed that the direct optical band gaps of YB3O and YB4O were 2.550 eV and 2.583 eV, respectively, which resulted in their high visible absorption at 486.27 nm and 480.06 nm. After five cycles, the recoveries of YB3O and YB4O reached 67.15% and 72.98%. Therefore, YB3O and YB4O are considered as powerful semiconductor catalysts for the photocatalytic degradation of organic dyes in wastewater. • Synthesis of yttrium -barium oxide (YBO) visible light catalyst. • Y 2 Ba 3 O 6 (YB3O) and Y 2 Ba 4 O 7 (YB4O) show a forbidden band width of 2.550 eV and 2.583 eV respectively. • The effective degradation of methylene blue was achieved within 10 min under visible light. • The mineralization of the total organic carbon in the degraded solutions of both dyes reached close to 80%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• The soluble product of LiDFOB hinder salt decomposition. • EQCM and in situ EIS analysis revealed three stages of diffusion of soluble products. • The standing process improved the quality of the SEI membrane significantly. The challenge of improving low-temperature performance in lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) is attributed to the formation of an unstable solid electrolyte interphase (SEI) film. Lithium difluoro(oxalate)borate (LiODFB) has demonstrated potential in enhancing capacity retention and reducing impedance at low temperatures by establishing a high ion conductivity and stable SEI layer. Previous research indicates that the BOF2− anion, a soluble product of film formation additive of LiODFB hinder salt decomposition by aggregating on the electrode surface. This study presents a strategy to intensify the film formation process of LiODFB additives by introducing an optimal standing time during intermittent discharge processes. Three specific stages of soluble product diffusion are discussed. Diffusion starts from the outer layer of adsorption composed of soluble substances, gradually extends to the inner layer of adsorption, and finally establishes a new connection with the electrode. A brief standing time proves insufficient for inner adsorption layer diffusion, while excessively extended standing time fails to accelerate LiODFB decomposition. A standing time of 2300 s is selected to promote a stable SEI layer. This strategy elevates the capacity retention rate of cells at –20 °C from 66.59 % to 84.44 %. The study offers a method to address battery performance degradation in low-temperature conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

At present, the global concern about food safety and environmental pollution is increasing day by day. Reducing the use of toxic and harmful additives such as antibiotics, hormones, and chemicals in livestock and poultry feed, developing green, safe, efficient, and low-residue additives, ensuring consumers' health, and improving the ecological environment are the focus of animal husbandry at present. Flavonoids are secondary metabolites of plants, which widely exist in bark, root, stem, leaf, fruit, and seeds of plants. They have many biological activities such as anti-inflammation, anti-oxidation, reducing oxidative stress, protecting intestinal mucosa, improving intestinal flora structure, promoting growth, and regulating immunity, etc. They can improve animal production performance and product quality, and have potential development value to enhance the economic benefits of farms. In this paper, the role of flavonoids and their application in livestock and poultry breeding were reviewed, and the application research progress of flavonoids in calves and adult cattle was emphasized, to provide a reference for its rational application in cattle production at different growth stages. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Anguillid herpesvirus 1 (AngHV), the causative agent of "mucus sloughing and hemorrhagic septicemia disease", causes serious infectious diseases in farmed eel. Among the effective prevention and control strategies, vaccination is one of the most effective approaches. However, no vaccine for AngHV is available. Our study developed a formalin-inactivated AngHV vaccine and evaluated its performance in American eels. Initially, AngHV-FJ, a strain of AngHV, was inactivated completely by 0.1 % formaldehyde, mixed with adjuvant Montanide ISA 763 A VG (763A). Then, vaccines containing different amount of antigen (3 × 106 PFU, 3 × 105 PFU, 3 × 104 PFU, 3 × 103 PFU) were immunized in each American eels. The results showed that the 3 × 105 PFU/fish was the proper dose. The inactivated AngHV vaccine was proven safe for American eels by back intramuscular injection. The results of twice immunization showed that antibody production peaked in the 8th week after the first immunization, and the antibody titer was 1:64,000. Furthermore, the immunized fishes challenged with AngHV (105 PFU/ml immersion) showed a significantly lower incidence rate (33.33 %) than the control group (95.65 %). The survival of the fish in the vaccine group (94.44 %) was significantly higher than the control group (60.87 %). The relative survival rate of the vaccinated group was 85.80 %. Also, vaccine group tissue collected at 7th d post-challenge showed reduced tissue damage and a lower virus load than the control group. The expression of cytokines of IL-1β , IFN-α , IFN-γ , Mx1 , RIG-1 , and IRF-3 , were significantly lower in the vaccine group than the control group at the 7th and 14th d post-challenge. Overall, the formalin-inactivated AngHV vaccine was safe and had immune protective effects against AngHV infection. • Adjuvant Montanide ISA 763 A VG AngHV vaccine is safe for eel. • Twice immunization gain peak antibody production at 8th week post immunization with highest antibody titer of 1:64,000. • Inactivated AngHV vaccine provide significant immune protection against AngHV infection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Being a zoonotic parasitic disease, schistosomiasis was widely spread in 12 provinces of Southern China in the 1950s, severly harming human health and hindering economic development. The National Institute of Parasitic Diseases at the Chinese Center for Diseases Control and Prevention, and Chinese Center for Tropical Diseases Research (NIPD-CTDR), as the only professional institution focussing on parasitic diseases at the national level, has played an important role in schistosomiasis control in the country. In this article, we look back at the changes of schistosomiasis endemicity and the contribution of NIPD-CTDR to the national schistosomiasis control programme. We review NIPD-CTDR's activities, including field investigations, design of control strategies and measures, development of diagnostics and drugs, surveillance-response of endemic situation, and monitoring & evaluation of the programme. The NIPD-CTDR has mastered the transmission status of schistosomiasis, mapped the snail distribution, and explored strategies and measures suitable for different types of endemic areas in China. With a good understanding of the life cycle of Schistosoma japonicum and transmission patterns of the disease, advanced research carried out in the NIPD-CTDR based on genomics and modern technology has made it possible to explore highly efficient and soft therapeutic drugs and molluscicides, making it possible to develop new diagnostic tools and produce vaccine candidates. In the field, epidemiological studies, updated strategies and targeted intervention measures developed by scientists from the NIPD-CTDR have contributed significantly to the national schistosomiasis control programme. This all adds up to a strong foundation for eliminating schistosomiasis in China in the near future, and recommendations have been put forward how to reach this goal. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Boroxol (B3O3) rings and relevant hexagonal B3S3 structural blocks are ubiquitous in boron oxide/sulfide glasses, crystals, and high‐temperature liquids. However, the isolation of an ultimate heterocyclic B3O3 or B3S3 cluster in the free‐standing form, with as few as six atoms, has been unsuccessful so far. We report on computational design of the simplest case of such a system: the highly symmetric D3h B3S3+ (1A1′) cluster. It is the well‐defined global minimum on the potential energy surface, following global searches and electronic structure calculations at the B3LYP and single‐point CCSD(T) levels. Chemical bonding analysis reveals an ideal system with skeleton Lewis BS σ single bonds and unique double 6π/2σ aromaticity, which underlies its stability. The cluster turns out to be an inorganic analog of the 3,5‐dehydrophenyl cation, a typical double π/σ aromatic system. It offers an example for chemical analogy between boron‐based heterocyclic clusters and aromatic hydrocarbons. Double π/σ aromaticity is also a new concept in heterocyclic boron clusters. Previous systems such as borazine, boroxine, and boronyl boroxine only deal with π aromaticity as in benzene. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mechanical ventilation (MV) is a major life support technique for the management of trauma-associated hemorrhagic shock (HS). Ventilator-induced diaphragm dysfunction (VIDD), one of the most common complications of MV, has been well demonstrated in animal and human studies. However, few data are available concerning the effects of MV on diaphragm function in HS victims. In the present study, we found diaphragm muscle atrophy and weakness in HS but not in healthy animals after 4 hours of MV. The inhibition of autophagy resulted in reduced muscle fiber atrophy and improved forces. In addition, we observed diaphragmatic interleukin- (IL-) 6 overexpression and activation of its downstream signaling JAK/STAT in HS animals after MV, and either the neutralization of IL-6 or the inhibition of the JAK/STAT pathway attenuated autophagy, diaphragm atrophy, and weakness. Importantly, treatment with nonselective antioxidant exerted no protective effects against VIDD in HS animals. In addition, in vitro study showed that exogenous IL-6 was able to induce activation of JAK/STAT signaling and to increase autophagy in C2C12 cells. Moreover, the inhibition of JAK/STAT signaling abolished IL-6-induced cell autophagy. Together, our results suggested that HS sensitized the diaphragm to ventilator-induced atrophy and weakness through the activation of IL-6/JAK/STAT signaling-mediated autophagy in rats. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

World Bank Loan Project (WBLP) for schistosomiasis control conducted from 1992 to 2001, resulted in significant reduction of schistosomiasis morbidity and mortality in People's Republic of China (P.R. China), with implementation of morbidity control. Thereafter, an integrated control strategy, which targeted blocking disease transmission from reservoir hosts to the environment, was initiated in order to conquer schistosomiasis rebound after WBLP completion. Data obtained from the national schistosomiasis control reporting systems was collected and analyzed. The number of confirmed cases and infected cattle decreased significantly from 2002 to 2017, while no infected snails were found by dissection for four consecutive years. However, lake and marshland regions and some parts areas of Yunnan Province require attention for rigorous schistosomiasis control efforts. There is need to strengthen precise interventions and sensitive surveillance to achieve schistosomiasis elimination in P.R. China. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We investigated the molecular characteristics and antimicrobial susceptibility of Clostridium difficile isolated from animals in China. We obtained 538 rectal swabs from pigs, chickens and ducks in 5 provinces during 2015 and 2016. C. difficile isolates were characterized by detection of toxin genes, multilocus sequence typing and ribotyping. And antimicrobial susceptibility testing was performed using the agar dilution method. Out of 538 samples, 44 (8.2%) were C. difficile positive with high prevalence in pigs (n = 31). Among these, 39 (88.6%) were toxigenic including 14 (31.8%) that were A+B+CDT+ and 13 (29.5%) A+B+. The remaining 12 (27.3%) were A-B+. We identified 7 ST types and 6 PCR ribotypes. The most predominant type was ST11/RT078 with toxin profile A+B+CDT+ and all were isolated from piglets with diarrhea. ST109 isolates possessed two different toxigenic profiles (A-B-CDT- and A-B+CDT-) and although it was not the most prevalent sequence type, but it was widely distributed between chickens, ducks and pigs in the 5 provinces. All C. difficile isolates were fully susceptible to vancomycin, metronidazole, fidaxomicin, amoxicillin/clavulanate and meropenem but retained resistance to 4 or 5 of the remaining antibiotics, especially cefotaxime, tetracycline, ciprofloxacin, cefoxitin. The RT078/ST11 isolates were simultaneously resistant to cefotaxime, tetracycline, cefoxitin, ciprofloxacin and imipenem. This is the first report of the molecular epidemiology of C. difficile isolated from food animals in China. We identified the epidemic strain RT078/ST11 as the predominate isolate among the animals we screened in our study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To investigate the protein expression of visfatin and its gene polymorphism in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients. Methods: The plasma level of visfatin was detected by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, and the genotypes rs59744560, rs9770242, and rs61330082 in the visfatin gene were detected by gene sequencing. Result: This study revealed that plasma levels of visfatin in NSCLC patients were significantly higher than the levels in healthy people (p < 0.01). The high level of plasma visfatin was found to be significantly correlated with TNM stage (p < 0.05). No mutations were detected in rs59744560 and rs9770242 loci. Three genotypes (CC, CT, and TT) were detected in rs61330082 locus, and the differences in the frequency distribution of these genotypes were significant in the two groups (p < 0.05). Central obesity and the CC genotype were independent risk factors in the pathogenesis of NSCLC (p < 0.05). Conclusion: The plasma visfatin level in NSCLC patients significantly increased, and high plasma visfatin levels were correlated with tumor stage. Gene polymorphism was found in the visfatin gene rs61330082 locus. The CC genotype might increase the risk for patients suffering from NSCLC, while the CT genotype, TT genotype, and T allele may reduce the risk of NSCLC. The rs61330082 locus can be used as genetic markers of high-risk populations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: MicroRNAs (miRNAs) have been reported to circulate in the blood in a highly stable and cell‐free form. Dysregulated expression of miRNAs has been detected in various pathological conditions including atopic dermatitis. In our study, human blood plasma miRNAs were identified by high‐throughput sequencing and compared among patients of atopic dermatitis and healthy controls. We found that miR‐151a was differentially expressed in the plasma of atopic dermatitis patients. MiR‐151a regulates the expression of IL12RB2 by targeting two loci in the 3′ untranslated region of the Il12rb2 gene. Moreover, IL12RB2 was remarkably downregulated in Jurkat cells overexpressing miR‐151a. Jurkat cells treated with phytohemagglutinin also showed reduced expression of IFN‐γ, interleukin‐2 (IL‐2) and IL‐12. Together, these results suggest that miR‐151a is involved in the pathogenesis of atopic dermatitis by regulating IL12RB2. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lygus pratensis (L.) is an important cotton pest in China, especially in the northwest region. Nymphs and adults cause serious quality and yield losses. However, the genetic structure and geographic distribution of L. pratensis is not well known. We analyzed genetic diversity, geographical structure, gene flow, and population dynamics of L. pratensis in northwest China using mitochondrial and nuclear sequence datasets to study phylogeographical patterns and demographic history. L. pratensis (n = 286) were collected at sites across an area spanning 2,180,000 km2, including the Xinjiang and Gansu-Ningxia regions. Populations in the two regions could be distinguished based on mitochondrial criteria but the overall genetic structure was weak. The nuclear dataset revealed a lack of diagnostic genetic structure across sample areas. Phylogenetic analysis indicated a lack of population level monophyly that may have been caused by incomplete lineage sorting. The Mantel test showed a significant correlation between genetic and geographic distances among the populations based on the mtDNA data. However the nuclear dataset did not show significant correlation. A high level of gene flow among populations was indicated by migration analysis; human activities may have also facilitated insect movement. The availability of irrigation water and ample cotton hosts makes the Xinjiang region well suited for L. pratensis reproduction. Bayesian skyline plot analysis, star-shaped network, and neutrality tests all indicated that L. pratensis has experienced recent population expansion. Climatic changes and extensive areas occupied by host plants have led to population expansion of L. pratensis. In conclusion, the present distribution and phylogeographic pattern of L. pratensis was influenced by climate, human activities, and availability of plant hosts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To investigate the predictive value of noncontrast computed tomography (NCCT) models based on radiomics features and machine learning for early perihematomal edema (PHE) expansion in patients with spontaneous intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH). We retrospectively reviewed NCCT data from 214 patients with spontaneous ICH. All radiomics features were extracted from volume of interest of hematomas on admission scans. A total of 8 machine learning methods were applied for constructing models in the training and the test set. Receiver operating characteristic analysis and the areas under the curve were used to evaluate the predictive value. A total of 23 features were finally selected to establish models of early PHE expansion after feature screening. Patients were randomly assigned into training (n = 171) and test (n = 43) sets. The accuracy, sensitivity, and specificity in the test set were 72.1%, 90.0%, and 66.7% for the support vector machine model; 79.1%, 70.0%, and 84.4% for the k-nearest neighbor model; 88.4%, 90.0%, and 87.9% for the logistic regression model; 74.4%, 90.0%, and 69.7% for the extra tree model; 74.4%, 90.0%, and 69.7% for the extreme gradient boosting model; 83.7%, 100%, and 78.8% for the multilayer perceptron (MLP) model; 72.1%, 100%, and 65.6% for the light gradient boosting machine model; and 60.5%, 90.0%, and 53.1% for the random forest model, respectively. The MLP model seemed to be the best model for prediction of PHE expansion in patients with ICH. NCCT models based on radiomics features and machine learning could predict early PHE expansion and improve the discrimination of identify spontaneous intracerebral hemorrhage patients at risk of early PHE expansion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Helicosporous hyphomycetes is a group of filamentous fungi that shows promising application prospects in metabolizing bioactive natural compounds. During a study of helicosporous fungi in China, six new helicosporous taxa were collected and isolated from decaying wood in Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, China. Morphological comparisons with multi-gene phylogenetic analyses revealed that these six taxa belong to Helicosporium (Tubeufiaceae, Tubeufiales), and they were recognized as three novel species and were named Helicosporium liuzhouense, H. multidentatum, and H. nanningense. Detailed descriptions and illustrations of the newly discovered taxa and comparisons with similar fungi are provided. In addition, a list and a key to accepted Helicosporium species are provided. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Two novel yttrium-barium oxide photocatalysts, YBO, were discovered based on YBCO. • The energy band, density of states and charge density difference of YB3O and YB4O were analyzed and compared. • Electron spin polarization enables efficient separation of photogenerated carriers generated by YBO. • YB3O and YB4O had good semiconductor properties and photocatalytic potentials. Novel semiconductor photocatalysts are currently a hot research topic. We are inspired by the phenomenon that high-temperature superconductors can achieve superconductivity only under certain conditions (e.g., liquid nitrogen temperature). Here, based on the analysis of the energy band structure of the high-temperature superconductor YBCO (YBa 2 Cu 3 O 7-x , YBCO), two new yttrium barium oxide (YBO) semiconductor materials, Y 2 Ba 3 O 6 (YB3O) and Y 2 Ba 4 O 7 (YB4O), are reported in this study. According to first-principles calculations, we find that YB4O and YB3O have stable formation energies, as well as forbidden band gaps, which are suitable for the visible light response. In addition, YB4O possesses a larger effective mass difference of carrier and stronger electron delocalization in various directions than that of YB3O, while YB3O possesses a larger light absorption threshold than that of YB4O. These two innovative yttrium-barium oxide materials show strong semiconducting properties and have great potential as photocatalysts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Extranodal natural killer (NK)/T-cell lymphoma is an aggressive lymphoid tumor. Optimal treatment strategies have not yet been fully defined. To explore a more effective treatment, we conducted sequential chemoradiotherapy (SCRT) and evaluated the safety and efficacy. Seventy-eight patients (51 males, 27 females) were analyzed. The complete response (CR) rate was higher for patients in the SCRT group (90.9%) than in the radiotherapy group (77.8%;p = 0.124). The relapse rate (RR) and death rate (DR) were lower in the SCRT group (RR: 6.7% vs 33.3%,p < 0.001; DR: 15.2% vs. 55.6%,p < 0.001). Progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) rates of 5 years after diagnosis were significantly higher for patients in the SCRT group (PFS: 89%; OS: 82%) than in the radiotherapy group (PFS: 49%,p <0.001; OS: 49%,p < 0.001). Treatment-related adverse events were more common in the SCRT group. However, the adverse events were controlled. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, we present a wavelet-based contourlet transform (WBCT) method to adaptive optics (AO) image denoising. This method is implemented through combining with BayesShrink theory to estimate the threshold and then improving the adaptive method of selecting threshold, finally obtaining the optimal threshold. The WBCT transform coefficients of different decomposition scales and different direction to select the adaptive optimal threshold to achieve denoising. We evaluate our algorithm using the DWT-NABayesShrink algorithm, DTCWT-BayesShrink algorithm and CbATD algorithm as a benchmark. Using simulated and real observed AO images, we show that our approach with WBCT algorithm exhibits better performance both in peak signal-to-noise ratio (PSNR) and visual quality, which opens up many perspectives for AO image denoising in the astronautics field. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The spin Hamiltonian parameters ( g factors g // , g ⊥ , hyperfine structure constants A // , A ⊥ and superhyperfine parameters A z ′ , A x ′ and A y ′ ) and defect structures for Ag 2+ in NaF and CsCdF 3 crystals are theoretically studied using the improved perturbation formulas of these quantities for a 4d 9 ion in a tetragonally elongated octahedron. The contributions from both the crystal-field and charge transfer mechanisms are taken into account, and the relevant model parameters are quantitatively obtained from the cluster approach in a consistent way. The impurity centers are found to undergo the relative tetragonal elongations of about 9.4% and 8.2% for Ag 2+ in NaF and CsCdF 3 , respectively, along the C 4 axis due to the Jahn–Teller effect. By employing the few adjustable parameters, the calculated spin Hamiltonian parameters based on the above uniform formulas and the local tetragonal elongation distortions agree well with the experimental data. Despite dominant ionicity of the hosts, the charge transfer contributions are actually important to the spin Hamiltonian parameters (e.g., about 20% for the g -shifts) due to strong covalency of impurity Ag 2+ . [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are cell-derived membrane-enclosed structures that deliver biomolecules for intercellular communication. Developing visualization methods to elucidate the spatiotemporal dynamics of EVs' behaviors will facilitate their understanding and translation. With a quantum dot (QD) labeling strategy, a single particle tracking (SPT) platform is proposed here for dissecting the dynamic behaviors of EVs. The interplays between tumor cell-derived small EVs (T-sEVs) and endothelial cells (ECs) are specifically investigated based on this platform. It is revealed that, following a clathrin-mediated endocytosis by ECs, T-sEVs are transported to the perinuclear region in a typical three-stage pattern. Importantly, T-sEVs frequently interact with and finally enter lysosomes, followed by quick release of their carried miRNAs. This study, for the first time, reports the entire process and detailed dynamics ofT-sEV transportation and cargo-release in ECs, leading to better understanding of their proangiogenic functions. Additionally, the QD-based SPT technique will help uncover more secrets of sEV-mediated cell-cell communication. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To promote the reform of biochemistry teaching mode by using the virtual network laboratory based on the biochemical experiment teaching, the virtual network laboratory was constructed by the network and computer technology. The biochemistry teaching mode was promoted diversity. The virtual network laboratory could improve the standards of the laboratory, enrich the experimental teaching means, improve the teaching quality, cultivate the students' practical ability, and scientific research interest. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Evacuation in an emergency is a complex behavior. When evacuation individuals are intelligent agents, an intelligent decision-making model is necessary to describe such a behavior. This paper elaborates how a modular model based on cellular automation is constructed with the advantages of information expression of cellular automation and behavioral expression of robots. The description of evacuation is realized through the assembly of such modules as evacuation time model, direction selection model and passage attraction model. When the model is used for describing the evacuation process of a hypermarket, the analog simulation and the data analysis show that it is effective in the descriptions of individual and group evacuations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Twenty-one highly variable microsatellite loci were used to investigate the genetic diversity and variation of Odontobutis potamophila in China. A total of 160 samples from five wild populations (Dangtu, Sheyang, Yuyao, Minjiang and Donxishan) were genotyped. All of the 21 microsatellite loci tested in this study showed polymorphism. The number of allele per locus ranged from 5.05 to 9.90. Locus 87a of Minjiang population had a 259-bp characteristic allele. The average observed heterozygosity and expected heterozygosity ranged from 0.33 to 0.62 and from 0.40 to 0.70, respectively. The pair-wise F ST tests and NJ trees of the five O. potamophlia populations revealed that Dangtu, Sheyang, Yuyao and Dongxishan were genetically close to one another and distinct from Minjiang. Far genetic distances were observed among populations from distant geographical areas. This result provided guide for the use of O . potamophila breeds and the protection of the species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To improve the effect of adaptive optics image restoration, a deconvolution algorithm based on the improved expectation-maximization (EM) algorithm is proposed according to the EM theory. A mathematical model for degenerating the multi-frame adaptive optics images is built. The point spread function (PSF) model changed over time based on phase error is deduced. The AO images are de-noised using the image power spectrum density and the support constraints. The EM algorithm is improved by combining the AO imaging system parameters and regularization technique. A cost function for the joint-deconvolution of multi-frame AO images is given, and an optimization model for their parameter estimation is built. The image-restoration experiments of the analog images and the real AO images are performed to verify the image restoration effect of the proprosed algorithm. The experimental results show that, compared with the Wiener-IBD or RL-IBD algorithm, the iterations of the proposed algorithm is decreased by 14. 3%, and its estimation accuracy is significantly improved. The model distinguishes PSFs of the AO images and recovers the observed target images clearly. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To examine the maturational changes in proteomic polymorphisms resulting from differential expression by multiple intrinsic fungi in the caterpillar body and stroma of natural Cordyceps sinensis (Cs), an integrated micro-ecosystem. Methods: The surface-enhanced laser desorption/ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry (SELDI-TOF MS) biochip technique was used to profile the altered protein compositions in the caterpillar body and stroma of Cs during its maturation. The MS chromatograms were analyzed using density-weighted algorithms to examine the similarities and cluster relationships among the proteomic polymorphisms of the Cs compartments and the mycelial products Hirsutella sinensis (Hs) and Paecilomyces hepiali (Ph). Results: SELDI-TOF MS chromatograms displayed dynamic proteomic polymorphism alterations among samples from the different Cs compartments during maturation. More than 1,900 protein bands were analyzed using density-weighted ZUNIX similarity equations and clustering methods, revealing integral polymorphism similarities of 57.4% between the premature and mature stromata and 42.8% between the premature and mature caterpillar bodies. The across-compartment similarity was low, ranging from 10.0% to 18.4%. Consequently, each Cs compartment (i.e., the stroma and caterpillar body) formed a clustering clade, and the 2 clades formed a Cs cluster. The polymorphic similarities ranged from 0.51% to 1.04% between Hs and the Cs compartments and were 2.8- to 4.8-fold higher (1.92%–4.34%) between Ph and the Cs compartments. The Hs and Ph mycelial samples formed isolated clades outside of the Cs cluster. Conclusion: Proteomic polymorphisms in the caterpillar body and stroma of Cs change dynamically during maturation. The proteomic polymorphisms in Hs and Ph differ from those in Cs, suggesting the presence of multiple Cs-associated fungi and multiple Ophiocordyceps sinensis genotypes with altered differential protein expression in the Cs compartments during maturation. In conjunction with prior mycological and molecular observations, the findings from this proteomic study support the integrated micro-ecosystem hypothesis for natural Cs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Diabetic individuals with diabetic cardiomyopathy (DbCM) present with abnormal myocardial structure and function. DbCM cannot be accurately diagnosed due to the lack of suitable diagnostic biomarkers. In this study, 171 eligible participants were divided into a healthy control (HC), type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) patients without DbCM (T2DM), or DbCM group. Serum fibrinogen-like protein 1 (FGL-1) and other biochemical parameters were determined for all participants. Serum FGL-1 levels were significantly higher in patients with DbCM compared with those in the T2DM group and HCs. Serum FGL-1 levels were negatively correlated with left ventricular fractional shortening and left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) and positively correlated with left ventricular mass index in patients with DbCM after adjusting for age, sex and body mass index. Interaction of serum FGL-1 and triglyceride levels on LVEF was noted in patients with DbCM. A composite marker including serum FGL-1 and triglycerides could differentiate patients with DbCM from those with T2DM and HCs with an area under the curve of 0.773 and 0.789, respectively. Composite marker levels were negatively correlated with N-terminal B-type natriuretic peptide levels in patients with DbCM. Circulating FGL-1 may therefore be a valuable index reflecting cardiac functions in DbCM and to diagnose DbCM. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Neohelicomyces species are a group of helicosporous hyphomycetes with the potential to produce secondary metabolites. During our investigation of helicosporous fungi, six collections were isolated from both terrestrial and freshwater habitats in Guizhou Province, China. Based on multigene phylogenetic analysis (ITS, LSU, tef1α and rpb2), coupled with morphological data, three new Neohelicomyces species, viz. N. guizhouensis, N. helicosporus and N. hydei were established. A list of accepted Neohelicomyces species with molecular data was provided. The strain of Neohelicomyces pallidus (UAMH 10535) was synonymised under N. denticulatus based on molecular data. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Gastric cancer is one of the most common cancers in the world. MAC30/Transmembrane protein 97 (TMEM97) is aberrantly up-regulated in many human carcinoma cells. However, the function of MAC30 in gastric carcinoma cells is not studied. Material and Methods: To investigate the function of MAC30 in gastric carcinoma, we used RNA silencing technology to knock down the expression of MAC30 in gastric cancer cells BGC-823 and AGS. Real-time quantitative PCR and Western blot were used to analyze the mRNA level and the related protein expression. The localization of MAC30 and lamellipodia was observed by immunofluorescence. The biological phenotypes of gastric cells were examined by cell proliferation assay, cell cycle analysis, apoptosis assay, cell migration and invasion assay. Results: We found that down-regulation of MAC30 expression efficiently inhibited the proliferation of gastric cancer cells. Furthermore, the mobility of gastric cancer cells was also inhibited by down-regulation of MAC30. Moreover, we found that MAC30 knockdown inhibited AKT phosphorylation and reduced the expression of cyclinB1 and WAVE2. Conclusion: To our knowledge, this is the first report investigating the effect of MAC30 on growth, cell cycle, migration, and invasion in gastric carcinoma cells via suppressing AKT signaling pathway. MAC30 may be a potential therapeutic target for treatment of gastric carcinoma. © 2014 S. Karger AG, Basel [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRACT A dual-band bandpass filter using split-ring resonators (SRRs) and defected ground structure (DGS) with constant absolute bandwidth is proposed in this article. The inner and outer SRRs are operated for respective passband. DGS is etched on the ground, which can control the coupling coefficient of the filter to maintain constant absolute bandwidth. Finally, such kind of filter with compact size and high selectivity characteristics are designed and fabricated. The simulation and measurement results are basically in good agreement. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 56:715-718, 2014 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With the abuse of antibiotics and azoles, drug-resistant Candida albicans infections have increased sharply and are spreading rapidly, thereby significantly reducing the antifungal efficacy of existing therapeutics. Several patients die of fungal infections every year. Therefore, there is an urgent requirement to develop new drugs. Accordingly, we synthesized a series of polypyridyl ruthenium (II) complexes having the formula [Ru (N N) 2 (bpm)] (PF 6) 2 (N- N = 2,2′-bipyridine) (bpy, in Ru1), 1,10-phenanthroline (phen, in Ru2), 4,7-diphenyl-1,10-phenanthroline (DIP, in Ru3) (bpm = 2,2′-bipyrimidine) and studied their antifungal activities. Ru3 alone had no effect on the drug-resistant strains, but Ru3 combined with fluconazole (FLC) exhibited significant antifungal activity on drug-resistant strains. A high-dose combination of Ru3 and FLC exhibited direct fungicidal activity by promoting the accumulation of reactive oxygen species and damaging the cellular structure of C. albicans. Additionally, the combination of Ru3 and FLC demonstrated potent antifungal efficacy in vivo in a mouse model of invasive candidiasis. Moreover, the combination significantly improved the survival state of mice, restored their immune systems, and reduced renal injury. These findings could provide ideas for the development of ruthenium (II) complexes as novel antifungal agents for drug-resistant microbial stains. [Display omitted] • Based on the rapid increase of drug resistance of Candida albicans , it is urgent to develop new drug treatment programs. In order to meet the demand, we synthesized a series of polypyridyl ruthenium(II) complexes. • The combination of ruthenium (II) polypyridine complex Ru3 and fluconazole is helpful to treat invasive infection of Candida albicans and improve renal injury. • The combination of ruthenium (II) polypyridine complex RU3 and fluconazole can directly kill drug-resistant Candida albicans. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In an exchange-bias system, the barriers with intrinsic potential energy may be asymmetric due to unidirectional anisotropy. Based on the Stoner--Wohlfarth model, we show that the asymmetric barriers may lead to four kinds of dynamical process underlying the hysteresis-loop measurement. These kinds of dynamical processes are different in a topology-like property, which can be controlled by the orientation of the external field. In our study, a new analysis approach has been proposed to reveal the dynamical behaviors of magnetization reversal. With this approach, coercivity, exchange-bias field, and asymmetry of hysteresis loops can be quantitatively obtained. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: A Nafion membrane with enhanced performance has been prepared by using a novel casting solution containing low-polarity nonsolvent tetrachloroethylene (TCE). TCE induces self-organization of the ionomer and turns the originally transparent Nafion in dimethylformamide (DMF) solution into opaque. The Nafion membrane cast from such opaque solution remains mechanically robust and shows a proton conductivity of 0.07 S cm−1 at room temperature, and 0.21 S cm−1 at 80 °C under saturated humidity, which is an increase of 62% and 103% respectively over the membrane without TCE involvement. Besides, water content and water permeability of the new membrane become higher. The enhanced membrane performance is attributed to larger clusters of sulfonate groups in Nafion, which is revealed by small-angle X-ray scattering (SAXS) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: An efficient synthetic procedure for the functionalized heterocyclic[3.3.3]propellanes was successfully developed by one-pot domino reaction of ninhydrin, malononitrile with 3-arylamino-2-cyclohexenones and their 5,5-dimethyl derivatives in the presence of triethylamine in ethanol at room temperature. On the other hand the similar one-pot reaction containing 3-arylamino-2-cyclopentenones resulted in the functionalized spiro[cyclopenta[b]pyridine-4,2′-indenes] in moderate yields. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Highlights: [•] IL-6/STAT3 expression was associated with invasion/metastasis in Wilms’ tumor. [•] IL-6/STAT3 showed a concordance expression between primary WT and matched Inv/Meta. [•] Patients with either IL-6 or STAT3 expression had shorter DFS than those without. [•] Patients with IL-6 had shorter OS than those without. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Five new metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) with 5-(4-carboxybenzoylamino)-isophthalic acid (H3L), namely, [Cd9L6(DMA)6]·4DMA (1), [Cd3L2(H2O)9]·4H2O (2), [LaL(H2O)4]·2H2O (3), [CeL(H2O)4]·H2O (4) and [Tb(HL)(H2L)(H2O)3]·5H2O (5) (DMA=N,N-dimethylacetamide), have been synthesized. Complex 1 shows a three-dimensional architecture generated from linkage of Cd–O chains via L3− ligands. Minor variations in synthetic conditions of 1 afforded 2, which features an interesting 2D→3D catenation architecture containing helical chains. Complexes 3 and 4 are isostructural and each feature a two-dimensional architecture constructed from the linkage of L3− with Ln3+. Complex 5 displays a chain-like structure, of which the most interesting feature is the existence of free carboxylic acid (–COOH) group which may confer unique functionality. Moreover, the investigations of the thermal stability, powder X-ray diffractions and solid-state photoluminescent properties for these crystalline materials have been carried out. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Ternary sulfide AgBi3S5 compound is expected to be a promising thermoelectric material because of its merits such as low electrical resistivity and environmentally compatible composition. In this study, a combined process of mechanical alloying and spark plasma sintering was applied to the fabrication of AgBi3S5 bulk materials, and nearly single phase was obtained by optimizing the sintering conditions, although the mill-derived powders consisted of AgBiS2 and Bi2S3 phases. The electrical conductivity of the AgBi3S5 bulk material decreases from 178 to 79 Scm−1 with raising temperature from 323 to 573 K, while the Seebeck coefficient ranges from −83 to −167 μV K−1, thereby a maximum power factor 221 μW m−1 K−2 achieved at 573 K. It is notable that AgBi3S5 has a low thermal conductivity, ranging from 0.70 to 0.64 W m−1 K−1 from room temperature to 573 K, which is the lowest value reported so far for this material. A peak thermoelectric figure of merit value of 0.20 was obtained at 573 K in the present pristine AgBi3S5 sample. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Bi2S3−x Se x (x=0–0.3) polycrystals were fabricated by mechanical alloying (MA) and spark plasma sintering (SPS). The phase, microstructure, electrical and thermal transport properties were investigated with a special emphasis on the influence of Se content. All the samples were indexed as single phase with an orthorhombic symmetry. Optimizing the Se content greatly improves the electrical conductivity, achieving a peak value of 750Sm−1 at 573K for the Bi2S2.85Se0.15 composition. The absolute value of Seebeck coefficient shows an inversely varying trend to the electrical conductivity with Se content, whereby a power factor at 573K is enhanced from 91µWm−1 K−2 for pristine Bi2S3 to 124µWm−1 K−2 for Bi2S2.85Se0.15. The thermal conductivity of Bi2S3−x Se x ranges from 0.44 to 0.73Wm−1 K−1 at the temperature from 323 to 573K. A maximum ZT value reached 0.16 at 573K for the Bi2S2.8Se0.15 sample, which is about 1.6 times that (0.11) of the pristine Bi2S3 sample. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

RATIONALE Acylated monosaccharide residues are structural subunits of natural products or synthetic intermediates that have received much attention in past years. Determination of the acylation sites of these residues still relies heavily on the comparison of their characteristic NMR signals with those of known standards and synthesized acylated glycosides. It is important to develop a rapid analytical method for determining the acylation sites for these compounds, and this is described in this study. METHODS Six known polyphenolic glycosides were used for the electrospray ionization and collision-induced dissociation tandem mass spectrometry (ESI-CID-MS/MS) discrimination of the acylated monosaccharide residues with different acylation sites. A combination of ESI-CID-MS/MS, using a triple quadrupole mass spectrometer, with ultra-performance liquid chromatography (UPLC) and photo-diode array (PDA) detection (UPLC-PDA) has been applied to the identification or characterization of polyphenolic glycosides in Polygonum capitatum that possess an acylated monosaccharide residue. RESULTS An ESI-MS and CID-MS/MS method has been developed for the determination of the acylation sites of polyphenolic glycosides that possess an acylated monosaccharide residue. Twelve polyphenolic glycosides including four new ones have been identified or characterized in P. capitatum. Eight (including the new ones) of the twelve glycosides were reported for the first time from this plant. CONCLUSIONS The developed ESI-MS and CID-MS/MS method provided a very useful strategy for the determination of the sites of polyphenolic glycosides that possess an acylated monosaccharide residue. The acylation site could be determined by the characteristic product ion spectra of the in-source CID-generated O-acyl monosaccharide ion [B1]+. The presented work may facilitate the structural characterization of these types of compounds. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The cathodic reduction of complex-state copper(II) was investigated in a dual chamber microbial fuel cell (MFC). The inner resistance of MFC system could be reduced in the presence of ionizing , however, mass transfer was hindered at higher ammonia concentration. Thermodynamic and electrochemical analyses indicated that the processes of complex dissociation and copper reduction were governed by the ratio of T[Cu]:T[NH3] and the pH of solution. The reduction of could be achieved via two possible pathways: (1) releasing Cu2+ from , then reducing Cu2+ to Cu or Cu2O and (2) accepting an electron and forming , and depositing as Cu or Cu2O consequently. At initial concentration of 350mg T[Cu] L−1, copper removal efficiency of 96% was obtained at pH=9.0 within 12h (with △Cu/△COD=1.24), 84% was obtained at pH=3.0 within 8h (with △Cu/△COD=1.72). was reduced as polyhedral deposits on the cathode. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Two new steroidal saponins, dioscins E (1) and F (2), along with nine known steroidal saponins, were isolated from the biotransformation product of the rhizomes of Dioscorea nipponica using Aspergillus oryzae. The structures of new compounds were established as 25(R)-spirost-5-en-21β-methyl-3β-ol-3-O-α- l-rhamnopyranosyl-(1 → 4)-β-d-glucopyranoside (1) and (25R)-spirost-5-en-3β-ol-7-one 3-O-α- l-rhamnopyranosyl-(1 → 4)-β-d-glucopyranoside (2) by detailed spectroscopic analyses including 1D and 2D NMR spectral data (1H–1H COSY, HSQC, and HMBC) and MS spectrometry. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

A systematic multiscale method is presented for studyingthe structure–performancerelationship of drug-delivery systems (DDSs). The objective is toprovide direction and guidelines toward the design and developmentof novel DDSs. Atomic simulation methods are used to evaluate theinteractions between each pair of components in a DDS, from whichthe compatibility between drug and carriers can be well-predicted.Mesoscale simulation is applied to investigate the mesostructuresof DDSs, from which the performances of products can be predicted.Finally, the drug-loaded nanoparticles can be prepared and evaluatedthrough experiments involving loading efficiency, drug-release behaviors,and so on. The hydrophobic drugs doxorubicin and paclitaxel were consideredas examples. The multiscale approach was used to investigate the structure–performancerelationship of DDSs for these two drugs. All of the experimentalresults agreed well with the simulation results, indicating that thesystematic multiscale method can provide a powerful tool for designingand developing DDSs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A method for a whole-sediment toxicity test using alginate immobilized microalgae Pseudokirchneriella subcapitata was developed using spiked sediments and applied to contaminated field sediment samples. For method development, a growth inhibition test (72 h) with algal beads was conducted for the sediments spiked with Cu or diuron. The method was validated by determining dose-response relationships for Cu and diuron in both fine-grained and coarse-grained sediments. The results of a spiked sediment toxicity test suggested that sediment particle size distribution (clay content) had a significant effect on the growth of P. subcapitata. The developed method using immobilized microalgae P. subcapitata beads was applied successfully in the toxicity test and toxicity identification evaluation (TIE) for the four field sediment samples. After a series of extractions with 0.01 M CaCl2 solution, acetone, and dichloromethane, the extracted sediment, which was shown to be nontoxic to algae, was used as the control and diluent for the same sediment in the whole-sediment toxicity test. The results showed that all investigated field sediment samples were found to be toxic to the immobilized algae P. subcapitata, with their median effective concentration (EC50) values ranging from 41.4 to 79.0% after 72 h exposure. In the whole sediment TIE, growth of P. subcapitata was improved to varying degrees after adding zeolite, resin, or activated charcoal, suggesting different contributions to toxicity from ammonia, metals, and organic contaminants in the tested sediments. Environ. Toxicol. Chem. 2012;31:377-386. © 2011 SETAC [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: A pilot-scale, membrane-free, bioelectrochemical system (BES) reactor (16L in volume) installed by five cathodes with different distance to anode was tested for the removal of copper. CuSO4 solution was used as catholyte and anaerobic microorganisms grew as anodic biocatalyst. In the reactor, Cu(II) was reduced and recovered as solid-state copper deposits on cathodes accompanied with power production. When 600 and 2000mg of Cu2+ were added into the cathode chamber, removal efficiency of 92% over 480h and 48% over 672h period with electric quantities of 2724C and 8703C, and cathodic efficiencies of 61.92% and 45.60% were achieved, respectively. The reduction reaction rate depended on the initial average Cu2+ concentration. The internal resistance decreased and voltage output increased as the distance of each cathode to anode decreased. The mass of metal Cu crystals and Cu(I) compounds deposited on each cathode was dependent on current intensity. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Treatment regimens of secondary hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis (sHLH) are complicated and individualized. CHOP regimen is well known for the treatment of adult sHLH, but it was not so effective for the 56-year-old male patient in our study. Splenomegaly, one of clinical manifestations of HLH, has urged us to investigate the role of splenectomy in HLH patients. Splenectomy is not only beneficial to confirm the underlying diseases, but also beneficial for the treatment of HLH. Here, we present a case diagnosed as sHLH who has recovered from HLH following comprehensive treatment based on splenectomy. The therapeutic value of splenectomy in sHLH needs further study. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Aim of the study: This study was designed to investigate the antibacterial and anti-inflammatory activities of the extracts and the structure-based fractions from P. capitatum so as to provide the evidence for the traditional use of this plant in the treatment of urinary tract infections and to clarify the structural types that were responsible for the clinical use of the plant. Materials and methods: The dry whole plant of P. capitatum was extracted with water and 70% aqueous ethanol and then separated, respectively, into a fraction enriched in polysaccharides and proteins (PP) and four other fractions enriched in gallic acid and its analogues (GAA), flavonoids (FV), tannins (TN), and triterpenoids and steroids (TS). UV spectral or chemical methods were used for the confirmation of the five fractions. The in vitro antibacterial activities of the aqueous (AE) and 70% aqueous ethanol (70EE) extracts as well as the fractions against gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria were initially evaluated by a disc diffusion test. The anti-bacterial potencies of the active extracts or fractions were then assessed in vitro by determining the MICs and MBCs. The anti-inflammatory activity was evaluated employing the xylene-induced mouse ear edema model. Results: Except for fraction PP, AE, 70EE, and the four fractions (GAA, FV, TN, and TS) exhibited varying degrees of antibacterial and anti-inflammatory activities. The results of the minimal inhibition concentration (MIC) and minimal bactericidal concentration (MBC) indicated that the crude extracts or fractions FV and TN all possess bacteriostatic and bactericidal properties. Fractions FV and TS showed significantly anti-inflammatory activity (P <0.01) with the inhibition rates of 86.15 and 73.71% at 0.6g/kg, respectively, as compared to 76.93% of the positive control dexamethasone. Conclusions: The overall results suggested that the traditional use of this plant for the treatment of urinary tract infections were attributed to the presence of antibacterial and anti-inflammatory agents. The results also provided evidence that the studied plant extracts, as well as some of the fractions obtained from this plant might be potential sources for antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory drug development. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Danshensu, the major water-soluble component of Radix Salviae Miltiorrhizae (Danshen), is the basic chemical structure of various salvianolic acids. This study was to evaluate the anti-tumor activity of danshensu in a series of in vitro and in vivo models. The effect of danshensu on B16F10 melanoma cell and HUVEC proliferation were assessed by MTS assay, and cell invasion and migration were investigated by transwell chamber assay. The effect of danshensu on angiogenesis was evaluated by HUVEC migration assay, tube formation assay and chick chorioallantoic membrane assay. The expression of MMP-2, -9 and VEGF in B16F10 melanoma cell were detected by western blotting after danshensu treatment. The role of danshensu in tumor metastasis in vivo was evaluated by spontaneous and experimental B16F10 melanoma metastasis model. Although danshensu had no inhibitory effect on B16F10 melanoma cell and HUVEC proliferation, it significantly inhibited B16F10 melanoma cell invasion (at 0.05, 0.5, 5μM) and migration (at 0.5, 5μM). It also dramatically suppressed VEGF-induced endothelial migration (at 0.5, 5μM), tube formation in vitro (at 4, 20μM) and new vessel formation in CAM in vivo (100μg/egg). Danshensu (at 5, 50μM) significantly down-regulates protein expression of MMP-2, -9 and VEGF in B16F10 melanoma cell. In animal model, danshensu (20, 40mg/kg) also possessed inhibitory effect on lung metastasis in spontaneous (46-day treatment) and experimental (23-day treatment) B16F10 melanoma metastasis model. All these results suggest that danshensu has anti-tumor activity by affecting on tumor angiogenesis and tumor invasion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

1. Microglial activation plays an important role in the pathogenesis of neurodegenerative diseases by producing various pro-inflammatory cytokines. Microglia-derived nitric oxide (NO) is critical for the lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced selective loss of dopaminergic neurons. 2. Fucoidan is a sulphated polysaccharide extracted from brown seaweeds. It has a variety of biological actions, including anticoagulant, antiviral and anti-inflammatory effects. The aim of the present study was to investigate the effects of fucoidan on LPS-induced cellular activation in microglia and to evaluate the inhibitory mechanisms involved. 3. To investigate the effects of fucoidan on LPS-induced cellular activation in microglia, primary microglial cells were preincubated with fucoidan (31.25, 62.5 and 125 μg/mL) for 10 min, followed by stimulation with LPS (0.01 μg/mL). Then, cell shape and NO production were determined 24 h after LPS stimulation, whereas inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) mRNA and protein expression were determined at 6 and 18 h after LPS stimulation, respectively. To evaluate the inhibitory mechanisms involved, mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) activation was also evaluated. 4. Lipopolysaccharide transformed cells into an amoeboid shape, whereas 62.5 μg/mL fucoidan inhibited this activation. Moreover, 125 μg/mL fucoidan significantly inhibited microglial NO production to 75% of that in LPS-treated group and also significantly diminished the expression of iNOS mRNA and protein by nearly 50%. Fucoidan (125 μg/mL) also suppressed phosphorylation of p38 and extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) by approximately 50%, but not that of c-Jun N-terminal kinase. 5. The results provide the first evidence that fucoidan has a potent inhibitory effect against LPS-induced NO production by microglia. The results also suggest that this inhibitory action of fucoidan involves suppression of p38 and ERK phosphorylation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A simple and efficient strategy for the synthesis of novel aryloxy-functionalised 4,4'-bi-1,2,4-triazoles was successfully explored by nucleophilic aromatic substitution of tetrachloro-4,4'-bi-1,2,4-triazole by various phenols using Cs2CO3 as catalyst. The syntheses were achieved in 25-94% yields. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Three series of sintenin derivatives (compounds 1-14) were designed and prepared and their antioxidative and neuroprotective effects were evaluated. The in vitro models of scavenging 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radicals, chelating ferrous ions, inhibiting the rat brain homogenates lipid peroxidation, and protecting neurons damaged by hydrogen peroxide were employed for bioassays. It was found that sintenin derivatives 4 and 13 showed remarkable antioxidative and neuroprotective activities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Let E be a uniformly convex Banach space with a uniformly Gâteaux differentiable norm, K a nonempty closed convex subset of E, an asymptotically nonexpansive mapping with sequence . Let be such that and f be a contraction on K. Under suitable conditions, we show the existence of a sequence satisfying the relation , and prove that converges strongly to the fixed point of T, which solves some variational inequality, provided T is asymptotically regular. As an application, we prove that the iterative process defined by , , converges strongly to the same fixed point of T. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]