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The choice between radiotherapy (RT) and CO2 laser surgery (CO2-LS) for early glottic cancer remains controversial. We systematically examined electronic databases in order to identify prospective trials comparing patients who had undergone CO2-LS or RT to treat early glottic cancer. Eleven studies involving 1053 patients were included. In the selected literature, the parameter setting of CO2 laser equipment can be summarized as wavelength 10.6 µm, superpulsed mode, continuous setting, power tailored on target structures (1–3 W for subtle resections and 4–15 W for cutting a larger tumor), and approximately 2080–3900 W/cm2 of laser energy. Using RevMan 5.3, we estimated pooled odds ratios (ORs) for dichotomous variables and pooled mean differences (MDs) for continuous variables, along with associated 95% confidence intervals (CIs). The heterogeneity in the treatment variables was measured using Higgins' inconsistency test and expressed as I2 values. The continuous variables were then depicted as histograms developed using PlotDigitizer 2.6.8. Compared to patients treated with CO2-LS, those treated with RT had better jitter (MD 1.27%, 95% CI 1.21 ~ 1.32, P < 0.001), and high scores on the "Grade (MD 6.54, 95% CI 5.31 ~ 7.76, P < 0.001), Breathiness (MD 9.08, 95% CI 4.02 ~ 14.13, P < 0.001), Asthenia (MD 2.13, 95% CI 0.29 ~ 3.98, P = 0.02), and Strain (MD 3.32, 95% CI 0.57 ~ 6.07, P = 0.02)" scale. Patients treated with CO2-LS had worse local control rates (OR 3.14, 95% CI 1.52 ~ 6.48, P = 0.002) while lower incidence of second primary tumor (OR 0.30, 95% CI 0.15 ~ 0.61, P < 0.001). It is hoped that retrospective analysis can provide suggestions for early glottis patients to choose personalized treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: Periodontitis (PD) is the sixth most prevalent disease around the world and is involved in the development and progression of multiple systemic diseases. Previous studies have reported that PD may aggravate liver injuries. The objective of this study was to investigate whether and how PD affects liver fibrosis. Materials and Methods: Ligature‐induced PD (LIP) was induced in male C57/B6J mice, and sub‐gingival plaques (PL) from patients with PD were applied to mouse teeth. Liver fibrosis was induced by carbon tetrachloride (CCl4) injection. The mice were randomly divided into six groups: Oil, Oil+LIP, Oil+LIP+PL, CCl4, CCl4+LIP, and CCl4+LIP+PL. Alveolar bone resorption was evaluated by methylene blue staining. Hepatic function was analysed by serum alanine aminotransferase and hepatic hydroxyproline. Picrosirius red and α‐smooth muscle actin (SMA) staining were used to evaluate the fibrotic area. RNA sequencing and quantitative RT‐PCR were used to measure gene expression. Western blotting was used to measure protein levels. Flow cytometry was used to analyse the accumulation of immune cells. Mouse microbiota were analysed using 16S rRNA gene sequencing. Results: Mice in the CCl4+LIP+PL group displayed higher serum alanine aminotransferase and hepatic hydroxyproline as well as more Picrosirius red‐positive and α‐SMA‐positive areas in liver samples than those of the CCl4 group, suggesting that PD (LIP+PL) aggravated CCl4‐induced hepatic dysfunction and liver fibrosis. Consistently, the expression of fibro‐genic genes and the protein levels of transforming growth factor β were much higher in the CCl4+LIP+PL group than in the CCl4 group. Flow cytometry revealed that PD increased the accumulation of immune cells, including Kupffer cells, B cells, and Th17 cells, in the liver of mice with CCl4 treatment. PD also increased the expression of inflammatory genes and activated pro‐inflammatory nuclear factor‐kappa B pathway in the livers of CCl4‐injected mice. Moreover, PD altered both oral and liver microbiota in CCl4‐injected mice. Conclusions: PD aggravates CCl4‐induced hepatic dysfunction and fibrosis in mice, likely through the increase of inflammation and alteration of microbiota in the liver. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mineralocorticoid receptor (MR) antagonists have been clinically used to treat heart failure. However, the underlying cellular and molecular mechanisms remain incompletely understood. Using osteoblast MR knockout (MRobko) mouse in combination with myocardial infarction (MI) model, we demonstrated that MR deficiency in osteoblasts significantly improved cardiac function, promoted myocardial healing, as well as attenuated cardiac hypertrophy, fibrosis and inflammatory response after MI. Gene expression profiling using RNA sequencing revealed suppressed expression of osteocalcin (OCN) in calvaria from MRobko mice compared to littermate control (MRfl/fl) mice with or without MI. Plasma levels of undercarboxylated OCN (ucOCN) were also markedly decreased in MRobko mice compared to MRfl/fl mice. Administration of ucOCN abolished the protective effects of osteoblast MR deficiency on infarcted hearts. Mechanistically, ucOCN treatment promoted proliferation and inflammatory cytokine secretion in macrophages. Spironolactone, an MR antagonist, significantly inhibited the expression and secretion of OCN in post-MI mice. More importantly, spironolactone decreased plasma levels of ucOCN and inflammatory cytokines in heart failure patients. MR deficiency in osteoblasts alleviates pathological ventricular remodeling after MI, likely through its regulation on OCN. Spironolactone may work through osteoblast MR/OCN axis to exert its therapeutic effects on pathological ventricular remodeling and heart failure in mice and human patients. [Display omitted] • Osteoblast MR may be a target for treating pathological ventricular remodeling after MI. • Osteoblast MR regulates ventricular remodeling remotely by ucOCN. • ucOCN promotes proliferation and inflammation of macrophages. • ucOCN is closely correlated with cardiac function in post-MI mice. • The cardiac benefit of MR antagonists may be partially mediated by osteoblastic MR. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Stem cell transplantation has been limited by poor survival of the engrafted cells in hostile microenvironment of the infarcted myocardium. This study investigated cytoprotective effect of rapamycin-preactivated autophagy on survival of the transplanted mesemchymal stem cells (MSCs). MSCs isolated from rat bone marrow were treated with 50 nmol/L rapamycin for 2 h, and then the cytoprotective effect of rapamycin was examined. After intramyocardial transplantation in rat ischemia/reperfusion models, the survival and differentiation of the rapamycin-pretreated calls were accessed. After treatment with rapamycin, autophagic activities and lysososme production of the cells were increased significantly. In the condition of short-term or long-term hypoxia and serum deprivation, the apoptotic cells in rapamycin-pretreated cells were less, and secretion of HGF, IGF-1, SCF, SDF-1 and VEGF was increased. After transplantation of rapamycin-pretreated cells, repair of the infarcted myocardium and restoration of cardial function were enhanced dramatically. Expression of HGF, IGF-1, SCF, SDF-1, VEGF, HIF-1α and IL-10 in the myocardium was upregulated, while expression of IL-1β and TNF-α was downregulated. Tracing of GFP and Sry gene showed that the survival of rapamycin-pretreated cells was increased. Cardiomyogenesis and angiogenesis in the infarcted myocardium were strengthened. Some rapamycin-pretreated cells differentiated into cardiomyocytes or endothelial cells. These results demonstrate that moderate preactivation of autophagy with rapamycin enhances the survival and differentiation of the transplanted MSCs. Rapamycin-primed MSCs can promote repair of the infarcted myocardium and improvement of cardiac function effectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: A small amount of bleeding usually occurs during laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC), but the occurrence of perioperative hidden blood loss (HBL) is ignored. So our objective is to investigate the amount of HBL and find out the influential factors in LC. Methods: From January 2017 to May 2019, 139 patients scheduled for LC were enrolled in the study. The data of patients' sex, age, height, weight, body mass index (BMI), form of gallbladder bed, gallbladder status, hypertension, diabetes, liver cirrhosis, drainage volume and operation time were recorded. The patients' height, weight and preoperative and postoperative haematocrit and haemoglobin were recorded and applied to the Gross formula to determine the amount of blood loss. The data of sex, age, BMI, hypertension, diabetes, gallbladder status, liver cirrhosis and operation time were analysed by multivariate linear regression analysis. One‐way analysis of variance was performed to find out the relative correlation between HBL and the type of gallbladder bed. Results: The HBL was 259.3 ± 188.5 mL. On the basis of multivariate linear regression analysis and analysis of variance, the gallbladder bed, hypertension and the operation time are influential factors of HBL in patients with LC. However, sex, age, BMI, gallbladder status, liver cirrhosis and diabetes are not significantly correlated with HBL. Conclusions: HBL should not be overlooked during the perioperative period of LC, especially in patients with hypertension, gallbladder bed >50% gallbladder surface or operation time >60 min. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Impairment of cardiac lymphatic vessels leads to cardiac lymphedema. Recent studies have suggested that stimulation of lymphangiogenesis may reduce cardiac lymphedema. However, effects of lymphatic endothelial progenitor cells (LEPCs) on cardiac lymphangiogenesis are poorly understood. Therefore, this study investigated effectiveness of LEPC transplantation and VEGF-C release with self-assembling peptide (SAP) on cardiac lymphangiogenesis after myocardial infarction (MI). CD34+VEGFR-3+ EPCs isolated from rat bone marrow differentiated into lymphatic endothelial cells after VEGF-C induction. VEGF-C also stimulated the cells to incorporate into the lymphatic capillary-like structures. The functionalized SAP could adhere with the cells and released VEGF-C sustainedly. In the condition of hypoxia and serum deprivation or abdominal pouch assay, the SAP hydrogel protected the cells from apoptosis and necrosis. At 4 weeks after intramyocardial transplantation of the cells and VEGF-C loaded with SAP hydrogel in rat MI models, cardiac lymphangiogenesis was increased, cardiac edema and reverse remodeling were reduced, and cardiac function was improved significantly. Delivery with SAP hydrogel favored survival of the engrafted cells. VEGF-C released from the hydrogel promoted differentiation and incorporation of the cells as well as growth of pre-existed lymphatic vessels. Cardiac lymphangiogenesis was beneficial for elimination of the inflammatory cells in the infarcted myocardium. Moreover, angiogenesis and myocardial regeneration were enhanced after reduction of lymphedema. These results demonstrate that the combined delivery of LEPCs and VEGF-C with the functionalized SAP promotes cardiac lymphangiogenesis and repair of the infarcted myocardium effectively. This study represents a novel therapy for relieving myocardial edema in cardiovascular diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Results of one-year simulations using the Weather Research and Forecasting(WRF) model, with the use of different radiation schemes(RRTM, RRTMG, CAM, New Goddard and Goddard), are evaluated for China. The observations used in the model assessment include station data from the China Meteorological Administration, 14 flux field sites arranged in a coordinated observation network, and Global Land Data Assimilation System(GLDAS) data.Specifically, based on a Taylor diagram, the temperature differences between the radiation schemes are small, and the best annual mean spatial pattern and average value for China as a whole is produced by RRTMG. For the rainfall and net radiation annual mean simulation, the New Goddard and CAM schemes present better results than the RRTMG scheme. With respect to low cloud cover, all the schemes have similar reproduction without high cover on east of Tibet Plateau. Overall, the New Goddard and CAM schemes are suitable for longtime simulation without nesting and nudging options. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Doxorubicin (DOX)‐induced cardiotoxicity limits its broad use as a chemotherapy agent. The development of effective and non‐invasive strategies to prevent DOX‐associated adverse cardiac events is urgently needed. We aimed to examine whether and how low‐intensity pulsed ultrasound (LIPUS) plays a protective role in DOX‐induced cardiotoxicity. Male C57BL/6J mice were used to establish models of both acute and chronic DOX‐induced cardiomyopathy. Non‐invasive LIPUS therapy was conducted for four consecutive days after DOX administration. Cardiac contractile function was evaluated by echocardiography. Myocardial apoptosis, oxidative stress, and fibrosis were analyzed using terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase‐mediated dUTP nick end labelling (TUNEL) staining, dihydroethidium (DHE) staining, and picrosirius red staining assays. RNA‐seq analysis was performed to unbiasedly explore the possible downstream regulatory mechanisms. Neutrophil recruitment and infiltration in the heart were analyzed by flow cytometry. The S100a8/a9 inhibitor ABR‐238901 was utilized to identify the effect of S100a8/a9 signaling. We found that LIPUS therapy elicited a great benefit on DOX‐induced heart contractile dysfunction in both acute and chronic DOX models. Chronic DOX administration increased serum creatine kinase and lactate dehydrogenase levels, as well as myocardial apoptosis, all of which were significantly mitigated by LIPUS. In addition, LIPUS treatment prevented chronic DOX‐induced cardiac oxidative stress and fibrosis. RNA‐seq analysis revealed that LIPUS treatment partially reversed alterations of gene expression induced by DOX. Gene ontology (GO) analysis of the downregulated genes between DOX‐LIPUS and DOX‐Sham groups indicated that inhibition of neutrophil chemotaxis might be involved in the protective effects of LIPUS therapy. Flow cytometry analysis illustrated the inhibitory effects of LIPUS on DOX‐induced neutrophil recruitment and infiltration in the heart. Moreover, S100 calcium binding protein A8/A9 (S100a8/a9) was identified as a potential key target of LIPUS therapy. S100a8/a9 inhibition by ABR‐238901 showed a similar heart protective effect against DOX‐induced cardiomyopathy to LIPUS treatment. LIPUS therapy prevents DOX‐induced cardiotoxicity through inhibition of S100a8/a9‐mediated neutrophil recruitment to the heart, suggesting its potential application in cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy with DOX. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights • The high removal efficiency of Cd and Pb in the real-site contaminated soils was achieved by the CEEK technique. • The removed Cd and Pb can be recovered on the CEEK cathode by electroplating mechanism. • The appropriate operational parameters of CEEK are obtained for practical in-situ soil remediation. • The critical reactions of CEEK to remove heavy metals are clarified. Abstract This study applied circulation-enhanced electrokinetics (CEEK) technique to remove Cd and Pb from the real-site contaminated soils. Soil samples were collected in certain polluted agricultural land in Yunlin, Taiwan. The CEEK system mainly composed of a reactor fulfilling soil samples, one pair of electrodes, a circulation system of working solution and DC power supply. Results demonstrate that the real-site Cd and Pb contaminated soils can be effectively treated by the CEEK technique; the removal efficiency of Cd and Pb can reach 91% and 85%, respectively. The CEEK system can maintain relatively neutral pH of treated soils. The bonding patterns of heavy metals and H+ produced on the anode play the critical roles for removal efficiency. The recovery efficiency of Cd and Pb in the CEEK system can reach 85% and 70%; the species of recovered heavy metals is Cd(OH) 2 and Pb 5 O 8 , respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective The aim of this study was to construct an in vivo carotid siphon model for testing neurovascular devices for endovascular interventions. Methods A model of a human carotid siphon was pre-shaped using a glass tube from a human cadaver and used to confine a segment of one side of the common carotid artery (CCA) in canines. This segment of CCA with the glass carotid siphon on was interposed end-to-end onto the contralateral CCA so as to simulate a human carotid artery siphon in vivo. Two weeks later, the siphon model was evaluated using computed tomography angiography and digital subtraction angiography, and the covered stent specially designed for intracranial vasculature was navigated through the siphon model for a longitudinal flexibility test. Results All dogs tolerated the procedures well, and the artificial siphon model in vivo provided realistic conditions for device testing. Two weeks later, the in vivo carotid siphon model remained patent with no thrombosis. Five covered stents were navigated to pass through five siphon models successfully, with vasospasm occurring in two siphons. Conclusion Construction of an in vivo siphon model in dogs with a glass tube is feasible and useful for the test of endovascular devices for treating neurovascular diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The aim of this study was to develop a novel method for observing the morphology of the blood vessels in the rabbit endplate.Methods: Twenty 6-month-old rabbits were used in this study. The blood vessels in the L5 endplate in Group A were injected with iohexol and Group B with barium sulfate. Group C was the control group with saline. To optimize the study, Group B was divided into two subgroups: Group B-1 was injected with 100% (w/v) barium sulfate and Group B-2 with 50% (w/v). After injection, the L4-L5 vertebral body was excised and the cranial endplate of L5 was scanned using a micro-CT scanner. Models of the vertebral endplate and vessels were reconstructed using the 3D reconstruction software (Mimics 16.0) by calculating a bone threshold value, and then merged these two models to create a superimposed model.Results: The 3D vessel models could not be created in Groups A and C, but they were clearly visualized in Group B. In the 3D model, the blood vessels extended from the subchondral bone to the endplate, and the density of the blood vessels in the area of the nucleus pulposus (NP) was higher than in the annulus fibrosus.Conclusions: The results of this study suggest that the blood vessels in the rabbit endplate can be clearly observed by the method described using barium sulfate [the 50% (w/v) gave better results compared with the 100% (w/v)]. The information from the 3D vessel structure could provide essential data to help us understand the nutrient pathways within the vertebral endplate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To evaluate the relationship between height ratio of the iliac crest to L4 (HR), width ratio of the iliac crest to L4 (WR) and L5-S1 disc degeneration.Methods: On T2-weighted sagittal images of the 50 randomly selected patients, two observers graded L5-S1 discs and some other parameters were measured. Then, relative signal intensity (RSI) of the L5-S1 nucleus pulposus was calculated. On anteroposterior and lateral radiographs of the same 50 patients' lumbar spine, the parameters such as the height of the iliac crest were measured and then HR and WR were calculated. Finally, HR, WR and the percentage of the sROM of L5-S1 in L1-S1 segments of the other 51 randomly selected patients were calculated.Results: Positive correlations were found between HR, WR and RSI of the L5-S1 disc. Negative correlations were found between HR, WR and modified Pfirrmann scores of L5-S1 nucleus pulposus. A statistically significant negative correlation was found between HR and the percentage of sROM of L5-S1 in L1-S1 segments.Conclusions: Low HR and (or) WR were the risk factors for L5-S1 disc degeneration. High HR could reduce the percentage of sROM of L5-S1 in L1-S1 segments and high HR and (or) WR could reduce the incidence of L5-S1 disc degeneration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Saline wastewater is a big challenge for the application of anammox processes. Although the feasibility of freshwater anammox bacteria for saline wastewater treatment was revealed, its metabolic acclimation to different saline concentrations is still elusive. Here, one low-strength-fed anammox reactor was operated with the shift of saline concentrations. The results showed that one Ca. Brocadia genome with a relative abundance of 31.5% was recovered. Meta-Omics analyses showed that salinity (around 12.5 g L−1 NaCl) could promote the nitrogen transformation in Ca. Brocadia through the driven of dissimilatory nitrate reduction to ammonium (DNRA). Specific sodium translocations pump (Na+-NADH:quinone oxidoreductase), as well as more genes associated with H+- dependent membrane-bound ATP formation and Na+-dependent membrane-bound ATP formation, was highly expressed in Ca. Brocadia under saline conditions than that under fresh conditions. This implied that such Na + transduction was likely associated with the NADPH/NADH via the hydrazine oxidation pathway. Notably, sodium extrusion was also associated with energy exploitation from the hydrolysis of pyrophosphatase (PPi) through K+-stimulated pyrophosphate-energized sodium pump. This study shed light on the metabolic acclimation, such as nitrogen transformation and cation-induced energy transduction (i.e., Na+ , K+, and Ca2+) in Ca. Brocadia, illustrating their feasibility for saline and freshwater wastewater treatment. [Display omitted] • Ca. Brocadia AMX1 with low similar (<81.8%) to published strains was enriched. • Salinity of 12.5 g L−1 NaCl promoted nitrogen transformation in Ca. Brocadia AMX1. • The cation-induced energy transductions are verified in Ca. Brocadia AMX1. • The hydrolysis of pyrophosphatase (PPi) can provide energy for sodium extrusion. • Metabolic linkage of nitrogen conversion and cations transductions were discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the testing ability comparative test for software testing laboratories, it is hard to estimate the results of every laboratory quantitatively. To solve the intractable conundrum, this paper advances the "Weight and Evaluation Model" (the WE model), an evaluating model for software testing ability comparison, based on weighting evaluation, curve fitting and trending. The WE model takes the extent and depth of every software testing activities synthetically and synchronously, and can evaluate each lab's testing results quantitatively according to the same criteria, This paper also indicates the crucial actualizing means and method for organizing and actualizing the WE model. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The section of 1 420 cm lake sediment from Xianghai in the western of Songnen Plain was investigated. According to the AMS 14C dating, the chronology of lake sediment since Last Deglaciation was established; combined with the types of sediment and the abundance of organic matter, molecular organic geochemical characteristics including carbon isotopic compositions of n-alkanes and long-chain n-alkanes in the samples were analyzed; compared with the climatic indicators of sediment core, the changes of paleovegetation and paleoclimate since Last Deglaciation were evaluated. The results show that the organic matters in lake sediment are mainly derived from algae and higher plant according to the distribution of n-alkanes from lake sediment in Xianghai; the n-alkanes exhibit strong odd-carbon number predominance, and the main peak of high carbon number of n-alkanes is nC31, so that the organic matters are mainly derived from terrestrial higher plants, especially herbaceous higher plants; the carbon isotopic compositions of long-chain n-alkanes (nC27, nC29 and nC31) are positive in whole, and the main higher vegetation type in the lake is C3 plant dominantly by the means of binary pattern, and the relative biomass of C4 plant increases from Last Deglaciation to the megathermal of Holocene; the change of climate fluctuates since Last Deglaciation, and the climatic and environmental changes in the study area can be divided into five stages including cold and dry in Last Deglaciation, cold and wet in Early Holocene, warm and dry in the early megathermal of Holocene, warm and wet in the late megathermal of Holocene, and warm-cool and drying in Late Holocene. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Land use and land cover change (LUCC) can modify the physical and thermodynamic characteristics of the land surface, including surface roughness, albedo, and vegetation fraction, among others. These direct changes can result in a series of impacts on regional climate. In this paper, the simulated results over China under the scenario of LUCC using weather research and forecasting model are presented. The period for the simulation is from December 2006 to December 2011. Two experiments are initialized by the LUCC datasets derived from the MODIS data of 2001 and 2008, respectively. The results show that the LUCC in most areas of China reduces the surface albedo and increases the surface temperature. Especially in the Hetao Plain, the magnitude of increased surface temperature is above 0.5 °C in winter, and the increase in winter is more obvious than in summer. The precipitation in the Hetao Plain increases. The sensible heat in most parts of East China is reduced, while the latent heat is increased in most areas of China. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: An 8-week feeding trial was conducted to determine the dietary threonine requirement of juvenile Pacific white shrimp, Litopenaeus vannamei. Six isonitrogenous and isolipidic practical diets (43% crude protein and 7.5% crude lipid) were formulated to contain graded dietary threonine levels ranging from 1.07% to 2.30% (dry weight). In all of the diets, the nitrogen content of the amino acids was kept the same by replacing threonine with a non-essential amino acid mixture. Each diet was randomly assigned to triplicate groups of 40 juvenile shrimp (approximately 0.53g) that were fed 4 times daily to apparent satiation. The results indicated that significant difference was observed in the weight gain among all treatments. Maximum weight gain was obtained at 1.67% dietary threonine; however, weight gain did not significantly increase with further dietary threonine increases. The survival of the shrimps showed no significant differences among all treatments. Feed efficiency, protein efficiency ratio and protein productive value were also significantly influenced by the dietary threonine levels, and the trends were similar to those of growth performance. There were no significant differences among dry matter, crude protein, crude lipid or ash content in the whole body and muscle composition. Aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), superoxide dismutase (SOD) and phenoloxidase (PO) activities in hemolymph were significantly affected by dietary threonine levels. Shrimp fed the diet containing 2.30% threonine had higher AST and ALT values than those fed the other diets; however, the highest SOD and PO activities were observed at 2.05% dietary threonine. The optimal dietary threonine requirement, estimated by a broken-line model based on SGR, was 1.51% of the dry diet (corresponding to 3.53% of dietary protein on a dry-weight basis). Considering the threonine leaching loss in seawater within 30min (duration of feeding each time), the threonine requirement for L. vannamei is 1.18% of dry diet (2.81% of the dietary protein). [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Pyrolysis experiments on low maturity asphalt from Sichuan Basin were carried out in a confined system, and the composition, yield and carbon isotopic composition of gas products were analyzed. Results show that there are large amounts of hydrocarbons gases generation from low maturity asphalt indicating that it is an important potential secondary organic material as Paleozoic shale gas source in Sichuan Basin. Yields of nitrogen (N2) in non-hydrocarbon gases generation from low maturity asphalt are generally high, but carbon dioxide (CO2) low. There is a carbon isotopic distribution with δ13C1 <δ13C2 <δ13C3 among different carbon number hydrocarbon gases. Simulation results were also applied for understanding genesis and accumulation of shale gases in geological environment. For example, low dry coefficient and light carbon isotopic composition likely indicate the well-closed geological conditions favorable for the accumulation of shale gases. High content of N2 is a potential indicator for its genesis and accumulation of shale gas. Effects of preservation conditions of gas generation on carbon isotope fractionation should be noted when the methane carbon isotope composition is used to identify the genesis of oil and gas including shale gas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Together with economic development and accelerated urbanization, the urban population in China has been increasing rapidly, and anthropogenic heat released by large-scale energy consumption in cities is expected to be a vital factor affecting the climate. In this paper, the Weather Research and Forecasting (WRF) model coupled with the Urban Canopy Model (UCM) is employed to simulate the regional impacts on climate under the two scenarios: the underlying surface changes due to urbanization (USCU) and anthropogenic heat release (AHR). Three experiments were performed from December 2006 to December 2008. With respect to the USCU, the surface albedo and the available surface soil water decrease markedly. With the inclusion of AHR, the two scenarios give rise to increased surface temperatures over most areas of China. Especially in the urban agglomeration area of the Yangtze River delta, the combination of USCU and AHR could result in an increase of 2°C in the surface air temperature. The influence of AHR on surface air temperature in winter is greater than the influence of USCU without considering any extra sources of heat, but the opposite is found in summer. The combination of USCU and AHR leads to changes in the surface energy budget. They both increase sensible heat flux, but USCU decreases latent heat flux significantly, and AHR increases latent heat flux slightly. Nevertheless, under the influence of these two scenarios, the precipitation increases in some areas, especially in the Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei region, while it decreases in other areas, most notably the Yangtze River delta. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: First-principles calculations based on density functional theory have been performed to investigate the behaviors of He in hcp-type Ti. The most favorable interstitial site for He is not an ordinary octahedral or tetrahedral site, but a novel interstitial site (called FC) with a formation energy as low as 2.67eV, locating the center of the face shared by two adjacent octahedrons. The origin was further analyzed by composition of formation energy of interstitial He defects and charge density of defect-free hcp Ti. It has also been found that an interstitial He atom can easily migrate along 〈001〉 direction with an activation energy of 0.34eV and be trapped by another interstitial He atom with a high binding energy of 0.66eV. In addition, the small He clusters with/without Ti vacancy have been compared in details and the formation energies of He n V clusters with a pre-existing Ti vacancy are even higher than those of He n clusters until n ⩾3. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: A railway transportation system can be represented by a bipartite network consisting of trains and stations, where a train is connected to all stations where it stops. In this paper, motivated by the resource-allocation process taking place on networks, we design a method to project a Chinese train-station bipartite network into a weighted station network. A new metric is proposed to quantify the dependence between pairs of stations, which is shown to follow a shifted power-law distribution. In addition, we compare the resource-allocation method and the well-known multiple-edge method, and the results indicate that our proposed method is more reasonable. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The effects of organizational culture on job incumbents' ratings of work-related personality requirements were investigated. Data collected from 270 customer service representatives working within 37 mobile phone service companies in China demonstrated significant between-organization differences and sufficient within-organization agreement on two dimensions of work-related personality requirements, achievement orientation and conscientiousness, to suggest that these work-related personality requirements can be interpreted as organizational-level constructs. Furthermore, incumbents' ratings of the two personality requirements were positively related to two corresponding dimensions of organizational culture, achievement-oriented culture and integrity-oriented culture, respectively, and as predicted, both were positively associated with team-oriented culture. Further analyses revealed that team-oriented culture appeared to play a particularly salient role in predicting incumbents' perceptions about the importance of the two dimensions of personality requirements. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Catheter-directed thrombolysis (CDT) is one of the main treatment methods for acute deep venous thrombosis (DVT), which has the characteristics of long treatment time and large dosage of thrombolytic drugs. In the absence of good monitoring methods, problems such as low thrombolytic efficiency and high risk of bleeding are easy to occur. Objective: To evaluate the value of D-dimer (D-D) and fibrinogen (FIB) testing as a thrombolysis-monitoring method during CDT for acute DVT. Methods: Twenty patients with acute DVT were divided into group A and group B. During CDT, the D-D and FIB testing every 8 h were used in group A, and the venography and FIB testing every 24 h in group B. The thrombolysis rate, thrombolysis time, urokinase dosage, and X-ray radiation dose were compared. Results: The thrombolysis rate in group A was significantly higher than that in group B (p < 0.05), but the number of venography and radiation dose were significantly lower than those in group B (p < 0.05). Conclusion: D-D and FIB testing can improve the thrombolysis rate, reduce the risk of bleeding, and decrease the number of angiograms and X-ray radiation dose during CDT. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work, nano V/TiO2 catalysts at different molar ratios were prepared and fabricated as the electrocatalytic electrodes for electrocatalytic degradation. The effect of the vanadium doping on the surface morphology, microstructural, and specific surface area of V/TiO2 catalysts was probed by field emission scanning electron microscope (FESEM) x-ray diffractometer (XRD), and Brunauer–Emmett–Teller (BET), respectively. Afterward, the solution of Acid Red 27 (AR 27, one kind of azo dye) was treated by an electrocatalytic system in which the nano V/TiO2 electrode was employed as the anode and graphite as the cathode. Results demonstrate that AR 27 can be effectively degraded by the nano V/TiO2 electrodes; the highest removal efficiency of color and total organic carbon (TOC) reached 99% and 76%, respectively, under 0.10 VT (molar ratio of vanadium to titanium) condition. The nano V/TiO2 electrode with high specific surface area facilitated the electrocatalytic degradation. The current density of 25 mA cm−2 was found to be the optimum operation for this electrocatalytic system whereas the oxygen was increased with the current density. The electricity consumption of pure TiO2 and nano V/TiO2 electrode in this electrocatalytic system was around 0.11 kWh L−1 and 0.02 kWh L−1, respectively. This implies that the nano V/TiO2 electrode possesses both high degradation and energy saving features. Moreover, the nono V/TiO2 electrode shows its possible repeated utilization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Staphylininae is the third largest subfamily of the enormous family Staphylinidae. Monophyly of Staphylininae and its sister relationship to the subfamily Paederinae have been broadly accepted according to both conventional morphology- and molecular-based phylogenies until the last three years. Recent molecular phylogenies rejected monophyly of Staphylininae and regarded Paederinae as a clade within it. This paper re-evaluates the recent molecular work, aiming to clarify the relationship between Staphylininae and Paederinae and resolve intertribal relationships within Staphylininae. Based on a new six-gene data set (5707 bp) for 92 taxa including Oxyporinae (outgroup), representatives of Paederinae, and members of all extant tribes of Staphylininae from published DNA data in GenBank, we generated a well-resolved phylogeny of Staphylininae with all deep nodes (intertribal relationships) strongly supported, and reassert the hypothesis that Staphylininae is monophyletic and indeed the sister group to Paederinae using both Bayesian and maximum likelihood inference. Additionally, our study is a case-study to show that both outgroup selection and completeness of nucleotide data can influence the outcome of a molecular phylogeny. With an increasing number of staphylinid fossils being discovered, the robust phylogeny of Staphylininae inferred by our research will provide a good framework for understanding the early evolution of this group. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, we used quantitative high-performance liquid chromatography equipped with an ultraviolet detector (HPLC-UV) and solid phase extraction (SPE) to determine the levels of four phenylethanoid glycosides and five triterpene acids in Liuwei Dihuang capsules (LDCs). LDCs were methanol-extracted and purified using a 500 mg/6 mL silica-based C18 SPE cartridge. Two elutions were analyzed on a ChromCore C18 column under two HPLC conditions. To improve the pretreatment clean-up, an array of silica- and polymer-based SPE cartridges were compared. Both wash and elution steps were also optimized to achieve the highest removal of impurities. Under optimal chromatographic conditions, good linearity was achieved for all compounds (correlation coefficient of r ≥ 0.999), with a quantification limit ranging from 0.0076 to 0.418 μg/mL. The method had satisfactory efficiency and reproducibility with recovery rates ranging from 91.6 to 99.3% with a relative standard deviation below 1.5%. Taken together, this demonstrated SPE as a suitable extension of HPLC-UV for the determination of phenylethanoid glycosides and triterpene acids in complex LDCs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This work utilized the ultrasonic surface rolling process (USRP) to construct a gradient nanostructured (GNS) layer in pure titanium. The microstructural characterization at different depths was conducted using a transmission electron microscope (TEM) and electron backscatter diffraction (EBSD) to elucidate the grain refinement mechanisms. Results showed that the {10−12} extension twins (ETs) and {11−22} compression twins (CTs) and their intersections accommodate the strain at the early deformation stage. As the strain increased, the dense dislocation walls (DDWs) and dislocation cells (DCs) gradually evolved into laminated structures with low-angle grain boundaries (LAGBs). Compared to conventional severe plastic deformation (SPD) technology, the LAGB-dominated grain refinement mechanism delays the onset of the transformation process from LAGBs to high-angle grain boundaries (HAGBs). With the coaction of discontinuous dynamic recrystallization (dDRX) and amorphization, the grains are extremely refined to 11.7 nm. Tensile test results suggested that a considerable strength-ductility synergy is achieved. The enhanced strength was attributed to grain size, dislocation, and synergetic strengthening mechanisms, accounting for 55.5 %, 20.7 %, and 23.8 %, respectively. This work deepens the current understanding of the formation mechanism of the GNS layer in pure titanium processed by USRP and the relationship between microstructure and mechanical properties. • A gradient nanostructure with grain size and hardness gradient was obtained in pure titanium processed by the USRP technologys. • The LAGB-dominated grain refinement mechanism in USRP-ed pure Ti delays the onset of LAGBs to HAGBs transformation. • The contribution of grain refinement, dislocation, and synergetic strengthening on strength was determined quantitatively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose We sought to report a minimum 12 months' follow-up results of our improved bone graft method for upper cervical surgery with the posterior approach. Methods Among 52 consecutive cases, odontoid nonunion occurred in 33 patients, atlantoaxial instability in 11 patients, and occipitocervical deformity in 8 patients who underwent posterior C1-C2 transarticular screw/screw-rod internal fixation (41 cases) and occipitocervical fusion (11 cases) with the improved bone graft technique. Each surgical procedure was performed by the same senior spine surgeon. We took lateral cervical standing roentgenograms before surgery and immediately after surgery. Then we conducted craniocerebral computed tomography examination with reconstruction at 3, 6, 12, and 24 months and annually thereafter. The postoperative follow-up times are about 12–38 months. Results All cases showed satisfactory screw fixation by radiographic examination, and there were no postoperative neurologic complications. One case had postoperative retropharyngeal infection after the transoral release and posterior reduction by pedicle screw instrumentation. All patients got solid fusions, and no pseudarthrosis occurred. All cases had solid fusions at the 3-month follow-up. Conclusion Good bone graft bed, enough bone graft material, solid local fixation, and effective bone graft method are prerequisites for a successful bone graft. By analyzing postoperative follow-up in the consecutive cases in this study, our bone graft method describing a new bone graft structure is a reliable posterior fusion technique. It is worth considering, and further research is needed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Magnesium alloy covered stents have rarely been used in the common carotid artery (CCA). We evaluated the long-term efficacy of magnesium alloy covered stents in a lateral aneurysm model in rabbit CCA. Magnesium alloy covered stents (group A, n = 7) or Willis covered stents (group B, n = 5) were inserted in 12 New Zealand White rabbits and they were followed up for 12 months. The long-term feasibility for aneurysm occlusion was studied through angiograms; the changes in vessel area and lumen area were assessed with IVUS. Complete aneurysmal occlusion was achieved in all aneurysms. Angiography showed that the diameter of the stented CCA in group A at 6 and 12 months was significantly greater than the diameter immediately after stent placement. On intravascular ultrasound (IVUS) examination, the mean lumen area of the stented CCA in group A was significantly greater at 6 and 12 months than that immediately after stent placement; the mean lumen area was also significantly greater in group A than in group B at the same time points. The magnesium alloy covered stents proved to be an effective approach for occlusion of lateral aneurysm in the rabbit CCA; it provides distinct advantages that are comparable to that obtained with the Willis covered stent. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Serelaxin, a recombinant form of human relaxin-2, is currently regarded as a novel drug for treatment of acute heart failure. However, whether therapeutic effects of serelaxin are achieved by inhibiting cardiac fibrosis remains unclear. In this study, we investigate effects of serelaxin on inhibiting cardiac fibrosis. Cardiac fibroblasts (CFs) were isolated from the hearts of adult rats. Effects of serelaxin on differentiation of CFs towards myofibroblasts (MFs) and their fibrotic behaviors after induction with TGF-β1 were examined. Synthesis and degradation of collagens, secretion of IL-10, and expression of ALK-5 and p-Smad2/3 of TGF-β1-induced cells were assessed after treatment with serelaxin. Serelaxin inhibited differentiation of TGF-β1-induced CFs towards MFs, and reduced proliferation and migration of the induced cells. Moreover, serelaxin down-regulated expression of collagen I/III and TIMP-2, and up-regulated expression of MMP-2 and MMP-9 in the cells. After treatment with serelaxin, activity of MMP-2 and MMP-9 and secretion of IL-10 increased, expression of ALK-5 and the level of Smad2/3 phosphorylation was reduced significantly. These results suggest that serelaxin can inhibit differentiation of TGF-β1-induced CFs towards MFs, reduce production of collagens by suppressing ALK-5/Smad2/3 signaling pathway, and enhance extracellular matrix degradation by increasing MMP-2/TIMP-2 ratio and IL-10 secretion. Serelaxin may be a potential therapeutic drug for inhibiting cardiac fibrosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Vertical cavity surface emitting laser (VCSELs) as the ideal light source for rubidium (Rb) and cesium (Cs) atomic clocks is analyzed for its mode and polarization control. We fabricated three kinds of shapes: triangular, elliptic, and circular oxidation apertures which also have different sizes. We formed three different shape oxide apertures by wet-oxidation with 36 μm–39 μm circular mesa. Our results show that triangular oxidized-VCSEL has the advantages of mode and polarization selection over elliptic and circular oxide apertures. When triangular oxide-confined VCSELs emit in single mode, the measured side mode suppression ratio (SMSR) is larger than 20 dB and orthogonal polarization suppression ratio achieves 10 dB. Resonant blueshift of VCSELs with triangular and elliptic apertures is observed with the decrease of aperture size. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Resent study suggests that c-kit+ cells in bone marrow-derived MSCs may differentiate toward cardiamyocytes. However, the properties of c-kit+ MSCs remain unclear. This study isolated c-kit+VEGFR-2+ cells from rat bone marrow-derived MSCs, and assessed potential of c-kit+VEGFR-2+ MSCs to differentiate towards cardiovascular cells and their efficiency of repairing the infarcted myocardium after transplantation. Gene expression profile of the cells was analyzed with RNA-sequencing. Potential of differentiation of the cells was determined after induction. Rat models of myocardial infarction were established by ligation of the left anterior descending coronary artery. The cells were treated with hypoxia and serum deprivation for four hours before transplantation. Improvement of cardiac function and repair of the infarcted myocardium were assessed at four weeks after transplantation. Gene expression profile revealed that c-kit+VEGFR-2+ MSCs expressed most smooth muscle-specific and myocardium-specific genes, while expression of endothelium-specific genes was upregulated significantly. After induction with VEGF or TGF-β for two weeks, the cells expressed CD31 and α-SMA respectively. At three weeks, BMP-2-induced cells expressed cTnT. After transplantation of the cells, cardiac function was improved, scar size of the infarcted myocardium was decreased, and angiogenesis and myocardial regeneration were enhanced significantly. Moreover, paracrine in the myocardium was increased after transplantation. These results suggest that c-kit+VEGFR-2+ MSCs have a potential of differentiation towards cardiovascular cells. Transplantation of c-kit+VEGFR-2+ MSCs is effective for repair of the infarcted myocardium. c-kit+VEGFR-2+ MSCs may be a reliable source for cell therapy of ischaemic diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • This study has provided comprehensive evidence to support strong associations between oral microbiota and HTN. We discovered that 14 salivary genera and 15 subgingival genera were significantly altered in hypertension participants. • Fifteen oral genera were first found to associate with blood pressure. There were also new associations between oral microbiota and other clinical parameters been established. • This study has identified the shared genera that coexisted in saliva, subgingival plaques, and feces and illustrated the associations of the shared genera between oral and gut sample types. • This study has identified important oral-gut transmitting microbes in hypertension. Sixteen species under 5 genera were identified as oral-gut transmitters. Particularly, Veillonella was identified as a frequent oral-gut transmitter stably enriched in hypertension participants. • This study has demonstrated the potential causal link between oral-gut microbial transmission and hypertension—saliva from participants with hypertension exacerbated angiotensin II-induced hypertension in animal study. Veillonella could colonize in the gut of all mice receiving human saliva and more enriched in mice receiving saliva from hypertension participants. Considerable evidence has linked periodontitis (PD) to hypertension (HTN), but the nature behind this connection is unclear. Dysbiosis of oral microbiota leading to PD is known to aggravate different systematic diseases, but the alteration of oral microbiota in HTN and their impacts on blood pressure (BP) remains to be discovered. To characterize the alterations of oral and gut microbiota and their roles in HTN. We performed a cross-sectional (95 HTN participants and 39 controls) and a 6-month follow-up study (52 HTN participants and 26 controls) to analyze the roles of oral and gut microbiota in HTN. Saliva, subgingival plaques, and feces were collected for 16S rRNA gene sequencing or metagenomic analysis. C57BL/6J mice were pretreated with antibiotics to deplete gut microbiota, and then transplanted with human saliva by gavage to test the impacts of abnormal oral-gut microbial transmission on HTN. BP in participants with PD was higher than no PD in both cross-sectional and follow-up cohort. Relative abundances of 14 salivary genera, 15 subgingival genera and 10 gut genera significantly altered in HTN and those of 7 salivary genera, 12 subgingival genera and 6 gut genera significantly correlated with BP. Sixteen species under 5 genera were identified as oral-gut transmitters, illustrating the presence of oral-gut microbial transmission in HTN. Veillonella was a frequent oral-gut transmitter stably enriched in HTN participants of both cross-sectional and follow-up cohorts. Saliva from HTN participants increased BP in hypertensive mice. Human saliva-derived Veillonella successfully colonized in mouse gut, more abundantly under HTN condition. PD and oral microbiota are strongly associated with HTN, likely through oral-gut transmission of microbes. Ectopic colonization of saliva-derived Veillonella in the gut may aggravate HTN. Therefore, precise manipulations of oral microbiota and/or oral-gut microbial transmission may be useful strategies for better prevention and treatment of HTN. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Three new neo -5,10- seco -clerodane diterpenoids (1 – 3), four previously undescribed ethoxy/methoxy acetal analogues (4 – 7), one new etherified labdane diterpenoid (8), and seven known diterpenoids (9 – 15) were isolated from the whole plant of Schnabelia terniflora. Their structures were established on the basis of extensive spectroscopic analysis, single-crystal X-ray diffraction data, calculated electronic circular dichroism (ECD), and Mo 2 (OAc) 4 -induced circular dichroism. Compounds 2 and 3 represent the first examples of neo -5,10- seco -clerodane diterpenoids containing a 1 H -pyrrole-2,5-dione and a pyrrolidine-2,5-dione moiety, respectively. A plausible biosynthetic pathway for 1 – 3 is proposed. All diterpenoids were evaluated for their cytotoxic activity against non-small-cell lung cancer lines (A549 and H460) and gastric cancer lines (HGC27 and AGS). Among them, 2 and 14 showed moderate cytotoxicity against four cell lines. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The limited cardiomyocyte proliferation is insufficient for repair of the myocardium. Therefore, activating cardiomyocyte proliferation might be a reasonable option for myocardial regeneration. Here, we investigated effect of retinoic acid (RA) on inducing adult cardiomyocyte proliferation and assessed efficacy of self-assembling peptide (SAP)-released RA in activating regeneration of the infarcted myocardium. Effect of RA on inducing cardiomyocyte proliferation was examined with the isolated cardiomyocytes. Expression of the cell cycle-associated genes and paracrine factors in the infarcted myocardium was examined at one week after treatment with SAP-carried RA. Cardiomyocyte proliferation, myocardial regeneration and improvement of cardiac function were assessed at four weeks after treatment. In the adult rat myocardium, expression of RA synthetase gene Raldh2 and RA concentration were decreased significantly. After treatment with RA, the proliferated cardiomyocytes were increased. The formulated SAP could sustainedly release RA. After treatment with SAP-carried RA, expression of the pro-proliferative genes in cell cycle and paracrine factors in the infarcted myocardium were up-regulated. Myocardial regeneration was enhanced, and cardiac function was improved significantly. These results demonstrate that RA can induce adult cardiomyocytes to proliferate effectively. The sustained release of RA with SAP is a promise strategy to enhance repair of the infarcted myocardium. [Display omitted] • Synthesis of retinoic acid in adult myocardium is decreased. • Retinoic acid can induce proliferation of adult cardiomyocytes. • Sustained release of retinoic acid is effective for repair of the infarcted myocardium. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mineralocorticoid receptor (MR) is a classic nuclear receptor and an effective drug target in the cardiovascular system. The function of MR in immune cells such as macrophages and T cells has been increasingly appreciated. The aim of this study was to investigate the function of Treg MR in the process of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). We treated Treg MR‐deficient (MRflox/floxFoxp3YFP‐Cre, KO) mice and control (Foxp3YFP‐Cre, WT) mice with dextran sodium sulphate (DSS) to induce colitis and found that the severity of DSS‐induced colitis was markedly alleviated in Treg MR‐deficient mice, accompanied by reduced production of inflammatory cytokines, and relieved infiltration of monocytes, neutrophils and interferon γ+ T cells in colon lamina propria. Faecal microbiota of mice with colitis was analysed by 16S rRNA gene sequencing and the composition of gut microbiota was vastly changed in Treg MR‐deficient mice. Furthermore, depletion of gut microbiota by antibiotics abolished the protective effects of Treg MR deficiency and resulted in similar severity of DSS‐induced colitis in WT and KO mice. Faecal microbiota transplantation from KO mice attenuated DSS‐induced colitis characterized by alleviated inflammatory infiltration compared to that from WT mice. Hence, our study demonstrates that Treg MR deficiency protects against DSS‐induced colitis by attenuation of colonic inflammatory infiltration. Gut microbiota is both sufficient and necessary for Treg MR deficiency to exert the beneficial effects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Context: Animals are commonly used to model the human spine for in vitro and in vivo experiments. Many studies have investigated similarities and differences between animals and humans in the lumbar and thoracic vertebrae. However, a quantitative anatomic comparison of calf, pig, and human cervical spines has not been reported. Purpose: To compare fundamental structural similarities and differences in vertebral bodies from the cervical spines of commonly used experimental animal models and humans. Study Design: Anatomical morphometric analysis was performed on cervical vertebra specimens harvested from humans and two common large animals (i.e., calves and pigs). Methods: Multiple morphometric parameters were directly measured from cervical spine specimens of twelve pigs, twelve calves and twelve human adult cadavers. The following anatomical parameters were measured: vertebral body width (VBW), vertebral body depth (VBD), vertebral body height (VBH), spinal canal width (SCW), spinal canal depth (SCD), pedicle width (PW), pedicle depth (PD), pedicle inclination (PI), dens width (DW), dens depth (DD), total vertebral width (TVW), and total vertebral depth (TVD). Results: The atlantoaxial (C1–2) joint in pigs is similar to that in humans and could serve as a human substitute. The pig cervical spine is highly similar to the human cervical spine, except for two large transverse processes in the anterior regions ofC4–C6. The width and depth of the calf odontoid process were larger than those in humans. VBW and VBD of calf cervical vertebrae were larger than those in humans, but the spinal canal was smaller. Calf C7 was relatively similar to human C7, thus, it may be a good substitute. Conclusion: Pig cervical vertebrae were more suitable human substitutions than calf cervical vertebrae, especially with respect to C1, C2, and C7. The biomechanical properties of nerve vascular anatomy and various segment functions in pig and calf cervical vertebrae must be considered when selecting an animal model for research on the spine. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The title compound, C21H26O4, is an important inter­mediate in the synthesis of corticosteroids. The crystal packing is predominantly stabilized by strong inter­molecular O—H⋯O hydrogen bonds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, nanohydroxyapatite/polyurethane (nHA/PU) composites with various contents of methoxypoly(ethylene glycol) modified nHA (0 wt%, 10 wt%, 20 wt% and 30 wt%) were prepared by solution blending process. The physicochemical properties of the composite membranes were investigated by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), X-ray diffraction (XRD), Transmission electronic microscopy (TEM), Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), Thermo gravimetric analysis (TGA) and tensile tests. TEM photos of the nanocomposites showed that the nHA was uniformly dispersed in the polymer matrix. The membrane with 10 wt% nHA showed the highest tensile strength which was about 75% higher than that of the pure PU membrane. However, the tensile strength decreased when high content (above 20 wt%) fillers were added, which was still higher than that of pure PU. TGA measurements suggested that the thermal stability of the membranes was improved owing to nHA fillers. XRD and DSC results illustrated that the crystallinity of PU soft segments decreased with the increasing content of nanoparticles in the composites. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Unilateral biportal endoscopic discectomy (UBE) is a rapidly growing surgical method that uses arthroscopic system for treatment of lumbar disc herniation (LDH), while percutaneous endoscopic lumbar discectomy (PELD) has been standardized as a representative minimally invasive spine surgical technique for LDH. The purpose of this study was to compare the clinical outcomes between UBE and PELD for treatment of patients with LDH. Methods: The subjects consisted of 54 patients who underwent UBE (24 cases) and PELD (30 cases) who were followed up for at least 6 months. All patients had lumber disc herniation for 1 level. Outcomes of the patients were assessed with operation time, incision length, hospital stay, total blood loss (TBL), intraoperative blood loss (IBL), hidden blood loss (HBL), complications, total hospitalization costs, visual analogue scale (VAS) for back and leg pain, the Oswestry disability index (ODI) and modified MacNab criteria. Results: The VAS scores and ODI decreased significantly in two groups after operation. Preoperative and 1 day, 1 month, 6 months after operation VAS and ODI scores were not significantly different between the two groups. Compared with PELD group, UBE group was associated with higher TBL, higher IBL, higher HBL, longer operation time, longer hospital stay, longer incision length, and more total hospitalization costs. However, a dural tear occurred in one patient of the UBE group. There was no significant difference in the rate of complications between the two groups. Conclusions: Application of UBE for treatment of lumbar disc herniation yielded similar clinical outcomes to PELD, including pain control and patient satisfaction. However, UBE was associated with various disadvantages relative to PELD, including increased total, intraoperative and hidden blood loss, longer operation times, longer hospital stays, and more total hospitalization costs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: A promising seeding strategy of internally generated seeds in producing ceftriaxone sodium with a uni-modal crystal size distribution (CSD) was experimentally investigated in batch anti-solvent crystallization. Effects of different seeding policies on product CSDs, both external seeding and internally generated seeding, were experimentally determined. A uni-modal product CSD was obtained without obvious nucleation at high external-seed loadings, while a bi-modal CSD was obtained with plenty of secondary nuclei at low external-seed loadings. The internally generated seeds, prepared by adding pure acetone into the non-seeded saturated solution of ceftriaxone sodium, were fine crystals with a uni-modal, narrow CSD, irrespective of the amount of the added diluent. These fine crystals were grown continuously as seeds by slowly adding a relatively low concentration diluent. The product CSD was uni-modal with relatively large mass-weighted mean size, and the product quality was as good as the one obtained by external seeding. Therefore, such an internally generated seeding policy is expected to be a favorable seeding technology to hopefully substitute for the external seeding policy in the pharmaceutical industry, where external seeding is not welcome because the external seeding policy would destroy the axenic conditions in crystallizer and lead to unstable quality of different batches. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

There is increasing interest to understand the interspecies interactions between microbes of anaerobic ammonium oxidation (anammox) consortia. However, the microbial nitrogen and carbon interactions in inorganic suspended growth anammox consortia are still elusive. Here, we operated a long-term Continuous Stirred Tank Reactor (CSTR) with synthetic inorganic wastewater, which achieved 80% of total nitrogen removal at the steady-state, representing a nitrogen removal rate (NRR) of 1.032 kg-N/(m3·d). Our meta-omics analyses yielded 16 high-quality draft genomes and reconstructed their potential metabolic pathways. Elevated expressions of gene transcripts encoding for enzymes involved in nitrogen and carbon metabolisms were detected in isolates obtained from the same anammox consortia, suggesting their potential metabolic roles and possible microbial interaction capacity in anammox consortia. The expressed genes encoding NO support, nitrite/ammonium loop, dissimilatory nitrate reduction to ammonium, and denitrification in anammox bacteria, and its symbiotic bacteria could have benefits to the bacterial survival and reactor performance. The Carbohydrate-active enzyme analysis revealed that carbohydrate cross-feeding in autotrophic anammox consortia might shift the microbial community. Proteobacteria and anammox bacteria might contribute acetate and glycogen for other symbiotic microorganisms to support their survival. Proteobacteria-affiliated bacteria encoded the potentials of biotin synthesis, hinting at the possibility of the regulation of the diversity of the microbial community. The observed microbial interactions in anammox consortia with inorganic feeding facilitate the purification of anammox bacteria and their engineering application. Image 1 • "Ca. Brocadia sp." dominant the microbial community without organics feeding. • Nitrogen removal was contributed by "Ca. Brocadia sp." and its symbiotics. • Microbial C/N interactions were verified in anammox consortia without organic feeding. • Interspecies interaction suggests the accumulation of heterotrophic bacteria. • Biotin exchange plays a core role in the regulation of the microbial community. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An investigation of the n -BuOH fraction of Schnabelia nepetifolia (Benth.) P.D.Cantino led to the isolation and identification of 12 undescribed phenylethanoid glycosides (nepetifosides A–L) and one undescribed phenylmethanoid glycoside (nepetifoside M), together with 23 known compounds. The structures of these compounds were determined by spectroscopic analyses including two-dimensional nuclear-magnetic-resonance (2D-NMR) spectroscopy and chemical-hydrolysis methods. Nepetifoside F exhibited strong activity that significantly increased osteoblast proliferation at three concentrations of 0.1, 1, and 10 μM. Moreover, nepetifoside C and nepetifoside D exhibited moderate activities in promoting the proliferation of osteoblasts at medium and high concentrations of 1 μM and 10 μM, respectively. Image 1 • Thirty-two phenylethanoid glycosides were isolated from the Schnabelia nepetifolia (Benth.) P.D.Cantino. • Twelve undescribed phenylethanoid glycosides were reported. • The nepetifoside A with a 12-membered macrocyclic phenylethanoid glycoside was reported. • Nepetifoside F exhibited strong activity increasing significantly osteoblast proliferation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A phytochemical investigation of the dichloromethane soluble fraction of the ethanolic extract obtained from the roots of Marsdenia tenacissima led to the discovery of the sixteen undescribed pregnane C 21 steroids (1 – 16) and isolation of eleven known C 21 steroidal analogues (17 – 27). Their chemical structures were elucidated by one- and two-dimensional nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy and, high resolution–electrospray ionization mass spectrometry and their absolute configurations were determined using electronic circular dichroism or single-crystal X-ray diffraction. The in vitro anti-proliferative effects of 1 – 16 were evaluated against HepG2 (human hepatocellular cancer), A549 (lung cancer), and MCF-7 (human breast cancer) cell lines. Even though some of them showed moderate cytotoxic activities, marsectohexol derivative 12 exhibited significant cytotoxicity against A549 cells with an IC 50 value of 5.2 μM. [Display omitted] • Twenty-seven C 21 steroids were isolated from Marsdenia tenacissima. • Sixteen undescribed C 21 steroids were reported. • Compound 12 exhibited the most potent cytotoxicity effects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The authors obtain some Wilker and Cusa type inequalities for generalized trigonometric and hyperbolic functions and generalize some known inequalities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To analyze the outcomes of a magnesium alloy covered stent (MACS) for a lateral aneurysm model in common carotid artery (CCA).Methods: In 32 rabbits, a MACS (group A, n = 17) or a Willis covered stent (WCS; group B, n = 15) was inserted and the rabbits were sacrificed 1, 3, 6, or 12 months after stenting. Angiography and intravascular ultrasound (IVUS) were performed at 3, 6, and 12 months. Scanning electron microscopy was performed for six stents in each group at 1, 3, and 6 months, and histopathology and histomorphology were conducted at 3 (n = 4), 6 (n = 4), and 12 (n = 12) months.Results: Final angiography showed complete occlusion of the aneurysms in 12 cases. IVUS at 6 and 12 months revealed a significant increase in mean lumen area of the stented CCA in group A and also showed greater mean lumen area in group A than in group B. The endothelialization process was quicker in group A than in group B.Conclusion: MACS is effective for occlusion of lateral aneurysms and is superior to WCS in growth of the stented CCA and endothelialization. Further work is needed to make this device available for human use.Key Points: • The MACS is an effective approach for occlusion of a lateral aneurysm. • IVUS showed that the CCA could grow following degradation of the MACS. • The lumen area of the stented CCA was excellent in MACS. • HE staining displayed the degradation of the magnesium alloy stent. • Combination of IVUS and DSA were applied in this study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Acute-on-chronic liver failure (ACLF) is a fatal syndrome that presents with acute deterioration of liver function in chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) patients. However, reliable diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers are scarce. Objectives: The aim of this study to identify lipid species associated with HBV infection as well as novel lipid biomarkers for HBV-ACLF. Methods: High performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry was used for targeted lipidomic analyses of 147 lipid species. Fasting-state plasma samples from 74 HBV-ACLF patients, 86 HBV-non-ACLF patients [30 HBV-immune tolerant (HBV-IT) and 56 chronic hepatitis B] and 20 healthy controls. Univariate and multivariate analyses examined changes in lipid species among patient groups. Results: The HBV-ACLF and HBV-non-ACLF groups had distinctly different lipid profiles, while the HC and HBV-IT groups had similar lipid profiles. Further, lysophosphatidylcholine (LPC) 22:6, cholesterol ester (CE) 22:6, CE 20:4, CE 18:2 and CE 18:1 could be used as potential biomarkers for the early prediction of ACLF. Meanwhile, univariate and multivariate analyses identified CE 20:4, LPC 16:0, LPC 18:0, phosphatidylcholine (PC) 40:6 and PC 32:0 as putative diagnostic biomarkers of HBV-ACLF. Moreover, LPC 16:0 and LPC 18:0 were significantly associated with model for end stage liver disease (MELD) scores, and the two lipid species combined with MELD score had significant capability to predict the 6-month mortality. Conclusions: Our study revealed that lipid metabolism disorders were significantly associated with the severity of liver inflammatory injury rather than HBV infection in patients with chronic HBV infection, and specific lipid species could be used as potentially biomarkers for diagnosis and prognosis in HBV-ACLF. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purposes: To discuss whether radiologic parameters are closely related to posterior ligamentous complex (PLC) injury identified by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).Methods: One hundred and five thoracolumbar fracture (T11-L2) patients were retrospectively analyzed in the study. The patients were divided into different groups by the status of the PLC on MRI: intact, incompletely ruptured and ruptured. The radiographic parameters included the anterior edge-inferior endplate angle (AEIEA), the anterior edge displacement (AED), the Cobb angle (CA), the region angle (RA), the sagittal index (SI), local kyphosis (LK), the anterior/posterior vertebral height ratio (A/P ratio), the anterior vertebral height ratio (AVH ratio), and bony fragment in front of the fractured vertebra (BFOFV). T test, Pearson's Chi-square and multivariate logistic regression were calculated for the variables.Results: Supraspinous ligament (SSL) rupture versus intact was not only associated with the occurrence of AEIEA <70°, LK >25° and BFOFV, but also with increased AED (9.89 ± 3.12 mm and 9.34 ± 3.36 mm, P = 0.034), RA (9.52 ± 3.93° versus 7.91 ± 3.99°, P = 0.042), and LK (23.98 ± 5.88° versus 15.55 ± 5.28°, P = 0.021). The indications for interspinous ligament (ISL) injury included AEIEA <75°, AEIEA <70° (P = 0.004 and P < 0.001, respectively), increased AED (P = 0.010), LK >25° (P = 0.024), AVH (P < 0.001), and BFOFV (P < 0.001). Multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed that AEIEA <70° and BFOFV were high risk factors for SSL rupture [standard partial regression coefficients (betas) were 0.439 and 0.408, P = 0.003 and 0.001, respectively] and ISL rupture (betas were 0.548 and 0.494, P = 0.028 and 0.001, respectively). Increased AED and LK >25° were also related to either ISL rupture (P = 0.035 and 0.001, respectively) or SSL rupture (P = 0.014 and 0.008, respectively).Conclusion: Our data may prove useful in a preliminary assessment of the PLC integrity based on plain radiographic imaging. We show that radiologic indications, such as AEIEA <70°, BFOFV, LK >25°, and increased AED, are correlated with ISL or SSL rupture, while RA, CA, SI, A/P ratio, and AVH ratio are not. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To describe and illustrate a modified technique for using translaminar screw in the cervicothoracic junction (C7-T2).Methods: 12 patients (8 males and 4 females, average age was 52 years) underwent insertion of unilateral or bilateral translaminar screws by using our modified technique. With this modified technique, a tiny unicortical "hole" was made at the middle of the contralateral lamina, and the screw can be directly visualized through the unicortical "hole" to prevent violating the spinal canal.Results: With this modified technique, the mean operation time was 205 min (range 145-360) and mean estimated blood loss was 445 ml (range 260-1250). The mean length of the laminar screws was 27 (range 24-30) mm. The results of the 12 patients with an average follow-up of 17 (6-33) months demonstrated this modified technique to be safe and effective in the fixation of cervicothoracic junction.Conclusion: In this modified technique, a tiny unicortical "hole" which was made at the middle of the dorsal lamina of cervicothoracic junction (C7-T2). By directly visualizing the screw inserting against the dorsal cortices of the lamina, this modified technique can reduce the risk of violation of the spinal canal and shorten the operation time. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Study Design: This study is a computed tomographic-based morphometric analysis of the pediatric occipital bones as related to pediatric occipitocervical fusion.Objective: To quantify reference data concerning the thicknesses of the immature occipital bones to guide the pediatric occipitocervical fusion.Summary Of Background Data: To the best of our knowledge, no published study has provided insight into the thicknesses of pediatric occiputs with different age groups.Methods: 80 pediatric patients were divided into 4 age groups, and their occiputs were studied on Philips Brilliance 256 iCT scan.Results: The mean thickness ± standard deviations of the pediatric occipital bones with different age groups is shown. The median and the paramedian regions are always thicker than the more lateral regions at each age group and the thickest point in the occiputs is mostly at the external occipital protuberance. The mean thickness of occiputs showed an obvious significant difference between each 2 age groups and no significant difference between male and female in different age groups except the group 4.Conclusion: Our investigation provides insight into the anatomy of occiputs in pediatric population and preoperative CT evaluation must be required to further decrease the risk of occipitocervical fusion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]