Search

Accurate identification of photovoltaic (PV) model parameters is crucial for the study of factors affecting PV power generation efficiency. This study addresses this challenge by introducing the enhanced RIME algorithm (ERIME). ERIME achieves a fine balance between exploration and exploitation by combining a modified soft‐rime search strategy and a shared information mutation mechanism, thus ensuring population diversity. To assess the efficacy of ERIME, the recognized CEC2022 test function suite is adopted to evaluate its search performance. Furthermore, to validate the versatility of ERIME in parameter identification of PV model, we tested the proposed method on several PV models, including single diode model (SDM), double diode model (DDM), triple diode model (TDM), and multiple PV module models (PVM). An in‐depth statistical analysis of the results and a comparative study with the popular existing research methods highlight the superiority of ERIME. Specifically, ERIME improves the best value metrics of SDM, DDM, and TDM by 6.63E−06, 2.28E−05, and 1.36E−04, respectively, compared to RIME and reduces the standard deviation by 2.02E−03,1.75E−03, and 1.54E−03, respectively, compared to MVO. Comprehensive results show that the proposed method has better robustness and convergence accuracy than the state‐of‐the‐art algorithm. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Accurate modeling and parameter identification of photovoltaic (PV) cells is a difficult task due to the nonlinear characteristics of PV cells. The goal of this paper is to propose a multi strategy sine–cosine algorithm (SCA), named enhanced sine–cosine algorithm (ESCA), to evaluate nondirectly measurable parameters of PV cells. The ESCA introduces the concept of population average position to increase the population exploration ability, and at the same time introduces the personal destination agent mutation mechanism and competitive selection mechanism into SCA to provide more search directions for ESCA while ensuring the search accuracy and diversity maintenance. To prove that the proposed ESCA is the best choice for extracting nondirectly measurable parameters of PV cells, ESCA is evaluated by the single‐diode model, the double‐diode model, the three‐diode model, and the photovoltaic module model (PVM), and compared with eight existing popular methods. Experimental results show that ESCA outperforms similar methods in terms of diversity maintenance, high efficiency, and stability. In particular, the proposed ESCA method is less than the SCA by 0.081, 0.144, and 0.578 in the standard deviation statistics metrics of the three PVM models (PV‐PWP201, STM6‐40/36, and STP6‐120/36), respectively. Therefore, the proposed ESCA is an accurate and reliable method for parameter identification of PV cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is a chronic progressive interstitial lung disease that lacks effective treatment modalities. Once patients are diagnosed with IPF, their median survival is approximately 3–5 years. PPARγ is an important target for the prevention and treatment of pulmonary fibrosis. Asarinin is a lignan compound that can be extracted from food plant Asarum heterotropoides. In this study, we investigated the therapeutic effects of asarinin in a pulmonary fibrosis model constructed using bleomycin in mice and explored the underlying mechanisms. Intraperitoneal administration of asarinin to mice with pulmonary fibrosis showed that asarinin effectively attenuated pulmonary fibrosis, and this effect was significantly inhibited by the PPARγ inhibitor GW9662. Asarinin inhibited TGF-β1-induced fibroblast-to-myofibroblast transition in vitro, while GW9662 and PPARγ gene silencing significantly inhibited this effect. In addition, asarinin inhibited not only the canonical Smad pathway of TGF-β but also the non-canonical AKT and MAPK pathways by activating PPARγ. Our study demonstrates that asarinin can be used as a therapeutic agent for pulmonary fibrosis, and that PPARγ is its key target. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Five undescribed leucosesterterpane sesterterpenoids, leucosceptrines A−E, two undescribed penta- nor -leucosesterterpane (C 20) sesterterpenoids, nor -leucosceptrines A and B, and three known analogues, were obtained from the aerial parts of Leucosceptrum canum of Chinese origin. Leucosceptrines A−C are the first examples of leucosesterterpane-type sesterterpenoids with unclosed dihydropyran rings and reverse configurations at chiral centers C-4 and/or C-12. Nor -leucosceptrines A and B possesses an unusual penta- nor -leucosesterterpane skeleton. Their structures were unambiguously elucidated through comprehensive spectroscopic analyses and single-crystal X-ray diffraction. A plausible biogenetic pathway for these sesterterpenoids was proposed. The immunosuppressive effects of these isolates on the secretion of the cytokine IFN-γ by T cells stimulated with anti-CD3/CD28 monoclonal antibodies were observed with different potencies. Seven undescribed leucosesterterpane sesterterpenoids along with three known analogues were isolated from the aerial parts of Leucosceptrum canum of Chinese origin. Immunosuppressive activity against the cytokine IFN-γ secretion was observed. [Display omitted] • Ten leucosesterterpane sesterterpenoids were isolated from Leucosceptrum canum. • Seven previously undescribed leucosesterterpane sesterterpenoids were included. • Immunosuppressive activity was observed for these sesterterpenoids. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this article, a modified version of the Sine Cosine algorithm (MSCA) is proposed to solve the optimization problem. Based on the Sine Cosine algorithm (SCA), the position update formula of SCA is redefined to increase the convergence speed, then the Levy random walk mutation strategy is adopted to improve the population diversity. In order to verify the performance of MSCA, 24 well-known classical benchmark problems and IEEE CEC2017 test suites were introduced, and by comparing MSCA with several popular methods, it is demonstrated that MSCA has good convergence and robustness. Finally, MSCA is used to address six complex engineering design problems, demonstrating the engineering utility of the algorithm. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Impaired long-term memory, a complication of traumatic stress including hemorrhage shock and resuscitation (HSR), has been reported to be associated with multiple neurodegenerations. The ventral tegmental area (VTA) participates in both learned appetitive and aversive behaviors. In addition to being prospective targets for the therapy of addiction, depression, and other stress-related diseases, VTA glutamatergic neurons are becoming more widely acknowledged as powerful regulators of reward and aversion. This study revealed that HSR exposure induces memory impairments and decreases the activation in glutamatergic neurons, and decreased β power in the VTA. We also found that optogenetic activation of glutamatergic neurons in the VTA mitigated HSR-induced memory impairments, and restored β power. Moreover, hydrogen sulfide (H 2 S), a gasotransmitter with pleiotropic roles, has neuroprotective functions at physiological concentrations. In vivo, H 2 S administration improved HSR-induced memory deficits, elevated c-fos-positive vesicular glutamate transporters (Vglut2) neurons, increased β power, and restored the balance of γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA) and glutamate in the VTA. This work suggests that glutamatergic neuron stimulation via optogenetic assay and exogenous H 2 S may be useful therapeutic approaches for improving memory deficits following HSR. • Hemorrhage shock and resuscitation induces memory impairments and decreases the activation in glutamatergic neurons. • Hemorrhage shock and resuscitation decreases β power in the VTA. • Hydrogen sulfide improve hemorrhage shock and resuscitation induced memory deficits. • Hydrogen sulfide elevates vesicular glutamate transporters neurons, increased β power. • Hydrogen sulfide has neuroprotective functions at physiological concentrations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A novel selenium dioxide promoted selenylation/cyclization of leucosceptrane sesterterpenoids was reported. Two types of leucosceptrane derivatives with different valence states of selenium atoms (Se2+ and Se4+) were obtained. The mechanisms of these two processes were proposed, and the selenium-containing derivates may serve as intermediates of Riley oxidation that could be trapped with appropriate substrates. Immunosuppressive activity screening revealed that 10 and 11 had obvious inhibitory effects on IFN-γ production, with IC50 values of 5.29 and 17.60 μM, respectively, which were more active than their precursor leucosceptroid A. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The YangzhengXiaoji capsule (YXC) has a wide range of applications as effective traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) preparation for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in China. However, the potential bioactive components and the mechanisms are yet unclear. The treatment mechanism of YXC on HCC using a network pharmacology integrated serum pharmacochemistry strategy to investigate associated targets and pathways. We utilised HPLC-Q-TOF-MS/MS technology to identify components of the serum samples from both the model group and the YXC (H) group serum, which were collected from nude mice with orthotopic liver tumours. Following this, we conducted compound-target prediction and identified the overlap between the target genes in the YXC group and the oncogenes associated with HCC. The anticancer mechanisms of YXC were investigated by creating a compound-target-pathway network using the Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway and Gene Ontology (GO) analysis. The anticancer efficacy was evaluated in vitro and in vivo. Also, potential predictive targets and pathways associated with YXC in HCC treatment were assessed by western blotting. The YXC (H) serum had 47 bioactive compounds compared to other models, and identified 173 specific target genes. Using the compound-target-disease network, 141 possible target genes were identified. The KEGG pathway analysis revealed vital enrichment of pathways associated with HCC, including regulating Oncology related pathways of inflammation, immunity, apoptosis, and necrosis biological processes. YXC significantly inhibited HCC cell growth in vitro and in vivo. After YXC treatment, western blotting detected alterations in the p53/Bcl-2/Bax/Caspase-3 and PI3K/Akt pathways. YXC can inhibit HCC development and advancement by a variety of components, targets and pathways, especially apoptosis-induction. • YXC can inhibit the development and progression of HCC in vivo and in vitro. • YXC may affect inflammation and apoptosis of HCC. • YXC upregulated p53-associated apoptosis pathway in HCC cells. • YXC downregulated PI3K/Akt pathway in HCC cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chronic pancreatitis is considered to be a progressive fibroinflammatory disease. Here we report a unique picture of chronic alcoholic pancreatitis with huge dilatation of pancreatic duct showing pseudocyst of the head of pancreas, pancreatic calculi and biliary dilatation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• We study the effects of randomly distributed He bubbles on the spall damage in single crystal aluminum under decaying shock loadings. • He bubble plays important role in the dynamic properties, including the spall damage mechanism and characteristics. • The mechanism of spall damage is dominated by He bubble expansion-merging-absorption, followed by void nucleation-growth-coalescence. • The spall strength of Al in solid state is reduced by He bubble, but this effect becomes negligible when the crystal is melted. The mechanism and characteristics of spall damage in single crystal Al with randomly distributed helium bubbles under decaying shock loading are studied by molecular dynamics simulations. We find that He bubble plays important role in the dynamic process. The mechanism of spall damage is dominated by He bubble expansion-merging-absorption, followed by void nucleation-growth-coalescence. During spalling process, He bubbles impede the nucleation of surrounding voids, they expand at a higher rate than that for void growth, adjacent He bubbles merge together, and small voids are absorbed by nearby large He bubble. These behaviors finally lead to a very different morphology of the damaged zone from that for the perfect crystal, whose spall damage mechanism is void nucleation-growth-coalescence. Obvious differences in temperature profile are observed between the crystal with He bubbles and the perfect crystal because the compression of surrounding atoms induced by He bubble expansion results in higher local temperature, especially in solid state. In melted state, the contribution of He bubbles becomes comparatively small since more voids are nucleated followed by faster voids growth and coalescence that lead to higher temperature rising. Additionally, He bubble significantly reduces the spall strength of Al in solid state, but this effect becomes negligible when the crystal is melted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Zr and Sb are simultaneously added to refine and modify primary Mg 2 Si in Al–20Mg 2 Si alloys. Compared with single addition of Zr or Sb, the combined addition of Zr and Sb can result in an enhanced refinement and modification effect on primary Mg 2 Si. The unique co-modification effect is mainly derived from the synergistic combination of Sb and Zr. Sb can involve in the formation of Mg 3 (Sb, Si) 2 particles and thereby can act as heterogeneous nuclei of primary Mg 2 Si, resulting in the uniform distribution and refined particle size of primary Mg 2 Si crystals. The role of Zr is also indispensable as it can decrease the solidification temperature interval of the primary Mg 2 Si phase, which could further refine the primary Mg 2 Si crystals and promote their complete growth. Moreover, the wear resistance of Al–20Mg 2 Si alloys is also improved owing to the special co-modification effect of Zr and Sb. Since primary Mg 2 Si can be optimized by enhancing heterogeneous nucleation and decreasing solidification temperature interval, such idea can be extended to guide the microstructure control in other alloy systems. Graphical abstract Image 1 Highlights • Fined and polygonal primary Mg 2 Si particles were obtained by adding Zr-Sb. • The wear resistance of Al–20Mg 2 Si alloys was improved due to fined primary Mg 2 Si. • Mg 3 (Sb,Si) 2 particles act as nuclei of primary Mg 2 Si particles. • Zr decreases the solidification temperature interval of primary Mg 2 Si phase. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Myostatin is an important member of the transforming growth factor (TGF) family that functions to regulate muscle growth in animals. In this study, the myostatin gene ( FmMstn ) and two slightly different (short and long forms) cDNAs of the banana shrimp Fenneropenaeus merguiensis were cloned and characterized. Similar to Mstn gene of the scallop, fish and mammal, FmMstn gene consists of 3 exons and 2 introns. The 2 kb upstream promoter region of the FmMstn gene consists of putative response elements for myocyte enhancing factor (MEF2) and E-box factors. The longest open reading frame of the short Mstn consists of 1260 bp encoding for a protein with 420 amino acid residues. The long FmMstn is almost identical to the short FmMstn with the exception of 8 amino acid insertions. FmMstn is most similar to the Mstn of Litopenaeus vannamei and Penaeus monodon sharing >92–98% amino acid sequence identity. Multiple sequence alignment results revealed high degree of amino acid conservation of the cysteine residues and mature peptide of the FmMstn with Mstn from other animals. FmMstn transcript was detected in the heart, muscle, optic nerve and thoracic ganglion. FmMstn transcript level in muscle is higher in early postmolt, decreases in intermolt and increases again towards ecdysis. Higher expression level of FmMstn is also observed in smaller shrimp of the same age. Knock-down of FmMstn gene by RNAi can cause a significant increase in molt cycle duration and failure of some shrimp to undergo ecdysis. Direct DNA sequencing results revealed that FmMstn gene is highly polymorphic and several potential SNPs have been identified. Some SNPs are associated with the size difference of the shrimp. In summary, the result of this study indicates that shrimp FmMstn gene is molt/growth-related and the presence of SNP suggests that it could be a candidate gene for shrimp genetic improvement research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Successful infection of the host requires secretion of effector proteins to evade or suppress plant immunity. Secretion of effectors in root-infecting fungal pathogens, however, remains unexplored. We previously reported that Verticillium dahliae, a root-infecting phytopathogenic fungus, develops a penetration peg from a hyphopodium to infect cotton roots. In this study, we report that a septin ring, requiring VdSep5, partitions the hyphopodium and the invasive hypha and form the specialized fungus-host interface. The mutant strain, VdΔnoxb, in which NADPH oxidase B (VdNoxB) is deleted, impaired formation of the septin ring at the hyphal neck, indicating that NADPH oxidases regulate septin ring organization. Using GFP tagging and live cell imaging, we observed that several signal peptide containing secreted proteins showed ring signal accumulation/secretion at the penetration interface surrounding the hyphal neck. Targeted mutation for VdSep5 reduced the delivery rate of secretory proteins to the penetration interface. Blocking the secretory pathway by disrupting the vesicular trafficking factors, VdSec22 and VdSyn8, or the exocyst subunit, VdExo70, also arrested delivery of the secreted proteins inside the hyphopodium. Reduced virulence was observed when cotton roots were infected with VdΔsep5, VdΔsec22, VdΔsyn8 and VdΔexo70 mutants compared to infection with the isogenic wild-type V592. Taken together, our data demonstrate that the hyphal neck is an important site for protein secretion during plant root infection, and that the multiple secretory routes are involved in the secretion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Verticillium dahliae is a phytopathogenic fungus obligate in root infection. A few hyphopodia differentiate from large numbers of hyphae after conidia germination on the root surface for further infection. However, the molecular features and role of hyphopodia in the pathogenicity of V. dahliae remain elusive. In this study, we found that the VdPls1, a tetraspanin, and the VdNoxB, a catalytic subunit of membrane-bound NADPH oxidases for reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, were specifically expressed in hyphopodia. VdPls1 and VdNoxB highly co-localize with the plasma membrane at the base of hyphopodia, where ROS and penetration pegs are generated. Mutant strains, VdΔnoxb and VdΔpls1, in which VdPls1 and VdNoxB were deleted, respectively, developed defective hyphpodia incapable of producing ROS and penetration pegs. Defective plasma membrane localization of VdNoxB in VdΔpls1 demonstrates that VdPls1 functions as an adaptor protein for the recruitment and activation of the VdNoxB. Furthermore, in VdΔnoxb and VdΔpls1, tip-high Ca2+ accumulation was impaired in hyphopodia, but not in vegetative hyphal tips. Moreover, nuclear targeting of VdCrz1 and activation of calcineurin-Crz1 signaling upon hyphopodium induction in wild-type V. dahliae was impaired in both knockout mutants, indicating that VdPls1/VdNoxB-dependent ROS was specifically required for tip-high Ca2+ elevation in hyphopodia to activate the transcription factor VdCrz1 in the regulation of penetration peg formation. Together with the loss of virulence of VdΔnoxb and VdΔpls1, which are unable to initiate colonization in cotton plants, our data demonstrate that VdNoxB/VdPls1-mediated ROS production activates VdCrz1 signaling through Ca2+ elevation in hyphopodia, infectious structures of V. dahliae, to regulate penetration peg formation during the initial colonization of cotton roots. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ginsenoside Rg1, one of the biologically active ingredients of ginseng, has been considered to be a candidate neuroprotective drug. The objective of the study was to study the protective effects of Rg1 through the peripheral and central inflammation in the 1-methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridine (MPTP)-induced Parkinson's disease (PD) mouse model. Rg1 treatment protected TH-positive cells in the SNpc region from MPTP toxicity measured with immunofluoresence. The protein expression levels of TH in the SNpc region of MPTP-induced mice following treatment with Rg1 were higher than MPTP-induced mice which were tested with Western blot. The ratio of CD3 + CD4 + to CD3 + CD8 + T cells and CD4 + CD25 + Foxp3 + regulatory T cells in the blood increased in MPTP-induced mice following treatment with Rg1 which were detected by flow cytometry analysis. Moreover, Rg1 reduced the serum concentrations of proinflammatory cytokines TNF-α, IFN-γ, IL-1β and IL-6 which were tested with enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). In addition, Rg1 inhibited the activation of microglia and reduced the infiltration of CD3 + T cells into the SNpc region which were measured by immunofluorescence. Our results indicated that Rg1 may represent a promising drug for the treatment of PD via the regulation of the peripheral and central inflammation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Strain rate effect of tensile damage of liquid Cu containing He bubbles is studied. • The strain rate-dependent damage mechanism of Cu-He system is first discovered. • He bubbles only reduce the tensile strength of liquid Cu when ε ˙ < 3.0×1010 /s. • The first mechanical model of dynamic tensile damage of Cu-He system is developed. The dynamic tensile fracture process of liquid copper containing helium bubbles system is systematically investigated by molecular dynamics simulations and theoretical modeling. A strain rate-dependent damage mechanism that transforms from a co-growth of voids and helium bubbles to a sole expansion of helium bubbles as the strain rate decreases is firstly found, and a corresponding physical explanation is proposed. Meanwhile, it is found that the dynamic tensile strength of the material is significant affected by the transition of the damage mechanism. Based on the revealed damage mechanism and the basic properties of helium bubbles such as internal pressure and surface tension obtained with the help of molecular dynamics simulations, a mechanical model is constructed to describe the dynamic damage process of the system. The volume evolution of each helium bubble as well as stress evolution of the system obtained from molecular dynamics simulations is well reproduced by the mechanical model in a wide range of strain rate. The strain rate-dependent damage mechanism and the proposed theoretical damage model will provide insights into understanding the dynamic responses of metals containing initial bubbles under extreme conditions. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A novel “cage-in-cage” metal–organic framework based on nested cages originated from two-fold interpenetrated networks was reported, which indicates the potential of interpenetration in structure modulation of cage-based MOFs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Enantioselective total syntheses of lycopodium alkaloids lycoposerramine-V and 5- epi-lycoposerramine-V have been accomplished. Features of the newly established total synthesis include: 1) introduction of the first chiral center with a scalable desymmetrization reaction of an meso-anhydride; 2) chemoselective functionalization of a bis-Weinreb-amide with Grignard addition; and 3) construction of the multifunctionalized cyclohexanone with a stereoselective intramolecular Michael addition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Effects of molecular vacancies on the decomposition mechanisms and reaction dynamics of condensed-phase β-HMX at various temperatures were studied using ReaxFF molecular dynamics simulations. Results show that three primary initial decomposition mechanisms, namely, N−NO2 bond dissociation, HONO elimination, and concerted ring fission, exist at both high and lower temperatures. The contribution of the three mechanisms to the initial decomposition of HMX is influenced by molecular vacancies, and the effects vary with temperature. At high temperature (2500 K), molecular vacancies remarkably promote N−N bond cleavage and concerted ring breaking but hinder HONO formation. N−N bond dissociation and HONO elimination are two primary competing reaction mechanisms, and the former is dominant in the initial decomposition. Concerted ring breaking of condensed-phase HMX is not favored at high temperature. At lower temperature (1500 K), the most preferential initial decomposition pathway is N−N bond dissociation followed by the formation of NO3 (O migration), although all three mechanisms are promoted by molecular vacancies. The promotion effect on concerted ring breaking is considerable at lower temperature. Products resulting from concerted ring breaking appear in the defective system but not in the perfect crystal. The mechanism of HONO elimination is less important at lower temperature. We also estimated the reaction rate constant and activation barriers of initial decomposition with different vacancy concentrations. Molecular vacancies accelerate the decomposition of condensed-phase HMX by increasing the reaction rate constant and reducing activation barriers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To clarify the adhesion mechanism of Lactobacillus acidophilus to Peyer's patches. Methods: Adhesion of L. acidophilus FN001 to mice Peyer's patches was studied in vitro using a fluorescent quantization method. The nature of adhesion mediator was studied by the differing effects of physical, chemical, and enzymatic pre-treatments of the bacteria and the inhibitory effects of sugars on the adhesion. The presence of lectin-like proteins on the cell surface was determined by hemagglutination assay. The effect of L. acidophilus FN001 on the inhibition of adhesion of pathogens to Peyer's patches was also studied. Results: The adhesion of L. acidophilus FN001 was strongly inhibited in the presence of D-mannose and methyl-α-D-mannoside. Pretreatment of L. acidophilus FN001 with pepsin and trypsin decreased the adhesive capacity indicating that some cell surface proteins might be involved in the adhesion. L. acidophilus FN001 showed agglutinating activity toward the rabbit red cells in a mannose specific manner, which was decreased after protease pretreatment, suggesting possible occurrence of mannose specific lectin(s) on the L. acidophilus FN001 surface. In adhesion inhibition assay, L. acidophilus NF001, when applied to Peyer's patches first or at the same time with pathogen, significantly inhibited adhesion of Escherichia coli ATCC25922 to Peyer's patches. Conclusion: L. acidophilus FN001 contains some mannose-specific protein(s) on its surface that mediates its adhesion to the Peyer's patches. FN001 inhibits the adhesion of E. coli, which also contains mannose specific lectin. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Micro-spall is a large-area of liquid cavitation debris cloud formed near the free surface when metal melts during shocking or releasing process. We performed a molecular dynamics simulation to investigate the evolution of micro-spall and the related physical mechanism during the re-compaction process of a single crystal Pb by the second shock wave loading. The temperature and pressure obviously increase during re-compaction process. The ultra-high temperature-rise and local high pressure in the damage area is due to the collision between atoms and the collapse of voids. There is also one more pressure-rise and temperature-rise in the damage region, which is originated from the formation of high-speed internal micro jet and its striking on the back wall of large voids. Due to the uneven distribution of pressure and temperature after the 2nd shock wave passing through the micro spall damage region, the microstructures are also unevenly distributed. Besides, the damage region will swell due to the high temperature-rise during re-compaction process. Therefore, the micro-spall damaged region closed to the free surface is difficult to be compacted to dense state. Because that the voids in the damage region near the free surface are larger for the longer time interval, the temperature-rise originated from the collapse of voids is more severe. The wavefront plane is gradually broadened in the process of re-compaction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Two undescribed secoiridoids (dehydroxyl-swerimilegenin H and 9-oxo-swerimuslactone A) with eight known ones, and two undescribed triterpenoids [28- O -(3,4-dihydroxyl-benzyl)-lupeol and 17-hydroperoxide-28-norurs-12-en-3-one] with seven known ones, were isolated from the aerial parts of Gentiana veitchiorum , a traditional Tibetan medicine. The structures of these compounds were elucidated by detailed spectroscopic analyses (including 1D and 2D NMR, HRMS, IR, and specific rotation) and comparison with structurally related known compounds. The isolates were selected to evaluate for their immunosuppressive activity via inhibiting the proliferation of T cells and cytokine IFN-γ production in T cells. Among them, 28- O -(3,4-dihydroxyl-benzyl)-lupeol exhibited significant effect by inhibiting the proliferation of T cells (IC 50 , 20.08 μM) and T cell IFN-γ production (IC 50 , 7.29 μM). Two undescribed secoiridoids and two undescribed triterpenoids along with fifteen known analogs were isolated from the aerial parts of Gentiana veitchiorum. Several compounds showed immunosuppressive activity. [Display omitted] • Ten secoiridoids and nine triterpenoids were isolated from Gentiana veitchiorum. • Two undescribed secoiridoids and two undescribed triterpenoids were discovered. • Several compounds showed significant immunosuppressive activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The bidirectional communication pathway between the gut and the central nervous system is referred to as the gut-brain axis. The intestinal tract of HSR mice produces excessive H2S, the intestinal mucosal barrier is damaged, and intestinal inflammation occurs, which leads to the activation of microglia in the amygdala. At the same time, NMDA receptors are activated, and inflammatory factors are released, eventually leading to the occurrence of anxiety and compulsive-like behaviors. [Display omitted] • Hemorrhage shock and resuscitation (HSR) causes repetitive compulsive behaviors. • HSR induces intestinal inflammation, which is associated with Hydrogen sulfide. • HSR induces neuroinflammatory response. • DL-Propargylglycine (PAG) intragastrically as an H2S scavenger improved above symptoms in HSR mice. • MK-801, an NMDA receptor inhibitor, significantly reversed H2S-induced intestinal and cerebral injury. Hemorrhagic shock and resuscitation (HSR) cause inflammatory responses in the gastrointestinal tract and is associated with substantial morbidity and mortality rates. Hydrogen sulfide (H 2 S), a gasotransmitter with pleiotropic activity, exhibits anti-inflammatory benefits at physiological levels. However, deleterious effects are observed when its concentration increases. In this investigation, we employed a mouse model of HSR to examine the effects of an H 2 S scavenger on the gastrointestinal tract and brain, with emphasis on N-Methyl- d -Aspartate (NMDA) receptor function. Mice were immediately administered dl -propargylglycine (PAG) intragastrically as an H 2 S scavenger after HSR exposure. The O-maze and buried beads tests were used to assess compulsive- and anxiety-like behaviors. Pathological changes in the intestine were evaluated at 24 and 30 days after HSR. Subsequently, at 30 days after HSR, we examined electrophysiological and pathological changes in the amygdala. Within 24 h of HSR exposure, animals treated with PAG showed significantly lower colonic injury. Additionally, compared to the HSR-treated mice 30 days after HSR, the PAG-treated mice displayed reduced buried beads, increased open-arm time, lower blood levels of Diamine Oxidase (DAO) and considerably improved ZO-1 intensity, a stronger association between the delta rhythm phase and beta activity amplitude, and lower neuroinflammatory response in the amygdala. MK-801, an NMDA receptor inhibitor, significantly reversed H 2 S-induced intestinal and cerebral injury. This experimental data suggests that H 2 S-induced excessive activation of NMDA receptors contributes to anxiety- and compulsive-like behaviors caused by HSR. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• The expansion and merging of He bubble play a leading role in spall mechanisms of Al, instead of void nucleation-growth-coalescence. • The dynamic evolution process of He bubble involves four stages: slow and independent expansion, rapid and independent expansion, deceleration expansion due to inter-bubble interaction and merging, and fast expansion after merging. • The mechanism for bubble expansion (growth) in solid metal includes plastic deformation and local temperature rising; the overlap of plastic deformation regions of adjacent bubbles and local melting promote the flow of inter-bubble atoms, leading to the thinning and breaking of inter-bubble ligament and thus bubble coalescence (merging). • He bubble impedes the nucleation and growth of nearby voids and the expanded bubble absorbs grown voids when they contact. Such suppression enhances with the increase of bubble size or density while attenuates with the increase of shock strength. Using molecular dynamics simulation, we investigate the dynamic evolution characteristics of He bubble and its effects on void nucleation-growth and thermomechanical properties in single crystal Al during spallation. The evolution process of bubble includes four stages: slow and independent expansion, rapid and independent expansion, deceleration expansion due to inter-bubble interaction and merging, and fast expansion after merging. The bubble radius-time relation is approximately linear both before and after merging and the corresponding expansion rates are obtained. The mechanism of bubble expansion (growth) in solid metal under dynamic tension involves plastic deformation via dislocation nucleation and movement and temperature rising around the bubble. The growth toward neighboring bubble leads to the overlap of plastic deformation regions that promotes local melting. The flows of melted atoms along both normal and tangential directions of the two bubbles result in the thinning and breaking of the inter-bubble ligament, and thus bubble merging occurs. In melted metal, the tension deformation under velocity gradient leads to bubble growth and coalescence. He bubble impedes the nucleation and growth of nearby voids and the expanded bubble absorbs grown voids when they contact. Such suppression enhances with the increase of bubble size or density while attenuates with the increase of shock strength. The number of nucleated voids is much lower and the average radius of voids is smaller for the sample with He bubbles in solid state. After melting, the reduction in quantity gets smaller and the radius becomes a little higher due to the suppression on continuing nucleation of voids. The bubble behavior and its influence on void evolution result in the variation of spall mechanism: the expansion and merging of He bubble play the leading role, independent on shock strength, bubble density, or bubble size. The effects of He bubble on temperature and stress are also addressed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis is a persistent disease of the lung interstitium for which there is no efficacious pharmacological therapy. Protodioscin, a steroidal saponin, possesses diverse pharmacological properties; however, its function in pulmonary fibrosis is yet to be established. Hence, in this investigation, it was attempted to figure out the anti-pulmonary fibrosis influences of protodioscin and its pharmacological properties related to oxidative stress. Methods: A mouse lung fibrosis model was generated using tracheal injections of bleomycin, followed by intraperitoneal injection of different concentrations of protodioscin, and the levels of oxidative stress and fibrosis were detected in the lungs. Multiple fibroblasts were treated with TGF-β to induce their transition to myofibroblasts. It was attempted to quantify myofibroblast markers' expression levels and reactive oxygen species levels as well as Nrf2 activation after co-incubation of TGF-β with fibroblasts and different concentrations of protodioscin. The influence of protodioscin on the expression and phosphorylation of p62, which is associated with Nrf2 activation, were detected, and p62 related genes were predicted by STRING database. The effects of Nrf2 inhibitor or silencing of the Nrf2, p62 and NBR1 genes, respectively, on the activation of Nrf2 by protodioscin were examined. The associations between p62, NBR1, and Keap1 in the activation of Nrf2 by protodioscin was demonstrated using a co-IP assay. Nrf2 inhibitor were used when protodioscin was treated in mice with pulmonary fibrosis and lung tissue fibrosis and oxidative stress levels were detected. Results: In vivo, protodioscin decreased the levels of fibrosis markers and oxidative stress markers and activated Nrf2 in mice with pulmonary fibrosis, and these effects were inhibited by Nrf2 inhibitor. In vitro, protodioscin decreased the levels of myofibroblast markers and oxidative stress markers during myofibroblast transition and promoted Nrf2 downstream gene expression, with reversal of these effects after Nrf2, p62 and NBR1 genes were silenced or Nrf2 inhibitors were used, respectively. Protodioscin promoted the binding of NBR1 to p62 and Keap1, thereby reducing Keap1-Nrf2 binding. Conclusion: The NBR1-p62-Nrf2 axis is targeted by protodioscin to reduce oxidative stress and inhibit pulmonary fibrosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The use of the suprapatellar approach for intramedullary nailing has recently become popular for the treatment of tibial fractures. This study aimed to investigate the effectiveness of using the Chinese Aircraft-shaped Sleeve (CASS) system on the clinical outcomes of tibial intermedullary nailing using a suprapatellar approach for the treatment of tibial fractures in a cohort of adult Chinese patients. Methods: Magnetic resonance images (MRI) of the knee joints of 212 healthy adults with normal lower limb function from May 2011 to May 2015 were obtained from a level I Chinese regional trauma centre. Sixty inpatients at the same trauma centre who underwent treatment for tibial shaft fractures from June 2015 to June 2018 were enrolled. Tibial intramedullary nailing fixation of tibial shaft fractures via the suprapatellar approach was performed with either a CASS system or a conventional sleeve. The measurements of patellofemoral joint anatomy, the surgical time, the assessments of the patellofemoral joint cartilage conditions, and information of residual debris based on arthroscopic analysis were subsequently collected. Results: The mean patellar angle (PA), sulcus angle (SA), sulcus width (SW) and sulcus depth (SD) were 135.40 ± 6.20°, 142.37 ± 5.33°, 33.37 ± 2.73 mm, and 4.29 ± 0.63 mm, respectively. The surgical time until entry reaming commencement and the irrigation time were significantly lower in the CASS group (P < 0.001). The difference in cartilage damage rate between groups was statistically significant (P = 0.031); the difference in residual debris conditions was not statistically significant (P = 0.1967). Conclusion: The use of the CASS system could improve clinical outcomes of intramedullary nailing via suprapatellar approach for patients with a small patellofemoral joint space. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Using the classical molecular dynamic method, we investigated the evolution of spall damage through a series of stretching simulations for solid–liquid mixed aluminum at several initial temperatures. The results show that a turning point appears before void nucleation when the initial temperature is higher than 940 K in mixed Al at a strain rate of 3 × 108 s−1. The formation mechanism of the turning point is due to the local liquid phase nucleation. The growth of the local liquid phase gradually destroys the consecutive solid phases. The lower tensile strength of liquid Al than solid Al leads to the formation of the turning point. The voids tend to nucleate in the liquid phase in mixed Al at different initial temperatures except at 940 K. The time of void nucleation will be delayed due to the melting process before void nucleation in mixed Al. A nucleation and growth (NAG) model can describe the nucleation and growth of voids very well in mixed Al at 900, 920, 960, and 980 K. By adding the criterion of liquid phase proportion, the NAG model can also well describe the void volume fraction history of mixed Al at 940 K. We clarified the micro-mechanisms of spall damage evolution in mixed Al through tension simulation. The relevant results can provide a reference for future work on spall damage studies in solid–liquid mixed metals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The recent use of RNA-Seq to study the transcriptomes of different species has helped identify a large number of new genes from different non-model organisms. In this study, five distinctive transcripts encoding for neuropeptide members of the CHH/MIH/GIH family have been identified from the spermatophore transcriptome of the shrimp Fenneropenaeus merguiensis. The size of these transcripts ranged from 531 bp to 1771 bp. Four transcripts encoded different CHH-family subtype I members, and one transcript encoded a subtype II member. RT-PCR and RACE approaches have confirmed the expression of these genes in males. The low degree of amino acid sequence identity among these neuropeptides suggests that they may have different specific function(s). Results from a phylogenetic tree analysis indicated that these neuropeptides were likely derived from a common ancestor gene resulting from mutation and gene duplication. These CHH-family members could be grouped into distinct clusters, indicating a strong structural/functional relationship among these neuropeptides. Eyestalk removal caused a significant increase in the expression of transcript 32710 but decreases in expression for transcript 28020. These findings suggest the possible regulation of these genes by eyestalk factor(s). In summary, the results of this study would justify a re-evaluation of the more generalized and pleiotropic functions of these neuropeptides. This study also represents the first report on the cloning/identification of five CHH family neuropeptides in a non-neuronal tissue from a single crustacean species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We constructed a novel probe for hydrazine detection based on ICT and PET mechanism. Phthalimide and acetyl ester groups were used as the recognition units. Addition of hydrazine produced a turn-on fluorescence at 525 nm along with the fluorescent color change from dark to yellow. The probe could selectively detect hydrazine over other related interfering species. The detection limit of the probe for hydrazine was calculated to be 0.057 μM which was lower than the EPA standard (0.320 μM). Furthermore, the probe could also be applied for the imaging of hydrazine in living cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Systematic phytochemical investigation on the Mongolian medicinal herb Lomatogonium carinthiacum led to the isolation of 12 monoterpenoids including three new secoiridoids (1 , 2 and 4) and one new iridoid glycoside (13), one new monoterpenoid alkaloid (3), and three new sesquiterpenoids (14 – 16). Comprehensive spectroscopic analysis (including 1D and 2D NMR, and HRESIMS) and quantum chemistry computations (including ECD and NMR calculations) were applied to elucidate their structures. Weak immunosuppressive activities were observed for the new isolates via inhibiting T cell proliferation and cytokine IFN-γ secretion in vitro. [Display omitted] • 16 compounds were isolated from Lomatogonium carinthiacum. • 4 monoterpenoids, 1 monoterpenoid alkaloid and 3 sesquiterpenoids were new. • ECD and NMR calculations were used to clarify the absolute configurations. • Several compounds showed weak immunosuppressive activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Myocardial Ischemic Injury is a serious threat to human health, and DJ-1 is involved in cardioprotection. The research intended to explore the effects and mechanism of DJ-1 to protect myocardium against ischemia injury. DJ-1 overexpression lentivirus vectors were transduced into the myocardium of SD rats and H9c2 cells, and an AMI model in vivo and a hypoxia model in vitro were established, respectively. Results showed that DJ-1 overexpression alleviated myocardial ischemia injury, as demonstrated by reduced the extent of myocardial infarction, improved cell survival, decreased LDH activity and CK-MB release. Furthermore, DJ-1 interacted with RACK1, activated AMPK/mTOR pathway, induced adaptive autophagy and protected the myocardium. However, RACK1 siRNA or compound C (an AMPK inhibitor) could weaken the above effect of DJ-1 on myocardium. In conclusion, DJ-1 could activate adaptive autophagy by the RACK1/AMPK/mTOR pathway and protect the myocardium against ischemia injury. • DJ-1 induces adaptive autophagy to protect myocardium against ischemia injury. • DJ-1-RACK1 complex acts as a novel autophagy regulator. • The function of DJ-1 protein depends on the cysteine residue at C106. • Targeting DJ-1 to activate AMPK/mTOR signaling-novel strategy for the treatment of Ischemic heart disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cognitive dysfunction, encompassing perioperative psychological distress and cognitive impairment, is a prevalent postoperative complication within the elderly population, and in severe cases, it may lead to dementia. Building upon our prior research that unveiled a connection between postoperative mood fluctuations and cognitive dysfunction with the phosphorylation of P38, this present investigation aims to delve deeper into the involvement of the P38 MAPK/NLRP3 pathway in perioperative neurocognitive disorders (PND) in an abdominal exploratory laparotomy (AEL) aged mice model. C57BL/6 mice (male, 18-month-old) underwent AEL with 3 % anesthesia. Then, inhibitors targeting P38 MAPK (SB202190, 1 mg/kg) and GSK3β (TWS119, 10 mg/kg) were administered multiple times daily for 7 days post-surgery. The NLRP3-cKO AEL and WT AEL groups only underwent the AEL procedure. Behavioral assessments, including the open field test (OFT), novel object recognition (NOR), force swimming test (FST), and fear conditioning (FC), were initiated on postoperative day 14. Additionally, mice designated for neuroelectrophysiological monitoring had electrodes implanted on day 14 before surgery and underwent novel object recognition while their local field potential (LFP) was concurrently recorded on postoperative day 14. Lastly, after they were euthanasized, pathological analysis and western blot were performed. SB202190, TWS119, and astrocyte-conditional knockout NLRP3 all ameliorated the cognitive impairment behaviors induced by AEL in mice and increased mean theta power during novel location exploration. However, it is worth noting that SB202190 may exacerbate postoperative depressive and anxiety-like behaviors in mice, while TWS119 may induce impulsive behaviors. Our study suggests that anesthesia and surgical procedures induce alterations in mood and cognition, which may be intricately linked to the P38 MAPK/NLRP3 pathway. • Abdominal surgery plus anesthesia can cause cognitive impairment and mood changes in aged mice. • The inhibitor of P38 MAPK can improve postoperative cognitive dysfunction but aggravate mood changes. • GSK3β inhibitors can also improve postoperative cognitive dysfunction, but similarly cause mood changes. • The P38 MAPK/NLRP3 pathway is involved in the postoperative cognitive dysfunction and mood changes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Phytochemical investigation on the leaves of Tibetan Leucosceptrum canum , a Chinese medicinal herb, led to the isolation of seven new leucosceptrane sesterterpenoids (1 – 7) and five known analogs (8 – 12). Comprehensive spectroscopic analysis (including 1D and 2D NMR, and HRMS), quantum chemistry computations, and single crystal X-ray crystallographic analysis were applied to elucidate their structures. Compounds 1 – 3 and 6 were the first examples of the leucosceptrane sesterterpenoids with rare C-2 oxidation. Compound 2 exhibited immunosuppressive activities via suppressing the secretion of cytokines IL-6 and TNF-α in LPS-induced macrophages RAW264.7 with IC 50 values of 13.39 and 19.34 μM, respectively. [Display omitted] • Seven new leucosceptrane sesterterpenoids were isolated from Leucosceptrum canum. • NMR, ECD and X-ray analyses were used to clarify the absolute configurations. • It was the 1st report of the leucosceptrane sesterterpenoids with C-2 oxidation. • Several compounds showed moderate immunosuppressive activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The marine actinomycete Williamsia sp. MCCC 1A11233 was isolated from a deep sea sediment sample of the southwestern Indian Ocean. It was closely related to Williamsia limnetica L1505 T with a 16S rRNA gene sequence similarity value of 99.2%. A systematic investigation on its chemical constituents was performed in this study, which led to the isolation of one new ( 1 ) and 23 known ( 2 – 24 ) secondary metabolites. By mainly detailed analysis of the 1D and 2D NMR spectroscopic data and comparisons with the published data, the chemical structure of 1 was determined to be 3-benzyl-3α,4β-dihydroxypentan-2-one. Noteworthily, the question on which family Williamsia species should belong to was left unsolved at the first beginning when it was found in 1999. Interestingly, the result of this investigation consolidated that Williamsia should be placed a chemotaxonomic position in Nocardiaceae Family. Furthermore, 2-aminobenzoic acid derivatives ( 8 – 10 ) could be taken as chemotaxonomic markers for the genus of Williamsia . [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ten undescribed leucosceptrane-type sesterterpenoids with antipodal cyclopentenone moieties were isolated from the leaves of Leucosceptrum canum. Their structures including absolute configurations were elucidated by comprehensive spectroscopic analyses (including 1D and 2D NMR, and HRMS) and ECD calculations. In vitro immunosuppressive effects of these sesterterpenoids against the proliferation of T cells and the secretion of cytokine IFN- γ were evaluated. Among them, 11 α - H -leucosceptroid C, 5,13-dehydro-11 α - H -leucosceptroid C, 5,13-dehydro-11 β -hydroxy-leucosceptroid C, and 5,13-dehydro-11 α -hydroxy-leucosceptroid C significantly inhibited IFN- γ secretion with IC 50 values of 12.55–23.62 μM. More remarkable inhibitory effects against IFN- γ secretion were observed for 5,13-dehydro-11 β -hydroxy-leucosceptroid D, leucosceptroid U, 14- epi -leucosceptroid U, leucosceptroid V, and 14- epi -leucosceptroid V, with IC 50 values of 4.32–9.47 μM. Ten undescribed leucosceptrane sesterterpenoids with unusual cyclopentenone moiety were isolated from Leucosceptrum canum. Significant immunosuppressive activity of these sesterterpenoids against the secretion of IFN- γ in T cells was found. [Display omitted] • Ten undescribed sesterterpenoids were isolated from Leucosceptrum canum. • Calculated ECD method was used to elucidate the antipodal cyclopentenone. • Significant immunosuppressive activity was found for the isolates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Main observation and conclusion: One pair of new enantiomers of helical tetraphenylethylene (TPE) tetracycle tetradodecylurea, which show aggregation‐induced emission (AIE) enhancement effect, were synthesized by attaching four dodecyl chains to a helical TPE tetracycle tetramine through urea linkage. These two TPE helicates bearing long alkyl chains could display strong circular dichroism (CD) and circularly polarized luminescence (CPL) signals not only in solution but also in solid state. Due to strong van der Waals interactions between the alkyl chains, the absolute dissymmetrical factor |glum| was up to 6.6 × 10‐3 , which was 2—3 fold larger than that of the helical TPE tetracycle tetramine (TPETA) without long alkyl chains in solution. Due to bearing hydrophilic urea units and hydrophobic long dodecyl chains, the helical TPE tetracycle could form chiral Langmuir‐Blodgett (LB) monolayers at air/water interface and showed a strong and stable second harmonic generation (SHG) chiral signals. The degree of chiral excess (DCE) for P‐isomer monolayer was up to ‐0.682 ± 0.0014. This is the first example to detect chirality at the air/water interface for chiral AIE molecules. It provides a new access to the application of chiral AIE compounds in nonlinear optical activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Using molecular dynamics methods, we investigated the spall damage in single crystal tin under different shock pressures. The results show that release melting and shock melting occur when the shock velocities increase in the metallic tin. The spall strengths in the molten tin are ~1.5–2.0 GPa lower than that in solid. When release melting occurs, the spall strength drops rapidly, whereas the downtrend of the spall strength becomes gentle during shock melting. The results also show that the spall strength is affected by not only the shock pressure and phase state, but also the temperature and strain rate. By visualizing the development of spall damage, we find that it forms a spall layer in the solid. In molten tin, a cavitation region with a large volume is formed. The maximum number of voids increases with an increase in the shock pressure. The growth rate of the void volume fraction slows down after reaching the initial time of void growth at different impact pressures. We elucidated the variation trend of spall strength between solid and molten tin under different shock pressures. The relevant results can provide a reference for future studies on spall damage investigations. • The spall strengths in the molten tin are ~1.5–2.0 GPa lower than that in solid. • The spall strength drops rapidly when release melting occurs, whereas the downtrend becomes gentle during shock melting. • The spall strength is affected by the shock pressure and phase state. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Active vitamin D analog eldecalcitol is clinically applied in treatment of postmenopausal osteoporosis. This study aims to determine the role of eldecalcitol in the protection of osteocytes from senescence and the associated ferroptosis. The MLO-Y4 osteocytes were exposed to D-gal inducing senescence. The ovariectomized (OVX) mice treated with D-gal using as an aging inducer were intraperitoneally injected with eldecalcitol. The multiplexed confocal imaging, fluorescence in situ hybridization and transmission electron microscopy were applied in assessing osteocytic properties. Immunochemical staining and immunoblotting were carried out to detect abundance and expression of molecules. The ablation of vitamin D receptor led to a reduction in amounts of osteocytes, a loss of dendrites, an increase in mRNA expression of SASP factors and in protein expression of senescent factors, as well as changes in mRNA expression of ferroptosis-related genes (PTGS2 & RGS4). Eldecalcitol reversed senescent phenotypes of MLO-Y4 cells shown by improving cell morphology and density, decreasing β-gal-positive cell accumulation, and down-regulating protein expression (P16, P21 & P53). Eldecalcitol reduced intracellular ROS and MDA productions, elevated JC-1 aggregates, and up-regulated expression of Nrf2 and GPX4. Eldecalcitol exhibited osteopreserve effects in D-gal-induced aging OVX mice. The confocal imaging displayed its improvement on osteocytic network organization. Eldecalcitol decreased the numbers of senescent osteocytes at tibial diaphysis by SADS assay and attenuated mRNA expression of SASP factors as well as down-regulated protein expression of senescence-related factors and restored levels of ferroptotic biomarkers in osteocytes-enriched bone fraction. It reduced 4-HNE staining area, stimulated Nrf2-positive staining, and promoted nuclear translocation of Nrf2 in osteocytes of mice as well as inhibited and promoted protein expression of 4-HNE and Nrf2, respectively, in osteocytes-enriched bone fraction. The present study revealed the ameliorative effects of eldecalcitol on senescence and the associated ferroptosis of osteocytes, contributing to its preservation against osteoporosis of D-gal-induced senescent ovariectomized mice. • Ferroptosis appeared during the development of senescence of osteocytes. • VDR exerted key role in protecting senescent osteocytes from ferroptosis. • Eldecalcitol ameliorated senescence and the associated ferroptosis of osteocytes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The homeostatic link between oxidative stress and autophagy plays an important role in cellular responses to a wide variety of physiological and pathological conditions. However, the regulatory pathway and outcomes remain incompletely understood. Here, we show that reactive oxygen species (ROS) function as signaling molecules that regulate autophagy through ataxia‐telangiectasia mutated (ATM) and cell cycle checkpoint kinase 2 (CHK2), a DNA damage response (DDR) pathway activated during metabolic and hypoxic stress. We report that CHK2 binds to and phosphorylates Beclin 1 at Ser90/Ser93, thereby impairing Beclin 1‐Bcl‐2 autophagy‐regulatory complex formation in a ROS‐dependent fashion. We further demonstrate that CHK2‐mediated autophagy has an unexpected role in reducing ROS levels via the removal of damaged mitochondria, which is required for cell survival under stress conditions. Finally, CHK2−/− mice display aggravated infarct phenotypes and reduced Beclin 1 p‐Ser90/Ser93 in a cerebral stroke model, suggesting an in vivo role of CHK2‐induced autophagy in cell survival. Taken together, these results indicate that the ROS‐ATM‐CHK2‐Beclin 1‐autophagy axis serves as a physiological adaptation pathway that protects cells exposed to pathological conditions from stress‐induced tissue damage. Synopsis: Whether hypoxia and nutrient starvation are coupled to cellular autophagy remains unclear. Here, DNA damage response kinases ATM and CHK2 are shown to trigger autophagy in response to reactive oxygen species (ROS) accumulation, suggesting a novel physiological adaptation pathway toward metabolic stress. Depletion of CHK2 or ATM impairs oxidative stress‐induced autophagy in MEFs.CHK2 binds and phosphorylates Beclin1 at Ser90/Ser93, suppressing Beclin1‐Bcl‐2 autophagy regulatory complex formation.CHK2‐induced autophagy limits intracellular ROS levels by clearing damaged mitochondria.CHK2‐induced autophagy protects against cell death and tissue damage following cerebral ischemia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: This study aimed to investigate the effectiveness and safety of the Chinese Aircraft-shaped Sleeve (CASS) system on the clinical outcomes of tibial intermedullary nailing using a suprapatellar approach for the treatment of tibial fractures in a cohort of adult Chinese patients over a minimum one-year follow-up.Methods: After institutional review board approval, skeletally mature patients with Orthopaedic Trauma Association (OTA) type 42 tibial shaft fractures were randomized into either a SP approach using CASS group or a conventional SP approach group after informed consent was obtained. The operations were performed by a single senior orthopaedic surgeon according to group assignments. A group of 33 patients were treated using the CASS system and the other group of 34 patients were treated using a conventional SP approach. Both groups fully complied with research requirements and completed 12 months of follow-up. Magnetic resonance images (MRI) were obtained for the evaluation of the patellofemoral joint (PFJ) and residual debris preoperatively, as well as one week and 12 months postoperatively. Radiographs were used to assess alignment and union, visual analog scores (VAS) were used to assess anterior knee pain, and range of motion (ROM) and the Lysholm knee scoring scales were used for evaluating the operated knee at the 12-month follow-up.Results: Differences in cartilage lesion changes observed by MRI between the two groups were statistically significant (P = 0.030 at 1 week postoperatively; P = 0.025 at 12 months postoperatively). No significant differences were evident with respect to debris residue, malalignments, nonunion, VAS, ROM and Lysholm knee scoring scale with the exception of stair climbing (P = 0.02).Conclusion: Based on the data of this one-year clinical follow-up study, the SP approach using the CASS system offers the potential to benefit patients suffering from tibial shaft fractures, who will be treated with intramedullary nailing especially for smaller patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Classical neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, and Huntington’s are most commonly seen in older persons. The incidence rate increases as life expectancy increases. Even though neuronal loss, neuronal death and accumulated toxic proteins are well investigated, the mechanism(s) of neurodegenerative disorders is not yet fully understood. Versican is a large extracellular matrix proteoglycan. Its isoforms are aberrantly expressed in central nervous system injuries. Diverse lines of evidence suggest that versican isoforms play a vital role in regulating neuronal differentiation, maturation, neurite outgrowth, and synaptic transmission. Some toxic proteins may be increased and less sensitive to degeneration due to the chondroitin sulfate (CS) chains of versicans. We propose that the patterns of versican V1 and V2 isoforms act as a fine-tuned mechanism for guiding the change of neural microenvironment, and the unbalanced expression of V1 and V2 isoforms may contribute to the pathogenesis of neurodegenerative diseases. The emergence of versican isoforms indicates that it may explain the pathogenesis of the common sporadic forms of complex diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Transcriptome data was used to clone the first subtype II CHH-family neuropeptide. • FmIH1consist of 105 amino acid and shared >98% amino acid identity with MIH of other shrimps. • Phylogenetic tree analysis results indicate the shrimp consist of at least 4 distinct group of subtype II CHH-family neuropeptide. • Injection of dsRNA for FmMIH caused significant 2.3 days shortening of the molt cycle. • Surprisingly, injection of recombinant protein of FmMIH also caused a 1.9 day reduction of the molt cycle. The Molt Inhibiting Hormone gene and cDNA of the banana shrimp Fenneropenaeus merguiensis (FmMIH1) has been cloned and characterized. FmMIH1 possesses most of the characteristics of the eyestalk CHH/MIH/GIH family subtype-II neuropeptides. FmMIH1 open reading frame consists of 315 bp encoding for 105 amino acid residues. The mature peptide of FmMIH1 consists of 76 amino acid residues, a glycine residue at position 11 of the mature peptide and 6 cysteine residues located in the conserved position. In addition to eyestalk, high levels of FmMIH1 transcript could also be detected in the intestine. FmMIH1 transcript level is low throughout the post-molt, early to mid-intermolt and premolt. However, a sharp increase could be observed in late intermolt (C3 stage). Both alignment and phylogenetic analysis reveal that FmMIH1 is most similar to the MIH1 of other shrimps. For functional assay, RNA interference results show that a significant 2.3 days (P < 0.05) reduction in molt cycle duration could be observed in shrimp receiving ds FmMIH1 injection. Surprisingly, injection of recombinant FmMIH1 could also cause a significant reduction of the molt cycle (average 1.9 days, P < 0.05). We hypothesize that the recombinant protein is biological inactive but it competes with the endogenous MIH for carrier protein binding and consequently reduces the amount of biological MIH that could reach the targets. In conclusion, the result of this study will provide us new insight in molting/growth control in crustacean. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Zhi-zi-chi decoction (ZZCD), from "Treatise on Febrile Diseases", is a typical traditional Chinese medicine herb pair, which consists of Gardeniae Fructus (GF) and Semen Sojae Praeparatu (SSP). In clinical research, ZZCD was widely used to fight depression, remove annoyance. Many studies have reported that gut microbiota is critical target for the influence of depress through gut-brain axis, and our previously studies have found that ZZCD exhibiting antidepressant effect was through the gut-brain axis. However, the specific mechanism by which gut microbiota mediates the pharmacokinetics parameters of active compounds from ZZCD during the process of depression treatment has not yet been studied. To explore the differences in pharmacokinetics characters of bioactive iridoids from ZZCD and study the changes of gut microbiota at different stages of depression with the personalized medicine of ZZCD. A new strategy exploring the relationship among disease phenotypes (D), intestinal microbiota (I), enzymes (E) and traits of metabolism (T) named as "DIET" was established. Firstly, a fast, selective and sensitive ultra-performance liquid chromatography coupled with tandem mass spectrometer (UPLC-MS/MS) was established and validated to quality the main bioactive compounds from ZZCD and compare the pharmacokinetics and bioavailability of different iridoids prototypes and metabolites from ZZCD between normal and chronic unpredictable mild stress rats. Subsequently, the activity of corresponding metabolic enzymes of anti-depressive compounds, β-glucosidases and sulfotransferases, were analyzed by ρ-nitrophenyl-β -D-glucopyranoside and sulfotransferases ELISA kits, respectively. Finally, 16S rRNA gene sequencing was adopt to analyze intestinal bacteria composition for the treatment of depression by ZZCD. The antidepressant effect of ZZCD was promoted due to the increased exposures and reduced eliminations of anti-depressive compounds, especially geniposide and genipin 1-gentiobioside, under the depression state. With the ZZCD treatment, the depression was improved, but the exposures of anti-depressive compounds from ZZCD gradually decreased. Meanwhile, there were the corresponding decreased trends on the activity of β-glucosidases and sulfotransferases. With the consumption of ZZDC and the improvement of depression, the exposures of anti-depressive iridoid glycosides decreased and the activity of metabolism enzymes restored. Meanwhile, the dysbiosis of pathogenic bacteria (Bacteroidota) induced by depression was ameliorated and the probiotics (Firmicutes) at the phylum and genus level raised, the two phyla are closely related to the production of β-glucosidase and sulfotransferases. It is the first proposed that ZZCD could personalized to treat depression at different stages targeting gut microbiota and gut microbiome could emerged as a potential diagnostic and therapeutic biomarker in depression. [Display omitted] • The exposures of iridoid glycosides from ZZCD are affected by depression. • ZZCD regulates the activity of the metabolism enzymes agree with pharmacokinetics. • ZZCD ameliorates the dysbiosis of gut microbiota induced by depression. • ZZCD personalizes depression treatment targeting gut microbiota. • Gut microbiome emerges as a potential biomarker for personalized medicine of TCMs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Urethral ultrasonography is non-invasive and able to indicate the urethral lumen clearly, as well as the surrounding tissues of the posterior urethra, without contrast agent or X-ray irradiation. In this paper, we evaluate the reliability of urethral ultrasonography in the diagnosis of dysuria following bipolar transurethral plasma kinetic prostatectomy (TUPKP). A total of 120 benign prostate hyperplasia (BPH) patients with dysuria undergoing TUPKP were enrolled in this study, with a mean age of 72.8 years. All the patients received urethral ultrasonography, urethroscopy and bladder neck urethra stenosis oulectomy. Among the 120 cases, there were 22 cases of bladder neck closure, 20 bladder orifice stricture, 60 urethral stricture, 10 prostate remnants, 2 calculi in prostatic urethra, 4 dysfunction of bladder detrusor muscle and 2 flap of internal urethral orifice. χ2-test was used for the comparison of ultrasonography and urethral cystoscopy in the diagnosis of dysuria following TRPKP, and no significant difference was found between two diagnostic tools (χ 2 = 0.94, P > 0.05). Urethral ultrasonography is a reliable and minimally invasive diagnostic tool for dysuria following TUPKP and is conducive to early treatment of dysuria following prostatectomy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A fundamental problem in neuroscience is how emotional valences are represented in the brain. We know little about how appetitive and aversive systems interact and the extent to which information regarding these two opposite values segregate and converge. Here we used a new method, tyramide-amplified immunohistochemistry-fluorescence in situ hybridization, to simultaneously visualize the neural correlates of two stimuli of contrasting emotional valence across the limbic forebrain at single-cell resolution. We discovered characteristic patterns of interaction, segregated, convergent and intermingled, between the appetitive and aversive neural ensembles in mice. In nucleus accumbens, we identified a mosaic activation pattern by positive and negative emotional cues, and unraveled previously unappreciated functional heterogeneity in the D1- and D2-type medium-spiny neurons, which correspond to the Go and NoGo pathways. These results provide insights into the coding of emotional valence in the brain and act as a proof of principle of a powerful methodology for simultaneous functional mapping of two distinct behaviors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives To assess the performance of the Milan, Shanghai Fudan and Hangzhou criteria based on a preoperative evaluation in patients undergoing liver transplantation ( LT) for hepatitis B-related hepatocellular carcinoma ( HCC). Methods Using a prospectively collected database, the data of consecutive patients with hepatitis B-related HCC undergoing LT at the Department of Liver Surgery of Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiaotong University from January 2005 to December 2009 were reviewed. Overall survival and tumor recurrence rates of patients fulfilling the Milan, Shanghai Fudan and Hangzhou criteria were compared using log-rank test. Results Altogether 148 patients were enrolled in the study, among whom 88 fulfilled the Milan criteria and 24 and 39 were beyond Milan but within the Shanghai Fudan or Hangzhou criteria, respectively. After a median follow-up of 44 months, survival rates did not differ among the three groups ( P = 0.8780). Recurrence rates were significantly higher for newly eligible patients by the Shanghai Fudan or Hangzhou criteria compared with those within the Milan criteria. Conclusions The Milan criteria should be used as the preferred criteria for the selection of hepatitis B-related HCC for LT. Considering the high tumor recurrence rates and donor scarcity, a moderate expansion of the Milan criteria must be performed cautiously until high-quality clinical trials are conducted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We systematically carried out oil-gas-water three-phase flow experiments for measuring the time series of flow signals. We first investigate flow pattern behaviors from the energy and frequency point of view and find that different flow patterns exhibit different flow behaviors. In order to quantitatively characterize dynamic behaviors underlying different oil-gas-water three-phase flow patterns, we infer and analyze visibility graphs (complex networks) from signals measured under different flow conditions. The results indicate that the combination parameters of network degree are sensitive to the transition among different flow patterns, which can be used to distinguish different flow patterns and quantitatively characterize nonlinear dynamics of the three-phase flow. In this regard, visibility graph can be a useful tool for characterizing the nonlinear dynamic behaviors underlying different oil-gas-water three-phase flow patterns. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Regio- and stereoselective C10β–H functionalization of sinomenine, an economically available natural immunomodulating alkaloid, has been studied, developed and successfully applied to the synthesis of new immunosuppressive sinomenine derivatives in a protecting-free fashion. Regioselective oxidation of sinomenine with (diacetoxyiodo)benzene (DIB) in water provided a single stable benzoquinone derivative 4, and subsequent 1,6-conjugated addition of 4 with alcohols, amines, and thiols afforded a new series of C10β–H functionalized sinomenine derivatives stereoselectively. Some derivatives with a newly introduced 10β-bezenesulfanyl substituent exhibited much higher TNF-α inhibitory potency than their natural parent sinomenine. This work opens a convenient access to novel sinomenine derivatives with medicinal interests. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]