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Religious wildlife release is prevalent worldwide, especially in Asia countries. It is one of the anthropogenic pathways to cause biological invasions. Religious fish release is common on the Qinghai-Tibetan Plateau, yet few studies have assessed the influences of religious fish release on local species. In Yushu, a city on the Qinghai-Tibetan Plateau, we interviewed local people, conducted fish trap surveys in local rivers, and examined the diet of Eurasian otters Lutra lutra using a fecal DNA metabarcoding approach. We found that fish release started at least in 1980–1990s in Yushu. Tibetan residents released fish in large amounts and released fish were usually exotic commercial fish purchased from market. Despite such long-term and intensive fish release activities, released fish were few in local rivers. On the other hand, Eurasian otters mainly prey on fish and released fish accounted for ~20% of relative read abundance of prey DNA in otters' diet, indicating their high preference on released fish. Our study suggested that religious fish release may provide additional food resources for otters, whereas otters, as a top predator in local rivers, may deplete non-native fish once they were released and, therefore, reduce the probability of colonization of released fish, although further studies are required to assess otters' impact. Our study revealed otters' diet in Yushu, providing basic information for local otter management and conservation. Furthermore, it represents a case showing that native predators prey on religious released animals, implying a probable direction for controlling invasive species through native predator conservation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To report the comparison of the therapeutic effects of lens capsular flap transplantation (LCT) and autologous retinal transplantation (ART) in refractory macular hole (MH) treatment. Methods: Thirty-one patients (31 eyes) with refractory MH were retrospectively reviewed. The patients were divided into two groups based on the surgical procedures: the LCT group (13 eyes) and the ART group (18 eyes). Patients were monitored for a minimum of 6 months. Best corrected visual acuity (BCVA), hole closure rate, postoperative central foveolar thickness (CFT), and some complications (e.g. graft loss or dislocation, postoperative retinal detachment, or postoperatively elevated intraocular pressure) were the primary outcome measures. Results: The mean preoperative MH diameter was 1104 ± 287 μm in the LCT group and 1066 ± 297 μm in the ART group (t = 0.353, P = 0.727). The MH was closed in 12 patients (92.3%) of the LCT group and 17 patients (94.4%) of the ART group (χ2 = 0.057, P = 0.811); the MHs of 10 patients (76.9%) in the LCT group and 11 patients (61.1%) in the ART group were completely closed (χ2 = 0.864, P = 0.353). The BCVA improved from 2.3 ± 1.0 logMAR preoperatively to 1.3 ± 0.9 logMAR postoperatively in the LCT group and 2.3 ± 0.9 logMAR preoperatively to 1.0 ± 0.6 logMAR postoperatively in the ART group (postoperative BCVA vs preoperative BCVA in the LCT group: t = 4.374, P = 0.001; postoperative BCVA vs preoperative BCVA in the ART group: t = 5.899, P = 0.000018). The visual improvement was 1.3 ± 0.9 logMAR in the ART group and 1.0 ± 0.8 logMAR in the LCT group (t = − 1.033, P = 0.310). The postoperative CFT was 139.7 ± 48.3 μm in the LCT and 199.2 ± 25.1 μm in the ART group (t = − 4.062, P = 0.001). Graft dislocation emerged in 2 patients (15.4%) in the LCT group and 1 patient (5.6%) in the ART group. Conclusions: Applications of LCT and ART may both enhance anatomical and visual outcomes in refractory MH cases. The ART group exhibited a more optimal postoperative CFT than the LCT group one. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Epilepsy is a neural network disorder caused by uncontrolled neuronal hyperexcitability induced by an imbalance between excitatory and inhibitory networks. Abnormal synaptogenesis plays a vital role in the formation of overexcited networks. Recent evidence has confirmed that thrombospondin-1 (TSP-1), mainly secreted by astrocytes, is a critical cytokine that regulates synaptogenesis during epileptogenesis. Furthermore, numerous studies have reported that TSP-1 is also involved in other processes, such as angiogenesis, neuroinflammation, and regulation of Ca2+ homeostasis, which are closely associated with the occurrence and development of epilepsy. In this review, we summarize the potential contributions of TSP-1 to epilepsy development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Diabetes is one of the common chronic diseases in worldwide and increasing among young children. Testing glycated hemoglobin levels as well as blood glucose levels is a method for detecting diabetes. In this article, with multivariate statistical analysis was used to monitor the blood glucose levels by the Fourier Transform Raman spectroscopy. Principal component regression with direct orthogonal signal correction is developed and applied to analyze the glucose concentration with the blood Raman spectroscopy. The root means square error of calibration is 3.0824 mg/dL (0.1712 mmol/L), the root means square error of prediction is 3.2688 mg/dL (0.1816 mmol/L), the correlation coefficients (R2) is.9946 and ratio of performance to deviation is 6.4789 and, respectively. The results show that this method can be used as a strong potential diagnostic tool for diabetes mellitus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Populations of Eurasian otters Lutra lutra, one of the most widely distributed apex predators in Eurasia, have been depleted mainly since the 1950s. However, a lack of information about their genomic diversity and how they are organized geographically in East Asia severely impedes our ability to monitor and conserve them in particular management units. Here, we re‐sequenced and analyzed 20 otter genomes spanning continental East Asia, including a population at Kinmen, a small island off the Fujian coast, China. The otters form three genetic clusters (one of L. l. lutra in the north and two of L. l. chinensis in the south), which have diverged in the Holocene. These three clusters should be recognized as three conservation management units to monitor and manage independently. The heterozygosity of the East Asian otters is as low as that of the threatened carnivores sequenced. Historical effective population size trajectories inferred from genomic variations suggest that their low genomic diversity could be partially attributed to changes in the climate since the mid‐Pleistocene and anthropogenic intervention since the Holocene. However, no evidence of genetic erosion, mutation load, or high level of inbreeding was detected in the presumably isolated Kinmen Island population. Any future in situ conservation efforts should consider this information for the conservation management units. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, we reported the complete genome sequence of Shewanella oncorhynchi for the first time. S. oncorhynchi Z-P2 is a bacterium that produces the siderophore putrebactin. Its genome consists of a circular chromosome of 5,034,612 bp with a G + C content of 45.4%. A total of 4544 protein-coding genes, 109 tRNAs and 31 rRNAs were annotated by the RAST. Five non-ribosomal peptide synthetase (NRPS) and polyketide synthetase (PKS) gene clusters were identified by the antiSMASH analysis. The pan-genome analysis of Z-P2 and 10 Shewanella putrefaciens revealed 9228 pan-gene clusters and 2681 core gene clusters, with Z-P2 having 618 unique gene clusters. Additionally, the gene cluster involved in putrebactin biosynthesis in Z-P2 was annotated, and the mechanism of putrebactin biosynthesis was analyzed. The putrebactin produced by Z-P2 was detected using UPLC-MS analysis, with an [M + H]+ molecular ion at m/z 373.21. These findings provide valuable support for further research on the genetic engineering of putrebactin biosynthetic genes of Z-P2 and their potential applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Choroidal neovascularization (CNV) is characterized by the infiltration of immune cells, particularly neutrophils. Neutrophil extracellular trap (NET) facilitates the angiogenesis of pulmonary endothelial cells via activating Toll‐like receptor 4 (TLR4). TLR4 promotes the expression of transcription factor hypoxia inducible factor‐1α (HIF‐1α), which promotes inflammation and angiogenesis via the up‐regulation of metalloproteinase‐9 (MMP‐9) and interleukin‐1β (IL‐1β). In the present study, we aimed to identify the formation of NET and its role in CNV. Our results showed that NET levels were increased in a mouse laser‐induced CNV model via oxidative stress, whereas the inhibition of NET alleviated CNV. In vitro, NET activated the TLR4/HIF‐1α pathway in human choroidal endothelial cells (HCECs). Additionally, NET increased the transcription and expression of MMP‐9 and IL‐1β in HCECs via activating the TLR4/HIF‐1α pathway. Meanwhile, NET promoted the inflammatory response accompanied by the proliferation, migration and tube formation of HCECs in a MMP‐9‐ and IL‐1β‐dependent manner. In conclusion, NET was up‐regulated in CNV and promoted the formation of CNV via activating the TLR4/HIF‐1α pathway in choroidal endothelial cells. Our data uncovered the novel role of NET in promoting the formation of CNV. The underlying mechanism of NET could be targeted to delay the process of CNV. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The evolution of the early atmosphere was driven by changes in its chemical composition, which involved the formation of some critical gases. In this study, we demonstrate that nitrous oxide (N2O) can be produced from Miller's early atmosphere (a mixture of CH4, NH3, H2, and H2O) by way of photocatalysis. Both NH3 and H2O were indispensable for the production of N2O by photocatalysis. Different conditions related to seawater and reaction temperature are also explored. N2O has a strong greenhouse gas effect, which is more able to warm the Earth than other gases and offers a reasonable explanation for the faint young Sun paradox on the early Earth. Moreover, the decomposition of N2O into N2 and O2 can be boosted by soft irradiation, providing a possible and important origin of atmospheric O2 and N2. The occurrence of O2 propelled the evolution of the atmosphere from being fundamentally reducing to oxidizing. This work describes a possible vital contribution of photocatalysis to the evolution of the early atmosphere. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

It is very essential to grow efficient and abundant photocatalysts for overall water cracking to produce hydrogen. Ni3FeN nanosheets were synthesized by combining simple sol–gel and calcining methods using urea as nitrogen source. A heterostructure was constructed between Ni3FeN and g‐C3N4 to enhance the absorption capacity of visible light. The reformed Z‐scheme Ni3FeN/g‐C3N4 heterojunction exhibited an excellent visible‐light photocatalytic activity. The average hydrogen evolution rate of 5 wt% Ni3FeN/g‐C3N4 composite is 528.7 μmol h−1 g−1 due to the Z‐scheme Ni3FeN/g‐C3N4 junction, which promotes the separation of photogenerated e−/h+. Interestingly, the average H2 production of Ni3FeN/g‐C3N4 is nearly 8.3 and 3.6 times higher than that of Fe4N/g‐C3N4 and Ni4N/g‐C3N4, respectively, indicating that bimetallic nitrides as cocatalysts are more conducive to enhancing the performance of photocatalysts. Importantly, the Ni3FeN/g‐C3N4 composite exhibited good cycle stability, and the hydrogen production performance hardly changed after four cycle experiments. Furthermore, photoluminescence, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy, and transient photocurrent response show that Ni3FeN/g‐C3N4 heterojunction improves the separation efficiency of photoinduced e−/h+. This work provides a feasibility of the cocatalyst Ni3FeN for use in photocatalytic hydrogen production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tree peony is a "spring colored-leaf" plant which has red leaves in early spring, and the red color of the leaves usually fades in late spring. Flavonols are one subgroup of flavonoids, and they affect the plant organs' color as co-pigments of anthocyanins. To investigate the color variation mechanism of leaves in tree peony, PqMYBF1, one flavonol biosynthesis-related MYB gene was isolated from Paeonia qiui and characterized. PqMYBF1 contained the SG7 and SG7-2 motifs which are unique in flavonol-specific MYB regulators. Subcellular localization and transactivation assay showed that PqMYBF1 localized to the nucleus and acted as a transcriptional activator. The ectopic expression of PqMYBF1 in transgenic tobacco caused an observable increase in flavonol level and the anthocyanin accumulation was decreased significantly, resulting in pale pink flowers. Dual-luciferase reporter assays showed that PqMYBF1 could activate the promoters of PqCHS, PqF3H, and PqFLS. These results suggested that PqMYBF1 could promote flavonol biosynthesis by activating PqCHS, PqF3H, and PqFLS expression, which leads metabolic flux from anthocyanin to flavonol pathway, resulting in more flavonol accumulation. These findings provide a new train of thought for the molecular mechanism of leaf color variation in tree peony in spring, which will be helpful for the molecular breeding of tree peony with colored foliage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An increased level of reactive oxygen species is a key factor in neuronal apoptosis and epileptic seizures. Irisin reportedly attenuates the apoptosis and injury induced by oxidative stress. Therefore, we evaluated the effects of exogenous irisin in a kainic acid (KA)-induced chronic spontaneous epilepsy rat model. The results indicated that exogenous irisin significantly attenuated the KA-induced neuronal injury, learning and memory defects, and seizures. Irisin treatment also increased the levels of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and uncoupling protein 2 (UCP2), which were initially reduced following KA administration. Furthermore, the specific inhibitor of UCP2 (genipin) was administered to evaluate the possible protective mechanism of irisin. The reduced apoptosis, neurodegeneration, and spontaneous seizures in rats treated with irisin were significantly reversed by genipin administration. Our findings indicated that neuronal injury in KA-induced chronic epilepsy might be related to reduced levels of BDNF and UCP2. Moreover, our results confirmed the inhibition of neuronal injury and epileptic seizures by exogenous irisin. The protective effects of irisin may be mediated through the BDNF-mediated UCP2 level. Our results thus highlight irisin as a valuable therapeutic strategy against neuronal injury and epileptic seizures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We propose a high-speed all-optic dual-modal system that integrates spectral-domain optical coherence tomography and photoacoustic microscopy (PAM). A 3 ∗ 3 coupler-based interferometer is used to remotely detect the surface vibration caused by photoacoustic (PA) waves. Three outputs of the interferometer are acquired simultaneously with a multi-channel data acquisition card. One channel data with the highest PA signal detection sensitivity is selected for sensitivity compensation. Experiment on the phantom demonstrates that the proposed method can successfully compensate for the loss of intensity caused by sensitivity variation. The imaging speed of the PAM is improved compared to our previous system. The total time to image a sample with 2 5 6 × 2 5 6 pixels is ∼ 2 0 s. Using the proposed system, the microvasculature in the mouse auricle is visualized and the blood flow state is accessed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Photocatalytic hydrogen production is a sustainable method to alleviate the energy crisis. Herein, the Co2P/TiO2 Z‐scheme junction photocatalysts without noble metal are synthesized by a simple hydrothermal method. Compared to pure TiO2 simple, the Co2P/TiO2 Z‐scheme junction photocatalysts exhibit much more excellent photocatalytic H2‐evolution activity, which suggests the Z‐scheme junction has a positive influence on the photocatalytic hydrogen production. Particularly, the optimal 3 wt% Co2P/TiO2 displays the most outstanding photocatalytic activity with the hydrogen evolution rate of 409.5 μmol h−1 g−1, which exceeds that of pure TiO2 by almost 17 times (23.6 μmol h−1 g−1). The function of Z‐scheme junction in Co2P/TiO2 hybrid that enhances the separation of electron–hole pairs is confirmed by the photoluminescence spectra, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy, and transient photocurrent responses. It is also suggested in these results that the Co2P is a cocatalyst in Co2P/TiO2 system. And, the process of electron transfer is investigated by the Kelvin probe instrument. It is clearly demonstrated that the Z‐scheme junction plays a significant role in the effective charge separations of holes and electrons. Herein, a new method of synthesizing TiO2‐based photocatalysts with high photocatalytic performance is offered. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ultrasound imaging technology has the advantages of noninvasiveness, real-time, low price, and easy operation. It is one of the most used diagnostic tools for early detection and classification of premature ovarian failure. Although the rapid development of computer-aided diagnosis has provided a great help to the ultrasound diagnosis of premature ovarian failure, it still has many limitations and shortcomings, so this paper adopts transfer learning and feature fusion algorithms to improve the identification and prediction efficiency of premature ovarian failure. In this study, the POF group and the control group both adopted a unified scale. From the four aspects of sociological characteristics, past medical history, environmental factors, and living habits, a dedicated person asked and filled out the scale face to face. All patients participating in the experiment underwent ultrasound examinations. In this paper, the bottom-level feature fusion method is used to improve classification performance. The experiment uses 100 epochs. After each epoch training is completed, we used all the data and labels of the target domain to test. All experiments were performed five times, and the result is the average of five experiments. All the results of baseline and direct classification without migration use the average of five experimental results as the result. Migrating the features extracted by the InceptionV3 network has the best performance for predicting premature ovarian failure. Its classification accuracy is as high as 85.13%, and the F1 value is 0.78. The results show that the migration learning and feature fusion algorithms used in this paper can provide reliable predictive analysis and decision support for doctors in the diagnosis of premature ovarian failure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Chinese pangolin (Manis pentadactyla) is a critically endangered mammal with a highly specialized diet. To enhance nutritional knowledge of its diet, we analyzed the colony composition of a nest of Polyrhachis dives ants, which is the key natural prey in the Chinese pangolin's diet. In addition, we determined the nutrient composition of the total colony compared with adult ants. Nutrients quantified in this study included: crude protein, crude fat, carbohydrate, and amino acids, minerals, and vitamins, as well as formic acid and chitin, which have not been reported in previous diet studies. Our results showed that the colony consisted of adults (82%), pupae (10%), larvae (7%), and eggs (1%) (fresh mass). Both the total colony and adult ants, respectively, contained high concentrations of crude protein (62.97% and 64.68%), chitin (49.25% and 60.40%), crude fat (10.12% and 9.91%) (dry matter basis), and formic acid (2.06% and 3.07%) (fresh mass). This implies that Chinese pangolin might prefer prey with high protein, high chitin, low fat, and low formic acid content. Colony and adult ants differed in chemical composition in many aspects, thus it might be unsuitable to feed Chinese pangolin with only adult ants. Chitin and formic acid may play important roles in the diet and selectivity of Chinese pangolin. This study provides reference information that may be useful for developing better artificial diets with more comprehensive nutrient compositional data to meet the nutritional requirements of the Chinese pangolin under managed feeding programs. Research highlights: 1)Colony and adult ants differed in chemical composition in many aspects, thus it might be unsuitable to feed Chinese pangolin with only adult ants.2)Chitin and formic acid may play important roles in the diet and selectivity of Chinese pangolin.3)This study provides reference information that may be useful for developing better artificial diets with more comprehensive nutrient compositional data to meet the nutritional requirements of Chinese pangolin under managed feeding programs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Paeonia qiui is a wild species of tree peony native to China. Its leaves are purplish red from the bud germination to the flowering stage, and anthocyanin is the main pigment in purplish red leaves. However, the anthocyanin synthesis regulation mechanism in tree peony leaves remains unclear. In this study, an R2R3-MYB, PqMYB113 was identified from the leaves of P. qiui. Phylogenetic analysis revealed that PqMYB113 clustered with Liquidambar LfMYB113 and grape VvMYBA6. Subcellular location analysis showed that PqMYB113 was located in the cell nucleus. The transient reporter assay suggested that PqMYB113 was a transcriptional activator. The overexpression of PqMYB113 in Arabidopsis thaliana and tobacco (Nicotiana tabacum) resulted in increased anthocyanin accumulation and the upregulation of CHS , F3H , F3'H , DFR , and ANS. The dual luciferase reporter assay showed that PqMYB113 could activate the promoters of PqDFR and PqANS. Bimolecular fluorescence complementation assays and yeast two-hybrid assays suggested that PqMYB113 could form a ternary MBW complex with PqbHLH1 and PqWD40 cofactors. These results provide insight into the regulation of anthocyanin biosynthesis in tree peony leaves. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

It is challenging to build domain-specific emotional lexicon for film reviews, due to its unique characteristics, such as massive data, endless new login words, and others. To improve the accuracy of film reviews classification, this article proposes a method for extending emotional lexicon based on word distance and point mutual information. First, using the improved K-means++ algorithm to cluster and select seed words with obvious emotional tendencies. Next, the Distance of Word and Point Mutual Information (DW-PMI) algorithm is presented to determine the emotional polarity of emotional words in the domain of film reviews. Four types of vocabulary, including degree adverb, negation, emoticon and emotion dictionary in the film reviews domain are added to the basic emotion dictionary to extend the film reviews emotional lexicon. From the experimental results, the expanded emotional lexicon of the Chinese film reviews can improve the accuracy and preciseness of the film reviews emotion analysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Salinomycin (Sal) is a potent inhibitor with effective anti-breast cancer properties in clinical therapy. The occurrence of various side effect of Sal greatly limits its application. The epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) family is a family of receptors highly expressed in most breast cancer cells. GE11 is a dodecapeptide which shows excellent EGFR affinity. A series of nanoparticles derivatives with GE11 peptide conjugated PLGA/TPGS were synthesized. Nanoprecipitation method was used to prepare the Sal loaded nanoparticles at the optimized concentration. The characterization, targeting efficacy, and antitumor activity were detected both in vitro and in vivo. Encapsulation of Sal in GE11 modified PLGA/TPGS nanoparticles shows an improved therapy efficacy and lower systemic side effect. This represents the delivery system a promising strategy to enhance the therapeutic effect against EGFR highly expressed breast cancer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Previous studies have suggested that thrombospondin-1 (TSP-1) regulates the transforming growth factor beta 1 (TGF-β1)/phosphorylated Smad2/3 (pSmad2/3) pathway. Moreover, TSP-1 is closely associated with epilepsy. However, the role of the TSP-1-regulated TGF-β1/pSmad2/3 pathway in seizures remains unclear. In this study, changes in this pathway were assessed following kainic acid (KA)-induced status epilepticus (SE) in rats. The results showed that increases in the TSP-1/TGF-β1/pSmad2/3 levels spatially and temporally matched the increases in glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP)/chondroitin sulfate (CS56) levels following KA administration. Inhibition of TSP-1 expression by small interfering RNA or inhibition of TGF-β1 activation with a Leu-Ser-Lys-Leu peptide significantly reduced the severity of KA-induced acute seizures. These anti-seizure effects were accompanied by decreased GFAP/CS56 expression and Smad2/3 phosphorylation. Moreover, inhibiting Smad2/3 phosphorylation with ponatinib or SIS3 also significantly reduced seizure severity, alongside reducing GFAP/CS56 immunoreactivity. These results suggest that the TSP-1-regulated TGF-β1/pSmad2/3 pathway plays a key role in KA-induced SE and astrogliosis, and that inhibiting this pathway may be a potential anti-seizure strategy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Understanding reproductive behavior is important for the conservation of endangered species, but research on the reproductive behavior of Sunda pangolins (Manis javanica Desmarest, 1822) is still very scarce. In this study, we used focal animal sampling and all‐occurrence recording by an infrared monitor to observe the behaviors of two Sunda pangolins during a 5‐day breeding period at the Pangolin Research Base for Artificial Rescue and Conservation Breeding of South China Normal University (PRB‐SCNU). The behavioral characteristics and breeding strategies were analyzed, and the results were discussed together with information on other captive Sunda pangolin pairs at PRB‐SCNU. The results found that there was no obvious estrus behavior in the captive female, while the male could exhibit sexual excitement and courtship behavior after a brief introduction period. Repeated copulation continued over many days after the female accepted the courtship. The average duration of copulatory behavior was 248.9 ± 148.7 s (n = 25), and all copulation occurred between 20:00 and 08:00 hr in the natural day–night photoperiod. The mating position of Sunda pangolins was lateral–ventral and was classified as the ninth or eleventh pattern under both Dewsbury's and Dixson's classification systems. This study can provide scientific guidance for the captive breeding and management of Sunda pangolins and other pangolin species, which is of great significance for ex situ conservation tactics. Research Highlights: In this study, there was no obvious estrus behavior in the captive female Sunda pangolin. The female had repeated mating behaviors during an estrus. And the Sunda pangolin mates in the lateral–ventral posture. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Previous studies have reported the possible neuroprotective effects of xenon treatment. The purpose of this study was to define the range of effective xenon ratio, most effective xenon ratio, and time-window for intervention in the kainic acid (KA) – induced status epilepticus (SE) rat model. Different ratios of xenon (35% xenon, 21% oxygen, 44% nitrogen, 50% xenon, 21% oxygen, 29% nitrogen, 70% xenon, 21% oxygen, and 9% nitrogen) were used to treat the KA-induced SE. Our results confirmed the anti-seizure role of 50 and 70% xenon mixture, with a stronger effect from the latter. Further, 70% xenon mixture was dispensed at three time points (0 min, 15 min delayed, and 30 min delayed) after KA administration, and the results indicated the anti-seizure effect at all treated time points. The results also established that the neuronal injury in the hippocampus and entorhinal cortex (EC), assessed using Fluoro-Jade B (FJB) staining, were reversed by the xenon inhalation, and within 30 min after KA administration. Our study, therefore, indicates the appropriate effective xenon ratio and time-window for intervention that can depress seizures. The prevention of neuronal injury and further reversal of the loss of effective control of depress network in the hippocampus and EC may be the mechanisms underlying the anti-seizure effect of xenon. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Evidence indicated that GATA5 may suppress hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) cell malignant transformation, but the mechanism of how GATA5 affects cancer cell reprogramming to inhibit HCC malignant behaviour is still unclear. In this study, we report that the expression of β‐catenin and reprogramming genes p‐Oct4, Nanog, Klf4, c‐myc and EpCAM was significantly higher in HCC tissues compared to normal liver tissues. In contrast, the expression of GATA5 was significantly lower in HCC tissues compared to normal liver tissues. Transfection of CDH‐GATA5 vectors into HCC cells (HLE, Bel 7402 and PLC/PRF/5 cells) increased the GATA5 expression and decreased the expression of β‐catenin and reprogramming genes p‐Oct4, Nanog, Klf4, c‐myc and EpCAM. Increased GATA5 expression by transfection with its expression vectors was also able to inhibit the cell growth, colony formation and capability of migration, invasion, while promoting apoptosis in HCC cells. Results revealed that GATA5 co‐localization with β‐catenin in the cytoplasm, preventing β‐catenin from entering the nucleus. Treatment with the specific Wnt/β‐catenin pathway inhibitor salinomycin was able to reduce the expression of β‐catenin and reprogramming genes. Salinomycin exerted a similar influence as GATA5, and siRNA‐GATA5 restored β‐catenin and reprogramming gene expression. This study demonstrates that an increase in the expression of GATA5 inhibits the expression of β‐catenin and reprogramming genes and suppresses tumour growth, colony formation, metastasis and invasion, while promoting apoptosis in HCC cells. The mechanism of GATA5 inhibiting the malignant behaviours of HCC cells may involve in the disruption of the Wnt/β‐catenin pathway and the reduction of reprogramming gene expression. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new nickel(ii) phosphonate, [Ni3(HL)2(H2O)10]·4H2O (1), (H4L = 4-F-C6H4CH2N(CH2PO3H2)2) has been synthesized by a hydrothermal method and structurally characterized via X-ray single-crystal diffraction, infrared spectroscopy, elemental analysis and powder X-ray diffraction. 1 exhibits a 1D chain structure formed by the coordination interactions between PO3 groups and metal ions; the chains are further interlinked by [Ni(H2O)6]2+, leading to a supramolecular network. Interestingly, there are helix water channels located in the stacking diagram of 1. To the best of our knowledge, this kind of water channel has not been reported before. The presence of extended hydrogen bonding stabilizes the 3D network and favours proton transfer. 1 shows high proton conductivity with σ = 1.43 × 10−3 S cm−1 at 297 K and 98% RH and a lower activation energy of 0.08 eV. The conductivity is comparable to that of MOF-based materials with efficient proton conducting property. Additionally, the water vapor adsorption of 1 was also investigated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Previous studies suggested that the thrombospondin-1/transforming growth factor-β1 (TSP-1/TGF-β1) pathway might be critical in synaptogenesis during development and that the purinergic P2 receptor family could regulate synaptogenesis by modulating TSP-1 signaling. However, it is unclear whether this pathway plays a role in synaptogenesis during epileptic progression. This study was designed to investigate this question by analyzing the dynamic changes and effects of TSP-1 levels on the density of synaptic markers that are related to epileptic seizure activity. In addition, we evaluated whether P2-type receptors could regulate these effects. We generated a rat seizure model via amygdala kindling and inhibited TSP-1 activity using small interfering RNA (siRNA) interference and pharmacological inhibition. We treated the rats with antagonists of P2 or P2Y receptors, pyridoxalphosphate-6-azophenyl-2',4'-disulfonic (PPADS) or Reactive Blue 2. Following this, we quantified TSP-1 and TGF-β1 immunoreactivity (IR), the density of synaptic markers, and seizure activity. There were significantly more synapses/excitatory synapses in several brain regions, such as the hippocampus, which were associated with progressing epileptic discharges after kindling. These were associated with increased TSP-1 and TGF-β1-IR. Genetic or pharmacologic inhibition of TSP-1 significantly reduced the density of synaptic/excitatory synaptic markers and inhibited the generalization of focal epilepsy. The administration of PPADS or Reactive Blue 2 attenuated the increase in TSP-1-IR and the increase in the density of synaptic markers that follows kindling and abolished most of the epileptic seizure activity. Altogether, our results indicate that the TSP-1/TGF-β1 pathway and its regulation by P2, particularly P2Y-type receptors, may be a critical promoter of synaptogenesis during the progression of epilepsy. Therefore, components of this pathway may be targets for novel antiepileptic drug development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Six coordination polymers of metal phosphonates, [Co3(HL)2(H2O)4]·2H2O (1), [Cu(H2L)H2O] (2), [Fe3(L)2(H2O)3OH]·2H2O (3), [Cu2(L)(4,4′-bipy)1.5]·5H2O (4), [Co(H2L)(4,4′-bipy)0.5] (5), and [Ni(H2L)(4,4′-bipy)0.5] (6) (H4L = 4-F-C6H4CH2N(CH2PO3H2)2), have been synthesized by hydrothermal methods and structurally characterized by X-ray single-crystal diffraction, infrared spectroscopy, elemental analysis and thermogravimetric analysis. Complexes 1–3 exhibit a 2D inorganic layer structure with a regular and alternate arrangement of metal ions and PO3 groups, where the layers are connected by moderately strong hydrogen bonds to form a supramolecular 3D network. Complexes 4–6 have a one-dimensional chain structure connected through similar coordination modes with 1–3, where each chain is rejoined by 4,4′-bipy bridges, forming layer coordination polymers. In addition, three complexes contain abundant water molecules, which exhibit different aggregation modes, clusters and chains, respectively. The magnetic properties of complexes 1–6 have been quantificationally studied using the Curie–Weiss law and the PHI program package. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Colorectal cancer (CRC) accounts for over 600 000 deaths annually worldwide. The current study aims to evaluate the value of proto-oncogene PIM1 as a therapeutic target in CRC and investigate the anticancer activity of hispidulin, a naturally occurring phenolic flavonoid compound, against CRC. Immunohistochemistry analysis showed that PIM1 was upregulated in CRC tissue. The role of PIM1 as an oncogene was evidenced by the fact that PIM1 knockdown inhibits cell growth, induces apoptosis, and suppresses invasion. Our results showed that hispidulin exerts antitumor activity in CRC through inhibiting the expression of PIM1. Moreover, our findings revealed that hispidulin downregulated the expression of PIM1 by inhibiting JAK2/ STAT3 signaling by generating reactive oxygen species. Furthermore, our in vivo studies showed that hispidulin can significantly inhibit tumor growth and metastasis in CRC. Collectively, our results provide an experimental basis for trialing hispidulin in CRC treatment. PIM1 can be considered a potential therapeutic target in CRC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An optical microring resonator model that allows for the measurement of low concentrations of hexavalent chromium was numerically investigated with the finite element method. The optical microring resonator based on whispering gallery modes was optimized in terms of microring radius, microring width, and gap distance. Thus, the optimization of these geometric parameters has been illustrated. A free spectral range of 3.2 nm, full width at half maximum of 0.10 nm, quality factor of 5,485, and finesse of 31.66 make the high-performance device suitable for the measurement of hexavalent chromium. The reduction in optical intensity at the resonance wavelength of 542 nm strongly depends on the imaginary part of the refractive index. The excellent performance of the sensor clearly showed a linear trend of optical intensity with increasing concentration of hexavalent chromium. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

The Sunda pangolin ( Manis javanica Desmarest, 1822) is a Critically Endangered species. Given that this species lacks effective policies for in situ conservation and prevention of poaching in the wild, ex situ conservation and a captive breeding program are urgently needed to save this species from extinction. However, techniques for the maintenance and captive breeding of pangolins have not been well developed. In June 2010, we established the Pangolin Research Base for Artificial Rescue and Conservation Breeding of South China Normal University (PRB-SCNU). To date, a total of 34 Sunda pangolin cubs have been born at PRB-SCNU, 26 of which were captive bred, indicating great progress in keeping and breeding the Sunda pangolin. The techniques for maintenance-including housing, transitioning to an artificial diet, husbandry, and captive breeding-are described in this paper. The purpose of this manuscript is to share our successful experiences and techniques in the maintenance, management, and captive breeding of Sunda pangolins, and to provide guidance and a reference for the captive care and management of Sunda pangolins and other pangolin species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The geochemical characteristics of abyssal peridotite samples from one dredge station (27°49.74S, 65°02.14E, water depth 4473 m) on the super slow-spreading Southwest Indian Ridge (SWIR) near 65°E were investigated. Abyssal peridotites recovered from this site were comprised mainly of lizardite, chlorite, carbonate and magnetite with minor amounts of talc, pyroxene phenocrysts and sparse olivines. Serpentinites exhibit talc veins and major serpentine derived from serpentinization with relict olivine granuloblasts. Olivine grains in serpentinites display exsolution lamellae, indicating the occurrence of talc reduction or decompression during seawater-rock interaction. Pyroxene shows clear cleavage in two directions, with clinopyroxene or orthopyroxene exsolution lamellae. By contrast, bulk rock trace element patterns of serpentinites reveal depletion in most incompatible elements, similarly to the depleted mid-ocean ridge basalt mantle composition, indicating that the SWIR peridotites originated from a depleted mantle source magma and have experienced partial melting. Meanwhile, Rb, Ba, U, Pb, Sr, Li anomalies and the Ce/Pb ratio suggest that these serpentinites have been strongly altered by seawater. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nuciferine, a major aporphine alkaloid constituent of lotus leaves, is a raw material for obesity treatment. Extensive studies have revealed that obesity is associated with pancreatic cancer (PC). However, it has not been clarified whether nuciferine could be used in PC treatment or prevention. Here, we show that nuciferine could enhance the sensitivity of PC cells to gemcitabine in both cultured cells and the xenograft mouse model. The mechanism study demonstrated that nuciferine induced YAP Ser127 phosphorylation [pYAP(Ser127)] through AMPK-mediated 3-hydroxy-3-methyl-glutaryl-coA reductase (HMGCR) downregulation. Remarkably, wild-type YAP overexpression or YAP Ser127 mutant could resist to nuciferine and no longer sensitize PC cells to gemcitabine. Knockdown of AMPK attenuated pYAP(Ser127) induced by nuciferine. Moreover, knockdown of AMPK reversed nuciferine-mediated HMGCR downregulation. Notably, HMGCR inhibiting could restrain YAP by phosphorylation Ser 127, and therefore enhance the efficiency of gemcitabine in PC cells. In line with this consistent, overexpression of HMGCR reduced growth inhibition caused by nuciferine and/or gemcitabine treatment in PC cells. In summary, these results provide an effective supplementary agent and suggest a therapeutic strategy to reduce gemcitabine resistance in PC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There are two steps (alcoholic fermentation and acetic acid fermentation) in the production of fruit vinegar by liquid fermentation. The yeast alcoholic fermentation step plays an important role in the quality of apple vinegar. In this work, Candida tropicalis and aromatizing yeast were used in mixed alcoholic fermentation to improve the flavor of the apple vinegar. The total organic acid contents of apple cider and vinegar in mixed cultures were all higher than those in pure culture (Candida tropicalis). Umami and sweet free amino acid levels in mixed-culture apple vinegar (MCAV; 1236.71 and 858.25 mg/L, respectively) were significantly higher than those in pure-culture apple vinegar (PCAV; 1214.69 and 820.37 mg/L, respectively). The total esters, total alcohols, and total phenolics were also significantly increased in MCAV (282.36 g/L, 254.22 g/L and 47.49 g/L, respectively), fruit flavor and floral aromas in MCAV were higher than that in PCAV. In the principal component analysis (PCA), the integrative score for MCAV was higher than that for PCAV. Therefore, mixed cultures of Candida tropicalis and aromatizing yeast in alcoholic fermentation can effectively improve the flavor and quality of apple cider vinegar; more details about the mixed culture need to be investigated in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]