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Kinds of antibiotics are used to prevent and control bacteria infections, unfortunately, the overuse and misuse of antibiotic have promoted the emergence and spread of antibiotic-resistant bacteria. Therefore, understanding the mechanism of antibiotic resistance is very important. This study explores the combined effection of metal ions and antibiotic to the drug resistance of Escherichia coli. Our results found that the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) increased as the ammonium ferric citrate concentration increased, especially for gentamicin antibiotic. When the Fe3+ concentration reached 300 μM, the survival of E. coli was stably restored with the increased gentamicin concentration. Exogenous Fe3+ could decrease intracellular gentamicin concentration. On the other hand, Fe3+ treatment together with gentamicin could reduce reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, characterized by decreased levels of NADH and ATP. Furthermore, ROS-scavenging enzymes of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT) were up-regulated and H 2 O 2 plus gentamicin-mediated killing was restored by Fe3+. These results may have significant implications in understanding bacterial antibiotic-resistant mechanisms based on the external Fe3+ concentration. • Fe3+ enhances the resistance of gentamicin in Escherichia coli. • Fe3+ causes the decrease of intracellular gentamicin. • Fe3+ reduces ROS generation through decreasing ATP and NADH and increasing SOD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Toll-like receptors (TLRs) are a large family of pattern recognition receptors (PRRs) that play a critical role in innate immunity. TLRs are activated when they recognize microbial associated molecular patterns (MAMPs) of bacteria, viruses, or fungus. In the present study, two TLRs were isolated from the mantle of the hard-shelled mussel (Mytilus coruscus) and designated McTLR2 and McTLR3 based on their sequence similarity and phylogenetic clustering with Crassostrea gigas , CgiTLR2 and CgiTLR3, respectively. Quantitative RT-PCR analysis demonstrated that McTLR2 and McTLR3 were constitutively expressed in many tissues but at low abundance. • Two toll-like receptors (McTLR2 and McTLR3) were identified and characterized in Mytilus coruscus. • The two TLRs had a widespread tissue distribution. • McTLR2 was the most abundant in haemocytes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Two hierarchical ZnO micro/nano-materials have been prepared by a short-time (45 min) hydrothermal reaction without any surfactants. The different morphologies have been characterized comprehensively by XRD, SEM, TEM and XPS technologies. The hierarchical micro- and nano-structures are respectively consisted by the subordinate nano-pieces and nano-hexagonal-rods. Under the illumination of the simulated solar light, the nano-piece-aggregate spends 40 min to degrade the 98% of rhodamine 6G solution (10 −5 mol/L), whereas the nano-rod-aggregate only degrades the 78% of the solution in the same condition. Moreover, the photocatalytic performances of the two ZnO aggregates are significantly improved by loading with Au nanoparticles (NPs) in the same assembly process. The nano-piece-aggregate decorated with the Au NPs spends 24 min to decompose the rhodamine 6G solution completely, while nano-rod-aggregate decorated with the Au NPs needs 28 min. The related photocatalytic mechanisms are proposed in this paper. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work, we describe the successful synthesis of super-hydrophobic polymethylsilsesquioxane (PMSQ) aerogels with a porous network by a sol-gel polymerization process using methyltrimethoxysilane (MTMS) reactants with the addition of cetyltrimethylammonium bromide (CTAB) surfactants. The specific surface area, pore size and hydrophobicity of the CTAB-modified PMSQ aerogels were investigated for different amounts of CTAB doping. The specific surface areas of the pristine and CTAB-modified PMSQ aerogels with C/M molar ratios of 0.001, 0.002 and 0.004 were 491, 301, 342 and 298 m 2 /g, respectively. The water contact angles of the CTAB-modified PMSQ aerogels with C/M molar ratios of 0.001, 0.002 and 0.004 were 166.38°, 165.62° and 166.43°, confirming the super-hydrophobicity of the CTAB-modified PMSQ aerogels. Compared to pristine PMSQ aerogels, the as-prepared CTAB-modified PMSQ aerogels exhibit more solvent-resistant properties in ethanol (EtOH) and n- hexane solvents. The as-prepared CTAB-modified PMSQ aerogels were further used for organic solvent and oil adsorption applications. Consequently, the as-prepared CTAB-modified PMSQ aerogels have great potential for organic solvent and oil adsorption in industrial applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bovine rotavirus (BRV) is a potential zoonotic intestinal pathogen that brings a serious threat to calf health, and has resulted in huge economic losses to China's breeding industry. Here, a systematic review and meta-analysis was conducted to estimate the prevalence of BRV among Bovidae from 1984 to 2021 in China. A total of 64 publications on BRV investigation in China were screened from the databases Chinese National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI), Wan Fang Database, Technology Periodical Database (VIP), PubMed, and ScienceDirect. The random-effect model was used to calculate the pooled prevalence of BRV, and the analyzed data were derived from 25 provinces in China. The estimated pooled prevalence of BRV in China was 35.7% (8176/17,292). In addition, the prevalence of BRV in Southwestern China (77.1%; 2924/3600) was significantly higher than that in other regions of China. Regarding geographic and climatic factors, the prevalence of BRV in the subgroup of latitude 30–35° (76.8%; 3303/4659) was significantly higher than that in the subgroup of latitude less than 30° (37.0%; 485/1275) or more than 35° (32.6%; 1703/5722), while the prevalence of BRV in the subgroup of longitude 100–105° (75.4%; 2513/3849) was significantly higher than that in the subgroup of longitude less than 100° (32.6%; 619/2255) or more than 105° (48.9%; 2359/5552). Rainfall was positively correlated with the prevalence of BRV, whereas temperature was negatively correlated with the positive rate of BRV (P < 0.05). Our data showed that the prevalence of BRV was strongly correlated with geographical and climatic conditions. Thus, we recommend that the corresponding prevention and control programs should be formulated according to different geographical conditions. The strengthening of BRV surveillance in areas with high altitude, low temperature, and heavy rainfall may contribute to the decrease of the incidence of BRV infection among Bovidae herds in China. • This is the first meta-analysis of the prevalence of bovine rotavirus in China. • Bovine rotavirus is prevalent and unevenly distributed among Bovidae in China. • The risk factors for the epidemic of bovine rotavirus in Chinese Bovidae were revealed. • The prevalence of bovine rotavirus shows regional diversity, with higher prevalence in cold, wet and rainy areas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights: [•] Mesoporous Fe/CA structures with high specific surface areas of 487m2/g. [•] Mesoporous Fe/CA structures with higher arsenic adsorption capacity than other adsorbents. [•] Mesoporous Fe/CA structures are a potential adsorbent for As(V) ion adsorption. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights: [•] We report VLE data at 101.3kPa for mixtures of ethanol, water, and 1,3-propanediol. [•] The VLE data were correlated by the Wilson, NRTL, and UNIQUAC models. [•] The ternary VLE data were predicted from binary VLE data using the three models. [•] The VLE effect of 1,3-propanediol on the azeotropic ethanol+water mixture was studied. [•] The azeotropic point of ethanol+water disappears at 30wt% of 1,3-propanediol. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Duodenal microbiota may have impact in Functional Dyspepsia. The aim of this study was to explore the difference of microbiota on duodenal mucosa between patients with Functional Dyspepsia and normal subjects. The duodenal mucosa of the subjects were collected under upper gastrointestinal endoscope and the contents of the descending duodenal intestine were extracted with cell brushes in 20 patients with Functional Dyspepsia and 5 healthy subjects. The microbiome on duodenal was studied by 16SrDNA gene sequencing. The differences of duodenal flora were analyzed and compared by LEfSe, FAPROTAX, SPSS and other software. There were significant differences in ACE index, shannon index and observedspecies index between patients with functional dyspepsia and healthy people (P < 0.05). PCoA analysis of the structure of bacteria between two groups found that the duodenal microbiome showed a separate trend. In further study, Amova analysis showed a significant difference (P < 0.05). We found that the there are obvious differences in the composition of duodenal microbiome in functional dyspepsia and healthy people. At the genus level, there were significant differences in Alloprevotella, Peptostreptococcus,Sutterella, Corynebacteriurn,Catonella, Faecalibacterium,Staphylococcus,Eubacteriumnodatumgro-up, Lachnoclostridiurn and Lautropia between the two groups (P < 0.05). The prediction results of Microflora function from FAPROTAX showed that the urea decomposing (ureolysis) and fumaric acid respiratory (fumaraterespiration) function of duodenal bacteria in patients with functional dyspepsia were significantly different from those in healthy people (P < 0.05). In conclusion, there is a significant difference in mucosal microflora of duodenum between patients with functional dyspepsia and healthy groups. It includes greater microflora diversity, different microflora structure, different microflora composition, specific taxa and specific microbiome function. The disorder of duodenal microecology may be the formation mechanism of functional dyspepsia. • Previous studies on FD paid little attention to duodenum, especially the relationship between duodenal microflora. However, due to the location of duodenum and the difficulty of gastroscopic operation, there are few studies on duodenum. In this study, we studied the differences of duodenal microflora in patients with FD and healthy people, and predicted the function of duodenal microflora in order to verify the relationship between FD and duodenal microflora. Thus, To provide evidence for probiotics in the treatment of functional dyspepsia. • The duodenal mucosa of the subjects were collected under upper gastrointestinal endoscope and the contents of the descending duodenal intestine were extracted with cell brushes in 20 patients with Functional Dyspepsia and 5 healthy subjects. The microbiome on duodenal was studied by 16SrDNA gene sequencing. The differences of duodenal flora were analyzed and compared by LEfSe, FAPROTAX, SPSS and other software. • There were significant differences in ACE index, shannon index and observedspecies index between patients with functional dyspepsia and healthy people. PCoA analysis of the structure of bacteria between two groups found that the duodenal microbiome showed a separate trend. In further study, Amova analysis showed a significant difference. The prediction results of Microflora function from FAPROTAX showed that the urea decomposing (ureolysis) and fumaric acid respiratory (fumaraterespiration) function of duodenal bacteria in patients with functional dyspepsia were significantly different from those in healthy people. • In conclusion, there is a significant difference in mucosal microflora of duodenum between patients with functional dyspepsia and healthy groups. It includes greater microflora diversity, different microflora structure, different microflora composition, specific taxa and specific microbiome function. The disorder of duodenal microecology may be the formation mechanism of functional dyspepsia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Spatial and temporal patterns generated in ecological and chemical systems have become a central object of research in recent decades. In this work, we are concerned with a reaction–diffusion model with the Degn–Harrison reaction scheme, which accounts for the qualitative feature of the respiratory process in a Klebsiella aerogenes bacterial culture. We study the global stability of the constant steady state, existence and nonexistence of nonconstant steady states as well as the Hopf and steady state bifurcations. In particular, our results show the existence of Turing patterns and inhomogeneous periodic oscillatory patterns while the system parameters are all spatially homogeneous. These results also exhibit the critical role of the system parameters in leading to the formation of spatiotemporal patterns. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Most Drosophila species produce species-specific male courtship song as part of their precopulatory courtship repertoire. Females usually mate most quickly when stimulated with appropriate song. Unusually, males of Drosophila lini and its sibling species sing sine song only during copulation. Sine song frequency is high in D. lini and Drosophila ogumai and lower in Drosophila ohnishii. Drosophila ogumai and D. lini are allopatric, although the range of D. ohnishii may meet or overlap with that of D. ogumai or D. lini. We conducted playback experiments with each species to examine the role of sine song frequency. Copulation duration increased for females of D. lini or D. ogumai when stimulated with high-frequency (240–250Hz) artificial song and for females of D. ohnishii when stimulated with low-frequency (170–180Hz) artificial song. This suggests that sine song frequency extends copulation duration in the three species and that species-typical song is more effective. We also examined song frequency in crosses between D. lini and D. ohnishii to assess its genetic control. Analysis of F1 and backcross generations between D. lini and D. ohnishii showed that sine song frequency is mainly due to additive autosomal variation, although a transgressive effect of the X chromosome and maternal or Y-linked effects were also found. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: We investigated whether different monochromatic lights with similar luminance or identical light quantum number produce predictable changes in refractive state and eye growth in early eye development in guinea pigs. In experiment I, three groups of guinea pigs (two weeks of age, n =18 in each group) were reared for 12 weeks under LED lighting of 430nm (short-wavelength light, SL), 530nm (middle-wavelength light, ML), and broad-band light (BL). The lighting conditions were set to provide equal levels of luminance. All animals underwent refraction and biometric measurements every 2 weeks. In experiment II, the lighting conditions were set at equal quantum number and another three groups of guinea pigs were raised and tested for 20 weeks. In experiment I, compared to the BL group, refraction of the ML group was less hyperopic (P <0.001) with a faster vitreous extension (P <0.001), while the SL group was more hyperopic with a slower vitreous elongation (P <0.001). The mean difference in refraction between the SL and ML groups reached about 4.5 D at maximum. The refractive changes and eye growth in experiment II were very similar to experiment I during the first 12 weeks, but the difference in refraction between the SL and ML groups reached 6.05 D after 20 weeks of treatment, which was greater than the longitudinal chromatic aberration (approximately 1.5 D) in the guinea pigs eyes. The results suggest that the guinea pigs’ eyes overcompensated in response to narrow-band light, which resulted in an exaggerated and inaccurate refractive growth. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Squalene epoxidase (SE) catalyzes the conversion of squalene to (3S)-2,3-oxidosqualene. Photolabeling and site-directed mutagenesis were performed on recombinant rat SE (rrSE) in order to identify the location of the substrate-binding site and the roles of key residues in catalysis. Truncated 50-kDa rrSE was purified and photoaffinity labeled by competitive SE inhibitor (Ki=18.4 μM), [3H]TNSA-Dza. An 8-kDa CNBr/BNPS-skatole peptide was purified and the first 24 amino acids were sequenced by Edman degradation. The sequence PASFLPPSSVNKRGVLLLGDAYNL corresponded to residues 388–411 of the full-length rat SE. Three nucleophilic residues (Lys-399, Arg-400, and Asp-407) were labeled by [3H]TNSA-Dza. Triple mutants were prepared in which bulky groups were used to replace the labeled charged residues. Purified mutant enzymes showed lower enzymatic activity and reduced photoaffinity labeling by [3H]TNSA-Dza. This constitutes the first evidence as to the identity of the substrate-binding site of SE. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Act1 (also called CIKS) is a recently identified molecule, which activates NF-κB and AP-1. Here, we identified alternatively spliced Act1 that lacked the exon 2 encoding the first nine amino acids in the amino terminus of the protein. Compared to full-length Act1, this truncated Act1 appeared to be equally active. We demonstrated further that only the spliced Act1 was detected in cDNA libraries derived from human fetal brain, liver, leukocytes, and bone marrow. In contrast, both the spliced and full-length Act1 templates were detected in a variety of human cancer cell lines. The expression of both the spliced and full-length transcripts was detected at 4-h time point, following the treatment of endothelial cells with tumor necrosis factor-α, interleukin-1β or bacterial endotoxin. Notably, the dominant amounts of the spliced Act1 over the full-length Act1 were amplified from both the cancer cell mRNAs and the stimulated endothelial cell mRNAs. Taken together with the act1 chromosome localization at the 6q21 subregion, our findings indicate that the newly identified alternatively spliced Act1 is a major transcript of the molecule and that Act1 may play important roles in oncogenesis. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Understanding the developmental processes and signaling pathways involved in larval myogenesis and metamorphosis is crucial for comprehending the life history and adaptive strategies of marine organisms. In this study, we investigated the temporal and spatial patterns of myogenesis in the mussel Mytilus coruscus (Mc), focusing on the emergence and transformation of major muscle groups during different larval stages. We also explored the role of the Hedgehog (Hh) signaling pathway in regulating myogenesis and larval metamorphosis. The results revealed distinct developmental stages characterized by the emergence of specific muscular components, such as velum retractor muscles and anterior adductor muscles, in D-veliger and umbo larvae, which are responsible for the planktonic stage. In the pediveliger stage, posterior ventral, posterior adductor, and foot muscles appeared. After larval metamorphosis, the velum structure and its corresponding retractor muscles degenerate, indicating the transition from planktonic to benthic life. We observed a conserved pattern of larval musculature development and revealed a high degree of conservation across bivalve species, with comparable emergence times during myogenesis. Furthermore, exposure to the Hh signaling inhibitor cyclopamine impaired larval muscle development, reduced larval swimming activity, and inhibited larval metamorphosis in M. coruscus. Cyclopamine-mediated inhibition of Hh signaling led to reduced expression of four key genes within the Hh signaling pathway (McHh , McPtc , McSmo , and McGli) and the striated myosin heavy chain gene (McMHC). It is hypothesised that the abnormal larval muscle development in cyclopamine-treated groups may be an indirect effect due to disrupted McMHC expression. We provide evidence for the first time that cyclopamine treatment inhibited larval metamorphosis in bivalves, highlighting the potential involvement of Hh signaling in mediating larval muscle development and metamorphosis in M. coruscus. The present study provides insights into the dynamic nature of myogenesis and the regulatory role of the Hh signaling pathway during larval development and metamorphosis in M. coruscus. The results obtained in this study contribute to a better understanding of the evolutionary significance of Hh signaling in bivalves and shed light on the mechanisms underlying larval muscle development and metamorphosis in marine invertebrates. [Display omitted] • Studied larval myogenesis with specific muscle emergence and degeneration in Mytilus coruscus. • Identified conserved patterns of larval musculature across bivalve species. • Hh signaling inhibitor cyclopamine inhibited larval muscle development and larval metamorphosis. • Cyclopamine inhibited the expression of key genes within the Hh signaling and a myosin gene. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: ZrO2 nanoparticles were successfully fabricated via a facile hydrothermal process. The diameter and surface area of the as-prepared ZrO2 nanoparticles were approximately 5–10nm and 102m2/g, respectively. For the first time, Zr atoms with partial positive charges in a Lewis acid ZrO2 nanoparticle adsorbent were used for the adsorption of negatively charged phospholipids from Jatropha oil. The capacity for phospholipid adsorption using the ZrO2 nanoparticles was better than that of commercial ZrO2 powder due to the larger surface area of the ZrO2 nanoparticles. Phospholipid removal makes Jatropha oil a potential oil for biofuel applications. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

• A homologue of the vertebrate thyroid receptors (TRs) was identified in the hard-shelled mussel. • Knock-down of the mussel TR gene in pediveliger larvae significantly (p < 0.01) reduced TR gene expression. • Knock-down of the mussel TR gene in pediveliger larvae significantly (p < 0.05) reduced larval metamorphosis. • Mussel TRs are an essential regulatory factor for the pediveliger larvae to juvenile transition. Many marine invertebrate larvae undergo a dramatic morphological and physiological transition from a planktonic larva to a benthic juvenile. The mechanisms of this metamorphosis in bivalves are mainly unknown. The recent identification in bivalves of a thyroid hormone receptor (TR) gene raises the possibility that as occurs in vertebrate metamorphosis, TRs regulate this developmental process. An evolutionary study of TR receptors revealed they are ubiquitous in the molluscs. Knock-down of the TR gene in pediveliger larvae of the hard-shelled mussel, Mytilus coruscus (Mc), using electroporation of siRNA significantly (p < 0.01) reduced TR gene expression. TR gene knock-down decreased pediveliger larval metamorphosis by 54% and was associated with a significant (p < 0.01) reduction in viability compared to control larvae. The TR in the hard-shelled mussel appears to be an essential regulatory factor for the successful epinephrine-induced metamorphosis of the pediveliger larvae to post-larvae. It is hypothesised that the knock-down of TR by siRNA transfection affects the "competence" of pediveliger larvae for the metamorphic transition by reducing their ability to respond to the inducer. The involvement of TR in the epinephrine-induced metamorphosis of a mollusc, the hard-shelled mussel, suggests the role of TR in this process probably emerged early during evolution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights • INT-777 ameliorates cognitive impairment induced by intracerebroventricular injection of Aβ 1–42 in mice. • INT-777 attenuates Aβ 1–42 -induced neuroinflammation, apoptosis, and synaptic dysfunction in mice. • INT-777 reverses Aβ 1–42 -induced TGR5 down-regulation in the hippocampus and frontal cortex. Abstract Increasing evidence demonstrates that the neurotoxicity of amyloid-beta (Aβ) deposition plays a causative role in Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Herein, we evaluated the neuroprotective effects of 6α-ethyl-23(S)-methylcholic acid (S-EMCA, INT-777), a specific G-protein coupled bile acid receptor 1 (TGR5) agonist, in the Aβ 1–42 -treated mouse model of acute neurotoxicity. Single intracerebroventricular (i.c.v.) injection of aggregated Aβ 1–42 (410 pmol/mouse; 5 μl) into the mouse brain induced cognitive impairment, neuroinflammation, apoptosis, and synaptic dysfunction. In contrast, INT-777 (1.5 or 3.0 μg/mouse, i.c.v.) significantly improved Aβ 1–42 -induced cognitive impairment, as reflected by better performance in memory tests. Importantly, INT-777 treatment reversed Aβ 1–42 -induced TGR5 down-regulation, suppressed the increase of nuclear NF-κB p65, and mitigated neuroinflammation, as evidenced by lower proinflammatory cytokines and less Iba1-positive cells in the hippocampus and frontal cortex. INT-777 treatment also pronouncedly suppressed apoptosis through the reduction of TUNEL-positive cells, decreased caspase-3 activation, increased the ratio of Bcl-2/Bax, and ameliorated synaptic dysfunction by promoting dendritic spine generation with the upregulation of postsynaptic and presynaptic proteins (PSD95 and synaptophysin) in Aβ 1–42 -treated mice. Our results indicate that INT-777 has potent neuroprotective effects against Aβ 1–42 -induced neurotoxicity. Taken together, these findings suggest that the activation of TGR5 could be a novel and promising strategy for the treatment of AD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To investigate whether the microRNA-144 (miR-144) had immune regulation effect on matured immune cells, we firstly used quantitative RT-PCR (qRT-PCR) to detect the expression changes of miR-144 between the matured and immature dendritic cells (DCs), macrophages, and the peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs). Then we went on inspecting the expression changes of TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6 and IL-23 in the matured DCs treated with miR-144 mimics or inhibitors using qRT-PCR, and also performed western blot to test phosphorylation state of ERK, JNK, p38 and p65 in these cells. Next, TargetScan was conducted to forecast the target gene of miR-144, receptor activator for nuclear factor-κB ligand (RANKL), and double luciferase reporter system was applied to research their banding sites. We also determined the expression changes of RANKL in the DCs treated with miR-144 mimics or inhibitors using qRT-PCR and ELISA, respectively. The siRNA of RANKL was synthesized and transfected into DCs to inspect how the immune regulation effect of miR-144 was conducted to inhibit the expression of TNF-α using qRT-PCR, and lastly we used flow cytometry to investigate whether this effect applied to Th17 cells. As results, we found that miR-144 was down-regulated in the matured DCs, macrophages and PBMCs of liver transplantation patients, and the miR-144 mimics could inhibit the expression levels of TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6 and IL-23 in the matured DCs. Furthermore, miR-144 interacted with RANKL at position 679–685 of RANKL 3′UTR, and suppressed the translation of RANKL mRNA to realize the negative-regulation. Besides, the silence of RANKL enhanced the suppression effect of miR-144 on TNF-α and this immune regulation effect was applied to Th17 cells, too. In conclusion, this study clearly illustrated that miR-144 could inhibit the expression of cytokine in matured immune cells through suppressing the translation of RANKL mRNA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Some commercially important vinyl derivatives are produced by the decarboxylation of phenolic acids. Enzymatically, this process can be achieved by phenolic acid decarboxylases (PADs), which are able to act on phenolic acid substrates such as ferulic and p -coumaric acid. Although many microbial PADs have been characterized, little is known regarding their plant homologs. Transcriptome sequencing in the liverworts has identified seven putative PADs, which share a measure of sequence identity with microbial PADs, but are typically much longer proteins. Here, a PAD-encoding gene was isolated from the liverwort species Conocephalum japonicum . The 1197 nt CjPAD cDNA sequence was predicted to be translated into a 398 residue protein. When the gene was heterologously expressed in Escherichia coli , its product exhibited a high level of PAD activity when provided with either p -coumaric or ferulic acid as substrate, along with the conversion of caffeic acid and sinapic acid to their corresponding decarboxylated products. Both N- and C-terminal truncation derivatives were non-functional. The transient expression in tobacco of a GFP/CjPAD fusion gene demonstrated that the CjPAD protein is expressed in the cytoplasm. It is first time a PAD was characterized from plants and the present investigation provided a candidate gene for catalyzing the formation of volatile phenols. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] The stability of fluid–fluid interface is key to control the displacement efficiency in multiphase flow. The existence of particles can alter the interfacial dynamics and induce various morphological patterns. Moreover, the particle aggregations are expected to have a significant impact on the interface stability and patterns. Monodisperse polyethylene particles of different sizes are uniformly mixed in silicone oil to form the granular mixtures, which are injected into a transparent radial Hele-Shaw cell through different strategies to obtain the homogeneous and inhomogeneous (with particle aggregations) initial states. Subsequently, a systematic study of morphology and interface stability during the withdrawal of granular mixtures is performed. For homogeneous mixtures, we observe earlier onset of fingering, more fingers and lower gas saturation at breakthrough than for pure fluid with equivalent viscosity. This effect can be attributed to the particle-induced perturbations. For inhomogeneous mixtures, particle clusters and bands significantly enhance the interface instability. Furthermore, we find that particle deposition due to liquid film entrainment occurs above a critical local flow velocity, and we elucidate the responsible mechanism through force balance analysis and the thin film theory. This work could be of practical significance in geoenergy and industrial applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] The imbibition dynamics is controlled by energy dissipation mechanisms and influenced by asymmetric wettability in a nanochannel. We hypothesize that the imbibition dynamics can be described by a combined model of the Lucas–Washburn equation and the Cox-Voinov law considering velocity-dependent contact angles. Molecular dynamics simulations are utilized to investigate the imbibition dynamics. A wide range of wetting conditions is achieved via adjusting the liquid–solid interaction parameters, and the spontaneous imbibition processes are quantified and compared. The critical condition for the occurrence of spontaneous imbibition is analyzed from a surface energy perspective. The analyses of energy conversion and dissipation indicate that the viscous dissipation is dominant during spontaneous imbibition. The classical Lucas-Washburn equation is modified with the Cox–Voinov law considering the effect of the dynamic contact angle and an effective equilibrium contact angle. We show that the proposed theory well captures the imbibition dynamics embodied in the growth of imbibition length as well as the transient interface shape and velocity for both the symmetric and asymmetric wetting conditions. In nanochannels with asymmetric wettability, the imbibition length difference between the sidewalls and interface oscillations increases with wetting disparity. Our findings deepen the understanding of imbibition dynamics on the nanoscale, and provide a theoretical reference for relevant applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights: [•] Six faceted single crystalline ZnO nanorods were grown using hydrothermal method. [•] Reaction time and complex reagent plays a vital role to control the morphology. [•] The photoluminescence reveals intense near band edge emission. [•] We report on the growth mechanism of ZnO nanorods. [•] The schematic representation reveals growth habit of ZnO crystal. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: miRNAs are a family of approximately 22-nuleotide-long noncoding RNAs involved in the formation and progress of tumors. Since traditional methods for the detection of miRNAs expression have many disadvantages, we developed a simple method called polyA RT PCR. With this method, we detected a series of miRNAs and found that mir-126 is one of the miRNAs underexpressed in breast cancer cells. Flow cytometry analysis showed that mir-126 inhibited cell cycle progression from G1/G0 to S. Further studies revealed that mir-126 targeted IRS-1 at the translation level. Knocking down of IRS-1 suppresses cell growth in HEK293 and breast cancer cell MCF-7, which recapitulates the effects of mir-126. In conclusion, we developed a simple method for high-throughput screening of miRNAs and found that mir-126, a cell growth suppressor, targets IRS-1. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

To study the relationship between neutral aminopeptidase activity and hemoglobin accumulation in malaria parasites, we treated mice infected with Plasmodium berghei NYU-2 with chloroquine intraperitoneally in doses ranging from 0.3 to 3 μmol per 25 g mouse. Preparations of infected erythrocytes (normalized to represent 1000 parasites per 1000 erythrocytes) hydrolyzed 1200 nmol of leucine-p-nitroanilide per minute per milliliter of packed erythrocytes, which was 10× more than that of uninfected preparations. The activity in infected preparations was distinguished by resistance to ferriprotoporphyrin IX and puromycin and susceptibility to inhibition by ethanol and Tris. Chloroquine treatment caused the activity in unwashed membrane ghosts of infected preparations to decrease by 50% despite an increase in total activity. Concomitantly, hemoglobin in washed membrane ghosts increased. Electron microscopy revealed that the hemoglobin was retained in endocytic vesicles. Chloroquine-induced redistribution of a neutral aminopeptidase may be the cause of hemoglobin accumulation in endocytic vesicles of malaria parasites. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

O-GlcNAcylation is important in the development and progression of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC). The glycosyltransferase EGF domain-specific O-linked GlcNAc transferase (EOGT) acts as a key participant in glycosylating NOTCH1. High-throughput sequencing of specimens from 30 advanced PDAC patients identified SHCBP1 and EOGT as factors of poor prognosis. We hypothesized that they could mediate PDAC progression by influencing NOTCH1 O-GlcNAcylation. Thus, 186 PDAC tissue specimens were immunostained for EOGT and SHCBP1. Pancreatic cancer cell lines and nude mouse models were used for in vitro and in vivo experiments. Respectively, The protein expression of EOGT and SHCBP1 was significantly elevated and correlated with worse prognosis in PDAC patients. In vitro, SHCBP1 overexpression promoted pancreatic cancer cell proliferation, migration and invasion, while knocking down SHCBP1 and EOGT inhibited these malignant processes. In vivo data showed that SHCBP1 overexpression promoted xenograft growth and lung metastasis and shortened survival in mice, whereas knocking down either EOGT or SHCBP1 expression suppressed xenograft growth and metastasis and prolonged survival. We further clarified the molecular mechanisms by which EOGT and SHCBP1 enhance the O-GlcNAcylation of NOTCH1, Subsequently promoting the nuclear localization of the Notch intracellular domain (NICD) and inhibiting the transcription of E-cadherin and P21 in pancreatic cancer cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pseudorabies virus (PRV), the agent of pseudorabies, has raised considerable attention since 2011 due to the outbreak of emerging PRV variants in China. In the present study, we obtained two monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) known as 2E5 and 5C3 against the glycoprotein E (gE) of a PRV variant (JS-2012 strain). The two mAbs reacted with wild PRV but not the vaccine strain (gE-deleted virus). The 2E5 was located in 161RLRRE165, which was conserved in almost of all PRV strains, while 5C3 in 148EMGIGDY154 was different from almost of all genotype I PRV, in which the 149th amino acid is methionine (M) instead of arginine (R). The two epitopes peptides located in the hydrophilic region and reacted with positive sera against genotype II PRV (JS-2012), which suggests they were likely dominant B-cell epitopes. Furthermore, the mutant peptide 148ERGIGDY154 (genotype I) did not react with the mAb 5C3 or positive sera against genotype II PRV (JS-2012). In conclusion, both mAb 2E5 and 5C3 could be used to identify wild PRV strains from vaccine strains, and mAb 5C3 and the epitope peptide of 5C3 might be used for epidemiological investigation to distinguish genotype II from genotype I PRV. • Two novel linear epitopes of PRV gE recognized by mAbs was defined. • The epitope peptide 161RLRRE165 is conserved while 148EMGIGDY154 is different in genotype I and genotype II PRV. • The mAb and the peptides were valuable tools to distinguish genotype II from genotype I PRV. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Thulium laser resection of the prostate (TmLRP), a major treatment for benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), has several postoperative complications that affect the patients' quality of life. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of the M1 macrophage-secreted reactive oxygen species (ROS) on prostatic wound healing, and the role of MAPK signaling in this process. A co-culture model in vitro was established using macrophages and prostate epithelial or stromal cells. Cell proliferation, migration, apoptosis, MAPK pathway-related gene expression levels were evaluated by standard assays. In addition, an in vivo model of prostatectomy was established in beagles by subjecting them to TmLRP, and were either treated with N -acetyl-L-cysteine (NAC) and or placebo. Wound healing and re-epithelialization were analyzed histopathologically in both groups, in addition to macrophage polarization, oxidative stress levels and MAPK pathway-related proteins expressions. Intracellular ROS levels were significantly increased in the prostate epithelial and stromal cells following co-culture with M1-like macrophages and H 2 O 2 exposure via MAPK activation, which affected their proliferation, migration and apoptosis, and delayed the wound healing process. The cellular functions and wound healing capacity of the prostate cells were restored by blocking or clearing the macrophage-secreted ROS. In the beagle model, increased ROS levels impaired cellular functions, and appropriate removing ROS accelerated the wound healing process. Highlights • ROS hindered the healing of prostatic wound caused by prostatectomy. • ROS impacted proliferation and migration of prostate epithelial and stromal cells. • ROS affected the prostatic wound healing via MAPKs signaling pathways. • ROS scavengers could decrease the ROS level and accelerate wound healing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

While Prussian Blue (PB) analogues are attractive catalysts for activating peroxymonosulfate (PMS), PB analogues are very small and thus difficult for recovery. Immobilizing PB particles onto graphene is a useful technique which facilitates recovery and also enhances catalytic activities. As doping graphene with sulfur/nitrogen (S/N) increases its electro-conductivity and active sites, the composite of PB and S/N-doped graphene should enhance PMS activation. Thus, this study aims to fabricate such a composite. Unlike conventional S / N-doped graphene prepared via post-modifications, trithiocyanuric acid is used as a precursor, which is converted to S-doped graphitic carbon nitride (SCN). The composite of PB and SCN (PBSCN) is then fabricated by growing a cobalt-based PB analogue on SCN. The resulting PBSCN preserves the crystalline structures, textural properties and catalytic sites of PB and SCN. As degradation of Acid Red 27 (AR) is used as a model reaction, PBSCN exhibits a higher catalytic activity than PB and SCN individually, as well as Co 3 O 4 to activate PMS for AR degradation possibly because SCN may facilitate electron transfer and enhance catalytic activities of PB. PBSCN also remains effective and re-usable over several cycles for AR degradation. These features indicate that PBSCN is a promising catalyst for activating PMS and the fabrication technique demonstrated here can be employed to prepare composites of various PB analogues and carbon nitride to exhibit enhanced catalytic activities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus (PRRSV) has been a major threat to global industrial pig farming ever since its emergence in the late 1980s. Identification of sustainable and effective control measures against PRRSV transmission is a pressing problem. The nucleocapsid (N) protein of PRRSV is specifically localized in the cytoplasm and nucleus of virus-infected cells which is important for PRRSV replication. In the current study, a new host restricted factor, Moloney leukemia virus 10-like protein (MOV10), was identified as an inhibitor of PRRSV replication. N protein levels and viral replication were significantly reduced in Marc-145 cells stably overexpressing MOV10 compared with those in wild-type Marc-145 cells. Adsorption experiments revealed that MOV10 did not affect the attachment and internalization of PRRSV. Co-immunoprecipitation and immunofluorescence co-localization analyses showed that MOV10 interacted and co-localized with the PRRSV N protein in the cytoplasm. Notably, MOV10 affected the distribution of N protein in the cytoplasm and nucleus, leading to the retention of N protein in the former. Taken together, these findings demonstrate for the first time that MOV10 inhibits PRRSV replication by restricting the nuclear import of N protein. These observations have great implications for the development of anti-PRRSV drugs and provide new insight into the role of N protein in PRRSV biology. Highlights • Porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome (PRRS) affects industrial pig farming. • N protein is the main protein of PRRS virus (PRRSV) in infected cells which is important for PRRSV replication. • Moloney leukemia virus 10 protein (MOV10) is a new host restriction factor of PRRSV. • MOV10 interacts with PRRSV N protein and inhibits PRRSV replication in vitro. • MOV10 inhibits nuclear entry of N protein, thus impairing viral life cycle. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A cobalt-embedded carbon nanofiber (CoCNF) is developed in this study by electrospinning techniques. Through one-step carbonization, the electrospun Co-polyacrylonitrile nanofiber is converted to CoCNF. The resulting CoCNF consists of cobalt nanoparticles quite evenly distributed over CNF and also exhibits magnetically controllability, making it a suitable heterogeneous catalyst for activating Oxone (OX) to degrade organic contaminants. As degradation of Acid Red 27 (AR) is employed as a model reaction, CoCNF is validated to activate OX for generating sulfate radicals and then degrading AR. While a higher dosage of CoCNF and OX enhances AR degradation, CoCNF plays a more influential role in CoCNF-OX. AR degradation by CoCNF-OX is much enhanced at elevated temperature, and also favorable under the neutral condition. CoCNF-OX still remains quite effective for AR degradation even in the presence of salts and surfactants. The mechanism of AR degradation is elucidated by evaluating the effects of radical scavengers and the degradation is attributed to sulfate and derivative hydroxyl radicals. CoCNF is shown to activate OX for multiple times to degrade AR even without regeneration treatments. These results and findings validate that CoCNF can be a promising and advantageous heterogeneous for activating OX in advanced oxidation processes. The preparation method shown here can be also employed for fabricating other functional metal-embedded CNF for various applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Prostate Cancer has become the second leading cause of male cancer-related incidence and mortality in United States. Hyperthermia (HT) is known to serve as a powerful tool in treatment of prostate cancer in clinical. The combination treatment with HT and cisplatin has a synergistic effect to inhibit prostate cancer progression and demonstrates better clinical effectiveness than HT or chemotherapy alone. But molecular mechanisms of this phenomenon have not been illuminated clearly. In this study, we used MTS assay to examine cell viabilities of PC-3, LNCaP, DU-145 and RM-1 cells after treated by HT and cisplatin. Then colony formation of PC-3 and DU-145 cells after treated with HT and cisplatin were photographed. To investigate whether the combination therapy would enhance apoptosis of PC-3 and DU-145 cells, we used Western blot analysis to detect expression level of proteins on apoptosis-regulated signaling pathway in PC-3 and DU-145 cells. Our results showed that the combination treatment decreased cell viabilities and colony formation of prostate cancer cells in a dose-dependent manner and this combination therapy enhanced apoptosis of PC-3 and DU-145 cells via activation of Caspase-3 and cleavage of PARP. We also found that the combination therapy could down-regulate the anti-apoptotic Bcl-2 and IAP family proteins. At last, the combination therapy activated AMPKα-JNK signaling pathway and inhibited Akt-mTOR-p70s6k signaling pathway to promote apoptosis of PC-3 and DU-145 cells. In conclusion, this study clearly elucidated how the combination therapy with HT and cisplatin promoted apoptosis of prostate cancer cells in synergy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) are emerging as key molecules in human cancer genesis and progression, including prostate cancer. Large amount of lncRNAs have been found that differentially expressed between prostate cancer tissues and normal prostate tissues. Whether these lncRNAs could serve as a novel biomarker for prostate cancer diagnosis or prognosis, and their biological functions in prostate cancer need further investigation. In the present study, we identified that lncRNA lnc-MX1-1 is over-expressed in prostate cancer tissues compared with their adjacent normal prostate tissues by gene expression array profiling. The expression of lnc-MX1-1 in 60 prostate cancer cases was determined by real-time quantitative PCR and the correlations between lnc-MX1-1 expression and patients' clinical features were further analyzed. Next, we impaired lnc-MX1-1 expression using RNAi in LNCaP and 22Rv1 prostate cancer cells to explore the effects of lnc-MX1-1 on proliferation and invasiveness of the cells. Our results showed that there was a significant association between over-expression of lnc-MX1-1 and patients' clinical features such as PSA, Gleason score, metastasis, and recurrence free survival. Moreover, knockdown of lnc-MX1-1 reduced both proliferation and invasiveness of LNCaP and 22Rv1 cells. In conclusion, the results suggest that lnc-MX1-1 may serve as a potential biomarker and therapeutic target for prostate cancer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recently pseudorabies outbreaks have occurred in many vaccinated farms in China. To identify genetic characteristics of pseudorabies virus (PRV) strains, we obtained the genomic sequences of PRV strains HeN1 and JS, which were compared to 4 PRV genomes and 729 partial gene sequences. PRV strains isolated in China showed marked sequence divergence compared to European and American strains. Phylogenetic analysis revealed that for the first time PRV can be divided into 2 distinct clusters, with Chinese strains being genotype II and PRVs isolated from other countries being genotype I. Restriction fragment length polymorphism analysis confirmed differences between HeN1 and Bartha strains, as did the presence of unique insertion/deletion polymorphisms and microsatellites. This divergence between the two genotypes may have been generated from long-term, independent evolution, which could also explain the low efficacy of the Bartha vaccine in protecting pigs infected with genotype II PRV. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Interleukin-18 (IL-18), a member of the IL-1 family of cytokines, was initially identified as an interferon (IFN)-&#947-inducing factor. IL-18 is expressed in both immune and non-immune cells and participates in the adjustment of multitude cellular functions. Nonetheless, the effects of IL-18 on cortical neurons have not been explored. The present study was conducted to investigate the influence of IL-18 on rat primary cortical neurons and elucidate the underlying mechanisms. We proved that rrIL-18 increased the brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) expression in a time-dependent manner. Treatment with rrIL-18 (50ng/ml) deactivated phosphatase and tensin homolog deleted on chromosome 10 (PTEN) by facilitating its phosphorylation, enhanced the expression of Phosphoinositide 3-OH kinase (PI3K) and p-Akt, standing for the activation of the PI3K/Akt pathway. As its pivotal downstream pathways, nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB), cAMP-responsive element binding protein (CREB)/Bcl-2 and glycogen synthase kinase-3β (GSK-3β) were examined in further steps. Our data revealed that rrIL-18 stimulated NF-κB activation, improved p-CREB and anti-apoptotic Bcl-2 expression levels. But rrIL-18 had little or no effect on GSK-3β pathway. Besides, rrIL-18 increased levels of BDNF and Bcl-2/Bax ratio and decreased cleaved caspase-3 expression to protect cortical neurons from damage induced by oxygen-glucose deprivation (OGD). These results in vitro showed the protection of IL-18 on cortical neurons. And this direct neuroprotective effect of IL-18 is crippled by PI3K inhibitor wortmannin. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Background: Large extracompartmental limb soft-tissue sarcoma with juxta-articular bone involvement poses major challenges in disease management. Radical resection of sarcoma frequently requires concomitant bone resection and reconstruction. We describe the clinical outcomes of endoprosthetic reconstruction and the complications associated with this procedure. Methods: Thirty patients with soft-tissue sarcomas with local juxta-articular bone involvement in an extremity underwent surgery at our center between May 2004 and October 2011, 20 for primary sarcomas and 10 for local recurrences. Clinical data from those patients were analyzed retrospectively. The bone affected included the proximal femur (10 cases), the distal femur (nine cases), the proximal humerus (eight cases), the proximal tibia (two cases), or the total femur (one case). Wide excision of the tumor and the bone tissue involved was performed on every patient, followed by reconstruction of the subsequent defect using tumor endoprosthesis. All patients underwent regular follow-up for an average of 25 (range, 3–84) mo. Results: Three patients had poor wound healing. Implant fractures leading to additional revisions occurred in two cases. Local tumor recurrence developed in four patients. There were 15 patients with lung metastases, and 11 patients died of disseminated metastases. In the latest follow-up, 14 patients survived free of disease and five were alive with tumors. The mean Musculoskeletal Tumor Society functional analysis for proximal femur, distal femur, proximal tibia, proximal humerus, and total femur were 90%, 82%, 73%, 71%, and 60%, respectively. The 2- and 5- y survival rates were 61.6% and 30.0%, respectively. Conclusions: Endoprosthetic reconstruction could yield satisfactory results as a wide excision and limb salvage therapeutic strategy for patients with large extracompartmental soft-tissue sarcomas with juxta-articular bone involvement. Acceptable complications occurred in the present report. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Two major active species of β-amyloid protein (Aβ), fibrillar Aβ1-42 (FAβ) and soluble Aβ1-42 oligomers (AβO), are known to play important roles in the pathogenesis of Alzheimer’s disease. However, the differences between them are largely unknown. In this study, we explored the effects of FAβ and AβO on cognitive functions and hippocampal inflammatory response through a 30-days infusion of FAβ or AβO (144pmol/d) into the left lateral ventricles of the rat brain. Morris water maze showed that the impairment of learning and memory functions was much more significant in the AβO-infused rats, compared to the FAβ-infused rats. AβO-induced neurodegeneration and ultrastructure damage in CA1 neurons were more remarkable than those induced by FAβ. Compared to FAβ, AβO exerted more potent effects on the expressions of inflammatory factors toll-like receptor 4 and TNF-α and activation of NF-κB signaling. Taken together, our results from in vivo model demonstrate that AβO is more neurotoxic than FAβ, and this neurotoxicity may be related to NF-κB-medicated inflammatory response. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: A stem was discovered in the Yanghai Tombs, Turpan District in Xinjiang, China. Anatomical features showed it to be of grape (Vitis vinifera L.). Radiocarbon dating indicates it to be nearly 2300 years old, which would suggest that there was grape cultivation at least from that time. To date, this is the earliest physical evidence of V. vinifera cultivation in China. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Cryptosporidiosis is an important zoonosis caused by Cryptosporidium. This disease causes a global public health problem. The cat is considered to be one of the potential hosts for transmitting Cryptosporidium to humans. In this study, a global meta-analysis for Cryptosporidium infection in cats was performed. The articles related to Cryptosporidium infection in cats were systematically searched in databases China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI), Wanfang data, VIP Chinese Journal Database, PubMed, and ScienceDirect. Finally, 92 articles published from 1988 to 2021, which met the criteria of systematic review and meta-analysis, were collected. During the selected period, the overall prevalence of Cryptosporidium among cats was identified to be 6.0%. The prevalence of Cryptosporidium detected by microscopy, coproantigens, and molecular biology methods were 4.2%, 8.2%, and 5.0%, respectively. Among 9 species/genotypes (C. felis , C. parvum , C. muris , Cryptosporidium rat genotype IV, C. baileyi , C. ryanae , C. hominis , Cryptosporidium sp. rat genotype III and most closely related to Cryptosporidium sp. rat genotype III), the prevalence of C. parvum (4.2%) was significantly higher than that of other species/genotypes. Among five continents, the prevalence of Cryptosporidium in Africa (30.5%) was significantly higher than in other continents. We also analyzed the effects of different geographical factors (longitude, latitude, altitude, mean temperature, precipitation, and humidity) on Cryptosporidium infection among cats. The results showed that cryptosporidiosis was common in cats all over the world. This systematic review and meta-analysis has systematically introduced the global epidemiology of Cryptosporidium in cats and correlated risk factors. Health authorities, doctors, veterinarians and cat owners' awareness of the prevalence, risk factors and complications of Cryptosporidium are important for the development of effective prevention strategies for cryptosporidiosis. • This study is the systematic review and meta-analysis of the prevalence and related factors of Cryptosporidium in cats. • Cryptosporidium is common prevalent among cats worldwide. • The prevalence of Cryptosporidium in cats was unevenly in different regions. • The prevalence of Cryptosporidium in cats has gradually increased in the past three decades. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: To study the protective effect and possible mechanism of Porphyra yezoensis polysaccharide (PYP) in hepatotoxicity mice, acute liver injury was successfully induced by injecting 0.2% carbon tetrachloride (CCl4) intraperitoneally. Levels of alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) in serum and liver homogenate, content of malondialdehyde (MDA), activities of total superoxide dismutase (T-SOD) in liver were measured by biochemical methods. Liver index was calculated and pathological changes of the liver tissue were observed microscopically. PYP was found to significantly decrease the activities of ALT and AST (P <0.05), to remarkably lower the liver indexes and MDA level in hepatical tissues in mice (P <0.05), and to upregulated the lower T-SOD level in liver homogenate (P <0.01). Furthermore, histologic examination showed that PYP could attenuate and the extent of necrosis, reduce the immigration of inflammatory cells. PYP plays a protective action against hepatotoxicity induced by CCl4 in mice, and its mechanisms may be related to free radical scavenging, increasing SOD activities and anti-lipid peroxide. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

As a type of fear relapse, fear renewal compromises the efficacy of fear extinction, which serves as the laboratory analog of exposure therapy (a therapeutic strategy for anxiety disorders). Interventions aiming to prevent fear renewal would thus benefit exposure therapy. To date, it remains unknown whether central adenosine monophosphate (AMP)-activated protein kinase (AMPK) activation could produce inhibitory effects on fear renewal. Here, using pharmacological approach and virus-mediated gene overexpression technique, we demonstrated that activation of AMPK in dorsal hippocampus shortly before fear extinction training completely abolished subsequent fear renewal in male mice without affecting other types of fear relapse, including spontaneous recovery of fear and fear reinstatement. Furthermore, we also found that metformin, a first-line antidiabetic drug, was capable of preventing fear renewal in male mice by stimulating AMPK in dorsal hippocampus. Collectively, our study provides insight into the role of hippocampal AMPK in regulation of fear renewal and indicates that increasing activity of hippocampal AMPK can prevent fear renewal, thus enhancing the potency of exposure therapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]