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Necrophagous flies, comprising the first wave of insects present in a cadaver, provide a great potential for more accurate determination of the late postmortem interval (PMI) based on their age. Cuticular hydrocarbons (CHs) are a promising age indicator in some insect species, especially for the larvae of necrophagous flies. Gas chromatography (GC) and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) were used to characterize the age-dependent, quantitative changes in CHs of larval Aldrichina grahami (Aldrich) (Diptera: Calliphoridae) at 24 8C. The majority of low-molecular-weight alkanes (⩽C25) and almost all of the alkenes decreased in abundance with larval development. By contrast, the abundance of high-molecular-weight alkanes of chain length greater than C25 gradually increased with age. For several peaks, including peak 28 (pentacosene a), peak 31 (n-C25), peak 43 (n-C27) and peak 68 (n-C31), a highly significant correlation was found between peak ratio (n-C29 divided by each chromatographic peak) and chronological age of the larvae. A mathematical model, derived from multivariate linear regression analysis, was developed for determining age of the larvae based on age-dependent changes in CHs. The estimated larval age based on the CHs had a good linear correlation with the chronological age (R2 > 0.9). These results indicate that CHs has a great potential for determining the age of fly larvae, and concomitantly for the PMI in forensic investigation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: A rapid toxicity test based on inhibition of esterase activity in the harmful freshwater microalgae –Microcystis aeruginosa was developed using flow cytometry. The hydrolysis rate of fluorescein diacetate (FDA) by intracellular esterase to fluorescein was used to indicate the metabolic activity of algae. Uptake of FDA was optimized at different concentrations and incubation times. Propidium iodide (PI) was utilized to assess cell membrane integrity. The optimized FDA/PI staining dosages were 10mg/L and 10μM, respectively, lower than the reported concentrations. Correspondingly, the proper incubation time was 14–21min at the optimal FDA dosage determined in this study. A new procedure based on optimized FDA/PI condition, called “whole algal culture flow cytometry with fluorescence triggering”, was developed for short-term bioassays. This new procedure, taking account of working conditions such as pH and impure cultures, is able to avoid algal cell damages in sample preparation and separate algal cells from non-algal particles by fluorescence triggering. This newly-developed procedure was then used to assess the toxicity of copper on M. aeruginosa in a short-term exposure (36h). As copper concentrations increased, it was found that the esterase activity decreased in a concentration-dependent manner with increased membrane fragments. Moreover, esterase activity was a good indicator of copper toxicity in M. aeruginosa. The EC50 value based on mean fluorescence intensity (MFI) was 123.3μg/L (95% confidence limits 101.5–146.2μg/L). Therefore, the new-developed procedure could be used for sublethal endpoints detection, and has the potential to be a rapid and cost-effective bioassay for selecting M. aeruginosa control methods or exploring the M. aeruginosa activity inhibition mechanism. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Oleamide (cis-9,10-octadecenoamide) is an endogenous sleep-inducing lipid and prototypic member of a new class of biological signaling molecules identified in recent years. In the present study, the anxiolytic-like effect of oleamide was studied in several experimental models of anxiety in group-housed and socially isolated mice. As the results show, socially isolated mice exhibited an anxiogenic-like profile in the elevated plus-maze test, the light/dark test, and the hole-board test, which could be significantly reversed by oleamide (10 or 20 mg/kg, i.p.). Moreover, oleamide significantly reduced the anxiety levels in grouped-housed mice. In the isolation-induced aggressive test, oleamide markedly reduced the attacking duration and increased the attacking latency. It is concluded that oleamide has an anxiolytic-like effect in socially isolated or group-housed mice, which suggests that fatty acid amides might be involved in the regulation of anxiety-related behavior in mice. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: In this paper, a new chemiluminescent plant tissue-based biosensor for diamine detection was presented by employing sequential injection analysis (SIA), which facilitates precise fluidic handling and lower consumption of sample and reagents. Pea-seedling tissue acted as the molecular recognition element and was packed in a mini-PTFE column and further incorporated in the SIA system. The analysis of diamines, such as putrescine and cadaverine, is based on an enzymatic conversion which takes place in the plant tissue column to produce hydrogen peroxide. The formed hydrogen peroxide was detected by a chemiluminescence reaction involving luminol and Co2+. Under the optimal conditions, the linear calibration graphs were obtained within 0.2–80μM (putrescine) and 0.5–100μM (cadaverine). The detection limits of 0.03 and 0.06μM were achieved for putrescine and cadaverine, respectively, along with the relative standard deviations of 2.14% and 3.08% (n =11) and a sampling frequency of 40h−1. The present biosensor has been used for the analysis of diamine in fish samples with an acceptable accuracy. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Upon activation, brain macrophages, the microglia, release proinflammatory mediators that play important roles in eliciting neuroinflammatory responses associated with neurodegenerative diseases. As resveratrol, an antioxidant component of grape, has been reported to exert anti-inflammatory activities on macrophages, we investigated its effects on the production of TNF-alpha (TNF-α) and nitric oxide (NO) by lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-activated microglia. Exposure of cultured rat cortical microglia and a mouse microglial cell line N9 to LPS increased their release of TNF-α and NO, which was significantly inhibited by resveratrol. Further studies revealed that resveratrol suppressed LPS-induced degradation of IκBα, expression of iNOS and phosphorylation of p38 mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs) in N9 microglial cells. These results demonstrate a potent suppressive effect of resveratrol on proinflammatory responses of microglia, suggesting a therapeutic potential for this compound in neurodegenerative diseases accompanied by microglial activation. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

For the postprocessing of the spectral image of a microwave burst observed by the PMO solar fast spectrometer at 4.5–7.5 GHz, we have used various image-processing methods to remove noise and interference, to make the image reflect better the burst event, and to intensify the more interesting details. The software is developed on the platform of MATLAB with good results. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Dysregulation of the circadian rhythm is associated with many diseases, including diabetes, obesity, and cancer. Aryl hydrocarbon receptor nuclear translocator-like protein 1 (Arntl or Bmal1) is the only clock gene whose loss disrupts circadian locomotor behavior in constant darkness. BMAL1 levels are affected by proteasomal inhibition and by several enzymes in the ubiquitin--proteasome system, but the exact molecular mechanism remains unclear. Here, using immunoprecipitation and MS analyses, we discovered an interaction between BMAL1 and ubiquitin-conjugating enzyme E2 O (UBE2O), an E3-independent E2 ubiquitin--conjugating enzyme (i.e. hybrid E2/E3 enzyme). Biochemical experiments with cell lines and animal tissues validated this specific interaction and uncovered that UBE2O expression reduces BMAL1 levels by promoting its ubiquitination and degradation. Moreover, UBE2O expression/ knockdown diminished/increased, respectively, BMAL1-mediated transcriptional activity but did not affect BMAL1 gene expression. Bioluminescence experiments disclosed that UBE2O knockdown elevates the amplitude of the circadian clock in human osteosarcoma U2OS cells. Furthermore, mapping of the BMAL1-interacting domain in UBE2O and analyses of BMAL1 stability and ubiquitination revealed that the conserved region 2 (CR2) in UBE2O significantly enhances BMAL1 ubiquitination and decreases BMAL1 protein levels. A Cys-to-Ser substitution experiment identified the critical Cys residue in theCR2domain responsible for BMAL1 ubiquitination. This work identifies UBE2O as a critical regulator in the ubiquitin--proteasome system, which modulates BMAL1 transcriptional activity and circadian function by promoting BMAL1 ubiquitination and degradation under normal physiological conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Targeting of Mycobacterium tuberculosis (MTB) PE/PPE antigens that induce type 1 helper T cell (Th1) and Th17 responses represents a crucial strategy for the development of tuberculosis (TB) vaccines. However, only a few PE/PPE antigens induce these responses. Here, we sought to determine how the cell wall–associated antigen PPE60 (Rv3478) activates dendritic cell (DC) maturation and T-cell differentiation. We observed that PPE60 induces DC maturation by augmenting the protein expression of cluster of differentiation 80 (CD80) and CD86 and major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class I and MHC class II on the cell surface. PPE60 also stimulated the production of tumor necrosis factor-α (TNFα), interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-6, IL-12p70, and IL-23p19 but not IL-10. This induction was mediated by Toll-like receptor 2 (TLR2) and followed by activation of p38, c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK), and NF-κB signaling. PPE60 enhanced MHC-II expression and promoted antigen processing by DCs in a TLR2-dependent manner. Moreover, PPE60-stimulated DCs directed naïve CD4+ T cells to produce IFN-γ, IL-2, and IL-17A, expanding the Th1 and Th17 responses, along with activation of T-bet and RAR-related orphan receptor C (RORγt) but not GATA-3. Moreover, PPE60 activated the NLRP3 inflammasome followed by caspase-1–dependent IL-1β and IL-18 synthesis in DCs. Of note, pharmacological inhibition of NLRP3 activation specifically attenuated IFN-γ and IL-17A secretion into the supernatant from CD4+ T cells cocultured with PPE60-activated DCs. These findings indicate that PPE60 induces Th1 and Th17 immune responses by activating DCs in a TLR2-dependent manner, suggesting PPE60's potential for use in MTB vaccine development [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Understanding the mechanism underlying the physiological divergence of species is a long-standing issue in evolutionary biology. The circadian clock is a highly conserved system existing in almost all organisms that regulates a wide range of physiological and behavioral events to adapt to the day-night cycle. Here, the interactions between hCK1ε/δ/DBT (Drosophila ortholog of CK1δ/ε) and serine-rich (SR) motifs from hPER2 (ortholog of Drosophila per) were reconstructed in a Drosophila circadian system. The results indicated that in Drosophila, the SR mutant form hPER2S662G does not recapitulate the mouse or human mutant phenotype. However, introducing hCK1δ (but not DBT) shortened the circadian period and restored the SR motif function. We found that hCK1δ is catalytically more efficient than DBT in phosphorylating the SR motif, which demonstrates that the evolution of CK1δ activity is required for SR motif modulation. Moreover, an abundance of phosphorylatable SR motifs and the striking emergence of putative SR motifs in vertebrate proteins were observed, which provides further evidence that the correlated evolution between kinase activity and its substrates set the stage for functional diversity in vertebrates. It is possible that such correlated evolution may serve as a biomarker associated with the adaptive benefits of diverse organisms. These results also provide a concrete example of how functional synthesis can be achieved through introducing evolutionary partners in vivo. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The thalassospiramide lipopeptides have great potential for therapeutic applications; however, their structural and functional diversity and biosynthesis are poorly understood. Here, by cultivating 130 Rhodospirillaceae strains sampled from oceans worldwide, we discovered 21 new thalassospiramide analogues and demonstrated their neuroprotective effects. To investigate the diversity of biosynthetic gene cluster (BGC) architectures, we sequenced the draft genomes of 28 Rhodospirillaceae strains. Our family-wide genomic analysis revealed three types of dysfunctional BGCs and four functional BGCs whose architectures correspond to four production patterns. This correlation allowed us to reassess the "diversity-oriented biosynthesis" proposed for the microbial production of thalassospiramides, which involves iteration of several key modules. Preliminary evolutionary investigation suggested that the functional BGCs could have arisen through module/domain loss, whereas the dysfunctional BGCs arose through horizontal gene transfer. Further comparative genomics indicated that thalassospiramide production is likely to be attendant on particular genes/pathways for amino acid metabolism, signaling transduction, and compound efflux. Our findings provide a systematic understanding of thalassospiramide production and new insights into the underlying mechanism. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An ultrasensitive electrochemical biosensor for microRNA (miRNA) is developed based on tungsten oxide-graphene composites coupling with catalyzed hairpin assembly target recycling and enzyme signal amplification. WO 3 -Gr is prepared by a simple hydrothermal method and then coupled with gold nanoparticles to act as a sensing platform. The thiol-terminated capture probe H1 is immobilized on electrode through Au–S interaction. In the presence of target miRNA, H1 opens its hairpin structure by hybridization with target miRNA. This hybridization can be displaced from the structure by another stable biotinylated hairpin DNA (H2), and target miRNA is released back to the sample solution for next cycle. Thus, a large amount of H1-H2 duplex is produced after the cyclic process. At this point, a lot of signal indicators streptavidin-conjugated alkaline phosphatase (SA-ALP) are immobilized on the electrode by the specific binding of avidin-biotin. Then, thousands of ascorbic acid, which is the enzymatic product of ALP, induces the electrochemical-chemical-chemical redox cycling to produce a strongly electrochemical response in the presence of ferrocene methanol and tris (2-carboxyethyl) phosphine. Under the optimal experimental conditions, the established biosensor can detect target miRNA down to 0.05 fM (S/N=3) with a linear range from 0.1 fM to 100 pM, and discriminate target miRNA from mismatched miRNA with a high selectivity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study numerically investigated the effects of different bolt pre-loadings on the performance of the gas diffusion layer (GDL) in a bolted proton exchange membrane fuel cell (PEMFC). Firstly, a complete three-dimensional finite element model of a PEMFC bolted by 12 bolts with a reactive area of 5 cm by 5 cm was established using the commercial software SolidWorks. Then, a pre-loading of 1 MPa to 7 MPa on each bolt was applied, increasing in increments 1 MPa, and the corresponding deformation and stress fields of each component of the fuel cell were obtained using the commercial software ANSYS 15.0/Workbench. Finally, the effects of the bolt pre-loading variations on the performance of the GDL were discussed. The results showed that the compression ratio of the GDL increased linearly with the magnitude of bolt pre-loading, and improving the performance of the GDL. However, when the pre-loading on each bolt reached 7 MPa, the compression ratio exceeded 15%, degrading the efficiency of the PEMFC. Also, by comparing the relationships between bolt pre-loading and conductivity and porosity of GDL, in order to obtain the maximum performance of GDL, an optimum value of 4 MPa for bolt preloading was recommended. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cu–Cu ultrasonic bonding is a highly promising technology for advanced interconnect technology for a 3D integrated circuit micro bump. The interface kinetic friction characteristic is also a key factor in determining the level of bonding for this technology. This study uses molecular dynamics simulation to determine the effects of different temperatures on the material kinetic friction characteristics of Cu substrates in single-crystal and polycrystalline structures. The Taguchi method is used to optimize the simulation, in order to confirm that the convergent kinetic friction coefficients are not affected by size effect. A comparison between the results obtained in the present study and those of previous studies shows good agreement between these two sets of results for kinetic friction coefficients. In order to thoroughly understand the effect of temperature on material characteristics, this study uses the central symmetry parameter to monitor defected atoms and to determine the kinetic friction characteristics at various temperatures. The results show that in single-crystal structures, because the generation of dislocations is not restricted to grain boundaries, the normal force does not change significantly but the tangential force decreases as the temperature increases. Therefore, the kinetic friction coefficient for single-crystal Cu decreases as temperature increases. Because the generation of dislocations in polycrystalline structures is restricted to grain boundaries between 293 K and 650 K, the tangential force and the normal force do not decrease significantly as the temperature increases. Consequently, the kinetic friction coefficient for polycrystalline Cu remains stable and is unaffected by any increase in temperature. Between 825 K and 1000 K, although the generation of dislocations in polycrystalline structures is still restricted to grain boundaries, high temperatures soften the material, which leads to a significant decrease in the tangential force and the normal force. Therefore, the kinetic friction coefficient of polycrystalline Cu does not decrease significantly. Finally, at temperatures of less than 850 K, the kinetic friction coefficient for single-crystal Cu is greater than that for polycrystalline Cu. At 850 K, the kinetic friction coefficient for single-crystal Cu is equal to that for polycrystalline Cu, but at 1000 K, the kinetic friction coefficient for single-crystal Cu is less than that for polycrystalline Cu. The results of the simulation show that lattice structures have a significant effect on the kinetic friction coefficient at different temperatures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims To investigate the effects of sevoflurane inhalation on β-amyloid (Aβ)-induced cognitive disorders and hippocampal oxidative stress in rat models. Materials and methods Cognitive dysfunction is induced by hippocampal injection of Aβ 1–40 (10 μg in 2 μl) for 22 days. To explore the effect of sevoflurane inhalation on Aβ 1–40 induced cognitive disorder, two doses of sevoflurane inhalation are used: 1.3% (Aβ + S1) and 2.6% (Aβ + S2). Sham operation (Sham, for operation control), saline injection (Control, for injection control) and 30% oxygen inhalation after Aβ 1–40 injection (Aβ + O 2 , for inhalation control) were used as controls. All rats were further tested in electrical Y-maze and Morris water maze. Serum S100β levels, hippocampal superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity, S100β expression and malonyldialdehyde (MDA) concentrations were further quantified. Key findings Rats in Aβ + O 2 , Aβ + S1 and Aβ + S2 groups had lower number of correct actions in the electrical Y maze task, longer escape latencies, less time exploring the original platform, elevated serum S100β levels, depressed hippocampal SOD activity, S100β expression and higher MDA concentrations compared to control group (p < 0.05). Such difference was not significant between Aβ + S1 and Aβ + O 2 rats. Rats in Aβ + S2 group, however, showed significantly impaired performances compared to those in Aβ + S1 group (p < 0.05). Significance Sevoflurane (2.6%) can aggravate the Aβ-induced cognitive dysfunction, possibly via the intracerebral oxidative stress response. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Alcohol abuse can result in significant alterations to the structure of the brain and ultimately to behavioral dysfunctions. Epidemiological studies have shown that alcoholism is closely associated with impaired memory and judgment. However, the degree of deficit (brain injury) depends on factors such as the age of onset, duration of heavy drinking, continuous versus periodic (binge) drinking and the typical amount consumed per session. In recent years, neuroinflammation has been proposed as one of the alcoholism-induced neuropathological mechanisms, since increased levels of microglial markers are observed in the brains of both post-mortem human alcoholics and various alcohol-treated animals, from newborn or adolescent rodents to adult rodents. Many studies have investigated how microglia modulate alcohol-induced behavioral changes such as cognitive deficits, abnormal locomotor activity, motor impairment and mood disturbance. Importantly, we try to characterize and compare the distinct features in different ethanol (EtOH)-induced neurodegenerative disease (NDD) models. Moreover, mounting evidence indicates that in response to certain environmental toxins, microglia can become over-activated under oxidative stress, releasing pro-inflammatory mediators that cause central nervous system (CNS) disease. The molecular mechanisms involve free radical formation and the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines that are detrimental to neighboring neurons and interfere with the molecules regulating cell–cell interactions. The identification and understanding of the cellular and molecular mechanisms of microglial activation are described, as well as multiple downstream targets, in different alcohol-treated animal models. This review might contribute to the development of treatments and/or therapeutic agents that can reduce or eliminate the deleterious effects of alcohol-induced NDD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the current study, zirconia (ZrO2) and its composite, magnesia-zirconia (MgO-ZrO2), were prepared as the hydrophilic interaction chromatographic (HILIC) stationary phases (SPs). Different experimental variables including water content, pH and buffer concentration in the mobile phase (MP) as well as column temperature were systematically studied to permit an in-depth understanding of the chromatographic properties of the mentioned SPs and to explore the retention mechanism further on. The results were compared with a native SiO2 column. Adsorption was demonstrated as the main retention mechanism on the two ZrO2-based SPs. The transferring of the analytes from the MP to the ZrO2-based SPs was endothermic and high column temperature would facilitate the retention. In addition, the MgO-ZrO2 SP exhibited superior resolution, column efficiency as well as stronger retention in comparison to the bare ZrO2 SP, which demonstrated that the introduction of MgO could improve the structure and properties of the material. In conclusion, MgO-ZrO2 was a promising material for HILIC applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The titanium dioxide (TiO2) micromesh surface was obtained by a solution-dipping template strategy. A deposition mask was formed on the silicon substrates by the self-assembly of monolayer polystyrene colloidal particles with a diameter of 1 μm, then the TiO2 film was deposited on the mask using a TiO2 sol, and the micromesh structure was produced by high temperature heat treatment (HTT) and ultrasonic cleaning. The structure was investigated by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and X-ray diffraction (XRD), and the wettability was evaluated by water contact angle measurement. The blood platelets adhesion test was also performed to study the hemocompatibility of the micromesh structure. The XRD result showed that the TiO2 film prepared by sol-dipping method was composed of anatase phase. The water contact angle measurement showed that the TiO2 micromesh surface was more hydrophobic than the flat TiO2 surface. The platelets adhesion test showed that the TiO2 micromesh surface could effectively inhibit platelets adhesion. It is highlighted that this TiO2 micromesh surface may have potential application for the blood contact implanted devices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Patients suffering from chronic neuropathic pain are at high risk of co-morbid depression, which burdens healthcare. This work aimed to investigate the effects of resveratrol, a phenolic monomer enriched in red wine and grapes, on pain-related and depressive-like behaviors in mice with mononeuropathy, and explored the mechanism(s). Mice received chronic constriction injury (CCI) of sciatic nerves, and sequentially developed pain-related and depressive-like behaviors, as evidenced by sensory hypersensitivity (thermal hyperalgesia in Hargreaves test and mechanical allodynia in von Frey test) and behavioral despair (prolonged immobility time in forced swim test). Chronic treatment of neuropathic mice with resveratrol (30 mg/kg, p.o., twice per day for three weeks) normalized their thermal hyperalgesia (but not mechanical allodynia) and depressive-like behaviors, and these actions were abolished by chemical depletion of central serotonin (5-HT) but potentiated by co-treatment with 5-HTP, a precursor of 5-HT. The anti-hyperalgesia and anti-depression exerted by resveratrol may be pharmacologically segregated, since intrathecal (i.t.) and intracerebroventricular (i.c.v.) injection of methysergide, a non-selective 5-HT receptor antagonist, separately abrogated the two actions. Furthermore, the antihyperalgesic action of resveratrol was preferentially counteracted by co-administration of the 5-HT7 receptor antagonist SB-258719, while the anti-depression was abrogated by 5-HT1A receptor antagonist WAY-100635. These results confirm that chronic resveratrol administration exerts curative-like effects on thermal hyperalgesia and co-morbid depressive-like behaviors in mice with mononeuropathy. Spinal and supraspinal serotonergic systems (coupled with 5-HT7 and 5-HT1A receptors, respectively) are differentially responsible for the antihyperalgesic and antidepressant-like properties of resveratrol. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Transgenic mice expressing mutations in tau have yielded essential discoveries for Alzheimer's disease. One of the most commonly used tau mouse models is the tet-off Tg(tauP301L)4510 model that expresses P301L human tau driven by the calcium-calmodulin kinase IIα (CaMKIIα) promoter system. Tau expression in this model is regulatable, allowing for suppression of mutant tau expression until adulthood and prevention of possible developmental alterations resulting from P301L tau expression during development. Here, we compared the effect and sample sizes needed for three learning and memory tasks in mice with adult-onset P301L tau expression. Our findings indicate that the Incremental Repeated Acquisition (IRA) and trace fear conditioning tasks, neither of which have previously been published with these mice, were highly sensitive to P301L tau expression, whereas the Morris water maze, the most commonly used task with this model, was the least sensitive. Memory deficits were observed at a time when tau pathology was subtle and prior to readily detectable neuronal loss. Thus, we provide essential information (effect and sample sizes needed) for establishing experimental designs at a time point when memory deficits are likely to go undetected if inadequate sample sizes are used. Our work also suggests the tet-off Tg4510 model provides a way to avoid mutant tau expression during the perinatal and early postnatal stages, thereby preventing possible developmental alterations unrelated to Alzheimer's disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective To summarize the role of melatonin and circadian rhythms in determining optimal female reproductive physiology, especially at the peripheral level. Design Databases were searched for the related English-language literature published up to March 1, 2014. Only papers in peer-reviewed journals are cited. Setting Not applicable. Patient(s) Not applicable. Intervention(s) Melatonin treatment, alterations of the normal light:dark cycle and light exposure at night. Main Outcome Measure(s) Melatonin levels in the blood and in the ovarian follicular fluid and melatonin synthesis, oxidative damage and circadian rhythm disturbances in peripheral reproductive organs. Result(s) The central circadian regulatory system is located in the suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN). The output of this master clock is synchronized to 24 hours by the prevailing light-dark cycle. The SCN regulates rhythms in peripheral cells via the autonomic nervous system and it sends a neural message to the pineal gland where it controls the cyclic production of melatonin; after its release, the melatonin rhythm strengthens peripheral oscillators. Melatonin is also produced in the peripheral reproductive organs, including granulosa cells, the cumulus oophorus, and the oocyte. These cells, along with the blood, may contribute melatonin to the follicular fluid, which has melatonin levels higher than those in the blood. Melatonin is a powerful free radical scavenger and protects the oocyte from oxidative stress, especially at the time of ovulation. The cyclic levels of melatonin in the blood pass through the placenta and aid in the organization of the fetal SCN. In the absence of this synchronizing effect, the offspring may exhibit neurobehavioral deficits. Also, melatonin protects the developing fetus from oxidative stress. Melatonin produced in the placenta likewise may preserve the optimal function of this organ. Conclusion(s) Both stable circadian rhythms and cyclic melatonin availability are critical for optimal ovarian physiology and placental function. Because light exposure after darkness onset at night disrupts the master circadian clock and suppresses elevated nocturnal melatonin levels, light at night should be avoided. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Previous studies suggested that blood fatty acids (FAs) might affect blood pressure (BP), but the findings have been inconclusive. This study evaluated the cross-sectional and prospective associations of erythrocyte FAs with BP in middle-aged and elderly Chinese individuals. Between 2008 and 2010, 1834 participants (1364 women and 470 men) aged 57 ± 5 y had baseline measurements taken of their erythrocyte FAs and BP. A total of 1477 participants (1103 women and 374 men) had their BP measured again after 3.09 ± 0.32 y (range: 2.91-3.26 y). In the cross-sectional analyses (n = 1834), the erythrocyte saturated FA (SFA) content was positively associated with BP, whereas total cis polyunsaturated FAs (PUFAs), their subtypes cis n-3 (ω-3) PUFAs and cis n-6 (ω-6) PUFAs, and the PUFA-to-SFA ratio were inversely associated with BP (all P-trends < 0.05). The longitudinal results (n = 1477) showed marginally inverse associations between cis n-3 PUFAs and the n-3:n-6 PUFA ratio and BP. For individual cis n-3 PUFAs, higher contents of 20:5n-3, 22:5n-3, and 22:6n-3 were significantly associated with reduced increases in SBP over time (the mean change range between quartile 4 and quartile 1 was -0.917 to -0.749 mm Hg for SBP; all P-trends < 0.01), and 20:5n-3 was inversely associated with DBP change (the mean change between quartile 4 and quartile 1 was -0.631; P-trend < 0.001). Path analyses suggested that the associations between cis n-3 PUFAs and BP might be mediated by decreasing serum triglycerides (TGs) and body mass index (BMI). Our findings revealed that a higher content of cis n-3 PUFAs (mainly very long-chain cis n-3 PUFAs) may benefit BP progress, probably mediated by decreasing serum TGs and BMI. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Ethnopharmacological relevance: Xiaochaihutang (XCHT) has been used in China for thousands of years to treat “Shaoyang syndrome”, which involves depressive-like symptoms. However, few studies have investigated its antidepressant effects and pharmacological mechanism of action. The present study was designed to confirm the antidepressant effect of XCHT using a chronic unpredictable mild stress (CUMS) model and explore its potential mechanism of action by investigating the monoamine neurotransmitters (dopamine and 5-hydroxytryptamine) and neurotrophins (BDNF and NGF). Materials and methods: The CUMS model was established in rats, and the antidepressant effect of XCHT (0.6, 1.7 and 5mg/kg/day, given by gastric gavage for 4 weeks) was investigated using the open field test (OFT), food consumption test and sucrose preference test. The concentrations of 5-HT and DA in the hippocampus were measured by high performance liquid chromatography with electrochemical detection (HPLC-ECD). The expressions of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), nerve growth factor (NGF), and their receptors tyrosine receptor kinase B (TrkB) and tyrosine receptor kinase A (TrkA) in the hippocampus were measured by immunohistochemical staining analysis. Results: CUMS caused a significant decrease in OFT, food consumption and sucrose preference in rats, and these depression-like behaviors were significantly improved by XCHT (1.7 and 5g/kg/day). Moreover, XCHT significantly increased the concentrations of 5-HT (0.6 and 5g/kg/day) and DA (5g/kg/day), and improved the BDNF, NGF, TrkB and TrkA expressions in the hippocampus (1.7 and 5g/kg/day), which was reduced in CUMS rats. Conclusion: The results obtained suggested that XCHT may have therapeutic actions on depression-like behavior induced by CUMS in rats possibly mediated by increasing the monoamine neurotransmitter concentration and neurotrophin expression in the hippocampus. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Cullin-RING ubiquitin ligases (CRLs) are the largest family of E3 ligases and require cullin neddylation for their activation. The NEDD8-activating enzyme inhibitor MLN4924 reportedly blocked cullin neddylation and inactivated CRLs, which resulted in apoptosis induction and tumor suppression. However, CRL roles in ovarian cancer cell survival and the ovarian tumor repressing effects of MLN4924 are unknown. We show here that CRL4 components are highly expressed in human epithelial ovarian cancer tissues. MLN4924-induced DNA damage, cell cycle arrest, and apoptosis in ovarian cancer cells in a time-and dose-dependent manner. In addition, MLN4924 sensitized ovarian cancer cells to other chemotherapeutic drug treatments. Depletion of CRL4 components Rod 12, Cul4a, and DDB1 had inhibitory effects on ovarian cancer cells similar to MLN4924 treatment, which suggested that CRL4 inhibition contributed to the chemotherapeutic effect of MLN4924 in ovarian cancers. We also investigated for key CRL4 substrate adaptors required for ovarian cancer cells. Depleting Vprbp/ Dcaf1 did not significantly affect ovarian cancer cell growth, even though it was expressed by ovarian cancer tissues. However, depleting Cdt2/Dcaf2 mimicked the pharmacological effects of MLN4924 and caused the accumulation of its substrate, CDT1, both in vitro and in vivo. MLN4924-induced DNA damage and apoptosis were partially rescued by Cdt1 depletion, suggesting that CRL4CDT2 repression and CDT1 accumulation were key biochemical events contributing to the genotoxic effects of MLN4924 in ovarian cancer cells. Taken together, these results indicate that CRL4CDT2 is a potential drug target in ovarian cancers and that MLN4924 may be an effective antican-cer agent for targeted ovarian cancer therapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background aims. The potential protective effects of mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) on some kidney diseases has been reported. However, the effect of MSCs on doxorubicin-induced nephropathy is still poorly understood. Methods. Rats with doxorubicin-induced kidney injuries were treated with human cord-derived MSCs. Human MSCs were first labeled with 5-bromo-2'-deoxyuridine to track their homing in kidneys after infusion. Results. Alleviation of proteinuria, decreased serum albumin, alleviation of lipid disorders and histologic alterations were found in rats 4 weeks after treatment with MSCs, particularly in rats that were given repeat doses. Decreases in serum levels of interleukin-6, tumor necrosis factor-a and prostaglandin E2 and decreases in messenger RNA levels of kidney tissue cylooxygenase-2 and EP4 were found in MSC-treated rats. MSC-treated rats also displayed an increase in serum interleukin-10 levels. Conclusions. These results indicate that MSCs ameliorate doxorubicin-induced kidney injuries and inflammation, suggesting a potential clinical treatment for inflammatory kidney diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Understanding the genes involved in apoptosis and DNA damage responses may improve therapeutic strategies for ovarian cancer. The death domain-associated protein DAXX can be either a pro-apoptotic or an anti-apoptotic factor, depending on the cell type and context. In this study, we found thatDAXXwas highly expressed in human ovarian surface epithelial tumors but not in granulosa cell tumors. In cultured ovarian cancer cells, DAXX interacted with promyelocytic leukemia protein (PML) and localized to subnuclear domains (so-called PML nuclear bodies). A role for DAXX in ovarian cancer cell proliferation, metastasis, and radio/chemoresistance was examined. Overexpression of DAXX enhanced multiple ovarian cancer cell lines' proliferation, colony formation, and migration, whereas Daxx depletion by RNA interference had the opposite effects. When transplanted into nude mice, ovarian cancer cells that overexpressed DAXX displayed enhanced tumorigenesis capability in vivo, whereas Daxx depletion inhibited tumor development. Importantly, Daxx induced tumorigenic transformation of normal ovarian surface epithelial cells. Daxx also protected ovarian cancer cells against x-irradiation- and chemotherapy-induced DNA damage by interacting with PML. Taken together, our results suggest that DAXX is a novel ovarian cancer oncogene that promotes ovarian cancer cell proliferation and chemoresistance in ovarian cancer cells. Thus, modulating DAXX-PML nuclear body activity may be an effective strategy for preventing the recurrence and chemoresistance of ovarian cancers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: The aims of this study were to examine the effects of KB-R7943, an inhibitor of Na+/Ca2+ exchanger, on impaired endothelium-dependent relaxation (EDR) induced by advanced glycosylation end products (AGE) in isolated rat aorta. Methods: Both acetylcholine (ACh)-induced EDR and sodium nitroprusside (SNP)-induced endothelium-independent relaxation (EIR) were measured after the rings were exposed to AGE in the absence and presence of KB-R7943. Results: Co-incubation of aortic rings with AGE (0.1g/L) for 24h resulted in a significant inhibition of EDR, but had no effects on EIR. After incubation of the rings in the co-presence of KB-R7943 (0.1-10μM) with AGE for 24h, KB-R7943 (10μM) significantly attenuated impaired EDR. Superoxide dismutase (200 U/mL) and Larginine (3mM) could ameliorate the impairment of EDR caused by AGE, whereas D-arginine (3mM) had no effect on EDR. Similarly, AGE decreased superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity and the release of nitric oxide (NO), and increased superoxide anion (O·2-) production in aortic tissue. KB-R7943 (10μM) significantly decreased O·2- production and increased SOD activity and the NO release. Conclusions: These results suggest that KB-R7943 attenuated the impairment of EDR elicited by AGE partially through scavenging oxygen free radicals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Three Upflow Anaerobic Sludge Blanket (UASB) reactors were compared for Anammox enrichment using synthetic wastewater with Spherical Plastic (SP) and Bamboo Charcoal (BC) addition, and without carrier (CK). After four months of operation, the Anammox activity occurred in all reactors allowing continuous removal of ammonium and nitrite. Ammonium and nitrite removal efficiencies were all higher than 98% in steady phase with the effluent concentrations below 1mgL−1. The start-up time could be shortened from 117 to 97d in CK and SP reactor to 85d in BC amendment reactor. Quantitative PCR (q-PCR) analyses indicated a significant increase in the number of Anammox bacteria in BC amended reactor as compared with CK and SP during the entire start-up periods. The copy numbers of Anammox of 16SrRNA gene in the reactor with BC amendment could reach up to 6×109 copiesg−1 Volatile Suspended Solids, around 22.5times and 12.3times greater than that in CK and SP reactor, respectively. BC addition could accelerate the start-up of Anammox and significantly increase the Anammox bacteria number. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: There are two competing concepts about organization of starch granule, fibrillar concept (or amylopectin clustering concept) and blocklet concept. A new micrograph of gelatinized sweet potato starch mixed with lactose might combine the two concepts and recover the mysterious structure of starch granule. Here we propose a possible granule structure of sweet potato starch by analyzing its gelatinization micrographs mixed with different carbohydrates. As the structure of pomegranate, out-layer of granule is equivalent to skin of pomegranate, blocklets are same to garnet of pomegranate, the amylopectin clusters with one reducing end at hilum, equivalent to primary body of pomegranate, constitute the basic structure of granule, in the special parts of the clusters, lots of blocklets form and increase, very like the born of garnet of pomegranate. At the same time double helix appears in blocklets, the arrangements of blocklets, same as garnet in pomegranate, form the semi-crystalline growth rings. The crystal type of starch is determined by arrangement of blocklet on it, hexagonal for A type, monoclinic for B type. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Local perfusion of morphine produces increased levels of extracellular ascorbic acid (AA) in the nucleus accumbens (NAc) of freely moving rats. However, the pathways that regulate morphine-induced AA release in the NAc are unclear. In the present study, we used high performance liquid chromatography with electrochemical detection (HPLC–ECD) to examine the effects of intra-ventral tegmental area (VTA) administration of a GABAA agonist and antagonist on morphine-induced increases in AA of the NAc. Also, using high performance liquid chromatography with fluorescent detection (HPLC–FD) and HPLC–ECD, the releases of γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA) and dopamine (DA) in the NAc induced by intra-VTA administration of a GABAA agonist and antagonist were also investigated. The results obtained showed that morphine (1mM), locally perfused into the NAc, significantly increased AA release in the NAc and also GABA release. Intra-VTA infusion of bicuculline (150ng/rat), a GABA receptor antagonist, not only abolished the enhanced extracellular AA and GABA levels produced by local perfusion of morphine but also decreased the basal release of extracellular GABA and increased the basal release of extracellular DA in the NAc. Muscimol (100ng/rat), a GABA receptor agonist, affected the basal release of GABA and DA, but not the basal AA levels, or the morphine-induced changes in AA and GABA levels. These findings suggest that the GABAA receptors in the VTA play an important role in the modulation of morphine-induced AA release in the NAc, and the effect of morphine on AA release in the NAc is partially regulated by the GABAA receptor-mediated action of DA afferents from the VTA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The UDP-sugar interconverting enzymes involved in UDP-G1cA metabolism are well described in eukaryotes but less is known in prokaryotes. Here we identify and characterize a gene (RsU4kpxs) from Raistonia solanacearum str. GMI1000, which encodes a dual function enzyme not previously described. One activity is to decarboxylate UDP-glucuronic acid to UDP-β-L-threo-pentopyranosyl-4″-ulose in the presence of NAD+. The second activity converts UDP-β-L-threo-pentopyranosy1-4″-ulose and NADH to UDP-xylose and NAD+, albeit at a lower rate. Our data also suggest that following decarboxylation, there is stereospecific protonation at the C5 pro-R position. The identification of the R. solanacearum enzyme enables us to propose that the ancestral enzyme of UDP-xylose synthase and UDP-apiose/UDP-xylose synthase was diverged to two distinct enzymatic activities in early bacteria. This separation gave rise to the current UDP-xylose synthase in animal, fungus, and plant as well as to the plant Uaxs and bacterial AmA and U4kpxs homologs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Ex situ nitrification followed by denitrification inside the landfill has been recommended to remove ammonia from leachate. The effects of increasing nitrate load and decreasing organic carbon content in the injected leachate on the denitrifying capacity of municipal solid waste (MSW) were investigated. Results showed that MSW possesses a high denitrification capacity. Nitrate reduction could be initiated within 48h after the first addition of nitrate. Nitrate reduction rate increased with the increasing nitrate loading concentration. When the nitrate loading concentration was increased to 850mgL−1, nitrate reduction rate reached up to 35mgL−1 h−1. Nitrite accumulation could be found after the addition of nitrate in each test. However, the maximum nitrite accumulation efficiency declined with increased nitrate load. Organic carbon played an important role in the reduction of nitrate, and both endogenous and exogenous organic materials could act as electron donors. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: A pilot program concerning source separation of household waste was launched in Hangzhou, capital city of Zhejiang province, China. Detailed investigations on the composition and properties of household waste in the experimental communities revealed that high water content and high percentage of food waste are the main limiting factors in the recovery of recyclables, especially paper from household waste, and the main contributors to the high cost and low efficiency of waste disposal. On the basis of the investigation, a novel source separation method, according to which household waste was classified as food waste, dry waste and harmful waste, was proposed and performed in four selected communities. In addition, a corresponding household waste management system that involves all stakeholders, a recovery system and a mechanical dehydration system for food waste were constituted to promote source separation activity. Performances and the questionnaire survey results showed that the active support and investment of a real estate company and a community residential committee play important roles in enhancing public participation and awareness of the importance of waste source separation. In comparison with the conventional mixed collection and transportation system of household waste, the established source separation and management system is cost-effective. It could be extended to the entire city and used by other cities in China as a source of reference. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Municipal solid waste (MSW) source-classified collection represents a change in MSW management in China and other developing countries. Comparative experiments were performed to evaluate the effect of a newly established MSW source-classified collection system on the emission of PCDDs/Fs (polychlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxins and dibenzofurans) and heavy metals (HMs) from a full-scale incinerator in China. As a result of presorting and dewatering, the chlorine level, heavy metal and water content were lower, but heat value was higher in the source-classified MSW (classified MSW) as compared with the conventionally mixed collected MSW (mixed MSW). The generation of PCDDs/Fs in flue gas from the classified MSW incineration was 9.28ng I-TEQ/Nm3, only 69.4% of that from the mixed MSW incineration, and the final emission of PCDDs/Fs was only 0.12ng I-TEQ/Nm3, although activated carbon injection was reduced by 20%. The level of PCDDs/Fs in fly ash from the bag filter was 0.27ng I-TEQ/g. These results indicated that the source-classified collection with pretreatment could improve the characteristics of MSW for incineration, and significantly decrease formation of PCDDs/Fs in MSW incineration. Furthermore, distributions of HMs such as Cd, Pb, Cu, Zn, Cr, As, Ni, Hg in bottom ash and fly ash were investigated to assess the need for treatment of residual ash. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Municipal solid waste (MSW) decomposition under oversaturated condition in comparison with leachate recirculation was investigated in two simulated reactors (A and B). Reactor B was operated with leachate recirculation while in reactor A, an oversaturated condition was maintained without leachate recirculation. Results showed that MSW decomposition in reactor A was much faster than that in reactor B. The final CODcr concentration and pH value of leachates in reactor A were around 1000mgL−1 and 7.0, respectively, in comparison to 18,000mgL−1 and below 6.5 in reactor B after 420 days of incubation. Biogas production was positively related to ambient temperature. The total biogas and methane yields were 2800L and 1330L in reactor A while only 1470L and 600L in reactor B. These results indicated that the relative retardation of MSW degradation in reactor B was primarily resulted from the increased resistance of mass transfer and the accumulation of biogas caused by leachate recirculation and the resultant acid inhibition. Bioreactor landfill operated under liquid oversaturated and MSW loose condition could be a promising approach for accelerating municipal solid waste degradation. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: All the regulations that define a maximum concentration of metals in the receiving soil are based on total soil metal concentration. However, the potential toxicity of a heavy metal in the soil depends on its speciation and availability. We studied the effects of heavy metal speciation and availability on soil microorganism activities along a Cu/Zn contamination gradient. Microbial biomass and enzyme activity of soil contaminated with both Cu and Zn were investigated. The results showed that microbial biomass was negatively affected by the elevated metal levels. The microbial biomass-C (Cmic)/organic C (Corg) ratio was closely correlated to heavy metal stress. There were negative correlations between soil microbial biomass, phosphatase activity and NH4NO3 extractable heavy metals. The soil microorganism activity could be predicted using empirical models with the availability of Cu and Zn. We observed that 72% of the variation in phosphatase activity could be explained by the NH4NO3-extractable and total heavy metal concentration. By considering different monitoring approaches and different viewpoints, this set of methods applied in this study seemed sensitive to site differences and contributed to a better understanding of the effects of heavy metals on the size and activity of microorganisms in soils. The data presented demonstrate the relationship between heavy metals availability and heavy metal toxicity to soil microorganism along a contamination gradient. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Bioremoval of trimethylamine (TMA) in two three-stage biofilters packed with compost (A) and sludge (B), respectively, was investigated. Both biofilters were operated with an influent TMA concentration of 19.2–57.2mgm−3 for 67 days. Results showed that all of the inlet TMA could be removed by both biofilters. However, removal efficiency and transformation of TMA in each section of both biofilters was different. In the Introduction section, TMA removal efficiency and maximum elimination capacity of the compost medium were greater than those of sludge medium under higher inlet TMA concentration. In comparison with biofilter A, considerably higher NH3 concentrations in effluent of all three sections in biofilter B were observed after day 19. Although, NO2 −-N concentration in each section of biofilter A was relatively lower, NO3 −-N content in each section of biofilter A increased after day 26, especially in the Materials and method section which increased remarkably due to a lesser amount of TMA and higher ammonia oxidation and nitrification in compost medium. In contrast, neither NO2 −-N nor NO3 −-N were detected in either section of biofilter B at any time throughout the course of the experiment. The cumulative results indicated that compost is more favorable for the growth of TMA-degrading and nitrifying bacteria as compared to the sludge and could be a highly suitable packing material for biodegradation and transformation of TMA. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: It is controversial regarding to the roles of acetaldehyde and ethanol in the central nervous system. In the present study, the effects of acetaldehyde and ethanol on extracellular levels of glutamate, taurine and GABA in the anterior cingulate cortex (ACC) of freely moving rats were investigated by using the microdialysis technique coupled to high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) with fluorescent detection. The result showed that glutamate levels were significantly decreased after acute administration of acetaldehyde (AcH, 20 and 100mg/kg, i.p.), while taurine levels were significantly increased after the higher dose of acetaldehyde (100mg/kg, i.p.). GABA levels had no changes at any doses of acetaldehyde tested. Interestingly, similar changes of these amino acids were induced by ethanol (EtOH, 3g/kg, i.p.) when sodium azide (NaN3, 10mg/kg, i.p.), a catalase inhibitor that can reduce brain ethanol metabolism, was used simultaneously. These findings suggest that acetaldehyde and ethanol have the similar effects on the extracellular output of glutamate, taurine and GABA in the ACC. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: In order to make programmed-temperature retention index (PTRI) data be shared by other chromatographers and laboratories, conversion of PTRI from one set of experimental conditions to another is investigated in detail in this work. It was found that the differences between the PTRIs at different heating rates are structurally dependent, especially the number of ring in molecules. Thus, with the help of molecule constitutional descriptors, equations of PTRI conversion to certain initial temperature, heating rate, and stationary phase were obtained with high correlation coefficients and low standard deviations. Calculation errors of PTRI conversion between different heating rates and between different initial temperatures were from 1.1 to 2.9 retention index units (i.u.), which is in the same order with experiment errors. It is well known that reproducibility of PTRI on a polar column is not as good as that on an apolar column because of the apolarity of the n-alkane homologues. Thus, topological descriptors were used for PTRI conversion between two columns with different polar stationary phases, giving better results than those obtained by constitutional descriptors. This shows that topological descriptors could provide more molecular structural information than constitutional descriptors. However, as constitutional descriptor has the advantages of clear physical meaning and very simple calculation, it is our first selection when the PTRI calculation accuracy is satisfied. The method developed is simple in calculation, easy to be performed with high accuracy. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Ginsenosides, the main active components of ginseng, have been reported to exert neuroprotective effects in the central nervous system. In this report, the effects of ginsenoside-Rd and -Rb2, two protopanaxadiols, and ginsenoside-Rg1 and -Re, two protopanaxatriols, on the production of nitric oxide (NO) and TNF-alpha (TNF-α) by lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-activated N9 microglial cells were studied. All ginsenosides studied potently suppressed TNF-α production in LPS-activated N9 cells. Ginsenoside-Rg1 and -Re, but not ginsenoside-Rb2 and -Rd, inhibited the production of NO in LPS-activated N9 cells. Ginsenosides inhibited the phosphorylation of c-Jun NH2-terminal kinase (JNK), c-Jun and extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK), The findings herein show that the inhibition of LPS-induced ERK1/2 and JNK activation may be a contributing factor to the main mechanisms by which ginsenosides inhibits RAW264.7. To clarify the mechanistic basis for its ability to inhibit TNF-α and NO induction, the effect of ginsenosides on transcription factor NF-κB protein level was also examined. These activities were associated with the down-regulation of inhibitor κB (IκB). These findings suggest that the inhibition of LPS-induced NO formation and TNF-α production in microglia by ginsenosides is due to its inhibition of NF-κB, which may be the mechanistic basis for the anti-inflammatory effects of ginsenosides. The significant suppressive effects of ginsenosides on proinflammatory responses of microglia implicate their therapeutic potential in neurodegenerative diseases accompanied by microglial activation. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: A competitive enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) was developed to determine vitellogenin (Vtg) in rare minnow (Gobiocypris rarus) based on the separation and purification of rare minnow Vtg (r-Vtg) as well as the production of polyclonal antibody against r-Vtg in rabbits. Three different ELISAs for measuring r-Vtg were then compared: (1) indirect ELISA with the antibody against carp (Cyprinus carpio) Vtg (c-Vtg) (IC-ELISA); (2) competitive ELISA with the antibody against c-Vtg, and using r-Vtg for coating the plates and preparing standard curve (CC-ELISA); (3) competitive ELISA with the antibody against r-Vtg, and using r-Vtg for coating the plates and preparing standard curve (CR-ELISA). The result showed that the homologous CR-ELISA was the most sensitive among the three assays for quantifying r-Vtg. The sensitivities to 17α-ethinylestradiol (EE2) of rare minnow and zebrafish (Danio rerio) were compared upon the establishment of homologous competitive ELISA. The lowest observed effect concentrations (LOECs) to induce Vtg were found to be 0.8 ng EE2 l−1 for rare minnow and 4 ng EE2 l−1 for zebrafish respectively. Afterwards, CR-ELISA was applied to measure Vtg concentration in whole body homogenate (WBH) of juvenile rare minnow fed by three diets (tubifex from wastewater treatment plant, Artemia nauplii and commercial pellet food), and the agreements between bioassay and GC–MS analysis demonstrated that rare minnow was a sensitive fish model for assessing estrogenic effects of endocrine disrupting compounds in aquatic environment. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Continuous gradient elution chromatography (CGEC) was employed to purify and separate enzymes and polysaccharides from the sap of Rhus vernicifera Chinese lacquer tree. There are three different molecules with laccase enzyme activity. Two are enzymes of each other (L1, and L2), whereas the third (RL) is an entirely separate entity. Two polysaccharides (GP1 and GP2) were also found. The Rhus laccase (RL), and isoenzymes L1 and L2, have peak molecular masses of 109,100, 120,000, 103,000 respectively; each has four copper atoms per molecule, and the pI values were 8.2, 8.6, and 9.1, respectively. The structure of the laccases was studied by Fourier-transform infrared (FT-IR) and Matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time-of flight (MALDI-TOF) mass spectrometry. The typical amide I (1646cm−1) and amide II (1545cm−1) bands were observed. The results from MALDI-TOF were similar to those from CGEC, but the molecular mass from the MALDI-TOF was significantly different from that obtained from sodium dodecyl sulfate polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS-PAGE). [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: To study Pseudomonas putida CZ1, having high tolerance to copper and zinc on the removal of toxic metals from aqueous solutions, the biosorption of Cu(II) and Zn(II) by living and nonliving P. putida CZ1 were studied as functions of reaction time, initial pH of the solution and metal concentration. It was found that the optimum pH for Zn(II) removal by living and nonliving cells was 5.0, while it was 5.0 and 4.5, respectively, for Cu(II) removal. At the optimal conditions, metal ion biosorption was increased as the initial metal concentration increased. The adsorption data with respect to both metals provide an excellent fit to the Langmuir isotherm. The binding capacity of living cells is significantly higher than that of nonliving cells at tested conditions. It demonstrated that about 40–50% of the metals were actively taken up by P. putida CZ1, with the remainder being passively bound to the bacterium. Moreover, desorption efficiency of Cu(II) and Zn(II) by living cells was 72.5 and 45.6% under 0.1M HCl and it was 95.3 and 83.8% by nonliving cells, respectively. It may be due to Cu(II) and Zn(II) uptake by the living cells enhanced by intracellular accumulation. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: According to outdated paradigms humic substances (HS) are considered to be refractory or inert that do not directly interact with aquatic organisms. However, they are taken up and induce biotransformation activities and may act as hormone-like substances. In the present study, we tested whether HS can interfere with endocrine regulation in the amphibian Xenopus laevis. In order to exclude contamination with phyto-hormones, which may occur in environmental isolates, the artificial HS1500 was applied. The in vivo results showed that HS1500 causes significant estrogenic effects on X. laevis during its larval development and results of semi-quantitative RT-PCR revealed a marked increase of the estrogenic biomarker estrogen receptor mRNA (ER-mRNA). Furthermore, preliminary RT-PCR results showed that the thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSHβ-mRNA) is enhanced after exposure to HS1500, indicating a weak adverse effect on T3/T4 availability. Hence, HS may have estrogenic and anti-thyroidal effects on aquatic animals, and therefore may influence the structure of aquatic communities and they may be considered environmental signaling chemicals. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Inserting LiF buffer layer between NPB and Alq3 can also enhance the efficiency of the device. A 0.3nm LiF layer shows the optimal effects in this work, explained based on tunneling theory. The device with two LiF buffer layers both at the organic–organic interface and at the cathode–organic interface respectively showed the highest luminance of 23000cd/m2 at a fixed bias of 20V. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]