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In the present work, we report the exploration of integrated photoanode based on SiC nanohole arrays with a rationally designed amorphous carbon nanolayer. The SiC nanoarrays are fabricated via anodic oxidation, and the carbon outlayers are introduced by chemical vapor deposition (CVD) process, respectively. In such case, the active materials of carbon outlayer coated SiC nanoarrays (SiC@C) and current collector of the unetched SiC wafer are established into a whole structure without interfaces, thus favoring the formation of integrated photoanode. It is verified that the coated carbon nanolayer acts as an efficient hole storage layer, which effectively drives the separation of photogenerated carriers. Consequently, the as-fabricated SiC@C photoanode exhibits excellent photoelectrochemical (PEC) water splitting properties with a high solar-to-hydrogen efficiency of 2.67%. Moreover, it delivers an ultralow onset potential of −0.049 V (vs. RHE) and a high photocurrent density of 5.0 m A/cm2 (1.23 V vs. RHE), superior to those of intrinsic SiC counterparts and most SiC nanostructures ever reported, implying their promising applications in the field of solar energy conversion. We reported the integrated photoanode based on self-supported SiC nanohole arrays with an amorphous carbon nanolayer as hole storage layer, which exhibits promoted photoelectrochemical water splitting performance with an ultralow onset potential (−0.049 V vs. RHE) and high photocurrent density (5.0 m A/cm2 vs. RHE 1.23 V). [Display omitted] • The integrated photoanode based on self-supported SiC nanohole arrays with an amorphous carbon nanolayer were fabricated. • The carbon nanolayer acts as efficient holes storage layer that drives the separation of photogenerated carriers. • The active materials and current collector of the photoanode are established into a whole structure without interfaces. • The photoanode exhibits ultralow onset potential (−0.049 V vs. RHE) and high photocurrent density (5.0 m A/cm2 vs. RHE 1.23 V). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Domestic yaks are the most important livestock species on the Qinghai-Tibetan Plateau. Adult female yaks normally breed in warm season and enter anestrous in cold season. Currently, how the ovarian activity is regulated at the molecular level remains to be determined. This study was conducted to investigate follicular development and gene expression patterns of yak ovarian tissues in the warm and cold seasons. Dynamics of follicular development was evaluated based on histological analyses and global gene expression was examined by using RNA-sequencing (RNA-seq) technology. Firstly, we found that follicle development of yak cows in cold season was different from that in warm season. Interestingly, ovaries collected from yaks in cold season contained a significant higher number of antral follicles and some of these follicles showed signs of polycystic structure, indicating abnormal granulosa cell function. RNA-seq analyses of ovarian tissues from non-pregnant adult yaks in cold and warm season revealed that a list of 320 transcripts were differentially expressed, specifically, 79 were up-regulated and 241 were down-regulated in the ovaries from yaks during the cold season. Further analysis demonstrated that transcripts associated with estrogen secretion and metabolism signaling pathway were altered, including FST , CYP1A1 , PIK3R1 and PIK3R2. This study showed histological features of follicle development and revealed candidate genes that may have important roles in regulating ovarian activities in the yak seasonal reproduction. • Dynamics of ovarian follicle development of yak cows in cold season was different from that in warm season. • Yak ovaries in cold season contained a higher number of antral follicles that showed signs of polycystic structure. • RNA-seq analysis highlighted potential roles of estrogen signaling in seasonal regulation of ovarian activities in yaks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the design and development of small-caliber artificial blood vessels, endothelialization is a key issue, but it is not well understood at present. Some studies have used vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) sustained-release methods to promote endothelial cell proliferation. However, this method is not ideal. This study has used drugs to induce endothelial cells to produce VEGF. This method in turn functions to promote cell proliferation and promote the endothelialization of artificial blood vessels. This study aimed to investigate the effect of the antiplatelet drug tirofiban on endothelial cell proliferation in vitro. In this study, human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) were used to determine the effect of tirofiban-stimulated cell proliferation. Analysis of cell proliferation, assayed by the Cell Counting Kit–8 assay, showed that the number of cells was increasingly higher than in the absence of tirofiban. It was also observed that heparin enhanced the tirofiban effect. The cell VEGF expression at different time points after tirofiban addition was detected by western blot analysis. The absorbance values of the experimental (1 μg/mL tirofiban) and the control groups (0 tirofiban) were 1.74 (SD, 0.03) and 1.51 (SD, 0.07) (P <.001), respectively, after 4 days of culture under the same conditions. The amount of VEGF produced by HUVECs gradually increased after treatment with tirofiban, reached a peak at 2 hours, and was 1.3-fold greater than the control group (P =.034). Compared with the tirofiban-only group, the absorbance value of the tirofiban and 10 μg/mL of heparin group was significantly increased (P <.001). Tirofiban promoted the proliferation of HUVECs by promoting the synthesis of VEGF in HUVECs. Heparin enhanced tirofiban activity in promoting HUVEC proliferation. • Tirofiban promoted the proliferation of human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) by promoting the synthesis of vascular endothelial growth factor in HUVECs. • Heparin enhanced tirofiban activity in promoting HUVEC proliferation. • Tirofiban may have certain value in the development of small-caliber artificial blood vessels. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The petrophysical characteristics of unconventional reservoirs have significant impacts on hydrocarbon storage and transport. In this study, 26 shale samples with various lithofacies from Lower Silurian Longmaxi shales in the Jiaoshiba area of Sichuan Basin are investigated. The pore network (morphology, porosity, and pore structure parameters) is comprehensively characterized using scanning electron microscopy, helium pycnometry, and low-pressure gas adsorption techniques. Permeability coefficients are derived from pulse-decay measurements on parallel to bedding samples. Geological controls on the pore shape, porosity, pore size, pore size distribution, and permeability of the shales are analyzed, and quantitative relationships with which to estimate the permeabilities and pore-throat apertures controlling gas flow are developed. Three general lithofacies are summarized in view of their mineralogy: siliceous, argillaceous/siliceous mixed, and argillaceous shales. Pore structure parameters (porosity, specific surface area, and pore volume) show positive correlations with total organic carbon (TOC) content. Organic matter-hosted pores contribute to approximate 67% of the porosity of siliceous shales, while inorganic matter contributes to 55% of the porosity of argillaceous shales. Klinkenberg-corrected permeabilities range between 0.01 and 46.4 μD, and are controlled by the alignment of clay flakes. Negative relationships exist between TOC content, porosity, and permeability values. Siliceous shales generally have the lowest permeabilities, whereas the argillaceous shales with developed oriented clay flakes have relatively high permeabilities. The seepage-pore apertures, estimated using the Winland correlation, range from 9 to 476 nm. These values are much higher than those obtained from nitrogen adsorption analysis (adsorption-pore apertures). A power correlation exists between seepage-pore apertures and total clay minerals content of shales studied. A fracture model (sheet) is used to predict absolute permeability based on seepage-pore apertures. The predictions are reasonable, and justify the application of the sheet model and seepage-pore apertures. The siliceous shales are featured by a high TOC content, large porosity and specific surface area, and low permeability, which are favorable to gas preservation. • Petrophysical characteristics of Longmaxi shales are documented. • Geological controls on pore structure and permeability of shales are investigated. • Seepage-pore aperture controlling gas flow is calculated. • A new method for estimating permeability using seepage-pore aperture is proposed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The in-situ stress state of the eastern margin of the Sichuan Basin, where there is a complicated fault zone, is poorly understood. This study offers vital insights into the in-situ stress state based on information from 17 wellbores in the Wufeng-Longmaxi Shale near the eastern boundary fault (i.e., the Qiyueshan Fault) of the Sichuan Basin, China. Drilling-induced tensile fractures and borehole breakouts revealed a decrease in the angle between the S Hmax (maximum horizontal stress) orientation and fault strike when the wellbores are close to the damage zone of the Qiyueshan Fault. This stress rotation may be caused by the lateral contrast in the Poisson's ratio between the country rock and damage zone of the Qiyueshan Fault. A high angle between the S Hmax orientation and fault strike also appeared in the individual fault blocks of the Qiyueshan Fault as a result of local stress concentration. The higher magnitudes of horizontal stresses indicate stronger lateral compression in the Qiyueshan Fault Zone. Owing to the lateral compression of a "sandwich" consisting of a high-E (Young's modulus) roof and low-E shale intervals, natural fractures mainly appeared in the low-E shale intervals when the wellbore was close to the fault damage zone. The low fracture intensity in the low-E shale intervals of the wellbores located at the boundaries of the stress concentration blocks may be associated with an extensional stepover process. • Spatial variations in stress orientation and magnitude around the fault zone. • Lateral mechanical contrast decreases the angle between S Hmax and fault strike. • Stress concentration complicates S Hmax orientations in certain fault blocks. • Vertical mechanical contrast affects the natural fracture intensity of shale. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pore-fracture structure of shales is important to shale gas resource potential evaluation, exploration and development. However, investigations about the pore-fracture structure of shales were mainly focused on nano-submicron pores, while the contribution of micrometer-scaled pores and micro-fractures to pore system of shale reservoirs lack sufficient attention. Here, using a combination of field-emission scanning electronic microscopy (FE-SEM), gas adsorption (N 2 and CO 2) and CT scanning (Nano-CT and Micro-CT), the Longmaxi shale cored from JYA well, in the Fuling area, was selected to comprehensively evaluate the characteristics of the pore-fracture structure at different scales. The results show that there are diverse types of pores in the organic-rich shale, mainly consisted of organic pores, inorganic pores (interP pores and intraP pores) and micro-fractures. Many pores are ink bottle-shaped characterized by narrow necks and wide bodies, while some others are slit-shaped. Pore size range from 0.305 nm to 98.5 μm. Pores with diameter of 0.305–2 nm (micro-pores), 2–50 nm (meso -pores), 50 nm-2 μm (macro-pores) and 2–98.5 μm (micro-fractures) account for 33.59%, 36.28%, 14.04% and 16.09% of the total pore volume, respectively. Moreover, shale permeability and specific surface area were calculated to be 0.005 mD and 39.44 m2/g, respectively, based on the full-scaled pore splicing. About 92% of specific surface area is contributed by pores with diameter of 0.305–5 nm. Micro-fractures connect with each other and form net-shaped structure with great connectivity from observational results. The micro-fractures with size of 20–98.5 μm provide the main permeability (about 90%). Micro-pores and small meso -pores in shale reservoirs provide large adsorption space for adsorbed gas, while micro-fractures enhance the seepage capability of shale gas, which are favorable for shale gas accumulation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract The organic matter-rich shales in Wufeng-Longmaxi Formation have been considered to be a high-quality source rock and a main shale-gas producer in southern China. As the material basis of shale gas, the organic matter content in shales exhibits a notable vertical difference in the Jiaoshiba area of Fulin shale gas field. This study integrated detailed geochemical analysis and sedimentary observations to investigate organic matter enrichment and depletion mechanism. Three intervals are identified by organic matter contents and their according variations. Six major lithofacies are identified based on mineral composition X-ray diffraction (XRD) analyses, microscopic observations and Focused Ion Beam-Scanning Electron Microscopy (FIB-SEM) data. Geochemical redox proxies (Mo-EF, U-EF, V/Cr and C org /P) indicate that organic matter-rich shales of Wufeng and bottom Longmaxi formation are deposited in anoxic conditions, whereas organic matter-lean shales of the middle to top Longmaxi formation are deposited in oxic environment. This pattern is influenced by both worldwide marine transgression and regional tectonic movement. The productivity proxies (P/Al, Cu/Al, Ni/Al, SiO 2-bio) indicate that the organic matter-rich Wufeng-Longmaxi shales were deposited under moderate to high surficial primary productivity. Increasing terrigenous influxes dominated organic matter dilution and may have been promoted by regional tectonic uplift. The organic matter enrichment or depletion mechanisms in each unit are controlled by different geological events. Enrichment was controlled by multiple reasons, including both global and regional factors, whereas depletion was mainly dominated by regional tectonic uplift. Additionally, the sequence stratigraphic boundaries coincide with organic matter shifting interfaces, indicating that high-resolution sequence stratigraphy of fine-grained sediments may have a certain effect on optimal reservoir predication. Conversely, boundaries of TOC and geochemical proxies may also help to subdivide sequence boundaries. Highlights • Six major lithofacies were identified from the mineral composition. • Anoxic conditions and high productivity controlled organic matter enrichment. • The organic matter depletion was mainly caused of sedimentary dilution. • Three models were developed to explain organic matter enrichment and depletion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Experience is limited with distal stent graft-induced new entry (SINE) after thoracic endovascular aortic repair (TEVAR) of type B dissection (TBAD). We report the management strategy and outcomes in such patients. Methods Clinical data were analyzed for 95 patients (age, 53.2 ± 10.9 years; 82 men) who presented with distal SINE after TEVAR for TBAD. Results Follow-up was 100% for 7.2 ± 3 years after primary TEVAR. Distal SINE occurred at a mean of 2.7 ± 2.4 years. Re-TEVAR was performed for 78, with routine stent grafts in 64 and a more tapered graft in 14. Three patients were managed surgically and 14 medically. Two patients died after re-TEVAR. During follow-up at 5.8 ± 2.9 years, late death occurred in 19 patients, 7 with medical therapy and 12 with re-TEVAR. Distal SINE recurred in 11 at 3.5 ± 1.7 years after re-TEVAR. Reintervention significantly improved survival up to 8 years compared with medical therapy (88.3% vs 63.5%, p = 0.001). In 64 patients with routine stent grafts, mortality was 24%, distal SINE recurred in 20%, and recurrence-free survival was 56% at 6 years. Neither death nor recurrence of SINE occurred in 14 patients with a more tapered stent graft. Predictors for distal SINE after primary TEVAR were stent graft length (hazard ratio, 0.984; p = 0.037) and chronic phase (hazard ratio, 1.725; p = 0.049). Conclusions In TBAD patients with distal SINE after TEVAR, reintervention with re-TEVAR could improve long-term survival significantly. Recurrence of distal SINE was high after re-TEVAR using routine stent grafts. More tapered stent grafts may be helpful in preventing the recurrence of distal SINE. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Carbonate-rich shale in salt lakes has become a potential target for petroleum exploration. A full understanding of storage space development characteristics is the basis for the efficient development of this kind of shale. In this study, the complex mineral composition and multiple pore structure of a typical carbonate-rich shale from the Paleogene Xin'gouzui Formation in the Jianghan Basin were systematically analyzed. The mixed shale and dolomitic shale were the main lithofacies types in the study area. Both of them were dominated by interparticle (interP) pores. However, their pore sizes are noticeably different. Pores with a size of <100 nm are the main compositions of the mixed shale, with an average volume proportion of 78.24%. Conversely, the dolomitic shale develops mainly micro-sized pores and micro-fractures, with a ratio of 70.46%. The difference in pore structure for different types of shales is closely associated with mineral composition. When particles of different sizes are mixed, most of the interP pores are prone to be filled by fine minerals (e.g., clay), resulting in relatively small pore sizes for the mixed shale. Homogeneous carbonate minerals are favorable for the residual of larger size interP pores. However, recrystallization and secondary enlargement of carbonate minerals can also lead to a significant decrease in pore diameter of interP pores. With these results, a storage space development model for different lithofacies shales was established. This work is crucial to further reveal the reservoir mechanisms and hydrocarbon scales of an argillaceous dolomite reservoir. • Quantification of lacustrine shale pore structure from multiple scales and dimensions. • The mixing of minerals with different diameters is the main factor leading to the narrower interparticle pores. • Established a dynamic response model of pore structure to mineralogical changes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Gravity-flow deposits are important hydrocarbon exploration targets in most basins. In this study, an integration of geological, geophysical, and geochemical analysis is used to investigate the gravity-flow deposits and their petroleum prospects in the Oligocene Dongying Formation (E 3 d), Bozhong Subbasin, Bohai Bay Basin. Mass-transport deposits (MTDs) and channel-lobe complexes are the main gravity-flow depositional units. The mass-transport deposits (MTDs) show hummocky and chaotic reflections with poor continuity and variable amplitude. The channels display linear geomorphology with weak root-mean-square (RMS) amplitude, and the lobes are dominated by high-continuous and high-amplitude reflection at the terminal channels. The formation of gravity-flow deposits is primarily controlled by high sedimentation rate during a relative lowstand of lake level. The E 3 d 3 source rock has TOC contents in the range of 0.6–3.1%, Rock-Eval S 2 values in the range of 0.7–19.8 mg HC/g rock, and Hydrogen indices (HI) in the range of 100–600 mg/g TOC. The E 3 d 2 L source rock has TOC contents ranging from 0.5 to 1.9%, Rock-Eval S 2 values from 0.4 to 7.8 mg HC/g rock, and HI from 40 to 480 mg/g TOC. Both E 3 d 3 and E 3 d 2 L source rocks have good hydrocarbon-generation potential. The E 3 d 3 and E 3 d 2 L source rocks have entered the oil-generation peak window with the vitrinite reflectance (R o ) higher than 1.0%. Oils generated from the underlying source rocks shortly migrated to the overlying gravity-flow lithologic traps. The gravity-flow reservoirs could serve as potential and effective hydrocarbon exploration targets. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Objective Arsenic is a metalloid environmental carcinogen involved in the occurrence and development of many cancers. miRNA-21 plays a crucial role in arsenic-induced carcinogenesis. We aimed to elucidate the mechanism by which miRNA-21 influences arsenic-induced cancer. Methods We used meta-analysis of published studies to determine how arsenic induces cancerous cells through miRNA-21. Results Low-dose arsenic exposure (≤ 5 μmol/L) can increase miRNA-21 and phosphorylated signal transducter and activator of transcription 3 (pSTAT3) expression, and decrease programmed cell death protein 4 (PDCD4) and protein sprouty homolog 1 (Spry1) expression. High-dose arsenic exposure (> 5 μmol/L), can increase miRNA-21 expression, and decrease Spry1 and E-cadherin expression. Short-term arsenic exposure (≤ 24 h) can increase miRNA-21 and pSTAT3 expression, and decrease PDCD4 expression. Moreover, long-term arsenic exposure (> 24 h) can increase the miRNA-21, STAT3, and pSTAT3 expression, and decrease PDCD4 expression. We found that activation of miRNA-21 and pSTAT3 were most pronounced following long-term arsenic exposure at low doses, and the effects on PDCD4 expression were most pronounced following short-term arsenic exposure at low doses. miRNA-21 inhibitors increased the expression of tumor suppressor genes PDCD4, PTEN , and Spry1 and miRNA-21-mimics suppressed the expression of these tumor suppressor genes. Conclusion Arsenic can cause cancer by activating miRNA-21 and inhibiting the expression of PDCD4, PTEN , and Spry1. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Oligocene succession of Dongying Formation in Qinnan depression in Bohai Bay Basin has preserved well-imaged lacustrine prograding shelf-edge scale clinoforms, providing a good opportunity to study the relationship between shelf-edge trajectory, stratal stacking patterns and sediment dispersal, and to investigate the effect of controlling factors on sediment dispersal shelf-edge trajectories in a lacustrine setting. 3D seismic volumes were used for defining seismic units, bounding surfaces, shelf-edge trajectories and sediment dispersal. Four seismic units have been subdivided, and four types of shelf-edge trajectories and the associated stratal stacking patterns have been recognized. Greater volume of sandstone in deep-water area tends to develop in seismic units with descending shelf-edge trajectory angles and tends be linked to lower shelf-edge trajectory angles. Differential tectonic subsidence rates along the shelf and along-strike variation in sediment supply were prime factors controlling lateral variability in trajectory, progradation and sediment dispersal. The evolution of shelf-edge trajectory can be subdivided into three stages. Local climate might play a major role in controlling lake-margin evolution during the first two stages, when dry hot weather foster basin floor fan deposition and descending trajectories, and humid cold weather hindered the development of basin floor fan and forms ascending trajectories. While differential tectonic subsidence could have the dominate role during the third stage, when climate signal can hardly be recognized and lateral variability in trajectory angles and sediment supply is most obvious. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bidirectional communication between the developing conceptus and endometrium is essential for pregnancy recognition and establishment in ruminants. We dissect the transcriptomic dynamics of sheep conceptus and corresponding endometrium at pre- and peri-implantation stages using single-cell RNA sequencing. Spherical blastocysts contain five cell types, with 68.62% trophectoderm cells. Strikingly, elongated conceptuses differentiate into 17 cell types, indicating dramatic cell fate specifications. Cell-type-specific gene expression delineates the features of distinctive trophectoderm lineages and indicates that the transition from polar trophectoderm to trophoblast increases interferon-tau expression and likely drives elongation initiation. We identify 13 endometrium-derived cell types and elucidate their molecular responses to conceptus development. Integrated analyses uncover multiple paired transcripts mediating the dialogues between extraembryonic membrane and endometrium, including IGF2 - IGF1R , FGF19 - FGFR1 , NPY - NPY1R , PROS1 - AXL , and ADGRE5 - CD55. These data provide insight into the molecular regulation of conceptus elongation and represent a valuable resource for functional investigations of pre- and peri-implantation ruminant development. [Display omitted] • Transcriptome-based cell types are classified in sheep developing embryo/conceptus • Trophectoderm transition drives interferon-tau production and conceptus elongation • Cell-type-specific endometrial responses to conceptus development are elucidated • Ligand-receptor interactions between the conceptus and endometrium are demonstrated Jia et al. perform single-cell RNA sequencing analyses of sheep conceptus and corresponding endometrium at pre- and peri-implantation stages to elucidate the cell fate specifications and gene expression dynamics in conceptus elongation and implantation. Embryonic cell differentiation and uterine molecular responses to conceptus development are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of the present study is to evaluate the ability and mechanism by which grape seed procyanidin extract (GSPE) relieves arsenic trioxide (As 2 O 3 )-induced renal inflammatory injury. Therefore, male Kunming mice were treated with As 2 O 3 and/or GSPE by gavage for 5 weeks. Mice were then sacrificed and inflammatory cytokines of kidneys were examined by ELISA, whereas the expression levels of molecules involved in the nuclear factor (NF)-κB signaling pathway were evaluated by both qRT-PCR and Western blot. Our results indicate that GSPE prevents As 2 O 3 -mediated renal inflammatory injury by inhibiting activation of the NF-κB signaling pathway and inflammatory cytokine production, while promoting expression of anti-inflammatory cytokines. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Shijiutuo uplift is an oil enriched uplift in the offshore Bohai Bay Basin. Petroleum migration is a key factor for oil enrichment in Neogene reservoirs far away from the hydrocarbon kitchen. In this article, an integration of geological, geophysical and geochemical analyses are employed to investigate the petroleum migration and accumulation on the Shijiutuo uplift. Hydrocarbons in the QHD32-6 and QHD33 oilfields are mainly originated from the third (E 2 s 3 ) and first (E 2 s 1 ) member of the Shahejie Formation. The shallow traps have significant contributions of late-stage E 2 s 1 -derived oil. Lateral petroleum migration is a major mechanism forming large oilfields on the Shijiutuo uplift. The large oilfields have multiple hydrocarbon kitchens, multiple source rocks, and numerous preferential petroleum migration pathways (PPMPs). Once petroleum arrives at the structural highs on the Shijiutuo uplift through the Guantao Formation (N 1 g) carrier-beds, neotectonic faults cutting through Guantao (N 1 g) and Minghuazhen (N 1 m L ) formations could serve as effective conduits for vertical petroleum migration. Neotectonic faults have experienced polycyclic fault activities. Fluid inclusions indicate episodic hydrocarbon charging. Crude oils display duplex properties of biodegradation and non-biodegradation, which is strong evidence for multiple and episodic oil charging on the Shijiutuo uplift. Finally, episodic petroleum charging along polycyclic neotectonic faults causes the late-stage E 2 s 1 -derived oils to occur in the shallow reservoirs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A series of differential compaction faults was identified in the northern Bozhong Subbasin, Bohai Bay Basin, China, by using 3D seismic, well log, and lithology data. The differential compaction faults display two obvious characteristics. First, they develop along a lithologic boundary which separates thick sandstone from underlying mudstones. Facies and thickness change, such as an abrupt lithologic change between sandstone and mudstone, a lateral thickness change of overlying sandstone, are the basic controlling factors of these differential compaction faults. Second, they have a definite strike direction. According to the fault strike, the differential compaction faults can be divided into three groups: Group (a) have an approximate orthogonal strike with the tectonic faults, Group (b) display a similar strike with the slope, and Group (c) show radial strikes on the circular basement uplift. Tectonic faults influence the planform patterns of differential compaction faults in their near vicinity and induce these faults displaying an approximate orthogonal intersection with the late-period through-going faults (Group a). Basin slope promote the formation of differential compaction faults by downslope gravity sliding and cause faults parallel to the strike of slope (Group b). Circular basement topography generates isotropic stress and leads the differential compaction faults above the basement dominated by radial strikes (Group c). Production and geochemistry data is an evidence of differential compaction faults developed in a late period when the strata reach a certain burial depth that the source rocks enter the oil-generating window. The presence of thermogenic fluid within shallow reservoirs represents as evidence of hydrocarbon drained and migrated through the differential compaction faults. The differential compaction faults could serve as significant conduits for fluid expulsion and hydrocarbon accumulation in the Bohai Bay Basin, China. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective To determine the ability of grape seed proanthocyanidin extract (GSPE) in alleviating arsenic-induced reproductive toxicity. Methods Sixty male Kunming mice received the following treatments by gavage: normal saline solution (control); arsenic trioxide (ATO; 4 mg/kg); GSPE (400 mg/kg); ATO+GSPE (100 mg/kg); ATO+GSPE (200 mg/kg) and ATO+GSPE (400 mg/kg). Thereafter, the mice were sacrificed and weighed, and the testis was examined for pathological changes. Nuclear factor (erythroid-derived 2)-like 2 (Nrf2), heme oxygenase 1 (HO1), glutathione S -transferase (GST), NAD(P)H dehydrogenase, and quinone 1 (NQO1) expression in the testis was detected by real-time PCR. Superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione (GSH), total antioxidative capability (T-AOC), malondialdehyde (MDA), 8-hydroxydeoxyguanosine (8-OHdG), and reproductive indexes were analyzed. Results ATO-treated mice showed a significantly decreased sperm count and testis somatic index and activity levels of SOD, GSH, and T-AOC than control group. Compared to the ATO-treated group, ATO +GSPE group showed recovery of the measured parameters. Mice treated with ATO+high-dose GSPE showed the highest level of mRNA expression of Nrf2, HO, NQO1, and GST. Conclusions GSPE alleviates oxidative stress damage in mouse testis by activating Nrf2 signaling, thus counteracting arsenic-induced reproductive toxicity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Increased expression of the p22phox subunit of the NADPH oxidase complex may possibly contribute to both the enzyme׳s increased activation and the occurrence of oxidative stress during hyperhomocysteinaemia. However, the activation of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor (PPAR) δ has been shown to inhibit p22phox expression. The purpose of this study was to elucidate the signaling pathway by which PPARδ activation regulated homocysteine-induced expression of p22phox. EA.hy926 cells were stimulated with homocysteine (Hcy) in the presence or absence of the PPARδ-specific agonist, GW0742, or of various signaling inhibitors, including the antioxidants N-acetylcysteine (NAC), NADPH oxidase inhibitor, diphenyleneiodonium (DPI), and the p38MAPK inhibitor, SB203580. Expression of p22phox mRNA and phospho-p38MAPK protein were measured by real-time PCR and western blot analysis, respectively, and reactive oxygen species were measured by fluorescence microscopy. Our data indicate that Hcy increased both the expression of p22phox in a concentration-dependent manner and also increased phosphoryation of p38 MAPK and reactive oxygen species production in a time-dependent manner. However, activation of the PPARδ signaling pathway by the agonist GW0742 reversed all these changes induced by Hcy. Furthermore, SB203580 prevented the increase in p22phox expression, and NAC and DPI not only inhibited Hcy-induced phosphorylation of p38MAPK, but also prevented expression of p22phox. These findings indicate that Hcy-induced expression of p22phox is regulated by the reactive oxygen species/p38MAPK pathway and that PPARδ activation is capable of attenuating this pathway by eliminating Hcy-induced reactive oxygen species production. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: This study was aimed to investigate the effects of ginsenoside Rg1 (Rg1) on hematopoietic function of bone marrow in cyclophosphamide-induced bone marrow depression mice. Mice were given cyclophosphamide (150mg/kg, i.p. for three days) to produce bone marrow depression. Rg1 was then administrated at 7.5 and 15mg/kg by i.p. for seven days. Bone marrow cells number was counted, and the percentage of hematopoietic stem cells (Lin−Sca-1+c-kit+) was quantified by flow cytometry. The histology of femoral bone was examined by H&E staining. The expression of calcium-sensing receptor mRNA was determined by the real time RT-PCR. Rg1 (7.5 and 15mg/kg) protected against cyclophosphamide-induced bone marrow depression, as evidenced by increased bone marrow cell numbers and improved femoral bone morphology. The percentage of Lin−Sca-1+c-kit+ cells and lymphoid lineage CD3+ cells were lower in cyclophosphamide group, but returned towards normal after Rg1 treatment in both bone marrow and peripheral blood cells. Expression of calcium-sensing receptor mRNA was increased in bone marrow cells on the 10th day after cyclophosphamide, but it was returned to normal level after Rg1 treatment. Rg1 alone did not produce these changes in normal mice. These results demonstrated that Rg1 improved hematopoietic function of bone marrow in cyclophosphamide-induced myelosuppression. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Oxidative stress and mitochondrial dysfunction are involved in the pathogenesis of chronic liver cholestasis. Mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) is highly susceptible to oxidative stress and mtDNA damage leads to mitochondrial dysfunction. This study aimed to investigate the mtDNA alterations that occurred during liver injury in patients with extrahepatic cholestasis. Along with an increase in malondialdehyde (MDA) levels and a decrease in ATP levels, extrahepatic cholestatic patients presented a significant increase in mitochondrial 8-hydroxydeoxyguanosine (8-OHdG) levels and decreases in mtDNA copy number, mtDNA transcript levels, and mtDNA nucleoid structure. In L02 cells, glycochenodeoxycholic acid (GCDCA) induced similar damage to the mtDNA and mitochondria. In line with the mtDNA alterations, the mRNA and protein levels of mitochondrial transcription factor A (TFAM) were significantly decreased both in cholestatic patients and in GCDCA-treated L02 cells. Moreover, overexpression of TFAM could efficiently attenuate the mtDNA damage induced by GCDCA in L02 cells. However, without its C-tail, ΔC-TFAM appeared less effective against the hepatotoxicity of GCDCA than the wild-type TFAM. Overall, our study demonstrates that mtDNA damage is involved in liver damage in extrahepatic cholestatic patients. The mtDNA damage is attributable to the loss of TFAM. TFAM has mtDNA-protective effects against the hepatotoxicity of bile acid during cholestasis. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: This paper presents a high-accuracy method for fine registration of two partially overlapping point clouds that have been coarsely registered. The proposed algorithm, which is named dual interpolating point-to-surface method, is principally a modified variant of point-to-surface Iterative Closest Point (ICP) algorithm. The original correspondences are established by adopting a dual surface fitting approach using B-spline interpolation. A novel auxiliary pair constraint based on the surface fitting approach, together with surface curvature information, is employed to remove unreliable point matches. The combined constraint directly utilizes global rigid motion consistency in conjunction with local geometric invariant to reject false correspondences precisely and efficiently. The experimental results involving a number of realistic point clouds demonstrate that the new method can obtain accurate and robust fine registration for pairwise 3D point clouds. This method addresses highest accuracy alignment with less focus on recovery from poor coarse registrations. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Background: The purpose of this study was to examine the safety and efficacy of cannulation of the innominate artery with a side graft in arch surgery. Methods: Between January 2004 and March 2009, 46 patients received arch surgery under hypothermia circulatory arrest (HCA) and hemispheric antegrade cerebral perfusion (HACP). There were 36 men and 10 women with an average age of 48.0 ± 12.8 years. Thirty-four patients had type A aortic dissection. Four patients had type B aortic dissection. The remaining 8 patients had aortic aneurysm involving the ascending aorta and arch. The innominate artery was free of diseases in all patients. The diameter of the innominate artery was 12.1 ± 1.6 mm (range, 9 to 16 mm). An 8-mm vascular graft, which was anastomosed to the innominate artery in an end-to-side manner, was used for arterial cannulation. Ascending aorta and arch replacement in combination with open stent-graft implantation was conducted in 42 patients. Four patients received open stent-graft implantation through the aortic arch only. Results: The aortic cross-clamp time was 87.2 ± 36.0 minutes. The lowest nasopharyngeal temperature was 21.0 ± 3.6°C. The HCA and the HACP time was 29.6 ± 14.0 minutes. The HACP flow was 8.3 ± 2.3 mL · kg−1 · min−1. Five patients (10.9%) had temporary postoperative neurologic dysfunction. There was no permanent neurologic dysfunction. Three patients died within 30 days postoperatively, and the 1-month mortality rate was 6.5%. All of the surviving patients were followed for 24.9 ± 18.0 months (range, 1 to 63). There were no deaths or severe complications during the follow-up. Conclusions: Cannulation of the innominate artery with a side graft is safe and effective in arch surgery. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Diabetic vascular complications are related to a combination of oxidative stress and hyperglycemia. Here we investigate the effect and mechanism of soy isoflavones on oxidative stress-induced endothelial cell injury. Oxidative stress was modeled in primary cultured human umbilical vein endothelial cells by incubation with H2O2 and high glucose. Genistein and daidzein protected the cells against H2O2-induced apoptosis and their protective actions were abolished by ICI 182780, an estrogen receptor antagonist. The inhibition of cell proliferation by oxidative stress was prevented by genistein and daidzein under normal glucose conditions, but they were less effective at high glucose levels. Genistein and daidzein upregulated the estrogen receptor ERβ and increased Bcl-2 expression. Silencing of Bcl-2 with siRNA abolished the protection of genistein. Moreover, inhibition of the PI3K and Rho A/Rho kinase pathways by wortmannin and Y-27632 altered the effects of genistein and daidzein on cell survival. We conclude that oxidative stress-induced apoptosis and cell proliferation inhibition can be prevented by soy isoflavones via the regulation of ERβ and Bcl-2/Bax expression and modulation of cell survival signaling, such as the PI3K pathway. These findings imply that multiple mechanisms are involved in the beneficial effects of soy isoflavone supplements for diabetic endothelial injury. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Objective: To evaluate early and mid-term results of endovascular repair of acute type B aortic dissection by stent graft. Methods: From June 2001 to May 2005, 63 patients with acute type B aortic dissection underwent stent graft implantation. The study included 59 men and 4 women with an average age of 50.4 ± 11.4 years (range, 31-80 years). Four patients underwent stent-graft implantation in the acute phase. Fifty-nine patients with acute type B dissection underwent stent-graft implantation 2 weeks after the onset of dissection. All patients were followed up from 1 to 47 months (average, 11.7 ± 10.6 months). The clinical data of the patients were analyzed. Results: The primary tear was incompletely sealed in three cases. The incidence of incomplete seal was 4.8%. Ascending aortic dissection occurred in three cases. One occurred during operation. The other two occurred at 1 day and 10 months after stent-graft implantation. Two patients died within 30 days after operation. One died of rupture of the ascending aortic dissection. The other one died of acute renal failure. The 1-month mortality was 3.2%. Four patients underwent a second stent-graft implantation before discharge. One year after stent-graft implantation, complete thrombosis of the false lumen in the thoracic aorta was achieved in 98.4% of patients, and the maximum diameter of the descending aorta decreased 11.2% ± 7.3%. Three patients died within the follow-up time. Mortality during the follow-up period was 4.8%. One patient died of peptic ulcer hemorrhage. Another one died of rupture of the ascending aortic dissection. The third one died of unknown reasons. The actuarial survival curve by the Kaplan-Meier method showed a 4-year survival rate of 89.4%. Conclusions: Early and mid-term results showed that endovascular repair was effective in treatment of acute type B aortic dissection. With the enrichment of doctors’ experience and refinement of the device, better results are expected in the future. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The objective of this study is to determine the effects of Pb2+ on N-methyl-d-aspartate receptor (NMDAR) subunits—NR1C1, NR2A and NR2B in primary cultured neuronal cells. We hypothesize that l-glutamic acid (GA) reverses Pb2+-induced NMDAR damage. Neuronal cells were isolated from the fetus brain at 18–20th day of gestation of pregnant Sprague Dawley (SD) rats. All experiments were included three independent cell preparations (N =3). The neuronal cells were exposed to Pb2+ (10−10, 10−9, 10−8 and 10−7 M) for 24h. Neurons were pretreated with NMDAR agonist—l-glutamic acid (GA) (200μM) and antagonists dizocipine (MK-801, 50nM) for 1h and then exposed to 10−7 M of Pb2+ for 24h. Finally, GA at 2, 0.2 and 0.02mM was incubated with neurons prior to Pb2+ exposure. Aliquots of NR1, NR2A and NR2B proteins from cell homogenate were immunoprecipitated with protein A agarose and detected by Western blotting. The addition of GA unconventionally reversed the reductions of NMDAR by Pb at protein levels, whereas MK-801 exacerbated Pb2+-induced damage. The protection by GA against Pb2+-induced reduction of NMDAR was dose-dependent. These findings suggest that the administration of GA may be a potential approach to intervene the Pb2+-induced NMDAR alterations. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]