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Regeneration of bone defects in diabetic patients has always been a significant challenge in clinical treatment. The pathologic diabetic micromilieu, characterized by mitochondrial dysfunction, excessive reactive oxygen species (ROS) accumulation, cellular senescence, and chronic inflammation, compromises innate bone healing capacity. 3D cryo‐printing technology is utilized in bone tissue engineering to fabricate hierarchical porous scaffolds that promote a conducive microenvironment for cellular adhesion, migration, proliferation, and nutrient exchange. Nanozymes are used as synthetic mimics of natural enzymes to scavenge ROS, addressing the limitations of natural antioxidative enzymes. To remodel the diabetic bone regeneration micromilieu, a 3D cryo‐printed polyaryletherketone with carboxyl groups (PAEK‐COOH) and 45S5 bioactive glass (BG) hierarchical porous scaffold (PBG scaffold), harmonized with hybrid nanozymes comprising SS31‐enhanced manganese dioxide (MnO2)‐ferritin biomimetic nanozyme (MF@S nanozyme), is developed for combinatorial mitochondrial therapy. The MF@S nanozyme specifically targets mitochondria to enhance mitochondrial function, scavenge ROS accumulated in mitochondria, and suppress mitochondrial ROS (mtROS) production, and thus rejuvenate aging cells, regulate macrophage polarization, and modulate differentiation of osteoblasts and osteoclasts. This 3D cryo‐printed PBG‐MF@S hierarchical porous scaffold combines with a combinatorial mitochondrial therapy system to remodel the diabetic micromilieu and presents a promising therapeutic approach for the regeneration of bone defects in diabetes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mosquitoes are of great medical significance as vectors of many deadly diseases. Mitogenomes have been widely used in phylogenetic studies, but mitogenome knowledge within the family Culicidae is limited, and Culicidae phylogeny is far from resolved. In this study, we surveyed the mitogenomes of 149 Culicidae species, including 7 newly sequenced species. Comparative analysis of 149 mosquito mitogenomes shows gene composition and order to be identical to that of an ancestral insect, and the AT bias, length variation, and codon usage are all consistent with that of other reported Dipteran mitogenomes. Phylogenetic analyses based on the DNA sequences of the 13 protein‐coding genes from the 149 species robustly support the monophyly of the subfamily Anophelinae and the tribes Aedini, Culicini, Mansoniini, Sabethini, and Toxorhynchitini. To resolve ambiguous relationships between clades within the subfamily Culicinae, we performed topological tests and show that Aedini is a sister to Culicini and that Uranotaeniini is a sister to (Mansoniini + (Toxorhynchitini + Sabethini)). In addition, we estimated divergence times using a Bayesian relaxation clock based on the sequence data and 3 fossil calibration points. The results show mosquitoes diverged during the Early Jurassic with massive Culicinae radiations during the Cretaceous, coincident with the emergence of angiosperms and the burst of mammals and birds. Overall, this study, which uses the largest number of Culicidae mitogenomes sequenced to date, comprehensively reveals the mitogenome characteristics and mitogenome‐based phylogeny and divergence times of Culicidae, providing information for further studies on the mitogenome, phylogeny, evolution, and taxonomic revision of Culicidae. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cartilage defects resulting from injury or degeneration are a common clinical problem, and due to its avascular nature, articular cartilage has poor self‐healing capacity. Three‐dimensional (3D) bioprinting has attracted great attention in tissue engineering. Melatonin (MT), a hormone mainly secreted at night, plays an important role in tissue repair. Small extracellular vesicles (sEV) are considered ideal drug delivery vehicles and MT‐sEV (sleep‐related sEV) have the potential ability to promote cartilage regeneration. Here, biomimetic multilayer scaffolds were fabricated using 3D bioprinting. A double network hydrogel, composed of methacrylated hyaluronic acid and gelatin methacryloyl (HG), was prepared. MT‐sEV and HG hydrogel were used to create a cartilage layer. A bone layer was formed using poly(ε‐caprolactone) and hydroxyapatite ultralong nanowires. Additionally, two bioinks were alternately printed at the interface layer. The results of RNA sequencing revealed the potential regulatory mechanisms. MT‐sEV showed promotional effects on cell migration, proliferation, chondrogenic differentiation, and extracellular matrix (ECM) deposition. Moreover, MT‐sEV altered macrophage polarization and regulated the expression of inflammatory cytokines. In vivo experiments demonstrated that the biomimetic multilayer scaffolds promoted cartilage regeneration. These experiments demonstrated the ability of MT‐sEV to regulate the immune microenvironment and promote the secretion of ECM, providing a promising strategy for cartilage regeneration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A linearly polarized conformal phased array antenna with a low profile and a large scanning range is proposed, based on stacked patch antenna element fed by a coupled microstrip line. A backed compact cavity is designed in the antenna element, to reduce the mutual coupling between the elements. The prototype of the proposed conformal array, a conformal array composed of 4 × 4 elements which are axially mounted onto a cylindrical surface, is fabricated and measured, whose profile is as low as 0.072 λh (λh is the free‐space wavelength at the highest operating frequency). The experimental results demonstrate that the array achieves active VSWR below than 2.5 over the frequency band of 1.52–1.77 GHz (15%), within the wide‐scanning ranges of ±70° in the E plane and ±60° in the H plane, and the measured results are in good accordance with the calculation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A concise asymmetric total synthesis of (−)‐quinocarcin has been accomplished with high step economy from commercially available starting materials. A catalytic enantioselective reductive 1,3‐dipolar cycloaddition reaction of N‐heteroaryl secondary amides with reactive dipolarophiles using iridium/copper relay catalysis was developed to prepare the key chiral pyrrolidine intermediate with three stereocenters. This protocol features excellent regio‐, exo‐ and enantioselectivities, broad substrate scope, and good functional group tolerance. The high efficiency was also ensured by a RhIII‐catalyzed C−H activation/cyclization and a tandem diastereoselective hydrogenation/cyclization to construct the tetrahydroisoquinoline‐pyrrolidine tetracyclic core unit of quinocarcin. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Predicting wall deflection is important to provide a critical reference to evaluate the current construction conditions and prevent potential damage risks of adjacent facilities during excavations. This paper presents a combination of a beam on elastic foundation model (BEFM) and the Bayesian framework to realize effective probabilistic predictions of wall deflection at various depths in braced excavations. First, a finite element solving algorithm to calculate wall deflection for the BEFM is developed and incorporated into the Bayesian framework. Next, the most suitable distribution pattern for soil resistance and an appropriate set of uncertain parameters in the BEFM are determined through the application of the Bayesian model selection technique. Meanwhile, the uncertain parameters are updated. A prediction is then made using the optimal model and corresponding posterior probability distributions of the updated parameters at each stage. The parameter updating and prediction process are repeated as additional field observations become available during construction. The performance of the proposed method is examined using a field case study. The results show that this method provides a satisfactory approach to predict both the magnitudes and profile of deflection when considering uncertainties. Additionally, comparisons with a Bayesian updating framework using a surrogate model (i.e., the KJHH model) indicate higher updating efficiency of the developed method. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: The oxytocin receptors located in the corticotropin‐releasing factor neurons of the paraventricular nucleus are stimulated by oxytocin. Oxytocin functions as the regulator of the corticotropin‐releasing factor system and in turn promotes sleep quality. The objective of this study was to examine the main and genotype–genotype interactive effects of the oxytocin receptor gene (OXTR) polymorphisms on sleep quality. A total of 324 participants were randomly recruited from a university in Beijing, China. Sleep quality was measured with the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index. The OXTR single‐nucleotide polymorphisms (rs2254298, rs2268498, rs13316193, rs2268490 and rs2268491) were genotyped. The results showed that gender and age were associated with various empathy traits (all p < 0.001). The Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index was positively correlated with the Personal Distress subscale of empathy (p < 0.001). Both rs2254298 and rs2268491 interacted with rs13316193 to influence daytime dysfunction and Personal Distress (all p < 0.05), indicating that in individuals with rs13316193 CC/CT genotype, those with rs2254298 AA/AG or rs2268491 TT/TC genotypes displayed higher daytime dysfunction and Personal Distress scores than those with rs2254298 GG or rs2268491 CC genotypes. Conversely, among the individuals with rs2254298 GG or rs2268491 CC genotypes, the rs13316193 C allele carriers had lower daytime dysfunction and Personal Distress scores than rs13316193 TT homozygotes. There was also a significant interaction between rs2268490 and rs2268498 on the sleep latency dimension of the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index. Our findings reveal for the first time the genotype–genotype interactions of the OXTR gene on sleep quality, which may open new research avenues for studying psychopathology involving sleep problems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The uncontrollable lithium (Li) dendrite growth and unstable solid electrolyte interfaces (SEI) hinder the practical application of Li metal batteries (LMBs). Herein, a PAN/CNTs‐based SiO2‐modified vertical‐cavity film (PCS‐VCF) with a network structure is prepared by a simple spin‐coating process to address these challenges. This new current collector with a polar lithiophilic network stabilizes the Li metal anodes by regulating the chemical environment in carbonate electrolytes. The dipole interaction between the CN groups and the CO groups reduces the high reactivity of the carbonates in the electrolyte, forming an SEI layer with higher inorganic components and enhancing the stability of the electrode/electrolyte interface. The special vertical‐cavity network structure inside the current collector can decrease local current density and suppress the huge volume expansion of Li metal during the cycling process. Consequently, a high‐performance Li metal anode with dendrite‐free morphology is achieved (over 1500 cycles with low overpotential at 20 mA cm−2 in symmetric cells). Furthermore, full cell with the LiNi0.8Co0.1Mn0.1O2 cathode delivers a stable capacity of 164.5 mA h g−1 for 500 cycles at 5 C, with a capacity decay rate of 0.077% per cycle. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: Glutathione S‐transferases (GSTs), a multifunctional protein family, are involved in insecticide resistance. However, a systematic analysis of GSTs in Anopheles sinensis, an important vector for malaria transmission, is lacking. In this study, we investigated the diversity and characteristics of GST genes, and analyzed their expression patterns and functions associated with insecticide resistance in this species. RESULTS: We identified 32 putative cytosolic and three putative microsomal GST genes in the An. sinensis genome. Transcriptome analysis showed that GSTs were highly expressed in larvae, and mainly expressed in the antennae, midgut and Malpighian tubules of adults. In addition, we found that GSTd2 and GSTe2 were significantly upregulated in four An. sinensis pyrethroid‐resistant field populations. Furthermore, silencing of GSTd2 and GSTe2 significantly increased the susceptibility of An. sinensis to deltamethrin, and recombinant GSTd2 and GSTe2 exhibited high enzymatic activity in the metabolism of 1‐chloro‐2,4‐dinitrobenzene and dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane (DDT). CONCLUSION: These results showed that GSTs are involved in the development of insecticide resistance in An. sinensis through transcriptional overexpression and enzymatic metabolization, facilitating our understanding of insecticide resistance in insects. © 2022 Society of Chemical Industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Temporal lobe epilepsy (TLE) is a chronic neurological disorder that is often resistant to antiepileptic drugs. The pathogenesis of TLE is extremely complicated and remains elusive. Understanding the molecular mechanisms underlying TLE is crucial for its diagnosis and treatment. In the present study, a lithium-pilocarpine-induced TLE model was employed to reveal the pathological changes of hippocampus in rats. Hippocampal samples were taken for proteomic analysis at 2 weeks after the onset of spontaneous seizure (a chronic stage of epileptogenesis). Isobaric tag for relative and absolute quantization (iTRAQ) coupled with liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC–MS/MS) technique was applied for proteomic analysis of hippocampus. A total of 4173 proteins were identified from the hippocampi of epileptic rats and its control, of which 27 differentially expressed proteins (DEPs) were obtained with a fold change > 1.5 and P < 0.05. Bioinformatics analysis indicated 27 DEPs were mainly enriched in "regulation of synaptic plasticity and structure" and "calmodulin-dependent protein kinase activity," which implicate synaptic remodeling may play a vital role in the pathogenesis of TLE. Consequently, the synaptic plasticity-related proteins and synaptic structure were investigated to verify it. It has been demonstrated that CaMKII-α, CaMKII-β, and GFAP were significant upregulated coincidently with proteomic analysis in the hippocampus of TLE rats. Moreover, the increased dendritic spines and hippocampal sclerosis further proved that synaptic plasticity involves in the development of TLE. The present study may help to understand the molecular mechanisms underlying epileptogenesis and provide a basis for further studies on synaptic plasticity in TLE. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Herein, a rational design of SnS2 nanosheets confined into bubble‐like carbon nanoreactors anchored on N,S doped carbon nanofibers (SnS2@C/CNF) is proposed to prepare the self‐standing electrodes, which provides tunable void space on carbon fibers for the first time by introducing hollow carbon nanoreactors. The SnS2@C/CNF provides the stable support with greatly enhanced ion and electron transport, alleviates aggregation and volume expansion of SnS2 nanosheets, and promotes the formation of abundant exposed edges and active sites. The volume balance between SnS2 nanosheets and hollow carbon nanoreactors is reached to accommodate the expansion of SnS2 during cycles by controlling the thickness of SnO2 shells, which achieves the best space utilization. The doping of N,S elements enhances the wettability of the carbon nanofiber matrix to electrolyte and Li ions and further improves the electrical conductivity of the whole electrode. Thus, the SnS2@C/CNF benefits greatly in structural stability and pseudocapacitive capacity for improved lithium/sodium storage performance. As a result of these improvements, the self‐standing SnS2@C/CNF film electrodes exhibit the highly stable capacity of 964.8 and 767.6 mAh g−1 at 0.2 A g−1, and excellent capacity retention of 87.4% and 82.4% after 1000 cycles at high current density for lithium‐ion batteries and sodium‐ion batteries, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Paragonimus species are highly prevalent in various regions of China. The study's objective is to isolate and identify Paragonimus from natural habitats and compare the phylogenetic diversity of Paragonimus in southern Yunnan province, China. Metacercariae of Paragonimus was isolated from crabs, and morphologic identification was performed by microscopy. Metacercariae were injected into experimental Paragonimus free Sprague Dawley rats. After 114 days, adult worms and eggs were isolated from multiple organs. Morphologic identification confirmed the initial identification. DNA was extracted from 5 adult worms, and molecular characterization was performed by amplification and sequencing of CO1 and ITS2 regions, followed by phylogenetic analysis. Out of 447 crabs captured, 186 crabs were found to be infected. A total of 4 species of Paragonimus was observed from naturally infected crabs. Paragonimus microrchis (2), Paragonimus heterotremus (1), Paragonimus proliferus (1), and Paragonimus skrjabini (1) were isolated and identified. A total of 32 sequences were downloaded from the National Center for Biotechnology Information, and 5 sequences generated in the study were used for phylogenetic analysis. In the phylogenetic tree of the CO1 gene, Paragonimus proliferus, Paragonimus heterotremus, and Paragonimus skrjabini were clustered with the same species, and the confidence values of their branches were >95%. A congruent phylogenetic relationship was observed with the ITS2 phylogenetic tree. In the phylogenetic tree constructed with the combined dataset of CO1 and ITS2 datasets, Paragonimus proliferus, Paragonimus heterotremus, and Paragonimus skrjabini clustered with the same species, and their branch confidence values were >94%. Paragonimus microrchis clustered with Paragonimus bangkokensis in both datasets. Phylogenetic analysis revealed robustness of the double loci method as against the single-locus method with either CO1 or ITS2 alone. Paragonimus species isolated from the southern Yunnan province, China, was phylogenetically diverse, and the analysis revealed the clustering of multiple species of Paragonimus isolated from different geographic locations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to identify the locations and harvest months in Guizhou province, China, producing the most suitable red dragon fruit (Hylocereus polyrhizus) for winemaking. Fruit from Guanling, Luodian and Zhenfeng counties was harvested separately from successive fruit cycles in August, September and October, respectively. The key traits measured were fruit weight, pulp yield, soluble solids content, and titratable acid. Wine characteristics measured were alcohol content, total carbohydrates, titratable acidity, volatile acidity, and betacyanin content. The overall suitability of fruit from each location for winemaking was evaluated using a multi‐factor, unweighted, scorecard. On that basis, fruit from Guanling county harvested in August was the most suitable. Fruit from Luodian, and Zhenfeng was most suitable when harvested in August and September, and September, respectively. These results provide a preliminary guide for the sourcing of red dragon fruit from Guizhou for wine production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: Social animals often have dominance hierarchies, with high rank conferring preferential access to resources. In primates, competition among males is often assumed to occur predominantly over reproductive opportunities. However, competition for food may occur during food shortages, such as in temperate species during winter. Higher‐ranked males may thus gain preferential access to high‐profitability food, which would enable them to spend longer engaged in activities other than feeding. Materials and methods: We performed a field experiment with a breeding band of golden snub‐nosed monkeys, a species that lives in a multi‐level society in high‐altitude forests in central China. We provisioned monkey's high‐profitability food during winter when natural foods are limited, and then recorded the times individual adult males spent engaged in different behaviors. Results: Higher‐ranking males spent less time feeding overall and fed on provisioned foods at a higher rate than lower‐ranking males. Higher‐ranking males therefore had more time to spend on alternative behaviors. We found no significant difference according to rank in times spent moving or resting. However, high‐ranking males spend significantly longer on affiliative behaviors with other members of their social sub‐units, especially grooming and being groomed, behaviors known to promote social cohesion in primates. Discussion We show that preferential access to high‐profitability foods likely relaxes time‐budget constraints to higher‐ranking males. High‐ranking males thus spend more time on non‐feeding activities, especially grooming, which may enhance social cohesion within their social sub‐unit. We discuss the potential direct and indirect benefits to high‐ranking males associated with preferential access to high‐value food during winter. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Combined catheter ablation (CA) and left atrial appendage closure (LAAC) have proven to be a feasible and safe strategy in treating patients with nonvalvular atrial fibrillation (AF). However, the interactions between CA and LAAC have not been systematically explored. We analyzed the impact of CA on long‐term outcomes of LAAC in patients with AF treated with the hybrid procedure. Methods: A total of 107 consecutive patients with AF who underwent LAAC were divided into two groups: group A (n = 61) included patients who underwent CA followed by LAAC during the same procedure and group B (n = 46) included patients who underwent LAAC only. All patients underwent systematic transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) follow‐up. Results: In group A, CA resulted in severe edema of the left atrial ridge (LAR), which manifested as an increase in LAR thickness from 4.6 ± 0.4 mm before CA to 6.8 ± 0.6 mm (P <.01) after CA. TEE at 45 days showed that the incidence of peri‐device leakage was significantly higher in group A than in group B (45.9% vs 4.3%, P <.001). At the 12‐month follow‐up, the peri‐device leakage rate remained higher in group A than in group B (14.8% vs 2.2%, P <.01). Three (4.9%) patients in group A experienced transient ischemia attacks; no events were reported in group B during the 1‐year follow‐up. Conclusion: Edema of LAR with the single‐stage procedure that consists of CA followed by LAAC could result in increased peri‐device leakage and decreased compression rate over time, which may be also associated with elevated risk profiles when compared with an LAAC‐only procedure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Circulating genetically abnormal cells (CACs) with specific chromosome variations have been confirmed to be present in non‐small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). However, the diagnostic performance of CAC detection remains unclear. This study aimed to evaluate the potential clinical application of the CAC test for the early diagnosis of NSCLC. Methods: In this prospective study, a total of 339 participants (261 lung cancer patients and 78 healthy volunteers) were enrolled. An antigen‐independent fluorescence in situ hybridization was used to enumerate the number of CACs in peripheral blood. Results: Patients with early‐stage NSCLC were found to have a significantly higher number of CACs than those of healthy participants (1.34 vs. 0.19; P < 0.001). The CAC test displayed an area under the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve of 0.76139 for discriminating stage I NSCLC from healthy participants with 67.2% sensitivity and 80.8% specificity, respectively. Compared with serum tumor markers, the sensitivity of CAC assays for distinguishing early‐stage NSCLC was higher (67.2% vs. 48.7%, P < 0.001), especially in NSCLC patients with small nodules (65.4% vs. 36.5%, P = 0.003) and ground‐glass nodules (pure GGNs: 66.7% vs. 40.9%, P = 0.003; mixed GGNs: 73.0% vs. 43.2%, P < 0.001). Conclusions: CAC detection in early stage NSCLC was feasible. Our study showed that CACs could be used as a promising noninvasive biomarker for the early diagnosis of NSCLC. Key points: What this study adds: This study aimed to evaluate the potential clinical application of the CAC test for the early diagnosis of NSCLC. Significant findings of the study: CAC detection in early stage NSCLC was feasible. Our study showed that CACs could be used as a promising noninvasive biomarker for the early diagnosis of NSCLC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study we report on the clinical and autoimmune characteristics of severe and critical novel coronavirus pneumonia caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome‒associated coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2). The clinical, autoimmune, and laboratory characteristics of 21 patients who had laboratory‐confirmed severe and critical cases of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) from the intensive care unit of the Huangshi Central Hospital, Hubei Province, China, were investigated. A total of 21 patients (13 men and 8 women), including 8 (38.1%) severe cases and 13 (61.9%) critical cases, were enrolled. Cough (90.5%) and fever (81.0%) were the dominant symptoms, and most patients (76.2%) had at least one coexisting disorder on admission. The most common characteristics on chest computed tomography were ground‐glass opacity (100%) and bilateral patchy shadowing (76.2%). The most common findings on laboratory measurement were lymphocytopenia (85.7%) and elevated levels of C‐reactive protein (94.7%) and interleukin‐6 (89.5%). The prevalence of anti‒52 kDa SSA/Ro antibody, anti‒60 kDa SSA/Ro antibody, and antinuclear antibody was 20%, 25%, and 50%, respectively. We also retrospectively analyzed the clinical and laboratory data from 21 severe and critical cases of COVID‐19. Autoimmune phenomena exist in COVID‐19 subjects, and the present results provide the rationale for a strategy of preventing immune dysfunction and optimal immunosuppressive therapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) have been reported as a diagnostic markers for sepsis, and miRNAs have also been found to play a regulatory role in sepsis‐induced acute kidney injury (AKI). However, the regulatory effect and mechanism of miR‐34b‐3p on AKI remains elusive. First, sepsis mice with AKI was established via cecal ligation puncture (CLP), and verified through hematoxylin‐eosin staining, determination of tumor necrosis factor‐α (TNF‐α), interleukin (IL)‐6/1β and serum levels of alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and blood urea nitrogen (BUN). Data showed that CLP‐induced mice demonstrated increased ALT, BUN, TNF‐α, IL‐1β, and IL‐6 with injured pathological morphology of kidney tissues. Second, lipopolysaccharide (LPS) treatment elevated TNF‐α, IL‐1β, and IL‐6 contents in rat mesangial cells (RMCs). MiR‐34b‐3p was downregulated in both CLP‐induced mice and LPS‐induced RMCs. Third, target gene of miR‐34b‐3p was verified as ubiquitin‐like protein 4A (UBL4A), and UBL4A was upregulated in LPS‐induced RMCs. MiR‐34b‐3p could inhibit UBL4A expression and decreased TNF‐α, IL‐1β and IL‐6 contents in LPS‐induced RMCs, while overexpression of UBL4A counteract with the suppressive effects of miR‐34b‐3p on the protein expression. Moreover, transcriptional activity of UBL4A‐induced NF‐κB was decreased by miR‐34b‐3p. Lastly, in vivo injection of miR‐34b‐3p agomir improved CLP‐induced kidney tissues injury with declined ALT, BUN, TNF‐α, IL‐1β, IL‐6, and UBL4A. In general, miR‐34b‐3p overexpression could alleviate AKI in sepsis mice through downregulation of UBL4A/NF‐κB, providing potential therapeutic strategy for AKI. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

SnS, is a promising anode material for lithium ion batteries (LIBs) and sodium ion batteries (SIBs), however, undergoes poor cyclic lifespan due to its huge volume changes and bad electroconductivity. Here, a modified CVD method is used to directly grow graphene‐like carbon film on the surface of SnS nanosheet arrays which are supported by Co‐, N‐modified porous carbon fibers (CCF@SnS@G). In the strategy, the SnS nanosheet arrays confined into the integrated carbon matrix containing porous carbon fibers and graphene‐like carbon film, perform a greatly improved electrochemical performance. In situ TEM experiments reveal that the vertical graphene‐like carbon film can not only protect the SnS nanosheet from destruction well and enhance the conductivity, but also transforms SnS nanosheet into ultrafine nanoparticles to promote the electrochemical kinetics. Systematic electrochemical investigations exhibit that the CCF@SnS@G electrode delivers a stable reversible capacity of 529 mAh g−1 at a high current density of 5 A g−1 for LIBs and 541.4 mAh g−1 at 2 A g−1 for SIBs, suggesting its good potential for anode electrodes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A novel coronavirus pneumonia, first identified in Wuhan City and referred to as COVID‐19 by the World Health Organization, has been quickly spreading to other cities and countries. To control the epidemic, the Chinese government mandated a quarantine of the Wuhan city on January 23, 2020. To explore the effectiveness of the quarantine of the Wuhan city against this epidemic, transmission dynamics of COVID‐19 have been estimated. A well‐mixed "susceptible exposed infectious recovered" (SEIR) compartmental model was employed to describe the dynamics of the COVID‐19 epidemic based on epidemiological characteristics of individuals, clinical progression of COVID‐19, and quarantine intervention measures of the authority. Considering infected individuals as contagious during the latency period, the well‐mixed SEIR model fitting results based on the assumed contact rate of latent individuals are within 6–18, which represented the possible impact of quarantine and isolation interventions on disease infections, whereas other parameter were suppose as unchanged under the current intervention. The present study shows that, by reducing the contact rate of latent individuals, interventions such as quarantine and isolation can effectively reduce the potential peak number of COVID‐19 infections and delay the time of peak infection. Highlights: A novel coronavirus pneumonia (COVID‐19) has been quickly spreading to other cities and countries.We aim to explore the effectiveness of the quarantine of the Wuhan city against this epidemic by using a well‐mixed "susceptible exposed infectious recovered" (SEIR) compartmental model.Interventions such as quarantine and isolation can effectively reduce the potential peak number of COVID‐19 infections and delay the time of peak infection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article titled "Cover Picture: Three-dimensional printed biomimetic multilayer scaffolds coordinated with sleep-related small extracellular vesicles: A strategy for extracellular matrix homeostasis and macrophage polarization to enhance osteochondral..." discusses the incorporation of sleep-related small extracellular vesicles (MT-sEV) into 3D printed multilayer scaffolds for osteochondral regeneration. The scaffolds mimic the structure of native osteochondral tissue and the MT-sEV have been found to enhance cell proliferation, migration, differentiation, extracellular matrix deposition, and immune responses. The findings suggest that this approach holds promise as a therapeutic strategy for osteochondral defects. The authors of the article are Xu-Ran Li, Qing-Song Deng, Po-Lin Liu, Shu-Hang He, Yuan Gao, Zhan-Ying Wei, Chang-Ru Zhang, Fei Wang, Xiao-Qiu Dou, Helen Dawes, Shang-Chun Guo, and Shi-Cong Tao. [Extracted from the article]

Summary With the improvement of people's living standard, energy shortage is increasingly severe. Photocatalysis technology is one of the most effective means to solve this problem. Generally, poor visible‐light response and fast combination of photo‐induced carriers are the main limiting factors to traditional photocatalysts. Aiming at this problem, in this paper, AgBr was used as the photosensitizer to immobilize on the surface of reduced graphene oxide (rGO) for the complexation of Ag+ ions and carboxyl groups of precursor graphene oxide (GO), then the two‐dimensional rGO‐AgBr/Ag composites (2D rGAA‐α, α = 1, 2 and 3) were synthesized by solvothermal method. The structures, morphologies, chemical bonding states and photoelectrochemical properties of the samples were analyzed to study the samples, and the corresponding visible‐light‐driven (VLD) catalytic performances were studied by hydrogen evolution reaction (HER). Compared with pure rGO, the light absorption of rGAA‐α was almost extended to full spectral range for the Z‐scheme heterointerface (rGO‐AgBr) construction, and the separation of photo‐induced carriers can be promoted effectively. The HER results showed that the average hydrogen evolution rate (R¯p) of rGAA‐α was significantly increased, and the rGAA‐2 catalyst presented the highest R¯p (72.71 μmol h‐1g‐1). After six recycling experiments, the very faint activity decrease and unobvious structure change suggested the high photostability. Accordingly, the enhanced catalytic activity of rGAA‐α catalysts was attributed to the formation of Z‐scheme heterointerface and generation of Ag plasmas, so this study will provide a simple, effective and promising method for hydrogen energy development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As a hallmark for glioblastoma (GBM), high heterogeneity causes a variety of phenotypes and therapeutic responses among GBM patients, and it contributes to treatment failure. Moreover, hypoxia is a predominant feature of GBM and contributes greatly to its phenotype. To analyse the landscape of gene expression and hypoxic characteristics of GBM cells and their clinical significance in GBM patients, we performed transcriptome analysis of the GBM cell line U87‐MG and the normal glial cell line HEB under normoxia and hypoxia conditions, with the results of which were analysed using established gene ontology databases as well as The Cancer Genome Atlas and the Cancer Cell Line Encyclopedia. We revealed core signal pathways, including inflammation, angiogenesis and migration, and for the first time mapped the components of the toll‐like receptor 6 pathway in GBM cells. Moreover, by investigating the signal pathways involved in homoeostasis, proliferation and adenosine triphosphate metabolism, the critical response of GBM to hypoxia was clarified. Experiments with cell lines, patient serum and tissue identified IL1B, CSF3 and TIMP1 as potential plasma markers and VIM, STC1, TGFB1 and HMOX1 as potential biopsy markers for GBM. In conclusion, our study provided a comprehensive understanding for signal pathways and hypoxic characteristics of GBM and identified new biomarkers for GBM patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recently, graphene nanomaterials have attracted tremendous attention and have been utilized in various fields because of their excellent mechanical, thermal, chemical, optical properties, and good biocompatibility, especially in biomedical aspects. However, there is a concern that the unique characteristics of nanomaterials may have undesirable effects. Therefore, in this study, we sought to systematically investigate the effects of graphene quantum dots (GQDs) on the maturation of mouse oocytes and development of the offspring via in vitro and in vivo studies. In vitro, we found that the first polar body extrusion rate in the high dosage exposure groups (1.0–1.5 mg/ml) 2 decreased significantly and the failure of spindle migration and actin cap formation after GQDs exposure was observed. The underlying mechanisms might be associated with reactive oxygen species accumulation and DNA damage. Moreover, transmission electron microscope studies showed that GQDs may have been internalized into oocytes, tending to accumulate in the nucleus and severely affecting mitochondrial morphology, which included swollen and vacuolated mitochondria accompanied by cristae alteration with a lower amount of dense mitochondrial matrix. In vivo, when pregnant mice were exposed to GQDs at 8.5 days of gestation (GD, 8.5), we found that high dosage of GQD exposure (30 mg/kg) significantly affected mean fetal length; however, all the second generation of female mice grew up normal, attained sexual maturity, and gave birth to a healthy offspring after mating with a healthy male mouse. The results presented in this study are important for the future investigation of GQDs for the biomedical applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Novel diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers of cancers are needed to improve precision medicine. Circular RNAs act as important regulators in cancers at the transcriptional and posttranscriptional levels. The circular RNA circMAN1A2 is highly expressed in nasopharyngeal carcinoma according to our previous RNA sequencing data; however, the expression and functions of circMAN1A2 in cancers are still obscure. Therefore, in this study, we evaluated the expression of circMAN1A2 in the sera of patients with nasopharyngeal carcinoma and other malignant tumors and analyzed its correlations with clinical features and diagnostic values. The expression levels of circMAN1A2 were detected by quantitative real‐time PCR, and the correlations of clinical features with circMAN1A2 expression were analyzed by χ2 tests. Receiver operating characteristic curves were used to evaluate the clinical applications of circMAN1A2. The results showed that circMAN1A2 was upregulated in nasopharyngeal carcinoma, oral cancer, thyroid cancer, ovarian cancer, and lung cancer, with areas under the curves of 0.911, 0.779, 0.734, 0.694, and 0.645, respectively, indicating the good diagnostic value of circMAN1A2. Overall, our findings suggested that circMAN1A2 could be a serum biomarker for malignant tumors, providing important insights into diagnostic approaches for malignant tumors. Further studies are needed to elucidate the mechanisms of circMAN1A2 in the pathogenesis of cancer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary β‐iron oxide hydroxide (β‐FeOOH) had been proven to be an effective co‐catalyst during H2 evolution reaction (HER) process. In this research, a BiOCl/β‐FeOOH heterojunction was successfully synthesized by a solid‐state doping method. Then, the structure, composition, and photo‐electrochemical properties of the prepared photocatalysts were studied. For the superior HER photocatalytic activity of ultrasmall β‐FeOOH nanoparticles (NPs) and the formation of the BiOCl/β‐FeOOH heterojunction, this heterojunction photocatalyst exhibited very superior photocatalytic performance in the HER process. Especially, when the amount of incorporated β‐FeOOH NPs was appropriate, the BFOH‐2 possessed the highest photocatalytic activity in HER process, and the HER rate was about 16.64 mmol·g−1·h−1 during illuminated time of 6 hours under visible light. When appropriate, ultrasmall β‐FeOOH NPs were implanted into the structure of BiOCl, the BiOCl/β‐FeOOH heterojunction interfaces would form for the existence of interfacial interactions. Therefore, this BiOCl/β‐FeOOH heterojunction exhibited superior visible‐light response, fast photo‐carrier migration, and high‐efficient separation of photo‐carriers, so that the BFOH‐2 heterojunction possessed high‐efficient hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) photocatalytic activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Open reduction and internal fixation is the adequate treatment for capitellar and trochlear fractures. Given the low incidence of this type of fractures, it is difficult to constitute a universally accepted method for fixation. Thus, we hypothesised that combined use of Kirschner wires (K‐wires), absorbable rods and sutures for fixation and post‐operative hinged external fixator for early rehabilitation exercise can restore elbow joint function well. Methods: This retrospective study included 20 patients with a mean age of 48.3 (range 16–76) years. According to the Dubberley classification, fractures were classified on plain radiographs, computed tomography images and intra‐operative findings. All patients were evaluated by the range of motion of the elbow and the Broberg‐Morrey score. Results: All fractures had healed without non‐union, and the average time was 13.6 (range 8–17) weeks. The mean follow‐up was 42.5 (range 24–80) months. The mean flexion was 117.1° (range 90°–135°), and the mean extension was 17.5° (range 0°–45°). The mean pronation was 74.4° (range 45°–85°), and the mean supination was 84.3° (range 60°–90°). The average Broberg–Morrey score was 86.2 (range 68–98) points with 10 excellent, 7 good and 3 fair results. Conclusion: K‐wires, absorbable rods and sutures combined with hinged external fixator are feasible for fixation of capitellar and trochlear fractures. However, due to the absence of a control group (such as Herbert screw fixation), comparative studies are still needed to demonstrate the safety and reliability of K‐wires for fixation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Abstract: BACKGROUND: Microfluidic biocatalysis has advantages in terms of heat transfer and mass transfer. However, mass transfer in microscale conditions is often limited by excessive enzyme agglomeration, resulting in reduced reactor performance. In the present study, to establish an efficient and inexpensive microreaction system for obtaining high‐value fine chemicals, a novel combined use of continuous‐flow microchannel reactor and ionic liquid cosolvent for efficient production of isoquercitrin from rutin catalysed by unpurified recombinant enzyme RhaB1 was successfully carried out. RESULTS: The unpurified RhaB1 was expressed by BL21‐pET21a‐rhaB1 and the amino acid sequence was confirmed by Maldi‐TOF‐TOF, which was directly applied in microchannel reactors with an increased activity of 37.7% compared with the purified RhaB1, with [Toma][Tf2N] used as a cosolvent to avoid enzymatic agglomeration. A yield of 99.3 ± 4.3% was achieved in 10 min using crude RhaB1 in microchannel reactors under optimum conditions, and circular dichroism spectroscopy confirmed that [Toma][Tf2N] had a positive effect on RhaB1 activity. Compared with a batch reactor, the reaction time was reduced by 98.3%, the Km was decreased to 1/3 and productivity was improved 61.4 times. CONCLUSION: Results indicated that the developed cosolvent system in the microfluidic reactor could improve the solubility and liquidity of recombinant RhaB1. The protocol is promising for industrial applications due to higher productivity and lower costs. © 2018 Society of Chemical Industry [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

By replacing the amide bond into 1,3,4-oxadiazole moiety, a series of 1-phenyl-5-(trifluoromethyl)-1H-pyrazole derivatives bearing 1,3,4-oxadiazole were synthesized and evaluated their antibacterial and antifungal activity. The bioassay results revealed that compounds 7a and 7b showed the strongest antibacterial activity toward pathogen Xanthomonas oryzae pv. oryzae with the EC50 values of 15.0 and 6.4 µg/mL, respectively; compound 6a exhibited comprehensive antifungal activity toward six kinds of fungi; compound 6f could selectively inhibit the growth of Sclertinia sclerotiorum and Rhizoctonia solani with the inhibition rates of 82.5 and 80.3% at the concentrate of 100 µg/mL, respectively; compound 7b exerted good antifungal activity toward Fusarium oxysporum, Cytospora mandshurica, and Rhizoctonia solani with the inhibition rates of 70.8, 69.5, and 71.5%, respectively. The results suggested that this kind of compounds could be further studied as promising antimicrobial agents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background The non-recurrent laryngeal nerve ( NRLN) is a rare but potentially serious anomaly that is commonly associated with the aberrant right subclavian artery ( ARSA). It is easy to damage during surgical resection of esophageal cancer, leading to severe complications. Methods Preoperative enhanced thoracic computed tomography ( CT) scans of 2697 patients with esophageal carcinoma treated in our hospital between January 2010 and December 2013 were examined. We classified the positional relationship between the right subclavian artery and the membranous wall of the trachea into two types and used this method to predicate NRLN by identifying ARSA. Results Twenty-six patients (0.96%) were identified with ARSA, all of which were cases of NRLN by CT. NRLN was identified during surgery in the 26 patients, and a normal right recurrent laryngeal nerve was observed in 2671 patients. The ARSA was detected on the dorsal side of the membranous wall of the trachea in all 26 NRLN cases, while it was detected on the ventral side in all 2671 recurrent laryngeal nerve cases. Conclusion Enhanced CT scanning is a reliable method for predicting NRLN by identifying ARSA. Preoperative recognition of this nerve anomaly allows surgeons to avoid damaging the nerve and abnormal vessels during esophagectomy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A microsphere composite made of poly(DL-lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA), mesoporous silica nanoparticle (MSN), and nanohydroxyapatite (nHA) (PLGA-MSN/nHA) was prepared and evaluated as bone tissue engineering materials. The objective of this study was to investigate the synergistic effect of MSN/nHA on biocompatibility as well as its potential ability for bone formation. First, we found that this PLGA-MSN/nHA composite performed good characteristics on microstructure, mechanical strength, and wettability. By cell culture experiments, the adhesion and proliferation rate of the cells seeded on PLGA-MSN/nHA composite was higher than those of the controls and high levels of osteogenetic factors such as ALP and Runx-2 were detected by reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction. Finally, this PLGA-MSN/nHA composite was implanted into the femur bone defect in a rabbit model, and its ability to induce bone regeneration was observed by histological examinations. Twelve weeks after implantation, the bone defects had significantly more formation of mature bone and less residual materials than in the controls. These results demonstrate that this PLGA-MSN/nHA composite, introducing both MSN and nHA into PLGA microspheres, can improve the biocompatibility and osteoinductivity of composite in vitro and in vivo and had potential application in bone regeneration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of the current study was to prepare microsphere-based composite scaffolds made of nanohydroxyapatite (nHA)/poly (DL-lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) at different ratios and evaluate the effects of nHA on the characteristics of scaffolds for tissue engineering application. First, microsphere-based composite scaffolds made of two ratios of nHA/PLGA (nHA/PLGA = 20/80 and nHA/PLGA = 50/50) were prepared. Then, the effects of nHA on the wettability, mechanical strength, and degradation of scaffolds were investigated. Second, the biocompatibility and osteoinductivity were evaluated and compared by co-culture of scaffolds with bone marrow stromal stem cells (BMSCs). The results showed that the adhesion, proliferation, and osteogenic differentiation of BMSCs with nHA/PLGA (50/50) were better than those with nHA/PLGA (20/80). Finally, we implanted the scaffolds into femur bone defects in a rabbit model, then the capacity of guiding bone regeneration as well as the in vivo degradation were observed by micro-CT and histological examinations. After 4 weeks' implantation, there was no significant difference on the repair of bone defects. However, after 8 and 12 weeks' implantation, the nHA/PLGA (20/80) exhibited better bone formation than nHA/PLGA (50/50). These results suggested that a proper concentration of nHA in the nHA/PLGA composite should be taken into account when the composite scaffolds were prepared, which plays an important role in the biocompatibility, degradation rate and osteoconductivity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

E uryodendron excelsum H. T. Chang is a critically endangered plant from the family Theaceae that is endemic to China. It is now present in only one remnant population in a very narrow range and with a highly isolated and fragmented distribution pattern. The species is distributed close to the local villages and faces extinction because of the high level of anthropogenic disturbance. Thus, conservation and restoration of this species is urgent. The species reproduces by seed, but its germination requirements and seedling emergence are rarely understood. In this study, the germination requirements, desiccation tolerance and seedling emergence of the species were studied under controlled laboratory conditions. The results indicated that seeds of E . excelsum were non-dormant. Optimal temperatures for germination were 15°C to 25°C; the germination percentage decreased and the mean germination time increased at high temperature. Seed germination was inhibited in the dark, suggesting that the seeds were positive photoblastic. Water stress also significantly inhibited germination percentage; no seeds germinated at 15% polyethylene glycol 6000. The fresh seeds had moderate moisture content of 28.6% and showed strong tolerance of dehydration. Thus, the seeds of E . excelsum tended to be orthodox. Seeds on the soil surface had the highest emergence percentage, which declined with depth of burial. Soil types significantly affected seedling emergence; seeds had higher emergence percentage in sandy soil than in mixed soil and clayed soil. Our study demonstrated that ex situ conservation and reintroduction of E . excelsum using seedling propagation from seeds is feasible. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The concept of using cantilever-free scanning probe arrays as structures that can modulate nanoscale ink flow and composition with light is introduced and evaluated. By utilizing polymer pen arrays with an opaque gold layer surrounding the base of the transparent polymer pyramids, we show that inks with photopolymerizable or isomerizable constituents can be used in conjunction with light channelled through the pyramids to control ink viscosity or composition in a dynamic manner. This on-tip photo-modulated molecular printing provides novel chemically and mechanically controlled approaches to regulating ink transport and composition in real time and could be useful not only for rapidly adjusting feature size but also for studying processes including photoreactions and mass transport at the nanoscale, self-assembly, and cell-material interactions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper considers the problems of almost asymptotic output regulation for discrete-time Markovian jumping linear systems. Based on a stochastic Lyapunov-Krasovskii functional framework, sufficient conditions for the extension of the regulation scheme to such stochastic systems are obtained via state feedback and via error feedback. Relying on a characterization of the feedback controllers, the almost asymptotic regulation is accomplished. The problem of guaranteeing stochastic stability and almost asymptotic tracking is achieved by solving linear matrix inequalities subject to a set of linear equality constraints. In order to ensure relaxed solutions of the regulation equations, a semi-definite optimization approach via disciplined convex programming is outlined. Simulation results also are given to illustrate the effectiveness of the proposed design approach. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of this study was to determine the changing characteristics of soil surface roughness under different rainfall intensities and examine the interaction between soil surface roughness and different water erosion processes. Four artificial management practices (raking cropland, artificial hoeing, artificial digging, and contour tillage) were used according to the local agriculture customs of the Loess Plateau of China to simulate different types of soil surface roughness, using an additional smooth slope for comparison purposes. A total of 20 rainfall simulation experiments were conducted in five 1 m by 2 m boxes under two rainfall intensities (0.68 and 1.50 mm min−1) on a 15° slope. During splash erosion, soil surface roughness decreased in all treatments except raking cropland and smooth baseline under rainfall intensity of 0.68 mm min−1, while increasing for all treatments except smooth baseline under rainfall intensity of 1.50 mm min−1. During sheet erosion, soil surface roughness decreased for all treatments except hoeing cropland under rainfall intensity of 0.68 mm min−1. However, soil surface roughness increased for the artificial hoeing and raking cropland under rainfall intensity of 1.50 mm min−1. Soil surface roughness has a control effect on sheet erosion for different treatments under two rainfall intensities. For rill erosion, soil surface roughness increased for raking cropland and artificial hoeing treatments, and soil surface roughness decreased for artificial digging and the contour tillage treatments under two rainfall intensities. Under rainfall intensity of 0.68 mm min−1, the critical soil surface roughness was 0.706 cm for the resistance control of runoff and sediment yield. Under rainfall intensity of 1.50 mm min−1, the critical soil surface roughness was 1.633 cm for the resistance control of runoff, while the critical soil surface roughness was 0.706 cm for the resistance control of sediment yield. These findings have important implications for clarifying the erosive nature of soil surface roughness and harnessing sloped farmland. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A monolithic low‐voltage H‐bridge brushless DC (BLDC) vibration motor driver with an integrated high sensitivity Hall sensor has been presented in 0.18 μm high‐voltage complementary metal‐oxide semiconductor technology. To improve the motor start‐up reliability, a full‐on start mode is applied to realise a high‐speed start sequence by shortening the start‐up time. Meanwhile, an active start function is activated to prevent dead point phenomenon if the motor magnet pole sensed by the built‐in Hall sensor does not change during the motor starting. This complete one‐chip solution for driving the BLDC vibration motors provides significantly enhanced reliabilities, including thermal shutdown and under voltage lockout protection functions, and fully eliminates the need for any external components. The measured results show that the motor driver chip has a typical operating point of 2 mT and a typical releasing point of − 2 mT, showing a hysteresis magnetic property of 4 mT. The chip is very robust. It can operate well within a low supply voltage range of 2–4 V and can output a maximum of 300 mA peak current while the ambient temperature ranges from − 40 to 85°C. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To assess whether Haemocomplettan® (fibrinogen concentrate) or Fibrogammin® (Factor XIII concentrate) can be used to manage bleeding complications of antithrombotic treatment, we examined a normal plasma pool spiked with AR-H067637 (thrombin inhibitor) or rivaroxaban (activated factor X-inhibitor), to which one of the concentrates was added. Fibrin network permeability (Ks), images of Scanning Electron Microscopy ( SEM) and Clot Lysis Time ( CLT) were examined. Both inhibitors increased the Ks levels, which could be fully or partly reversed by Haemocomplettan® or Fibrogammin® respectively. However, these modified clots with tightened network remained non-resistant to fibrinolysis, shown as unaffected CLT. Tranexamic acid at a very low concentration (0·4 mg/ml) aided the two concentrates to stabilize the clots, where the prolongation of CLT was more pronounced for a lower dose than a higher dose of Haemocomplettan® while Fibrogammin® brought the greatest delay to CLT out of all additions. These observations were partly supported by SEM images, displaying alterations of fibrin fibre arrangement known to influence fibirinolysis. The in vitro data suggest that Haemocomplettan® or Fibrogammin® given in combination with a mini dose of tranexamic acid may slow down the natural clearance of fibrin clot by plasmin and thus prevent patients from haemorrhagic complications during antithrombotic therapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary The formation and degradation of N-(1-Deoxy- d-xylulos-1-yl)glycine and N-(1-Deoxy- d-xylulos-1-yl)proline, derived from the secondary amine Maillard reaction in xylose-amino acid model solutions, were detailed in this study. The identification and quantitative analysis of N-(1-Deoxy- d-xylulos-1-yl)glycine and N-(1-Deoxy- d-xylulos-1-yl)proline were carried out using high-performance anion-exchange chromatography and high-performance liquid chromatography. The formation of intermediate and advanced products derived from N-(1-Deoxy- d-xylulos-1-yl)glycine and N-(1-Deoxy- d-xylulos-1-yl)proline was also tested using an UV-Vis spectrophotometer to gain a better comparing of the degradation process of the two important Maillard reaction products using thermal treatment. Results showed that the degradation of N-(1-Deoxy- d-xylulos-1-yl)glycine was more significant than N-(1-Deoxy- d-xylulos-1-yl)proline. Moreover, xylose was tested in the degradation products of both N-(1-Deoxy- d-xylulos-1-yl)glycine and N-(1-Deoxy- d-xylulos-1-yl)proline, which indicated that the degradation of N-substituted 1-amino-1-deoxyketoses was a reversible reaction to form reducing sugar. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Orally available direct thrombin inhibitors (DTI) and direct activated factor X inhibitors (DFXaI) may replace vitamin K antagonists in patients needing long-term anticoagulant treatment. We investigated the influence on the fibrin network of anticoagulants with different modes of action: AR-H067637 (DTI), the active metabolite of AZD0837, apixaban (DFXaI), fondaparinux (indirect FXaI) and warfarin. Counteraction of the anticoagulant effect by FEIBA (Factor Eight Inhibitor Bypass Activity) was also investigated. Tissue factor, phospholipids and calcium were used to initiate coagulation in human platelet poor plasma. The permeability constant (Ks), reflecting the amount of buffer passing through the coagulum, was calculated and the fibrin network was visualized by 3D confocal microscopy. Warfarin (International Normalized Ratio 2-3) increased Ks in plasma by 28-50% compared with control. 'Therapeutic' plasma concentrations of AR-H067637 (0·3-0·6 μmol/l), apixaban (0·2-0·4 μmol/l) and fondaparinux (0·1-0·3 μmol/l) increased Ks by 72-91%, 58-76% and 36-53% respectively. Addition of FEIBA totally reversed the warfarin effect but only partially reversed effects of the other anticoagulants at concentrations that increased Ks by 50% or more. Fibrin network observed with 3D confocal microscopy agreed well with the permeability results. In conclusion, all examined anticoagulants rendered the fibrin network more porous. FEIBA reversed the increased permeability in warfarin plasma but had only partial effects on the other anticoagulants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]