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Background: Nutritional administration in acute pancreatitis (AP) management has sparked widespread discussion, yet contradictory mortality results across meta‐analyses necessitate clarification. The optimal nutritional route in AP remains uncertain. Therefore, this study aimed to compare mortality among nutritional administration routes in patients with AP using consistency model. Methods: This study searched four major databases for relevant randomized controlled trials (RCTs). Two authors independently extracted and checked data and quality. Network meta‐analysis was conducted for estimating risk ratios (RRs) with 95% confidence interval (CI) based on random‐effects model. Subgroup analyses accounted for AP severity and nutrition support initiation. Results: A meticulous search yielded 1185 references, with 30 records meeting inclusion criteria from 27 RCTs (n = 1594). Pooled analyses showed the mortality risk reduction associated with nasogastric (NG) (RR = 0.34; 95%CI: 0.16–0.73) and nasojejunal (NJ) feeding (RR = 0.46; 95%CI: 0.25–0.84) in comparison to nil per os. Similarly, NG (RR = 0.45; 95%CI: 0.24–0.83) and NJ (RR = 0.60; 95%CI: 0.40–0.90) feeding also showed lower mortality risk than total parenteral nutrition. Subgroup analyses, stratified by severity, supported these findings. Notably, the timing of nutritional support initiation emerged as a significant factor, with NJ feeding demonstrating notable mortality reduction within 24 and 48 h, particularly in severe cases. Conclusion: For severe AP, both NG and NJ feeding appear optimal, with variations in initiation timings. NG feeding does not appear to merit recommendation within the initial 24 h, whereas NJ feeding is advisable within the corresponding timeframe following admission. These findings offer valuable insights for optimizing nutritional interventions in AP. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Despite convincing evidence suggesting that organizations benefit from employees' flow states, when and how work flow experience generates negative effects remain largely understudied. By integrating the spillover-crossover model and perseverative cognition theory, we established a model to explain how flow experience induces employees' positive rumination after work (i.e., problem-solving pondering), which ultimately results in work-family conflict. We proposed that mindfulness acts as a buffer factor in this process but further elucidated that work-family segmentation preference serves as a boundary that may alter or even completely reverse the original effects of mindfulness. Our experience sampling method yielded 1425 data points from 186 employees and their family members across 10 workdays in China, and multilevel analyses supported our propositions. We identified the mediating role of problem-solving pondering in transmitting the effects of flow to work-family conflict. Additionally, we confirmed the three-way interaction effect among mindfulness, segmentation preference, and flow. Specifically, the harmful effect of flow is assuaged when segmentation preference and mindfulness are both high. However, flow experience causes severe work-family conflict when mindfulness is high and segmentation preference is low. Theoretical and practical implications were discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

IMP‐3 expression is a poor prognostic factor of melanomas and it promotes melanoma cell migration and invasion by a pathway modulating HMGA2 mRNA expression. We tried to identify other putative targets of IMP‐3. We identified putative IMP‐3‐binding RNAs, including AKT1, MAPK3, RB1 and RELA, by RNA immunoprecipitation coupled with next‐generation sequencing. IMP‐3 overexpression increased AKT and RELA levels in MeWo cells. siRNAs against AKT1 and RELA inhibited MeWo/Full‐length IMP‐3 cell migration. IMP‐3 knockdown of A2058 cells decreased AKT1 and RELA expression and lowered migration ability. Co‐transfection of A2058 cells with AKT1‐ or RELA‐expressing plasmids with IMP‐3 siRNA restored the inhibitory effects of IMP‐3 knockdown on migration. HMGA2 did not influence AKT1 and RELA expression in melanoma cells. Human melanoma samples with high IMP‐3 levels also showed high HMGA2, AKT1 and RELA expression. Our results show that IMP‐3 enhances melanoma cell migration through the regulation of the AKT1 and RELA axis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The highly conserved matrix protein 2 ectodomain (M2e) of influenza viruses presents a compelling vaccine antigen candidate for stemming the pandemic threat of the mutation‐prone pathogen, yet the low immunogenicity of the diminutive M2e peptide renders vaccine development challenging. A highly potent M2e nanoshell vaccine that confers broad and durable influenza protectivity under a single vaccination is shown. Prepared via asymmetric ionic stabilization for nanoscopic curvature formation, polymeric nanoshells co‐encapsulating high densities of M2e peptides and stimulator of interferon genes (STING) agonists are prepared. Robust and long‐lasting protectivity against heterotypic influenza viruses is achieved with a single administration of the M2e nanoshells in mice. Mechanistically, molecular adjuvancy by the STING agonist and nanoshell‐mediated prolongation of M2e antigen exposure in the lymph node follicles synergistically contribute to the heightened anti‐M2e humoral responses. STING agonist‐triggered T cell helper functions and extended residence of M2e peptides in the follicular dendritic cell network provide a favorable microenvironment that induces Th1‐biased antibody production against the diminutive antigen. These findings highlight a versatile nanoparticulate design that leverages innate immune pathways for enhancing the immunogenicity of weak immunogens. The single‐shot nanovaccine further provides a translationally viable platform for pandemic preparedness. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: To evaluate the influence of febuxostat on adverse events and mortality in gout. Methods: We retrospectively enrolled patients with newly diagnosed gout and prescribed urate‐lowering therapy between 2006 and 2017 from the Taiwan National Health Insurance Database. These patients were divided into 2 groups: with and without comorbidities (n = 294 847 and 194 539). An interrupted time series analysis with adjustments for demographics, comorbidities, and comedication by propensity score‐based stabilized weights was used to compare the trend of adverse events and mortality before vs after febuxostat was introduced in 2012. Results: The proportion of febuxostat use gradually increased from 0% in 2012 to 30% in those with comorbidities and 10% in those without comorbidities in 2017. Allopurinol use decreased from 30% in 2012 to 10% in 2017. The slope of the 1‐year incidence rate of Stevens–Johnson syndrome (SJS) or toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN) (per 10 000 patients) significantly reduced after 2012 in those with and without comorbidities (−0.375 per quarter, P =.015 and −.253 per quarter, P =.049). The slope of the 3‐year incidence rate of acute myocardial infarction (AMI) (per 1000 patients), percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) (per 1000 patients), and all‐cause mortality (per 100 patients) significantly increased after 2012 in those with comorbidities (+0.207 per quarter, P =.013; +.389 per quarter, P =.002; +.103 per quarter, P =.001). Conclusions: Febuxostat may reduce SJS and TEN in all gout patients but increase AMI, PCI, and all‐cause mortality in gout patients with comorbidities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The cross-dehydrogenative coupling (CDC) reaction of ß-ketoesters with quinoxalin-2(1H)-one derivatives has been successfully performed by using a readily available Cu salt as the catalyst in moderate to excellent yields under mild conditions. Owing to the characteristic of handy operation and good functional group tolerance, this protocol affords a convenient access to α-quinoxalinone-substituted ß-ketoesters. Preliminary mechanistic investigations show this transformation possibly underwent an unusual ionic pathway. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A compatible organic/inorganic nanocomposite film for a stretchable resistive memory device with high performance is demonstrated using poly(4‐vinylpyridine)‐block‐poly(propyl methacrylate) (P4VP‐b‐PPMA) with zinc oxide (ZnO) nanoparticle. The PPMA soft segment is designed for reducing the rigidity of the active layer, while the P4VP block serves as a charge‐trapping component to induce conductive filament and also a compatible moiety for inorganic nanoparticles through hydrogen bonding. The experimental results show that the P4VP‐b‐PPMA‐based electrical memory device exhibits write‐once‐read‐many‐times memory behavior and an excellent ON/OFF current ratio of over 105 with a stable turn‐on voltage (Vset) around −2.0 V and stable memory behavior upon stretching up to 60% strain. On the other hand, P4VP‐b‐PPMA/ZnO nanocomposite film switches the memory characteristic to the dynamic random access memory behavior. The stretchable memory device prepared from the nanocomposite film can have a stretching durability over 40% strain and up to 1000 times cycling stretch–relaxation test. This work demonstrates a new strategy using nanocomposite films with tunable electrical characteristics and enhanced mechanical properties for stretchable electrical devices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An operationally simple radical difluoroalkylation/trifluoromethylation and alkynylation of unactivated alkenes under mild conditions has been developed. Through this protocol, a series of CF2/CF3-substituted linear alkynyl ketones were synthesized via a unique 1,2-alkynyl radical migration. Notably, no transition-metal catalyst is needed in the developed reaction system, and excellent functional group compatibility was observed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The organically modified montmorillonite (M-Mt) was applied as an adsorbent for the purification of bovine serum albumin (BSA). In order to differentiate the selectivity and perform the purification of BSA, two kinds of proteins, BSA and lysozyme (LYZ) were mixed together and prepared at different pH, which could change the electrical charges on the surfaces of the proteins. BSA and LYZ can be adsorbed at the lower pH into the organically modified montmorillonite, which could be confirmed by powder X-ray diffraction (XRD) in the d-value increased after the adsorption of proteins. However, there is only BSA desorption was observed, approved by the method of Sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS)-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (PAGE), from this adsorbed protein mixture when the pH of the solution was adjusted and optimized. These results indicate that there is electrostatic interaction between a suitably modified montmorillonite and proteins BSA and LYZ to perform the selective desorption from BSA in the mixture of these proteins. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Thousands of pregnant women are exposed to arsenic ( As), which has been shown to lead to a higher risk of maternal and infant morbidity. We hypothesized that As-induced modifications to the humoral immune system may be partly responsible, and examined the relationship between As and immunoglobulin G ( IgG). Methods Pregnant women were recruited in As-contaminated rural areas in Bangladesh. Blood and urine samples, and questionnaire data were collected. We analyzed data from 202 pregnant women and a subset of 121 mother-infant pairs. Urinary As was measured on inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry and adjusted with specific gravity ( U- AsSG). Maternal ( IgGmat) and cord ( IgGcord) serum total IgG were measured using immunoturbidity assay. Results The geometric mean U- AsSG ( n = 202) was 69 μg/L (range, 3.1-1356 μg/L). Urinary- AsSG was significantly associated with Ig Gmat ( n = 202; (r = 0.24; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.10-0.36; P < 0.001) and remained so after the inclusion of maternal-associated variables in a multiple-regression model (β = 1.26; 95%CI: 0.47-2.05; P < 0.01). U- AsSG, however, was not significantly associated with IgGcord ( n = 121), while IgGmat and IgGcord were also not associated with each other. Conclusions Maternal As exposure was positively associated with IgGmat but not IgGcord. Elevated IgGmat may have implications as regards maternal morbidity and the placental transfer of specific IgGs. Further studies are required to better understand how As may affect maternal and child health by modifying the humoral immune system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Total pancreatectomy ( TP) is an operation that has long been associated with high morbidity and mortality, and rarely advocated for treatment of pancreatic tumours. Because of the improvements in diabetes management, there has been renewed interest in TP for treatment of pancreatic neoplasm, with a need to reassess outcomes. Methods Fifteen patients (9%) underwent TP in a single Australian high-volume tertiary institution between August 2005 and January 2012. Pancreaticoduodenectomy ( PD) was performed in 150 patients during the same time period. Indications and peri-operative outcomes of patients were compared. Results TP was performed for treatment of malignancy in 13 (87%) cases, for tumours involving the pancreatic neck. Complete tumour clearance achieved. Portal vein resections were more frequently required than in the PD group (5 (33%) versus 9 (6%); P = 0.004), as were blood transfusions (11 (73%) versus 28 (19%); P < 0.001), and median operative times were longer (10.5 versus 7.0 h; P < 0.001). Overall, complications were significantly greater in the TP group compared with the PD group (13 (87%) versus 86 (57%); P = 0.029), but the difference was mainly as a result of high grade I complications, in particular symptomatic hypoglycaemia (4 (27%) versus 0 (0%): P < 0.001) that could be easily managed. The overall lengths of stay and readmission rates were similar between groups. Conclusion TP should be considered in selective cases for treatment of pancreatic neoplasm if it allows complete clearance. The procedure does not appear to be associated with significant increases in serious complications compared with PD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This work reports the crystallization, microstructure, and surface composition of Cu In0.7 Ga0.3 Se2 ( CIGS) thin films grown by femtosecond pulsed laser deposition at different annealing temperatures. The structural and optical properties of the CIGS films were characterized by X-ray diffraction, Raman scattering, UV-visible spectroscopy, and Hall effect measurement. The results indicate that binary crystals of CuSe initially formed on the as-deposited film, but then completely turned into a quaternary chalcopyrite structure after annealing at 400°C. Phase transformation significantly affects the surface morphology, Hall properties, and band gap. Transmission electron microscopy further revealed that an interface between the Mo substrate and CIGS crystallites contains an amorphous layer even at the high temperature of 500°C. For the application of photovoltaic devices, we also report on the photoresponse of both as-deposited and annealed films as demonstrated by preliminary tests. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Study Type - Therapy (case series) Level of Evidence 4 What's known on the subject? and What does the study add? Nephron-sparing surgery (NSS) is increasingly recognised as a preferred form of management for the incidentally detected small renal mass (SRM). Within the context of equivalent oncological outcomes, patients treated by NSS may have a survival advantage over those treated by radical nephrectomy (RN) through a reduced risk of chronic kidney disease and its associated cardiac morbidity. Despite this, according to Medicare data from the USA, a disproportionate number of patients with SRMs continue to be treated with RN instead of NSS. Similar data from Australia are not yet available. The present study explores the evolving management of SRMs at an Australian tertiary centre over a 5-year period. It utilises the R.E.N.A.L. Nephrometry Score to assess how lesion complexity has influenced surgical decision-making and charts the increasing use of NSS in the management of low-complexity renal masses at our centre. OBJECTIVE To examine recent trends in the use of nephron-sparing surgery (NSS) at our centre. Specifically, we sought to examine the process of surgical decision-making by applying the R.E.N.A.L. nephrometry scoring system to assess the complexity of lesions for which surgery was undertaken. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In 2009, the Consortium for the Barcode of Life (CBOL) recommended the combination of rbcL and matK as the plant barcode based on assessments of recoverability, sequencing quality, and levels of species discrimination. Subsequently, based on a study of more than 6600 samples belonging to 193 families from seven phyla, the internal transcribed spacer (ITS) 2 locus was proposed as a universal barcode sequence for all major plant taxa used in traditional herbal medicine. Neither of these two studies was based on a detailed analysis of a particular family. Here, Zingiberaceae plants, including many closely related species, were used to compare the genetic divergence and species identification efficiency of ITS2, rbcL, matK, psbK- psbI, trnH- psbA, and rpoB. The results indicate that ITS2 has the highest interspecific divergence and significant differences between inter- and intraspecific divergence, whereas matK and rbcL have much lower divergence values. Among 260 species belonging to 30 genera in Zingiberaceae, the discrimination ability of the ITS2 locus was 99.5% at the genus level and 73.1% at the species level. Thus, we propose that ITS2 is the preferred DNA barcode sequence for identifying Zingiberaceae plants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To reconstruct the phylogeographic history of the Holarctic carnivorous genus Leptodora (Crustacea: Cladocera: Haplopoda). We studied the DNA of between one and five specimens each from 28 populations distributed across the Holarctic, but with emphasis on Eurasia. We sequenced a mitochondrial (cytochrome c oxidase subunit I) and a nuclear (elongation factor-1α) gene, and combined this molecular information with geological and palaeoclimatological data. Haplotype networks and phylogenetic trees were constructed using a Bayesian and maximum likelihood approach. A molecular clock was applied. Leptodora consists of three clades ( Leptodora kindtii in Europe, Leptodora richardi in China and Japan, and Leptodora sp. in North America), with insular subclades in Japan and in the eastern Mediterranean. The North American clade was not studied in detail. Leptodora richardi is the more thermophilic of the three. It extends from the Tropic of Cancer in the south to the Heilong Basin in the north. The western European L. kindtii is more cold-water adapted than the eastern Mediterranean subclade. 'West European' and 'Chinese' clades are broadly separated by a hybrid zone in Siberia and European Russia as far west as the Volga. These hybrids have the mitochondrial DNA of L. kindtii, the nuclear DNA of L. richardi and the low-temperature preference of L. kindtii, and may have formed as recently as the Holocene hypsithermal. A pure L. kindtii population in the Upper Irtysh catchment, east of the Dzungarian Gates, has been sequestered in endorheic Lake Wulungu, Xinjiang, since the mid-Pleistocene. Application of a molecular clock places the most recent common ancestor of the North American, East Asian and European populations in the mid-Miocene. The North American taxon is still living in isolation, while the Eurasian taxa, separated by the Alpine folding, made contact again in the Pleistocene, when the cold-stenothermic L. kindtii repeatedly moved eastwards across Siberia and back. The population in Xinjiang is a relict of an early wave coming from western Europe: it crossed the Dzungarian Gates during a humid mid-Pleistocene event, probably corresponding to the Apsheron transgression in the Caspian Basin. Later aridity isolated it there, and it started accumulating private haplotypes. The Holocene Euro-Siberian hybrid zone may eventually engulf all European populations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Trafficking of mRNA molecules from the nucleus to distal processes in neural cells is mediated by heterogeneous nuclear ribonucleoprotein (hnRNP) A2/B1 trans-acting factors. Although hnRNP A2/B1 is alternatively spliced to generate four isoforms, most functional studies have not distinguished between these isoforms. Here, we show, using isoform-specific antibodies and isoform-specific green fluorescent protein (GFP)-fusion expression constructs, that A2b is the predominant cytoplasmic isoform in neural cells, suggesting that it may play a key role in mRNA trafficking. The differential subcellular distribution patterns of the individual isoforms are determined by the presence or absence of alternative exons that also affect their dynamic behavior in different cellular compartments, as measured by fluorescence correlation spectroscopy. Expression of A2b is also differentially regulated with age, species and cellular development. Furthermore, coinjection of isoform-specific antibodies and labeled RNA into live oligodendrocytes shows that the assembly of RNA granules is impaired by blockade of A2b function. These findings suggest that neural cells modulate mRNA trafficking by regulating alternative splicing of hnRNP A2/B1 and controlling expression levels of A2b, which may be the predominant mediator of cytoplasmic-trafficking functions. These findings highlight the importance of considering isoform-specific functions for alternatively spliced proteins. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

OBJECTIVE: To summarize the clinical and spiral computed tomography (CT) features of undifferentiated embryonic liver sarcoma (UELS) in adults. METHODS: Clinical and CT findings of four adult patients with pathology-approved UELS were retrospectively analyzed with a literature review. All patients were examined using a plain and enhanced spiral CT scan. RESULTS: The participants were two men and two women with a mean age of 36.5 years. The clinical manifestations were the right upper quadrant mass, pain ( n= four) and intermittent fever ( n= three). Laboratory tests showed a mild elevation of alpha-fetoprotein in one patient and mildly abnormal liver function in two. Liver cirrhosis was present in one patient coexistent with hepatocellular carcinoma. CT findings indicated a huge well-defined cystic-solid mass with varying degrees of enhancement of the solid component. Irregular high-density lesions showing hemorrhage occurred in three patients and the inferior vena cava was compressed in one. CONCLUSION: UELS showed a solitary and predominantly cystic or multicystic appearance on CT imaging compared with ultrasound (US) from the medical literature, which shows a predominantly hypoechoic mass. The laboratory tests were normal or mildly abnormal despite the presence of the large mass. The combination of these clinical features and CT findings together with those of US are helpful in making a prospective diagnosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Combinations therapy is often used in hypertensive patients whether combination therapy is necessary for preventing end-organ damage is not known. The objective of this study was to determine in four different hypertensive animal models the necessity of adding the calcium channel blocker amlodipine to therapy with the β-blocker atenolol to modulate end-organ damage. Spontaneously hypertensive rats, DOCA-salt hypertensive rats, two-kidney, one-clip renovascular hypertensive rats and Lyon genetically hypertensive rats were used to study this objective. These animal models have different sensitivities to atenolol and amlodipine. The dosages of therapy employed were 10 mg/kg atenolol alone, 1 mg/kg amlodipine, 10 mg atenolol + 1 mg/kg amlodipine and 5 mg/kg atenolol+0.5 mg/kg amlodipine. BP was continuously recorded in all animals. After determination of baroreflex sensitivity, rats were sacrificed for end-organ damage evaluation. The combination of amlodipine and atenolol had a synergistic inhibitory effect on blood pressure and blood pressure variability, and end-organ damage as compared with monotherapy with atenolol or amlodipine in all animal models. Baroreflex sensitivity also improved with the combination therapy more than with monotherapy. In conclusion, atenolol and amlodipine combination exerts a superior effect on blood pressure, blood pressure variability, baroreflex sensitivity and end-organ damage. The superior effect of the combination was observed in all four models of hypertension. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background/Aims: Fulminant hepatitis or acute liver failure (ALF), initiated by viral infection or hepatic toxin, is a devastating medical complication without effective therapeutic treatment. In this study, we addressed the potential roles of hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) and their produced matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) in development of ALF. Methods: Mice were given lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and beta-galactosamine (GA) or carbon tetrachloride to create ALF and establish the association of IL-1, MMP-9, and caspase-3 in acute liver failure. Results: In response to the hepatic toxin, IL-1 and MMP-9 were promptly induced within 1 hour, followed by caspase-3 activation at 2 hours, and dehiscence of sinusoids at 4 hours, and consequent lethality. In contrast, MMP-9 knockout mice were resistant to lethality and absent of caspase-3 activation, demonstrating an MMP-9-dependent activation of caspase in vivo. Further, IL-1-receptor knockout mice were resistant to lethality in MMP-9 dependent manner, indicating a causative relationship. Although many hepatic cells are capable to produce MMP-9 in vitro, HSCs were demonstrated here as the major hepatic cells to express MMP-9 in liver injury. To recapitulate the sinusoidal microenvironment we cultured primary HSCs in 3-dimensional ECM. In response to IL-1, massive MMP-9 was produced by the 3D culture concomitantly with degradation of type-IV collagen. Conclusions: Based on these evidences, we propose a novel model to highlight the initiation of acute liver failure: IL-1-induced MMPs by HSCs within the space of Disse and thereafter ECM degradation may provoke the collapse of sinusoids, leading parenchymal cell death and loss of liver functions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The photoperiod pathway is a genetically conserved pathway that affects flowering in distantly related angiosperms. Here we report a novel flowering promoter AGAMOUS-LIKE 17 ( AGL17) acting in the photoperiod pathway of Arabidopsis. AGL17 transcripts were detectable in various plant organs with the highest expression in the root. Under long-day conditions, expression of AGL17 gradually increased in the aerial part of seedlings during the floral transition. Overexpression of AGL17 caused early flowering, while loss of function of AGL17 exhibited late flowering, particularly under long days. Analysis of AGL17 expression in various flowering-time mutants showed that its transcripts were significantly reduced in the photoperiod pathway mutant co-1. Correspondingly, AGL17 expression was upregulated in transgenic plants overexpressing CONSTANS ( CO) and also when CO activity was induced by light. Genetic analysis further showed that overexpression of AGL17 could partially suppress the late flowering of co-1. These results suggest that AGL17 acts to promote flowering and is positively controlled by the photoperiod pathway regulator CO. In contrast, another target of CO, FLOWERING LOCUS T ( FT), did not affect AGL17 expression, and vice versa. The expression of two floral meristem identity genes LEAFY ( LFY) and APETALA1 ( AP1) decreased in agl17-1, while LFY and AP1 could be rapidly induced by AGL17 using a functional estradiol-inducible system. These findings indicate that AGL17 ultimately promotes flowering via regulation of LFY and AP1. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dopamine receptors exist in many tissues, including rat cardiac tissue. However, the physiological importance of dopamine receptors in the homeostatic regulation of cardiac function is unclear. In this study, a model of ischaemia/reperfusion was established by culturing primary neonatal rat cardiomyocytes in ischaemia-mimetic solution for 2 hr, followed by incubation in normal culture medium for 24 hr. Lactate dehydrogenase activity, superoxide dismutase activity and malondialdehyde content were determined colorimetrically with a spectrophotometer. Apoptotic cell death was assayed by 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide assay, terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase-mediated dUTP-biotin nick end labelling staining and flow cytometry, and morphological alterations were observed with transmission electron microscopy. The intracellular free calcium concentration ([Ca2+]i) was measured by confocal laser scanning microscopy. Finally, the expression of dopamine receptor 1 (DR1), caspase-3, -8 and -9, Fas, Fas ligand and Bcl-2 and the release of cytochrome c were analysed by Western blot. The results showed that DR1 expression was increased markedly during ischaemia/reperfusion. Treatment with 10 µM SKF-38393 (DR1 agonist) significantly increased lactate dehydrogenase activity, decreased superoxide dismutase activity and increased malondialdehyde content in the culture medium. The DR1 agonist promoted the release of cytochrome c, accumulation of [Ca2+]i, and apoptosis induced by ischaemia/reperfusion. Furthermore, SKF-38393 up-regulated the expression of caspase-3, -8 and -9, Fas and Fas ligand, and down-regulated Bcl-2 expression. In contrast, 10 µM SCH-23390 (DR1 antagonist) had no significant effects on the above indicators. In conclusion, DR1 activation is involved in the apoptosis of cultured neonatal rat cardiomyocytes in simulated ischaemia/reperfusion through the mitochondrial and death receptor pathways. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The title compound, C31H22N4O, is a bipolar ligand which contains triphenylamine and 1,3,4-oxadiazole units. Within the molecule, the 1,3,4-oxadiazole and pyridine rings are nearly coplanar, making a dihedral angle of 4.7 (6)°. The molecules are linked by intermolecular C⁄H⋯N hydrogen bonding. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The title compound, [Ir(C11H8N)2(C12H12N2)]PF6, an iridium complex with two cyclometallated 2-phenylpyridine fragments and one 4,4′-dimethyl-2,2′-bipyridine unit, presents a distorted octahedral coordination geometry around the Ir atom. Charge balance is achieved through a hexafluoridophosphate anion. The coordination geometry of the two 2-phenylpyridine ligands around the IrIII centre retains the cis-C—C and trans-N—N chelate dispositions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Bumo gold deposit is a low-sulfide quartz vein type deposit, situated in the west of Hainan Island, approximately 25 km southeast of Dongfang City (termed Basuo in alias). Tectonically, the SW-NE-oriented Gezhen Ductile-Shearing Zone was largely attenuated in Bumo. It is hosted by gneisses and schists of Proterozoic age (locally called the Baoban Group), but the radiometric age of ores mainly is Jurassic–Cretaceous, being coeval to the regional metallogenesis along the Eurasian margin. The affinity with the Phanerozoic orogenic gold deposits is indicated by low salinity (2.4 wt% NaCl–10.3 wt% NaCl), intermediate temperature (150–300°C) and appropriate δ18O value (approximately 7–11‰). The gold metal tonnage, proved previously, within an area smaller than 1.0 km2 in the gold belt II amounted to 11.59 t, with the average gold grades for the major Au quartz veins (7 and 8) in this belt of 52.7 and 71.1 g/t, respectively. This shows significant enrichment of gold and an unusual “nugget effect”. A ring structure, mainly represented by ridges, valleys, dikes, big bull quartz veins and lithological borders or pertinent faults, marks the gold field, and its origin was linked to a possible magmatic diapir. It was viewed as macroscopic evidence that the dip angles of strata tend to decline gradually from deeper ones in the center area to nearly horizontal in the outskirts, and certain intrusion-affiliated elements such as Bi, As and W are considerably abundant in soil samples. Two areas, namely the area A (3.06 km2) in the outskirts of the ring structure or in northeastern Bumo and the area B (1.32 km2) in the field center or to the west of the gold belts I and II, were selected for the geochemical survey in a 50 × 50-m sampling grid. The analytical results of the samples from horizon C and in a −80 mesh size showed that the average contents of Bi, As and W amounted to 0.55, 19.3 and 3.67 ppm in the area A (1225 samples) and to 0.79, 68.3 and 4.14 ppm in the area B (529 samples), respectively. This geochemical exploration led to the discovery of several Au quartz veins in both areas A and B, which also manifested an Au nugget effect (the average Au grades between 50 and 100 g/t) in spite of their limited scales (from a couple of centimeters to 50 cm wide and from several meters to 15 m long). A mylonite zone in area A was also found by this study. An intimate spatial correlation between a lithological border (gneiss and schist or pegmatite) or the mylonite zone and Au anomalies indicates an important prospect for further gold exploration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study aimed to find out suitable conditions for the in vitro culture of Salicornia europaea L. and to develop an efficient regeneration system. S. europaea plants were regenerated successfully in vitro from callus derived from mature embryos. Via the method of 2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetic acid (2,4-D)-short-treatment on mature seeds, callus was induced from hypocotyls on the MS medium with 4.55 μmol/L N-phenyl- N′-1, 2, 3-thiadiazol-5-yl urea (TDZ) 3–4 weeks after the seeds germinated. The callus differentiated into shoots at a rate of 27.6% after subculture for one time on the same medium. When NaCl was included in the medium, shoots were formed in cluster and the shoot differentiation frequency was increased to 55.2%. The shoots were rooted when cultured on 1/2 MS medium supplemented with indole-3-butyric acid (IBA), kinetin (KN) and activated charcoal (AC). The results indicated that NaCl and TDZ played an important role in the improvement of the regeneration rate of the halophyte, S. europaea. (Managing editor: Wei Wang) [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Some members of the Solanaceae have a self‐incompatibility mechanism preventing self‐fertilization. Stylar ribonucleases (S‐RNases) are responsible for growth inhibition of self‐pollen tubes. A prevalent model postulates that the S‐RNases act as intracellular cytotoxins that degrade ribosomal RNA, and possibly also messenger RNA, in the incompatible pollen tubes. Since ribosomes and polysomes are easily noticed with the electron microscope, it should be possible to confirm disintegration of these structures. However, our inspection by electron microscopy revealed the presence of ribosomes and polysomes in pollen tubes formed after self‐pollination of the self‐sterile species Brugmansia (Datura) suaveolens and Nicotiana alata. There was no decrease over time in the number of bound ribosomes per unit of rough endoplasmic reticulum (RER) membrane. The results indicate that the inhibition of tube growth is not due to a general degradation of ribosomal and messenger RNA. Therefore, the substrate for S‐RNases presumably is very specific. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A letter to the editor is presented regarding the c-KIT or CD117 gene overexpression in squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) of the uterine cervix.

The continued threat of emerging, highly lethal infectious pathogens such as Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus (MERS‐CoV) calls for the development of novel vaccine technology that offers safe and effective prophylactic measures. Here, a novel nanoparticle vaccine is developed to deliver subunit viral antigens and STING agonists in a virus‐like fashion. STING agonists are first encapsulated into capsid‐like hollow polymeric nanoparticles, which show multiple favorable attributes, including a pH‐responsive release profile, prominent local immune activation, and reduced systemic reactogenicity. Upon subsequent antigen conjugation, the nanoparticles carry morphological semblance to native virions and facilitate codelivery of antigens and STING agonists to draining lymph nodes and immune cells for immune potentiation. Nanoparticle vaccine effectiveness is supported by the elicitation of potent neutralization antibody and antigen‐specific T cell responses in mice immunized with a MERS‐CoV nanoparticle vaccine candidate. Using a MERS‐CoV‐permissive transgenic mouse model, it is shown that mice immunized with this nanoparticle‐based MERS‐CoV vaccine are protected against a lethal challenge of MERS‐CoV without triggering undesirable eosinophilic immunopathology. Together, the biocompatible hollow nanoparticle described herein provides an excellent strategy for delivering both subunit vaccine candidates and novel adjuvants, enabling accelerated development of effective and safe vaccines against emerging viral pathogens. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article presents a study which examines the potential of human epidermal growth factor-like receptor-2 (HER-2) as a therapeutic target in treating primary mucinous epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC). Mucinous and non-mucinous epithelial ovarian cancers were analysed in a tissue microarray study. The results revealed a 100% gene amplification rate of HER2 gene in micinous EOCs, but 0% in non-mucinous EOC.

A letter to the editor is presented discussing the role of anti-cytokeratin CAM 5.2 as a surrogate of the cytokeratin 8/18 monoclonal antibody.

The article presents a case study of a 56 year old man who suffered from arteriovenous fistula (AVF) for three months with a history of stroke, hypertension and uraemia. Percutaneous transluminal angioplasty (PTA) was performed for primary failure with inadequate blood flow during haemodialysis (HD). Fistulography revealed a bifurcation lesion for which kissing balloon technique was used. The results showed that PTA using kissing balloon technique can be used for HD patients with AVF

The crystal structure of the title compound, C7H8N2O3, contains a 1:1 mixture of two tautomers, viz. ethyl 6-oxo-1,6-dihydro­pyrimidine-5-carboxyl­ate and ethyl 4-oxo-1,4-dihydro­pyrimidine-5-carboxyl­ate. The mol­ecules are linked into a three-dimensional network by N—H⋯O, C—H⋯O and C—H⋯N hydrogen bonds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A letter to the editor is presented in response to the article "Detection of minimal residual disease in blood and bone marrow in early stage breast cancer," by S. Krishnamurthy, M. Cristofanilli, B. Singh, et al in the October 2, 2010 issue.

A letter to the editor is presented in response to the article "Expression of c-MET, low-molecular-weight cytokeratin, matrix metalloproteinases-1 and -2 in spinal chordoma" in the previous issue.

A letter to the editor is presented in response to the article "Malignant Adenomyoepithelioma of the Breast Combined With Invasive Lobular Carcinoma," by Yumi Honda and Ken-ichi Iyama published in the 2009 issue of the journal.

The title compound, [Ir(C8H4F3O2S)(C12H10N)2]·C4H8O2, contains two cyclometallated 3-methyl-2-phenylpyridine ligands and one thenoyltrifluoroacetonate ligand. The central IrIII atom has a distorted octahedral coordination geometry, with the C atoms being cis and the N atoms trans. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the asymmetric unit of the title compound, C11H10BrN3O, there are two independent mol­ecules. The dihedral angles between the benzene and triazole rings in the two independent mol­ecules are 84.1 (2) and 65.1 (2)°. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]