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Background: Non‐small‐cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is a common cancer. Chemotherapeutic drug resistance limits the therapeutic effect of NSCLC and leads to a poor prognosis. As a result, new specific targets may be better identified by studying the mechanism of drug resistance to cisplatin in NSCLC. Methods: In the present study, we performed a quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction and western blotting to detect mRNA and protein levels. The proliferation of cells was analyzed by a Cell Counting Kit‐8 and colony formation assays. Cell invasion was measured via the Transwell assay. A scratch assay was performed to measure cell migration in cisplatin (DDP)‐resistant NSCLC cells. Apoptosis of cells was examined using flow cytometry. Results: We found that circANKRD28 was notably decreased in NSCLC. The results showed that circANKRD28 expression was not affected, and its half‐life was more than 12 h. Functional experiments revealed that circANKRD28 overexpression inhibited DDP resistance in NSCLC cells in vitro. Mechanistic findings demonstrated that circANKRD28 regulated tumor cell progression and DDP sensitivity through the miR‐221‐3p/SOCS3 axis. Conclusions: The present study revealed the regulatory effects and molecular mechanism of circANKRD28 on the development and cisplatin resistance in NSCLC, which may provide experimental basis and theoretical support to identify new targets for therapy of DDP resistance in NSCLC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Transition metal‐catalyzed enantioselective C−H activation of prochiral sulfoximines for non‐annulated products remains a formidable challenge. We herein report iridium‐catalyzed enantioselective C−H borylation of N‐silyl diaryl sulfoximines using a well‐designed chiral bidentate boryl ligand with a bulky side arm. This method is capable of accommodating a broad range of substrates under mild reaction conditions, affording a vast array of chiral sulfoximines with high enantioselectivities. We also demonstrated the synthetic utility on a preparative‐scale C−H borylation for diverse downstream transformations, including the synthesis of chiral version of bioactive molecules. Computational studies showed that the bulky side arm of the ligand confers high regio‐ and enantioselectivity through steric effect. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: The aim of this study was to investigate how peritoneal dialysis and other influencing factors affect patients' cognitive function. Methods: The 85 subjects in the study group were regular patients in our center. The control group included 88 age and gender matched healthy individuals who were with normal renal function. The study subjects' cognitive levels and related factors were analyzed using several screening instruments: the cognitive function was measured using the Montreal Cognitive Assessment Scale and statistical analysis was conducted based on the relevant data. Results: The results showed that cognitive impairment was higher in peritoneal dialysis patients than in non‐dialysis subjects. Age and educational background were single factors that affected cognitive function, which was more likely to be impaired at a higher age level and/or a lower educational level. Conclusion: Cognitive function can be impaired by peritoneal dialysis, and age and education levels are influencing factors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Ghohroud granitoids (GG), containing mafic microgranular enclaves (MMEs) are located in the central part of the Urumieh‐Dokhtar Magmatic Arc (UDMA) in central Iran. They are associated with the subduction‐related magmatism in the Alpine‐Himalayan orogenic belt. The GG are comprised of a variety of intermediate and felsic rocks, including tonalite, granodiorite, granite, diorite porphyry and monzodiorite. The MMEs are gabbroic diorite and tonalite in composition and characterized by a fine‐grained hypidiomorphic microgranular texture with occasional chilled margins. They show rounded, sharp or irregular contact with the host granitoids. The occurrences of quartz, K‐feldspar and corroded plagioclase indicate that MMEs are the products of mixing between mantle and crust‐derived magmas. New ages of zircon U–Pb dating reveal that the GG in the Kashan area emplaced at ca. 19–17 Ma (Burdigalian). All the samples of MMEs and granitoid host rocks in this study are metaluminous and calc‐alkaline with I‐type affinities. They are enriched in light rare earth elements (LREEs) and show slight negative Eu anomalies (Eu/Eu* = 0.36–0.95). These features in a combination with the relative depletion in Nb, Ta, Ti and P, indicate the granitoids and MMEs are closely associated with subduction‐related magmas at an active continental margin. The host rocks yield relatively homogeneous isotopic compositions of initial 87Sr/86Sr ratios ranging from 0.706036 to 0.707055, εNd(t) values varying from −2.25 to 0.8, and the Nd model ages (TDM) vary in a limited range of 0.70–0.96 Ga. The MMEs show similar initial 87Sr/86Sr ratios (0.706420–0.707366), εNd(t) values (−1.32 to −0.27), TDM (0.68–1.09 Ga) and Pb isotopic compositions with host granitoids, which imply they attained isotopic equilibration during magma mingling and mixing. In combination with the petrographic, chemical and isotopic results, we suggest that the origin of MMEs and their host rocks were related to the interaction between crust‐derived melts and mantle‐derived mafic magmas. The magma‐mixing event possibly occurred during the transition from subduction to collision in the UDMA along with the closure of the Neotethyan ocean. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We studied the value of circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) in predicting early postoperative tumor recurrence and monitoring tumor burden in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Plasma‐free DNA, germline DNA, and tissue DNA were isolated from 41 patients with HCC. Serial ctDNAs were analyzed by next‐generation sequencing before and after operation. Whole‐exome sequencing was used to detect the DNA of HCC and adjacent tissues. In total, 47 gene mutations were identified in the ctDNA of the 41 patients analyzed before surgery. ctDNA was detected in 63.4% and 46% of the patient plasma pre‐ and postoperation, respectively. The preoperative ctDNA positivity rate was significantly lower in the nonrecurrence group than in the recurrence group. With a median follow‐up of 17.7 months, nine patients (22%) experienced tumor recurrence. ctDNA positivity at two time‐points was associated with significantly shorter recurrence‐free survival (RFS). Tumors with NRAS, NEF2L2, and MET mutations had significantly shorter times to recurrence than those without mutations and showed high recurrence prediction performance by machine learning. Multivariate analyses showed that the median variant allele frequency (VAF) of mutations in preoperative ctDNA was a strong independent predictor of RFS. ctDNA is a real‐time monitoring indicator that can accurately reflect tumor burden. The median VAF of baseline ctDNA is a strong independent predictor of RFS in individuals with HCC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Identifying and locating-dominating codes have been studied widely in circulant graphs. Recently, Ville Junnila et al. (Optimal bounds on codes for location in circulant graphs, Cryptography and Communications; 2019) studied identifying and locating-dominating codes in circulants C n 1 , d , C n 1 , d − 1 , d , and C n 1 , d − 1 , d , d + 1 . In this paper, identifying, locating, and self-identifying codes in the circulant graphs C n k , d , C n k , d − k , d , and C n k , d − k , d , d + k are studied, and this extends Junnila et al.'s results to general cases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Foodborne protein hydrolysates exhibit biological activity that may be therapeutic in a number of human disease settings. Hemp peptides (HP) generated by controlled hydrolysis of hemp proteins have a number of health benefits and are of pharmaceutical value. In the present study, we produce small molecular weight HP from hemp seed and investigate its anticancer properties in Hep3B human liver cancer cells. We demonstrate that HP treatment increased apoptosis, reduced cell viability, and reduced cell migration in Hep3B human liver cancer cells without affecting the normal liver cell line L02. We correlate these phenotypes with increased cellular ROS levels, upregulation of cleaved caspase 3 and Bad, and downregulation of antiapoptotic Bcl‐2. HP treatment led to increased Akt and GSK‐3β phosphorylation, with subsequent downregulation of β‐catenin, suggesting β‐catenin signaling modulation as a critical mechanism by which HP exhibits anticancer properties. Our findings suggest HP are of potential therapeutic interest for liver cancer treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The interaction between existing chronic liver diseases caused by hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection and COVID‐19 has not been studied. We analysed 70 COVID‐19 cases combined with HBV infection (CHI) to determine the epidemiological, clinical characteristics, treatment and outcome. We investigated clinical presentation, imaging and laboratory parameters of COVID‐19 patients of seven hospitals from Jan 20 to March 20, 2020. Multivariate analysis was used to analyse risk factors for progression of patients with COVID‐19 combined with HBV infection. Compared with COVID‐19 without HBV infection (WHI) group, patients with dual infection had a higher proportion of severe/critically ill disease (32.86% vs. 15.27%, P =.000), higher levels of alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate transaminase (AST) and activated partial thromboplastin (APTT) [50(28‐69)vs 21(14‐30), P =.000; 40(25‐54) vs 23(18‐30), P =.000; 34.0(27.2‐38.7) vs 37.2(31.1‐41.4), P =.031]. The utilization rates of Arbidol and immunoglobulin were significantly higher than those in the co‐infected group [48.57% vs. 35.64%, P <.05; 21.43% vs. 8.18%, P <.001], while the utilization rate of chloroquine phosphate was lower (1.43% vs 14.00%, P <.05) in the co‐infected patients group. Age and c‐reactive protein (CRP) level were independent risk factors for recovery of patients with COVID‐19 combined with HBV infection. The original characteristics of COVID‐19 cases combined with HBV infection were higher rate of liver injury, coagulation disorders, severe/critical tendency and increased susceptibility. The elderly and patients with higher level of CRP were more likely to experience a severe outcome of COVID‐19. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

SUMMARY: The self‐splicing of group II introns during RNA processing depends on their catalytic structure and is influenced by numerous factors that promote the formation of that structure through direct binding. Here we report that C‐to‐U editing at a specific position in two nad7 introns is essential to splicing, which also implies that the catalytic activity of non‐functional group II introns could be restored by editing. We characterized a maize (Zea mays) mutant, dek46, with a defective kernel phenotype; Dek46 encodes a pentatricopeptide repeat DYW protein exclusively localized in mitochondria. Analyses of the coding regions of mitochondrial transcripts did not uncover differences in RNA editing between dek46 mutant and wild‐type maize, but showed that splicing of nad7 introns 3 and 4 is severely reduced in the mutant. Furthermore, editing at nucleotide 22 of domain 5 (D5‐C22) of both introns is abolished in dek46. We constructed chimeric introns by swapping D5 of P.li.LSUI2 with D5 of nad7 intron 3. In vitro splicing assays indicated that the chimeric intron containing D5‐U22 can be self‐spliced, but the one containing D5‐C22 cannot. These results indicate that DEK46 functions in the C‐to‐U editing of D5‐C22 of both introns, and the U base at this position is critical to intron splicing. Significance Statement: How mitochondrial introns are spliced is a fundamental question in plant biology. Through characterization of a dek46 mutant and in vitro splicing analyses, this study demonstrates that a single C‐to‐U editing event in the nad7 introns 3 and 4 domain 5 is critical to the intron splicing and kernel development of maize, possibly through maintaining the intron in a catalytic configuration. This study suggests the important role of intron editing to mitochondrial intron splicing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Inflammation plays a major role in the development of myocardial ischemia-reperfusion (IR) injury. Recombinant human brain natriuretic peptide (rhBNP), a man-made version of a peptide that is elevated in heart failure, exhibits anti-inflammatory effects in various tissues. However, its role in myocardial IR injury remains unclear. In this study, we demonstrate that treatment with rhBNP provided protection for mice against myocardial IR injury as manifested by reduced infarct size and well-preserved myocardial, attenuated inflammatory infiltration and CD4+ T cell proliferation function, and inhibited expression of proinflammatory related genes. Furthermore, mechanistic studies revealed that rhBNP inhibited Jurkat T proliferation by promoting PI3K/AKT/mTOR phosphorylation. Collectively, our data suggest that the administration of rhBNP during IR injury could expand our understanding of the cardioprotective effects of rhBNP. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC) is a common gynecologic malignancy characterized by extensive peritoneal metastasis and high mortality rate. ABHD11 Antisense RNA1 (ABHD11‐AS1) has recently been identified as a regulator of growth and metastasis in multiple tumors, including EOC. However, the biological function and potential mechanism of ABHD11‐AS1 in EOC remains poorly understood. Methods: Immunohistochemistry, western blot, and qRT‐PCR analysis were used to determine the expression pattern of ABHD11‐AS1 and epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) in both EOC tissues and cell lines, respectively. Colony formation, transwell and wound healing assays were performed to evaluate the roles of EGFR and ABHD11‐AS1 on the capacity of cell proliferation, migration, and invasion. Western blot analysis was performed to measure the regulation of EGFR pathway on STAT3. Moreover, chromatin immunoprecipitation was employed to demonstrate the interaction between ABHD11‐AS1 and STAT3. RNA immunoprecipitation was subjected to prove the direct binding between ABHD11‐AS1 and EZH2. Immunofluorescence staining was performed to measure the expression and localization of TIMP2. EOC mouse model was conducted for validating the role of ABHD11‐AS1 in vivo. Results: EGFR and ABHD11‐AS1 were highly expressed in EOC tissues and cell lines. Knockdown of EGFR or ABHD11‐AS1 inhibited cell growth, migration, and invasion of EOC cells. Expression of ABHD11‐AS1 was regulated by the activation of EGFR signaling pathway, mediated by STAT3. Besides, ABHD11‐AS1 was shown to silence TIMP2 by binding to chromatin‐modifying enzyme EZH2. Furthermore, inhibition of EGFR pathway or ABHD11‐AS1 repressed the tumor growth of EOC. Conclusion: We defined the regulatory relationship between the EGFR signaling pathway, ABHD11‐AS1, EZH2, and TIMP2 suggesting that ABHD11‐AS1 may act as an oncogene and a potential target for antitumor therapies in ovarian cancer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Research into the electrical-thermal aging properties of cross-linked polyethylene (XLPE) cable has great significance, because of its wide application. This study conducted accelerated electrical-thermal aging tests on 10-kV XLPE cable in order to assess the cable's mechanical and dielectric properties. After being aged by applying 34.8-kV AC voltage at the four temperatures of 90, 103, 114, and 135°C, the cable samples were taken out in five stages according to the aging time and cut into slices. The slices were conducted experiments to test the breaking elongation, tensile strength, gel content, breakdown voltage, and frequency spectrums of the dielectric constant and dielectric loss. The results demonstrate that the mechanical strength and gel content of XLPE vary greatly under different aging temperatures, a finding that is associated with the crystallization characteristics of the material. The breakdown voltage shows a slight decreasing trend with aging time. The dielectric constant decreases with aging time in high-frequency areas (103-106 Hz), while the dielectric loss factor increases with aging time at low frequencies (10−2-0 Hz). These two parameters can be used to characterize the degree of aging in cable. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pentatricopeptide repeat ( PPR) proteins comprise a large family of sequence-specific RNA binding proteins in land plants. Because of its large family size and frequent embryo lethality in the mutants, molecular functions and physiological roles of many PPR proteins are unknown. Through characterization of an empty pericarp9 ( emp9) mutant in maize ( Zea mays), we defined the functions of EMP9 in mitochondrial RNA editing, respiratory complex formation and seed development., Mu insertions in different regions of Emp9 facilitated dissection of the domain functions of the EMP9. Through genetic and functional analyses of multiple alleles, we showed that deletions of two N-terminal PPR motifs and partial E+ domain do not eliminate the editing function of EMP9., Emp9 encodes an E+ subclass PPR protein that is localized in mitochondria. Loss of EMP9 function abolishes the C-to-U editing of ccmB-43 and rps4-335 sites in mitochondria. The loss of editing at ccmB-43 and rps4-335 affects the maturation of cytochrome c and impairs the biogenesis of mitochondrial respiratory complexes, particularly complex III., This work extends our understanding of PPR-E+ protein in editing function and seed development, and provides insights into the molecular function of mitochondrial CcmB protein in higher plants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A porous rtl metal-organic framework (MOF) [Mn5L(H2O)6⋅(DMA)2]⋅5DMA⋅4C2H5OH ( 1⋅Mn) (H10L=5,10,15,20-tetra(4-(3,5-dicarboxylphenoxy)phenyl)porphyrin; DMA= N, N′-dimethylacetamide) was synthesized by employing a new porphyrin-based octacarboxylic acid ligand. 1⋅Mn exhibits high MnII density in the porous framework, providing it great Lewis-acid heterogeneous catalytic capability for the cycloaddition of CO2 with epoxides. Strikingly, 1⋅Mn features excellent catalytic activity to the cycloaddition of CO2 to epoxides, with a remarkable initial turnover frequency 400 per mole of catalyst per hour at 20 atm. As-synthesized 1⋅Mn also exhibits size selectivity to different epoxide substrates on account of their steric hindrance. The high catalytic activity, size selectivity, and stability toward the epoxides on catalytic cycloaddition of CO2 make 1⋅Mn a promising heterogeneous catalyst for fixation and utilization of CO2. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

EPB41L3 may play a role as a metastasis suppressor by supporting regular arrangements of actin stress fibres and alleviating the increase in cell motility associated with enhanced metastatic potential. Downregulation of epb41l3 has been observed in many cancers, but the role of this gene in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) remains unclear. Our study aimed to determine the effect of epb41l3 on ESCC cell migration and invasion. We investigated epb41l3 protein expression in tumour and non-tumour tissues by immunohistochemical staining. Expression in the non-neoplastic human esophageal cell line Het-1a and four ESCC cell lines - Kyse150, Kyse510, Kyse450 and Caes17 - was assessed by quantitative Polymerase Chain Reaction (qPCR) and Western blotting. Furthermore, an EPB41L3 overexpression plasmid and EPB41L3-specific small interfering RNA were used to upregulate EPB41L3 expression in Kyse150 cells and to downregulate EPB41L3 expression in Kyse450 cells, respectively. Cell migration and invasion were evaluated by wound healing and transwell assays, respectively. The expression levels of p-AKT, matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)2 and MMP9 were evaluated. Expression of epb41l3 was significantly lower in tumour tissues than in non-tumour tissues and in ESCC cell lines compared with the Het-1a cell line. Kyse450 and Caes17 cells exhibited higher expression of epb41l3 than Kyse150 and Kyse510 cells. Overexpressing epb41l3 decreased Kyse150 cell migration and invasion, whereas EPB41L3-specific small interfering RNA silencing increased these functions in Kyse450 cells. Furthermore, overexpressing epb41l3 led to downregulation of MMP2 and MMP9 in Kyse150 and Kyse510 cells. Our findings reveal that EPB41L3 suppresses tumour cell invasion and inhibits MMP2 and MMP9 expression in ESCC cells. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mercury(II) ions have emerged as a widespread environmental hazard in recent decades. Despite different kinds of detection methods reported to sense Hg2+, it still remains a challenging task to develop new sensing molecules to replenish the fluorescence-based apparatus for Hg2+ detection. This communication demonstrates a novel fluorescent sensor using UiO-66-NH2 and a T-rich FAM-labeled ssDNA as a hybrid system to detect Hg2+ sensitively and selectively. To the best of our knowledge, it has rarely been reported that a MOF is utilized as the biosensing platform for Hg2+ assay. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new anionic framework {[Me2NH2]0.125[In0.125(H2L)0.25] ⋅ xDMF} n ( 1) with one-dimensional (1D) channels along the c axis of about 13.06×13.06 Å2, was solvothermally synthesized and well characterized. Post-synthetic cation exchange of 1 with Eu3+, Tb3+, Dy3+, Sm3+ afforded lanthanide(III)-loaded materials, Ln3+@ 1, with different luminescent behavior, indicating that compound 1 could be used as a potential luminescent probe toward different lanthanide(III) ions. Additionally, compound 1 exhibits selective adsorption ability toward cationic dyes. Moreover, the RhB@ 1 realized the probing of different organic solvent molecules by tuning the energy transfer efficiency between two different emissions, especially for sensing DMF. This work highlights the practical application of luminescent guest@MOFs as sensors, and it paves the way toward other one/multi-color luminescent host-guest systems by rational selection of MOF hosts and guest chromophores with suitable emissive colors and energy levels. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Stimuli‐responsive structural transformations are emerging as a scaffold to develop a charming class of smart materials. A EuL metal‐organic framework (MOF) undergoes a reversible temperature‐stimulated single‐crystal to single‐crystal transformation, showing a specific behavior of fast capture/release of free Eu3+ in the channels at low and room temperatures. At room temperature, compound 1a is obtained with one free carboxylate group severing as further hook, featuring one‐dimensional square channels filled with intrinsic free europium ions. Trigged by lowering the ambient temperature, 1b is gained. In 1b, the intrinsic free europium ions can be fast captured by the carboxylate‐hooks anchored in the framework, resulting in the structural change and its channel distortion. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report of such a rapid and reversible switch stemming from dynamic control between noncovalent and covalent Eu–ligand interactions. Utilizing EuL MOF to detect highly explosive 2,4,6‐trinitrophenol at room temperature and low temperature provides a glimpse into the potential of this material in fluorescence sensors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A series of lanthanide metal-organic frameworks (Ln-MOFs) are synthesized through solvothermal conditions with 1,3-bis(4-carboxyphenyl)imidazolium (H2L). Owing to the lanthanide contraction effect, two different types of Ln-MOFs, namely, {[Ln(L)2(OH)]·3H2O}n (Ln:Pr, Nd, Sm) and {[Ln(L)2(COO)(H2O)2]·H2O}n (Ln: Eu, Gd, Tb, Dy, Tm, Yb, Y), and their corresponding codoped Ln-MOFs Eu xTb1- xL are obtained. With careful adjustment of the relative concentration of the lanthanide ions and the excitation wavelength, the color of the luminescence can be systematically modulated and white light emission can be further successfully achieved. Furthermore, by virtue of the temperature-dependent luminescent behavior, Eu0.2Tb0.8L allows for the design of a thermometer with an excellent linear response to temperature over a wide range, from 40 to 300 K. This work highlights the practical applications of Ln-MOFs for tailoring fluorescent color and even obtaining practical white light emission, and especially for sensing temperature as luminescent thermometers in a single framework by controlling in different ways. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: This study reports the results of a steerable delivery system under the guidance of transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) for the treatment of transjugular closure of secundum atrial septal defects (ASD).Methods: From July 2015 to May 2016, 33 patients underwent transjugular closure of a secundum ASD under general anesthesia with TEE guidance. The right internal jugular vein was punctured and a FuStar™ steerable sheath was implanted into the right atrium and aligned vertically with the septum, and a closure device was deployed to close the defect.Results: Thirty-two patients with an ASD were successfully occluded; one patient required ASD closure on cardiopulmonary bypass. Procedure time ranged from 5 to 15 (8.2 ± 3.8) min. The length of stay was three to five days after the operation. The follow-up time ranged from 1.1 to 11.0 (5.5 ± 1.5) months. There was no valve regurgitation, no malignant arrhythmias, no device dislocation, or other serious complications.Conclusions: A steerable delivery system under the guidance of TEE is a safe, effective, and cosmetic method for the transjugular closure of secundum ASDs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim To assess three different methods in treating patients with cesarean scar pregnancy ( CSP). Methods We evaluated pre-, intra- and postoperative conditions of 124 CSP patients in one of the three treatment groups, of which 37 patients underwent uterine curettage by hysteroscopy under ultrasound monitoring (group 1), 28 patients were treated with methotrexate followed by hysteroscopy (group 2) and 59 cases underwent uterine arterial embolization followed by hysteroscopy (group 3). The treatment options were determined based on the patients' conditions. Results Among all three groups, group 3 (uterine arterial embolization followed by hysteroscopy) had the least intraoperative blood loss and the highest success rate with curettage, but the highest hospitalization cost. Group 1 (only hysteroscopy) had the shortest length of hospitalization and the lowest cost, but the highest intraoperative blood loss and slowest recovery. Group 2 (methotrexate followed by hysteroscopy) had the longest period of hospitalization, and other indexes had fallen in between the other two groups. Conclusion Among the three methods, uterine arterial embolization followed by hysteroscopy is the safest and most efficient method without considering the cost of hospitalization. Patients with a low level of β-h CG may consider choosing hysteroscopy under ultrasound monitoring or methotrexate followed by hysteroscopy. The advantage is low cost of hospitalization; however, patients may be under relatively higher surgical risks and lower first time surgical success rate, especially for patients treated by hysteroscopy under ultrasound monitoring. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A sensor with a red-emission signal is successfully obtained by the solvothermal reaction of Eu3+ and heterofunctional ligand bpydbH2 (4,4′-(4,4′-bipyridine-2,6-diyl) dibenzoic acid), followed by terminal-ligand exchange in a single-crystal-to-single-crystal transformation. As a result of treatments both before and after the metal-organic framework formation, accessible Lewis-base sites and coordinated water molecules are successfully anchored onto the host material, and they act as signal transmission media for the recognition of analytes at the molecular level. This is the first reported sensor based on a metal-organic framework (MOF) with multi-responsive optical sensing properties. It is capable of sensing small organic molecules and inorganic ions, and unprecedentedly it can discriminate among the homologues and isomers of aliphatic alcohols as well as detect highly explosive 2,4,6-trinitrophenol (TNP) in water or in the vapor phase. This work highlights the practical application of luminescent MOFs as sensors, and it paves the way toward other multi-responsive sensors by demonstrating the incorporation of various functional groups into a single framework. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A series of heteroleptic cyclometalated Ir(III) complexes for organic (OLEDs) application have been investigated theoretically to explore their electronic structures and spectroscopic properties. The geometries, the electronic structures, the lowest-lying singlet absorptions and triplet emissions of Ir(dfppy)2(tpip), Ir(tfmppy)2(tpip), and theoretically designed models of Ir(ppy)2(tpip) were investigated with the density functional theory (DFT)-based approaches, where ppy = 2-phenylpyridine, dfppy = 4,6-difluorophenylpyridine, tfmppy = 4-trifluoromethylphenylpyridine, and tpip = tetraphenylimidodiphosphinate. Their structures in the ground and their excited states have been optimized at the DFT/Becke 3-parameter Lee Yang Parr (B3LYP)/Los Alamos National Laboratory 2-double-z (LANL2DZ) and time-dependent DFT/B3LYP/LANL2DZ levels, and the lowest absorptions and emissions were evaluated at B3LYP and M062X level of theory, respectively. Furthermore, the energy transfer mechanism together with the advantage of low efficiency roll-off for these complexes also can be analyzed here. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The series of heteroleptic cyclometalated Ir(III) complexes for organic light-emitting display application have been investigated theoretically to explore their electronic structures and spectroscopic properties. The geometries, electronic structures, and the lowest-lying singlet absorptions and triplet emissions of Ir-(pmb)3 and theoretically designed models Ir-(Rpmb)2pic were investigated with density functional theory (DFT)-based approaches, where pmb = phenyl-methyl-benzimidazolyl, pic = picolinate, and R = H/F. Their structures in the ground and excited states have been optimized at the DFT/B3LYP/LANL2DZ and TDDFT/B3LYP/LANL2DZ levels, and the lowest absorptions and emissions were evaluated at B3LYP and M062X level of theory, respectively. The mobility of holes and electrons were studied computationally based on the Marcus theory. Calculations of ionization potentials were used to evaluate the injection abilities of holes into these complexes. The reasons for the higher electroluminescence efficiency and phosphorescence quantum yields in Ir-(Rpmb)2pic than in Ir-(pmb)3 have been investigated. The designed moleculars are expected to be highly emissive in pure-blue region. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Heat shock proteins (HSPs), inflammatory cytokines, nitric oxide (NO), and localized hypoxia-induced apoptosis are thought to be correlated to the degree of cartilage injury. We investigated the effect of hyperbaric oxygen (HBO) on (1) interleukin-1β (IL-1β)-induced NO production and apoptosis of rabbit chondrocytes and (2) healing of articular cartilage defects. For the in vitro study, RT-PCR and Western blotting were performed to detect mRNA and protein expressions of HSP70, inducible NO synthase (iNOS), and caspase 3 in IL-1β-treated chondrocytes. To clarify that the HSP70 was necessary for anti-iNOS and anti-apoptotic activity by HBO, we treated the cells with an HSP70 inhibitor, KNK437. For the in vivo study, cartilage defects were created in rabbits. The HBO group was exposed to 100% oxygen at 2.5 ATA for 1.5 h a day for 10 weeks. The control group was exposed to normal air. After sacrifice, specimen sections were sent for examination using a scoring system. Immunohistochemical analyses were performed to detect the expressions of iNOS, HSP70, and caspase 3. Our results suggested that HBO upregulated the mRNA and protein expressions of HSP70 and suppressed those of iNOS and caspase 3 in chondrocytes. KNK437 inhibited the HBO-induced downregulation of iNOS and casapase 3 activities. The histological scores showed that HBO markedly enhanced cartilage repair. Immunohistostaining showed that HBO enhanced HSP70 expression and suppressed iNOS and caspase 3 expressions in chondrocytes. Accordingly, HBO treatment prevents NO-induced apoptosis in articular cartilage injury via enhancement of the expression of heat shock protein 70. © 2012 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 31: 376-384, 2013 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nucleus pulposus cells (NPCs) from degenerating discs produce catabolic and inflammatory factors, including interleukin (IL)-1 and nitric oxide (NO). Enhanced production of NO has been implicated in the apoptosis of degenerating disc cells. This study evaluates the effects of hyperbaric oxygen (HBO) on degenerated human NPCs. All hyperoxic cells were exposed to 100% O2 at 2.5 atmospheres absolute (ATA). Phosphorylation of extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1/2 (ERK1/2), c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK), and p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) in NPCs was detected using the phosphor-kinase array kit. RNA was isolated for real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) analysis of aggrecan and type II collagen gene expression. The levels of IL-1β and NO were quantified by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). To identify the HBO-induced anti-apoptotic pathways, expression of Bcl-2 and Bax proteins as well as activation of cysteine-containing aspartate-specific proteases (caspases) 3, 8, and 9 was evaluated using Western blotting after HBO treatment. Our data showed that HBO treatment decreased the expression of IL-1β, suppressed phosphorylation of ERK1/2, JNK, and p38 MAPK, decreased synthesis of NO, and increased the gene expression of aggrecan and type II collagen in NPCs as compared with the atmospheric treatment. HBO up-regulated the ratio of Bcl-2 to Bax expression and reduced the activity of caspases 9 and 3 but not of caspase 8, indicating a selective effect over the mitochondrial apoptosis pathway in degenerated NPCs. These results support our hypothesis that HBO treatment suppresses MAPK signaling and mitochondrial apoptotic pathway in degenerated human intervertebral disc cells. © 2012 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 31: 204-209, 2013 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRACT Background and objective: Community-acquired pneumonia (CAP) is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. Mycoplasma pneumoniae is one of the major causative pathogens of CAP. Early diagnosis of M. pneumoniae pneumonia is crucial for initiating appropriate antibiotic therapy. The aim of this study was to determine whether the Japanese Respiratory Society (JRS) guidelines on CAP are effective for diagnosing M. pneumoniae pneumonia. Methods: Between August 2008 and July 2009, adult outpatients with CAP were consecutively enrolled. The aetiology of CAP was determined by culture and real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) methods to detect M. pneumoniae, urine antigen tests to detect Streptococcus pneumoniae and Legionella pneumoniae, blood and sputum culture for bacteria and real-time PCR for eight common respiratory viruses. The predictive value of the JRS guidelines for differentiating M. pneumoniae pneumonia from typical bacterial and viral pneumonias was determined. Results: Data from 215 adult CAP outpatients was analyzed. An aetiological diagnosis was made for 105 patients (48.8%), including 62 patients with M. pneumoniae pneumonia, 17 patients with typical bacterial pneumonia and 23 patients with viral pneumonia. According to the JRS criteria for differential diagnosis of atypical pneumonia, 55 of 62 patients were correctly diagnosed with M. pneumoniae pneumonia (sensitivity 88.7%), and 31 of 40 patients with bacterial and viral pneumonia were correctly excluded (specificity 77.5%). Conclusions: The JRS guidelines on CAP provide a useful tool for the identification of M. pneumoniae pneumonia cases and differentiating these from cases of typical bacterial or viral pneumonia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

SUMMARY Background: Stroke is the second most common cause of death and a major cause of disability worldwide. Risperidone is an atypical antipsychotic drug that may increase the risk of stroke. The present work examined whether risperidone enhances the vulnerability to stroke in hypertensive rats and the potential mechanisms underlying such action. Methods: Experiment 1: Wistar-Kyoto (WKY) rats, spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHRs) and stroke-prone SHRs (SHR-SPs) were treated with risperidone (0.8 and 2.4 mg/kg/d) or vehicle for 30 consecutive days. Tissue damage in response to middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) was measured microscopically. The activity of superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase, the levels of malondialdehyde were also determined. Experiment 2: Survival data were recorded in SHR-SPs that received daily risperidone perpetually. Experiment 3: Effect of risperidone on interleukin-6 and tumor necrosis factor-α was examined in quiescent or LPS-activated cortical microglias from WKY rats. Experiment 4: Potential damage of risperidone exposure to neurons was examined in primary neuronal culture obtained from WKY rats, SHRs, and SHR-SPs. Results: Risperidone increased infarct areas upon MCAO in SHR-SPs and SHRs, but not in WKY rats. Survival time in SHR-SPs was shortened by risperidone. Apoptosis was augmented by risperidone through enhanced Bax. Risperidone also increased endothelial injury. Conclusions: Risperidone enhances the vulnerability to stroke in hypertensive rats through increasing neuronal apoptosis and endothelial injury. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nucleus pulposus cells (NPCs) from degenerating disks produce catabolic and inflammatory factors, including interleukin (IL)-1, nitric oxide (NO), prostaglandin E2 (PGE-2), and matrix metalloproteinaes (MMPs). An imbalance between MMPs and tissue inhibitors of matrix metalloproteinases (TIMPs) has been proposed to exist in the degenerating disk. This study evaluates the effects of hyperbaric oxygen (HBO) on the human degenerated NPCs. NPCs were maintained in alginate bead culture. All hyperoxic cells were exposed to 100% O2 at 2.5 atmospheres absolute (ATA) in a hyperbaric chamber. p38 MAPK phosphorylation of the NPCs was detected using the phosphor-kinase array kit. RNA was isolated for real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (Q-PCR) analysis of aggrecan and type II collagen gene expression. The amounts of IL-1β, NO, PGE-2, MMP-3, and TIMP-1 in the conditioned media were quantified by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Our data showed that HBO treatment decreased expression of IL-1β, increased the gene expression of aggrecan and type II collagen, suppressed the phosphorylation of p38 MAPK, decreased NO, PGE-2, and MMP-3, and increased TIMP-1 expression in NPCs as compared with the atmospheric treatment. These results support the hypothesis that IL-1β and the p38 MAPK signal may be responsible for many of the inflammatory and catabolic changes seen in the human disk degeneration, and support our proposal that HBO treatment-induced increase of the anabolic factor (TIMP-1)/catabolic factor (MMP-3) ratio may provide a therapeutic approach to slow the course of intervertebral disk degeneration. © 2010 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 29:14-19, 2011 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Posterolateral spinal fusion is used to treat patients with degenerative spinal disorders. We investigated the effectiveness of a mesenchymal stem cell (MSC)/Pluronic F127/Interpore hybrid graft for spinal fusion in rabbits. Spinal fusion was examined using radiography, manual palpation, computed tomography (CT), torsional loading tests, and histological analysis. Using a PKH fluorescence labeling system, we also examined whether the newly formed bone was derived from the transplanted MSCs. We found that the MSCs adhered to the Interpore surface and within its pores, and differentiated into osteoblasts. Radiographs and CT images showed a continuous bone bridge and a satisfactory fusion mass incorporated into the transverse processes. The results of manual palpation and biomechanical data did not differ significantly from an autograft group. Histology from both groups revealed the presence of fibrous tissue, cartilage, and endochondral ossification in the gaps between the grafted fragments. In both groups, the degree of mature bone formation was greater at 12 weeks than at 6 weeks after grafting. Quantitative histomorphometry revealed no significant differences between the two groups at either time point. In situ tracing of the PKH 67-labeled MSCs indicated that the transplanted MSCs were partly responsible for the new bone formation in both the repaired transverse processes and the grafted fragments. Thus, the MSC/Pluronic F127/Interpore hybrid graft could be used effectively to achieve posterolateral spinal fusion. © 2009 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 27:1631-1636, 2009 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study investigated the effects of hyperbaric oxygen (HBO) and platelet-derived growth factor-BB (PDGF-BB) in chondrocyte transplantation. In vitro, chondrocytes were treated with HBO, PDGF-BB, and HBO combined with PDGF-BB (H+P). Cell growth was analyzed using cell counting, MTT assay, and FACS analysis. mRNA expression of the PDGF-α receptor (PDGFR-α) and β receptor (PDGFR-β) was detected by RT-PCR. Protein expression of PDGFR-β was detected by Western blotting. In vivo, chondrocytes and PDGF-BB were suspended in alginate as a transplantation system. Cartilage defects were grafted with this system and with or without HBO treatment. Released PDGF-BB concentration was quantified by ELISA. After 8 weeks, animals were sacrificed and the repaired tissues were examined. In vitro data suggested that each treatment increased cell growth via the up-regulated mRNA expression of PDGFR-α and increased cell accumulation in the S-phase. The H+P treatment was more additive in cell growth and in mRNA and protein expression of PDGFR-β than HBO or PDGF-BB. In vivo results suggested that PDGF-BB delivery lasted for more than 5 weeks. Scoring results showed that each treatment significantly increased the cartilage repair. Safranin-O and type II collagen staining confirmed the hyaline-like cartilage regeneration in the repaired tissues. In situ up-regulation of PDGFR-β expression partially explains the additive effect of H+P treatment in cartilage repair. Accordingly, H+P offers a potential treatment method for cartilage repair. © 2009 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 27:1439-1446, 2009 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We tested the hypothesis that the dose of recombinant human bone morphogenetic protein-2 (rhBMP-2) required to induce spine fusion can be reduced by combination with mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs). Twenty-four adult rabbits underwent posterolateral intertransverse fusion at the L4-L5 level. The animals were divided into four groups based on the implant material: autologous iliac graft, Alginate-MSCs composite, Alginate-BMP-2-MSCs composite, and Alginate-BMP-2 composite. After 16 weeks, the rabbits were euthanized for radiographic examination, manual palpation, biomechanical testing, and histology. Radiographic union of 12 intertransverse fusion areas for the autogenous iliac graft, Alginate-MSCs, Alginate-BMP-2-MSCs, and Alginate-BMP-2 groups was 11, 8, 11, and 0, respectively. Moreover, manual palpation of six fusion segments in each subgroup found solid union to be 6, 1, 5, and 0, respectively. The average torques at failure of the first three groups were 2278 ± 135, 1943 ± 140, and 2334 ± 187 N-mm, respectively. The failure torque did not differ significantly between the autograft and Alginate-BMP-2-MSCs groups; both groups were significantly higher than the Alginate-MSCs group. The results indicate that MSCs delivered with in vitro cellular doses of rhBMP-2 are more osteoinductive than MSCs without rhBMP-2. In combination with MSCs, a low dose (2.5 µg) of rh-BMP-2 could enhance bone formation and posterolateral spine fusion success in the rabbit model. © 2008 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 27:380-384, 2009 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Despite moderate success in clinical applications, outcome of tendon grafts employed for anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction remains unsatisfactory. This study investigated the effects of hyperbaric oxygen (HBO) on neovascularization at the tendon-bone junction, collagen fibers of the tendon graft, and the tendon graft-bony interface incorporated into the osseous tunnel in rabbits. Forty rabbits were assigned to two groups. The HBO group was exposed to 100% oxygen at 2.5 atmospheres pressure for 2 h daily, 5 consecutive days in a week. The control group was maintained in cages exposed to normal air. Histological studies of 12 rabbits were performed postoperatively at 6, 12, and 18 weeks. Biomechanical studies of 24 rabbits were conducted postoperatively at 12 and 18 weeks. Electron microscopy (EM) analyses of four rabbits were performed postoperatively at 18 weeks. Experimental results demonstrated that a higher number of Sharpey's fibers bridged the newly formed fibrocartilage and graft in the HBO group than in the control group. In addition, HBO treatment increased neovascularization and enhanced the incorporation of the progressive interface between tendon graft and bone. Biomechanical analysis showed that the HBO group achieved higher maximal pullout strength than the control group. Examination by EM showed that HBO treatment resulted in regenerated collagen fibers with increased compaction and regularity. Based on experimental results, HBO treatment is a treatment modality that potentially improves outcome following ACL reconstruction. © 2007 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 25:636-645, 2007 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study presents a novel biodegradable alginate delivery system for antibiotics and bone cells to treat infected bone defects. About 2 × 107 New Zealand rabbit mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) and 5 mL vancomycin solution (50 mg/mL) were added to 5 mL of 2.5% (w/v) sodium alginate solution to form biodegradable antibiotic and MSCs alginate beads 3 mm in diameter. The alginate beads were then cultured in an osteogenic medium for 14 days. The profiles of antibiotics released from the alginate beads were evaluated using the method of high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). The expression of osteogenic genes, including Cbfa1 and osteopontin, in the alginate beads was determined by reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) analysis. The alkaline phosphatase activity, calcium level, and mineral deposition of the cultured cells within the alginate beads were assessed. Analytical results demonstrated that the concentrations of vancomycin eluted from the alginate beads were, for 14 days, well above the minimal inhibitory concentration of Staphylococcus aureus. Osteopontin and mRNA of Cbfa1 were detected and increased alkaline phosphatase activity and calcium levels were noted, as was a substantial mineral deposition in cultured MSCs. The PKH 26-labeled MSCs and vancomycin alginate beads were implanted in rabbit bony cavities for in vivo analysis. Implanted PKH 26-labeled MSCs were identified in the newly formed bony trabeculae in all specimens at 2 and 4 months after implantation and there was abundant mineral deposition. The results of in vitro study demonstrated sustained elution of vancomycin from the alginate carrier for 14 days and good osteogenic differentiation of cultured MSCs in the alginate carrier matrix. The results of in vivo study demonstrated the implanted MSCs participating in new bone formation. Based on experimental evidence, development of a biodegradable alginate carrier system for antibiotics and bone cells is possible, providing a potential treatment procedure for infected bone defects. © 2006 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 25:62-72, 2007 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Proinflammatory cytokine, nitric oxide (NO) and localized hypoxia-induced apoptosis and proteoglycan (PG) degradation are thought to be correlated to the degree of cartilage injury. This study evaluated hyperbaric oxygen (HBO)-induced changes in joint cavity oxygen tension, antigenickeratan sulfate (KS) content, inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) expression, PG synthesis, and cell apoptosis in full-thickness defects of rabbit cartilage. The HBO group was exposed to 100% oxygen at 2.5 atm for 2 h daily, 5 days per week. Meanwhile, the control group was kept in housing cages with normal air. The joint cavity oxygen tension was determined with an oxygen sensor. Blood serum KS was quantified by competitive indirect enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). After sacrifice, specimen sections were sent for histological and histochemical examination with a standardized scoring system. In situ analysis of iNOs expression and apoptosis detection were performed using immunostaining and TUNEL staining, respectively and quantified by a computerized imagine analysis system. This study demonstrated that HBO treatment increased joint cavity oxygen tension but decreased blood KS content. Histological and histochemical score results showed that HBO treatment significantly increased the cartilage repair. Moreover, immunostaining and TUNEL staining showed that HBO treatment suppressed the iNOs expression and apoptosis of chondrocytes, respectively. Accordingly, HBO offers a potential treatment method for cartilage injury. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The authors investigated the lyophilized poly-l-lysine-coated alginate antibiotic delivery system in vivo for the treatment of musculoskeletal infections. The sodium alginate was mixed with vancomycin, coated with poly-l-lysine and lyophilized to form 3 mm in diameter biodegradable antibiotic beads. The antibiotic beads were implanted in the distal femoral cavities of rabbits for in vivo investigation. The local concentration of vancomycin was well above the minimal inhibitory concentration of Staphylococcus aureus for 21 days. The release was most marked during the first two days. The diameters of sample inhibition zone ranged from 8 to 16 mm, the relative activity of vancomycin ranged from 12.5% to 100%. The blood level of vancomycin reached its peak (46.0 mg/l) two days after implantation and fell to 3.2 mg/l at two weeks. It was undetectable after three weeks. There was no increase in the concentration of blood urea nitrogen and serum creatinine after the implantation. Histological observations showed that bead materials were biodegradable, resorbed slowly and only cause mild host reaction. This study offers a biodegradable delivery system of antibiotics to treat musculoskeletal infections. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The authors investigated poly (dl-lactide-co-glycolide) beads as an antibiotic delivery system in vivo for the treatment of various surgical infections. In this study, the copolymer 50:50 poly (dl-lactide):co-glycolide was mixed with vancomycin powder and hot compressing molded at 55 °C to form 8 mm in diameter biodegradable antibiotic beads. The antibiotic beads were implanted in the distal femoral cavities of rabbits for in vivo investigation. The local concentration of vancomycin was well above the breakpoint sensitivity concentration (the antibiotic concentration at the transition point between bacterial killing and resistance to the antibiotic) for 56 days. The release was most marked during the first day. The diameters of the sample inhibition zone ranged from 8 to 18 mm, and the relative activity of vancomycin ranged from 9.1% to 100%. Only low systemic blood levels of vancomycin were measured after beads implantation. There was no increase in the concentration of blood urea nitrogen and serum creatinine after the implantation. Histological observations showed that the bead materials were biodegradable, resorbed slowly, and did not cause a significant host reaction. This study offers a biodegradable delivery system of antibiotics to treat various surgical infections. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]