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Inflammation of the distal bowel is often associated with abdominal pain and hypersensitivity, but whether and which colorectal afferents contribute to the hypersensitivity is unknown. Using a mouse model of 2,4,6-trinitrobenzene sulfonic acid (TNBS)-induced colitis, we investigated colorectal hypersensitivity following intracolonic TNBS and associated changes in colorectum and afferent functions. C57BL/6 mice were treated intracolonically with TNBS or saline. Visceromotor responses to colorectal distension (15-60 mmHg) were recorded over 8 wk in TNBS- and saline-treated (control) mice. In other mice treated with TNBS or saline, colorectal inflammation was assessed by myeloperoxidase assay and immunohistological staining. In vitro single-fiber recordings were conducted on both TNBS and saline-treated mice to assess colorectal afferent function. Mice exhibited significant colorectal hypersensitivity through day 14 after TNBS treatment that resolved by day 28 with no resensitization through day 56. TNBS induced a neutrophil- and macrophage-based colorectal inflammation as well as loss of nerve fibers, all of which resolved by days 14-28. Single-fiber recordings revealed a net increase in afferent drive from stretch-sensitive colorectal afferents at day 14 post-TNBS and reduced proportions of mechanically insensitive afferents (MIAs) at days 14-28. Intracolonic TNBS-induced colorectal inflammation was associated with the development and recovery of hypersensitivity in mice, which correlated with a transient increase and recovery of sensitization of stretch-sensitive colorectal afferents and MIAs. These results indicate that the development and maintenance of colorectal hypersensitivity following inflammation are mediated by peripheral drive from stretch-sensitive colorectal afferents and a potential contribution from MIAs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: MAP kinase phosphatase 3 (MKP-3) is known to attenuate the ERK signaling pathway. It has been recently demonstrated that MKP-3 is also a player in promoting hepatic glucose output in obese state by interacting and activating FOXO1. Reduction of hepatic MKP-3 expression is sufficient to reduce blood glucose levels in both diet-induced and genetically obese mice. Methodology/Principal Findings: In current study, the mechanism of MKP-3/FOXO1 interaction and the effects on transcription of gluconeogenic gene and glucose output was investigated in Fao hepatoma cells by using mutated MKP-3 and FOXO1 adenoviral constructs. The results indicate that MKP-3 phosphatase activity is not required for MKP-3/FOXO1 interaction but is essential for FOXO1 nuclear translocation and MKP-3 promoted gluconeogenesis. Compared to GFP control (1±0.38), MKP-3 increased G6Pase gene expression by 242% (3.42±0.62) while inactive MKP-3 does not change G6Pase expression (0.98±0.17). The residues 200-260 of MKP-3 and the residues 360-456 of FOXO1 are essential for mediating MKP-3/FOXO1 interaction. Interestingly, ERK phosphorylation deficient but not Akt phosphorylation deficient FOXO1 mutant lost interaction with MKP-3. Furthermore, in vivo experiments showed that Akt phosphorylation resistant FOXO1 3A mutant is sufficient to rescue the hypoglycemia caused by MKP-3 knock down in the liver of lean mice (from 141±6.78 to 209±14.64 mg/dL). Conclusions/Significance: 1) Critical residues mediating MKP-3/FOXO1 interaction have been identified; 2) ERK phosphorylation deficient FOXO1 mutant is as potent as Akt phosphorylation deficient FOXO1 mutant in activating transcription of gluconeogenic genes; 3) Constitutively active FOXO1 can rescue the hypoglycemic effect caused by reduced hepatic MKP-3 expression in vivo. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is characterized as functional because a pathobiological cause is not readily apparent. Considerable evidence, however, documents that sensitizing proinflammatory and lipotoxic lipids, mast cells and their products, tryptases, enteroendocrine cells, and mononuclear phagocytes and their receptors are increased in tissues of IBS patients with colorectal hypersensitivity. It is also clear from recordings in animals of the colorectal afferent innervation that afferents exhibit long-term changes in models of persistent colorectal hypersensitivity. Such changes in afferent excitability and responses to mechanical stimuli are consistent with relief of discomfort and pain in IBS patients, including relief of referred abdominal hypersensitivity, upon intra-rectal instillation of local anesthetic. In the aggregate, these experimental outcomes establish the importance of afferent drive in IBS, consistent with a larger literature with respect to other chronic conditions in which pain is a principal complaint (e.g., neuropathic pain, painful bladder syndrome, fibromyalgia). Accordingly, colorectal afferents and the environment in which these receptive endings reside constitute the focus of this review. That environment includes understudied and incompletely understood contributions from immune-competent cells resident in and recruited into the colorectum. We close this review by highlighting deficiencies in existing knowledge and identifying several areas for further investigation, resolution of which we anticipate would significantly advance our understanding of neural and neuro-immune contributions to IBS pain and hypersensitivity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Afferent input contributes significantly to the pain and colorectal hypersensitivity that characterize irritable bowel syndrome. In the present study, we investigated the contributions of mechanically sensitive and mechanically insensitive afferents (MIAs; or silent afferents) to colorectal hypersensitivity. The visceromotor response to colorectal distension (CRD; 15-60 mmHg) was recorded in mice before and for weeks after intracolonic treatment with zymosan or saline. After CRD tests, the distal colorectum with the pelvic nerve attached was removed for single-fiber electrophysiological recordings. Colorectal afferent endings were located by electrical stimulation and characterized as mechanosensitive or not by blunt probing, mucosal stroking, and circumferential stretch. Intracolonic zymosan produced persistent colorectal hypersensitivity (>24 days) associated with brief colorectal inflammation. Pelvic nerve muscular-mucosal but not muscular mechanosensitive afferents recorded from mice with colorectal hypersensitivity exhibited persistent sensitization. In addition, the proportion of MIAs (relative to control) was significantly reduced from 27% to 13%, whereas the proportion of serosal afferents was significantly increased from 34% to 53%, suggesting that MIAs acquired mechanosensitivity. PGP9.5 immunostaining revealed no significant loss of colorectal nerve fiber density, suggesting that the reduction in MIAs is not due to peripheral fiber loss after intracolonic zymosan. These results indicate that colorectal MIAs and sensitized muscularmucosal afferents that respond to stretch contribute significantly to the afferent input that sustains hypersensitivity to CRD, suggesting that targeted management of colorectal afferent input could significantly reduce patients' complaints of pain and hypersensitivity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Ethnopharmacological relevance: Danning tablet, as a composite prescription of traditional Chinese medicine, has been used clinically to relieve liver and gallbladder diseases in China. However, the mechanisms involved are still unclear. Aim of the study: The present investigation was designed to assess the effects and possible mechanisms of Danning tablet on α-naphthylisothiocyanate (ANIT)-induced liver injury with cholestasis. Materials and methods: Danning tablet (3, 1.5 or 0.75g/kg body weight/day) was intragastrically (i.g.) given to experimental rats for seven days before they were treated with ANIT (60mg/kg daily via i.g.) which caused liver injury. Serum levels of alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), γ-glutamyltranspeptidase (γ-GTP), total bilirubin (T-Bil), direct bilirubin (D-Bil), total bile acid (TBA) and bile flow were measured to evaluate the protective effect of Danning tablet at 48h after ANIT treatment. Furthermore, protective mechanisms of Danning tablet against ANIT-induced liver injury were elucidated by assays of liver enzyme activities and component contents including myeloperoxidase (MPO), superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (Gpx), catalase (CAT) and glutathione S-transferase (GST), as well as liver lipid peroxide (LPO) and glutathione (GSH). The biochemical observations were supplemented by histopathological examination. Phytochemical analysis of Danning tablet was performed by UPLC-MASS. Results: Obtained results demonstrated that high dose (3g/kg) of Danning tablet significantly prevented ANIT-induced changes in bile flow (P <0.01), and serum levels of ALT, AST, ALP, γ-GTP, T-Bil, D-Bil (P <0.01) and TBA (P <0.05). In addition, ANIT-induced increases in hepatic MPO, GST activities and GSH, LPO contents were significantly (P <0.01) reduced, while SOD, Gpx, CAT activities in the liver tissue which were suppressed by ANIT were significantly (P <0.01) elevated in the groups pretreated with Danning tablet at the dose of 3g/kg B.W. Histopathology of the liver tissue showed that pathological injuries were relieved after Danning tablet (3g/kg) pretreatment. The results also showed that medium dose (1.5g/kg) of Danning tablet exhibited partially protective effect on ANIT-induced liver injury with cholestasis by reversing part of biochemical parameters and histopathological changes. Low dose (0.75g/kg) of Danning tablet did not show any protective effect on ANIT-induced liver injury with cholestasis. Phytochemical analyses revealed the presence of anthraquinones, flavonoids and stilbene in the Danning tablet. Conclusion: These findings indicate that Danning tablet exerts a dose-dependently protective effect on ANIT-induced liver injury with cholestasis in rats, and the possible mechanism of this activity is likely due to its attenuation of oxidative stress in the liver tissue and neutrophil infiltration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Ethnopharmacological relevance: Danning tablet, as a composite prescription of traditional Chinese medicine, has been used clinically to relieve liver and gallbladder diseases in China. However, the mechanisms involved are still unclear. Aim of the study: The present investigation was designed to assess the effects and possible mechanisms of Danning tablet on α-naphthylisothiocyanate (ANIT)-induced liver injury with cholestasis. Materials and methods: Danning tablet (3, 1.5 or 0.75g/kg body weight/day) was intragastrically (i.g.) given to experimental rats for seven days before they were treated with ANIT (60mg/kg daily via i.g.) which caused liver injury. Serum levels of alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), γ-glutamyltranspeptidase (γ-GTP), total bilirubin (T-Bil), direct bilirubin (D-Bil), total bile acid (TBA) and bile flow were measured to evaluate the protective effect of Danning tablet at 48h after ANIT treatment. Furthermore, protective mechanisms of Danning tablet against ANIT-induced liver injury were elucidated by assays of liver enzyme activities and component contents including myeloperoxidase (MPO), superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (Gpx), catalase (CAT) and glutathione S-transferase (GST), as well as liver lipid peroxide (LPO) and glutathione (GSH). The biochemical observations were supplemented by histopathological examination. Phytochemical analysis of Danning tablet was performed by UPLC-MASS. Results: Obtained results demonstrated that high dose (3g/kg) of Danning tablet significantly prevented ANIT-induced changes in bile flow (P <0.01), and serum levels of ALT, AST, ALP, γ-GTP, T-Bil, D-Bil (P <0.01) and TBA (P <0.05). In addition, ANIT-induced increases in hepatic MPO, GST activities and GSH, LPO contents were significantly (P <0.01) reduced, while SOD, Gpx, CAT activities in the liver tissue which were suppressed by ANIT were significantly (P <0.01) elevated in the groups pretreated with Danning tablet at the dose of 3g/kg B.W. Histopathology of the liver tissue showed that pathological injuries were relieved after Danning tablet (3g/kg) pretreatment. The results also showed that medium dose (1.5g/kg) of Danning tablet exhibited partially protective effect on ANIT-induced liver injury with cholestasis by reversing part of biochemical parameters and histopathological changes. Low dose (0.75g/kg) of Danning tablet did not show any protective effect on ANIT-induced liver injury with cholestasis. Phytochemical analyses revealed the presence of anthraquinones, flavonoids and stilbene in the Danning tablet. Conclusion: These findings indicate that Danning tablet exerts a dose-dependently protective effect on ANIT-induced liver injury with cholestasis in rats, and the possible mechanism of this activity is likely due to its attenuation of oxidative stress in the liver tissue and neutrophil infiltration. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

A ZnO layer with rather good crystalline quality (Xmin = 9.4%) is grown on a sapphire substrate by plasma enhanced chemical vapor deposition (PECVD). Rutherford backscattering (RBS)/channeling and high-resolution x-ray diffraction (XRD) are used to characterize the elastic strain in the ZnO epilayer. The tetragonal distortion is positive and depth dependent. It is highest near the interface and decreases towards the sample surface. By combining the results of RBS and XRD, the average elastic strains in the parallel and the perpendicular directions can be calculated to be 0.50% and -0.17%, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

5-at% Mn-doped and undoped BaTiO3 thin films have been grown under different oxygen partial pressures by Pulsed Laser Deposition (PLD) on platinum-coated sapphire substrates. X-ray diffraction (XRD) measurements for all the thin films reveal a similar polycrystalline single-phase perovskite structure. Ferroelectricity is observed in the Mn-doped and undoped BaTiO3 thin films grown under relatively high oxygen partial pressure. Ferromagnetic coupling of the Mn dopant ions, on the other hand, is only seen in Mn-doped BaTiO3 thin films prepared under low oxygen partial pressure in a wide temperature range from 5 K to 300 K, and is attributed to the enhanced exchange coupling between Mn dopants and electrons at oxygen vacancies. Our results show that the leakage current is decreased with the doped Mn, but increases the dielectric loss and decreases the dielectric constant, and the ferroelectricity is impaired. To produce ferromagnetism, oxygen vacancies are necessary, which unfortunately increase the leakage current. This confirms that the mutual interplay between the ferroelectricity and ferromagnetism can be tuned by exchange coupling of the doped-Mn and oxygen vacancies in the BaTiO3 thin films. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Obesity-related adipose inflammation has been thought to be a causal factor for the development of insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes. Infiltrated macrophages in adipose tissue of obese animals and humans are an important source for inflammatory cytokines. Clodronate liposomes can ablate macrophages by inducing apoptosis. In this study, we aim to determine whether peritoneal injection of clodronate liposomes has any beneficial effect on systemic glucose homeostasis/insulin sensitivity and whether macrophage content in visceral adipose tissue will be reduced in diet-induced obese (DIO) mice. Methodology/Principal Findings: Clodronate liposomes were used to deplete macrophages in lean and DIO mice. Macrophage content in visceral adipose tissue, metabolic parameters, glucose and insulin tolerance, adipose and liver histology, adipokine and cytokine production were examined. Hyperinsulinemic-euglycemic clamp study was also performed to assess systemic insulin sensitivity. Peritoneal injection of clodronate liposomes significantly reduced blood glucose and insulin levels in DIO mice. Systemic glucose tolerance and insulin sensitivity were mildly improved in both lean and DIO mice treated with clodronate liposomes by intraperitoneal (ip) injection. Hepatosteatosis was dramatically alleviated and suppression of hepatic glucose output was markedly increased in DIO mice treated with clodronate liposomes. Macrophage content in visceral adipose tissue of DIO mice was effectively decreased without affecting subcutaneous adipose tissue. Interestingly, levels of insulin sensitizing hormone adiponectin, including the high molecular weight form, were significantly elevated in circulation. Conclusions/Significance: Intraperitoneal injection of clodronate liposomes reduces visceral adipose tissue macrophages, improves systemic glucose homeostasis and insulin sensitivity in DIO mice, which can be partially attributable to increased adiponectin levels. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The storage times of formalin-fixed paraffin embedded (FFPE) colorectal cancer (CRC) tissues can differ. In this study we investigated the effects of storage time of CRC tissue on K-ras detection. Methods: Forty fresh tissues and 120 FFPE CRC tissues were selected for this study. The storage time of the FFPE samples was 1 to 2 years, 2 to 5 years, and 5 to 10 years with 40 samples in each group. DNA was extracted from these samples and exon 1 of K-ras was sequenced. Results: The concentration or quantity of DNA extracted from the fresh tissues and FFPE tissues did not change. The K-ras detection rate in fresh tissues, tissues stored for 1 to 2 years, tissues stored for 2 to 5 years, and tissues stored for 5 to 10 years was 100%, 92.5%, 87.5%, and 77.5%, respectively. Conclusions: When the storage time was prolonged, the K-ras detection rate of CRC tissue decreased. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Six iridoids, geleganoids, designated A–F, and five iridoid glycosides, geleganosides A and B together with three previously reported compounds, were isolated from leaves of Gelsemium elegans. Their structures were elucidated by spectroscopic and chemical analyses. The relative configuration of geleganoid A was confirmed by X-ray crystallographic diffraction analysis, and the absolute configuration of geleganoid B was determined by a modified Mosher’s method. Selected compounds were evaluated for PC12 cell neurite outgrowth activity, but they were inactive. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Two new megastigmane glycosides, eleganosides A and B ( and , resp.), and one new iridoid glycoside, gouwenoside A (), together with two known compounds, foliasalacioside B () and loganin (), were isolated from the aerial parts of Gelsemium elegans ( et (Loganiaceae). Their structures were elucidated by spectroscopic methods including 1D- and 2D-NMR techniques. The absolute configuration of was determined by CD spectroscopy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hypersensitivity in inflammatory/irritable bowel syndrome is contributed to in part by changes in the receptive properties of colorectal afferent endings, likely including mechanically insensitive afferents (MIAs; silent afferents) that have the ability to acquire mechanosensitivity. The proportion and attributes of colorectal MIAs, however, have not previously been characterized. The distal ~3 cm of colorectum with either pelvic (PN) or lumbar splanchnic (LSN) nerve attached was removed, opened longitudinally, pinned flat in a recording chamber, and perfused with oxygenated Krebs solution. Colorectal receptive endings were located by electrical stimulation and characterized as mechanosensitive or not by blunt probing, mucosal stroking, and circumferential stretch. MIA endings were tested for response to and acquisition of mechanosensitivity by localized exposure to an inflammatory soup (IS). Colorectal afferents were also tested with twin-pulse and repetitive electrical stimulation paradigms. PN MIAs represented 23% of 211 afferents studied, 71% (30/42) of which acquired mechanosensitivity after application of IS to their receptive ending. LSN MIAs represented 33% of 156 afferents studied, only 23% (11/48) of which acquired mechanosensitivity after IS exposure. Mechanosensitive PN endings uniformly exhibited significant twin-pulse slowing whereas LSN endings showed no significant twin-pulse difference. PN MIAs displayed significantly greater activity-dependent slowing than LSN MIAs. In conclusion, significant proportions of MIAs are present in the colorectal innervation; significantly more in the PN than LSN acquire mechanosensitivity in an inflammatory environment. This knowledge contributes to our understanding of the possible roles of MIAs in colon-related disorders like inflammatory/irritable bowel syndrome. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The rapidly growing yellow grouper industry has experienced relatively severe bacterial disease problems in China. The proliferation of pathogens in fish can be suppressed by commensal microbiota. In this background, we used nested polymerase chain reaction-denaturing gradient gel electrophoresis (PCR-DGGE) and sequence analysis to investigate microbiota in the skin, gills and intestines, including adherent bacteria and non-adherent bacteria in yellow grouper fed with natural diet and complete feed. A total of 21 bacterial species were identified using phylogenetic analysis. The γ- Proteobacteria group (81.0%, 17 species) dominated the bacterial communities in yellow grouper completely. Others belonged to Firmicutes (9.5%, two species), Actinobacteria (4.75%, one species) and Verrucomicrobia (4.75%, one species). The higher similarities (above 91%) of the DGGE band patterns in skin, gill and intestinal-non-adherent bacteria between two groups of fish indicated that existed more stable microbial communities existed in these specifically ecological niches in yellow grouper. However, considerable differences existed between two intestinal-adherent bacteria (IAB) samples; that is, compared with natural diet fed yellow grouper, higher bacterial apparent species richness and possibly less abundance existed in IAB in fish fed with complete diets, probably indicating that the community structures in IAB were affected easily and significantly by diet. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Analogs of the known H1-antihistamine R-dimethindene with suitable selectivity for key GPCRs, P450 enzymes and hERG channel were assessed for metabolism profile and in vivo properties. Several analogs were determined to exhibit diverse metabolism. One of these compounds, 10a, showed equivalent efficacy in a rat EEG/EMG model to a previously identified clinical candidate and a potentially superior pharmacokinetic profile as determined from a human microdose study. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: A series of indene analogs of the H1-antihistamine (−)-R-dimethindene was evaluated for selectivity in the search for potentially improved sedative-hypnotics. Variation of the 6-substitutent in the indene core in combination with a pendant electron rich heterocycle led to the identification of several potent H1-antihistamines with desirable selectivity over CYP enzymes, the M1 muscarinic receptor and the hERG channel. These compounds were candidates for further ADME profiling and in vivo evaluation. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Information about colorectal distension (i.e., colorectal dilation by increased intraluminal pressure) is primarily encoded by stretch-sensitive colorectal afferents in the pelvic nerve (PN). Despite anatomic differences between rectum and distal colon, little is known about the functional roles of colonic vs. rectal afferents in the PN pathway or the quantitative nature of mechanosensory encoding. We utilized an in vitro mouse colorectum-PN preparation to investigate pressure-encoding characteristics of colorectal afferents. The colorectum with PN attached was dissected, opened longitudinally, and pinned flat in a Sylgard-lined chamber. Action potentials of afferent fibers evoked by circumferential stretch (servo-controlled force actuator) were recorded from the PN. Stretch-sensitive fibers were categorized into the following four groups: colonic muscular, colonic muscular/mucosal, rectal muscular, and rectal muscular/mucosal. Seventy-nine stretch-sensitive PN afferents evenly distributed into the above four groups were studied. Rectal muscular afferents had significantly greater stretch-responses than the other three groups. Virtually all rectal afferents (98%) had low thresholds for response and encoded stimulus intensity into the noxious range without obvious saturation. Most colonic afferents (72%) also had low thresholds (<14 mmHg), but a significant proportion (28%) had high thresholds (>18 mml-lg) for response. These high-threshold colonic afferents were sensitized to stretch by inflammatory soup; response threshold was significantly reduced (from 23 to 12 mmHg), and response magnitude significantly increased. These results suggest that the encoding of mechanosensory information differs between colonic and rectal stretch-sensitive PN afferents. Rectal afferents have a wide response range to stretch, whereas high-threshold colonic afferents likely contribute to visceral nociception. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Based on a novel composite right/left‐handed unit cell, a wideband frequency‐scanning network with a large scanning angle ranging towards both negative and positive elevation angles is proposed. The measured results show that the insertion loss variation of the designed frequency‐scanning network is 7.2 ± 1 dB when the frequency ranges from 4.33 to 8.53 GHz and the phase differences of adjacent output ports scan from −50° to 50° when the frequency ranges from 4.76 to 8.26 GHz (53.8%). The proposed network can be used in wideband systems that require a large scanning angle range. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Analogues of the known H1-antihistamine R-dimethindene were profiled as potential agents for the treatment of insomnia. Several highly selective compounds were efficacious in rodent sleep models. On the basis of overall profile, indene 1dand benzothiophene 2ahad pharmacokinetic properties suitable for evaluation in night time dosing. Compound 2adid not show an in vivo cardiovascular effect from weak hERG channel inhibition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The main target of this work is to characterize the abatements of particulate matter (PM), hydrocarbons (HC) and nitrogen oxides (NO x ) from an actual diesel exhaust using dielectric barrier discharge technology (DBD). The effects of several parameters, such as peak voltage, frequency and engine load, on the contaminant removals have been investigated intensively. The present study shows that for a given frequency, the removals of PM and HC are enhanced with the increase of peak voltage and level off at higher voltage, while in the range of higher voltages a decline of NO x removal efficiency is observed. For a given voltage, the maximums of specific energy density (SED) and removal efficiency are attained at resonance point. The increase of peak voltage will result in a significant decrease of energy utilization efficiency of DBD at most engine loads. Alkanes in soluble organic fraction (SOF) are more readily subjected to removals than polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs). [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Arterial baroreceptors are essential for neurocirculatory control, providing rapid hemodynamic feedback to the central nervous system. The pressure-dependent discharge of carotid and aortic baroreceptor afferents has been extensively studied. A common assumption has been that circumferential deformation of the arterial wall is the predominant mechanical force affecting baroreceptor discharge. However, in vivo the arterial tree is under significant longitudinal tension, leading to the hypothesis that axially directed forces may contribute to baroreceptor function. To test this hypothesis, we utilized a combination of finite element modeling methods and an in vitro rat aortic arch preparation. Model formulation utilized traditional analytic constructs available in the literature followed by refinement of model material parameters through direct comparison of computationally and experimentally generated pressure-diameter curves. The numerical simulations strongly indicated a functional role for axial loading within the region of the baroreceptive nerve terminal. This prediction was confirmed through single-fiber recording of baroreceptor nerve discharge under conditions with and without longitudinal tension in the vessel preparation. The recordings (n = 5) demonstrated that longitudinal tension significantly (P < 0.02) lowered both the pressure threshold (Pth, mmHg) for baroreceptor discharge and sensitivity (Sth, Hz/mmHg). The effect was nearly instantaneous and sustained; i.e., under longitudinal tension average Pth was 84 ± 3 mmHg and So, was 0.71 ± 0.15 Hz/mmHg, which immediately increased to a Pth of 94 ± 4 mmHg and a Sth of 1.20 ± 0.32 Hz/mmHg with loss of axial tension. Possible explanations of how an abrupt change in axial loading could result in a synchronized increase in afferent drive of the baroreceptor reflex, and the potentiating effect this could have on neurogenically mediated orthostatic intolerance are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The reaction of chiral sulfinimines 1c-g derived from aliphatic aldehydes with TMSCN in the presence of CsF gave α-amino nitriles in high diastereoselectivity and yield. α,β-Diamino acid derivatives were also obtained in high diastereoselectivity from the reaction of 2-aziridinesulfinimines 1h and 1i followed by ring-opening of the products with thiophenol. The presence of hydrogen at the α-position of the C=N double bond is crucial in this TMSCN addition reaction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Examines the facile synthesis of enantiopure 2-Aziridinesulfinimines. Discussion on the diastereoselective reactions with phosphite anions; Determination on the configuration of compounds; Ability of sodium cation to coordinate nitrogen.

In order to achieve the anaberration and athermalization of the infrared dual-band optical system, a new athermalization design based on the negative dispersion property is proposed. The system uses closed four-piece lens which made of combination of three materials to realize the double-band thermal dissipation differential design. The influence of temperature on optical parameters and design method is analyzed. Through a design example, the parameter performance index is discussed. The design results show that the optical modulation transfer function of the medium wave band (3–5 u m) is greater than 0.5, the long wave band (8–10 u m) is greater than 0.25 when the operating temperature is between −60℃ and 200℃, and the Nyquist frequency of the detector is 20lp/mm. The results not only meet the design requirements but also verify the feasibility of the proposed method through the optimization analysis of Zemax software. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: Folic acid and vitamin B12 (FV), being B vitamins, not only facilitate the remethylation of homocysteine (Hcy) but also contribute to embryonic development. This study aimed to assess the impact of FV supplementation during late pregnancy on sows' reproductive performance, amino acid metabolism, placental angiogenesis, and related parameters. Twenty primiparous sows at day 60 of gestation were randomly allocated to two groups: a basal diet (CON) group and a group receiving a basal diet supplemented with folic acid at 20 ppm and vitamin B12 at 125 ppb. RESULTS: The findings revealed that dietary FV supplementation significantly reduced the incidence of intrauterine growth retardation compared to the CON group (P < 0.05). Furthermore, it led to a decrease in the Hcy levels in umbilical cord serum (P < 0.05) and activation of the placental mechanistic target of rapamycin complex 1 (mTORC1) signaling pathway (P < 0.05). Additionally, FV supplementation lowered placental malondialdehyde levels (P < 0.05) and increased the expression of placental thioredoxin (P = 0.05). Moreover, maternal FV supplementation notably elevated placental vascular density (P < 0.05) and the expression of sodium-coupled neutral amino acid transporter 2 (SNAT2) (P < 0.05), as well as amino acid concentrations in umbilical cord blood (P < 0.05). CONCLUSION: Maternal FV supplementation during medium to late gestation reduced Hcy levels in umbilical cord blood and positively impacted fetal development. This improvement was closely associated with increased placental antioxidant capacity and vascular density, as well as activation of the placental mTORC1-SNAT2 signaling pathway. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The enteric nervous system (ENS) functions largely independently of the central nervous system (CNS). Glutamate, the dominant neurotransmitter in the CNS and sensory afferents, is not a primary neurotransmitter in the ENS. Only a fraction (-2%) of myenteric neurons in the mouse distal colon and rectum (colorectum) are positive for vesicular glutamate transporter type 2 (VGLUT2), the structure and function of which remain undetermined. Here, we systematically characterized VGLUT2-positive enteric neurons (VGLUT2-ENs) through sparse labeling with adeno-associated virus, single-cell mRNA sequencing (scRNAseq), and GCaMP6f calcium imaging. Our results reveal that the majority of VGLUT2-ENs (29 of 31, 93.5%) exhibited Dogiel type I morphology with a single aborally projecting axon; most axons (26 of 29, 89.7%) are between 4 and 10 mm long, each traversing 19 to 34 myenteric ganglia. These anatomical features exclude the VGLUT2-ENs from being intrinsic primary afferent or motor neurons. The scRNA-seq conducted on 52 VGLUT2-ENs suggests different expression profiles from conventional descending interneurons. Ex vivo GCaMP6f recordings from flattened colorectum indicate that almost all VGLUT2-EN (181 of 215, 84.2%) are indirectly activated by colorectal stretch via nicotinic cholinergic neural transmission. In conclusion, VGLUT2-ENs are a functionally unique group of enteric neurons with single aborally projecting long axons that traverse multiple myenteric ganglia and are activated indirectly by colorectal mechanical stretch. This knowledge will provide a solid foundation for subsequent studies on the potential interactions of VGLUT2-EN with extrinsic colorectal afferents via glutamatergic neurotransmission. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

CuO/CeO2 catalysts were widely studied as an alternative to precious metal catalysts, and the Cu–Ce synergy was essential to improve the catalytic performance. In this paper, the effects of CuO loading on Cu–Ce synergy in CuO/CeO2 nanorod catalysts and their performance in toluene combustion were systematically investigated. It was found that non-equilibrium plasma facilitated the dispersion of CuO active species on the CeO2 surface. With the increase of the CuO loading from 1 wt% to 4 wt%, the Cu–Ce synergistic effect was gradually improved, which generated Cu+/Cu2+ and Ce3+/Ce4+ redox electron pairs. The highest oxygen vacancy concentration and Cu+ content of CuCe-4 (4 wt%) resulting from strong Cu–Ce synergy accelerated the activation of chemisorbed oxygen and consequently improved the efficiency of toluene catalytic combustion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Plasma catalysis is recognized as a promising technology for the elimination of diluted volatile organic compounds (VOCs). In this study, a hybrid process was carried out using dielectric barrier discharge (DBD) and MCeZr/TiO2 (M = Cu, Mn, Ni, and Co) catalysts for the degradation of VOCs. The plasma-catalytic system demonstrated a substantial improvement in toluene conversion and CO2 selectivity compared to the plasma-only system owing to the synergistic effects of plasma and thermal catalysis on toluene degradation. The performance of toluene removal follows the sequence of CuCeZr/T > NiCeZr/T > CoCeZr/T > MnCeZr/T in plasma catalysis. The CuCeZr/T catalyst demonstrated the highest toluene conversion of 99.0% and a CO2 selectivity of 91.0% at a discharge power of 30 W. Energetic electrons and reactive species generated by plasma actively participate in toluene activation in the gas phase and facilitate adsorption on the catalyst surface. The redox properties between Ce4+/Ce3+ and Cu+/Cu2+ species dictated the reducibility of the CuCeZr/T catalyst, promoting oxygen cycling during toluene oxidation and leading to enhanced catalytic performance. The pathways of toluene destruction in the plasma-catalysis system are discussed based on the analysis results of GC–MS, optical emission spectroscopy and calculations of the electron-impact reactions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Doubled haploid (DH) technology is an important tool in crop breeding because it can significantly accelerate the breeding process. ZmPLA1/MATL/NLD and ZmDMP are two key genes controlling haploid induction (HI) in maize, exhibiting a synergistic effect. However, it is unknown whether knock out of ZmDMP orthologs can stimulate HI in rice. In this study, a ZmPLA1 ortholog (OsPLA1) and two ZmDMP orthologs (OsDMP3 and OsDMP6) were identified in rice. All three genes encode plasma membrane-localized proteins and were highly expressed in mature anthers. Knockout of OsPLA1 in both Minghui 63 and Nipponbare resulted in reduced seed setting rate (SSR) and caused HI. The osdmp3, osdmp6 and the double mutant failed to trigger HI independently, nor increased the haploid induction rate (HIR) when combined with ospla1. Repeated pollinations operations of QX654A with the ospla1 mutant significantly improve SSR, while reducing HIR. RNA-seq profiling of mature ospla1 mutant anthers indicated that a large number of differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were enriched in redox homeostasis and lipid metabolic GO terms, plant hormone signal transduction, and MAPK signaling pathways. These findings provide important insights towards construction of an efficient DH breeding technology and study of the molecular mechanism of HI in rice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sex differences in visceral nociception have been reported in clinical and preclinical studies, but the potential differences in sensory neural encoding of the colorectum between males and females are not well understood. In this study, we systematically assessed sex differences in colorectal neural encoding by conducting high-throughput optical recordings in intact dorsal root ganglia (DRGs) from control and visceral hypersensitive mice. We found an apparent sex difference in zymosan-induced behavioral visceral hypersensitivity: enhanced visceromotor responses to colorectal distension were observed only in male mice, not in female mice. In addition, a higher number of mechanosensitive colorectal afferents were identified per mouse in the zymosantreated male group than in the saline-treated male group, whereas the mechanosensitive afferents identified per mouse were comparable between the zymosan- and saline-treated female groups. The increased number of identified afferents in zymosantreated male mice was predominantly from thoracolumbar (TL) innervation, which agrees with the significant increase in the TL afferent proportion in the zymosan group as compared with the control group in male mice. In contrast, female mice showed no difference in the proportion of colorectal neurons between saline- and zymosan-treated groups. Our results revealed a significant sex difference in colorectal afferent innervation and sensitization in the context of behavioral visceral hypersensitivity, which could drive differential clinical symptoms in male and female patients. NEW & NOTEWORTHY We used high-throughput GCaMP6f recordings to study 2,275 mechanosensitive colorectal afferents in mice. Our results revealed significant sex differences in the zymosan-induced behavioral visceral hypersensitivity, which were present in male but not female mice. Male mice also showed sensitization of colorectal afferents in the thoracolumbar pathway, whereas female mice did not. These findings highlight sex differences in sensory neural anatomy and function of the colorectum, with implications for sex-specific therapies for treating visceral pain. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Studying the mechanisms of bagasse conversion into syngas is essential to sustain the growing use of biomass in energy economy production. In this work, the precise kinetics of bagasse gasification with various gasification agents was firstly investigated employing in-situ infrared spectra with Coats-Redfern integration, combining qualitative infrared spectroscopy allowed for kinetic analysis, so as to explore how the intermediate species vary in each basic reaction. The results demonstrate that the CO 2 agent reduces the activation energy of nitryl after amino oxidation, making the lignin involved in gasification more easily as well as causing higher gasification efficiency. On the one hand, steam serving as a gasification agent enhances the concentration of hydroxyl groups and produces H 2 -rich syngas. On the other hand, the strong oxidizing hydroxyl group reduces the energy barrier of carbonyl and carboxyl groups in cellulose, which facilitates the gasification process. Furthermore, this study compared the effects of gasification agent (H 2 O or CO 2) on syngas composition, reactor temperature distribution, carbon conversion rate, gasification efficiency, as well as low calorific value, providing essential information for understanding the micro-reaction pathways and pathway regulation during bagasse gasification. • Reducing the activation energy of functional groups are regulated by gasifiers. • The synergistic of gasification agents regulate chemical bond-breaking pathways. • The prospects of producing H 2 from biomass gasification are elucidated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Circular RNAs (circRNAs) are essential regulators associated with many cardiac conditions, including myocardial infarction (MI). This study aimed to explore circRNA expression during MI development in an animal model and in hypoxia/reoxygenation (H/R)-treated cardiomyocytes. Microarray and real-time quantitative PCR showed that the circRNA PVT1 (circPVT1) was expressed at high levels in MI tissues and H/R-triggered cardiomyocytes. Loss-of-function assays were utilized for examining the influence of circPVT1 on cardiac function and cardiomyocyte properties. Cardiac function was measured by echocardiography at 7 d after MI. Reduced circPVT1 expression significantly decreased MI-triggered myocardial infarct size by 60% and prevented MI-triggered reductions in fractional shortening (%FS) and ejection fraction (EF%). Results of LDH, CCK-8, EdU staining, colony formation assays, and flow cytometry showed that circPVT1 silencing restored cell viability and proliferation while decreased apoptosis. Mechanistic experiments indicated that microRNAs (miR)-125b and miR-200a associated with circPVT1. We demonstrated that circPVT1 functioned as a competitive endogenous RNA (ceRNA) to sponge both miR-125b and miR-200a. Gain-of-function assays showed that miR-125b and miR-200a upregulation partially eliminated the effects of circPVT1 on cardiomyocyte properties. In addition, we found that the previously reported p53/TRAF6, SIRT7, Keap1/Nrf2, and PDCD4 pathways were regulated by the circPVT1/miR-125b/miR-200a axis. In conclusion, our study suggests that circPVT1 protects the myocardium from MI and H/R injury by preventing miR-125b- and miR-200a-mediated apoptotic signaling. [Display omitted] • circRNA PVT1 protects the myocardium from myocardial infarction and H/R injury. • circPVT1 silencing promotes cell viability and proliferation while reduces apoptosis. • circPVT1 functions as a ceRNA to sponge both miR-125b and miR-200a. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

By an experimental finding, for a given radiant point source and a given infrared detector sampling, an optical point spread function (PSF) falling on different positions of an infrared detector focal plane array, will result in different measured PSFs. Those measured PSFs known as decoding kernels will further produce different decoded images. Therefore, this work explores the effect of PSF position bias on decoded images in a wavefront coding infrared imaging system. This paper theoretically analyzes the effect of PSF position bias on decoded images. A simulation is conducted for qualitatively evaluating the effect of PSF position bias on decoded images by mean structural similarity (MSSIM) index. Simulated results prove that the probability for MSSIM index greater than 0.75 is 91.38%, and that for less than 0.5 is only 1.22% but this minority seriously degrades the decoded images. We construct an experimental setup for capturing the raw PSF image at a random position and proposes a procedure to reduce the noise of a raw PSF image. The experimental result demonstrates the feasibility for measuring a PSF to achieve a decoded image with good quality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Managing patients with atrial fibrillation (AF) and comorbid heart failure (HF) with reduced (HFrEF) or mildly reduced ejection fraction (HFmrEF) is of clinical importance but a great challenge. This study aimed to evaluate the clinical benefit of the combined radiofrequency catheter ablation (RFCA) and left atrial appendage closure (LAAC) procedure in AF patients complicated with systolic HF. Methods: AF patients with HFrEF or HFmrEF who underwent the combined RFCA and LAAC procedure were prospectively enrolled in the LAACablation registry. The procedural complications and long-term outcomes were evaluated. Another cohort of AF patients with systolic HF who did not undergo either RFCA or LAAC were used for prognosis comparison. Results: Among 802 AF patients who underwent the combined procedure, 65 patients were comorbid with systolic HF (25 with HFrEF and 40 with HFmrEF). The overall procedural complication rate was 9.2%, which was mainly attributed to acute decompensated HF (6.2%). Accompanied with markedly reduced AF burden (from median [25th, 75th percentile]: 100 [100, 100] to 0 [0, 1.2]%, p < 0.001), upward trajectories of cardiac function were observed in 51 (78.4%) patients, showing improvement in New York Heart Classification (p < 0.01), natriuretic peptide levels (from 1492 [809, 3259] to 413 [163, 880] pg/mL, p < 0.001) and left ventricular EF (from 42.6 ± 5.3 to 53.8 ± 8.2%, p < 0.001). During the 27-month follow-up period, death, thromboembolism, major bleeding, and HF rehospitalization were observed in three, one, one, and four patients, respectively. The observed event rates showed a significant reduction compared with the non-procedure AF-HF cohort (n = 138; for composite endpoint: hazard ratio: 2.509, 95% confidence interval: 1.415–4.449, p = 0.002) and with the respective rates predicted by risk scores. Conclusions: Combining RFCA and LAAC achieves acceptable safety and credible long-term efficacy in AF patients with systolic HF. Further randomized studies are warranted in a larger patient cohort. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abnormal colorectal biomechanics and mechanotransduction associate with an array of gastrointestinal diseases, including inflammatory bowel disease, irritable bowel syndrome, diverticula disease, anorectal disorders, ileus, and chronic constipation. Visceral pain, principally evoked from mechanical distension, has a unique biomechanical component that plays a critical role in mechanotransduction, the process of encoding mechanical stimuli to the colorectum by sensory afferents. To fully understand the underlying mechanisms of visceral mechanical neural encoding demands focused attention on the macro- and micro-mechanics of colon tissue. Motivated by biomechanical experiments on the colon and rectum, increasing efforts focus on developing constitutive frameworks to interpret and predict the anisotropic and nonlinear biomechanical behaviors of the multilayered colorectum. We will review the current literature on computational modeling of the colon and rectum as well as the mechanical neural encoding by stretch sensitive afferent endings, and then highlight our recent advances in these areas. Current models provide insight into organ- and tissue-level biomechanics as well as the stretch-sensitive afferent endings of colorectal tissues yet an important challenge in modeling theory remains. The research community has not connected the biomechanical models to those of mechanosensitive nerve endings to create a cohesive multiscale framework for predicting mechanotransduction from organ-level biomechanics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • The L-H mechanism dominates the low-temperature induction stage. • Coexistence of M−K and L-H mechanisms in ammonia catalytic combustion. • (M−K) /(L-H) = 0.427 (Induction stage) and 0.627 (continuous combustion stage). • The NH and NH 2 are the key species for the two stages of N 2 production (i-SCR). • The CuO-CeO 2 achieves self-sustained catalytic combustion at NH 3 = 14%. Carbon-free hydrogen-rich ammonia (NH 3) is a potential next energy generation source, where a high ignition point and high nitric oxide contents, thereby limiting further development. This study aims to investigate the mechanism evolution during the catalytic ignition process of high NH 3 concentration over copper-cerium catalyst to address the demerits of flame combustion. The phase composition, elemental valence, and active species of the copper-cerium oxide (CuO-CeO 2) catalyst are investigated using various characterization techniques. The results indicated that Cu species are mainly present in copper-cerium solid solutions and highly dispersed CuO clusters, providing sufficient Cu sites to adsorb NH 3 and abundant reactive lattice oxygen. The catalytic ignition triggered a kinetic transition from low-rate to high-rate steady-state. During the induction process, the predominance of the L-H mechanism is implied by the kinetic modeling and transient experiments (low-rate induced phase). Combined with IR spectroscopy and isotope (18O 2)-transient response study, the results indicated that adsorbed NH 3 reacted with surface adsorbed oxygen, simultaneously pulling out lattice oxygen to react with adsorbed NH 3 , confirming the coexistence of L-H and M−K mechanism over CuO-CeO 2. The L-H mechanism (18O, contribution of adsorbed oxygen) plays a relatively dominant role in the induction stage, while the involvement of the M−K mechanism (16O, contribution of lattice oxygen) is significantly increased in the sustained combustion stage. At both stages, NH and NH 2 served as critical species for N 2 generation (i-SCR), respectively, playing an important role in N 2 selectivity. Moreover, in the self-sustained combustion stage for CuO-CeO 2 (14%NH 3), the rapid gas diffusion and mass transfer facilitated the adsorption and activation of NH 3. These results are envisaged to provide theoretical support for the handling and application of high concentrations of NH 3. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Obesity has become a global health concern. it increases the risk of several diseases, such as type 2 diabetes mellitus, nonalcoholic fatty liver disease, and certain cancers, which threatens human health and increases social economic burden. As one of the most consumed beverages, tea contains various phytochemicals with potent bioactive properties and health-promoting effects, such as antioxidant, immune-regulation, cardiovascular protection and anticancer. Tea and its components are also considered as potential candidates for anti-obesity. epidemiological studies indicate that regular consumption of tea is beneficial for reducing body fat. in addition, the experimental studies demonstrate that the potential anti-obesity mechanisms of tea are mainly involved in increasing energy expenditure and lipid catabolism, decreasing nutrient digestion and absorption as well as lipid synthesis, and regulating adipocytes, neuroendocrine system and gut microbiota. Moreover, most of clinical studies illustrate that the intake of green tea could reduce body weight and alleviate the obesity. in this review, we focus on the effect of tea and its components on obesity from epidemiological, experimental, and clinical studies, and discuss their potential mechanisms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Based on a novel composite right/left-handed unit cell, a wideband frequency- scanning network with a large scanning angle ranging towards both negative and positive elevation angles is proposed. The measured results show that the insertion loss variation of the designed frequencyscanning network is 7.2 ± 1 dB when the frequency ranges from 4.33 to 8.53 GHz and the phase differences of adjacent output ports scan from -50° to 50° when the frequency ranges from 4.76 to 8.26 GHz (53.8%). The proposed network can be used in wideband systems that require a large scanning angle range. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A division of a focal plane (DoFP) polarimeter is manufactured by placing a micropolarizer array directly onto the focal plane array (FPA) of a detector. Each element of the DoFP polarimeter is a polarized pixel. This paper proposes a performance model for a polarized pixel. The proposed model characterizes the optical and electronic performance of a polarized pixel by three parameters. They are respectively major polarization responsivity, minor polarization responsivity and polarization orientation. Each parameter corresponds to an intuitive physical feature of a polarized pixel. This paper further extends this model to calibrate polarization images from a DoFP (division of focal plane) polarimeter. This calibration work is evaluated quantitatively by a developed DoFP polarimeter under varying illumination intensity and angle of linear polarization. The experiment proves that our model reduces nonuniformity to 6.79% of uncalibrated DoLP (degree of linear polarization) images, and significantly improves the visual effect of DoLP images. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nonthermal plasma (NTP) is a promising technology for the decomposition of chlorobenzene (CB), but many conditions will affect the performance of NTP. The effects of gas temperature, relative humidity, oxygen content, sulfur dioxide (SO2), and nitric oxide (NO) on the removal of CB in dielectric barrier discharge (DBD) were studied in this study. The results showed that the gas temperature with the highest CB removal rate was 50°C at 14 kV and 200°C at 18 kV. With the addition of water vapor, the removal efficiency of CB first increased and then decreased, reaching the highest (52.94%) when the relative humidity was 20% at 14 kV. The presence of oxygen inhibited the degradation of CB. At 14 kV, when the oxygen concentration increased from 0% to 25%, the degradation efficiency of CB decreased from 71.93% to 32.54%. In the discharge process, the addition of SO2 promoted the removal of CB, while NO inhibited under the same conditions. The addition of SO2 and NO did not change the specific energy density. For ozone (O3), the addition of water molecules, SO2 , and NO inhibited the formation of O3. It is of great significance to study the influence of relevant gas conditions on the degradation of CB by NTP technology, so as to provide a reference for industrial application. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Because of obvious drawbacks including serious artefacts and noise in a decoded image, the existing wavefront coding infrared imaging systems are seriously restricted in application. The proposed ultra-precision diamond machining technique manufactures an optical phase mask with a form manufacturing errors of approximately 770 nm and a surface roughness value Ra of 5.44 nm. The proposed decoding method outperforms the classical Wiener filtering method in three indices of mean square errors, mean structural similarity index and noise equivalent temperature difference. Based on the results mentioned above and a basic principle of wavefront coding technique, this paper further develops a wavefront coding infrared imaging system. Experimental results prove that our wavefront coding infrared imaging system yields a decoded image with good quality over a temperature range from −40 °C to +70 °C. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The CuO/Ce 0.75 Zr 0.25 O 2 - δ and Ce 0.75 Zr 0.25 O δ catalysts were prepared by the sol-gel method, and Cu 0.07 Ce 0.75 Zr 0.25 O 2-δ was obtained by treating CuO/Ce 0.75 Zr 0.25 O 2 - δ with nitric acid to remove the well-dispersed CuO on the surface. Various characterizations were used to reveal the different active sites, such as surface-dispersed CuO and Cu-Ce-Zr-O δ solid solutions in CuO/Ce 0.75 Zr 0.25 O 2 - δ , Cu-Ce-Zr-O δ solid solutions in Cu 0.07 Ce 0.75 Zr 0.25 O 2-δ and Ce-Zr-O δ solid solutions in Ce 0.75 Zr 0.25 O δ . The Raman and O 2 -TPD results showed that the concentration of oxygen vacancies in Cu-Ce-Zr-O δ solid solutions was higher than that in Ce-Zr-O δ solid solutions. CO oxidation testing suggested that the catalytic activity decreases in the order of CuO/Ce 0.75 Zr 0.25 O 2 - δ > Cu 0.07 Ce 0.75 Zr 0.25 O 2-δ > Ce 0.75 Zr 0.25 O δ . Combined with the in situ diffuse-reflectance Fourier transform (in situ DRIFT) results, the reaction sensitivity followed the order of CO linear chemisorption onto dispersed CuO x species (Mars-van Krevelen mechanism) > carbonate species onto a Cu-Ce-Zr-O δ solid solution (Langmuir-Hinshelwood mechanism) > carbonate species onto a Ce-Zr-O δ solid solution (Langmuir-Hinshelwood mechanism). Kinetic studies suggested that the power-law rate expressions and apparent activation energies were r = 6.02 × 10 −7 ×P CO 0.68 P O2 0.03 (53 ± 3 kJ/mol) for CuO/Ce 0.75 Zr 0.25 O 2 - δ , r = 5.86 × 10 −7 ×P CO 0.8 P O2 0.07 (105 ± 5 kJ/mol) for Cu 0.07 Ce 0.75 Zr 0.25 O 2-δ and r = 5.7 × 10 −7 ×P CO 0.75 P O2 0.12 (115 ± 6 kJ/mol) for Ce 0.75 Zr 0.25 O δ . The Mars-van Krevelen mechanism should be the crucial reaction pathway over CuO/Ce 0.75 Zr 0.25 O 2 - δ in CO interfacial reactions, although the Langmuir-Hinshelwood mechanism cannot be ignored, and the Langmuir-Hinshelwood mechanism mainly occurred over the Cu 0.07 Ce 0.75 Zr 0.25 O 2-δ and Ce 0.75 Zr 0.25 O δ catalysts, where the contribution from the Mars-van Krevelen mechanism was negligible due to the absence of surface CuO x species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Self-sustained catalytic combustion is a promising strategy to remove CO from the off-gas produced during steelmaking, where the potential catalysts are bulk copper-cerium-zirconium mixed oxides or those supported on TiO 2 or ZSM-5 substrates. In this study, the effects of the catalyst support on the CO catalytic ignition performance and reaction pathways were investigated by FTIR coupled with a novel in-situ cell, together with the state-of-the-art characterization techniques. The Infrared (IR) transmission cell equipped with a magnetically driven system, could effectively prevent overlaps between active intermediate peaks (Cu+-CO and Cu+(CO) 2) and gaseous CO peaks. The Cu+ cations located at the phase interface are the main active sites. The Cu and Ce interactions lead to the formation of solid solutions of CuCe 0.75 Zr 0.25 O δ (CuCeZr). The monocarbonyls [Cu+-CO] are the dominant species during CO oxidation, and the vacancies in the solid solutions are occupied by oxygen, accelerating the oxygen cycle. The TiO 2 or ZSM-5 supports promote copper dispersion over CuCe 0.75 Zr 0.25 O δ /TiO 2 (CuCeZr/T) and CuCe 0.75 Zr 0.25 O δ /ZSM-5 (CuCeZr/Z) catalysts, which can be attributed to their high surface areas (168.2 and 346.3 m2/g, respectively), while the Cu-Ce interactions are less relevant. Hence, CO oxidation mainly occurs at the phase interface between copper oxide and TiO 2 /ZSM-5. Dicarbonyls [Cu+(CO) 2 ] are the main intermediates for the CuCeZr/T and CuCeZr/Z catalysts, and the Cu2+ species are reduced to form dicarbonyls that also take part in the oxidation process. Although a well copper dispersion enhances the activity of individual copper sites on the CuCeZr/T and CuCeZr/Z catalysts, considering the redshift of the carbonyl bands and the increase in CO adsorption, the close interactions and high contents of Cu and Ce favor the local accumulation of heat and mass transfer over bulk CuCeZr, leading to the ignition of CO at low temperatures. [Display omitted] • CuCe 0.75 Zr 0.25 O δ and CuCe 0.75 Zr 0.25 O δ /TiO 2 and CuCe 0.75 Zr 0.25 O δ /ZSM-5 catalysts were designed. • The structure-activity relationship was obtained. • The self-sustained combustion and stability limit of CO were carried out. • The in-situ IR with a novel magnetically driven IR cell was designed and performed. • The intermediate species and reaction pathways over different catalysts were evidenced. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Defects in nanocarbon materials can trigger their intriguing electrochemical properties and potential applications, but their synthesis is challenging. Herein, we report the synthesis of ultrathin nitrogen-doped carbon nanosheets with intrinsic defects through the pyrolysis of ZIF-8 with linker vacancies. The as-synthesized electrocatalyst exhibits excellent oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) activity with an onset potential and half-wave potential of 1.05 and 0.873 V vs. RHE, respectively, outperforming the reported metal-free ORR electrocatalysts. It also shows a commercial Pt/C-comparable performance in zinc–air battery with a power density of 154.4 mW cm−2. Characterization and DFT calculation results suggest the adjacent sp3-carbon in carbon pentagon can significantly strengthen the adsorption and activation of oxygen molecules on sp2-carbon, hence the potential determining step is altered and ORR overpotential is lowered. This work highlights a promising green synthesis strategy of MOF-derived metal-free nanocarbon materials for wide application in advanced energy technologies. [Display omitted] • Hydrothemal synthesis of ZIF-8 with linker vacancies by addition of boric acid. • Rich edge sites, carbon pentagon and sp3 hybrization in derived metal-free carbon. • Superior ORR and zinc–air battery performance among reported metal-free materials. • Synergistic effect of topological defect and hybrization state. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The combined procedure of catheter ablation and left atrial appendage closure (LAAC) aims to simultaneously control the heart rhythm and reduce the risk of strokes in patients with atrial fibrillation (AF). The study aims to evaluate the procedural safety and long-term outcome of the combined procedure in a large patient cohort. Clinical data of AF patients who underwent the combined procedure was retrospectively analyzed. Procedural and imaging follow-up parameters were compared between the transesophageal echocardiography-guided standard process and fluoroscopy-guided modified process, and between the single-seal WATCHMAN and dual-seal LACBES devices. Long-term outcomes included all-cause mortality, thromboembolic events, major bleeding, and recurrence of atrial tachyarrhythmias. A total of 1114 patients were included. The rates of procedure-related major complications were comparable between the standard and modified processes (3.7% vs. 2.2%, p = 0.219), except for a higher incidence of respiratory depression in standard process group (0.9% vs 0%, p = 0.037), and between WATCHMAN and LACBES devices (2.4% vs. 3.3%, p = 0.535). The follow-up imaging evaluation revealed a high rate of satisfactory seals (99.7%) and a low rate of device related thrombus (1.9%), which were similar between two process groups and devices. The follow-up of over 1960 patient-years revealed low rates of mortality, thromboembolism, and nonprocedural major bleeding (1.8, 3.2, and 0.9 per 100 patient-years, respectively). Recurrent atrial tachyarrhythmias was observed in 23.9% patients. The results supported the safety and long-term efficacy of the combined procedure of catheter ablation and LAAC. Fluoroscopy-guided LAAC device implantation may be considered in experienced centers. • The safety of the combined procedure of catheter ablation and left atrial appendage closure was acceptable. • Despite a longer fluoroscopy time, the fluoroscopy-guided process had lower risks of respiratory depression and a shorter procedure time and required less workers than the transesophageal echocardiography-guided process. • Long-term event rates of the combined procedure were low, including mortality, thromboembolic events, and major bleeding events. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Airborne bacteria are an influential component of the Earth’s microbiomes, but their community structure and biogeographic distribution patterns have yet to be understood. We analyzed the bacterial communities of 370 air particulate samples collected from 63 sites around the world and constructed an airborne bacterial reference catalog with more than 27 million nonredundant 16S ribosomal RNA (rRNA) gene sequences. We present their biogeographic pattern and decipher the interlacing of the microbiome co-occurrence network with surface environments of the Earth. While the total abundance of global airborne bacteria in the troposphere (1.72 × 1024 cells) is 1 to 3 orders of magnitude lower than that of other habitats, the number of bacterial taxa (i.e., richness) in the atmosphere (4.71 × 108 to 3.08 × 109) is comparable to that in the hydrosphere, and its maximum occurs in midlatitude regions, as is also observed in other ecosystems. The airborne bacterial community harbors a unique set of dominant taxa (24 species); however, its structure appears to be more easily perturbed, due to the more prominent role of stochastic processes in shaping community assembly. This is corroborated by the major contribution of surface microbiomes to airborne bacteria (averaging 46.3%), while atmospheric conditions such as meteorological factors and air quality also play a role. Particularly in urban areas, human impacts weaken the relative importance of plant sources of airborne bacteria and elevate the occurrence of potential pathogens from anthropogenic sources. These findings serve as a key reference for predicting planetary microbiome responses and the health impacts of inhalable microbiomes with future changes in the environment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The identification of rapid, sensitive and high throughput biomarkers is imperative in order to identify individuals harmed by radiation accidents, and accurately evaluate the absorbed doses of radiation. DNA microarrays have previously been used to evaluate the alterations in growth/differentiation factor 15 (GDF15) gene expression in AHH‑1 human lymphoblastoid cells, following exposure to γ‑rays. The present study aimed to characterize the relationship between the dose of ionizing radiation and the produced effects in GDF‑15 gene expression in AHH‑1 cells and human peripheral blood lymphocytes (HPBLs). GDF‑15 mRNA and protein expression levels following exposure to γ‑rays and neutron radiation were assessed by reverse transcription‑quantitative polymerase chain reaction and western blot analysis in AHH‑1 cells. In addition, alterations in GDF‑15 gene expression in HPBLs following ex vivo irradiation were evaluated. The present results demonstrated that GDF‑15 mRNA and protein expression levels in AHH‑1 cells were significantly upregulated following exposure to γ‑ray doses ranging between 1 and 10 Gy, regardless of the dose rate. A total of 48 h following exposure to neutron radiation, a dose‑response relationship was identified in AHH‑1 cells at γ‑ray doses between 0.4 and 1.6 Gy. GDF‑15 mRNA levels in HPBLs were significantly upregulated following exposure to γ‑ray doses between 1 and 8 Gy, within 4‑48 h following irradiation. These results suggested that significant time‑ and dose‑dependent alterations in GDF‑15 mRNA and protein expression occur in AHH‑1 cells and HPBLs in the early phases following exposure to ionizing radiation. In conclusion, alterations in GDF‑15 gene expression may have potential as a biomarker to evaluate radiation exposure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: We aimed to investigate the immunophenotype, differential diagnosis, and clinicopathological characteristics of signet‐ring cell carcinoma (SRCC) derived from gastric foveolar epithelium. Methods: Clinical characteristics, endoscopic findings, histopathological features, and follow‐up data of seven cases of SRCC derived from gastric foveolar epithelium with small intramucosal lesions were analyzed. Results: Seven patients with a mean age of 38.3 years were diagnosed with SRCC derived from gastric foveolar epithelium and small intramucosal lesions, all of them were negative for CDH‐1 germline mutation. The glands proliferated and expanded, and then morphologically transformed into signet‐ring cells and formed clonal hyperplastic SRCC, which expanded laterally along the gastric foveolar cells to a length of 3–6 mm. Periodic acid Schiff staining was positive, while CK7 and MUC6 were negative, in all cases. Ki‐67‐positive cells ranged 37%–60%. During a follow‐up period of 6–30 months, no patients experienced tumor recurrence or metastasis. Conclusions: SRCC derived from gastric foveolar epithelium is originated from the proliferative region of the bottom of the gastric pit and gland neck. It is easily missed diagnosed or misdiagnosed as it grows laterally along the gastric foveolar cells. Biological behavior, genetics, and etiology of such SRCC, as well as the clinicopathological characteristics, need to be further studied. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • The typical intermediates in the oxidation process of toluene were obtainned by experiments and the formation paths were predicted. • The transition states of possible intermediates were searched and compared for the reaction energy and activation energy for every step. • The optimum formation path of benzaldehyde and benzoic acid was determined. Catalytic oxidation technology is still the mainstream technology of VOCs treatment at present, and it is of great significance to study the main active components of catalysts and clarify the evolution and transformation process of intermediate products in the catalytic process for clarifying the reaction mechanism and guiding the catalyst design. Pd was identified as the main active component in catalytic oxidation of toluene, and the important intermediate products in the degradation of toluene, i.e., benzaldehyde and benzoic acid, were obtained through experiment and In-situ DRIFT spectra. However, the specific evolution process of intermediates is difficult to observe experimentally. The conversion of toluene on Pd (1 1 1) surface was studied by DFT calculation. Benzaldehyde was the most stable intermediate and benzoic acid was the most stable energy state of the reaction products. Then the activation energies and reaction energies of all possible reaction paths from toluene to benzaldehyde or benzoic acid were calculated, and the only transition state was obtained. Two pathways for the formation of benzaldehyde and benzoic acid were identified, in which the oxidation reaction after dehydrogenation may be the common rate-determining step of the two pathways, with a maximum energy barrier of 0.80 eV. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]