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This study used aluminum powder as a raw material to fabricate a wick for loop heat pipes by the powder metallurgy method and took advantage of the excellent corrosion resistance, low density and low cost of aluminum. The average pore diameter, porosity and permeability of the aluminum wicks were 9 ?m, 47.65%, and 2.1 ? 10?13 m?2, respectively. Then, to verify the feasibility of the aluminum wick, it was installed into a loop heat pipe to test the heat transfer performance. The experimental results showed that the loop heat pipe could transport a heating load of 130 W with a thermal resistance of 0.04 K/W under horizontal condition. A steady-state loop heat pipe mathematical model was developed, and the numerical results were compared with the experimental data. The results show that the model data are consistent with the experimental data, which means that Al wicks are suitable for use in the case of a high heating load and light weight.

The wick is the most crucial element of loop heat pipes (LHPs). At present, wick materials are limited to copper, stainless steel, nickel, and so on. Little research has been carried out on new wick materials. This paper reports the fabrication of aluminum wicks and performance tests of LHPs using aluminum wicks. Experimental data show that this LHP is capable of transferring a heating load of 130 W, while the thermal resistance is only approximately 0.04 K/W. Then, the experimental data were compared with those for LHPs using a polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) wick. Based on the SIMPLE algorithm, a 2-D unsteady-state heat transfer model and a 2-D steady-state flow model of the wicks are established to analyze the effects of wick material, pore size and porosity on the performance of the evaporator. The experimental data for LHPs with PTFE wicks are from the literature. The simulation results show that a PTFE wick can effectively reduce heat leakage, while an aluminum wick has better temperature uniformity and a lower casing temperature. However, wicks with large porosities have lower flow resistance.

Tungsten displays high strength in extreme temperature and radiation environments and is considered a promising plasma facing material for fusion nuclear reactors. Unlike other metals, it experiences substantial irradiation hardening, which limits service life and presents safety concerns. The origin of ultrahigh-irradiation hardening in tungsten cannot be well-explained by conventional strengthening theories. Here, we demonstrate that irradiation leads to near 3-fold increases in strength, while the usual defects that are generated only contribute less than one-third of the hardening. An analysis of the distribution of tagged atom-helium ions reveals that more than 87% of vacancies and helium atoms are unaccounted for. A large fraction of helium-vacancy complexes are frozen in the lattice due to high vacancy migration energies. Through a combination of in situ nanomechanical tests and atomistic calculations, we provide evidence that irradiation hardening mainly originates from high densities of atomic-scale hidden point-defect complexes.

Four air-stable cyclometalated half-sandwich iridium complexes 1–4 with C,N-donor Schiff base ligands were prepared through C–H activation in moderate-to-good yields. These complexes have been well...

Dental pulp stem cells (DPSCs) are ideal seed cells for the regeneration of dental tissues. However, DPSC senescence restricts its clinical applications. Metformin (Met), a common prescription drug for type 2 diabetes, is thought to influence the aging process. This study is aimed at determining the effects of metformin on DPSC senescence. Young and aging DPSCs were isolated from freshly extracted human teeth. Flow cytometry confirmed that DPSCs expressed characteristic surface antigen markers of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs). Cell Counting Kit-8 (CCK-8) assay showed that a concentration of 100 μM metformin produced the highest increase in the proliferation of DPSCs. Metformin inhibited senescence in DPSCs as evidenced by senescence-associated β-galactosidase (SA-β-gal) staining and the expression levels of senescence-associated proteins. Additionally, metformin significantly suppressed microRNA-34a-3p (miR-34a-3p) expression, elevated calcium-binding protein 39 (CAB39) expression, and activated the AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK)/mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) signaling pathway. Dual-luciferase reporter assay confirmed that CAB39 is a direct target for miR-34a-3p. Furthermore, transfection of miR-34a-3p mimics promoted the senescence of DPSCs, while metformin treatment or Lenti-CAB39 transfection inhibited cellular senescence. In conclusion, these results indicated that metformin could alleviate the senescence of DPSCs by downregulating miR-34a-3p and upregulating CAB39 through the AMPK/mTOR signaling pathway. This study elucidates on the inhibitory effect of metformin on DPSC senescence and its potential as a therapeutic target for senescence treatment.

In this study, a high methyl ester pectin polysaccharide, AER-A3 (Mw, 1.12 × 105 g/mol; O-methyl ester groups (wt%), 3.81%), was isolated and purified from the root bark of Aralia elata by ion exchange and gel-filtration chromatography. Its planar structure was investigated in combination with UPLC-ESI+-MS, FT-IR, HILIC-UPLC-ESI−-HCD-MS/MS, GC–MS and NMR techniques. The main chain of AER-A3 was unambiguously determined to be smooth region and hairy region with a chain length ratio of 1:1, characterized by occurrence of (1 → 2)-α-Rhap, (1 → 2,3)-α-Rhap, (1 → 2,4)-α-Rhap, (1 → 2,3,4)-α-Rhap, and (1 → 4)-α-GalpA, whereas the branched chain included T-α-Rhap, T-α-Araf, (1 → 5)-α-Araf, (1 → 3,5)-α-Araf, T-β-Galp, (1 → 3)-β-Galp, (1 → 3,4,6)-β-Galp, (1 → 4)-Glcp, (1 → 3)-Glcp, and (1 → 3)-Manp. Meanwhile, SEC-MALLS-RID, CD and Congo red assays showed that AER-A3 had no helical conformations but existed as a globular shape with branching. In addition, AER-A3 had good scavenging activities against DPPH, hydroxyl, and superoxide radicals. Anti-tumor assay investigated the effects of AER-A3 on human A549 and HepG2 cancer cell lines in vitro. These results provided a scientific basis for the use of the polysaccharides in A. elata root barks in pharmaceuticals.

Both the NMDA receptor (NMDAR) positive allosteric modulator (PAM), and antagonist, can exert rapid antidepressant effects as shown in several animal and human studies. However, how this bidirectional modulation of NMDARs causes similar antidepressant effects remains unknown. Notably, the initial cellular trigger, specific cell-type(s), and subunit(s) of NMDARs mediating the antidepressant-like effects of a PAM or an antagonist have not been identified. Here, we used electrophysiology, microdialysis, and NMR spectroscopy to evaluate the effect of a NMDAR PAM (rapastinel) or NMDAR antagonist, ketamine on NMDAR function and disinhibition-mediated glutamate release. Further, we used cell-type specific knockdown (KD), pharmacological, and behavioral approaches to dissect the cell-type specific role of GluN2B, GluN2A, and dopamine receptor subunits in the actions of NMDAR PAM vs. antagonists. We demonstrate that rapastinel directly enhances NMDAR activity on principal glutamatergic neurons in medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC) without any effect on glutamate efflux, while ketamine blocks NMDAR on GABA interneurons to cause glutamate efflux and indirect activation of excitatory synapses. Behavioral studies using cell-type-specific KD in mPFC demonstrate that NMDAR-GluN2B KD on Camk2a- but not Gad1-expressing neurons blocks the antidepressant effects of rapastinel. In contrast, GluN2B KD on Gad1- but not Camk2a-expressing neurons blocks the actions of ketamine. The results also demonstrate that Drd1-expressing pyramidal neurons in mPFC mediate the rapid antidepressant actions of ketamine and rapastinel. Together, these results demonstrate unique initial cellular triggers as well as converging effects on Drd1-pyramidal cell signaling that underlie the antidepressant actions of NMDAR-positive modulation vs. NMDAR blockade.

We previously reported that the serotonergic system is important for the antidepressant-like effects of ketamine, a non-competitive N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor antagonist, which produces rapid and long-lasting antidepressant effects in patients with major depressive disorder (MDD). In particular, selective stimulation of the 5-HT1A receptor in the medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC), as opposed to the somatic 5-HT1A autoreceptor, has been shown to play a critical role in the antidepressant-like actions of ketamine. However, the detailed mechanisms underlying mPFC 5-HT1A receptor-mediated antidepressant-like effects are not fully understood. Here we examined the involvement of the glutamate AMPA receptor and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) in the antidepressant-like effects of 5-HT1A receptor activation in the mPFC. The results show that intra-mPFC infusion of the 5-HT1A receptor agonist 8-OH-DPAT induces rapid and long-lasting antidepressant-like effects in the forced swim, novelty-suppressed feeding, female urine sniffing, and chronic unpredictable stress tests. In addition, the results demonstrate that the antidepressant-like effects of intra-mPFC infusion of 8-OH-DPAT are blocked by co-infusion of an AMPA receptor antagonist or an anti-BDNF neutralizing antibody. In addition, mPFC infusion of 8-OH-DPAT increased the phosphorylation of signaling proteins downstream of BDNF, including mTOR, ERK, 4EBP1, and p70S6K. Finally, selective stimulation of the 5-HT1A receptor increased levels of synaptic proteins and synaptic function in the mPFC. Collectively, these results indicate that selective stimulation of 5-HT1A receptor in the mPFC exerts rapid and sustained antidepressant-like effects via activation of AMPA receptor/BDNF/mTOR signaling in mice, which subsequently increase synaptic function in the mPFC, and provide evidence for the 5-HT1A receptor as a target for the treatment of MDD.

BACKGROUND It is well known that diabetes mellitus is one of the high-risk factors for periodontitis and also for the failure of implant restorations. Usually, the success of an implant restoration depends on both the good osseointegration and the stable soft tissue interface on the implant neck. A good gingival interface of the implant neck is the barrier that enables implant to resist oral microorganisms and the site of initiation of peri-implantitis. This study sought to investigate the effects of hyperglycemia on the attachment and proliferation of human gingival fibroblasts (HGFs) on pure titanium surfaces. METHODS HGFs were cultured in cell culture mediums with different glucose concentrations (i.e., 5.5, 8. 8, 10, and 15 mmol/L) for 7 d and seeded on pure titanium surfaces. The cells that were seeded on the titanium surfaces had been cultured in cell culture mediums with different glucose concentrations for 3 and 7 d. The attached HGFs on the titanium surfaces were counted for all groups using a blood cell counting plate, and the results were statistically analyzed. The morphologies of the attached HGFs on the titanium surfaces were observed for all the groups using a scanning electronic microscope. RESULTS As the glucose concentrations increased, the number of attached HGFs on the titanium surfaces decreased. The numbers of attached cells in Groups A and B 7 d after being seeded on the titanium surfaces were more than those 3 d after being seeded (P

A series of N,O-coordinate iridium(III) complexes with a half-sandwich motif bearing Schiff base ligands for catalytic hydrogenation of nitro and carbonyl substrates have been synthesized. All iridium complexes showed efficient catalytic activity for the hydrogenation of ketones, aldehydes, and nitro-containing compounds using clean H2 as reducing reagent. The iridium catalyst displayed the highest TON values of 960 and 950 in the hydrogenation of carbonyl and nitro substrates, respectively. Various types of substrates with different substituted groups afforded corresponding products in excellent yields. All N,O-coordinate iridium(III) complexes 1-4 were well characterized by IR, NMR, HRMS, and elemental analysis. The molecular structure of complex 1 was further characterized by single-crystal X-ray determination.

The microenvironment, or niche, regulates stem cell fate and improves differentiation efficiency. Human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells (hUC-MSCs) are ideal cell source for bone tissue engineering. However, the role of the microenvironments in hUC-MSC-based bone regeneration is not yet fully understood. This study is aimed at investigating the effects of the in vitro culture microenvironment (hUC-MSCs, nano-hydroxyapatite/collagen/poly (L-lactide) (nHAC/PLA), osteogenic media (OMD), and recombinant human bone morphogenetic protein-7 (rhBMP-7)) and the in vivo transplanted microenvironment (ectopic and orthotopic) on bone regeneration ability of hUC-MSCs. The isolated hUC-MSCs showed self-renewal potential and MSCs’ characteristics. In the in vitro two-dimensional culture microenvironment, OMD or OMD with rhBMP-7 significantly enhanced hUC-MSCs’ osteocalcin immunofluorescence staining, alkaline phosphatase, and Alizarin red staining; OMD with rhBMP-7 exhibited the highest ALP secretion and mineralized matrix formation. In the in vitro three-dimensional culture microenvironment, nHAC/PLA supported hUC-MSCs’ adhesion, proliferation, and differentiation; the microenvironment containing OMD or OMD and rhBMP-7 shortened cell proliferation progression and made osteogenic differentiation progression advance; rhBMP-7 significantly attenuated the inhibiting effect of OMD on hUC-MSCs’ proliferation and significantly enhanced the promoting effect of OMD on gene expression and protein secretion of osteogenic differentiation markers, calcium and phosphorous concentration, and mineralized matrix formation. The in vitro three-dimensional culture microenvironment containing OMD and rhBMP-7 induced hUC-MSCs to form the most new bones in ectopic or orthotopic microenvironment as proved by microcomputed tomography and hematoxylin and eosin staining, but bone formation in orthotopic microenvironment was significantly higher than that in ectopic microenvironment. The results indicated that the combination of in vitro hUC-MSCs+nHAC/PLA+OMD+rhBMP-7 microenvironment and in vivo orthotopic microenvironment provided a more optimized niche for bone regeneration of hUC-MSCs. This study elucidates that hUC-MSCs and their local microenvironment, or niche, play an important role in hUC-MSC-based bone regeneration. The endogenously produced BMP may serve an important regulatory role in the process.

Ferroptosis is a recently characterized form of regulated necrosis with the iron-dependent accumulation of (phospho)lipid hydroperoxides (LOOH). It has attracted considerable attention for its putative involvement in diverse pathophysiological processes, such as cardiovascular disease and neurodegeneration. Here we describe the discovery of tetrahydroquinoxaline, a novel scaffold of ferroptosis inhibitors based on quantum chemistry methods. Tetrahydroquinoxaline deviates showed very good inhibition of ferroptosis, while being non cytotoxic for human cancer cells. And, the advantage of them is their small molecular weight (MW. = 148 Da) that can be coupled with other drugs to form multi-target drugs to better meet the treatment of complicated diseases.

A spiropyran-appended polysiloxane (SP-Si) was synthesized and characterized. The photochromic SP-Si has good thermal stability and exhibits high fatigue resistance to light. SP-Si acts as a dual colorimetric and spectroscopic probe for determining multi-scale pH over a wide range of 1∼14, and for detection of Ag+ and Fe3+ ions. Based on the transformation from colorless SP-Si solution without absorption at 440 nm to brown SP-Si/Ag+ showing extremely strong absorption at 440 nm by addition of Ag+ ions and subsequent transformation from brown to colorless SP-Si/Ag+/Hg2+ with very weak absorption at 440 nm after addition of 1 equivalent of Hg2+ ions, SP-Si/Ag+ system serves as a dual colorimetric and spectroscopic probe for highly selective and sensitive detection of Hg2+ ions. The detection is not interfered by common competitive metal ions such as Na+, K+, Li+, Ni2+, Fe2+, Zn2+, Co2+, Sr2+, Cu2+, Al3+, Ce3+ and Cr3+. Applicability of SP-Si for real water sample analysis has been proved.

The first bistable NLO crystalline compound with both photo- and heat-induced SHG-switching behavior shows a record-high photoinduced SHG-switching contrast., Nonlinear optical (NLO) switchable materials are important for photonic and optoelectronic technologies. One important issue for NLO photoswitching, the most studied physical switching approach, is how to improve the switching contrast of second harmonic generation (SHG) in crystals, because the known values are generally below 3 times. Thermoswitching, as another approach, has shown impressive high SHG-switching contrasts (4–∞ times), but the fast decay of thermally induced states demands constant heat sources to maintain specific SHG intensities. We have synthesized a photochromic and thermochromic bistable acentric compound, β-[(MQ)ZnCl3] (MQ+ = N-methyl-4,4′-bipyridinium), which represents the first crystalline compound with both photo- and heat-induced SHG-switching behavior and the first example of a thermoswitchable NLO crystal that can maintain its expected second-order NLO intensity without any heat source. The SHG-switching contrast can reach about 8 times after laser irradiation or 2 times after thermal annealing. The former value is the highest recorded for photoswitchable NLO crystals. This work also indicates that higher SHG-switching contrasts may be obtained through increasing electron-transfer efficiency, variation of permanent dipole moment, and self-absorption.

Preclinical studies demonstrate that rapid-acting antidepressants, including ketamine, require stimulation of mTORC1 signaling. This pathway is regulated by neuronal activity and endocrine and metabolic signals, notably including the amino acid leucine, which activates mTORC1 signaling via binding to the upstream regulator sestrin. Here, we examined the antidepressant actions of NV-5138, a highly selective small molecule modulator of sestrin that penetrates the blood-brain barrier. The results demonstrate that a single dose of NV-5138 produced rapid and long-lasting antidepressant effects and rapidly reversed anhedonia caused by chronic stress exposure. The antidepressant actions of NV-5138 required brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) release, as the behavioral responses were blocked by infusion of a BDNF-neutralizing Ab into the medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC) or, in mice, with a knockin of a BDNF polymorphism that blocked activity-dependent BDNF release. NV-5138 administration also rapidly increased synapse number and function in the mPFC and reversed the synaptic deficits caused by chronic stress. Together, the results demonstrate that NV-5138 produces rapid synaptic and antidepressant behavioral responses via activation of the mTORC1 pathway and BDNF signaling, indicating that pharmacological modulation of sestrin may be an attractive approach for the development of rapid-acting antidepressants.

The fabrication of bioactive coatings on metallic implants to enhance osseointegration has become a topic of general interest in orthopedics and dentistry. Hydroxyapatite (HA) coating has been shown to induce bone formation and promote bone-implant integration. Unfortunately, poor mechanical performance has hindered this from becoming a favorable coating material. The majority of present studies have focused in incorporating different elements into HA coatings to improve mechanical properties. In recent years, tantalum (Ta) has received increasing attention due to its excellent biocompatibility and corrosion resistance. The aim of on the present study was to investigate the fabrication and biological performance of Ta-incorporated HA coatings. Ta-incorporated HA coatings were fabricated using the plasma spray technique on a titanium substrate, and the surface characteristics and mechanical properties were examined. In addition, the effects of Ta-incorporated HA coatings on the biological behavior of mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) were investigated. Ta-incorporated HA coatings with microporous structure had higher roughness and wettability. In addition, the bonding strength of Ta/HA coatings with the substrate was substantially superior to HA coatings. Furthermore, Ta-incorporated HA coatings not only facilitated initial cell adhesion and faster proliferation, but also promoted the osteogenic differentiation of BMSCs. These results indicate that the incorporation of Ta could improve mechanical performance and increase the osteogenic activity of HA coatings. The Ta-incorporated HA coating fabricated by plasma spraying is expected to be a promising bio-coating material for metallic implants.

Physalis pubescens L. (P. pubescens) is an edible plant used in folk medicine in China. There is traditional, but not scientific, evidence for the anti-tumour effects of P. pubescens. This study aimed to identify whether, or not, antioxidants rich in phenols and flavonoids from fruits and calyxes of P. pubescens can be the candidates for further development of an anti-hepatoma fraction, and if such biological effects coupled with reactive oxygen species (ROS) changes, can provide a direction for subsequent biological action. The effects of calyx-origin (or fruit-origin) total phenol and flavonoid (CTPF or FTPF) from P. pubescens on Malhavu cell viability were evaluated by using a counting-kit-8 (CCK-8) method. Morphological characterisation of cells was undertaken and the structures were photographed (200 × magnification) using Hoechst 3348 staining after exposure to different concentrations of CTPF or FTPF. Induced-apoptosis activity was determined using flow cytometry (FC) after Annexin VFITC/ PI staining. The corresponding ROS changes in Malhavu cells were observed and quantified by the uploading of 2', 7'-dichlorofluorescin diacetate (DCFH-DA). Anti-oxidation was evaluated by a cellular oxidation-stress model and chemical assessments for DPPH, hydroxyl radial, super-oxide radicals, and reducing power. Result shows that CTPF led to significant anti-proliferation in a time- and dosedependent manner. However, FTPF promoted cell viability at 100-1000 μg/mL with a dose-response manner in 24 h. With the extension of exposure time to 48 h, the cell viability did not increase with the growth of FTPF. Morphological characterisation and FC assay both demonstrated that CTPF, and not FTPF possessed induced-apoptotic activity. CTPF potentially induced cell apoptosis by promoting oxidative stress. FTPF indicated pro-oxidation at a concentration of 10 μg/mL and anti-oxidation capabilities at higher concentrations. ROS scavenging assay by oxidation-stress model indicated that CTPF (10 - 400 μg/mL) had ROS inhibitory capacity (R2 = 0.5156, p < 0.0001). FTPF (10 - 100 μg/mL) boosted the level of ROS (p < 0.0001) and inhibited the generation of ROS at 100-400 μg/mL (R2 = 0.5951, p < 0.0001). CTPF is a potential candidate requiring further exploration for the development of antihepatoma ingredients. The down-regulation of cell viability was related to production and reduction of cellular ROS.

In the paper, the folded-cascode low-noise operational amplifier (LNA) with constant-gm is proposed and analyzed. The channel-length split technique adopted to expand ratio of W/L of the differential pair transistor to improve the performance of LNA for the gain bandwidth product, noise and offset voltage. The channel-length split method is separated differential input transistor into 2 transistors in series. The area of the transistor (W, L) can be properly increased to effectively decrease the flick noise. The double indirect-frequency compensation technique and the clamping circuit are adopted in amplifier to increase the bandwidth. The proposed two sets input differential pair can be provided a constant-gm value and rail-to-rail swing during the operating region. The floating-point structure is used to reach rail-to-rail swing at output stage. Simulation results show that the gain, constant-gm in input stag, noise, offset-voltage, PSRR, CMRR and ICMR of amplifier are improved. The characteristics of LNA are successfully verified by the TSMC 0.35um 2P4M CMOS technology. There have a great potential in the VLSI implementation used in the portable electronic and bio-medicine product applications.

BACKGROUND: Antimicrobial peptides (AMP), as a small molecular polypeptide with a broad antibacterial spectrum and high efficiency, have attracted more and more attention. Few pieces of research on the effect of the antimicrobial peptide on osteoblast under inflammatory conditions have so far been reported. The main aim of this work was to investigate the antiapoptosis effect of the antimicrobial peptide on MC3T3-E1 cells induced by TNF-α and its related mechanism. METHODS: Rat MC3T3-E1 cells were co-cultured with different concentrations of antibacterial peptide DP7 and TNF-α.MTS assay, cell scratch test, alkaline phosphatase activity, and alizarin red staining assay were used to determine osteoblast viability in this experiment. Annexin V-FITC/PI double staining cells and flow cytometry were used to analyze apoptosis and Western blot assay detection to show mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) protein expression in rat MC3T3-E1 cells. Then, Realtime polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was used to examine the caspase-3 gene expression. Also, ELISA detection was used to clarify the anti-apoptotic effect of the p38 MAPK inhibitor, SB203580, on cells’ apoptosis. RESULTS: Antimicrobial peptide could promote the proliferation, migration, and osteogenic ability of MC3T3-E1 cells induced by TNF-α, but inhibit cell apoptosis rate (P

Herein, we report the synthesis and characterization of Ce(III)-doped UiO-66 nanocrystals, revealing their potential to efficiently remove organic dyes such as methylene blue (MB), methyl orange (MO), Congo red (CR), and acid chrome blue K (AC) from aqueous solutions. Specifically, the room-temperature adsorption capacities of Ce(III)-doped UiO-66 equaled 145.3 (MB), 639.6 (MO), and 826.7 (CR) mg g−1, exceeding those reported for pristine UiO-66 by 490, 270, and 70%, respectively. The above behavior was rationalized based on zeta potential and adsorption isotherm investigations, which revealed that Ce(III) doping increases the number of adsorption sites and promotes π–π interactions between the adsorbent and the adsorbate, thus improving the adsorption capacity for cationic and anionic dyes and overriding the effect of electrostatic interactions. The obtained results shed light on the mechanism of organic dye adsorption on metal–organic frameworks, additionally revealing that the synergetic interplay of electrostatic, π–π, and hydrophobic interactions results in the operation of two distinct adsorption regimes depending on adsorbate concentration.

Magnetic core/alumina shell (MFeCA) structured nanospheres were obtained from a hematite core/alumina precursor shell (HFeCAP) nanosphere precursor. A uniform alumina layer was coated on the surface of -Fe2O3 by the self-assembly of a stearic acid/alumina isopropoxide complex. Hematite cores of the nanospheres were then reduced under H2/N2 gas flow to produce the MFeCA nanospheres. Transmission electron microscopy images showed that the products possessed a distinct core-shell structure. N2 sorption measurements showed that the uniform accessible pore size was 5.2 nm. The surface area was 140m2/g and pore volume were 0.22 cm3/g. Saturation magnetization values indicated the product had a high degree of magnetization (50.2 emu/g).

A single sub-anesthetic dose of ketamine, a short-acting NMDA receptor blocker, induces a rapid and prolonged antidepressant effect in treatment-resistant major depression. In animal models, ketamine (24 h) reverses depression-like behaviors and associated deficits in excitatory postsynaptic currents (EPSCs) generated in apical dendritic spines of layer V pyramidal cells of medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC). However, little is known about the effects of ketamine on basal dendrites. The basal dendrites of layer V cells receive an excitatory input from pyramidal cells of the basolateral amygdala (BLA), neurons that are activated by the stress hormone CRF. Here we found that CRF induces EPSCs in PFC layer V cells and that ketamine enhanced this effect through the mammalian target of rapamycin complex 1 synaptogenic pathway; the CRF-induced EPSCs required an intact BLA input and were generated primarily in basal dendrites. In contrast to its detrimental effects on apical dendritic structure and function, chronic stress did not induce a loss of CRF-induced EPSCs in basal dendrites, thereby creating a relative imbalance in favor of amygdala inputs. The effects of ketamine were complex: ketamine enhanced apical EPSC responses in all mPFC subregions, anterior cingulate (AC), prelimbic (PL), and infralimbic (IL) but enhanced CRF-induced EPSCs only in AC and PL—responses were unchanged in IL, a critical area for suppression of stress responses. We propose that by restoring the strength of apical inputs relative to basal amygdala inputs, especially in IL, ketamine would ameliorate the hypothesized disproportional negative influence of the amygdala in chronic stress and major depression.

Hydrothermal reactions of Cd(OAc)2 · 2H2O with 2,2′-azodibenzoic acid (H2L) and three N-donor ancillary ligands in MeOH/H2O at 120 °C gave rise to three cadmium(II) coordination polymers [CdL(bpy)]n (1), {[Cd4L4(bpe)(H2O)2] · 2H2O}n (2) and [CdL(bpp)]n (3) [bpy = 4,4′-bipyridine, bpe = 1,2-bis(4-pyridyl)ethylene, bpp = 1,3-bis(4-pyridyl)propane]. Structural analysis reveals that compound 1 possesses a novel three-fold interpenetrating diamondoid framework constructed by linking Cd centers with L and pillared bpy ligands. Compound 2 comprises a 3D network with a rare Schlafli symbol of (446581)(4462), the 3D structure is built from 2D [CdL2]n nets and pillared bpe ligands. Compound 3 exhibits the same 66 topology with that of 1. Such a 3D architecture contains 1D helical [Cd(bpp)]n chains and [CdL]n chains along the a axis and b axis, respectively. The structural differences among 1–3 indicate that the N-donor ancillary ligands have significant effects on the formation of the final architectures. Photoluminescent properties of 1–3 in solid state were also investigated.

Background Clinical studies report that scopolamine, an acetylcholine muscarinic receptor antagonist, produces rapid antidepressant effects in depressed patients, but the mechanisms underlying the therapeutic response have not been determined. The present study examines the role of the mammalian target of rapamycin complex 1 (mTORC1) and synaptogenesis, which have been implicated in the rapid actions of N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor antagonists. Methods The influence of scopolamine on mTORC1 signaling was determined by analysis of the phosphorylated and activated forms of mTORC1 signaling proteins in the prefrontal cortex (PFC). The numbers and function of spine synapses were analyzed by whole cell patch clamp recording and two-photon image analysis of PFC neurons. The actions of scopolamine were examined in the forced swim test in the absence or presence of selective mTORC1 and glutamate receptor inhibitors. Results The results demonstrate that a single, low dose of scopolamine rapidly increases mTORC1 signaling and the number and function of spine synapses in layer V pyramidal neurons in the PFC. Scopolamine administration also produces an antidepressant response in the forced swim test that is blocked by pretreatment with the mTORC1 inhibitor or by a glutamate alpha-amino-3-hydroxy-5-methyl-4-isoxazole propionic acid receptor antagonist. Conclusions Taken together, the results demonstrate that the antidepressant actions of scopolamine require mTORC1 signaling and are associated with increased glutamate transmission, and synaptogenesis, similar to N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor antagonists. These findings provide novel targets for safer and more efficacious rapid-acting antidepressant agents.

A single dose of the short-acting NMDA antagonist ketamine produces rapid and prolonged antidepressant effects in treatment-resistant patients with major depressive disorder (MDD), which are thought to occur via restoration of synaptic connectivity. However, acute dissociative side effects and eventual fading of antidepressant effects limit widespread clinical use of ketamine. Recent studies in medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC) show that the synaptogenic and antidepressant-like effects of a single standard dose of ketamine in rodents are dependent upon activation of the mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) complex 1 (mTORC1) signaling pathway together with inhibitory phosphorylation of glycogen synthase kinase-3 (GSK-3), which relieves its inhibitory in influence on mTOR. Here, we found that the synaptogenic and antidepressant-like effects of a single otherwise subthreshold dose of ketamine were potentiated when given together with a single dose of lithium chloride (a nonselective GSK-3 inhibitor) or a preferential GSK-3β inhibitor; these effects included rapid activation of the mTORC1 signaling pathway, increased inhibitory phosphorylation of GSK-3β, increased synaptic spine density/diameter, increased excitatory postsynaptic currents in mPFC layer V pyramidal neurons, and antidepressant responses that persist for up to 1 week in the forced-swim test model of depression. The results demonstrate that low, subthreshold doses of ketamine combined with lithium or a selective GSK-3 inhibitor are equivalent to higher doses of ketamine, indicating the pivotal role of the GSK-3 pathway in modulating the synaptogenic and antidepressant responses to ketamine. The possible mitigation by GSK-3 inhibitors of the eventual fading of ketamine's antidepressant effects remains to be explored.

Aim To explore pigmented glass for infiltration and investigate its physical and mechanical properties. Methods The pigmented glass was prepared by melting glass components in an alumina crucible at 1400°C for 2h. The thermal properties were tested using a Setaram-TGDTA 92 analyzer; three point bending strength and fracture toughness were also tested; the microstructure of the glass was studied using a scanning electron microscope. Results The thermal expansion coefficient over the range 20–600 °C was 6.2 × 10-6 °C -1, Tg was about 690 °C, the density, bending strength, fracture toughness and Vickers hardness were 2.23 g/cm3, 118 MPa, 1.22 MPam1/2, and 7.4 GPa respectively. Conclusion The pigments have no detrimental effects on the physical and mechanical properties; thus the pigmented glass for infiltration has favorable physical and mechanical properties and also good compatibility with presintered porous alumina.

To study the influence of background color to 3 all-ceramic system core materials.The chromaticity value of all samples that were put on noble metal, Ni-Cr alloy, Hg-Ag alloy and resign background were measured with chromatism instrument, and chromatic aberration among groups were calculated. The chromatic aberration of Empress II samples on different background color could be distinguished by human eyes, but those of Alumina and Zirconium were unable to being distinguished. In conclusion, the influence of background color to Empress II and In-Ceram Alumina of AL1 were lager. When chosen as core material, noble metals should be covered to keep prosthesis from clinical color-transform. As background to In-Ceram Alumina of AL2, it was unnecessary for resin to be covered. In-Ceram Alumina of AL3, AL4 and In-Ceram Zirconium weren’t affected by background color.

This experiment was to study the transmittance of 3 all-Ceramic system core materials, including 4 colors of Vita In-ceram Alumina,4 colors of Vita In-Ceram Zirconium and 3 colors of Empress II,and to provide basis for clinical choice of core materials.With Vita alpha veneer porcelain as control,the transmittance of all samples was determined with spectrophotometer under D65 standard source.The transmittance of materials was 1.434%~3.843% for Vita In-Ceram Alumina,0~0.587% for Vita In-Ceram Zirconium,5.620%~6.665% for Empress II.As a whole,the transmittance of Empress IIwas the best of 3 core materials,that of In-Ceram Alumina was the worse,that of Vita In-Ceram Zirconium was the worst.

The study of unsaturated slope stability is one of issues in geotechnical engineering. Firstly, the different treatments of matric suction in the Sarma method are analyzed based on the Bishop’s unsaturated strength theory and Fredlund’s unsaturated strength theory respectively. Then, application of the developed method on the stability analyses of an unsaturated soil slope is also discussed. Through the comparison on the computational results, it still can be concluded that the computational error is slights, which analyzed by means of the developed Sarma method based on the Bishop’s unsaturated strength theory and Fredlund’s unsaturated strength theory.

Catalytic combustion of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) is a high efficient and low-polluted technique. In this paper, the palladium-based combustion catalysts on cordierite honeycomb ceramics (CHC) substrate without interlayer film — Pd/CHC, were prepared by electroless plating method, and the effect of preparing conditions for the catalysts on the catalytic performance of toluene combustion was mainly studied. The optimal conditions were confirmed as follows: plating bath temperature is 60°C, plating time is 30min, palladium salt concentrationis 0.2g/L, and calcination temperature after plating is 500°C. Finally, the stability test further indicated that the Pd/CHC catalyst prepared by the optimal electroless plating conditions has good catalytic stability.

The palladium-based combustion catalysts on cordierite honeycomb ceramics (CHC) substrate without interlayer film (Pd/CHC) were prepared by electroless plating method. By means of scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and BET specific surface area, it was found that the palladium phases on the prepared catalyst after calcination treatment at 500°C were well dispersed on substrate with small and uniform particles. The X-ray diffraction, energy dispersion X-rays (EDX) analysis, adherence test and temperature programmed reduction (H2-TPR) analysis further indicated that the palladium phase had good adherence strength on the surface of CHC substrate and the moderate ratio of metallic Pd and PdO phase was only obtained on the catalyst calcined at 500°C . Moreover, the results of activity tests for toluene combustion showed that the 0.24%Pd/CHC catalyst had good low temperature catalytic activity and temperature-resistance property. The total combustion temperature (T90) for toluene over catalyst calcined at 300, 500 and 900°C was at 239, 225 and 233°C respectively. And the toluene conversion could keep up above 97% during the stability test of Pd/CHC catalyst at 230°C for 105 h, indicating the good catalytic stability of the prepared catalyst.

To study the influence of background color on 3 veneered all-ceramic core materials, the color of all veneered samples that were put on noble metal, Ni-Cr alloy, Ag-Hg alloy and resin background was measured with chromatism instrument (and the chromatic aberration value among groups was Calculated). Under different backgrounds, there was significant difference in the L, a and b values among Empress II samples, there was significant difference in a and b values among In-Ceram Alumina samples, and there was no difference in the L, a and b values among In-Ceram Zirconium samples. After veneered, the influence of background color on Empress II was clear, on In-Ceram Alumina was less clear, and on In-Ceram Zirconium was void.

Objective: To study the relative translucency of 3 veneered and glazed all-ceramic systems core material, including Vita In-Ceram Alumina, Vita In-Ceram Zirconium and Ivoclar Vivodent Empress. Methods: Under standard black and write background, the surface light reflectivity of 3 veneered all-ceramic systems core material was determined with contact color difference meter, and the ratio of Yb /Yw was calculated. Results: After veneered, the relative translucency of 3 core materials all declined, and ranged from 0.8880 of Empress II to 1.00 of In-Ceram zirconia, among of that Empress II was most transparent. Conclusion: The relative translucency of 3 veneered all-ceramic systems core material had significant statistical difference. There was a decreasing range as Vitadur Alpha dentin (standard) > Empress II (0.8 mm) > In-Ceram Alumina > In-Ceram Zirconia.

Objective: To study the relative translucency of 3 all-ceramics system core material, including Vita In-Ceram Alumina, Vita In-Ceram Zirconium and Ivoclar Vivodent Empress II. Methods: The visible light transmittance of all samples was determined with spectrophotometer. Results: The relative translucency of dentin and opaque dentin was between 0.5958 and 0.8336, that of 3 core ceramic ranged from 0.8089 of Emp ress II to 1.00 of In-Ceram Zirconium. Conclusion: The relative translucency of 3 core material was significantly different. There was a decreasing range as Empress II > In-Ceram Alumina and In-Ceram Zirconia.

A helical, prehairpin trimer covering the majority of the HR1 region of human immunodeficiency virus gp41 was achieved by chemically coupling three identical 51 amino acid peptides. A 1,3,5-tris(aminomethyl)-2,4,6-triethylbenzene pinwheel 'cap' was used to trimerize the peptides by taking advantage of the unique property of triacyl fluoride and orthogonal protection and deprotection. The resulting protein is fully helical, highly thermostable and soluble.

The lateral hypothalamus and the nucleus accumbens shell (AcbSh) are brain regions important for food intake. The AcbSh contains high levels of receptor for melanin-concentrating hormone (MCH), a lateral hypothalamic peptide critical for feeding and metabolism. MCH receptor (MCHR1) activation in the AcbSh increases food intake, while AcbSh MCHR1 blockade reduces feeding. Here biochemical and cellular mechanisms of MCH action in the rodent AcbSh are described. A reduction of phosphorylation of GluR1 at serine 845 (pSer845) is shown to occur after both pharmacological and genetic manipulations of MCHR1 activity. These changes depend upon signaling through Gi/o, and result in decreased surface expression of GluR1-containing AMPA receptors (AMPARs). Electrophysiological analysis of medium spiny neurons (MSNs) in the AcbSh revealed decreased amplitude of AMPAR-mediated synaptic events (mEPSCs) with MCH treatment. In addition, MCH suppressed action potential firing MSNs through K+ channel activation. Finally, in vivo recordings confirmed that MCH reduces neuronal cell firing in the AcbSh in freely moving animals. The ability of MCH to reduce cell firing in the AcbSh is consistent with a general model from other pharmacological and electrophysiological studies whereby reduced AcbSh neuronal firing leads to food intake. The current work integrates the hypothalamus into this model, providing biochemical and cellular mechanisms whereby metabolic and limbic signals converge to regulate food intake.

To evaluate the reservoir adaptability of a strong-alkali ternary compound system, field trials of alkaline/surfactant/polymer (ASP) flooding has been carried out in Lamadian, Saertu and Xingshugang oilfields in Daqing, China. The crude oil compositions have significant effects on retention time of ASP fluid and on chemicals concentrations in produced fluid. Here, to investigate the effects of crude oil compositions on enhanced oil recovery (EOR) of ASP flooding, we studied the crude oil compositions in the three oilfields and the interaction between crude oils and the strong-alkali ternary compound system in laboratory. We find that the great differences in contents and structures of crude-oil compositions more severely affect the interfacial tension (IFT). In the three oilfields, higher contents of high-carbon normal alkane and aromatics lead to the lower contents of polar compounds comprised of O, S and N, and the longer chain organic acid reduces the emulsified ability of Lamadian crude oil. The Lamadian crude oil shows higher IFTs between the ASP fluid and active components, raffinate, and crude oil compared with other two oilfields. Also, differences in contents and structures of crude oil components aggravate the chromatographic separation of ASP fluid and reduce recovery efficiency, especially in the Lamadian oilfield. [Received: February 13, 2015; Accepted: October 20, 2016]

Oxidation of α-diols, namely ethylene glycol, 1,2-propanediol, and 1,2-butanediol, by [Ag(HIO6)2]5− is kinetically first-order with respect to the Ag(III) complex. The dependence of observed first-order rate constants k obs on [α-diol] can generally be expressed by: k obs = k x[α-diol] + k y[α-diol]2. Our experimental results demonstrate that the different rate laws derived in the oxidation reactions of ethylene glycol (J. H. Shan et al. Chin. J. Chem. 24:478, 2006) and 1,2-butanediol (J. H. Shan et al. Transition Met. Chem. 30:651, 2005) by the Ag(III) complex are probably not correct. In turn, the reaction mechanisms based on these rate laws should probably be treated with caution.

Morphological studies show that repeated restraint stress leads to selective atrophy in the apical dendritic field of pyramidal cells in the medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC). However, the functional consequence of this selectivity remains unclear. The apical dendrite of layer V pyramidal neurons in the mPFC is a selective locus for the generation of increased excitatory postsynaptic currents (EPSCs) by serotonin (5-HT) and hypocretin (orexin). On that basis, we hypothesized that apical dendritic atrophy might result in a blunting of 5-HT- and hypocretin-induced excitatory responses. Using a combination of whole-cell recording and two-photon imaging in rat mPFC slices, we were able to correlate electrophysiological and morphological changes in the same layer V pyramidal neurons. Repeated mild restraint stress produced a decrement in both 5-HT- and hypocretin-induced EPSCs, an effect that was correlated with a decrease in apical tuft dendritic branch length and spine density in the distal tuft branches. Chronic treatment with the stress hormone corticosterone, while reducing 5-HT responses and generally mimicking the morphological effects of stress, failed to produce a significant decrease in hypocretin-induced EPSCs. Accentuating this difference, pretreatment of stressed animals with the glucocorticoid receptor antagonist RU486 blocked reductions in 5-HT-induced EPSCs but not hypocretin-induced EPSCs. We conclude: ( i ) stress-induced apical dendritic atrophy results in diminished responses to apically targeted excitatory inputs and ( ii ) corticosterone plays a greater role in stress-induced reductions in EPSCs evoked by 5-HT as compared with hypocretin, possibly reflecting the different pathways activated by the two transmitters.

The transcription factor cAMP response element-binding protein (CREB) is implicated in mediating the actions of chronic morphine in the locus ceruleus (LC), but direct evidence to support such a role is limited. Here, we investigated the influence of CREB on LC neuronal activity and opiate withdrawal behaviors by selectively manipulating CREB activity in the LC using viral vectors encoding genes for CREBGFP (wild-type CREB tagged with green fluorescent protein), caCREBGFP (a constitutively active CREB mutant), dnCREBGFP (a dominant-negative CREB mutant), or GFP alone as a control. Our results show thatin vivooverexpression of CREBGFP in the LC significantly aggravated particular morphine withdrawal behaviors, whereas dnCREBGFP expression attenuated these behaviors. At the cellular level, CREBGFP expression in the LCin vivoandin vitrohad no significant effect on neuronal firing at baseline but enhanced the excitatory effect of forskolin (an activator of adenylyl cyclase) on these neurons, which suggests that the cAMP signaling pathway in these neurons was sensitized after CREB expression. Moreover,in vitrostudies showed that caCREBGFP-expressing LC neurons fired significantly faster and had a more depolarized resting membrane potential compared with GFP-expressing control cells. Conversely, LC neuronal activity was decreased by dnCREBGFP, and the neurons were hyperpolarized by this treatment. Together, these data provide direct evidence that CREB plays an important role in controlling the electrical excitability of LC neurons and that morphine-induced increases in CREB activity contribute to the behavioral and neural adaptations associated with opiate dependence and withdrawal.

It has been proposed that antidepressant effects of neurokinin NK(1) receptor blockade may result from an increase in serotonin (5-HT) transmission. However, the mechanism by which neurokinins influence 5-HT neurons is not known. In this study, local NK(1) and NK(3) receptor-mediated responses in 5-HT neurons of the dorsal raphe nucleus (DRN) were studied using intracellular recording in rat brain slices. Bath application of the NK(1) receptor agonist substance P (SP) or the NK(3) receptor agonists senktide and NKB induced a robust increase in "spontaneous" excitatory postsynaptic currents (EPSCs) in 5-HT neurons. The EPSCs were blocked by the AMPA/kainate glutamate receptor antagonist CNQX and the fast Na(+) channel blocker tetrodotoxin (TTX), indicating that the increase in EPSCs resulted from an increase in impulse flow in local glutamatergic neuronal afferents. The neurokinins agonists had no direct excitatory effects on 5-HT neurons and no NK(1) or NK(3) receptor immunolabeling was found in 5-HT-labeled neurones. However, neurokinins, by increasing excitatory postsynaptic potentials (EPSPs), did increase the spiking of 5-HT neurons. The SP- and NKB-induced EPSCs were preferentially blocked by NK(1) and NK(3) antagonists, and there was minimal cross-desensitization between agonists at the two receptors. We conclude that neurokinins, via distinct NK(1) and NK(3) receptors, could promote 5-HT transmission, at least in part, by exciting a local population of glutamatergic inputs to 5-HT neurons in the DRN. However, these local excitatory effects, viewed within the context of the global effects of neurokinins on 5-HT neurons, reveal important differences between the functional role of NK(1) and NK(3) receptors.

This paper presents design and performance validation of 3D printed electronic components, 3D toroidal air-core inductors, fabricated by multi-material based Fused Deposition Modelling (FDM) 3D printing technology and electroless copper plating. Designs of toroidal inductor is investigated with different core shapes and winding numbers; circular and half-circular cores with 10 and 13 turns of windings. Electroless plated copper thin film ensures 3D printed toroidal plastic structures to possess inductive behaviors. The inductance is demonstrated reliably with an applied source frequency from 100 kHz to 2 MHz as designs vary. An RL circuit is utilized to test the fabricated inductors’ phase-leading characteristics with corresponding phase angle changes.

This study was designed to reexamine a previous proposal of whether the opioid-like substances (OLS) being acting mainly as an intrinsic spinal mediator in the descending inhibition of nociception of the bulbospinally projecting NE-ergic, and/or 5-HT-ergic terminals in the dorsal horn by using an immunocytochemical method. The effects of intrathecal (i.t.) phentolamine (Ph), cyproheptadine (Cyp), and naloxone (Nal), administered separately or coadministered by two of them, on the expression of Fos-like-immunoreactive (FLI) neurons were observed on both sides of the lumbar dorsal horn of rats, in which equal volumes of formalin were injected into two hindpaws and the ipsilateral dorsolateral funiculus (DLF) was transected at the thoracic level antecedently. The results showed: (1) when rats were pretreated with i.t. saline, the number of nociceptive FLI neurons was significantly lowered 44% (p

Ytterbium triflate catalyzes the hydrolysis of tritylamines and trityloxy compounds to the corresponding amines and alcohols under mild conditions in high yields. The reactions are conducted in tetrahydrofuran in the presence of 1 equivalent of water.

Ytterbium triflate catalyzes the hydrolysis of tritylamines and trityloxy compounds to the corresponding amines and alcohols under mild conditions in high yields. The reactions are conducted in tetrahydrofuran in the presence of 1 equivalent of water.

Previously disclosed HIV (human immunodeficiency virus) attachment inhibitors, exemplified by BMS 806 (formally BMS378806, 1), are characterized by a substituted indole or azaindole ring linked to a benzoylpiperazine via a ketoamide or sulfonamide group. In the present report, we describe the discovery of a novel series of potent HIV entry inhibitors in which the indole or azaindole ring of previous inhibitors is replaced by a heterobiaryl group. Several of these analogues exhibited IC(50) values of less than 5 nM in a pseudotyped antiviral assay, and compound 13k was demonstrated to exhibit potency and selectivity similar to those of 1 against a panel of clinical viral isolates. Moreover, current structure-activity relationship studies of these novel biaryl gp120 inhibitors revealed that around the biaryl, a fine crevice might exist in the gp120 binding site. Taken in sum, these data reveal a hitherto unsuspected flexibility in the structure-activity relationships for these inhibitors and suggest new avenues for exploration and gp120 inhibitor design.

The crystal structures of many tertiary alpha-ketoamides reveal an orthogonal arrangement of the two carbonyl groups. Based on the hypothesis that the alpha-ketoamide HIV attachment inhibitor BMS 806 (formally BMS378806, 26) might bind to its gp120 target via a similar conformation, we designed and synthesized a series of analogs in which the ketoamide group is replaced by an isosteric sulfonamide group. The most potent of these analogs, 14i, demonstrated antiviral potency comparable to 26 in the M33 pseudotyped antiviral assay. Flexible overlay calculations of a ketoamide inhibitor with a sulfonamide inhibitor revealed a single conformation of each that gave significantly better overlap of key pharmacophore features than other conformations and thus suggest a possible binding conformation for each class.