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Three new galloborates, namely, GaB(5)O(8)(OH)(2)(en)(2)·H(2)O (1), LiGa(OH)(BO(3))(H(2)O) (2), and Rb(2)Ga(B(5)O(10))(H(2)O)(4) (3), have been synthesized by hydrothermal reactions. Compound 1 is the first example of a galloborate that contains an organic component. It crystallizes in space group P2(1)/c, and its crystal structure exhibits an infinite zigzag chain consisting of [B(5)O(8)(OH)(2)](3-) anions and GaO(2)N(4) octahedra interconnected via corner sharing. Compound 2 crystallizes in space group P31c with a layered structure composed of GaO(4), LiO(4), and BO(3) building units. Compound 3 belongs to chiral space group C222(1); the basic building blocks of the structure are the [B(5)O(10)](5-) cluster anion and GaO(4) tetrahedron, which are interconnected to form a three-dimensional network with tunnels of Ga2B6 eight-membered rings (8-MRs) which are filled by Rb(+) cations and lattice water molecules. Interestingly, Rb(2)Ga(B(5)O(10))(H(2)O)(4) displays a moderate second-harmonic generation (SHG) response comparable to that of KH(2)PO(4) (KDP), and it is phase matchable. Band structure and optical property calculations for Rb(2)Ga(B(5)O(10))(H(2)O)(4) based on DFT methods were also performed.

A 28-year-old woman with untreated autoimmune disorder, demonstrated skin rash and fever after taking Amoxicillin-clavulanate and developed progressive jaundice. A bone marrow aspiration indicated an increased number of macrophages with hemophagocytosis and liver biopsy showed pure centrilobular cholestasis with necrosis and some absence of portal bile ducts. Furthermore, a serological test for Epstein-Barr virus was positive. Under treatment by liver dialysis and administration of steroids led to rapidly defervescence and clinical improvement. However, liver enzymes were still markedly elevated with persistent anemia, even after immunosuppressive treatment. The patient is currently waiting for liver transplantation. This is the first description of vanishing bile duct syndrome combined with hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis, with underlying causes including infection, drug-induced factors and untreated autoimmune disorder.

Four new quaternary molybdenum selenites, namely, HRb(3)(Mo(5)O(15))(SeO(3))(2)(H(2)O)(2)1, α-Rb(4)Mo(5)O(15)(SeO(3))(2)(H(2)O)(2)2, β-Rb(4)Mo(5)O(15)(SeO(3))(2)(H(2)O)(2)3 and K(4)Mo(5)O(15)(SeO(3))(2)(H(2)O)(2)4 were synthesized by hydrothermal reactions. All of the four compounds feature a zero-dimensional (0D) [(Mo(5)O(15))(SeO(3))(2)](4-) anionic unit composed of a five-member MoO(6) octahedral ring capped by two SeO(3)(2-) trigonal pyramids, with the Rb(+)/K(+) or/and H(+) cations and water molecules acting as spacers and keeping charge balance. Although these compounds exhibit similar chemical formula, their structures are slightly different. HRb(3)(Mo(5)O(15))(SeO(3))(2)(H(2)O)(2)1 crystallizes in a polar space group (Pca2(1)). α-Rb(4)Mo(5)O(15)(SeO(3))(2)(H(2)O)(2)2 crystallizes in a centrosymmetric (CS) space group (P2(1)/n) whereas β-Rb(4)Mo(5)O(15)(SeO(3))(2)(H(2)O)(2)3 and K(4)Mo(5)O(15)(SeO(3))(2)(H(2)O)(2)4 are isomorphous, crystallize in a chiral space group (C2). The chiral structures of 3 and 4 contain two similar polyanions of [Mo(5)O(15)(SeO(3))(2)](4-) with opposite handedness. Second-harmonic-generation (SHG) measurements indicate that 1, 3 and 4 are all SHG-active. Compound 1 displays a weak SHG response of about 20% of that of KDP (KH(2)PO(4)) and is phase-matchable whereas the SHG responses of 3 and 4 are very weak (less than 5% of that of KDP). Thermal analyses and optical property measurements have also been performed.

A new polar material containing two types of stereoactive lone-pairs has been synthesized. The unique parallel alignment of the stereoactive lone-pairs on Pb(2+) cations and the synergistic effect of two types of stereoactive lone-pairs on I(5+) and Pb(2+) cations make it exhibit a very large second-harmonic generation response of about 8 × KDP (KH(2)PO(4)).

Objective: To study the changes of brain water diffusion and cerebral haemodynamics of cortical areas using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in canine models of cardiac arrest (CA) and restoration of spontaneous circulation (ROSC). The secondary study objective was to evaluate whether MRI can be used to observe haemodynamic disorders in brain microcirculation., Methods: CA was induced in six beagle dogs using electrical stimulation followed by resuscitation to spontaneous circulation 3 min later. The dogs were scanned using MRI for echo planar, diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI) and perfusion-weighted imaging (PWI) with injection of Gd-diethylene triamine pentaacetic acid (DTPA) prior to induction of CA and 3 days after ROSC. The arterial blood pressure, unilateral common carotid artery flow and intracranial microcirculation were recorded., Results: All dogs successfully underwent electric-induced ventricular fibrillation which lasted 3 min and were resuscitated to maintain blood pressure stability. Serial MRI scans found that cerebral blood flow (RCBF) decreased in day 1 after ROSC and returned to baseline on day 3. Apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC), however, decreased on day 1 and remained lower than baseline on day 3, with 765.8±82.5×10(-6) mm(2) s(-1) on day 1 and 770.4±59.4×10(-6) mm(2) s(-1) on day 3 comparing to 855.8±43.4×10(-6) mm(2) s(-1) on baseline., Conclusions: These data provide the evidence that early MRI can be used to observe acute haemodynamic disorders in brain microcirculation in a canine model of cardiac arrest., (Copyright © 2011 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.)

Objective: To study the value of bacterial cultures of bronchoalveolar lavage fluids (BALF) in children with pulmonary infection., Methods: Bacterial cultures sampled from both sputum and BALF were performed on 80 hospitalized children with pulmonary infection between June 2008 and February 2011.Culture results between the two samples were compared., Results: In the 80 children with pulmonary infection, bacterial cultures of BALF showed that Viridans Streptococci were found in 72 cases (90%), Neisseria in 41 cases (51%), Streptococcus pneumoniae in 11 cases (14%), Staphylococcus Aureus in 3 cases (4%) and Escherichia coli in 3 cases (4%). The positive rates of Viridans Streptococci in the bacterial cultures of BALF was not significantly different from the bacterial cultures of sputum, but the positive rate of Streptococcus pneumoniae in the bacterial cultures of BALF was significantly higher than in the bacterial cultures of sputum (4%). Moreover, Escherichia coli were found only by bacterial cultures of BALF., Conclusions: Bacterial cultures of BALF are useful in the identification of pathogenic bacteria for pulmonary infection in children. Due to the samples taken from the lesion regions in bacterial cultures of BALF, the results of may be more reliable.

Objective: To describe the prevalence of deliberate self-harm (DSH) and suicidal behaviors (SIB) as well as the relationship between them in a college student population., Methods: A total of 4063 medical students were selected under the cluster sampling method in Anhui province. Data were analyzed by Pearson Chi-square and logistic regression., Results: A total of 4063 (13.4%) students reported that they had deliberately harmed themselves during the past 12 months. The acts of DSH with 1 and more than or equal to 2 times occurrence accounted for 3.7% and 9.6% among all the respondents. The act of DSH was significantly higher among boys than that among girls. Rates of suicide ideation, suicide plan, attempted suicide and SIB in the last year were 4.5%, 1.4%, 0.6% and 4.9%, respectively. However no statistically significant difference was found in different sex. Students in the DSH group that with SIB were found to have lower positive coping levels (OR=0.5, 95%CI: 0.3-0.8), getting less support from friends (3-5 vs. less than or equal to 2: OR=0.6, 95%CI: 0.3-0.9; more than or equal to 6 vs. less than or equal to 2: OR=0.4, 95%CI: 0.2-0.8), with higher negative coping levels (OR=2.1, 95%CI: 1.2-3.7), having more serious depressive symptoms (OR=2.9, 95%CI: 1.6-5.2) and anxiety symptoms (OR=2.2, 95%CI: 1.2-3.8), having more serious sleeping problems (OR=1.7, 95%CI: 1.1-2.8) and perceived fat (fat vs. moderate: OR=2.0, 95%CI: 1.1-3.6) than the DSH group without SIB. The rates of SIB in students with DSH behavior were significantly higher than those in students without those behaviors (OR=4.7, 95%CI: 3.5-6.4). Psychosocial variables could attenuate the relationship between the DSH status and suicidal events (OR=3.3, 95%CI: 2.4-4.5). The DSH frequency exhibited a curvilinear relationship to SIB (OR=3.1-10.0) and psychosocial variables also attenuated this relationship (OR=2.4-5.9)., Conclusion: It was well known that SIB was not a suicidal gesture but our findings suggested that the presence of DSH might trigger the suicidal attempts.

Four novel mixed metal selenites or tellurites containing PdO(4) squares, namely, BaPd(SeO(3))(2), Bi(2)Pd(SeO(3))(4), and Pb(2)Pd(QO(3))(2)Cl(2) (Q = Se, Te), have been prepared and structurally characterized by single crystal X-ray diffraction analyses. These compounds exhibit three different types of anionic structures. BaPd(SeO(3))(2) contains one-dimensional (1D) [Pd(SeO(3))(2)](2-) anionic chains composed of PdO(4) units linked by SeO(3)(2-) groups in a bidentate bridging fashion. Bi(2)Pd(SeO(3))(4) exhibits a complicated 3D architecture constructed by [Bi(SeO(3))](+) and [Pd(SeO(3))(2)](2-) layers that are alternating along the a-axis. The [Pd(SeO(3))(2)](2-) layers are composed of Pd(2+) ions bridged by SeO(3)(2-) anions in a bidentate fashion. Pb(2)Pd(QO(3))(2)Cl(2) (Q = Se, Te) features zero-dimensional (0D) [Pd(QO(3))Cl(2)](4-) (Q = Se, Te) anionic clusters, which are further bridged by Pb(2+) cations into a 3D network. The results of optical diffuse-reflectance spectrum measurements and band structure calculations based on DFT methods indicate that all the compounds are wide-band-gap semiconductors.

Hypertension is becoming an important health problem in many countries. The 'small baby syndrome hypothesis' suggests that an inverse linear relationship exists between birth weight and later risk of hypertension; however, this relationship is under debate. We conducted a meta-analysis to examine the association between birth weight and subsequent blood pressure. Among 78 studies reporting on the association between birth weight and subsequent blood pressure, 20 articles (reporting 27 original studies) were eligible for inclusion. Low birth weight (< 2500 g) compared with birth weight greater than 2500 g was associated with an increased risk of hypertension (odds ratio [OR] 1.21; 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.13, 1.30); high birth weight (> 4000 g) compared with birth weight less than 4000 g was associated with a decreased risk of hypertension (OR 0.78; 95% CI 0.71, 0.86). When low birth weight (< 2500 g) was compared with birth weight greater than 2500 g, mean systolic blood pressure (SBP) increased by 2.28 mmHg (95% CI 1.24, 3.33); when high birth weight (> 4000 g) was compared with birth weight less than 4000 g, mean SBP decreased by 2.08 mmHg (95% CI -2.98, -1.17). These findings indicate that there is an inverse linear association between birth weight and later risk of hypertension, and that this association primarily exists between birth weight and SBP., (Copyright © 2011 Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved.)

Cholesterol is a major component of membrane lipid rafts. It is more abundant in the brain than in other tissues and plays a critical role in maintaining brain function. We report here that a significant enhancement in apoptosis in rat cerebellar granule neurons (CGNs) was observed upon incubation with 5mM K(+) /serum free (LK-S) medium. Cholesterol enrichment further potentiated CGN apoptosis incubated under LK-S medium. On the contrary, cholesterol depletion using methyl-beta-cyclodextrin protected the CGNs from apoptosis induced by LK-S treatment. Cholesterol enrichment, however, did not induce apoptosis in CGNs that have been incubated with 25mM K(+) /serum medium. Mechanistically, increased I(K) currents and DNA fragmentation were found in CGNs incubated in LK-S, which was further potentiated in the presence of cholesterol. Cholesterol-treated CGNs also exhibited increased cAMP levels and up-regulation of Kv2.1 expression. Increased levels of activated form of PKA and phospho-CREB further supported activation of the cAMP/PKA pathway upon treatment of CGNs with cholesterol-containing LK-S medium. Conversely, inhibition of PKA or small G protein Gs abolished the increase in I(K) current and the potentiation of Kv2.1 expression, leading to reduced susceptibility of CGNs to LK-S and cholesterol-induced apoptosis. Our results demonstrate that the elevation of membrane cholesterol enhances CGN susceptibility to apoptotic stimuli via cAMP/PKA/CREB-dependent up-regulation of Kv2.1. Our data provide new evidence for the role of cholesterol in eliciting neuronal cell death., (© 2011 The Authors. Journal of Neurochemistry © 2011 International Society for Neurochemistry.)

Hypertrophic scarring, a common proliferative disorder of dermal fibroblasts, results from an overproduction of fibroblasts and excessive deposition of collagen. Although treatment with surgical excision or steroid hormones can modify the symptoms, numerous treatment-related complications have been described. In view of this, we investigated the therapeutic effects of essential oil (EO) from rhizomes of Ligusticum chuanxiong Hort. (Umbelliferae) on formed hypertrophic scars in a rabbit ear model. EO was prepared as a liposomal formulation (liposome-enveloped essential oil, LEO) and a rabbit ear model with hypertrophic scars was established. LEO (2.5, 5, and 10%) was applied once daily to the scars for 28 days. On postoperative day 56, the scar tissue was excised for masson's trichrome staining, detection of fibroblast apoptosis, assays of the levels of collagens I and III, and analysis of the mRNA expression of matrix metalloproteinase-1 (MMP-1), caspase-3 and -9, and transforming growth factor beta 1 (TGF-β(1)). In addition, the scar elevation index (SEI) was also determined. As a result, LEO treatment significantly alleviated formed hypertrophic scars on rabbit ears. The levels of TGF-β(1), MMP-1, collagen I, and collagen III were evidently decreased, and caspase -3 and -9 levels and apoptosis cells were markedly increased in the scar tissue. SEI was also significantly reduced. Histological findings exhibited significant amelioration of the collagen tissue. These results suggest that LEO possesses the favorable therapeutic effects on formed hypertrophic scars in the rabbit ear model and may be an effective cure for human hypertrophic scars.

The laser Doppler flowmeter has become an effective tool for the clinical study of microcirculation with non-invasive measurements and excellent velocity resolution. Microcirculation flow measurements cannot be used as reference criteria for circulation function. Thus, the relative change in fingertip microcirculation was measured through inflation and deflation of an automatic sphygmomanometer wrapped around the arm, and the blood pressure and functional parameters of circulation, such as biological zero (BZ), peak flow (PF) and time to peak flow (tp), were determined. For 50 healthy participants, the correlation coefficients for the laser Doppler flowmeter and oscillometric results were 0.950 and 0.838 for systolic and diastolic pressure, respectively. The mean and standard errors for both methods fell within the range specified in the Association for the Advancement of Medical Instrumentation standards. The BZ of an edema patient was about 5 times higher than normal. For patients with peripheral arterial occlusive disease (PAOD), the PF could not be determined, and the tp was about twice the normal value. The accuracy of blood pressure measurements using the laser Doppler flowmeter was comparable to that of the commonly used oscillometric sphygmomanometer, and the physiological circulation functional parameters were useful in identifying signs of edema and PAOD.

Objective: To investigate the safety and efficacy of minimally invasive achilles tendon lengthening and system rehabilitation for the treatment of contracture of achilles tendon., Methods: From January 2002 to December 2010, 27 patients (31 feet) with contracture of achilles tendon were treated with minimally invasive achilles tendon lengthening and system rehabilitation. There were 11 males and 16 females with an average age of 35.5 years (ranged 3 to 65 years). Right foot was in 13 cases, left foot was in 10 cases, both feet were in 4 cases. Course of disease was from 1 to 5 years with an average of 2.3 years. The cause of contracture included postoperative complication of tibia fractures treated with intramedullary nailing in 7 feet, sequelae of lower leg compartment syndrome in 11 feet, congenital talipes equinovarus in 13 feet (both feet in 4). Before operation, all the patients walked with limping, plantar flexion anomaly was from 15 degrees to 50 degrees with an average of 35.5 degrees. The strength of quadriceps muscle of thigh was grade V in 27 feet, grade IV in 4 feet, the strength of musculus triceps surae was grade V in 24 feet, grade IV in 7 feet., Results: All the patients were followed-up for 6-24 months with an average of 11.3 months. According to standard of Arner-Lindholm to evaluate function of ankle joint, 29 feet obtained excellent results and 2 feet good. No infection, re-rupture or re-contracture was found., Conclusion: Minimally invasive achilles tendon lengthening and system rehabilitation in treating contracture of achilles tendon has advantage such as simple operation, less complication, lower recurrence rate, which is favourable for thoroughly rehabilitation of patients. But, the case in which the strength of quadriceps muscle of thigh or musculus triceps surae still less than grade III after preoperative rehabilitation care should not choose the method.

Background: Platelet endothelial cell adhesion molecule-1 (PECAM-1), also known as CD31, is mainly distributed in vascular endothelial cells. Studies have shown that PECAM-1 is a very significant indicator of angiogenesis, and has been used as an indicator for vascular endothelial cells. The present study aimed to explore the relationship between the expression of PECAM-1 and the degree of acute lung injury (ALI) and fibrosis in paraquat (PQ) induced lung injury in rabbits., Methods: Thirty-six adult New Zealand rabbits were randomly divided into three groups (12 rabbits in each group) according to PQ dosage: 8 mg/kg (group A), 16 mg/kg (group B), and 32 mg/kg (group C). After PQ infusion, the rabbits were monitored for 7 days and then euthanized. The lungs were removed for histological evaluation. Masson staining was used to determine the degree of lung fibrosis (LF), and semi-quantitative immune-histochemistry analysis to determine the expression of PECAM-1. Pearson's product-moment correlation analysis was performed to evaluate the relationship between the expression of PECAM-1 and the extent of lung injuries expressed by ALI score and degree of LF., Results: Rabbits in the three groups showed apparent poisoning. The rabbits survived longer in group A than in groups B and C (6.47±0.99 days vs. 6.09±1.04 days vs. 4.77±2.04 days) (P<0.05). ALI score was lower in group A than in groups B and C (8.33±1.03 vs. 9.83±1.17 vs. 11.50±1.38) (P<0.05), and there was statistically significant difference between group B and group C (P=0.03). LF was slighter in group A than in groups B and C (31.09%±2.05 % vs. 34.37%±1.62 % vs. 36.54%±0.44%) (P<0.05), and there was statistically significant difference between group B and group C (P=0.026). The PEACAM-1 expression was higher in group A than in groups B and C (20.31%±0.70% vs. 19.34%±0.68% vs. 18.37%±0.46%) (P<0.05), and there was statistically significant difference between group B and group C (P=0.017). Pearson's correlation analysis showed that the expression of PECAM-1 was negatively correlated to both ALI score (Coe=-0.732, P=0.001) and degree of LF (Coe=-0.779, P<0.001)., Conclusions: The PECAM-1 expression significantly decreases in New Zealand rabbits after PQ poisoning, and the decrease is dose-dependent. The PECAM-1 expression is negatively correlated with ALI score and LF, showing a significant role in the development of lung injuries induced by PQ.

Cyproheptadine (CPH) is a histamine- and serotonin-receptor antagonist, and its effects are observed recently in the modulation of multiple intracellular signals. In this study, we used cortical neurons and HEK-293 cells transfected with Kv2.1 α-subunit to address whether CPH modify neural voltage-gated K(+) channels by a mechanism independent of its serotonergic and histaminergic properties. Our results demonstrate that intracellularly delivered CPH increased the I(K) by reducing the activity of protein kinas A (PKA). Inhibition of G(i) eliminated the CPH-induced effect on both the I(K) and PKA. Blocking of 5-HT-, M-, D(2)-, H(1)- or H(2)-type GPCR receptors with relevant antagonists did not eliminate the CPH-induced effect on the I(K). Antagonists of the sigma-1 receptor, however, blocked the effect of CPH. Moreover, the inhibition of sigma-1 by siRNA knockdown significantly reduced the CPH-induced effect on the I(K). On the contrary, sigma-1 receptor agonist mimicked the effects of CPH on the induction of I(K). A ligand-receptor binding assay indicated that CPH bound to the sigma-1 receptor. Similar effect of CPH were obtained from HEK-293 cells transfected with the α-subunit of Kv2.1. In overall, we reveal for the first time that CPH enhances the I(K) by modulating activity of PKA, and that the associated activation of the sigma-1 receptor/G(i)-protein pathway might be involved. Our findings illustrate an uncharacterized effect of CPH on neuron excitability through the I(K), which is independent of histamine H(1) and serotonin receptors.

Objective: To examine the impact of mild hypothermia on cardiac function, myocardial tissue integrity, and 48 hours mortality in a rabbits model of ventricular fibrillation after restoration of spontaneous circulation (ROSC)., Methods: The rabbits were randomly divided into four groups: normothermic post ROSC (NTPR, n = 10), mild hypothermia post ROSC (HTPR, n = 10), normothermic control (NTC, n = 8) and mild hypothermia control (HTC, n = 8). Ventricular fibrillation was induced by trans-epicardium electric-shook with alternating current in all the animals and ROSC was achieved through administration of adrenaline (i.v.) and artificial ventilation in group NTPR and HTPR. The body temperature of the animals was kept either at (39.0 ± 0.5) centigrade (NTPR and NTC) or (33.5 ± 0.5) centigrade (HTPR and HTC) for 4 hours after surgery for hemodynamic index data collection 0.5, 1, 2, 3 and 4 hours after surgery, 48 hours later, the mortality in the animals was recorded, and myocardial tissue samples were collected from survived animals for morphological examination by light and electric microscopy and analysis of apoptosis by terminal-deoxynucleotidyl transferase mediated nick end labeling (TUNEL) staining. The content of ATP, ADP and AMP in the tissue samples was measured by high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) for the calculation of energy charges (EC)., Results: (1)Hemodynamic indexes: as compared to the NTC group, HTC group exhibited significantly lower levels of heart rate (HR) and -dp/dt max in all the time points. No significant difference between the two groups in the levels of +dp/dt max and mean artery pressure (MAP) was found in all the time points but 0.5 hour. There was no significant difference in the levels of left ventricular end-diastolic pressure (LVEDP), left ventricular end-systolic pressure (LVESP), and femoral artery blood pressure between the two groups.(2) In comparison with NTPR group, HTPR group exhibited significantly (all P < 0.05) lower levels of HR (bpm) and -dp/dt max in all time points (ROSC 0.5, 1, 2, 3, 4 hours: HR 216.5 ± 33.3 vs. 292.9 ± 38.4, 218.2 ± 28.0 vs. 294.3 ± 37.0, 227.5 ± 25.4 vs. 291.4 ± 25.3, 232.4 ± 27.4 vs. 278.1 ± 30.8, 230.6 ± 22.0 vs. 285.1 ± 38.2; -dp/dt max 1847.1 ± 241.2 vs. 2383.3 ± 470.9, 1860.7 ± 167.8 vs. 2154.6 ± 319.5, 1822.3 ± 389.7 vs. 2239.7 ± 379.0, 1950.6 ± 412.9 vs. 2229.6 ± 392.4, 1875.7 ± 555.6 vs. 2396.7 ± 420.1). There was no significant difference between the two groups in the levels of LVEDP, +dp/dt max, LVESP, and femoral artery blood pressure. (3)Optical and electron microscopy revealed myocardium injury in samples from animals underwent ROSC. However, in comparison with the NTPR group, samples from HTPR group exhibited less damage to the myocardium structure. (4) Apoptosis index (AI) of myocardium was significantly (P < 0.05) higher in NTPR group (42.02%) than in HTPR group (26.39%). (5) Tests of myocardial energy: ATP level (μmol/g) in HTPR was significantly (P < 0.05) higher than NTPR (0.97 ± 0.26 vs. 0.65 ± 0.16). EC in NTPR was significant lower than it in two control groups [(0.33 ± 0.13)% vs. (0.52 ± 0.12)%, (0.55 ± 0.06)%, both P < 0.05], whereas no such difference was found between HTPR [(0.41 ± 0.12)%] and two control groups. (6) 48 hours survival rate in HTPR group was significantly higher (P = 0.043) as compared to NTPR group (100% vs. 60%)., Conclusions: Myocardial dysfunction and myocardium tissue injury both develop in post-resuscitation rabbits with ventricular fibrillation. In these animals, reducing body temperature to the level of mild hypothermia after ROSC may improve the 48 hours survival rate, probably via mechanisms that suppress myocardial cell apoptosis. In our study, such intervention produced no obvious negative impact neither on the cardiac function nor hemodynamics.

A first-principles study of the electronic structure, the linear optical properties and second-order NLO properties of calcium fluoroborate (Ca(5)(BO(3))(3)F, or CBF) crystal has been performed within density functional theory and the independent-particle approximation. The results indicate that the calculated birefringence Δn and the second-order susceptibilities are very coincident with the experimental measured values, and the χ((2)) curves show stronger anisotropy than the linear optical properties. Further analysis based on the spectral and spatial decomposition of χ((2)) reveals that the main sources of the SHG response of CBF are from the planar BO(3) groups (74%-77%) and Ca(2+) cations (23%-26%) and can be attributed to the interband electronic transition from the nonbonding O 2p states to the B 2p and Ca 4s4p states. The packing arrangement of BO(3) is the principal contributor to the significant differences among SHG tensors in CBF. Meanwhile, for a certain crystal CBF, the SHG tensors' trend can be the trend of the optical transition matrix elements, which are high when the corresponding subscript directions have more parallel BO(3) triangular planes in the structure., (© 2011 IOP Publishing Ltd)

The aim of this paper was to describe the prevalence of deliberate self-harm (DSH) and to determine the socio-demographic, behavioral, and psychological correlates of DSH behaviors in Chinese adolescents and young adults in a representative sample of the general population. The data were obtained from an epidemiologic study involving adolescents and young adults from junior and senior schools and colleges located in eight provinces of China. A total of 17,622 cases were retained for analysis. The relationship between the explanatory variables with self-harm was analyzed using a Pearson χ (2) test and a multinomial logistic regression model. A total of 3,001 (17.0%) students reported that they had harmed themselves deliberately in the past 12 months. The act of DSH occurring 1 and >2 times accounted for 4.2% (742) and 12.8% (2,259) of all respondents, respectively. The most frequently reported form of DSH was self-hitting. If the reference category was No DSH, the findings indicated that family composition, father's education, perceived family economic status, cigarette use, perceived body image, and higher scores in depression scales were important concomitants of repeat-incidents of DSH. The students, in western areas, who were younger, reported that having unhealthy weight control behaviors, and alcohol use had a higher risk for both types of DSH. Regarding students of age 15-18 years perceived body image (too fat), having unhealthy weight control behaviors or a high level of depression symptoms demonstrated an elevated risk for repeat-incident DSH when single-incident DSH was used as the reference category, whereas the students in middle area reported family composition (both parents), education of the father (less than college) or alcohol use had a decreased risk for repeat-incident DSH. The results of this study suggest that both types of DSH are associated with other wide-ranging problems in the students' lives. Despite their common features, these phenomena also differed from each other. It is necessary to investigate the possible neurobiologic underpinnings of DSH within a longitudinal study to enhance the knowledge of this behavior.

Objective: To examine the changes in PECAM-1 expression and its correlation to the level of pulmonary tissue injury in the lungs from rabbits exposed to acute PQ poisoning., Methods: Three groups of New Zealand rabbits (12 each, randomly assigned) were treated with PQ at 8, 16 and 32 mg/kg respectively through gavage. The animals were sacrificed 7 days after the poisoning and the upper lobe of their lungs collected for semi-quantitative microscopic evaluation of tissue injury, pulmonary fibrosis and the expression of PECAM-1 after hematoxylin-eosin (HE), Masson, and immuno-histological staining. The correlation analysis was used for the relationship between the expression of PECAM-1 and lung injury score or fibrosis of lung., Results: The evaluation scores (demonstrated as mean+ standard deviation) in the three treatment groups were found to be (a) 8.33±1.03, 9.83±1.17 and 11.50±1.38 for lung tissue injury, (b) (31.09±2.05)%, (34.37±1.62)% and (36.54±0.44)% for pulmonary fibrosis, and (c) (20.31± 0.70)%, (19.34±0.68)% and (18.37±0.46)% for PECAM-1 expression. Statistically significant difference (P< 0.05) was found between the results from different dose groups for all the indexes examined. Pearson correlation analysis showed that expression of PECAM-1 was negatively correlated to lung injury score ( r = - 0.732, P = 0.001) and fibrosis degree of lung ( r = - 0. 779, P< 0.001)., Conclusion: (1) The expressions of PECAM-1 in the lungs of PQ treated animals decrease to increased dose of PQ poisoning, (2) such decrease is correlated to the degree of pulmonary tissue injury and fibrosis of lung. It is possible that PECAM-1 expression inhibition be an important factor in the development of lung injury after acute PQ poisoning.

Two new acentric borogermanates, Ca(10)Ge(16)B(6)O(51) (Pba2) and Cd(12)Ge(17)B(8)O(58) (P4), have been successfully synthesized by high-temperature solid-state reactions of CaCO(3) (or CdCO(3)), GeO(2), and H(3)BO(3). Both structures display the same one-dimensional (1D) [Ge(4)O(12)](n) chains composed of GeO(4) tetrahedra and GeO(6) octahedra. In Ca(10)Ge(16)B(6)O(51), neighboring 1D [Ge(4)O(12)](n) chains are condensed into a two-dimensional (2D) [Ge(4)O(10.75)](n) layer via corner sharing, and such layers are further interconnected by "isolated" BO(4) tetrahedra and B(2)O(7) dimers into a three-dimensional (3D) framework, forming 1D tunnels of 5-, 6-, and 7-MRs along the c axis that are occupied by Ca(2+) cations. In Cd(12)Ge(17)B(8)O(58), neighboring 1D [Ge(4)O(12)](n) chains are interconnected into a [Ge(4)O(10.5)](n) open framework via corner sharing with large pores filled by big [Ge(B(2)O(7))(4)](28-) clusters, leading to formation of three types of 1D tunnels of 5-, 6-, and 7-membered rings (MRs) along the c axis which are occupied by the Cd(2+) cations. Both compounds are transparent in the range of 0.3-6.67 μm and exhibit very weak SHG responses.

Objective: To investigate the dietary pattern in college freshmen students and to analyze the influencing factors on their dietary patterns., Methods: A questionnaire survey on situation of dietary pattern and influencing factors was conducted among 1319 freshmen students., Results: Four major dietary patterns were noticed and they were: I, high consumption in hamburger, fried food, nuts, biscuit, chocolate, cola, coffee, sugars, II, high consumption in pork, mutton, beef, poultry meat, animal liver, III, high consumption in fresh fruits, eggs, fish and shrimps, kelp laver and sea fish, milk and dairy products, beans and bean products, IV, high consumption in rice and grain, fresh fruits, fresh vegetables, pork. Risk factors on dietary pattern were presented as follows: (1) boys:having the food pattern I and II showed a strong positive association with the place where they live (OR = 1.67, 95%CI: 0.87 - 3.19; OR = 1.51, 95%CI: 0.79 - 2.88), eating place (OR = 1.63, 95%CI: 1.03 - 2.59;OR = 1.83, 95%CI: 1.04 - 3.23), level of mother's education (OR = 2.52, 95%CI: 1.07 - 5.95; OR = 3.38, 95%CI: 1.50 - 7.63), family income (OR = 2.24, 95%CI: 1.30 - 3.88; OR = 3.06, 95%CI: 1.77 - 5.29) and the status of passive smoking (OR = 1.80, 95%CI: 0.70 - 4.59; OR = 1.83, 95%CI: 0.75 - 4.45). Inverse correlations was found on the level of mother's education (OR = 0.56, 95%CI: 0.17 - 1.79). The food pattern IV showed a strong positive association with place of eating (OR = 1.83, 95%CI: 1.04 - 3.23) but having an inverse correlation with the level of mother's education (OR = 0.56, 95%CI: 0.17 - 1.79). (2) girls when compared with boys, the food pattern I showed minor association with the places of living and eating; while the food pattern II and III had minor association with the status of passive smoking., Conclusion: Socio-demographic factors and lifestyle had influenced on the dietary patterns among college freshmen students who should be guided to have a reasonable, balanced diet in the college.

Four new potassium vanadyl iodates based on lone-pair-containing IO(3) and second-order Jahn-Teller distorted VO(5) or VO(6) asymmetric units, namely, α-KVO(2)(IO(3))(2)(H(2)O) (Pbca), β-KVO(2)(IO(3))(2)(H(2)O) (P2(1)2(1)2(1)), K(4)[(VO)(IO(3))(5)](2)(HIO(3))(H(2)O)(2)·H(2)O (P1), and K(VO)(2)O(2)(IO(3))(3) (Ima2) have been successfully synthesized by hydrothermal reactions. α-KVO(2)(IO(3))(2)(H(2)O) and β-KVO(2)(IO(3))(2)(H(2)O) exhibit two different types of 1D [VO(2)(IO(3))(2)](-) anionic chains. Neighboring VO(6) octahedra in the α-phase are corner-sharing into a 1D chain with the IO(3) groups attached on both sides of the chain in a uni- or bidentate bridging fashion, whereas those of VO(5) polyhedra in the β-phase are bridged by IO(3) groups into a right-handed helical chain with remaining IO(3) groups being grafted unidentately on both sides of the helical chain. The structure of K(4)[(VO)(IO(3))(5)](2)(HIO(3))(H(2)O)(2)·H(2)O contains novel isolated [(VO)(IO(3))(5)](2-) units composed of one VO(6) octahedron linked to five IO(3) groups and one terminal O(2-) anion. The structure of K(VO)(2)O(2)(IO(3))(3) exhibits a 1D [(VO)(2)O(2)(IO(3))(3)](-) chain in which neighboring VO(6) octahedra are interconnected by both oxo and bridging iodate anions. Most interestingly, three of four compounds are noncentrosymmetric (NCS), and K(VO)(2)O(2)(IO(3))(3) displays a very strong second-harmonic generation response of about 3.6 × KTP, which is phase matchable. It also has high thermal stability, a wide transparent region and moderate hardness as well as an excellent growth habit. Thermal analyses and optical and ferroelectric properties as well as theoretical calculations have also been performed., (© 2011 American Chemical Society)

The use of nano-sized materials offers exciting new options in technical and medical applications. Single-walled carbon nanotubes are emerging as technologically important in different industries. However, adverse effects on cells have been reported and this may limit their use. We previously found that 200μg/mL of single-walled carbon nanotubes induce apoptosis in rat aorta endothelial cells. The current study aimed to determine the signaling pathway involved in this process. We found that reactive oxygen species generation was involved in activation of the mitochondria-dependent apoptotic pathway. The finding of apoptosis was supported by a number of morphological and biochemical hallmarks, including chromatin condensation, internucleosomal DNA fragmentation, and caspase-3 activation. In conclusion, our results demonstrate that single-walled carbon nanotubes induce apoptosis in rat aorta endothelial cells and that reactive oxygen species are involved in the mitochondrial pathway., (Copyright © 2010 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.)

Six new phases in the alkali metal-Nb(V)/Ta(V)-Se(IV)/Te(IV)-O systems have been prepared by solid-state reactions at high-temperatures. Their structures were determined by single-crystal X-ray diffraction studies. AM(3)O(6)(QO(3))(2) (A = K, Rb, M = Nb, Ta, Q = Te; A = K, M = Nb, Q = Se) are isomorphous and their structures feature a 3D network with 1D 4- and 6-MRs tunnels along the a-axis which is composed of 2D layers of corner-sharing MO(6) octahedra bridged by QO(3) groups. The alkali metal ions are located at the above 1D tunnels of 6-MRs. The structure of Cs(3)Nb(9)O(18)(TeO(3))(2)(TeO(4))(2) features a thick Nb-Te-O layer built of corner-sharing NbO(6) octahedra, TeO(3) and TeO(4) groups. The 2D layer of the NbO(6) octahedra with 1D tunnels of 6-MRs along the c-axis are formed by 1D chains of NbO(6) chains along the c-axis and linear Nb(4)O(21) tetramers by corner-sharing. The TeO(3) and TeO(4) groups are grafted on both sides of the niobium-oxide layer via Nb-O-Te or/and Te-O-Te bridges. The caesium(i) ions are located at the above 1D tunnels of 6-MRs. TGA, UV-vis and infrared spectral measurements as well as electronic structure calculations have also been performed.

Three novel rubidium borogermanates with three types of noncentrosymmetric structures, namely, RbGeB(3)O(7), Rb(2)GeB(4)O(9), and Rb(4)Ge(3)B(6)O(17), have been synthesized by high-temperature solid-state reactions in platinum crucibles. The structure of RbGeB(3)O(7) features a three-dimensional (3D) anionic framework composed of cyclic B(3)O(7) groups corner-sharing GeO(4) tetrahedra. The structure of Rb(2)GeB(4)O(9) shows a 3D anionic framework based on B(4)O(9) clusters connected by GeO(4) tetrahedra via corner sharing. The structure of Rb(4)Ge(3)B(6)O(17) is a novel 3D anionic framework composed of cyclic B(3)O(8) groups, Ge(2)O(7) dimers, and GeO(4) tetrahedra that are interconnected via corner sharing. Second harmonic generation (SHG) measurements indicate that RbGeB(3)O(7), Rb(2)GeB(4)O(9), and Rb(4)Ge(3)B(6)O(17) display moderate SHG responses that are approximately 1.3, 2.0, and 1.3 × KH(2)PO(4) (KDP), respectively, which are slightly smaller than those from theoretical calculations (about 3.7, 2.8, and 2.4 × KDP, respectively)., (© 2011 American Chemical Society)

Systematic explorations of new phases in the A(I)-In(III)-I(V)-O system by hydrothermal reactions led to five new compounds, namely, AIn(IO(3))(4) (A = Li, Na), Rb(3)In(IO(3))(6) and A(2)HIn(IO(3))(6) (A = Rb, Cs). The structure of AIn(IO(3))(4) (A = Li, Na) contains one-dimensional [In(IO(3))(4)](-) chains separated by Li(+) or Na(+) cations. In both compounds, each In(3+) cation is octahedrally coordinated by six IO(3)(-) anions, neighboring In(3+) cations are interconnected by bidentate bridging iodate anions into 1D chains. The structures of Rb(3)In(IO(3))(6) and A(2)HIn(IO(3))(6) (A = Rb, Cs) all feature isolated [In(IO(3))(6)](3-) anions with alkali metal ions (and H(+) ions) as spacers. Both optical diffuse reflectance spectrum measurements and band structure calculations based on DFT methods indicate that LiIn(IO(3))(4), NaIn(IO(3))(4), and Rb(2)HIn(IO(3))(6) are insulators.

Searching for effective Smad3 gene-based gene therapies for hepatic fibrosis, we constructed siRNA expression plasmids targeting the rat Smad3 gene and then delivered these plasmids into hepatic stellate cells (HSCs). The effect of siRNAs on the mRNA levels of Smad2, Smad3, Smad4, and collagens I-α1, III-α1 and IV-α1 (Colα1, Col3α1, Col4α1, respectively) was determined by RT-PCR. Eighty adult male Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly divided into three groups. Twice a week for 8 weeks, the untreated hepatic fibrosis model (N = 30) and the treated group (N = 20) were injected subcutaneously with 40% (v/v) carbon tetrachloride (CCl4)-olive oil (3 mL/kg), and the normal control group (N = 30) was injected with olive oil (3 mL/kg). In the 4th week, the treated rats were injected subcutaneously with liposome-encapsulated plasmids (150 µg/kg) into the right liver lobe under general anesthesia once every 2 weeks, and the untreated rats were injected with the same volume of buffer. At the end of the 6th and 8th weeks, liver tissue and sera were collected. Pathological changes were assessed by a semi-quantitative scoring system (SSS), and a radioimmunoassay was used to establish a serum liver fibrosis index (type III procollagen, type IV collagen, laminin, and hyaluronic acid). The mRNA expression levels of the above cited genes were reduced in the HSCs transfected with the siRNA expression plasmids. Moreover, in the treated group, fibrosis evaluated by the SSS was significantly reduced (P < 0.05) and the serum indices were greatly improved (P < 0.01). These results suggest that Smad3 siRNA expression plasmids have an anti-fibrotic effect.

1. Evidence has accumulated in mammals to support the idea that mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) deletions and mutations might contribute to ageing and reproductive failure. White Roman geese were monitored to evaluate the effect of large-scale deletions of mtDNA in an avian species. 2. A total of 340 samples from 114 dead embryos, 111 weak goslings, and 115 normal goslings were used in this experiment. The regions of these two large-scale mtDNA deletions, ΔmtDNA6829 and ΔmtDNA6992, were between the COI and ND5 genes. A 3·6% (4 out of 111) positive sample was detected in the weak goslings. In contrast, no large-scale mitochondrial DNA deletions were detected in either the dead embryos (0 out of 114) or the normal goslings (0 out of 115). 3. Large-scale mtDNA deletions may be a factor causing weak goslings.

Six new novel alkaline-earth metal vanadium(V) or vanadium(IV) selenites and tellurites, namely, Sr(2)(VO)(3)(SeO(3))(5), Sr(V(2)O(5))(TeO(3)), Sr(2)(V(2)O(5))(2)(TeO(3))(2)(H(2)O), Ba(3)(VO(2))(2)(SeO(3))(4), Ba(2)(VO(3))Te(4)O(9)(OH), and Ba(2)V(2)O(5)(Te(2)O(6)), have been prepared and structurally characterized by single crystal X-ray diffraction analyses. These compounds exhibit six different anionic structures ranging from zero-dimensional (0D) cluster to three-dimensional (3D) network. Sr(2)(VO)(3)(SeO(3))(5) features a 3D anionic framework composed of VO(6) octahedra that are bridged by SeO(3) polyhedra. The oxidation state of the vanadium cation is +4 because of the partial reduction of V(2)O(5) by SeO(2) at high temperature. Ba(3)(VO(2))(2)(SeO(3))(4) features a 0D [(VO(2))(SeO(3))(2)](3-) anion. Sr(V(2)O(5))(TeO(3)) displays a unique 1D vanadium(V) tellurite chain composed of V(2)O(8) and V(2)O(7) units connected by tellurite groups, forming 4- and 10-MRs, whereas Sr(2)(V(2)O(5))(2)(TeO(3))(2)(H(2)O) exhibits a 2D layer consisting of [V(4)O(14)] tetramers interconnected by bridging TeO(3)(2-) anions with the Sr(2+) and water molecules located at the interlayer space. Ba(2)(VO(3))Te(4)O(9)(OH) exhibits a one-dimensional (1D) vanadium tellurite chain composed of a novel 1D [Te(4)O(9)(OH)](3-) chain further decorated by VO(4) tetrahedra. Ba(2)V(2)O(5)(Te(2)O(6)) also features a 1D vanadium(V) tellurites chain in which neighboring VO(4) tetrahedra are bridged by [Te(2)O(6)](4-) dimers. The existence of V(4+) ions in Sr(2)(VO)(3)(SeO(3))(5) is also confirmed by magnetic measurements. The results of optical diffuse-reflectance spectrum measurements and electronic structure calculations based on density functional theory (DFT) methods indicate that all six compounds are wide-band gap semiconductors.

Background: To establish a simple, economic, and reliable alternating current (AC)-induced cardiac arrest (ACCA) model in rabbits for cardiopulmonary cerebral resuscitation research., Methods: Ventricular fibrillation was induced in 27 New Zealand rabbits by external transthoracic AC, which were randomly divided into three groups according to the duration of untreated ACCA (ACCA-3 minutes, ACCA-5 minutes, and ACCA-8 minutes). After ACCA, all animals received cardiopulmonary resuscitation for 2 minutes and subsequent defibrillation until return of spontaneous circulation (ROSC). The troponin I levels were measured at 4 hours after ROSC. Animals died spontaneously or were killed at 72 hours after ROSC. The hippocampus were removed and fixed in 3% formalin. TdT-mediated dUTP-biotin nick end labeling and Nissl stainings were performed in 10-μm thickness coronal sections. Furthermore, two rabbits (without induction of ventricular fibrillation, cardiopulmonary resuscitation, and defibrillation) served as normal control group., Results: Mean survival times after ROSC were 48.57 hours ± 24.70 hours, 18.0 hours ± 15.13 hours, and 3.88 hours ± 2.39 hours for groups ACCA-3 minutes, ACCA-5 minutes, and ACCA-8 minutes, respectively. Survival was significantly different between ACCA-3 minutes and other two groups (p = 0.002 and p = 0.01). Neuronal necrosis and apoptosis were found in the hippocampus CA1, CA2, and CA3 areas of group ACCA-3 minutes. In contrast, neuronal necrosis and TdT-mediated dUTP-biotin nick end labeling positive cells were fewer in control animals., Conclusions: The rabbits in group ACCA-3 minutes had significant neuronal damage with apoptosis in hippocampus CA1, CA2, and CA3 areas at 72 hours after ROSC and survived longer than those in other groups. The model we describe may be a simple, economic, and reliable model for experimental investigation on cardiopulmonary cerebral resuscitation.

In order to avoid interference from nuclear copies of mitochondrial DNA (numts), mtDNA of the white Roman goose (domestic goose) was extracted from liver mitochondria. The mtDNA control region was amplified using a long PCR strategy and then sequenced. Neighbor-joining, maximum parsimony, and maximum-likelihood approaches were implemented using the 1,177 bp mtDNA control region sequences to compute the phylogenetic relationships of the domestic goose with other geese. The resulting identity values for the white Roman geese were 99.1% (1,166/1,177) with western graylag geese and 98.8% (1,163/1,177) with eastern graylag geese. In molecular phylogenetic trees, the white Roman goose was grouped in the graylag lineage, indicating that the white Roman goose came from the graylag goose (Anser anser). Thus, the scientific name of the white Roman goose should be Anser anser 'White Roman.'

Three new novel palladium(II) iodates with square-planar PdO(4) units, namely, Pd(IO(3))(2), AgPd(IO(3))(3), and BaPd(IO(3))(4), have been successfully hydrothermally synthesized. They represent the first ternary and quaternary palladium(II) iodates and display three different structural types. Pd(IO(3))(2) exhibits a novel two-dimensional (2D) layered structure in which each PdO(4) square further connects with four neighboring ones by four bridging IO(3) groups. AgPd(IO(3))(3) exhibits a unique three-dimensional (3D) network based on unique one-dimensional (1D) [Pd(IO(3))(3)](-) anionic chains along the c-axis which are further interconnected by Ag(+) cations. BaPd(IO(3))(4) is isostructural with KAu(IO(3))(4), and its structure features zero-dimensional (0D) [Pd(IO(3))(4)](2-) anionic units that are interconnected by Ba(2+) cations. These materials can be polar or non-polar depending on the different alignments of the lone pairs of the I(V) atoms. Pd(IO(3))(2) and AgPd(IO(3))(3) are non-polar and centrosymmetric, hence not second-harmonic generation (SHG) active. BaPd(IO(3))(4) is polar and displays a moderate SHG response of about 0.4× KTP. Thermal analyses, optical, luminescent, and ferroelectric properties as well as electronic structure calculations have also been performed.

Objective: To establish a new model of cardiac arrest (CA) in rats by transcutaneous electrical epicardium stimulation., Methods: Two acupuncture needles connected to the anode and cathode of a stimulator were transcutaneously inserted into the epicardium as electrodes. The stimulating current was steered to the epicardium and the stimulation was maintained for 3 min to induce CA. Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) was performed at 6 min after a period of nonintervention., Results: CA was successfully induced in a total of 20 rats. The success rate of induction was 12/20 at the current intensity of 1 mA; and reached 20/20 when the current intensity was increased to 2 mA. After the electrical stimulation, the femoral blood pressure quickly dropped below 25 mmHg and the arterial pulse waveform disappeared. The average time from the electrical stimulation to CA induction was 5.10 (+/-2.81) s. When the electrical stimulation stopped, 18/20 rats had ventricular fibrillation and 2/20 rats had pulseless electrical activity. CPR was performed for averagely 207.4 (+/-148.8) s. The restoration of spontaneous circulation (ROSC) was 20/20. The death rate within 4h after ROSC was 5/20, and the 72-h survival rate was 10/20. There were only two cases of complications, a minor muscle contraction and a minor lung lobe injury., Conclusion: The model of CA in rats induced by transcutaneous electrical epicardium stimulation is a stable model that requires low-intensity current and has fewer complications. This model may provide another option for experimental research of CA induced by malignant arrhythmia (especially VF)., (Copyright 2010. Published by Elsevier Ireland Ltd.)

Systematic explorations of the new phases in the Pb(II)/Bi(III)-TM(d(0)/d(1))-Se(IV)-O systems by hydrothermal syntheses led to five new quaternary phases whose structures are composed of three different asymmetric building units, namely, Pb(2)V(V)(2)Se(2)O(11) (1), Pb(2)V(IV)(3)Se(5)O(18) (2), Pb(2)Nb(V)(2)Se(4)O(15) (3), Bi(2)V(V)(2)Se(4)O(16) (4), and Bi(2)Mo(VI)(2)Se(2)O(13) (5). The structure of 1 features a 3D network built by 1D anionic chains of [V(2)O(5)(SeO(3))(2)](4-) interconnected by Pb(2+) ions with six-membered-ring (MR) tunnels along the b axis. The structure of 2 features a 3D anionic framework composed of V(IV)O(6) octahedra corner-sharing with SeO(3) anions, with the Pb(2+) ions located at the resultant 8-MR tunnels. The oxidation state of the vanadium cation is 4+ due to the partial oxidation of V(2)O(3) by SeO(2) at high temperature. The structure of 3 features novel 1D double chains of [Nb(2)O(3)(SeO(3))(4)](4-) that are interconnected by Pb(2+) ions, forming a 3D network with 12-MR tunnels along the c axis. 4 features a 3D framework composed of 2D layers of [Bi(2)(SeO(3))(2)](2+) and 1D [(VO(2))(2)(SeO(3))(2)](2-) double chains. The structure of 5 features a 3D network composed of bismuth(III) selenite with large 10-MR tunnels along the a axis that are occupied by Mo(2)O(10) dimers. The results of optical diffuse-reflectance spectrum measurements and electronic structure calculations based on density functional theory methods indicate that all five compounds are wide-band-gap semiconductors. Luminescent property measurements for compounds 1-5 and magnetic measurements for compound 2 were also made.

Lignin degradation by white-rot fungi has received considerable attention as a means for reducing accumulation of lignocellulosic wastes in the environment. The stimulatory effect of surfactants on fungal lignocellulose bioconversion also has attracted wide interest. In this study the influence of dirhamnolipid biosurfactant on biodegradation of rice straw by Phanerochaete chrysosporium was investigated. It was shown that the biodelignification process of rice straw can be significantly enhanced by the presence of dirhamnolipid biosurfactant. In particular, the dirhamnolipid at the concentration of 0.007% increased the peak activity of lignin peroxidase (LiP) by 86% without affecting the manganese peroxidase (MnP) activity. The water-soluble organic carbon (WSOC) contents in the straw substrates as well as the microbial growth and activity were effectively improved by dirhamnolipid, while the degradation rate of lignin increased by 54% with dirhamnolipid of 0.007%. Observed chemical structural and morphological changes showed that the straw substrates were delignified in the presence of dirhamnolipid with the formation of terrace-like fragments separated from the inner cellular fibers and the release of simple compounds. Variation partitioning analysis revealed that the dirhamnolipid addition induced a significant straw biodelignification which explained 22.1% (P = 0.013) of the variance.

Explorations of new second-order nonlinear optical (NLO) materials in the K(I)-M(II) -I(V)-O systems led to four novel mixed metal iodates, namely, K(2)M(IO(3))(4)(H(2)O)(2) (M = Mn, Co, Zn, Mg). The four compounds are isostructural and crystallize in space group I2 which is in the chiral and polar crystal class 2. Their structure features zero-dimensional {M(IO(3))(4)(H(2)O)(2)}(2-) anions that are separated by K(+) cations. The M(II) centers are ligated by two aqua ligands in trans fashion and four monodentate iodate anions. The K(+) cation is eight-coordinated by two iodate anions in bidentate chelating fashion and four other iodates in a unidentate fashion. Second harmonic generation (SHG) measurements indicate that K(2)Zn(IO(3))(4)(H(2)O)(2) and K(2)Mg(IO(3))(4)(H(2)O)(2) display moderate SHG responses that are approximately 2.3 and 1.4 times of KH(2)PO(4) (KDP), respectively, and they are also phase-matchable. The SHG response of K(2)Co(IO(3))(4)(H(2)O)(2) is much weaker (about 0.3 x KDP), and no obvious SHG signal was detected for K(2)Mn(IO(3))(4)(H(2)O)(2). Results of optical property calculations for the Zn and Mg phases revealed SHG responses of approximately 5.3 and 4.7 times of KDP, respectively, the order of Zn > Mg is in good agreement with the experiment data.

Objective: To identify the active material of anti-hepatic fibrosis from Amydae Carapax., Methods: Membrane separation technology was adopted to screen active fraction in Amydae Carapax, and the active components were isolated from the active fraction using gel chromatography and high performance liquid chromatography. The purified active components in Amydae Carapax were further analyzed using 4700 series time-of-flight mass spectrometer., Results: Proteins and peptides of Amydae Carapax with molecular weight less than 6000 were proved to have biological activity. 8 components (Bj1-Bj8) were isolated from the active fraction. Bj4, Bj6 and Bj7 were screened as active components. Bj7 was further purified, resulting in 7 components (Bj701-Bj707). Bj704 and Bj707 showed significant biological activity. Mass spectrometry showed three molecular ion peaks with highest abundance, i.e. m/e 526, 542 and 572, i.e. m/e 526, 542 and 572, in Bj707 -A The amino acid sequences of above three peptide compounds were NDDY (Asn-Asp-Asp-Tyr), NPNPT (Asn-Pro-Asn-Pro-Thr), and HGRFG (His-Gly-Arg-Phe-Gly), respectively. And M572 was the most abandunt components., Conclusion: Three active peptide compounds of anti-hepatic fibrosis of Amydae Carapax were identified.

First-principles studies of the geometric structures, electronic structures and second-order nonlinear optical properties of polar alkali metal-Mo(VI)-iodate compounds (AMoO(3)(IO(3)) (A = Li, Rb and Cs)) have been performed within density functional theory and the independent particle approximation. Our results indicate that, for these compounds, due to the similarity in their anionic groups, the electronic structures and the prominent features of the frequency dependent second-order nonlinear optical susceptibilities are similar, especially for the isostructural Rb and Cs compounds. Also, the calculated SHG coefficients of these compounds are large, which confirms the high response in experimental SHG measurements. By comparing the absolute magnitude of the SHG coefficients, the order LiMoO(3)(IO(3)) > RbMoO(3)(IO(3)) > CsMoO(3)(IO(3)) is clearly established in the low photon energy range. Further analyses based on the spectral and spatial decomposition of the SHG coefficients reveal that the main sources of the SHG properties of these compounds are from the distorted MoO(6) and IO(3)(-) groups, and can be mainly attributed to the electronic transition from the nonbonding O 2p states (i.e. the lone-pair electrons of O atoms) to the Mo 4d and some I 5p states. It is noticeable that in these compounds, due to the difference in ion size and coordinate environment, the contributions of alkali metals to the SHG processes are very different: for large cations, such as Rb and Cs, they can be neglected, while for the very small Li, they should be included.

Aim: To investigate variation of hydrogen sulfide (H2S) in serum of rats after cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and explore its pathophysiological role in CPR., Methods: The 30 male SD rats were randomly divided into control group (n=6) and experimental group (n=24), then models of cardiac arrest (CA) were established in rats of experimental group by transcutaneous electrical epicardium stimulation. Blood samples were collected before CA, at 2, 4, 6, 8, 10 and 12 h after restoration of spontaneous circulation (ROSC) for testing the serum levels of H2S, at the same time rectal temperature (Tr), mean arterial pressure (MAP), heart rate (HR) and respiration rate (R) were recorded. Next to analyze the dynamic variation of H2S content in serum of the rats after CPR and its correlation of the above-mentioned signs of life., Results: (1) In experimental group, all of the 24 rats were successfully induced CA and resuscitation; at end points (12 h after ROSC) there were 14 rats alive and their vital signs were stable. There was no death in the control group. (2) The variation trend of H2S content in serum was different between experimental group and the control (F=12.226, P=0.003). In experimental group, H2S content in serum increased dramatically after CPR and reached peak at 6 h after ROSC, then return to the similar level of the control group. (3) H2S content in serum was negatively correlated with Tr (partial r=-0.556, P=0.000) and MAP (partial r=-0.240, P=0.002). But it wasn't correlated with HR and R (P>0.05)., Conclusion: Change of H2S content in serum of rats after CPR may be a manifestation of compensatory response after ROSC and participate in physiological processes such as body temperature and blood pressure regulation. But as for its precisely mechanisms, it still needs to be studied further.

Systematic explorations of new phases in the Ag(I)-Ti(IV)/V(V)/Mo(VI)-iodate systems led to four new quaternary silver iodates, namely, Ag(2)Ti(IO(3))(6), Ag(2)(VO(2))(IO(3))(3), Ag(2)(V(2)O(4))(IO(3))(4), and Ag(2)(MoO(2))(IO(3))(4). They represent the first examples of silver iodates containing d(0) transition metal cations. Ag(2)Ti(IO(3))(6) is isostructural with K(2)Ti(IO(3))(6) and its structure features a zero-dimensional (0D) [Ti(IO(3))(6)](2-) anionic unit composed of non-distorted TiO(6) octahedron corner-sharing with six IO(3)(-) groups. Such anions are further bridged by Ag(+) ions into a 3D network. In both Ag(2)(VO(2))(IO(3))(3) and Ag(2)(V(2)O(4))(IO(3))(4), each vanadium(v) is octahedrally coordinated by one terminal and two bridging oxo anions as well as three iodate anions in unidentate fashion. Neighboring VO(6) octahedra form a 1D vanadium(v) oxide chain via corner-sharing oxo anions, such chains are further decorated by iodate anions in bridging or unidentate fashion. Ag(2)(VO(2))(IO(3))(3) features a thick triple layer composed of two Ag(2)(VO(2))(IO(3))(2) and one Ag(1)IO(3) sheet whereas Ag(2)(V(2)O(4))(IO(3))(4) features a 3D network composed of 1D [(V(2)O(4))(IO(3))(3)](-) anionic chains along the c-axis that are interconnected by [Ag(4)(IO(3))(2)](2+) clusters. Ag(2)(MoO(2))(IO(3))(4) is isostructural with K(2)(MoO(2))(IO(3))(4) and its structure features a 3D network built from 0D [(MoO(2))(IO(3))(4)](2-) anions further interconnected by Ag(+) ions. Optical and luminescent property measurements as well as band structure calculations based on density functional theory (DFT) methods have also been performed.

Objective: To investigate the safety and efficacy of close reduction and percutaneous needle fixation for the treatment of anterior dislocation of sternoclavicular joint., Methods: A retrospective analysis was performed with 6 cases of anterior sternoclavicular dislocation by close reduction and percutaneous needle fixation with Kirschner wire treated from January 2001 to February 2009, including 5 males and 1 female aged from 19 to 45 with an average of 28.8 years old. Among the 6 cases, 4 were on right lateral and 2 were on left lateral. The time from injured to treatment was from 6 hours to 12 days (averaged 4.5 days). The clinical effects were evaluated according to Rockwood scoring and the complications were observed., Results: All 6 patients were followed-up for 3 to 13 months (averaged 6 months). According to Rockwood scoring,the preoperative score was (7.00 +/- 0.89) points, postoperative score was (13.17 +/- 1.72) points; the results showed excellent in 5 cases and good in 1 case. No local infection, postoperative pain,recurrent dislocation,broken needle, and other complications were observed in this study., Conclusion: The treatment of anterior sternoclavicular joint dislocation with Kirschner wire minimally invasive fixation is an easy, reliable fixation with less complications.

This work proposes an innovative textile sensor system to monitor dynamic body movement and human posture by attaching wearable digital sensors to analyze body motion. The proposed system can display and analyze signals when individuals are walking, running, veering around, walking up and down stairs, as well as falling down with a wearable monitoring system, which reacts to the coordination between the body and feet. Several digital sensor designs are embedded in clothing and wear apparel. Any pressure point can determine which activity is underway. Importantly, wearable digital sensors and a wearable monitoring system allow adaptive, real-time postures, real time velocity, acceleration, non-invasive, transmission healthcare, and point of care (POC) for home and non-clinical environments.

Objective: This paper aimed to report the rate of suicide attempts among adolescent and young students of eight cities in China, and to examine the impact of related psychosocial factors on suicide attempts., Methods: The investigation was obtained in senior and junior high school and college students in eight cities of China. All of the 17 622 participants were recruited to complete anonymous questionnaires regarding their experiences of suicide attempts and related psychosocial factors., Results: Overall, 2.2 percent of the respondents reported that they had experienced attempted suicide during the previous year. Scores on high anxiety (OR = 2.61, 95%CI: 1.64 - 4.16), high depression (OR = 2.05, 95%CI: 1.35 - 3.10), suicide idea (OR = 14.21, 95%CI: 9.88 - 20.43), suicide plan (OR = 3.50, 95%CI: 2.59 - 4.73) were revealed as common risk factors while the whole time span being accompanied by mothers during juvenile years (OR = 0.38, 95%CI: 0.20 - 0.74) seemed to be protective factor for suicide attempts through multivariate logistic regression analysis., Conclusion: Our results showed that emotional symptom, idea and plans for suicide were statistically associated with suicide attempted in high school and college students.

Adenylyl cyclase (AC) types 5 and 6 (AC5 and AC6) are the two major AC isoforms expressed in the mammalian heart that mediate signals from beta-adrenergic receptor stimulation. Because of the unavailability of isoform-specific antibodies, it is difficult to ascertain the expression levels of AC5 protein in the heart. Here we demonstrated the successful generation of an AC5 isoform-specific mouse monoclonal antibody and studied the expression of AC5 protein during cardiac development in different mammalian species. The specificity of the antibody was confirmed using heart and brain tissues from AC5 knockout mice and from transgenic mice overexpressing AC5. In mice, the AC5 protein was highest in the brain but was also detectable in all organs studied, including the heart, brain, lung, liver, stomach, kidney, skeletal muscle, and vascular tissues. Western blot analysis showed that AC5 was most abundant in the neonatal heart and declined to basal levels in the adult heart. AC5 protein increased in the heart with pressure-overload left ventricular hypertrophy. Thus this new AC5 antibody demonstrated that this AC isoform behaves similarly to fetal type genes, such as atrial natriuretic peptide; i.e., it declines with development and increases with pressure-overload hypertrophy.

Explorations of new second-order NLO materials in the Ag(I)-Mo(VI)/W(VI)-Te(IV)-O systems led to three new mixed metal tellurites, namely, Ag(2)Mo(3)Te(3)O(16), Ag(2)MoTe(4)O(12) and Ag(6)W(3)Te(4)O(20). Ag(2)Mo(3)Te(3)O(16) is isostructural with Na(2)Mo(3)Te(3)O(16) and its structure features one-dimensional [Mo(3)Te(3)O(16)](2-) anionic chains composed of [Mo(3)O(14)](10-) clusters interconnected by [Te(3)O(8)](4-) anions via corner-sharing, such 1D chains are further interconnected by Ag(+) ions into a 3D network. Ag(2)MoTe(4)O(12) is isostructural with Na(2)MoTe(4)O(12) and its structure features 3D anionic [MoTe(4)O(12)](2-) network with the Ag(+) ions filling the cavities of the structure. Ag(6)W(3)Te(4)O(20) belongs to a new structural type. Its structure composed of 1D [WO(2)(TeO(3))(2)](2-) anionic chains and 2D [W(2)O(6)(TeO(3))(2)](2-) anionic layers, the above two types of anionic building units are interconnected by Ag(+) ions into a 3D condensed network. Second harmonic generation (SHG) measurements indicate that Ag(2)Mo(3)Te(3)O(16) displays a very large SHG response of approximately x 8 KDP. Band structure calculations based on DFT methods for all three compounds have also been performed.

By combination of Nb(5+) (having a d(0) electronic configuration) and the lone-pair-containing iodate anion, a new SHG material, BaNbO(IO(3))(5), has been prepared. It exhibits a very large SHG response (approximately 14 times that of KH(2)PO(4) and approximately 660 times that of alpha-SiO(2)) and is phase-matchable. The material has high thermal stability and a wide transparent region.

Systematic explorations of new phases in the Ga(III)/In(III)-Mo(VI)-Se(IV)/Te(IV)-O systems by hydrothermal syntheses or solid-state reactions at high-temperature led to four new quaternary compounds, namely, Ga(2)MoQ(2)O(10) (Q = Se, Te), In(2)Mo(2)Se(2)O(13)(H(2)O) and In(2)MoTe(2)O(10). Ga(2)MoQ(2)O(10) (Q = Se, Te) are isostructural and their structures feature a 3D network of gallium selenite/tellurite with 12-member ring tunnels along b-axis, the distorted MoO(6) octahedra are attached on the wall of the above tunnels. The structure of In(2)Mo(2)Se(2)O(13)(H(2)O) features a new pillared-layered architecture composed of 2D indium(III) selenite layers that are interconnected by Mo(2)O(10) dimers, forming 8-membered ring tunnels along the b-axis. The structure of In(2)MoTe(2)O(10) features a 2D indium oxide layer formed by corner- and edge-sharing InO(6) and InO(7) polyhedra with MoO(4) tetrahedra and TeO(n) (n = 4, 5) polyhedra hanging on both sides of the layer, there are weak interlayer Te-O bonds of 2.512 A. Results of optical diffuse reflectance spectrum measurements indicate that all four compounds are insulators, which are in agreement with results of band structure calculations based on DFT methods.

Two types of new organically templated mixed-metal sulfites, namely, [H(2)pip][NaZn(2)Cu(SO(3))(4)] (1) and [H(2)pip][CdCu(4)(SO(3))(4)] (2) (pip = piperazine), have been synthesized under hydrothermal conditions and structurally characterized. Both compounds exhibit a novel 3D mixed-metal inorganic framework with organic template molecules occupying the tunnels of the inorganic skeleton. Compound 1 features a 2D Zn(2)Cu(SO(3))(4)(3-) layer parallel to the ac plane in which the 1D chains of Zn(SO(3))(2)(2-) anions along the c axis are interconnected with the Cu(+) ions via Cu-S bonds. Neighboring Zn(2)Cu(SO(3))(4)(3-) layers are further interconnected by bridging Na(+) ions via Na-O-S bonds into a 3D network, forming 1D tunnels along the a axis which are occupied by the doubly protonated piperazine cations. Compounds 2 features a novel 3D inorganic framework of CdCu(4)(SO(3))(4)(2-) with 2D layers based on Cu(4)(SO(3))(4)(4-) cubanelike clusters. The cluster layers are further interconnected by Cd(II) ions, forming 1D tunnels of eight-membered rings along the c axis in which the piperazine template cations are located. Luminescent property measurements as well as band structure calculations based on density functional theory methods were also made.