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Background: The triglyceride-glucose (TyG) index is a risk marker for arterial stiffness; however, the extent to which the TyG index is associated with arterial stiffness via lipids and inflammation remains unknown. The first aim was to probe the relationship between the TyG index and arterial stiffness in two surveys. The second aim was to clarify whether lipids and inflammation mediate this relationship. Methods: The sample size of 13,726 U.S. individuals from the National Examination Survey (NHANES) and 3,964 Chinese individuals from the China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study (CHARLS 2015) were enrolled. Weighted multivariate logistic and linear regression models, as well as restricted cubic spline (RCS) and mediation analyses, were utilized to estimate complex relationships between the TyG index, arterial stiffness, lipids (non-high-density lipoprotein cholesterol [non-HDL-C]) and inflammation (C-reactive protein [CRP]) biomarkers. Results: A total of 3,420 U.S. patients and 992 Chinese patients were diagnosed with increased arterial stiffness. Regression analyses demonstrated that higher quartiles of the TyG index were associated with a greater incidence of increased arterial stiffness (NHANES: OR = 2.610, 95% CI = 2.043–3.334, P < 0.001; CHARLS: OR = 1.579, 95% CI = 1.057–2.360, P < 0.001). Participants with a higher TyG index/higher CRP level or with a higher TyG index/higher non-HDL-C level had the highest incidence of increased arterial stiffness in the two surveys. The results were still consistent when the sensitivity analysis was implemented with stricter clinical cut-off values of non-HDL-C. Mediation analysis verified that lipids (mediated effect: β = 0.012, P < 0.001 in NHANES; β = 0.020, P < 0.001 in CHARLS) and inflammation (mediated effect: β = 0.003, P < 0.001 in NHANES; β = 0.006, P < 0.001 in CHARLS) partially mediated this relationship. Conclusions: These results indicated a positive linear correlation between the TyG index, non-HDL-C level, CRP level and increased arterial stiffness in two surveys. Furthermore, lipids and inflammation could partly mediate the correlation of the TyG index with arterial stiffness in both surveys. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effective transition metal‐free photoredox/bismuth dual catalytic reductive dialkylation of nitroarenes with benzaldehydes has been reported. The nitroarene reduction through visible light‐driven photoredox catalysis was integrated with subsequent reductive dialkylation of anilines under bismuth catalysis to enable the cascade reductive alkylation of nitroarenes with carbonyls. Salient features of this relay catalysis system include mild reaction conditions, no requirement for transition metal catalysts, easy handling, step‐economy, and high selectivity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Chronic heart failure (CHF) is a cardiovascular disease that seriously jeopardizes global human health. Studies indicate that good self-management can be effective in controlling disease symptoms. However, there is still insufficient evidence on the association between self-management and symptom burden among CHF patients. This study aimed to observe and assess the correlation of the self-management with the symptom burden and each dimension status in patients with CHF.Methods: This was a cross-sectional study. Data were collected in-hospital using convenience sampling, and 128 patients with CHF were included. A general data questionnaire was used to collect demographic and disease-related data. The Memorial Symptom Assessment Scale-Heart Failure was used to measure patients' symptom burdens. The Heart Failure Self-Management Scale was used to measure the self-management level of patients. The correlation between self-management and symptom burden was analyzed using the Spearman correlation.Results: The total scores for symptom burden and self-management were 1.26 ± 0.49 and 49.97 ± 7.14, respectively. The total score of self-management was negatively correlated with that of symptom burden. The univariate linear regression analysis indicated that age, place of residence, smoking, residence status, New York Heart Association grade of cardiac function, and attitude toward the disease were risk factors for symptom burden. The multiple linear regression analysis indicated that the regression model with symptom burden as a dependent variable included three variables: drug management, symptom management, and attitude toward the disease.Conclusion: Hospitalized patients with CHF had heavy overall symptom burdens, and their self-management levels were moderate to low. There was a negative correlation between the total self-management score and each dimension of symptom burden. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A modified precipitation method was used to prepare yttria powers for the fabrication of yttria ceramics in this study. The precipitation behavior, phase evolution, and shape of the yttria precursor were all examined in the presence or absence of an electric field. The findings demonstrate that the phases of the yttria precursor were Y2(CO3)3·2H2O with and without an electric field, while the morphology changed from flake to needle-like under the action of the electric field. After calcining both yttria precursors at 750 °C, yttria powders with similar morphologies were obtained and then densified via conventional sintering (CS) and spark plasma sintering (SPS). The densification and thermal shock resistance of the yttria ceramics were investigated. The yttria ceramics sintered using SPS had higher bulk density and thermal shock resistance than the samples sintered using CS. When the sintering process for the ceramics sintered from needle-like yttria powder was switched from CS to SPS, the bulk density increased from 4.44 g·cm−3 to 5.01 g·cm−3, while the number of thermal shock tests increased from two to six. The denser samples showed better thermal shock resistance, which may be related to the fracture mechanism shifting from intergranular fracture to transgranular fracture. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Y 0.1 Ca 0.9 Zr 1- x Co x O 3-δ (x = 0, 0.1, 0.3, and 0.5) was synthesized by a solid-state reaction. Y 0.1 Ca 0.9 Zr 1- x Co x O 3-δ is orthorhombic perovskite structure. The electronic conductivity and total conductivity increase with increasing Co concentration and temperature. The activation energy of electronic conductivity and total conductivity is lowest when the Co concentration is x = 0.5. A lower activation energy is conducive to the migration of oxygen ions. Using Y 0.1 Ca 0.9 Zr 0.7 Co 0.3 O 3-δ and Y 0.1 Ca 0.9 Zr 0.5 Co 0.5 O 3-δ as dense diffusion barrier and 8YSZ (8 mol% yttria-stabilized zirconia) as a solid electrolyte, the limiting current oxygen sensor was fabricated by the Pt sintered-paste method, and its sensing performance was studied. The oxygen sensor exhibits a limiting current plateau at 760–850 °C. The oxygen measurement range increases with increasing Co concentration. The limiting current is directly proportional to the oxygen concentration, indicating that it shows excellent sensing characteristics at different temperatures. When the test time is more than 75 h, the oxygen sensor has good stability, and the stable limiting current is approximately 4.23 mA. The voltage range of the limiting current plateau has no effect on the increase of the detection time, and its voltage range is 0.75–1.75 V. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Currently, porous Al 2 O 3 ceramics have attracted extensive attention because of their unique properties. However, the low strength of porous Al 2 O 3 ceramics constrains their practical application. Herein, the porous Al 2 TiO 5 –Al 2 O 3 ceramics with higher strength were prepared through the Al 2 O 3 hollow spheres (HSs) coated with TiO 2 sol using co-precipitation method. The present work is to study the effects of Al 2 TiO 5 solution content on the sintering behavior and mechanical properties of porous Al 2 O 3 ceramics. Then, the enhancement mechanism was analyzed by comparison of the bulk density, porous, shrinkage, compressive strength, and the resultant microstructure. With Ti(SO 4) 2 solution content as the primary parameter to control the Al 2 TiO 5 content, it was found that when Ti(SO 4) 2 solution content was 15 mL, the minimum value of porosity reached 30.4%, while the maximum values of bulk density and shrinkage reached 2.52 g/cm3 and 9.4%, respectively. Furthermore, the compressive strength of porous Al 2 O 3 ceramics containing 15 mL Ti(SO 4) 2 solution reached a maximum of 53.1 MPa, which is attributed to the formation of the liquid phase and the presence of elongated Al 2 TiO 5 grains. This results from the improvement of bonding strength between Al 2 O 3 HSs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sweet sorghum, as a seasonal energy crop, is rich in cellulose and hemicellulose that can be converted into biofuels. This work aims at investigating the effects of synergistic regulation of Pichia anomala and cellulase on ensiling quality and microbial community of sweet sorghum silages as a storage and pretreatment method. Furthermore, the combined pretreatment effects of ensiling and ball milling on sweet sorghum were evaluated by microstructure change and enzymatic hydrolysis. Based on membership function analysis, the combination of P. anomala and cellulase (PA + CE) significantly improved the silage quality by preserving organic components and promoting fermentation characteristics. The bioaugmented ensiling with PA + CE restructured the bacterial community by facilitating Lactobacillus and inhibiting undesired microorganisms by killer activity of P. anomala. The combined bioaugmented ensiling pretreatment with ball milling significantly increased the enzymatic hydrolysis efficiency (EHE) to 71%, accompanied by the increased specific surface area and decreased pore size/crystallinity of sweet sorghum. Moreover, the EHE after combined pretreatment was increased by 1.37 times compared with raw material. Hence, the combined pretreatment was demonstrated as a novel strategy to effectively enhance enzymatic hydrolysis of sweet sorghum. [Display omitted] • Combination of P. anomala and cellulase enhanced silage quality of sweet sorghum. • Bioaugmented ensiling with P. anomala & cellulase reconstructed bacterial community. • Synergetic effects of P. anomala & cellulase enhanced biodegradability of sweet sorghum silage. • Ensiling & ball milling increased specific surface area and decreased pore size/crystallinity. • Ball milling further enhanced enzymatic hydrolysis of ensiled sweet sorghum. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cyclohexane epoxide, which contains highly active epoxy groups, plays a crucial role as an intermediate in the preparation of fine chemicals. However, controlling the epoxidation pathway of cyclohexene is challenging due to issues such as the allylic oxidation of cyclohexene and the ring opening of cyclohexane epoxide during the cyclohexene epoxidation process to form cyclohexane oxide. This review focuses on the structure‐activity relationships and synthesis processes of various heterogeneous transition metal‐based catalysts used in cyclohexene epoxidation reactions, including molybdenum(Mo)‐based, tungsten(W)‐based, vanadium(V)‐based, titanium(Ti)‐based, cobalt(Co)‐based, and other catalysts. Initially, the mechanism of cyclohexene epoxidation by transition metal‐based catalysts is examined from the perspective of catalytic active centers. Subsequently, the current research of cyclohexene epoxidation catalysts is summarized based on the perspective of catalyst support. Additionally, the differences between alkyl hydroperoxide, hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), and oxygen (O2) as oxidants are analyzed. Finally, the main factors influencing catalytic performance are summarized, and reasonable suggestions for catalyst design are proposed. This work provides scientific support for the advancement of the olefin epoxidation industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pseudorabies virus (PRV) is one of the causative agents of common infectious diseases in swine herds. Enterococcus faecium is a probiotic belonging to the group of lactic acid bacteria and has excellent immunomodulatory effects. Vaccine immunization is an important approach to prevent animal diseases in the modern farming industry, and good immunization outcomes can substantially reduce the damage caused by pathogens to animals, improve the quality of animals' lives, and reduce economic losses. In the present study, we showed that inactivated E. faecium and inactivated PRV when co-injected intravenously significantly reduced the mortality of mice after inoculation with PRV. The inactivated E. faecium + inactivated PRV intravenous injection group induced more production of Th cells and Tc cells. Additionally, the inactivated E. faecium + inactivated PRV intravenous injection group showed higher concentrations of cytokines (IFN-γ and IL-10) and induced higher antibody production. Thus, the co-injection of inactivated E. faecium and inactivated PRV could remarkably prevent and control the lethality of PRV infection in mice, which is a critical finding for vaccination and clinical development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

It was an urgent task to develop quick, cheap and accurate estrogen screen method for evaluating the estrogen effect of the booming chemicals. In this study, the voltammetric behavior between the estrogen-free and normal fragmented MCF-7 cell suspensions were compared, and the electrochemical signal (about 0.68 V attributed by xanthine and guanine) of the estrogen-free fragmented MCF-7 cell suspension was obviously lower than that of the normal one. The electrochemistry detection of ex-secretion purines showed that the ability of ex-secretion purines of cells sharp decreased due to the removing of endogenous estrogen. The results indicated that the electrochemical signal of MCF-7 cells was related to the level of intracellular estrogen. When the level of intracellular estrogen was down-regulated, the concentrations of the xanthine and hypoxanthine decreased, which led to the electrochemical signal of MCF-7 cells fall. Based on the electrochemical signal, the electrochemical estrogen screen method was established. The estrogen effect of estradiol, nonylphenol and bisphenol A was evaluated with the electrochemical method, and the result was accordant with that of MTT assay. The electrochemical estrogen screen method was simple, quickly, cheap, objective, and it exploits a new way for the evaluation of estrogenic effects of chemicals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

La 0.8 Sr 0.2 (Ga 0.8 Mg 0.2) 1- x (Cr 0.4 Fe 0.6) x O 3- δ (LSGMCF, x = 0.1, 0.3, 0.5, 0.7 and 0.9) and La 0.8 Sr 0.2 Ga 0.8 Mg 0.2 (LSGM) were synthesized by solid-state reaction with La 2 O 3 , SrCO 3 , Ga 2 O 3 , MgO, Cr 2 O 3 and Fe 2 O 3 as raw materials. By characterizing the phase analysis and micro-structure of LSGMCF, it was found that Cr and Fe dissolved in the main crystalline phase LSGM in a wide range. The effects of Cr and Fe concentrations on the electronic and total conductivity of LSGMCF were analyzed by Hebb-Wagner and Linear Sweep Voltammetry methods. The results show that when x = 0.9, it has better electronic conductivity and the highest total conductivity. LSGMCF(x = 0.9) and LSGM were prepared into limiting current oxygen sensor by co-pressing and co-sintering technique, and its sensing characteristics were studied. The oxygen sensor exhibits a limiting current in the range of 0–7% oxygen concentration at 730–790 °C. The limiting current is directly proportional to the oxygen concentration, indicating that it shows good sensing characteristics at different temperatures. In addition, its sensing performance has excellent stability between 0 -42h. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In our previous study, l-carnitine was shown to have cytoprotective effect against hydrogen peroxide (H2O2)-induced injury in human normal HL7702 hepatocytes. The aim of this study was to investigate whether the protective effect of l-carnitine was associated with the nuclear factor erythroid 2 (NFE2)-related factor 2 (Nrf2) pathway. Our results showed that pretreatment with l-carnitine augmented Nrf2 nuclear translocation, DNA binding activity and heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) expression in H2O2-treated HL7702 cells, although l-carnitine treatment alone had no effect on them. Analysis using Nrf2 siRNA demonstrated that Nrf2 activation was involved in l-carnitine-induced HO-1 expression. In addition, l-carnitine-mediated protection against H2O2 toxicity was abrogated by Nrf2 siRNA, indicating the important role of Nrf2 in l-carnitine-induced cytoprotection. Further experiments revealed that l-carnitine pretreatment enhanced the phosphorylation of Akt in H2O2-treated cells. Blocking Akt pathway with inhibitor partly abrogated the protective effect of l-carnitine. Moreover, our finding demonstrated that the induction of Nrf2 translocation and HO-1 expression by l-carnitine directly correlated with the Akt pathway because Akt inhibitor showed inhibitory effects on the Nrf2 translocation and HO-1 expression. Altogether, these results demonstrate that l-carnitine protects HL7702 cells against H2O2-induced cell damage through Akt-mediated activation of Nrf2 signaling pathway. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Neuropeptides such as neurotensin (NT), and enkephalin (ENK) in the medullary dorsal horn (MDH) are involved in excitatory synaptic transmission to modulate nociceptive information. However, morphological evidence indicating that NT or ENK coexists with glutamate in the MDH is still meager. Using fluorescent immunohistochemistry, the results showed that double labeling of NT or ENK terminals with VGluT2 is mainly concentrated in the lamina II of the MDH, and many axon terminals exhibiting NT or ENK immunoreactivity in the superficial layers of the MDH showed VGluT2 immunoreactivity. Electron microscopy confirmed the coexpression of NT or ENK and VGluT2 in axon terminals within the laminae I and II of the MDH. These axon terminals make asymmetrical synapses with immunonegative neuronal cell bodies and dendrites. The findings suggest that glutamate is coreleased with NT or ENK from axon terminals of interneurons in the superficial layers of the MDH. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Two electrochemical signals ascribed to xanthine/guanine and hypanthine/adenine in MCF-7 cells were detected at 0.726 and 1.053V, respectively. Based on the intensity of signals, the genistein-induced proliferation and suppression of MCF-7 cells could be evaluated. The results showed that with the increase of genistein dose at the range of 10−9 to 10−6 M, the two electrochemical signals of MCF-7 cell suspension increased due to the proliferation, whereas the tendency at the high dosage range of more than 10−5 M was decreased. The proliferation and cytotoxicity obtained by the electrochemical method were in agreement with those obtained by cell counting and the MTT [3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium] method. Thus, the two-signal electrochemical method is an effective way to evaluate the effect of drugs on cell activity based on purine metabolism. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: DNA G-quadruplex is an attractive drug target for anticancer therapy. Most G-quadruplex ligands have little selectivity, due to π-stacking interaction with common G-tetrads surface. Thanks to the varieties of G-quadruplex grooves, the groove-binding ligand is expected to create high selectivity. Therefore, developing novel molecular geometries that target G-quadruplex groove has been paid growing attention. In this work, steroid FG, a special nonplanar and nonaromatic small molecule, interacting with different conformations of G-quadruplexes has been studied by molecular docking and molecular dynamics simulations. The results showed the selectivity of the hydrophobic group of steroid FG for the wide groove of antiparallel G-quadruplex. The methyl groups on the tetracyclic ring of steroid represent the specific binding ability for the small hydrophobic cavity formed by reversed stacking of G-tetrads in antiparallel G-quadruplex groove. This work provides new insight for developing new classes of G-quadruplex groove-binding ligands. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

It is well known that the brainstem premotor neurons of the facial nucleus and hypoglossal nucleus coordinate orofacial nociceptive reflex (ONR) responses. However, whether the brainstem PNs receive the nociceptive projection directly from the caudal spinal trigeminal nucleus is still kept unclear. Our present study focuses on the distribution of premotor neurons in the ONR pathways of rats and the collateral projection of the premotor neurons which are involved in the brainstem local pathways of the orofacial nociceptive reflexes of rat. Retrograde tracer Fluoro-gold (FG) or FG/tetramethylrhodaminedextran amine (TMR-DA) were injected into the VII or/and XII, and anterograde tracer biotinylated dextran amine (BDA) was injected into the caudal spinal trigeminal nucleus (Vc). The tracing studies indicated that FG-labeled neurons receiving BDAlabeled fibers from the Vc were mainly distributed bilaterally in the parvicellular reticular formation (PCRt), dorsal and ventral medullary reticular formation (MdD, MdV), supratrigeminal nucleus (Vsup) and parabrachial nucleus (PBN) with an ipsilateral dominance. Some FG/TMR-DA double-labeled premotor neurons, which were observed bilaterally in the PCRt, MdD, dorsal part of the MdV, peri-motor nucleus regions, contacted with BDA-labeled axonal terminals and expressed c-fos protein-like immunoreactivity which induced by subcutaneous injection of formalin into the lip. After retrograde tracer wheat germ agglutinated horseradish peroxidase (WGA-HRP) was injected into VII or XII and BDA into Vc, electron microscopic study revealed that some BDA-labeled axonal terminals made mainly asymmetric synapses on the dendritic and somatic profiles of WGA-HRP-labeled premotor neurons. These data indicate that some premotor neurons could integrate the orofacial nociceptive input from the Vc and transfer these signals simultaneously to different brainstem motonuclei by axonal collaterals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Solar ultraviolet (UV) radiation is a major environmental factor that causes DNA damage, inflammation, erythema, sunburn, immunosuppression, photoaging, gene mutations, and skin cancer. p38 mitogen activated protein kinase (MAPK) are strongly activated by UV radiation, and play important roles in regulating cellular responses to UV. In this review, we examine the role played by p38 MAPK in mediating UV-induced cell cycle, apoptosis, inflammation, and skin tanning response . We review the role played by p38 MAPK in transcriptional regulation of key downstream genes that have been implicated in the regulation of cellular responses to UV radiation. Understanding this will undoubtedly help in the prevention and control of UV-induced damage and the development of novel therapeutic strategies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the human living environment, heavy metals and chlorpyrifos can have harmful consequences due to their complex combination. In this study, binary, ternary, and quaternary combinations of three heavy metals and chlorpyrifos in different concentrations were evaluated for their combined toxic effects using an electrochemical method, and the MTT method was used to contrast the outcomes. The combined toxic effectiveness assessed by the electrochemical CI method revealed that, except for the binary combination of cadmium chloride and chlorpyrifos, which exhibited an antagonistic effect when mixed at an equal molar ratio, lead nitrate and chlorpyrifos showed an additive effect when combined, the quaternary combination exhibited a complex transition from synergistic to additive to antagonistic effects, the other mixtures showed consistent synergistic effects. When the ratio of heavy metals in the mixture was reduced, all of them displayed synergistic effects, except for the binary mixture of cadmium chloride and chlorpyrifos, which consistently maintained an antagonistic effect, and the ternary mixture of cadmium chloride, lead nitrate, and chlorpyrifos displayed additive effects. The complex toxicity mechanisms of the mixtures do not impact the response of cellular electrochemical signals coming from the intracellular purine bases on cytotoxicity. The electrochemical approach successfully captured the various combined toxic effects of the mixture, and the outcomes were consistent with the MTT method. This method is expected to emerge as a novel approach for detecting combined toxicity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Spray drying is regarded as one of the most economical methods utilized in the production of liposome powder in industry. However, the poor reconstruction of the powder following rehydration imposes constraints on its potential utilization. In this study, three membrane stabilizers, Poloxamer 188 (P188), trehalose (Tre), and Tween 80 (T80) were selected due to their distinct localization behaviors, and their impact on the reconstruction of rehydrated liposomes was discussed. The mannitol-based spray-dried liposome powder with excellent reconstruction was successfully developed. After rehydrating the powder, the particle size (Dh) and polydispersion index (PDI) of mannitol-encapsulated liposome powder (Bla) significantly increase. Although adding leucine improved the dispersion of the powder (Bla/Leu), the increase in Dh and PDI after rehydration was more significant, changed from 172.79 nm and 0.075 for Bla to 459.97 nm and 0.291 for Bla/Leu, the micropolarity and hydrophobicity of membrane also increased, indicating a poorer reconstruction. The addition of extra membrane stabilizers enhanced the stability of the liposomes after rehydration. Specifically, the addition of T80 reduced the changes in Dh and PDI caused by leucine to 118.39 nm and 0.015, while the changes of ANS fluorescence intensity and I1/I3 to 178.66 a.u and 0.02. Raman spectroscopy revealed that the addition of membrane stabilizer greatly reduced the disorder of the acyl chain, especially the T80. It could be the embedding mode of T80 on liposomes and its excellent solubilization played the best role. It also showed the best stability in extreme environments such as acidity and ionic strength. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Biocompatible fatty acids are natural biological materials which exhibit widespread biomedical applications. Nevertheless, their application in vesicle forms is hampered by strong pH sensitivity and poor stability to changes in ionic strength, temperature, and storage. In the investigation, the incorporation of alkyl glycoside (APG), a surfactant with non-ionic properties, into the oleic acid (OA) vesicles was undertaken as a means to address this issue. The newly formed OA/APG composite vesicles form in a pH range of between 5.4 and 7.4, which is close to the pH range of the physiological environment. The stability studies results showed that the OA/APG composite vesicles have excellent stability in terms of ionic strengths, temperature and storage. The formation of NAR-loaded OA/APG composite vesicles was demonstrated through FT-IR, DSC and XRD. In vitro topical delivery and skin retention studies confirmed that the composite vesicles improve skin permeation rate and have better skin permeation behavior. Antioxidant activity experiments confirmed that the antioxidant effect composite vesicles were significantly increased as compared to the naringenin (NAR). This finding has theoretical implications for the use of drug-loaded fatty acid vesicles in cosmetics industries and topical delivery systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A rapid and sensitive assessment of the toxicity of oxygenated polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (OPAHs), widely distributed persistent organic pollutants in the environment, is crucial for human health. In this study, using high-performance liquid chromatography, the separation and detection of four purines, xanthine (X), guanine (G), adenine (A), and hypoxanthine (HX) in cells were performed. The aim was to evaluate the cytotoxicity of three OPAHs, namely 1,4-benzoquinone (1,4-BQ), 1,2-naphthoquinone (1,2-NQ) and 9,10-phenanthrenequinone (9,10-PQ), with higher environmental concentrations, from the perspective of purine nucleotide metabolism in human skin fibroblast cells (HFF-1). The results revealed that the levels of G and A were low in HFF-1 cells, while the levels of HX and X showed a dose-response relationship with persistent organic pollutants concentration. With increased concentration of the three persistent organic pollutants, the purine metabolism in HFF-1 cells weakened, and the impact of the three persistent organic pollutants on purine metabolism in cells was in the order of 9,10-PQ > 1,4-BQ > 1,2-NQ. This study provided valuable insights into the toxic mechanisms of 1,4-BQ, 1,2-NQ and 9,10-PQ, contributing to the formulation of relevant protective measures and the safeguarding of human health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fatty acid vesicles (FAVs), with their unique bionic structure, play a crucial role in models for protocells, food manufacturing, and drug delivery systems. However, FAVs are highly sensitive to changes in pH, which imposes strict constraints on their development in food and medicine. Therefore, in this study, the pH window of vesicles formed by oleic acid (OA) was migrated and expanded by introducing a nonionic surfactant, Tween80 (TW80), which resulted in a more stable pH environment for FAVs. Acid–base titration combined with particle size confirmed that different ratios of TW80 and OA expanded the pH window from 8.2–10 to 1.99–7.49, as determined by potential and turbidity. The intermolecular forces of TW80/OA composite vesicles were determined by infrared spectroscopy. Vitamin C (VC) was used as a model drug, and the TW80/OA/VC vesicles showed an encapsulation rate of 48.87% and a drug-loading capacity of 13.13% at a VC concentration of 1 mg/mL, pH = 5.5, and T = 25 °C. The vesicles were also found to have a high VC concentration and a high drug loading capacity. The in vitro release experiments demonstrated that the TW80/OA/VC vesicles could accomplish the drug release process in a physiological environment. The results of in vitro free radical scavenging experiments showed that the TW80/OA/VC vesicles could maximize the scavenging rate of DPPH free radicals up to 97.61%. This study can provide a fundamental theoretical basis for applying drug carrier vesicles in cosmetics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Porous CoW oxide has high catalytic activity for the allylic oxidation of cyclohexene. • 79.8% cyclohexene conversion and 73.8% 2-cyclohexene-1-one selectivity are achieved. • Co site can promote effectively the cyclohexene allyl oxidation. • W site is conducive to the activation of the 2-cyclohexene 1-alcohol dehydrogenation. • Catalyst is easy to separate and has good cycling performance. The controllable oxidation of the allylic C H bond has great academic and industrial value. Different Co/W ratios of CoW composite oxides were prepared using hydrothermal method and used in the allylic oxidation reaction of cyclohexene containing unstable allylic hydrogen atoms and carbon-carbon double bonds. The relationship between the structure of active sites and catalytic performance was revealed using characterization techniques such as XRD, N 2 adsorption/desorption, SEM, TEM, FT-IR, UV–vis, and XPS. The results indicated that the Co(II)/Co(III) sites effectively mediate the first step of the entire oxidation reaction system, which generates hydroxyl radicals and peroxyl radicals through the activation of H 2 O 2 to achieve chain initiation. Subsequently, the cyclohexene underwent a series of chain migration reactions under the action of hydroxyl radicals and peroxyl radicals, resulting in the formation of 2-cyclohexen-1-one and 2-cyclohexen-1-ol. Finally, 2-cyclohexen-1-ol interacted with W(VI) sites to form 2-cyclohexen-1-one via an alcohol-coordinated hydroxyl intermediate. The tandem oxidation reaction of cyclohexene allylic oxidation and 2-cyclohexen-1-ol dehydrogenation was realized by the CoW synergistic catalytic. The synergy between Co and W sites, composed of Co-O-W units on the surface of the CoW oxide with porous channel features, was elucidated. The experimental results showed that under the optimal conditions, using CoW composite oxide (Co/ W = 1:1) as the catalyst, a 79.8% conversion rate of cyclohexene was achieved with 93.9% selectivity for the allylic products, among which the selectivity for 2-cyclohexen-1-one was 73.8%. The controllable oxidation of the allylic C H bond has great academic and industrial value. Co-W composite oxides were prepared using hydrothermal method and used in the allylic oxidation reaction of cyclohexene. This research indicated that the Co(II)/Co(III) sites effectively mediate the first step of the entire oxidation reaction system, which generates hydroxyl radicals and peroxyl radicals through the activation of H 2 O 2 to achieve chain initiation. Subsequently, the cyclohexene underwent a series of chain migration reactions under the action of hydroxyl radicals and peroxyl radicals, resulting in the formation of 2-cyclohexen-1-one and 2-cyclohexen-1-ol. Finally, 2-cyclohexen-1-ol interacted with W(VI) sites to form 2-cyclohexen-1-one via an alcohol-coordinated hydroxyl intermediate. The tandem oxidation reaction of cyclohexene allylic oxidation and 2-cyclohexen-1-ol dehydrogenation was realized by the CoW synergistic catalytic. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The electrochemical detection method of cytotoxicity using intracellular purines as biomarkers has shown great potential for in vitro drug toxicity evaluation. However, no electrochemical detection system based on an in vitro drug metabolism mechanism has been devised. In this paper, electrochemical voltammetry was used to investigate the effect of the S9 system on the electrochemical behavior of HepG2 cells, and benzo[a]pyrene, fluoranthene, and pyrene were employed to investigate the sensitivity of electrochemical signals of cells to the cytotoxicity of drugs metabolized by the S9 system. The results showed that, within 8 h of exposure to the S9 system, the electrochemical signal of HepG2 cells at 0.7 V did not alter noticeably. The levels of xanthine, guanine, hypoxanthine, and adenine in the cells were not significantly altered. Compared with the absence of S9 system metabolism, benzo[a]pyrene and fluoranthene processed by the S9 system decreased the electrochemical signal of the cells in a dose-dependent manner, while pyrene did not change it appreciably. HPLC also revealed that benzo[a]pyrene and fluoranthene metabolized by the S9 system decreased the intracellular purine levels, whereas pyrene had no effect on them before and after S9 system metabolism. The cytotoxicity results of the three drugs examined by electrochemical voltammetry and MTT assay showed a strong correlation and good agreement. The S9 system had no effect on the intracellular purine levels or the electrochemical signal of cells. When the drug was metabolized by the S9 system, variations in cytotoxicity could be precisely detected by electrochemical voltammetry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Based on eddy covariance (EC) measurements during 2016–20, the effects of sky conditions on the net ecosystem productivity (NEP) over a subtropical "floating blanket" wetland were investigated. Sky conditions were divided into overcast, cloudy, and sunny conditions. On the half-hourly timescale, the daytime NEP responded more rapidly to the changes in the total photosynthetic active radiation (PARt) under overcast and cloudy skies than that under sunny skies. The increase in the apparent quantum yield under overcast and cloudy conditions was the greatest in spring and the least in summer. Additionally, lower atmospheric vapor pressure deficit (VPD) and moderate air temperature were more conducive to enhancing the apparent quantum yield under cloudy skies. On the daily timescale, NEP and the gross primary production (GPP) were higher under cloudy or sunny conditions than those under overcast conditions across seasons. The daily NEP and GPP during the wet season peaked under cloudy skies. The daily ecosystem light use efficiency (LUE) and water use efficiency (WUE) during the wet season also changed with sky conditions and reached their maximum under overcast and cloudy skies, respectively. The diffuse photosynthetic active radiation (PARd) and air temperature were primarily responsible for the variation of daily NEP from half-hourly to monthly timescales, and the direct photosynthetic active radiation (PARb) had a secondary effect on NEP. Under sunny conditions, PARb and air temperature were the dominant factors controlling daily NEP. While daily NEP was mainly controlled by PARd under cloudy and overcast conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Binary ethosome vesicles have been developed as flexible lipid vesicles for the enhanced physicochemical stability and skin delivery of drugs. This work aimed to prepare phloretin-loaded propylene glycol ethosomes (PHL-PGEs) to improve their stability, skin permeability and antioxidant activity. PHL-PGEs were prepared via the ethanol injection method and optimized using different weight ratios of ethanol to propylene glycol (PG). When the ethanol/PG mass ratio changed from 10:0 to 0:10, the encapsulation efficiency and stability of ethosomes increased. At a PHL concentration of 1mg/mL, the EE% was 89.42 ± 2.42 and the DL% was 4.21 ± 0.04, which exhibited their highest values. The encapsulation of the PHL in the PHL-PGEs was strengthened via XRD analysis and FTIR analysis. The results of the in vitro percutaneous permeability test demonstrated that the combined use of ethanol and PG exhibited a notable enhancement in skin permeability, and the skin retention of PHL-PGEs was 1.06 times that of PHL-ethosomes (PHL-Es) and 2.24 times that of the PHL solution. An in vitro antioxidant activity study indicated that solubility and antioxidant activity was potentiated via the nanoencapsulation of phloretin. Therefore, these results confirm the potential of this nanocarrier to enhance physicochemical stability, skin permeability and antioxidant activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Magnesium aluminate (MgAl 2 O 4) spinel has grasped considerable attention in high-temperature application by right of its excellent properties. However, the poor sintering behavior of MgAl 2 O 4 is detrimental to its further development. In the present work, the application of isostructural heterogeneous nucleation method provides a novel idea for optimizing the sintering behavior of refractory materials. A series of (1- x)MgAl 2 O 4 - x Mg 2 TiO 4 (x = 0, 0.02, 0.04, 0.06, 0.08, and 0.1) spinel solid solutions with a present ration of components were fabricated from light calcined magnesia, reactive alumina and pre-preparation Mg 2 TiO 4. The effect of Mg 2 TiO 4 heterogeneous nucleating agent on the crystalline phase, densification, and microstructure evolution of MgAl 2 O 4 –Mg 2 TiO 4 spinel solid solutions was studied. The XRD, XPS, and EDS results showed that Mg 2 TiO 4 entered the lattice of MgAl 2 O 4 to form a spinel solid solution, and the heterovalent substitution process was identified, where Ti4+ and Mg2+ ions of larger radius in the Mg 2 TiO 4 replaced the Al3+ of smaller radius in the MgAl 2 O 4. For the sample at x = 0.08, the spinel solid solutions exhibited the optimized densification with a relative density of 93.3%, an apparent porosity of 1.2%, and a compressive strength of 84.5 MPa. A significant increase in densification was related to the lattice distortion induced by ion size mismatch during the heterovalent substitution, thus accelerating the diffusion rate of Mg2+ and Al3+ ions in the spinelisation state. Moreover, the solid solubility content of Ti4+ in the MgAl 2 O 4 –Mg 2 TiO 4 spinel solid solutions had a significant effect on the grain morphologies. The Mg 2 TiO 4 heterogeneous nucleating agent significantly increased the spinelisation rate of MgAl 2 O 4 spinel with negligible effect on densification. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fluorene was one of the priority controlled polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) and distributed abundantly in the environment, which has a great harmful on human body. It was very important to detect the cytotoxicity of fluorene with a rapid and accurate method. In this present work, a simple and ultrasensitive electrochemical biosensor was developed by electrodeposition of reduced graphene oxide quantum dots (RGOQDs) on glassy carbon electrode (GCE) for the first time. The electrochemical behaviors of uric acid (UA), xanthine (X) and guanine (G) were studied on RGOQDs/GCE by differential pulse voltammetry (DPV) with a limit of detection of 0.024 μM, respectively. Then the electrochemical biosensor was used to evaluate the cytotoxicity of fluorene for MCF-7 cells based on the variation of G/X in MCF-7 cells solution. The result showed that fluorene exposed to MCF-7 cells at the concentration range of 0–0.05 mM could promote cell proliferation, the concentration above 0.05 mM exhibited inhibitory effect, which was verified by methyl-thiazolyl-tetrazolium (MTT) assay. The electrochemical biosensor based on RGOQDs/GCE could be used not only for evaluation the cytotoxicity of PAHs, but also for detection the physiological process related to intracellular purine nucleotide metabolism. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] A series of MnMoP catalysts were prepared by ionic liquid assisted thermal synthesis method and characterized by Powder X-ray diffraction, Fourier Transform Infrared Spectrometer, Scanning Electron Microscope, X-ray Photoelectron Spectroscope and NH 3 -Temperature Programmed Desorption. The catalytic performance of MnMoP catalysts for the synthesis of cyclohexene oxide (CHO) was studied. The results showed that phosphorus was fixed via ionic liquid, which could improve the catalytic performance of the catalysts. Under the optimal conditions, MnMoP-80 catalyst showed the best catalytic performance with the cyclohexene conversion of 97.5% and CHO selectivity of 93.9%. Meanwhile, we have deduced that the reaction was mainly carried out according to the epoxidation pathway over MnMoP catalyst. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the domain of anatomy, some Chinese characters in anatomical terms possess distinctive morphological significance. Chinese characters evolved from pictographic characters, with some of these pictographs being created by ancient people based on their own body structure. This implies that the comprehension and depiction of the human body structure have been integral since the inception of Chinese characters, and this knowledge has been passed down and developed through the continued inheritance of Chinese characters. Even today, certain characters retain the appearance to reflect the shape of the human body structure. By examining the characters related to vertebrae, cranial fontanel and heart, we can find the unique and enduring link between Chinese characters and the fields of anatomy as well as Chinese traditional medicine. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • GA 3 and ICI182,780 reversely regulated the electrochemical signals of cells. • GA 3 and ICI182,780 reversely regulated intracellular purines. • GA 3 induced purine de novo synthesis by regulating PRPP amidotransferase and IMPDH. • GA 3 induced purine catabolism, mainly regulated ADA. The estrogenic effect of plant growth regulators has been received little attention, which leads to the lack of relevant toxicity data. In this study, the estrogenic effect induced by gibberellin with ERα-dependent manner was found by E-screen and western blot methods, and the electrochemical signals of MCF-7 cells regulated by gibberellin and fulvestrant were investigated. The results showed that the electrochemical signals of MCF-7 cells were increased by gibberellin, while reduced by fulvestrant significantly, and displayed an extremely sensitive response to the effects of estrogenic effect induced by ERα agonist and antagonist. Western blot results showed that the expressions of phosphoribosyl pyrophosphate amidotransferase and hypoxanthine nucleotide dehydrogenase in de novo purine synthesis and adenine deaminase in catabolism were more effective regulated by gibberellin and fulvestrant, resulting in significant changes of the levels of guanine, hypoxanthine and xanthine in cells, and then electrochemical signals. The results provide a theoretical basis for the establishment of new electrochemical detection method of the estrogenic effect of plant regulators. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: To investigate the ability of the currently used ultrasound-based malignancy risk stratification systems for thyroid neoplasms (ATA, AACE/ACE/AME, K-TIRADS, EU-TIRADS, ACR-TIRADS and C-TIRADS) in distinguishing follicular thyroid carcinoma (FTC) from follicular thyroid adenoma (FTA). Additionally, we evaluated the ability of these systems in correctly determining the indication for biopsy. Methods: Three hundred twenty-nine follicular neoplasms with definitive postoperative histopathology were included. The nodules were categorized according to each of six stratification systems, based on ultrasound findings. We dichotomized nodules into the positive predictive group of FTC (high and intermediate risk) and negative group of FTC based on the classification results. Missed biopsy was defined as neoplasms that were diagnosed as FTCs but for which biopsy was not indicated based on lesion classification. Unnecessary biopsy was defined as neoplasms that were diagnosed as FTAs but for whom biopsy was considered indicated based on classification. The diagnostic performance and missed and unnecessary biopsy rates were evaluated for each stratification system. Results: The area under the curve of each system for distinguishing follicular neoplasms was < 0.700 (range, 0.511–0.611). The missed biopsy rates were 9.0–22.4%. The missed biopsy rates for lesions ≤ 4 cm and lesions sized 2–4 cm were 16.2–35.1% and 0–20.0%, respectively. Unnecessary biopsy rates were 65.3–93.1%. In ≤ 4 cm group, the unnecessary biopsy rates were 62.2–89.7%. Conclusion: The malignancy risk stratification systems can select appropriate nodules for biopsy in follicular neoplasms, while they have limitations in distinguishing follicular neoplasms and reducing unnecessary biopsy. Specific stratification systems and recommendations should be established for follicular neoplasms. Key Points: • Current ultrasound-based malignancy risk stratification systems of thyroid nodules had low efficiency in the characterization of follicular neoplasms. • The adopted stratification systems showed acceptable performance for selecting FTC for biopsy but unsatisfactory performance for reducing unnecessary biopsy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The existing DNA damage detection technology cannot meet the current detection requirements. It is critical to build new methods and discover novel biomarkers. In this study, alkaline comet and 8-OHDG ELISA assays were used to identify DNA damage in HT-1080 cells exposed to K 2 Cr 2 O 7 , and electrochemical behaviors of HT-1080 cells with DNA damage was studied. With an increase in K 2 Cr 2 O 7 exposure time, two electrochemical signals from HT-1080 cells at 0.69 and 1.01 V steadily grew before decreasing after reaching their highest values. The electrochemical signal's initial response time and peak time decreased as the concentration of K 2 Cr 2 O 7 increased. The duration of the high dose group was 0.5 and 1 h, while the low dose group was 1.5 and 6 h. Western blotting analysis revealed that DNA damage increased the expression of proteins involved in catabolism and de novo purine synthesis, particularly de novo purine synthesis. Expressions of PRPP amidotransferase, IMPDH, and ADA were all higher than those of ADSS, XOD, and GDA, which resulted in larger concentrations of hypoxanthine, guanine, and xanthine, and in turn improved electrochemical signaling. These findings suggest that intracellular purine identified by linear scan voltammetry is predicted to evolve as a marker of early DNA damage. [Display omitted] • DNA damage promoted de novo purine synthesis and catabolism, especially the former. • DNA damage upregulated the expression of PRPP amidotransferase, IMP and ADA more. • Intracellular purines can reflect early DNA damage caused by K 2 Cr 2 O 7. • Cellular electrochemical signals may respond to changes in purine concentrations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• The TiO 2 -MXene/MWCNTs/PDA/GCE electrode was successfully prepared, and it has a low detection limit for xanthine, reaching 0.018 µmol·L−1. • The electrochemical method was used to study the effects of three different structures of OPAHs on purine metabolism in HFF-1 cells. • Electrochemical method was used for the first time for the toxicity evaluation of OPAHs, and it exhibited higher sensitivity than the MTT method. Oxygenated polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (OPAHs) present in the environment can enter the skin through direct contact and long-term exposure can increase the risk of skin inflammation, allergic reactions and skin cancer. In this study, a titanium dioxide-two-dimensional transition metal carbide/multi-walled carbon nanotubes/polydopamine/glassy carbon electrode (TiO 2 -MXene/MWCNTs/PDA/GCE) electrochemical biosensor was prepared to evaluate the cytotoxicity of OPAHs based on the changes in the content of xanthine/guanine (X/G) during cellular metabolism. The TiO 2 -MXene/MWCNTs/PDA/GCE exhibited excellent electrocatalytic activity and sensitivity. The surface morphology, structure and electrochemical properties of TiO 2 -MXene/MWCNTs/PDA composite material were characterized using scanning electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction and cyclic voltammetry. Human skin fibroblast cells (HFF-1) were used as model cells, and the cell viability was evaluated based on the electrochemical signal changes of X/G. When exposed to OPAHs for 30 h, the half-maximal inhibitory concentrations (IC 50) of 1,4-benzoquinone (1,4-BQ), 1,2-naphthoquinone (1,2-NQ), and 9,10-phenanthrenequinone (9,10-PQ) on HFF-1 cells were 291.88, 67.72, and 4.44 µmol·L−1, respectively, which were lower than the IC 50 values of 1075.51, 113.96, and 9.63 µmol·L−1 obtained using the traditional MTT assay, indicating higher sensitivity of the sensor. This study achieved sensitive detection of purines in HFF-1 cells, providing a technical method for evaluating the cytotoxicity of persistent organic pollutants OPAHs in the environment. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Occlusion has been proposed to play a role for body posture and balance, both of which are mediated mainly by the cerebellum. The dorsomedial part of the principal sensory trigeminal nucleus (Vpdm) has direct projection to the cerebellum. The experimental unilateral anterior crossbite (UAC) has an impact on the motor nuclei in the brain stem via trigeminal mesencephalic nucleus (Vme). The current aim was to explore whether UAC has an impact on Vpdm‐cerebellum circuit. The inferior alveolar nerve was injected into cholera toxin B subunit (CTb), the cerebellum was injected into fluoro‐gold (FG), and the Vpdm was injected into biotinylated dextran amine (BDA) to identify the activation of Vpdm‐cerebellum circuit by UAC. Data indicated that there were more neuronal nuclei (NeuN)/CTb/FG triple‐labelled neurons and NeuN/CTb/vesicular glutamate transporter 1(VGLUT1) triple‐labelled neurons in the Vpdm, and more NeuN/BDA/ VGLUT1 triple‐labelled neurons in the cerebellum of rats with UAC than in control rats. The VGLUT1 expression in the Vpdm and cerebellum in the UAC group was higher than that in control rats. These findings indicate an excitatory impact of UAC on the Vpdm‐cerebellum pathway and support the role of occlusion for body posture and balance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Developing a mini paper-based device to detect fluorene cytotoxicity in 10 µL sample. • The MWCNTs/μ-PAD allowed a sampling volume of 10.0 μL, which is 50.0 times less than the sampling volume required with a conventional electrode (500 μL). • This device is comparable to the MTT method in fluorene cytotoxicity analysis. Developing a cost-effective and simple micro-analysis tool has long been an important objective in the toxicological detection of fluorene. In this study, a disposable paper-based micro-analysis device (μ-PAD) was designed using graphite doped with multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) to hand draw the electrode (MWCNTs/μ-PAD). We investigated the feasibility of the designed MWCNTs/μ-PAD as a cell-sensing platform using voltammetry measurements. Its application for evaluating the cytotoxicity of fluorene was studied based on the electrochemical determination of human breast cancer cells induced by fluorene. The results showed a dose-dependent toxicity effect of fluorene on cellular activity. The measurements were comparable with those obtained using a methyl-thiazolyl-tetrazolium assay. The detection limit of the MWCNTs/μ-PAD for human breast cancer cells was as low as 4.00 × 103 cells·mL−1 owing to the enhanced catalytic activity of the MWCNTs. Notably, the MWCNTs/μ-PAD—which had a diameter of 7.00 mm—allowed a sampling volume of 10.0 μL, which is 50.0 times less than the sampling volume required with a conventional electrode (500 μL). Advantages such as the simplicity of manufacture, low consumption, low cost, rapid detection, and disposability, suggest that the MWCNTs/μ-PAD could provide new opportunities and directions for in vitro microanalysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Surges in sympathetic activity should be a major contributor to the frequent occurrence of cardiovascular events towards the end of nocturnal sleep. We aimed to investigate whether the analysis of hypnopompic heart rate variability (HRV) could assist in the prediction of cardiovascular disease (CVD). 2217 baseline CVD-free subjects were identified and divided into CVD group and non-CVD group, according to the presence of CVD during a follow-up visit. HRV measures derived from time domain analysis, frequency domain analysis and nonlinear analysis were employed to characterize cardiac functioning. Machine learning models for both long-term and short-term CVD prediction were then constructed, based on hypnopompic HRV metrics and other typical CVD risk factors. CVD was associated with significant alterations in hypnopompic HRV. An accuracy of 81.4% was achieved in short-term prediction of CVD, demonstrating a 10.7% increase compared with long-term prediction. There was a decline of more than 6% in the predictive performance of short-term CVD outcomes without HRV metrics. The complexity of hypnopompic HRV, measured by entropy-based indices, contributed considerably to the prediction and achieved greater importance in the proposed models than conventional HRV measures. Our findings suggest that Hypnopompic HRV assists the prediction of CVD outcomes, especially the occurrence of CVD event within two years. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The development of a simple, portable and accurate instrument used in the evaluation of in vitro cytotoxicity is particularly important and urgent in the field of toxicology research at present. In the current study, a miniature electrochemical detection system was constructed that integrated graphene oxide quantum dots and multiwall carbon nanotubes modified anodized screen printed carbon electrode (GOQDs/MWCNTs/SPCE*) with a mini reaction vessel, which reduced the consumption of sample from 500 to 80 μL. Four electrochemical signals could be detected in cells distinctly for the first time which were attributed to the oxidation of uric acid, guanine/xanthine, adenine and hypoxanthine, respectively. This miniature electrochemical detection system has better selectivity, sensitivity and its detection limits were lower than those of most electrochemical sensors. Furthermore it has been found that the level of purine nucleotide metabolism in BALB/3T3 cells and MCF-7 cells was different, which could be related to the different purine nucleotide metabolisms of cancer cells and non cancer cells. The simple, portable and miniature electrochemical detection system could be used as a convenient instrument for toxicology detection. Image 1 • A miniature electrochemical detection system was constructed that reduced the consumption of sample from 500 to 80 μL. • Four electrochemical signals attributed to UA, G/X, A and HX could be detected in cells for the first time. • The level of purine nucleotide metabolism in BALB/3T3 cells and MCF-7 cells has been found different. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The electrochemical reduction of CO2 in molten carbonates provides a comprehensive solution to end the detrimental global climate change, and convert and store conventional electricity in a stable chemical mode. In this work, we provide experimental validation of carbon deposition in CaCO3-, SrCO3- and BaCO3-dissolved electrolytes. Carbon products aggregate on the cathodic surface and are then collected and characterized by electron dispersive spectroscopy (EDS), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Brunauer–Emmett–Teller (BET) surface area analysis, and X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis. The results demonstrate that the alkaline earth carbonate additives sustain continuous CO2 electrolysis and carbon electro-deposition. However, the micromorphology and microstructure of the carbon deposits are found to be significantly changed mainly because of the interface modification induced by the alkaline earth carbonate additives. In addition, a high yield of carbon nanotubes is observed in the cathodic carbon products by optimizing the electrolytic conditions. Compared to pure Li2CO3, alkaline earth carbonate additives provide carbon nanotubes with a thicker diameter and more prominent hollow structure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The separation of the superimposed electrochemical signals of intracellular guanine (G) and xanthine (X) is difficult, which is great obstacle to the application of cell electrochemistry. In this paper, independent functional modules, G-functional module (G-FM) and X-functional module (X-FM), were constructed by molecular imprinting technology for sensitive detection of G and X without mutual interference, then integrated in dual-functional module cellular electrochemical sensing platform (DMCEP) as signal sensing units. DMCEP transmitted signals of G and X in cells synchronously to two windows by two signal sensing channels, and achieved the separation of superimposed signals of G and X in cells. DMCEP exhibited satisfactory reproducibility with relative standard deviation (RSD) of 3.10 and 2.22 %, repeatability with RSD of 3.72 and 3.05 % for G and X detection, and detection limit 0.05 μΜ for G and 0.06 μΜ for X. Good linear relationships between cell concentrations and the signals of G and X on DMCEP were shown in range of 0.75–85 × 106 and 3–85 × 106 cells/mL, respectively. The growth of MCF-7 cells was tracked by DMCEP, and showed consistent trend with the cell counting method, while the change of cell viability from lag to logarithmic phase captured by DMCEP was earlier than that of cell counting method. This strategy provided the foundation for the establishment of the cell viability electrochemical detection method, and new insights into the simultaneous recording of other analyses with superimposed peak positions and the simultaneous tracking of multiple biomarkers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chronic pain and depression frequently coexist in clinical setting, and current clinical treatments for this comorbidity have shown limited efficacy. Triptolide (T10), an active component of Tripterygium wilfordii Hook F., has been demonstrated to exert strong analgesic activities in experimental pain models, but whether it possesses anti-depressive actions remains unknown. Using a depression comorbidity of chronic pain rat model induced by spinal nerve ligation (SNL), we investigated the potency of T10 for the treatment of comorbid depression in comparison with a widely used antidepressant, fluoxetine (FLX). Concomitant neuroinflammation changes were also examined in the hippocampus. The results showed that prophylactic and reversal treatments with T10 dose-dependently (30, 100, 300 μg/kg) inhibited the depression-like behaviors (DLB) assessed by the forced swim test, sucrose preference test and body weight measurement. The anti-depressive efficacy of T10 at 300 μg/kg was significantly stronger than that of FLX at 18 mg/kg. T10 at all three doses exhibited more efficient analgesic effects than FLX at 18 mg/kg. The combined application of T10 with FLX markedly augmented the effects of T10 or FLX per se, with the facilitating effects of T10 at 30 μg/kg being most prominent. In addition, nerve injury caused the activation of microglia and p38 MAPK, the upregulation of IL-1β and TNF-α as well as the downregulation of IL-10 in the hippocampus at postoperative week (POW) 3. These neuroinflammatory responses were reversed by subchronic treatment with T10. Taken together, these results demonstrate that T10 possesses potent anti-depressive function, which is correlated with its immunoregulation in the hippocampus. The combination of a low dose of T10 with FLX may become a more effective medication strategy for the treatment of comorbid depression and chronic pain. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• High proportion of semicoke was first considered in blended coal injection into BF. • Effects of injection conditions on the combustion of semicoke and coal are studied. • Suggestions are provided for the efficient co-combustion of semicoke and coal. The co-combustion of semicoke and coal is recognized as a promising method for ironmaking blast furnace operation to reduce energy consumption and decrease the cost of hot metal. It is imperative to investigate the co-combustion behaviors and the in-furnace characteristics when injecting high ratio semicoke into blast furnace. Therefore, a three-dimensional model including tuyere and raceway for the injection of both semicoke and coke breeze with the actual operational parameters of a blast furnace was established. The model is then used to investigate the effects of oxygen enrichment ratio, injection amount and particle size on the combustion characteristics in the tuyere and raceway. Results showed that the high temperature zones expanded significantly with the increase of the oxygen enrichment ratio while they shrunk with the increase of the injection amount and the particle size. In order to obtain a higher burnout rate and a smooth operation of blast furnace, it is suggested that the oxygen enrichment ratio should be increased, the injection amount of semicoke and coal should not exceed 180 kg/t under the current working condition and the particle size of semicoke and coke breeze should be smaller than 60 µm. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

It is difficult to screen the increasing numerous chemicals in the environment for DNA damage by traditional methods. Therefore, it is urgent to find new markers and establish simple, rapid and low-cost new DNA damage detection methods. In this paper, the electrochemical behavior of Ethyl methanesulfonate (EMS)-induced DNA damage in HT-1080 cells was investigated, and the two electrochemical signals of HT-1080 cells at 0.69 and 1.03 V, respectively, coming from mixture of guanine (G) and xanthine (X) and hypoxanthine (HX) displayed parabolic changes, showing a time- and dose-dependent increase within 4 h and 5 mM, which was completely different from the trend of cell proliferation. The time- and dose-dependent DNA damage of cells exposed to EMS was detected by both alkaline comet and micronucleus assay. The HPLC found that the levels of HX, G and X in HT-1080 cells quickly rose to the peak values within 4 h, and felt back. The changes of intracellular purine levels were reliable biomarkers of DNA damage, and monitoring the content changes of intracellular purines by electrochemical method could simply and quickly evaluate the DNA damage toxicity of chemicals. This study provided a new perspective for the evaluation of DNA damage. [Display omitted] • EMS-induced DNA damage led to the increase of intracellular purine level. • The changes of intracellular purine bases could be used as markers of DNA damage. • Electrochemistry could track the level change of purine in cells when DNA was damaged. • The electrochemical signal of cells could reflect the early DNA damage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Some heavy metals in the environment may have estrogen-like activity, which probably lead to major diseases such as breast cancer. It is of great importance to establish new methods to evaluate the estrogen effect of heavy metals from multiple angles due to the complex mechanism of estrogen effect. In this paper, using MCF-7 cells as model, the electrochemical detection mechanism of the estrogen effect of heavy metal cadmium (Cd) was studied. The two electrochemical signals of MCF-7 cells derived from uric acid (0.30 V) and the mixture of guanine and xanthine (0.68 V) increased in a time and dose-dependent manner when MCF-7 cells induced by Cd, reaching the maximum at 96 h and 10−9 mol L−1. Further studies found that three purine metabolism pathways about de novo synthesis, salvage synthesis and decomposition metabolism were activated by the estrogen effect of Cd. The expression of PRPP amidotransferase in purine de novo synthesis pathway and HPRT in purine salvage synthesis pathway up-regulated, especially HPRT, which promoted cell proliferation together. Nevertheless, the expression of GDA and ADA, the key enzymes in purine decomposition metabolism pathway, up-regulated in a time and dose-dependent manner, which had same tendency with that of ERα, thereby increased the content of intracellular hypoxanthine, guanine, xanthine and uric acid, and enhanced electrochemical signals. [Display omitted] • Cd induced purine de novo and salvage synthesis, especially salvage synthesis. • Both purine de novo and salvage synthesis provided energy for cell proliferation. • Purine catabolism was induced by Cd in a time-dependent manner. • Purine metabolism induced by Cd enhanced electrochemical signals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Neurons in the trigeminal mesencephalic nucleus (Vme) have an axon that branches peripherally to innervate the orofacial region and projects centrally to the trigeminal motor nucleus (Vmo). They function as the primary neurons conveying proprioceptive messages. The present study aimed to demonstrate the presence of a periodontal-Vme-Vmo circuit and to provide evidence for its involvement in an experimental unilateral anterior crossbite ( UAC) model, which can induce osteoarthritis in the temporomandibular joint. Cholera toxin B subunit ( CTb) was injected into the inferior alveolar nerve of rats to help identify the central axon terminals of Vme neurons in the Vmo. The levels of vesicular glutamate transporter 1 ( VGLUT1) expressed in the periodontal region, Vme, Vmo, and masseter, and the level of acetylcholinesterase ( AChE) expressed in the masseter, were assessed in UAC rats and controls. In CTb-treated rats, many CTb-labeled cell bodies and endings were identified in the Vme and in the Vmo, respectively. In UAC rats, VGLUT1 was expressed at a statistically significantly higher level in the periodontal ligament, Vme, Vmo, and masseter than it was in control rats. The level of AChE protein was 1.97 times higher in UAC rat masseter compared with control rat masseter. These findings reveal a trigeminal mechanism underlying masseter hyperactivity induced by an altered occlusion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Estrogen substances in the environment are increasing dramatically, which interfere with the normal hormone level of human body, lead to the disorder of endocrine system and even cancer. It is difficult to screen a large number of environmental estrogen substances by existing estrogen effect detection methods, and the results are often affected by many factors, thus the development of new method has become an urgent task. Electrochemical method is promising to reflect cell proliferation by tracking intracellular purine bases directly. In this study, the estrogen level in MCF-7 cells on multiwall carbon nanotubes modified glassy carbon electrode (MWCNTs/GCE) could be tracked simply and conveniently, and the estrogen effect of estradiol could be reflected by electrochemistry in time and dose-dependent manners. Electrochemical method displayed the best tolerance to culture factors, such as different cell densities, serum types, culture medium types and serum estrogen-free methods, which responsed to estrogen effect higher than MTT (about 40%) and cell counting methods (about 50%). Further Western blotting analysis showed that the estrogen effect of estradiol promoted purine catabolism and up-regulated guanine deaminase (GDA) and adenine deaminase (ADA) expression, the key enzymes of purine catabolism pathway, in a dose-dependent manner. The up-regulation of GDA and ADA led to the increase of intracellular guanine and xanthine, which enhanced the electrochemical signal derived from guanine and xanthine. [Display omitted] • Electrochemistry could track estrogen level in MCF-7 cells simply and conveniently. • Electrochemistry displayed excellent environment tolerance compared to other methods. • E2 estrogen effect up-regulated GDA and ADA expression in purine catabolism pathway. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An in situ electrochemical method was used to assess the cytotoxicity of chlorophenols using human breast cancer (MCF-7) and cervical carcinoma (HeLa) cells as models. On treatment with different chlorophenols, the electrochemical responses of the selected cells, resulting from the oxidation of guanine and xanthine in the cytoplasm, indicated the cell viability. In addition, the in situ in vitro electrochemical method was further compared with the traditional MTT (3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide) assays. Although similar cytotoxicity data were obtained from both methods, the effective concentrations of chlorophenols that inhibited 50% cell growth (EC 50 values) from the electrochemical method were only slightly lower than those from the MTT assay. These results indicate that the in situ in vitro electrochemical method paves a simple, rapid, strongly responsive, and label-free way to the cytotoxicity assessment of different chlorophenol pollutants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An in situ electrochemical method of cell viability, which integrated cell culture, pretreatment and detection in a cell culture dish, was developed. The method significantly improved the electrochemical response of cells, simplified the operation process, reduced the experiment time, avoided the use of trypsin, and was applied in the study of the effectiveness of antitumor drugs on tumor suppression. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Rare-earth ternary complexes Eu X La1− X (TTA)3Dipy (X =0, 0.1, 0.25, 0.5, 0.75, 0.9, 1.0) were synthesized. Characterization with DTA-TG, IR, elemental analysis and fluorescent spectra had also been carried out. It is found that the enhanced luminescence of Eu3+ ions by La3+ ions occurs in ternary complexes, and when X =0.25, Eu0.25La0.75(TTA)3Dipy has the highest luminescence efficiency and lifetime. It is proved by TG curve that the complexes are stable, and we monitored the spectra of Eu X La1− X (TTA)3Dipy[PVK:Eu X La1− X (TTA)3Dipy/BCP/AlQ/Al] at the different rate r min−1. The results showed that the La3+ ion acts as an energy transfer bridge that helps energy transfer from PVK to Eu3+. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]