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Objective To investigate the effect and possible mechanism of extracts of Xuanshen (Scrophularia Root, Radix Scrophulariae) on liver metabolome in rat model of hyperthyroidism. Methods The rat liver metabolites spectrums effected by Euthyrox and Xuanshen extracts were analyzed by using ultra high performance liquid chromatography-time off light-mass spectrometry (UPLCTOFMS). The difference in metabolites spectrums was studied between blank group and model group by using orthogonal partial least squares-discriminant analysis (OPLS DA). The potential biomarkers were found in liver through variable importance projection (VIP). The interventional effects of Xuanshen extracts were discussed through comparing the difference in content of potential biomarkers. Results There were 21 potential biomarkers found in rat liver in model group, and among them 14 metabolites were significantly called back by Xuanshen extracts. The biosynthesis of glycosylphosphatidylinositol (GPI)-anchor, and metabolisms of arachidonic acid, purine, α-linolenic acid, linoleic acid, glutathione and glycerophospholipid were significantly improved by Xuanshen extracts in Euthyrox induced hyperthyroidism rat model. Conclusion Xuanshen extracts can play a role of treating hyperthyroidism through improving relevant liver potential biomarkers and metabolism pathways in hyperthyroidism rat model. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To solve the problem that the natural frequency of deck arch bridges would decrease rapidly when the span increases, a novel arch bridge structure named deck V-arch bridge is proposed. The V-shaped members are added between the main girders and the arch ribs to increase the stiffness of the arch bridge, thereby increasing the natural frequency of the structure. Through the timely conversion of the structural system, the first-phase dead load is carried by the arch ribs, while the second-phase dead load and live load are carried by the variable height truss with main girders as upper chords, arch ribs as lower chords, and V-shaped members as webs, with multi-point elastic constraints. The entire structure has the advantages of arch and truss. In order to verify the correctness of the research and calculation of the dynamic characteristics of the deck V-arch bridge, a test bridge with a span of 10 m is built. The first natural frequency of the vertical bending in the plane of the bridge is tested by utilzing the pulsation test. The stiffness and dynamic characteristics are calculated by utilizing the finite element software. The influence of V-shaped member stiffness on the natural frequency and that of the number of V-shaped members on the temperature stress of the structure are analyzed. The necessity of system transformation is studied. The results show that the difference between test value and calculated value of the first natural frequency of vertical bending in the plane is small. The mode shape is in good agreement with the finite element analysis. With little or no additional material, the natural frequency of the structure is significantly increased, especially the in-plane frequency. The stiffness of the V-shaped members has a reasonable setting range. When the inner angles of the triangle formed by the main girders or the arch ribs are between 45 ℃ and 60 ℃,the number of V-shaped web members is suitable. The structural stiffness of deck arch bridge with V-shaped members is greatly improved, and at the position of L/4 (L is the span of the bridge), the upward deflection generated by the static live load of the train is approximately zero. After the transformation of the structural system, the deck V-arch bridge can fully exert the superiority of the arch force.

Extreme weather can cause ill health in older persons due to a direct thermal effect on the body's thermoregulation and difficulties in maintaining a healthy lifestyle and accessing the health services they need. To understand experiences in relation to their exposures to extreme weather and how they responded to such weather conditions, including cold snaps, heat and air pollution in northern Thai communities, a descriptive qualitative study was conducted to uncover details and the essence of perspectives and experiences of older persons and family members. Three focus group discussions with 15 older persons and 15 family members occurred in three communities in Chiang Rai, a northern province of Thailand. Thematic analysis was performed. Experiences of older persons and families in relation to extreme weather conditions were described in five themes: local actions against weather changes, the double challenges, awareness and reactions to weather changes, protective and comfortable living environments, and mitigation of the impacts of weather conditions. Seasonal adaptability was key for older persons to stay safe and healthy during extreme weather changes. Heat, cold snaps, and air pollution made health and daily living routine maintenance among older persons challenging, especially among those with declining health. Older persons and families employed predictive and adaptive strategies to avoid and minimise extreme weather impacts and maximise their comfort and optimal living.