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During weathering and pedogenesis of carbonate rock with poor-Uranium (U) and Thorium (Th), U and Th present the characteristics of strong leaching (especially U) and significant residual enrichment, the cause of which is still unclear. A weathering profile developed by dolomite in karst area of Guizhou province in southwest China was selected, which showed zonation characteristics of bedrock (Y), rock powder (Yf) and soil layer (T1 to T12) from the bottom to up. Through the determination of the occurrence speciation of U and Th in Y and weathering profile, combined with mineralogical, geochemical characteristics and element mass balance calculation, the constraints of U and Th speciation on the geochemical behavior of U and Th during the weathering of carbonate rock were revealed. The results show that U and Th in Y preferentially exist in acid insoluble phase, for example, the contents of U and Th in Y are 0.90 mg·kg-1 and 0.28 mg·kg-1 respectively, while those in acid insoluble matter are 2.34 mg·kg-1 and 2.57 mg·kg-1, respectively, but because the content of acid insoluble matter is extremely low (0.95%), the mass percentage of U and Th in the acid soluble phase in the whole rock is absolutely superior (96% and 86%, respectively). The U and Th in the acid-soluble phase of Y are mainly adsorbed on the crystal surface of carbonate minerals or existed in the cement, and the U and Th in the carbonate lattice only account for a small proportion. During the initial dissolution of Y to form the powdery rock layer (Yt), U and Th released from the surface of carbonate minerals and cements are in an alkaline environment rich in carbonate, and this part of U and Th are leaching out, resulting in strong loss of U and Th in the powdery rock layer ( the loss rates are 83% and 65% respectively). From the Yt to the overlying soil layer T1, the carbonate components are completely dissolved, and the U and Th released from the carbonate lattice show different behaviors which U is completely leached and Th tends to stay in the weathered residue. Thus, in the soil layer T1 formed by the interaction of Y (or Yt) and soil, the residual U is the inheritance of the U in the acid insoluble phase of Y; As for Th, it not only inherits the Th of acid insoluble phase of Y, but also superimposes the Th from carbonate lattice in Y. On the other hand, during the evolution process from Y to Y, and to soil layer T1, with the dissolution of carbonate, the acid insoluble phase also showed a significant tendency of chemical weathering. However, the U and Th in the Y acid insoluble phase are not leached with the decomposition of the acid insoluble phase, but are redistributed among the residual phases. As for the geochemical behavior of U and Th in the evolution of soil profile (T1~T12), it is subject to the occurrence speciation of U and Th in T1 and the change of U and Th occurrence speciation with the upward direction of soil profile. The U and Th released from the carrier minerals are mainly redistributed among the residual solid phases, which weakens the intensity of their further loss.

Asthma has been proven to be a respiratory disorder that is characterized by the airway remodeling, airway inflammation and reversible airway obstruction. The 1,25-hydroxyvitamin D3 (1,25-(OH)2D3) plays critical roles in delaying remodeling.To investigate the effects of 1,25-(OH)2D3 on the airway remodeling in tumor necrosis factor α (TNF-α)-induced airway smooth muscle cells (ASMCs).The human ASMCs were divided into a blank control group (without treatment), a TNF-α group (treated with 10 ng/mL TNF-α) and a 1,25-(OH)2D3+TNF-α group (pre-treated with 10-7 M 1,25-(OH)2D3, then with 10 ng/mL TNF-α). The MTT assay was used to evaluate cell proliferation. Matrix Gla protein (MGP) and transforming growth factor β1 (TGF-β1) were examined using western blot assay.The TNF-α treatment significantly increased ASMCs proliferation and enhanced MGP and TGF-β1 expression compared to a blank control group (p0.05). The 1,25-(OH)2D3 treatment (1,25-(OH)2D3+TNF-α group) significantly inhibited cell viability (0.83 ±0.01), compared to that in the TNF-α group (0.92 ±0.01) (p0.05). The 1,25-(OH)2D3 treatment significantly downregulated MGP expression (0.61 ±0.02), compared to that of the TNF-α group (1.51 ±0.35) (p0.05). The 1,25-(OH)2D3 treatment significantly reduced TGF-β1 expression (0.69 ±0.17), compared to that of the TNF-α group (1.6 ±0.18) (p0.05).The 1,25-(OH)2D3 could participate and modulate airway remodeling by reducing MGP and TGF-β1 expression in TNF-α-induced ASMCs. This study provided therapeutic insight and theoretical basis for clinical research.

Background and Objective: The purpose of our study was to explore the immediate and long-term effects of socially assistive robots (SARs) on neuropsychiatric symptoms (NPS), behavioral and psychological symptoms of dementia (BPSD), positive emotional experiences, and social interaction in older people living with dementia. Methods: We set keywords and used Boolean operators to search the CINAHL, Cochrane Library, EMBASE, IEEE Digital Library, MEDLINE, PsycINFO, PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, and Chinese Electronic Periodical Service from inception to February 2022 for randomized controlled trials. The Cochrane Collaboration bias assessment tool was used to assess article quality, and RevMan 5.4.1 software was used to conduct the meta-analysis. Results: A total of 14 studies were included in the meta-analysis. SARs can help people living with dementia reduce their NPS of depression and anxiety, provide happiness from positive emotional experiences, and improve their social interaction through conversation. However, there was no significant improvement in agitation behavior, overall BPSD, or quality of life in people living with dementia. In follow-up, it was found that the effect of SRT was limited. Conclusion: Socially assistive robots can reduce depression and increase positive emotions in people living with dementia. They may also reduce the burden on healthcare workers during the COVID-19 pandemic. Registration number: PROSPERO CRD42020169340.

BACKGROUND The global COVID-19 pandemic has had negative impacts on people's health, causing physiological and psychological problems. The benefits of online mindfulness intervention (OMI) are known from existing studies. However, no comprehensive reviews and extensive meta-analyses of their effectiveness have been conducted. OBJECTIVE The primary purpose of this meta-analysis was to investigate the effects of OMI on physiological and psychological health in adults during the COVID-19 pandemic; the secondary aim was to perform subgroup analysis to determine which protocol could maximize the benefits. METHODS We electrically searched for randomized controlled trials published from January 2000 to June 2022 in the CEPS, CINAHL, Cochrane Library, PubMed/MEDLINE, and EMBASE. The PRISMA checklist was used. RESULTS We identified 20 studies for inclusion. OMI has a large effect on depression and anxiety; a medium effect on sleep problems and perceived stress; and a small effect on mindfulness. Subgroup analysis indicated that OMI was more effective on depression and anxiety in COVID-19 patients than in non-COVID-19 patients. The group approach of OMI was discovered to exert a greater effect on depression and the individual approach to be more effective on anxiety. By the GRADE approach, the quality of this evidence was deemed “moderate”, and the effect of the intervention is Favors. CONCLUSIONS Despite the heterogeneity of outcomes across studies, our study suggested that OMI can be a complementary and effective tool during an epidemic. Therefore, these interventions will be one of the important ways to overcome quarantine, maintain social distancing and maintain physical and mental health. CLINICALTRIAL This research was constructed following PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) and registered on PROSPERO (CRD 42022320783)

Indole-3-acetic acid (IAA) plays an important role in the growth and development of plants. In this study, a series of predominant strains were isolated and identified as Enterobacter sp. with remarkable IAA-producing capabilities. The IAA-producing strains are mainly tryptophan-dependent and have significantly high yields of IAA (3477 μg mL−1 and 3378 μg mL−1). The ipdC gene encoding indole-3-pyruvate decarboxylase was identified by genomic analysis and RT-qPCR analysis, indicating the involvement of the indole-3-pyruvic acid (IPyA) pathway of IAA biosynthesis. The IPyA pathway was also confirmed by the intermediate assay. The IAA product of microbial metabolites was isolated, purified and characterized. These microbes exhibiting IAA production significantly promoted the growth of maize, increasing root length, plant height, fresh weight and dry weight. Thus, Enterobacter sp. with high IAA production has great prospects in agricultural and industrial applications.

Background: Elderly care should focus on not only prolonging life but also satisfaction with elderly life. Our study investigated the reliability and validity of the Short-Form Life Satisfaction Index (LSI-SF). Method: Data were drawn from the 2015 Taiwan Longitudinal Study on Aging. Internal consistency reliability was used to confirm that the items measured the targeted characteristics. Construct validity was established by confirmatory factor analysis (CFA). Criterion-related validity was examined with the WHO-5 Well-Being Index as an indicator of quality of life. Known-group validity was determined from the difference between frailty stage and quality of life. Results: The high consistency reliability supported the reliability of the LSI-SF. Rigorous CFA validated the construct validity of the LSI-SF. Perfect convergent and discriminant validity supported the validity of the LSI-SF. In addition, there was a significant correlation between the LSI-SF and the WHO-5 Well-Being Index. The LSI-SF appears to be a reliable measure of quality of life in the elderly. We found that frailty status was associated with lower life satisfaction, which supported the known-group validity. Life satisfaction was highest in the non-frailty stage and lowest in the frailty stage. Conclusions: The LSI-SF appears to be a valid and reliable measure of satisfaction with elderly life.

Phosphate-solubilizing microorganisms have been considered as a novel alternative approach to provide phosphate fertilizers that promote plant growth. In this study, three strains were isolated and identified as Penicillium oxalicum FJG21, Penicillium oxalicum FJQ5, and Bacillus subtilis BPM12, with a relatively high phosphate-solubilizing activity. Various phosphate sources were investigated, and Ca3(PO4)2 was identified as the effective phosphate source. Factors governing the phosphate-solubilizing activity of the strains included carbon and nitrogen sources, initial pH, and fermentation time. A high soluble phosphorus content was achieved with 529.0 μg·mL-1, 514.0 μg·mL-1, and 330.7 μg·mL-1 for Penicillium oxalicum FJG21, Penicillium oxalicum FJQ5, and Bacillus subtilis BPM12, respectively. An inverse correlation of the quantity of soluble phosphorus content and the pH value of the medium was observed. In addition, Bacillus subtilis BPM12 displayed a prominent capability of producing indole acetic acid. Penicillium oxalicum FJG21 and Penicillium oxalicum FJQ5 exhibited high cellulase activities. These phosphate-solubilizing microorganisms with good phosphate-solubilizing capability and growth-promoting ability are the promising strains for agricultural utilization.

Health literacy, an important factor in public and personal health, is regarded as the core of patient-centered care. Older people with high health literacy are more likely to maintain a healthier lifestyle, with good control and management of chronic diseases, than those lacking or with poor health literacy. Purpose: The present study investigated the validity and reliability of the Taiwan Longitudinal Study on Aging (TLSA) Health Literacy Scale. We also evaluated the health literacy of middle-aged and older Taiwanese adults, and its probable association with health outcomes and life satisfaction. Method: We analyzed the internal consistency reliability of the nine items of the 2015 TLSA Health Literacy Scale, and their relationship with the demographic variables. Brody Instrumental Activities of Daily Living (IADL) and the Life Satisfaction Index were used for criterion validity. Moreover, exploratory factor analysis was used to examine the construct validity and to test the known-group validity. Results: The TLSA health literacy scale has good internal consistency reliability. Criterion-related validity was supported by the fact that the health literacy score was significantly correlated with the IADL and Life Satisfaction Index. Factor analysis indicated a three-factor structure. Known-group validity was supported by the results, showing that middle-aged and older people with good self-reported health status had better health literacy. Conclusions: The TLSA health literacy scale is a reliable and valid instrument for measuring health literacy in middle-aged and older people.

Indole-3-acetic acid (IAA) plays an important role in the growth and development of plants. In this study, a series of predominant strains were isolated and identified as

Purpose: This systematic review and meta-analysis was conducted to explore the effect of physical training on frailty status and physical performance in the community dwelling elderly. Methods: We set keywords and used the Boolean operator to search the CEPS, CINAHL, Cochrane Library, PubMed, MEDLINE, and EMBASE databases from inception to 10 August 2021. The search was limited to randomized controlled trials (RCTs) conducted within a five-year period. The Cochrane Collaboration bias assessment tool was used to assess article quality, and RevMan 5.4.1. software (Cochrane Training site based in London, UK) was used to conduct the meta-analysis. Results: Physical training was found to improve frailty status, physical performance, lower limb strength and balance. The best dose-response for physical training was 60 min per time, 2–3 times per week, for 3 months. Conclusion: Designing an appropriate physical training program can decrease the frailty score and increase physical performance in frail elderly in the community.

During the evolution into castration or therapy resistance, prostate cancer cells reprogram the androgen responses to cope with the diminishing level of androgens, and undergo metabolic adaption to the nutritionally deprived and hypoxia conditions. AR (androgen receptor) and PKM2 (pyruvate kinase M2) have key roles in these processes. We report in this study, KDM8/JMJD5, a histone lysine demethylase/dioxygnase, exhibits a novel property as a dual coactivator of AR and PKM2 and as such, it is a potent inducer of castration and therapy resistance. Previously, we showed that KDM8 is involved in the regulation of cell cycle and tumor metabolism in breast cancer cells. Its role in prostate cancer has not been explored. Here, we show that KDM8's oncogenic properties in prostate cancer come from its direct interaction (1) with AR to affect androgen response and (2) with PKM2 to regulate tumor metabolism. The interaction with AR leads to the elevated expression of androgen response genes in androgen-deprived conditions. They include ANCCA/ATAD2 and EZH2, which are directly targeted by KDM8 and involved in sustaining the survival of the cells under hormone-deprived conditions. Notably, in enzalutamide-resistant cells, the expressions of both KDM8 and EZH2 are further elevated, so are neuroendocrine markers. Consequently, EZH2 inhibitors or KDM8 knockdown both resensitize the cells toward enzalutamide. In the cytosol, KDM8 associates with PKM2, the gatekeeper of pyruvate flux and translocates PKM2 into the nucleus, where the KDM8/PKM2 complex serves as a coactivator of HIF-1α to upregulate glycolytic genes. Using shRNA knockdown, we validate KDM8's functions as a regulator for both androgen-responsive and metabolic genes. KDM8 thus presents itself as an ideal therapeutic target for metabolic adaptation and castration-resistance of prostate cancer cells.

Exposure to endogenous and exogenous factors can result in the formation of a wide variety of DNA adducts, and these may lead to gene mutations, thereby contributing to the development of cancer. DNA adductomics, a novel tool for exposomics, aims to detect the totality of DNA adducts. Liquid chromatography-high resolution mass spectrometry (LC-HRMS) is the state-of-the-art method for DNA adductomic analysis, although its high cost has limited widespread use. In this study, we compared the analytical performance between HRMS and the more popular/accessible triple-quadrupole MS (QqQ-MS). We initially developed and optimized a hybrid quadrupole-linear ion trap-orbitrap MS (Q-LIT-OT-MS) method, considering the detection of both purine and pyrimidine adducts. LC-Q-LIT-OT-MS and LC-QqQ-MS methods were compared by non-targeted screening of formaldehyde-induced DNA adducts. Using the results from Q-LIT-OT-MS as the gold standard, QqQ-MS successfully detected 12 out of 18 formaldehyde-induced DNA adducts/inter-strand crosslinks (ICLs). QqQ-MS however also produced nine false-positive results owing to the inherent instrumental mass resolution limits. To discriminate the false-positive results from the accurate ones, we firstly introduced a statistical analysis, partial least squares-discriminant analysis, which efficiently excluded the false signals. Six DNA adducts/ICLs were not detected by QqQ-MS, due to insufficient sensitivity. This could be overcome by employing a selected reaction monitoring scan mode with multiple injections. Overall, this study demonstrated that high resolution may not be a strict requirement for MS-based DNA adductomics. LC-QqQ-MS with statistical analysis, could also provide a comparable performance as HRMS for pre-screening purposes.

Low-temperature, solution-processed, highly efficient hybrid organic/inorganic perovskite planar heterojunction solar cells were fabricated by incorporating reactive crystalline titania (h-TAc) into MAPbI3 layers. The h-TAc was prepared by the sol-gel reaction at low temperature followed by solvothermal treatment. The photoelectrical properties of the solar cells with h-TAc were analyzed. The incorporation with 0.85-wt% h-TAc showed the highest power conversion efficiency (PCE, 15.9%), increasing 69% compared to the pristine cell. The enhancement arose from large-grained microstructures, leading to a low rate of charge recombination. The carboxyl groups chelated on the surface of h-TAc revealed a strong attraction to lead ions, which are significantly helpful to MAPbI3 crystal growth.

Background Health-related quality of life (HRQoL) in community-dwelling older adults increases as physical activity improves, and age-related frailty has a negative effect on HRQoL. Research on these associations is lacking. Purpose The aims of this study were to (a) analyze the effect of demographic characteristics on HRQoL, (b) explore the correlation between physical activity and HRQoL, (c) analyze the effect of frailty on HRQoL, and (d) investigate the potential predictors of HRQoL in community-dwelling older adults. Methods In this cross-sectional study, a convenience sample of 150 older adults was recruited from community care sites in Shilin and Beitou Districts in Taipei City, Taiwan. Data were collected at baseline using a demographic characteristics datasheet, the Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale, the Physical Activity Scale for the Elderly, and the 12-Item Short Form Health Survey. The Senior Fitness Test and hand-grip strength test were also performed. Student t test, chi-square test, analysis of variance, Pearson correlation coefficient, and hierarchical regression were applied to analyze the statistical results using IBM SPSS Statistics Version 22.0. Results Being of older age, experiencing a higher number of falls, having more chronic diseases, and having a higher body mass index were identified as factors that significantly affect HRQoL. Moreover, HRQoL was found to be significantly affected by the performance of physical activity or status of frailty. Furthermore, the prefrail period was shown to be an important predictor of HRQoL after adjusting for demographic variables, history of chronic illness, history of falls, and physical activity. Conclusions/Implications for Practice In this study, HRQoL was found to be significantly affected by upper limb dysfunction and the prefrail period. Community health promotion activities should focus greater attention on the physical functioning of older adults. Furthermore, providing information on age-related frailty and promoting active participation in community activities may increase the attention given by community-dwelling older adults to physical fitness and quality of life.

The study of logistics network of Yangtze River Delta city group can enable us to understand the logistics integration status. There are 25 cities in Yangtze River Delta Urban Agglomerations selected as the study object of this paper. The values of logistics links to those cities are calculated on the basis of the gravity model. Then, social network analysis method is used to analyze the logistics network density, centrality, cohesive subgroup and core–periphery structure. The research finds that the logistics connection between those cities is low; a few nodes have high degree of centrality and most of these nodes have little difference; there exists subgroup in the network, and the link density inside and between those subgroup are weak; the network has the core–periphery structure; both links inside the marginal area and links between the core area and the edge area are weak, so the network has vulnerabilities. Therefore, some measures need to be taken in in order to realize coordinative development of logistics in Silk Road Economic belt, including breaking the administrative constraints, taking the lead on the core nodes and strengthening the interaction between the edge region and the core region.

Somatostatin secreted by pancreatic δ cells mediates important paracrine interactions in Langerhans islets, including maintenance of glucose metabolism through the control of reciprocal insulin and glucagon secretion. Disruption of this circuit contributes to the development of diabetes. However, the precise mechanisms that control somatostatin secretion from islets remain elusive. Here, we found that a super-complex comprising the cullin 4B-RING E3 ligase (CRL4B) and polycomb repressive complex 2 (PRC2) epigenetically regulates somatostatin secretion in islets. Constitutive ablation of CUL4B, the core component of the CRL4B-PRC2 complex, in δ cells impaired glucose tolerance and decreased insulin secretion through enhanced somatostatin release. Moreover, mechanistic studies showed that the CRL4B-PRC2 complex, under the control of the δ cell-specific transcription factor hematopoietically expressed homeobox (HHEX), determines the levels of intracellular calcium and cAMP through histone posttranslational modifications, thereby altering expression of the Cav1.2 calcium channel and adenylyl cyclase 6 (AC6) and modulating somatostatin secretion. In response to high glucose levels or urocortin 3 (UCN3) stimulation, increased expression of cullin 4B (CUL4B) and the PRC2 subunit histone-lysine N-methyltransferase EZH2 and reciprocal decreases in Cav1.2 and AC6 expression were found to regulate somatostatin secretion. Our results reveal an epigenetic regulatory mechanism of δ cell paracrine interactions in which CRL4B-PRC2 complexes, Cav1.2, and AC6 expression fine-tune somatostatin secretion and facilitate glucose homeostasis in pancreatic islets.

The uptake of circulating low density lipoproteins (LDL) is mediated by LDL receptor (LDLR) through clathrin-dependent endocytosis. At the early stage of this process, adaptor proteins ARH and Dab2 specifically bind the endocytic signal motif in LDLR and recruit clathrin/AP2 to initiate internalization. On the other hand, intestinal cholesterol is absorbed by Niemann-Pick C1-Like 1 (NPC1L1) through clathrin-dependent endocytosis. Another adaptor protein, Numb recognizes the endocytic motif in NPC1L1 C terminus and couples NPC1L1 to endocytic machinery. The ARH, Dab2, and Numb proteins contain a homogeneous phosphotyrosine binding (PTB) domain that directly binds endocytic motifs. Because ARH, Dab2, and Numb are all PTB domain family members, the emerging mystery is whether these adaptors act complementally in LDLR and NPC1L1 endocytosis. Here, we found that ARH and Dab2 did not bind NPC1L1 and were not required for NPC1L1 internalization. Similarly, Numb lacked the ability to interact with the LDLR C terminus and was dispensable for LDL uptake. Only the Numb isoforms with shorter PTB domain could facilitate NPC1L1 endocytosis. Besides the reported function in intestinal cholesterol absorption, Numb also mediated cholesterol reabsorption from bile in liver. We further identified a Numb variant with G595D substitution in humans of low blood LDL-cholesterol. The G595D substitution impaired NPC1L1 internalization and cholesterol reabsorption, due to attenuating affinity of Numb to clathrin/AP2. These results demonstrate that Numb specifically regulates NPC1L1-mediated cholesterol absorption both in human intestine and liver, distinct from ARH and Dab2, which selectively participate in LDLR-mediated LDL uptake.

In this study we used the ex situ synthesis method to fabricate high-refractive-index polyimide-TiO 2 hybrid films at low temperature. We incorporated pre-made TiO 2 nanoparticles (NPs) chelated with 4-aminobenzoic acid into a soluble polyimide synthesized from 2,2-bis(3-amino-4-hydroxyphenyl)hexafluoropropane and 3,3′,4,4′-benzophenonetetracarboxylic dianhydride by one-step polymerization. The refractive index of the hybrid film with theoretic 90 wt% (experimental 79.04 wt%) TiO 2 can reach as high as 1.941—close to that of the PI-TiO 2 hybrid film fabricated at high temperature. Compared with epoxy-TiO 2 hybrids, the polyimide-TiO 2 hybrid films maintain their integrity without cracking in the thick-film condition and reveal extraordinarily high refractive indices. Infrared spectra and thermogravimetric analysis suggested that the enhanced properties in refractive indices and structure might result from the organic–inorganic bonding between 4-aminobenzoic-acid-chelated TiO 2 and polyimide featuring hydroxyl groups.

Hypercholesterolemia, typically due to excessive cholesterol uptake, is a major risk factor for cardiovascular disease, which is responsible for ∼50% of all deaths in developed societies. Although it has been shown that intestinal cholesterol absorption is mediated by vesicular endocytosis of the Niemann-Pick C1-like 1 (NPC1L1) protein, the mechanism of sterol-stimulated NPC1L1 internalization is still mysterious. Here, we identified an endocytic peptide signal, YVNXXF (where X stands for any amino acid), in the cytoplasmic C-terminal tail of NPC1L1. Cholesterol binding on the N-terminal domain of NPC1L1 released the YVNXXF-containing region of NPC1L1 from association with the plasma membrane and enabled Numb binding. We also found that Numb, a clathrin adaptor, specifically recognized this motif and recruited clathrin for internalization. Disrupting the NPC1L1-Numb interaction decreased cholesterol uptake. Ablation of Numb in mouse intestine significantly reduced dietary cholesterol absorption and plasma cholesterol level. Together, these data show that Numb is a pivotal protein for intestinal cholesterol absorption and may provide a therapeutic target for hypercholesterolemia.

In this study we used 4-aminobenzoic acid (4ABA) as the chelating ligand to synthesize anatase TiO2 nanoparticles (NPs) in an aqueous solution. The chelating behaviors of 4ABA with respect to TiO2 NPs were evaluated by infrared spectroscopy, zeta potential analysis, x-ray photoelectron survey spectra, and differential scanning calorimetry. The pre-made TiO2 NPs were incorporated into epoxy resin with various NP contents to fabricate high-refractive-index hybrid films at a low film-forming temperature. We found that the hybrid films featuring TiO2 NPs prepared by 4ABA had higher refractive indices than those by acetic acid—a traditional chelating ligand. The difference can reach to 0.044 at 80% NP content. We suspect that the increase in refractive indices may arise from the fact that 4ABA features a higher refractive index and less demand due to the higher coordinating stability.

Cellular damage induced by free-radicals like reactive oxygen species has been implicated in several diseases. 2, 2-azobis(2-amidino-propane) dihydrochloride(AAPH) generates two potent ROS capable of inducing lipid peroxidation: alkoxy radical(RO-) and peroxy radical(ROO-). These radicals are similar to those that are physiologically active and thus might initiate a cascade of intracellular toxic events leading to oxidation, lipid peroxidation, DNA damage and subsequent cell death. Hence naturally anti-oxidant play a vital role in combating these conditions. In this study, resveratrol loaded nanostructured lipid carriers (Res-NLC) was prepared by hot melting and then high pressure homogenization technique. The effects of Res-NLC on free radical scavenging capacity and antioxidative damage is investigated. The particle size and zeta potential of Res-NLC were 139.3 ± 1.7 nm and −11.21 ± 0.41 mV, respectively. By free radical scavenging assays, the IC 50 value of Res-NLC were 19.25, 5.29 μg/mL with DPPH, ABTS assay respectively, and 0.161 mg ferrous sulfate/1 mg Res-NLC with FRAP assay; and by AAPH-induced oxidative injury cell model assay, Res-NLC showed the strong protective effect against the human liver tumor HepG2 cell oxidative stress damage. These results indicated that the antioxidant properties of Res-NLC hold great potential used as an alternative to more toxic synthetic antioxidants as an additive in food, cosmetic and pharmaceutical preparations for the oxidative diseases treatment.

Excitatory amino acid transporter type 3 (EAAT3, also known as SLC1A1) is a high-affinity, Na(+)-dependent glutamate carrier that localizes primarily within the cell and at the apical plasma membrane. Although previous studies have reported proteins and sequence regions involved in EAAT3 trafficking, the detailed molecular mechanism by which EAAT3 is distributed to the correct location still remains elusive. Here, we identify that the YVNGGF sequence in the C-terminus of EAAT3 is responsible for its intracellular localization and apical sorting in rat hepatoma cells CRL1601 and Madin-Darby canine kidney (MDCK) cells, respectively. We further demonstrate that Numb, a clathrin adaptor protein, directly binds the YVNGGF motif and regulates the localization of EAAT3. Mutation of Y503, N505 and F508 within the YVNGGF motif to alanine residues or silencing Numb by use of small interfering RNA (siRNA) results in the aberrant localization of EAAT3. Moreover, both Numb and the YVNGGF motif mediate EAAT3 endocytosis in CRL1601 cells. In summary, our study suggests that Numb is a pivotal adaptor protein that mediates the subcellular localization of EAAT3 through binding the YxNxxF (where x stands for any amino acid) motif.

Excitatory amino acid transporter type 3 (EAAT3, also known as SLC1A1) is a high-affinity, Na(+)-dependent glutamate carrier that localizes primarily within the cell and at the apical plasma membrane. Although previous studies have reported proteins and sequence regions involved in EAAT3 trafficking, the detailed molecular mechanism by which EAAT3 is distributed to the correct location still remains elusive. Here, we identify that the YVNGGF sequence in the C-terminus of EAAT3 is responsible for its intracellular localization and apical sorting in rat hepatoma cells CRL1601 and Madin-Darby canine kidney (MDCK) cells, respectively. We further demonstrate that Numb, a clathrin adaptor protein, directly binds the YVNGGF motif and regulates the localization of EAAT3. Mutation of Y503, N505 and F508 within the YVNGGF motif to alanine residues or silencing Numb by use of small interfering RNA (siRNA) results in the aberrant localization of EAAT3. Moreover, both Numb and the YVNGGF motif mediate EAAT3 endocytosis in CRL1601 cells. In summary, our study suggests that Numb is a pivotal adaptor protein that mediates the subcellular localization of EAAT3 through binding the YxNxxF (where x stands for any amino acid) motif.

Deposition of amorphous iron(III)-oxide films on a conducting glass substrate was achieved via a cathodic bias in a 0.1 M hydrated ammonium iron(II) sulfate ((NH 4 ) 2 Fe(SO 4 ) 2 ·6H 2 O) solution at −1.6 V versus Ag/AgCl. Analysis by X-ray absorption near edge structure confirmed the iron(III) feature of the amorphous films. The deposited films exhibited n-type semiconducting characteristics by showing photoresponses under an anodic bias. The Mott–Schottky method and cyclic voltammetry were employed to characterize the semiconducting properties of the deposited films, which included the band gap (2.2 eV), the potentials of the conduction and valence band edges and flat band (−0.6, +1.6 and −0.58 V versus Ag/AgCl at pH 7, respectively), and the donor density (1 × 10 22 /cm 3 ). The deposited iron(III)-oxide films were suitable to serve as an anode for water splitting under illumination.

Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is a highly aggressive form of breast cancer often associated with poor prognosis. Owing to the lack of therapeutic targets, patients with TNBC tend to rely on standard chemotherapy; however, chemo-resistance often develops in TNBC as a result of deregulated cell death control like in many other tumors. Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) are transcripts longer than 200bp and have little or no protein-coding capacity. Although once considered as transcriptional noise, significant numbers of lncRNAs are now known as modulators of protein expression and functions and are implicated in a range of developmental processes and diseases. As many of them influence oncogenes and tumor suppressors in cancer, they represent excellent biomarkers as well as potential targets for therapy. In order to gain more insight on cell death regulation and to seek potential targets for TNBC, we employed an RNAi screen targeting 2231 lncRNAs in MDA-MB-231 TNBC cells. By using changes in cell metabolic activity (MTT assay) as readouts for primary screen and changes in cell number as confirmation, our unbiased screen identified two novel lncRNAs that drastically reduced cell proliferation when depleted. In addition to cell growth, the two lncRNAs also contribute to cancer cell migration and invasion. Interestingly, our gene profiling analyses and RNA immunoprecipitation studies show the two lncRNAs are involved in signaling cascades known to promote mammary tumorigenesis including EGF and β-catenin. We are now trying to delineate the detailed molecular mechanism(s) by which the two lncRNAs contribute to TNBC tumorigenesis. Together, our current results suggest a possibility for the two novel lncRNAs as drug targets in triple-negative breast cancer. Citation Format: Tse-Chun Kuo, Sheng-Chieh Hsu, Hui-Ju Chou, Pei-Shan Li, Szu-Huei Wu, Yen-Ling Yu, Jen-Shin Song, Hsing-Jien Kung. RNAi screen identified novel long non-coding RNAs involved in cell growth control, migration, and invasion [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the American Association for Cancer Research Annual Meeting 2017; 2017 Apr 1-5; Washington, DC. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2017;77(13 Suppl):Abstract nr 3502. doi:10.1158/1538-7445.AM2017-3502

Social Web of Thing (SWoT) has been considered a great platform for future App development because it integrates IoT and Social Networks (SN) and makes human readily monitor and manage smart objects. This work discusses technical options and various requirements of SWoT and presents a scalable and flexible Multimedia-supported SWoT platform called MUL-SWoT. MUL-SWoT provides easy integration of smart objects and 3rd party service providers. It can handle multimedia data and provide novel IoT-based service recommendation to users. Finally, to understand MUL-SWoT, we describe how an intrusion detection service is built on the MUL-SWoT platform.

Tissue scaffolds provide a framework for living tissue regeneration. However, traditional tissue scaffolds are exogenous, composed of metals, ceramics, polymers, and animal tissues, and have a defined biocompatibility and application. This study presents a new method for obtaining a tissue scaffold from blood albumin, the major protein in mammalian blood. Human, bovine, and porcine albumin was polymerised into albumin polymers by microbial transglutaminase and was then cast by freeze-drying-based moulding to form albumin tissue scaffolds. Scanning electron microscopy and material testing analyses revealed that the albumin tissue scaffold possesses an extremely porous structure, moderate mechanical strength, and resilience. Using a culture of human mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) as a model, we showed that MSCs can be seeded and grown in the albumin tissue scaffold. Furthermore, the albumin tissue scaffold can support the long-term osteogenic differentiation of MSCs. These results show that the albumin tissue scaffold exhibits favourable material properties and good compatibility with cells. We propose that this novel tissue scaffold can satisfy essential needs in tissue engineering as a general-purpose substrate. The use of this scaffold could lead to the development of new methods of artificial fabrication of autogenic tissue substitutes.

Human vascular endothelial growth factor isoform 165 (VEGF165) is the first known member belonging to the VEGF protein family that plays a critical role in new blood vessel formation in vivo. This study presents a new protocol with optimized conditions for rapidly producing untagged recombinant and biological active human VEGF165 (rhVEGF165) using Escherichia coli cells. Protein was isolated from inclusion bodies, purified by gel filtration and ion exchange chromatography, and subjected to protein refolding and renaturation. The biological activity of rhVEGF165 is comparable with VEFG from eukaryotic source according to human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVEC) proliferation assay. Therefore, the present procedures provide a fast and easy way to produce this therapeutic protein.

SummarySterol regulatory element-binding proteins (SREBPs) are major transcription factors activating the expression of genes involved in biosynthesis of cholesterol, fatty acid and triglyceride. In this study, we identified a small molecule, betulin, that specifically inhibited the maturation of SREBP by inducing interaction of SREBP cleavage activating protein (SCAP) and Insig. Inhibition of SREBP by betulin decreased the biosynthesis of cholesterol and fatty acid. In vivo, betulin ameliorated diet-induced obesity, decreased the lipid contents in serum and tissues, and increased insulin sensitivity. Furthermore, betulin reduced the size and improved the stability of atherosclerotic plaques. Our study demonstrates that inhibition SREBP pathway can be employed as a therapeutic strategy to treat metabolic diseases including type II diabetes and atherosclerosis. Betulin, which is abundant in birch bark, could be a leading compound for development of drugs for hyperlipidemia.

Ferritin is an iron storage protein that is often used to coat metallic nanoparticles, such as iron oxide nanoparticles (IONPs). However, the synthesis and biocompatibility of ferritin-coated IONPs remain unclear. Therefore, this study reports the synthesis of a ferritin gene cloned and expressed from Helicobacter pylori (HPFn). The ferroxidase activity of the synthase HPFn was used for the de novo synthesis of HPFn-coated IONPs under mild conditions. Gel filtration chromatography and transmission electron microscopy analyses demonstrated that the core-shell structure of both the 5.0 nm IONP nanocore and the 12.4 nm HPFn shell were correctly assembled. The cellular uptake of mouse macrophage cells (RAW 264.7 cells) has shown that only a few HPFn-coated IONPs (3%) were taken up after 24 h of incubation. This study compares the biocompatibility of HPFn-coated IONPs, superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles (SPIOs) and ferric salt (ferric ammonium citrate) in respect to cell growth inhibition, reactive oxygen species generation and pro-inflammatory cytokine TNF-α release. Assessment results showed that the responses elicited by HPFn-coated IONPs were similar to those elicited by SPIO treatment but milder than those elicited by ferric salt treatment. This accounts for the notion that ferritin-coated IONPs are biocompatible iron agents. These findings show that the ferroxidase activity of ferritin can be used to synthesize biocompatible IONPs. The favorable properties of HPFn-coated IONPs suggest that they can be used as a non-macrophage contrast agent through further surface conjugation.